What an amazing couple of weeks to be in Fernie. Between the mass amounts of snow falling and the variety of gatherings and adventures to partake in, the holidays were anything but dull.

Each morning we would wake, visit skifernie.com to see the snow report, and on more than one occasion be confronted with a “Monster Snow Report” of 22+ cm overnight. Smiling faces swiftly filled the town.

Cross country ski trails at Fernie Alpine Resort, the Fernie Golf & Country Club and Island Lake Lodge were in immaculate shape and a great alternative on days where temperatures dipped well below zero.

Bars and restaurants bustled with activity as snow and the holidays brought visitors to town. By the evening of the 28th Fernie seemed to be at capacity, and New Years with its Blue Moon had many playing outdoor hockey and socializing by bon fires celebrating 2010 as it snowed thick, fluffy flakes. It was an earlier night than expected for many as they prepared for a big day of powder skiing.

A definite highlight during the holidays was a charity hockey game between Ghostriders, past and present. The event raised funds for Mike Rousselle and his family. Mike’s smile, laughter and generosity have touched many over the years and when the community learned of his recent trials and tribulations after miraculously surviving a severe electricity accident, they came together without hesitation.

The game was nearly sold out. Fernie Brew Company donated beer and their services for the occasion, those that normally work Ghostrider games volunteered to run the show, and many friends and relatives were on hand to ensure things went smoothly while celebrating the spirit and strength of Mike and his family. To everyone’s surprise Mike showed up.

“He called me and said he had checked himself out of the hospital and was on his way,” said his sister Monique. “What a great surprise!”

Mike, his wife Brett, their daughter Montanna and son Jonas, along with his parents Maria and Cam and sister Monique watched on with warm hearts and glistening eyes as the Alumni worked their butts off for Mike, winning the game in his honour.

While this event raised helpful funds for the family, tough times still lay ahead. An additional event is being planned to help the Rousselle family as they continue working towards Mike’s rehabilitation. On February 6, 2009 The Rousselle Family Benefit Dinner and Auction will be held at the Fernie Community Centre starting at 6pm. Tickets go on sale this week for just $20, which includes an authentic Italian dinner, silent auction, raffle, a cash bar, door prizes, and much more.