Whistler’s Answers: October 9, 1986Whistler’s Answers: October 9, 1986
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 1986. 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: Vancouver hosted the 1986 World Exposition on Transportation and Communication, usually referred to as Expo ’86, from May to October 1986. With over 40 nations participating, it was expected that Expo 86 would increase international awareness of Vancouver and the surrounding areas and many hoped that tourism would increase as a result. Find out more about Whistler’s contribution to Expo 86 here.
Question: Do you think Expo has been worth it?
John Noldner – Municipal Labourer – Parkhurst
Yes, I do. It has gotten people’s minds off the problems of BC, for one thing. And a good part of North America is more aware of what BC has to offer, tourism-wise. I’m sure that in the long run we will reap much more than has been spent on Expo. I think it’s laying the foundation for tourism and investment. The money is all coming from the lotteries, anyhow.
Sandy Belczyk – Bartender – Emerald Estates
Yes, I do. It’s been especially a bonus for the people in Vancouver, and I think it has even helped up here. Many of people don’t think so, but it brought a lot of people up in September. Where I work, it kept the place busy. Through the summer it was people from all over, now it’s more people from southwest BC because it’s past the part of the year when people make long trips.
El Gordon – Collector – Alpine Meadows
No. For what it amounts to, it was money that could have been better spent. Of course, they will argue that what it brought in in tourism will make up for any deficit. But I think BC is already a bit of a gold mine. They could have spent a lot less and still promoted it. I found with my three-day pass, I went the first time and that was basically enough.