In less than 50 days, the first cuts in the Kraft Hockeyville 2010 competition will take place. In this cut the judges will look at all the outstanding bids from all across Canada and choose 12 finalists from four regions defined as Atlantic, West, Ontario, and Quebec. The Atlantic Region consists of Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. The West Region consists of Nunavut, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, BC, Yukon and the Northwest Territories. Ontario and Quebec are self explanatory.

What does this mean for Revelstoke? Well first of all it means that in the cuts we are not judged against Ontario and Quebec. This greatly improves the chances of communities of our size to win the competition (as seen last year with Terrace) and also means we’re competing against the Western Provinces and Territories. With that said, we have the most stories and look to greatly increase our chances.

One of the biggest questions that is proposed to me on the street is “Since Terrace won last year what are our chances?” My answer to that is simple. It’s a competition based on votes. It doesn’t matter who won or where they’re from year after year. What is important is that if YOU really want Revelstoke to win then YOU will contribute.

I had the opportunity to speak to the Chamber of Commerce recently about Hockeyville and received a wonderful response from those who attended. Some businesses, such as Powder Springs, even went so far as to send a memo to their staff requesting them to provide their stories! Thanks a ton Emma! I have been also requested to speak to staff members of various businesses. 

We really need everyone to take 10 minutes, log onto www.cbcsports.ca/hockeyville and write their story. You don’t have to be a hockey player! We all have been touched in our lives one way or another by hockey in the Forum and weather it’s a story about watching your favourite team play, or simply what Hockeyville in Revelstoke will mean to you. Log on, post your picture with your story, and help us showcase our community to the rest of Canada. Feel free to email me at revelstokehockeyville@live.ca if you need ANY help! 

The December 5, 2009 Hockeyville game at the Forum has been rescheduled until January and I look forward to updating you with all the fun planned. Thanks again for your support Revelstoke and get typing!

Remember R story begins and ends on the ice!