A group of Whistler homeowners took to the streets on July 24 to vent their frustration with Whistler council's refusal to relocate a toxin-belching asphalt plant, just metres from their new homes in Whistler's Athletes Village.

This is one of several Olympic-related protests held in Whistler to date. In 2009, residents protested the clearing of Whistler's last remaining urban forest to construct the 2010 Celebration Plaza and destruction of a rare, red-listed wetland to house the new "green" hydrogen bus refueling station.

Like the now-infamous Love Canal neighbourhood in New York State, Whistler's latest community was also marketed as a "dream" community, nestled between Whistler's pristine mountains, lakes and natural areas.

Any society that would give up a little liberty to gain a little security will deserve neither and lose both. - Benjamin Franklin.

Does anyone else feel that Whistler is becoming a little too tight on security for the 2010 Olympics?

Everywhere you look these days, you're greeted with metal fences, CCTV surveillance cameras, and "No Entry" signs. In fact, Whistler could be the poster child for the 2010 Police State, instead of one of North America's premier ski resorts.

As a Whistler resident, I'd say we're officially approaching "lockdown." At least we're not being forced to wear orange jumpsuits - yet.

Even though the keys to the Whistler Olympic and Paralympic Athlete Village were turned over to VANOC on October 30, 2009, the tone is less than celebratory for homeowners who purchased homes in Whistler's new housing development - Cheakamus Crossing.

The site will house 3,500 athletes and officials during the games, and will be handed over to local residents after the 2010 Winter Olympics. However, a nearby asphalt plant is threatening to destroy the Whistler "dream."