Molson Canadian Hockey House

It just seems like yesterday but it was a week ago on Saturday February 13th where I found myself wandering downtown Vancouver taking in the sights and sounds of the Olympics. The plan was to wander until about 3pm then head to Molson Canadian Hockey House to watch Canada’s Women’s hockey team take on Slovakia. After the game I was to enjoy Barenaked Ladies no they were wearing clothes, yes really I am telling you the truth. :-)  I had decided to get a VIP pass to enjoy some extra hospitality and I am glad I did as I was sitting right in front of the stage and the service was very good. As soon as I found my seat I was approached by one of the many servers who introduced herself as Emily and a beer appeared in front of me almost instantly. During the night it seemed anytime I was thinking I was thirsty there was Emily with another drink for me. Very impressed with the service and attention to detail.

After about an hour I noticed a commotion behind me and turned around to see the Premier of British Columbia  Gordon Campbell going through shaking hands. Later I noticed a lot of flashes going off and I turned to see none other than The Great One Wayne Gretzky entering and sitting 10 feet away from me. He stayed for a little while and then exited to another large cheer and many cameras going off. Being a VIP is pretty damn cool, you never know who you are going to see. The concert started about 9:30 and went to about 11:15pm with the guys playing some of their new stuff and of course the hits. I am not sure who was having more fun, the capacity crowd or the Ladies but they definitely put on a great show. Very unforgettable experience and a great way to enjoy the Olympics. Pictures coming soon.

And Now They Begin

I just finished watching the Vancouver Winter Olympic Opening Ceremonies. I was quite impressed with the sets and the performers. I kinda felt a sensory overload during a couple of the performances or would you call them stories? I am not sure what it was like for those in attendance but I certainly felt a great sense of pride as the performances unfolded. I must admit I was impressed that such an eclectic group was selected to bring in the Olympics Flag, I did get a little emotional when I saw Bobby Orr walking in with the flag. The best kept secret and the most speculated event was the lighting of the Olympic Flame. For me the choice was obvious and when I saw Rick Hansen wheel up the ramp I knew the last one to touch the flame would be The Great One, Wayne Gretzky. To have those great athletes together was a really nice tribute to their accomplishments and it was a great way to open what has been a huge undertaking to plan and implement.

Tomorrow, Saturday I am heading downtown Vancouver to visit some of the pavilions and attend some of the free events. Later in the day I will be front and centre at Molson Canadian Hockey House to watch Canada’s Women’s Hockey team take on Slovakia and after the game will be entertained by the Barenaked Ladies and no they will be wearing clothes, I am referring to the band. I am certainly very excited for the upcoming events and am a very proud Canadian.