EDITOR,
After reading Paul Lalli's Council Corner column two weeks ago, I felt compelled to write and opted not to, believing someone would agree that promoting a Liberal leadership candidate was outside the spirit of what is expected in that column.
I was happy to see that Paul Harrington ("'Shill' column not appreciated," The Chief, Feb. 4) shared my frustration, so thank you Paul for writing what I'm sure many were thinking.
Paul's claim that Squamish "did not receive any benefits from the Olympics" left me feeling unfulfilled, however.
What about the $750,000 sport legacy fund this community received from VANOC's Dan Doyle? What about all the spending at local businesses by volunteers and workers who stayed in Squamish on the cruise ship at Squamish Terminals, in the local hotels, or in private homes through the homestay program? What about the amazing energy this community had the night the torch came to town? How about the news coverage the next day when Robin Drygas put the torch on his back and climbed the pole at the Al McIntosh Loggers Sports Grounds before the flame moved on? What about all the jobs that were created for Squamish residents like me?
Full disclosure: I worked for VANOC from September 2008 to March 2010.
What about the world-class facilities at Whistler Olympic Park that are currently being used by young skiers, jumpers and rifle shooters from Squamish who might one day represent Squamish and Canada in future international competitions?
I believe Squamish received much more than nothing from the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.John FrenchGaribaldi Highlands
