Whistler’s Answers: July 11, 1985Whistler’s Answers: July 11, 1985
In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1985. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: After five years (minus some pauses) of construction, the Whistler Conference Centre was nearing completion by May 1985 and had an expected opening date of June 1. It was expected that the opening of the Conference Centre would bring more business to Whistler, especially during the off-season (in 1985, that was everything except the winter) with conferences and other large bookings. When it opened, the Conference Centre was reportedly the second largest conference centre in BC, accommodating up to 2,000 people (the Peach Bowl in Penticton had a capacity of 2,100).
Question: What kind of impact do you think the Conference Centre will have on Whistler?
Norm Locke – Repairman – Tapley’s Farm
I think it’s great. I have not had any more business from it yet, but it’s good for Whistler. It has totally changed Whistler from a ski town to a year-round resort.
Bill Burns – Night Auditor – Alpine Meadows
It’s the best thing that’s happened to this place. It’ll generate a lot more business. My father has already booked a conference in it, the International Aviation Council. It’s definitely good.
Peggy Anscomb – Grocery Store Clerk – Emerald Estates
It’s good for Whistler. It’ll attract a lot more people and mean more spending in local businesses. With the centre, it changes the town into more of a year-round resort.