Farewell to Whistler Celebrity
October 05, 2007
Last night saw a send off for one of Whistler's most beloved skiers, Joe Lammers. The event saw one of the biggest single groups I have seen at Sushi Vallage devouring sushi, beer, sake and the famous saki margs. Then the festivities moved on to the GLC for a few more beverages and general good times.
Joe is off to Revelstoke. He's not the first Whistlerite to make the move to that part of the world. Paul 'Bones' Skelton, former mountain manager of both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, has been there for years. It promises to turn into one bis-ass ski hill when all is said and done.
Best wishes Joe!
On a side note. A very interesting artice was published in a local paper this week. It details what can happen when one man is given too much power and allowed to make quick decisions in an effort to streamline and deliver IOC excellence. Here is the link - Alta states. This is a scathing article written by Michel Beaudry about the invisible decision making process in Whistler Resort right now.
Here's an excerpt:
'That’s why, Nicolas admitted, he was totally flummoxed by his reception at Whistler. 'I checked with my friends at the IOC, and they told me exactly which guy I should speak with, he said. 'And at first he seemed receptive… then something changed.''
AND
'Hello Nicolas,
Upon further reflection, and in the interest of ensuring that you do not incur any unnecessary travel costs, this is to advise you that there is NO POSSIBILITY of hosting an Association of Freeriding Professionals event in Whistler anytime prior to the 2010/2011 season. Even then, an extensive review will be required before consideration will be given to hosting an AFP event in Whistler.
This decision reflects input from both the Resort Municipality of Whistler (the local government) and Whistler/Blackcomb, and was reached after a review of the demands that will be placed on Whistler over the next 3 years as we prepare for, and ultimately host the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
On behalf of the Municipality and Whistler/Blackcomb, thank you for your interest in Whistler, and for your understanding of our joint decision. Best wishes in all your endeavours.
Sincerely,
John Rae
PS: cc'd are Stuart Rempel, W/B Senior Vice President Sales &Marketing; Peter 'YP' Young, W/B Events Manager; Jim Godfrey, RMOW Executive Director Whistler 2010. '
Now, I've worked with John Rae, YP and met Michel during a free ski comp and Stuart Rempel on numerous occasions.
I hope these guys take some heat for this! Chances are slim but I applaud Mr. Beaudry efforts.
What's the bottom line? The WB events department will not be looking to increase their workload until 2011.
That's all for now!
Think snow...lots of snow!