Editor's Fix - Recommendations for Fernie Newbies!

I may have grown up in Fernie, but when I moved back after being away nearly ten years I felt like a newbie. There was a large portion of Fernie’s population that I had never met, who were being referred to as the “New Locals”. There were more businesses operating overall, but most noticeably in the downtown area. The number of community organizations and events held throughout the year was far from anything I had experienced. The last time I had ridden an entire winter season I was 17 and at that time it was the Old Side. And I had never picked up a mountain bike, a pair of snowshoes, and rarely cross-country skied.

Yes, I had to get my feet wet and fast but it took me awhile. Being from here, I noticed that I continued to do what was comfortable, but over the last couple of years I have been pushing myself out of my comfort zone and in the process learning more about Fernie and myself. For example, there are days I LOVE skiing the New Side! And I enjoy organizing events. And the obvious, I love mountain biking (although I took my fair share of nasty falls to discover it).

So to help out all of the new folk in town, or even those in a comfortable rut, here are a few ways to “break the ice” in Fernie:

1. Pick your coffee shop... or don’t. Upon entering town you’ll quickly realize that there is an abundance of coffee shops in all shapes and varieties. As I tend to chase my creative mojo at these locales, I spend time at all the cafes. What I’ve noticed in the time I’ve spent perusing these cafes is that they are like clock work - you know who’s going to be sitting where at what time. Whether you’re into consistency or looking for variety, you’ve got some great options.

2. Instead of just talking pow, waiting on pow, and gearing up for pow, pass the time trying some of the other amazing activities offered here. Believe it or not, November can be a great time to mountain bike. The frozen, frosty ground offers a lot of traction, and it’s quiet, beautiful, and the extra clothing act as additional padding. Outdoor skating is another option. There is nothing like a clear, frozen pond for a game of fall hockey. If staying inside is your thing, try out the Aquatic Centre and Evolution Fitness.

3. Become involved. You’ve probably heard and read a lot about Fernie’s community, why not get on board? There is an array of organizations you can help out with in Fernie. Advocates for Local Living, Salvation Army Family Services, Fernie Ghostriders, The Fernie Arts Station and the Fernie & District Historical Society are just a starting point. There is a lot going on in town, by getting involved you’ll see the work that goes into these events, appreciate them more and get a true community experience.

4. Be social. Yes, yes, you all are going to find your “watering hole” rather quickly, or learn which bar is happening on which night, but there are so many other evening happenings that can introduce you to new people and excitement. From the Ghostrider hockey games, to the independent films shown at the theatre each month, to concerts, plays, and art exhibits at the Art Station… get out there!

5. Push yourself to the point of being scared. Never experienced backcountry skiing? Take an avi course and head out with other informed friends. Have some songs you’ve been practicing and want to test them out? Head to jam night at The Brickhouse. Written a poem? Why not try the Spoken Word at the Central? Want to see Fernie from a new perspective? Grab a set of snowshoes and head up Castle Mountain. There are so many ways both in Fernie and in life in general to see what you’re really made of!

This is just a small, tiny, one-perspective sample of opportunities available to you in “breaking” the Fernie ice. Good luck in your journeys this winter season. Share your stories with us, we would love to hear them, and hopefully you fall so in love with this community that we see you here this summer!

Check out the “Newbies Guide: Which way to the hitching spot” by Abi Carswell in the Fernie Fix: Winter Guide for additional information on “assimilating”.