Fernie Energy

Saturday began bright and early with the ringing of church bells, a wake up call to the residents of Fernie - the Torch was on its way. We fought the comforts of sleep to see the Olympic Torch, which many hadn't seen since 1988 or were about to see for the first time. Coffee in hand and wearing bright red Olympic mittens, we set off in the darkness to catch the parade, not quite sure what festivities were in store.

All was quiet downtown as people slowly gathered and found their spots amongst the growing crowd. By 8am over 1,000 viewers were on hand, eyes bright with excitement. The clock ticked as the parade of larger than life puppets, flag holders, fire trucks, The Griz, torch bearers and Olympic flame made its way through town. At the corner of CIBC and Big Bang Bagels the flame was passed to its next bearer, overheard saying, "Fernie has such great energy!"

We cut through to City Hall where the big screen was in place for Scott Niedermayer and Emily Brydon's messages to Fernie. Fireworks went off on the roof tops of buildings, prompting cheers from the crowd. Council member Mary Giuliano spoke a few words, and then it was time to hear Scott and Emily's messages. Eyes glistened as Emily thanked the community for its continual support, "You're just as much Olympians as I am!"

The positive energy from that event continued into the evening with the Robert Burns fundraiser at the future site of the Fernie Museum. Over 100 guests enjoyed scotch, appetizers, traditional Scottish music and dance, and haggis...well, it has yet to be decided whether they enjoyed haggis or not.

Laura Nelson, president of the Fernie & District Historical Society made a speech that had many feeling proud of the generosity of numerous individuals and businesses in Fernie. She has worked (on a volunteer basis) for over four months putting in over 40 hours a week to get this project off the ground. Visit www.ferniemuseum.com to see the amazing transformation of this historic building and those that volunteered or donated.

The energy from the weekend continued on Monday when it was announced that Frank Lento, a Fernie resident that has been involved in numerous community projects and initiatives and has taught and coached many, is among four that will be honoured at the 2010 BC Hockey Hall of Fame Induction Banquet this July. Finally, Mr. Lento will receive the recognition he deserves but has so modestly denied!

What an inspiring community of people, undoubtedly this energy will continue as 2010 unfolds and as Fernie continues to grow and evolve with its next generation of residents and visitors.