After careful deliberation, the IAPS Executive has voted to move the 2017 conference from Starkville, Mississippi to Whistler, British Columbia Canada. Mississippi has enacted discriminatory anti-gay legislation, the result of which could be a significantly serious threat to the safety and well-being of our members. In fact, five states (California, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington) have banned state-sponsored conference travel to Mississippi because of this legislation. Thus, the Executive has concluded that it would not be in our members’ best interests to host in Mississippi.
You can read the rationale from the State of California here: https://oag.ca.gov/ab1887/faqs
We acknowledge the excellent work that Gregg Twietmeyer has done in terms of organizing the conference, and we have emphasized that our decision to move locations has nothing to do with him nor Mississippi State University. We have encourages Gregg that when the laws change and the state travel bans are removed, that he should host the conference again. We are also ensuring that he will not endure any personal financial burdens as a result of this move. We thank Gregg for his understanding during this very difficult process.
John Russell of Langara College (Vancouver) will be the lead for the 2017 Whistler Conference. Many thanks to John for stepping up on short notice. Once the conference website is live, it will be distributed. The dates remain the same as previously planned: September 6-9, 2017.
Some specific details to assist with initial planning:
Transportation Information:
*A shuttle bus will be arranged from downtown Vancouver on WED, SEP 6th @ 8am to Whistler (approximately a 3 hr ride).
*Participants should arrive in Vancouver on Tuesday the 5th. Rooms will be blocked at a discounted rate in Vancouver for the 5th.
*A return shuttle will depart Whistler on Sunday September 10th at 8 am and travel to the Vancouver airport. Participants may wish to fly out Sunday afternoon.
*Note: if there is interest, some participants may wish to arrive on Sunday the 3rd to travel to Whistler on the 4th to partake in a group day long hike on the 5th.
Conference Venue:
The conference venue is the WESTIN. Rooms have been blocked at a discounted rate ranging from 229 CDN (175 USD) to 309 CDN (234 USD) shared accommodations. Full details regarding accommodations will be listed on the conference website.
See information regarding the conference venue: Â http://www.westinwhistler.com/
Conference Registration rates:
*Registration includes: 2 receptions, 6 breaks, 3 lunches, and the banquet.
Full Registration (before June 1)
360 CDN (275 USD)
Student rate: 300 CDN (230 USD)
Late Registration (after June 1)
430 CDN (330 USD)
Student late registration: 400 CDN (307 USD)
Whistler was host to some of the 2010 Winter Olympic venues, and is a unique mountain community. There are a variety of restaurant options within walking distance, and many memorable recreation activities available. Specific details will be listed on the website.
We thank you for your understanding, and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
On behalf of the IAPS Executive,
Charlene
IAPS President