Pique Newsmagazine 3122

#findmarshy

Five years after his disappearance, Marshal Iwaasa’s family is not giving up hope. - By Ro ´ is ´ n Cullen, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

14 BRING ON JUNEUARY

Recent rainfall in Whistler is welcome, but the resort will need a lot more of it to avoid a drier-than-normal summer, according to local officials.

15 THIRTY-LOVE

The Whistler Racket Club is commemorating 30 years this summer, with a celebration planned for June 1.

19 TIME FOR SLIME

An upcoming BioBlitz speaker event will explore the wonderful world of slime moulds—which aren’t slimy or mouldy.

23 BERRY NICE

Award-winning Lil’wat filmmaker Hannah Jones recently brought her skills to the set of an upcoming film starring Halle Berry.

30 GET COMFY

The fan-favourite Whistler trail-running event Run Comfy Numb returns to the resort June 8.

34 GOLDEN OLDIES

Katherine Fawcett, Andrea Purton and Josh Plouffe welcome musicians of all skill levels to the OldTime Jam at The Point on June 2.

COVER I’d like to think no matter where they’ve gone, it’s a little brighter than a dark path. - By Jon Parris // @jon.parris.art

Publisher SARAH STROTHER - sstrother@piquenewsmagazine.com

Editor BRADEN DUPUIS - bdupuis@piquenewsmagazine.com

Sales Manager SUSAN HUTCHINSON - shutchinson@piquenewsmagazine.com

Production Manager AMIR SHAHRESTANI - ashahrestani@piquenewsmagazine.com

Art Director JON PARRIS - jparris@piquenewsmagazine.com

Advertising Representatives

TESSA SWEENEY - tsweeney@wplpmedia.com

GEORGIA BUTLER - gbutler@wplpmedia.com

Digital/Sales Coordinator KATIE DOUGLAS - kbechtel@wplpmedia.com

Production - production@piquenewsmagazine.com

Arts Editor ALYSSA NOEL - arts@piquenewsmagazine.com

Reporters

SCOTT TIBBALLS - stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

RÓISÍN CULLEN - rcullen@wplpmedia.com

DAVID SONG - sports@piquenewsmagazine.com

ALYSSA NOEL - arts@piquenewsmagazine.com

LIZ MCDONALD - emcdonald@piquenewsmagazine.com

Classifieds and Reception - mail@piquenewsmagazine.com

Office and Accounts Manager HEIDI RODE - hrode@wplpmedia.com

Contributors G.D. MAXWELL, GLENDA BARTOSH, LESLIE ANTHONY, ANDREW MITCHELL, ALISON TAYLOR, VINCE SHULEY

Founding Publishers KATHY & BOB BARNETT

Opinion & Columns

08 OPENING REMARKS The Local Journalism Initiative is good news for people who like local news, writes editor Braden Dupuis—but the industry still faces an uphill battle.

10 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR This week’s letter writers share more on Whistler’s lake stewards, and potential implications of provincial housing legislation.

13 PIQUE’N YER INTEREST Forcing someone to take a stand on every problem is just making an ultimatum, and like with most ultimatums, chances are you will not like the answer, writes Scott Tibballs.

46 MAXED OUT For most activities, the line between personal responsibility and someone else’s liability is negligence. Why should skiing be different?

Environment & Adventure

27 RANGE ROVER As the rain keeps pouring down, Leslie Anthony asks the question on everyone’s minds: Why is El Niño such a brat?

Lifestyle & Arts

32 EPICURIOUS Saneh Thai in Mount Currie is offering something different to locals and tourists alike.

38 MUSEUM MUSINGS While Whistler is accustomed to busy summers these days, in the 1970s and into the 1980s, visitor numbers would drop dramatically after the ski season ended in the late spring.

with

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Good news for people who like local news

AS WITH ANY decade-old, long-in-the-tooth government, the list of things for which to deride, roll your eyes, shake your head at, or otherwise be embarrassed about when it comes to Justin Trudeau and the federal Liberals is long and growing.

Where to even begin? To fully document and unpack that musty old political closet

BY BRADEN DUPUIS

would take far more time and space than this

Luckily, this column isn’t about those things, but rather, one of the unequivocal positives to come from the Trudeau Liberal government: The Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) Program.

Launched by Canada’s Heritage ministry in 2019, the LJI program supports the creation of original civic journalism in underserved communities across Canada—of which there are distressingly many.

The feds have contributed $50 million to the program since then, with the money going into a big pot to be administered by independent agencies like News Media Canada.

Pique applied for, and was fortunate enough to receive, funding for an LJI position last year, and in September 2023, Roisin Cullen took up the task of reporting on all things Lil’wat Nation and Pemberton.

Since then, she has covered everything from rodeos, powwows, and First Nations rights to business successes, local tragedies, and everything in between, sharing previously untold stories of victory, pride and heartbreak.

In short, she’s doing everything the LJI

was put in place to do: documenting and deciphering in an area of previous darkness; shining a light on stories that deserve to be told, whether or not it drives clicks or advertising dollars.

The federal government re-upped the LJI program for $58 million in March, and on May 27, Pique learned our LJI contract was renewed, meaning our LJI role in the Pemberton Valley will remain in place until at least March 2025.

Suffice to say, this is wonderful news if you’re a fan of local journalism.

The LJI renewal is a big win, but it’s just one piece of the editorial pie in Whistler these days. It’s something of a new-look newsroom here at Pique in 2024, and we’re excited for what’s to come in the months and years ahead.

Regular readers will have spotted a new byline in the midst, as reporter Liz McDonald joined Pique last month, hitting the ground running.

Catch her covering all things Whistler

Last but certainly not least, having started in November 2022, David Song is now effectively Pique ’s longest-tenured reporter (I can sense him cringing as I type this—he hates when I say that), covering the sports and arts beats with both style and determination. If you haven’t already, send David your pitches at dsong@wplpmedia. com—he’s got a way with words and an eye for a narrative, and it just so happens we’ve got a daily news website and a newspaper we publish every single week that we like to fill with nice stories about people doing cool things in our communities. What a nice fit!

And I would of course be remiss not to mention longtime Piquer and arts editor Alyssa Noel, who is coming to the end of her second maternity leave and will rejoin the fray come September (mercifully—the newsroom simply hasn’t been the same without her stunning wit).

In a weird, roundabout way, producing local news is a community effort. It requires

at all levels to support us through advertising.

Because federal LJI funding aside, the local news business is still an uphill battle, and getting steeper every year.

People still want and expect their news for free (as it should be), even as advertising revenue gets harder to maintain.

The public still expects reporters to do it fast, get it right, be fair and unbiased, and hold officials to account with tough questions.

But by and large, they don’t want to have to contribute with their wallets. And fair enough—it’s a tall ask of any individual in today’s economy. But if you’re a local business with any sort of communityoriented advertising budget, Pique would be eternally grateful for your support. Running a regular ad, in print or online, goes a long way to keeping us publishing long into the future. Aside from our website, which is updated consistently every day, Pique’s weekly print product is delivered to the hotels of hundreds of thousands of

(and if you’re not already, follow Pique on TikTok @piquenewsmagazine to witness her drag us back into social-media relevancy).

Meanwhile, reporter Scott Tibballs joined the team in October, and wasted no time ingratiating himself with (or maybe just grating against) the politicians of the region. He’s got his finger on the pulse of Whistler’s municipal hall, and he’ll be the man writing about all the hand kissin’ and baby shakin’ on the provincial campaign trail this fall.

an editorial team, of course—someone to assign stories, and reporters to write them.

But it also demands local, on-the-ground sources to trust those reporters with their stories, and readers to buy in and pick up a copy or read online consistently (please consider subscribing to our newsletter if you haven’t already! Find more info at piquenewsmagazine.com/account/ support/signup).

In turn, we need our local businesses, community organizations and governments

Whistler tourists annually, and advertising in it comes with the added bonus of knowing you’re supporting your local community in one of the best damn ways possible: by feeding its hungry journalists.

We want them to stay hungry, of course, but not in a literal sense. We just want to keep employing them, so they can keep telling your stories, getting it right, being fair and unbiased, and holding officials to account with tough questions. n

WHISTLER ALPINE VILLA LTD RESIDENT CARETAKER POSITION

Whistler Alpine Villa Ltd. (WAV) is seeking a Resident Caretaker (RC) for its complex located in Whistler Creekside. The position is available August 1, 2024. The complex, built in 1965, contains 52 multi-storey apartment units in 8 building modules. WAV is a provincially incorporated, not for profit corporation. It is not a strata-title property. One three-level unit is reserved for the RC to live in.

The RC Is responsible to ensure all inspections, repairs and maintenance is carried out in a timely, competent manner, and reports to the WAV Board of Directors who are, in turn, responsible to the shareholders that use the units.

The functions of the RC include a wide variety of hands-on tasks necessary to ensure all aspects are carried out at various times of the year as seasonal opportunities permit. The configuration of the complex requires ensuring wintertime safe access and operational functioning due to the risks posed by severe cold, snow, and ice. In springtime routine cleaning includes clearing away forest debris to reduce fire hazard and optimize the overall appearance. Summertime is when major cleaning, inspection, repairs, maintenance, and painting of a designated building module takes place. The RC also arranges for annual chimney cleaning, roof repair, fire extinguisher service, smoke alarm testing and arborist work as needed with select contractors certified to perform the different aspects of that work.

The successful candidate must (at a minimum) have strong fundamental carpentry and construction skills, and be familiar with basic plumbing and electrical work. Experience erecting and working from scaffolding is an asset. This position frequently requires ladder work. Proficiency in outdoor painting and the ability to safely work on roofs is essential. This position is a physically demanding job. Clearing snow from and sanding of pathways in winter is a regular task. As RC, responding to emergencies whenever they occur is part of the job. Most work is done single-handedly.

The successful candidate must be personable and possess the necessary skills to complete all aspects of the job. This is an excellent opportunity for long-term employment. To the right candidate, we are prepared to offer an excellent compensation package averaging between $70 - $80k annually, that includes a generous vacation allowance, a full medical and dental benefits plan and free accommodation in a renovated, three-level ~1,000 sq. ft. unit in the complex.

To be considered for this position, in addition to the necessary skills, candidates must, at a minimum, pass a criminal background check, a credit report, verification of applicable educational accomplishments and provide at least two favourable references.

If you have the necessary skills and are interested in learning more about this opportunity, please forward your resume and contact information together with a covering letter and at least two(2) letters of reference to the Whistler Alpine Villa Ltd. hiring committee at the following email address: hiring@whistleralpinevilla.com

Please note: All responses to this solicitation will be acknowledged upon receipt. Only candidates who demonstrate they have the necessary skills to carry out the scope of work involved in this position will receive further contact. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by a member of the WAV hiring committee. Thank you for your interest.

More love for Whistler’s lakes

I was pleased to read about the Whistler Lakes Conservation Foundation’s work with the Raincoast Conservation Foundation monitoring the health of Whistler’s lakes (Pique, May 10). It’s great to see people working to safeguard the future of the lakes. It’s also worth remembering some of the people who cared for the lakes in the past.

Indeed, we could start with the provincial government’s decision (or the people who convinced the province to decide) in the early ’70s to freeze development in the valley, in part because sewage was leaking from septic tanks and polluting the lakes.

In the years following the municipality’s incorporation the focus was, understandably, on building the village, the mountains and the infrastructure (sewer) to support the resort municipality. Then the focus shifted to summer amenities—golf courses, tennis resorts, parks. The lakes themselves, which the municipality controls access to but are otherwise outside its jurisdiction, were largely overlooked by most of us.

That began to change more than a decade ago when a few people organized the first Great Lake Cleanup. Roger McCarthy and Bruce Mohr were instrumental.

Andreé Janyk led the cleanup of Nita Lake for years, and Peter and Trudy Alder hosted a cleanup of Green Lake in 2018.

Henry Wang and his Divers for Cleaner Lakes and Oceans volunteers have collected beer cans, cell phones, golf balls and other detritus from the bottoms of Whistler’s lakes for the last 10 years. They will return the weekend of Sept. 14 this year.

Others who have supported the Great Lake Cleanup annually include the RMOW bylaw department, Whistler Fire Rescue, HI Whistler, Backroads Whistler, Nesters Market and Creekside Market.

Scientific monitoring is extremely important

to the health of Whistler’s lakes. So too are the actions of Whistler residents and businesses.

Kimiko Taguchi//Whistler

Whistler must demand more support on provincial housing decree

The provincial government has required the adoption of small-scale multi-unit housing (SSMUH) bylaws across B.C. to accommodate future housing needs, which at first blush seems like a great idea.

Reading the provincial documents, there

seems to be a few big things missing in the policy. Infrastructure for all these new homes. No mention of new schools, hospitals, and transit.

Here is an excerpt relating to water: “The provisions of the SSMUH legislation that require local governments to update their zoning bylaws to permit a minimum density of three to six units only apply where the land is served by both a water system and sewer system provided as a service by a municipality or regional district, but not an improvement district.”

The municipality is responsible for upgrades to water, sewer etc., like it would be any development. OK, cool.

Section 8.4, development financing, is a real wonder.

“The SSMUH legislation is intended to help facilitate housing supply, which will likely create demand for new or expanded infrastructure from local governments,” it reads. “To address this demand, local governments have a range of financing tools available to acquire and construct new assets. The key development finance tools set out in legislation include subdivision servicing charges, development cost charges (DCCs) and new provisions for amenity cost charges (ACCs).”

As we expand here in Whistler, can we direct future DCCs and ACCs to pay for items such as new schools, hospitals, and transit? At a minimum, Whistler must demand the provincial government provide solid plans for financing regional transit, health-care, schools and a train service to meet the increase in population density before moving forward.

Patrick Smyth // Whistler n

2024 PropertyTax Notice

Property taxesare dueinWhistler on Tuesday, July 2.

Visit whistler.ca forfulldetails,including:

•online access to your proper ty tax information through the MyWhistler por tal;

• payment options, including howtosavetime and pay online;

• Provincial Home Owner Grant eligibility and application information foryourprincipal residencethrough the Province of B.C.;and

• information on Proper ty TaxDeferment through theProvinceofB.C

Scan the QR code for details.

Resort Municipality of Whistler whistler.ca

Resort Municipality of Whistler

Housingand Strategy Committee seeksvolunteers

Thepurpose of theCommittee is to advise RMOW staffand Council onmatters relatedtohousing andlong-term strategicplanning

We arelookingfor memberswithexper tise in aleast oneofthe followingareas:

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The trouble with activism

ARE YOU a liberal or a conservative, a Democrat or a Republican, an environmentalist or an industrialist? Do you support Israel or Palestine, Ukraine or Russia, China or Taiwan? What’s your stance on DEI, what about SOGI? What’s your take on abortion, voters’ rights, immigrant rights? Every hour of every day there’s a cause

in front of us trying to get our attention. Over the holiday period I stayed with friends in Downtown Vancouver, and every day there were marches down Georgia Street, blocking traffic and waving various flags (guess which) and being dutifully followed by the VPD. At other times of the year, if you walk by the Convention Centre at the right time, someone will show you pictures of aborted fetuses and demand to know what you plan to do about it. In my home city, there was always a preacher on a milk crate out front of the giant Anglican Cathedral citing chapter and verse of all the reasons everyone was going to Hell—it was usually to do with sodomy.

In each case, all of these passionate people were asking passersby why they didn’t care, why they were ignoring the issues they held

dear, why they were letting the world burn and children be tortured and the future of our species wither and die.

For the purpose of this piece, I do not have an opinion on any of these matters, but I do find the tactics to be aggressive and counterproductive in that they are more likely to turn passersby into opponents than allies.

What I think every time I see them is something like: I am not letting any of those things happen. I am going to work, because I need to earn money and pay for my too-

to suspect all those protestors everywhere demanding undivided attention are completely forgetting they are not the centre of other peoples’ lives, and the cause they are fighting for is not as all-encompassing as they believe.

Look up the term “sonder.” In short, it refers to the understanding that everyone on planet Earth is the centre of their own world. I understand it as the appreciation every person is the main character of their own story, and there are no supporting roles.

Applying it to protesters who try to stand

People are not heartless, but there is not enough emotional energy in the world for everyone to take on every problem in the Universe.

Most emotional energy is directed inwards, anyway. Anyone seeking to break through someone’s shell and attempt to convince them of a cause is imposing upon hopes, dreams, problems, anguish, heartbreak, and importantly—deeply held political beliefs that, for the most part, are kept close to the vest.

That’s dangerous territory, but it seems as though the activists that clutter city streets don’t understand that, and the people that walk by them are just blank slates to draw on.

expensive house and buy food that I need to live, to stay ahead of all the bills and taxes coming my way, and to hold down a quality of life that is worth living for.

I don’t even have any kids—not even a pet—and I’m flat out. It makes me wonder how anybody else has the energy to take on a fight and pursue it with the energy of a new job.

When activists direct their energy into putting themselves in the way of my life on issues they aren’t doing a good job of explaining, like many, I am more likely to respond with annoyance than compassion.

This will no doubt offend, but I’m starting

in peoples’ way, or block roads in and out of anywhere taken by commuters just going about their day, it is as though they do not believe the lives they are impacting are worth anything, despite often claiming to be compassionate and considerate of the world’s ills.

Every single person you ever encounter is wrapped up in their own lives and their own problems, and if another person—even for a second—assumes others do not care about their cause because of malice, or accuse them of being in opposition simply because they haven’t taken time out of their day to join them, then they have a serious entitlement problem.

I am absolutely certain those same people will accuse me of missing the point of their actions, and I agree—I am intentionally sidestepping the point of protest, much like they sidestep the point of society in that it only works when individuals don’t insert themselves into choke-points to clog up the entire system just because they can.

Those activists should be ready for the potential that the people they are trying to convince (often rather forcefully) will come down on the opposing side of their issue simply because they have been engaged on the issue.

Forcing someone to take a stand and pick a side on every problem on Earth is just making an ultimatum, and like with most ultimatums, chances are you will not like the answer. n

Rainfall welcome, but Whistler headed for drier-than-normal summer

WHISTLER’S MAYOR AND COUNCIL HEAR UPDATE ON WILDFIRE READINESS IN THE LEAD-UP TO SUMMER 2024

BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

RECENT RAINFALL in Whistler is welcome, but officials are still predicting a drier-thannormal summer in the resort, according to an update to Whistler’s committee of the whole on May 28.

In a presentation from eight different speakers from the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) and Whistler Fire Rescue Service (WFRS), staff reported a high-level view of the state of the province, risks to Whistler, and work to mitigate that risk.

The RMOW’s emergency program coordinator, Bob Manson, reported the area is much drier than normal, pointing to the province’s Snow Survey and Water Supply Bulletin for May 15.

“In looking at that you’ll see this province as a whole is very dry,” he said.

The South Coast region, which encompasses Whistler, is currently rated as 45 per cent of normal, and dropping quickly. The most recent report from May 15 is 16 points below the previous measurement taken May 1, when the region was at 61 per cent of normal.

The province as a whole was rated as 57 per cent of normal as of May 15, down from 66 per cent of normal on May 1.

Manson said at this time in 2023, the

South Coast region was at 52 per cent of normal, making 2024 even drier—meaning the summer ahead will likely be dry.

“The outlook at this point is it will be a dry summer and potentially a very hot one,” he said.

Manson also spoke about the lack of snowpack and the ongoing rain as of May 28.

The most recent measurements for Whistler were at 42 millimetres for the month of May—and going by BC Wildfire, the precipitation received in May and June goes a long way to inform how the fire season pans out.

continues on the way it is,” he said.

A caveat, he added, is that so far the rain this May has been small amounts spread over an entire day, “and that kind of rain just evaporates,” and doesn’t soak into the soil.

All in all, Manson reported conditions were slightly better than 2023 given the alternative.

On vegetation management, the RMOWs manager of climate and the environment Luisa Burhenne reported the municipality is focused on Emerald West, along Highway 99 and the Brio area for 2024.

She also gave a high-level update on

“The outlook at this point is it will be a dry summer and potentially a very hot one.”

- BOB MANSON

“For us to have a lower level of risk for a fire season, we’re looking at 100 mm of rain or more,” Manson said. “This time last year, for all of May we had 12 mm. This year, we’re currently at 42mm, so if it keeps up the way it is we’ll hopefully get into some good levels of precipitation.”

Manson added the rain will help with wildfire risk, but likely won’t be enough to counteract drought conditions.

“It’s still not going to remove all of the risk, but it’s certainly going to make it a little easier for us in terms of fire conditions if it

studies into forest-thinning and monitoring, saying RMOW staff “want to make sure there’s no unwanted side effects to our work,” noting so far treated areas are showing reduced wildfire potential.

The committee also received some updated numbers on ongoing FireSmart initiatives, with the RMOW’s lead hand on the program, Jesse Lieberthal, reporting increased uptake in 2024 with 66 registrations so far.

Also speaking were members of the WFRS, which continues to lean into community engagement and education, and upgrades

to their facilities and equipment to better prepare the resort for wildfire season.

Notably, WFRS officials reported increased training and preparation for wildfire fighting alongside structure-fire training, with fire trucks fitted out with more equipment, and personal gear for fire fighters being brought up to wildfire fighting grade.

The WFRS also talked about training and cooperation with BC Wildfire.

WFRS fire chief Thomas Doherty previously spoke with Pique about efforts on behalf of the WFRS to get the message out and make Whistler as a community more resilient.

A big development for WFRS is Fire Hall No. 3 on Spring Creek Drive will be fully staffed and operational from June 11. The RMOW previously reported it was increasing funding to the WFRS to hire additional personnel to achieve staffing at that hall in February, in addition to its fully-staffed Fire Hall No. 1.

Overall, staff summarized that wildfire continues to represent the greatest climatechange related risk to Whistler, and is the community’s greatest vulnerability, hence the staff time and investment put into resilience.

Councillors asked a handful of clarifying questions, and all made comments on the cooperation between various departments and higher provincial agencies on the file.

“I’m encouraged by the fact there is increasing partnership with the BC Wildfire Service,” said Mayor Jack Crompton.

Councillors voted to receive the report. The entire presentation can be watched on the RMOW website. n

RAIN DANCE Whistler’s committee of the whole heard an update on emergency readiness ahead of summer 2024 on May 28.

PHOTO BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

NEWS WHISTLER

Netting 30 years at the Whistler Racket Club

JUNE 1 CELEBRATION WILL BRING BACK TWO ICONIC COACHES AND INCORPORATE LIVE MUSIC, FOOD, SPORTS MIXERS AND MORE

BY LIZ MCDONALD

THE WHISTLER RACKET Club (WRC) nets three decades of operations this summer.

On June 1, the WRC is marking the occasion with tennis and pickleball mixers, free introductory clinics, a patio brunch, live music and barbecue, free mimosas and more. Attendees can register in advance of the event to secure their spot. All amenities are on display for the 30th celebration, and in a toast to the club’s history, owner-operator Jamie Grant explained the event will welcome back former tennis directors Peter Schelling and Marjorie Blackwood.

Blackwood was the director of the club when Grant first started coaching at the WRC 20 years ago.

“I came to the Whistler Racket Club with my resumé, and lo and behold, Marjorie Blackwood was the director,” he recalled. “And I remember seeing her at the Canadian Open in Toronto when I was growing up. [She was] this icon of Canadian tennis and here I am in an interview with her.”

The event kicks off at 9 a.m. with a patio brunch that runs until 2 p.m. For newbies wanting to get into the sports, free introductory clinics for pickleball and tennis run between 1 and 2 p.m.

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m., the club will host a tennis mixer, pickleball mixer and open play. The mixers cost $22 for club members and $30 for non-members. The tennis mixers with Schelling and Blackwood are already sold out, but there’s still space for pickleball play.

From 6 p.m. to close, guests can enjoy a barbecue with live music featuring Vancouverbased band Buddy & The Scarecrow with entry costing $10.

The event is also an opportunity to showcase how important the space is for gathering, with uncertainty around whether the club will continue at its current location.

The WRC is on a 5.2-hectare parcel of land the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) is in the process of rezoning. This will allow property owner Beedie Living to develop the land, adding hundreds of new beds, community amenities, and green space. However, as it stands, there are no plans to include or reimagine the club in the designs.

“It’s an honour to be the owner-operator right now as we celebrate 30 years. I take it very seriously, and it’s a challenge with the politics of this piece of land and what’s going to happen moving forward,” Grant said. “There’s the challenge of balancing the tennis community with the pickleball community now in one facility that was not built originally for both, and now we’ve become quite community-friendly with the events.”

One of the reasons the WRC is seeing success is the rise in pickleball and Grant’s push to diversify offerings at the club.

“There’s a very strong tennis community in this town that have kept this place alive for years, against all odds, because it’s not a big community, but they’re very passionate about tennis and about having a tennis facility in this town,” Grant said.

“They’ve done a lot to make sure there was an opportunity for someone like myself to come along five years ago and continue it and grow it into the facility it is now, which is embracing the new phenomenon that is pickleball while balancing our tennis community and family programming and all the other stuff we do.”

Whether it’s food and beverages, music, basketball, ping pong, axe throwing, cornhole or even roller skating, each offering at WRC helps bring community into the space. While the term club may evoke a sense of privacy specific for members only, the space is open to anyone and Grant has curated a feel that’s more rock ‘n’ roll than symphony orchestra.

“I think it suits this town, not to have some posh, snooty club, but it’s open to everybody and affordable,” he said.

Read more at mywrc.ca. n

$2,360,000

NET POSITIVE Onlookers catch the action at the Whistler Racket Club’s Summer Series pickleball tournament in 2022.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WHISTLER RACKET CLUB

TR A F F I C INFO R MATIO N

C INF O R MATIO N

C INF O R MATIO N

F I C INF O R MATIO N

Whistler Cay

ARATHON would like to advise residents hway 99 and Municipal Streets in Whistler of and tra c control measures to accommodate une 1, 2019

LOST LAKE TRAILS

ARATHON would like to advise residents hway 99 and Municipal Streets in Whistler of and tra c control measures to accommodate une 1, 2019

R HALF MARATHON would like to advise residents along Highway 99 and Municipal Streets in Whistler of ad closures and tra c control measures to accommodate aturday June 1, 2019

HOURS OF IMPAC T ARE:

IMPAC T ARE:

IMPAC T ARE:

t Lorimer Road: 7:25am to 7:40am (15 min 8:05am (15 min. closure) D to westbound tra c West of Highway 99

9 closure at Lorimer Road: 7:25am to 7:40am (15 min d 7:50am – 8:05am (15 min. closure)

t Lorimer Road: 7:25am to 7:40am (15 min. 8:05am (15 min. closure) D to westbound tra c West of Highway 99

ad CLOSED to westbound tra c West of Highway 99 o 8:15am

Village streets West of Highway 99 expect minor o 11:00am

Village streets West of Highway 99 expect minor o 11:00am

ood and Village streets West of Highway 99 expect minor am to 11:00am

o advise residents Streets in Whistler of sures to accommodate to 7:40am (15 min e) West of Highway 99 ghway 99 expect minor ghway 99 expect minor

Village streets East of Highway 99 expect minor 8:00am – 11:30am

ood and Village streets East of Highway 99 expect minor am – 11:30am

Village streets East of Highway 99 expect minor am

major intersections and to safely manage tra c. ted hours and consider routes for local trips. es are advised to plan ahead ges on the a ected

el will be stationed at major intersections and race route, shown here, to safely manage tra c void travel during impacted hours and consider idor trips or alternative routes for local trips avel during these times are advised to plan ahead shor t duration stoppages on the a ected route.

personnel will be stationed at major intersections and along the race route, shown here, to safely manage tra c asked to avoid travel during impacted hours and consider mes for corridor trips or alternative routes for local trips need to travel during these times are advised to plan ahead elays and shor t duration stoppages on the a ected route.

el will be stationed at major intersections and ace route, shown here, to safely manage tra c void travel during impacted hours and consider idor trips or alternative routes for local trips. avel during these times are advised to plan ahead shor t duration stoppages on the a ected route

c and transit delays, please also note that much y host to the event. Expect heavy trail usage of 7:00am - noon on Saturday June 1, and 8:00am to une 2

c and transit delays, please also note that much y host to the event. Expect heavy trail usage of 7:00am - noon on Saturday June 1, and 8:00am to une 2.

o street tra c and transit delays, please also note that much ark will play host to the event. Expect heavy trail usage ours of 7:00am - noon on Saturday June 1, and 8:00am to unday, June 2

on organisers and par ticipants thank you for your patience and cooperation and remind you to drive safely.

on organisers and par ticipants thank you for your patience and cooperation and remind you to drive safely

Half Marathon organisers and par ticipants thank you for

Moosemeat & Marmalade meets Whistler

THE ICONIC SHOW IS COMING TO A CLOSE AFTER SEVEN SEASONS, AND EPISODE 2 MAKES A STOP IN WHISTLER

BY LIZ MCDONALD

THE SEVENTH and final season of Moosemeat & Marmalade is premiering now on APTN, and the second episode explores the food and recreation scenes of Whistler.

The hit series started in 2014, with chefs Art Napoleon, from Saulteau First Nation, and Dan Hayes, from London, England, exploring culture and traditions from around the world, merging their diverse backgrounds to bring audiences and tastebuds delight. The seventh season spans from Eastern to Western Canada, and even pops over to Sweden for beaver and moose hunting. Episode 2’s foray into Whistler features winter sports, ice fishing and biathlon, and of course, incredible food.

While the series is ending, both Napoleon and Hayes have plenty to praise about Whistler, their on-air chemistry and what the show has meant to them.

While some episodes are led by Hayes or Napoleon, the storyline and their interactions make episodes blend together seamlessly. Napoleon explained the Whistler episode was led by Hayes, who tends to focus more on fine-dining.

Whistler is no stranger to epicureanism, but when filming, restaurants proved difficult to get into, even for a hit TV production. So, Napoleon explained they went rogue.

“We couldn’t get into the fine-dining places for filming peak season. So, we filmed the cook and dine in our chalet that we were renting,” he said.

“It’s just a fun little place. And you’re in such beautiful, wild, rugged forests and mountains and all of a sudden there’s this sort of funky little town that has everything you possibly need for a fun weekend,” Hayes said.

While skiing isn’t either host’s forte, they are experienced hunters. Learning biathlon balanced their expertise out when they tried biathlon at Whistler Olympic Park.

“I think the last time I skied prior to that, I was 14 … so I’m not very elegant on a pair of skis, downhill or cross-country. So that was fun,” Hayes explained.

“Of course, the shooting side of things, Art and I, you know, we hunt a lot, and we shoot a lot and so that’s no problem. But the skiing, that was a little bit tricky.”

They also went ice fishing on Nita Lake, but to find out what they caught, you’ll have to catch the episode.

Ending the series wasn’t easy, but Napoleon said many factors played into the decision, from experiencing long-COVID to members of the crew passing away.

Delectable dishes carefully curated for the episode included coho salmon linguine and pan-fried monkfish on a chestnut and sage noisette with mushrooms.

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Hayes explained he hadn’t spent much time in Whistler, but he would hear from friends in London who were looking forward to skiing at the internationally renowned Whistler Blackcomb.

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“I just figured if I’m going to continue in TV, I’m at an age now where maybe I should try something else instead of the same old, same old, and maybe leave people wanting a little bit more and not getting tired of Moosemeat & Marmalade,” he said.

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FUNKY LITTLE TOWN Art Napoleon and Dan Hayes took on Whistler for Season 7 of Moosemeat & Marmalade

PHOTO BY OLIVIA VANDERWAL

More houses for everyone: WVHS nears completion of 30-unit building

WHISTLER VALLEY HOUSING SOCIETY PERMITTED CHANGES TO HOUSING AGREEMENT TO ALLOW MORE ESSENTIAL SERVICE WORKERS AS TENANTS

BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

THE RESORT MUNICIPALITY of Whistler (RMOW) has granted the wishes of the Whistler Valley Housing Society (WVHS), and altered the housing agreement it has in place for its new worker housing project.

The new housing agreement that received three readings at a May 24 special council meeting addressed four changes requested by the WVHS in March that would allow it more flexibility across its two properties in Whistler.

The new, soon-to-be completed project at 1400 Mount Fee Road is a 30-unit building the WVHS wants to make available to essential-service workers. The WVHS is a separate entity to the Whistler Housing Authority (WHA).

The RMOW’s manager of planning John Chapman ran through the changes, explaining under the new agreement for 1400 Mount Fee Road, “essential-service workers” now include social service agency workers, pharmacists and veterinarians as qualified applicants for the units. According to the initial letter from the WVHS requesting the changes, the addition of these workers was at the behest of feedback from employers.

The three new types of workers are in addition to a long list that already includes medical workers, paramedics and ambulance workers, Whistler RCMP, Whistler Fire Rescue, utilities workers and road maintenance staff, teachers, daycare workers and transit bus drivers.

Another change allows employers of

those essential-service workers to secure a unit themselves, and sub-lease the units to qualified workers.

The cap on the number of units available to essential service workers was also removed. Initially, it was 15 of the 30, and now it can be all units.

The building is expected to be complete in July 2024.

A final change requested by the WVHS, and allowed by the RMOW, was to permit up to 10 units at 1400 Mount Fee Drive to be occupied by existing tenants of the WVHS’ other property at 2178 Sarajevo Drive who are “overhoused” should they wish to move.

The existing building at Sarajevo Drive is made up of 20 three-bedroom townhouses, and according to the WVHS, some are under-utilized by families with children that have since moved out. If they qualified as essential workers, those existing tenants could apply to move to the new building without going through a waitlist. Existing tenants at 2178 will not be forced to move. Sarajevo residents have to be fulltime employees working for a qualified Whistler business, but they do not have to be essential-service workers.

Chapman said the amendments met the requests of the WVHS while staying true to other agreements and covenants in place for the land, noting there was a final change that added a layer of oversight for the RMOW: The municipality will require the WVHS provide a statutory declaration informing the municipality on who will be living at 1400 Mount Fee Road prior to a

SEE PAGE 20 >>

MOOSEMEAT & MARMALADE

The show also had to overcome international travel logistics, whether it was gear or vehicle rentals, airport inspections, or permitting for drones while creating a highquality show.

“One thing I’m proud of is that we created the show I think that has high production value and became an international show with a shoestring budget if you compare it to the bigger networks,” Napoleon said.

While neither Napoleon nor Art said exactly what will come next for them, Napoleon’s history in television, music and writing are all meaningful paths, and he’s also got an off-grid hobby farm that needs tending to. Hayes, who caught the performance bug while working on

FROM PAGE 18

Moosemeat & Marmalade , looks forward to continuing in television and teaching at his cooking school, London Chef.

The chemistry between the two is appreciated by both Hayes and Napoleon, which won’t be easy to repeat elsewhere.

For Hayes, who came to Canada 16 years ago, the show also gave him an opportunity to learn from Indigenous communities.

“I got to spend time in Indigenous communities, get to know Indigenous communities and they’ve got to know me,” Hayes said.

“And so, I’m in this unbelievably privileged situation… and there is absolutely no way I would have had that experience without the show.” n

Friday, June 7, 2024 4pm -8 pm at theWhistlerPublicLibrary andPlaza

tenancy agreement being signed.

During questions, Councillor Cathy Jewett—who also sits on the WVHS board as the board chair—queried whether the statutory declaration would be required for tenants of every unit, to which she was told yes.

In the housing agreement bylaw, the justification for a statutory declaration for every unit was explained as a way for the RMOW to ensure the WVHS was complying with the housing agreement and only renting units to qualified workers. The bylaw also allows the municipality to make requests for statutory declarations “from time to time,” together with any additional information.

“[The WVHS] hereby irrevocably authorizes the Municipality to make such inquiries as it considers necessary and reasonable to confirm that [the WVHS] is complying with this Agreement, and irrevocably authorizes and directs the recipient of such a request for information from the Municipality to provide the requested information to the Municipality,” reads the bylaw.

“Additional evidence” the RMOW can request includes letters of employment, ICBC vehicle insurance and registration, government-issued personal identification, income-tax returns and notices of assessment, wills, grants of probate or grants of administration, pay statements or records of employment, verification of educational

enrolment, separation agreements, insurance certificates for homeowners or tenants insurance, and declarations from sponsor social service agencies.

A communications official with the RMOW told Pique  the statutory declarations were required to ensure the people living in the units are eligible, and are a standard

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requirement for Whistler’s employeehousing units.

“The 1400 Mount Fee Road statutory declaration makes sure these units can be affordable homes for essential services workers (such as paramedics, bus drivers and daycare workers), as well as for people referred by social service agencies such as

Whistler Community Services Society,” the said in an email.

They added the RMOW could also request statutory declarations from the Whistler Housing Authority for the same purpose.

At the May 24 meeting, Jewett also gave an update on the 1400 Mount Fee Road building, saying there were a total of six units not spoken for as of May 24: Five one-bedroom units, and one two-bedroom unit of the 30 in the building. Applications opened in March.

Coun. Jessie Morden asked whether small businesses such as restaurants could enter into leases so they could secure housing for their workers, but Chapman said only employers of essential-service workers as laid out in the housing agreement could do so, and small businesses not listed did not qualify.

They are unlikely to sit vacant, however; Chapman later explained if the vacant units are not filled by workers that qualify under the WVHS housing agreement, they will be opened up to the WHA waitlist. If they are not occupied after the WHA waitlist is exhausted, they will open up to other qualified employees within Whistler.

Councillors present unanimously approved the motion to give the housing agreement first three readings. It will come back for adoption at a future regular council meeting.

The WVHS previously reported 1400 Mount Fee Drive has a projected move-in date of July 1. n

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HOUSE AND HOME The soon-to-be-complete building at 1400 Mount Fee Road owned by the Whistler Valley Housing Society.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WHISTLER VALLEY HOUSING SOCIETY

Slime sleuth speakers coming to BioBlitz

JUNE 6 TALK EXPLORES THE IMPORTANCE OF SLIME MOULDS, AN UNDERSTUDIED SINGLE-CELL ORGANISM THAT ISN’T SLIMY OR MOULDY

BY LIZ MCDONALD

NATURE FANATICS take note—an upcoming BioBlitz speaker event hosted by the Whistler Naturalists will explore the wonderful world of slime mould.

BioBlitz is a yearly event that aims to uncover and categorize the diversity of life in Whistler, with inventories of species that help create environmental awareness and scientifically defensive input for planning and policy creation. Outdoor enthusiasts are welcome to attend a talk at Myrtle Philip School June 6 at 7 p.m. to hear about slime moulds of B.C. Two ecologists and a self-taught mycologist will present photos of diverse slime moulds that call the province home.

Slime moulds, also known as myxomycetes, are similar to fungi and were once considered part of the same biological kingdom, but today are considered a distinct group of their own—and much remains to be discovered about the organisms.

The event costs $5 and includes presentations by ecologists Ryan Durand, Tyson Ehlers and Pam Janszen, and speakers will also present at local schools.

Janszen is a self-taught mycologist, and describes her pathway to slime as a natural progression from connecting with nature at a young age.

“My mom always had us out in the woods picking berries and looking at things,” she said, adding she started out with wildflower books before moving to bird books.

“And then I started getting interested in fungus,” she said. “And at the same time, I met my husband, Harvey, who was, among

Thursday,June6,2024

7:00 pm

Myrtle Philip Sc hool

2024BioBlitzTalk

$5 MinimumDonation FREE forMembers

Slime Moulds of BC: Themost unusual little critters

Ecologists Ryan Durand andTyson Ehlers will present a photo-rich over view of slimemouldsand theirwork to uncovert heir diversityinBC. While slimemoulds may resemble fungi, they areonlydistantly relatedand relatively little is knownabout theseenigmatic creatures in BC.Theyare unicellularorganisms with surprisingly complexstructuresand behaviour, such as theabilityto learnand solvemazes

As aself-taught mycologist,slimemouldshavebeenon PamJanszen’s radar forover25years.Somewhere af ter 500+ fungal species, shefound herselfgetting really interested in Myxomycetes(akaslimemoulds).Pam will sharehow shegot hooked on slimeMyxos andexplain theirfascinating lifecycle.

GETTICKETS:WWW.WHISTLERNATURALISTS.CA

other things, a systematic botanist.”

Janszen took his advice to start writing down the fungi, categorizing them throughout her home on Saturna Island while working for BC Parks. While she was initially enamoured with fungi, these days, it’s all about slime.

“My main drive for the last six or seven years has been slime moulds full-time,” she said.

Despite their name, they’re not slimy, and they aren’t mould.

“It’s a really bad common name,” Janszen explained. “I call them mixos, short for mixomycetes, which is their proper name.”

In the 1990s, she said slime moulds were creatures of mycologists, without any other researcher studying the single-cell organisms. She recalls at the time having to convince conservation researchers to include fungi in data-collection efforts, and equates slime to what fungi was 20 years ago.

When asked what appeals to her about slime, Janszen said the small, singlecell organisms often have incredible transformations. For example, stemonitis slime moulds start off as small, white balls that grow into brown, feather-like structures within the span of 24 hours.

These organisms without brains can even find the shortest route through a maze.

While most mycologists stalk mushrooms for the delicious dishes they create, for Janszen, it’s all about beauty.

“I’m really superficial. For me, it’s always been about how pretty they were,” she said with a laugh. “I’ve never been into eating them and became less so once I started looking at them under the microscope and saw how many bugs are inside.”

Find more info at whistlernaturalists.ca/ bioblitz. n

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Mike Walsh, 62, of Pemberton BC, who passed away on Friday May 17th, 2024 surrounded by family and friends.

Mike was born on Jan 6, 1962 in London to Terence and Ingrid Walsh.

Mike was a carpenter, construction superintendent, business owner, serial entrepreneur and father of four sons. He will be remembered for his generosity and being a social butterfly.

BREAKING THE MOULD BioBlitz scientists will give a public lecture and blitz public schools with information about the natural world this week.

PHOTO BY BOB BRETT

Whistler Multicultural Festival shines a light on diversity

THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL RUNS JUNE 7 AT THE WHISTLER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND WHISTLER MUSEUM

BY LIZ MCDONALD

TEN YEARS AFTER its inception, the Whistler Multicultural Festival continues to grow, as do the diverse groups represented at the festival.

Held at the Whistler Public Library and Whistler Museum, this year’s festival marks the 10th anniversary of the event run by the Whistler Multicultural Society (WMS), celebrating the distinct cultures that make Whistler a place for everyone. From 4 to 8 p.m. on June 7 along Main Street, events for all ages will be on display, including food vendors, cultural performances, artistry, activities, and products for sale.

According to a release from the WMS, each year, local Indigenous groups in attendance include Lil’wat (Líl’wat7úl), Squamish (Sk_wx_w ú 7mesh Úxwumixw), Stl’atl’imx, and Xa’Xtsa. There’s a strong showing from local Mexican, Filipino and Japanese communities, as well as diverse attendees from around the world.

Attendance at the grassroots event has grown from an estimated 500 people in 2013 to about 800 last year, and volunteers have

almost tripled between that time.

Yami Yeung, multicultural outreach worker with the WMS, explained the society and event helps foster positive experiences for newcomers to Canada.

“This is WMS’ goal, to build crosscultural interaction and connections, develop awareness and understanding of our local diversity, and seek to grow equity and inclusion,” Yeung said. “We aim to

build the voice and profile of newcomers and immigrants in our local society, and to develop community inclusion initiatives.”

Representatives from the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre will begin festivities with a welcome dance.

Other highlights include members of the Lil’wat Nation sharing traditional performances, and Filipino singers and dancers who will delight audiences. Chinese

Thai Chi will provide a sense of Zen, while Japanese kendo martial artists will also represent their cultures and skills.

This year the festival is sponsored by Brahmi Skincare, a Whistler-based company that merges beauty products and skincare routines with Hindu spiritual teachings and energy work.

“She will do henna as an activity at the multicultural festival and also she will showcase her skincare and how her culture helped her business be successful,” Yeung said.

The event is funded by Canadian Heritage and Vancouver Coastal Health.

Other celebrations of multiculturalism on display include an art show in collaboration with Arts Whistler called Cultural Crossings. The submissions showcase the path immigrant and newcomer artists travelled on their way to the Sea to Sky, whether their work centres around homeland or influences from the 49th parallel.

“It’s about how they integrate and bring their culture into Canada,” Yeung said.

The exhibit runs from June 5 to July 27 at the Maury Young Arts Centre and includes an art party in celebration of Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27. n

It is with profound sadness that the Lalli family (Manjit, Paul, Nikita, Jarnel and Simi) and Leigh family (Barb, Brent and Kenny) announce the passing of their beloved

Kashaana Lalli and Robert Leigh

Their zeal for adventure and each other could only be described as a higher life and love. They shared a parallel reality of close families, clear values, academic accomplishment and the love of sport that crossed paths in the spring of 2022. They have been inseparable ever since. A mutual passion for flight found them exploring coastal beaches and mountain reaches as vast as the opportunities that lay ahead of them. A passion that took their lives but will never take the inspiration of love they shared with all who knew them. The families extend their deepest gratitude to Squamish Search and Rescue, Squamish RCMP and others that were involved in the rescue effort.

A celebration of Kashanna’s and Robert’s life together will be held on June 9th 1:00 to 4:00 pm at Bradner Hall, 5305 Bradner Road, Abbotsford.

CULTURAL CONNECTIONS A demonstration at the 2023 Whistler Multicultural Festival, held at the Whistler Public Library. This year’s festival takes place June 7.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WHISTLER MULTICUTURAL SOCIETY

Trailblazing filmmaker from Lil’wat Nation gifts

cedar rope bracelets to cast and crew of Never Let

Go

HANNAH JONES SAID SHE WAS PROUD TO REPRESENT HER COMMUNITY ON THE SET OF THE UPCOMING AMERICAN SURVIVAL HORROR FILM STARRING HALLE BERRY

BY RÓISÍN CULLEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

AWARD-WINNING filmmaker from the Lil’wat Nation, Hannah Jones, brought her skills to the set of Never Let Go recently. The American survival horror movie stars Halle Berry and will be released in September.

The Capilano University student recently scooped the prize for Best Student Film at the Shakti Film Festival in Vancouver. Jones previously told Pique she would like to see her movies on the big screen so more people can learn about her community’s history and culture. She started working as a production assistant on the movie, which was filmed in Coquitlam, during the last week of school in April 2023.

“I got to work wherever they needed me,” she said. “I worked in a lot of different departments. I got to work in the production office, costume, locations, accounting and even helped with wardrobe on set. I got to meet a lot of really cool people.”

Jones said she’s proud to represent her community and to blaze a trail for younger people to follow.

“I was one of two Indigenous people on set. I hope that number will grow soon,” she

said. “There were some moments where I wished I had some of my people there.”

Jones was not able to reveal much about the highly anticipated movie set in the woods, but hinted it’s definitely a flick to keep an eye on.

“The movie is a psychological thriller,” she said. “As an evil takes over the world beyond their front doorstep, the only protection for a mother and her twin sons is their house and their family’s protective bond. They need to

Jones had a chance to bring a piece of her unique culture to the city when her production manager asked for crew gift ideas.

“He didn’t want to give the basic T-shirt with the title of the film on it,” she said. “He asked me if I had any more ideas that were more authentic and that could include the forest. The film is set in the woods.”

The perfect idea immediately dawned on Jones.

“I told him that we could gift them cedar

“I was proud to have been able to show some Indigenous culture to part of a world who don’t know much about it.”

- HANNAH JONES

stay connected at all times, even tethering themselves with ropes. They cling to one another, urging each other to ‘never let go.’”

The young Lil’wat woman was inspired by the incredible work ethic of Berry, who became the first Black woman to win the Oscar for Best Actress in 2002. Jones even received a signed bottle of champagne from Berry.

“Watching her do her thing as this strong woman character was mesmerizing,” said Jones. “I was in awe every time I saw her.”

rope bracelets. These bracelets are a small example of how the Lil’wat people used to make ropes,” she said. “It fits because in the film they use rope as a survival tool against evil in their world. It was such a perfect fit that he let me take control over it.”

Jones’ biggest supporter, her mom, Lucinda Jones Gabriel, immediately got to work on the project. The kind-hearted mother, volunteer and powwow organizer better known as ‘CinaMon’ sadly passed away in April. “I

told my mom about it and she said she would love to make them. She prepped the cedar and made about 50,” said Jones. “I believe she got my dad and two brothers to help make them.”

Jones was later told the crew needed more than 200 more cedar rope bracelets. She worked tirelessly to complete the rest in her office. The bracelets said,  “thank you for your hard work” in Ucwalmícwts.

“I tried to search online for the correct phrasing, but I couldn’t find it so I just went with my gut,” said Jones. “It was a lot of fun making them.”

The bracelets prompted a lot of questions about the Lil’wat Nation, which Jones was delighted to answer.

“Everyone loved them. They asked lots of questions and showed a great deal of interest,” she said. “I was proud to have been able to show some Indigenous culture to part of a world who don’t know much about it.”

The movie’s premiere will be a bittersweet moment for the young Lil’wat trailblazer.

“As soon as I heard when the movie was going to come out, I told [mom] and she was so excited. She wanted to see my name on the big screen,” Jones said. “Unfortunately, with her recent passing, I won’t be able to watch it with her. I know she would have had had a big celebration and would have told everyone about it.

“I miss her support so much. She believed that my name would be up there and now it is. I just hope I continue to make her proud. She always called me the ‘rez kid with a dream.’” n

NATURAL FIT Hannah Jones and her family made cedar rope bracelets for the cast and crew of Never Let Go

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANNAH JONES

Unique backcountry lodge past Pemberton hopes to expand summer business

THE FIRST OWNERS OF THE MCGILLIVRAY PASS HAD BIG PLANS FOR THEIR HOMESTEAD

BY RÓISÍN CULLEN Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A BACKCOUNTRY LODGE between D’Arcy and Bralorne is hoping to attract more guests from around the world this summer after another successful ski season.

The McGillivray Pass Lodge is a rustic cabin in the mountains with five outbuildings. Groups of up to 15 can travel by helicopter to the lodge to get a proper break from the world and enjoy B.C.’s natural beauty. Chefs also cater meals for lucky guests before they embark on once-in-a-lifetime guided tours around the property.

Owner of lodge operator Whitecap Alpine Adventures, Lars Andrews, grew up around the lodge and is excited to bring it into a new era.

“It’s where I learned how to ski,” he said. “I’ve spent a huge part of my life in the mountains.”

Built in 1972, Andrews’ beloved home away from home has a unique history. There were originally plans for the area to become a ski resort big enough to give Whistler a run for its money.

“The property for the lodge was actually purchased in the late ’40s, early ’50s by an Austrian couple,” said Andrews. “They were trying to build a family homestead there and potentially a ski resort.”

Helmet and Christa Weinhold were living in Bralorne when they discovered the breathtaking beauty of the McGillivray Pass. Helmet was an engineer in the Pioneer mines, and both were avid skiers. Sadly, the young couple was killed in an avalanche in 1965.

“The estate went up for sale,” said Andrews. “It was bought by a group of investors with the intent of building a ski resort there. This was long before Whistler existed. All the access to the coast mountains was through the Interior.”

Growing up, Andrews noticed little signs the couple had big plans for their homestead. “When I was a kid there was lots of stuff around that indicated that it was planned to be a large operation, that there would be lifts,

etc,” he said.

However, these plans would never come to life. McGillivray Pass would become a different kind of tourist destination, a retreat people use to escape the huge crowds at ski resorts. When the lodge was first built, it was surrounded by booming mining towns like Bralorne and Gold Bridge. By the ’70s, things were starting to stall out.

“Whistler had been built. The appetite for building a resort was gone,” said Andrews. “The mines in the area were being shut down. The price of gold was diving so it didn’t make sense to mine there anymore. It just became a family retreat with the commercial component. People would rent the lodge and bring groups there for hiking in the

summertime and skiing in the winter.”

The Andrews family fell in love with the lodge in the mid-’70s.

“We would go up there on family vacations and things like that,” said Andrews. “We subsequently over time established ourselves as the primary shareholders. The primary business was the winter business, skiing. I finally committed full time to the lodge in 2003. I’ve been there ever since. There has also been a summer component. People have rented the lodge and enjoyed the valley in the summertime. About seven or eight years ago, we started to operate trips from June through early October.”

The guided tours over the summer mostly get interest from residents of the Sea to Sky corridor, Vancouver and Seattle.

Andrews stressed the lodge’s summer activities are suitable for all ages and abilities.

“In the winter, it is ski-touring we offer so the demographic is pretty narrow. Hiking and sauntering around the alpine is something that almost everyone can do,” he said. “The age demographic is quite broad, too. I’d like to expand the summer business. The winter business is already full. We have operations in Japan, in Europe and in Norway during winter. I would love to see summer here attract more traffic, then see if we can expand globally.”

Read more about the lodge and its history at whitecapalpine.ca. n

RUSTIC RETREAT The McGillivray Pass Lodge was built in 1972.

PHOTO BY TYLER RAVELLE

Pemberton’s

Signal Hill Elementary School receives ‘game-changing’ $15k technology grant from

Best Buy

THE SCHOOL PLANS TO USE SOME OF THE FUNDS TO PURCHASE NEW PROJECTORS AND SCREENS TO REMOTELY WELCOME INDIGENOUS ELDERS TO SPEAK TO STUDENTS

BY RÓISÍN CULLEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

PEMBERTON’S SIGNAL Hill Elementary School is $15,000 richer thanks to a technology grant from Best Buy Canada. Best Buy was won over by a heartfelt video explaining how students would benefit from new technology. Best Buy’s School Tech Grant program is in its 15th year, with more than $4 million donated to more than 300 schools across the country in that time. This year, 18 lucky schools received grants.

Best Buy Canada’s social impact manager, Jen Knight, explained schools all have different goals they want to achieve with the money.

“We created the grant to help Canadian schools access technology to give students a better education,” she said. “For different schools, that can mean different things. For most schools, it’s an absolute game changer. It helps schools to address basic tech needs.  Some schools don’t have very much technology, so it really makes a huge difference in terms of taking their students forward.”

Best Buy usually provides $10,000 grants, but upped the amount this year to celebrate the program’s 15-year anniversary. “This will mean even more technology for schools,” said Knight.

Knight said the company was blown away by Signal Hill’s application.

“It’s really exciting for Signal Hill to receive this. They had a really interesting story about how they wanted to connect

Are you a charity, non-profit organization or Indigenous-serving organization?

Does your work advance poverty reduction and social inclusion in your community?

You may be eligible to apply for the Community Prosperity Fund

more as a school that’s a little bit more remote,” she said. “They wanted to access stories from elders. Having the technology to collect those stories is important. They made an application video which we loved.”

It is also the first time a school in the Sea to Sky corridor has received the grant.

“We were really happy to give it to a school in Pemberton,” said Knight. “We are excited to see the impact the grant will have on the students.”

Vice principal of Signal Hill, Cam Strudwick, said the school uses the technology at its disposal to make sure local students have the best experience possible.

“We always appreciate the extra support,” he said. “It’s pretty nice to be recognized and have them supporting our initiative. We are a pretty unique community. Our staff does a really good job of using our technology in unique ways to spread our connections with the community. Our librarian has organized remote author visits where some authors of children’s books can share their learning with our classes. It’s pretty cool.”

The school is already putting the grant to good use.

“We want to make sure that all our classrooms have new digital projection technology,” said Strudwick. “Some of them didn’t. This funding will help us to purchase a whole bunch of new projectors. We are buying a ViewBoard for the library. It’s like a big TV that we can use like a tablet. The money goes quickly, but we are super excited. It will finish off the plan that our previous administration had.” n

close June 24, 2024.

OVER THE HILL Signal Hill Elementary School is the first school in the Sea to Sky corridor to receive the Best Buy technology grant.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SEA TO SKY SCHOOL DISTRICT

False balance favours industry over wildlife

NATURE IS DYNAMIC , constantly in flux.

Yet within nature’s dynamism, an ecological equilibrium, or balance, is often achieved—something I wrote about in my book The Sacred Balance. States of equilibrium can be observed in nature at vastly different temporal and physical scales, from a tiny, near-perfectly symmetrical snowflake before it melts to predator-prey dynamics. Wolf and caribou

events. To temper the impacts of industrial logging, forest management needs to include some countermeasures of stability to protect and maintain healthy functioning ecosystems as security for forest-dwelling species that need them now to survive.

Similarly, politicians who promise to “balance” conservation and economic interests don’t take context sufficiently into account—such as the fact that for most of nature, the scales have already tipped grossly in favour of generating profit.

BY DAVID SUZUKI

populations fluctuate, but they kept each other in check for thousands of years in the boreal forest before human disturbances like logging roads, clearcuts and seismic lines (paths cleared for oil and gas exploration) disrupted their relationship. (Boreal caribou

As I’ve emphasized my whole career, humans are part of nature. We have the potential—the creativity and the problemsolving abilities—to live sustainably within the planet’s finite limits, but the impact of our unrelenting collective drive for profit is one factor that has thrown most natural systems out of equilibrium. (Climate change is just one disturbing consequence.) Many Indigenous communities have successfully incorporated elements of natural law into their governance systems. Mainstream society, however, has been far less successful at doing so and often uses concepts from nature to soften the language of policy directions that support perpetual industrial expansion.

For example, the dynamic qualities of fire have been used to justify industrial clearcut

When we talk about balancing values, we need to recognize that our starting place is already unbalanced. This is demonstrated, for example, by the fact one in five species in Canada is at some level of risk (habitat loss and fragmentation remains the driver of species’ decline), old-growth forests that contain large trees in British Columbia “are almost extinguished and will not recover from logging,” increasing ship traffic is creating ever more impacts on marine mammals and marine ecosystems have been radically altered by centuries of exploitation.

The concept of balance as a mechanism for protecting species at risk is a landscape of diminishing returns. If 100 hectares of forest are needed by caribou to survive and are also desired by industry, the politician of the day “balances” these values by granting half of the forest to industry and half to caribou. But the pressure doesn’t let up, and some years down the road the next politician grants 25 hectares of the remaining 50 hectares to industry, keeping 25 hectares for caribou. This continues until barely any caribou habitat is left. This has occurred throughout the country, most visibly in the Little Smoky caribou range in Alberta, where less than five per cent of the range is undisturbed by industrial activity, and logging pressure and activity continues.

“Balance” is a good buzzword. It sounds

logging in Ontario, under the Dynamic Caribou Habitat Schedule policy. It’s based on the premise that “forest ecosystems are dynamic and can be thought of as following an adaptive cycle that has four phases: growth, maturity, collapse and reorganization.” This framing enables the province to approve logging in known intact caribou habitat by banking on caribou returning to forests after they’ve been clearcut, although population re-establishment is yet unproven.

Forests are dynamic, as are forest fires, which usually hop around, leaving patches of trees in their wake. Clearcuts, on the other hand, tend to be less dynamic. Although management practices often require some level of tree retention, logging typically leaves behind far less diverse landscapes than fire

so reasonable. But it won’t work as a political metaphor to recover already degraded lands and waters and the at-risk species that depend on them. What is needed is the exact opposite: the political commitment to prioritize protection of remnant functioning ecosystems and to restore ecosystems that have been degraded by our actions.

If protecting and restoring nature aren’t prioritized, status-quo industrial expansion will continue, dressed up in language that makes it seem less harmful.

David Suzuki is a scientist, broadcaster, author and co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Boreal Project Manager Rachel Plotkin. n

Why is El Niño such a brat?

A COUPLE HOURS ago, a friend texted about some work-related thing. He padded his message with a conversational expression that should, if you’ve lived here long enough, be familiar to Whistlerites: “How about this rain?”

How about it, indeed.

For a spring season that started with the worrying warmth and dryness we’ve sadly come to expect, things sure shifted in a hurry. Only that morning I’d dropped my car at

BY LESLIE ANTHONY

the mechanic in Function to have my tires changed over (thankfully the new summer rubber is anti-hydroplaning); as I walked the 4.5 kilometres home to Creekside in a deluge that easily found its way through the remaining molecules of Gore-Tex in my nowmouldering raincoat, I thought about the mess rain was making of my life. Not that anyone gives a rat’s ass, but I can’t carry out my annual spraying of burdock with deathdealing vinegar while it’s raining. Like my raincoat, the dog cannot dry off between outings and is now sporting sloth-like algae in its fur. And all the plants I fastidiously raised from seeds in April, hoping to transfer to my garden by now, aren’t going anywhere with nighttime lows bottoming out between +1 and -1; since they’ve now been re-potted twice each, my living room floor looks like

a greenhouse complete with grow lights hanging from the window blinds. As of the time of writing (3 p.m.) the Government of Canada’s weather website shows the coldest reporting station in the province to be our own Callaghan Valley, at 6.3 C (the warmest was Ashcroft at a steamy 21.2 C).

In hindsight, April and May were pretty good months, weather-wise, certainly for spring skiing—much of which I did in conditions far better than what the past week has seen. And now, every time I look at the weather app on my phone the 10-day outlook has deteriorated. Worse, the high-tech

quarter-century I’ve lived in Whistler, May and June have been by far the most miserable months: the hardest to predict and the ones that bring the nastiest surprises of cold or prodigious amounts of unforecast rain (I mean, June-uary is a thing—even if it tends to be instantly erased from memory by the first sunny, 20 C day). I’m the only one who thinks this, but I’ll be the first to admit my sense is partly tied to an expectation to get up-anddown spring weather over with and get on with summer; this notion has been exacerbated by summers over the past five years that literally started in April and erased knowledge of the

Though I’m the last to cheer on climate change, at this point bring it on. I need to get these plants out of the living room and dry off my dog—and raincoat.

meteorological magic we all rely on seems only to be messing with weather forecasters: yesterday, when I arose at 6 a.m., it showed a 15-per-cent chance of rain at around 10 a.m., then cloudy for the rest of the day; this seemed propitious for my multifarious plans. By 10:30 a.m. the forecast showed a chance of rain all day—a chance that turned out to be about 150 per cent and shut down pretty much everything I expected to do.

This is infuriating.

This is also perfectly normal.

People like to call out October and November, but when I think about it, for the

compelling reason for unsettled weather: it’s spring. It’s transition time. Everything is turning over. Air masses are colliding. The sun is waxing. Ocean temperatures are shifting. Jet streams are moving. And 2023’s El Niño event, one of the strongest on record, with a litany of record-smashing land and ocean temperatures around the globe, is dissipating into meteorological bits and pieces, opening the door to its sister event, La Niña.

El Niño winters are generally warmer throughout B.C. and the Yukon, with less snowfall in southern B.C. La Niña winters show the opposite in southern B.C.—cooler

conditions and greater-than-normal snowfall. Climate is naturally variable, so individual El Niño or La Niña episodes may not conform to generalized findings. In fact, an Environment Canada study found the most extreme winters (i.e., warmest and wettest) didn’t necessarily correlate with either. So it’s messy.

In a December 2023 release, University of Ottawa associate professor Hossein Bonakdari noted: “The warming of the Pacific Ocean’s surface waters has led to changes in global weather patterns, including increased rainfall in South America, droughts in Southeast Asia, and warmer temperatures in North America.”

While Bonakdari wouldn’t be shocked to see what happened across the globe since, he also explained that despite La Niña typically ushering in cooler and wetter conditions, the rise in global temperature could contribute to more unpredictable weather patterns in coastal B.C., which feels the primary effects of El Niño in Canada.

The main thing he and other forecasters point out is that a weakening El Niño no longer means relief from the heat. And that is squarely on human-driven climate change. Back in the day, as warmer-than-average ocean temps in the equatorial Pacific shifted to the more neutral levels of La Niña, we might have seen a cooler summer, but now, according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Climate Prediction Center, climate change is keeping temperatures on a firm upward trend, as shown in current outlooks for North America.

Though I’m the last to cheer on climate change, at this point bring it on. I need to get these plants out of the living room and dry off my dog—and raincoat.

Leslie Anthony is a Whistler-based author, editor, biologist and bon vivant who has never met a mountain he didn’t like. n

RAINDROPS KEEP FALLING... This May’s constant rainfall is infuriating. It’s also perfectly normal.

PHOTO BY LESLIE ANTHONY

FEATURE STORY

BY RÓISÍN CULLEN

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The Find Marshal Iwaasa Facebook page has 15,800 members and counting, many of them posting their theories, sharing encouragement, and showing a general devotion to finding the missing 26-year-old.

Five years after his mysterious disappearance in the Pemberton backcountry, interest in the case of the missing Lethbridge man is not dying down. People from all over the world are devoted to seeing it come to a conclusion.

But none more than Tammy Johnson, Iwaasa’s mom.

Johnson has not stopped looking for her son since the day he left her kitchen table in Lethbridge, Alta.—Nov. 17, 2019.

He helped her with problems she was having with her computer before leaving to head back to Calgary.

Iwaasa and his sister Paige shared a storage locker. The

would rather not have one at all.”

Iwaasa played sports growing up, and loved going camping with family and friends. He was a hard worker as a teen, earning a wage in his local grocery store and later taking on manual labour jobs in southern Alberta. Iwaasa and his sister Paige were best friends. When she relocated to Hawaii, annual family Christmas vacations moved there, too.

Johnson rejects theories her son died by suicide. She stresses her son’s introverted nature was completely normal.

“The police say that Marshal was shutting down,” she says. “Lethbrige Police Service (LPS) immediately jumped to thinking that Marshal killed himself. They backed that up saying that he was withdrawing from the family and he wasn’t forthcoming with the fact that he was no longer in school. Marshal is so shy. He just didn’t talk a lot. He just didn’t. Their misread of the situation has really been detrimental to us.”

As for upgrading the case to a criminal matter, police still don’t have enough credible information, Saturley said.

“The case has garnered significant attention on social media platforms, podcasts and other mediums, which has resulted in many assumptions, rumours and a great deal of speculation,” she said. “From the onset of this investigation Mr. Iwaasa’s disappearance has been considered suspicious, however there is no credible, corroborated or compelling information to suggest foul play or that the occurrence is criminal in nature.”

A NORMAL VISIT

Prior to his disappearance, Iwaasa moved to Calgary to study a computer program at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. In the summer of 2019, his family assumed he would be returning to school in the fall. It was only after his disappearance they discovered he had dropped out.

The young man had previously stressed to Paige there

#FI N D M A RS HY

young man attempted to gain access to the unit several times that night before finally unlocking it at 6 a.m. He stayed in the area for two hours before disappearing into the unknown.

He has not been seen or heard from since that day.

Johnson’s life changed forever four years ago when every parent’s worst nightmare came knocking on her door. In an interview, she tells Pique the family is incredibly grateful for a resurgence in interest in Iwaasa’s puzzling case.

“It helps so much getting the word out there and increasing public awareness. We said for a long time that that is how we are going to find answers—through public awareness,” she says.

“It just feels like Marshal’s case is at a standstill. Nothing really has happened. It is very hard on us. People ask if we have thought about certain scenarios. I have to remind myself that they are interested in the case. The difference for me is that it is my son…

“I just always think that people care, and that’s the important thing. People reach out and truly want to help.”

Coming up on five years since Iwaasa’s disappearance, the family is still calling on the RCMP to upgrade the case to a criminal matter.

‘IT NEEDS TO BE TALKED ABOUT’ Over the phone, Johnson prepares herself to run through the same details she has focused on for the past four years.

“It’s difficult to talk about, but it needs to be talked about,” she says.

Iwaasa’s financial trail ended Nov. 15, 2019. On Nov. 23, a group of hikers found his burned-out truck in a dense wooded area north of Pemberton—more than 1,200 kilometres away from his home. Personal items were scattered around the dark blue, 2009 GMC Sierra truck, including two passports, three cell phones, a smashed laptop, ID cards, toiletry bags and clothing. The route to the trailhead is inaccessible by GPS, requires a fourwheel drive, and is a 14-hour drive from Lethbridge.

Iwaasa’s family insists he had no links to the area, and had never even mentioned it before. After four years of extensive searches both underwater and from the air, nobody has been able to figure out what happened to Iwaasa, the shy 26-yearold who would go hungry rather than speak up.

“Marshal was always really shy and quiet, even when he was just a young kid. We would go into Subway and Marshal wouldn’t be able to tell them what he wanted on his sandwich,” Johnson says. “As he was getting older, I felt it was important for him to do it. Even with that, he wouldn’t order one. He

ASSUMPTIONS AND CONFUSION

Johnson can be forgiven for feeling the case is at a standstill. Getting clear information from officials is no easy feat.

When Pique reached out to the Whistler RCMP for an update on Feb. 6, Staff Sgt. Sascha Banks said the Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) was leading the investigation.

That same day, Kristen Saturley, with the LPS, told Pique the file was transferred to Pemberton, and the LPS no longer had jurisdiction.

Pique circled back to the Whistler RCMP, and was told “it appears there is a transfer of the file happening to Pemberton but we have yet to receive the file from Lethbridge. A review will be conducted of their investigational details.”

But when Pique again reached out for another update, months later, RCMP said they still did not have the file, which remained with the LPS.

Pique circled back to Saturley, with the Lethbridge police, who said the detachment “has an open and ongoing investigation, and continues to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies.”

In explaining the confusion, Insp. Robert Dykstra, officerin-charge of the Sea to Sky RCMP, noted determining police service of jurisdiction is based on where an incident takes place, and not where the involved persons may end up. With Iwaasa’s vehicle being found in Pemberton, “there have been recent discussions about police service of jurisdiction given where follow up investigative work is likely to occur,” Dykstra said. “Initial consultations at the investigative level were conducted but not finalized at senior levels where authority to make these decisions rests.”

As it stands, the LPS remains the lead on the file, with the Sea to Sky RCMP assisting closely, Dykstra said.

Since Pique’s initial inquiries in February, the LPS has received and investigated multiple tips from the public, Saturley said.

“The information provided was determined to be either unsubstantiated or unfounded. As this case is open and ongoing, in order to protect the integrity of the investigation, LPS will not provide further information related to active investigative steps,” she said.

“Any new information, tips or evidence that comes to light, will continue to be thoroughly investigated. Anyone with information that would benefit the investigation is asked to call Lethbridge Police at 403-328-4444 or Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-8477 / www.p3tips.com.”

were other ways to go about his career. Johnson has agonized over every conversation she had with her son before his disappearance over in her head.

“When I was talking to Marshal, I would say that I was so proud of him. He didn’t love school—he got through school,” she said. “It didn’t come easy for him. When we did find out that Marshal wasn’t enrolled for the next semester, I wished I had told him that he didn’t need to be in school. I was just proud of him for trying. Maybe he needed me to say that it was OK.”

Their last meeting, on Nov. 17, was entirely normal no matter how many times Tammy plays it back in her head.

“He stopped in. He sat at the table in my kitchen,” she says. “He worked on my computer. We chatted a bit. There was nothing that I could specifically say that was different about him. There was nothing different about him. There was no warnings or red flags or anything. He was Marshal, my kid. I go back over and over and over that last visit trying to find out was there something I missed. There was no indication that there was anything wrong.”

Johnson was always the chatterbox of the two of them.

“It was a normal visit with Marshal. I was talking and talking,” she says. “He was answering ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Marshal is just Marshal—easygoing and quiet.”

A PLACE CALLED PEMBERTON

Johnson was on vacation in Hawaii when she got the call no parent wants to get.

“I had just been there for four days when we got this call that Marshal’s truck was found in Pemberton,” she says. “We were in shock. We couldn’t find out what was going on.”

The experience was “a total mind-f***,” Johnson says, remembering how police showed the family photos of the truck.

“When I saw those pictures, I was so scared. I was scared for my son. I was shocked by the amount of damage that was done,” she says. “I felt that someone had deliberately set it on fire. They torched my son’s truck. That was my immediate reaction.”

The family’s gut feeling has always been foul play was involved.

“It was not just that his truck had been abandoned somewhere,” Johnson says. “The police were saying that they weren’t sure if it was set on fire. How? It was absolutely arson.”

Pemberton was just a place on a map before the family received that life-altering call.

“To our knowledge, Marshal had never ever been there,” Johnson says. “Marshal and Paige were very, very close. If Marshal had ever gone to Pemberton, the one person who

would have known would have been Paige.”

She feels Iwaasa would have gone camping elsewhere and would have always brought a buddy.

“If Marshal wanted to go camping or hiking, they went down to glaciers in Montana, Waterton, those kind of places,” she says. “We didn’t know anything about Pemberton. We were just wondering how in the world this happened.”

‘THIS IS NOT A PLACE YOU DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE TO’

On Nov. 23, 2019, James Starke and a group of hikers were headed up to Brian Waddington Hut northeast of Pemberton when they found Iwaasa’s truck at the end of the trail.

Built in 1998, the hut houses more than 25 people, but requires a reservation. Starke and his group were the only names on the list that day.

Starke shared his account in the South Coast Touring Facebook group.

“Had a crazy experience this weekend trying to get to the Brian Waddington Hut,” he wrote. “We took the 4x4 trail all the way to a burnt-out pick-up truck that smelt very fresh. In addition, there were possessions thrown all over the area. It felt like a crime scene and had a very eerie feeling. We turned around and left, deciding not to hike to the hut with a fear of walking into something.”

It was later determined parts of Iwaasa’s truck were missing. Things would continue to be moved and taken from the scene over the following years. Some of his belongings were never found at the site, including his contact lenses and wallet.

The family were not able to make it to the scene themselves until July 2020.

The remoteness of the trail took them aback.

TOO MANY COOKS

Johnson believes the involvement of multiple police forces has complicated matters from the very beginning.

“You have three different law-enforcement groups,” she said. “Then it comes to like, tossing a potato. We got the runaround. We feel that law enforcement groups were able to say that it wasn’t their jurisdiction. It really complicated things, having three involved.”

A lack of communication from police has caused a lot of hurt to the close-knit family.

“As a family, we have no idea what has been done by LPS. The communication we have had with them is limited at best,” Johnson says. “They are telling us that they are doing what they can. They are telling us that they are following every lead. At the end of the day, we have no more answers than we did at the beginning. It is four years in, and we don’t know anything.”

The family believes things would have been extremely different if Iwaasa’s case was deemed criminal.

But in their experience, everything they do is met with pushback from law enforcement.

“We wanted Marshal’s case deemed as a criminal one. We felt very strongly about this,” Johnson says. “Marshal wouldn’t have gone up there on his own. We felt it was arson. We wanted this to become a criminal matter so things would really open up. We felt that the police were dragging their feet.”

A petition for the case to be upgraded to a criminal one has gained more than 6,000 signatures, “but they said it didn’t matter how many signatures we had,” Johnson says. “We are struggling to find out what they needed to deem it a criminal case. They said for a long time that it’s suspicious, but that doesn’t mean that it’s criminal. It needs to have that designation in order to open up a full investigation. LPS took

around Iwaasa’s truck—which they said looked like Reoch’s.

“Daniel went missing a couple of days after Marshal’s truck was found … We feel like there is a possible connection, for sure,” Johnson says. “We just hope that it has been investigated. The family have contacted us and we have contacted them.”

The family hired private investigators in the hope of getting some much-needed closure. The investigators scoured the scene in June 2020, where they found a Zippo lighter.

“That was left at the scene. What else was left? Who knows?” Johnson says. “We don’t want to speak badly of law enforcement, because we need them. I just wondered if they would have proceeded in the same way if it was their son who was missing. I doubt it.”

The private investigators carried out their own fire report, and concluded the truck was torched via arson.

“He saw the points of ignition and an accelerant was used,” Johnson says. “The fire report from the police that finally came back was inconclusive.”

Left on the trail for years, where hikers posed for snaps with its burned-out body, Iwaasa’s truck was unceremoniously hauled away late last year—a heartbreaking development for Iwaasa’s family.

Varcity Outdoor Club’s Jeff Mottershead decided to move the wreck, fearing it an environmental hazard.

“There might have been oil leaking into the earth and things like that. I can understand. I just would have thought that they might have reached out to us and given us the heads up before anything was done,” Johnson says. “We felt that if this was a criminal matter, then that would be evidence.”

“We couldn’t even take our vehicles up there,” Johnson recalls. “The RCMP went up and one of their trucks got damaged going up there. A local jeep group volunteered to bring us up.”

The trip just solidified the family’s initial theories.

“This is not a place you drive your vehicle to. This is a place you dump a vehicle at,” Johnson says. “That was our feeling. Marshal had just paid off his truck. There was not a chance that he had gone through all that or even been able to find that place. You have to be familiar with it. People who live in the area have told us that repeatedly.

“However this truck got up there, the people knew the area. Marshal didn’t know the area. He had never been there. It was just making no sense.”

Tammy’s maternal instinct kicked in, and she did everything she could to try and find her child. A mission to try to gain CCTV footage from gas stations proved fruitless.

“A friend of mine and I drove from Lethbridge to Revelstoke in December of 2019,” she says. “We went to put posters up of Marshal. We stopped at service stations and asked them to see the CCTV. We asked them to keep the window of surveillance that we needed. They repeatedly told me that it would have to be police-enforced… that the police would have to request it.”

Johnson took down each manager’s name, along with their numbers and the addresses of the gas stations. She wrote down what they said, and that the police needed to request the information.

“I did all that groundwork,” she says. “I gave all that information to the LPS, and was anything done with it? I don’t know.”

months and months to dust for fingerprints at the storage unit, the last place that we know Marshal was at. Even with that, they were dragging their feet. I don’t what their reasoning for that was.”

Johnson said officers suggested Iwaasa might not want to be found—that he had every right to disappear if he so wished.

“I get that, absolutely. If you want to go away, that’s your right as a human being,” Johnson says. “But look at the truck. Look at where it was, look at all the stuff that you can just see. There were things that didn’t belong to Marshal at the scene.”

The mother who has advocated for her shy son since the day he was born is not ready to stop any time soon.

“It’s really frustrating as a family to feel that we can see this. It seems like it’s so easy. Something terrible has happened to Marshal,” she said. “I am not a police officer so I don’t know what the threshold is. As a family looking for a loved one, you feel like nobody cares. It feels like nobody is doing a thing to find out what happened to Marshal. He gets lost in all of this.”

Tammy believes that if her son had intended to go camping in the area, he would have taken camping gear from the storage unit. “We felt like this was this was all only pointing in one direction,” she says.

A LINK IN THE CHAIN

Recent documentaries have linked Iwaasa’s case to the case of another missing man. Thirty-year-old Daniel Reoch was last seen in the Squamish Valley on Nov. 25, 2019. He was reported missing on Jan. 7. Johnson said Reoch’s family got in touch when they saw photos of the possessions scattered

Tammy doubts the truck concealed any answers, having been left out in the elements in the rugged area. “The reality is that it was just left up there anyway,” she said. “Could anything that could have come from the truck still be used as evidence if it had been sitting up there for years? Probably not.”

IN LIMBO

Iwaasa’s family is campaigning for systematic change in the way missing person cases are treated. According to the RCMP’s National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains, there are approximately 500 cases left unsolved every year.

“I don’t think we are the only family who have had this. Missing people just get left,” Johnson says.

“It feels like nothing really gets done. As a family I just feel like instead of working with us, law enforcement were working against us. It was already so incredibly difficult. Feeling like you have to fight with law enforcement to do anything just adds so much more hurt, stress and heartbreak.”

Iwaasa’s case has been through four different officers with the LPS, she adds.

“There’s not one consistent person. We are hoping that someone comes forward and gives the police some information to get us some answers.”

For now, Iwaasa’s family remains in limbo, hoping someday they will find out what happened to the curlyhaired, gentle man they love so much. n

‘It’s too good of an event to let go of’

RUN COMFY NUMB MARKS ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY ON JUNE 8

BY DAVID SONG

IF YOU LIKE RUNNING and you live in the Sea to Sky corridor, chances are you’re a fan of Comfy Numb.

Built in 2003 by Chris Markle, the original Comfortably Numb Trail is one of Whistler’s longest and most demanding singletrack trails. Formerly lacking exits, shortcuts and cell reception, the course instead treats people to rocks, roots, bridges, and more than 3,000 feet of elevation gain. It has stood the test of time, as have those who love it.

On June 8, Run Comfy Numb will commemorate its 20th anniversary.

“It’s too good of an event to let go of,” said race director Kristian Manietta. “We want to have the community feel like it’s a local, grassroots event, but the athlete experience is world-class.”

A last-minute 2018 cancellation interrupted Comfy Numb’s longevity. That wasn’t the end for Manietta, who along with Dean Eggleton petitioned former owner Chris Colpitts to take over the race. Colpitts was willing to sell under two conditions: that his buyers were local and that they were passionate about keeping Comfy Numb alive.

Manietta and Eggleton both fit the bill, and the contest has seen steadily increasing numbers since 2019 (COVID notwithstanding). This year, registration is closed at 320: an unprecedented field and a far cry from the inaugural lineup of 95 participants.

“More and more people are getting into the sport of trail running,” Manietta said. “It’s accessible to all and we’re getting word out there a little bit more. We don’t have to have a hard cap [numbers-wise], but we do that

LAND OF CONFUSION

In its modern iteration, Comfy Numb is a pointto-point undertaking that begins in Wedge and finishes at Spruce Grove Park. A 50-kilometre route was added two years ago, with its first half situated along the Sea to Sky Trail, to complement the classic 25-kilometre stretch.

Manietta loves going long, and 50 kilometres isn’t overly daunting for him personally. Overall, he thinks both distances add variety and help the race cater to more

“The feedback so far has been really positive. I’m enjoying the way people are smiling when they get to the finish.”

- KEVIN TITUS

to make sure we put on a quality event each time—and that people experience everything there is to experience.”

Graphic designer Andy Gimson, known for collaborating with Crankworx, will put together unique visuals for the milestone race. Sizzling burgers await at the finish line, alongside brand-new ice baths for recovery. Kids can entertain themselves with cornhole and giant Jenga while their family members are on course.

people: from high-end athletes to the relative layman.

“We have people that go really, really fast and anyone that breaks the course record over the last couple of years can get a $100 bonus,” said Manietta. “But we have so many that jump in for the first time and have this amazing day of challenge out there, and I think that’s what people are looking for. ‘Can I actually do this?’

That’s the ultimate question.”

One especially memorable part of the

Comfortably Numb trail is known as the Land of Confusion. You need only to do it once to understand why, for the path twists, winds and doubles back repeatedly. It seems to go on forever, turning athletes this way and that.  Reigning 25-kilometre champ Jeffrey Russell of North Vancouver will be back to defend his title against Squamolian Adam Campbell, who returns to Comfy Numb after two victories in years past. Campbell set a record time of one hour, 58 minutes and 45 seconds in 2007, but today’s record is Phillippe Brunet’s 2:07:19 due to the route having changed.

Meanwhile, Claire Dewar has a shot at the ladies’ 50-kilometre crown. She owns a number of accolades including gold from the 2023 XTERRA Pemberton 22k on home turf, but Jenny Quilty of Abbotsford (11th in last year’s Western States Endurance Run) looks to push her hard. Megan Konori Kennedy owns the course benchmark at 5:36:05.

“The feedback so far has been really positive. I’m enjoying the way people are smiling when they get to the finish. Of course, they could have been smiling because they don’t have to run anymore,” quipped Kevin Titus, one of the original organizers, in a press release. “Every time I run that route, I’m just amazed by how great it is.”

Comfy Numb has raised more than $1,100 for the Whistler Food Bank and Whistler Off Road Cycling Association (WORCA) this time around, with more donations welcome. Further details are available at runcomfynumb.com.  n

GET COMFY Run Comfy Numb celebrates its 20th anniversary on June 8. PHOTO BY GUY FATTAL

Squamish soccer player Joey Buchanan signs with Vancouver FC

BUCHANAN HELPED HIS TEAM WIN U17 NATIONALS IN 2023

BY DAVID SONG

ALTHOUGH JOEY Buchanan grew up in the mountain biking and rock climbing haven of Squamish, soccer is undoubtedly his favourite sport. He’s always loved being part of the beautiful game, discovering relationships with peers and coaches he believes will last a lifetime.

Now the 16-year-old is taking a big step forward in his career by signing a development contract with Vancouver FC of the Canadian Premier League (CPL).

“I can’t get words for it,” Buchanan gushed. “It’s unbelievable. It’s a great experience, a great opportunity and something I’m so, so grateful for.”

Remarks head coach Afshin Ghotbi in a press release: “We are very proud to have identified a young, talented player from B.C. through our open trials for the second year in a row. Finding players such as Joey proves that there are still many talented gems in the B.C. football community that need pathways, such as combines, to be discovered.”

Buchanan is the 13th British Columbian signed to Vancouver FC this year. The terms of his contract start him with affiliate club Burnaby FC in the B.C. Soccer Premier League (BCSPL) while training full-time with his big-league peers and appearing in up to three CPL games.

BEST FOOT FORWARD

During his childhood, Buchanan could frequently be found at various Squamish Youth Soccer Association (SYSA) matches, training sessions and jamborees. His talent and passion for the game grew, leading him to programs like Mountain FC and North Vancouver FC before Burnaby.

Last year, Buchanan won the B.C. Provincial Championship and U17 Boys’ National Championship under coach Todd May.

“ That nationals tournament was one

of the best experiences of my life,” said Buchanan. “We went in ranked 10th in the country, but the togetherness of our team was the most important thing, and that’s what got us to becoming national champions. Learning the importance of [unit cohesion] was one of the biggest lessons and best weeks of my life.”

A versatile player, Buchanan can line up in the midfield or at centre-back depending on scheme. He’s already left a positive impression on his new coaches.

“Joey immediately showed personality, confidence and a great presence as a central defender,” Ghotbi said. “He also possesses the ability to participate in the build-up and maintenance of possession football. We are looking forward to seeing his development throughout this season.”

In turn, Buchanan was effusive in his praise for Vancouver FC’s training environment and overall culture. He was pleasantly surprised at how older athletes and staff members welcomed him with open arms, making him instantly feel part of the fold.

Vancouver FC has won three of its first six matches as of this writing, which includes a 4-1 season-opening breakthrough over Valour FC. Watching from the home sideline, Buchanan noticed that his new teammates played much the same way as his former national title peers: tight and together to execute Ghotbi’s system.

The Howe Sound Secondary student plans to stay humble, keep his head down and absorb as much soccer knowledge as possible en route to what he hopes is an eventual CPL debut. He’s also over the moon to represent his hometown.

“Squamish, I love so much,” Buchanan said. “It’s a community that I’m so grateful to be a part of and something I’m very proud to represent. I think our talent is overlooked, and I think we have players in our town that can take it to the next level. It’s just about inspiring them and giving them the pathway to chase their dreams.”

Follow Buchanan’s campaign at burnabyfc.com, and stay tuned to more local CPL action at vancouverfc.canpl.ca.  n

STEP BY STEP Joey Buchanan signed a developmental contract with Vancouver FC for the 2024 season. PHOTO COURTESY OF KATELYN WHITE/VANCOUVER FC

New Thai restaurant in Mount Currie offers something different to locals and tourists alike

LIQUOR LICENSE SECURED, THE SANEH THAI TEAM IS BRACING FOR A BUSY PATIO SEASON

BY RÓISÍN CULLEN Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

AN AUTHENTIC THAI restaurant in Mount Currie is capturing the attention of locals and tourists alike since it first opened in January. Fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs and a breathtaking view have ensured a steady start for the new family business, which is open Tuesday to Sunday.

It offers a different kind of food to the people of Pemberton and surrounding areas, and is the only restaurant of its kind for miles.

Appetizers include spring rolls, crispy pork belly or deep-fried tofu. For mains, customers can choose between delicious noodle dishes, green curry or Massaman beef curry, while stir frys, salads and soups are also up for grabs. The kitchen’s honey toast is one to try if you still have room for dessert—a brioche bun smothered in caramelized butter, honey, and brown sugar topped with coconut ice cream and hokey pokey.

Saneh Thai also has an impressive range

of options for celiacs and those with gluten sensitivities, and most dishes are made gluten-free.

The hidden gem’s “Yummy Combos” are incredibly popular. The $16 offer includes spring rolls and Singha beer, while for $27,

bring his decades worth of skills to the Sea to Sky corridor.

Champ told Pique the restaurant will change to a full menu at the start of June.

“It is all authentic Thai food,” he said.

And Saneh Thai’s sunny patio looking out

“Our Instagram presence is really good and it’s grabbing people’s attention. Lots of people drive up from Whistler...”

- JAZ PARNELL

customers can have pad thai and Singha beer with their choice of chicken, tofu and vegetables. These offers are perfect for those trying to make their pennies last, but are only available to customers opting to dine in.

Owner and head chef, Wasin Saiwanna (Champ), has always dreamed of opening his own restaurant. He worked in a high-end hotel in Bangkok for years before relocating to Vancouver. Thankfully, Champ decided to

at majestic Mount Currie (Ts’zil) is sure to be jam-packed this summer as the restaurant can now serve alcohol.

“We received our liquor licence in May,” said Champ.

The restaurant is seeing a steady mix of returning locals and travellers passing through, but “it is mostly locals during weekdays and then tourists at weekends,” he added.

Jaz Parnell is a waitress at Saneh Thai, and said customers in the area are thrilled to have the option to order takeout online.

The team is gearing up for a busy summer, with traffic set to increase on the busy highway just outside the Mount Currie restaurant.

“We anticipate a really busy summer with lots of people stopping by on their way to Joffre Lakes,” said Parnell. “We will get that Highway 99 traffic. We are pretty much the last stop as you come out of town, but also the first stop once you come back over the Duffey. People will see that they can enjoy food and cold drinks on our patio. We have really authentic options, but also some fan favourites like our great pad thai.”

Saneh Thai’s social media presence is attracting visitors from around B.C., Parnell added.

“Our Instagram presence is really good and it’s grabbing people’s attention. Lots of people drive up from Whistler to explore Pemberton and enjoy a new restaurant,” she said. “Everyone has been really happy with our food. I haven’t received a single complaint so far!  I’ve been a server for a long time and I only work in restaurants that serve great food.”

Follow Saneh Thai on its Instagram and Facebook pages, and order online at sanehthai.square.site. n

SUMMER SELECTIONS A peek at Saneh Thai’s new summer menu. PHOTO COURTESY OF SANEH THAI

ME AD OW PA RK SP OR TS CE NT RE

F FLEXIBLE REGISTRATION Flex-reg’classeshavea separate feeand allowyou to registerfor classesonthe days that fit your schedule

R REGISTERED FITNESS Registeredfitnessclasses have aseparatefee anda defined start andend date Pre-registrationisrequired forthe entire setofclasses.

I INCLUDED FITNESS Theseclassesare included with your priceofadmission fornoextra charge

Old-Time Jam returns June 2 to The Point ArtistRun Centre

KATHERINE FAWCETT, ANDREA PURTON AND JOSH PLOUFFE WELCOME MUSICIANS OF ALL SKILL LEVELS

BY DAVID SONG

DOES AN EASYGOING afternoon of grassroots tunes and creativity sound good to you? If so, consider the upcoming Old-Time Jam at The Point Artist-Run Centre (PARC).

Katherine Fawcett and Andrea Purton of Cricket and Claw will roll up on June 2 and, alongside Josh Plouffe, facilitate an event that is part concert, part jam session. Those in the community are welcome to stop by, watch and tap their toes, but beginner and expert musicians are equally welcome to bring their instruments and join the party.

“These old-time fiddle tunes are really accessible to anybody,” comments PARC artistic director Stephen Vogler. “You have lots of time to learn and it’s very casual. We’ve done them inside, sitting on the back porch or the lakeshore, and it’s just a nice, nice groove.”

According to Fawcett, “old-time music” in this context is a precursor to many genres such as bluegrass, country and Western swing. Old-time is itself derived from a range of European folk dance tunes: the jig, reel,

breakdown, schottische, waltz, two-step and polka, plus certain music from Africa and the rural deep south of the United States.

Unlike more traditional bluegrass jams, there are no breaks. Musicians don’t go around the circle, waiting for each other to take solo turns. Instead, everyone plays together until everyone picks up the tune… or until people’s fingers start falling off. Whichever comes first.

by banjo, guitar, upright bass or others. Despite these other instruments, the pieces are generally called ‘fiddle tunes’ and the fiddler calls the shots.”

‘YOU MIGHT GET HOOKED’

Fawcett, known as Cricket, and Purton a.k.a. Claw, met six years ago at the NimbleFingers

“For musicians, playing old-time is lots of fun. It’s a great way to develop your ear training and move your fingers.”

- KATHERINE FAWCETT

Lyrics are sometimes present and often fanciful when they are, while motifs and harmonies are clear and repetitive. Singing along is optional.

“For musicians, playing old-time is lots of fun. It’s a great way to develop your ear training and move your fingers,” says Fawcett. “In old-time, the fiddle or mandolin—often called the melody instruments—are usually accompanied

Old Time and Bluegrass Music Camp. They’ve played together almost every week since, from rehearsals and nights out busking to gigs at weddings and farmers’ markets.

The ladies encountered Plouffe at last summer’s iteration of the Old-Time Jam. Plouffe first got into music by way of the guitar, but picked up fiddling at age 29 and is also a skilled gospel and country singer.

“I’ve had a lot of influence from many

fiddlers, dancers, callers, and organizers over the years from all over North America, and I can’t thank the old-time community enough for bringing music and dance into my life,” says Plouffe.

Fawcett elaborates that, while a fiddle is essentially a violin played a specific way, old-time music diverges from its classical counterpart the way road biking differs from mountain biking or downhill splits off from cross-country skiing. It’s a brand-new kettle of fish in many ways, but a worthwhile one to learn.

“As a member of the Sea to Sky Orchestra and a violin teacher at the Squamish and Whistler Waldorf Schools, I belong to both worlds and I strongly encourage all classically-trained violinists to give this fun style a go,” Fawcett says. “Letting go of sheet music and playing in a quick, relaxed style with instruments you don’t usually collaborate with can be quite liberating. You might get hooked!”

Adds Vogler: “One of the best ways to learn and become a better musician is to sit in with others who have been doing it longer and are more skilled. It’s really all about the participation and there’s nothing quite like making music [as part of a group].”

The next Old-Time Jam runs on Sunday, June 2 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Learn more at thepointartists.com/events/old-time-jamc8hel.  n

TIME AND AGAIN Local old-time musicians

Katherine Fawcett (left) and Andrea Purton.

PHOTO BY BRITANY CSURKA

‘It’s a really easy process’

ROBIN FERRIER TO LEAD FILM PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP JUNE 9 AND 16 AT THE POINT

BY DAVID SONG

THE DEVELOPED world brims with advanced digital technology and novel graphic design formats, but in Robin Ferrier’s eyes, nothing beats black and white on film.

Colourless photography is an art form, and a rather classic one at that. It yields striking silhouettes and contrasts, not to mention an awesome level of detail. Largeformat cameras boast megapixel counts in the hundreds as opposed to the dozens like their digital cousins.

Exhibit A: the late Rodney Graham’s work in the Audain Art Museum. Seven feet tall by five feet wide, yet when you get close, there’s not a hint of pixelation or degradation in quality to be spotted.

Ferrier wants to share his passion for oldschool photography with others, which is why he’s running a two-part film development workshop on June 9 and 16 at The Point ArtistRun Centre (PARC).

“Film is a different language than painting, a different language than sculpture and a different language than digital photography … but it’s still communication,” Ferrier says.

No doubt the man understands what he’s talking about. Ferrier studied photography at Ryerson University in the 1970s and fine arts a decade later at Emily Carr University of Art and Design. He’s committed 20 years to being a member of the film industry: production stills, art direction, set design, you name it. His multimedia talents have also taken him into woodworking, portraiture, sculpture and fashion editorial photography.

“Robin’s just a really creative individual,” comments PARC artistic director Stephen Vogler. “He was also part of our printed photography exhibit last summer, and he’s an all-around talented artist.”

BLACK AND WHITE

Both Ferrier and Vogler have witnessed the renaissance of certain older technologies like vinyl records, Polaroids and film. Some people are for various reasons fascinated with the bygone era of analog, for it brings

Volume on forALL Canadian teams! Wear your team’s colors when youcomein to watchplayoff hockey andreceive aballot fora prizepack Giveaway at theend of each playoffround GO CANADA!

a certain aesthetic and appeal that can’t be replicated digitally.

“Film cameras have declined since the digital age as far as volume around the world, but … there are lots of new kinds of film being put out there now by all kinds of different companies. You can read about it in any photo magazine. They always talk about the resurgence in classical black and white photography.”

Many no doubt possess vintage cameras gathering dust in attics and closets, and that’s where the PARC’s new workshop comes in.

Day 1 will involve a straightforward orientation about how to use a film camera and how to obtain proper exposure before participants are let loose to begin shooting. One Sunday later, they’ll learn how to process film and scan two of their best pictures into digital format, generating archival prints.

Although film is more expensive now than in decades past, the medium can still be viable—particularly if one knows how to develop it at home.

“If you could learn how to process film in the kitchen or something—you don’t need a dark room—then you can bring your cameras back to life, so to speak,” Ferrier says. “It’s completely archival. The negatives will never be deleted. It’s a really easy process, and an old camera is all manual. It’s a process that slows you down and makes you consider the image you’re trying to make, rather than digital spray and pray.”

Fine-art photographers are cut from a different cloth than many of today’s professionals and social media influencers. They conceive of an idea or message they want to share before picking up their equipment. Their work is meticulous, for they’re in control of how each image coalesces from the get-go.

Shutter speed, aperture, film speed… these are the languages Ferrier and his peers deal in. By manipulating specific elements of their photos, they can set a tone and create a mood with no two shots turning out alike.

Discover more about the PARC’s Black & White Film Photography and Developing Workshop at thepointartists.com/events/ bw-film-photography-developing-wrobinferrier. Registration is required.  n

TRUST THE PROCESS Fine-art photographer Robin Ferrier comes to The Point June 9 and 16. PHOTO COURTESY OF STEPHEN VOGLER

ARTS

WHISTLER HALF MARATHON

BY ROB SHAER

WHISTLER HALF MARATHON

The scenic running course is designed to showcase all that Whistler is—an amazing town nestled in the coast mountains of B.C. With towering, glacier-capped mountains as the backdrop, it is no wonder Whistler’s only half marathon has made it to the must-do list for distance runners from across North America. Events include Half Marathon, 30K, 10K, 5K and Kids Run.

> May 31 to June 2

> Whistler Olympic Plaza

> Varies

ALTA LAKE BIRD WALK

PAWSITIVE VIBES FOR AMAZING KIDS

Join us for a heartwarming event at Stinky’s on the Stroll, Whistler’s beloved locals’ pub. We’re raising funds to support children who have lost a parent.

Ten dollars gets your furry friend a Pup Cup (yummy whipped cream), doggy treats and a raffle draw entry! Find more info at amazingkidsfoundation.org.

> June 2, 1 to 4 p.m.

> Stinky’s on the Stroll

> Free

Join the Whistler Naturalists on the first Saturday of the month for a walk to Rainbow Park from the bottom of Lorimer Rd. Open to anyone interested in learning about birds and contributing as a citizen scientist. More information at whistlernaturalists.ca/birding.

> June 1, 7 a.m.

> Meet at the bottom of Lorimer Road by the catholic church

> Free

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS HISTORY MONTH

Celebrate National Indigenous History Month during June at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. Connect with Cultural Ambassadors as they share interpretive forest tours, craft workshops, live carving, art, performances, craft, storytelling, and guided tours of the museum.

> June 1 to 30

> Squamish Lilwat Cultural

PHOTO

If youare aparentofa graduate in WhistlerorPemberton andyou wish to celebrateyourchild's successwithanad in ourGradfeaturepleasereachout to

Show your support to Whistler Secondary, PembertonSecondaryand Xit’olacw Community Schoolstudentsinour specialfeature sectiononJune 21st

Tuesday, June 18th,2024

Tuesday, June 18th,2024

Learn about BC Transit’s coming electronic fare system,

Coming Soon!

Umo (“you-mo”), is coming to the Whistler and Pemberton Valley Transit Systems. Once here, Umo will introduce two new ways to pay your bus fare with your choice of the Umo mobility app or a reloadable Umo card.

Get ready for Umo’s arrival by visiting bc transit.com/umo or attend an educational info table to learn more. Location Date Time

Whistler Public Library 4329 Main St. Whistler Tuesday, June 11, 2024 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Forecast Coffee 101-1200 Alpha Road Whistler Wednesday, June 12, 2024 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Blackbird Bakery

7424 Frontier St Pember ton Thursday, June 13, 2024 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Visit bc transit.com/umo/engagement- events for up -to- date event details.

Whistler’s summer of ’89

BY ALLYN PRINGLE

WHILE WE might be used to busy summers in Whistler these days, in the 1970s and into the 1980s, visitor numbers would drop dramatically after the ski season ended in the late spring. As Whistler grew, the Whistler Resort Association (WRA) and other businesses and groups worked to make summers busier and transform Whistler into a four-season resort (you can learn more about the activities of the WRA on June 12, when the museum will be joined by Al Raine and Drew Meredith to discuss its origins and early years). By 1989, it appears the efforts proved somewhat successful, at least when looking at the summer season on Blackcomb Mountain.

According to the Blabcomb, Blackcomb Mountain’s employee newsletter, the summer of 1989 got off to a chilly start and, though

equipment moved via chair that summer. Though the Whistler Mountain Bike Park is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, bikes were transported up lifts well before 1999. The summer of 1989 was at least the second year mountain biking played a large role in Blackcomb’s operations. Bikes were uploaded via the Wizard and Solar Coaster chairs (and, later in the summer, 7th Heaven, though that was for expert riders only) from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tours ran twice daily from the Rendezvous Lodge for $5, though riders could also purchase a sightseeing pass and try out the Blackcomb bike trails on their own. If you had your own bike and seasons’ pass, it could cost as little as $5 to head up the lifts.

Like the Ski Race Series, the BCR Mountain Bike Race Series ran throughout July and into August. This was followed in mid-August by the 2nd Annual Labatt’s Can-Am Mountain Bike Challenge, which included the World

there were good days, the colder-than-usual weather continued throughout the season. During the previous summer, Blackcomb Mountain received 30,107 skier visits and 61,598 non-skier visits. In 1989, however, officials expected the numbers to be slightly lower, as the season would be a couple weeks shorter, and Whistler Mountain would also be competing for visitors.

Along with sightseeing and hiking, Blackcomb Mountain offered various activities and events from June through Sept. 4, when summer operations ended. Skischool programs continued on the glacier with beginner lessons for $35 (including lift ticket, lesson and rentals) and private lessons ranging from $80 to $210. There were also various camps throughout the summer that operated on the glacier. The Labatt’s Blue Summer Challenge Ski Race Series ran throughout July and the Canadian Summer Snowboard Championships took place on Blackcomb from July 13 to 15.

Skis and snowboards were not the only

Mountain Bike Polo Championship, and later by the Kokanee Glacier Light Prestige Biathlon, which featured running and biking. The biggest event to happen on Blackcomb Mountain that summer did not involve skiing, riding or biking, as almost 6,000 people attended the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s performance 4,000 feet above Whistler Village on Aug. 12. The performance featured conductor Peter McCoppin and violinist Patricia Shih as well as some familiar pieces such as Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. According to the Blabcomb, the concert went smoothly, though the line-up to download at the end was quite long.

Though Blackcomb stayed open until September, the T-bars stopped running by Aug. 20, and events began to wind down. By Aug. 31, Blackcomb had received about 42,000 non-skier visits (well above the expected 35,000) and 24,100 skier visits (slightly lower than expected due to the earlier closure) and the Blabcomb declared the summer season a success. n The summer of 1989 was at least the second year mountain biking played a large role in Blackcomb’s operations.

THE HILLS ARE ALIVE The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra performs to thousands by the Rendezvous Lodge. BLACKCOMB MOUNTAIN COLLECTION, 1989

ASTROLOGY

Free Will Astrology

WEEK OF MAY 31 BY ROB

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Welcome to the future of your education, Aries! Here are actions you can take to ensure you are exposed to all the lush lessons you need and deserve in the coming months. 1. Identify three subjects you would be excited to learn more about. 2. Shed dogmas and fixed theories that interfere with your receptivity to new information. 3. Vow to be alert for new guides or mentors. 4. Formulate a three-year plan to get the training and teachings you need most. 5. Be avidly curious.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Poet Emily Dickinson was skilful at invoking and managing deep feelings. One scholar described her emotions as being profoundly erotic, outlandish, sensuous, flagrant, and nuanced. Another scholar said she needed and sought regular doses of ecstasy. Yet even she, maestro of passions, got overwhelmed. In one poem, she wondered “Why Floods be served to us in Bowls?” I suspect you may be having a similar experience, Taurus. It’s fun, though sometimes a bit too much. The good news is that metaphorically speaking, you will soon be in possession of a voluminous new bowl that can accommodate the floods.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): All of us periodically enjoy phases I call “Freedom from Cosmic Compulsion.” During these times, the Fates have a reduced power to shape our destinies. Our willpower has more spaciousness to work with. Our intentions get less resistance from karmic pressures that at other times might narrow our options. As I meditated on you, dear Gemini, I realized you are now in a phase of Freedom from Cosmic Compulsion. I also saw that you will have more of these phases than anyone else during the next 11 months. It might be time for you to get a “LIBERATION” tattoo or an equivalent new accessory.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Bold predictions: 1. Whatever treasure you have lost or are losing will ultimately be reborn in a beautiful form. 2. Any purposeful surrender you make will hone your understanding of exactly what your soul needs next to thrive. 3. A helpful influence may fade away, but its disappearance will clear the path for new helpful influences that serve your future in ways you can’t imagine yet. 4. Wandering around without a precise sense of where you’re going will arouse a robust new understanding of what home means to you.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Denmark’s King Canute IV (1042–1086) wasn’t bashful about asserting his power. He claimed ownership of all the land. He insisted on the right to inherit the possessions of all foreigners and people without families. Goods from shipwrecks were automatically his property. But once, his efforts to extend his authority failed. He had his servants move his throne to a beach as the tide came in. Seated and facing the North Sea, he commanded, “Halt your advance!” The surf did not obey. “You must surrender to my superior will!” he exclaimed, but the waters did not recede. Soon, his throne was engulfed by water. Humbled, Canute departed. I bring this up not to discourage you, Leo. I believe you can and should expand your influence and clout in the coming weeks. Just be sure you know when to stop.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Virgo-born Irène Joliot-Curie craved more attention than she got from her mother, Marie Curie. Mom was zealously devoted to her career as a chemist and physicist, which is one reason why she won Nobel Prizes in both fields. But she didn’t spend sufficient time with her daughter. Fortunately, Irène’s grandfather Eugène became his granddaughter’s best friend and teacher. With his encouragement, she grew into a formidable scientist and eventually won a Nobel Prize in chemistry herself. Even if you’re not a kid, Virgo, I suspect there may be a mentor and guide akin to Eugène in your future. Go looking! To expedite the process, define what activity or skill you want help in developing.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): I have a fantasy that sometime in the coming months, you will slip away to

BREZSNY

a sanctuary in a pastoral paradise. There you will enjoy long hikes and immerse yourself in healing music and savour books you’ve been wanting to read. Maybe you will write your memoirs or compose deep messages to dear old friends. Here’s the title of what I hope will be a future chapter of your life story: “A Thrillingly Relaxing Getaway.” Have you been envisioning an adventure like this, Libra? Or is your imagination more inclined to yearn for a trip to an exciting city where you will exult in high culture? I like that alternative, too. Maybe you will consider doing both.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): An Instagrammer named sketchesbyboze advises us, “Re-enchant your life by making the mundane exciting. You are not ‘going to the drugstore.’ You are visiting the apothecary to buy potions. You are not ‘running an errand.’ You are undertaking an unpredictable adventure. You are not ‘feeding the birds.’ You are making an alliance with the crow queen.” I endorse this counsel for your use, Scorpio. You now have the right and duty to infuse your daily rhythm with magic and fantasy. To attract life’s best blessings, you should be epic and majestic. Treat your life as a mythic quest.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I invite you to invite new muses into your life in the coming months. Give them auditions. Interview them. Figure out which are most likely to boost your creativity, stimulate your imagination, and rouse your inspiration in every area of your life, not just your art form. Tell them you’re ready to deal with unpredictable departures from the routine as long as these alternate paths lead to rich teachings. And what form might these muses take? Could be actual humans. Could be animals or spirits. Might be ancestral voices, exciting teachings, or pilgrimages to sacred sanctuaries. Expand your concept of what a muse might be so you can get as much muse-like input as possible.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The Japanese have a word for a problem that plagues other countries as well as theirs: karoshi, or death from working too hard and too much. No matter how high-minded our motivations might be, no matter how interesting our jobs are, most of us cannot safely devote long hours to intense labour week after week, month after month. It’s too stressful on the mind and body. I will ask you to monitor yourself for such proclivities in the coming months. You can accomplish wonders as long as you work diligently but don’t overwork. (PS: You won’t literally expire if you relentlessly push yourself with nonstop hard exertion, but you will risk compromising your mental health. So don’t do it!)

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Typically, human fertility is strongest when the temperature is 64 degrees Fahrenheit. But I suspect you will be an exception to the rule in the coming months. Whether it’s 10 below or 90 in the shade, your fertility will be extra robust—literally as well as psychologically and spiritually. If you are a heterosexual who would rather make great art or business than new babies, be very attentive to your birth-control measures. No matter what your gender or sexual preference is, I advise you to formulate very clear intentions about how you want to direct all that lush fecundity. Identify which creative outlets are most likely to serve your long-term health and happiness.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Here’s a key assignment in the coming months: Enjoy fantasizing about your dream home. Imagine the comfortable sanctuary that would inspire you to feel utterly at home in your body, your life, and the world. Even if you can’t afford to buy this ultimate haven, you will benefit from visualizing it. As you do, your subconscious mind will suggest ways you can enhance your security and stability. You may also attract influences and resources that will eventually help you live in your dream home.

Homework: What would you most like help with? Ask for it very directly. Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com.

In addition to this column, Rob Brezsny creates

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Cry of the liable

WHEN I was a child—B.C…. Before Computers—my paternal grandmother would arrive every year for Christmas with pyjamas she’d made for the whole clan. I’m sure they were cotton, purchased at whatever fabric store she shopped at.

Years before that, on a Christmas Day, a young child was wearing her new pyjamas. They’d been purchased at a store, not made by her grandmother. Frolicking around in the

BY G.D. MAXWELL

evening, her pyjamas brushed up against a burning candle. They caught fire, burned like flash paper, and she was horribly burned.

Her parents, facing enormous medical bills, turned to a lawyer. A lawsuit was filed. The legal concept of privity of contract, having been weakened over the years, was overcome, and the company that made the pyjamas was found liable.

And the first of a long series of protective legislation was enacted requiring manufacturers meet federal standards of product flammability for children’s clothes.

It wasn’t the end of the story. In 1969, decades later, a four-year-old’s pyjamas caught fire when she reached across an electric stove to shut off a timer. The fabric met those minimal standards. Nonetheless, the company was found liable in the ensuing lawsuit. New standards requiring fabric to be treated with fire-retardant material were passed into law afterwards.

Prior to successive, successful litigation, drivers would regularly be impaled by the rigid steering columns in their cars in the event of a front-end crash. Auto manufacturers pleaded it would be too expensive to engineer a solution to that. People wouldn’t be able to afford cars.

By the late 1960s, collapsible steering columns were federally mandated. People could still afford cars. No one was impaled after that.

The same plea—cost versus affordability— delayed mandatory seatbelts, crush zones and a host of other safety features we take for granted in modern cars. The same can be said for most manufactured products, like portable heaters or humidifiers that switch off if they’re upset instead of starting fires.

The simple reason for all of these improvements is this: Liability breeds responsibility.

The same cannot be said for skiing, heliskiing, guided backcountry skiing and hiking, and climbing. For those activities, at least in North America, liability on the part of the companies and individuals has been waived. Your safety is your responsibility.

Before the more strident of you start wailing about the nanny state, let me say I believe my safety is largely my responsibility. Always has been when I’m weighing the risks of whatever I’m doing.

But when someone else is negligent, when someone else isn’t weighing the risks of their actions or inactions foreseeably causing harm

to me or someone else, my safety, our collective safety, is threatened by their negligence.

To the extent they can avoid responsibility for their negligence, they have only their own conscience to keep them from continuing to act in a negligent fashion.

But their own conscience may, itself, be hijacked by a higher force.

Enter the lawyers and insurers.

As reported in The Tyee earlier this month, the conscience of the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) has been hijacked by its lawyers and insurers.

It started with a deadly avalanche during

As reported, the ACMG’s incident reporting and learning system was also flushed. It allowed guides to anonymously report less-serious indicants so other guides could be informed and learn.

All of this has created a chilling effect where guides don’t even feel free to discuss critical incidents among themselves, let alone with their clients who have been affected.

Let’s be clear about one thing. The nobody speaks, nobody gets hurt policy isn’t being pushed by the ACMG or individual guides. It’s being recommended—coerced is probably a better word—by their insurers and lawyers.

[Y]ou’re likely to hear the cry echoing those formerly voiced by car manufacturers, tobacco companies, and other businesses...

a 2016 guided backcountry ski trip. The surviving spouse struggled to get answers from the guides. Six years later, they thought they’d made headway when the ACMG approved a policy—a Post-Critical Incident Management Plan—for debriefing with clients after a critical accident. In other words, sharing information about what happened.

But the ACMG backed off its policy, removing it from its website. Outgoing president, Sylvia Forest, was quoted in Arête, the ACMG’s magazine, as saying, “The ACMG’s liability insurers and their lawyers felt it would undermine their ability to defend... in the event of a lawsuit.”

And clearly, something as inherently risky as backcountry guiding is a business that can’t operate without insurance.

But let’s also be clear, the interests being served by this policy are those of the insurers and the lawyers. To a large extent, especially in Canada, guides and ski areas are largely insulated from liability by court decisions that have upheld the liability waiver we all agree to.

The waiver does not, however, ensure lawsuits aren’t filed. And once a suit has started, the lawyers involved are paid by the insurance companies, not the guides or ski areas. The meter starts running and the cash

starts flowing. So it’s in their best interests, not necessarily the best interests of the businesses they represent and insure, that guides keep their mouths closed.

Interestingly, also this month, as reported in SKI Magazine, the Colorado Supreme Court handed down a ruling calling into question the ability of waivers to protect ski resorts. The case involved a teen’s fall from a chairlift at Crested Butte. The trial court held the waiver absolved the ski area from liability.

But the higher court, in sending the case back for retrial, held the waiver effectively insulates against many instances, but it doesn’t protect ski areas where the resort’s actions or inactions were potentially negligent.

One Denver personal injury lawyer was quoted in the Denver Post saying, “It’s a sea change, in terms of ski areas’ responsibilities and consumers’ ability to be protected from ski areas’ negligence. From a consumer protection standpoint, it’s huge. Because liability breeds responsibility.”

So you’re likely to hear the cry echoing those formerly voiced by car manufacturers, tobacco companies, and other businesses forced through litigation to clean up their acts. Too expensive. We’ll have to shut down if we’re liable for every little injury.

And to some extent, they’re not wrong. There are plenty of people out there who believe anything bad that happens to them is someone else’s fault. And there’s no question ski areas, mountain guides and others need protection from them.

But there is a line between the point where personal responsibility ends and someone else’s liability begins. For most activities, negligence is that line. Why should skiing be different? n

FILE PHOTO BY SCOTT TIBBALLS