131 candles on Canada Day cake The True North Strong and Free will be 131 years old this July 1, with party plans well under way for Canada Day. The word from the Whistler Chamber of Commerce is that this year's parade will be bigger and better than ever. "We'd like to encourage as many local musicians to come forward and be part of the parade," says organizer Linda Marshall. But the parade through Whistler Village won't be the only happenin' spot to wave the maple leaf flag. A demonstration show of freestyle ski jumping is in the works at Blackcomb Mountain's practise pool up the slopes and there may even be a fireworks display this year. "We're very thrilled about that," Marshall says. Dry weather and cost considerations kept fireworks away before, but sponsors are being wooed to help cover the $5,000 cost of the pyrotechnics. The parade route will be the same as in previous years, starting behind McDonald's restaurant on Northlands Boulevard. The route then goes along Main Street to the Town Plaza, over the pedestrian bridge, south through the main Village around to Blackcomb Way, then heads for the base of Blackcomb Mountain where floats will be judged outside of La Rúa Restaurante. Businesses and groups of all sorts are encouraged to enter floats or other parade entertainment. Call Duncan Christie at the Chamber (932-5528) or Linda Marshall (932-4672) to participate.
