If you’ve only seen Whistler through the eyes of a visitor or tourist, then you’ve only really glimpsed the “resort” Whistler, but not its deep sense of community.
It may sound trite, but Whistler really is a family kind of place, where people genuinely take care of each other.
An example of the kind of people who make this place a home, and not just a place to live, are the folks organizing a fundraiser for local Al Paul at Citta’ on Friday (Jan. 7) from 4 to 8 p.m.
Paul, originally from Ontario, is a longtime local of some 20 years who’s a grooming supervisor on the mountain, and his wife Heather works for the municipality, so they’re a big part of helping to make the resort tick.
Paul was recently diagnosed with cancer, and the couple also just brought a new son into the world about six months ago.
So, with chemo appointments for Al and maternity leave for Heather, the community has stepped in to lend a hand. To help the family through the challenges they face, a group of friends have banded together to raise some money and show their love for the locals.
“I know quite a few of their friends, and so many people kept saying ‘I wish we could do something,’” said Jeremy Peterson, one of the organizers of the fundraiser. “So Emily Wood and I are just making it happen.”
The event features live music from local talents, plus a silent auction, 50/50 draw, cool swag and more.
Show you’re a true Whistlerite and come out to support your fellow local.
“I love this town and believe it's nice to get the community together to help one of its own,” said Peterson.
The Al Paul fundraiser runs Friday (Jan. 7) fro 4 to 8 p.m. at Citta’. Go to alpaul.ca for more info or to donate.
***
CALL FOR ARTISTS: Are you a Pemberton artist looking for some exposure?
The Pemberton Arts Council (PAC) is looking for local artists and artisans to submit work for the fifth annual Mountains of Art Festival, which runs Feb. 11 and 12.
The art fest is billed as a celebration of all artistic expression, so the PAC is looking for art in all mediums, as well as demonstrations and formal artistic instruction.
The only catch is you need to become a member of PAC prior to the festival. Applications can be found at pembertonartscouncil.com and are due Jan. 20 by 4 p.m.
***
FOREST ONE CAR EXHIBIT: As if you needed another excuse to go check out Whistler’s fascinating and living First Nations history and connections at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC).
Until March 31 the SLCC is featuring an incredible cedar bark, plastic strapping, and wool wrapped, twined and plaited full-size automobile (1956 Nash Metropolitan) made with bark salvaged from urban forests clear-cut for condominium developments.
Called Forest One, the exhibit created by annie ross is a contemporary look at weaving art and the spirit of transformation and sustainability. Go to slcc.ca for more info.
***
SEA TO SKY BRUSHES: The Scotia Creek Gallery in Millennium Place kicks off 2011 with “Sea to Sky Brushes,” a group- exhibit featuring the work of artists Cheryl Painter, Peter Tregale and Carole Wilson, who are members of the North Shore Artists Guild.
The exhibit runs until Jan. 31, but you can meet the artists tonight (Thursday, Jan. 6) from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Millennium Place. The reception is open to everyone and it’s free.
***
OUT OF BOUNDS DEADLINE: Friday (Jan. 7) is the deadline if you want to submit action sports pics for the Whistler Arts Council’s annual Out Of Bounds: Tales from the Backcountry exhibit and photo contest.
The call for entries is open to both professional and emerging shutterbugs who want to submit images of skiing and snowboarding from B.C.’s backcountry for the sixth annual exhibition.
Winning entries will be featured in the Out of Bounds exhibit during the month of February at Millennium Place.
For info and submission guidelines go to www.artswhistler.com.
