Whistler Blackcomb awarded top scores

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB RECEIVES TOP SCORES FROM ANNUAL RESORT RANKINGS

Photo by: Jussi Grznar | Whistler, BC, Canada

Accolades Credited To Whistler Blackcomb’s Incredible Terrain And Dedicated Staff

WHISTLER, BC November 7, 2013 – The annual resort rankings are in and Whistler Blackcomb is proud to be the recipient of four “best overall” awards and 12 “category wins”. These consistent results continue to position Whistler Blackcomb as one of the leading ski resorts in the world and a must-visit destination on every traveller’s bucket list.

“Our success is credited to our prime geographical location which results in great snow and an incredible variety of terrain, but what really makes the difference is our people,” says Stuart Rempel, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Whistler Blackcomb.  “Our staff strives every day to provide the best and most memorable experiences to all of our guests and these awards are proof of that effort. We constantly aim to improve our physical assets as we respect our natural environment. The addition of the Crystal Ridge Express and the Harmony 6 Express chairs this winter will heighten the guest experience by moving people around the mountain more efficiently to their favorite zones.  We’re confident these expansions, along with our focus on guest service, will allow us to remain at the top.”

Whistler Blackcomb Awards and Rankings 2013.2014

No.1 Overall

-       Freeskier Magazine

-       SBC Resort Guide

-       Best Overall Northwest Region, Onthesnow.com

-       2013 Ski Club of Great Britain: Highest Net Promoter Score in the world.

Accolades

-       #1 Landmark In Canada, Trip Advisor, Traveller’s Choice Awards

-       Best Gondola View in North America, Liftopia.com

-       One of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, Canada’s Top 100 Employers, CAN

-       Top 25 Ski Resorts in the World, Snowaddiction.org

-       Best Winter Destination, Georgia Straight, Best of Vancouver 2013

-       Best Weekend Getaway, Georgia Straight, Beat of Vancouver 2013

-       Best Terrain in the West, SBC Resort Guide

-       Best Parks in the West, SBC Resort Guide

-       Best Terrain in Northwest Region, Onthesnow.com

-       Top 5 Canadian Resorts, Huffington Post

-       Best Après, SKI Magazine

-       Best Ski Resorts for Powder, Telegraph UK

-       Best Nightlife, Freeskier Magazine

-       Best Nightlife in Northwest Region, Onthesnow.com

-       Best Nightlife Overall, Onthesnow.com

-       Best Nightlife, TransWorld SNOWboarding

-       No.2 Lodging , SKI Magazine

-       No.2 Terrain Variety, SKI Magazine

-       No.2 Off-Hill Activities, SKI Magazine

-       No.2 Best on a Powder Day, Freeskier Magazine

-       No.2 Best Apres. Freeskier Magazine

-       No.2 Best Steeps, Freeskier Magazine

-       No.3 Top Resorts, TransWorld SNOWboarding

-       No.4 Dining, SKI Magazine

-       No.4 Digital Presence, SKI Magazine

-       No.5 Best Parks, TransWorld SNOWboarding

-       No.5 Lifts, SKI Magazine

-       No.5 Top Lifts to Lap – Peak Express, Freeskier Magazine

Whistler Blackcomb is scheduled to officially open for the winter season on Thursday, November 28.

Click to book WinterPRIDE Hotel Package Now

Guests looking to plan a trip can save up to 39 per cent on ski and stay packages by taking advantage of Whistler's Early Booking Offer until November 15, 2013.  Visit whistlerblackcomb.com/deals_packages  or call 1-866-787-1966 for details.

Reminder:  The 22nd annual Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard Week - GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE is January 26 - February 2nd, 2014.  Headline entertainment include: DJ Ivan Gomez (BCN), DJ Phil B. (SFO), DJ Pornstar (LA), DJ Paulo (LA), DJ Seth Cooper (Chicago) and DJ Nick Bertossi (Vancouver).  8-days, 65-events, 26-nations, 3,000+ guys and gals enjoying diversity at the leading Mountain Resort in North America (and the world!).  Host hotel:  Aava Whistler

International coalition of Pride Houses Sochi 2014 Response

International coalition of LGBT sport and human rights organizations call for International Olympic Committee to host Sochi Pride House
Group rules out call to boycott Sochi Olympics in favor of concerted action for visibility and long-term change

31 July 2013

A broad group of international organizations and activists, including the largest international LGBT sports organizations, have begun a concerted effort to respond to a rising official and unofficial homophobia in Russia, and to call on the International Olympic Committee and other sports governing bodies to accept responsibility for the choice of hosts of the events they sanction. Among their first demands is that the IOC host a Pride House in Sochi during the 2014 Winter Olympics. (see below the letter sent today to Jacques Rogge)

The sports leaders and activists, working closely with the Russian LGBT Sports Federation, reject calls for a boycott of the 2014 Winter Olympics. Lou Englefield (Manchester), director of Pride Sports UK and coordinator of the group, said: “We believe in action that is concrete and goals that are attainable. We also believe in listening to our partners in Russia who tell us they don’t want a boycott. Athletes should not bear the burden of Putin's homophobic regime and what is in effect the complicity of the IOC. A boycott punishes hard working athletes rather than challenging repression and those sports organisations which knowingly choose hosts that fail to respect the human rights proclaimed in their own charters.”

Marc Naimark (Paris) of the Federation of Gay Games stated: “We are heartened by the IOC's recent declaration that they have received assurances from Russian authorities that the shameful homophobic laws will not be enforced in Sochi. While this is of little solace to the hundreds of thousands of LGBT Russians who will continue to suffer under repressive local and national laws, it should offer some relief to the foreign athletes competing in Sochi. The IOC does not speak of the officials, press, support staff or visitors, for whom the same protections are needed. And we remain skeptical as to the reality of these guarantees, all the more so following declarations of Russian politicians that the laws would indeed be enforced. We challenge the IOC to demonstrate its good faith by hosting under its aegis a Pride House in Sochi, open to all, athletes and visitors, gay and straight, Russian and foreign. If the IOC truly believes the assurances of Russian authorities, then the IOC should be able to override the existing ban on a Sochi Pride House and offer a venue for all to meet safely and with freedom of expression.”

David McFarland (Los Angeles) of United for Equality in Sports and Entertainment added: “Even if there is a Pride House, this does not mean that Sochi should be business as usual. Members of Pride House International have in the past called on LGBT athletes to be visible, and the homophobic laws mean that this call is more imperative than ever for the 2014 Olympics. We know that LGBT athletes are not alone in being revolted by these laws and the behavior of Russian authorities. We are planning actions to support visibility of opposition to Russian homophobia and to support the noble principle of sport for all enshrined in the Olympic Charter.”

Dean Nelson (Vancouver), founder of the first Pride House at the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Vancouver/Whistler spoke of the need to continue the process of true respect for the Olympic principle of sport for all: "Over the past four years since the 2010 Games, many sporting bodies have made tremendous headway in creating safer environments for our athletes and support staff to participate and focus on sport. No government, no politicians, can be allowed to turn back the clock. We all must defend our athletes, coaches and trainers to ensure they are able to participate free from discrimination of any sort including sexual orientation, gender expression and gender identity."

Stephen Frost (London), former head of diversity and inclusion for LOCOG, the host committee for the 2012 Summer Olympics, stated: “We need to continue building long-term systemic change in the policy of sports governing bodies, starting with the most important of all, the International Olympic Committee. The IOC has made great strides to support inclusion in sport, but has only recently specified that sexual orientation discrimination is indeed unacceptable.  A remaining tool at their disposal is to include sexual orientation alongside ethnicity and gender as protected under the Olympic Charter.   This is something the Paralympic movement has already done”

Lou Englefield concluded: “Our letter to Jacques Rogge is just the first step in action on Sochi. We will be soon announcing other aspects of our campaign, including action that each and every person attending the Sochi Olympics can take part in to show the Russian authorities that their homophobic laws are unacceptable, and to show the IOC that it cannot choose hosts that flout the most basic human rights of freedom of expression and assembly.”

Current signatories to this statement (more to follow at pridehouseinternational.org or pridehouseinternational.wordpress.com):

Armelle Mazé and Klaus Heusslein, European Gay and Lesbian Sports Federation
armelle@eglsf.info, klaus@eglsf.info

Euan Platt, LEAP Sports Scotland, Pride House Glasgow 2014
euan@leapsports.org

Emy Ritt and Marc Naimark, Federation of Gay Games
emy.ritt@gaygames.net, marc.naimark@gaygames.net

Lou Englefield, Pride Sports UK, Pride House London 2012
lou@pridesports.co.uk

Stephen Frost, former director of diversity and inclusion, LOCOG
frostincluded@gmail.com

Dean Nelson, founder of Pride House 2010
dean@gaywhistler.com

David McFarland, United for Equality in Sports and Entertainment
david@uese.org

---

About Pride House International
Pride House International is a coalition of LGBT sport and human rights groups, including participants in past and future Pride Houses, united to promote the cause of equality in and by sport and the creation of Pride Houses at international sporting events.

What is a Pride House?
A Pride House is a venue welcoming LGBT athletes, fans, and others and their allies during international sporting events. Akin to the various national houses at such events, they are welcoming places to view the competitions, to enjoy the event, to learn about LGBT sport and homophobia in sport, and to build relations with mainstream sport. The first Pride House was organized for the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Vancouver/Whistler, with others following in Warsaw (2012 UEFA Euro football cup) and London (2012 Summer Olympics). Pride Houses are planned for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, the 2015 Pan-American Games in Toronto, and the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio.

---

Letter to Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee

Dear Dr Rogge,

I am writing on behalf of the growing number of individuals and organizations from around the world represented in the Pride House International coalition. Our goal is to promote equality in sport, to fight discrimination in and by sport, and in particular to ensure the safety and visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender athletes, In particular, we aim to build on the success of past Games through the organisation of Pride Houses at international sporting events to increase exchanges between mainstream and LGBT sport and promote the principle of sport for all, and ultimately greater participation in the Olympic movement.

Among our concerns is the choice of host countries made by the IOC and other sport governing bodies, and especially your choice of Sochi as host of the 2014 Winter Olympics.

Various members of our coalition have written to you on numerous occasions on this issue, with no response. Indeed, until recently, your only response on this issue, for example the refusal of Russian authorities to authorise a Pride House in Sochi, has been to declare that this is a matter of local law over which you have no authority.

We are therefore somewhat heartened by your recent declaration to RIA Novosti news agency that you would guarantee the safety of athletes and spectators (and others, we hope) identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, in Sochi. But even more recently, a Russian legislator involved in the St Petersburg version of the law has declared that there is no reason federal law would not be enforced for all during the Sochi Olympics, raising doubt about these assurances.

Like you, we hope that no one involved in any way with the 2014 Games will have cause to fear the federal legislation. One way for you to demonstrate this is by hosting a Pride House in Sochi under the aegis of the International Olympic Committee and, to ensure everyone’s safety there, by having one or more members of the IOC present at all times. Our members are at your disposition to make this a reality and are keen to work in partnership with you.

Given the urgency of this matter, I look forward to the opportunity to discuss this with you as soon as possible and eagerly await your response.

---

For information about the Federation of Gay Games, visit www.gaygames.org.

The ninth edition of the quadrennial Gay Games will be held in Cleveland + Akron, OH 9-16 August , 2014. For information about Gay Games 9, Cleveland 2014, visit www.gg9cle.com.

About the Gay Games

Built upon the principles of Participation, Inclusion, and Personal Best, since 1982 the Gay Games have empowered thousands of LGBT athletes and artists through sport, culture, and fellowship.

About The Federation of Gay Games

The international Federation of Gay Games is the governing body  the quadrennial Gay Games and promotes the event's founding principles of “Participation, Inclusion and Personal Best”™. The Gay Games was conceived by Dr. Tom Waddell, an Olympic decathlete, and was first held in San Francisco in 1982 with 1,350 participants. Subsequent Gay Games were held in San Francisco (1986 - 3,500 participants), Vancouver (1990 - 7,300 participants), New York (1994 - 12,500 participants), Amsterdam (1998 - 13,000 participants), Sydney (2002 - 11,000 participants), Chicago (2006 - 11,700 participants), and Cologne, (2010 – 10,000 participants). Gay Games 9 will be held in Cleveland + Akron, OH, USA 9-16 August 2014. Visit www.gg9cle.com for more information.

“Gay Games”, “Federation of Gay Games”, the interlocking circles device, and the phrase “Participation, Inclusion and Personal Best” are trademarks of the Federation of Gay Games, Inc. Trademarks are registered in the USA, Canada, Benelux, the UK, Germany, and Australia.

###

Contact:
Lou Englefield, coordinator (Manchester)
+44 7949 604610
pridehouseinternational@gmail.com

Marc Naimark (Paris)
+33 6 63 02 03 68

David McFarland (Los Angeles)
+1 (323) 850-0079 or+1 (323) 829-0788

pridehouseinternational.org
provisional URL: pridehouseinternational.wordpress.com

Alpine Hiking trails at Whistler Blackcomb now Open

ALPINE HIKING/WALKING TRAILS OPEN TWO WEEKS AHEAD OF SCHEDULE AT WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

Summer Alpine Wonder Routes Lead To Wildflower Meadows And Glacial Lakes

WHISTLER, BC July 18, 2013 – Thanks to warm early summer alpine temperatures and particularly sunny weather, Whistler Blackcomb’s alpine trails will be fully open to the public starting on Saturday for walking, hiking and running. A few trails have been open since mid-June but Saturday will be the first time this season all of Whistler and Blackcomb’s alpine walks and hikes will be fully open.

“We are actually two weeks ahead of schedule compared to last year. Warm weather this past spring, and so far this summer, has quickened the snow melt process in the alpine, resulting in early trail openings and a longer alpine hiking season. We are even seeing alpine flowers starting to bloom already, which is much earlier than we saw last year,” said Arthur DeJong, Mountain Planning and Environmental Resource Manager.

Alpine wildflowers are starting to bloom and will be in their prime starting next week until the end of August. DeJong says the best place to view wildflowers is on Blackcomb Mountain, particularly Lakeside Loop and Overlord Trail.

With over 50 kilometres of hiking and running routes at over 6,000 feet, Whistler Blackcomb offers some of the most easily accessible, and vast, walking, hiking and running alpine terrain in North America. To help guests navigate the trails, Whistler Blackcomb has unveiled the new summer Alpine Wonder Routes; a network of tours, trails, waypoints and stops created to help guests navigate the mountains and discover Whistler Blackcomb’s most wonder-filled alpine places.

·         Alpine Vista Route – The Alpine Vista Route takes guests up the Whistler Village Gondola where they can then board the record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola for a lofty journey over the treetops and across the Fitzsimmons Valley to Blackcomb Mountain. From there guests can board two open-air chairlifts for a relaxing trip down to Blackcomb Mountain’s Upper Village.

·         Top of the World Route – This route takes advanced hikers to the highest points on both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, can take up to a full day to complete, and boasts panoramic glacier views in all directions.

·         Running the Rooftop Route – This 10km single track route starts at the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain and is a dedicated running route offering breathtaking views of Cheakamus Lake and the surrounding peaks of Garibaldi Provincial Park. Recommended for advanced runners who have trail running experience. Runners should also be aware of hikers as they are also permitted on this route.

·         Alpine Lakes Loop – This intermediate level hiking trail starts on Blackcomb Mountain’s Alpine Walk and flows through a stunning palette of colourful wildflowers and Blackcomb Lake before circling back to the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola where the loop continues on Whistler Mountain’s Harmony Lake Trail.

·         Overlord Vista – This challenging full-day hike covers some of Blackcomb and Whistler’s longest hiking trails; Overlord, Decker Loop and High Note Trail. The route offers stunning views of the Overlord Glacier, volcanic Black Tusk, Cheakamus Lake and the mountains’ various wildlife.

While guests are in the alpine they can stop by the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain for a Mountain Top BBQ every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For full menus or to purchase tickets visit  http://bit.ly/WBmtn13

·         Friday - Whole Hog Fridays

·         Saturday - Slow Roasted Prime Rib BBQ

·         Sunday - Pacific Seafood Grill

Also, to kick of the August long weekend, Steeps Grill & Wine Bar will be hosting the summer’s first Winemaker Dinner on Friday August 2. Perched on top of Whistler Mountain, Steeps will be featuring a five course meal paired with select varieties of wine from Ravenswood Winery. For more information, including details on the second Winemaker Dinner featuring  Nk’Mip Cellars on August 24, visit: http://bit.ly/WBwine

Remember August 10th is the annual skiOUT LGBT Alpine Hike on Whistler.  For more info visit: 

GayWhistler.com  Whistler has some amazing hotel choices including the Aava Whistler Hotel at the foot of Whistler Village, Whistler Golf Course and the Valley Trail System.  For more information on the Aava or any of your vacation needs for Whistler call 1.866.787.1966 or visit online GayWhistler.com

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

Get your Event Tix by Nov. 30th for WinterPRIDE

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE is gearing up for an epic snow season and Lady La Nina is already giving her blessings with a stellar start of the Snow Season! Nov. 26th saw an additional 23cm (9") of fabulous White Gold (aka SNOW) making the early season snow base 100cm (39") and counting!

To celebrate the start of the ski season with both Whistler Blackcomb mountains open along with the Peak 2 Peak Gondola we wanted to share with you highlights of WinterPRIDE past to get you excited for this coming season! Remember to buy your event tickets by Nov. 30th, 2010 to get the best deal - like Snowball Ticket for just $60! So what are you waiting for... get your tickets now!



Book your Stay & Ski Package by January 15th for $127/person/night for a 5 Night, 3 Day Ski - when you consider if you are one of those people that shows up last minute you can expect to pay approx. $100 for your Ski Pass at the window... so if you think in those terms... it is like you are getting a hotel for just $27/person/night! That is cheaper than the hostel! So what are you waiting for... call 1.866.787.1966 or book online today! 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.

Hotel Room for $35?! Book by Nov. 15th

This year, Whistler Blackcomb is throwing down some epic savings with our hotel partners when you book your vacation by Nov. 15th. With rates starting at just $128/person/night for a 5 night, 4 day ski package... that is like getting your hotel room for $35!

How is that possible? When you consider that if you are one of those last minute decision makers and you just show up a few days before and walk up to the ticket counter to purchase your ski ticket, you can expect to pay $93/Adult per day. So when you consider this, for an extra $35/person you will get a pretty stellar place to stay! Or for an extra $88/person you can stay at our Host Hotel: The Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa - a Four Diamond, Conde Nast Gold List hotel.

So what are you waiting for? Call today at 1.866.787.1966 or book online at GayWhistler.com

Our official reservation partner, Whistler Blackcomb, guarantees to give you the best rate possible. When you make your reservation through our partner we are able to quantify our festival's room night production which means more support in future years, which only helps to improve the value and quality guest experience we are able to provide. So when making your vacation decision we encourage you to book with our official partners which gives back to our community.

For a list of our partner hotels click here:
Below are starting from rates for a 5 Night, 4 Day Ski Package when booking before Nov. 15th call 1.866.787.1966
HOST Hotel: Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa starting from $181/person/night

Preferred Partner Hotels:
Coast Blackcomb Suites - starting from $173/person/night

Pan Pacific Whistler - starting from $180/person/night

Fairmont Chateau Whistler - starting from $215/person/night

Associate Partner Hotels:
Aava Whistler Hotel - starting from $128/person/night

Delta Whistler Village Suites - starting from $165/person/night

Evolution Whistler - starting from $177/person/night

Call 1.866.787.1966 or book online

WinterPRIDE Mountain Guides - Join our Guiding Team!

Travelocity Never Roam Alone Ski & Snowboard Guiding at GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE Jan. 30 - Feb. 6, 2011

If you are at least an intermediate skier or rider, and are familiar with Whistler Blackcomb, you could be a guide during WinterPride. Please read the details below, and if you think this is for you, just get in touch!

Remember – OUR # 1 GOAL IS SAFE FUN FOR ALL!

Program Highlights
Dates
WinterPride is Sunday, January 30 through Sunday, February 6. GUIDING IS MONDAY, JAN. 31-SATURDAY, FEB. 5.
Traditional Program
Our traditional program continues this year meeting between Blackcomb and Whistler. This year we'll be able to get back to Creekside!
ATAC!
ATAC stands for All Terrain, All Conditions. This is going to be the new name of our experts-only program.
Women’s guiding program
If there are enough women for a group, they will once again have the opportunity to ski or ride in women-only groups by meeting at specific women’s guiding signs. Obviously not all will take advantage of this, but we want to offer this service to help continue to build the women’s program.
Scheduling
Since we have a much better understanding of our day-to-day needs, scheduling will be specific this year. We will, of course, do the absolute best we can to accommodate your schedule. BTW, we already know we need you on Thursday, Friday and Saturday! LOL!
Minimum Volunteer Requirements
We ask that all guides, volunteer a minimum of 2 days. And our preference is that those two days include either Thursday, Friday, or Saturday if possible.

Training Requirements
We have new rules this year. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. If you guided and received training last year, you DO NOT need to attend on-snow training this year AS LONG AS you attend the Sunday, January 30 guide meeting/party that will be held on the evening of Sunday, January 30 in the WinterPride hospitality suite area. If you can not make that, YOU MUST attend one of the on-snow training sessions either Saturday, January 8 or Sunday, January 30. The only exceptions are Whistler Blackcomb ski instructors and volunteer guides. If you did not guide last year, you will need to attend on-snow training. Please don't ask for an exception - I can't make it.

Positions Available
This year, there are three distinct positions in the guiding program.
Guide - Responsible for safely guiding WinterPride groups of varying ability.
Sign Master - Responsible for strategically placing signs in the Go Zone.
Pod Leader - Responsible for greeting and interviewing guests to determine the best group. You will coordinate guest assignments for a specific level or program such as green, black, women's program, ATAC!, etc. You will also be responsible for getting guest counts for each group and turning them into John.

Perks!
- Every guide will get 1 apres ski ticket for each day they guide
- Daily lift tickets will be provided by Whistler/Blackcomb if you do not have a Season's Pass
- 45% off Ski/Snowboard Tuning all season long
- Complimentary rentals at any of the Whistler/Blackcomb rental locations on & off the mountain
- 10% off retail all season long; 5% off skis and snowboards all season long
- For each day you guide you will receive 2 volunteer coupons to be redeemed as Prize entry vouchers or exchanged for WinterPride events. Some restrictions and limits may apply.
- Volunteer appreciation brunch Sunday, February 6th, 2011

Date Summary
Saturday, January 8 - On-snow training day 1
Sunday, January 30 - On-snow training day 2
Monday, January 31 through Saturday, February 5, daily guiding.

My Contact Information
john@gaywhistler.com

RECRUIT!!
If you know of anyone that would be a great guide, please have him or her contact me via email with the required information.

RESPOND!!
Simply respond to this post and let me know the following:
Position
Ski or Snowboard
Which days you can work
Your training choice

I look forward to skiing and riding with each and every one of you, and truly appreciate your help to make WinterPride guiding a whole lotta fun! I will send out regular information as we learn it. In the meantime, keep your eyes on www.gaywhistler.com for news and information.

John Sutherland
Guide Director

Host Hotel: Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa call 1.866.787.1966 or book online GayWhistler.com

GayWhistler's Host Hotel: The Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa

GayWhistler's host hotel for the 2011 Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard Week is the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. The AAA Four Diamond Property is ideally situated near the Whistler & Blackcomb Gondolas as well as the Whistler Conference Centre where majority of the big social events will be held throughout the week.

The Hilton boast some of the largest guest rooms in Whistler with many of the suites with wood burning fireplaces as well as some rooms have their own Steam Room or Sauna, perfect for entertaining!! We also love the very luxurious Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa, a perfect indulgence after an epic day on the mountain.

Make your reservations before Nov. 15, 2010 and take advantage of rates starting at just $181/person/night for a 5 night, 4 day ski package. Call 1.866.787.1966 to make your reservation now or book online.

WinterPRIDE Tickets Now on Sale

GayWhistler's Annual Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard Week is now on sale. Men's Full week pass is just C$249/person Book before November 30th, 2011.

Women's Full Week Pass is just C$169/person - book by November 30th Includes all the fun social events for the women all week long.

Host Hotel is the Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa with rates starting at just C$181/person/night for a 5 night / 4 day ski package. For more details refer to http://www.gaywhistler.com/accommodations.php

For more details refer to http://www.gaywhistler.com

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’s WinterPRIDE unveils the sensual side of Cirque

MEDIA RELEASEJanuary 21, 2008
Whistler’s WinterPRIDE unveils the sensual side of Cirque du Soleil with the return of a special performance at 2008 event

Whistler, BC – Whistler’s WinterPRIDE 2008 – a winter version of the many summer pride events that are held around the world – has added to its already star-studded entertainment line-up with the addition of Cirque du Soleil.

Cirque du Soleil will offer a signature performance from one of its’ resident Las Vegas shows at the annual WinterPRIDE Banquet on Thursday, February 7. The tantalizing act will be inspired by Zumanity – The Sensual Side of Cirque du Soleil, and .features breathtaking Kama Sutra-inspired manoeuvres that portray the discovery of a lover’s body in a dramatic display of strength, flexibility and trust.

“To have a resident Las Vegas Cirque show come to our festival will be something very special and will create another magical element to WinterPRIDE 2008,” said Sean Kearns, President of Alpenglow Productions. “The Zumanity show perfectly fits with WinterPRIDE’s promise of being the world’s most diverse and inclusive gay ski week.”
These sentiments were echoed by John McCoy, Senior Publicist of Cirque du Soleil’s Resident Shows Division in Las Vegas. “Cirque du Soleil is honoured to be part of WinterPRIDE 2008 – an event that not only celebrates diversity but also the human spirit,” he said.

The WinterPRIDE Banquet was one of the first events to sell out in 2007 and promises to be just as popular in 2008. Other planned entertainment for the night includes Gay and Lesbian American Music Association award-winning singer-songwriter Melissa Ferrick, and a number of surprise guests. Proceeds from the WinterPRIDE 2008 Banquet Silent Auction will help to raise funds for the Canadian Paediatrics AIDS Society (Camp Moomba).

WinterPRIDE 2008 runs from February 3-10, 2008, and continues to revolutionize the traditional gay ski week format with its unique blend of four winter festival elements: Sports, Culinary, Health and Wellness, and Entertainment. In addition to the world-class skiing and snowboarding on offer in Whistler, many of WinterPRIDE’s 2007 highlights will return for 2008, such as an array of dance parties, culinary events, ziptrekking and dogsledding.

- 30 -
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. GayWhistler is a subsidiary of Alpenglow Production Corporation.

For more information:
Dean Nelson
Community & Media Relations Director
Alpenglow Productions Corporation
Tel: 604 288 7218 Email: dean@gaywhistler.com

Whistler’s WinterPRIDE 2008 expands lesbian programming with promise of being “the world’s most inclusive gay ski week”

Whistler, BC – Whistler’s WinterPRIDE 2008 – a winter version of the many summer pride events that are held around the world – is keeping true to its promise of being “the world’s most inclusive gay ski week” by introducing an exciting new program of activities for women.

The headline events of WinterPRIDE’s 2008 women’s programming include:
An intimate and interactive evening with Curve magazine columnists Lipstick (Gina Daggett) and Dipstick (Kathy Belge) at the lesbian-owned and operated Solarice Spa + Wellness Centre
Women’s Night of Music, headlined by American singer-songwriter Melissa Ferrick, who has previously won ‘Album of the Year’ from the Gay and Lesbian American Music Association
Women’s guided ski tours with celebrity 3 times ESPN X-Games Gold Medalist Missy “the Missile” Giove , après ski parties and sleigh-ride adventures
The infamous L Party to round off the week

“We have certainly seen an increase in female attendance over the last two years and we wanted to produce an even higher range and quality of events for them at WinterPRIDE 2008,” said Sean Kearns, President of Alpenglow Productions. “We are breaking down the barriers of what can and can’t be done with a gay ski week event, and we will continue to broaden our offerings to make WinterPRIDE the most inclusive gay ski week in the world.”

The new focus on women’s programming has already caught the attention of OutTraveler, America's premiere gay and lesbian travel magazine, which called WinterPRIDE “the most lesbian-friendly [gay ski week] of the bunch” in its December 2007 issue.

“We hope our new programming will encourage even more women to attend so they can meet in a unique and fun environment, enjoying the full WinterPRIDE experience,” said Kearns.

WinterPRIDE 2008 runs from February 3-10, 2008, and continues to revolutionize the traditional gay ski week format with its unique blend of four winter festival elements: Sports, Culinary, Health and Wellness, and Entertainment.

In addition to the world-class skiing and snowboarding on offer in Whistler, many of WinterPRIDE’s 2007 highlights will return for 2008, such as an array of dance parties, culinary events, ziptrekking and dogsledding.

- 30 -

ABOUT GAYWHISTLER
GayWhistler (http://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. GayWhistler is a subsidiary of Alpenglow Production Corporation.

For more information:
Dean Nelson
Community & Media Relations Director
Alpenglow Productions Corporation
Tel: 604 288 7218
Email: dean@gaywhistler.com

See the Magic of GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE

WinterPRIDE 2007 – Featured on HERE! TV

click HERE! to view