Pique Newsmagazine 3223

In through the outdoors

How outdoor sports can support youth as they navigate climate change. - By Brett Tomlinson / The Conversation

06 OPENING REMARKS It’s been a challenging start to the season for Whistler’s bears, writes editor Braden Dupuis—and there’s no room for complacency in bear country.

08 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR This week’s letter writers share reflections on the Whistler Fire Rescue Service’s Junior Firefighter Program, and thanks for a successful fundraiser.

22 THE OUTSIDER Losing the Horstman Glacier wasn’t just a sad inevitability. It’s a wake-up call that skiing won’t be around forever.

42 PIQUE’N YER INTEREST While Canadians came out strong against Trump’s tariffs and arms are getting tired, we have to keep our elbows up, writes Andrew Mitchell.

10 LAW OF THE LAND New bylaws aim to protect local waterways, curb invasive species, and limit excessive tree-cutting across the Whistler Valley.

16 TAKE A HIKE Hike for Health returns June 15, with a goal of raising $100,000 for the Whistler Health Care Foundation.

26 HISTORY MADE The Sunshine Coast’s Gracey Hemstreet is the first Canadian woman to triumph on the World Cup downhill circuit.

30

WISE

WORDS

Submissions are now being accepted for a new local poetry book celebrating Whistler’s storied history.

COVER I’d say mountain biking is one of the few times Whistlerites fall in line voluntarily. - By Jon Parris // @jon.parris.art

Publisher SARAH STROTHER - sstrother@piquenewsmagazine.com

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Founding Publishers KATHY & BOB BARNETT www.piquenewsmagazine.com

No room for complacency in bear country

AT LEAST ONCE every summer, I find myself thanking Mother Nature for making Whistler’s bears a dark, bush-clashing black rather than, say, a camouflaging shade of green.

As it stands, you often see the bears easily from a distance, so you can plot a safe route around or back the way you came.

Often, but not always—and it’s easy to get

BY BRADEN DUPUIS

complacent when you live in bear country.

Every spring we see the trails covered in their poop, notice them grazing the golf courses or going about their own business.

Some of us get dangerously complacent, to the point where we’ll calmly waltz right by a big, fuzzy black bear, sometimes with dogs and/or kids in tow.

But you never know when things might go sideways, and fast.

It’s been a troubling start to the season for Whistler’s bears.

A lactating female bear was shot and killed in late April after it attacked a woman walking her dog in Kadenwood. A video of the bear’s cubs crying at the base of a tree sparked outrage in the resort, and calls for wildlife reform from the community.

In recent weeks, another mama bear garnered attention as she moved about the valley with her three yearling cubs.

Living as I do in the neighbourhood the family is frequenting, I’m very familiar with

these bears, and have spotted all four more than once.

Their presence has meant a change in our comfortable routines: different trails at different times of the day, where we know they’re less likely to be hanging out; much less off-leash time than we’re used to.

The best thing we can do is give the bears space, and remember they’re not a tourist attraction—as pointed out by local Emily McCosh, who captured a video of a classic “bear jam” on Highway 99 last week.

A mama bear and her cubs prompted several people to pull over on the highway to get a better view, with some even getting close to the bears themselves.

“Bears are not tourist attractions. Why

a hold-and-secure protocol May 26 and modify outdoor activity plans as conservation officers monitored the situation.

In 2024, the BC Conservation Officer Service (COS) received 93 grizzly bear calls in the Sea to Sky zone, and 35 in Whistler—down from 125 and 73 the year prior, respectively.

Total Human/Wildlife Conflict Report (HWCR) calls were also way down in Whistler year over year, from 743 in 2023 to just 201 in 2024. For the Sea to Sky, HWCR calls dropped from 5,157 in 2023 to 4,187 in 2024.

Vigilance is key when it comes grizzlies, and wildlife encounters in general. The COS no longer communicates with media directly about wildlife conflicts, instead notifying the RMOW, which utilizes its own channels

morning walk on May 29, during which we kept a keen eye out for black shapes moving amongst the green, the pup and I were surprised by a lone black bear munching on some overgrown grass in the ditch near our house.

All three of us—man, pup, bear—froze for a second. Then the bear started towards us.

We bolted up the driveway, thanking our lucky stars the bear decided not to pursue, and instead went back to happily munching his grass.

Whether or not you care to take it seriously, that encounter could have gone very differently.

And it came just a day after hearing a story from my home province, in which a small dog

“From our perspective, grizzlies will be part of our life in Whistler moving forward as long as we have a healthy ecosystem.”

- RMOW

are you stopping? There’s clearly cubs and a mum bear … I don’t understand what compels you to get close to a wild animal,” McCosh told Pique, adding the people who pulled over did not appear to be part of the same group.

“I was just so shocked to see how stupid people were being,” she said.

It’s not just black bears. Reports of a grizzly sighting near Myrtle Philip Community School and Nicklaus North Golf Course prompted staff at the school to initiate

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to get the information out at its discretion.

“If there is an urgent message to communicate, there will be boots-onthe-ground officers ensuring that gets done—COS and possibly RCMP,” an RMOW communications official told Pique last spring.

“From our perspective, grizzlies will be part of our life in Whistler moving forward as long as we have a healthy ecosystem.”

But even when you’re being careful, nature can surprise you.

Case in point: heading home from our

was attacked and killed by a black bear in Prince Albert National Park.

It’s rare, but it does happen.

Protecting Whistler’s wildlife means securing all attractants and food waste, properly disposing of garbage, keeping dogs on-leash, giving bears the space they need, and educating guests and visitors who may not know any better.

And above all, we can’t get complacent. Find more info at coasttocascades.org and whistler.ca/bears. n

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Spacious one-bedroom suite.

Valley Trail and public transit at your doorstep.

Whistler Junior Firefighter Program leaves lasting impression

I recently had the opportunity to take part in the Junior Firefighter Program run by Whistler Fire Rescue Service, and I want to sincerely thank everyone who made it possible.

The program was incredibly wellorganized, hands-on, and immersive. We weren’t just sitting in classrooms—we were out in the field, learning by doing and working together to take on real challenges. The training scenarios were thoughtfully planned and kept us fully engaged from start to finish: putting out dumpster fires; forced entry through doorways; and advancing hose lines to an interior structure fire attack.

What stood out most was the leadership. Captains Darcy, Pat, and Dave were exceptional mentors who led by example and treated us with genuine trust and respect. A special thank you also goes to firefighter Tom, who played a major role behind the scenes, especially with filming and supporting the program in countless ways.

I’m also grateful to the entire team of

firefighters who gave their time to guide, teach, and support us throughout the week. Their dedication made a huge impact on all of us.

Finally, thank you to Whistler Fire Rescue Service, the Resort Municipality of Whistler, the

Write

Whistler paid-on-call firefighters, and Fresh St. Market for supporting this program. It’s clear this was a true community effort—and one that made a lasting impression on me.

Oliver Barrett // Grade 12 student at Whistler Secondary

Newsmagazine. Send them to edit@ piquenewsmagazine.com before 11 a.m. on Tuesday for consideration in that week’s paper.

Walk for Whistler Seniors raises more than $10K

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Thank you to everyone who came out on Sat., May 24 for the Walk for Whistler Seniors!

We are very grateful for the support of our community. We could not have done this without the many volunteers that came to help.

Thank you to all those volunteers who came out to register the walkers, sell shirts and ball caps, run the silent auction, those that set the course, the marshalls for guiding the walkers and those at the water station.

Thank you to all who donated to our silent auction.

Thank you to our mayor, Jack Crompton, for opening the walk, and Councillor Cathy Jewett for making sure everyone arrived back.

Special thanks to Bruce at Nesters for providing all the refreshments and to Whistler Rotary for serving those refreshments. Thank you to Denise at Lil’wat Station Chevron for supplying our water station. Thank you to Ace for her music, and to our photographer Joern Rohde for capturing memories.

We had a very successful day, raising more than $10,000 to help fund programs and activities for our seniors… and donations are still coming in!

Again, we are so grateful for the support from our community.

See you all next year!

Wendy Barber // Whistler Elders Enrichment Society n

Whistler roots itself in stronger environmental rules

NEW BYLAWS AIM TO PROTECT LOCAL WATERWAYS, CURB INVASIVE SPECIES, AND LIMIT EXCESSIVE TREE-CUTTING ACROSS THE VALLEY

BY LIZ MCDONALD

ON THE EDGE of summer, as the green canopy deepens across Whistler’s valley, council members turned their attention to the trees—and everything they represent.

“Trees make our community beautiful, providing an exceptional setting for tourism and recreation, which are fundamental to our local economy,” said environmental coordinator Tina Symko, addressing council on May 27. “Each tree in Whistler plays part of a vital role, environmentally, socially and economically.”

With unanimous support, Whistler council has endorsed two major updates to its environmental legislation: the Environmental Protection Bylaw No. 2426, 2025 and the newly created Tree Protection Bylaw No. 2435, 2025. Together, the bylaws seek to halt a trend of lot-clearing in residential neighbourhoods, protect sensitive riparian areas, regulate the spread of invasive species, and modernize enforcement to reflect current climate and ecological realities.

TREE BYLAW TAKES AIM AT UNCHECKED CLEARING

The newly proposed Tree Protection Bylaw replaces previous tree-cutting rules embedded within the broader environmental bylaw. Staff said that limited scope—only regulating trees with covenants or those near Highway 99—left many properties with no protections at all.

“We are seeing excessive cutting, including full-lot clearing in Whistler, particularly in

our residential neighbourhoods,” said Symko. “Over-cutting results in negative impacts to privacy and community character, as well as loss of shade, habitat, soil stability and other important benefits.”

To address those gaps, the new bylaw introduces a Tree Density Minimum (TDM)—a zoning-based formula that sets the minimum number of trees per property. A typical 557-square-metre residential lot would require four trees. Permits will now be required if property owners want to cut:

A significant tree (defined as a covenanted tree, large tree over 60 cm in diameter, old tree over 250 years, or a known wildlife tree);

Any tree within 30 metres of a stream or wetland;

Trees that would bring the property below its TDM.

The bylaw also introduces replacement tree requirements. If a significant tree is removed, property owners must plant up to three new trees for each one lost. Native deciduous trees are preferred and count double toward replacement totals due to their fire-resilient qualities.

The permit fees, currently $125 under the old bylaw, will increase to $250 for up to 10 trees, and $400 for more than 10.

COUNCIL EMBRACES STRONG PENALTIES

To prevent violations, fines can now reach up to $50,000 per offence, with each illegally cut tree treated as a separate infraction. Ongoing violations, like failure to replant required trees, can incur daily fines until resolved.

Councillor Cathy Jewett asked how those penalties would be enforced.

Symko clarified: “In the tree bylaw scenario, that would be, for example, if you had replacement tree requirements, the

deadline has passed, you haven’t replaced the trees … We can [issue] fines on a daily basis for things like that.”

While the rules are tighter, Symko emphasized the new permitting system will be more user-friendly, and enforcement authority will rest with the manager of climate and environment, not higher-level managers, improving turnaround time.

“If I can do the math, anybody can,” she said, referring to the TDM calculation. “Requirements, I think, are much more simpler and streamlined.”

ENVIRONMENTAL BYLAW TACKLES WATERWAYS, SPILLS, AND INVASIVE SPECIES

The Environmental Protection Bylaw No. 2426, 2025 replaces the 2012 version with updated language, expanded protections, and clarified jurisdiction. It prohibits pollution or obstruction of streams and stormwater drainage systems—including runoff from hot tubs or chlorinated pools, which are now considered polluting substances.

New requirements include: Immediate containment and cleanup of spills; mandatory spill reporting within 24 hours; and restoration of any obstructions to natural water flow.

“Streams are one of Whistler’s most important natural assets,” said Symko. “They’re recognized as either very high or high priority habitat in our Priority Habitat Framework.”

The bylaw also cracks down on invasive species, expanding the definition beyond plants to include contaminated soils and transported materials. It now prohibits the sale or distribution of invasives and mandates proper treatment and disposal under the RMOW’s solid waste bylaw.

Asked how the municipality plans to address invasive species still being sold

locally, Symko said enforcement will now back up existing outreach work: “I think it’s really important that we start to sort of back groups like [Sea to Sky Invasive Species Council] up with stuff that we definitely know is critical to our climate resilience.”

RIPARIAN PROTECTIONS FILL MAPPING GAPS

The environmental bylaw also fills a critical gap in riparian area protection. Whistler’s Development Permit Areas (DPAs) already regulate riparian zones under the Official Community Plan (OCP), but some creeks and wetlands were left unmapped.

Because the municipality cannot legally create bylaws for general “riparian protection,” the revised language now focuses on regulating works that cause pollution or obstruction to streams—a jurisdiction Whistler holds.

This gives staff the authority to require assessments from a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) and refuse permits if stream flow would be affected.

FIRESMART AND ECOLOGICAL VALUES DISCUSSED

Fire safety was a key theme throughout council’s discussion. Symko assured councillors FireSmart guidance is deeply integrated into both bylaws.

“We’ve worked very closely with our FireSmart team to ensure that the tree density minimum ratios work for what FireSmart is recommending for properties,” she said. “This bylaw is kind of as balanced as it gets.”

Deciduous trees are favoured in part because of their fire-resistant qualities. The

FOREST FRIENDS Trees in Whistler have a new ally.

PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD

Whistler council advances Northlands rezoning to fall consultation

COUNCILLORS QUESTION A $10M GAP IN AMENITY FUNDING; WHISTLER COULD BE

WITHOUT

INDOOR TENNIS COURTS FOR UP TO 20 YEARS

BY LIZ MCDONALD

A PROPOSED REZONING for 4500 Northlands Boulevard that could bring more than 300 new homes to a prominent site near Whistler Village is moving forward to public consultation this fall—though not without hesitation from council over the developer’s $47-million Community Amenity Contribution (CAC) offer and the potential long-term risk to community benefits.

“I think the most important part coming out of today is that the decision that’s in front of us right now is not whether $58 million is the right number, or if $35 million is the right number,” said Councillor Jen Ford during the May 27 committee of the whole meeting. “Let’s go and talk to the community and decide how the money gets spent.”

ENVIRONMENTAL BYLAWS

bylaw also prohibits planting conifers too close to homes or other conifer trees—a reflection of wildfire risk reduction best practices.

Jewett asked whether culturally modified trees or historic logging stumps were considered for protection.

“We did not include them under this bylaw,” said Symko. “But it’s always an option to include that in the future.”

MOVING FORWARD

Council also discussed how to educate property owners on how to navigate the new rules.

“How do you imagine this being executed

DISAGREEMENT OVER COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS

The dollar amounts refer to the estimated value of public benefits the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) expects from Beedie Living, the Vancouver-based developer behind the proposal. Based on a detailed land lift analysis, RMOW staff and consultants calculated a CAC of $57.8 million—representing 75 per cent of the $77.1 million land value increase the project would generate through rezoning. A land lift is a financial analysis which determines the additional value a property gains when its zoning changes.

Beedie’s proposal falls short compared to the RMOW’s. The developer’s offer—valued between $38.6 and $47.1 million depending on how specific assets are assessed—includes a mix of cash, employee housing, a childcare facility, small-scale commercial space, and other public uses. However, it also includes

FROM PAGE 10

… is there a how-to guide?” Coun. Ralph Forsyth asked.

Symko confirmed: “That’s definitely what we envision with any regulatory changes.”

Councillors expressed strong support for the changes, noting the need for better environmental management and tools that support both climate and community values.

“I’ve imagined at times, what would this valley look like if these trees were gone,” said Coun. Arthur De Jong. “The ecological impacts and the actual economic impacts are profound.”

With council’s approval, the bylaws will return for proper consideration at an upcoming meeting. n

TO THE NORTH An aerial view of the Northlands site north of Whistler Village.

COURTESY OF BEEDIE LIVING

contributions staff say don’t meet municipal policy or accounting standards.

The developer proposed donating its sales and marketing centre to Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) for use as a health-care facility after pre-sales are wrapped.

“The donation of the sales centre maybe is not an appropriate component of a CAC,” said planning manager John Chapman. “That isn’t directly a municipal issue, local government issue.”

Then, there is a proposal by Beedie to donate 4700 Blackcomb Way, a flood-prone wetland adjacent to Fitzsimmons Creek, to the RMOW as part of the CAC.

Beedie assessed it at $4 million, while BC Assessment pegs the land’s value closer to $941,000. Staff support the idea of the municipality owning the land for conservation and maintenance purposes, but questioned the inflated valuation.

“We just do see that there’s some value of having it under municipal control,” Chapman said. “[But] we don’t think that there’s development potential for that land.”

CONCERNS OVER TIMING AND RISK

Council also pressed staff on the timing of CAC delivery. Beedie’s proposal ties many of the high-value items—like 70 units of employee housing and a childcare facility—to the final phase of a five-phase, 10- to 20-year construction timeline.

“Backloading also adds some risk to the RMOW should the project slow down or cease altogether,” Chapman noted, with the RMOW likely facing challenges collecting the amenity or cash value.

Coun. Cathy Jewett commented that under a phased development agreement, CACs would be tied to key project milestones through building permits. Staff confirmed that approach is standard and would be used to mitigate delivery risk.

Coun. Jeff Murl asked whether value-inkind items would be indexed to inflation if delivered decades from now.

“Cash payments should be indexed to inflation,” Chapman replied. “For value-inkind components… It’s just how much it costs to build the facility at that date.”

Murl responded that “at the scale we’re operating—$50 million—even a two-per-cent [inflation difference] adds up quick. So, time is of the essence I guess.”

COULD DENSITY CLOSE THE GAP?

Council was also curious whether increasing the site’s density might close the gap between the offered and expected CAC values. Staff noted Beedie has not requested more density— and likely won’t.

“More density isn’t always a good thing,” said general manager of climate action, planning and development services Dale Mikkelsen. “It might not actually help their pro forma. It’s just more product, a longer development timeline, and more challenges with a saturated market.”

In the end, the difference between each party’s evaluation of CAC came down to risk tolerance, according to Mikkelsen. “In today’s dollars, today’s construction cost environment, and today’s level of risk, they’re applying a factor to that that is different than we’ve specifically agreed on in the book end,” he said.

From the RMOW’s consultant’s perspective, they’re taking a long-term forecast approach to risk evaluation. “It is a 10- to 20-year project. The economics will ebb and flow over the course of the project, and so to minimize our consideration of the CAC based on today’s construction environment is not advisable,” Mikkelsen said.

TENNIS FACILITY’S FUTURE UNCERTAIN

The rezoning would replace the current TA10 zoning, which allows for a 367-room hotel and holds the existing tennis facility. While that scenario technically remains viable, Beedie is instead proposing 64 townhomes, 253 low- to mid-rise apartments, and 12,000 square feet of commercial space that would allow both longterm residential and short-term tourist use.

The tennis facility itself has become a flashpoint in community conversations, with many residents questioning whether Whistler’s only indoor tennis courts will be preserved or replaced. The current facility, built in the 1990s, would be demolished under the proposed plan, and while staff have flagged a potential “rightsized” replacement as a use for community amenity funding, there is no confirmed commitment to rebuild on-site.

A robust contingent of tennis facility supporters was in attendance for the meeting, many of them concerned there is still no commitment for tennis and pickleball courts.

Beedie Living has proposed a $10-million contribution toward off-site recreation facilities as part of its CAC package, but that amount would be split into five instalments tied to separate phases of development. The final phase— where the bulk of that contribution would be delivered—may not occur for 10 to 20 years.

Preliminary cost estimates suggest a new four-court indoor tennis facility could cost between $12.6 and $18.1 million, not including land costs. Without additional funding or a shift in CAC priorities, construction of a new facility would likely be delayed until the latter stages of the project. That means Whistler could be left without an indoor tennis facility for a decade or longer if the redevelopment proceeds as proposed.

FALL ENGAGEMENT

Staff agreed the September engagement will focus not only on the proposed CAC value, but how the community would prefer to see that money spent.

The fall engagement is expected to include in-person open houses, pop-up booths, and an online component using the RMOW’s Social Pinpoint platform, and a month-long education campaign is planned in advance.

Council voted to endorse staff’s recommendation to proceed to engagement— but left the door open to revisit CAC values or rezoning terms after that feedback is received. n

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Council approves draft land-use plan for reimagined Creekside

MORE PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT PLANNED FOR WEEKS AND MONTHS AHEAD

BY BRADEN DUPUIS

THE RESORT MUNICIPALITY of Whistler (RMOW) is moving ahead with plans for a reimagined Creekside, with more public engagement to follow.

At the May 13 committee of the whole (COW) meeting, council and staff heard a presentation on a new draft land-use plan for the “Whistler Creek West” neighbourhood, which intends to provide a framework for land-use changes and guide development along Lake Placid Road and the surrounding area.

“The concept proposes four sub areas with different densities and development forms, with the goal of achieving more homes for people to live in, and to support a greater diversity of housing types and tenures,” said planner Megan Mucignat in a presentation to the COW, adding two Creekside properties, Nita Lake Lodge and the Co-op gas station, were excluded from the plan area.

“We don’t foresee redevelopment at Nita Lake Lodge, and we don’t want to prescribe the use and form to the gas station site, as we don’t know the lifespan of the gas station use,” Mucignat said. “And at some point when the site is ready or more ripe for development, it would be more appropriate to consider a site-specific rezoning that

would outline the use and density for the site at that time.”

Sub-area A, containing properties between Lake Placid Road and Drew Drive, envisions mid-rise (four- to six-storey) residential with some small-scale commercial uses and active residential lobbies. Sub-area B, which includes a smattering of properties north of Drew Drive and south of Lake Placid Road, plans for a residential transition zone between mid-rise and low density. Development would be contained to three or four storeys, with ground-level orientation.

Sub-area C, representing the bulk of the properties in the planning area, envisions lowdensity residential—small-scale, multi-unit housing with up to six units per lot to align with frequent bus service. Lastly, sub-area D represents the properties closest to the highway, and envisions a “highway transition zone” with three- to five-storey residential buildings.

“These are meant for discussion purposes only, just to give us an impression of what the potential densities, building heights and forms could look like,” Mucignat said, adding it’s important to note any future redevelopment will also be subject to relevant form and character guidelines, “except for small-scale, multiunit development, which is exempt from [development permits] based on our current small-scale zoning bylaw exemption.”

Thisisnoticepursuanttosection24and26oftheCommunityCharter thattheCounciloftheVillageofPembertonproposestoestablisha temporarylicenceofoccupationbetweentheVillageofPembertonand TourismPembertonon aportionofthepropertyownedbytheVillage locatedat7424FrontierStreetandlegallydescribedas:

SubjectLand: Lot1,DistrictLot203, LillooetLandDistrict,EPP1760

Nature: TemporaryLicenceofOccupation Term: May– October2025

Thepurposeofthetemporarylicenceof occupationistoenableTourismPemberton tolocatethePembertonVisitorInformation Centreonthepropertyandinthedowntown coretosupportTourismPemberton’sefforts inpromotingtourismandtraveltothe Pembertonarea.

TheVillagewillbeprovidingassistancetoTourismPembertonbyleasingthe propertyfor$1fortheTerm.

GwendolynKennedy CorporateOfficer

The plan area currently includes 307 dwelling units, 174 of which are residential and 1,343 are tourist accommodation. Under current existing zoning, an additional 162 units could be built. Using the draft land-use concept, staff calculated between 900 and 1,000 additional units could potentially be added under the new plan for Creekside.

“That’s not something that would happen overnight. It’s a long-term vision...”

- MEGAN MUCIGNAT

“So approximately three times more dwelling units than the existing condition, or about twice what could be accommodated under the maximum build-out baseline,” Mucignat said.

“So it’s important to understand that these numbers assume full build-out with maximum density. That’s not something that would happen overnight. It’s a longterm vision, and it’s unlikely to achieve that maximum full build-out. The draft land-use

concept and potential growth numbers will be used to inform supporting studies, along with public engagement to help us understand what needs to be refined before advancing the concept to the draft plan.”

Councillor Ralph Forsyth wondered about the infrastructure implications of potentially adding another 2,000 humans to the area, to which manager of planning projects John Chapman said the planning team is working with infrastructure services to make sure everyone’s on the same page.

“We understand what exists today, what the planned upgrades are in the future,” he said. “So we’re doing this hand-in-hand with our colleagues there to make sure that that’s understood, that we identify what the major upgrades are that will be required, and account for that in the plan.”

Council endorsed the plan at its May 27 regular meeting.

The RMOW tallied more than 1,700 interactions with locals on the project during last year’s “visioning” phase, which helped define the project’s core values and main objectives—but there are still more opportunities for locals to weigh in.

An online questionnaire is now live, along with a public open house on June 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Nita Lake Lodge. Read more and take the survey at engage.whistler. ca/wcw. n

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Fourth annual Hike for Health on the horizon

THE FATHER’S DAY EVENT RAISES VALUABLE FUNDS FOR WHISTLER HEALTH CARE CENTRE

BY LIZ MCDONALD

PATIENTS AND CAREGIVERS don’t have to look far at the Whistler Health Care Centre (WHCC) to see the impact of the Whistler Health Care Foundation.

Whether visiting the trauma centre, checking a vital signs monitor or arriving at the new paediatric care room, items purchased with funds raised through the WHCF are all around. Each year, the foundation raises money for medical equipment or extras not covered by Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH). The equipment enhances the care physicians and nurses provide to patients.

Jennifer Black, vice-chair of WHCF’s board of directors, said while VCH can approve equipment the hospital needs, it doesn’t always have the funds to cover the newest gear or comforts that make a stressful hospital stay easier.

“VCH is responsible for making sure there’s equity in health-care facilities, so the foundation helps keep equipment up to date, investing in state-of-the-art medical technology and the extras,” Black said.

She pointed to one example of a future need at WHCC—an upgraded CT scanner—as equipment the foundation is helping to fund.

“Down the road, the CT scanner needs to

be updated. The WHCC applies to VCH, VCH can approve but can’t necessarily purchase. [The care centre] would apply to us for the funding,” she explained.

Most recently, the WHCF has focused on easing strain on children and caregivers by outfitting the paediatric room with user-friendly items to help during a health-care crisis.

“The foundation comes in and we’re funding special toys, teenage games ... we take something that works really well and add the items that help it become a more comfortable experience for kids,” Black said.

Items that help soothe children and youth during a crisis include noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys and a Nintendo Switch.

In 2025 alone, the WHCF awarded $93,846 to Sea to Sky organizations for a broad range of health-related services, from first-aid and emergency response equipment to mental health therapy.

HIKE FOR HEALTH HELPS LONG-TERM FUNDING

To keep up with rising health-care costs, the foundation hosts two annual fundraisers: the Get Moving Challenge and Hike for Health.

While Get Moving has come and gone, the fourth annual Hike for Health is on the horizon.

Hike for Health takes place on Blackcomb Mountain on Sunday, June 15—Father’s

Day. Hikers head up the Ascent Trail and can choose from three distances, weather permitting. Alternatively, attendees can ride the gondola to the summit and enjoy sweeping views of Whistler Village.

Event partner Whistler Blackcomb is supporting organizers with $30,000 in-kind, and the Touchet family is generously sponsoring the event.

This year’s fundraising goal is $100,000. Black said they are very close to reaching—or even surpassing—the mark, and registration for the event is now the focus.

Registration costs $40 for adults; youth and child tickets are $25; and children under six hike for free. The price includes a sightseeing ticket on Blackcomb Mountain and a $10 food voucher.

Those who want to make a larger impact on local health-care can become Trailblazers by donating $500, $1,000, $5,000 or $10,000 in exchange for a tax receipt and recognition during the hike.

Last year attendees raised more than $100,000 for mental-health services.

After hiking, the ticket includes an allday sightseeing pass. Once finished trekking atop Blackcomb, attendees can head to the farmers’ market at the base of the Ascent Trail or enjoy brunch in the Village—a perfect way to celebrate health and fathers in one go.

“It’s a great way to celebrate dads,” Black said. n

UP TOP The fourth-annual Hike for Health is slated for June 15.

PHOTO BY ASCENTXMEDIA / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

Whistler BioBlitz celebrates biodiversity and budding scientists

THE 19TH-ANNUAL EVENT COMBINES SCIENCE, EDUCATION AND SLIME MOULDS TO INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION OF NATURE LOVERS

BY LIZ MCDONALD

HUNDREDS OF WHISTLER elementary students will get up close with beetles, fungi and even slime moulds this week as the 19th-annual Whistler BioBlitz returns from June 5 to 8.

Organized by the Whistler Naturalists, BioBlitz pairs school presentations with hard science. More than 500 students from Spring Creek, Myrtle Philip and the Whistler Waldorf School will take part in interactive sessions on topics ranging from animal tracks and pond life to plant-fungi interactions and food chains.

While school visits are a key focus, scientists will also spend their downtime combing through Whistler’s forests, wetlands and snowmelt zones—documenting species as part of the Whistler Biodiversity Project, which now lists more than 5,000 native species.

Scott Gilmore, an entomologist who first came to Whistler BioBlitz a decade ago, is back again this year. He has made a tradition of attending alongside his son, who got hooked on slime moulds during last year’s event.

“He’s been coming with me for at least five years now,” Gilmore said. “It was at this BioBlitz last year he met the slime mould

crew—he got to know them and learn. Since then, he’s been collecting and studying them on Vancouver Island.”

For Gilmore, watching his son mature into a curious and capable field naturalist has been one of the most rewarding parts of participating.

“It’s been fantastic to see him embraced and encouraged in his own interests,” he said. “It’s fun to share time and space in the field and watch him share his knowledge with others.”

Last year’s slime mould team identified 41 species, including three never before recorded in B.C. Their findings are now being incorporated into a new field guide set to be published by the Royal BC Museum.

Gilmore specializes in beetles and insects, and said Whistler’s forests never fail to surprise him.

“Every time I go to Whistler I find something I’ve never seen before,” he said. “I always find new ones.”

Species found during BioBlitz are carefully

catalogued, with samples sent to the Royal BC Museum.

“With insects it’s hard to see in the field, but at home I mount them to a pin with data labels, look under a microscope, and use resources to identify them before sending them to the museum,” Gilmore explained. “It’s an important step—they can be there for hundreds of years.”

Beyond the science, Gilmore said BioBlitz is about inspiring curiosity, especially in children.

“They’re incredibly observant. If they meet someone passionate about these organisms who can tell them what they are and help them find different ones, that’s the starting point for their own adventures in nature,” he said.

The event also contributes meaningful data to help inform land-use and conservation decisions. Organizers say the scientific inventories conducted over the weekend provide an updated natural baseline for Whistler and help promote environmental awareness in the wider community.

With a team of local and visiting experts on hand—ranging from herpetologists (reptile and amphibian experts) and aquatic insect specialists to lichen and mushroom scientists—Whistler BioBlitz continues to be a celebration of biodiversity and the people working to understand and protect it. n

LIFELONG LEARNERS Pam Janszen introduces enthusiastic Myrtle Philip students to slime moulds. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WHISTLER NATURALISTS

It’s official: the Whistler Waldorf School needs a

new home

PROVINCE

DETERMINES SPRUCE GROVE SITE ‘NOT ALIGNED WITH THE INTENT’ OF

LEASE, SCHOOL SAYS

BY BRADEN DUPUIS

THE WHISTLER WALDORF School’s (WWS) ongoing search for a new home has acquired some added urgency after a decision from the provincial government.

According to the WWS, the province reviewed a request from the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) to allow the school to stay at its Spruce Grove home, “and determined that using the land for school purposes is not aligned with the intent of the 1982 Sponsored Crown grant and that an amendment to the land use agreement to include a permanent school site will not be considered,” wrote WWS board vicechair Kelly Hand in an email to Pique

“As a result, this option has been removed from further consideration, confirming that Spruce Grove will not be the long-term home of Whistler Waldorf School. Instead, our future will be rooted in a new location—one that can fully support the ongoing growth and vision of our school.”

There will be no changes to the school’s location or operations during the 2025-26 academic year, Hand added.

The WWS has operated at its Spruce Grove location since 2002. When the RMOW’s decision last year to end the school’s lease after June 2025 caused a minor uproar among parents, council provided a temporary extension to June 2026.

“In anticipation of this potential outcome, the Permanent Site Committee, reporting to the Board of Trustees, has been actively working toward securing a future school site that aligns with our educational philosophy and provides the space and flexibility necessary for both our childcare and K-12 programs to thrive,” Hand said. “The RMOW has a team that will be ready to support this

project, with timely review of sites, support in our rezoning, discussions with other agencies, and processing of development and building permits.”

In a statement, Acting Mayor Jen Ford confirmed “school use” has been deemed outside the intent of the Crown Grant, which allows the municipality to operate Spruce Grove Park.

“Our municipality is very grateful for the provincial land commitment to provide this important greenspace and will respect the decision,” Ford said. “For over 20 years, Whistler Waldorf School has been granted temporary access to the park in order to grow their operation and community until a permanent location could be found. We wish the school well in its search to find a permanent location and will continue to support the school’s staff and board of directors with planning expertise as they explore potential sites on which to locate a permanent facility.”

Despite the challenging road ahead, the WWS is staying optimistic.

“This transition marks an exciting and transformative new chapter in our school’s journey,” Hand said. “From our original location at Alta Lake to Spruce Grove, and now beyond, each move has reflected our growth and progress and we look forward to the opportunities this next chapter will bring. For nearly 25 years, Whistler Waldorf School has been a valued part of the Whistler community and has called Spruce Grove home since 2002. We are deeply grateful to the RMOW, our mayor and council, past and present—and the broader Whistler community for making this possible, and we sincerely appreciate the RMOW’s continued support. We are also deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our dedicated faculty, staff, trustees, families, and community members throughout our 20-plus years at the Spruce Grove campus.” n

ON THE MOVE The Whistler Waldorf School has operated at Spruce Grove Park since 2002.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RMOW

Pemberton Secondary students launch composting pilot project

THE ECO CLUB IS WORKING TO REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF ORGANIC WASTE GOING INTO LANDFILLS TO PREVENT PLANET-WARMING METHANE EMISSIONS

BY LUKE FAULKS

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

PEMBERTON SECONDARY’S Eco Club has partnered with Pemberton Valley Environmental (PVE) to kick off a school-wide composting program, designed to divert waste from landfills.

The students have installed bins and signage around the school to support the disposal of food waste, disposable cutlery, plates, and napkins. The pilot project will run until the end of the school year—after which they hope to formalize composting at Pemberton Secondary School (PSS) for the years ahead.

The Eco Club’s work isn’t as simple as just installing bins around the school. In the runup to the project, the group ran a survey of the school’s staff and students. They found some 70 or 80 per cent of the 50 people surveyed already compost, personally. The team is looking to get those numbers up in the school itself.

“We did presentations around the classes to inform all the students and teachers to make sure they know what can and can’t go into the bins,” said club member Sola Skeels. “And then we got these big bins that are right

now in the foods room and in the commons.”

And the students are “continuing to inform people all the time,” added her fellow composting project leader Sayah DesBrisay. “We’re going to make some posters to make it more obvious what goes in the compost.”

The team was inspired to tackle waste management for its outsized impact on climate change.

An SLRD report from 2022, with stats on landfills from around the Sea to Sky, found 38 per cent of trash that went into the Pemberton Transfer Station was organic waste.

“And when that compost is trying to decompose in the landfill, it releases really toxic gasses like methane, which is a lot worse for the planet,” noted DesBrisay. “And so by providing compost at our school, we’re going to track the data of how much per week is not ending up in the landfill, and seeing what our impact is on that.”

Methane is a significantly more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide— particularly in the short term. It traps about 84 times more heat than CO2 over 20 years, making its immediate impact more intense. In Canada, approximately 17 per cent of methane emissions come from landfills.

PARTNERING WITH PVE

At first, the team wondered if there was a way to use food waste as fertilizer for the garden at the school. But they nixed the idea because of the risk from bears and concerns over having to be more selective with what kinds of organics were going into the compost.

So, they needed a way to get the waste

off-site.

The transportation issue proved a key hurdle for a previous attempt at developing a composting project at PSS, when AWARE Whistler partnered with Pemberton Secondary students in 2024 to support student climate action projects. DesBrisay remembers one student’s composting project had struggled for lack of means to get the waste off-site.

This year, the students teamed up with PVE, a waste collection company with clients in Pemberton, Birken and Whistler.

“We made a plan that we’re going to provide [the Eco Club] with all the necessary tools for getting composting programs started at the school at no cost,” said PVE owner Colin Hamilton. “We are also going to start monitoring and weighing their compost, and hopefully at the beginning of next school year, we’ll have our own section at Sea to Sky Soils.

“This is going to be like a five-week trial to see how we can build this moving into the future, and kind of integrate it as one of their primary sources of disposal,” he added. “We’re trying to look at how much compost they’re producing, and moving forward, we’re going to be trying to get that number to go up and their landfill number to go down.”

WHAT’S NEXT?

The pilot program launched a couple weeks back with a handful of bins around the school.

At the end of the year, the Eco Club

will crunch the numbers, draw up a formal contract with PVE and present it to the school board for approval. It’ll be the Club’s second presentation to the school board, following the initial pitch.

They’re hoping to continue running the program in the years to come.

“I just think the students at the high school are awesome for taking this on, and it was something they’re passionate about,” said Hamilton. “They’ve been just great to work with, and we hope to get some serious results from this.”

Both students said participating in the Eco Club relieves some climate anxiety or climate grief. They suggest that anyone who feels overwhelmed by the scale of climate change sign on with a group to make a tangible difference in their communities.

“It makes you feel like you can make more of a difference than just sitting there and feeling sad about it,” said Skeels. “You have something that you can do, and you have people around you who feel the same way.”

Added DesBrisay: “Even if you feel like you’re just a small factor in this huge global issue, just doing some kind of work—not just talking, but taking action—really helps with [your] peace of mind.”

Fortunately, the Pemberton Valley is home to a great many non-profits who look out for the area’s unique, picturesque environment. From the Stewardship Pemberton Society to the Pemberton Wildlife Association, you can find a list of volunteer organizations to sign on with through the SLRD’s list of community organizations.

JOIN THE CLUB Students at Pemberton Secondary School partnered with Pemberton Valley Environmental for a composting pilot project that will run until the school year’s end.

PHOTO BY ROB NEWELL

‘I learned my language to be a teacher’

LIL’WAT ELDER MARTINA PIERRE TO RECEIVE HONORARY DEGREE FROM CAPU FOR HER WORK IN LANGUAGE REVITALIZATION

BY LUKE FAULKS

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

CAPILANO UNIVERSITY (CapU) is set to honour Lil’wat Elder Sawt Martina Pierre with an honorary doctorate in recognition of her contributions to reconciliation, empowerment and cultural preservation.

Pierre is a residential school survivor and lifelong educator whose work revolves around revitalizing the Nation’s traditional language— for others as much as herself.

“I had always wanted to be a teacher, and I had always wanted to revive my culture and language and my spirituality, [my] rights as a legal person,” she told Pique. “After I had my family, I learned my language to be a teacher.”

Pierre was instrumental in starting up Lil’wat’s first-ever community school in the 1970s.

The Nation had a day school run by nuns as far back as the 1930s, with classes available to members of the Nation from kindergarten up to Grade 7. But after the publication of the 1969 White Paper, parents in the Nation demanded a change.

The White Paper, formally known as the Statement of the Government of Canada on Indian Policy, was a policy proposal that aimed to eliminate Indian status, abolish the Indian Act and transfer responsibility for Indigenous affairs to the provinces.

On the education front, the policy would have integrated First Nations children into mainstream education systems—potentially at the loss of culturally relevant programs and resources—and risked putting education policy in the hands of a provincial government removed from the specific needs of communities.

While the policies contained therein never became law, they sparked widespread opposition among Indigenous communities in Canada.

“[The children] didn’t want to go back to public school, so the parents got concerned about the continuation of their children with their education,” said Pierre. “They got together and said, ‘Well, let’s take them out of the public school and start our own.’”

The Nation formed a board to negotiate for limited funding and resources from the government, including teacher training. Pierre was part of the first cohort of Lil’wat instructors to go through SFU’s teaching program.

“We had to create our own curriculum,

too, because it wasn’t coming from the B.C. Education Department,” she recalled. “We had to create our own curriculum to teach our language and culture.”

She noted there weren’t a lot of models to look to around B.C.; Lil’wat was one of the first Nations in the province to create a community school with traditional and cultural coursework from scratch.

As Pierre and her team worked to craft a curriculum for the incoming classes, she was also reconnecting with the language herself. She had been forced to unlearn Ucwalmícwts, the Nation’s traditional language, when she attended a residential school.

She credits her husband of 64 years, Paul Pierre, senior, with her own re-learning of the language. His mother used the traditional language all her life, and he grew up with parents who didn’t speak English very often. But because he only attended residential school for one year, he’s fluent in Ucwalmícwts.

“He just spoke the language and that helped me,” said Pierre. “He was my mentor in the language program—not really for developing the curriculum, but for me to undo and heal from what I learned in colonized education.”

Pierre and her cohort opened Tszil Community School in the 1970s.

Shortly after the school launched, Pierre obtained a master’s degree from UBC and became a program coordinator for the school.

Tszil Community School later became Xetólacw Community School. It currently serves about 240 students, emphasizing the integration of Lil’wat language and culture into the curriculum.

Pierre’s contributions to Lil’wat education don’t stop at K-12. She’s also been instrumental in developing and teaching post-secondary language and culture courses.

In 1998, the Tszil Learning Centre launched as a hub for adult learning and vocational training in Mount Currie. CapU faculty started to teach at the school in 1999.

She’s found, time and time again, that the act of teaching is a healing one; it allows her to practice and celebrate her history, and surrounds her with young people whose emphasis is on learning rather than mourning.

Pierre will be honoured alongside four other honorary degree recipients at Capilano University during its spring convocation ceremonies from June 10 through 12.

Read the full story at piquenewsmagazine. com. n

CULTURAL CURATION Lil’wat Elder Sawt Martina Pierre will be celebrated alongside four other honorary doctorates during the CapU spring commencements, from June 10 to 12.

Pour one out for Blackcomb summer skiing

THIS ISN’T EXACTLY breaking news, but summer glacier skiing is done on Blackcomb’s Horstman Glacier. Arguably, it’s been done for a while now, but that hasn’t stopped summer camp operators from throwing a Hail Mary every year in hopes we’ll get one more season out of it.

BY VINCE SHULEY

We all know the cause. Our rapidly warming climate in the last 20 years has shrunk glaciers worldwide, not just on our local ski hill. After years of degradation of glacial ice (something even huge, snowy winters couldn’t slow down), the T-bar lifts on the Horstman have become more or less inoperable. Kudos to the Blackcomb groomers for building up a platform big enough to keep Showcase open for a few weeks this season. Let’s hope we see it in action a bit more next year.

The old Horstman T-bar seems like a lifetime ago, with Whistler Blackcomb finally deciding to remove it in 2021 after

several seasons of inoperation. I do miss the Horstman—it was the only way to efficiently travel between Blackcomb’s best alpine areas of Spanky’s Ladder and Chainsaw Ridge. But that final pull up to the top station next to 7th Heaven felt like it got steeper and steeper every year, jettisoning kids and adults alike back down the slope. When it was in its prime, however, Horstman was the primary access to Secret Basin, Jersey Cream Bowl, and of

can’t remember how many lanes he pointed out, but I was amazed at how much skiing they were able to fit on this one glacier. As the ice whittled down over the years, so did the operators. Momentum Camps held on the longest, booking and running camps all the way up to 2025, when Whistler Blackcomb made the call that operating skiing on the Horstman Glacier was no longer safe. Given the increasing amount of rocks poking out

Losing the Horstman Glacier wasn’t just a sad inevitability. It’s a wake-up call that skiing won’t be around forever.

course, the infamous Saudan Couloir.

I remember riding Glacier Express one winter back before the 2010 Olympics with a freestyle coach I worked with in the ski school. Horstman Glacier was still quite high then (not the steep and gullied rock garden it is now), and he was pointing at all the different areas where the various camps would be set up over the six-week summer glacier skiing season. Dave Murray race camps, Momentum mogul camps, Camp of Champions, a handful of others I can’t remember, plus a public lane for everyday folk to enjoy the novelty of summer turns. I

over the last 15 years, I can’t say anyone was surprised to hear the death knell.

I don’t have a personal connection to the Whistler summer glacier scene, but I’ve heard the stories. Thousands of kids travelling from all over the world to train for competition, or just enjoy a few weeks of fun hitting big jumps and learning new tricks. In the late ’90s to mid 2000s, freestyle coaches at these camps included members of the New Canadian Air Force; JP Auclair, JF Cusson, Mike Douglas, Shane Szocs and Vincent Dorion. A typical summer day for them would be to coach for a few hours, hit

the jumps themselves (inventing new tricks along the way), maybe do some filming, then head back down the mountain for sake-fuelled mayhem at Sushi Village.

The legacy of these camps—and perhaps a small but significant blip on the geological lifetime of the glacier itself—will be the mark it left on the sport. Campers attended as kids, some returned to coach years later and some of those coaches even went pro. The glacier scene was a development pipeline for Canadian skiers, a convenient venue for summer training rather than the costly trips to the southern hemisphere or the glaciers in the European Alps.

Losing the Horstman Glacier wasn’t just a sad inevitability. It’s a wake-up call that skiing won’t be around forever. Canadian (and global) priorities have changed in the last few months with sovereignty and economic security leading the political narrative over the environment. If a warming planet can come for our summer skiing, it won’t be long before it starts wreaking havoc with winter as well. If the last few seasons are anything to go by, that’s already happening in a big way.

If you’re interested in helping stem the tide of shrinking winters and receding glaciers, consider joining Protect Our Winters Canada and lobby your elected officials for climate action.

Vince Shuley is doing less glacier travel these days. For questions, comments or suggestions for The Outsider, email vince.shuley@gmail.com or Instagram @whis_vince. n

IT’S ABOUT MORE THAN TIME OUTDOORS

When looking to develop pro-environmental behaviours, one way could be to simply encourage more time outdoors. But research from Germany suggests that just interacting with nature is not enough; rather, young people need to find ways to engage with nature and use the natural landscape to develop an emotional connection with the environment.

IN THROUGH THE OUTDOORS

How outdoor sports can support youth as they navigate climate change

By Brett Tomlinson / The Conversation

As climate change continues to impact the way we interact with our planet, it’s critical to consider ways we can encourage youth to participate in climate action initiatives.

Young people across Canada are feeling frightened about the future of the planet. A Canadian study published in 2023 surveyed 1,000 young participants on their feelings about climate change. Sixty-six per cent of respondents said they felt anxiousness or hopelessness about climate change, while 78 per cent said it impacts their overall mental health.

There are a number of ways to approach this overwhelming emotion, considering it could result not only in poor quality of life for youth but also continued inaction for the planet.

My research in outdoor physical education leads me to consider more positive behaviour for youth in association to climate change that could likely benefit youth and the planet. The challenge is finding opportunities to develop pro-environmental behaviours and environmental stewardship with Canadian youth.

According to the German study, certain sports can lead to more environmentally sustainable attitudes and behaviours from participants. Some sports in particular—like cross-country skiing, mountain biking or triathlon—increase those positive behaviours more than others. This isn’t simply because participants are alone within a natural setting; it’s because the focus of the sport is on the natural landscape.

To explain a bit further, soccer, for example, is typically played outside but often on a manicured, sometimes artificial, field that is in many ways devoid of any natural influence.

Alternatively, mountain biking requires participants to ride on trails that take them directly through forested areas or spaces that are selected based on their unique natural landscape. As athletes participate in sports more frequently and spend more time within nature, they then develop a stronger emotional connection to the space they’re in. This leads to pro-environmental behaviours and attitudes, which can then generate environmental stewardship.

ROCK CLIMBING

Within rock climbing groups and organizations, there is evidence suggesting members frequently participate in beneficial environmental stewardship projects. Outdoor rock-climbing groups typically manage spaces—sometimes privately owned, but frequently under government jurisdiction in provincial or national parks—to ensure safe and responsible climbing practices. Climbers rely on ropes, equipment and bolts to ensure safety as they’re climbing.

But another obvious factor is the rock face they climb. The connection to rock and the climbing routes over those rock faces help foster a sense of environmental stewardship within climbers. Similar to mountain biking, the process starts with an introduction to the sport, but slowly develops into more care and attention paid to the natural spaces where climbers practise their activity.

One American study indicates that rock climbing organizations often find opportunities to clean up the areas where they climb, and also look to maintain the natural features of that space.

The research finds that for climbers, the challenge is to maintain natural spaces and keep the rock as pristine as possible. This also extends to conservation efforts to ensure that space maintains its use for climbing as opposed to turning it into a more urban or commercialized area.

The joy that participants received from the sport of climbing initiated this environmental stewardship and maintained progressive action in local environmental initiatives.

As athletes participate in sports more frequently and spend more time within nature, they then develop a stronger emotional connection to the space they’re in.

ELEMENT OF PHYSICAL RISK

One thing to note is that climbing and mountain biking do involve an element of physical risk.

Doing some research on these sports can help youth assess risks alongside what can be gained from participating. But it’s also important to acknowledge that encouraging young people to foster deeper connections to nature as opposed to having simple interactions with outdoor spaces doesn’t mean they have to cycle down a mountain or climb a massive rock wall.

Risk cannot be completely eliminated from outdoor sports and recreation, but there can be great social and personal benefit from participating in these types of activities.

Instead of a high-risk sport, educators and outdoor leaders can influence participants with simpler actions. I am aware of outings involving outdoor hikes, or taking time at night to gaze at the stars and listen to the sounds of nature, that have sparked in young people an interest in outdoor spaces—and caring for them.

Such experiences can then lead young people to continue to explore outdoor adventure and sport, that can, significantly, foster an appreciation of natural settings through direct interaction as well as a positive sense of community. This can be a starting point to help alleviate feelings of hopelessness to climate change.

ADDRESSING POTENTIAL HARMS, AMPLIFYING BENEFITS

Despite the benefits of participating in outdoor sports, there is a need to acknowledge that participation can have some negative impact on the environment.

For example, interaction with nature through sport can impact natural habitats and has the potential to alter behavioural patterns of animals. Furthermore, there is a risk of erosion of natural spaces, as well as the slim potential for the movement of invasive species.

This being said, it’s critical to consider what we can gain from supporting youth to participate in outdoor sport and education when such activities are planned with attentiveness and care.

This article was originally published in The Conversation on May 21. Find the original story here: theconversation.com/ how-outdoor-sports-can-support-youth-asthey-navigate-climate-change-256643.

Brett Tomlinson is an adjunct professor in the Faculty of Education at Nipissing University. He does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. n

PHOTO BY PAMELAJOEMCFARLANE/ E+/ GETTYIMAGES

Gracey Hemstreet becomes first Canadian woman to triumph on World Cup downhill circuit

JACKSON GOLDSTONE RETURNS FROM INJURY TO CLINCH THIRD WORLD CUP WIN

BY DAVID SONG

GRACEY HEMSTREET just wrote herself into mountain bike history, and Jackson Goldstone is back in a big way.

Both Sea to Sky athletes won their respective World Cup events on Sunday, June 1. Hemstreet clocked in at 3:39.179, enough to secure not only her inaugural elite downhill World Cup victory but the first by any Canadian woman. She pulled it off over a formidable field that included reigning world champ Valentina Höll.

Goldstone spent all of last season rehabilitating his ACL and MCL, both of which he tore whilst crashing into a tree, but needed just three minutes and 13.192 seconds to fly down the daunting track in Loudenvielle, France.

Höll settled for silver (3:42.348) and bronze went to Tahnee Seagrave (3:48.081) in

the ladies› race. Amaury Pierron (3:14.729) and Jordan Williams (3:16.163) placed second and third behind Goldstone.

‘DEATH GRIP’

The usually-dominant Höll threw down the gauntlet with a slick run. Perennial contenders Marine Cabirou, Nina

split, but was unable to keep her blistering momentum alive from start to finish.

“I can’t believe it,” said Hemstreet in a press release. “This has been a dream… forever, and it has finally happened. I just tried the death grip and went as fast as I could. I was a bit scared of the loose stuff but was fully pinned everywhere else. I was just cautious in those sketchy areas and then let it

“I just tried the death grip and went as fast as I could. I was a bit scared of the loose stuff but was fully pinned everywhere else.”

- GRACEY HEMSTREET

Hoffmann and Lisa Baumann weren’t so lucky: all made key errors that knocked them far down the leaderboard.

Yet Hemstreet managed to capture lightning in a bottle. After losing roughly three seconds to Höll in the course›s top portion, she stormed back courageously to wrest top position away from her Austrian opponent.

Seagrave had a chance to upset the apple cart even further with the day’s best opening

go on the rest. The triple at the top, I couldn’t hit it, I rolled it, it was hard.”

The Sunshine Coast native added on Instagram: “Dreams do come true. Thank you [Norco Race Division] for everything, couldn’t have done it without you guys.”

While Seagrave maintains a 116-point lead in the season ranking, the day belonged to Hemstreet and her unprecedented breakthrough.

‘IT FEELS GOOD TO BE BACK’ Williams set an early benchmark among the gentlemen, looking on as Davide Palazzari, Luke Meier-Smith and former King of Crankworx Tuhoto-Ariki Pene went down on the technical course. Squamish’s Goldstone proved up to snuff, however, fighting through a windy top section and carving novel lines through the woods to notch what would become the quickest time.

Four French riders had a chance to make their home fans proud late in the contest, but only one earned hardware. Nathan Pontvianne battled to fourth, Loris Vergier held onto seventh, and incumbent overall champ Loïc Bruni was waylaid into 15th after miscalculating one of his ramp jumps.

Pierron got to within shouting distance of the victorious Squamolian, but no closer.

“It feels good to be back, I can’t believe that I won,” Goldstone commented in a release. “I really liked it and gave it everything in the bottom two splits. I got into a really good zone, I wasn’t nervous for some reason. I had so much fun out of there.

“Amaury [Pierron] had me on my toes there, he had such a good run going but the last two splits really helped me there. I’m stoked to pull it off [and] it’s huge for Gracey. I’m so stoked.”

Pierron holds a 40-point overall lead on Bruni.  n

TOP OF THE WORLD Gracey Hemstreet became the first Canadian woman to win a downhill World Cup on June 1. She is pictured here with Valentina Höll (left) and Tahnee Seagrave (right) in Loudenvielle, France.

Axemen rugby chair Neil Irwin reflects on successful 2024-25 season

THE CLUB HAS GROWN TO 160 REGISTERED YOUTH PLAYERS AND 80 SENIOR ATHLETES

BY DAVID SONG

IT’S BEEN ANOTHER year of momentumbuilding and memory-making for the Axemen Rugby Club.

Their high-level 1st XV squad moved up to Division 1 after spending 2023-24 in Division 2. Some might view it as familiar territory— who could forget the Axemen’s enormous postseason upset of Burnaby Lake two years ago—but BC Rugby has restructured its leagues since then, with several units from the top-flight Premier Reserve level going down into what is currently Division 1.

With that fact in mind, the Axemen fell just shy of a postseason berth in fifth.

“It was a really big challenge playing against some very well-resourced and wellestablished clubs in British Columbia. It was a real test of our player depth and our player quality,” said club chairman Neil Irwin. “What makes us embrace the challenge is probably the ethos of coaching led by Stephen List. We’re seeking some adversity in our training sessions. Challenges like this are what bonds the group together … and another key player in driving that desire would be Ian Skuse, the captain.

“The other aspect of the restructuring is that in [Division 1] our travel was more limited, which meant we were able to maximize our participation from our playing group. That was really rewarding.”

Meanwhile, the Axemen’s 2nd XV roster qualified for a Division 3 playoff semifinal match against Langley. They lost 41-24, but still had a robust campaign at or near the top of league standings with many new faces joining in. Irwin states that the 2nd XV continues to offer a good pathway for competitive but social rugby.

The Axes and Oars women’s program made a big leap forward with new head coach Mel Michener taking the reins from Lauren Arthur. They had record-breaking participation levels and a milestone postseason appearance, where they fell 121-0 against the No. 2-seeded Comox Valley Kickers.

“[Our ladies] still play in a combined team with the Vancouver Rowers, but they’ve absolutely hit critical mass in terms of player membership, attendance at games and practices,” Irwin remarked. “It’s probably our fastest growing section, a testament to growth and improvement. Women’s rugby is here to stay in the Sea to Sky.”

‘GREAT SHOWCASE, GREAT COMMUNITY’

None of the aforementioned growth would be sustainable without a youth branch, but fortunately the Axemen have that base covered.

The club’s nascent U18 squad achieved the improbable last winter: an unbeaten record and a Gold division title. High school programs at Whistler Secondary School (WSS) and Howe Sound Secondary (HSS) are invaluable talent development hotbeds, particularly WSS, which managed to outduel a number of more established North Shore rivals as of late. Irwin lauds both schools for contributing to what he called a “truly remarkable” outcome.

U14 and U16 groups round out the Axemen’s age-grade offerings. They’ve naturally fed off of the U18s’ success and will be journeying throughout the Lower Mainland this spring to play various regional games.

Little kids have a place, too, at recurring Axemen jamborees for U6 and U12 participants.

“It’s more of a carnival or a fair-type atmosphere with clubs travelling with multiple age groups,” explained Irwin. “They’re able to compete within their age groups, then socialize and enjoy some food afterwards in traditional rugby style. Those are jamboree days: in the sunshine with several hundred young athletes all participating. It’s such a great showcase and a great community.”

Irwin is a former Axemen captain and hopes to see that community grow even more. His club is committed to offering more lowcost or no-cost avenues of grassroots rugby in the near future—with dedicated U14, U16 and U18 teams for girls on the to-do list.

Find out more at axemenrugbyclub.com.  n

PITCH PERFECT Axemen player-coach Steve List carries the ball during a game against Burnaby.

PHOTO BY OISIN MCHUGH

Whistler community kitchen gets boost from 100 Women Whistler

A $15K GRANT MEANS WHISTLER ROCKS IS ‘FINALLY IN BUSINESS’

BY BRADEN DUPUIS

WHISTLER’S LOCAL community kitchen is getting a helping hand from 100 Women Whistler.

According to founder Natalie Kingi, the $15,400 grant means the Whistler Recreate Our Community Kitchen Society (Whistler ROCKS) is “finally in business.”

While the Whistler Community Services Society has supported Whistler ROCKS since its inception, and will continue to do so, it’s the first proper grant the community kitchen has received.

“Our community partners are our biggest assets,” Kingi said in a release, adding local non-profit Zero Ceiling is offering the use of its kitchen and dining area for upcoming dinners, while Rockit Café has also offered its space for communal dinners.

Kingi launched Whistler ROCKS in the summer of 2023 in response to rising food prices and insecurity in the Sea to Sky, with the intent of “creating a community kitchen with a cosy dining area where locals can

convene, enjoy dinner, and hang out,” the release said. “Although ROCKS hasn’t yet secured a home for its community kitchen, it will start hosting communal dinners this summer on premises borrowed from partners who share its vision.”

The upcoming community dinners will be prepared and served by volunteers, and

bare-bones staff housing or overcrowded or substandard accommodation,” Kingi said in the release. “They’re among the people who keep this town running. We’re here for them.”

Serving the younger demographic of Whistler, many of whom are far away from home and family for the first time, is one of

“I make everything from scratch, and to me, it’s easy, but other people don’t know how to do it.”

- NATALIE KINGI

wherever possible, made from “rescued” food that would otherwise be tossed. Dinners will be offered free of charge to those without the means to pay, and to others for a suggested minimum donation to cover operating costs.

Whistler ROCKS aims to serve all permanent or seasonal residents who struggle to make a good meal, whether because their paycheques go overwhelmingly to housing, or because they lack ready access to kitchen facilities, “as in the case of those living in

Whistler ROCKS’ main goals.

“There’s one thing receiving food and there’s another thing knowing what to do with it, knowing how to make three random ingredients into a meal,” Kingi told Pique in July 2023. “I make everything from scratch, and to me, it’s easy, but other people don’t know how to do it. When the food bank has, for example, an excess of chickpeas, what do people who don’t know how to cook chickpeas do with it?”

Originally from New Zealand, Kingi has

lived in Whistler for 15 years, overcoming all the obstacles that come with the territory along the way—whether that be learning to snowboard and mountain bike, navigating visas and citizenship, or dealing with Whistler’s tumultuous housing market… all while pursuing her own career in tech and raising a child.

“I was able to overcome all these obstacles, and want to make sure others can not only survive in this town, but thrive,” she previously told Pique, of her passion for Whistler ROCKS. “I have determination and drive, and this gives me a great sense of purpose for this cause.”

Whistler ROCKS gained charitable status in November 2024—you can donate to the cause at canadahelps.org/en/dn/124312.

While feeding Whistler is at the heart of its mission, the community kitchen also aims to address a different need in Whistler: a serious gap in community infrastructure.

“While Whistler has plenty of restaurants and bars, it’s very short on places to get together without spending money,” the release said, adding Kingi hopes ROCKS dinners will bring the community together and foster a sense of belonging among all involved—visitors, volunteers, and supporting members alike.

Learn more and get involved at whistlerrocks.ca. n

FEEDING THE NEED Launched in 2023 by longtime Whistlerite Natalie Kingi, Whistler ROCKS envisions a non-profit community kitchen where locals could have nutritious meals prepared for cheap.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NATALIE KINGI

MEADOWPARKSPORTSCENTRE

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Whistler Museum, Victoria Crompton seek submissions for new poetry book to celebrate local history

THE DEADLINE TO SUBMIT IS JUNE 15

BY DAVID SONG

VICTORIA CROMPTON and the Whistler Museum are looking for submissions to fill out a new poetry book.

Sea to Sky denizens of all ages are welcome to put forth material that describes or pays tribute to Whistler’s culture, landscapes, heritage, favoured pastimes and so on. Selected poems will each be matched with a photograph from museum archives that is relevant to the work’s topic, ultimately leading to a curated presentation of images and verse.

How did this idea first originate? Well, Crompton (a former English teacher and Whistler Question contributor) has authored plenty of things about local history and people. She thought to herself: there must be others interested in doing the same, so let’s collect all their pieces in a single volume.

Museum executive director and curator Bradley Nichols jumped on board with the idea, and the prompt they’ve given members of the public is: what about Whistler inspires you?

“There’s so many different angles that a person could take when looking at what inspires them,” remarks Crompton. “It opens up to all kinds of different expressions, whether it’s something emotional that they’ve experienced or something that interests them in a more cerebral way.”

Nichols adds: “I think [Victoria is] really,

gives Whistler its identity, but Crompton finds poems to be especially captivating.

“I’d say being able to distil an idea or a concept, or the way something looks, down to its essence, is what challenges me about poetry because you have to be so economical with words,” she explains. “I like the challenge of that, and it suits me

“There’s so many different angles that a person could take when looking at what inspires them.”

- VICTORIA CROMPTON

really passionate. For previous poems that she’s done, she’s come in and looked through our archival holdings to craft them. I think a large number of Whistlerites moved here and wanted to stay here. What inspired them to do that? What about this place do they find intriguing and keeps them here?”

‘YOUR BIGGEST QUALIFICATION IS YOUR LOVE FOR WHISTLER’

There are many ways to reflect upon what

because I have a short attention span. The whole focus is on metaphor … you want to try and convey something by comparing it to something else, and sometimes in an unusual way that [gets people to look] at that idea or concept in a new and fresh lens.”

According to Nichols, the Museum’s only other collaborative project with a focus on visuals happened in 2012: an art project with students from Whistler Secondary School. This time, they aim to create a 60-page book with 30 poems and an equal

number of historical images.

Crompton hopes Whistlerites won’t be shy in offering up their stuff.

“I wish I had the words to inspire people to put pen to paper,” she says. “Your biggest qualification is your love for Whistler: put it down on paper and we’d love to look at it. We have approached most of the schools and so on because we’d love to get young people submitting as well. Often people say things or write things down that they don’t really think are particularly relevant … but they are, so it would be great to have people that don’t really consider themselves poets but have strong feelings or experiences with Whistler.

“I’m submitting a lot of historical poetry, and so many people today who are living in Whistler or even lived here for a long time don’t know anything about its beginnings, which are fascinating. If people read this [book] and it leads them to the museum to find out more about our beginnings, that would be a wonderful thing.”

The deadline to submit poems is June 15, while the book is anticipated to publish in fall during the Resort Municipality of Whistler’s 50th anniversary celebrations. All proceeds will go to the Whistler Museum Building Fund.

Visit whistlermuseum.org/whistlermuseum-poetry-book to submit an entry. n

STORIED PAST An archival image from the Whistler Museum’s Ski Corporation Collection.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WHISTLER MUSEUM

‘You don’t usually see sports action films recognized this way’

ANYTIME, A NEW BIKE MOVIE FROM ANTHILL FILMS, HAS WON A SPORTS EMMY

BY DAVID SONG

ANTHILL FILMS has churned out its share of winning work over the years. The production company’s blend of innovation and authenticity can be seen in beloved bike films like Seasons, Follow Me, NotBad, unReal, and Long Live Chainsaw, but they’ve never won an Emmy before… until now.

The Squamish-based production company’s latest movie, Anytime, was made in partnership with Red Bull Media House and just netted the Sports Emmy for Outstanding Camera Work.

“It means so much to us to be recognized for something outside of our genre, and outside of what we would normally know,” says Darren McCullough, who served as director of photography on the project. “You don’t usually see sports action films recognized this way or out in the general public [by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS)].”

Anytime was shot across three continents in remarkable environments like rich forests, grand mountains and urban playgrounds. A press release notes the film highlights the longest and steepest big mountain freeriding ever caught on camera: a helicopter-mounted camera gimbal manufactured by Shotover to be more exact.

Other techniques and pieces of equipment used include slow-motion aerial cinematography, custom-built e-moto rigs, cable cams and first-person view (FPV) drones. Freefly Systems, a company based in Woodinville, Wash., provided much of the crew’s gear.

“The scale of what the athletes were doing was unprecedented,” McCullough says. “Chile was one of the only places that had elevation and rideable terrain like that. One of the main places you would go would be Utah for freeride mountain biking … [there] it’s usually 400 vertical feet, whereas in Chile these guys were riding 5,000 vertical feet at elevations of 14,000 to 15,000 feet. The only way we could tackle [filming those scenes] was by air.

“We were trying to use new gear to enhance what the rider is doing. It’s something we’ve thought about forever, and even since Day 1 … we had an approach where we were going to try not to be too intrusive with the camera. We don’t want to have to make them do something 20 times over if we don’t have to, so if we can have multiple people and multiple angles happening at the same time, we can capture things how they actually are.”

‘THERE’S NEVER A BAD WORD SAID’

Several outstanding athletes are featured in Anytime: like Brage Vestavik, Thomas Genon, Hannah Bergemann and Robin Goomes, the first women’s Red Bull Rampage champ in history.

Each of them had faith Anthill would capture their latest exploits in spectacular fashion.

“That’s what it really all comes down to: trust with them and us,” McCullough remarks.

“We’ve been in the industry long enough and have a reputation of trust with these athletes, so it is that kind of symbiotic relationship—or the team vibe, as we like to say. It’s amazing to have such hungry athletes that want to push their sport and themselves to new levels. For us to be there and be a part of it … that’s the coolest thing. There’s never a bad word said.”

Anthill has been in the business for nearly 20 years. They don’t like to say “lights, camera, action” as a scene is about to roll—instead, their traditional code word is “anytime.”

That’s where the movie’s name comes from.

Red Bull Media House didn’t just sponsor the venture. For the first time they collaborated fully with Anthill, involved in each step of the production and post-production journey. McCullough is grateful for their support, and hopes Anytime will inspire a new generation of mountain bikers.

“Hopefully [the film’s] biggest impact is when someone watches it and decides to go for a ride,” he says. “It’s our goal from Day 1, always trying to get people out on bikes to feel the joy that we all feel when we go for a ride. Maybe the movie and its riding is done to a level that a lot of people aren’t going to be able to achieve, but as long as you’re just going out for a ride, that’s what we’re hoping for.”

Watch Anytime exclusively on Red Bull TV for free at redbull.com/int-en/films/anytime. n

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KING OF THE HILL A screenshot from the Emmywinning Anthill Films production Anytime

PHOTO BY MARGUS RIGA

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

WHISTLER HALF MARATHON

MURDER AT THE POINT SALOON

This annual fundraiser and Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre is a thrilling whodunnit set in the western Point Saloon. Feast on a spectacular four-course dinner by Red Seal Chef Frédéric Royer, enjoy the live DJ, and bid on the silent auction. Western attire is strongly encouraged!

>June 7, 6 to 10:30 p.m.

>The Point

ALTA LAKE BIRD WALK

Join the Whistler Naturalists on the first Saturday of the month for a walk to Rainbow Park. Open to anyone interested in learning about birds and contributing as a citizen scientist. Connect with experienced birders who are happy to share their knowledge.

>June 7, 7 a.m.

>Bottom of Lorimer Road

BLUESHORE WHISTLER HALF-MARATHON

The scenic running course is designed to showcase all that Whistler is—an amazing town nestled in the coast mountains of B.C. With towering, glacier-capped mountains as the backdrop, it is no wonder Whistler’s only half marathon has made it to the must-do list for distance runners from across North America. Events include Half Marathon, 32K, 10K, 5K and Kids Run.

>June 7, 7:10 a.m.

>Whistler Olympic Plaza

360 LIFE PLAN

This isn’t just another financial talk. It’s a conversation about your entire life, and how to protect what matters most, at every stage. Whether you’re a young adult just getting started, a parent thinking about the next generation, or retired and wondering what’s next, this session is for you.

>June 7, 10:30 a.m.

>Whistler Public Library

WHISTLER FARMERS’ MARKET

A feast for your senses, the Whistler Farmers’ Market features local produce, tasty food, local artisans, live entertainment and family activities. Markets happen every Sunday until Thanksgiving on Oct. 13, with the addition of Saturday markets on June 28, Aug. 2, Aug. 30 and Oct. 11.

>June 8, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

>Upper Village Stroll

WHISTLER MEN’S CIRCLE

A weekly meeting held on Thursdays for men who are interested in self-discovery, growth and supporting other men through sharing and holding space in a supportive environment. The peer-led group offers an opportunity to share what is alive for them, what they may be struggling with and which areas of their life they are grateful for. This series is presented in partnership with Whistler Community Services Society and Whistler Public Library.

>June 12, 6 p.m.

>Whistler Public Library

MUSEUM MUSINGS & ASTROLOGY

The centre of attention

BY ALLYN PRINGLE

THIS YEAR, the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) will celebrate a significant milestone when it turns 50 on Sept. 6. The following day will also mark a pretty big milestone; Sept. 7 will be 40 years since the official opening of the Whistler Conference Centre.

Although construction began on the site in March 1980, an economic downturn meant it was five years before the facility was completed, and the finished product was very different from the plans of 1980. The original plan for a Resort Centre included an Olympic-sized ice rink, 3x20-metre swimming pool, whirlpool, saunas, racquetball courts, a squash court, locker rooms, Golf Pro Shop, and restaurant. After the project was taken over by Whistler Land Co. Developments (WLC; the Crown corporation that took over the liabilities and assets of the Whistler Village Land Company) in 1983, studies reportedly found it would be more profitable to run the facility as a conference centre than a resort recreation centre.

Architects Edward Friederichs and Don Jewel were brought in to design “a building within a building” and reconfigure the partially built structure into a conference facility. Although construction had previously stopped in 1982, work resumed in June 1984 when WLC

hired Smith Bros. and Wilson Ltd. One of the first things they did was remove the shake roof and replace it with a steel roof with 14 dormers, which were reportedly meant to help distribute the snow and make the building blend in more with the rest of the Village. The project was expected to be completed by June 1985.

As the completion date approached, expectations rose that the Conference Centre would bring in more visitors during Whistler’s slow months; in May 1985, three Whistler employees told the Whistler Question they thought the Conference Centre would “even out trade throughout the year,” especially in

Free Will Astrology

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You have had resemblances to cactuses in recent days. It hasn’t always been pleasant and cheerful, but you have become pretty skilled at surviving, even thriving, despite an insufficiency of juicy experiences. Fortunately, the emotional fuel you had previously stored up has sustained you, keeping you resilient and reasonably fluid. However, this situation will soon change. More succulence is on its way. Scarcity will end, and you will be blessed with an enhanced flow of lush feelings.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): I foresee abundance emerging from modest sources. I predict breakthroughs arising out of your loving attention to the details of the routine. So please don’t get distracted by poignant meditations on what you feel is missing from your life. Don’t fantasize about what you wish you could be doing instead of what you are actually doing. Your real wealth lies in the small tasks that are right in front of you—even though they may not yet have revealed their full meaning or richness. I invite you and encourage you to be alert for grandeur in seemingly mundane intimate moments.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): It’s time for your Uncle Rob to offer you some fundamental advice for living. These tips are always worthy of your contemplation, but especially now. Ready? Being poised amidst uncertainty is a superpower. You may attract wonders and blessings if you can function well while dealing with contradictory feelings, unclear situations, and incomplete answers. Don’t rush to artificial closure when patience with the unfinished state will serve you better. Be willing to address just part of a problem rather than trying to insist on total resolution. There’s no need to be worried or frustrated if some enigmas cannot yet be explained and resolved. Enjoy the mystery!

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Acclaimed Cancerian poet Lucille Clifton published 14 books and mothered six children. That heroism seems almost impossible. Having

WEEK OF JUNE 6 BY ROB

helped raise one child myself, I know how consuming it is to be a parent. Where did she find the time and energy to generate so much great literature? Judging from the astrological omens, I suspect you now have access to high levels of productivity comparable to Clifton’s. Like her, you will also be able to gracefully juggle competing demands and navigate adeptly through different domains. Here’s my favourite part: Your stellar efficiency will stem not from stressfully trying too hard but rather from good timing and a nimble touch.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): One of the seven wonders of the ancient world was the Colossus of Rhodes, located on a Greek island. Symbolizing power and triumph, it was a towering statue dedicated to the sun god Helios. The immediate motivation for its construction was the local people’s defeat of an invading army. I hereby authorize you to acquire or create your own personal version of an inspiring icon like the Colossus, Leo. It will symbolize the fact that the coming months will stimulate lavish expressions of your leonine power. It will help inspire you to showcase your talents and make bold moves. PS: Be alert for chances to mobilize others with your leadership. Your natural brilliance will be a beacon.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s biggest structure built by living things. Lying beneath the Coral Sea off the east coast of Australia, it’s made by billions of small organisms, coral polyps, all working together to create a magnificent home for a vast diversity of life forms. Let’s make the Great Barrier Reef your symbol of power for the next 10 months, Virgo. I hope it inspires you to manage and harness the many details that together will generate a robust source of vitality for your tribe, family, and community.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): One of my favourite poets, Arthur Rimbaud, wrote all of his brilliant work before he became an adult. I suspect that no matter what your age is, many of

the fall months that were “always dead.” With the ability to host events for up to 2,000 people, the Conference Centre was one of the largest such facilities in British Columbia, topped only by the Peach Bowl in Penticton. In addition to the main ballroom area, it also boasted breakout rooms on the lower level, an attached theatre, a full-service kitchen, the offices of the Whistler Resort Association (today Tourism Whistler) and a memorable atrium.

The Whistler Conference Centre opened, as expected, in June 1985 with a performance by the Anna Wyman Dance Theatre on Sat., June 8 followed by its first convention, a

BREZSNY

you Libras are now in an ultra-precocious phase with some resemblances to Rimbaud from age 16 to 21. The downside of this situation is that you may be too advanced for people to thoroughly understand you. You could be ahead of your time and too cool for even the trendsetters. I urge you to trust your farseeing visions and forward-looking intuitions even if others can’t appreciate them yet. What you bring to us from the future will benefit us all.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Blacksmiths still exist. They were more common in the past, but there are many 21st-century practitioners. It’s a demanding art, requiring intense heat to soften hard slabs of metal so they can be forged into intricate new shapes. The process requires both fire and finesse. I think you are currently in a phase when blacksmithing is an apt metaphor. You will need to artfully interweave passion and precision. Fiery ambition or intense feelings may arise, offering you raw energy for transformation. To harness it effectively, you must temper your approach with patience, restraint, and detail-oriented focus.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Jean-Paul Sartre and Simon de Beauvoir were two feisty, independent, strongminded French writers. Beauvoir was a trailblazing feminist, and Sartre was a Nobel Laureate. Though they never officially married, they were a couple for 51 years. Aside from their great solo accomplishments, they also gave us this gift: They proved that romantic love and intellectual equality could coexist, even thrive together, with the help of creative negotiation. I propose we make them your inspirational role models for now. The coming months will be a favourable time to deepen and refine your devotion to crafting satisfying, interesting intimate relationships.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): More than 2,600 years ago, ancient Babylonian astronomers figured out the highly complex cycle that governs the recurrence of lunar and solar eclipses. It unfolds over a period of 18

175-delegate meeting of Fibreglass Canada, beginning on Sunday, June 9. The public was invited to look around the building in early July and, according to the editorial in the Question, “They came, they saw, and they liked.”

Though it had hosted events and meetings throughout the summer, the official opening ceremony for the Conference Centre did not take place until Sept. 7, 1985. That weekend, Whistler hosted the retreat of provincial cabinet ministers, meaning government officials were on hand for both the opening ceremony and the 10th anniversary of the RMOW.

In his address, Premier Bill Bennett told the crowd, “Today, the opening of the Conference Centre is more a tribute to your optimism, your vision, and to knowing the kind of community you want,” and described the importance of Whistler as an introduction to British Columbia. His speech was followed by remarks from Chester Johnston, the chairman of WLC Developments Ltd, who thanked those who had worked on the project. The ceremony also included a performance by the Beefeaters Brass Band and a salmon barbecue.

By the time of the official opening ceremony, the Conference Centre had 50,000 delegate-days booked in 1985 and 120,000 booked for 1986, with expectations that those numbers would grow. Today, though it looks a little different than it did at its opening, the Whistler Conference Centre is still operated by Tourism Whistler and welcomes conferences, meetings and events to town. n

years and 11 days. To analyze its full scope required many generations of researchers to carry out meticulous record-keeping with extreme patience. Let’s make those Babylonian researchers your role models, Capricorn. In the coming months, I hope they inspire you to engage in careful observation and persistent investigation as you discover meaningful patterns. May they excite your quest to discern deep cycles and hidden rhythms.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): I invite you to try this visualization exercise, Aquarius: Picture a rosebud inside your body. It’s located in your solar plexus. Imagine it’s steadily and gently opening, filling your body with a sweet, blissful warmth, like a slow-motion orgasm that lasts and lasts. Feel the velvet red petals unfolding; inhale the soft radiance of succulent fragrance. As the rose fully blooms, you become aware of a gold ring at its centre. Imagine yourself reaching inside and taking the ring with your right hand. Slip the ring onto your left ring finger and tell yourself, “I pledge to devote all my passionate intelligence to my own well-being. I promise to forever treat myself with tender loving respect. I vow to seek out high-quality beauty and truth as I fulfil my life’s mission.”

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): I foresee the arrival of a living fossil, Pisces. An influence you thought was gone may soon reappear. Aspects of your past could prove relevant to your current situation. These might be neglected skills, seemingly defunct connections, or dormant dreams. I hope you have fun integrating rediscovered resources and earmarking them for use in the future. PS: Here’s a lesson worth treasuring: While the world has changed, a certain fundamental truth remains true and valuable to you.

Homework: What is the best surprise gift you could give yourself right now? Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com

WELCOME, DELEGATES The Conference Centre atrium set up for an event in January 1999.

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We promotefromwithinandarelookingtostrengthenouramazingteam.Opportunities for advancement intomanagementpositionsalways exist for the right candidates.Don’t missout onbeingabletobuildwiththeteamthatbuildsthemostsignificantprojectsinWhistler Send your resumetoinfo@evrfinehomes.com We lookforwardtohearingfrom you!

Î

/parttime/ casual

GroupFitnessClasses

Fridays–StrengthinPlay

7:30-8:30amwAnna

Saturday–Zumba

10:30-11:30amwSusie

Mondays– Yin& Yang Yoga

9:00-10:00amwHeidi

Tuesdays–AquaFit

8:45-9:45amwM-A

Wednesdays– Walk'n' Workout

8:50-10:00amwM-A

Thursdays–EnduroSwim 10:00-11:00amwHector

Seeourfullpage scheduleadin thisissueofPique fordetails

TheMuseumiscurrentlyseeking:

Marketing Manager

Responsibleforthedevelopment, oversight,andexecutionofall marketingandcommunications effortsoftheAudainArtMuseum includingadvertising,socialmedia, media relationsandaudience development.

•Full-time,Permanent

•$70,000peryear

•Health &WellnessBenefits

ApplicationdeadlineJune11,2025

Applyandlear nmoreviatheQR code, oremailapplicationsto bbeacom@audainartmuseum.com

TooverseeprojectsinWhistlerandSquamish

Email: admin@baseelectric.ca

Joinour Culinar yteamas aCommis1 orCommis2 at FourSeasonsResort& ResidencesWhistler,whereworld-class hospitalitymeetsbreathtakingalpine adventure.Deliverunforgettabledining experiencesatCanada’s#1Resort(Condé Nast Traveler),Accommodationofthe Year (BCHotelAssociation),and aproudrecipient of TwoMICHELINKeys!

Whatweoffer:

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CIVILCONSTRUCTION

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

EmployeeHealth &WellnessPlanavailable

HEAVYEQUIPMENTOPERATOR– Minimum 5yearsor5,000hoursoperatingexperienceon excavator.Full-time,Monday– Friday.$33-$46perhour.

HEAVYDUTYEQUIPMENTMECHANIC– CommercialTruck &Transport, Transport Trailer,Class 1or3 airbrakespreferred.4x10or5x8schedule.RedSealcertifiedreceive$200/monthtool allowance.$40.19-$49.15perhour.5%premiumonhourlywageforLeadHandposition.

CONSTRUCTIONLABOURER– Greatopportunitytolear non-the-job.Staminaforphysically demandingworkandperseverancetobraveinclementweather required.Previousexperience preferredbutnot required. Trainingprovided.$28-$33perhour.

HYDROVACOPERATOR– ValidClass 1orClass3 withairbrakes required.Manualtransmission. 2yearsexperiencepreferred.$35-$41.50perhour.

PIPELAYER– Minimum5 yearsexperienceincivilconstruction.Full-time, Monday –Friday. $33-$43perhour.

TRUCKDRIVER– BCDLClass1 orClass3 withairbrakesrequired. Manualtransmission. 2yearsexperiencepreferred.$35-$41.50perhour.

Workwithus

Joinourrapidlygrowingcompanyandbuildyourself asuccessfulcareerinconstruction.

NOWHIRING:

HR &PayrollAdministrator

$25 -$30/hr

Thestartingwageisdependentonexperienceandqualifications.

Weofferopportunitiesforgrowth,competitivepay, acomprehensivebenefitspackage,companycell phoneplan,golfpasses,andplentyoffunsocialevents. gavanconstruction.ca/careers

FACILITIESENGINEER

Full Time, Year Round

Love agoodchallenge?Passionateabout theplaceyoucallhome? TourismWhistler islooking forcommunity-loving,mountainappreciating,environment-respecting peopletojoinourteam.

TheFacilitiesEngineeris responsible for the repair,maintenance,and efficient operation of allmajormechanical, electrical,andplumbing systems,as well astheoverallupkeep of commonareas at theWhistlerConferenceCentre,Whistler GolfCourse,and DrivingRange. This role alsosupportssustainabilityinitiatives andprovidestechnicalguidancetothe maintenanceteam.

Whatweoffer:

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•Fortnightscheduledesignedtoenhance work-lifebalance

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•A commitmenttoemployee well-being, health,andsafety TO VIEWOURCAREEROPPORTUNITIES, AND TO APPLY, VISITUSONLINE AT: WHISTLER.COM/CAREERS.

ÚlÍusCommunityCentre

•DirectorofHumanResources($93,475.20to$101,556peryear)

•Workplace WellnessAdvisor($46,683.00to$63,973.00peryear)

•Custodian /EventsHosts($17.85to$20.90perhour)

•Receptionist(Ullus)($17.85to$20.90perhour)

Child&FamilyServices

•AssistantDirector,Child&FamilyServices($93,475.00to $101,556.00peryear)

•BuildingMaintenanceWorker($38,038.00to$53,599.00peryear)

•OfficeManager($59,878.00to$73,564.00peryear)

Lil’watHealth &Healing +PqusnalhcwHealthCentre

•HealingProgramManager($57,330.00to$64,610.00peryear)

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•ProgramCoordinator($46,683.00to$63,973.00peryear)

•Cook($20.90to$29.45perhour)

Title &Rights

•Project &CultureManager ($57,330.00to$64,610.00peryear)

CommunityProgram

•DirectorofCommunityPrograms($93,475.20to$101,556.00peryear)

•EarlyChildhoodEducator -InfantToddler($24.00 -$29.45/hrbased onexperience +thispositioniseligibleforwagetopup)

•AdministrativeAssistant($38,038.00to$53,599.00peryear)

•BusDriver($38,038.00to$53,599.00peryear)

•RecreationCoordinator($20.90to$29.45perhour)

Xet’òlacwCommunitySchool

•EducationAssistant($20.90to$29.45perhour)

•HighSchool Teacher -English &Humanities($60,015to$109,520 peryear)

•LanguageResource WorkerorLanguage Teacher ($46,683to$109,520peryear)

CommunityDevelopment

•CommunityJusticeDevelopmentFacilitator ($57,330.00to$64,610.00peryear)

•PolicyAnalyst($46,683.00to$63,973.00peryear)

• BandSocialD

Pleasevisitourcareerpageformoreinformation:https://lilwat.ca/careers/

Rentals:

FrontDeskStaff

$22/hourwith24-32hours/weekavailable

Mustbeavailableminimum: Fridays,Saturdays&Sundays9-5pm

Dutiesinclude:prearrival&postdeparture checkofvacation rentalunits.Changinglight bulbs&batteries,checking/restartingWIFI andCableasneeded,unloadingthe occasionaldishwasher.

Somefrontdeskdutiesinclude:providing resortinformation&directions,providing informationaboutthelodge.

We arelookingforsomeonewhohasattention todetail,isabletoworkindependently,can communicateclearly&isaproblem-solver. Willingtouseacomputerandcanselflead completingoutlineddailytasks.

Pleasesend resumesto: info@acervacations.com

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‘MERICA CANADA

Elbows way up

I HAVE AMERICAN FRIENDS . I have Canadian friends who live and work in the U.S. and/or who have married Americans, and American friends who live and work in Canada and/or who have married Canadians. I have American relatives, including an aunt and first cousins. Dual passports abound.

BY ANDREW MITCHELL

Many of them are probably wondering right now why Canadians wouldn’t want to join the America they love as its “cherished” 51st state and may be a little offended by how vigorously we’re protesting the idea. I imagine it’s a little like imagining you’re a perfect 10, asking someone you consider a six out on a date and being told “eww…”

For a president who prides himself on making deals, it really is a terrible offer.

Canada is about 15 times larger than the state of Texas but as the 51st state we’d get all of two lousy senators and a handful of reps in Congress.

You could argue our relatively small population doesn’t justify any more seats, that we’re only slightly more populated than the state of California. But California is also getting screwed by America’s unrepresentative

THANKS We’re good.

system and is very aware of that fact.

Canada has a larger population than the combined—combined!—populations of the states of Wyoming, Vermont, Alaska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Delaware, Rhode Island, Montana, Maine, New Hampshire, Hawaii, West Virginia, Idaho, Nebraska, New Mexico, Mississippi, Kansas, Arkansas, Iowa, Nevada, Utah and Connecticut. That’s 22 states with 44 senators—almost half the senate—who can pass bills, appoint judges, vet cabinet picks, and generally call the shots. America has become a tyranny of the rural minority, not a vibrant democratic nation where votes are even close to being equal.

Giving Canada any less than 20 senators and a fifth of the seats in congress would

there are countless reasons why no sane Canadian would ever want to switch passports, from the wretched private health-care system that drives millions into bankruptcy to the fact that Americans are 20 times more likely to be killed by a firearm. America ranks below Canada in pretty much every measure of social development that matters to the average person, from child mortality to average lifespan.

Canadians have responded to the attacks on our economy and sovereignty by boycotting American products and travel to the U.S.

It’s not easy. Canada and the U.S. have two of the most integrated economies in the world, and sometimes products will cross

America has become a tyranny of the rural minority, not a vibrant democratic nation where votes are even close to being equal.

massively disenfranchise us—the same way large states like California, New York, Texas and Florida are horribly disenfranchised by the system.

If he were truly serious about making Canada part of the U.S., Trump would offer us something approaching fair representation— in which case we’d effectively have the votes to turn America into Canada rather than the other way around. But they—all the little red have-not states that call the shots—would never allow that. We would be given token representation at best, the least they could offer to maintain the illusion of democracy.

Aside from the issue of representation,

the border a few times before being sold. Globalization also means Americans own a lot of the businesses we rely on in all kinds of ways.

Americans own Whistler Blackcomb and a lot of our hotels, for example. Almost everyone I know has an iPhone or subscribes to Netflix or Disney+. Many drive American cars. Almost all of our daily newspapers are owned by Postmedia, which is two-thirds owned by a pro-Trump hedge fund. This column was written on Microsoft Word on an American-made Dell laptop.

But while it’s hard to go elbows up over everything, everyone can be part of the

boycott in some way. We can choose where we travel, for example—I passed on my annual mountain bike trip to Bellingham. I won’t be going to the U.S. again until Trump is out of office and/or some kind of sanity is restored.

I also pretty much stopped using Amazon and I read labels every time I go shopping. There are a number of useful websites and social media pages to help people find Canadian products and alternatives to American products, as well as apps like O SCANada, Shop Canadian, Buy Beaver and Maple Scan where you can scan barcodes to find out where products are being made. On that front I was pleased to find out MEC is now back in Canadian hands again.

This whole situation is ridiculous. The reality is if you leave oil and gas out of the equation then the trade imbalance is actually tilted in the other direction—we buy more than $50 billion more U.S. products and services than Americans buy from Canada.

Which means we really do have a huge amount of power in this. We imported more than $683 billion in American products in 2024. Canadians also spend more than $20 billion on travel to the U.S. every year—a lot of that going to Trump-supporting red states like Florida and Nevada.

But while Canadians came out strong and arms are getting tired, we have to keep our elbows up. The effects of Trump’s tariffs are starting to be felt here, especially in our automotive and manufacturing industries. Canadians are already losing jobs. If anything, we need to hold our elbows higher.

We will never be the 51st state. But if there’s one good thing that’s come out of the idea it’s to remind us that we’re one country. n

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