Fernie’s 10th Anniversary Banner Project promises to be the best ever. Once they are decked out on Fernie’s main street later this spring, over three dozen brilliantly coloured posters will draw the attention of locals, tourists, spectators and anyone driving downtown Victoria Avenue and highway. “Look up, waaaay up!”  These words, made famous by yesteryear’s childhood star, the Jolly Green Giant, direct travelers where to focus their attention during Fernie’s Banner Project displays.

 

First-time viewers may ask, “Exactly what qualifies as a banner?”  Banners are pieces of cloth with illustrations or messages suspended from street poles.  Depending on city regulations, they might be smaller, or even larger than a small flag. Not too many will equal the claim of the world’s largest stadium banner, made by supporters of Club Nacional de Football in Uruguay. Supporters worked for four months to complete a $33,000 monstrous 310 metre by 48 metre stadium banner that weighed over 2 tonnes and needed 300 fans just to carry it.  Although it was visible from outer space, it wasn’t as long as the 50 km x 1 metre banner in India, recognized by Guinness as the world’s longest banner.

 

Several features make Fernie’s eye-catching banners special.  First and foremost, they celebrate the diversity of Elk Valley’s amazing local artists. Each banner highlights artistically aspects of Fernie’s authentic sites, activities and experiences. Residents and visitors alike will sense the civic pride in their community reflected in the finished artwork.  Secondly, the banners employ a range of mediums:  paint, quilts, photographs, and pottery and glass.  The quality of banners in past years has promoted more and more participants each year.  Imagine how difficult it must have been for jurists to limit and make their final selections.  Thirdly, unlike other cities who allow banners to be posted temporarily, only for a few days or for a few weeks at a time, the City of Fernie and the Fernie Arts Council have worked hard to communicate the significance of the banners to the rest of the community, who now look forward to them yearly.  Banners in Fernie will be displayed for an entire year on Victoria Avenue, followed by a second year along the highway.

 

Demand for the banners is so high that official Annual Banner Launches are now organized.  The 2013 launch will occur Thursday, April 25 at 7 pm.  It all happens in the Arts Station, the hub of Fernie’s cultural scene, which  is located at 601 1st Ave.   On this date, banners will be available for public viewing for the first time.  Spectators will even have an opportunity to sponsor their favourite banner for only $100.  Sponsorship returns funds to the City, enabling it to invest in worthwhile projects throughout Fernie. Sponsors will be able to proudly view their prizes on the streets for two years before taking them home.

On a final note, the 10th Annual Banner Launch is Fernie’s way of kicking off BC’s Arts and Culture Week  celebrated throughout the province on April 21-27, 2013.  As you tour and discover community events during these days, plan to join your fellow visitors to discuss Fernie’s art and culture in the Arts Station’s highly-rated adjoining establishment, the Blue Toque Cafe. In the evening, return to the Fernie’s luxurious Stanford Resort for a soothing or invigorating time in the sauna, hot tub, waterslide, or all of the above!

 

 

 

 

--a lighthearted look at some of our amenities

 

The Fernie Stanford Resort is perfectly set up to accommodate most wishes of its treasured guests.  Wherever practical and possible, the Resort’s staff will eagerly bend over backwards to satisfy their needs.  The majority of requests by visitors will be honoured, providing they do not impinge on the enjoyment of other guests. As a famous author once said, “discretion is the better part of valor.”  So, it behooves us here to facetiously describe three activities the Resort must forbid to protect the majority of its guests.

 

Zoo animals in the shape of crocodiles, or the size of elephants are not allowed.

The housekeeping staff may have helped develop this rule!  However, the Resort is pleased to inform guests of their “pet-friendly” policy.  Small dogs will most certainly be accommodated.  They will be offered amenities which ensure they are treated as well as other members of their family.  Bowser’s comfort is ensured.

 

Full-dress hockey and lacrosse games in the dining room are forbidden.

This rule was developed when management feared that hungry players could be distracted by the exceptional food and service offered at the Tandoor & Grill Restaurant.  Who knows what mayhem might occur when stick-swinging athletes storm the entrance trying to be first in line for some of the most delectable Indian cuisine found anywhere.  Naturally, teams are most welcome to indulge in Chef Keshab Sapka’s fantastic culinary delights once they have shed their equipment and adopted an acceptable code of dining room behaviour.

 

 

The landing of commercial airlines and private aircraft on our rooftop is strictly forbidden.

Aside from safety issues, the possibility of excessive noise led to this rule.  Great pains have been taken to assure all guests of the complete privacy of their rooms, regardless if they are Standard Rooms, Theme Rooms, or Family Dream Suites.  Besides, Fernie is located within driving distance of three major airports.  Guests from around the world will appreciate knowing they can reach us after landing in Cranbrook, BC, or the international airports at Calgary, Alberta or Kalispell, Montana. 

 

We hope that readers of today’s blog have enjoyed this farcical look at some inane rules. Guests are invited to take a second glance at them to notice some of the prime amenities offered at the Fernie Stanford Resort:  Please contact the lodge when you wish to stay at our Fernie hotel and take advantage of our great, pet-friendly accommodation, superb dining prepared by a world-class chef, and a choice of several airports to reach us!

 

 

Locals know quite well why their town fills with tourists in winter. Of course, the powder snow which is unsurpassed anywhere, is the drawing card. It is also the drawing card for the thousands of residents who set down their roots in Fernie for the same reason: to take advantage of the many opportunities to immerse themselves in the snowy mountains whenever possible and as often as possible.  Fernie goes out of its way to draw in their visitors and, in the spirit of adventure and togetherness, celebrate the season in as many unique ways as they can find.

They’re good at it, too. The secret was to plan an event which would attract not only locals, but also those visitors unlucky enough to live outside Fernie. Visitors would be able to mix their long-sought-after ski vacations with après ski activities, and friendship in dance halls, hot tubs, as well as the town’s offerings of museums and galleries.

Some time ago the idea of hosting absurd events took hold.  Visitors would come, contribute to our economy, and we would return the favour by showing them a good time in the snow. We would then do the unexpected.  We would offer them wacky memories not found elsewhere. We would entice them to party alongside their skiing and boarding adventures.  We would set up a snow party with a difference.

Fernie knows that snow lovers find it easy to go berserk.  Have you heard of the hilarious event which takes place somewhere with a SnowBombing week? What about those zany New Zealanders who begin a Dog Derby in which owners linked to their four footed creatures race from the top of a mountain with faithful hounds in tow, and later participate in a dog barking contest if their pooch won’t bark? Other countries have sponsored polo tournaments on frozen lakes, and ice cricket.  Have we tweaked your interest in what Fernie might have to offer?

Events for all ages are easy to find in Fernie.  The newest one, coming at the beginning of March, focuses on children.  Activities which stress teamwork and fun are being sponsored by Fernie Nordic Society and Cross Country Canada.  Sign up your youngster for Racing Rocks.  Find out what is involved and more details from our friendly tourist bureau in Fernie or from the Nordic Society.

A hilarious activity that is fun to watch and participate in for all ages is the Raging Elk Cardboard Derby.  It occurs at the nearby Fernie Alpine Resort, and is set to go on March 30, 2013.  That leaves the more serious party goers plenty of time to briefly set aside their skis and boards and create their own ridiculous vehicles for sliding down the mountain. Past events have seen group and themed entries involving pirate ships, motorcycles and Flintstone cars.  This year, don’t be surprised to see the return of a Viking ship, a space ship or even a jiffy john flying by towards their targets. 

Creations must be made out cardboard.  A neat thing about cardboard is that you build with recyclable materials! While glue and tape are also permitted, for safety reasons, wood, fibreglass and anything else that’s dangerous is a no-no.  Construction need not be built to last too long, since they’re bound to crash on the way down.  Don’t worry about fantastic inner mechanisms since drivers are probably stashed inside, and can’t see or can’t steer anyways.  Fortunately, prizes, trophies and other glory items don’t rely on speed alone: creativity is a major factor.  For spectators, think photographs and think safety--you never know when a competitor is about to bite the dust, er, snow.

Remember to dress outrageously for this event: we dare you to retain your costume when you return to Fernie’s Stanford Resort to relax after this outstanding event, and continue your snow party with a difference in our lodge with a difference.

Stanford Resort is only minutes away from breathtaking skiing adventures in Fernie’s world-renown deep powder snow.  For those seeking to venture onto fresh, unmarked trails beyond the chairlifts, consider arranging a tour with one of two local companies who will pick you up at our hotel.  Their experienced and knowledgeable CATSKIING guides and heated machines stocked with drinks and snacks guarantee a PURRRRfect day!

 

Imagine being transported up 2000 metre (7000 feet) mountains and then traversing thousands of acres of powder-filled downslopes, ridges, trees, jumps and valleys.  Whether you have enjoyed cats elsewhere in the world or this is a new experience for you, the spectacular views and exciting rides on your skis or boards will leave you with memories you will look back on reflecting on, even boasting about, the confidence and skills you developed mastering your new challenges. You are bound to conclude that you have partaken of the ultimate winter experience.

Catskiing in the wilderness is provided by two companies, Island Lake Catskiing and FWA Powder Catskiing.  If you’re arriving in a group of family enthusiasts, or wish to arrange a custom package such as the girls only tours. you will easily be accommodated.  Questions such as pickup arrangements and directions can also be answered by our helpful Stanford Resort Staff.

 

The Stanford Resort is located between the town of Fernie and the mountain skiing paradise.  Staying with us will save you travel time and offers more flexibility in your holiday experience. Fresh off the slopes you may want to indulge in Stanford chef Sapka’s exceptional cuisine in our highly rated restaurant before curling up after an exhausting day.   Having ridden a snowcat, you may even adopt one of the characteristics of cats---sleeping a lot in one of our traditional hotel rooms or our luxurious ski chalets.  Instead of kicking back and relaxing, you may even feel up to expending a little more energy with a night on the town--remember, we are close to Fernie!

Catskiing is bound to get you purring out of happiness for having included the Stanford Resort in your plans.  We look forward to meeting you soon.

Spending your holiday season in Fernie?  Bring your gifts down to the Grow Boutique in town along with a donation for the Salvation Army and have your gifts adorned  with beautiful wrapping paper and ribbon!  Staffed by volounteers, it's a great way to get in the holiday spirit and help a great cause!  For more information check out http://www.tourismfernie.com/events/charity-gift-wrap-station-grow

 

Happy Holidays from all of us here at the Fernie Stanford Resort!

 

Headed to Fernie Alpine Resort this winter?  Leave your equipment rentals to the on-site Snow Pro Rentals.  Featuring top of the line skis, boots, and boards, Snow Pro is Fernie’s only rental shop that will also drop off and pick up your gear – straight to your door! 

 Snow Pro Rental’s online booking system takes the hassle out of equipment rentals, with no paperwork or waiting in lines.  The staff can fit you for boots right in your hotel room, and delivery is free!  Spend more time on the slopes, and forget about excess baggage fees or missing the best snow waiting in line. 

 If you’ve already got your gear with you, be sure to check out their selection of ski socks, helmets, outerwear and GoPro action cameras!

 Planning a trip for the summer?  Don’t forget to check out Snow Pro Rental’s summertime operation Mountain High Adventures to book an unforgettable day of rafting!

Have you heard?!  Fernie Alpine Resort has been selected as the Top North American ski resort in London's World Snow Awards!  

 

Up against heavy hitters like Whistler, Vail, Banff, Mammoth, Aspen, Telluride, and others; Fernie won over a panel of travel writers, athletes, and tour operators.  See the full article here

 

We just recently received some snow here in Fernie, getting visitors and locals alike excited about the upcoming 2012/13 winter season!  With the clock ticking until the December 1st opening day at Fernie Alpine Resort, it's time to get your skiis and boards tuned up and come on down to the Fernie Stanford Resort!

 

 

If you're not a mountain rider, there's still plenty of winter activities in Fernie!  Dog sledding tours, snowmobiling, and cross country skiing are just some of the many things to do in wintertime near our Fernie resort.  Of course, you can always rent ski gear and take a lesson if you're looking to learn.

 

For those who don't want to head out  into the snow, or for those looking to relax after a day outdoors - don't forget that our Fernie resort has on-site dining, hot tub, and an indoor pool and waterslide! 

Looking for the perfect gift idea?  When you stay at the Fernie Stanford Resort, be sure to check out Dylan’s Imports.  With a first location in Grand Beach, Manitoba owners Pat and Julie bring shoppers a wide array of unique and wonderful goods imported from their travels around the globe.

After meeting on a climbing trip to Nepal, Pat and Julie’s first buy was a collection of silver rings from Thailand.  Since then, the two have gone on at least two trips a year to source out new items to import back to Canada.  They do their best to purchase goods directly from small family suppliers to make sure that the creators and craftsmen are fairly compensated for their work. 

Their collection includes silver jewelry, coconut and hemp accessories, singing bowls, spiritual items, unique clothing and bags, and more!  And of course, always check back to see what new items they’ve discovered on their latest travels!