Local’s Perspective: Chris Ebbern

Fix Tips on a Meaningful Fernie Experience

PHOTO BY TAYLOR’D IMAGES

Learn about our community and its history.

From the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it who originally lived, fished, hunted and travelled through this vast region, to new settlers interested in the resources available here, to the changing economic base and diverse population we know today. Taking the time to learn can lead to a different level of appreciation. A good place to start is the Fernie Museum and visiting tobaccoplains.org to learn about our local Ktunaxa community. Also, consider downloading the First Voices app.

Enjoy the trails, then pay it back.

Purchase a Fernie Trails Pass (weekend options available), a Fernie Nordic Membership (day passes available), donate to a club (Coal Creek Heritage Society),

VINCE MO PHOTO

send a message of appreciation to a business or organization that provided the opportunity (Fernie Trails Alliance, Fernie Alpine Resort, Fernie Golf Club, City of Fernie) – expressing gratitude is contagious.

Attend an event.

Whether it is a jam-packed Ghostrider Hockey game at the Fernie Memorial Arena, a film festival taking place at the Vogue Theatre, an exhibit opening at the Arts Station or Fernie Museum, or a live music act at the Griz Bar or in town, these experiences are where you’ll be elbow to elbow with the people who live and work in Fernie, and guess what… they likely have some pro tips on tomorrow’s powder stashes.

Try something new to you.

Did you know there are many places to ice skate outdoors in Fernie? Yes, there is the outdoor rink by the Aquatic Centre, but there are also frozen bodies of water in or near town that can be a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Have you tried fat biking? What about curling – one of Canada’s National pastimes? When is the last time you went sledding? Get out there, and out of your comfort zone, it will feel amazing.

Share it with your kids.

Demonstrate and talk about what it is like to immerse yourself in a new community and new experiences, to be respectful and appreciative of those helping to make this time special and unique, to support a community through giving back and being kind.