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OCTOBER 9, 2026 ISSUE 33.41

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2026

M U N I C I PA L E L EC T I O N GUIDE

WARNING SIGNS WFRS talks Whistler’s new wildfire detection system

IN THE RUNNING Mayoral candidate Lance Bright makes the case for wildfire mitigation

ECHOES ON THE WIND WSAR’s Brad Sills discusses his new memoir

WE ARE THANKFUL FOR THIS PLACE We’re thankful for the mountains outside our doors, the changing seasons, and the people who make this community what it is. As locals, we’re lucky to live, work, raise our families, and build our lives here—and grateful every day to call this place home. From all of us at The Whistler Real Estate Company, Happy Thanksgiving.

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THIS WEEK IN PIQUE

Pique’s 2026 municipal election guide Hear from the candidates in their own words before you cast your vote. - By Pique staff

06 OPENING REMARKS Oct. 4 to 10 marks National Newspaper Week in Canada,

10 WARNING SIGNS Whistler’s new wildfire detection system spotted one fire 10

focusing on the real people behind the news, writes editor Braden Dupuis.

minutes before the first 911 call, giving crews a crucial head start.

08 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR This week’s letters share thoughts on preferred

11 IN THE RUNNING Mayoral candidate Lance Bright is making the business case for

qualities in municipal candidates, and love for the Whistler Public Library.

increased action on wildfire mitigation in his bid for office.

30 THE OUTSIDER Vince Shuley reflects on Whistler’s World Cup downhill debut, from

56 BIG HARRY DEAL Whistler’s Harry Marshall discusses his record-setting, 230-kilo-

roaring crowds to a course that tested the world’s best.

metre run from Lake Louise to Jasper, honouring his late brother and mother.

70 MAXED OUT G.D. Maxwell delves into some of the pressing issues of the municipal

60 ECHOES ON THE WIND Whistler SAR veteran Brad Sills shares five decades of

campaign… which are eerily similar to those of past elections.

searches, losses and quiet victories in his new memoir, Echoes on the Wind.

COVER Don’t vote for your friends just because they’re your friends. - By Jon Parris // @jon.parris.art

Publisher SARAH STROTHER - sstrother@piquenewsmagazine.com Editor BRADEN DUPUIS - bdupuis@piquenewsmagazine.com Sales Manager KAIJA KNOX - kknox@lodestarmedia.ca

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Contributors G.D. MAXWELL, VINCE SHULEY, LESLIE ANTHONY,

Art Director JON PARRIS - jparris@piquenewsmagazine.com

GLENDA BARTOSH, ANDREW MITCHELL, LISA RICHARDSON,

Advertising Representatives TESSA SWEENEY - tsweeney@wplpmedia.com ANDREW BUDRESKI - abudreski@piquenewsmagazine.com

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Pique Newsmagazine (a publication of Lodestar Media) The entire contents of Pique Newsmagazine are copyright 2026 by Pique Newsmagazine (a publication of Lodestar Media). No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the express written permission of the Publisher. In no event shall unsolicited material subject this publication to any claim or fees. Copyright in letters and other (unsolicited) materials submitted and accepted for publication remains with the author but the publisher and its licensees may freely reproduce them in print, electronic or other forms. Letters to the Editor must contain the author’s name, address and daytime telephone number. Maximum length is 250 words. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject any contribution. Letters reflect the opinion of the writer and not that of Pique Newsmagazine. Pique Newsmagazine is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact (edit@piquenewsmagazine.com). If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information. ISSN #1206-2022 Subscriptions: $76.70/yr. within Canada, $136.60/yr. courier within Canada. $605.80/yr. courier to USA. GST included. GST Reg. #R139517908. Canadian Publications Mail Product. Sales Agreement #40016549.

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OPENING REMARKS

A community effort IN THIS WEEK’S cover feature, you’ll find

something of a rarity—a collaborative community writing exercise involving no fewer than 29 people. Pulling it together for you was no simple feat. Coming in at a meaty 15,640 words, this feature is about 10 times the length of our regular weekly cover stories. By the time I finished collating, sorting, collecting, fact-checking, editing, randomizing and finalizing, I felt a strange sense of camaraderie with our local election candidates. I almost wanted to send them all a note and say something along the lines of, we did it you guys!

BY BRADEN DUPUIS Because it truly was a team effort. The candidates took time to consider our questions and put their answers in writing. Our job was to bring those responses together in a format that helps you compare the people seeking to represent you—and to get it on the stands by Oct. 9, so you have a full week before election day to soak it all up. Your part comes next: reading, considering, questioning—and, hopefully, voting. There are easier ways to spend an afternoon than working through 15,640 words of municipal election material, just like there were easier ways to spend several days than assembling it, too. But with decisions about housing, transportation, local businesses and public spending on the ballot, it was worth the effort. The timing is fitting. Oct. 4 to 10 marks National Newspaper Week in Canada, and this year’s campaign focuses on the real people behind the news. To make its point, News Media Canada is promoting a fictional character named Al Gorithm (get it?). He looks like a person and sounds like a person, but he isn’t a journalist. As artificial intelligence makes

it easier to manufacture convincing text, images and video, the campaign encourages Canadians to consider where their information comes from. “We want people to stop and ask: Who reported this? Who checked it? And who is accountable for it?” said Kelly Levson, News Media Canada’s director of marketing and research, in a release this week. Those are useful questions to keep in mind the next time something outrageous appears in your feed—which is probably at least once or twice a day at this rate. They are also fair questions to ask of your local newspaper. A byline, like those you find in Pique, gives you someone to ask, while a newsroom gives you somewhere to take a concern. And when we get something wrong, we have a responsibility to correct it. Of course, none of that guarantees perfection. Reporters and editors are human, and occasionally both could use a little more sleep. But there is a process behind the published story, and people responsible for seeing it through. Unsurprisingly, it’s fairly unglamorous work. Reading council agendas and sitting through dry-as-dirt meetings, or calling someone back and

Canadian adults read newspaper content each week, across print and digital formats. Among Gen Z adults, the figure was 85 per cent. The same research found 81 per cent of adults consider reliable community information from Canadian newspapers and news sites important, while 78 per cent are concerned about fake news and disinformation. There is an audience, and the need only grows stronger by the year. Keeping enough people employed to meet it remains the challenge. Between 2008 and Aug. 1 of this year, the Local News Map, a research project tracking changes to local news outlets across Canada, recorded 624 local news outlet closures in 395 Canadian communities. Community newspapers accounted for 452 of those closures, including 115 merged into regional publications. Those losses don’t mean every affected community has been left without reporting, but they do mean hundreds of familiar sources of local information have disappeared. And we’re not immune here in Whistler, where our newsroom has gone from a robust 6.5 local journalists prior

to participate. Candidates answering questions, residents returning calls or sharing their experiences, readers sending tips, pointing out mistakes and telling us when something deserves a closer look. That exchange is what makes a community newspaper useful. We live here, too, but we can’t do this job without your help—without people willing to go on the record with their stories, their experiences, their lives. You don’t have to agree with every editorial or enjoy every story. You should expect us to substantiate what we report, distinguish opinion from fact and listen when you challenge us. And if you value that work, there are practical ways to support it. Pick up the paper, and visit our website regularly. Send a story to someone who might find it useful. Sign up for our weekly newsletter, and support the local businesses whose advertising helps pay for the reporting. Or support us directly at piquenewsmagazine.com/account/ support/signup. This week, you can also spend some time with the 28 election candidates who helped make our cover feature possible. Read their answers, compare

By the time I finished collating, sorting, collecting, fact-checking, editing, randomizing and finalizing, I felt a strange sense of camaraderie with our local election candidates. I almost wanted to send them all a note and say something along the lines of, we did it you guys!

asking for clarification. Comparing a new announcement with an old promise, and finding the person whose experience complicates the tidy version of events. The words on the page are the part you see. Gathering the information takes time. And despite the familiar predictions about the death of newspapers, Canadians are still reading what we produce. News Media Canada’s Newspapers 24/7: 2026 study found 83 per cent of Top-floor 1-bedroom at Alpenglow Lodge in Whistler Village. Renovated with vaulted ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, fully renovated kitchen and bathroom, gas fireplace, air conditioning, and views toward Whistler Blackcomb. Steps to shops, restaurants and ski lifts. Amenities include pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room, fitness room, ski/bike storage and underground parking. Flexible zoning allows nightly rentals, making this a great Whistler lifestyle investment property. 501-4369 Main Street Asking price - $849,000

to the COVID-19 pandemic to the smallbut-scrappy team of three we have today. Because council still meets, passing big budgets and considering development applications that matter to the people who live here. Elections, like the two we’re now covering, don’t stop because we’re tired. Covering all of it requires people with the time, resources and local knowledge to follow along—and to follow up. It also requires a community willing

their priorities; consider what they’ve addressed, what they’ve avoided and what you still want to ask. This chaotic community group project has culminated in 15,640 words to help you make a decision, either at the final advance poll on Oct. 10 (at the Whistler Public Library) or on election day, Oct. 17 (at Myrtle Philip Community School). But the decision itself, as always, is up to you. n

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

What qualities I’m looking for this election Having spent the last 20 years consulting and working with municipalities, councils, and staff across British Columbia, I’ve observed both great and not-so-great examples of leaders meeting the moment. In this moment, there are lots of things happening outside the control of the municipality, and inside, that should give us pause to determine who is best equipped. A precarious economy, in part due to actions outside our control, warming temperatures, the cost of living, regional growth, and decisions of Vail Resorts’ headquarters are just a few examples of issues impacting Whistler. Within Whistler, our local government has at least four senior officials who are new to municipal operations and governance and who are tasked with implementing the community’s strategic, operational, and budget plans. We are also in the midst of considering one of the last significant development projects near the Village. So, now more than ever, it is important to have leaders with continuity of experience. That said, municipal

“[T]here are lots of things happening outside the control of the municipality, and inside, that should give us pause to determine who is best equipped.” - DAN WILSON

governance shouldn’t be a lifelong career path, and sometimes the best move is to pass the baton. New energy is helpful, not least to provide different perspectives and smooth succession over time. So, who should be joining our leadership? In my mind, I’ll vote for candidates with all of the following characteristics. Local non-profit board experience: Whistler’s non-profits get things done for the community. If candidates have been in Whistler for over 20 years and haven’t held a board position in at least one or two non-profit organizations, that should give pause. To me, it means they are inexperienced in selflessly working for others and getting things done in a governing situation among equals. Volunteering on a board also shows commitment to this community as a whole and not one specific issue or topic. Governance knowledge: Understanding the role of a municipal government, council, and the separation between governance and operations is important. If candidates haven’t been to at least 20 council meetings in the past four years, they haven’t shown the interest to learn this. One thing learned at meetings is that a council member’s power to change things is only as strong as colleagues’ interest in the issue. Bold promises beyond what they can control are red flags.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Humility: Confidently articulating concerns about local decisions while misrepresenting facts or municipal policy shows either arrogance, an inability to learn, or, at best, naivety. Aspiring politicians should especially be humble unless they have all the facts, and many don’t or cannot. Financial acumen: Despite the ability to raise taxes, municipalities need to operate each year with scarce resources as they are not allowed to have an operating deficit. Budgeting is not for the faint of heart, operating and capital spending budgets are large, building reserves doesn’t typically get votes, and major expenses like policing and fire rise in big, untimely steps. Board-member roles and direct financial experience both prepare candidates for council. So, take from this what you will, and remember: you don’t need to vote for a full slate. Most importantly, get out and vote. Dan Wilson // Whistler

Show some love for the Whistler Public Library this month October is National Library Month. It’s a

time to discover and appreciate all our local library has to offer. Did you know the Whistler Public Library (WPL) isn’t just a place to get books? It’s much more than that. The library provides a safe and welcoming space to all and is sometimes referred to as “The Living Room of Whistler.” Drop in any day for a program like storytime, to explore the unusual items collection, to learn about technology, or just to curl up fireside with a book or a magazine. Best of all, everything is free at your public library! This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Whistler Public Library. To celebrate this occasion the WPL trustees have launched a $40 for 40 years campaign. We’re hoping members of our community will donate $4 or $40 (or even $400) to make improvements to the well-used fireside lounge. You can make a donation on our website at whistlerlibrary.ca/supportus/give. A big thank you to those of you who have already donated to the 40th anniversary campaign! Sheilagh Martin // WPL Trustee n

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

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NEWS WHISTLER

Whistler’s new wildfire detection system giving crews an earlier warning WHISTLER’S FIRE CHIEF SAYS THE AI-POWERED CAMERA AND SENSOR SYSTEM DETECTED ONE FIRE 10 MINUTES BEFORE THE FIRST 911 CALL

BY LUKE FAULKS WHISTLER’S NEWEST wildfire-fighting

tool is designed to find fires before the public does—and, in at least one case this summer, it did exactly that. Whistler Fire Rescue Service (WFRS) Chief Thomas Doherty gave mayor and council a demonstration Sept. 22 of a new wildfire detection network combining cameras, sensors and satellite information to identify smoke, pinpoint fires and help model how they could spread. Whistler currently has four cameras and 70 sensors deployed around the community as part of a broader network, with SenseNet cameras capable of distinguishing smoke from clouds or dust. The system automatically sends firefighters an image and coordinates when a fire is detected. At one human-caused fire south of Whistler near the RV park, Doherty said the system detected smoke 10 minutes before the first 911 call. “Our crews [were] arriving on scene by the time the first call was coming through,” he said. “The traditional way is we would go investigate the smoke call. [So] the system is definitely very advantageous in this particular incident. “Three key things [to] minimize property loss and injury and death [are] early detection, early notification, and a quick

FIRE WATCH Council praised the technology while pressing the fire chief on longer fire bans, humancaused fires and remaining equipment gaps. PHOTO COURTESY OF SENSENET

10 OCTOBER 9, 2026

response,” Doherty added. “These fires don’t start at 100 hectares, and if we can get to them quicker, and this is one tool that helps us do that, we’re in a much better position.”

EARLIER DETECTION, BETTER INFORMATION

Whistler currently has four SenseNet cameras, including two at the waste transfer site, one on the south slope of Whistler Mountain and one near Creekside West, with another planned above Green Lake. Private systems are also operating in Kadenwood and at Cougar Mountain. The service combines artificialintelligence-enabled cameras with environmental sensors that monitor temperature, humidity, smoke particulates and air quality. Doherty said the cameras continuously scan the surrounding landscape and can zoom in when smoke is detected. Sensors can also trigger a camera to look toward a particular location. The system can further model potential fire growth using topography, weather and fuel types—information Doherty said could help an emergency operations centre decide where evacuation alerts or orders may be needed. Councillor Arthur De Jong asked whether the new tech could eventually be paired with firefighting drones carrying water or retardant. Doherty said that kind of technology is already being tested elsewhere. “I certainly see that technology evolving and potentially being something that, you know, if there’s a notification, the coordinates go and the drone will self-launch,” he said. “So that certainly is something that’s on the horizon.”

De Jong also asked whether longterm camping on Crown land might be helping drive this past summer’s fires around Whistler. Doherty said causes varied, but poorly discarded smoking materials represented a larger share of the department’s experience this season, alongside campfires. Coun. Ralph Forsyth asked whether forest road camping and people staying in the backcountry around Whistler pose a significant wildfire risk. Doherty said he did not have the data to answer the question, but noted that those more remote encampments can increase the danger when a fire starts because crews may take longer to reach it.

LONGER BANS AND REMAINING GAPS

Coun. Jessie Morden questioned whether Whistler should move toward a longer, predictable annual campfire ban as wildfire seasons begin earlier and last longer. Whistler’s ban came into effect May 7 this year, and was rescinded Sept. 30. Morden floated an April 1-to-Nov. 1 prohibition, arguing an earlier ban could also help signal the seriousness of fire risk to the public. Doherty said the fire department has considered standard dates and would prefer consistency across the Sea to Sky, including Squamish and Pemberton, but cautioned against setting dates that may not match actual weather conditions. He also acknowledged the challenge created when municipal bans and provincial restrictions covering nearby backcountry areas do not line up. “We end up with mixed messaging

when BC Wildfire maybe lifts the ban and ours is still on,” Doherty said. “I think there’s work to be done at the political level and with the province to look at that and look at the risk in the backcountry and how can we better improve that situation and put the bans on when needed.” Morden also asked whether wildfire education could be expanded beyond FireSmart programming. Doherty suggested basic wildfire training currently offered largely to municipal and Whistler Blackcomb staff could potentially be offered more widely. Coun. Jeff Murl, meanwhile, asked what equipment remained on the department’s wish list. Doherty identified a dedicated structure protection unit for Whistler. The municipality currently shares a trailer equipped with pumps and sprinklers with Squamish, but he warned that resource may not be available if both communities need it at the same time. “One trailer of that size is good for protecting maybe 32 homes,” Doherty said. “So that’s something I think in the future that Whistler needs to acquire one specific for Whistler, that’s not a shared resource that may not be available to us if we need it.” Mayor Jack Crompton called the presentation “fascinating,” and praised the department’s efforts to strengthen Whistler’s wildfire readiness. “It is something that I think keeps our community up at night,” Crompton said. “And knowing that you are constantly looking for ways to improve our fire posture and make us a better prepared community is really encouraging and comforting.” n

NEWS WHISTLER

Lance Bright makes business case for wildfire action in Whistler mayoral run WHISTLERITES HEAD TO THE POLLS OCT. 17

BY LUKE FAULKS

NEW LISTING

LANCE BRIGHT remembers helping

plant trees around Whistler as a child. Decades later, the Whistler mayoral candidate sees some of those same forests very differently. Bright, a second-generation local business owner who grew up in Whistler, has made wildfire mitigation the centrepiece of his campaign for mayor. His pitch is partly about public safety, but just as much about economics: spending heavily to reduce the risk now, he argues, would be far cheaper than rebuilding the resort after a catastrophic fire. His father, Jack Bright, managed Whistler Mountain from 1967 to 1977, with staff housing allowing the family to establish itself in the community. Bright said growing up around the resort business—and later taking responsibility for his family’s business after his father’s passing—shaped how he looks at municipal decisions. That includes wildfire. “People have their hopes and dreams, their job, their small business, their home equity, their retirement and savings,” Bright said. “My father came here in 1967 and went all-in on this town. “Imagine going all-in, building this place, and then a fire comes through and destroys everything. That’s what we’re risking.” Bright previously ran unsuccessfully for council in 2018, when wildfire and Highway 99 were also key parts of his campaign. Eight years later, he argues the municipality and province have made progress through FireSmart work and fuel-thinning, but nowhere near enough. Bright wants Whistler to lobby the province for a much larger investment in landscape-level forest thinning, proposing at least $100 million over three years. He would also push for dedicated aerial firefighting resources stationed close to Whistler, arguing quick detection means little without the ability to immediately attack a fire before it grows. Bright said his own aviation background included flying in northern B.C. and helping lead firefighting aircraft into fires. “Given the state we’re in right now, rapid response and detection is the only way to manage this,” he said. “What I want immediately is dedicated aircraft here to protect us, followed by a plan to thin these forests.” Bright argues the expense has to be weighed against the value of what governments, businesses and residents stand to lose. “It’s simple Sesame Street math,” he said. “If this place goes down, it’s billions in revenue gone. It will be decades before we have some semblance of normality,

IN THE RUNNING Lance Bright. PHOTO COURTESY OF LANCE BRIGHT

and that goes the same for Whistler Blackcomb and every other entity that works with this valley.” That business case extends to Vail Resorts. Bright wants the municipality to work more closely with Whistler Blackcomb on forest management, including thinning between ski runs to create wider breaks in forest fuels. Rather than approaching the company confrontationally, Bright said he wants to make the argument that protecting the mountain also protects its summer operations, events and revenue. He similarly wants mitigation carried out across jurisdictional boundaries, including provincial and municipal lands. “This valley has the potential of burning down, or becoming a model of how to be a resort in a wildfire environment,” he said. “That’s the story I want to write for the future.” Wildfire may dominate Bright’s platform, but housing is another priority. His campaign website points to affordable housing, transit, daycare and wages as key ingredients in attracting and retaining workers. “If my father wasn’t given staff housing for 10 years, he wouldn’t have said, ‘This is my place to hang out,’” Bright said. “Revelstoke or some other mountain would have called him away.” He wants to see Whistler Blackcomb move ahead with more employee housing and believes the municipality should revisit some rules governing Whistler Housing Authority properties— particularly where longtime owners feel unable to move elsewhere because of resale restrictions. Transportation is another holdover from his 2018 campaign. Bright remains interested in improving bus travel through Function Junction and Creekside, including tackling bottlenecks and left turns he says slow transit and emergency vehicles. Bright is running against Brandon Smith, Marco Zunino, and incumbent mayor Jack Crompton. Whistlerites will elect a mayor and six councillors on Oct. 17. Read the full story online. n

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3 bed I 2 bath I 1,177sqft I Townhouse

1 bed I 1 bath I 528sqft I Condominium

3205 Archibald Way

DOUG TRELEAVEN

$629,000 $1,788,000

11-2556 Snowridge Crescent

$629,000 $499,000

124-1490 Highway 99

$629,000 $339,000

Real Estate Agent

(604) 905-8626 douglas.treleaven@gmail.com dougtreleaven.com

WHISTLER –––

#25 Bluffs offers exceptional slopeside ownership with effortless ski-in/ski-out access to Creekside Gondola, plus Phase 1 zoning for personal enjoyment and investment potential.

Exceptional opportunity to own a Phase 2 unit that sleeps 6; just steps from the gondolas. Resort amenities include an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna.

Take advantage of this outstandingl opportunity to purchase a Phase 2 unit right in the heart of Whistler Village, featuring full resort amenities such as an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna.

2 bed I 2 bath I 1,002sqft I Townhouse

1.5 bed I 1 bath I 495sqft I Condo

0.5 bed I 1 bath I 344sqft I Condo

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227 4220 Gateway Drive

229 4220 Gateway Drive

Wishing you a cozy THANKSGIVING ﬁlled with good food, great company, and all the comforts of home!

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WHISTLER –––

Located in the exclusive Sunridge Plateau, this brilliantly designed, mountain chalet offers breathtaking mountain views, exemplifying refined mountain elegance.

Akasha, one of Whistler’s most architecturally significant estates. A luxurious residence poised majestically on the prestigious Sunridge Plateau providing spectacular mountain views.

Now Sold. Located in an exclusive neighbourhood just a short walk to Whistler Village this brilliantly designed luxury chalet sits on a private estate lot with spectacular mountain views.

6 bed I 7 bath I 7,492sqft I Modern Residence

6 bed I 7 bath I 6,345sqft I Luxury Chalet

5 bed I 7 bath I 6,300sqft I Luxury Chalet

3824 Sunridge Drive

SHERRY BAKER

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3820 Sunridge Drive

$3,599,000

Address on Request

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WHISTLER –––

PEMBERTON –––

A magnificent modern residence and carriage house offering vaulted ceilings, light-filled interiors, and versatile living spaces designed for privacy, income potential, and entertaining.

This home was thoughtfully designed to bring the outdoors in, opening to a private patio complete with hot tub, sauna, cold plunge and breathtaking forest and mountain views.

Newly constructed in the coveted Sunstone community, this refined modern home blends architectural simplicity with elevated design and sweeping mountain views.

5 bed I 5 bath I 3,523sqft I Chalet

4 bed I 4 bath I 2,878sqft I Chalet

4 bed I 4 bath I 2,363sqft I Chalet

8224 Alpine Way

DAVID NAGEL

$629,000 $3,788,000

9149 Wedge Creek Rise

$629,000 $2,795,000

7666 Cerulean Drive

$629,000 $475,000

Real Estate Agent

(604) 906-0026 davidnagelwhistler@gmail.com davidnagel.com

WHISTLER –––

Reimagined with luxury finishes, this sunlit Bayshores masterpiece offers open living and flexible accommodations, located just minutes from Creekside’s shops, dining, and gondola.

This family friendly Whistler chalet sits on a spacious 13,000+ sq ft lot with sweeping mountain views, offering warmth, character, privacy and the ultimate alpine lifestyle.

Perched on Cascade Lodge’s top floor, this beautifully renovated studio offers a quiet Whistler Village retreat with flexible selfmanagement or rental options.

5 bed I 4 bath I 3,085sqft I Chalet

5 bed I 3 bath I 2,106sqft I Chalet

0.5 bed I 1 bath I 242sqft I Studio

2741 Coyote Place

2748 Coyote Place

617-4315 Northlands Blvd

VISIT OUR WHISTLER BRANCH OFFICE AT 4314 MAIN STREET, UNIT 20, WHISTLER, BC, V8E 1A8

NEWS WHISTLER

Ivan Otto emphasizes youth, working-resident perspective in council bid AT 36, THE COUNCIL CANDIDATE SAYS YOUNGER WORKERS NEED A BIGGER VOICE IN DECISIONS SHAPING WHISTLER’S FUTURE

BY LUKE FAULKS SIX YEARS AFTER arriving in Whistler

with two suitcases and a temporary work permit, Ivan Otto has built a career and a life in the Sea to Sky. What he hasn’t been able to do is buy a home in the community he considers home. After spending more than three years on Whistler’s employee-housing waitlist, Otto and his partner recently bought in Pemberton. He said the decision came down to a simple calculation. “There was an opportunity to go for affordable rent in Cheakamus, or for the same money I can buy a place in Pemberton and pay my mortgage,” Otto said. “If [someone] wants to raise a family here, and they spend all of their money on rent instead of paying toward their own mortgage, it’s hard.” Otto came to Canada in 2020 after studying logistics for nine years at university and working as a logistics manager in Prague. His first Whistler job was considerably different: working in the kitchen of a Mexican restaurant while living in staff accommodation. After losing both the job and housing

14 OCTOBER 9, 2026

that came with it, he eventually found work at the Whistler Community Services Society’s Re-Use-It Centre. He later moved to the Whistler Food Bank, where he is now the food security manager. That work, he said, exposed him directly to the growing strain on people struggling to remain in the community. “In my current position, I can help with getting people bananas or oranges or apples,” he said. “But if I really want to help the people who struggle, I need to be in a different position. I think council is one place where I can help.” Housing is Otto’s top priority, with a particular focus on controlling construction costs and creating more employee-restricted ownership opportunities. He wants the municipality to scrutinize what it pays for materials, furnishings and contracted work, compare competing bids and look for ways to deliver housing more cheaply. Otto also wants Whistler to consider housing locations beyond Cheakamus Crossing. Concentrating more residents in Cheakamus while relying on Highway 99 as the community’s main transportation corridor, he argued, compounds congestion and leaves few alternatives

IN THE RUNNING Ivan Otto. PHOTO COURTESY OF IVAN OTTO

when traffic backs up. Regional transportation is particularly personal now that he lives in Pemberton. The last bus leaves Whistler’s Gondola Transit Exchange about 10 minutes after 9 p.m. “If your shift finishes at 10, then you cannot go home,” he said. Otto wants Whistler to work with Pemberton, Squamish, neighbouring First Nations and the province on better regional transit, and would like governments to investigate restoring passenger rail between Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton. One of Otto’s smaller—but more tangible—campaign ideas comes from his university years in Europe, where

students worked with administrators to build a free outdoor workout area. He would like Whistler to install similar static exercise equipment near parks and lakes, allowing runners, swimmers and other residents to incorporate strength training without paying for a gym. “A lot of people, different age categories, can benefit from that,” he said. “We’re talking about making something affordable for our community, and they don’t need to pay for this.” He also supports dedicated seniors housing and gathering space, pointing to a recent visit to a retirement facility that combines accommodation with fitness and social amenities. “Not every senior is lucky that they have family in town,” Otto said. “Some of them are single, alone. Why should they leave Whistler just because they are old?” Otto also wants to examine whether locals and seniors can receive deeper discounts on municipal services and amenities. He said he would push Whistler Blackcomb to revisit local skipass pricing, arguing people working in the resort economy should see a greater benefit. Whistlerites head to the polls on Oct. 17. Find the full story online. n

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NEWS WHISTLER

Sea to Sky candidates lay out provincial priorities CANDIDATES ANSWER PIQUE’S QUESTIONS ON BUSINESS COSTS, REGIONAL TRANSIT AND MORE

BY BRADEN DUPUIS period officially closed and provincial election day fast approaching on Saturday, Oct. 24, candidates in West Vancouver-Sea to Sky are hitting the campaign trail. Incumbent Jeremy Valeriote of the Green Party is running against the NDP’s Michelle Livaja, the BC Conservatives’ Ayla Dumais, and CentreBC’s Dan Wood. To get the discussion rolling, Pique sent the same three questions to all candidates in the riding via email, focusing on business, transportation and local priorities, with a limit of 100 words per answer. Their responses have been lightly edited for clarity. Find more provincial election coverage at piquenewsmagazine.com in the weeks to come. WITH

THE

NOMINATION

What specific provincial action would you prioritize to help businesses in Whistler manage rising costs and remain viable? JEREMY VALERIOTE: To keep property taxes in check, the province needs to step up by

re-investing more of the revenue it receives from tourism. Whistler accounts for onequarter of all B.C.’s tourism revenue, so the costs that the RMOW incurs to sustain the tourism experience should not be dependent on property taxes from Whistler homeowners and businesses. I will fight for our fair share of the provincial public revenue we help generate, by advocating for expansion of Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI) funding from the provincial treasury, and more tax revenue from Vail Resorts and other big corporations who benefit from our services. MICHELLE LIVAJA: For businesses in the Sea to Sky specifically, I know that tourism is our biggest industry. Our government has stood up for the tourism and hospitality sector—by cutting the small business tax, which is now 25-per-cent lower than it was when the Opposition was in power, by tackling street disorder through investments in public safety, and by ensuring that businesses can recruit workers by tackling the high cost of housing, gas and groceries. I know there is more to do. I also know that the conservative parties would undo this hard-won progress. AYLA DUMAIS: My priority is reducing the cost of doing business. Whistler businesses face extraordinary

pressures—from labour and housing costs to taxes and rising operating expenses. A Conservative government will introduce no new taxes and reverse the NDP’s expansion of PST onto professional services that businesses rely on. We will also remove PST on Canadian beer, wine and spirits, helping Whistler’s restaurants and hospitality sector while supporting Canadian producers. Just as importantly, I will work with local businesses to identify unnecessary provincial red tape and barriers that make it harder to operate, hire, and invest here. DAN WOOD: Staff housing. Whistler businesses can’t fill shifts because the people who would fill them can’t live here, and that shows up in every cost line. I’ve spent a decade working on the supply side of housing and real estate. My priority is a provincial infrastructure fund that pays for the water, sewer and road upgrades employee housing needs, so municipalities aren’t recovering those costs through high development charges that add tens of thousands of dollars per unit. Pair it with standard approval timelines set by the Province. What would you do to improve transportation along the Sea to Sky

corridor, and what could residents realistically expect within your term? JEREMY VALERIOTE: In my two years as MLA, I have helped make significant progress towards the dream of regional public transit from Vancouver to Mount Currie. With relentless advocacy to the Premier and Minister of Transportation, alongside the hard work of local governments and First Nations, I am excited about the signing of an MOU between the province and the regional transit committee on Sept. 22, the same day the provincial election was called. This is more progress than we’ve ever seen, and it’s now realistic to expect hourly transit buses on Highway 99 within the next one to two years. MICHELLE LIVAJA: After 20 years commuting from Bowen, I understand the critical need for reliable regional public transit. It’s important not only to support our growing communities, but also to enhance tourism. We’ve taken a great first step, with the MOU signed between the Regional Transit Committee and the Province. What we need now is a funding model that will work for people, and not raise costs on them. The BC Conservatives have made promises that

SEE PAGE 18 >>

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NEWS WHISTLER << FROM PAGE 16 they have no plan to pay for. That means slashing funding for public transit, reducing service, and downloading costs onto people. We can’t afford the risk. AYLA DUMAIS: As a young person living in Squamish, I understand first-hand the challenges posed by the lack of progress on regional transit. Jeremy Valeriote ran in 2024 promising concrete action on regional transit. Despite holding the balance of power for over a year of the last term, he was unable to hold the NDP government accountable on any of CARGA’s terms (which included Sea to Sky regional transit). When it comes to regional transit, this riding doesn’t just need a voice; it needs someone actually sitting in government who can make it a priority at the cabinet table. DAN WOOD: Regional transit has been studied since 2015, a committee has sat since 2019, and federal money has been on the table. The Province signed an MOU the day it called the election but with no dollars, no operator, and no date. Our incumbent had two years, including a cooperation agreement with this government, and still no new buses hit the road. I would turn the MOU into a funded service: BC Transit operating share, federal money for buses and hubs, integrated TransLink fares. Within one term: a daily Pemberton–Vancouver bus, and Highway 99 safety work in the capital plan with dates.

IN THE RUNNING (L to R): Michelle Livaja, Jeremy Valeriote, Dan Wood and Ayla Dumais. PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Beyond those issues, what is the most urgent issue in this riding, and what concrete action would you take? JEREMY VALERIOTE: Regional public transit is only one of many solutions to the growing affordability crisis we face in the Sea to Sky. In our cooperation agreement with the NDP government in 2025, we specified the construction of 7,500 non-market housing units per year for four years across B.C.—they fell behind on that and other commitments, so we didn’t renew. They also cancelled the $1.3B Community Housing Fund, leaving non-profits in the

lurch on projects that were counting on that program. I will continue to advocate for the reinstatement of that fund and support all our local non-profit housing organizations. MICHELLE LIVAJA: Hands down it’s cost of living and health-care. That’s why I’m proud to be part of the team that’s taking on big companies to bring down the cost of gas and groceries, as well as strengthening health-care with a million more people connected to a family doctor and more on the way. We know the Conservatives have made a lot of promises about bringing down the deficit that they

have absolutely no plan to pay for. And so we know what that means: cuts to healthcare, transit, and other services people in our community count on. AYLA DUMAIS: I hear about and experience the cost-of-living crisis every day. But the most urgent issue is our crumbling health-care; it is life or death for many. The NDP and Greens will raise taxes that drive doctors out of the province, while 1.2 Million British Columbians don’t have a family doctor, and rural and regional hospitals close. The BC Conservatives will keep ERs open, support rural practices at risk of closing, and invest $50 million into an emergency fund, while protecting current health-care funding. We will also train more doctors in B.C. and speed up international credential recognition. DAN WOOD: Whether the people who work in a community can afford to live in it. Ski patrollers, nurses, teachers and tradespeople commuting on a highway not built for the volume is the riding’s defining problem, from Pemberton to West Vancouver. Concrete action: a resort-and-rural stream in provincial housing policy, because one size does not fit Whistler, Squamish and Metro Vancouver alike. It combines the infrastructure fund above, provincial approval standards, and public reporting on approval times and homes completed in order to meet the qualifications for funding. I’d measure it by one number: how many workers live within the corridor, year over year. n

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LET’S CONNECT TO DISCUSS YOUR WHISTLER & PEMBERTON REAL ESTATE PLANS 1087 Madeley Place $2,695,000 / USD $1,894,400 * Well maintained house on quiet cul-de-sac * 4 bedrooms / 2.5 bathrooms, approx. 2,466 sq.ft. * Close to all year-round Whistler Resort activities

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OCTOBER 9, 2026

NEWS WHISTLER

Council considers early closure of Bayly Park skate ramp after persistent complaints from neighbours RESIDENTS SAY THE NEW FACILITY HAS DISRUPTED DAILY LIFE AT THE NEIGHBOURING PODIUM BUILDING, DESPITE THEIR SUPPORT FOR SKATEBOARDING for the season on Sept. 30, although no decision was made that evening.

BY LUKE FAULKS WHISTLER COUNCIL is reconsidering

the future of a new skateboard ramp at Bayly Park after more complaints from nearby residents, with an early closure and a possible move among the options discussed Sept. 22. Four residents of the Podium building in Cheakamus Crossing spoke to council, saying the mini ramp installed earlier this summer has brought disruptive noise to their homes. Their presentations followed a July petition calling for the ramp to be moved and an earlier council discussion on Sept. 1. Councillor Ralph Forsyth acknowledged his view had changed after hearing from residents. “When I first heard people complaining about it, I was like, ‘Oh come on, man, skateboarding’s not a crime. It’s fun. Kids enjoy it. I enjoy it. I love skateboarding too,’” he said. “But then I’ve [heard] reasonable people asking me reasonable questions about the facility and the noise, and I get it.” Council discussed closing the ramp

RESIDENTS PUSH BACK

The new mini ramp was built on an existing paved section of the former BMX track. Staff previously told council the project received about $25,000 in municipal funding, along with money and materials from the local skateboard coalition and construction companies. Residents of the adjacent Podium building say they were not properly informed about the project. Signs posted during construction mentioned bike park improvements but made no reference to skateboarding. Resident Mohamed Hussein said the repeated sound of boards hitting the ramp has made sleeping, working and relaxing difficult. He also described an incident involving loud music after hours that required police to attend, and an argument between a resident and ramp users. “The placement of the skateboard feature at its current location, not the feature itself, is the source of these problems,” he said. Former skateboarder Stefan Koch also supported having a ramp in the

RAMP RUCKUS A recently installed skate ramp in Cheakamus Crossing. PHOTO BY LUKE FAULKS

neighbourhood, but questioned how close it was built to homes. He called for it to be moved before next season, preferably 50 to 80 metres from housing, and for a noise study to be completed. Staff estimate the ramp is currently about 29 metres from the Podium development.

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Josianne Gaudette said the noise disrupts online meetings she holds from her ground-floor home and workplace. She asked whether other locations were considered and raised concerns about residents’ homes appearing in videos filmed by skateboarders. Tina Durlacher, meanwhile, pushed back against councillors’ earlier references to the small number of complaints made to bylaw officers. “Our building could have called bylaw on most of those days. We haven’t, not because the noise stopped or not because the noise wasn’t present, but because we don’t want to be the neighbours who are constantly complaining,” she said. Durlacher also disputed comparisons with the nearby basketball court, saying skateboards create a much louder, sharper and more repetitive sound.

COUNCIL CONSIDERS NEXT STEPS

Dale Mikkelsen, general manager of climate action, planning and development services, explained the municipality wanted to provide a skateboarding facility

SEE PAGE 22 >>

VOTE IN THE PROVINCIAL ELECTION The 2026 Provincial General Election is on Saturday, October 24, 2026. WHO CAN VOTE

WAYS TO VOTE

You can vote in the 2026 Provincial General Election if you are: • a Canadian citizen, • 18 or older on October 24, 2026, and • a resident of British Columbia since April 23, 2026.

VOTER REGISTRATION Register now to save time when you vote. You can register or update your information at elections.bc.ca/register or by calling 1-800-661-8683. You can also register when you go to vote. Remember to bring ID that shows your name and home address when you vote. See elections.bc.ca/id for a list of acceptable ID.

Vote at a district electoral office Voting at district electoral offices is available now during office hours until 4 p.m. (Pacific time) on Final Voting Day.

Vote by mail You can ask for a vote-by-mail package by:

Advance Voting You can vote in advance from Friday, October 16 to Wednesday, October 21. Advance voting places will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (local time).

Your vote-by-mail package will be mailed to you. Request a vote-by-mail package as soon as possible to make sure you can receive and return it on time.

• Visiting elections.bc.ca/votebymail

Voters can vote at any advance voting location. Visit wheretovote.elections.bc.ca to find advance voting places and the dates they are open. Final Voting Day Final Voting Day is Saturday, October 24. Voting places will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Pacific time). Voters have an assigned voting location on Final Voting Day.

• Calling Elections BC at 1-800-661-8683

For information about other voting options, visit elections.bc.ca.

WORK IN THE PROVINCIAL ELECTION Election jobs are available across the province. Visit elections.bc.ca/jobs for more information.

WHERE AND WHEN TO VOTE Voting Places for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky Open Dates

Advance Voting Places (open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time on the dates listed)

Fri, Oct 16

Sat, Oct 17

Sun, Oct 18

Pemberton Sec School, 1400 Oak St, Pemberton, BC

Squamish Valley Golf Club, 2458 Mamquam Rd, Squamish, BC St’a7mes School, 38030 Clarke Dr, Squamish, BC

Telus Whistler Conf Centre, 4010 Whistler Way, Whistler, BC

Tue, Oct 20

ü ü ü ü ü ü

Bowen Island Comm School, 1041 Mt Gardner Rd, Bowen Island, BC Gleneagles Clubhouse, 6190 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC

Mon, Oct 19

Final Voting Places (open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific time on Saturday, October 24, 2026) N’Quatqua Comm Centre, 762 Nquatqua, D’Arcy, BC

The 55 Activity Centre, 1201 Village Green Way, Squamish, BC

Garibaldi Highlands Elem School, 2590 Portree Way, Squamish, BC

Pemberton Sec School, 1400 Oak St, Pemberton, BC

Valleycliffe Elem, 38430 Westway Ave, Squamish, BC

Howe Sound Sec School, 38430 Buckley Ave, Squamish, BC

Rockridge Sec School, 5350 Headland Dr, West Vancouver, BC

Ts̓ zil Learning Centre, 125 Lillooet Lake Rd, Mount Currie, BC

Lions Bay Comm Hall, 400 Centre Rd, Lions Bay, BC

St’a7mes School, 38030 Clarke Dr, Squamish, BC

Myrtle Philip Comm School, 6195 Lorimer Rd, Whistler, BC

Telus Whistler Conf Centre, 4010 Whistler Way, Whistler, BC

West Vancouver-Sea to Sky 3200 University Blvd Squamish, BC (778) 572-4596 Hours of Operation (local time) Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Advance voting days 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Candidates for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky Candidate’s Name

Affiliation

Ayla Dumais

Conservative Party

Michelle Livaja

BC NDP

Jeremy Valeriote

BC Green Party

Dan Wood

CentreBC

@ElectionsBC

District Electoral Office

Don Ross Middle School, 42091 Ross Rd, Squamish, BC

For candidate financial agent and official agent information, visit elections.bc.ca/candidates.

Wed, Oct 21

NEWS WHISTLER

Tapley’s Farm primed for 43rd annual Halloween celebration THE EVENT RUNS OCT. 31 IN SUPPORT OF WHISTLER COMMUNITY SERVICES AND ITS ‘WE SCARE HUNGER’ CAMPAIGN

BY DAVID SONG THE SPIRIT OF HALLOWEEN is on its way back to Tapley’s neighbourhood, which is preparing to host Whistler’s iconic free community All Hallows’ Eve celebration for a 43rd consecutive year. On Oct. 31, the area will once again transform into a spooky hub for children and their families, with trick-or-treating taking place from 5:30 to 8 p.m. This event usually draws as many as 1,000 attendees, with residents striving to create a memorable and well-decorated experience for all. Fireworks, accompanied by free hot chocolate, will begin at 7:30 p.m. on the lower field of Myrtle Philip Community School adjacent to Balsam Park, presented by the Whistler Fire Rescue Service. This year’s festivities will also support the “We Scare Hunger” campaign, with organizers asking the community to help address food insecurity in the Sea to Sky corridor. Last year, food drive efforts amassed $2,644 in cash donations and 115 kilograms of non-perishable items for programs at the Whistler Food Bank. Money and non-perishable food

donations can again be dropped off at the entrance to Tapley’s the night of. Whistler Secondary School’s Leadership Team will also be on hand throughout the evening to welcome trickor-treaters and collect donations. Those unable to attend in person can give online through Whistler Community Services. Furthermore, candy donations are being rounded up at local schools, daycares and supermarkets. Additional treats will be provided by Nesters, Fresh Street Market, The Grocery Store, The Independent and Creekside Market. “We appreciate community candy

donations at our boxes at grocery stores throughout town, as we provide a large volume of treats to local kids and donations never match that volume,” said event coordinator Amanda Wilson in an email to Pique. “With Halloween being on a Saturday, we are hopeful that weekenders may participate who are not normally available. We are really happy there have been no grizzly sightings this year near Myrtle Phillip!” Tapley’s neighbourhood will be closed to vehicle traffic beginning at 4 p.m. Parking in the vicinity is limited, so guests are encouraged to use the complementary

“Park and Spook” shuttle. Organized by Fastpark and supported by BC Transit and the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW), public transportation will run between the Marketplace parking lot and Tapley’s from 5:15 to 8:25 p.m. Parking at Marketplace will be free from 5 to 9 p.m. Other local partners of the 43rd annual Tapley’s Neighbourhood Halloween celebration include the Whistler RCMP, Mountain FM, Pique Newsmagazine and the Whistler Community Foundation. All proceeds are to support the Whistler Food Bank. n

BAYLY PARK SKATE RAMP FROM PAGE 20 that people of different skill levels could use. He acknowledged problems with how residents were informed, including signs that were never updated, but said the ramp has proved popular. “What we’re hearing is it’s definitely successful. Is it in the wrong location? I would probably agree,” he said. Coun. Cathy Jewett returned to questions about how the project was approved, asking whether the ramp itself had ever come before council. Mikkelsen confirmed funding was

included in the municipal budget, but staff did not seek separate approval before building it. Staff estimated moving the ramp would cost about $100,000, including preparing a new paved area and cutting the existing structure into sections so it could be transported. Forsyth supported closing the ramp for the season on Sept. 30, while Coun. Arthur De Jong asked whether changes to the structure or shorter operating hours could help reduce the noise.

Mayor Jack Crompton favoured looking at a longer-term solution during upcoming budget discussions. Staff intend to seek funding for public consultation on a Bayly Park master plan during the 2027 budget discussions in November and December. Council could not vote on closing the ramp that evening because the issue was not on the meeting agenda. Residents’ concerns were instead passed along to staff, leaving the ramp’s immediate future undecided. n

The Whistler Institute’s Global Perspectives Speaker Series presents Tickets:

Aging In The Right Place Wednesday, Oct 14 @ Maury Young Arts Centre Doors 5:30pm - Talk 6pm Sponsored by

Dr. Michael Kobor Professor, Department of Medical Genetics, and Director, Edwin S.H. Leong Centre for f Healthy Aging

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NEWS WHISTLER

Dr. Michael Kobor discusses ‘Aging in the Right Place’ on Oct. 14 THE WHISTLER INSTITUTE EVENT WILL EXPLORE THE IDEA OF BIOLOGICAL AGE AND HOW IT IMPACTS HUMAN BEINGS

BY DAVID SONG AGE IS JUST a number… or is it?

Scientific scholarship points toward the concept of biological age: a reflection of how human cells function and eventually wear down over time. This idea originated from a 1969 paper by British physician Alex Comfort and is deemed a more accurate sign of someone’s overall health than chronological age (i.e. the number of years one has been alive). Take, for example, local seniors like Gerry Reynolds and Shannon McJannet. As of 2024, they were skiing and snowboarding at 97 and 80 years old, respectively, with keen mental faculties to boot. Many people never even make it to those ages, and many of those who do are fully reliant on others for everyday care. That’s biological age at work, and Dr. Michael Kobor has studied it for much of his career. After earning his PhD at the University of Toronto and completing postgraduate work at the University of California, Berkeley, Kobor became director of the Edwin S.H. Leong Centre for Healthy Aging at the University of British Columbia (UBC). He’s also a professor at UBC’s Department of Medical Genetics.

On Oct. 14, Kobor will visit town to host a session dubbed “Aging in the Right Place” in partnership with the Whistler Institute. “Over the last 10 years or so, there have been some fairly sophisticated sorts of molecular biology tools that have been developed which allow us to ‘measure’ the biological age of somebody,” he said.

Kardashians when members of the titular family took tests, discovering that Khloe (40 at the time) had the cellular age of 28. Kim, on the other hand, expressed frustration to be biologically aged 34 against a chronological age of 43. Another famous case is Bryan Johnson, the 49-year-old American multimillionaire who claims his physical metrics rival those

“The idea is to come away with some discussion about what we can do ... to support healthy aging...” - MICHAEL KOBOR

“There’s a whole bunch of new research which suggests that whatever happens with us when we’re 50 or 60—some of it might actually be determined by what happened to us while we’re in our mom’s belly early in life.” The key analytical method of relevance here is called an epigenetic clock, which gauges a human’s biological age via biomarkers in their DNA and other factors. This subject entered the public eye in season five of The

of a much younger individual thanks to an extreme longevity regimen called “Project Blueprint” that carries an annual cost of roughly $2 million. There are also areas known as Blue Zones around the globe: Ikaria in Greece, Loma Linda in California, the Italian island of Sardinia, Okinawa in Japan and Nicoya in Costa Rica. Each of these locations features a populace that consistently lives both longer and healthier than most other people groups.

Behind each of these headlines is a treasure trove of science, which Kobor plans to unpack during his talk. Diet and exercise are important for longevity, but so too are more nuanced elements such as a vibrant social life and the ability to live with purpose. “My mom, for example, she’s 90 now,” Kobor said. “She’s in Germany … she refused to buy vegetables from the store. She just grew everything herself, so that was her purpose. Now she can’t do it anymore, and I can see how she’s aging literally in front of me. Ultimately, I think what our [Edwin S.H. Leong Centre at UBC] is striving to do is provide research that kind of closes what we call the ‘health longevity gap.’ “It’s one thing if you’re 100 and ever since you’re 80, you’ve been laying in a nursing home, versus when you’re 100 and you’re like these Blue Zone folks who still cook [and take care of themselves]. The idea is to come away with some discussion about what we can do as individuals, but also perhaps as a community, to support healthy aging … especially for people who want to age in place.” Kobor will present at the Maury Young Arts Centre on Oct. 14 at 6 p.m. Visit eventbrite.ca for tickets and details. n

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2026 General Local Elections

Notice of Election by Voting for SLRD Electoral Area A & D An election by voting will be held to elect two Directors of the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (“SLRD”). The candidates for each office are:

SLRD Electoral Area A - One (1) to be Elected

SLRD Electoral Area D - One (1) to be Elected

COURCHESNE

John

Gold Bridge, BC

BELL

Cameron

Furry Creek, BC

GETAZ

Simon

Pemberton, BC

DE JONG

Paula

Upper Squamish, BC

Voting Dates and Places

Elector Registration

Advance and General Voting Opportunities: Qualified electors of the SLRD may vote at the following locations between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted:

There is no pre-registration process. Qualified electors must register at the time of voting by completing an application form available at the voting place and making a declaration that you meet the following requirements:

SLRD Electoral Area A

All Electors Must: be 18 years of age or older on general voting day, October 17, 2026; and be a Canadian citizen; and a resident of BC for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration; and not be disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election and not otherwise disqualified by law.

Monday, October 12 (Advance Voting) Saturday, October 17 (General Voting)

Squamish-Lillooet Regional District Office 1350 Aster St., Pemberton, BC Gold Bridge Community Club 699 Gun Lake Rd., Gold Bridge, BC District of Lillooet REC Centre 930 Main St., Lillooet, BC

SLRD Electoral Area D Saturday, October 10 (Advance Voting) Tuesday, October 13 (Special Voting) 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Saturday, October 17 (General Voting)

Garibaldi Fire Hall 192 Retta Lake Rd., Whistler, BC Totem Hall 1380 Stawamus Rd., Squamish, BC Squamish General Hospital 38140 Behrner Dr., Squamish, BC (for eligible patients & staff) Britannia Beach Fire Hall 360 Copper Dr., Britannia Beach, BC Myrtle Philip Community School 6195 Lorimer Rd., Whistler, BC Brennan Park 1009 Centennial Way, Squamish, BC

Mail Ballot Voting: Qualified electors wishing to vote by mail may apply online at SLRD.bc.ca/voter-information or, contact the SLRD Election Office at election@slrd.bc.ca or 604-894-6371.

Resident Electors Must Also: be a resident of the electoral area on the day of registration. Non-Resident Property Electors Must Also: be a registered owner of real property in the electoral area for at least 30 days immediately before the day of registration. Additional Rules for Non-Resident Property Electors: Property owners must be individuals and not hold the property on behalf of a corporation or trust. Where property has more than one owner, only one owner may register as the Non-Resident Property Elector, with written consent of the majority of owners. (Please contact the SLRD in advance to obtain the required consent form. The form must be signed by a majority of the property owners. Unsigned or incomplete consent forms cannot be accepted). In addition, in order to register at time of voting: Resident Electors must produce two (2) pieces of identification (at least one with a signature). The identification must prove both residency and identity. Non-Resident Property Electors must produce two (2) pieces of identification (at least one with a signature) to prove identity, proof that they are entitled to register in relation to the property, and, if there is more than one owner of the property, written consent from the majority of the property owners.

For more information

Types of Documents that will be accepted as identification: For identification, the following classes of documents will be accepted: Driver’s Licence or BC identification card; BC Services card (with or without photo); a document, issued by the government of Canada, that certifies that the applicant is registered as an Indian under the Indian Act (Canada); Citizenship or membership card issued by a first nation; Citizenship card issued by Métis Nation British Columbia; Owner’s Certificate of Insurance and Vehicle Licence issued by ICBC; BC CareCard or BC Gold CareCard; Ministry of Social Development and Economic Security Request for Continued Assistance Form SDES8; Social Insurance Number card; Citizenship Card issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada; property tax notice; credit card or debit card; or utility bill (electricity, natural gas, water, telephone, cable).

Angela Belsham, Chief Election Officer Phone: 604-894-6371 | Toll-free: 1-800-298-7753 Email: election@SLRD.bc.ca

Election officials must accept the listed identification documents and may also accept other forms of documents that provide evidence satisfactory to them (such as valid current passport).

Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2026. Completed mail ballot packages must be received by the Chief Election Officer by the applicable deadline in order to be counted. Return instructions and deadlines are included with each mail ballot package. Learn more and apply online, visit SLRD.bc.ca/voter-information.

SLRD.bc.ca/2026elections

NEWS PEMBERTON

Got a knack for fixing things? Stewardship Pemberton needs your help THE GROUP IS LOOKING FOR HOBBYISTS, TINKERERS AND HANDY NEIGHBOURS TO HELP LAUNCH PEMBERTON’S FIRST REPAIR CAFÉ ON OCT. 25

BY LUKE FAULKS IF YOU KNOW your way around a sewing machine, bicycle, toaster or any kind of toolbox, Stewardship Pemberton Society (SPS) wants to hear from you. The environmental non-profit is recruiting volunteer fixers for Pemberton’s first Repair Café, a free community event running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 25 at the community centre in partnership with the SquamishLillooet Regional District. And despite the word “expert” often being attached to Repair Café volunteers, SPS environmental project coordinator Maggie Ruoff said the barrier to entry is intentionally low. “Hobbyists are wonderful. You don’t need to be a professional at all,” she said. “We encourage any kinds of hobbyists,

REPAIR AND SHARE The free event aims to keep everyday items out of the landfill while passing practical repair skills from neighbour to neighbour. PHOTO BY WACHIWIT / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

experts, tinkerers—any sort of level of expertise is welcome. “Basically, anybody who has knowledge to share is welcome to come and offer their skills and offer assistance.” On the day, visitors will check in with a receptionist before being directed to a repair table suited to their item. Depending on which volunteers sign up, SPS hopes to offer help with clothing, electronics, small appliances, bicycles, basic carpentry, jewelry and eyeglasses, along with a “tinker table” where kids can experiment with gears and other odds and ends. The goal is not simply to hand over something broken and get it back repaired. Ruoff wants owners sitting beside volunteers, learning enough about the process to tackle similar problems themselves next time. That approach is baked into the Repair Café concept itself. Dutch sustainability advocate Martine Postma organized the first event in Amsterdam in 2009. She envisioned an accessible meeting place where neighbours could repair broken possessions with help from people who knew how. Its success eventually led

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to the creation of what is now Repair Café International, which promotes repair skills, waste reduction and social connection. Ruoff has attended Repair Cafés in both Squamish and Whistler. At the latter, she brought in a pair of shorts full of holes and learned how to patch them while swapping stories with the volunteer helping her. “It’s a cool event because you see people from all different backgrounds collaborating and talking about a shared item,” she said. “It’s also just a great way to make connections and get to know some of your neighbours that, who knows, maybe you would never interact with on a daily basis. “At the Repair Café, everyone has something to share, and also we all have things to learn from one another.” A 2022 study exploring opportunities for reuse in Canada found that while 1.3 million tonnes of clothing entered the market in 2021, 1.1 million tonnes of apparel went to landfills. Two hundred and forty thousand tonnes, just 18 per cent, was recycled or reused. For SPS, however, success Oct. 25 will be measured by more than the number of

items saved. “Basically, our goals for the Repair Café are to bring back repairing into local society in a modern way,” Ruoff said. “Repairing used to be very common practice, and now it’s so much easier to just throw an item away and replace it than it is to repair it. “Our other goal is to maintain repair expertise and spread this knowledge. So we’re really looking for it to be a knowledge-sharing event that brings people together.” The inaugural café will also give SPS a better idea of what Pemberton residents want fixed and what repair knowledge already exists locally, so future events can be tailored accordingly. The Repair Café is free and no advance registration is required for visitors. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and bring one item at a time; anyone with more can return to the queue after their first repair. Prospective volunteers can sign up by filling out SPS’s volunteer intake form or emailing Ruoff at maggie@ stewardshippembertonsociety.com with information about what they can fix, their experience level and whether they have tools to bring. n

NEWS PEMBERTON

Pemberton council candidate Jennie Helmer seeks re-election to provide continuity on infrastructure and risk management THE INCUMBENT COUNCILLOR AND FIFTH-GENERATION LOCAL FARMER AIMS TO STEER CRITICAL PROJECTS AS THE COMMUNITY FACES RAPID GROWTH

INCUMBENT PEMBERTON councillor

IN THE RUNNING Jennie Helmer. PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNIE HELMER

firefighters and BC Wildfire Service crews, while warning that regional risks require continuous preparation, prescribed burns and multi-channel emergency communications. She also highlighted strategic work around flood management, noting infrastructure and safety planning go hand-in-hand. Helmer stresses that ongoing collaboration with regional partners is essential to managing shared infrastructure and emergency response. She emphasizes maintaining strong, long-term relationships with the Líl’wat Nation and the SquamishLillooet Regional District across transit, recreation and fire protection.

“I’m willing to get into the stickier and murkier pieces.” - JENNIE HELMER

her decision-making skills on council, especially when evaluating complex problems under pressure. Her focus on growth management includes navigating provincial directives like Bill 44, which alters how municipalities plan housing. Helmer takes a pragmatic view on development, noting that while transit improvements remain vital, Pemberton is inherently a driving and commuting community where practical solutions for traffic flow and parking must be addressed within existing realities. Community safety and climate risk remain central priorities. Reflecting on this summer’s wildfire, Helmer commended the swift response of local

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BY CAROLINE EGAN Jennie Helmer is seeking re-election to provide steady continuity at the council table as the municipality navigates major ongoing projects and pressing growth pressures. Rather than focusing on a single issue, Helmer emphasized that her decision to run again stems from a desire to shepherd critical work already in flight; particularly surrounding infrastructure planning, flood management and wildfire mitigation. “There’s a lot of work in flight right now, and having that continuity of shepherding of that work is really why I want to be back at the table,” Helmer said. She stressed that ensuring municipal infrastructure—such as water, sewer, roads and transit—keeps pace with or stays ahead of rapid growth is the most vital task facing local government. Helmer brings a diverse background to her re-election bid. She has spent more than 30 years with BC Emergency Health Services (including 25 years as a frontline paramedic) alongside holding an MBA, a background in personal financial management and deep roots on her family’s organic potato farm, which dates back to the late 1800s. She credits her emergency medical career with shaping

WAREHOUSE SPACE IN FUNCTION JUNCTION

Addressing local political engagement, Helmer pointed to strong turnout at candidate forums as proof that residents care deeply about their community’s direction. She sees her role as bringing a practical, accountable voice to complex municipal debates. “I’m willing to get into the stickier and murkier pieces,” Helmer said regarding council debate. “I will fight for those things that I think impact community residents in a way that is not acceptable.” Pemberton residents can vote at the Pemberton & District Community Centre on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; or election day, Saturday, Oct. 17, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. n

Search available homes in the Whistler and Sea to Sky Country area at www.DaveBeattie.com

Thanks to the following donors for contributing $21,000 to the Red Devils Alumni Association, in support of the Athletics Program at Pemberton Secondary School!! Village of Pemberton / Squamish Lillooet Regional District – PDIF Fund Custom Fit Marketing Estate of Shiela Peters Hoover (Craig Hoover) Gabby St. Germain Grad Class of 2026 JT Heavy and Auto Repair Lil’wat Nation Council Lyle Leo Murphy Construction Pemberton Women’s Institute Rotary Club of Pemberton Royal Canadian Legion - Branch #201 Sheena Fraser Summit Collision OCTOBER 9, 2026

NEWS PEMBERTON

Katrina Nightingale emphasizes progressive engagement, shared values and measured growth in bid for Pemberton council INCUMBENT COUNCILLOR AND LONGTIME EDUCATOR SEEKS SECOND TERM FOCUSED ON COMMUNITY CONNECTION AND LONG-TERM STEWARDSHIP

BY CAROLINE EGAN councillor Katrina Nightingale is seeking a second term on council. She brings nearly 30 years of teaching experience and a focus on valuedriven decision-making to the table. Nightingale has lived in Pemberton for 16 years where she and her family moved to raise their children somewhere they considered to be more peaceful. A special-education teacher, her diverse career includes working in Hungary following the fall of communism, teaching in the First Nations community of Bella Bella, and supporting students with complex learning needs across Canada. She credits her background in education with sharpening her critical thinking, listening and collaborative problem-solving skills. Looking toward the future, Nightingale’s primary goal is to transform how local government engages with residents. She advocates moving beyond standard online surveys and social media to establish progressive engagement models, including town INCUMBENT PEMBERTON

halls, roundtable discussions and citizens’ assemblies. “In this world of social media, which can be really toxic ... we’re not connecting with our community on things that matter,” Nightingale said. She added faceto-face dialogue rooted in shared values is essential when facing difficult choices. As Pemberton continues to grow, Nightingale emphasizes fiscal prudence and long-term planning for essential water and sewer infrastructure alongside investments in recreation, arts, culture and green spaces. Rather than viewing development as a simple balancing act, she describes municipal planning as a series of necessary trade-offs that require multi-generational foresight. Strengthening government-togovernment relations with the Líl’wat Nation and collaborating with the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) remain central to her platform. Nightingale serves on the board of the Spel’kumté Community Forest—a joint venture between the Village of Pemberton and the Líl’wat Nation— and highlights ongoing valley-wide initiatives, such as a collaborative

IN THE RUNNING Katrina Nightingale. PHOTO COURTESY OF KATRINA NIGHTINGALE

watershed management project. “We move at the speed of trust,” Nightingale said regarding reconciliation and inter-governmental partnerships. She continued to explain that building

strong relationships requires patience and continuous effort. On emergency preparedness, Nightingale supports expanding neighbourhood-level networks. Pointing to grassroots WhatsApp groups formed by residents during this summer’s Signal Hill wildfire, she believes council should help spearhead “know-your-neighbour” initiatives so communities can support one another during evacuations and long-term climate recovery. To address low voter turnout, Nightingale advocates for direct, personal outreach to help residents— especially young voters—understand how municipal decisions directly impact their daily lives. “When you feel something, then you’re inclined to act on it,” she said, stressing that meaningful engagement is what ultimately drives people to the polls. Pemberton residents can vote at the Pemberton & District Community Centre on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; or election day, Saturday, Oct. 17, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. n

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Advance Voting Opportunities

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Created quarterly “Outside Voice” events Added public Q&A to Council Meetings

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28 OCTOBER 9, 2026

Vote Early or On Election Day

Saturday, October 10 | 9AM – 1PM

General Election Day Saturday, October 17 | 8AM – 8PM

Voting Location Pemberton & District Community Centre 7390 Cottonwood Street

Have questions? Learn more at pemberton.ca/elections

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OCTOBER 9, 2026

THE OUTSIDER

What a World Cup THERE’S A MOMENT when a longshot bid pays off where you’re no longer surprised it happened, and instead, start wondering why it took so long. That was Whistler on the weekend of September 25 to 27, hosting its first-ever UCI World Cup Downhill. We’ve had the ingredients for years; the best bike park on the planet, terrain that attracts pros from every continent, a resort that can sleep tens of

BY VINCE SHULEY thousands of people and Olympic-level broadcast infrastructure. The last piece of the puzzle was a downhill track worthy of the world’s fastest riders coming to race. The masterpiece that is 1199 was built, tested and on World Cup Sunday, cauterized as an instant classic. Credit is due for senior manager of planning and business development Wendy Robinson and the entire Whistler Blackcomb team (operations, trail crew, patrol and others) who helped pull off such an amazing debut. It’s not the fastest World Cup track in the world (it’s too steep for that) but it is arguably one of the most demanding. After personally witnessing some of the carnage on that course from the sidelines, I don’t think anyone who rode it would disagree.

JOB DONE Spectators begin their exodus from the World Cup Downhill finish area on Dave Murray Downhill. PHOTO BY VINCE SHULEY

30 OCTOBER 9, 2026

Crankworx has held Whistler’s mountain biking flag high for more than 20 years. It evolved into a heavily live-streamed event, attracting eyeballs well beyond the tens of thousands of people who gather at the Boneyard every year. It even had some world-class enduro racing and great downhill racing. The difference was, with the litany of daytime competitions and evening entertainment, Crankworx began to feel as much a trade show as a competition. No shade on slopestyle athletes, I’ve written at length the risks they take and the incredible feats they perform. But the slopestyle events have begun to feel like just that: a performance. The World Cup focuses everyone on one grand event, which culminates in one nail-biting run for the finalists.

lower track into the grim, greasy mess these racers are used to dealing with. By Sunday, the sun was out, the mud had firmed up and it turned into one of those days where you genuinely didn’t want to be anywhere else. And hats off to both RideWrap for sponsoring the Rock Garden and the hordes of people who filled that hilly arena, making as much noise as possible for every passing racer. I only spent a bit of time there, but the racing atmosphere was something the social media clips can’t quite capture. The bike park itself was still turning all weekend, and apparently every visiting spectator with a bike had the same idea to get laps in on Saturday before watching the qualifying runs in Creekside. The Fitz Chair line was the most overwhelmed I’d ever seen it, with

The World Cup focuses everyone on one grand event, which culminates in one nail-biting run for the finalists.

And the crowds showed up for it. Whatever number ends up as official (Pinkbike’s editors were tossing around 20,000 to 30,000, maybe more depending how many people were tucked into the trees), the photos and footage delivered exactly the World Cup atmosphere the organizers, sponsors and broadcast partners were hoping for. Friday’s rain didn’t hurt the story either; it turned the

no amount of upload capacity able to chew through the throngs. I promptly turned around, went to watch qualifiers and returned to the Fitz first thing on Sunday morning, when I enjoyed half a dozen uncongested laps before calling it and rushing down to catch the Elite Women’s finals. I can attest that witnessing World Cup riders on-course was a definite motivator for me to get

off the brakes and send the step-downs. The Canadian story of Whistler’s first World Cup didn’t play out like the fairy tale we had hoped for. Two of our three biggest home names—Jackson Goldstone and Finn Iles—didn’t make it out of qualifying, succumbing to the weekend of crashes, illness or simply not having the runs they expected. It was a tough pill to swallow both for these athletes and their adoring fans, but don’t forget the 1199 course was every bit as unforgiving on the favourites as it was on everyone else. That’s racing. They’ll be back, and I’d put money on both of them putting down the run they wanted this time next year. Gracey Hemstreet delivered. I wanted her to win the Elite Women as much as anyone in that crowd did, and for a few splits it looked possible. She was still clawing back time in the bottom sector when the clock finally stopped just 0.334 seconds behind Valli Höll. For anyone who has followed the dominance of Höll over the years, she’s used to winning by a large margin. Gracey did not concede a large margin, and she’ll no doubt return for her own World Cup Whistler win. The UCI hasn’t announced its stops for the 2027 race season yet, but I’ll wager Whistler Blackcomb has inked a deal to at least keep the World Cup coming back for a few more years. September just got a lot more interesting. Vince Shuley is proud of every Canadian who dropped in to 1199. For questions, comments or suggestions for The Outsider, email vince.shuley@gmail.com or Instagram @whis_vince. n

Jeremy Valeriote

West Vancouver - Sea to Sky Jeremy’s Priorities: A Life You Can Afford

Meet Shauna

We’ll pass rent control between tenancies and fund affordable workforce housing so the people who keep our communities running can thrive.

Care You Can Count On We’ll open more Community Health Centres, build the new Squamish Hospital, expand long term care, invest in mental health, restart $10/day childcare, and provide supports to age in place in Whistler and Pemberton.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING, WHISTLER.

685 Homes. 685 Reasons to be Thankful.

A Corridor That Works For You We will secure public transit along Highway 99 corridor. I’ll continue to speak loudly for road safety, more enforcement for reckless driving, better communication for highway closures and end fuel price gouging.

Our Home, Not Their Pipeline This is our home, not a shortcut for pipelines. We will stand up against Woodfibre LNG expansion, the proposed crude oil pipeline route through the corridor, and protect jobs that depend on a healthy environment.

Every home I’ve sold in Whistler came with a story, a family and a moment of trust. Thirty years later, I’m still grateful for every one. I’m grateful for the clients who let me into their homes and their lives, many of whom are now friends and neighbours. Every sale has taught me that it’s personal. Behind the pricing and negotiation is a family making one of the biggest decisions of their lives.

Make your dreams a reality.

Know the strategy and timing behind your sale. /jervaleriote @jervaleriote @jervaler.bsky.social info@bcgreens.ca (1-888-473-3686)

bcgreens.ca Learn more!

600M+

WHISTLER SALES

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

15M

OFF-MARKET SALE - SEPT 2026

And most importantly, I’m the solo parent to four Whistler born and raised kids. They are, without question, my greatest accomplishment and the only accolades that really matter. Based on WLS statistics and projects, 2000-2025

P E R S O N A L R E A L E S TAT E C O R P O R AT I O N

The Whistler Real Estate Company #17 – 4308 Main Street, Whistler, BC, Canada, V8E 1A9

604-905-9105 shauna@shaunaocallaghan.com

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Authorized by Farrukh Chishtie, financial agent, 1-888-473-3686

OCTOBER 9, 2026

PIQUE’S 2026 MUNICIPAL ELECTION GUIDE DEMOCRACY IS NOT A PASSIVE EXERCISE.

If we don’t inform ourselves, stay engaged with the process (even when it’s boring)—if we don’t care— democracy goes away. It’s encouraging, then, to see so many names included in this gargantuan election guide. When the dust settles, one will be elected mayor, and six to council in Whistler, and another mayor and four councillors in Pemberton. But that doesn’t mean the efforts of the rest are all for naught. Whether or not they get elected, each of the candidates featured here presents ideas worth paying attention to—good ideas we should not discard after the swearing-in ceremonies. So thank you, candidates, for stepping up to represent us. I hope you’ll stay involved. All candidates were given the same set of questions, guidelines and word counts. The responses differ in some instances in things like format and tense, but in all cases, it is the candidates in their own words. The responses have been fact-checked, lightly edited and arranged in random order (determined, once again, by drawing names from the office sombrero—can’t beat it). Advance voting is available at the Whistler Public Library on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Election day is Saturday, Oct. 17, with voting taking place at Myrtle Philip Community School, also from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pemberton residents can vote at the Pemberton & District Community Centre on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; or election day, Saturday, Oct. 17, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can read individual profiles of (almost) every candidate at piquenewsmagazine.com/2026-civicelection-main. And if you’re still not satisfied, you can reach out to them directly (find contact info at localelections.ca/election_candidates/146_2026_candidates.html). Find more info at whistler.ca/election. -Braden Dupuis

WHISTLER CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR MARCO ZUNINO

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)?

I want to introduce a social housing policy to complement employee housing. The WHA serves a great role but there are blind spots in employee housing policy. For 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. example, it’s difficult for single parents and those with I have a host of skills, not just in what I’ve learnt but caring responsibilities to achieve the 30 hours per week in the experiences that I’ve had in life too. I was born minimum. Additionally, I’ve seen cases where families in to immigrant parents and, from age 15, I worked in WHA have split and are forced to continue living together my family restaurant. So, I know the pressures of the or face one partner leaving the community. Our housing safety net needs to be a little wider. hospitality trade and small business. After university I worked at Secondly, I want a community the Bank of England for nearly a spaces review to give vision and decade. I learned a great deal about direction to planning over the next risk-based and data-led decision30 years. Too many parts of our making. I’ve sat across board tables community are in conflict with each with the U.K.’s senior banking other due to this lack of vision. I executives so I can think quickly believe that the needs of all, the racket and process a lot of information. I club as well as other community witnessed the reforms that nowgroups more broadly, can be achieved Prime Minister Mark Carney through creative thinking, listening, brought in to address failings after and long-term planning. I’d also like the 2008 financial crisis regarding to trial regular movie screenings at transparency, accountability, cultural partners across town. performance management, and Most importantly, I want to groupthink. I returned to university address issues of safety head-on. in 2020 to study Sustainable Town I’ve heard directly about the terrible Planning at one of the world’s experiences that some have had in MARCO ZUNINO top urban planning schools at our taxis at night. CCTV isn’t good University College London. Here I enough and I want businesses to face learned about the importance of consequences for putting the safety setting a vision and clear communication. of our residents and visitors at risk. If the operators won’t In Whistler, I’m finance manager for Arts Whistler address the issue then I want taxis to install internal and I oversee a complex budget of $1.4 million so I dashcams and face the removal of business licences if the have a strong eye for detail and I understand the hard situation isn’t resolved fast. choices of cost containment. I sit on three non-profit boards, Whistler Valley Housing, Whistler Farmers’ 3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, Market and the ROCKS Community Kitchen. My should be placed on that growth? experience demonstrates not just financial acumen but the necessity of listening, understanding, and a human- I want to transition to a more circular economy rather centred approach to governance. than focusing just on pure growth. Indicators are used to

32 OCTOBER 9, 2026

measure a range of metrics across environmental, social, and economic factors to give a broader view of prosperity and well-being. Whistler already collects much of this data through the Community Monitoring Dashboard so we have many of the inputs. Nanaimo has moved to a “doughnut economics” strategy through its Monitoring Bar project. All growth decisions should be viewed through this circular economy lens to allow for more balanced decision-making by ensuring we are meeting our community’s social needs while living within our ecological ceiling.

4. As rising costs push long-standing local businesses out of Whistler, what can—and should—the municipality do to keep the community from becoming a collection of chains and luxury brands? Firstly, I will build a coalition to introduce an empty retail property tax. It’s a provincial power but it has been brought to UBCM before. I would continue to lobby the province as empty properties undermine the groundbreaking vision that was created by Eldon Beck, the award-winning planner that designed the village stroll in 1979 and sadly passed this year. More immediately, I will appoint a business liaison officer at municipal hall to help small businesses navigate the tangle of bylaws and departments involved in permitting, so that businesses have one point of contact. In the short-term, I want to allow meanwhile uses and pop-ups in vacant space. In January 2026, the City of Vancouver started an initiative to trial this idea. Fast-track permitting should also apply if a space is leased to the same type of business that occupied that space before. Finally, I want to create affordable small business incubator space in Whistler to support small businesses getting started, similar to Junction Public Market in Vancouver and the Stackt Market in Toronto.

5. Whistler’s housing shortage has persisted through successive councils and major public investments. What specific housing action would you pursue that the municipality is not already taking? I want to diversify supply through alternative models of provision. For example, non-profit providers, co-op models and modular housing are examples where supply can be increased to help lower costs. Gentle density increases should be explored in neighbourhoods as there is little space available for the types of development that have taken place in Cheakamus over the last decade. In terms of funding, all options should be explored including vacancy tax proposals over a certain value threshold, perhaps $5-6 million. This is a provincial power so change will take time. But any funds must be ringfenced to support affordable housing and not for general operational expenses.

6. What municipal service, project or spending priority would you reduce or defer to keep property-tax increases under control? On Nov. 4, 2025, municipal staff highlighted failings from councils over the last decade that have prioritized tax cuts over municipal reserves investment. We are now dealing with the consequences of those decisions and fiscal irresponsibility. While cost containment is essential, the municipal budget must be managed prudently now without shifting problems to future residents.

LANCE BRIGHT

1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. I was raised in Whistler, attended the first class at Myrtle Philip School and am a child of employee housing. My father, Jack Bright, managed Whistler Mountain from 1967 to 1977. We still run the businesses he started in the 1970s.

FEATURE STORY I am a former commercial pilot trained in water bombing and wildland fire operations, as well as a trained firefighter and Emergency Medical Responder. After my father’s death, I retired from Transport Canada as an inspector and took over the family business. Today I am a part-time first responder throughout the Sea to Sky corridor. My passion for this town’s future and my wildfire concerns led me to run for council in 2018. Sadly, we are no safer today.

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)?

kept the charm of its historic Main Street. I would ask staff to report on whether a similar tool is legal in British Columbia. I will not promise what I cannot deliver, but I will not leave the question unasked. The RMOW does not set commercial rents, but taxes are now part of the problem. Property taxes rose 8.4, 8.18, 8.25 and 6.9 per cent over the last four budgets, and a business pays that through its lease. We must examine spending, set a fast permit target for small tenant renovations, and review every fee a local operator pays. I don’t want taxes to climb so high that local operators are replaced by giant labels that can absorb costs we locals cannot. How boring would that be?

festival in Whistler over the past 15 years. My place within the arts community and my active participation in sporting culture have built deep community connections. My previous service on residential strata councils/HOA boards and non-profit work with the United Church Camps of Canada have all led me down the path to where we now stand. The difference between great leadership and adequate facilitation can be measured in real action. Rather than being weighed down by process and procedure, I will remain committed to progress and I am ready to move us forward. Read my bio and learn my story: brandonforwhistler.com.

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)?

First, a fire strategy beyond our 1. End the ongoing cycle of residential property tax boundary. FireSmart is imperative, increases. but the real threat comes from 2. Find resolution within the Northlands rezoning the forest around us, outside our 5. Whistler’s housing shortage process to secure continuity of play for the Whistler boundaries and under the control has persisted through successive Racket Club. of the province and Whistler 3. Modernize and streamline our municipal councils and major public Blackcomb. That forest poses an investments. What specific permitting process. existential threat to us. We need housing action would you pursue fuel breaks at every point of entry to that the municipality is not 3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, LANCE BRIGHT this town. Within 30 days of taking already taking? should be placed on that growth? office, I will send the province a formal written demand for a funded, Credit where due: about 84 per Whistler should grow with focus on quality, not dated plan on that land, developed cent of our workforce lives in quantity. We need to understand that all issues are in partnership with the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations: Whistler, and the Whistler Housing Authority is the related and infrastructure problems like highway fuel breaks and a defensible line to slow any fire before reason. But 536 applicants were still waiting for a traffic, parking, and water will grow along with us. it reaches us. We also need a large, dedicated helicopter WHA rental in March. No single public builder can Rather than building “the wall” higher, I believe we based in Whistler through fire season, and AI detection close that gap alone. should build it stronger and try to fill in some gaps that cameras throughout the Sea to Sky. A fast first response The Town of Vail, Colo., has a model we should already exist. The original OCP of Whistler maintained is our best defence right now. And thinning must consider. It buys covenants on existing homes. That a bed-cap limit, and I believe this vision should be continue. If Whistler burns, the whole province pays, needs no new land and no forest clearing, and workers honoured. Let’s preserve what we have. Maintain key and pays dearly. can move in right away. We also need Whistler infrastructure with strategic reinvestment and build a sustainable future for generations to follow. Second, transit and the Valley Trail. The south Blackcomb to finish Glacier 8. end needs better service. In 2018, I proposed a bike, bus and emergency vehicle route from Function 6. What municipal service, project or spending 4. As rising costs push long-standing local businesses Junction to West Side Road. Council built only the priority would you reduce or defer to keep property- out of Whistler, what can—and should—the municipality bike path. Widen it for buses and emergency vehicles, tax increases under control? do to keep the community from and the bus beats driving at peak times. No doubling becoming a collection of chains back just to sit in traffic on Spring Creek Hill. The and luxury brands? Four budgets, a compounded community would be safer for it, too. The Valley Trail increase of more than 35 per cent. and transit should be how most of us prefer to get That cannot continue. Potential options include: around. If CN Rail ever pulls out, we could not only Our spending has grown faster future commercial tax increases incorporate the tracks into our trail system but also than our population and faster than be considered to allow partial create one of the best bike trails in the world, from our paycheques. I will not pretend I exemptions for those who provide Squamish to Lillooet and beyond. know where every dollar goes before space to independent small Third, housing. The Whistler Housing Authority I have looked. What I commit to is business owners; new commercial works, and I would strengthen it with new ideas. Are a line-by-line review of the entire developments should be considered some owners ready to move on but have few options? budget, with nothing off limits and to include a mandatory percentage Are financial limits making earning more feel like no sacred cows. Every department of square footage available for a risk? We need to explore incentives. Whistler will need to show residents what resident operators at below-market Blackcomb owns land zoned for staff housing they are getting for their money. rates; and resident small business with permits in place. Why hasn’t it been built? owners be allowed to rent WHA RMOW staff may be our best allies Streamlining planning, permitting, and building is properties and manage their own in this. Perhaps no one has listened essential. employee accommodation through to them either. I will ask them what BRANDON SMITH municipal support programs. we can fix together before any drastic 3. How should Whistler grow, and what limits, if any, measures are taken. The costs actually driving your should be placed on that growth? 5. Whistler’s housing shortage bill are the RCMP contract, 24-hour has persisted through successive Whistler should grow homes for the people who work staffing at the Spring Creek Fire Hall, and transit. I councils and major public investments. What specific housing action would you pursue that the municipality is here, not more visitor beds. I support keeping the will not cut them. not already taking? accommodation limit in our Official Community Plan, about 61,500 bed units. The limits must be practical. No new density unless A complete overhaul and streamlining of the municipal water, sewer and fire-flow capacity are confirmed first. permitting process will help private-sector housing 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. Growth that makes us less safe is not growth. It projects move forward more efficiently and add is risk. inventory. I believe in working towards a diversification A great leader must first walk each path themselves of offerings such as additional RV parking/campgrounds, before encouraging others to follow. 4. As rising costs push long-standing local I have the resort experience, front-line knowledge and as was proposed but rejected for the Callaghan in 2019. Diversification will ensure more people have more businesses out of Whistler, what can and should the vision to lead a great team. the municipality do to keep the community from My professional success includes entrepreneurship options. Along with updating some aspects of WHA becoming a collection of chains and luxury brands? and small-business ownership, real estate investment policy, the Home-Run program should be reintroduced, and vacation property management. I have worked, and infill housing should be incentivized. Rather than Park City, Utah, has done great work on this and volunteered and contributed to every major event/ simply building more, I want to build differently, and

BRANDON SMITH

OCTOBER 9, 2026

FEATURE STORY new solutions need to be tabled. I would propose we allow properties already approved for infill/carriage housing to be allowed to provide RV pad-style parking for van lifers— connected to power, sewer and water. This provides a lower cost of entry to the market for homeowners seeking secondary income and could provide options for those currently living on forest service roads. I may be willing to offer creative partnership solutions with Whistler Blackcomb in a bid to get the Glacier 8 project online. And I am not against exploring the idea of a lodging-camp model to be piloted at specific locations such as Cougar Mountain.

of being part of Whistler’s first-ever girls rugby program!

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected?

the premier’s keynote. It’s reason for some pride, but it’s not reason to stop innovating. I will push us to move toward a “portfolio approach” to housing. Construction costs are making even municipally built housing difficult to deliver affordably, so we need to think differently about financing. By managing our housing assets as a portfolio, we can use the strength of what we own to help deliver the next generation of worker housing. I believe our next major municipal housing project should be outside of Cheakamus Crossing. Cheakamus has been an extraordinary success, but future housing opportunities should be distributed throughout Whistler so the impacts and benefits are shared. Whistler earned our reputation for housing leadership because we’ve been willing to try new approaches. I intend for us to keep that spirit. The challenge is not just building more housing. It is building housing that is affordable for the workers and families who make this community possible.

More housing for workers. I am proud of the work we have done to build more housing, but homes for workers remain Whistler’s biggest need. I will continue to build on my relationships at the provincial and federal governments to bring housing investment to Whistler. Ensure the benefits of our tourism economy accrue to tourism workers. A huge amount of money flows JACK CROMPTON through Whistler every year and I am convinced the people who make this town work are owed their fair share of 6. What municipal service, project or spending priority would you reduce or defer to keep that success. With that in mind, I will work to expand transit, 6. What municipal service, project or spending priority grow local recreation amenities, find ways to expand services property-tax increases under control? would you reduce or defer to keep property-tax increases for local families and continue investing in parks and trails. under control? We need to stop relying on litigation as our primary Make Municipal Hall easier to work with. This term means of costly problem-solving. Rather than a deferral our team put the administrative infrastructure in place to My most effective work reducing the burden on or reduction in service, I am proposing a multifaceted make the RMOW a leader in customer service. We will lower property taxpayers has been finding ways to ensure shift in resort policy. 1. I would propose we move away permit wait times, take advantage tourism pays for tourism. We from the dependence on contractor/outsourced services of opportunities created by digital have successfully brought tens of and allow paid municipal staff to lead essential projects technology, and continue driving millions of dollars of non-propertyin-house. 2. I will work with Tourism Whistler to refocus toward the kind of customer service tax funding to Whistler for priorities some of its operations away from low-level marketing Whistler is known for. We have made such as wildfire mitigation, worker initiatives and seek its commitment to allocating a larger a good start, and there is much more housing, festivals/events, and portion of its budget to partnering in the management we can accomplish. infrastructure replacement. The of resort operations such as festivals/events, village relationships I have built with other animation and smart tourism policy—which would 3. How should Whistler grow and orders of government are important provide large budget relief to our strained resources. what limits, if any, should be placed to ensuring those investments We can look for alternative sources of revenue other on that growth? continue and local taxpayers do not than property tax. Increased parking rates for visitors carry the tourism bill. and a potential highway toll for non-resident, single- Limits to growth have been an Budgeting is a team effort. occupancy vehicles would incentivize ride-sharing and important part of Whistler’s success. Finding savings must be done with provide another stream of revenue. Currently, hotel room If I am re-elected that will continue. the community and the rest of nights are charged a three-per-cent tax paid into the council. I do not think campaignPreservation of the Whistler MRDT; however, hotel parking rates are almost always Urban Development Containment promised cuts for cuts’ sake is good charged separately and currently are not required to pay Area (WUDCA) is one of the most government. It inevitably defers an additional tax. I would lobby to change that model and important things we can do to costs, defunds programs and creates ROBIN BROWN have hotel parking rates contribute an equal three per protect our land base. Maintaining infrastructure deficits for future cent alongside the room rate. Proactive measures such as governments to address. We need the WUDCA means the wild places these will ensure that property taxes do not continue to stay wild and we focus development to budget for what our community rise and services need not be reduced. values, spend responsibly, and deliver value for where development already exists. As challenging as the province’s Small-Scale Multi-Unit taxpayers. Any and all of my ideas would of course be tabled and Housing (SSMUH) legislation has been for municipalities, respectfully discussed with council. it does present an opportunity. Neighbourhoods that have traditionally been mostly second homes can become homes for Whistler families. I will work to ensure the result of this legislation is more Whistler kids growing up 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. in neighbourhoods like Alta Vista and Brio. Carolyn and I have raised our four kids in Whistler. We 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. love it here. 4. As rising costs push long-standing local businesses I have focused my local government work on housing, out of Whistler, what can and should the municipality do? I have been a full-time resident for the past 25 climate action and community economic development. years and a taxpayer for 39 years. I have practised I’m fascinated by political history, local government, No.1 is build housing. When employees cannot afford to as a professional engineer for 45 years specialized and international affairs. I have a Master of Public Policy live here, every local business struggles. I will continue to in forensic engineering, 33 years with my own firm, and Global Affairs from the University of British Columbia push a housing-first approach. analyzing physical evidence to identify problems and (UBC) and I am currently chipping away at a PhD in Council should focus on working closely with the find practical solutions. municipal law, also at UBC. Whistler Chamber of Commerce and Whistler workers. I was appointed to the Whistler Advisory The Canadian Constitution promises all of us “peace, Local government is not the expert in what business Planning Commission in 2006 or 2007. My role was order, and good government.” I have worked hard to needs. Business and workers are the experts on what to review new development proposals. In 2008 I ensure the RMOW does its part to keep that promise. I business needs. We will work on red-tape reduction, was approached by Patrick McCurdy to help start am proud of how our council has taken on big challenges transit expansion, and labour mobility, and we will do so the Whistler Sailing Association, a future non-profit while making sure local government is great at the basics. alongside local businesses and workers. society. I am a member to this day. The WSA has In my business life, I founded and operated a number grown significantly thanks to community support of transportation companies, including Ridebooker 5. What specific housing action would you pursue that and great management providing children’s and and the Whistler Shuttle. Entrepreneurship has taught the municipality is not already taking? adult programming on Alta Lake and supporting a me the importance of customer service, good financial wide range of sailing and now wing-foiling activities management and delivering results. Council recently returned from the Union of British for residents and our tourism guests. One of my greatest joys in life is coaching. I have Columbia Municipalities convention, where we heard coached youth soccer, rugby and basketball at various over and over that Whistler is the gold standard for 2. What are the top three things you would like to levels over the years. Right now I have the privilege worker housing, from discussions with other councils to accomplish if elected (please be specific)?

JACK CROMPTON

34 OCTOBER 9, 2026

CANDIDATES FOR COUNCIL ROBIN BROWN

Whistler Office info@wrec.com 604 932 5538 1 800 667 2993

Pemberton Office pemberton@wrec.com 604 894 5166 1 877 242 2448

NEW PRICE

Danielle Menzel PREC*

#6-7467 Prospect Street

#202-7445 Prospect Street

7869 Pemberton Meadows Road

$1,090,000 • Duplex SQ FT: 1,866 • Beds: 3.5 • Baths: 3

$549,500 • Condominium SQ FT: 761 • Beds: 1.5 • Baths: 1

$2,795,000 • Chalet on Acreage SQ FT: 2,538 • Beds: 6 • Baths: 3

Spacious Pemberton living with a flexible studio below for guests or rental income, double garage, large backyard, all within walking distance of everyday amenities of Pemberton.

Bright condo in downtown Pemberton with high ceilings, a sunny solarium, underground parking and a rooftop deck with stunning mountain views.

Nearly 40-acre organic farm with a custom European-inspired home, pool, workshop, barn, rental suite and plenty of space for horses and other agricultural pursuits.

Meadow’s Lane

Elements

Pemberton Meadows

604 698 5128 danielle@wrec.com

Lindsay Graham #442-4800 Spearhead Drive

8594 Ashleigh McIvor Drive

9220 Wedgemount Plateau Drive

$1,899,000 • Condominium SQ FT: 785 • Beds: 2 • Baths: 2

$1,999,000 • Vacant Land Lot size: 10,977 sq ft

$1,299,000 • Vacant Land Lot size: 1.927 acres

Perched on the slopes of Blackcomb Mountain, this top-floor residence delivers ski-in/ski-out access and unbeatable four-season enjoyment.

Perched above Green Lake, envision constructing your dream residence in an exclusive community that effortlessly fuses luxury, natural grandeur, and modern comforts.

This expansive estate lot offers an extraordinary opportunity to create a private mountain retreat with expansive views and recreation at your doorstep.

Aspens, Whistler Benchlands

Baxter Creek, Whistler

604 935 9533 lindsay@wrec.com

WedgeWoods, Whistler

Damien Amirault

#9 – 2101 Whistler Road

8214 Mountain View Drive

#17-2301 Taluswood Place

$629,000 • Condominium SQ FT: 368 • Beds: 0.5 • Baths: 1

$1,350,000 • Vacant Land Lot size: 10,890 sq ft

$1,749,000 • Townhouse SQ FT: 1,010 • Beds: 2 • Baths: 2

Perfect for first-time buyers or staff! Bright corner unit near Creekside Gondola, shops, trails. Exceptional value, prime Whistler location including private patio, storage, parking.

This property boasts views of Whistler, Blackcomb & Wedge mountains, located walking distance to all amenities. Perfect opportunity to build your custom retreat!

Renovated ground-level ski-in/ski-out end-unit with heated floors, fireplace, two covered decks, mountain views and excellent rental potential.

Highpointe, Creekside

Alpine Meadows

Bluffs, Nordic

whistlerrealestate.ca *Personal Real Estate Corporation

604 932 7925 damien@wrec.com

NEW PRICE

Katelyn Spink

604 786 1903 katelyn@wrec.com

9665 Devine Street

#7 – 7450 Prospect Street

7596 Taylor Road

$699,000 • Condominium SQ FT: 827 • Beds: 2 • Baths: 1

$1,299,000 • Chalet SQ FT: 2,218 • Beds: 4 • Baths: 2

D’A rcy $439,000 • Serviced Lot Lot size: 1.927 acres

This home offers a relaxed and easy-going lifestyle just steps from everything the village has to offer, complete with its own separate garage.

Two fully contained 2 bedroom 1 bath suites in an iconic Pemberton building, keep them together or explore joining them in to one larger home.

The perfect place to start your dream build. A rare opportunity to secure a serviced rural property and build the lifestyle you’ve been looking for. RR1 zoned.

Pemberton

NEW LISTING

NEW PRICE

Tracey Cruz

604 905 9552 tracey@wrec.com

2242 Aspen Drive

10008 Koocha Road

1985 Highway 99

$3,099,000 • Duplex SQ FT: 2,193 • Beds: 3.5 • Baths: 3.5

$859,000 • Chalet SQ FT: 1,137 • Beds: 4 • Baths: 1

$1,999,000 • Chalet on Acreage SQ FT: 2,453 • Beds: 5.5 Baths: 4

Contemporary, new and energy efficient half duplex with fabulous Whistler Peak views, private hot tub, double garage and a fantastic location within walking distance of Creekside Village.

Beautifully renovated four-bedroom home just steps from Anderson Lake, featuring modern upgrades, landscaped grounds, covered outdoor entertaining spaces, and a peaceful setting.

Picturesque 10-acre hobby farm just 5 minutes from Pemberton. Charming farmhouse, separate 1-bedroom home, horse facilities, gardens, fruit trees, workshop, chicken coops and more!

#17 - 7416 Flint St

Lot 6 – 6500 In-Shuck-ch Forest Road

2730 Blackwater Road

$715,000 • Townhouse SQ FT: 1,035 • Beds: 3 • Baths: 2

$2,199,000 • Chalet SQ FT: 3,429 • Beds: 6 • Baths: 4

$2,200,000 • Acreage Lot size: 160.1 acres • 2,000 sq.ft.

Bright 3-bedroom townhome featuring a fenced backyard, mountain views, established gardens, and a cozy wood stove. Walkable to schools, parks, and shopping.

A private lakefront retreat with a dock, pool, and approximately one acre of irrigated gardens, designed for comfortable off-grid living.

Private 160-acre off-grid property surrounded by lake and mountain views, open space, and endless recreation nearby. Three unfinished cabins offer a head start for creating a rural retreat.

Nordic Estates

D’A rcy

Pemberton

Lisa Hilton PREC*

604 902 4589 lisah@wrec.com

Pemberton

whistlerrealestate.ca

Pemberton

Whistler Office info@wrec.com 604 932 5538 1 800 667 2993

Pemberton Office pemberton@wrec.com 604 894 5166 1 877 242 2448

Jill Notman Colpitts #325 Lost Lake Lodge

#4 Lupin Rock

#4 Sapporo Dr, Gondola Village

$1,595,000 • Condominium SQ FT: 805 • Beds: 2 • Baths: 2

$1,569,000 • Townhouse SQ FT: 1,249 • Beds: 3 • Baths: 2.5

$756,000 • Townhouse SQ FT: 425 • Beds: 1 • Baths: 1

Beside Lost Lake Park and Fairmont Golf Course, enjoy trails, swimming, skiing, and biking. Amenities include a pool, hot tub, fitness centre, shuttle, and parking. No GST.

Private end-unit townhome in a hidden enclave near Valley Trail, Creekside, and Alta Lake Parks. Features hot tub, large mudroom, and a mountain of potential.

Updated Gondola Village unit steps from the Creekside shops, dining & groceries. Quiet end, minimal stairs, cozy fireplace, closest to lifts. Nightly rental zoning allows for Airbnb.

Benchlands

Nordic

604 932 1372 jill@wrec.com

Creekside

Jane Heim

2323 Aspen Court

9480 Emerald Drive

6533 Balsam Way

$1,995,000 • Triplex SQ FT: 1,776 • Beds: 3.5 • Baths: 3

$2,699,000 • Chalet SQ FT: 3,198 • Beds: 7 • Baths: 7

$2,299,000 • Chalet SQ FT: 1,393 • Beds: 3 • Baths: 2

End-unit triplex on a quiet cul-de-sac. Stunning mountain views and incredible outdoor living space with nearly 730 sq ft of decks and a large fenced yard. 10-minute walk to Creekside Gondola.

Beautifully maintained gothic-arch chalet with views of Wedge and Armchair Glaciers on 13,063 sq ft of mature gardens. Stunning family home with strong suite revenue.

Classic 1970s alpine chalet on a flat 7,300 sq ft lot. 5-minute walk to Myrtle Philip Elementary, and the Valley Trail easily connects you to Rainbow Park, the West-Side bike trails, and the Village.

Nordic

Emerald Estates

604 935 0802 jane@janeheim.ca

Whistler Cay Estates

SOLD

Keith McIvor PREC*

7620 Seven O’Clock Drive

#26-4000 Sunstone Way

#25-4000 Sunstone Way

$399,000 • Vacant Land Lot size: 7,536 sq.ft

$1,749,000 • Duplex SQ FT: 2,022 • Beds: 3 • Baths: 3

$1,659,000 • Duplex SQ FT: 2,200 • Beds: 3 • Baths: 2.5

This property offers unobstructed views of Mt Currie, a gentle slope for an easy build, and is the lowest-priced lot currently available in the Sea to Sky corridor.

This end-unit offers unobstructed views, bright open-concept living This brand-new spacious duplex features an open-concept layout and over 460 sq. ft. of deck and patio space. Enjoy the spectacular complete with designer finishes and expansive deck to enjoy setting and endless outdoor recreation. No GST. unobstructed mountain views. MOVE-IN READY!

Sunstone, Pemberton

Elevate, Pemberton

*Personal Real Estate Corporation

604 935 2650 keith@wrec.com

Whistler Office info@wrec.com 604 932 5538 1 800 667 2993

OWNER RETIRING

SOLD

GLOW Nail & Beauty by Yvonne

#638A - 2036 London Lane

$149,990 SQ.FT.: 310

$239,900 • Condominium SQ FT: 594 • Beds: 1 • Baths: 1

Pemberton Office pemberton@wrec.com 604 894 5166 1 877 242 2448

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Olly Duquemin 604 938 4011 olly@wrec.com

#225-2063 Lake Placid Road, Whistler Commercial

Local, established salon with loyal clientele. Prime opportunity to own a thriving beauty business in the heart of Whistler Creekside

Erica Lawson

604 966 7181 erica@wrec.com

Hillary Lawson

Legends, Creekside

Hilton Grand Vacation Points Selling and listing 20,000 points, $16,000.

This top-floor corner penthouse ¼ share features high vaulted ceilings and breathtaking views of the ski hill. Enjoy one week of use every month, plus two weeks every fourth Christmas.

NEW PRICE

613 862 9768 hillary@wrec.com

2317 - F Brandywine Way

#972 - 4090 Whistler Way

$1,250,000 • Townhouse SQ FT: 1,365 • Beds: 3.5 • Baths: 2

$644,000 • Condominium SQ FT: 511 • Beds: 1 • Baths: 1

Spacious end-unit offers a hot tub, flexible living space. Ideally located within walking distance of Creekside Village, the gondola, and Alpha Lake.

Steps from both gondolas, this bright suite features a cozy fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, elevated mountain and village views.

#4 - 2235 Sapporo Drive

#320 - 4368 Main Street

#303 - 4368 Main Street

$799,000 • Townhouse SQ FT: 405 • Beds: 1 • Baths: 1

$929,000 • Condominium SQ FT: 455 • Beds: 0.5 • Baths: 1

$875,000 • Condominium SQ FT: 460 • Beds: 0.5 • Baths: 1

With ski season just around the corner, Gondola Village provides access to the slopes, shops, and restaurants of Creekside. Suited for personal enjoyment or revenue generation.

This exceptional Village location is just steps from Whistler’s shops, The location of this studio puts shops, restaurants, entertainment, and mountain amenities just steps from your door. Add to that Phase 1 zoning restaurants, entertainment, and year-round mountain amenities. allows for unlimited owner use as well as short and long-term rentals. Ideal for a personal mountain retreat or investment property.

Whistler Property Sisters Team propertysisters@wrec.com

Call an agent if you want it listed. Call the Property Sisters if you want it sold.

Bayshores, Whistler

The Westin Resort & Spa

Elizabeth Chaplin 604 932 1311

elizabeth @elizabethchaplin.com

Gondola Village, Whistler Village

Market Pavilion, Whistler Village

whistlerrealestate.ca *Personal Real Estate Corporation

Market Pavilion, Whistler Village

FEATURE STORY I would like to see municipal been active in Whistler’s non-profit community boards. She served two terms on the Whistler spending brought down to an network and a regular attendee of Public Library Board of Trustees, where she worked with affordable level for the community. council meetings for 20 years. the Friends of the Public Library on fundraising initiatives An audit initiated by the newly Now in the consulting realm, and received a Civic Service Award. She also served one elected council in 2011 resulted in Claire works on projects for term as marketing and communications director for the savings that resulted in reduced federal, provincial, and regional Whistler Children’s Chorus, and one term as fundraising tax increases. Our future tax governments. Claire has a master’s director for Pemberton Off Road Cycling Association. increases should be at or near the in Environment & Business, Mandy also brings operational experience from her Bank of Canada CPI if we want certificates in Economics of Public time as the regional business liaison for the Squamishaffordability. Savings should Policy and Public Policy Analysis and Lillooet Regional District, and as executive director at come from increasing efficiency Innovation, and multiple courses in the Whistler Institute, where she reported to a Governing as opposed to cutting programs, leadership, community engagement Board and was responsible for driving the organization’s or funding to our Fee for Service and project management. business plan forward in alignment with its strategic plan. non-profits. We need to maintain our existing infrastructure and use 2. What are the top three things you 2. What are the top three things you would like to the funds we have on projects the would like to accomplish if elected accomplish if elected (please be specific)? community needs now. (please be specific)? I would like to see the Northlands Develop shared services support for Whistler’s nonCLAIRE RUDDY development move forward. This I feel that Whistler is at an inflection profits. Through Fee for Service and the Community project will provide employee point on a number of key issues. If Enrichment Program, the RMOW already supports housing and an all-weather multimany local organizations. I would explore whether a elected, I would like to: sport recreation facility. The housing and recreation similar model could provide - See a return to large-scale facility is supported overwhelmingly based on the transparent community engagement access to municipal spaces or staff community consultation as it meets the needs of our (e.g., town halls, citizens’ assemblies) expertise, helping non-profits community. The all-weather recreation facility will be a processes that centre community in build capacity and deliver more for great addition to our community as we deal with climate decisions on key issues. the community. change and changing recreation needs. - See a (condensed) 2050 visioning Shovels in the ground for expanded indoor recreation I would like to see employee housing move forward process that consolidates what we know about changing demographics, facilities, whether through with a focus on moving housing closer to workplaces additions at Meadow Park or a and schools for their children. This should reduce travel climate change, tourism, community new multipurpose facility. The and traffic, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We also needs, etc., and sets out a plan that community has consistently need to assist our senior population looking to relocate to ensures we make the most of land and resources to maximize community identified needs for more recreation manageable, suitable housing to age in place. resilience, belonging and sustainability. space, including dedicated racket - See a participatory budget model sport facilities, childcare space, 3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, adopted which brings community and a seniors’ centre. It would be should be placed on that growth? deeper into understanding municipal exciting to see at least one phase of budgets, setting priorities and this vision become a reality. Whistler has undergone significant growth that was Establish a working group that from its inception managed by a “bed cap.” The purpose evaluating trade-offs. MANDY ROUSSEAU brings together the municipality, was to link growth to the limits of our infrastructure commercial property owners, and including housing, water, sewer, transportation and 3. How should Whistler grow—and strata hotels to address aging what the local environment can handle, the basis what limits, if any, should be placed Village infrastructure. By bringing the right stakeholders of sustainable development. Based on traffic on our on that growth? to the table, we can identify shared priorities, coordinate roadways we are at capacity. Additional growth will investments, and develop practical solutions for require expansion of waste and Whistler has long had limits like water treatment. These will come the bed cap; however, recent maintaining the vibrancy of Whistler’s commercial core. with significant costs. I doubt the provincial policy, including the community can afford the tax Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing and 3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, increases to pay for them. Finally, projections in the Regional Growth should be placed on that growth? our environment and wildlife, how Strategy, means we have less control much more can we encroach on over growth. I think growth will Ultimately, I think growth needs to be deliberate. our habitat and wildlife? I think be a reality for Whistler, and I’d Growing up in the Whistler area, the discussion of bedwe are there. like to ensure a community-driven unit caps and “buildout” was omnipresent, so I’ve always approach to reviewing limits and understood that Whistler has development limits. I think ensuring growth brings community we should be prepared to maintain or strengthen those benefits such as community limits when our infrastructure, environment, and quality facilities (senior centre, indoor of life tell us we’ve reached capacity. Within those limits, 1. Please share a brief bio and any recreation, daycare, etc.) and we should make better use of the land we already have relevant experience. support for infrastructure costs. I (continuing to develop municipally owned lands that also think we need to keep being are appropriate for employee housing, being open to Claire Ruddy is best known for leading creative with our housing models, greater density and height where it makes sense) without AWARE’s transformation from a EDUARDO for example, exploring options to expanding our footprint. Any future growth should volunteer-run charity into a staffed VAZQUEZ-VELA mobilize private funds using a land also be informed by environmental expertise to clearly operation, building social enterprises, trust model for small-scale seniors understand impacts on sensitive ecosystems. creating 100-plus job opportunities, housing developments. and delivering conservation and climate action through community programs, education and advocacy. Claire has worked on policy and projects relating to tourism, destination 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. management, transportation, recreation, circular economy, 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. housing and more, and, coming from the non-profit space, Born in Canada and raised in Mexico, I’m a lawyer, with has firm foundations in fiscal management, organizational Mandy began her community governance experience on postgraduate studies in political science and public governance and public transparency. the Whistler Off Road Cycling Association Board where administration from Sciences-Po and ENA in France. I Claire has served on more than 10 RMOW and regional she learned the importance of listening to staff, members worked in public service as Principal Secretary to a State advisory committees, as well as the boards of the Whistler and sponsors alike. She encouraged all three groups to Governor and as an advisor at the National University Chamber of Commerce and Arts Whistler. Claire helped use formal feedback processes so their ideas and concerns of Mexico, which taught me how bureaucracies work and how to turn that experience into practical solutions. develop key RMOW strategies and has worked with could be captured, reviewed and considered by the board. municipal staff to turn policy into action with Whistler That experience inspired Mandy to pursue her Non- For the last 28 years I’ve been an entrepreneur, building businesses, non-profits, residents and guests. Claire has Profit Management Certificate and to contribute to other businesses and creating jobs. Today I run a travel and

CLAIRE RUDDY

MANDY ROUSSEAU

EDUARDO VAZQUEZ-VELA

OCTOBER 9, 2026

FEATURE STORY destination management company bringing hundreds of visitors to Whistler every year, and I sit on boards in hospitality, energy, and education. I’ve also worked at Whistler Blackcomb in safety, ski patrol, and currently as ski instructor. My family and I chose Whistler 16 years ago to put down roots, and I’m running as a neighbour who wants to bring governance experience, board-level judgment, and business management to the council table.

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)? Fiscal responsibility and administrative simplification. With vital assets already past their expected service life, we can’t keep underfunding our reserves. I’ll push for a published, annually reviewed asset-management strategy. Alongside that, I’ll push to streamline municipal processes, especially permitting, one of the most common complaints and one of the biggest obstacles to bringing investment to town. Wildfire and the environment. It’s a matter of when, not if. Whistler already has a Wildfire Resiliency Plan and an Evacuation Plan; my priority is making sure they’re funded, regularly tested, and clearly communicated so every resident knows the plan before a fire happens, alongside stronger support for local environmental work protecting our natural environment. Housing. I’ll push to review and update policies as well as the WHA’s governance structure. We need to reflect the realities of those who need housing today, and that means an honest review of eligibility, accountability and how decisions get made, not assuming the current structure is beyond question.

team was much more productive than a lot of individual players in the company. I dealt with finances, deadlines, budgets versus income, maintaining equipment and making a community out of staff. I value my bosses, my coworkers, my family, my church, and the many friends I’ve made in the years living in Whistler.

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)?

as patrol but also modernized the Mountain Safety program after Intrawest purchased Whistler in 1997. Founding member of AWARE and WORCA, put many years on Parent Advisory Councils—schools to district to provincial. Chair of Communities That Care, currently chair of the Whistler Valley Housing Society. Councillor from 2017 to 2026.

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)?

I have had numerous coworkers, clients in the gym, and friends living Reduce traffic congestion. Improve CATHY JEWETT in their vehicles. In North America transit efficiency through queueit’s estimated that hundreds of jumper lanes. Regional transit. thousands of individuals and Advocate to allow WHA housing families are living in vehicles due owners to add maintenance to housing affordability and availability. Whistler is completed to the value of their home. not an exception. We can ignore Advocate for increased services for residents. it or become leaders in solving it. Childcare, Strong Start, Foundry, community gathering I’m picking the “solve-it” path by space, seniors housing and potentially long-term care. seeking to provide washrooms, water, garbage removal and easy access to 3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, workplaces. There would be a fee for should be placed on that growth? the services provided and available only for those employed in Whistler. Housing our workforce has always been a priority. The The weekend traffic congestion, latest OCP amendment includes an increase to employee especially from Function/Cheakamus units. to the village, is a concern in terms The RMOW has identified Priority Habitat, and these of safety for walkers, cyclists and spaces should not be developed. Water quality and supply other vehicles and in their ability should also be top of mind. to enter onto the highway from our We have a lack of services in the south part of the communities. A 60 km/h speed valley. Can we support recreation, indoor gathering spaces, limit all the way from Function/ food stores and other services? Recent feedback is that Cheakamus to Emerald Estates Cheakamus residents are not in favour of developing the should be adopted and possibly 50 municipal land available. Creating walkable communities 3. How should Whistler grow—and km/h through Creekside to Alpine. should be a focus—cuts down on traffic and emissions. what limits, if any, should be placed JOHN BLOK A bike-friendly pedestrian overpass on that growth? from Cheakamus over Highway 99 to Function would increase safety for Whistler must grow responsibly, the future developments in both those communities. within the limits our community already set through the 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. Auditing and building recreation facilities for the OCP, with no trading away protected green or recreational spaces that make Whistler what it is. We must prioritize future size and tourist load is critical to the vibrancy and In 1991, I came here to teach skiing; 35 years later housing in the right locations and require developers, livability of Whistler. I’m still here, still teaching, and such as at Northlands, to deliver real community benefit grateful to have built a career, led my (including continuity for racket sports and a genuine 3. How should Whistler grow—and community and raised my family in RALPH FORSYTH community hub with space for seniors and childcare) Whistler. what limits, if any, should be placed through open, public negotiations rather than closed- on that growth? Ski career highlights include door deals. being part of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort’s original senior management By cutting red tape we can attract investment without Whistler has a maximum bed count team and earning the Canadian ski lowering our standards. Growth must be paired with in the OCP but that is a moveable instructor level four standard. resilience: every major development decision should goal post as the municipal council As an entrepreneur, I’ve coached be weighed against wildfire risk, watershed health and can vote to amend it. Currently, hundreds of locals in exceptional whether our aging infrastructure can actually support it. proposed OCP amendments would service delivery and, since 2013, Growth that doesn’t meet these standards is growth we allow an additional 1,500 bed I’ve owned Peak Vending Corp., can’t afford, no matter how attractive it looks on paper. units for housing initiatives across Whistler’s largest independent Whistler, many in Cheakamus, and vending business. 3,500 bed units for redevelopment Before politics, I volunteered on in Whistler Creek West and a dozens of community committees development permit for the 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. and coached the Whistler Saints Northlands is in the making. Football Club for 15 years. It is a privilege to run for Whistler council. I am ready to Although it may take 20 years for all Elected to RMOW council in 2005, invest my time, talents and insights to help keep Whistler this to be built out, we must consider 2008, 2018 and 2022. I’ve served on sustainable, livable and vibrant. I have no personal what is sustainable for the future. A several boards including the Whistler agenda except for a love and concern for the future of stable community will ensure stable Public Library, AWARE, the Whistler Development planning and taxation. Whistler. Corporation and the Chamber of Commerce. Grace and I have lived in Whistler for 26 years. I have I love to ski and bike with my wife Stephanie. Our sons, been on the board of WORCA, including two years as Jack and Liam, occasionally humour us with a pedal or a president, worked for Pique Newsmagazine and for the few turns, it’s a great reminder of how good we used to be. past 20 years, I have worked as a personal fitness trainer 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. for Whistler Core. Before moving to Whistler I was part of a family I’m a longtime resident of Whistler—you know, came 2. What are the top three things you would like to printing business in Vancouver. During those 30 years, for a winter, stayed for a lifetime. Raised my kids here. accomplish if elected (please be specific)? I learned that having your employees moulded into a Worked for Whistler Blackcomb for 44 seasons, mostly

RALPH FORSYTH

JOHN BLOK

CATHY JEWETT

40 OCTOBER 9, 2026

ROBIN BROWN COMMUNITY FIRST

CANDIDATE FOR WHISTLER COUNCIL MEET ROBIN

I have been a full-time Whistler resident for 25 years and a taxpayer for 39 years. I am a professional engineer and have led my own firm for 33 years, primarily in forensic engineering - analyzing physical evidence to identify problems and find practical solutions. My wife and I built our Whistler home in 2001 because this is the community and lifestyle we chose. I have seen many positive changes, but also a sharp rise in the cost of living and growing pressure on residents, infrastructure, and the environment. I am running to bring careful analysis, clear priorities, and responsive decision-making to council.

PRIORITIES FOR WHISTLER • RESPONSIBLE SPENDING Bring municipal spending under control, improve productivity, and put essential community needs ahead of costly proposed developments. • HOUSING THAT WORKS Ensure seniors and employee housing is genuinely attainable, and press major employers to provide more housing for their seasonal workforce. • GROWTH WITHIN OUR LIMITS Match development with water, sewer, transportation, highway capacity, and protection of Whistler's wildlife and natural environment. • PROTECT COMMUNITY AMENITIES Use the Northlands community contribution to deliver an all-weather tennis and pickleball facility before the existing facility is removed. • ACCESSIBLE LOCAL GOVERNMENT Build a council that listens, responds, and makes it easier for residents and taxpayers to engage with their municipality.

I will commit my time on council to keeping our community first. Authorized by Robin Brown, Financial Agent • M: 604-209-8201 email: robin@robinbrown.ca ROBIN BROWN | CANDIDATE BIOGRAPHY AND PRIORITIES

VOTE

John Blok

V A N C O U V E R

Running for Council

WHAT DO I BRING TO THE TABLE? 20 years of fitness training for many Whistlerites. Does that matter? The government of Whistler also needs to be lean and fit. 25 years in a deadline orientated business in Vancouver. A love for the people of Whistler and the cultures it represents. Desire to plan for recreational facilities for the future of all residents. A concern for vehicle dwellers and a willingness to trouble shoot possible solutions. Energetic, honesty, good listener and I can read instruction manuals. A goal to make the highway through Whistler and the Valley Trail network safe for all users.

What’s important to you? bloks@telus.net This ad is authorized by John Blok, Financial Agent - bloks@telus.net

FACTORY INCENTIVES, RATES & REBATES

604-760-3121 FINANCE MANAGER

ramin.izadi@yahoo.com OCTOBER 9, 2026

FEATURE STORY Pursuing our Smart Tourism options for pedestrian overpasses, and youth advocate for the Greater Victoria Child and NICOLE BAUDISCH agenda and pulling the policy targeted lane expansions, dedicated Youth Advocacy Society. I taught as a full-time instructor levers that will make tourism work bus lanes where feasible, allocation and wrote curriculum for 12 years at UVIC. My graduate for Whistler. We need tourism to of parking lots and stronger studies included social policy courses. be about stakeholders as much as collaboration with provincial Municipal councils do policy work. They make bylaws, shareholders, and for the benefits agencies to improve traffic flow and set property taxes, approve budgets, and manage everyday of tourism to accrue to the people safety. services. My work history is rich in policy work and studies. that work in tourism. Specifically, Second, I want to expand housing I analyzed and researched policy, critiqued policy, applied investment to reduce congestion, opportunities for local residents. This policy, and wrote briefing papers on policy for senior ministry increasing revenue via the Class 8 tax leadership. I worked in complex organizations similar to the includes creating more pathways to category and diversifying tourism home ownership through the WHA RMOW. I have transferable skills to be a good councillor. offerings. and reviewing the rental program to I bring strong work experience and education in ensure rates remain affordable for policy, planning and communication. Equally important, Reduce permitting wait times. local workers. At the same time, I I bring shared community values and vision, and strong This is an issue in every municipality do not support the loss of valuable people skills, working with individuals, groups and the in B.C., and consequently, we’re park or recreation land for housing community. If elected to council, I am committed to leaving millions of dollars of development. We need solutions learning from and with others to make a better Whistler. investment revenue on the table. that balance housing needs with the With investment in technology and preservation of community spaces. human resources, Whistler can lead 2. What are the top three things you would like to Third, I want to see a long-term accomplish if elected (please be specific)? the province—as we do in many areas plan to expand recreation infrastructure. Our community of local government—on this critical issue. has grown, but recreation facilities have not kept pace. I 1. Support and encouragement of neighbourhood Continue our journey towards greater civic engagement. With changes to our Committee of the would support developing and/or expanding recreation associations and facilitation of town hall meetings that Whole and Regular Council meetings we’ve increased amenities, including securing an agreement for a racket elicit community needs and concerns and promote participation in our legislative processes. With programs sports facility, while planning for future community needs. conversation with the RMOW council. like “Add Your Voice” and “Borrow a Councillor,” we’ve 2. Contribute to the development increased participation in our planning decisions and 3. How should Whistler grow, and of needed amenities, such as a access to council. This work has been fun to participate seniors centre, seniors housing, a what limits, if any, should be placed in and tremendously rewarding. We can continue this on that growth? racket/recreation facility, and momentum by experimenting with “citizens’ assemblies” municipal child-care spaces (using and other engagement activities. innovative recruitment strategies Growth should be guided by the to attract skilled Early Childhood needs of the people who live and work Education workers, by possibly 3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, in Whistler. While growth can bring partnering with university and new opportunities, it must not come should be placed on that growth? college teaching programs). at the expense of residents’ quality 3. I want to see a science-based Whistler’s growth should balance community needs of life, community character, or wildfire strategy that addresses and the carrying capacity of the valley. Recent growth environmental sustainability. prevention, mitigation and has prioritized resident-restricted housing, and that Future development should be evacuation. I will do my best to will continue if I’m re-elected. One area that deserves considered alongside its impacts on make community safety and the attention is the growth of second homeowners moving housing, transportation, recreation environment a priority on council. here full time and the impact that has on municipal infrastructure and the natural services. B.C.’s Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) environment. Before approving growth, legislation blew up the old bed-cap framework, but we’ve we need to understand whether our 3. How should Whistler grow, come to an elegant solution requiring any development roads, public spaces, services and and what limits, if any, should be ARTHUR DE JONG under the SSMUH guidelines to have an employee amenities can support it. We also placed on that growth? housing component. By continuing policy decisions like need meaningful engagement with these, Whistler’s growth will be methodical, sensible and residents, businesses, First Nations and How Whistler should grow is a responsible. community organizations to ensure decisions reflect the politically complex and paramount question. I know if needs of the broader community. elected as a councillor, it’s not just about my opinion or Whistler should continue to evolve, but growth should the opinion of the council. Consideration must be given be thoughtful, responsible and sustainable. Success to climate research, environmental awareness, quality of should not be measured by how much we grow, but by life for residents, and the will of the community, while 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. how well we maintain the qualities that make Whistler respecting that we are a resort community that relies on tourism. It all matters. I built my life and career in Whistler for over 20 years. I such a special place to live. bring a practical, collaborative and fiscally responsible approach to both my personal and professional life and will bring this approach to council. I have led diverse teams, managed significant budgets, and worked daily 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience to balance the needs of employees, residents, and visitors. I own a twoWhistler has been home for 14 years. I bring depth of EXPERIENCE and DEDICATION to bedroom WHA condo in Cheakamus, I’m an active volunteer: 10 years with everything I do. Raised on a dairy farm, started by my volunteer at the school and on local Mountain Safety; four at the food Dutch immigrant father, WORK-ETHIC and TEAMWORK boards, solo parent and work full bank, three at the library; three with are ingrained. A degree in business and my passion to time. To see a full bio and learn Whistler Adaptive Sports Program; protect the environment fuel my work as a steward of more about my experience, please and a current project with the Slope mountain landscapes. My mountain career began as visit vote-nicole.ca. Side Support Society. manager of Blackcomb ski patrol, followed by managing I worked for 30 years in social mountain operations. During my years as senior manager services and post-secondary of planning and environment for Whistler Blackcomb 2. What are the top three things you the mountain operation received more than 40 national education in Victoria. I did front-line would like to accomplish if elected service delivery, community-based and international awards for environmental excellence. (please be specific)? program supervision and I’ve been fortunate over the past four decades to consult management, and served as the alongside small startups, community ski areas, and larger First, I want to advance practical executive director of two non- organizations like the United Nations and World Bank. solutions to traffic congestion profits. I served three years in the south of Creekside and parking in During the last eight years in local government my file headquarters of the Ministry for has expanded significantly from environmental expertise Cheakamus. Too much discussion Children and Family Development, to providing depth of oversight on growth, human has focused on studying the problem MICHAEL BURNETT working in the policy and adoption resources, business strategy and support for seniors. I rather than implementing solutions. divisions. I was Victoria’s first child strive to bring humility, stability, vision and team-play to I would advocate for exploring

NICOLE BAUDISCH

MICHAEL BURNETT

42 OCTOBER 9, 2026

ARTHUR DE JONG

Jen

Vote Claire Ruddy for Whistler Council

Oct. 7 / 10 / 17 Find out why @

claireruddy.ca

Community Consultation Collaboration Cathy will continue to use her passion, energy and extensive community knowledge as a member of the RMOW Council to ensure Whistler continues to be a great place to live, work and do business. Chair - Whistler Valley Housing Society, Whistler’s first social housing Chair - RMOW HR Committee Member - RMOW Governance Committee, RMOW Smart Tourism Committee, Audain Art Museum Board 2016 Whistler’s Citizen of the Year - in recognition of many years of volunteer service in Whistler

Re-elect Cathy Jewett

For Council in the RMOW Municipal Election Advance Voting: October 7 & 10 at Whistler Public Library

Voting Day: October 17 at Myrtle Philip Community School Polls open 8:00 am - 8:00 pm Authorized by Cathy Jewett, Financial Agent - cojewett@gmail.com

VOTE! VOTE Authorized by Claire Ruddy - financial agent claireruddyforwhistler@gmail.com

Mandy Rousseau for Whistler Council on October 17, 2026

Mandy offers fresh energy and perspective, and responsible governance to Whistler Council. mandyrousseau.ca

OCTOBER 9, 2026

Authorized by Mandy Rousseau, Financial Agent - mandyforoffice@gmail.com

Authorized by Jen Ford, Financial agent, jen@jenford.ca

FEATURE STORY everything I do. I’ve also worked as an emergency medical assistant and longest-serving volunteer on the Vancouver Crisis Line.

for busy parents and make sure all kids have access to nutritious meals. Create more weather-proof multi-use spaces in all neighbourhoods, moving towards complete communities and decreasing the use of private vehicles. Starting with Cheakamus, which also needs us to push the Ministry of Transportation for a solution for the highway crossing.

supporting a growth strategy that keeps Whistler the “little mountain town” we all love. While there are many opportunities to continue building in Cheakamus, I want to start to build outside of Cheakamus. I also want to move forward with completing 2. What are the top three things you would like to the Cheakamus neighbourhood accomplish if elected (please be specific)? and look forward to hearing how the community envisions its future 1. WILDFIRE through recent public engagement. The No. 1 priority of local government is to keep its community safe. Whistler’s greatest threat is wildfire. The I will continue working to make most sustainable action we can take is not lose the town to 3. How should Whistler grow—and Whistler a place where families can a catastrophic fire. Seventy per cent of our land area is in thrive. To support this, I want to what limits, if any, should be placed forest. By late century we expect the temperature to be about on that growth? improve Meadow Park Sports Centre, five degrees warmer. The question is not IF a large wildfire build a recreation facility that serves will happen, the concern for our community is WHEN. all demographics in Whistler, and Whistler’s inherent beauty and address the lack of daycare spaces in ACTION: Prioritize community education. Push location will always attract visitors. our community. I have worked with for greater funding from all levels of government for While we’re not going to turn our the province on finding solutions back on tourism, I don’t think our FireSmarting with the goal of becoming fully FireSmarted! for the shortage of early childhood Continue to support our community for 100-per-cent efforts should focus on trying to educators and I want to continue that attract more people. climate resiliency. work… four years just wasn’t enough 2. PLANNED GROWTH The community here is amazing, time! There is more to do. Building a large family-run dairy farm and in but we urgently need more weatherI want to focus on using taxpayers’ management at WB, understanding carrying capacity proof infrastructure for our locals. JESSIE MORDEN money wisely by reviewing expenses thresholds has been a leadership imperative. Whistler My vision is to shift our carefully, prioritizing essential is at or near carrying capacity thresholds including the municipality’s focus from a resortservices, and finding efficiencies so highway, infrastructure delivery like water, and the first model to a community-first we can deliver more without overspending. capacity of Whistler Blackcomb with climate-related town built for the people who live and work here. decreases in snowpack. Overbuilding How to do this? Here’s some impacts community livability and ideas: 3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, guest experience. 1. Tackling Vacant Properties: should be placed on that growth? ACTION: Hold the cap. Limit Discourage speculation by applying further construction to employee empty-property taxes to both Whistler has housing needs now and will continue to housing needs and focus tourism residential and advocating to do have them in the future. Since 2022, we have built growth on shoulder seasons. the same with commercial spaces— more than 300 housing units. I would like to continue 3. CLIMATE ADAPTATION keeping homes available for local to build where we have serviced lots and look outside workers and storefronts active for of Cheakamus but I do not want Whistler to turn into a Although Whistler is making local businesses. metropolis. I remain committed to a bed cap that works some progress on GHG reduction, the 2. Supporting Everyday Needs: for our infrastructure and environment. world is not. The planet will continue Focus economic development on to warm quickly. Whistler’s winter attracting and retaining businesses business model is in decline, being that supply the essential goods, proactive is vital. Futureproofing by services, and amenities our local 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. building weatherproof experiences residents rely on daily. is essential, including a world class 3. Modernizing Public Services: I’ve been listening a lot, particularly over the past months. racket facility and additional natureStreamline municipal operations Cheakamus Crossing residents are sharing concerns based experiences. RAUL BAUTISTA and public services by fully utilizing about proposed OCP amendments and potential loss of technology that is already available, parkland. It is a serious issue. To paraphrase Michelle 3. How should Whistler grow—and ensuring tax dollars are spent Obama, “A handful of votes kept me off council in the what limits, if any, should be placed efficiently. past, determining one value system over another.” I’ve on that growth? worked in Whistler for the past 43 years and would like to see newly elected councillors working like “their hair As outlined above, Whistler has reached carryingis on fire” to support residents. capacity thresholds. Further growth should only focus on meeting employee housing needs and optimizing 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. Teacher with the Sea to Sky School District, retired shoulder-season visitation. 2015. Graduated from Queen’s University; BA Sciences/ I was born and raised in Whistler and am now raising my BEd. Through my career, collaboration with educators to family in this community. I have worked many jobs while achieve successful outcomes for students and staff was key. growing up in Whistler including the restaurant industry, For 10 years I’ve engaged in municipal discussions, hotel industry and as a paralegal. I have also volunteered attended regular council meetings and developed a good 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. with Big Brothers Big Sisters, WAG, understanding of local government. People say, “We see how engaged you I’m Raul, 42, father of two. I’ve worked in the service Arts Whistler and WCSS. During are—you know what’s going on.” I industry, from bartending, teaching kids how to my first term on council, I served on the boards of the SLRD, Arts served one term on the Recreation snowboard to now managing a well-loved local spot. and Leisure Advisory Committee. I served on the WHA board of directors for four years Whistler, WAG, WCSS, WHA, and the Library Board of Trustees. In Currently a member of AWARE, and was voted the Civic Service Award in 2024. MAC, and lead tours for the Museum, Like most in town, I came here 15 years ago for powder addition to these boards, I served preserving important resort history. and terrain. I ended up staying because of the summers and on the Accessibility and Inclusion Committee and the Housing and Also employed with Vail Resorts/ the people. I’m ALWAYS up for a pickleball game, for real. Strategy Committee. Adaptive skiing. 2. What are the top three things you would like to I love Whistler and it continues accomplish if elected (please be specific)? to be an incredible privilege to serve 2. What are the top three things you on council. would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)? Lower the cost of living for the WHA tenants. By revisiting the amortization period of the buildings we can lower the 2. What are the top three things you rent and by switching to bulk internet we can lower the would like to accomplish if elected 1. Representing the interests of cost of the connection fee. (please be specific)? residents and local businesses by Facilitate the creation of a comprehensive catering supporting responsible municipal service that would offer affordable meals to all the spending and sustainable operating I would like to continue the progress DAWN TITUS schools and the daycares in town. This would save time we have made on housing while budgets. Affordability is a national

DAWN TITUS

JESSIE MORDEN

RAUL BAUTISTA

44 OCTOBER 9, 2026

LANCE BRIGHT FOR MAYOR

FIX THE FOREST. OPEN THE BOOKS. A MANAGED FOREST PLANTED 1967

NOW THE TREES TOUCH. One tree every three steps, and the thinning we were promised never happened at the scale it needed to. Within 30 days of taking office, a formal written demand to the Province for funded, dated fuel treatment. If refused, every available remedy, including legal action. Fire breaks north and south of Whistler, with BC Hydro, CN Rail and Whistler Blackcomb invited in as partners.

A LINE-BY-LINE BUDGET REVIEW. "Whistler's spending has grown faster than our population and faster than residents' paycheques. I'm not going to pretend I know where every dollar should go before I've looked. What I'm committing to is a line-by-line review of the entire budget, with nothing offlimits and no sacred cows. Every department should be able to show residents what they're getting for their money." YOUR PROPERTY TAX, LAST FOUR BUDGETS

IF THEY THINK FIRE MITIGATION IS EXPENSIVE, TRY HAVING A FIRE.

LANCE BRIGHT FOR MAYOR I will act where others have not.

Authorized by Lance Bright, financial agent. 604-388-4545 | lance@lancebright.com

8.4% 8.18% 8.25% 6.9%

VOTE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 lancebright.com

FEATURE STORY issue and impacting most residents. Prioritizing policy changes to WHA rental costs and working on creating WHA units for purchase. 2. Ensuring changes to land use are weighed against a long-term plan. I am on record to oppose OCP amendments that would rezone parkland to residential. 3. Preserve Whistler as a worldclass resort community and complete negotiations for the Northlands development rezoning to include a multi-use racket/recreational amenity—no less than what exists— with a much-needed integrated seniors centre.

the community and the bears. So many deaths does not show off our No. 1 ski resort in a good light. Protect Whistler’s wildlife and wild places—with a strong nonlethal commitment. Protect habitat, reduce humanwildlife conflict, improve garbage and attractant management, and make non-lethal bear coexistence a core municipal priority. 2. Make Whistler a leader in environmental and climate action. Advance practical climate solutions, protect ecosystems and watershed health, environmental leadership and is also about building a resilient, connected community. That’s why I envision a Whistler 3. How should Whistler grow—and cinema and creative community what limits, if any, should be placed hub—a year-round space where we on that growth? can bring people together through film, environmental education, local Looking ahead to the future of this artists, Indigenous storytelling, youth incredible valley, residents should TINA programs and community events. review the work of AWARE and PASHUMATI JAMES 3. Build a more connected, information being documented. compassionate community, and Noting impact thresholds— solutions for the RV in Wedge and measurable limits that signal when a system is under too much pressure—AWARE has Cheakamus which in turn would help determined three areas close to capacity. Infrastructure against the huge fire risk this poses. Support youth and mental(water systems, roads, etc), social (community safety and health resources, expand meaningful quality of life), and environmental (ability of ecosystems to withstand use and climate change). World-wide, tourist recreation and cultural opportunities communities are limiting use to their areas by imposing within buildings we already opportunities fees. Perhaps a purchased pass might be needed to enter have—including seniors—and strengthen the village in future? The RMOW Big Moves Strategy has for set goals to address impacts on the environment, but relationships and collaboration with the Lil’wat and Squamish Nations. does not address threshold limits and GHG emissions continue to rise. More needs to be done. It is time to honour bed cap limits embedded in the OCP, Whistler’s 3. How should Whistler grow—and guiding principles. That must become a priority. We what limits, if any, should be placed must “grow smarter.” on that growth?

TINA PASHUMATI JAMES

1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience.

Tina is a longtime Whistler community member, environmentalist, wildlife advocate, avid mountaineer, a Whistler business owner and entrepreneur who has worked in the fields of mental health and yoga education for 40 years. Ten-year Ski Patrol volunteer. As director of BearKind. ca and a member of the Whistler Bear Collective Fast Response Team, she is committed to protecting wildlife through practical, non-lethal solutions. Tina is running for council to champion wildlife and habitat protection, climate action, mental health and youth, and meaningful relationships with the Lil’wat and Squamish Nations. Her vision is simple: a Whistler where people, wildlife and nature can thrive together. We can keep the circle as her elder always taught her. A circle can be a powerful political symbol because it communicates ideas of community, inclusion, connection and continuity without needing many words.

Continuity and stewardship— protecting what makes Whistler special while looking toward the future. Smart growth not growth at JEFF MURL any cost. Whistler should grow where growth strengthens our community— not where it destroys the very environment that makes this community possible. We need more housing for the people who live and work here, but we also need firm limits on habitat loss, protection of wildlife corridors and sensitive ecosystems, and infrastructure that can keep pace. Growth should make Whistler more livable, resilient and sustainable—not simply bigger.

IVAN OTTO

1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience.

Six years ago, I arrived in Whistler from Slovakia with two suitcases and a work permit. This year, I became a Canadian citizen. Whistler became my home and the community where I want to build my future. I have a PhD focused on technology and transportation, international experience in logistics IVAN OTTO and operations, and several years of 2. What are the top three things you leadership experience in Whistler’s would like to accomplish if elected non-profit sector. My work has taught me how to (please be specific)? manage budgets, people and complex operations, but 1. Support for resolution black bear cub conflict response also how important it is to listen. I have worked closely by British Columbia conservation officer service and with residents, volunteers, businesses and community non-lethal here in Whistler of our bears, as it traumatizes organizations.

46 OCTOBER 9, 2026

I am not running because I believe I have every answer. I am running because I ask questions, look at the facts and work hard to find practical solutions.

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected? First, housing. I want to support more employee and resident housing and look for ways to deliver it faster. People who work here should have a realistic opportunity to build their lives here. Second, transportation. Whistler does not end when the last commuter bus leaves. I want better connections between Whistler, Pemberton and the rest of the Sea to Sky, including later and more reliable service for workers and residents. Third, community resilience and quality of life. This includes stronger wildfire preparedness and protecting the recreation and community services that make Whistler a place to live, not only a place to visit.

3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, should be placed on that growth? I don’t think the question is simply whether Whistler should grow. The question is whether our housing, transportation, infrastructure and community services can grow with it. I support responsible development when it brings clear benefits to the community. But those benefits should not just be promises for the future. They should be written into agreements, with clear responsibilities and timelines. Northlands is a good example. I support new housing and I support maintaining at least the recreation capacity we have today. But with a development that could take many years, we need certainty about when those community benefits will actually be delivered. Growth should make Whistler stronger for the people who live and work here. If our infrastructure cannot support additional growth, we need to address that before simply adding more pressure. Whistler is not just a resort. It is our home.

JEFF MURL

1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience.

Jeff Murl’s career has spanned finance, hospitality and education, and now he operates his own accounting and consulting practice. When he’s not working with clients, Jeff enjoys spending time with his wife and two young sons, skiing, biking and exploring Whistler.

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)? a. Strengthen financial planning and asset management I want to continue to refine the budget process and expand meaningful community engagement while improving the accuracy of long-term asset management planning. This includes ensuring we have sustainable financial reserves, making informed capital investment decisions, effective project delivery schedules, and preserving the community’s infrastructure and assets for future generations. As our time horizon expands, our ability to plan and communicate with the community about what comes next improves trust in the work we undertake. b. Enhance organizational effectiveness through technology and innovation We should continue to invest in technology, process

Share your Voice

OTE

Dawn Titus • Dawn has ‘the heart of the community” • 30 year Educator, 40 year Volunteer • 10 years Municipal government engagement

4 Year+ Focus

• Affordability ~ Taxes and WHA rental policies • Safety ~ Fire protection and Valley Trail bylaws • OCP ~ Managed growth, ‘NO’ to current proposed amendments to rezone parkland at Cheakamus and increase density at Creekside

Dawn Titus for RMOW Council Authorized by Dawn Titus, Financial Agent madeiradawn2004@yahoo.ca

Whistler’s Premier Visitor Magazine Since 1980 Both in Print & Online

Contact Catherine today to book your combined print and digital ad for Winter/Spring 2027. 604-932-1672 cpower@whistlermagazine.com

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OCTOBER 9, 2026

FEATURE STORY improvements and strategic projects that increase operational efficiency and empower staff to deliver high-quality, responsive, and cost-effective services to the community. Our community’s success requires continuous improvement to reduce friction in the delivery of services and respond to changing needs. We have to adapt to the changes to the landscape while maintaining the high-level service our residents and visitors expect. c. Support the long-term success of all-season recreation and balanced visitation I believe in supporting and promoting all-season recreational opportunities that strengthen community well-being, enhance visitor experiences, and contribute to the long-term economic and environmental sustainability of the community. By attracting more visitation during the shoulder seasons, we can better leverage existing community assets, create greater business stability throughout the year, and increase economic benefits without expanding our footprint. Residents benefit when tourism pays for tourism through additional revenue opportunities but also the experiences it creates. Done thoughtfully, this approach supports local businesses while preserving the natural environment and authentic mountain experience that draws people to Whistler in the first place.

3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, should be placed on that growth? I believe Whistler should grow in opportunity, not simply in size. Our goal should be to help residents reach their full potential through education, skills development, entrepreneurship and innovation. When people have opportunities to learn more, earn more, and create more, the entire community benefits. At the same time, we can continue to grow our economy by making better use of what we already have. By attracting more visitors during the shoulder seasons, we can support local businesses, increase tourism revenues, and create more stable year-round employment, while leveraging existing infrastructure and recreational assets. Growth does not have to mean expanding our footprint. The best growth is growth in opportunity, knowledge and prosperity while protecting the forests, ecosystems and mountain culture that draw people to Whistler and make residents proud to call it home.

JEN FORD

1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience.

I am dedicated to community service. Starting with youth group and paper delivery as a child, to student volunteer groups through university. Having served on council since 2014, I have enjoyed working with so many local and regional groups, chairing the Whistler Housing Authority, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and Union of BC Municipalities. Most recently, I was elected as trustee of the Municipal Finance Authority, a provincial board that lends large capital funds to local governments in B.C. In my free time, I work with Whistler

360 Health, Whistler Youth Baseball Club, and the Parent Advisory Council and District PAC for School District 48.

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)? I want to see indoor recreation and weatherindependent community space built, through a concurrent engagement about what the community needs and where it should go. I have ensured that staff and the developer of Northlands stayed at the negotiation until we get into the rezoning process and I want to see that plan deliver value for us. I expect that hotter, drier summers and wetter winters will require better, more nimble evacuation and mitigation plans so the whole community understands what an emergency event requires from us. We don’t know what will happen or when, but we are ready as an organization. Our residents need to be ready for emergencies, too. We have finally signed an MOU with the province to deliver Regional Transit, and I want to see buses on the road as soon as possible. Our next steps involve establishing a governing body and a sustainable funding stream. I am proud of this work!

3. How should Whistler grow—and what limits, if any, should be placed on that growth?

MIKE RICHMAN

1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. Pemberton Valley resident for 35 years, longtime local business owner, basketball coach, and father of two.

48 OCTOBER 9, 2026

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected? Develop our new fire hall and continue strengthening our emergency preparedness and response capabilities. Get regional transit over the finish line, with reliable service from Líl’wat through Pemberton all the way to downtown Vancouver. Connecting people with services, jobs, health-care and each other while taking cars off the highway. Develop a clear roadmap for arts and recreation, to pursue both indoor and outdoor facilities and services that our community wants in a responsible and affordable way. Underlying all this work is the need to reopen the review of our Official Community Plan and JEN FORD involve the public in shaping what Pemberton looks like over the next decade and beyond.

3. Name one difficult or potentially unpopular decision Pemberton’s next council may need to make. Where do you stand on it?

Popularity is subjective and hypothetically creating a potentially unpopular decision is a tough We have built hundreds of new undertaking. We are charged with homes. We have policies in place looking at the big picture and the to ensure that our affordable homes long-term, which means that any of remain affordable. We need to many decisions could be unpopular turn our attention to right-sizing in the moment. our inventory with policies to help families move through the Difficult decisions will likely inventory, upsizing and downsizing come around balancing the need for as family circumstances change. We housing and the impacts of growth can’t keep building at the pace we and protecting Pemberton’s character. have. We have big opportunities Our job is to consider competing with small scale multi-unit housing interests with limited resources and MIKE RICHMAN in neighbourhoods that can handle different viewpoints and to focus gentle density. on the well-being of the greater We are a resort municipality, community. Decisions are made and that brings responsibilities beyond land use, water, carefully, by understanding information provided by sewer and protective services. The municipality is facing staff, listening to the community and having strong, enormous cost increases beyond our control, and needs respectful debate. While this may sound like a cop-out to to measure that with consistent service delivery. We the question “where do I stand?”, I think that coming in also have a part to play in growing our tourism economy, with a predetermined stand is detrimental to responsible caring for our workforce, and ensuring that our natural decision-making. playgrounds are protected and resilient. This requires a community-wide effort. 4. How should Pemberton balance residential and commercial growth with protection of farmland and its agricultural identity?

PEMBERTON

CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR

strong focus on emergency preparedness, planning and recovery, as well as housing affordability and availability, and the infrastructure needed to support our residents, business community, and quality of life.

Named “husband of the year” 26 years running. Served three terms as mayor, currently director on SquamishLillooet Regional District, vice-chair Sea to Sky Regional Hospital District, director Regional Transit Committee, chair Pemberton Valley Utilities Services, and member of the Pemberton Valley Emergency Management Committee, Local Transit Working Group and Vancouver Coastal Health Working Group. Over the next four years, I want to maintain a

Pemberton is bordered by dramatic topography and incredibly rich farmland, both fundamental to our identity. Potential growth areas are therefore limited, which is good in that it helps prevent sprawl, but it also means we need to think carefully about how some areas of town can accommodate more people and more business activity over time. We know we need housing for local working people, families and those who want to age in place. This means some development is necessary, and it needs to be thoughtful and measured. By directing growth to appropriate areas, working with partners to provide the types of housing we need, and being strategic about protecting the farmland, we can preserve Pemberton’s

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FEATURE STORY amazing character and respond to pressures from growth. Supporting and growing our business community, both downtown and at the industrial park is essential to Pemberton as it brings jobs and valuable services to the valley while spreading the tax burden. The Official Community Plan (OCP) is an important tool. The OCP sets out a long-term vision for housing, transportation, business, industry, arts, recreation and land use. The OCP reflects the priorities of the people who live here, the challenges and opportunities ahead and informs all other policy and decision-making. I want to see that review reopened early in the next term; this comes with meaningful public involvement. It is a document created by the people of Pemberton.

5. What should the Village of Pemberton’s government-togovernment relationship with Líl’wat Nation look like over the next four years, and what concrete action would you take to strengthen it?

accomplish if elected? First, responsible growth and infrastructure planning. Development cannot continually get ahead of roads, water, sewer, drainage, recreation and other infrastructure. I want council making decisions based on a clear longterm infrastructure and capital plan. Second, housing and livability. We need more diverse and attainable housing, particularly for people who work here, young families and seniors. The Village should identify where appropriate density belongs, streamline approvals for projects that meet community objectives and actively pursue partnerships and senior-government funding. Third, financial responsibility and accountability. Residents deserve to clearly understand where their tax dollars are going and what results they are getting. I want stronger long-term financial planning, clear priorities and greater transparency around major expenditures.

not simply meeting when a particular issue arises. Pemberton and Líl’wat Nation share this valley, and many issues do not stop at jurisdictional boundaries: housing, transportation, emergency preparedness, economic development, recreation, infrastructure and environmental stewardship. One concrete action I would take as mayor is to establish regular mayor-and-chief leadership meetings, supported by ongoing senior staff dialogue, with agreed shared priorities and measurable follow-up. We already have examples of what partnership can accomplish. The Spélkúmtn Community Forest demonstrates the value of working together around stewardship, economic opportunity and community benefit. Reconciliation is strengthened by relationships, but relationships are strengthened by action. I would work to ensure the Village approaches Líl’wat Nation as a partner, listens first and looks for practical opportunities where our two communities can accomplish more together.

CANDIDATES FOR COUNCIL JAMES LINKLATER

The futures of Líl’wat Nation and Pemberton are inextricably tied 3. Name one difficult or potentially together, and it is difficult to overstate unpopular decision Pemberton’s 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. the importance of this relationship. next council may need to make. We share many of the same goals, Where do you stand on it? I’ve been encouraged by members of our community to needs and challenges—from climate run for some time, and recent changes in my life have impacts and our future water source Council may have to say no or given me the opportunity to once again serve Pemberton. DAVID MACKENZIE to recreation, business and housing not yet to development that the Anne and Kevin’s father, a longtime Village and everything in between. community’s infrastructure cannot resident, homeowner, taxpayer, volunteer (Rotary Club responsibly support. of Pemberton/Pemberton Youth Soccer), and former Over the past months, the two communities have been working on a protocol agreement. I support growth, and we need housing, commercial Pemberton councillor (2011-2018), I understand both the A protocol agreement is one that outlines how we development and a stronger tax base. But approving growth responsibilities of local government and the importance are going to work together, it is a commitment to our without understanding its impact on water, sewer, roads, of this great community we call home. I believe local government works best when it reflects relationship. This agreement includes our shared values, an drainage, emergency services and community amenities the priorities of the people it serves. My role as a councillor acknowledgement of our history, a recognition of impacts simply pushes the cost and consequences into the future. from colonial practices, an outline of our common goals and My position is that growth should help pay for growth. would be to listen to your concerns, advocate on your behalf, and help make thoughtful and balanced decisions recognition of differences, all of which outline how we are Council needs to be prepared to require appropriate that benefit our entire community. going to cooperate in a clear and consensual framework. I infrastructure contributions, phase development where am so excited that we are very close to being able to bring the necessary and occasionally say no when a proposal is not agreement forward and celebrate it with the communities. in Pemberton’s long-term interest. 2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)? This agreement is a living framework—not simply a document. The agreement includes meeting regularly, 4. How should Pemberton balance residential and sharing information early, working together on issues that commercial growth with protection of farmland and its My priorities are the community’s; as part of council, we affect the whole valley and looking for opportunities to agricultural identity? need to solicit and gather Pemberton build practical partnerships. Ultimately, it is about sowing residents’ input to determine this. the seeds of respect, strength, well-being and unity for our Agriculture is not simply part of What comes to my mind: future generations. Pemberton’s history, it remains Supporting families, seniors, fundamental to our identity and and people with disabilities by our future. advocating for accessible services and opportunities for all. We should protect productive Maintaining and improving farmland and direct most 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. infrastructure, recreation, and residential and commercial growth community amenities to support our Pemberton has been my home and community for toward areas already designated growing population. decades, and public service has been an important part for development. Within those Strengthening emergency areas, thoughtful density can of my life here. preparedness and public safety, I was elected to Pemberton council in 2005 and accommodate more housing building on the resilience our served one term as councillor. Since then, I have gained and economic activity without community has demonstrated in more than 20 years of additional leadership experience continually expanding outward. the past and planning for future We also need to recognize that a in business, public safety, community service and challenges and events. healthy agricultural sector requires provincial governance. Updating our OCP, this I am managing director of Pemberton Valley Lodge, more than protecting land on a map. Farmers need viable businesses, local president of Pemberton District Search & Rescue and one JAMES LINKLATER important work is long overdue and is essential to managing growth of its SAR managers. I served for 14 years as an auxiliary markets, supportive policies and a responsibly while protecting the community that understands the RCMP Constable. character of our community. Provincially, I currently serve as board chair of go2HR and importance of agriculture. Practising fiscal responsibility, recognizing that our Growth and agriculture do not have to be opposing as a director of the BC Chamber of Commerce. I previously tax base is limited; every tax dollar matters and must be choices if we plan intelligently and use land efficiently. served as president and chair of the BC Hotel Association. managed wisely. Those experiences have taught me how to manage Supporting a culture of service across the Village of budgets, chair boards, build consensus, work with 5. What should the Village of Pemberton’s governmentPemberton organization. government, respond during emergencies and, importantly, to-government relationship with Líl’wat Nation look like Supporting local business and economic make decisions and take responsibility for them. over the next four years, and what concrete action would development by encouraging entrepreneurship, I’m running because I believe that experience can help you take to strengthen it? streamlining processes where possible, and promoting Pemberton prepare for the next 20 years. The relationship should be respectful, consistent and local investment. Can we attract larger viable industrial/ based on working together as neighbouring governments commercial partners? 2. What are the top three things you would like to

DAVID MACKENZIE

50 OCTOBER 9, 2026

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Presented by Pique Newsmagazine, the Ageless Expo is back! Whether you are a senior, caregiver, or planning ahead for retirement, this event is designed especially for you. Discover products, expert guidance, and everyday solutions to help you age gracefully-from health and wellness to retirement finance and accessible travel. Event Date: November 7th • Location: Myrtle Philip Community School Come explore, connect with local specialists, and gain practical insights for a vibrant future. Mark your calendar today-we look forward to seeing you there!

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Limited booth space may still be available! Contact sales@piquenewsmagazine.com to inquire. OCTOBER 9, 2026

FEATURE STORY Tourism—supporting and pursuing the MRDT/ Hotel Tax with Tourism Pemberton and local accommodation providers.

3. Name one difficult or potentially unpopular decision Pemberton’s next council may need to make. Where do you stand on it?

lands fundamental to our food security and the identity of this valley. Third, consider how we turn housing plans into homes. That means using limited public lands strategically, pursuing partnerships and making Village processes as clear and efficient as possible, particularly for housing that allows local workers, families and seniors to remain here.

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)? a) I would like to see the development and strategic implementation of an Arts and Recreation Master Plan. Beyond the infrastructure essentials that keep a community functioning, we need to strategically plan for the infrastructure that builds social connection and belonging, promotes health and well-being, and strengthens the identity and culture of Pemberton for all residents of the valley at all stages of life. b) I would like to see the advancement of seniors housing with assisted living options. Work has been done to support the development of a diversity of housing tenures, and to remove barriers for first-time homeowners. But there is a gap in seniors housing. This would allow elders to transition with dignity, prevent relocation, help preserve intergenerational ties keeping families together, boost stable employment opportunities, and help create a more socially rich community. This will require advocacy, grant funding and partnerships with local stakeholders. c) To strengthen climate resiliency, support growth and community safety, I would like to complete a green infrastructure inventory (green spaces, wetlands, parks, forests, greenways, etc.) for the purposes of preservation, protection, and enhancement, and develop substantive policy around Tree Preservation and Replacement. I would like to see the advancement of a new Fire Hall out on the highway.

The eventual transition from village to town status as our population 3. Name one difficult or potentially grows. This will bring increased costs unpopular decision Pemberton’s and taxation for policing; somewhat next council may need to make. beyond our control, but we need to Where do you stand on it? prepare for this. Community wants of a pool and/ One of our most difficult challenges or rink are not financially feasible in will be managing the growth the short-term unfortunately. Pemberton is experiencing and Pemberton is entering an is now required by provincial important period of growth and legislation to plan for, while ensuring change. The decisions we make infrastructure, affordability and today will shape our future for years community livability keep pace. JENNIE HELMER to come. We must be thoughtful, Housing and greater housing responsible, and focused on striving diversity are important. However, to build a community that remains changes such as Bill 44 have shifted vibrant, affordable, and sustainable. some decisions traditionally made by I pledge to be accessible, accountable, and committed local governments. Increasingly, the question for council to serving you. If you see me and want to chat, I welcome is not simply whether Pemberton grows, but how we the opportunity, not just for the next few weeks but beyond. manage that growth responsibly. Thank you for your consideration. I would be honoured Development must contribute to earn the privilege of your support. fairly toward the infrastructure A vote for James Linklater is a vote for community-first it requires without worsening 3. Name one difficult or potentially leadership. housing affordability, while unpopular decision Pemberton’s Reach out to me james4pemberton@gmail.com. existing taxpayers cannot be next council may need to make. expected to absorb every cost Where do you stand on it? of growth. There will be difficult choices Pemberton has a small footprint so about density, infrastructure any new development is impactful, 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. investment and how costs are and growth must be considered strategically within the context Jennie Helmer has deep roots in Pemberton, where her shared. We should meet our of the whole community. Next family has lived and farmed potatoes for generations. housing responsibilities while being term, there is the potential for a Having served three prior terms on council, she is seeking disciplined about infrastructure, couple of new developments to her first consecutive term, bringing experience in local finances, agricultural land and come online in already established government and perspective gained from time both at good planning. Growth should be thoughtful, evidence-based and neighbourhoods. The change will be and away from the council table. felt in real time by the people living Jennie has spent more than 30 years in emergency financially sustainable. Success isn’t simply the number nearby, and understandably, there health services and is chief operations officer with KATRINA will be concerns and resistance. BC Emergency Health Services. She has owned small of units we build. It is whether we NIGHTINGALE Having to make the best decision for businesses in Pemberton, worked as a paramedic and can create the housing people need the long-term, common good of the educator, holds graduate degrees in business and while keeping Pemberton affordable, community often requires shorteducation, and would like to finish her PhD in Public resilient and, importantly, still feeling like Pemberton. term trade-oﬀs and these trade-oﬀs impact people. I Health before she turns 80. am supportive of new housing that is thoughtfully planned, regulated by stringent DPA guidelines, and 2. What are the top three things you would like to prioritizes the real needs of Pemberton residents. accomplish if elected? 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. First, ensure infrastructure keeps pace with growth. Water, sewer, roads, transportation, Katrina has lived and raised a family recreation and emergency services in Pemberton for 16 years. She 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. are fundamental. With provincial has a Bachelor of Arts in Political legislation requiring communities Science and a Bachelor of Education. I was born and raised in B.C., and moved to the to plan for more housing, we Katrina has been an educator for Sea to Sky in my late 20s. I’ve had the opportunity need to continue building a almost 30 years, and continues to live, work and travel in different places—both financially responsible plan for the to support students with diverse regionally and internationally, and those experiences infrastructure we need, when we learning needs. As an incumbent, have shaped how I see community and what it means need it and how we will pay for it, Katrina brings valuable knowledge to call somewhere home. while aggressively pursuing funding and experience. She sits on the I started my entrepreneurial journey at a young age, from other levels of government. board of the Spelkumtn Community owning and operating a small restaurant and learning firstForest, the Pemberton and District hand what it takes to build a business, serve a community Second, continue strengthening Library board, is alternate director and adapt to challenges. Today, I’m a homeowner, Pemberton’s emergency to the SLRD, and council liaison to landlord and business owner in the Village of Pemberton. preparedness and food security. Pemberton Arts Council and PVTA. Most importantly, I’m raising my family here. Wildfire, flooding and evacuation Katrina is inspired by Pemberton’s Being married to a firefighter has also given me a are real risks. We need continued long-standing grassroots deeper appreciation for the people who work to keep our investment in mitigation and organizations who have laid the community safe, particularly during emergencies and preparedness, regular exercises of our emergency plans and strong regional LARESA CZERVENATIS foundation for a healthy, inclusive wildfire season. community, and the generation of I’ve never worked in municipal politics and honestly coordination. As Pemberton grows, young folks actively engaged today. never imagined myself running for council. But I believe we must also protect the agricultural

JENNIE HELMER

KATRINA NIGHTINGALE

LARESA CZERVENATIS

52 OCTOBER 9, 2026

The Whistler Naturalists present

Fungus Among Us Mushroom Festival October 16-17

Friday Night — In-Person Talks Friday 7:00-8:30 pm. $15 adults; $10 under 18s Legends Hotel, Creekside

Saturday Walks Saturday 8:45 am till noon Various locations—choose online $40 adults; $10 under 18s

Saturday Display Tables Saturday 2:30-4:00 pm Legends Hotel, Creekside By donation. Ticket not required. ALL WELCOME SOLD OUT

Forest to Table

Join Chef Bruce Worden to learn and taste some delicious ways to get the most from your foraging. Saturday 12:30 - 2 pm $50 Legends Hotel, Creekside

Advance tickets only. Available at:

www.whistlernaturalists.ca Dress warmly and dryly for walks. No dogs or collecting baskets please.

OCTOBER 9, 2026

FEATURE STORY my real-world experience, fresh perspective and genuine investment in Pemberton can bring something valuable to the table.

I think Pemberton and its next council will be faced with a number of difficult decisions, and I don’t believe there is necessarily one that is more difficult or unpopular than another. Many of the decisions we make will involve 2. What are the top three things you would like to competing priorities, different perspectives and real impacts on our community. accomplish if elected (please be specific)? I believe difficult decisions need to be approached with thoughtful a) Improve Housing Options inquiry, open-mindedness and Seek creative and practical a willingness to listen. I want to housing solutions that expand understand the facts, ask the hard options for families, workers, young questions, hear from the people people and seniors. Support policies who will be affected and consider that make it easier for people who live both the immediate and long-term and work in Pemberton to put down consequences before making a roots and stay in the community. decision. b) Increase Public Transportation My goal would be to make Work with the SLRD, BC Transit, decisions that are responsible and the Lil’wat Nation, the province and make sense for Pemberton—not the community to identify service simply what is easiest or most gaps and advocate for more reliable, popular in the moment. Ultimately, accessible transit. Plan transportation I want decisions to be proactive alongside growth, connecting rather than reactive. If Pemberton residents to housing, employment, is going to grow, we should be recreation and essential services. TED CRADDOCK planning the community we will c) Strengthen Emergency have in the future. Preparedness & Community Safety Strengthen evacuation planning, emergency communications, FireSmart initiatives and wildfire mitigation. Work closely with the SLRD, Lil’wat Nation, emergency services and the province 1. Please share a brief bio and any relevant experience. to improve coordination, clarify evacuation routes and ensure residents are better prepared for emergencies. I have had the pleasure to represent you on council for the Ensure existing FireSmart funding delivers tangible last 17 years and still have the time, energy, knowledge and improvements on the ground. experience to continue in this position. I have also served as liaison on Tourism Pemberton, Pemberton Valley Diking 3. Name one difficult or potentially unpopular decision District, Recreation Commission, and the voting member Pemberton’s next council may need to make. Where do on Municipal Insurance Association of BC, learning from those that volunteer their time on these boards. you stand on it?

TED CRADDOCK

#425 - 4314 Main Street, Whistler Village

Whistler Town Plaza, Eagle Lodge

2. What are the top three things you would like to accomplish if elected (please be specific)? 1. The Official Community Plan 2. New fire hall 3. New water treatment plant and water metering

3. Name one difficult or potentially unpopular decision Pemberton’s next council may need to make. Where do you stand on it? Putting dollars into reserves for future policing costs to help reduce a large property tax increase once we reach 5,000 residents. This has been a goal of council and I fully support this initiative.

SLRD AND SCHOOL TRUSTEES The races for seats on the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District are less contested. Veronica Woodruff was acclaimed as Area C director after incumbent Russell Mack withdrew. Her background spans environmental work and emergency management, with priorities including disaster resilience, transportation advocacy and regional collaboration. Vivian Birch-Jones was acclaimed in Area B. In Area A, tree faller Simon Getaz prioritizes road and backcountry access, wildfire preparedness and infrastructure renewal. Former director John Courchesne is also running but did not respond to Pique’s interview requests. Cameron Bell and Paula de Jong are competing in Area D. School trustees acclaimed include Susan Hamersley and Cynthia Higgins in Whistler, Melissa Ronayne in Pemberton, Rebecca Barley representing SLRD Area C and Celeste Bickford representing Area D. n

Resort Municipality of Whistler

NOTICE OF DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY Pursuant to sections 24 and 26 of the Community Charter, Council of the Resort Municipality of Whistler intends to dispose of land to Whistler Sport Legacies Society (“WSL”) for less than market value for the development of a new rental apartment building in Cheakamus Crossing, located at: 1100 LEGACY WAY, WHISTLER, BRITISH COLUMBIA LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 2 DISTRICT LOT 8073 GROUP 1 NEW WESTMINSTER DISTRICT PLAN EPP153597 The portion of land to be transferred to WSL is:

Phase One Studio Suite in the heart of the Village Park your car and forget about it until its time to go home! Walk to lifts, shops, restaurants and everything else Whistler has to offer! This recently renovated, furnished suite has a full kitchen, gas fireplace, in-suite laundry, and a hot tub in the building. It sleeps 4. The perfect “Pied-a-terre” and you can rent it out when you can’t be there. Great revenue potential in an easy-to-manage package.

799,000

Macdonald Realty Ltd.

1575 Marine Drive West Vancouver V7V1H9 Mobile: 604-218-1856 Email: steve@stevetaylor.ca Web: stevetaylor.ca

54 OCTOBER 9, 2026

THAT PART OF LOT A DISTRICT LOT 8073 GROUP 1 NEW WESTMINSTER DISTRICT PLAN EPP1290 INCLUDED WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF LOT C PLAN EPP153597 as shown in the figure to the right highlighted, shaded and described as “Land to be transferred by the RMOW”. The transfer of land to WSL is contemplated under the Community Land Bank Agreement. Resort Municipality of Whistler whistler.ca

• • • •

SPORTS THE SCORE

Whistler’s Harry Marshall reflects upon setting new world record on foot between Lake Louise and Jasper THE UNPRECEDENTED 230-KILOMETRE RUN TOOK PLACE AUG. 27 AND 28 WITH SIX FELLOW WHISTLERITES IN TOW

BY DAVID SONG SHORTLY BEFORE trying to run 230 kilometres between Lake Louise and Jasper, Alta. faster than any other human being ever has, Harry Marshall pre-emptively apologized to his “Project Icefield” support unit. The 28-year-old Whistlerite knew adversity would rear its head during that intrepid quest, and did not want his friends to feel hurt were he to snap at them amidst a difficult moment. Spoiler alert: he got it done in a record-setting 30 hours, two minutes and 31 seconds and didn’t utter a harsh word towards anyone. “Harry is such an impressive person in general,” said Rosie Fuller, who was part of Marshall’s team alongside Sam Silson, Karston Voth, Marco Lorente, Shona Hastings and Morgan Rook. “He was still such a positive, kind person [throughout the run]. I’ve never seen Harry get rude or moody, even when he’s really struggling with these races, so he’s just a really nice person to be around.”

JOURNEY TO JASPER

Marshall set off on Aug. 27 at roughly 1:45 p.m. along the Icefields Parkway, 15 minutes before his intended departure. Twenty kilometres later, he was already feeling too hot for comfort. Perhaps it

ICE COLD Harry Marshall and his August 2026 Project Icefield support team: Morgan Rook, Sam Silson, Rosie Fuller, Karston Voth, Marco Lorente and Shona Hastings. PHOTO COURTESY OF HARRY MARSHALL

56 OCTOBER 9, 2026

was adrenaline, nerves, dehydration or a mix of all those factors, but whatever the reason he stopped briefly to cool himself down with some water. An hour or two later, the mid-20-degree temperatures were gone—replaced by “the craziest thunderstorms” Marshall had ever seen. Waves of freezing rain pelted him, leaving icy residue on his jacket. Fuller and the others were on hand throughout. Splitting themselves between a pair of vehicles, they scouted routes, established aid stations and kept Marshall company on foot or via bike. His girlfriend Rook had outfitted the back of their truck with gels, carbs and electrolytes, while Hastings (a masseuse) provided quick massages. Clouds cleared overnight, treating the Project Icefield group to a full moon that provided ample illumination when combined with their personal headlamps. None will soon forget witnessing the Canadian Rockies lit up at night, nor the partial lunar eclipse they saw as well. Marshall rendezvoused with his crew roughly every 10 kilometres to restock water and food, but their presence was also a vital source of fuel. “I think, probably the first 150 [kilometres] I was super chatty and in good spirits, then it was probably a couple hours after the sun had come up I started to dip and couldn’t really hold a conversation,” he remembered. “I didn’t want to speak, so headphones in and grinding it out, but just having people alongside me chatting amongst themselves really helped sort of keep me in it.”

‘NO ONE DOUBTED THAT HARRY COULD DO IT’ The

Project

Icefield

crewmembers

are all fit and healthy, but none are ultramarathon runners. Despite that, no one wanted to ride out the trip in comfort. “I think Harry thought he was going to have to be pulling people out to join him for a 10k run or 10k cycle, and at the end everyone was fighting to join him,” Fuller recalled. “Everyone was super excited to take part and do their thing. Towards the end, it was just about us having enough people in the group to drive the cars because everyone wanted to be out on a bike or running next to him. “We were very lucky. The team that Harry chose, we’re all friends and we all knew each other before. You never know how people are going to be under extreme circumstances. The lack of sleep doesn’t always help, but everyone was in a really good, positive mindset and everyone got on really well. That camaraderie, I think, was really good for Harry to bounce off every time he was in an aid station.” So Marshall forged on even as his body cried out for rest. It’s hard for the average person to fathom being awake for 30 consecutive hours, let alone to be moving for that long. As his group took 20-minute power naps when and where possible, he kept the end goal in mind: reach Jasper in less than the previous record of 31 hours, 38 minutes and 56 seconds. The British expatriate actually ran for 40-odd hours straight during a race last year, but never as far as 230 kilometres. He eventually found himself with about eight-and-a-half hours to cover the length of a marathon. That’s where he slowed down the most, running only a few hundred metres at a time

on unyielding asphalt before getting his hiking poles for the last stretch. A “weird feeling” came over Marshall on the evening of Aug. 28 as his terminus (an intersection between the Icefields Parkway and Jasper’s Connaught Drive) approached: goosebumps, tingling and a raw outburst of emotion borne of accomplishing the improbable. “To be completely honest, we thought this could happen from the first kilometre,” Fuller said. “Truly, no one doubted that Harry could do it. Once he’s decided he’s going to do something, he’s going to do it—even if it nearly kills him.” Marshall is a seasoned endurance athlete, but he didn’t break this particular record for vanity or fun. The chief goal was to honour his brother Tom Marshall, who died of suicide in October 2019, and his mom Alison who passed in July 2021 from heart failure. “Now it’s a record and I can put that to their name. It kind of cements their name in history,” said Marshall. “It was the perfect experience. There’s so many things that could go wrong, and some things did go wrong, but that’s kind of what made it the adventure it was … one big last final adventure together as a group of friends [before Rosie, Shona and Marco left Canada].” Fuller felt compelled to emphasize “what an inspirational person” her friend is. “I don’t know anyone that would do some of the stuff he does, and he just always does it with a smile,” she said. “These people pushing themselves in ultras must be in such a hard head space at times, and Harry always seems to still be positive throughout it.” n

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Circular Economy Month

Clothing Swap

Oct 13

Where: Nita Lake Lodge, Nita Room When: 5.30 PM - 8 PM Price: From $10

Community Garage Sale

Oct 18

Where: Creekside Underground P1 When: 10 AM - 2 PM Price: Free

Repair Café

Oct 29

Where: Whistler Public Library When: 2 PM - 6 PM Price: Free

Al Gorithm covers everything. Except your community. Al Gorithm decides what you see online based on your clicks, likes and shares. His job is to keep you scrolling. But would you trust him to tell you what’s happening in your community? Local journalists ask tough questions, investigate issues, attend council meetings and hold decision-makers accountable. They give you verified facts you can rely on. Trust the people who report on your community. Celebrate local journalism. nationalnewspaperweek.ca

OCTOBER 9, 2026

EPICURIOUS

Pizza Garden brings a fresh taste of Vancouver to Whistler Village ONE OF B.C.’S FAVOURITE HOMEGROWN PIES LOOKS TO FILL A GAP IN THE MARKET WITH ITS FRESH INGREDIENTS AND GOURMET MENU

BY BRANDON BARRETT YUVRAJ CHOPRA sees a gap in the

Whistler market. “When we were here researching, trying to open a new store in Whistler, we didn't find that much Neopolitan-style pizza that wasn’t dine-in, like a graband-go restaurant,” said Chopra, store manager at Pizza Garden, which opened in Whistler Village this July. The Vancouverite, along with owner and longtime restaurateur Nima Pirayeghgar, hit on a reality of the resort’s restaurant scene. While there is a glut of options at either end of the dining scale—fast, casual pubfare at one and white-tablecloth fine dining at the other—there is a relative lack of quality, affordable menus that straddle the middle ground. Part of that is the economic reality of running a restaurant in a luxe ski destination: commercial rents aren’t getting any cheaper and fine-dining spots can charge a premium to well-heeled guests willing to pay, while at the other side of the scale, pubs and casual eateries can

A GARDEN OF DELIGHTS Pizza Garden opened its Whistler Village shop—its 16th in B.C.—in July. PHOTO COURTESY OF PIZZA GARDEN

58 OCTOBER 9, 2026

get away with cutting costs on mediocre to middling food knowing there will be a new carousel of hungry visitors waiting for them the next day ready to open their stomachs and wallets. Enter Pizza Garden, a homegrown Vancouver pie that opened its first location in 2012 on Commercial Drive and has since added 15 shops province-wide, its latest in Whistler Village. Inspired by Naples, Pizza Garden isn’t the only Neapolitan-style slice in town—Pizzeria Antico’s tasty offering

by hand before going onto a hearth stone in the Italian fire oven. The result is an airy, thin crust with a distinct crunch on the outside and a delectably chewy bite on the inside. Chopra, who worked with owner Pirayeghgar at a past restaurant, said he trained for six months as store manager learning all of Pizza Garden’s different processes. His favourite? Dough stretching. “It sounds weird, but I have to feel the dough,” he explained. “There are many

“Ours is that Neapolitan style where we make everything from scratch...” - YUVRAJ CHOPRA

also lays claim to pizza’s birthplace—but Chopra believes the product stands out in a crowded market. “The other pizzas we see in the village, it's all New York-style pizza,” he said. “Ours is that Neapolitan style where we make everything from scratch and everything is made fresh in-store every day.” Like any good pizzaiolo will tell you, that process starts with the dough. Pizza Garden’s living sourdough crust made with imported Caputo flour is coldfermented for up to 72 hours and shaped

stretching techniques and it depends upon the pizzamaker what techniques he’s most comfortable with. There are around five to eight steps in stretching the dough. It’s a lot of trial and error. I may use one method for one tray, then the second dough might be a bit softer, so I’ll have to change the method. “As an example, if we go to the gym, there is a muscle-mind connection. Here, I have to connect with the dough.” Unlike the standard mozzarella, Pizza Garden uses a fior di latte fresh

mozzarella, giving it its milky flavour and soft, elastic texture. Known for its fresh ingredients—frozen is a bad word at Pizza Garden—the menu is known for its premium toppings and unique combinations. There’s the Fig and Prosciutto Cotto, topped with creamy ricotta and arugula; the Alaskan Blaze with grana padano cheese, bacon, ground beef, pepperoni, hot soppressata and green peppers; and Chopra’s personal favourite, Pollo Al BBQ, with a drizzle of house-made barbecue sauce, grilled chicken, mushrooms, and red onions. “That one’s really popular as well, because our barbecue sauce is totally different from other barbecue sauce that you see in the market,” he added. Pizza Garden also prides itself on its vegetarian-friendly menu, with 14 different options ranging from a unique baked potato-based pizza with alfredo sauce, gorgonzola and caramelized onions to its Pizza Magic with artichokes, roasted garlic, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. “Sometimes if you go somewhere else for pizza, after one or two slices, you feel a little bit guilty,” Chopra said. “But if you have a slice from our restaurant, believe me, you will not feel guilty, because we use 100-per-cent olive oil. It’s not greasy.” Pizza Garden is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Learn more at pizzagarden.ca. n

MEADOW PARK SPORTS CENTRE SWIM • SKATE • SWEAT • SQUASH OPEN DAILY: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. *some exceptions apply

FITNESS CLASS SCHEDULE

I Kettlebell Functional Fit 9-10 a.m. Kelsey

OCT 11 SUNDAY

I Strength & Cardio 7:30-8:30 a.m. Lou

OCT 12 MONDAY

I Low Impact Strength 9-10 a.m. Lou

I Zumba 10:30-11:30 a.m. Susie I Gentle Fit 12:30-1:30 p.m. Marie-Anne

F FLEXIBLE REGISTRATION

Flex-reg’ classes have a separate fee and allow you to register for classes on the days that ﬁt your schedule.

THANKSGIVING DAY -NO CLASSES

I Functional Strength & Conditioning 7-8 a.m. Francesca

OCT 10 SATURDAY

NO CLASSES

OCT 9 FRIDAY

R REGISTERED FITNESS Registered ﬁtness classes have a separate fee and a deﬁned start and end date. Pre-registration is required for the entire set of classes.

I INCLUDED FITNESS These classes are included with your price of admission for no extra charge.

OCT 13 TUESDAY

OCT 14 WEDNESDAY

OCT 15 THURSDAY

R Elevate Training - Strength and Performance 6:15-7:15 a.m. Steve

R Small Group Training 7:30-8:15 a.m. Co-Ed – Steve

R Small R Small Group Training Group Training 7:30-8:15 a.m. 7:30-8:15 a.m. Women’s – Julia Co-Ed – Steve

I Box HIIT 7:30-8:30 a.m. Kelsey

I Strength & Cardio 7:30-8:30 a.m. Sylvie

I Aqua Fit Deep End 8:45-9:45 a.m. Marie – Anne

R Small I Aqua Fit Group Training Shallow End 8:45-9:45 a.m. 8:30-9:15 a.m. Women’s – Julia Marie-Anne

I Step & Strength 9-10 a.m. Liz

I Build & Burn 9-10 a.m. Sylvie

I Low Impact Strength 9-10 a.m. Andy

R Mom & Baby Fitness 10:15-11:15 a.m. Sara

R Move, Mobilize & Reset 10:15-11:15 a.m. Lou

F Power Yoga 12:15-1 p.m. Francesca

I Gentle Fit 12:30-1:30 p.m. Melanie

R Fit 4 Life 12:30-1:30 p.m. Steve

R Youth on Weights Group Training 3:30-4:45 p.m.

R Girls Strength Club 3:30-4:30 p.m. Julia

R Prenatal Fitness 5:15-6:15 p.m. Sara

F Spin 5:30-6:30 p.m. Marie-Anne

I Full Body HIIT 5:30-6:30 p.m. Andy

R Small Group Training 5:30-6:15 p.m. Women’s only – Julia

I Strength & Stability 5:45-6:45 p.m. Julia

I Mountain Ready Conditioning 6:45-7:45 p.m. Carly

I Zumba 6:30-7:30 p.m. Andrea

I Strength & Stability 7:30-8:30 a.m. Andy

POOL HOURS OCT 9 FRIDAY

OCT 10 OCT 11 SATURDAY SUNDAY

OCT 12 MONDAY

OCT 13 TUESDAY

OCT 14 OCT 15 WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

LAP POOL

6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

6 a.m. - 9 p.m. 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

6 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. & 6-9 p.m.

6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

LEISURE POOL

9 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 3:45-7 p.m.

9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

9 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 3:45-7 p.m.

HOT SPOTS

6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

6 a.m. - 9 p.m. 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

ARENA SCHEDULE Please see whistler.ca/recreation for the daily arena hours or call 604-935- PLAY (7529).

whistler.ca/recreation |

@RMOWRecreation | 604-935-PLAY (7529)

ARTS SCENE

Whistler SAR veteran Brad Sills to release new memoir, Echoes on the Wind THE BOOK PRESENTS 15 TRUE ACCOUNTS FROM B.C. SEARCH-AND-RESCUE HISTORY

BY DAVID SONG AFTER FIVE DECADES as a search-andrescue (SAR) specialist, Brad Sills remains uncomfortable talking about himself. That’s because SAR is, at its essence, teamwork. Individuals can’t accomplish anything solo, but well-oiled groups rescue those in need while keeping each other safe as well. The culture emphasizes unit cohesion rather than exalting one or two people at a time. Sills began documenting his own exploits and those of his peers as a collection of campfire stories for his grandson, and the undertaking snowballed into multiple manuscripts. During Whistler SAR’s 50th-anniversary event in 2024, he was approached by fellow SAR member (who happens to be a writer) Janice Hulse, and she encouraged him to pursue authoring a book—so he did. That book, Echoes on the Wind: Fifty Years of Search and Rescue in British Columbia’s Coast Mountains, is being released by Harbour Publishing and will debut on Nov. 5 at the Whistler Writers Festival (WWF).

GONE WITH THE WIND Brad Sills and members of the Whistler SAR team on Wedge Mountain in 1981. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAD SILLS

60 OCTOBER 9, 2026

“The timing couldn’t be better,” Sills remarks. “It’s Whistler Writers Festival’s 25th anniversary, that in itself is pretty amazing, and the commitment they’ve made to supporting authors and storytelling in the Sea to Sky corridor for 25 years is huge. I’m very, very honoured, as is Whistler SAR, to be offered an opening night position along with others to showcase exactly what [search-andrescue] is, where we’ve come from and where we’re going.”

hazards in real time digitally instead of relying on old-fashioned map and compass work. Yet at least one thing has remained the same: SAR being a volunteer commitment. “That’s a thread which runs through the book and it examines that,” says Sills. “Obviously, most SAR volunteers are community-minded and somewhat altruistic in their motives. There aren’t a lot of people around that perhaps have

“I did the writing, but the stories belong to the volunteers, the families, the pilots, the dog handlers, the responders...” - BRAD SILLS

NEAR MISSES AND QUIET VICTORIES

Sills arrived in Whistler from Montreal 53 years ago as a forest ranger. He joined an outfit called Alta Lake Search and Rescue in those days, which was essentially a prototype for British Columbia’s contemporary SAR establishment. Back then there were no formal training programs, just a loose organization of folks with experience in relevant fields like mountaineering. Now, technological advancements help rescuers track each other and potential

the skills to do this, and I think those who do feel like it’s incumbent upon them to offer assistance to people that find themselves in situations they themselves are helpless to get out of.” The 72-year-old doesn’t personally respond to calls for help anymore, but still works as a local SAR manager and board member. His wealth of experience positioned him to compile, in rich detail, 15 true tales from the annals of Coast Mountain search and rescue like the Hourglass Avalanche, Theta Lake operation, Phalanx Glacier tragedy, the

unlikely survival of a kayaker named Mark Heard and more. In an email to Pique, Sills elaborates that his book “gathers up some of the searches, the losses, the near misses and the quiet victories that have shaped Whistler SAR and the wider SAR community over the past five decades. It also shares important moments in our collective history that laid the foundation and advances that enabled our SAR teams to become the resilient force that we are today.” He continues on to say: “I did the writing, but the stories belong to the volunteers, the families, the pilots, the dog handlers, the responders and the countless others who showed up when it mattered. If there is anything of value in these pages, it is because of you and people like you.” Sills is not a trained author but feels that if one writes from the heart, others are likely to find it compelling. SAR, despite being an essential public safety service, is also a broad topic not well understood by most laypeople—he hopes Echoes on the Wind can facilitate greater understanding via the perspectives of rescuers, rescuees, bystanders, governments and partner agencies. Learn more at harbourpublishing. c o m /c o l l e c t i o n s /f o r t h c o m i n g / products/9781998526857. The 2026 Whistler Writers Fest runs Nov. 5 to 8. Buy tickets at whistlerwritersfest.com. n

ARTS SCENE

Book review: Eliza Sunshine by Michelle Good GOOD APPEARS AT THE WHISTLER WRITERS FESTIVAL NOV. 5 AND 6

BY JEANETTE BRUCE

FALL HAS OFFICIALLY arrived, and with

it comes the promise of crisp mornings, brisk afternoons, and more time to unapologetically curl up with a good book or two. What better time to prepare for the Whistler Writers Festival, celebrating its 25th anniversary this November? And prepare we shall, for the Writers Festival is the World Series for bookish folks like myself (and that sports metaphor will begin and end with this sentence). Every year, I experience a frisson of delight when the authors scheduled to visit our mountain town are announced. From well-known heavy hitters to debut authors destined to become a new favourite, the Festival never disappoints. Michelle Good’s name looms large despite the fact that we’re celebrating her second(!) novel at this year’s Festival. Such is the impact of her debut novel, Five Little Indians, which won (to name a few) the Governor General’s Award for Fiction in 2020, The City of Vancouver Book Award in 2021, and Canada Reads in 2022. A small part of me worried about a sophomore slump after such a powerful debut, but I’m happy to confirm that Eliza Sunshine is a worthy follow-up and companion to Five Little Indians. Whew! Eliza Sunshine is a sprawling multigenerational family saga spanning from the 1800s to the early 21st century. The novel is divided into three sections, each narrated by a Cree woman who is telling her story to a younger woman or girl. This framing device serves to both introduce us to the next character we’ll hear from (Swan tells her story to the titular Eliza, who tells her story to her daughter Ella, who in turn shares her story with a relative) and to reassure the reader that our narrators survive well into adulthood (not an obvious outcome given some of the circumstances these characters encounter). I’m not sure if I’ve ever met a character quite like Swan, whose life spans from pre-contact to the residential school period. Yes, Swan lives a mercifully long life, but it’s nevertheless remarkable to consider that the girl we meet in the early pages of this book will live to see her granddaughter attend nursing school. In her words, “I was born in freedom and couldn’t possibly have understood that my childhood world and everything we knew and treasured could crumble around us like a riverbank in a flood. It was something beyond even imagination.” She looms large in this novel, even after the narration has been passed along to Eliza, who confirms: “Sometimes I feel that I wasn’t born at all, rather sculpted and formed by the storms of my grandmother’s life.” Perhaps as a result of Swan’s

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omnipresence, we don’t get to spend nearly enough time with Ella; her section of the narrative almost feels like an extended epilogue. Maybe this isn’t the last we’ll hear from her? My fingers are crossed! Eliza Sunshine is a surprisingly easy read given the subject matter; I expect that many readers will find this novel less confronting than Five Little Indians, the setting and time period of which hit much closer to home. Fans of historical fiction will take to Eliza, and it’s a great entry point for folks who haven’t read much fiction by Indigenous authors, given how much ground is covered historically, geographically, and thematically. If you haven’t read either of Michelle Good’s novels, I would recommend starting with Eliza Sunshine and following up with Five Little Indians—this is by no means a prequel/sequel situation, but Eliza provides so much useful context for the circumstances of Five Little Indians. What a treat it will be to hear from Michelle Good herself in a few weeks! Michelle Good is a writer of Cree ancestry and a member of the Red Pheasant Cree nation in Saskatchewan. She appears in the reading event Three Generations on Thursday, Nov. 5, and leads the workshop Summoning Your Story on Friday, Nov. 6. Find more info at whistlerwritersfest. com/#schedule. Jeanette Bruce has worked as the program and communications coordinator at the Whistler Public Library since 2015. Originally from St. John’s, Nfld., Jeanette is passionate about building community through music and literature; she is proud to be at the helm of the decade-long, monthly Community Book Club and two local choirs, the Whistler Children’s Chorus and Barbed Choir. n

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MUSEUM MUSINGS

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THANKSGIVING! Turkey dinner with all the trimmings and + tax a slice of pumpkin pie for $ available on Sunday & Monday night

Catch all the sports all weekend on our 9 TV’s Baseball playoffs, football, and hockey!

Cold Beer & Wine Store is open all weekend from 11am - 11pm, including the holiday Monday!

RUFF RIDER Bob the Dog had the youth vote locked up with his skateboarding talents. WHISTLER QUESTION COLLECTION

Canine democracy: Bob the Dog’s mayoral run BY REBECCA MACKAY

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LAST WEEK we introduced 1993 mayoral candidate Bob the Dog. Whistler Question journalist—and later co-founder of Pique Newsmagazine—Kevin Damaskie chronicled Bob the Dog’s campaign. The Grabowiecki family was listed as Bob’s campaign team—Pat as campaign manager and T.J. as marketing manager. The family credits Bob’s services guarding their business, Whistler Heated Mini Storage. When not working, he loved to play ball and wander the roads of Function Junction, whether on his paws or his skateboard. He was not a fan of a leash or off-limit areas for dogs. Bob campaigned on equality amongst humans and canines, as well as environmental concerns like outlawing slug bait as that was dangerous to fellow dogs. Bob would go door-to-door shaking paws and licking babies. T.J. recalls Bob “knew more people [in the neighbourhood] than we did.” He was

campaign with threats of exposing compromising photographs of Bob sleeping with a teddy bear, which went against his tough persona. The Question dubbed this controversy as “Teddygate.” This was later debunked as a glowworm that Bob used to protect Function Junction citizens. Bob, made nervous by threats and feeling spied upon, did not attend the November all-candidates meeting. “With one dog biscuit you can get whatever you want from Bob,” Nebbeling said of his adversary. “I can’t be bought for a dog biscuit.” Nebbeling also accused Bob of being a squatter in buildings he owned, but it was pointed out that Bob was offering his guard dog services for free. As the Nov. 20 voting day approached, another community member sent a letter to the Question. They recognized that after two elections—the federal election took place a month prior—“not only is this type of story interesting and entertaining, it is a chance to take a breather during all of this overbearing

Bob would go door-to-door shaking paws and licking babies.

quite the popular candidate amongst Function Junction residents. As with many politicians, Bob saw his share of controversy during his campaign. His past was dredged up by a concerned citizen. The year prior Bob pawed through Garibaldi Provincial Park, which was not allowed, but he was not charged by BC Parks rangers. Owner Jorge Alvarez came to his defence, citing it as an instance of activism; arguing park land should be open to all, human and canine alike. Alvarez noted to the Question that these political statements were not new, as Bob had been caught off-leash and skateboarding in Whistler Village, both of which are banned. Ted Nebbeling further stalled his

democracy.” However, they emphasized that voters should not spoil their vote. Ultimately, though Bob was not successful in this election, it brought enjoyment to the dull campaign. It was noted that people were more concerned with Blackcomb Mountain finally having enough snow to open up than voting. Bob continued with his regular duties, but his campaign manager stated he would run again the next election. Unfortunately, in January 1994, Bob was on his way to visit a friend when he was hit by a car and passed away. He was buried on the hill behind Whistler Heated Mini Storage to overlook Function Junction as its true mayor. n

PARTIAL RECALL

1 MAKE SOME NOISE Award-winning director and author Julian Brave NoiseCat and Lil’wat Nation Councillor Lhpatq Maxine Joseph-Bruce share conversation around Julian’s book We Survived the Night during the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. PHOTO BY RYAN ROBINSON / DOWNTIME PHOTO 2 BACK-TO-BACK The Pemberton senior boys soccer team went back-to-back recently, with tournament wins in both Williams Lake and Hope. Congrats, gents! PHOTO COURTESY OF CRAIG BEATTIE 3 WISE WARRIORS Proud Little Warriors of the Squamish Nation share songs as part of the “Wisdom of the Animal People: Cultural Sharing” event on Saturday, Oct. 3, complementing the current feature exhibit “Wisdom of the Animal People” at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. PHOTO BY RYAN ROBINSON / DOWNTIME PHOTO 4 LIFE WELL LIVED Pemberton community groups and public figures gathered to celebrate the life of Marnie Simon on Sept. 4 alongside her friends and family, including the Pemberton Seniors Society, Pemberton and Whistler Health Care foundations, Pemberton and Whistler Arts Councils, Pemberton Library, Pemberton Canoe Club, Rotary, and the Men’s Shed—a testament to her tireless work in the community. PHOTO COURTESY OF REBECCA SIMON 5 VICTORY LAP Nigel Hole hands off the baton to Kevin Friesen for the final leg of the Whistler 50 Relay on Oct. 3. The Porta Potties have now won 14 of the 16 total relay titles since the event began in 2011. PHOTO BY BRETT WAKEFIELD 6 LOCAL LEGEND Jim Budge departs his surprise 75th birthday party on the morning of Oct. 6. Happy birthday, Jim! PHOTO COURTESY OF JEN BLACK

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OCTOBER 9, 2026

ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS & ASTROLOGY WHISTLER WINE WALK

PIQUE’S GUIDE TO LOCAL EVENTS & NIGHTLIFE Here’s a quick look at some events happening in Whistler this week and beyond.

The Whistler Wine Walk returns this fall with guided tours through Whistler’s vibrant art gallery scene. Discover local, regional and international artists, enjoy interactive art experiences, and sip BC wine at each stop along the way. » Oct. 9, 6 to 8:15 p.m. » Various locations

FIND MORE LOCAL EVENT LISTINGS (and submit your own for free!) at piquenewsmagazine.com/local-events

DUNE RATS LIVE Get ready for a high-energy night as Aussie punk favourites, the Dune Rats, return to Whistler with special guests Peacebreach. Expect loud riffs and an unforgettable live show that will have the crowd buzzing. » Oct. 9, 8 p.m. » Garfinkel’s Night Club

WHISTLER OUTDOOR FESTIVAL The Whistler Outdoor Festival is a brand-new, three-day festival bringing adventure films, inspiring speakers, hands-on workshops, outdoor experiences, live entertainment, and more to Whistler over Thanksgiving weekend. » Oct. 9 to 11 » Whistler Conference Centre

ACTUALLY, IT IS ROCKET SCIENCE Join Teton Gravity Research for its 31st annual ski and snowboard film, featuring elite athletes, breathtaking cinematography and the year’s biggest mountain adventures. Experience the excitement and stoke of ski season on the big screen. All-ages show at 4 p.m. and 19-plus show at 7 p.m. » Oct. 10 » Maury Young Arts Centre

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND PHOTO BY MAREN CARUSO / GETTY IMAGES

THANKSGIVING BRUNCH OF ABUNDANCE Indulge in an iconic Thanksgiving brunch spread at Fairmont Chateau Whistler that truly captures the tastes and abundance of the season. Exceptional chefs craft a spectacular showcase of delicious options, offering endless culinary choices for a late morning or early afternoon harvest feast. » Oct. 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. » Fairmont Chateau Whistler

THANKSGIVING DINNER AT TABLE NINETEEN Enjoy a delicious fall-inspired four-course menu featuring caramelized butternut squash soup, a fall harvest salad, roast turkey with all the trimmings and classic pumpkin pie to finish. Reservations required from 5 p.m. » Oct. 11 » Table Nineteen Lakeside Eatery

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. 11, with the addition of select Saturday markets. » Oct. 11, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. » Upper Village Stroll

WHISTLER TURKEY TROT Join the Whistler Turkey Trot, a Thanksgiving tradition in Lost Lake Park. Choose the family-friendly 5k Drumstick Dash or 10k Gravy Burner on scenic Whistler trails, and help support Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. » Oct. 11, 9 a.m. » PassivHaus

Free Will Astrology WEEK OF OCTOBER 9 BY ROB BREZSNY ARIES (March 21-April 19): “Dear Oracle: My secret terror is being ordinary. I need to be special, and lately I’m worried I’m just average and unremarkable. That thought is repugnant to me! Can you offer any advice? —Afraid of Average.” Dear Afraid: The pressure to be extraordinary is exhausting because it’s the wrong goal. Your birthright and your life assignment aren’t about being special in the sense of better-than. You’re simply meant to be vividly, generously, amazingly yourself. In the coming weeks, I invite you to trade the anxious hunt for superiority for the warm, throbbing joy of full self-expression. Shine because it feels fantastic, not to outrank anyone. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Ravens sometimes hide food while pretending to conceal it elsewhere, especially if another raven is observing. They’re strategic and imaginative and aware of how they’re perceived. With their social intelligence as inspiration, I will encourage you to think more consciously about the stories you’re broadcasting. Which precious projects will flourish better if protected from premature scrutiny? Do you have any in-progress blooms that really should continue to incubate before being revealed? Discernment isn’t deception. PS: Conversely, there may be a part of you that deserves greater visibility. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The Taurus philosopher Søren Kierkegaard wrote that life must be lived forward but can only be understood backward. You Geminis are naturally inclined to resist that advice. Many of you analyze experiences while they’re still unfolding. Can I coax you to try a different approach in the coming weeks? As usual, you may be tempted to figure everything out immediately. But the most useful clarity won’t arrive until later, as you survey what has occurred and recognize patterns you couldn’t see in real time. So try to stay curious rather than overly diagnostic. Keep gathering impressions, stories, and clues. Allow events to transpire like chapters in a book whose ending you haven’t

reached yet.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The Germans have a word,

Sehnsucht, for a feeling that my English language can’t quite convey: a deep, sweet, aching longing for something you can’t name. It may be a faraway home you’ve never visited or a wholeness you seem to remember without ever having had it. Most people treat this yearning as a problem to be fixed or numbed. But I think it’s sacred information, Cancerian, and you’re especially fluent in it right now. Don’t rush to resolve the ache or explain it away. Instead, follow it like a scent. What is your Sehnsucht pointing toward? Let it lead you toward the beauty and meaning your soul is homesick for. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Botanists know that climbing vines have a simple approach. They keep extending their sensitive tendrils until they discover something sturdy enough to support upward growth. Their progress depends on continual experimentation. I love it when you imitate this style of intelligence, Leo, which I think will be especially useful and successful during the coming weeks. So instead of demanding guarantees before beginning a new endeavour, offer exploratory feelers. Ask friendly questions. Test prototypes. The right support system probably already exists, but may not reveal itself until you reach toward it. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): One of my favourite Virgos works in a museum cleaning centuries-old paintings with exquisite patience. She uses tiny swabs and gentle solvents to lift away layers of darkened varnish and grime. She’s an expert at making the original colours emerge so vividly that the painting looks newly made. But her work demands artful restraint. If she presses too hard or applies the wrong solvent, she could destroy the very thing she means to reveal. This approach can be your specialty in the coming weeks, Virgo. I hope you will attend to valuables that have been obscured by accumulated grime, like old habits, stale

assumptions, and other people’s projections. Your task is to gently lift it all away and let the true colours shine. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Periodically, you have the cosmic right to receive precisely what you need. Life is dutybound to deliver a close approximation of full satisfaction. I believe now is one of those times. So please be bold and articulate about naming the specific blessings you require. Write them down, speak them aloud, and pray for them—not as a demand, but as a hearty invitation. Then, for a while, live as if all of creation is indeed honour-bound to respond accordingly, adjusting its behaviour so it’s in harmony with the gifts you’ve asked for. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Every Thursday night, I haul my trash bin out to the street so the collectors can empty it the following morning. Most weeks it’s three-quarters full. But now and then I produce an unusually large haul of debris. On those occasions, I have to turn into a oneperson compaction crew: I grab a low-hanging branch of the persimmon tree, hoist myself up, drop down feet-first into the can, and bounce around to squash everything enough to squeeze in the overflow. Consider this my audition to be your role model, Scorpio. According to my reading of the celestial weather, it’s time for you to consolidate and discard at least half a year’s accumulation of obsolete clutter—both the invisible emotional kind and the tangible stuff filling your space. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Ancient navigators sometimes crossed vast stretches of sea by studying the swells beneath their boats. Their bodies were instruments of perception that enabled them to feel the subtle wave patterns generated by winds and distant islands. Your intuition has a similar sensitivity these days, Sagittarius. I hope you will trust it: what your whole being senses before your rational mind assembles the evidence. I call this fully embodied intelligence. It deserves a key role in your

decision-making.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I’ve never been a fan of Capricorn poet Kahlil Gibran (1883–1931). The ideas he expressed seem commonplace and sentimental to me. But his book The Prophet is an all-time bestseller translated into more than 100 languages. Millions of readers have adored and benefited from his words, and he’s acclaimed as a literary hero in his native Lebanon. So who cares what I think! I’ll just shut up and appreciate the fact that he worked hard and published a lot. His disciplined, painstaking efforts have been widely inspirational. Let’s make him your role model for the coming months. I think you’re primed to create enduring offerings that nourish people’s souls. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Think of an aspect of your life that you have always wished you could change but have assumed or feared you could never change. What if, sometime soon, you try to change it, but this time you do it with playful lightheartedness? You resolve to feel zero stress and have as much fun as possible as you try to shift how this problem works. You decide you will use your imagination to dream up unprecedented and even outrageous ways to break your trance and invite sweet liberation to swoop in. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Geologists tell us that over time, rocks really do get transformed under sustained pressure. Their material gets reorganized into denser, more stable stuff. This is an apt metaphor for you, dear Pisces. You’re under pressure right now, and it may feel intense. But what if it’s actually reconfiguring you? Maybe the constraints are what you need to make you more focused, more essential, and more real. Not all pressure is bad, and this is proof. Ask yourself: What is this pressure making possible that freedom couldn’t create? Let yourself be reorganized. Homework: Do you know how to turn one of your so-called liabilities into an asset? https://tinyurl.com/y8y8y8y.

IN ADDITION TO THIS COLUMN, ROB BREZSNY CREATES EXPANDED AUDIO HOROSCOPES In-depth weekly forecasts designed to inspire and uplift you. To buy access, phone 1-888-499-4425. Once you’ve chosen the Block of Time you like, call 1-888-682-8777 to hear Rob’s forecasts. www.freewillastrology.com

64 OCTOBER 9, 2026

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2026 ISSUE

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The Museum is currently seeking

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$30-$45+ per hour

Xet’òlacw Community School •

High School Teacher - Special Education ($63,670.00 to $116,19.00 per year) Education Assistant ($47,120.00 to $61,845.00 per year) Custodian ($22.86 to $30.00 per hour) Bus Driver ($22.86 to $30.00 per hour)

• • •

8 3 4 2 4 7

Please visit our career page for more information: https://lilwat.ca/careers/

2 5

6 2 3 9 Front Desk Services 5 Coordinator | Part-time 1 Crew | Casual6 2 8 Event 2 7 9 1

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HARD

# 11

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8 3 6 9 4 2 1 7 5 5 2 4 7 6 1 9 3 8 Become 9 7 1 a 8 3 5 6 2 4 7 8 9 6 1 3 4 5 2 monthly donor 2 1 3 5 9 4 8 6 7 today! 4 6 5 2 8 7 3 1 9 3 5 8 1 2 9 7 4 6 Sign up at 1 9 7 4 5 6 2 8 3 www.whistlerwag.com 6 4 2 3 7 8 5 9 1

4/11/2005

CULINARY Demi Chef de Partie $26.50/hr Cook 1-$25/hr FOOD & BEVERAGE Server Assistant - $19.25/hr Barista/Host - $18.75/hr Banquet Server - $24/hr Assistant Banquet Manager - $65-75K/yr HOUSEKEEPING House Attendant (overnight) - $23.43/hr Room Attendant - $23.43/hr ENGINEERING General Maintenance Technician - $26.50/hr FRONT OFFICE Bell Attendant - $18.25/hr RESERVATIONS Reservation Agent - $22/hr SALES Sales Coordinator - $52K/yr The benefits include: Subsidized housing, complimentary staff meals, global hotel discounts and Summer & Winter wellness package up to $2000/yr

OCTOBER 9, 2026

PUZZLES ACROSS 1 6 11 16 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 33 35 36 38 39 40 41 42 44 48 51 54 55 57 61 62 63 65 66 67 70 72 73 74

Frighten Speedy City in Italy Preserved with salt The underworld Poetic Muse Florida town -- acid Escape Sheriff’s party Make muddled Burst of gunfire Annex Hang on Letter for plurals Robbery Long time “Darn it!” Clear Parting word Costa del -Tint At any time Salty snack Cape Canaveral gp. Composer Frederic -Amphibian Among Triumphant one Batman’s sidekick Leg part Stacks Pilfered -- Major Ardent supporter Harrison’s successor Seize Defunct plane Glass piece

75 77 79 80 82 83 85 87 89 90 91 92 94 96 97 100 101 104 105 106 107 108 110 112 113 116 118 119 120 122 123 124 125 127 129 130 133 135 136 137

Antiquity Yearns Terminal (Abbr.) Big sandwich Sow “I Am a --” Text at the bottom of a page Citified Put on Food fish Actress -- Hamilton Element Know instinctively Fastener Son of Seth Museum contents Cake serving Command (Abbr.) Rescue Demand payment from Opus -Lots and lots Settled snugly Poison WWII plane -- Gay Sadness Type of dorm Compel Breakfast pastry Enticement Walked on Auto part Remunerated Coiling stem Stun High mountain “I -- you not!” Butt -- and haw Red gem

141 142 144 145 146 147 149 151 153 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162

Mal de -Object from antiquity Workout venue Prescribed amount NSA cousin Century plant Cordial flavoring Dish Broadcast again Lustrous fabric Wyoming range Subsequently Improve Icy rain Put up Raise in rank Tempestuous

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 30 32

Utter -- lily Fully grown Blushing Compass heading (Abbr.) Mend Tropical plant Gone by “-- a girl!” Innocent-looking (Hyph.) Angry crowds Rime Whip Bitter drug Sovereign state Throw Actress -- Thurman Angered Diplomatic agent “Lorna --” Small bird Harden

34 37 39 43 44 45 46 47 49 50 51 52 53 54 56 58 59 60 62 64 67 68 69 71 76 78 81 83 84 86 88 89 91 92 93 95 96 98 99 102

Cabbage salad Reddish-brown shade Wild goose Actor -- Diesel Balance Microwave Release Floating leaf (2 wds.) Family member, for short Bug Flatten Jockey’s ride Blockage Leather strip Food shop Unconventional Gladden Strengthener for concrete EU member Upperclassman (Abbr.) Duds Shed, maybe (Hyph.) Shade tree Elegant Make a choice Favorite -Table scrap Swindle Decompose Work in verse Gift wrap option Became extinct (2 wds.) Dwelled Washed-out Hippodrome Samovar Lost color Liquid measure Look of disdain Popular pet

103 105 109 111 112 114 115 117 119 121 123 124 126 128 129 130 131

132 134 136 138 139 140 142 143 144 145 148 150 152 153 154

Effrontery Simple seat Angry Theater drop Skeletal parts Cup’s edge -- -- matter of fact Chess pieces Brimless hat Nature walk Tread on Notoriety Grow wide Lacking rainfall Leave in the lurch Gather Lawful

Talk on and on Simple restaurant Inn Measures of arable land Laughing Foppish one Torn Refer to Fellow Information Contend Cousin to an org. Lenient Cloth for dusting Ratite bird

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

3 4 1 9 3 2 9 7

3 1

2 8 5 1 8 2 7 9

8 7

HARD

2 #9

Enter a digit from 1 through 9 in each cell, in such a way that: • Each horizontal row contains each digit exactly once • Each vertical column contains each digit exactly once • Each 3x3 box contains each digit exactly once Solving a sudoku puzzle does not require any mathematics; simple logic suffices.

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: HARD

5 1 8 6 7 2 4 5 4 9 6

4 8 6 7 5

1 4 5

9 7 6 3 5

HARD # 11 Solution, tips and computer program at www.sudoku.com

ANSWERS ON PAGE 67

68 OCTOBER 9, 2026

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MAXED OUT

The more things change… PLUS ÇA CHANGE, plus c'est la même chose. It just sounds so much better in French... unless you’re like me and no one who understands the language understands what I’m trying to say since my pronunciation of anything more complicated than “oui” is tortured. It’s easy, but not accurate, to say the issues facing Whistler and the next mayor and council are much the same as the top issues that body has faced for as long as Whistler has been around. We’re still struggling with housing, albeit having built hundreds of new employee housing units during the past four years.

BY G.D. MAXWELL We’re still struggling with gridlock, only it’s worse now. It’s not just traffic coming north on weekend mornings and heading south later in the day. It seems to be relentless. We’re still struggling with issues of affordability, whether it’s unsustainable property tax increases, aging and always growing infrastructure, a rapidly swelling municipal payroll or the strings attached to funds returning to the municipality from Victoria. But we’re also facing issues we haven’t faced in the past. Issues unique to the town but well known to businesses large and small. Lifecycle challenges. Businesses progress—or fail to, in which case they become ex-businesses— through stages of start-up, growth, survival, maturity and decline. Whistler has made it to being a mature mountain resort and community. With good management and good fortune we’ll remain on the plateau of maturity for many years to come. With bad management... who knows. And, of course, there’s the wild card of climate change and what that might hold in store for our love of sliding down snowy mountains. The skills needed to meet the challenges of the different phases are by no means the same. And that brings us to the big question every voter is facing. Defining the challenges, issues, and determining who we want to help steer us toward resolving them successfully. Here’s the kicker. Or riddle if you prefer. How is the relationship you and I might have with, say, our vehicles like the relationship some candidates and many Whistler residents have with our understanding of how they might be solved? Notwithstanding I used to be a competent mechanic, my current vehicle

BOARD STIFF Some issues never go away. IMAGE BY JON PARRIS // GEMINI 3.1 (NANO BANANA 2)

70 OCTOBER 9, 2026

is so complicated I’m at a loss to do much more than drive it and hope for the best. I barely recognize much of what I see when I lift the hood. I don’t know how it works exactly or how to fix it. Bet you don’t either. The same can be said for some of the candidates running for office and many of the people who have asked them questions at the various all-candidates meetings or commented online regarding issues and challenges. It would appear many of them think the mayor and council run this town like Pharaoh ran ancient Egypt. It has been said; let it be done. I’ve listened to all of the candidates at all of the meetings, spoken with a number of them one-on-one and many seem to have an overinflated view of what council can do and no concept of the constraints imposed by the Community

up at every meeting. No matter how many times support is shown for building another multi-use recreational facility that may include racket sports, the mantra of continuity of play is cried by the club’s proponents, “It has to be open before the existing place is bulldozed.” No matter how often Spruce Grove is suggested as a site, the province has shown no inclination to amend the terms of the ground lease that embraces only outdoor recreation there. No matter how constrained the RMOW may be to fund construction of such an undertaking, proponents want it and want it before the old place disappears. The probability continuity of play will become a reality approaches zero. This issue is a distraction. Housing in various forms will

[M]any seem to have an overinflated view of what council can do and no concept of the constraints imposed by the Community Charter and the Resort Municipality of Whistler Act. Charter and the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) Act. By contrast, all of the sitting councillors are acutely aware of the limits of power. One of the hot-button issues in this election is the future of the Whistler Racket Club and the rezoning of Northlands. Notwithstanding the number of times it’s been pointed out there is no longer any “covenant” on the land requiring the owner to keep the Club in play and on site, it still seems to come

continue to be a top-of-mind issue. Employee housing, social housing, senior housing, all have proponents pressing hard. Whistler has the land at Cheakamus and elsewhere but with the economic pull back from the province and the focus on Big Projects federally, the grants that have made recent construction pencil will be harder to come by. And with construction costs at eye-bleed levels, it will be harder, not easier, for the RMOW and Whistler Development Corp. to fund

construction at recent past levels. Regional transit—a perennial issue— seems closer at hand. It’s been close at hand before only to be abandoned when the issue of which level of government pays couldn’t be worked out. Don’t be surprised if it suffers a similar fate this time around. Costs, and rising levels of property taxes, are on many voters’ minds. Many reminisce fondly of the years of zeroper-cent increases and bemoan the triple-eight years. But the latter are a direct of the former that starved the town’s capital reserves, out of which we pay to maintain that aging infrastructure. The issue of disenfranchisement has been raised, growing out of the increasing non-citizen population in Whistler. Permanent Residents can’t vote for the people whose decisions will affect their living conditions. It was suggested the RMOW could petition the province to change that and let them have the vote. But no legislation exists to make that happen. In 2019 there was an effort at UBCM for the province to change that but it went nowhere, not even admitted for debate. More so than in past elections, 2026 is shaping up to be a muddling-through kind of election. Given most of us are muddling through our lives, I guess that makes some sense. No one at any level of government is going to make decisions that dramatically reduce the cost of living, even though both the major candidates for premier in our unwanted and unneeded provincial election are promising Band-Aids to “temporarily” do just that. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but such is reality right now. The best we can hope for is electing some people who will do what they can to keep this experiment going and riding the plateau of a mature mountain resort community. I’ll touch on that next week. n

ENGEL &VÖLKERS WHISTLER

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UT O KI /S N II SK

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Whistler Village Shop

Squamish Shop - NEW LOCATION

36-4314 Main Street · Whistler BC V8E 1A8 · Phone +1 604-932-1875

38167 Cleveland Ave · Squamish BC V8B 0P1 · Phone +1 604-932-1875

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127 - 4315 Northlands Blvd.

9289 Stellar’s Way

62 - 6127 Eagleridge Crescent

3D TOUR: rem.ax/127cascade

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Cascade Lodge - Whistler Village

CONDO

Eagle Ridge - Whistler Cay Heights

CHALET

Matt

.5 | 335 SQFT

$499,000

WedgeWoods - Whistler

Chiasson

604.935.9171

110 - 1025 Legacy Way

TOWNHOUSE

Richard

3 | 1,224 SQFT

604.902.4260

$1,499,000

7 | 4,629 SQFT

$4,500,000

Grenfell

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1778 Pinewood Drive

408 - 4315 Northlands Blvd.

CHALET

CONDO

Pemberton

Podium - Cheakamus Crossing

Sally

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CONDO

2 | 913 SQFT

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6 | 4,208 SQFT

$2,950,000

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.5 | 282 SQFT

604.932.7651

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Georgian

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5 | 3,753 SQFT

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TOWNHOUSE

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1 | 681 SQFT

$1,299,999

TOWNHOUSE

Bob

3.5 | 1,734 SQFT

Dave

604.935.2214

$2,699,000

604.905.8855

Cameron

Beattie

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