Pique Newsmagazine 3133

Solar-coaster

‘Nightmare’ permitting strangling B.C. solar industry, say installers. - By Stefan Labbé

06 OPENING REMARKS Editor Braden Dupuis shares a note of thanks after firefighters made quick work of blazes near Whistler this week.

08 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR This week’s letter writers talk e-bikes on the Valley Trail, long-billed curlews, and a solution to Highway 99 stress.

11 PIQUE’N YER INTEREST How much attention should Canadians pay to American politics? It’s complicated, writes Scott Tibballs.

46 MAXED OUT You are what you eat, or so they say—but no matter what you eat, you might as well eat whatever’s most tasty.

12 OPENING DAY Mark your calendars: Whistler Blackcomb has set Nov. 22 as its opening day for the 2024-25 ski season.

14 PUP PARADE Whistler Animals Galore is hosting its first-ever WAGFest on Aug. 25 at Rebagliati Park.

26 IN LIKE FINN Catching up with the one and only Finn Iles, one of Whistler’s favourite mountain bike sons.

30 CHASING THE SUN Eight-time Juno winner Colin James returns to Whistler Aug. 16 ahead of his latest album release.

COVER Pretty sure the only solar-powered home I’ll ever own is a van down by the river, if living in a van down by the river was still legal. - 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

Digital/Sales Coordinator KATIE DOUGLAS - kbechtel@wplpmedia.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

Office Manager HEIDI RODE - hrode@wplpmedia.com

Classifieds and Reception - mail@piquenewsmagazine.com

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

Founding Publishers KATHY & BOB BARNETT www.piquenewsmagazine.com

Thank you, firefighters

I’LL ADMIT TO experiencing a brief moment of panic last weekend.

As epic, booming thunderclaps rolled over the valley against a smoky, hazy backdrop, it felt almost inevitable.

And then, sure enough, dotting the map like little, alarmist warnings, a series of red

BY BRADEN DUPUIS

circles began popping up all around Whistler, denoting new lightning-caused fire starts.

Six, at one point: five to the south, and the biggest (though still tiny at just 0.1 hectare) to the north, right by Highway 99.

As I looked around my little apartment, I came to the startling realization I am not quite as prepared as I thought I was.

So there I was, on a Friday night, considering what I absolutely could not leave behind if worse came to worst, and the Resort Municipality of Whistler’s (RMOW) Whistler Alert sent notice of evacuation alert or order to my phone (speaking of which, if you haven’t signed up for Whistler Alert, the RMOW says it is the most important thing you can do in terms of emergency preparedness).

We hear about evacuation alerts and orders in other communities all the time, but Whistler has mercifully been spared that anxiety-inducing experience itself (knocking on all the wood in Whistler here, of course). So we can’t really understand how stressful an evacuation is without having lived it.

But watching the fire map on a Friday

night, considering for the first time what I would actually like to save, if given enough time, and how I might go about fitting it all in my car… I realized it’s slightly more complicated than a go-bag by the door.

Even the thought of leaving behind my home of the last 10 years, unsure if there would be anything to come back to, is gutwrenching. And we’re still talking pure hypotheticals here.

Luckily, it never came close to that, thanks to the efforts of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS).

Fire crews actioned all six of the spot fires almost immediately, and anyone watching the fire map would have seen them turn from red to yellow to green, then disappear completely

seen skimming Green Lake en route to the big blazes further north.

I’ve found myself mildly annoyed with the frequency of sightseeing flyover planes this summer—but the repeated, heavy hum of water bombers flying low over my house is oddly reassuring.

Godspeed, ladies and gents.

I have extra reverence for the people doing this work because I know it is something I could never do.

My aversion to heat and high temperatures was made deathly clear to me 20 years ago, on a scorching summer day pipelining through an Alberta field, not a drop of drinking water in sight.

sea-can training structure, put out a car fire, and climbed to the very top of the WFRS’ highest fire truck ladder.

My main takeaway? Being a firefighter is sweaty, dangerous work, and I’m more than happy to let someone else do it.

Tragically, sometimes those tasked with keeping us safe don’t come home, as was the case Aug. 3 in Jasper, when 24-year-old firefighter Morgan Kitchen was killed by a falling tree.

According to the B.C. government, the BCWS employs about 1,300 firefighters each year, deployed on four different crew types. About 10 B.C. firefighters die in the line of duty every year, according to the BC

[W]atching the fire map on a Friday night, considering for the first time what I would actually like to save, if given enough time, and how I might go about fitting it all in my car... I realized it’s slightly more complicated than a go-bag by the door.

in real time as crews wiped them out.

Thank you, firefighters.

With that taken care of, focus returned to two larger fires north of Whistler, at Rutherford Creek (56 hectares as of Wednesday morning) and Birkenhead Lake (435 hectares).

It’s hard not to lionize these brave men and women when you see the dramatics playing out so plainly in front of you, as was the case in Whistler this weekend, when a steady procession of water bombers could be

That was one of a small handful of heatstroke excursions that proved to me I was destined for a desk job.

A day spent training with the Whistler Fire Rescue Service in 2019 was enough to reaffirm my decision.

After gearing up in Whistler Village, we rode in a fire truck to the training yard on Highway 99. Over the next few hours, we ripped apart a car with WFRS auto extrication tools, felt the heat of a flashover in a makeshift

Professional Firefighters Association, which represents a further 4,600 professional fire fighters, dispatchers, prevention officers and support staff.

As lightning has its way with our bonedry forests, Whistler will have more close calls with fire. We can all do our part to make firefighters’ jobs easier by not starting any fires, and reporting all signs of smoke by calling 1-800-663-5555 or texting *5555. In Whistler, call 911. n

April 21 - September 9, 2024

Otherwise Disregarded

Jake

Kimble

Jin-me

Yoon

Images, top left clockwise: Adad Hannah, What Fools These Mortals Be (video still detail), 2022, Courtesy of the Artist, Equinox Gallery, Vancouver & PFOAC, Montreal. / Jin-me Yoon, Untitled 9 (Long Time So Long) (detail), 2022, inkjet print, Courtesy of the Artist. / Jake Kimble, Grow Up #5 (detail), 2022, archival inkjet mounted on dibond, Courtesy of the Artist. / Michelle Sound, Foster Care (detail), 2022, monochrome print on paper, embroidery thread, seed & vintage beads, caribou tufting, Courtesy of the Artist & Ceremonial/Art

Not all e-bikers

I just read the article you’ve wrote and it unfairly generalizes the behaviour of e-bike riders and paints an overly dramatic and negative picture (Pique, Aug. 9, “Close calls on the Valley Trail”). It’s important to challenge such sweeping generalizations and recognize that they don’t represent the whole truth.

First, labelling e-bikes as “twowheeled pedestrian death machines” is sensationalistic and misleading. While accidents can happen with any form of transportation, it’s not accurate or fair to portray e-bikes as inherently dangerous. Many e-bike riders are responsible and mindful of pedestrians and other trail users.

The assertion that e-bike riders are often not paying attention, engaging in risky behaviours like chatting, playing loud music, or using their phones, is an overgeneralization. Just as with any group of people, there will be a range of behaviours.

Additionally, the weight and speed of e-bikes are presented in a way meant to incite fear. While it’s true that e-bikes are heavier and can reach higher speeds than traditional bicycles, responsible use and adherence to trail rules mitigate these risks. Instead of demonizing e-bike riders, a more productive approach would be to advocate for better education, bylaw enforcement and awareness about trail etiquette for all users.

“[T]he narrative presented in the article is skewed and unfairly generalizes e-bike riders.”

- EDUARDO VAZQUEZ-VELA

The article acknowledges the environmental benefits and the positive impact on active transportation that e-bikes offer, but it then pivots to a fear-based argument about increasing danger. This is a disservice to the broader conversation about sustainable transportation solutions. Instead of focusing on perceived dangers, we should be looking for ways to integrate e-bikes safely into shared spaces. For many, this is the only way to get out and enjoy the trails or commute to parks or to the village.

In summary, the narrative presented in the article is skewed and unfairly generalizes e-bike riders. Rather than stoking fear and division, we should be promoting responsible use, mutual respect, and shared responsibility among all users of Whistler’s Valley Trail.

Trust me when I acknowledge and share the frustration when seeing so many people not respecting the trails and I totally recognize the dangers, especially of so many kids flying around without any speed control or safety gear.

Eduardo

Vazquez-Vela // Whistler

Active transportation needs extend beyond Whistler’s borders

Great article this week regarding neurotic e-bikers and the like (Pique, Aug. 9, “Close calls on the Valley Trail”). You forgot to mention that the brain’s frontal lobe isn’t fully developed until approximately 25. This could explain most of your troubles.

A key point you didn’t go into was interconnectivity on the Valley Trail. While WedgeWoods is technically in the SquamishLillooet Regional District, we are still hoping to connect to the trail one day. On my regular morning commute it is not uncommon to see e-bikers on the narrow highway shoulder, with no helmet, getting pinched by construction and transport trucks bombing down the 80 km/hr stretch (let’s be honest, though, no one actually goes under 100 km there).

It is quite nerve-racking to drive by these youngins, especially at the narrow Wedgemount corner, which has seen two vehicle accidents this summer.

Anyway, thanks for bringing it up!

Eileen

Krol // Whistler

More on long-billed curlews

I enjoyed your recent article on the curlews (Pique, Aug. 9, “Queen of the grasslands”). I would like to point out to your readers, there is no need to travel to New Mexico to see this fine bird. Long-billed curlews are regular breeders in the hay fields around Lillooet and the North Thompson river valley.

In 2013 I took a picture of a migrating

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

bird in Pemberton Meadows (see it at piquenewsmagazine.com).

John Tschopp // Pemberton

A simple solution for Highway 99 stress

In the latest Pique, both Jim Brown and Andrew Mitchell lament the hazards involved in driving Highway 99. I’d like to offer a little unsolicited advice that could considerably reduce their stress levels...

When confronted with any unpleasant element of life, there are essentially only three options, as complaining achieves nothing:

1. Accept it.

2. Change it. Both Mr. Brown and Mr. Mitchell do suggest technofixes that may help marginally, but there is no changing human nature.

3. Avoid it. I invite Jim, Andrew and other frustrated motorists to consider foregoing driving altogether and instead take advantage of Whistler’s excellent express coach service to and from Vancouver and Squamish. As bus passengers, they not only will be imposing far less environmental impact, but will be 100 times safer as they enjoy the pleasure of a good book rather than the stress of bad drivers.

Thomas DeMarco // Whistler n

Write to us! Letters to the editor must contain the writer’s name, address and a daytime telephone number. Maximum length is 450 words. Pique Newsmagazine reserves the right to edit, condense or refrain from publishing any contribution. Letters reflect the opinion of the writer and not that of Pique Newsmagazine. Send them to edit@ piquenewsmagazine.com before 11 a.m. on Tuesday for consideration in that week’s paper.

The correct amount of attention

HI, MY NAME IS SCOTT. I’m 34, and I have a hopeless addiction to following politics in countries other than my own.

It’s a problem, but honestly not one I plan to fix anytime soon, especially with so many elections this year.

That said, speaking broadly, there are many Canadians who appear to have the incorrect take on the importance of

BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

American politics and how it affects our lives

On one side, many speak and act as though Canada is but a collection of American states and are so personally invested in what’s happening in American politics I suspect they think they get to vote. On the other are folks who insist nothing that happens in the United States is of any importance, and nothing that happens there will affect us here.

It’s not a hot take by any means, but I think it bears repeating as often as possible—especially given the climate—that both of these extremes are not only wrong, but dangerously so.

Starting with those who think

American politics are all-encompassing to the degree there are Trump or Biden [scratch that] Harris bumper stickers on Canadian vehicles, frankly, they need to touch grass.

American domestic politics affects us in the trickle-down way financial decisions do: Eventually, but you don’t get a say anyway. And usually just because the politicians closest to us need some campaign inspiration.

American politics is often derided as more of a spectator sport in media, and to anyone who isn’t an American, that’s correct. It is there to be watched, followed (bet on, according to the Brits and the Australians), and analyzed by those who enjoy the sport of it, but nothing more.

Those who hyper-focus on the United States are guilty of importing American politics into Canada. The Liberal Party using the word “weird” to describe Pierre Poilievre on a one-week delay from Democrats is not a victory for progressives in Canada, but an embarrassment that betrays lack of creativity and a belief that everything American can be Canadian. Likewise, culture war-like rhetoric about social issues contained to the United States is completely unhelpful in Canada, and only serves to increase the temperature of discourse while adding nothing.

Those who bemoan the enshittification of Canadian politics because of American

influence are typically those most guilty of finding connections and similarities that don’t exist. Canada and the U.S. might look similar and speak the same language (mostly), but we have two very different political systems in place, and similarities are thumbnail deep.

Hyper-focus on the U.S.A. also breeds political doomerism and fatigue. Save that energy for Canada; it needs your attention more than the U.S.A. does.

Over on the other side, those who claim American politics means nothing betray their lack of understanding of Canadian history and its place in the world.

American politics does matter to Canada, because Canada is hemmed in by what is (currently) the world’s sole superpower.

Put simply, on a base level, we ignore them at our peril. So don’t do that.

In the grander scheme of things, however, Canada benefits greatly from the United States imposing its hegemony upon the international community. Why? For starters, this grand international community that Canada exists in and gallivants around acting like it’s more important than it is, is an American, postSecond World War creation. International trade is secured by American power, global markets are linked with American economic fortunes, and the closest thing we have to world peace (read: not the state of things where human life is nasty, brutish

and short) is held in place by the order of things set in place by the United States and its allies, of which Canada is one.

It is hilariously naive—and stupid—to believe the United States’ standing in the international community has no effect on Canada.

Canada’s place in the world is secured by its proximity to the U.S.

Look north, to the Northwest Passage where Russia probes Canadian waters. Look west, where vital Canadian trading partners are monstered by China. Look east, where Canadian allies live in safety, buoyed by American military support, left to their devices to underspend on their defence budgets and occasionally dabble in assisting fending off Russian incursions into neighbouring states.

And look inwards: Canada’s own defence budget is below the NATO-required two per cent of GDP, at last measure clocking in at 1.3 per cent.

If the U.S. changes its position on NATO and on the world stage, what does that do to Canada? In short, lots of things, starting with that 1.3 per cent.

So yes, American politics does matter.

So what’s the correct amount of attention to pay to U.S. politics? Probably somewhere between American bumper stickers on Canadian cars, and acknowledging there’s a world past your front door. n

Mark your calendars: Whistler Blackcomb plans Nov. 22 opening for winter season

THE NEW SEASON WILL BRING A NEW CHAIRLIFT, CHANGES TO TICKETING AND HOPES FOR BETTER CONDITIONS

BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB will open Nov. 22 for the 2024-25 winter season if conditions allow.

In a release on Aug. 14, parent company Vail Resorts touted the new goodies and the tried-and-true favourites guests can expect in the coming season, including new chairlifts, the Invictus Games, and changes to the ticketing system.

First up, the coming season will mark the first season with a brand-new Jersey Cream chairlift in operation.

The old chairlift was removed at the end of the 2023-24 season, with Blackcomb closing before Whistler to allow crews to get in and do the work with a head start for summer.

In early July, Whistler Blackcomb staff reported construction of the new six-pack chairlift was ahead of schedule at the time, and it was expected to be ready for operation ahead of the coming winter season.

As of mid-August, the resort remains confident it will be operational for the 202425 winter season.

“Coming on the heels of last season’s

upgrade to Fitzsimmons Express, this new high-speed, six-person chair will significantly improve uploading capacity and efficiency and get guests on snow faster in the Glacier Creek Zone of Blackcomb Mountain,” reads the Vail Resorts release.

“It’s one of several lift upgrades Whistler Blackcomb has invested in in recent years, showcasing a commitment to continuous investment into the guest experience at the resort.”

option is a restricted 10-day pass, which excludes peak days, which are Dec. 26 to 31 in 2024, Jan. 18 and Feb. 15 and 16 in 2025.

The total price for a restricted 10-day Edge pass is $808 before taxes, and $848.50 after taxes are included, making each day on the hill worth $84.85.

A big change for guests for the coming season will be the implementation of previously advertised changes to ticketing, with Vail Resorts reporting in February it will

“[T]his new high-speed, six-person chair will significantly improve uploading capacity...”

- WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

February 2025 will also bring the Invictus Games to Whistler, with key events to be held on the mountain in conjunction. The games, which were founded in 2014 for wounded servicemen and women, features winter sports for the first time in its Whistler instalment.

Those looking to buy passes for the coming season have under three weeks to get ahead of the coming price increase of Sept. 2.

Currently, the cheapest Edge card

do away with most physical passes on the hill.

The changes, touted by Vail as making the mountains “hands-free,” are for a mobile pass and mobile lift-ticket technology made possible through the My Epic app from Whistler Blackcomb.

“This innovation will allow guests to skip the ticket window and buy their Pass (or lift ticket) online, then activate and store it in the My Epic app,” reads the press release.

The app will remain active on guests’

phones, with passes to be scanned thanks to Bluetooth technology.

Physical passes will remain for the season, however, even with the new pass technology being rolled out. Physical passes will be provided all through 2024-25, and going forward, guests who cannot or do not want to use their phones to access the mountain will be able to request physical passes.

The mobile pass technology was rolled out at Vail Resorts’ flagship mountain, Vail, ahead of the 2023-24 season, with the company reporting positive guest feedback.

In regards to conditions, forecasts for the coming season are a long way out, but hopes will be high for a better season than the last. At the start of the 2023-24 season there was no snow on the valley floor while guests on the mountain spent weeks skiing on man-made snow up top.

While the season did pick up in early 2024, the impacts of the poor start were lasting: Vail Resorts reported visitation at Whistler Blackcomb was “down significantly” in 202324 primarily due to the poor conditions, which the company noted could have knockon effects on later seasons due to a potential lack of return visitors.

In June, the company reported sales for next season passes were down through 2024 because of low visitation in what proved a poor year across its operations in all of North America. n

SNOW WORRIES One of the snowy days at Whistler Blackcomb in the 2023-24 season.

PHOTO BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

NEWS WHISTLER

RMOW to build new viewing platform on Valley Trail

WETLANDS ENJOYERS WILL SOON BE ABLE TO GET A BETTER LOOK AT THE MILLAR CREEK WETLANDS NEAR FUNCTION JUNCTION

BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

WHISTLER WILL soon sport a new wildlife and wetlands viewing platform thanks to a joint project between the municipality and the Whistler Rotary Club.

The new platform, at the northern end of Function Junction on the Millar Creek section of the Valley Trail, will be designed and placed to allow a view of the nearby Millar Creek wetlands between Function Junction and Highway 99.

“The viewing platform will be three metres above the Valley Trail, putting viewers above vegetation and allowing them to look out to spot birds as well as our very active local beaver population,” said a Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) communications official in an email to Pique

“We chose the location for its great views and also because we didn’t need to remove any trees or vegetation.”

The platform—which was previously described by municipal staff as being similar to the existing platform north of Rainbow Park—will go together with interpretive panels to share Squamish Nation and Líl’wat Nation perspectives on the importance of the wetlands.

For cost, the project currently has $30,000 directed towards its completion: $10,000 from the RMOW from the MRDT (hotel tax) funding stream, and $20,000 from the Whistler Rotary.

Treasurer of the Whistler Rotary, Ken Martin, explained the club’s involvement was part of the Rotary’s long-standing role in the community.

“Rotary clubs historically have done lots of community amenities in towns all across

Meet with me via video conference, telephone, and in person

North America—in every small town you go to there’s a rotary park, a rotary trail or a rotary fountain,” he said.

Prior to hopping on board the partnership with the RMOW for the new viewing platform, one of the most visible projects credited to the Whistler Rotary was the Olympic Plaza adirondack chairs—which sadly have been retired by the municipality as of this year after a decade of appearing in visitor photos of Whistler.

The viewing platform is the next amenity the club is a part of, raising $10,000 from community events, and directing another $10,000 from the local Rotary district towards the project.

Martin explained some members of the club will be getting their hands dirty with the project by helping source materials, and offering labour where it is welcome.

“That’s the essence of Rotary. Rotary is an old-school service club, all the members work together to raise money to give to organizations, or physically build stuff and contribute,” said Martin. “We don’t do a lot of that physical building anymore, but in this particular case we’ll end up doing landscaping and touch-up painting and that kind of stuff. Everybody wants to be involved.”

According to the municipality, a development permit for the project is under review, and if approved, construction is expected to start in the fall.

The platform is another portion of the development of the Millar Creek section of the Valley Trail, which was completed in 2019 and connects Function Junction to Alta Lake Road. The trail in that part of the community follows the existing municipal sanitary line and FortisBC gas line rights-of-way to avoid the Millar Creek wetlands, which the viewing platform will be built to view. n

PLATFORM PARTNERS The soon-to-be-higher view of the Millar Creek wetlands near Function Junction.

PHOTO BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

SHOLTO SHAW

Furbabies taking over Rebagliati Park

WAGFEST WELCOMES PETS AND HUMANS TO TAKE PART IN FUR-FRIENDLY FESTIVITIES ON AUG. 25

BY LIZ MCDONALD

TAILS ARE SURE to wag in Rebagliati Park Aug. 25 for Whistler Animals Galore’s (WAG) dog-friendly festival, WAGFest.

Festivities start with “tails and trails,” a 5.5-km, on-leash run around Lost Lake from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Pets and their parents will get in some cardio, and treats await at the finish line with swag from Happy Pets and FirstMate for the first 50 furbaby finishers.

Next, attendees should stick around for the “post-run paw-ty” between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The events include opportunities to show off your pet’s skills and fashion sense, and owners can grab a lunch donated by Splitz Grill. The paw-ty also features face painting, local pet vendors, a raffle and an online auction.

Pets can compete for best dressed, best trick, best rescue and most agile.

Finally, everyone can stretch out the excitement with down-dog yoga, hosted by lululemon and Tina Pashumati James between 2 and 3 p.m. Mats will be provided for the first 40 humans.

Dogs (or cats) should be friendly with people and other animals and leashed.

The event fundraises for WAG’s animal shelter and will benefit all animals in the

Sea to Sky, according to Peta Woolnough, executive director for WAG.

While the non-profit has a fee for service agreement with the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW), which includes a

building for the animal shelter and funding grants, and WAG provides animal bylaw services for the RMOW, fundraising is a critical component of serving animals in the corridor.

“Everything else we do we have to fundraise for. So, we have many criticalcare cases, some long-term residents here at WAG, and we also do a lot of outreach work,” Woolnough said.

While paw-ticipants can get signed in the day of the events, preregistration is encouraged and open, with associated registration fees.

There will also be a local vet on hand from Harmony Veterinary Services, and first aid available.

While there’s no fundraising goal, each dollar counts towards bettering the lives of animals in the Sea to Sky.

Currently, the shelter has eight adult dogs in need of forever homes or fostering, seven puppies, and five adult cats.

“We are busy, probably busier than we have been in a while. Adoptions are quite slow at the moment, and slow countrywide or North America-wide. We need to find these animals loving forever homes,” Woolnough said.

She added the rise in animals in need of a home stems from a surge in pet ownership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many new owners went back to work and couldn’t care for their animals anymore.

Anyone looking to adopt or foster can learn more about the process through WAG’s website. n

HAPPY DAYS Whistler Animals Galore hosts WAGFest Aug. 25, with proceeds from the pet-friendly festivities supporting animal welfare in the Sea to Sky.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WAG

Whistler Blackcomb rolls out new mountain webcams for the dreamers

NEW CAMERAS OFFER MORE VIEWS OF WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB aficionados will have noticed the hill is switching over its mountain webcams.

The series of webcams around the resort offer online viewers a preview of weather, conditions, and crowds, and now the sights to be seen are improved thanks to an ongoing webcam refresh project.

The photo-only webcams that update on the regular are out, and the always-on webcams are in.

“Our webcam refresh project—which

with a project completion date in the next winter season.

The investment is worth it, according to WB. Sroka explained online data from guests browsing the website and guest feedback shows guests use the resource both for inspiration and technical information on what the mountains look like at any given moment.

“Someone in Boston will put on our webcams and just leave them on to daydream of the time they came to Whistler,” he said. “Our webcams have some of the longest onsite visitation across our entire website.”

The new webcams are not only always on and live, but also constantly rotate between

“Someone in Boston will put on our webcams and just leave them on to daydream...”

- CHRIS SROKA

involved switching streaming platforms—was an ideal opportunity to improve our viewing locations,” said Whistler Blackcomb’s field marketing manager, Chris Sroka.

“While there aren’t any new locations, the new webcams provide expanded views of our existing locations, along with enhanced features like ‘always on’ streaming, point and zoom functionality and time lapses that provide a better experience than the previous ‘photo only’ webcams.”

While those paying attention will have noticed most of the cameras switched over in the last few weeks, Sroka said the first camera was changed last winter, and the resort is working to switch all remaining cameras now

different views—giving guests more than one view to look at from one spot.

Sroka said guest feedback could be baked into what the webcams show. If there’s a particular view or angle you want included in the rotation, just let them know.

“The software we use allows us to easily switch views at any time,” he said.

“Bottom line: we provide views that help guests plan and optimize their experience on the mountains. If they want specific views, we can make it happen, because this new software enables us to easily do so.”

The new mountain webcam refresh and rollout project is expected to be complete by winter 2024-25. n

DREAM ON New cameras installed at Whistler Blackcomb offer a streaming view of goings-on, rather than a regularly updated photo.

SCREENSHOT

Garibaldi geothermal assessment project complete

THE SECOND PHASE OF A GEOTHERMAL ASSESSMENT PROJECT AT MOUNT MEAGER AND MOUNT CAYLEY IS HEATING UP INTEREST IN GEOTHERMAL PROJECTS IN THE PROVINCE

BY LIZ MCDONALD

GEOTHERMAL ENERGY is getting a boost in the Sea to Sky, thanks to a recently completed assessment project by Geoscience BC, seven Canadian universities, and the Geological Survey of Canada with support from Líl’wat and Sk_wx_wú7mes (Squamish) Nations.

The Garibaldi Geothermal Volcanic Belt Assessment Project at Mount Meager, near Pemberton, and Mount Cayley, southwest of Whistler, is described in a press release by Geoscience BC as “one of the most comprehensive studies of geothermal potential energy ever conducted” at the two mountains.

According to the release by Geoscience BC, the research has spurred new investment for Meager Creek Development Corporation’s (MCDC) Meager Creek geothermal project. The corporation plans to use the modelling for capturing geothermal energy and transform it into green hydrogen.

The announcement marks the completion of Phase 2 of the research project. Phase 1 focused on Mount Meager, whereas Phase 2 zoomed in on Mount Cayley.

Randy Hughes, manager of energy and

water for Geoscience BC, said applying six different technologies helped provide a clearer picture of geothermal energy potential.

“The objective of all these technologies is to create a subsurface image of where the best hot water reservoir is, how the fluid flows, [and that potential geothermal] drilling targets the most optimal subsurface [areas],” he said.

“So, the purpose of the research is to reduce the risk, or conversely, provide a better model to help in the development phase— where best to drill to develop the geothermal resource and the clean energy resources.”

Richard Hawker, MCDC president, said

in the release Geoscience BC’s work has been instrumental.

“As we have worked to build the development plan for the MCDC project the quality of the work done by Geoscience BC continually impresses our team. Without the data and reports developed by their team we would never have gotten to the point we are,” Hawker said.

Research into geothermal potential at Mount Meager goes back decades, but MCDC hopes to turn potential into reality.

Geothermal energy is touted as one tool in the toolbox to get Canada to net-zero emissions by 2050, with plans in the works to use hydrogen

to power the trucking industry and buses, as well as power other industries, and heat buildings, according to Natural Resources Canada.

There are more results coming, with the project lead, Dr. Steve Grasby, generating a paper expected in 2025 with summary results from Phases 1 and 2, along with numerous research papers from various universities involved.

“There are lots of volcanoes and volcanic complexes in British Columbia. The techniques that were developed and the technologies that [were applied] at Mount Meager and at Mount Cayley can be applied elsewhere in the province,” Hughes said.

To further assess geothermal potential in the province, Geoscience BC is proposing high-level assessments of existing data to identify and explore the top sites in northwest and southeast B.C. for geothermal energy production based on their geology, proximity to BC Hydro grids, proximity to customers and other important factors.

“Then, entities like the Geological Survey of Canada, [consulting firms and] these various universities can undertake the detailed groundwork that has to be done to better define those sweet spots for [resource assessment and potential development],” Hughes said. n

HARD ROCK The Garibaldi Geothermal Volcanic Belt Assessment Project is described as the most comprehensive study of geothermal potential at Mount Meager and Mount Cayley to date.

IMAGE COURTESY OF MEAGER CREEK DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Outgoing BC United MLA teases new candidate for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky

JORDAN STURDY REVEALED HE WOULD RETIRE FROM PARLIAMENT BACK IN JANUARY, BUT THE PARTY HE REPRESENTS IS YET TO ANNOUNCE A CANDIDATE FOR THE COMING ELECTION

BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

SITTING MLA FOR West Vancouver-Sea to Sky, Jordan Sturdy, has revealed BC United has a candidate in the works for the riding—just not when they’ll be offered up to voters.

“I am not in the inner circle there in terms of what’s happening, but I do know there is a candidate that I’ve known for some time, a really good candidate that is working through the process,” Sturdy said in an interview with Pique on Aug. 7.

BC United is currently the only major British Columbian party to not have a candidate ready in West Vancouver-Sea to Sky for the upcoming provincial election in October. Sturdy first revealed he would be retiring at the next election in January 2024, and party leader Kevin Falcon said he expected the party to have a candidate ready to go “within 45 days” during an interview on March 7.

More than 150 days since then, the Green Party, the BC NDP and the surging BC Conservatives have all put up candidates. When contacted previously by Pique in May, a BC United spokesperson said the party was “work[ing] at a fast pace to nominate exceptional candidates across British Columbia,” and that it would declare a candidate in West Vancouver-Sea to Sky when it had one.

Sturdy, who has held the riding for the BC Liberals and now BC United since 2013, acknowledged that having a candidate in the race by now would be better for the party.

“Clearly the longer people are in the race the better in many regards, although I’m not sure how well that’s going to play out overall for the Green candidate that’s been on the campaign trail for six years now … we’ll see how that plays out,” he said, referring to Green candidate Jeremy Valeriote, who was the challenger who almost unseated Sturdy in 2020 but fell short by only 60 votes, and who was back for more in an unusually-early declaration as the Green candidate in April of 2023—a full 18 months ahead of the scheduled election.

Other challengers for the next election, such as the NDP’s Jen Ford, and the Conservatives’ Yuri Fulmer, have been on the trail for less time, with Ford declared in May, and Fulmer in July.

“Obviously it would be nicer if [BC United] had a candidate sometime back,” said Sturdy.

When first interviewed on his pending retirement in January, the BC Conservatives were surging in polling—a development Sturdy said at the time made them a potential spoiler for the centre-right effort to oust the incumbent NDP government. Since then, the Conservatives have maintained a steady second place in provincial polling behind the NDP, while BC United has seen its numbers soften and in some polls, fall to

fourth place.

Sturdy acknowledged the landscape has changed a lot since January, “but we’re not at election day,” he said.

“Ultimately the only poll that counts is on Oct. 19. How that plays out provincially is impossible to say. I will say that my colleagues that I’ve worked with over the last several years are good people. They’re experienced and knowledgeable, and I believe they’re electable and will be elected.”

Sturdy said he believes voters will look elsewhere from the NDP once they start paying closer attention, and offered up potential debates as reason for his confidence it wouldn’t be the Conservatives.

“The other thing that has proven a game changer, is as recently as a couple of weeks ago there was a candidates debate that changed the landscape in a dramatic way,” he said, referring to the rapidly changing election in the United States.

That change could come to British Columbia, according to Sturdy.

“Right now we have the Conservative party riding on the coattails of Pierre Poilievre, they’re riding on that confusion. There’s no doubt about it,” he said.

“When we have to start talking about what the policies are, there really isn’t a lot there with the Conservatives … I think when people start paying a bit more attention and when there is an all-candidates debate, then you’ll start to see the leadership in person, and start to see a more robust discussion about policy and direction.

“Kevin has a lot of experience and the proven leadership. From a policy perspective, we’re on the right track.”

Such a debate is unlikely to occur this month, Sturdy added.

“Hopefully we’ll see that in September after the writ drops, and that can be a game changer for everybody,” he said. “I guess we’re going to have to wait and see.”

The next election is scheduled to take place on or before Oct. 19. n

UNITED STANCE BC United MLA Jordan Sturdy speaking in Squamish on March 7.

PHOTO BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

SLRD adds Paradise Valley washrooms to to-do list

THE TRAILHEAD FOR THE CHEAKAMUS CANYON PORTION OF THE SEA TO SKY TRAIL CURRENTLY HAS NO FACILITIES

BY SCOTT TIBBALLS

THE SQUAMISH-LILLOOET Regional District (SLRD) is going to look into finding a new place for hikers to relieve themselves at a popular trailhead in Paradise Valley.

As explained by Area D Director, Tony Rainbow in a report to the regular meeting on July 24, the section of Sea to Sky Trail at the northern end of Paradise Valley is drawing in a lot of people, and there aren’t any facilities— which isn’t great for the locals.

“At the trailhead, people park their cars while using the trail, many camp overnight, and as there are no toilet facilities, the surrounding bushes and trees are used for relief,” wrote Rainbow in his report.

“Needless to say, this is unsightly, unsanitary, and unsatisfactory.”

The section of the trail in question is the portion through Cheakamus Canyon, which connects to the Sea to Sky highway a few kilometres to the north. The area where users are relieving themselves is right at the end of Paradise Valley Road, which is the trailhead for the hike.

Rainbow wrote while there are long-term solutions to be investigated, he proposes a short-term solution for now, “that is, the provision of rustic toilet facilities.”

“A couple of years ago, we installed two units of urine diversion [UDI] toilets at the Furry Creek beach recreation area that have been well used and are relatively easy to maintain,” he wrote. “We also installed one close to the trail in a family climbing area north of Squamish. These units were constructed on site by a local contractor who has built many in BC Parks and Recreation

areas. The approximate cost is $15,000 per unit.”

Such a unit would require some infrastructure and ongoing attention, such as a gravel pad, and regular maintenance.

In his report, Rainbow also talked about maintenance not being a challenge as the local Paradise Valley Leaseholders Association members could possibly be contracted, while

funding could be provided through the SLRD’s funds for parks or through grants.

That said, in speaking to his report, Rainbow said he was looking for a staff investigation rather than funding for the proposal, as the motion he brought forward was for a staff report with consultation with the Squamish Nation, timelines, information on supply and installation, maintenance costs and associated staff time.

Explaining some of the motion, chief administrative officer, Heather Paul, said consultation with the Squamish Nation was included as previously the Nation had been opposed to a more established campground proposal in the area.

“This is much more smaller and very different, however we want to make sure that there is consultation there and there is no insult where Squamish Nation feels they’re not heard,” she said.

During conversation, Pemberton Mayor Mike Richman noted Tourism Pemberton had success in previous years in securing grant funding for toilets at various trailheads around the community, and suggested the SLRD look into that initiative to consider funding sources besides the SLRD tax base.

Directors voted unanimously to support Rainbow’s motion, with the task to be allocated to staff priorities.  n

GOTTA GO A Paradise Valley trailhead for the Sea to Sky Trail has no facilities—which isn’t great for the locals.

PHOTO BY GRANDRIVER / E+ / GETTY IMAGES

Pemberton wildfire expected to have ‘growth’ after smoke, clouds block mapping

A RISK OF LIGHTNING CONTINUES FOLLOWING 600 LIGHTNING STRIKES IN 72 HOURS IN THE COASTAL FIRE CENTRE

BY ALANNA KELLY Glacier Media

A MUCH-WELCOMED break in the weather is on its way over wildfires burning near Pemberton, but time will tell if the rain can aid in the firefight.

Kimberly Kelly, fire information officer with the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), flew over the Pemberton zone on Aug. 12 to get a look at the wildfires.

As of Tuesday, four wildfires were burning out of control in the area.

The Rutherford Creek wildfire is 56 hectares in size and crews are working on the northeast flank.

“We have been able to establish road access and a water source. So equipment is moving in today to bring water to the fire,” said Kelly.

Meanwhile, three helicopters are working on the south flank, where there’s steep and rocky terrain that’s not suitable for heavy equipment or crews.

“We are making progress there. We are not

anticipating any significant growth on that fire,” she says.

Heavy smoke and cloud cover around the Birkenhead Lake wildfire are making it difficult for crews to get an update on the size of the blaze.

“We are looking to get a track on it, to get an updated size, but at this point, we’re just

PHOTO BY LIAM JAMES

closed to the public since Aug. 8 due to the fire. The public is being asked to stay clear of the area and also the lake.

Environment Canada said rain was expected on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and will continue through Sunday. Kelly said rain can reduce fire behaviour or prevent spread, but it’s a prediction, not a promise.

“Forty per cent of our wildfires are actually detected and reported by the public, and it does make a significant impact on us getting into those fires...”

- KIMBERLEY KELLY

waiting for enough visibility to really be able to see it,” said Kelly.

The wildfire is smouldering, burning rank one or two behaviour, with some isolated tree candling. As of Wednesday morning, Aug. 14, it was mapped at 435 hectares.

“We are expecting some growth on this fire,” said Kelly.

Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park has been

“It really depends on where the rain falls and how much is received,” she says.

BC Wildfire Service said more than a dozen fires started due to a lightning event on Aug. 5 and there is still a risk of lightning in the area.

“We’ve seen about just over 600 lightning strikes in the last 72 hours in the Coastal Fire Centre,” said Kelly.

It can take a few days for a wildfire from a lightning strike to show up, and BCWS is continuously monitoring for new starts.

The Village of Pemberton (VOP) thanked BCWS for its efforts as firefighters continue to battle blazes in the local area. The VOP urged locals to show their appreciation for the “dedicated” firefighters on its Facebook page.

“We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the amazing crews at BC Wildfire Service for their hard work over the past weeks and their ongoing efforts as they battle wildfires in the Pemberton area,” the post read. “As wildfires continue to affect the local area, their efforts to protect communities and natural landscapes are truly commendable.”

Skimmers were spotted taking water from Green Lake in Whistler over the weekend to use to fight local fires.

Kelly appreciates all the people who have reported wildfires and says the public’s participation in detecting and reporting wildfires is crucial.

“Forty per cent of our wildfires are actually detected and reported by the public, and it does make a significant impact on us getting into those fires and our initial attack success,” she said.

Anyone who sees a wildfire is asked to contact BCWS immediately at 1-800-663-5555 or text *5555.

- with files from Róisín Cullen n

FIRE FIGHT A wildfire at Rutherford Creek southwest of Pemberton was burning out of control on 56 hectares as of Wednesday morning, Aug. 14.

Brace yourself for e-hiking

ELECTRONIC MOTORS are making their way into all sorts of vehicles these days. Bikes, cars, scooters, foil boards, stand-up paddle boards, and even electric mini novelty battle tanks (credit to electrek.co for that last one

BY VINCE SHULEY

with their blog article titled, “Complete list of the Awesomely Weird Alibaba Electric Vehicles of the Week”). But a particularly interesting contraption has been circulating around the internet the last few weeks: electric exoskeletons—devices that essentially motorize your body.

Exoskeletons that help with lower body mobility have been around in hospitals and rehab centres as medical devices for years. Recently, these Transformer-looking devices have entered the home fitness industry, such as the Enhanced Robotics Sportsmate 5, which turned heads in 2022 with its “indoor resistance, outdoor assistance” design. Even more recently than that, the outdoor recreation industry is seeing similar designs with refined algorithms and AI to let people hike further and faster, while expending less energy.

I’ll pause for the eye rolls before I explain more.

I came across the Dnsys X1 Exoskeleton in a tongue-in-cheek article on pinkbike. com, where writer Dario DiGiulio described it as: “Imagine, you can effectively turn any bike in your garage into an e-bike, not via modification to the vehicle itself but instead by strapping this device to your meatbody.” After looking at a few (more serious) YouTube reviews of the Dnsys X1, I learned that like all electric motor technology, this device has limits. It’s certainly not the exosuit Ellen Ripley would use to throw the Xenomorph Queen out of a spaceship airlock. As YouTuber Stephen J Reid put it, the equipment “will not turn you

so were the first automobiles when horsedrawn carriages dominated the high street. We’ve been through this cycle of purist resistance before with e-bikes. Now we’re awash in them. So let’s forego the whole “outdoors should only be for people who suffer as much as I do” argument. And just like e-bikes, exoskeletons have the potential to help people live fuller lives, moreso than harm the outdoor experience for everyone else.

An example of an exoskeleton changing someone’s life for the better is former pro BMX racer and mountain bike freerider Tarek Rasouli. He was paralyzed from the waist down while testing a jump for the fifth Kranked freeride film in 2002. While his mobility became tied to a wheel-chair,

And just like e-bikes, exoskeletons have the potential to help people live fuller lives, moreso than harm the outdoor experience for everyone else.

into a super hero. If you cannot currently run up a mountain, you will not able to do so wearing these.” The built-in safety mechanism switches the device off when you overextend (such as climbing onto a ledge), so there’s no utility here for rock climbers or scramblers.

Now for the opinion. Do I think these things are silly? No. Silly-looking maybe, but

he stayed in the mountain-bike industry by founding his events and athlete management company Rasoulution. In 2020, former motocross professional Hannes Kinigadner invited Rasouli to one of his own rehab sessions using an Ekso Bionics exoskeleton. While Rasouli still won’t be able to climb a mountain or ride his bike in the same way again, the exoskeleton allows him to build up

muscle in his glutes and lower back, allowing him to endure longer days in the wheelchair with much less pain.

If you need any more proof powered pants are on their way to the outdoors, Arc’teryx partnered with Skip (a spinoff of Google X Labs) to launch the MO/GO pants. These look much more normal than strapping a pair of robotic suspenders to the outside of our hiking shorts and have the Arc’teryx price tag to match (preorders are in the US$5,000 range). Final prototype testing of the MO/ GO pants had people with heart conditions or recent knee surgeries hiking to the top of the Stawamus Chief, something they were unable to do since their respective injuries and medical conditions. It’s all a very feelgood story, one of technology extending the capabilities of humans who have had to step back from more intense recreation.

Let’s remember, these pants are not marketed as medical devices (and are not likely to fall under the coverage of your extended benefits plan). While the early adopters and marketing message will be around helping lower-mobility hikers, it won’t be long before perfectly able-bodied hikers are wondering if they can spend less time sweating and more time soaking up the views at the top of a mountain. But I think for the life-improving cases alone, recreational exoskeletons will be here to stay.

Vince Shuley has a few bits of hardware holding his body together on the inside. For questions, comments or suggestions for The Outsider, email vince.shuley@gmail.com or Instagram @whis_vince. n

POWER PANTS The Dnsys X1 is bringing electric assist technology to hiking and running.

AUG.18/2024

2024 VENDOR LIST

REGISTRATION AREA: Before you head out on the route, make sure to fuel up with pancakes for breakfast by the Pemberton Lions Club and most needed morning co ee with Mount Currie Coffee Co. Have a last check of your bike by visiting Bike Co’s tools tent and learn to be FireSmart !

Collins Cross Farm First or last trip of the day, or pay them multiple visits! A collective of farms await with fresh growns vegetables, featuring Pemberton Organics veggies and Two Sisters Farms with their stunning dry owers arrangements, beautiful sustainable options for your home and businesses.

Pemberton Meat Co Enjoy ethically raised pork, beef, and poultry products from their family owned and operated farm. Frozen meat for purchase. Chef Frederic Royer of Home Bistronomy will have you come twice to the tting location for you to return to. With a decadent menu from the charcoal BBQ & pop-up kitchen serving Tandoori Chicken and grilled fruits & harvest with fresh fruit juices. What’s for dessert? Chris with the amazing Double Decker Scoops got you covered with his Pemberton-made ice cream and sorbet with organic ingredients and original recipes! Non-dairy and vegan options available.

Roll 400 meters further down Pemberton Farm Road to be be greeted with fresh owers and veggies at High Noon Flowers and Veggies

Plenty Wild Farms Kick start your ride with breakfast or lunch we suggest both!) plant-based nourishment from local award winner

Pedal to HappiLife Farm and see the

The HWY. Cafe and one of Pemberton Industrial park’s favourite destination The Bread Warehouse serving breakfast pastries, fresh baked goods, savory and sweet! Cool down at Frostbites with shaved ice, topped with their very own, seasonally inspired fresh fruits cordials. And don’t forget the veggies - certi ed organic garlic, tomatoes and other goodies from Plenty Wild Farms. Belly full? Fill your baskets with handmade goat’s milk soap from Lone Goat Soap Co and unique summer designs by Sewful Creations HappiLife Farm Flowers impressive cutting eld of owers in full bloom. Pick up an organically grown bike bouquet or crown to make your pictures pop! Enjoy the beer garden and LIVE MUSIC with the Pemberton Brewing Farm Stand serving up some of their nest brews for your enjoyment and BaconEh keeping you well-fed with their juicy and delicious pulled pork, chicken and brisket sandwiches. Refreshment and snacks! Sugarloaf Mountain Trading Ltd will also bee playing with the bees at the stunning location o ering their locally harvested dried lavender bouquets and bottled honey. Don’t miss your chance for a luxury pit stop Wild Haven introducing their washroom haven trailer, stylish and eco-friendly experience, setting new standard! Ride something di erent. Come on in and see our working horse ranch. Kids can take a break on a pony ride around the ranch ($20) and they don’t have to pedal, just pure horse power!

The Pemberton Meadows Lavender Farm Ryan Creek Tallow Another welcomed addtion this year! Learn about locally made tallow based skincare and continue to make yourself a beauty with Sziktsút Creations hand crafted jewelry using tree branches that have naturally fallen. Hand painted and natural.

Excited to be adding Christine’s farm as a new SFCS stop this year! Make sure to soak yourself in the bene ts of the fragant fresh and dried lavender and try all their products!

Laughing Crow You won’t want to miss this year’s sun ower maze extravaganza! You are invited to take part in the visual harvest adventure. Stroll the pathway, take in the beauty and test your wits trying to nd your way out amidst dead ends, wild goose chases and circle backs. Be delighted with poetry, interpretive signs, and plenty of fridge-worthy family photo-ops for a memorable day on the farm! Sun ower bouquets and fresh veggies also available from the Farm Stand

Across the Creek Organics / The Beer Farmers Welcome to the 4th generation organic, family farm and brewery. Enjoy local lagers and ales and Miller’s Fries Food Truck - featuring fresh cut fries grown right on the farm as well as burgers, hot dogs and vegan soft serve. Purchase organic produce from Laughing Crow Organics Willowcraft Farm and Across the Creek Organics. Buy authentic Pemberton logowear and accessories, branded hats and shirts from Pemberton Brand Indulge yourself to some baked goods with our friends at Treat Squamish, scones, brownies, cupcakes, cookies and more! Complete your wardrobe and redecorate your home with Katie Leverton Art, wearable art, tote bags and cushion covers. Relax in the shaded grass lawns and enjoy the bluegrass music of the Courageous Mountain Rangers and more! Then grab one more sweet before hitting the road again with homemade baked goods by Blissful Bites

Helmers Organic Farm Join us on the founding farm of Slow Food Cycle Sunday and taste gourmet Helmer potatoes.  Fill on certi ed organic from Four Beat Farm, gelato and sorbets from Lucia Gelato, and don’t miss out on the pastries showcasing the best of Pemberton, The British Baker pastries and sausage rolls featuring some of your favourite Slow Food Cycle Sunday stops, including of course Helmer’s potatoes and Lindsey’s famous sage and apple pork sausage roll better paired with their Thai Lime Iced Tea, French macarons and millionaires shortbread. A classic line up joined by Green River Leather Co’s handmade and handstiched leather products and True North Farmacy natural botanically infused wellness products. Bring all your farming questions!

Pemberton Valley Farms/Goat Mountain Produce Farm Stand The return of the legendary Farm Stand A small-scale third generation family farm specializing in root vegetables, new potatoes, carrots and beets. Sweet corn, carrots, potatoes and beets available and amazing views of Goat Mountain, Mount Meager and Mount Currie! Grizzly Farm Want to pick your own blueberries? Come visit a 60-acre permaculture farm growing fruits, berries, veggies, nuts and much more. Explore and pick delicious ripe blueberries and veggies to sample and take home. Featuring fermented and sundried products!

Be prepared for limited quantities of food/beverages along the route. There will be long lines and some vendors may run out during the day. Bring your own snacks and water! There will also be long stretches of road with no open farms / venue stops. These stretches provide opportunities to enjoy the beautiful scenery and engage your other senses.

SlowFoodCycleSunday.com slowfoodcycle@tourismpembertonbc.com

Pemberton

Solar-coaster

‘Nightmare’ permitting strangling B.C. solar industry, say installers

Story and photos

By Stefan Labbé

On a recent sunny Friday

in Burnaby, Christopher Ogochukwu caught the top rung of a ladder with one hand. He steadied the solar panel teetering on his shoulder, and in one fluid motion, vaulted it toward the roof.

From the ground, Sukhpaul Parmar, head of Ready Solar Inc., looked on as a human chain of electricians and installers angled and bolted down more than two dozen rooftop solar panels, all part of a $40,000 high-end job that would turn the home into its own 10.2-kilowatt power station.

“There’s a lot of misinformation. People think there’s not enough [potential for] solar power in B.C..”

Sukhpaul Parmar

“There’s a lot of misinformation. People think there’s not enough [potential for] solar power in B.C.,” said Parmar. “But there’s population growth, electric vehicles and heat pumps. People have no idea where the power is going to come from.

“It has to come from the sky.”

Parmar’s company is among dozens across the province preparing its workforce for a new wave of interest in solar energy after BC Hydro and the province announced two $5,000 rebates—one for solar panels and another for batteries to store the sun’s energy into the night.

The day after the June 27 announcement, Parmar said he saw a 20-fold increase in calls, a sign the rebates could hail the arrival of a solar boom.

But according to the owners of several B.C. solar companies, those hopes could be short-lived if existing permitting requirements—already leading to months of delays—aren’t streamlined or removed.

“It’s positive. We like to see the government taking action,” said Joe Bowker, operations manager at Victoria-based company Besolar. “But my gut tells me it’s going to be a pain in the ass.”

‘Part of the puzzle’

The push for more rooftop solar comes as BC Hydro forecasts an electricity shortfall of 3,000 gigawatt hours per year by 2028—equivalent to more than half of the generating capacity of the Site C hydroelectric dam or the energy required to power 270,000 homes.

While countries with similarly cloudy winter climates, such as the U.K. and Germany, have turned to solar amid

higher energy prices, B.C. has long been backstopped by relatively cheap hydroelectric power. That energy abundance is not expected to last.

Population growth, drought and the simultaneous electrification of industry, housing and transportation are forecast to raise pressures on B.C.’s grid. In response, BC Hydro has put out a call for new power generation, with industrial wind, solar and even tidal electricity projects anticipated to play a bigger role going forward.

BC Hydro spokesperson Saudamini Raina said at the residential scale, wind and geothermal generation technologies are not as readily available or viable as solar generation.

Raina said the utility would be releasing more details on solar rebate eligibility, but that it would require recipients to sign up as “net metering” customers—households generating their own electricity while hooked up to the grid.

By 2040, BC Hydro aims to have those self-generating solar homes generate 1,000 gigawatt hours of electricity every year. That’s enough to power about 100,000 homes.

BC Hydro says it also plans to expand the solar rebate program to provide up to $150,000 to apartment buildings, schools, small businesses, social housing and Indigenous communities.

Kate Harland, research lead in mitigation at the Canadian Climate Institute, says rooftop solar panels hooked up to batteries could meaningfully reduce the load at peak hours of electricity consumption, especially in locations where the grid is already under strain.

“This is a part of the puzzle,” Harland said.

For an individual, Harland said solar can lower electricity bills, and batteries can provide a source of backup power should service get knocked out by extreme weather events or an earthquake.

“What they’re trying to do is get people to take control of their own energy,” added Bowker.

B.C. slow off the start

Data suggests B.C. is starting from a position of weakness. There are currently about 9,500 homes participating in BC Hydro’s self-generation program, with almost all of them using rooftop solar.

That’s at least 50 times less than what has been achieved per capita in places like the U.K., where a “feed-in tariff” program introduced in 2010 has helped guarantee a return for more than 1.2 million residential solar customers, according to Harland.

B.C. has also regularly fallen in the lower half of provincial and territorial solar energy rankings of benefits to consumers, placing eighth out of 13 in 2023, according to the social enterprise Energy Hub.

There are some bright spots. While in the past, someone on B.C.’s coast may have balked at the idea of putting solar panels on a rooftop that sees scarce sunlight for many months, today’s solar technology undercuts those concerns.

Solar panel-equipped homes in the province’s rainy southwest can easily operate completely off the grid from March to October, while selling energy back to BC Hydro, said several contractors. In the winter months, even cloudy days will generate electricity.

Today, the decision whether to install solar panels tends to hinge more on upfront costs and the time it takes to pay back that initial investment.

In the past, both seemed out of reach.

The average cost to purchase and install a solar panel system in B.C. is around $25,000, according to estimates from three installers. Battery systems vary but can cost an

“In the U.K., I could take a deposit today, and get the job done tomorrow. Here, I have to wait for six months for a permit from the City of Vancouver.”

Tarum Lloyd

additional $20,000.

The federal government offers an up to $40,000, no-interest, 10-year Canada Greener Homes Loan for eligible retrofits. That, and the new B.C. rebates announced this summer, make the upfront costs a much easier problem to overcome.

Throughout the year, lower utility bills under BC Hydro’s self-generation program are designed to offset repayments on the federal loan, while also locking customers into a contract that protects them against energy inflation, Bowker said.

Solar pay-back periods used to take more than two decades. Today, BC Hydro estimates it takes the average Victoria home 17 years to recoup the initial investment.

There are some caveats. First, a home’s roof must also be in good enough condition to support solar panels. Federal loan requirements only apply to an applicant’s primary residence, and that home must have a smart meter and receive federal

EnerGuide assessments before and after the project is built. The solar power system, meanwhile, must produce at least five kilowatts per hour.

“[The rebates] will certainly drive uptake faster than we’ve seen. But it won’t be for everyone, everywhere. It doesn’t bring the cost down to zero,” warned Harland.

Depending on where a home is built, solar panels also risk damage from wind, wildfires or hail, added Rob de Pruis, the Insurance Bureau of Canada’s national director of consumer and industry relations.

Adding tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of solar panels increases the replacement cost of a home and could increase insurance premiums. Anyone looking to install solar panels or a battery system in their home should first call their insurance provider to ensure their home is still covered, said de Pruis.

“You’re changing the risk,” he said. “Do not assume that you have coverage.”

Solar permitting holds B.C. back, say contractors

Over the past 16 years, Tarum Lloyd says he has installed about 600 solar and battery systems across the Caribbean, the U.K. and Canada. Five of those years have been in B.C., where he says demand has gone up and down with the seasons and government financing policies.

“It’s a bit of a solar-coaster,” said Lloyd, managing director of Vancouver Solar & Electrical Ltd.

One of the biggest barriers, according to owners of several solar installation companies, is permitting.

Outside a handful of cities, electrical permits fall under the jurisdiction of Technical Safety BC and are approved within days or weeks, several contractors said. But that timeline can also unravel due to requirements from a handful of municipalities and BC Hydro.

Lloyd says jobs in Burnaby, Vancouver, Surrey and West Vancouver have taken between four and six months to receive permits. One job in the Township of Langley took nearly a year to get approved, he said.

“In the U.K., I could take a deposit today, and get the job done tomorrow,” said Lloyd. “Here, I have to wait for six months for a permit from the City of Vancouver.”

Meanwhile, homes looking to install both solar panels and a battery back-up—a crucial combination that allows solar power to extend into the night—are often required to apply for something known as a “complex (b)” permit through BC Hydro.

“This is a new thing they’ve introduced. It’s a nightmare,” said Lloyd. “I don’t understand why they’re giving themselves so much work if they can’t handle it already.

“Nowhere else in the world behaves like that in this industry.”

Marcus Downer, one of two owner-operators of OceanVolt Solar & EV on Vancouver Island, said he’s sympathetic that BC Hydro’s net metering department has “a lot on their plate,” but current permitting makes pressures from supply chain shortages even worse.

“They complicate it when they don’t need to,” said Downer. “It’s a domino effect.”

Larger solar installation companies like Besolar say they are used to doing the “bureaucratic dance” and have enough cash flow to provide bridge financing for customers waiting for government rebates or loans to come through, said Bowker.

But for many smaller operations, providing financing for months on end is untenable. Lloyd says he’s now contemplating giving it another year or two in Vancouver before moving back to the Caribbean.

In response to questions from Glacier Media, a spokesperson for BC Hydro said the utility was working closely with municipalities on policies and permitting, and that it hopes to “influence processes by creating a Municipal Solar and Battery Permitting Best Practice Guide.”

“We are already engaging municipalities, and the final product will be complete this summer,” said Raina, later adding: “We are not anticipating any delays to starting projects due to the rebate offer.”

Raina did not answer concerns raised by installation companies about “complex (b)” net metering requirements.

Back at the jobsite in Burnaby, the newly installed rooftop solar panels reflected a bright blue sky, a new addition to an old neighbourhood framed by several residential towers.

Workers loaded a van with spools of cables, drills and ladders. Parmar warned that treating solar panel installers “like we’re building houses” was causing a lot of people to go out of business.

Still, the business owner said he remained cautiously excited about the future and had no plans to get out of an industry he sees poised to grow.

“Our advantage is that we’re used to red tape,” said Parmar. “It’s stupid but it’s true.” n

slabbe@glaciermedia.ca

‘I

would like to see a World Cup race in Whistler’

FINN ILES CONTINUES TO LOVE THE TOWN THAT RAISED HIM

BY DAVID SONG

CRANKWORX WHISTLER 2024 yielded thrilling hometown triumphs, impressive international performances and a watershed women’s Red Bull Joyride, but one big local name was missing from its downhill start lists: Finn Iles.

The accomplished speedster has been a fixture at many past festivals, and some may have hoped to watch him bounce back after a thumb injury knocked him out of last year’s Canadian Open DH. It turns out, however, said ailment had a longer-term effect on his career.

“In the past few years, I’ve always wanted to compete at every event I can, but this year my team—the guys from Specialized in France—have decided that they want me to take it easy and stay focused on the World Championships coming up at [the end of August],” Iles explained.

Iles wasn’t the only superstar who failed to make an appearance. 2023 Canadian Open DH gold medallist among women Valentina Höll did not return, and former second-placer Louise Ferguson opted to ride in the British nationals instead.

Jackson Goldstone finds himself in a different boat: ACL and MCL tears sustained during Red Bull Hardline Tasmania wiped out both his World Cup season and his Crankworx opportunities.

Even those who did participate, like twotime men’s Canadian Open champ Jakob Jewett, expressed the fact that they were doing everything possible to stay healthy.

1199 is as unforgiving a track as any. Kye A’Hern and several others discovered that the hard way this time around. It’s understandable for elite athletes like Iles to make business decisions for the sake of themselves and their backers— disappointing though it may be for fans.

Not to worry, however: Iles remains loyal to the mountain bike town that vaulted him into greatness. He was frequently spotted

off in Whistler. That fact did not sit well with locals.

#LetFinnIn became both a trending hashtag and a Sea to Sky rallying cry. The young man’s reputation exploded, causing event organizers to change their minds. Good thing they did, for Iles won that summer’s Whip-off, helped judge the 2015 contest while hurt, and struck gold again in 2016.

Fervent public support and the exploits of older riders did much to spark Iles’ boyhood dreams, as well as to put his name on the map. That’s why he uses his platform to pay it forward.

“I think people are really stoked on the sport, and the way that it is growing is quite cool.”

- FINN ILES

throughout late July, brushing shoulders with the public at various community rides as well as sponsorship events with Red Bull and Swatch.

LETTING FINN IN

Iles truly grew up with Crankworx. He and his family have been visiting the festival for 20 years, where a turning point in his career unfolded.

Days shy of his 15th birthday, Iles was already a provincial downhill winner with the aerial manoeuvres to complement his speed. Yet he was not a legal adult, and thus ineligible to join the 2014 Whip-

“Being able to see somebody riding in the bike park or going for laps and having kids ride up the chair with me… that when I was young meant so much,” said Iles. “I’m in a position now where I can try and make a difference. I don’t know if it’s a huge difference, but even a little bit of a difference means a lot to some kids.”

And what advice does the homegrown dynamo have for youngsters who do look up to him?

“Mountain biking is about having the best time you can,” he remarked. “So when you’re riding your bike and you’re out there doing whatever, just make sure you’re having fun and loving what you do.”

‘NO HOLDS BARRED’

It’s safe to say Iles loves his job.

He’s one of mankind’s best downhill riders. He’s fully capable of posing a consistent threat to European supremacy on the global stage. Big-time brands want him on their team, including Swatch: an internationally-known Swiss watchmaker that he appreciates for its creative, outsidethe-box approach to business.

Iles grabbed his first World Cup gold medal on Aug. 6, 2022 in Mont-Sainte-Anne, Que. but has not topped a podium since. His current season best is a silver in Leogang, Austria to go with two bronzes in Fort William, Scotland and Val di Sole, Italy.

“I was a little bit disappointed with myself at the last World Cup [in Les Gets, France] where I placed 29th, but the conditions were so hard,” Iles said. “But I’m edging ever so closer to the win, which is a good feeling. You don’t race for second at World Champs, so going into that I want to be in the best shape I can be … and prepared to ride as fast as I possibly can. There’s no holds barred.”

Victory at the UCI Mountain Bike Worlds in Pal Arinsal, Andorra from Aug. 28 to Sept. 1 would be quite the feather in Iles’ cap, but there’s also something else on his career wish list.

“I would like to see a World Cup race in Whistler,” Iles revealed. “The community is really strong. I think people are really stoked on the sport, and the way that it is growing is quite cool. Mountain biking is my favorite thing to do, and I think that everybody should be able to experience it.

“A lot of places have one good trail or two good trails, but in Whistler, every trail is a good trail.”

‘It’s really too late to look elsewhere’

SEA TO SKY HOCKEY FAMILIES SCRAMBLING TO REACT AFTER BEARS U18 PROGRAM CANCELLED

BY DAVID SONG

RU MEHTA was one of many local hockey parents who experienced a rude awakening on Aug. 2.

That day, the Squamish Minor Hockey Association (SMHA) distributed an email revealing the Sea to Sky Bears would not be having a 2024-25 season.

The Bears are jointly run by the SMHA and Whistler Minor Hockey Association (WMHA), and aim to provide competitive Sea to Sky athletes with the opportunity to play at a high level close to home.

The SMHA email cites difficulty in recruiting coaches and a dearth of available ice time as key reasons for the cancellation.

Mehta described the news as “shocking and upsetting.” His son Sam has already played four years in a Bears jersey, and they are one of roughly 40 families who—until recently—expected the U18 campaign to take place at both the A1 and A2 levels.

“If we knew there was a chance [the Bears would not operate this fall], we would have started looking elsewhere,” Mehta says. “When the U15 program got cancelled a few months ago, some of those families found teams that were appropriate for their kids, but we’ve been left in the situation where it’s really too late to look elsewhere.”

‘BEGGARS CAN’T BE CHOOSERS’

According to president Leah Hodges, the SMHA first began to fear that a U18 Bears season would not be viable in late July.

“Squamish provided a list of possible coaches on July 25, including qualified parent coaches, to which Whistler advised we could not have parent coaches with kids on the team,” Hodges explained in an email to Pique . “They had received lots of feedback from last season’s A2 team that parent coaching is not what is expected with the program and higher-level coaching is one big reason people are in support of the program.

“Squamish suggested that the [A2 coaching position] be posted as soon as possible and it was done the following day, July 26. [Association members were advised] via email, the SMHA website and social media, that the position needed to be filled by July 31. Squamish received no inquiries regarding the posting.”

At that point, the SMHA asked the WMHA for an extension until Aug. 7 to fill the vacant position, raising the names of two additional candidates. However, WMHA leadership advised they would not extend the deadline beyond the morning of Aug. 1. Both organizations chose to announce the season cancellation on Aug. 2.

“Had we known that this was a pressing issue—to find a coach—as a group of parents, we would have tried to make something happen much quicker,” Mehta said. “It just

felt like we had the rug pulled out from underneath us.”

Mehta also believes hiring a qualified parent to coach the Bears’ A2 roster would be a far more equitable option than calling off the season for both A1 and A2.

“Beggars can’t be choosers,” he argued. “Everything in Whistler, up until two years ago, used to be coached by parents. It’s only more recently—partly with the advent of the Bears program—that we’ve hired professional coaches. We had this program that all the families have shown interest in … and to let it go because you’re dissatisfied [with available coaching candidates] makes no sense to me and to a lot of the other parents.”

A POSSIBLE HAIL MARY

There could yet be a glimmer of hope, but circumstances remain fluid.

On Aug. 8, Mehta and numerous other parents met with the WMHA board, which agreed to consider other options based on the wishes of Bears families. Since then, a new potential coach has emerged—but the SMHA’s position remains to be determined.

SMHA representatives did not attend the Aug. 8 meeting.

“The Squamish board told us that once the Whistler board said no to going ahead with [the season] due to uncertainty of getting an A2 coach, they considered the Bears to be over and are already moving forward with their own plans,” revealed Mehta. “But as of [Aug. 12], we have a viable individual to coach. Now we are going back to the Squamish board to see if they open the door to the Bears program again.”

Hodges also claims the SMHA “needed two U18 Bears teams to make the program and ice schedule work, which Whistler and the [Pacific Coast Amateur Hockey Association] were aware of.” The SMHA encouraged community members to raise their views about their town’s perennial icetime limitations with the District of Squamish Community Planning Department.

Mehta acknowledges the Sea to Sky corridor could use more rinks, but feels it should not have jeopardized the Bears’ campaign.

“[Rink availability] wasn’t an issue for these teams, because they had the ice time allotted,” he said. “[The board’s concern] was going ahead and scheduling two programs— the A1 and A2 teams—without a coach in place for A2.”

Though his son’s immediate athletic future remains in question as of this writing, Mehta expressed gratitude that an attempt to save the Bears season is being made.

“I just want to thank the WMHA board for agreeing to meet, as a bunch of board members turned out in the middle of their summer [on Aug. 8],” he said.

Added WMHA administrator Norma Gonzalez in an email to Pique: “The board would refrain from further commenting at this time, as they are still working closely with families to achieve the best possible outcome.”

Check back with piquenewsmagazine. com for more updates to this story. n

Everything old is new again

FOR THE HIP AND NEO-HIP, CHARACTERS LIKE ZUBE AYLWARD AND EUELL GIBBONS RESONATE BIG TIME

A HUNDRED YEARS AGO , I was lucky enough to get the inside scoop on one of Zube Aylward’s most iconic creations—his Mushroom House in Emerald Estates.

It was a personal tour, along with photographer John Bartosik (no, we’re not related, but we both have Polish blood), plus a sit-down chat with Zube and his unassuming wife, Pat. It was all for an article in Whistler

BY GLENDA BARTOSH

, triggered by Zube’s legendary, albeit selectively constructed character, and the expression thereof in the homes he built in a style so eclectic and self-possessed one of his pals coined the term “Zubest architecture” to describe it.

At this point, dear reader, please note: I don’t use the term “iconic” lightly. Or overuse it, as has been the popular tendency lately. But this amazing structure, a personal creative statement far beyond mere “home,” has come to represent the best of at least some of Whistler. Ironically, both built forms—the house and the Village— started pushing up out of the ground in 1980 like giant mushrooms. And both are still with us, albeit changed, like all things we humans touch.

Now as Whistler grows and morphs into something else, Mushroom House feels more symbolic than ever, maybe even a bit nostalgic, especially since Zube was murdered in 2018 in a horrific, mysterious case while he was living in the last home he and Pat built on a remote

acreage at Anderson Lake. More on that shortly, but back to my tour with the man himself…

Zube, who definitely had his own way of doing things, including faking amnesia if you asked how old he was, explained that, to him, a house was like a sculpture. “It happens right from the roots of the rocks. You take and build from the elements right there in the environment,” he said.

It should feel like an adventure and it should be refreshing—”like a bit of a sleep or a meditation.” Or like nature. (Don’t know about you but, personally, I love the idea of rocks having roots. And houses resembling mushrooms.)

While Zube was planning Mushroom House, he said he was also thinking of those secret little hideaways most of us had as kids: Under lilac bushes filled with scent in June;

boulder brought in to act as a heat retainer for the computerized self-heating/cooling system. Remember, this was the late ’70s when planning started. Whoever heard of computerized anything then, especially in your home?

An undulating roof; beautiful stained glass (all by Yves Trudeau, the glass artist in the Lower Mainland, not the serial killer/biker in Quebec); walnut panels from an old Scottish castle; swirling parquet floors in the kitchen; marble lily pads in the bathroom; copper pennies carefully punched so that the dates are legible, and used as washers for the bronze nails in the mahogany flooring. Even coppercable spider webs interwoven with tree-trunk bannisters like human limbs lining the staircase to one of the 11 different levels.

Watching over it all from the elegant living

“[P]eople are beginning to suspect that we have paid a high spritual price for our plenty.”

- EUELL GIBBONS

hastily-erected blanket tents; or behind the curtains in a room filled with humans much taller than 4’ 2”. Cosy, innocent interludes I think hippies and back-to-the-landers were, and still are, often trying to mimic.

Zube and Pat, with tongues firmly in cheeks, called it The Hovel, their term of endearment for the shack they lived in before Mushroom House was habitable. It took six long years before it was done.

You have to admit, The Hovel is quite the nickname for such a glorious structure that references nature in so many ways: The curvilinear forms rendered in wood, metal, stone—all anchored by the 15-tonne granite

room was a giant dragon with quartz eyes perched on the mantle of the massive stone fireplace built by Bernard Thor, another multitalented Renaissance man who built his own off-grid creation of a home at Anderson Lake, and stayed behind to protect it (successfully) from the devastating Casper Creek wildfire last summer.

Prior to Mushroom House, the Aylwards poured their energies into another home just up the road they dubbed The Willing Mind—all before their final Zubest creation at Anderson Lake. There Zube was violently murdered in a case that’s never been solved. I’m still waiting for someone to make a terrific podcast about it.

All this sprang to mind as I read Liz McDonald’s recent article in Pique, about the sale, once again, of the Aylwards’ former Anderson Lake home and property, complete with its huge garden and wilderness setting. At the same time, a copy of Euell Gibbons’ Stalking the Wild Asparagus lay open on my desk. Euell and Zube: Both throwbacks to the wild and wonderful ’70s. Both dead way too young. Both unwaveringly true to themselves, even after a couple of missteps. And both huge in their respective communities for their love and appreciation of nature.

If you’ve not stumbled on Euell Gibbons yet, let’s just say his iconic (ahem) book Stalking the Wild Asparagus about foraging wild food is a hippie classic now enjoying a renaissance with the next wave of wonderful, young neohipsters. And for good reason.

“We live in a vastly complex society which has been able to provide us with a multitude of material things, and this is good, but people are beginning to suspect that we have paid a high spiritual price for our plenty,” wrote Gibbons. Although his book and his thinking didn’t blow up until the late ’60s, Gibbons wrote that line, which could have come from Zube himself, back in 1962 when Garibaldi Lifts was just starting to develop Whistler as a ski area and Whistler Mountain was still called London Mountain. (The name didn’t change until 1965, when construction also started on the Roundhouse.)

If you’re into foraging wild food, stand by for my next instalment. Meanwhile, check out the Whistler Public Library—they have plenty of books on same. Unfortunately, not Gibbons’ masterpiece, but a little birdie told me if you go to the library and ask for it, the librarians just might add it to the collection.

Glenda Bartosh is an award-winning journalist who loves that Whistler Museum has back issues of Whistler Magazine in its fonds, including the Summer 1983 issue with the article on Zube excerpted above. n

GOOD STALK Euell Gibbons’ iconic book, Stalking the Wild Asparagus, is a hippie food classic now enjoying a renaissance.

PHOTO BY AMILAT

MEADOW PARK SPORTS CENTRE

Eight-time Juno winner Colin James brings his act to Whistler

THE MULTI-PLATINUM BLUES ROCKER PLAYS AUG. 16 AHEAD OF HIS 21ST ALBUM RELEASE

BY DAVID SONG

COLIN JAMES is no doubt one of the most acclaimed musicians to grace this edition of the Whistler Summer Concert Series.

His career spans three decades and counting. Within those years, he’s racked up eight Juno Awards (the latest of which came in 2022) and 30 Maple Blues Awards to go with multi-platinum record sales. He’s also collaborated with a who’s who of top-shelf talent including Lenny Kravitz, Bonnie Raitt, ZZ Top, Carlos Santana and Johnny Hallyday.

James’ 21st album, Chasing the Sun, drops officially on Aug. 23, but a week before that he’ll return to one of his old haunts: Whistler.

“I wouldn’t be able to tell exactly how many times over the years [I’ve performed there],” said James. “Years ago, I played with Smokey Robinson. In the earliest days, we would get out there usually to rehearse at Buffalo Bills … but after that, I played in Whistler a gazillion times at different places.”

The Regina, Sask. native has always been a fan of British Columbia, which offers considerably more in the way of scenery than his home province. It’s a great place to lose yourself in nature before you take the stage.

ENGAGED AND DEVELOPING

Chasing the Sun features contributions by revered artists Charlie Musselwhite, Lucinda Williams, Darryl Jones and Charley Drayton, each of whom bring their own brand of energy and spice to the table.

For lesser-known artists, this degree of partnership isn’t always a good thing. No one wants to be relegated to a sideshow in their own material as eyes and ears turn towards a

Blackie and the Rodeo Kings.

Linden, who has produced six albums with James since 1997, had this to say in a press release: “Colin [James] is still so engaged with his own artistic development, and it just got better every time we dug in deeper, which is not always the way it is.

“There are some places on the record where I can’t tell if it’s me or him playing guitar, even though we play differently. There

“All of us who have had a hit on the radio realize that it’s a pretty precious thing.

- COLIN JAMES

bigger name on the label. Yet nobody upstages James, who continues to grow his reputation with visionary creative excellence.

The result is a harmonious interplay between greats. For instance, lead single “Devillment” marries James’ distinctive voice and razor-sharp guitar with Musselwhite’s fiery, Grammy-nominated harmonica. Both get a turn in the spotlight, however, no one comes away doubting they’ve heard a Colin James track.

James says he wanted to write most of the songs on his new album, and did so with Tom Wilson, Terra Lightfoot and co-producer Colin Linden riding shotgun. All three helped kick off last year’s Canada Day in Whistler with

is this blending of styles indicative of the vibe of serving the music.”

For his part, James appreciates every opportunity to work with other musical standouts, gain their perspective on the industry and learn from their passion to keep performing because it means the world to them.

‘YOU CAN’T REST ON YOUR LAURELS’

James is certainly a success story, but he doesn’t view himself as the biggest fish in the pond—not by a long shot.

“In the States, I still have to go down

there and prove myself in certain areas,” he revealed. “Last year, I got a standing ovation at the Ryman Auditorium opening up for Buddy Guy. For me to get a standing-O in Nashville was really something else. One of the biggest joys in life is when you connect with an audience that doesn’t know you.”

As a result, there’s still a fire in the Saskatchewanian’s belly to keep pushing the envelope and moving forward past his previous achievements.

“You can’t rest on your laurels,” he states emphatically. “All of us who have had a hit on the radio realize that it’s a pretty precious thing. You never want to disparage your hits or your career, but you can’t wallow in it. That’s a question of survival. Some records are popular, some records aren’t, but you’ve got to live through all of it and come out the other side.”

If you haven’t heard James perform live before, know that he doesn’t phone in any of his shows. He brings instead an infectious energy that belies his former stage-shyness as a young man, and loves the kind of diverse crowd Whistler tends to host. Perhaps some in the audience will have grown up with his stuff in the 1990s, and perhaps they’ll bring their kids.

Multi-generational recognition is the most gratifying of all to James: seeing a 20-year-old, a 40-year-old and a 70-year-old grooving at the same time.

DJ Mixmasterfab will get things rolling on Aug. 16 at 6:30 p.m. before James graces Whistler Olympic Plaza at 7:30 p.m. Details are viewable at whistler.com/events/ concerts/#august. n

SUN CHASER Eight-time Juno Award winner Colin James.

PHOTO BY JAMES O’MARA

‘All killer, no filler’

THE TRANS-CANADA HIGHWAYMEN PLAY AUG. 22 IN WHISTLER

BY DAVID SONG

HAVE YOU HEARD of The Barenaked Ladies? Probably, if you’re Canadian.

How about Sloan? A few of you? Good.

What about Odds, or The Pursuit of Happiness? What about all four at the same time?

Trans-Canada Highwaymen is a crossover kids of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s are sure to appreciate. They are a quartet of homegrown musicians that have been leaving a mark on our nation’s culture for decades: Chris Murphy of Sloan, ex-Barenaked Ladies frontman Steven Page, Moe Berg from the Pursuit of Happiness and Odds’ Craig Northey.

They’ll be heading up Highway 99 for a show on Aug. 22 as the Whistler Summer Concert Series continues.

“The original idea was: what if we all brought four songs to a 16-song set, and then we could just have just all killer, no filler, as it were,” quips Murphy.

A SUPERGROUP, OR A BUNCH OF DORKS?

While this unconventional outfit has been described as a “supergroup” by various media platforms, Murphy insists that that particular label is not what he would use. In his eyes, the Highwaymen are just “a bunch of dorks who have fun hanging out together and making jokes.”

Their music isn’t bad either.

“We’ve come together and we play each other’s songs like a band,” elaborates Murphy. “We’re not just all sitting on stools. We play [various instruments]. I do mostly drums and they take turns playing drums for me. They all are not that great on drums, but Steven especially will showboat and have fun struggling on the drum kit. I think people love to see that.”

All four men have known each other for many years.

Murphy first encountered The Barenaked Ladies in 1991 at a Halifax show. Despite their choice of attire, he was immediately blown away by their skill. It’s not easy to impress a young, too-cool-for-school punk rocker like Murphy was back then, but Page

and company did it.

“They didn’t care what people thought, and they were laughing all the way to the bank,” remembers Murphy.

Sloan and The Barenaked Ladies partnered up on a 2009 cruise, which Northey was also present on. He was good friends with Page beforehand and ended up becoming a mentor figure to Murphy. Berg ultimately entered the picture, and he too passed the vibe check.

‘IF

SOMETHING HAPPENS, WE CAN JUST MAKE IT INTO A PARTY’

The Trans-Canada Highwaymen have been entertaining audiences with a plethora of classic hits for about seven years. Its members continue to enjoy a harmonious relationship with one another.

“My favourite thing about being in the Trans-Canada Highwaymen is the hang,” revealed Page in a press release. “Although I’ve known Chris and Craig and Moe since the very early ’90s, it wasn’t until we started doing shows together in 2017 that we really got to spend any meaningful time together.

“And then the COVID pandemic happened and our group text threads saved me on many occasions. We made some videos, and started planning this album of [Canadian rock] covers.”

Their album, Explosive Hits Vol. 1, is loaded with oldies from the 1960s and 1970s. It’s a good way for people to check out the band online, but for them, few things can beat a live concert. Nowadays, their shows sell out on a regular basis.

Fortunately for Sea to Sky music aficionados, the Highwaymen’s upcoming gig in Olympic Plaza is free.

“I’ve skied there [in Whistler] and it’s awesome,” said Murphy. “I’ve played there a couple times successfully. It’s always fun. It’s obviously a gorgeous place, and the TransCanada Highwaymen is a fun act that can roll with whatever. If something happens, we can just make it into a party.”

DJ ShotSki will open the show on Aug. 22 at 6:30 p.m. The Highwaymen are slated to take the stage at 7:30 p.m. Check out more details at whistler.com/events/concerts. n

Squamish StoreClosing

RESORT MUNICIPALITY OF WHISTLER NOTICE OF ASSISTANCE

In accordance with section 24 of the Community Charter, the Resor t Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) hereby gives notice that on March 19, 2024 the RMOW Council approved value in kind (VIK) agreements for 2024 in accordance with the VIK provisions established in Council Policy A-39 to provide access to RMOW facilities at no cost to four local non-profit organizations. The names and fair market value of the use of those facilities is set out below:

• Association of Whistler Area Residents for the Environment up to $12 ,760

• Conservation Office Service up to $11,142

• Sea to Sky Invasive Species up to $7,137

• Whistler Adaptive Spor ts Program up to $28,616

In addition, on January 23, 2024 Whistler Council approved up to $50,000 in funding to the Whistler Institute of Learning Society to further educational oppor tunities, learning and dialogue.

All of the recipients are providing important services to the Whistler community that Council has determined fur thers the goals of the Whistler community as identified in Whistler’s Official Community Plan.

Pauline Lysaght

Resor t Municipality of Whistler Corporate Officer

ON THE ROAD The Trans-Canada Highwaymen.

PHOTO BY ROBERT GEORGEFF

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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•Financial Analyst1

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PIQUE’S GUIDE TO LOCAL EVENTS & NIGHTLIFE

Here’s a quick look at some events happening in Whistler this week and beyond. FIND MORE LOCAL EVENT LISTINGS (and submit your own for free!) at piquenewsmagazine.com/local-events

ART ON THE LAKE

ART ON THE LAKE

Arts Whistler will transform the south end of Alta Lake into a floating oasis with vibrant music, a waterborne gallery with content from over 30 Sea to Sky artists, dance sessions, art classes and more. The fan-favourite dog dock jumping competition, “Wag, Woof, Water” is also back. New in 2024 is the Arthentic Pop-up Market at Lakeside Park, where guests can interact with local creators, see demonstrations of their creative process and buy their favoured finds.

> August 16

> Alta Lake

> Free

WORLD OF CURIOSITIES

Prepare to be dazzled as Magician Leif David invites you into his “World of Curiosities” Children’s Magic Show. Experience a whirlwind of magic, comedy, music, and interactive fun that will leave kids and parents alike spellbound.

> August 16, 4 p.m.

> Florence Petersen Park

> Free

PHAT KIDZ DH RACE SERIES

This fun, beginner-style race for children ages seven to 15 on green and blue trails is a perfect intro to downhill racing. For an additional cost, DFX Coaching provides three coached runs for your child. Registration starts at 4 p.m., race time is 5:30 p.m., and awards are at the GLC at 7:30 p.m. All riders must be WORCA members, registered and waivered online before the first day of racing. There is no cash registration at events and all registration must be done online in advance.

> August 16

> Whistler Mountain Bike Park

> Individual race entries cost $7.41

WHISTLER MEDITATES SUMMER SKILLS SERIES

Power up your personal tool kit! Discover, deepen, or reinvigorate your meditation and mindfulness practice with this summer skills series on Aug. 23. Each week focuses on a different set of mindfulness tools and practices and also includes immersive, guided meditation experiences.

> August 23, 8 a.m.

> Whistler Public Library

> Free

MOVIES IN THE PLAZA: BOB MARLEY - ONE LOVE

Make Movies in the Plaza your new summer tradition and get cosy on the Great Lawn for a cinematic experience under the stars. Movies are scheduled on select Wednesday and Saturday evenings this summer and are free to watch. Bring blankets or low chairs for a relaxing evening under the stars. On Aug. 17, catch

Bob Marley - One Love

> August 17, 8 p.m.

> Olympic Plaza > Free

AUGUST FULL MOON YOGA NIDIRA

Explore the practice of Yoga Nidra during the full moon. Radiance, illumination, fullness and completion will be the threads woven throughout the class. Move through asana (poses) and pranayama (breathing techniques) to prepare the body for stillness. Start by finding a supportive position to explore and nurture a place of deep rest with trace awareness.

> August 18

> Yogacara Whistler

> Free

PHOTO COURTESY OF ARTS WHISTLER

YOUR DAILY DOSE OF WHISTLER

Summer skiing in Whistler

BY ELLA HEALEY

SINCE WHISTLER MOUNTAIN’S first year of operations in 1966, summer skiing has been a staple in many people’s summer plans. One of the first summer ski camps hosted in Whistler was called the Toni Sailer Summer Ski Camp, hosted by gold medal Olympian Toni Sailer. This particular camp ran from 1967 until it was taken over by Dave Murray, becoming the Atomic Dave Murray Whistler Summer Skiing Camp. While over the years many camps have come and gone, such as Camp of Champions and High North Camp, Momentum Ski Camps has been on the slopes for more than 30 years.

Originally known as Smart Mogul Skiing, the camp was started in 1992 by former Olympians John and Julia Smart, who offered freestyle mogul skiing instruction. Over the years, Momentum expanded to offer instruction in a wide range of freestyle disciplines to athletes from all over the world. The camps started small, with as few as 43 participants, but grew to host 1,000plus campers per season. The original camps ran for three weeks, but over the years were extended to five.

Other changes included the name, which went from Smart Mogul Skiing to SMS and then finally to Momentum Camps in 2004. One of Momentum’s key principles has always been to hire top talent, including Olympians and World Cup competitors, to instruct and inspire students. Campers are not only inspired by their instructors’ skills, but also have the chance to build strong relationships with them. The camps are a tightly knit group, and the majority of staff are former campers.

The Smarts believe exposing students to a variety of disciplines helps to build a passion for skiing and foster a life-long love of the sport. John attributes Momentum’s longevity to its ability to navigate and adapt its programs as the sport of freestyle skiing has changed over time.

Fans of summer skiing are disappointed

this year, as 2024 is the first year since 1996 there is no summer ski season at either Whistler or Blackcomb. The summer season traditionally started in mid July; however, this summer the Horstman Glacier is closed due to a low snowpack.

While it is sad to say goodbye to summer skiing for at least this season, we understand why the Horstman Glacier is closed. After a winter that only provided 49 per cent of the usual snowfall, the glacier isn’t in its best form. In recent years, the shrinking snowpack has made the beloved Horstman T-bar unusable, resulting in its removal in 2021. Shrinking glaciers and reduced glacial meltwater can also disrupt the production of hydroelectricity, although the Horstman Glacier is not part of Whistler’s hydroelectric power system.

Without intervention, the glacier could shrink to half its current size over the next 20 years. In an interview in 2015, Whistler Blackcomb’s former mountain planning and environment resource manager Arthur De Jong discussed man-made snow production as one option for recuperating the glacier, though the ecological impact of the energy used to rebuild the glacier would need to be justified with continuous efforts to lessen the mountain’s ecological footprint. He said if snow production was introduced, only enough snow to maintain the glacier would be made. Thinking long term, De Jong said it might have been possible to close the energy consumption loop with energy-generating solutions such as wind turbines. It does not, however, appear this approach was used on the Horstman Glacier.

While many will miss the summer ski season this year, it is unknown whether the tradition of summer skiing and boarding will continue. Until then, we can enjoy the many other summer activities like hiking, biking, and plunging into Lost Lake that Whistler has on offer!

Ella Healey is the Summer Program Coordinator at the Whistler Museum through the Young Canada Works Program. n

SUMMER SEND Riley Leboe at the Momentum Camps on Blackcomb Mountain.

ASTROLOGY

Free Will Astrology

WEEK OF AUGUST 16 BY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Years ago, when I worked as a postal delivery person in Santa Cruz, California, I mastered my route quickly. The time allotted to complete it was six hours, but I could easily finish in four. Soon I began to goof off two hours a day, six days a week. Many great works of literature and music entertained me during that time. I joined a softball team and was able to play an entire game each Saturday while officially on the job. Was what I did unethical? I don’t think so, since I always did my work thoroughly and precisely. Is there any comparable possibility in your life, Aries? An ethical loophole? A workaround that has full integrity? An escape clause that causes no harm?

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): From an astronomer’s perspective, Uranus is huge. Sixty-three Earths could fit inside of it. It’s also weirdly unique because it rotates sideways compared to the other planets. From an astrologer’s point of view, Uranus symbolizes the talents and gifts we possess that can be beneficial to others. If we fully develop these potentials, they will express our unique genius and be useful to our fellow humans. It so happens that Uranus has been cruising through Taurus since 2018 and will mostly continue there until 2026. I regard these years as your best chance in this lifetime to fulfil the opportunities I described. The coming weeks will be especially pregnant with possibilities.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Mountaineer Edmund Hillary is renowned as the first person to climb to the summit of Mt. Everest. It happened in 1953. Less famous was his companion in the ascent, Gemini mountaineer Tenzing Norgay. Why did Hillary get more acclaim than Norgay, even though they were equal partners in the monumental accomplishment? Was it because one was a white New Zealander and the other a brown Nepalese? In any case, I’m happy to speculate that if there’s a situation in your life that resembles Norgay’s, you will get remediation in the coming months. You will receive more of the credit you deserve. You will garner the acknowledgment and recognition that had previously been unavailable. And it all starts soon.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): As an American, I’m embarrassed by the fact that my fellow citizens and I comprise just four per cent of the world’s population but generate 20 per cent of its garbage. How is that possible? In any case, I vow that during the next five weeks, I will decrease the volume of trash I produce and increase the amount of dross I recycle. I encourage you, my fellow Cancerians, to make a similar promise. In ways that may not be immediately imaginable, attending to these matters will improve your mental health and maybe even inspire you to generate an array of fresh insights about how to live your life with flair and joy.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The coming weeks will be a wonderful time to waste time on the internet. If you are properly aligned with cosmic rhythms, you will spend long hours watching silly videos, interacting with friends and strangers on social media, and shopping for products you don’t really need. JUST KIDDING!! Everything I just said was a dirty lie. It was designed to test your power to resist distracting influences and mediocre advice. Here’s my authentic counsel, Leo. The coming weeks will be a fantastic phase to waste as little time as possible as you intensify your focus on the few things that matter to you most.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Scientific research suggests that brushing and flossing your teeth not only boosts the health of your gums, but also protects your heart’s health. Other studies show that if you maintain robust microbiota in your gut, you’re more likely to avoid anxiety and depression as you nurture your mental health. The coming weeks will be a favourable time to focus on big-picture thoughts like these, Virgo. You will be wise to meditate on how each part of your life affects every other part. You will generate good fortune as you become more vividly aware

ROB BREZSNY

and appreciative of the intimate interconnectedness that underlies all you do.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The official term for the shape of a single piece of M&M candy is “oblate spheroid.” It’s rounded but not perfectly round. It looks like a partially squashed sphere. An Iraqi man named Ibrahim Sadeq decided to try the difficult task of arranging as many M&M’s as possible in a vertical stack. He is now the world’s record holder in that art, with seven M&M’s. I am imagining that sometime soon, Libra, you could achieve a comparable feat in your own domain. What’s challenging but not impossible?

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): I’ve heard many people brag about their hangovers. The stories they tell are often entertaining and humorous. One of my best laughs emerged in response to two friends describing the time they jumped on the roof of a parked Mercedes Benz at 3 a.m. and sang songs from Verdi’s opera Falstaff until the cops came and threw them in a jail cell with nothing to eat or drink for 10 hours. In accordance with astrological omens, Scorpio, I ask you to not get a hangover in the coming weeks, even an amusing one. Instead, I encourage you to studiously pursue extreme amounts of pleasurable experiences that have only good side effects.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Most famous musicians demand that their dressing rooms be furnished with specific amenities. Beyoncé needs rose-scented candles. Rihanna expects her preparatory sanctuary to have dark blue or black drapes topped with icy blue chiffon. Eminem insists on a set of 25-pound dumbbells, and the hip-hop duo Rae Sremmurd wants Super Soaker water guns. Since the coming weeks may be as close to a rock star phase of your cycle as you’ve ever had, I recommend you create a list of your required luxuries. This imaginative exercise will hopefully get you in the mood to ask for exactly what you need everywhere you go.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Sleep deprivation is widespread. I see it as a pandemic. According to some studies, more than half the people in the world suffer from insomnia, don’t get enough sleep, or have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Most research on this subject doesn’t mention an equally important problem: that many people aren’t dreaming enough. And the fact is that dreaming is key to our psychological well-being. I bring this to your attention, Capricorn, because the coming weeks will be a favourable time to enhance your relationship with sleep and dreams. I encourage you to learn all you can and do all you can to make your time in bed deeply rejuvenating.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Only 47 people live on the volcanic Pitcairn Islands, which are located in the middle of nowhere in the South Pacific Ocean. Pollution is virtually non-existent, which is why the honey made by local bees is the purest on the planet. In accordance with astrological omens, I’d love for you to get honey like that in the coming weeks. I hope you will also seek the best and purest of everything. More than ever, you need to associate with influences that are potent, clear, genuine, raw, vibrant, natural, and full-strength.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Many Indigenous people in North America picked and ate wild cranberries. But farm-grown cranberries available for commercial use didn’t appear until 1816. Here’s how it happened. In Cape Cod, Massachusetts, a farmer discovered a secret about the wild cranberry bog on his land. Whenever big storms dumped sand on the bog, the fruit grew with more lush vigour. He tinkered with this revelation from nature and figured out how to cultivate cranberries. I recommend this as a teaching story, Pisces. Your assignment is to harness the power and wisdom provided by a metaphorical storm or disturbance. Use it to generate a practical innovation in your life.

Homework: What do you want but think you’re not supposed to want? Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com.

In addition to this column, Rob Brezsny creates

In-depth weekly forecasts designed to inspire and uplift you. To buy access, phone 1-888-499-4425. Once you’ve chosen the Block of Time you like, call 1-888-682-8777 to hear Rob’s forecasts. www.freewillastrology.com

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Lost and Found?

If you spot a stray animal or have lost an animal, call WAG at 604-935-8364. WAG operates a lost and found service to help reunite lost pets with their families.

www.whistlerwag.com

EMPLOYMENT

Counter/WarehouseSales Associate

JoinourGescanteam:Wehave anexcitingopportunityfora Counter/WarehouseSales Associateresponsibleforassisting ourcustomerswiththeirelectrical productsneeds.TheIdeal candidateswillhavecompleted highschool.1yearofrelated experienceconsideredanasset. Hiringsalaryrange:$48,000$52,000+performancebonus opportunity.WeofferFlexible Health&DentalBenefits,RRSP matching,andTuition Reimbursementaswellasother perkprograms.Hours:Mondayto Friday On-site. https://www.gescan.com/

Fairmont Chateau

Whistler Resort is growing its Housing portfolio and sourcing additional Chalet and Condo Rental contracts for our Hotel Team Members. Our leaders are mature, career driven drivers that know the word respect. Contract terms for property Owners are stress free with no commissions and includes representation from our 4 person fulltime Housing Department working with you 24/7; maintaining all aspects of the tenancy including quarterly inspections. A great next move for Whistler property Owners that have tired with the Airbnb game or Property Fees. Let’s see if we can make a match and develop a long-term relationship here. General inquiries please email mark.munn@fairmont.com

isseekingafulltimeregistered veterinarytechnologist(or equivalent)tojoinourteam.The idealcandidatewillbepassionate aboutveterinarymedicine,havea strongworkethic,andthriveina busyclinicenvironment.Wageand workscheduleisnegotiablebased onexperienceandthecandidate. BenefitsincludeRVTlicensing dues,aCEallowance,uniform allowanceandmedicalcoverage. PleaseforwardresumestoDr. LauraWhiteat laura@pembertonvet.com.

Permanent, Full-Time

Cardinal Concrete, A Division of Lafarge Canada Inc is the leading supplier of ready-mix concrete in the Sea to Sky Corridor. We are currently seeking a career oriented individual to fill the role of Commercial Transport/Heavy Duty Mechanic at our Head Office Location in Squamish, BC.

This is a skilled position which primarily involves preventative maintenance and repair of a large fleet of commercial transport vehicles including concrete mixer trucks, dump trucks, trailers, forklifts and light-duty trucks.

Minimum Qualifications:

• B.C. Certificate of Qualification, and/or Interprovincial Ticket as a Commercial Transport Mechanic, and/or Heavy Duty Mechanic Ticket

• 3-5 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience

Compensation $45.57 to $49.07

To view a full copy of this Job Description visit: www.cardinalconcrete.ca/about/careers Apply to: info@cardinalconcrete.ca

ÚlÍus Community Centre

• General Manager of Community Services ($120,000 to $135,000 per year)

• Capital Projects Manager ( $59,878 to $73,564 per year)

• Skel7awlh Steward ($17.40 to $20.90 per hour)

• Cook – Daycare ($17.40 to $20.90 per hour)

• Financial Reporting Manager ($59,878 - $74,564 per year)

• Human Resources Generalist ( $57,330 to $64,610 per year)

• Receptionist ($17.40 to $20.90 per hour)

• Custodian/ Events Host ($17.40 to $20.90 per hour)

• Housing Administrator ( $46,683 to $63,973 per year)

• Transition House Support Worker ($20.90 to $29.45 per hour)

• Temporary Assisted Living Supervisor ($25.65 to $35.15 per hour)

• Youth Centre Coordinator ($20.90 to $29.45 per hour)

• Family Mentor ($38,038 to $53,599 per year)

Xet’òlacw

Community School

• High School Teacher (upper Math) ($60,015 to $109,520 per year)

• Social Worker/ Counsellor( $80,371 to $91,673 per year)

• Elementary School Teacher: Grade 3 ($60,015 to $109,520 per year)

• High School English and Humanities Teacher ($60,015 to $109,520 per year)

Ts’zil Learning Centre

• Indigenous Support Worker – Academic ($38,038 to $53,599 per year)

• Outreach Worker ($38,038 to $53,599 per year)

Do not move the position or change the typesetting of the headline. The bottom angled keyline should always align with the angled gradient jolt. images mixed matched as needed.

“Carve out path” always with a image ACCOUNTANT, OPERATIONS & GOLF

Full Time, Year Round

The Facilities Engineer is responsible for the oversight, maintenance, repairs and efficient operations of all main mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, and the overall common areas at the Whistler Conference Centre, Whistler Golf Course and Driving Range.

Love a good challenge? Passionate about the place you call home? Tourism Whistler is looking for community-loving, mountainappreciating, environment-respecting people to join our team.

The Accountant, Operations & Golf is responsible for supporting with the day-today operation of the Finance department, and all aspects of accounting policy and procedures related to the Operations and Golf departments within Tourism Whistler.

This position requires an individual who possesses a

Class Power years of related experience gained in a commercial building or hotel Experience and knowledge of direct digital controls, energy management systems and green initiatives is also important. Previous leadership experience, with knowledge of applicable

This role requires a collaborative team player with excellent communication and organizational skills, and previous experience in accounting within a mid-sized organization. What we offer: nine-day fortnight schedule, a hybrid approach that balances in-office and remote work, an excellent benefits package, a commitment to health and wellness, and a fun and supportive team environment.

The starting salary range for this role is $55,000 - $60,000 annually.

This position requires an individual who possesses a 4th Class Power Engineering Certificate (or is currently enrolled), complimented with five years of related experience gained in a commercial building or hotel. Experience and knowledge of direct digital controls, energy management systems and green initiatives is also important. Previous leadership experience, with knowledge of applicable buildings codes and health and safety practices is an asset.

TO VIEW OUR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES, AND TO APPLY, VISIT US ONLINE AT WHISTLER.COM/CAREERS.

TO VIEW OUR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES, AND TO APPLY, VISIT US ONLINE AT WHISTLER.COM/CAREERS.

We've Got You Covered

JOB POSTINGS

The Cayoose Creek Band is a progressive First Nation located in the BC Interior. At CCB we welcome new and diverse talent. CCB is currently seeking skilled individuals for the following positions.

FINANCE DIRECTOR

The Finance director will oversee the financial management of all departments within the Cayoose Creek Band (CCB). The finance director is intended to the be the most Senior Employee under the Administrator and will act when the Administrator is unavailable. The Finance director will also act as an advisor to Chief and Council when making financial decisions related to our trust and management of our lands.

FINANCE CLERK

The Finance Clerk is responsible for processing routine accounting transactions and performing a variety of accounting activities related to the payment and receipt of money; computers, classifies, and records transactions into the Cayoose financial accounting systems.

EMERGENCY & FIRE SMART COORDINATOR

The Emergency & Fire Smart Coordinator is responsible for the facilitation of Emergency & Fire Smart-related activities within the CCB community. The position will ensure that the Emergency & Fire Smart activities are supported, developed, and implemented in accordance with Provincial guidelines and CCB Policies.

FIRE SMART ASSISTANT

The Emergency & Fire Smart Assistant is responsible for assisting the Emergency Fire Smart Coordinator in the facilitation of Emergency & Fire Smart-related activities within the CCB community. The position will to ensure that the Emergency & Fire Smart activities are supported, developed.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT

The role of the Social Work Assistant is to work with a multi-disciplinary team to ensure that the Child & Family team has support with administration duties i.e. Maintaining filing and record systems, scheduling appointments,referral to right Child & Family team member.

OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE ASSISTANT

Under the guidance of the O & M Manager the Operations and Maintenance Assistant is responsible for a wide variety of administrative office duties including maintenance duties.

Resort Municipality of Whistler Employment Opportunities

• Skate Host

Resort Municipality of Whistler Employment Opportunities

ThiscasualpositionatMeadowParkSports Centreoffersastartingwageof$22.45anhour

· Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

· Legislative and Privacy Coordinator

• Program Leader

· Skate Host

· Program Leader

· Wastewater Treatment Plant Process Supervisor

· Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

· Solid Waste Technician

· Labourer I – Village Maintenance

ThiscasualpositionatMyrtlePhillip CommunityCentreoffersastartingwageof $27.57 an hour

· Youth and Public Services Specialist

· Accountant

Resort Municipality of Whistler whistler.ca/careers

We are looking to hire another member to our team at Straightline.

Experience in Plumbing is required. Gas Fitting and HVAC would be preferred but not essential. Wages are based on experience. Part-time or Full-time positions available.

Please call 604-935-8771 or email straightlineplumbingandheating@gmail.com for more information.

Vacasa’s forward-thinking approach and industry-leading technology help set us apart as the largest full-service vacation rental company in North America.

We are seeking individuals with a passion for providing exceptional vacation experiences for our Owners and Guests. We offer competitive wages and bene ts: Travel allowance for Squamish/Pemberton-based employees OR Ski Pass/Activity allowance, Extended Medical, RRSP match, Fun & Safe Work Environment-Great Team, opportunities to grow and more. Apply

https://www.vacasa.com/careers/positions

Please call 604-938-6699 to enquire about our open positions and ask to speak to the hiring manager for that role.

Come and join our team and see why we are consistently voted Whistler’s # 1 Construction Company.

$30-$50 an hour, Wage based on Experience

TM Builders is a leader in the Sea to Sky construction industry. We specialize in high-end architecturally designed homes and commercial construction projects. Our wide variety of work offers opportunities to advance your career and grow your knowledge. Experience a culture of transparency, high-quality craftsmanship, and solution-oriented attitudes.

Why work with us?

Competitive Compensation Packages

Annual Tool Allowance

Extended Health and Dental Benefits for Employees and their Families

Continued Education and Professional Development Opportunities

We promote from within and are committed to the long-term development of your career

We support apprenticeships and will help you get your Red Seal

• Great Team Culture

Positive Work Environment

Apply to connect@tmbuilders.ca tmbuilders.ca/careers/

We are growing our team!

Red seal Journey-person, Apprentices and Foreman required for custom residential projects based in Whistler. Competitive wages, perks and benefits. Email admin@baseelectric.ca We’re Hiring! Experienced Carpenters!

SEEKING GARDENERS

Wage $26 to $34 depending on experience

Email Riley: banditfarmspropertyservices@gmail.com

Come build with the best team.

Our team of people is what sets us apart from other builders. As we continue to grow as the leader in luxury projects in Whistler, our team needs to expand with us.

We are currently hiring:

Labourers ($20 - $30 hourly)

Carpenters Helpers /Apprentices 1st to 4th year ($25 - $35 hourly)

Experienced Carpenters ($30 - $45 hourly)

Carpenter Foremen ($40 - $50 hourly)

Rates vary based on experience and qualifications. Red seal a bonus but not mandatory.

EVR is committed to the long-term retention and skills development of our team. We are passionate about investing in our team’s future.

We offer:

• Top Wages

• Training & Tuition Reimbursement (Need help getting your Red Seal?)

• $500 Annual Tool Allowance

• Extended Health and Dental Benefits for you and your family

• Flexible Schedule - Work Life Balance. (We get it. We love to ski and bike too.)

• Assistance with Work Visa and Permanent Residency (We can help!)

• Positive Work Environment

We promote from within and are looking to strengthen our amazing team. Opportunities for advancement into management positions always exist for the right candidates. Don’t miss out on being able to build with the team that builds the most significant projects in Whistler.

Send your resume to info@evrfinehomes.com We look forward to hearing from you!

www.evrfinehomes.com

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NOW HIRING!

Elementary School Teacher - Grade 3

Mount Currie, BC Full-time

$60,015.00-$109,520.00/year

Title: Elementary School Teacher

Department: Community School

Status: Full Time Regular

Pay Grid: Teachers

Reporting to: School Admin Team

Summary of Duties:

• The Elementary School teacher will teach courses, which involves instruction in differentiated classes under the supervision of the School Admin Team.

Key Deliverables and Expectations:

• Teach all subjects in the selected i.e. Grade 2 Class with Physical Education, Ucwalmícwts (traditional language), and a library time supervised by other teachers or staff.

• Implement strong classroom management strategies.

• Committed to excellent instructional preparation and consistent record keeping. Timely reporting to administration, when necessary, e.g., report cards, attendance records and data request

• Use data to drive classroom/school–wide improvement initiatives

• Maintain open and consistent communication with students and their families about their academic progress

• Teach numeracy and literacy in collaboration with others according to the school’s strategies for improving academic outcomes

• Be a positive team player committed to the belief that all children can learn at high levels

• Commit to ongoing professional development including willingness to be coached by the Elementary Supervisor and Regional Principal via school visits, video teleconference calls etc. and joining Provincial Professional Learning Community model (in Vancouver) and a School-Wide PLC model on site.

• Working in the ReadWell Program (platooned) as well as Literature program and centers.

• Work with Saxon Math in collaboration with other Primary teaching staff

• Enjoy participating in school event days such as Sports Day, Eagle Run, and Flake Rodeo etc.

• Perform other related duties as requested.

Experience and Attributes:

• Possession of / or ability to apply for a B.C. Teaching Certificate

• Experience and/or education in special needs an asset

• Strong interpersonal, communication and collaborative skills including the ability to communicate effectively with students, staff, and parents.

• Strong assessment practices.

• Strong classroom management skills.

• Ability to accommodate the needs of students with a range of learning styles and abilities.

• Ability to use strength-based, student centered approaches to plan engaging and educational lessons and courses.

• Ability to motivate students and to adjust instructional strategies accordingly.

• Ability to use technology to enhance student learning.

• Ability to embed local First Nations culture into teaching practice.

• Experienced and/or interested in integrating place-based, outdoor learning practices in educational delivery.

• Knowledge of the B.C. curriculum.

• Must complete a Criminal Record Check

• TQS Category

High School Teacher (upper level Math)

Mount Currie, BC Full-time $60015.00-$109520.00/year

Title: High School Teacher

Department: Community School

Status: Full Time Regular

Pay Grid: Teachers = $60,015-$109,520

Reporting to: School Admin Team

Summary of Duties:

• The High School teacher will teach courses, which involves instruction in differentiated classes under the supervision of the School Admin Team.

Key Deliverables and Expectations:

• Strong classroom management skills.

• Ability to accommodate the needs of students with a range of learning styles and abilities.

• Ability to use strength-based, student centered approaches to plan engaging and educational lessons and courses.

• Ability to motivate students and to adjust instructional strategies accordingly.

• Strong interpersonal, communication and collaborative skills including the ability to communicate effectively with students, staff, and parents.

• Strong assessment practices.

• Ability to use technology to enhance student learning.

• Ability to embed local First Nations culture into teaching practice.

• Experienced and/or interested in integrating place-based, outdoor learning practices in educational delivery.

• Knowledge of the B.C. curriculum.

• Perform other related duties as requested.

Experience and Attributes:

•

•

• Possession of / or ability to apply for a B.C. Teaching

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Ground Disturbance II. 2 years operating hydro

HYDROVAC OPERATOR – Valid Class 1 or Class 3 with air brakes

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, Squamish - Minimum 5 years or 5,000 hours operating experience on excavator. Full-time, Monday – Friday. $33-$42 per hour.

HEAVY DUTY EQUIPMENT MECHANIC, Whistler – Red Seal Certified preferred, Commercial Truck & Transport and Transport Trailer preferred. Class 1 or 3 with air brakes preferred. Tools available for rent. $39.70 - $47.90 per hour.

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER – Great opportunity to learn on-the-job. Stamina for physically demanding work and perseverance to brave inclement weather required. Previous experience preferred but not required. Training provided. $25-$32 per hour.

CHIMNEY

Getting up close and personal with local food

LATE YESTERDAY , my Wonderful Wife got down and dirty for me. Using nimble fingers and a time-tested technique, she reached into the damp darkness and searched until she found the hard, growing… potatoes?

Really, get your mind out of the gutter. They were small Sieglindes and if you listened carefully still anthropomorphically

BY G.D. MAXWELL

screaming from having been filched prematurely from the nurturing roots of their indifferent mother, who remained upright and proud, flowers in her hair, basking in the long rays of the last sunlight of the day. A couple of minutes later, they were washed, diced and sautéing to perfection along with a leek, red pepper and corn kernels scraped off a leftover cob from the night before.

The corn was from Chilliwack. The leek from the garden, pepper from B.C., chives from the kitchen garden just outside the door. The only well-travelled ingredient in this local delight was the olive oil, which spoke with a decidedly Italian accent. Bellissimo, baby. But until someone starts growing olives in Osoyoos, this is about as local as I can get.

Local—whatever that means and, trust me, as with all things commercial, it doesn’t necessarily mean anything as simple as, well, local—is the holy grail in the world of food. Local is the fountain of youth, the G-spot, the politically correct way to eat, the salvation of Earth, the way of the future now that the future is the past, and a newly-found source of both status and bragging rights. Locavore, ugly as sin in print, conjuring up as it does neighbour eating neighbour, is, I’m told, where it’s at... whatever it is.

Local is fresher, better, more sustainable, greener-than-green, and the quickest way known to man to whittle down your food miles and lessen your carbon footprint. More to the point—speaking strictly from a hedonistic point of view—local tastes better. Or does it?

Truth is, a few more potatoes than I needed were ripped from their roots. Feeling sorry for those left out, I rapidly turned them into a potato sushi starter. Sliced thinly and sprinkled liberally with fresh-ground sea salt—oh lord, this is getting insufferable—I ate ‘em raw. If you’re not a fan of raw, salted potatoes, you are missing out on one of life’s treats. And if you’ve never tasted raw potatoes still warm from the earth they were grown in, it would probably come as a surprise to learn they’re sweeter than many fruits you commonly think of as sweet. However, if you let them sit overnight and try the same trick the next day, their sweetness will have been diminished by an order of magnitude as sugar does its magic transformation to starch. Therein lies the

disappointment people often experience after plunging excitedly into local food. Whether it comes from Pemby or Podunk, time steals flavour quicker than the junkies next door will steal your stereo.

Of course, that’s not to say, or even imply, that local isn’t more flavourful.

Much of the research conducted by food scientists during the past few decades has centred around ease of production, largescale production. Far less has been directed at flavour, with the notable exception of attempts to ensure flavour is uniform across

time the next morning. After that, it begins to look like a victim of progeria, old and shrivelled before its time.

If that same strawberry was grown in California, it would be sorted and packed, refrigerated and trucked 3,000 kilometres to Vancouver, trucked again the next day to Whistler, unloaded and placed on a produce shelf, purchased the next day, taken home and eaten either immediately or over the next few days. Whenever it was ultimately consumed, it’d be plump, red, firm-skinned and delicious looking. It would also likely

Whether it comes from Pemby or Podunk, time steals flavour quicker than the junkies next door will steal your stereo.

a variety. Even delicate fruits and veggies have been bred with a goal of uniform size, machine-pickability—fake word alert—ease of transport and seemingly infinite shelf life.

Take, for example, the noble strawberry. Until I started growing them, I’d forgotten that strawberries are soft fruit, as opposed to, say, apples, which are hard fruit. When I pick a strawberry from the back yard, it has a theoretical shelf life of about one hour unrefrigerated. Theoretical because its typical lifespan is about 15 seconds, 30 if I wash it before I eat it. If I pick it late in the day and refrigerate it, it’ll last until granola

have the consistency of a stuffed animal and be just about as tasty. Food scientists have laboured long and hard to make it that way because that’s the only way it can get from California to your table… in January.

Ironically, in July, those California berries can be purchased for around the same price, probably less, than soft, ripe, juice and unbelievably delicious strawberries grown in B.C., or, if you will, North Arm Farm. It has been my choice, for many years now, to never buy and infrequently eat California cardboard berries. It has been my choice and great pleasure to stuff myself with berries

from B.C. until they run out my nose and until their growing season is over. Then I wait patiently until next year to enjoy them again, strawberry jam excluded.

California berries are popular because they’re cheap and available much of the year. They’re cheap because the growing season is longer in California, because food science has traded efficiency and shelf life for taste and, most ominously, because they’ve ridden thousands of kilometres on the back of cheap oil. Guess which reason is vanishing like a fart in the breeze?

And that’s why you’d better start getting up close and personal with local food. The days of strawberries in January are numbered, unless you preserve some of what you buy in July.

The easiest way to get friendly with local food in Whistler is to make the pilgrimage to the farmers’ market each Sunday. The most fun way is to join the pedalling masses this Sunday, Aug. 18, for the Slow Food Cycle up in Pemberton. Assuming the B.C. government and the food safety police don’t actually outlaw farmgate sales, most of us will never get closer to what we eat than meandering farm-to-farm through Pemberton’s lush valley and stuffing our panniers with the freshest, localest, most field-ripened food available.

You are what you eat, or so they say. Wait a minute. If you are what you eat, steers eat grass and grain. That makes steak vegetarian, doesn’t it?

Whatever. No matter what you eat, you might as well eat whatever’s most tasty. Which pretty much rules out tofu. n

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