WHISTLER BLACKCOMB EARLY BIRD SEASON PASSES ON SALE NOW

Save Up To $320 on Your Pass and Enjoy Endless Skiing and Riding for the 2013.2014 Season

WHISTLER, BC August 27, 2013 – Winter is just around the corner and Early Bird Season Passes for Whistler Blackcomb’s 2013.2014 ski and snowboard season are now on sale. Until October 14, 2013 guests will be able to receive up to $320 in savings on their 2013.2014 Season Pass. Unlimited Adult Seasons Passes are just $1,589 at the Early Bird price. A season pass offers the best value to guests looking to ski or ride at Whistler Blackcomb; allowing for freedom, flexibility, and exclusive Passholder perks, including 50 per cent off lift tickets at partner resorts in The Mountain Collective, as well as various discounts on Whistler Blackcomb products and services.

“It is going to be another very exciting year at Whistler Blackcomb with the opening of our two brand new chairlifts, the Crystal Ridge Express high-speed quad and the Harmony 6 Express high-speed six pack,” says Stuart Rempel, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales, Whistler Blackcomb. “These new lifts will allow guests to get even more turns in at North America’s largest ski resort with better access to the terrain they love. An Unlimited Seasons Pass allows guests to make the most of every day of the season. Plus, the addition of 50 per cent off lift tickets at our partner resorts in The Mountain Collective is an incredible opportunity for our Passholders to experience some of North America’s other iconic ski areas.”

The Early Bird Unlimited Seniors (65-74) Season Pass is available for $849; Youth Unlimited Early Bird Season Pass (13-18) at $719 and an Unlimited Child (7-12) Season Pass is $439. Ten per cent discounts are available for families purchasing passes while children six and under ski free.

Season Passholder Perks Include:

·         50 per cent off lift tickets at The Mountain Collective Resorts – (Alta/Snowbird, Aspen/Snowmass, Jackson Hole, Mammoth, Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows)

·         20 per cent off at select on-mountain food and beverage locations

·         Save up to 20 per cent at select Whistler Blackcomb retail and rental stores

·         $50 off select Snow School programs

·         2 for 1 Fresh Tracks Mountain-Top Breakfast tickets until December 23, 2013. Presented by the Globe and Mail

·         $100 off Whistler Heli-Skiing

·         Unlimited summer hiking access in 2014 with the PEAK 2 PEAK Alpine Experience

·         Passholder Perks also include Tube Park discounts, lodging deals, monthly offers and more. Complete details at whistlerblackcomb.com/perks

Guests who purchase their Season Pass before October 14, 2013 can opt in for the following:

• Purchase a Whistler Blackcomb Gift Card valued at $500 for only $399
• Purchase three Bring-A-Friend lift tickets for only $179 (valued at $327)

Snow Advantage

Whistler Blackcomb is the consistently ranked No. 1 resort in North America receiving an annual average snowfall of 1,174cm or 38ft. Adding to Mother Nature’s bounty, Whistler Blackcomb also utilizes 235 snow guns to provide guests the best possible ski and snowboard experience from opening day in November through to the end of the winter ski season in May.

Early Bird Season Passes are on sale now until October 14, and can be purchased through www.whistlerblackcomb.com  or by calling 1-866-787-1966.  Whistler Blackcomb’s official opening day for the 2013.2014 season is Thursday, November 28, 2013.

About Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler Blackcomb, the official alpine skiing venue for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, is situated in the Resort Municipality of Whistler located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia 125 kilometres (78 miles) from Vancouver, British Columbia. North America’s premier four season mountain resort, Whistler and Blackcomb are two side-by-side mountains which combined offer over 200 marked runs, 8,171 acres of terrain, 16 alpine bowls, three glaciers, receives on average over 1,174 centimetres (462 inches) of snow annually, and one of the longest ski seasons in North America. In the summer, Whistler Blackcomb offers a variety of activities, including hiking and biking trails, the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, and sightseeing on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. 

About GayWhistler

GayWhistler (www.gaywhistler.com) is a year-round promoter of Whistler to the gay and lesbian community, and promotes and produces the annual Gay Ski Week - WinterPRIDE.  WinterPRIDE is January 26 - February 2nd, 2014 (new week - one week earlier than previous years) and has four key elements:  Sports, Culinary, Wellness and Entertainment.  WinterPRIDE has something for both the skier/snowboarder and the non-skier/boarder as well as programming for the Lesbians and Bears.  WinterPRIDE has been awarded as one of the best Gay Ski Weeks in the world by various editors and publications.  WinterPRIDE will be celebrating 22 years in 2014 with official civic status.  Aava Whistler is the official Host Hotel of WinterPRIDE

Event Tickets now on sale:  Visit http://www.gaywhistler.eventbrite.ca/

GayWhistler is a subsidiary of Alpenglow Production Corporation. 

2011 a Year in Review

2011 was a very exciting year in the LGBT community with some key advancements and few very disappointing set backs. GayWhistler continues to be very active in helping to create a safer and more accepting environment for the LGBT community and are proud to share a snap shot of 2011.

American Pop Culture had an enormous effect on the LGBT community with Lady Gaga leading the charge with the “Best Video with a message” at the MTV awards and the LGBT community embracing a new gay anthem “Born this way.” Katie Perry sang about sexual diversity in “Last Friday Night” and PINK’s “Perfect” grabbing hold just at the end of 2010 and climbing to the top of the charts in early 2011 as she encouraged her fans to be proud of who they are. Rihanna also released her Billboard #1 single S&M which also had themes of sexual diversity. On the small screen (TV) “GLEE” continued to reach millions sharing their message of acceptance of diversity with their various themes dealing with homophobia, school bullying, and alcohol abuse. We saw our first Transgender TV Star take centre stage on “Dancing with the Stars” as Cher & Sonny Bono’s transgender son, Chaz Bono stepped up and showed America how well he could dance and hold his own despite huge public protest in allowing him to participate on the show. We had some disappointments as well when Tracy Morgan went off on a rant claiming that he “would stab his son if he were gay.” Gay A-list actors Neil Patrick Harris hosted the Tony’s while Jane Lynch hosted the Emmy’s showing America that you can be out and successful.

From Pop Culture we turn our heads towards the political landscape and no doubt one of the most inspiring speeches came from the US Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton as she addressed the United Nations on the International Day on Human Rights. Her thirty minute address specifically acknowledged that LGBT rights are Human Rights and Human Rights are LGBT Rights. This address only re-enforces the creditability and relevance of the LGBT community where in July the United Nations after many years of lobbying granted the IGLTA (Int’l Gay Lesbian Travel Assoc.) official consultative status to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The BC Government dropped the ball when it released their official “Tool Kit for Marketing to China” by specifically asking BC businesses NOT to market or promote any ‘gay activities’ to the Chinese market. This was thankfully quickly retracted and was a huge source of embarrassment to Tourism BC.

We did see some good progress made on the LGBT youth front as the Vancouver based non-profit “Out in Schools” was recognized by the nation’s largest public foundation dedicated to social justice and the environment as one of Tides Canada’s ‘Top 10 of 2011.’ The program however, had some controversy though, as some Vancouver parents accused the program of encouraging or promoting homosexuality. What the program does do is educate the youth on sexual diversity where the children have all the information they need to make informed decisions. Know that what they may be feeling, is normal and that they are not alone. That being said, teenage suicide and bullying continued to dominate the headlines in 2011. In an unprecedented move the National Governments in both the US and Canada released their own “It Gets Better” videos. In Canada, Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird responded to the tragic suicide death of Ottawa teenager, Jamie Hubley, by calling on all Canadians to promote tolerance and acceptance. “Bullying, homophobia, intolerance and incivility have no place in our schools,” Baird said. “It underlies the real challenge of depression and mental health, especially among young people.” US President Obama among other high profile American celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Anderson Cooper release their own “It Gets Better” videos in raising awareness and action.

South of the boarder, the United States, continues to grabble with equality among all their citizens, specifically with marriage. We witnessed the US President Obama publicly challenging the “Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)” as America continues to determine if marriage is a ‘State’ or ‘Federal’ right. The number one most watched political YouTube video (for 2011) was that of a 19-year old Zach Wahls who spoke about “Family” while addressing the Iowa State assembly on the topic of same sex marriage. His compelling address was well received and the state of Iowa continues to allow same-sex marriage, however by 2013 the Republicans are projected to take control of the Senate which could allow for this “right” to be revisited and taken away. New York State legalizes Same Sex Marriage while California continues to fight ‘Proposition 8’ to win back their right to marry the person they love.

US Petty Officer 2nd Class Marissa Gaeta was chosen to deliver the ritual ‘first kiss’ after the docking of a naval ship commemorating the end of the Iraq war. The significance of this is Gaeta is a lesbian and also shows the changing mood of the US military with the repeal of DADT - Don’t Ask Don’t Tell allowing gay and lesbian soldiers to be out at work. What is even more interesting is US Presidential candidate, Rick Perry, released his ‘Strong’ YouTube video which highlighted how terrible America has become now that openly gay & lesbian soldiers can serve in the Armed Forces. His video was the third most watched political video on YouTube (2011) and also become YouTube’s most dislike video in its history.

2011 saw some amazing advancements within professional sports when the NBA, MLB and the NHL all took disciplinary actions against Kobe Bryant (LA Lakers), Joakim Noah (Chicago Bulls), Roger McDowell (Atlanta Braves), Wayne Simmonds (Philadelphia Flyers) for using anti-gay slurs. We also saw a few more athletes come out including Kajsa Bergqvist (Swedish Olympic bronze medalist), Steven Davies (British cricket), Graeme Obree (Scottish Cycling), Mike Verschuur (Dutch Automobile racing), Jeffry Wammes (Dutch Gymnastics), Johnny Weir (US Figure Skating), David Testo (Soccer), Ian Roberts (Australian Rugby), Rick Welts (Phoenix Suns), Jonathan de Falco (Belgium Soccer) Michael Irvin (Dallas Cowboys) straight ally helping to fight homophobia both on and off the field. Vancouver & Whistler also welcomed the 2011 North America Outgames where at the Human Rights Conference the organization was able to pass a declaration for the various sporting bodies within BC and beyond to create safe sporting environments for all athletes, coaches and trainers.

So what does this all mean? 2011 was a year of incredible advancements in LGBT rights in many parts of the world, however we also witnessed that if we are complacent and do not fight for our rights and freedoms they can be taken away faster than what it took to achieve them. What happens in the US and abroad can have an effect on Canadian policy. We have seen that when our community is given a safe environment to be authentic their contribution to society is so much stronger. It is our hope that 2012 and beyond reporting on such milestones will be a non event.


Dean Nelson | Executive Producer, GayWhistler.com

The Hills are alive with Gays...

The Whistler High Note trail is FINALLY open, and SkiOUT is finally going hiking this Saturday, August 20th, 2011 10AM
Forecast: Sunny, Hot 28C, UV Index is HIGH so ensure you pack your sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat!

If you are unfamiliar with hiking in Whistler... this is one of the best and most accesible high alpine hiking experiences you can get. If you are only able to do one hike this year, this is the hike you will want to do. Not only is the scenery breathtaking, the alpine flowers are stunning, the ride on the world record breaking Peak 2 Peak is an absolute must, hiking between giant walls of snow and of course hanging out with a kewl group of 'Mo's is the icing on the cake - sort of speak!

The Details:
Parking lots 4&5 are still free...parking lots 1/2/3 $12/day.

Meeting spot: Whistler Village at the base of the Gondolas...watch for the rainbow flag. We leave at 10:00am SHARP so be there early! We head towards Blackcomb for our chair lift up. If you are late...take the Whistler Village Gondola up and meet us at the Roundhouse around 11ish

From Blackcomb, we take the Peak to Peak across to Whistler, meet up with any late hikers, and head up the Peak Chair and over to the High Note Trail.
We stroll the High Note Trail (7km return moderate level hike with some moderate elevation change) We have lunch around 1ish overlooking Cheakamus Lake - remember your packing your own lunch...so make it good! For those that prefer Gone Bakery in the Village Square packs a hearty sandwich / picnic bag to go!

After lunch we head back via snow packed Symphony and Harmony bowls...alpine lake swim anyone? In the past years, this has been a favourite stop and refresh in the glacier fed lake! We will head back to the Roundhouse, grab the gondola down were we will an refreshing beverage at Blacks Pub to wind down the day... we expect to be back in the village around 5ish

BE PREPARED TO WALK ON SNOW!!
Suggestions to help you enjoy your day
1) water
2) hiking shoes / sturdy leather runners/|extra pair of dry socks (if you wear mesh runners, your feet will get wet)
3) lunch - pack light but make it good!
4) did I mention water?!
5) backpack (with a water platypus maybe?)
6) camera
7) sunscreen SPF 30 recommended
8) bug spray (didn't have any problems last weekend..but just in case)
9) large garbage bag... cause we will for sure see some great tobogganing runs covered in snow! SO MUCH FUN!
10) your EDGE card!

If you renewed your Edge card for 2011/12 season you get a free sight seeing day...otherwise make sure you get your ticket online for the best savings. If you are going to ride the Peak2Peak more than once... the Season Pass is the best deal... buy online here The sightseeing pass is valid until Oct. 10th

For more information about this hike visit the skiOUT Event page - Click Here -

Spend the weekend in Whistler - The resort has some fantastic room rates available starting at just $89/night call 1.866.787.1966 or visit online at GayWhistler.com

"Whistler Presents" Concert series at the Whistler Olympic Plaza on Saturday, August 20th Key of Zee, 7 PM
Northern Pikes, 8:15 PM So make a weekend of it!!

See you there!

Hotel | Accommodations deals click here or call 1.866.787.1966
Peak2Peak Sightseeing Passes click here and save online

Dine In Whistler 2011

April 25 To June 30, 2011
From Mountaintop To Tabletop
Dine in Whistler offers more than exceptional value at a variety of Whistler restaurants. It also serves up a spectacular natural setting that is sure to inspire. Enjoy a diverse range of dining experiences and menus – from soulful pub fare, to authentic ethnic cuisine, to unique and innovative fine dining – that promise a meal to be savoured long after the last bite is finished. From April 25 to June 30, 2011, enjoy 3-course spring menus for $19, $29, $39 and $49. Savour spring with a culinary tour of Whistler!

$19 Menu
the mix by Ric's
604.932.6499
Funky lounge, West Coast inspired tapas, fresh entrées and innovative cocktails.

$29 Menu
Bavaria Restaurant
604.932.7518
Best European bistro. Best fondues in town!
Please note Bavaria restaurant will be closed from Sunday May 8, 2011 to Monday May 23, 2011 reopening Tuesday May 24, 2011. Menu

Cure Lounge & Patio
604.966.5700 Menu

Ric's Grill
604.932.7427
Traditional meets original paired with an award-winning wine list.
Menu

Tandoori Grill
604.905.4900
Authentic Indian cuisine. Great vegan fare.
Menu

$39 Menu

21 Steps Kitchen + Bar
604.966.2121
Modern comfort food served with local colour.
Menu

Players Chophouse Whistler
604.938.1270
Proudly serves Prime Canadian Beef, sustainable seafood and local produce.

Quattro at Whistler
604.905.4844
Whistler's most inventive Italian cuisine and an award-winning wine list.
Menu

$49 Menu

Araxi Restaurant + Bar
604.932.4540
"Whistler's Best Restaurant 2010" — Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards (ten-time winner)
Menu

Aura Restaurant
604.966.5700
Inspired cuisine, innovative cocktails, intimate service and serene lakeside location.
Menu

Bearfoot Bistro
604.932.3433
Rated number one restaurant in Whistler for food and service by Zagat 2011.
Menu

Hy's Steakhouse
604.905.5555
All prime meat. Voted "Best Steakhouse in Whistler" for 12 years running.
Menu

For sensational Spring hotel rates call 1.866.787.1966 or visit online at GayWhistler.com

Upcoming Events:
July 24-31, 2011: North America Outgames in Vancouver & Whistler
November 10-14, 2011: Cornucopia - Whistler's Celebration of Food & Wine
February 5-12, 2012: GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE - 20th Annual Gay & Lesbian Ski & Snowboard Week

WinterPRIDE 2011 Shuttle & Transport Options

Looking to get the party started right away? Then you need to take the WinterPRIDE Shuttle and meet other guests on the ride up the scenic Sea to Sky highway!

WinterPRIDE is thrilled to be working with our friends at Whistler Glacier Group for another incredible season. Whistler Glacier Group prides itself in providing a high quality limousine service with a unique Whistler flavour. With their luxury fleet of sedans, SUVs, coaches and limos, whether you are an individual or part of a large group, they can meet your transportation needs.

Please ask one of their reservation agents about the WinterPRIDE shuttle service that we are providing. This shuttle will run from Vancouver airport to Whistler on January 30th and from Whistler to Vancouver Airport on February 6th with a stop at the Sandman on Davie for those doing a pre/post stay in the city.

January 30th: Airport 11AM, Sandman on Davie 11.30AM, Airport 2PM, Sandman on Davie 2.30PM, Airport 5PM, Sandman on Davie 5.30PM **Times subject to change depending on passenger demand.

February 6th: Whistler to Sandman on Davie & Airport: Departures starting at 9AM

****************************************************
** Custom Shuttle & transfer times also available **
****************************************************

For reservations or more information please call 1-604-905-7779 or book online WhistlerGlacierGroup.com and a member of staff will be more than happy to help you. WinterPRIDE attendees will receive a 10% discount from the published rates so make sure you let the reservations agent know, or put in the comment box, that you are with WinterPRIDE. GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE - the annual Gay Ski Week runs January 30th - February 6th, 2011. For more information on the festival visit GayWhistler.com

WinterPRIDE 2011 Dine Around Locations

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE 2011 Dine Around
✣ OpenTable.com Reservations


Mon., Jan. 31st
Bavaria Restaurant - has been in operation for 9 years and has become a popular spot for get togethers. The ambiance at Bavaria Restaurant is a fusion of Swiss, French bistro, German and Austrian style.
4369 Main Street | 604.32.6009 | bavaria-restaurant.com

Player’s Chop House - brings a fresh twist to the steakhouse concept. Featuring West Coast character, bright interiors and sun-soaked patios, this Creekside restaurant is an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts and lounge revelers seeking an eclectic menu of local, sustainable and perfectly prepared cuisine from Executive Chef Jon Campbell.
2015 Lake Placid Rd #120 | Tel: 604.938.1270 | whistlerchophouse.ca

Tue., Feb. 1st
Aura at Nita Lake - with stunning lakeside vistas, Aura conjures up iconic memories of yesteryear with a classic railcar dining experience where old world cuisine meets modern day trends.
- 2131 Lake Placid Rd | 604.966.5700 | nitalakelodge.com

Ric’s Grill - is one of Whistler’s legendary restaurants featuring fresh seafood, delicious steaks and mouth-watering pastas. Their bar is a popular place to have drinks, socialize and chat with friends.
4154 Village Green | 604.932.7427 | ricsgrill.com


Wed., Feb. 2nd
21 Steps - provides stunning 2nd floor views of Whistler Village. Their kitchen creates updated comfort food that are both big in portions and flavours for great value.
4433 Sundial Place | 604.966.2121 | 21steps.ca | ✣

Quattro at Whistler - is best known for its warm service, contemporary Italian cuisine and an extensive wine list, recognized by Wine Spectator as one of the world's best.
4319 Main Street | 604.905.4844 | quattrorestaurants.com | ✣

Thurs., Feb. 3rd
Whistler Tasting Tours - experience four of the best Whistler restaurants in one night! This progressive dining journey takes guided groups to several gourmet restaurants for a delicious multi-course meal paired with fine BC wines. Voted the #1 Thing to do in Whistler.
604.902.8687 | whistlertastingtours.com

Araxi Restaurant + Bar - is a crossroads of mountain elegance and approachable dining in the heart of Whistler village. Innovative and skillfully executed dishes deliver intelligent compositions and delightful flavours, carefully married to their award winning wine list.
4122 Village Gate Square | 604.932.4540 | araxi.com | ✣


Hy’s Steakhouse - has been Canada's premier steakhouse for over 50 years. This stunning location in the beautiful resort town of Whistler features Canadian Triple A beef, an award-winning wine list and exceptional service in a warm contemporary atmosphere.
4308 Main Street | 604.905.5555 | hyssteakhouse.com | ✣

Fri., Feb. 4th
Bearfoot Bistro - every night is a celebration of culinary excellence and extravagant joie de vivre! Executive Chef Melissa Craig, crowned Canada's Best Chef at the Canadian Culinary Championships in 2008, creates in her open concept kitchen while owner, André Saint-Jacques will teach you to wield a sword and saber Champagne in the award winning underground 20 000-bottle wine cellar. Oyster special available daily in the Champagne Bar from 3 to 6 pm.  Vodka tasting in the Belvedere Ice Room - Canada’s only vodka ice room and coldest room worldwide. Live music by pianist Cameron Chu. Open daily from 3 pm.
4121 Village Green | 604.932.3433 | bearfootbistro.com | ✣

Tandoori Grill - located in Whistler village North, has selected dishes that are most sumptuous as they were inspired by Great Indian Emperors and prepared to perfection by chefs of by gone eras. The Moghal Kings who brought renaissance and enrichment to the Indian culture favoured the technique of cooking in a Tandoor clay oven. Tandoori Grill has adopted this mode of cooking.
4368 Main Street #201 | Tel: 604.905.4900 | tandooriwhistler.com

Sat., Feb. 5th
White Spot - is a British Columbia legend with a passion for using only the freshest and finest quality ingredients. For breakfast, lunch, dinner or a late night snack, White Spot is the place. Fresh Thinking. Fresh Cooking.
4005 Whistler Way | 604.962.7770 | whitespot.com

Wildflower - invites you to enjoy a fresh and fun showcase of locally inspired dishes. Enjoy extensive 'by the glass' wine selections, a noteworthy variety of regional beer or a signature cocktail. Base of Blackcomb Mountain.
4599 Chateau Blvd | 604.938.2033 | http://bit.ly/wp11FCW |✣


Sun., Feb. 6th
Cinnamon Bear Grille - finding inspired ways to combine exceptional flavors in Pacific North West dishes drives the menu selection at Cinnamon Bear Bar & Grille. Directed by Executive Chef Jay Lynn, emphasizes fresh ingredients, unique taste combinations, creative presentations and top-notch service to create a dining experience as memorable as it is flavorful.
4050 Whistler Way | 604.932.1982 | hiltonwhistler.com | ✣

Remember to take advantage of Vancouver's annual "Dine OUT Vancouver" making a city stop the perfect pre/post WinterPRIDE experience. Room rates starting at just $68 and 3-course dinners from $18/person making it even easier to fuel that Pride romance for an extra night or so!

WinterPRIDE is the annual Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard Week in the resort of Whistler. For more information visit GayWhistler.com

Whistler Mountain to Open Early! Nov. 19, 2010

It's official! La Nina has gifted our Coast Mountains with a lot of glorious White Gold allowing Whistler to open early on Nov. 19th! The buzz and excitement in the resort is in a frenzy with the announcement of a 6 day early opening! Remember to book your accommodations and lift tickets before Nov. 15th for the best deals of the season.

During the WinterPRIDE Week of January 30th to February 6th you can get ski packages starting at just $128/person/night. How good of deal is this? Well if you are one of those guys that plans last minute you can expect to pay $93/day for your ski lift ticket for same day window pricing... so that means you would only be paying an extra $35/night for a hotel! Now that is a deal. So what are you waiting for? Call 1.866.787.1966 today or book online at GayWhistler.com

Are you in the Silicon Valley or San Francisco area? This weekend is the Silicon Valley Ski Show November 13-14,2010. Make sure you stop by the Whistler Blackcomb booth and learn what is new this coming season and win some great show prizes.

Think Snow, think WinterPRIDE!
GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE the evolution of Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard Week January 30 - February 6, 2011
Host Hotel: The Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa
For Reservations call 1.866.787.1966 or visit online at GayWhistler.com

Volunteer at GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE - the evolution of the annual Gay & Lesbian ski/snowboard festival is made only possible by the generous support of our sponsors and for the army of Volunteers. Why do so many people give their time and volunteer for the festival? Some say it is a great way to meet people from all over the world, others volunteer because their partner is out skiing and they want to be kept busy and have fun, some do it as a "Volunteer-cation" i.e. combining their vacation and volunteering as a great way to economize their vacation. Some volunteer because they want to give back to the community.

Everyone has a different reason to get involved and help shape what the festival is today. Everyone has the same general goal: That is to make this one of the most open, welcoming, fun and friendly winter events on the planet! There are a variety of roles that need to be filled including:
- Documentation Photographers: People in this role are assigned a few key events and subjects they need to photograph giving them access to all the events both on and off the slopes
- Welcome Host(ess): People in this role are here to welcome our guests to the various events, check tickets, etc..
- GEO's Guest Experience Officers: People in this role are very outgoing and their main task is to have fun and engage our guests. Do you see some alone in a corner? It is your role to welcome that person to the event(s) and introduce them to other people and help them feel welcomed. We have people coming in from all over the world and some for the first time, so we want to ensure everyone feels like family and has an opportunity to be as engaged as they want... sometimes even nudging their comfort zone just a little!
- Security
- Dancers
- Decor & Dressers
- and many more roles... so if you are interested... send an email to Carson our Volunteer Director at volunteers@gaywhistler.com

Part of the Volunteer experience is the Perks: Some of the perks includes our Volunteer Thank you Brunch where everyone wins a prize! Some of the prizes are huge like: A Trip for Two anywhere in North America with our friends at American Airlines. This past season Rosemary won the trip and she went to Mexico... this is what Rosemary had to say...

"Volunteering at Winterpride has some great benefits, apart from seeing what a fun time everyone has at the week long event you get the opportunity to win big. 2 tickets on American Airline that took me to Mexico & the Yucatan Peninsula. It was timed right, arriving in Merida for the big Festival of the Dead which is how Halloween is celebrated. Shrines are built for those who have died, people visit with deceased friends & relatives, there is music, lots of freshly made tacos and firecrackers to add to the noise. Then of course there are the amazing Mayan pyramids, the white beaches and azure Carribean waters."


So what are you waiting for... Volunteer today and be part of the magic of GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard week.

Volunteering at Winterpride has some great benefits, apart from seeing what a fun time everyone has at the week long event you get the opportunity to win big. 2 tickets on American Airline that took me to Mexico & the Yucatan Peninsula. It was timed right, arriving in Merida for the big Festival of the Dead which is how Halloween is celebrated. Shrines are built for those who have died, people visit with deceased friends & relatives, there is music, lots of freshly made tacos and firecrackers to add to the noise. Then of course there are the amazing Mayan pyramids, the white beaches and azure Carribean waters.

So what are you waiting for... Volunteer today and be part of the magic of GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard week.

For more information visit http://www.gaywhistler.com
GayWhistler’s WinterPRIDE - evolution of Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard Festival runs January 30th thru to February 6th, 2011.

Final Weekend to Book Early and Save - Nov 15th Deadline

Issue: # GW-006 November 14, 2008 IN THIS ISSUE WinterPRIDE Event Tickets Stay & Ski Pkg $118/Person WINTERPRIDE WHISTLER NEWS Dear Dean, This is the final weekend of the Early Booking Discounts for this season. If you have not already booked your accommodation and event passes the next 24 hours is the best time to do it in. Remember your ski pass includes the World Recording Breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola - Free! GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE - the evolution of Gay Ski Week is February 1-8, 2009 FINAL WEEKEND FOR EARLY BIRD PRICING - WINTERPRIDE WinterPRIDE 2009 Event Tickets are now on Sale!! Book before November 15th and save big. And with the US dollar making a come back our friends to the South can save an approximate 18 cents on the dollar (US Foreign Exchange is about US$1 = C$1.18) LAST CHANCE TO SAVE ON SKI & STAY PKG STARTING AT $118/P Final weekend to Save Huge on Stay & Ski rates starting at $118/person Starting from C$118 (US$97) per person per night Book before Nov. 15, 2008 Note: Package rates are per person per night, based on 2 adults sharing a hotel room from Feb 1 - Feb 8, 2009, quoted in CAD funds. All USD rates are based on a 1.18 exchange rate. Package includes 7 nights accommodation and two 5 day lift tickets. Other early booking packages and dates available. Rates do not include taxes or fees, are subject to availability and may change without notice. Minimum night stays and other restrictions apply. Early booking offer is available until November 15, 2008. Additional Early Booking savings available for equipment rentals and airport transfers, please inquire for details. HOST HOTEL: THE WESTIN RESORT & SPA Twice named the #1 Ski Resort in North America by Condé Nast, and award winning dining at the Aubergine Grille coupled by the luxurious Avello Spa & Health Club - just add one of the best locations in Whistler all make for the perfect Host Hotel. So call our central reservations today at 1.866.787.1966 and take advantage of the book early and save discounts valid until November 15th! SPONSOR HIGHLIGHT: BAREFOOT WINES We are kicking off our shoes as we welcome our friends with BareFoot Wines to the WinterPRIDE Sponsorship family. Over the next several weeks watch our website and newsletter for updates on how BareFoot Wines will enhance our Culinary Events, wine sampling at some of our après ski parties plus a few more surprises along the way! SPONSOR HIGHLIGHT: AIR NEW ZEALAND We are also very excited to welcome our newest sponsor as we take flight and welcome the world with "Kia Ora" - Welcome from Air New Zealand! In the coming weeks learn more about Air New Zealand and their Pink Flight and how you can be part of the magic. With an attitude of "Whichever Way You Go" and kicking off your shoes and going "BareFoot" both of which embrace diversity and inclusivity we know we are going to have a lot of fun with our two newest sponsors of WinterPRIDE and Mr. Gay World. We look forward working with all of our sponsors to help create a very rewarding and memorable WinterPRIDE for everyone! Reminder you can manage your account by clicking on the icon at the bottom of this email and you can choose what information you want to get. If you only want to read newsletters that have specific content like "Women's Program" or "Culinary" just click on those programs and you will get just those emails. Mark your Calender: Join skiOUT! & GayWhistler at 1181 this coming Wed., Nov. 19th at 1181 Davie Street, Vancouver for a Vancouver WHOOSSH kick off to Winter Martini Party 8-12AM Join us with skiOUT! on Sat., Nov. 29th for the first skiOUT! of the season on Blackcomb Mountain 10AM at the light board. If you have any comments or suggestions, please feel free to contact us. Our In-Box is always open and love to hear from you. More updates to come so visit our website often and remember: Think Snow, Think WinterPRIDE. Cheers, Dean + Ken Alpenglow Productions / GayWhistler

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE Event Tickets Now on Sale!

WINTERPRIDE WHISTLER NEWS

There is so much exciting news to share with you in this issue! The WinterPRIDE Team has been working hard these past couple months and we are now ready to unveil some of our excitement!

1. WinterPRIDE 2009 Event Tickets are now on Sale!! Book before November 15^th and save big. And with the US dollar making a come back our friends to the South can save an approximate 20 cents on the dollar (US Foreign Exchange is about US$1 = C$0.80)
2. GayWhistler is thrilled to announce that Flygirl Productions has joined our family to help co-produce our Women’s signature events! Taking the women’s program to a whole new height plus welcoming back Lipstick & Dipstick for a second year of fun in the snow!
3. Reminder: Book your accommodation package by November 15^th and save! Preferred Hotels: Residence Inn by Marriott, Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa and the Sundial Boutique Hotel

WinterPRIDE 2009 Event Tickets now on Sale: A wise Drag Queen once told me “Gurrl, you know you are going, so get your ticket now, save some cash. It could be an extra spa treatment or think of how many more cocktails you can shout!” The 7 Day WinterPRIDE Pass is just C$389/person and includes: A WinterPRIDE T-shirt, all the fabulous parties plus the Mr. Gay - World Grand Finale. So jump online and get your event tickets before November 15^th to save Big!

Flygirl Joins WinterPRIDE taking the Lesbians to new Heights. Building on the success of being voted the #1 Lesbian Ski Week in the World by Out Traveler (2008) we are so thrilled to welcome to our team Leigh Cousins and Mandy Randhawa producers of Vancouver's award winning Lesbian production and event company, Flygirl. After reviewing comments and suggestions from you, our guests, we felt that we needed to take a bold move and bring on our team an award winning Production Company to bring the 2009 programming up another notch. Leigh & Mandy are the perfect addition to our women's team as their core values are in sync with our own values of creating safe, fun, welcoming and inclusive spaces for our guests to be themselves at. Flygirl will be co-producing the Women’s Friday & Saturday night dance parties. Keep your eye on our women’s page for updates as more programming is confirmed. Women’s full week passes are just C$289/person and includes: A Women’s WinterPRIDE T-shirt, all the fabulous women’s events plus the Mr. Gay – World Grand Finale. So do not delay and get your event tickets before November 15^th to save huge!

Book Now and Save

WinterPRIDE February 1-8, 2009
7 Nights Lodging / 5 Day Lift Ticket + Peak 2 Peak Access
Starting from $118 CAD per person per night ($925 per person per stay) Book before Nov. 15, 2008 and save up to 14%

Package rates are per person per night, based on 2 adults sharing a hotel room from Feb 1 - Feb 8, 2009, quoted in CAD funds. Package includes 7 nights accommodation and two 5 day lift tickets. Other early booking packages and dates available. Rates do not include taxes or fees, are subject to availability and may change without notice. Minimum night stays and other restrictions apply. Early booking offer is available until November 15, 2008. Additional Early Booking savings available for equipment rentals and airport transfers, please inquire for details.

Book On Line or call 1.866.787.1966 to lock in the best deals during WinterPRIDE.

Watch for more exciting updates in the weeks ahead. 2009 is going to be an incredible year and we can hardly wait to welcome you back. If you have any comments to feedback please feel free to send your comments to dean@gaywhistler.com

Remember: Think Snow, Think WinterPRIDE.

Cheers,

Dean + Ken

Alpenglow Productions / GayWhistler

WinterPRIDE 2009 Sponsor Highlight

Stay at the beautiful AAA Four Diamond Hotel – the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. Located at the base of Whistler Mountain and a hop skip and jump from the TELUS Whistler Conference Centre, the Hilton with its legendary full service (yummy room service!) amenities including Cinnamon Bear Grille, the Artesia Spa, outdoor swimming pool, sauna, hot tubs and 24-hour fitness facilities all ready to keep you in top shape for WinterPRIDE. Call 1.866.787.1966 with great book early and save rates.

Whistler to Host Inaugural Mr. Gay Canada Competition

Whistler to Host Inaugural Mr. Gay Canada Competition

Whistler, BC – The first nationwide search for Mr. Gay Canada is set to take place September 18-21st, 2008. Hosted in the idyllic mountain resort of Whistler, BC, the primary purpose of the Mr. Gay Canada (MGC) is to identify leaders who will take responsibility not only in his own community but also on a global stage speaking out for equal rights. Mr. Gay Canada is a positive role model and will work on humanizing being gay and act as an LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) Tourism Ambassador for Canada.

Setting the stage of the inaugural event as Presenting Sponsor and Host Hotel is The Fairmont Chateau Whistler. “We are so thrilled to welcome the support of The Fairmont Chateau Whistler” explains Dean Nelson, Executive Producer of Mr. Gay Canada. “We are working with the Fairmont team to come up with some very exciting challenges for our delegates that will test their abilities to think on their feet while evoking the brand qualities of Fairmont. Working with a Canadian hotel chain and one that is so iconic was really important to the organization as we see many similar traits – we are both trail blazers!”

The Mr. Gay Canada Competition is a 3-day, indoor/outdoor series of events to help our judges identify a strong spokesman or ambassador to tell the world about our mission. The competition includes physical tests and interviews with a panel of judges. Only 15% of the judging points are assigned to appearance, which means 85% of the points are for qualities in character and leadership. The winner of the competition will receive an all expenses paid trip to Los Angeles in February 2009 to represent Canada in the International Mr. Gay Competition.

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About Mr. Gay Canada (MGC)
MGC is an organization working to build strong positive role models and leaders within the queer community. MGC is working in association with Mirateca Arts Management.
www.mrgaycanada.com

For more information:
Dean Nelson
Executive Producer
Mr. Gay Canada
Tel. 604.288.7218
Email: dean@mrgaycanada.com