2010 and high heels

One Year Later: Inside my 2010 Winter Olympics Box of Stuff

2011-02-11T21:48:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Well, there it is...my 2010 Winter Olympics Box of Stuff. If you are wondering why...please read the column below as an indtroduction. As you can see, Lisa's Big O stuff didn't all fit inside. Locating more Olympic stuff in the far reaches of hockeyandhighheels.com's headquarters just didn't fit into the plan, so I strategically placed two: the Holland Heineken House Hat, and one of the many Petro Canada Olympic glasses that I own.

There it is, dumped out onto my 2010 Winter Olympics fleese blanket that conveniently folds up into a small pillow. That 's one item of Olympic stuff that's been frequently used. Some things that aren't used at all...

These pins...

and...

These other...

Trinkets...

I have a small army of CBC buttons that are in the plastic bag in the bottom corner of the above photo. Those were relatively easy to come by: everytime I walked by the CBC's studio I was given one. Don't worry, at the third pin I was protesting, but those cheery "street team people" would have none of it!

Here you can see more of the paper items, like my Olympic visitor guide, some ticket stubs, various torch relay and hockey game cheering accessories, an Olympic scratch and win (I won $30), an unchewed pack of Exel gum, and a wrist band and a server's note pad from Holland Heineken House. And speaking of Heineken...look at the hat...

A fabulous hat when you are in a Holland Heineken House and there's an Olympics going on in the background. And being the hat person I am, I must admit, I have not worn the hat since Feb.19,2010, the night my friends and I tore it up at Holland Heineken House. And in my travels since the Olympics have ended, I have yet to see anyone else wearing this hat. And you know a few of those babies sold - there were only $15!

I do like knowing I have the newspaper with Canada's first Gold win on home soil featured on the cover (bottom right corner)...

That was a thrill for us Canucks, eh? So was claiming as our own, the hottest winter accessory in recent years...the red Olympic mittens.

I was just at the Hudson's Bay downtown store on Thursday, and they have the new look mittens available...

...and they also have the original mittens, but only for those with small hands.

Oh those mittens! I know I wasn't the only one running around for those. They sold out every day! But I finally hit it on the right day during the last week of the Olympics; had to pick up a pair for my good friend, and fellow hockey writer, Jan Snyder, down there in Houston. She got them for Christmas. She told me she took them to the NHL's 2011 Winter Classic featuring the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Washington Capitals. Apparently they kept her brother- in- law's hands warm, because he was one of those guys that arrived unprepared for what turned out to be a chilly evening.

As for my pair...never worn. But hey, there's always Sochi 2014!

So, everyone, as we'll be bombarded with Vancouver 2010 memories from the local media this coming week, don't forget to drag out you 2010 Winter Olympic Box of Stuff and show the souvenirs, the trinkets and the occasional piece of crap some love.

Oh yeah...Happy Hockey Day in Canada!

Piece of crap item not shown above: a flimsy, black ball cap advertising Parmasean cheese. Oh yes. You know you waited in line at the Italian House for that puppy, admit it! ;o)

One Year Later: Looking inside the 2010 Winter Olympics Box of Stuff

2011-02-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

photo: Quatchi in Goal by Lisa Ovens

by Lisa Ovens

I'm sure most everyone in Vancouver has a box on a shelf full of stuff they accumulated during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games last February. I know I do. The box is in the photo above, acting as a backdrop to one item of stuff: my "Squatchi in Goal" Olympic toy from MacDonald's. Yes...something that I just couldn't live without! But...that was the fever that plenty of locals caught, as we made our way around the city either buying stuff, or opening up our hands to receive the stuff that was being given away. I remember visiting with my cousin, Jen during the Olympics, and she had this tiny coin purse in the shape of Sumi, the Paralympic Games mascot.

Jen: Look what I got...isn't it cute?

less than a week later she would say...

Jen: I don't know why I bought this. What am I going to do with this?

So today it's one week before the one year anniversary and I've opened up my Olympic box of stuff. I'm taking a trip down memory lane. Re-visiting my life, the times and the stuff from those fun filled two weeks in February 2010.

more photos to come...

With Glowing Hearts: a Movie Premiere

2011-01-27T16:56:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

The one year anniversary of the 2010 Winter Olympics is just a few weeks away. What are your plans to celebrate? Where will you go? What will you do?

I have an idea...

A wonderful new documentary film will be screened on Saturday, February 12th, 2011 and I recommend everyone that can fit this into their weekend should do just that.

A very good friend of mine, diector, Andrew Lavigne, along with Animal Mother Films will be screening the final cut of With Glowing Hearts: Vancouver 2010, A Social Media Story at the Simon Fraser University Woodward's Theatre.

Vancouver's 2010 Winter Olympics will go down as many things, and one of those is it truly was the "Social Media Olympics". But this isn't just about how the sponsors and the mainstream media utilized social media tools to get their message out. It's about members of a downtown community, and how they used social media to reach out to the world.

From the filmmakers...

With Glowing Hearts is a film about a revolution, one of social change and a precedent-setting shift in media representation. Vancouver sets the stage for our story about a marginalized community embracing leading-edge communication technologies, to empower, inspire, and break down the digital divide.

So put down your stuffed Quatchi, and that silly "Hockey's Canada's Game" placard for one evening, Saturday, Feb.12th, 2011 in particular, and experience something truly new to the Olympic Movement!
Tickets are Free...yes...FREE. But you need to make a reservation before they run out...

Reserve your Tickets now by clicking here

For more details, please visit With Glowing Hearts website

Bored? Relive Vancouver 2010....

2010-11-07T16:41:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

In case you didn't know, there is a pretty complete Vancouver 2010 youtube channel covering oodles and oodles of Winter Olympic magic.

Vancouver 2010 youtube Channel

And, oh, it's all in HD! Pop some popcorn and catch the moments you might have missed :o)

Happy Movember everyone!

New Hockey Book From Lisa Ovens

2010-08-17T20:36:00.000-07:00

For the Love of Empty Net Goals By Lisa Ovens will be released November 2010. Please follow the link below to learn more and reserve your copy of this hilarious and informative follow up to Lisa's first book, Hockey & High Heels. Also, check out the Pre-Sale Special...Both books for only $35 plus shipping and handling.

For the Love of Empty Net Goals: excerpts and purchase information

Thanks for stopping by...don't forget to tell your friends and help spread the Love!

Blog Break Excuse: New Hockey Book on the Horizon!!

2010-07-07T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hockey author, Lisa Ovens

Yes, its true. After many delays, the much anticipated follow up to my first book, Hockey and High Heels - a Different Kind of Hockey Book is on a collision course with a date circled on my calendar (the date is in October, just in time for the 2010/11 NHL season).

And because of that, I have been and will continue to devote my time to the production of what I feel will be another ground breaking hockey book.

There will be minimal posting here this summer, but I will keep you all informed on book two developments as they occur.

Please have a happy, safe summer - now go outside and PLAY!!!!

xxoo,

Lisa O.

Happy Easter, Everyone!

2010-04-04T21:08:00.000-07:00

Hope you all are enjoying Easter Long Weekend :o)

Skate at the Richmond Olympic Oval This Weekend!

2010-04-01T17:28:00.000-07:00

by Lisa Ovens

Hey everyone, I am back at it! Here's some news from Richmond for skating and Olympic enthusiasts...

The Richmond Olympic Oval is hosting public skates this Easter Weekend, April 3, 4, and 5th, 2010.

Time: 1 - 5 p.m.
Location: 6111 River Road (limited parking onsite for $2)
Cost: entry $2, skates $3, helmets $2

Please bring your own skates and helmets to avoid line-ups (very limited quantity of rental skates/helmets.)

As you can see from the crowds waiting to take to the ice at a past public skating event, this weekend will attract plenty people anxious to skate on the same ice as the speedskating stars of the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Happy Skating!

Ouch!

2010-03-24T00:31:00.000-07:00

By Lisa Ovens

Hi everyone, hope you are all doing great. I am typing with one hand due to a hand sprain. Ouch!!! It hurts :o(

I will return soon with more content. In the mean time, if you like, why not start at the beginning of the blog? Click here

Or, please visit Lisa's Hockey Lounge...I will have some exciting new hockey posts up there this afternoon. But the latest post about rink board advertising by regular hockeyandhighheels.com contributor Jan Snyder is a good read, too!

Now time to ice the hand...

Cheers :o)

-Lisa O.

Three Little Things I will Miss about the Olympics

2010-03-21T19:57:00.000-07:00

by Lisa Ovens

People all over the lower mainland are already missing the 2010 Winter Olympics. That feeling actually set in on March 1st. Then the Paralympic Games started up and we had a chance to get into the routine again: don our Olympic fun wear, travel to see events and cheer. But it's all over now.

Thinking back to July 2nd 2003, when Vancouver/ Whistler learned the 2010 games would take place here, well, it seems like so long ago. And having the games in mind for a seven year period, whatever are we going to think about now? London 2012...and Sochi 2014 I guess.

Right now I am thinking of the little things I am going to miss about having the Olympic movement take up shop in my backyard, and here are a few....

Television Crews Making the News

This was an hourly occurance on some days...compact TV crews finding a place, any place to capture the story. Often you had to be careful not to accidentally walk right in and steal a scene :o)

GrandDaddy Visa

What I mean is Morgan Freeman's voice overs during the Olympic Visa commercials. It was like he was a grandfatherly figure speaking to the whole country when he congratulated us on winning our first gold on home soil. And when we won another gold he was right there to give us kudos again. Then he would tell a little story from Torino 2006; the one about the Norwegian cross country ski coach that gave a canadian skiier a pole mid race when her's broke and she won a silver so we sent Norway 500 tons of maple syrup. Morgan caps the annecdote with "I hope you like pancakes, Norway."
I almost expected I'd hear him comment when I was making a cup of cocoa in the evening after a long day of Olympic revelry... "Go ahead and add a few more mini marshmallows to that cup, Lisa, you've been a good girl today. Mmm, cocoa...."

Decoration

I loved the look of the Games. It was beautiful to me, so beautiful I don't even want to call it "a brand". From the pretty event tickets to the fence banner above...this just looks how the beautiful south coast of British Columbia ought to look for a monumental event like the Olympics.

all photos by Lisa Ovens

2010 and High Heels Tuesday Photo: Olympic Flags

2010-03-16T23:41:00.000-07:00

by Lisa Ovens

I went to see some Paralympic Wheelchair Curling tonight and was dazzled by the evening sun highlighting these Winter Olympic flags.

Only a few more days left of 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic and Paralympic happenings. Sigh...

The Goal Called...Around the World

2010-03-16T14:54:00.000-07:00

Something cool to listen to: Sidney Crosby's overtime goal calls from around the world...Enjoy! Especially the one from France TV - it's pretty priceless :o)

Paralympics and the Art of Adapting

2010-03-15T00:19:00.000-07:00

by Lisa Ovens

On Friday I was very lucky to be invited to attend the 2010 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony (many thanks, Eterre!).

It was an energetic spectacle that moved the audience to sing, dance, cheer and occasionally cry. We remembered and we were reminded: sometimes when we hold onto the past we deny our ability to adapt to change.

The athletes that paraded into BC Place on Friday night have taken their ability to adapt to its highest level, and it doesn't end at sport either.

This is definitely something to celebrate.

I am sure I wasn't the only one out of the thousands watching to consider our own lives and how we can be better. Because there always seems to be something "holding us back" and often times we just allow that to happen.

So in the spirit of the Paralympic athletes, past and present, I will exercise my "adapt muscle".

My Favorite Ceremony Moments...

I loved the whole production, but a few highlights include:

Justine, the dancer: looking up at the big screen at the same moment my second cousin, Justine was on camera dancing with the other performers!

The DJs during the Parade of Athletes: not sure how it sounded on TV, but I loved their tunes and the way they directed the crowd... "SIDE to SIDE!!!"

Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli breakdance: Now he can add the 2010 Paralympic Opening Ceremony to his already lengthy list of accomplishments.

The Terry Fox speech clip...I really like the clip shown of Fox speaking about his motivation for The Marathon of Hope. He spoke frankly and his commentary on celebrity and the drive to be famous are timeless words.

Rick Hansen: the world can never have enough of this Man in Motion!

The Audience Participation Kit: My green poncho, light up pom pom and a stunning example of print design success (the program) will be treasured!

Gone Bottom Shelf: Hockey Canada Frozen Pizza!

2010-03-10T21:21:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

This is like a Tuesday photo, but only it's Wednesday. I wandered the city today and witnessed some post Olympic dismantling: Alberta House is still in the throws of decontruction, with a classic Vancouver saloon underneath just waiting to be freed (that would be the Atlantic Trap and Gill), the Bell Ice Cube, now melted, is but a pile of black metals rods, and although the Olympic Superstore still crazy busy, you can see noticeable empty spaces growing larger on the racks and shelves.

But what is happening to this pizza? The Hockey Canada Frozen Pizza has been relegated to a bottom shelf. Is this not blasphemy? There is a contest on right now until June 30th, 2010...win one of 50 official Team Canada Hockey jerseys visit Delissio Hockey Now to enter!

Four years ago I purchased Hockey Canada puck shaped brownies (they were disgusting) I managed to hang onto them until 2008 (they were lost in a move). I kick myself for not capturing them permanently in a photo. They would have looked great with the pizza.

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Olympic Volunteer Quote of the Day overheard on a bus...

"Where are you 'smurfin' at'?" Translation...Where is your volunteer assignment?

- volunteers wear blue jackets...a Smurf like blue

Don Cherry to Salute Paralymics Games Wednesday

2010-03-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

updated: Mar.10, 11:38am
by Lisa Ovens

Today, at about the same time the Paralympic Flame arrives in Vancouver, a big gathering will also be taking place to celebrate the Paralympic Movement.

The Official Olympic and Paralympic cold and flu remedy sponsor, Cold FX will be hosting a luncheon at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel. Among the speakers; one of the top ten greatest Canadians (as voted by Canadians), Donald S. Cherry of Hockey Night in Canada.

Love him or hate him, the 400 guests will be in for a treat when Grapes takes the podium. Though the big question is...what will he be wearing??

Will Don present professionally? Or boldly?

For readers not aware of the famous Don Cherry Suit, please visit this post on my other blog (Lisa's Hockey Lounge) and watch the video. Or visit the Don Cherry Suit Fest Page for variety! And just a heads up...the two part Don Cherry biopic Keep Your Head Up, Kid airs Sunday March 28th and Monday March 29th, 2010 on CBC.

Also speaking: BC Premier Gordon Campbell, the world's top Paralympic sledge hockey goalie Paul Rosen and Dr. Robert Steadward who is the founding president of the International Paralympic Committee.

Over four hundred guests will include Paralympic medallists, 50 young hockey players and 100 coaches and physical education teachers from Vancouver area schools as well as leaders from business, education, finance, law, medicine, journalism and the military.

This event is an opportunity to raise the profile of the Paralympic Games. This shouldn't be too hard to do in Vancouver: 40% of Canada's Paralympic Team are from British Columbia!

A few days ago I heard the Paralympic Opening Ceremony is close to selling out and the Gold Medal Sledge Hockey Game is already sold out.

Come on Vancouver, lets help make this the most successful Paralympics ever!

For Paralympic ticket information please click here.

For Cold FX website, please click here (did you know Clara Hughes, the only Olympian to win medals in both the summer and winter games swears by Cold FX??)

Don't Forget: Paralympic Games open March 12th, 2010!

2010-03-02T00:14:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

We are officially on a break in Vancouver. Actually we are pressing the reset button and gearing up for the Paralympic Games, opening on Friday March 12th, 2010.

The Royal Canadian Mint Pavilion is on the move and will re-open for the Games. Canada's Northern House is still open, and much of Robson Square's Olympic dressing will remain,, including the Zipline, the skating rink and the BC Pavilion.

The Paralympic Torch Relay begins in Ottawa on Wednesday, and there are still tickets available for the Opening Ceremony at BC Place.

Paralympic Game Tickets webpage

1350 athletes from over 40 countries will be in Vancouver/ Whistler competing in five sports. This can mean only one thing Vancouverites: we'll get to cheer on the world all over again!!!

More Paralympic posts and post Olympic pondering to come, but for now, I'm going to take a day off from posting!

Thanks everyone for stopping by at 2010andhighheels!! :o)

See you in a day or two!

- Lisa O.

Oh Canada!

2010-03-01T00:21:00.000-08:00

photo: Lisa Ovens

Hey Vancouver...did we show up or what!

Bye Bye Olympics :o)

Fun Day Sunday: Team Canada Wins Gold!!!!

2010-02-28T15:55:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Just a fast post...

Both Team Canada and Team USA worked their butts off to give us fans a hell of a Hockey game, and that's exactly what we got! Thank you :o)

Congrats to Team Canada on the overtime win! Congrats to Sidney Crosby for the OT goal! I can already see the next Timbits Hockey commercial ;o)

I have a new hockey crush on Rick Nash...he's my pick for Canada's MVP!

And Roberto Luongo you did Vancouver proud! You are part of the biggest championship win this city has possibly ever seen. We believed in you...

Team USA, you went undefeated until today...you will be a force to reckon with in Sochi, 2014 (let's hope the NHL'ers will be there). Good game, and great tournament!

Woot!! Team Canada!!!

Kay...now I have to get ready for the closing ceremony

Happy Funday, Sunday everybody :o)

In Loving Memory...

2010-02-27T15:16:00.000-08:00

Across this country, my big family is sad as we lost a wonderful aunty. My Aunty Nellie passed away this morning with her immediate family at her side. She cared so much for her family and I was so lucky to have her look out for me as well.

I will miss you, Aunty Nellie...you are our angel now.

USA vs. Finland...Slovakia vs Canada...Lisa vs. the Olympics

2010-02-27T01:30:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

USA vs. Finland might be better described as Mikka Kiprosoff vs. himself. I walked into Saxony House in Stanley Park to see the game at 6-0 for the USA. Patrons more interested in the beer and tasty food than the game on TV.

Walked back to downtown, heading for the Caldron. A good steady rain fell as joggers ran by me. (Must start jogging, but after the Olympics I thought. It seems like everything is about "after the Olympics" now).

Reached the caldron, and yes, it was still packed with people snapping pics in the rain. Ducked into the Shaw Tower and checked the game on lobby TV. A relaxed looking Ryan Miller was on the bench at this point as Tim Thomas took over the reigns in goal. Oops, the Finns scored, 6-1. That was it for the Finns.

Walked up to the Canadian Mint Pavillion, and "no medals for you!" because the line is way too long for me today. I did hear it might remain open for awhile after the Olympics. This is the first time in Olympic history the medals are available for spectators to touch and it's a big, big draw.

Walked the crowds of Granville Street to check mood of the city: it felt relaxed, as relaxed as my hair feels from the humid air and steady rain. This is a good feeling because of Team Canada vs. Team Slovakia. I have highly tuned senses when it comes to big games in this city, and today it felt perfect.

"Let's try Russia House" I thought knowing it would be a mad house and another long line. It was, but it sure looks exciting from the outside. "Maybe I should just wait four years and go to the actual Russia".

I visit the Right to Play Pavilion and was charmed by all of the play going on inside in the white walls.

Respect.

Fair play.

Inclusion...

"When children play the world wins"

this is all so true

http://www.righttoplay.com/

Saskatchewan, Maison Du Quebec and Ontario House, line up, line up and line up. But everyone is smiling so it's all okay. What wasn't okay: my feet. I was having an equipment malfunction: wrong socks with right boots. My feet were hurting, but I was easily distracted by this curious hat...

and this Inukshuk city that changes daily...

and three guys that needed their photo taken by a 2010 Vancouver banner (I took a great pic for them :o)
Time to head home and change footware; passed hundreds of happy Olympic enthusiasts along the way.

Team Canada will win.

And they did. But the end of the third? I did not realize my heart was pounding in my chest until the human snake and shake that sent Team Slovakia to Slovakia House, and Team Canada onto a date with Team USA for the Gold Medal game.

Canadian Girl Caught Saying "Aboot"...Twice!

2010-02-27T01:22:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Okay, we've all heard this before: Americans insist when a Canadian says the word "about" it sounds like we are saying "aboot". Well, when I was chatting with Paul and Chris at Utah House, Paul pointed out "Hey you just said "aboot". I disagreed. But as the conversation continued I did it again, and Paul was right: I said "aboot!"

I can't believe this, but I am a Canadian that pronouces "about" as "aboot". I am not afraid to admit this.

And I am not sure if this can be corrected.

Utah House Party 2010

2010-02-25T23:58:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Okay, I went to Utah House Party tonight and met some hard core Olympic peeps. I was too busy signing books and making new friends that my best photo was this one of the cake!

We now know Oprah bought up quite a few red mittens to give away on her show. Well tonight I met some dude that bought 80 pairs of mittens! Next to Oprah, I know of no other to buy more than eighty of the cheerful hand cozies to give away as gifts to friends. The dude's name was Dave, and his friends are going to love the gift mitts!

Tonight, it became quite apparent to me as to why it's called "The Olympic Movement". An Olympic event happens in a city, citizens become involved, and then they are swept up in the fun and move on to the next one, either through employment or as a spectator. Either way their are super enthusiasts, and the host of the party, Everen T. Brown has made Vancouver 2010 his eleventh Olympics! This was a perfect opportunity for people from Utah to get together and share stories and laughs.

Thanks Everen for a terrific party. It's was awesome for me to meet some of Utah's finest sports enthusiasts and new Olympic friends because I have a feeling I am going to be swept away by this five ringed wave!

Congratulations Team Canada: Women's Hockey Gold Medal Champs!!!

2010-02-25T23:34:00.000-08:00

2002, 2006 and now 2010 Gold Medalists!!!

2010 and High Heels Wednesday Photos: The Olympic Caldron

2010-02-25T00:31:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

This was not the first time I saw the caldron. The first visit's photos are trapped on my sick laptop. However, this is a special take on Vancouver 2010 Olympic caldron because of where I was: On the 11th floor of the Shaw Tower in the Canfund Athlete's House. I was honoured to be invited to visit Canfund's house, and I am preparing a full column about it's importance.

In brief, Jane Roos, founder of Canfund has helped fill a gap in financial support for Canadian Athletes since 1997. The Athete's house is a warm, comfortable place for Canadian Athlete's and their families to relax and enjoy the games together. Please visit Canadian Athletes Now website and see the great things they do, and check back for my full report on this wonderful house this weekend.

The crowds surrounding the Caldron appear lighter, but it is still a very big draw for city Olympic related destinations. To the right of the Caldron lies the International Broadcast Centre, and if you look at the top photo you'll see the location of the floating Olympic Rings. The rings are gold in color whenever Canada wins a gold medal.

A Funny Photo...

I can't help but chuckle at the Team Canada's goal tender, Roberto Luongo's floating face just behind TSN's James Duthie. Not sure who made those signs (so far I've seen two), but there are cute...let's hope we see them on Sunday!

Wonderful Wednesday for Team Canada

2010-02-24T23:20:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Today is going down in Canadian History as Wonderful Wednesday: four medals, and a much needed win for Team Canada in Men's Hockey. It wasn't just a win, but a win over Team Russia. This game was the subject of many conversations, even before Canada beat the Germans. I have to say on my Olympic travels today, leading up to the game, the feeling about the city was calmer than I expected. That was a good sign.

Everyone should be happy to see certain players step up their game (Boyle, Perry, Getzlaf). With seven goals and plenty of CDN players chipping in, well, that's what I was my hoping for Tuesday night before sleep. I thoiught the game would be a closer affair, but I'll take the 7-3 win, and say see you in Sochi 2014, Team Russia!

I think some people are wondering where Sidney Crosby is, and well, I am hoping he's saving up some amazing moves for the Semi's (and hopefully the Gold Medal game), especially for those moments when we need him the most.

And there will be those moments.

And speaking of Tuesday night, I went to the late game featuring Norway and Slovakia, and that too was an exciting game. Norway, not exactly known for hockey, but hangs in there nonetheless, was so hungry for the win, and they really kept Slovakia on their toes. Both teams were well represented in the crowd, with the rest of us chiming in on the cheering. However, Norway really seemed to win over the neutral fans and I think they found a little place in our hearts. In the end Slovakia would be the team moving on to the Quarter Finals, final score 4-3.

There was a moment of drama as Slovakian player, Lubos Bartecko took an elbow and hit the ice, sustaining a serious head injury. I could not believe the speed at which his helmet travelled as he was hit. This is yet another reminder about keeping the chin strap tight on your helmet. I hear he is doing okay, and I hope for a speedy recovery for the guy.

Super Sunday for Team USA

2010-02-21T23:03:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

How's that for some Olympic swag? "Team USA grinds out victory over Canada " so says tsn.ca. And the above souvenir ice scraper could almost say a similar thing as well. But Team USA didn't have to scrape by thanks to a crazy empty net goal scored by Ryan Kesler in the dying moments of the 3rd period: final score 5-3. USA hockey fans are thrilled with this win, and should be gaga over Ryan Miller's work in the crease. Talk about Miller time!

Team USA wins group A and secures their spot in the Quarter Final. On the Other hand, Team Canada has an good opportunity to pull it together in the Qualification Playoffs on Tuesday and possibly settle into underdog mode for the Quarter Final round.

The red swarm of fans moving into Canada Hockey Place late this afternoon was a spectacular sight. Perhaps this loss will settle the masses down a little; bring us back to earth if only for Monday. But only until the women's tournament heats up with Semi Final action. Team USA will be playing on the 30th anniversary of the Miracle on Ice. And Team Canada will take on Team Finland. We know our girls will be prepared for this game, but I really like this quote from the Finn's goaltender Noora Raty...

"We can't lose that game 10-0. It's so bad for women's hockey. We have to play a good game and show everybody women's hockey belongs to the Olympics."

I like that attitude...we want a closer game, an exciting game, but with Canada as the team to head to the goal medal game ;o)

22 Feb 12:00 pm Women's Playoffs Semifinals United States vs. Sweden

22 Feb 5:00 pm Women's Playoffs Semifinals Canada vs. Finland

Go Team Canada GO!!

Holland Heineken House and Me...

2010-02-21T02:46:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

I am still feeling the effects from my time spent at Holland Heineken House on Friday. It was the "Hockey & High Heels House" party, and let's just say I really showed up. As a long time lover of Heineken Beer, it was my night to shine in the happening house at the O Zone.

It's funny but today I read some reviews of HHH, and I was surprised at some of the negativity I saw. From the gate keepers, to the Lodge Restaurant staff, to the bands on stage, I was happy with their service. And those tiny glasses of beer? Well for my small hands they were perfect (don't ask me how many I drank though).

I should say we had dinner reservations, so we were able to by pass waiting in line, and I am sure the perpetual line up in front of HHH might contribute to a negative experience. But here's something people should know...2010 Vancouver's Holland Heineken House is one of the most popular ones ever (and HHH has been an Olympic staple since 1992) Check out this quote...

"We try to make operations as smooth as possible, but we've been embraced by Canada and overwhelmed at times. This is one of the most popular Heineken Houses ever." - Heineken spokesman Freek de Wetta
click here for the full article, Molson Hockey House vs. Holland Heineken House

We dined and drank. We drank and danced. We danced and laughed and made some new friends. The band, De Coronas really contributed to the party atmosphere, and those adorable $15 dollar orange hats have something to do with the fun loving, upbeat mood as well.

So happy I made that reservation last month!

Train ride home was a riot - our car sang three songs Oh Canada, This land is Your Land, and an instrumental rendition of the theme from Hockey Night in Canada.

Martin Brodeur, Angela Ruggiero: Olympic Level Health and Attitude

2010-02-21T01:53:00.000-08:00

                               photo: Lisa Ovens

by Lisa Ovens

As I watch the Winter Olympics, I am reminded about the fitness level our athletes have achieved before they even get close to winning a medal. Not to mention the mental side of competition.

A gold medal goalie and a gold/ sliver medal defenseman know about the pressure they face as their Olympic tournaments move forward. Here are two hockey player quotes from GE's Healthymagination presser and Healthy Heroes skate on Friday morning. Then I get a little ranty near the end...

"When you go out every day to perform, you have to take care of yourself. A healthy lifestyle is not just exercise or eating right, it's an attitude as well." Martin Brodeur Team Canada

Everyone is pretty much saying today's men's ice hockey game between Team Canada and Team USA will be like a "TSN Turning Point" in the men's tournament, or a possible pairing for the gold medal game.
It also promises to be a physical affair, with Canadian fans hoping their team will pick up that part of their game for Team USA. One thing I am confident in is Brodeur and his "attitude". Let's hope that winning attitude will rub off on the defenders in front of him (Yeah, I'm talking about you, Pronger).

"I always have this incredible team of doctors, physical therapists and nutritionists to support me. A program like healthymagination gives all of us the tools and support to help achieve those goals." -Angela Ruggiero, defenseman, Team USA

Angela Ruggiero and her teammates are tied with Team Canada at nine points. As much as we've seem some exciting games between more evenly match teams in the women's tournament, everyone is patiently waitng for Canada and USA to meet.  Will that temporarily shut up the sports media pundits crying for "mercy rules" and the women's game to be dropped from the Olympics? Probably not.

When it comes to Olympic hockey, I consider female hockey players to be "the unsung healthy heroes".

Not only do female hockey players have to be in top physical condition, they apparently need an extra layer of mental toughness to block out the predominately male sports media criticizing them during the Olympics and then ignoring them for four years. I swear... it's like clockwork.

Star Athletes Chat: GE's Healthymagination at Vancouver Olympics

2010-02-19T15:30:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Just a few pics for now...heading out to the Ozone. Above photo is from the press conference...

Martin Brodeur, Goalie, Team Canada Men’s Ice Hockey

Scott Hamilton, 1984 Olympic gold medalist, Figure Skating
Michelle Kwan, Two-time Olympic medalist, Figure Skating
Angela Ruggiero, Alternate Captain and Defenseman, Team USA Women’s Ice Hockey
Dr. Jack Taunton, VANOC Chief Medical Officer
Mike Barber,Vice President, healthymagination, GE

Below photos are of Angela Ruggiero, Alternate Captain Team USA Women's Hockey. This is her fourth Olympic Games.

Canada Hockey Place Rocks with Shoot Out Thrills!

2010-02-19T01:22:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

If anything, Thursday night's shootout victory for Team Canada should help the team realize a little adversity now is going to be good for them in the long run. It's going to take time for the team to gel, and a victory like this one should help speed up the process. And if we come up against another hot goal tender, like we did tonight with Switzerland's Jonas Hiller, well the boys will just have to be that much hotter.

I can't tell you how great it is to see Sidney Crosby on our side! After several years of watching Sid the Kid highlights packages, catching some of his games with the Pittsburgh Penguins, and reading columnist Jan Snyder's reports on the guy, I real feel like he's one of my guys now...and he came through when we needed it the most. I called Jan after the game and she commented on the high stick Crosby received in the third... " He's not the one you want to make bleed. That makes him very angry and he raises his game."

I have a friend who's been enjoying the views from the Premier Lounge on level 500 of Canada Hockey Place, and he said tonight the lounge was actually alive for once...every other game the loungers have been on the reserved side. Come on Premier Loungers...this is freakin' Olympic Hockey...it's only going to get more tense with each game...cheering, celebrating and reacting will help ease the stress!

I missed the entire Russia /Slovakia game, save for the shoot out and all I have to say is...Pavel Demitra, this Canuck fan wants to see you score like that every game when the NHL season resumes!

Media Outing for Lisa on Friday

2010-02-19T00:01:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Providing I don't sleep in, I will be attending a special event at Robson Square Friday morning. It's the kick off to GE's Year of Better Health, and just check out the healthy people featured at this event...

Martin Brodeur, Goalie, Team Canada Men’s Ice Hockey

Scott Hamilton, 1984 Olympic gold medalist, Figure Skating
Michelle Kwan, Two-time Olympic medalist, Figure Skating
Angela Ruggiero, Alternate Captain and Defenseman, Team USA Women’s Ice Hockey
Dr. Jack Taunton, VANOC Chief Medical Officer
Mike Barber,Vice President, healthymagination, GE

The above athletes will participate in a skating demonstration followed by a Q & A with an expert panel.
I will provide a re-cap on this event later. I imagine I will be inspired to commit to a healthier lifestyle...but after my night at Holland Heineken House!

2010 Olympic Hockey Tid Bits

2010-02-18T02:01:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

The Olympic Welcome Song

Let's start with a hilarious video from Bloge Salming titled The Olympic Welcome Song....

Hahaha! Gotta watch that one a few times to get all of the great hockey references and humor.

Molson Hockey House Dominates...on Craigslist

As I type there are four pages of Molson Hockey House tickets for sale on Vancouver's Craigslist.

Team USA and the Ryans

This is a neat little hockey sidebar: Team USA has seven players with the name Ryan. (actually one of them is a last name) Coach Ron Wilson has some sorting out to do. How to you keep them all straight in your head? My suggestion....give them color names, just like in Tarantino's Reservoir Dogs. Now who will wind up with Mr. Pink??? Ryan Malone, Ryan Suter, Ryan Miller, Ryan Kesler, Ryan Callahan, Ryan Whitney or Bobby Ryan?

Local Sports Merchandise Store create a Female Hockey Fan Section!

I am always on the look out for female hockey fan friendly establishments, and Rocky Mountain Sports Marketing is one to watch. Inside the store is a growing section of fun hockey merchandise for women. And it includes copies of Hockey and High Heels, too!

This is a cell phone pic, but I will be heading there today to see if there is any new stock in. They also stock jerseys (International and NHL) flags, souvenirs including pucks, autographed memorabilia and some cool hockey art.
Check them out in International Village next to Starbucks on the corner of Keefer and Abbott. Only one block from Canada Hockey Place!

What Would Quatchi Do?...2010 Olympic Price Gouging at Vancouver Restaurants

2010-02-17T23:38:00.000-08:00

by Quatchi in Goal

If I were a restaurant owner, I wouldn't increase my prices unless costs were increased on me, and I wouldn't add an automatic gratuity to the bill. Instead I would give all of my staff a nice, fat cash bonus for their "Extra Olympic Efforts".

I would also read this informative Alexandra Gill article about dining in Vancouver during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. It's written by a foodie here for the food, and not the sport. Go figure, eh?

What Vancouver 2010 Would Look Like with Snow....

2010-02-17T01:59:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Well, the recent weather issues in Vancouver during the Winter Games should alter the whole "Canadians live in Igloos" stereotype rather nicely, dontcha think?

Do you know how many people from other provinces live in Vancouver? Take one guess as to why many of them move here. If you said the weather, you'd be correct.

But every now and then we get slammed with nasty weather and the city actually resembles the rest of Canada in the dead of winter. Last December and January (2008-09) it was one snowfall after another and Vancouver was buried. One year and one month ago I wrote a column about it because, well, it was epic snow for us. (Click here to read Lisa's Snow Rant)

Now please enjoy a few of photos of Vancouver all dressed up in a Winter Wonderland...

all photos by Lisa Ovens

The Life of Ice at the Olympic Level: Speed Skating

2010-02-16T23:44:00.000-08:00

Olympia Ice re-surfacer in colder times during Oval Opening Dec.2008 photo: Lisa Ovens

by Lisa Ovens

I wonder if Stephen Colbert has muttered this yet... “Those freakin’ Canadian Ice Holes and their crappy ice scraping machines...”

Geez, are we a bunch of “Iceholes” here in Vancouver or what. We built an Olympic speed skating oval a few feet from the water and our Canadian ice re-surfacing machine brand isn't cutting the mustard! As I wrote in the previous "The Life of Ice" article about hockey, there probably isn’t a sporting surface requiring more attention, equipment and expertise than ice.

And now the world know this, thanks to the troubles at the Richmond Olympic Oval, home to Olympic Speedskating during the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Re-surfacing isn't the only variable affecting the ice: a packed house, hot lights, humidity in the air are also contributing to what some skaters are calling "slow ice". We can't change the humidity, but we can change one piece of equipment...

Californian built Zamboni to the Rescue!

I was surprised to learn this earlier today; a Zamboni from the Oval in Calgary was in transit to Vancouver and was expected to be in service for Wednesday's speedskating events. I guess what surprised me was that VANOC didn't have this speed skating oval friendly machine waiting in the wings last week.
After all, the oval's ice surface would cover approximately six international hockey ice sheets, it would only make sense to have the Winter Games supply cupboard stocked full of Zambonis.

I've always said Zamboni is the most popular word in hockey. And now it's the most popular word in speed skating!

Speaking of Zambonis, I think now is a great time to give readers a sneak peek at my latest book, Living Hockey. Here is an excerpt about zambonis taken from a chapter that examines hockey in California...

Zamboni

Destined to be a hit, by name alone, this marvel of ice technology was invented during the Forties by a man named, Frank J. Zamboni. He owned a very large ice rink in Southern California, aptly named Iceland, and in the name of efficiency, he created a vehicle that could drive onto the ice, scrape off a layer of tired old, carved up ice, and then spray hot water to smooth out the surface, filling any crevices in a valuable, time saving fashion.

Frank was an inventor, an innovator, with refrigeration in his blood. Quite often, those of us born in the age of Stainless Steele Sub Zeros have no clue what time was like before we existed, and heck, there was a lot of stuff to try for the first time, and then invent and perfect. And Frank ended up revolutionizing the quality of ice for hockey and skating with this very contraption.

Iceland, his ice rink in Paramount, California, became the testing grounds for the Zamboni vehicle. Slowly but surely this magically hypnotic vehicle that slowly circles the ice made the big time, and refreshed the ice for the first time in the NHL. The year was 1955. Why stop there, Zamboni? The Zamboni then found itself in the spotlight during International competition for the very first time in 1960 at the Squaw Valley Winter Olympics.

Many years later, we still find the Zamboni taking the cue and setting the pace for relaxation during intermission, most likely capturing the attention of a three year old child in the crowd, a child who is just beginning to understand what hockey is. That child will never forget the Zamboni, and nor shall we.

Thanks, Frank.

Living Hockey is almost finished (2010 Winter Olympic chapter is a work in progress). If you'd like to be in loop on pre-sale information and other news, please join the mailing list by emailing info@hockeyandhighheels.com with "add me" in the subject line. Thank you for your interest!

The Life of Ice at the Olympic Level: Ice Hockey

2010-02-16T17:53:00.000-08:00

Canada Hockey Place (dressed up for Canucks though) Lisa Ovens

by Lisa Ovens

In my first hockey book I wrote about hockey’s playing surface compared to the "fields" other team sports. The bottom line: there isn’t another playing surface as glorious as a sheet of ice. And there probably isn’t a surface requiring more attention, equipment and expertise than ice.

I sometimes think of ice as the seventh player on a hockey team. When the ice is great it helps the team, and when the ice sucks, well all kinds of quirky things can happen.

Good, hard ice improves a player’s speed while skating. Good, hard ice and hockey pucks are a terrific marriage: pucks passed and shot on good ice often go where the player intended it to go.

Have you ever skated on bad ice? Maybe your strides were sluggish or you fell down because your skate was caught in a crevice. I’m sure a tiny medical journal could be written on injuries to professional hockey players caused by the ice alone.

puck photo: Andrew Lavigne

I remember reading an article somewhere about the ice at Canada Hockey Place in Vancouver (But it was about the Canucks, so at the time it was about GM Place; I will go through my mess of mags to find this article!) a few years ago and how arena operations took the ice maintenance to a higher level (think microbiology). It was discovered that Vancouver’s water was too pure to create a good, hard sheet of ice. So chemical testing was done on water used for freezing at other arenas known for great ice. Because of that testing, a formula was created to add to the water for freezing in Vancouver’s arena. Basically they made the water “dirtier” and the ice became harder. I have had the opportunity to skate on the ice at Canada Hockey Place many times over the years, and let me tell you, it is fantastically smooth and great for gliding!

The rink at Canada Hockey Place will see a lot of action during the 2010 Winter Olympic Ice Hockey tournaments, and thankfully, the men and women hockey players won’t have to be concerned about other events like concerts happening between Feb. 13th and Feb. 28th, 2010. Converting an arena to a concert venue can affect the ice because of beer and cola spills trickling through the floor boards. People, please remember that when your grooving and shaking it at a Beyonce show during hockey season!

Did You Know...Hockey Pucks are frozen for play. A small fridge is located in the penalty box of Canada Hockey Place. Pucks perform better when frozen.The average hockey game can see anywhere from 20-40 pucks used.

First Gold at Home in Canada: Where Were you When Bilodeau Did It?

2010-02-14T23:50:00.000-08:00

photo: Lisa Ovens

by Lisa Ovens

Where was I? I was sitting in section 404 with my friend Michelle at the first Victory Ceremony in BC Place when CTV's Tamara Taggart announced "We have our first Gold!" The cheer was huge. Monday night's victory ceremony will be extra special for Alexandre Bilodeau, his family and all of those who attend and watch at home.

photo: Michelle Reaney

Sunday night's Victory Ceremony was extra special to watch for me as two Canadian women receive their medals for their performances: Jennifer Heil, Silver (Womens Moguls) and Bronze, Kristina Groves (Speed Skating 3000m). Jennifer Heil's was the first Canadian medal win at Vancouver 2010.

WOOOT!!!!

screen shot photo: Lisa Ovens

Kristina Groves squeaked into bronze at the 3000 m, but her strength is the 1500 m...Go Kristina GO!!

Photo: Lisa Ovens

Evening Highlights

It was BC night, and the audience was treated to video highlights of various British Columbian moments, activities, and local business people (think Jimmy Pattison) praising the province. The secrets of our lumber industry are no longer secrets after plenty of shots of wood in various stages at a mill played out on the big screen.

A vibrant performance from dancers and musicians representing several local cultures wowed the crowd.

During the medal ceremony, we bounced up to Whistler on screen to see the medal ceremonies up there. The Whistler staging is quite a bit more intimate than in Vancouver, and it looks great.

Makes me want to go there...real bad!

And then there was Nelly...

screen shot photo: Lisa Ovens

She's got it going on - Nelly Furtado shook it up apres medals, and the crowd of 22,000 felt pretty darn good about all of our homegrown talent! Nelly...love the earings, and you wore another great pair of heels!

photo: Lisa Ovens

My First Two Days at the 2010 Winter Olympics, Security Screenings and All!

2010-02-14T11:27:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

My Good Deed: 5:00 PM Friday One hour before the opening Ceremony, I was buying pillows, blankets, towels and soap for a family of Olympic vacationers that checked into an under- equipped condo rental. Not quite what I was expecting to do at that time, but I was very happy to help them out. (Edit...I was just the personal shopping assistant, it wasn't my money paying for the supplies!)

5:30 PM Friday: walked through the blocks surrounding BC Place, site of the Opening Ceremony. The energy on the streets was amazing. At one point I had to walk through some protesters. I didn't blend in.

OPENING CEREMONY Arrived at my viewing post: sofa at cousin’s. As the ceremony went on I was surprised to see several ideas from my "If I was Producing the Ceremony" production list actually happened! Loved the production, especially the water, tree, mountain and spirit bear visuals. It all looked like home to me. I felt very proud for the Four Host Nations. Their welcome was stunning and the dance performance was fantastic!

Emotional during KD Lang’s performance: Hallelujah was played at my mother’s memorial service. She loved that song.

Still not sure about the spoken word segment, but it was very close to my “standup comedy” idea on my ceremony production list.

My cousin Jen predicts Celine Dion will perform My Heart Will Go On at the Closing Ceremony.

Thrilled to see Haley Wickeneiser take the Athlete’s Oath.

Completely humbled by the moment of silence for Nodar Kumaritashvili , and more humbled by the composure of Team Georgia. In sympathy.

Heavily sighed for the director and the torch bearers when the fourth “log” of the interior Caldron didn’t deploy.

Felt lonely for the Great One ( Wayne Gretzky) riding in the back of the pick up truck all by himself...too bad Bobby Orr couldn’t have went along for the ride.

Boy the media sure is important: They get the outside caldron close to their International Broadcast Centre. When you think about it, this is pretty silly. With so much is happening along the shores of False Creek: BC Place, Canada Hockey Place, a gaggle of hospitality houses, the Athlete's Village, they couldn't find a spot there? (The media was also in mind when VANOC selected the snow challenged Cyrpress Mountain because they'd get pretty visuals of the city and the ocean from up there. That's the extent of what John Furlong said the other day.)

Saturday Woke up too early, but had to get up. Packed up my “game gear” and headed downtown. Went to my friend Andrew’s: KD Lang’s performance from the night before is on the TV. I feel warm and happy to hear it again. Andrew is producing a documentary titled With Glowing Hearts so I tagged along with him on a brief shoot. Got to carry some audio equipment, launching me to production assistant status for 10 minutes.

Went to super cute, outdoor coffee cabin next to CBC Studios (it has a living roof and a pitcher of water and glasses on the counter at the ready for non coffee drinkers like me!) Saw the boys from Hockey Night in Canada’s Satellite Hotstove segment on stools talking hockey for the cameras.

Was lucky to attend the opening hockey game at Canada Hockey Place. Uh oh...time for a tiny rant.

Lisa's Tiny Rant

Security Screening Tents for Canada Hockey Place: UNDER UTILIZED!!!

Andrew and I walked to the east side line up for security screening and the line up was long. We headed over to the West side which wasn't as busy, but it was slow moving. Found out my small, fun fur backpack was too large for the express line. When asked what size a small bag is, I was told "like the size of a loaf of bread." Huh? Anyway, I saw five screening tents available, and at 4:20pm they only had two tents open for screening. The game was starting at 5pm. Sure, the number of ticket holders is significantly smaller than for a BC Place event, but come on VANOC...you have five tents, use all five tents at the same time, everytime.

VANOC, don't you realize the longer the fans are waiting in line, the less money they are spending inside the venue?!!! End tiny rant.

Please note hockey fans attending games at Canada Hockey Place: There are only two entrances being used before games and two exits:

Entrances: Eastside check point and security line up appears at Abbott and Keefer Street. West side appears near Nelson and Beatty street in a parking lot next to BC Place. This is also where the Will Call Ticket Booth is.

After going through the Westside Check point, the walk to Canada Hockey Place was a long one, involving four relatively long flights of stairs and overhead walkways at various points.

Exits: Only two exit routes are used after the game; everyone leaves via the exit doors on the 300 level, closest to both Georgia St. and Dunsmuir St. viaducts, your east and west exit routes into the city.

During the game: With new Coca Cola displays everywhere, various other temporary walls installed, the concourse becomes a little more crowded than at a Canucks game. The Canucks Team store is now like a mini Olympic superstore/ Team Canada store which looks great! Plus there are also various international items available for other teams in the tournaments.

Smokers will be happy: I guess due to IOC rules, smoking is permitted outside on certain patios (smoking has been banned on patios at Canucks games, and all other events at the venue for the last two seasons)

The Canada / Slovakia women's hockey game deserves its own column to I'll stop this one here.

With My Glowing Heart...

2010-02-12T22:08:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

...I feel like I travelled the land and back, met everyone along the way, smiled with them, cheered with them and made it right back here to Yaletown, all in about three hours.

The visual element of the Olympic Opening Ceremony at Vancouver 2010 captured the spirit of my home on the west coast, and my journeys across Canada. And on that note, I am going to relax and have a beer and report more tomorrow!

Cheers World!

Lisa O.

and from Jen and Joe :o)

For a Live look at Vancouver's Robson Square..please click here, you gotta be here

The 2010 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony in Vancouver

2010-02-12T10:49:00.000-08:00

photo taken just over a year ago on Jan.21, 2009

by Lisa Ovens
I've been going through some of the notes I wrote after the Closing Ceremony in Torino 2006.

A shockwave had rolled over Vancouver and the rest of Canada after witnessing a brief “sample of Canada” presented in Torino. Plenty of critics showed up leaving everyone wondering if Vancouver 2010’s ceremony would cut it as far as big spectacles go.

And then the most recent Olympics in Beijing 2008 didn’t help: their ceremony was over the top! Going back to my notes, I had made a list of things I would do if I were in charge of the ceremony in BC Place. I have been to plenty of events there; Pink Floyd, U2, Rolling Stones, U2 again, and more, including the very first concert held in the Dome: David Bowie, Peter Gabriel and the Tubes (I was a younger kid then.) If Robert LePage was available (he’s done some amazing Peter Gabriel tours, and other grand installations), I would hire him to produce the show (but as it turned out, we have the Australian, David Atkins in charge. Though Robert LePage is part of the cultural Olympiad: The Blue Dragon).)

Over the last few days I have done my best to avoid any of the “reports on the ceremony” from people who attended the dress rehearsals. If I feel someone is about to say too much I stop them in their tracks. I haven’t seen any photos or videos leaked. All I have is my list of what I would do, so here it is.

My Opening Ceremony Production List

-Interior should be completely white, with lots of ice inside...minimalist looking, like Superman’s Fortress of Solitude.

-Ban anything resembling a Styrofoam tree, rock, or mountain top. Unless you are staring the natural beauty of Canada straight in the face, you’d best be experiencing the landscape shot on high definition cameras and projected onto the best damn screens money can buy.

-Go easy on anything to do with ice fishing.

-Incorporate boats into the show. (Ever since I went to a boat show in BC Place, I ‘ve always felt boats, especially big boats look really cool inside, with no water around.) Sail boats have a dramatic look at times. And I love they way they look dotting the ocean in Burrard Inlet on windy days.

-Get Celine Dion and tenor Ben Heppner to sing. Ben Heppner studied music at the University of British Columbia. (Sadly Heppner is in Germany right now performing)

-There should be some light comedy performed. Okay, this might sound crazy, but if there is one thing Canada is known for is producing funny people. I figure a little comedy would be nice, and a little different than other opening ceremonies. Imagine an MC working the crowd of famous people in attendance, sort of like how some Academy Awards show hosts do ;o)

-The torch bearer that lights the cauldron should be a man and a woman if possible. If hockey is defining us as a culture right now, then make it Wayne Gretzky and Cassie Campbell. (I thought this up until Cassie was in the Torch Relay on Prince Edward Island in November)

Well those were some of my ideas, I'll know soon if any of them come true. There are plenty of people out there still not comfortable with Australians pulling the strings for the 2010 ceremonies. All I can say is crikey to that!

Today is the big day. I will not be attending the opening ceremonies in person. I will be a few blocks away from BC Place at my cousin Jen’s watching on television. I can hardly wait. This is a big one on the Olympic schedule, and for some I imagine it will be a huge relief when it is over. Best of luck to all the ceremony organizers, and performers; I am sure you will all do us proud!

Let the Games begin!

The Olympic Torch Relay Comes to Kerrisdale

2010-02-11T22:16:00.000-08:00

By Lisa Ovens

Okay, I’m sure many out of town 2010 and High Heels readers are wondering where is Kerrisdale and what does this mean? Well the worldwide Hockey & High Heels headquarters is located in Kerrisdale! The Olympic Torch Relay will ran through my neighborhood late afternoon on Thursday February 11th. The streets were crowded. As you can see I didn't get a good position to take a photo (took me a little while to get back here from the Linden torch run).

I did like this flag display located at West Boulevard and West 41st Avenue intersection. We have a Canada flag, a Greece flag, and a blast from the past: the Vancouver Candidate City logo flag.

About Kerrisdale... I noticed that the Olympic Edition of the Tourism Vancouver guide failed to mention the Village of Kerrisdale in the editorial section describing Vancouver neighborhoods, I figured I would do everyone a favor and gush about my hood here. For starters Kerrisdale was named after a Scottish town named Kerry Dale which means “the seats of fairies”- I was meant to live here :o)

For the history portion...my beautiful Aunty Donetta was crowned Miss Kerrisdale 1949! The city of Vancouver’s first ever rock and roll concert happened at the legendary Kerrisdale Arena in 1956: the band...Bill Haley and the Comets. Kerrisdale Arena also played host to many other shows establishing it as a kick ass smaller venue for touring bands in the 60’s 70’s and early 80’s. Bands like the Yardbirds, Frank Zappa, Devo, Motorhead and the Clash blew off the roof of the hockey arena. Actually it would be the Motorhead show that ended the live rock fun because the concert was so loud and it attracted a pretty hardcore, hard partying crowd to the tony neighborhood.

2010 Olympic enthusiasts that might be looking for a break from the insanity that will be downtown Vancouver and the Richmond Ozone might consider visiting Kerrisdale. It’s about half way between downtown Vancouver and Richmond and it is easy to get to. It’s on the 41 bus route (heading west, it goes to UBC, site for Olympic Hockey) which stops at the Oakridge Canada Line stop. You can also hop on the number 16 Arbutus bus from downtown and it will bring you right into the heart of Kerrisdale.

Considered one of North America’s most affluent neighborhoods, Kerrisdale boasts a fine little intersection of specialty shops, restaurants and services. It is also home to one of my favorite cupcakes: The Happy Cupcake, found only at Bean Brother’s Café. It’s a good old fashioned cupcake, and it’s cheerful as can be. It feels like it weighs about a pound so it will last a couple of days, too (I’ve never attempted eating a whole one in one sitting). Yes as you can see in the photo, it’s so big it can’t stand up by itself like the other popular cupcakes in this city (Cupcakes by Lori, Big City Cupcakes, Butter) At $3.95...it’s a pretty good value.

If you like burgers and shakes, try them out at the Red Onion, a Kerrisdale institution that often makes the “Top Burger lists". If tea is your thing then hit the Secret Garden Tea Company. And then shop till you drop at Hills of Kerrisdale if Juicy Couture and Michael Kors are your thing. There’s a British style pub, The Cheshire Cheese Inn, the local watering hole for sports on the tube.

The Kerrisdale Community Centre will have a “living room” set up for everything Olympics and will be a comfy gathering place for all neighbors to hang out.

And who knows...you just might see me hovering around the Happy Cupcakes!

Panasonic Olympic Pavilion and Sarah Brightman's Shoes!

2010-02-11T21:19:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

I'll get to the Panasonic HD 3D launch in a bit. First, let's check out Sarah Brightman's shoes! When she headed to the podium, I saw the shoes, but didn't get the shot until the hand shake. Wish I could have asked her who designed them.

I'm so proud to perform 'Shall Be Done.' The lyrics are moving and powerful, and the song captures Panasonic's commitment to sustainability for future generations, which is a value I support,"

- Sarah Brightman

I am a big fan of Sarah Brightman and to see her video of "Shall be Done" for the first time in Panasonic's HD 3D Theatre at the 2010 Winter Olympics, well, this audiophile was thrilled!

Fitted with two theatres, Panasonic's Olympic Pavilion at LiveCity Yaletown David Lam Park in Vancouver will screen high definition, three dimensional images of the Opening Ceremony, highlights footage of the 2010 Winter Games and the music video of Sarah Brightman performing Panasonic's song, "Shall Be Done".

Also in the pavilion: a consumer HD 3D theater with a comfy sofa and cool silver and black 3D eyewear. Plus a bunch of stuff about sustainability and green things. Seriously though, the green corner of the pavilion is a place to shout out your green efforts at the message screen, and your message will be read by people around the world at other Panasonic events. and you can use another screen to watch short videos about "Eco Ideas for a Sustainable Winter Games". Things we all should be concerned with. There are Polar Bears shown, and everybody loves the Polar Bear.

The HD 3D video presentation was something else. Everything from Bejing's Opening Ceremony to an animated Quatchi in goal: Pavilion visitors will enjoy what Panasonic has to offer.

Trevor Linden's turn on the Torch Relay!

2010-02-11T17:46:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Managed to be near Main st. and 41st Avenue this afternoon to see retired Vancouver Canuck and former Olympian, Trevor Linden begin his leg of the Torch Relay. Woohooo!!!

I had to sneak in to get this photo as the "Black Jackets" were directing people to move back.

My video of this moment will at least have Trevor's face and BIG smile!

and here's the lucky lady who "Lit Linden's Torch"...

This is one part of the Olympics that just fascinates me: the Torch Relay. That flame has been everywhere in this great big country, and there are tens of thousand of stories to go along with it. I love it!

Things to Put On Mountain Tops: Goalies and Oakley’s

2010-02-11T00:38:00.000-08:00

Grouse Mountain, wood sculpture by Glenn Greenside photo (2004) Lisa Ovens

By Lisa Ovens

If you travel around the world, you’ll find plenty of things on mountain tops: religious figures, ancient temples, and in the case of Devil’s Tower, a landing strip for alien spaceships! (I kid... it's just a Close Encounters reference). However, Grouse Mountain in Vancouver might be the only mountain in the world wearing a giant hockey goaltender carved out of wood in its crown. Local First Nations artist Glen Greenside carved the sculpture along with several larger than life figures. It's been called "big tree art" and they are spectacular. Glenn Greenside webpage

But will Oakley’s have a giant pair of shades up there? And will Russia's Alexander Ovechkin make a surprise appearance? Alexander the Great and about 100 other NHL players sport Oakley Visors on their helmets. And to see just how many other Winter Olympic athletes wear Oakley, check out this page listing many at Vancouver 2010. No wonder Oakley has a mountain...they are kings of the hill!

Oakley has taken over Grouse Mountain, and what sky-riding visitors can expect is a crash course in eyewear technology. And a fashion show, too. It’s the Oakley Experience coming to a Winter Olympics near you....

Fashion Show in the Snow: Today!

Winter 2010 Oakley Technical Outerwear Collection
The latest styles and innovations in the Oakley Pro Rider Series developed for the world’s best alpine athletes.
Celebration of style on a snow-carved runway
25 complete ensembles modeled by Oakley athletes.

Open to the public, free with the cost of admission* to Grouse Mountain
Thursday, February 11 6:00pm
* one adult sky ride ticket $45 - includes a variety of activites

Rolling O-Lab

Oakley’s exclusive Rolling O-Lab is a mobile demonstration unit that educates visitors about the science behind quality eye protection. Technology presentations include the use of optical laser scope equipment that demonstrates clarity and prism shift, ultraviolet emitters and measuring devices to illustrate UV protection, and testing rigs that show the effects of high-velocity and high-mass impact situations. The Rolling O-Lab hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Free admission

Oakley Pop-Up Store

Oakley's Oakley's and nothing but Oakley's!
Includes the Oakley Custom Bar, where visitors can customize select Oakley eyewear and goggle products. Address: 488 Robson Street, Vancouver http://www.oakley.com/

Watch Robson Square During the Olympics: Look for Me Wearing a BIG Hat...

2010-02-10T22:23:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Hi everyone. How are you all doing anyway? I just want to acknowledge the people who have been following this blog. I hope you are all doing great. Thanks so much for visitng here everyday :o)

Robson Square Oct.5,2009

For those people who are far away, you might want to have a LIVE look-see at a very busy place during the Olympics. It's Robson Square, and the live cameras were switched on today.

Here is the link: Robson Square Live

I will look for the BIGGEST hat out there and maybe you'll see me strutting around the ice rink!

Robson Square Nov. 27, 2009

Now visit the link and see what it looks like today.... Robson Square Live

Previous Robson Square Column: Olympic Thrill Ride Downtown

Panasonic Olympic Pavilion and HD 3D: Media Launch

2010-02-10T13:11:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

I've been looking forward to this event for the last week: I will be checking out the media event at Panasonic's Pavilion Thursday morning, and I am quite excited about what I am going to see: FULL HD 3D!!

The pavilion is located at LiveCity Yaletown David Lam Park. Inside the pavilion: two full HD 3D theatres. This will be the first time that the technology has been screened publicly. Local industry insider Victor Lucas and soprano Sarah Brightman will be in on the experience.

The pavilion opens to the public on Friday February 12, 2010

Panasonic Pavilion Webpage

I will have a full report on Panasonic tomorrow!

Two Olympic Shopping Quick Tips...

2010-02-10T01:33:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Okay, I 've got a shopping theme going on here this week: the Holt Renfrew Windows Displays, my Olympic Inspired Valentine gift ideas (click here for the column), the new sports shop at International Village. I've got to get this stuff out of my system so I can get back to writing about hockey!!!

Visa ONLY!!

If you are not aware, Olympic venues, including the Olympic Superstore at The Bay downtown only accept Visa Cards and cash. Nothing else. I did a little research on pre paid Visa gift cards, and the version available with Vancity is the best deal. The fee is only $2.00, and the card expires after one year. No monthly charge. Easy to check online balance will help you keep track of your Olympic Mad Money Spending!

https://www.vancity.com/VISA/VisaCards/

Let Your Phone Guide You...

Here's a handy bit of information that will assist Olympic visitors with shopping in Vancouver during the Winter Games and beyond. Chicwalks.com has launched a Shopping in Vancouver App for smartphones available for free at ITunes (except on Fridays it will cost a charitable donation of .99 cents) The shopping app is available for SmartPhones including Blackberry, Samsung, Google Phones & iPhones. Just open your browser in your phone, and type in the URL: www.bit.ly/chicwalks. To learn more, check out Chicwalks.com

More new posts below...

2010 and High Heels Tuesday Photo: Sunny Day, Torch Relay New Westminster

2010-02-09T22:09:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

photo: Lisa Ovens
What a great day for a Torch Relay! I had my first live moment with the burning flame and here is my photo. It was a beautiful late morning/ afternoon at the New Westminster Quay. Saw so many faces, all ages, and plenty of pups on leashes. School children singing O'Canada, with some singing into their paper torch souvenirs then prentending it was a bugle. I thought about all the towns the flame visited since Oct.30th 2009 and how we are all celebrating this together.

The sun was warm and perfect for a paddle boat ride down the Fraser River. We waved as the torch crew, with the torch bearer and flame on the bow, headed off to Queensburough Landing.

me!

About New Westminster...

2010-02-09T22:02:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

I was born in New Westminster so seeing the Olympic Flame here was a must. My mom Stella lived here when she passed away in July. This is my first Olympics with her as my heavenly angel. She was a terrific sports fan, and I hope she was watching the running of the torch with me.

New Westminster is the oldest city in Western Canada (1859), and the first capital of British Columbia. Nicknamed the Royal City, there is definitely a little tast of Britian here. And what apears to be a thriving wedding industry as well. But first the Brits.

A few weeks ago I pointed out a fish and chip place in Steveston, and today I will point out a fab place for battered cod and halibut: The Cockney Kings. After spending the day at the Surrey Olympic Celebration site you might consider a casual lunch or dinner of delicious F&C on your way back to the city. Get off the train at New West train station and walk about three minutes to the new plaza where the Kings have moved. (right by the IGA Plaza at Tenth.) Click here for reviews.

Historic Columbia Street is home to numerous bridal shops, tuxedo stores and other wedding related boutiques. Check out this display which is in the spirit of Canada hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics....It's like a Go Canada GO cheer...if the cheer was a bridesmaid dress.

The rest of the street was also decked out in red and white, and I saw Army & Navy has a good selection of Canada gear for sale in the window. Army & Navy is a Vancouver institution (there is also one on East Hastings Street) as far as discount stores go, and their yearly shoe sale is legendary.

Columbia Street has diagonal parking...just like main streets in so many other smaller towns. It also has a good amount of old buildings, well, old by Canada standards. Remember we are only 124 years old :o)

The walk along the waterfront heading to New Westminster Quay is lovely. More new condos and trendy studio/loft- like developments are dotting the downtown/ water front core, as people look to New West as a more affordable option for home buying in the lower mainland.

Queens Park (a popular spot for weddings) hosted several thousand Olympic enthusiasts Tuesday as they welcomed the Flame to New Westminster. It's the biggest park in New West, and a really beauty, too.

For more city information, please visit http://www.newwestcity.ca/

Uncle Skeppy's Torch Relay Day in Langley

2010-02-09T21:46:00.000-08:00

A selection of photos taken by My Uncle Steve (a contributor to the blogs at H&HH.com) on Monday February 8th during the Torch Relay celebration at Langley Events Centre. As you can see, people are thrilled to finally see the Torch running through Lower Mainland communities...

Thanks Uncle Skeppy!

2010 Olympic Hockey Tournaments: Get Dressed Here...

2010-02-09T00:15:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Just in time for the Olympic Hockey Tournaments: a great new sports shop has opened up only one block from Canada Hockey Place. From the Okanagan's Rockey Mountain Sports Marketing, the shop is a combination of hockey jerseys (International and NHL), hockey souvenirs, hockey art and memorabilia, and event ticket sales.

And, as of Thursday Feb. 11th, the book, Hockey and High Heels will be available in the shop!

Located in International Village, the shop is a grand, open space with a gallery-like feel and your best choice for acquiring your last minute hockey jersey and other game time accessories including hats and flags. Plus they will also be a source for 2010 Winter Olympic sporting event tickets. They are an authorized sports merchandise dealer so hockey enthusiasts can shop with confidence, knowing they will be buying authentic merchandise.

phone: 778-216-2010
location: Use the Abbott @ Keefer street entrance next to Starbucks at the
International Village Shopping Centre( 88 West Pender)

Rockey Mountain Sports Marketing is a local British Columbia business supplying autographed hockey memorabila as silent auction items for fundraising events hosted by schools, the Special Olympics, Crime Stoppers and more. Their fundraising strategies focus on support of human wellness including the environment, youth and community crime prevention.

To learn more about Rockey Mountain including the hockey stars and celebrities they work with, please visit http://www.rockymountainsports.ca/

Holt Renfrew 2010 Winter Games Window Displays

2010-02-08T00:58:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

I quite enjoyed gazing at the window displays at Holt Renfrew on the corner of Dunsmiur and Granville Street. Here are just two of the displays to see...

Ski Jump Girl? I am not sure if this display is a passive nod to female ski jumpers, but it looks that way to me. As a woman, it's tough to watch other women fight for something and then lose the battle. The female ski jumpers are looking ahead to Sochi 2014 and they should make note of the quote below, and remind the speaker when necessary...

“The IOC has indicated that there is a possibility that they could compete in the 2014 games. We will continue to do everything we can to help these athletes achieve inclusion in future games.” - John Furlong, chief executive of the Vancouver organizing committee click here for the full article

...and then remember this quote when the going gets tough...

"In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity." - Albert Einstein

Now this one is glitzy. There might be some women out there offended by the sight of pink skates and the obvious femininity. It could be a lot worse ladies: it could have been male mannequins in the pink skates and not a woman in sight.

This coming from a woman who wrote a book titled Hockey & High Heels...

PS...I'm only 5' 2" :o)

Holt Renfrew Vancouver website

2010 Pretty Things: Olympic Inspired Valentine's Day Gifts

2010-02-07T19:36:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Okay boys, you have one week to complete your Vanlentine's Day shopping. If you are still wondering what to give your sweetheart, well, Lisa's here to help you out.

Vasanti limited addition "Go Canada!" Make Up Palette

The colors are great for any time, and anybody: Gold, Silver, Bronze eye shadows, plus a Canada inspired RED lip and cheek tint and a shimmery WHITE highlighter.

Available locally in Vancouver at Rexall Drugs, Royal Centre (1055 Georgia St.) and International Village (Abbott st. and Keefer...only one block from Canada Hockey Place and the pavilions at Concord Place)

Vasanti Cosmetics Website

Hockey and High Heels and Sexy Lingerie

Get cozy with your sweetheart and...read to her from the critically acclaimed hockey book for female hockey fans, Hockey & High Heels by Lisa Ovens. A limited quantity of autographed books await you at Scarlet Lingerie Boutique.

Compliment the H&HH Book gift with something pretty and sexy. Scarlet Lingerie offers a beautiful selection of panties bras, corsettes, teddies and sexy robes. Choose from Betsy Johnson, Boudoir by Elle MacPherson , Hanky Panky, Malazia by La Perla and more.

Scarlet has a special for those with Media Accreditation: 15 % off your instore purchases.

CONTEST ALERT: Scarlet Lingerie invited you to enter to win an 18K gold YVA valued at $1,599!! Contest details are available on their home page. Deadline for entries: February 28th,2010

Scarlet Lingerie 460 Granville Street, next to Birk's and one block from the Canadian Mint Pavilion (between Hastings and Pender)

Scarlet Lingerie Boutique Website

Heart Shaped Evening Bag from Aldo

This is adorable: not only is it a divine little purse, it could also be used as a gift box for a smaller gift...you know something like diamonds, a Quatchi Collector Pin, rubies, or tickets to an Olympic Gold Medal Hockey Game...things I'd like to find in there...if a sweetheart were to surprise me on Valentine's Day!

Aldo Accessories Pacific Centre Mall and Richmond Centre

Aldo Shoes Website

Lisa's Olympic Countdown Day Six: The Quiet Corner

2010-02-06T23:45:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Everywhere I went today it was busy. The train was full, many downtown streets were crowded. I really could tell Vancouver's temporary population has exploded. Except here: the corner of Pender and Granville. This was a quiet corner, and I had a nice peaceful moment wondering about what treasures we'll see at the Royal Canadian Mint's Pavilion.

The Athlete medals will be on display, and Mint visitors will see how they are made. Visitors will also be able to make their own souvenir coin at the "Strike Your Own Token" zone. Then there is the Gold Room: the place to see the Million Dollar Coin, and then hold a 400 oz gold bar in your hand. And somehow you'll magically wind up in the Mint gift shop and spend money...on money.

The RC Mint Pavilion is THE place for money enthusiasts! Opens February 12th, 2010

After that I hopped on the train. I overheard what I can only describe as a pissing contest between two blue clad 2010 Olympic volunteers...

"What did you get?"
"I'm on the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. You? "
"Curling Centre. What kind of car are you driving?"
"Oh, I've driven three different ones this week - it's been great. How about you?"
" A Yukon."
"Oh."

Lisa's Olympic Countdown Day Seven: About Vancouver's Mood...

2010-02-05T23:00:00.000-08:00

composite photo by Uncle Skeppy

by Lisa Ovens

Day seven had me reflecting on the brief interview I did with NBC London on Thursday. The reporter asked several questions about the mood in Vancouver and if there was excitement felt by the locals for the Olympics. I have read articles from out of town media outlets suggesting we are not excited about the Olympics. I get the feeling many Vancouverites might not even be aware of the world’s interest in our mood. Journalists want to know how we feel, people! I do think our actions and reactions could be misunderstood though.

Tourists in the city are business as usual for us. Perhaps we aren’t feeling anything extra special on that front because we are accustomed to welcoming the world. Vancouver has been a popular vacation destination for many years. Granted this time there will be more tourists here, and over a shorter period of time than say Alaskan Cruise ship season.

I have said this before and I will say it again: We are a last minute kind of city and maybe the rain has something to do with that. Everyone seems to be doing their thing and when it’s time to go, then that’s the time to go. Its like, we know the games start next Friday so we’ll see you next Friday, kay?

However, at times we are like a city full of people who leave their schedule open just in case other things come up. We have so many great outdoor places to hang out here, that we’ll just decide to stay there and skip whatever it is we thought we might do later. A photographer I know showed up at my book launch an hour late because the sun came out, a phone call came in and voila, she was out on a speed boat cruising Burrard Inlet. I totally understood: I probably would have done the same thing! There is definitely something a little non committal about Vancouver. Perhaps the media has picked up on that and perceives it as a negative.

One thing is for sure, we have joined a group of cities that have lived with the Olympics and it's seven year long pregnancy...and we are about to bring another "kid" into the world so to speak. Whatever happens..well it's our baby for now. Hey, from this point onward we can share knowing looks with residents of Salt Lake City, and not have to say a word!

So, as I “did my thing today” I noticed plenty of signs that more and more people are starting to get ready: saw plenty of Canada flags on cars, saw more Olympic inspired window displays than yesterday, talked to some people about the Torch Relay and they all were aware of when it will be in their community. And speaking of that torch...wow, we’ve waited a long time for it! Longest. Torch. Relay. Ever. Totally worth the wait :o)

On the personal front, my Olympics hair cut and highlights: done , found my perfect Winter Games hat (on sale, too!) booked another event in my calendar (Panasonic Pavilion launch event on February 11th) and determined Tuesday will be my pre-Olympic laundry day...unless something else comes up ;o)

Uncle Skeppy's Art

Pictured above: My Uncle Skeppy created a beauty: and can you see the red mittens? I know Uncle Skeppy had been quite busy completing some home improvement projects and I am thrilled he shares his Olympic Spirit through art with all of us....Thanks Uncle Skeppy!!!!
Here is an encore of one of his earlier submissions...

Lisa's Countdown to the Olympics Officially Begins

2010-02-04T23:14:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Robson and Howe: a scaffold, pylon and yellow tape zone

I haven’t had any kind of a countdown around here until now, so welcome to the Official Beginning of the 2010 and High Heels Countdown to the Winter Games.

My day began with some good news: today’s column titled Her Story: A Trio of Women Hockey Writers Discuss the Winter Olympics made it to tedstake.com! That’s right, the owner of the Washington Capitals, Ted Leonsis provided his readers with a link to 2010 and High Heels along with his comment “...a good blog post.” tedstake.com

I headed downtown to check on the city: plenty of hubbub as crews work to finish their projects. I spent some time at Canada’s Northern House. Within a few minutes I was interviewed by NBC London. She asked me about the mood of the city, whether there was a buzz yet. I said we’re not quite there yet because Vancouver is a last minute kind of city. We’ll show up next week!

"Slap Shot Hockey" by Isaaci Itidloie of Cape Dorset, Nunavut

Canada's Northern House is filled with treasures and a must see, especially for locals. There is a contest to enter inside the house, with three amazing prizes (a gold nugget, a diamond and a beautiful tapestry)

Heading home I discovered a new donut at Tim Horton’s: “The Canada Donut” looks great, but bad for my pre Olympic health plan. Passed by the Running Room (1578 West Broadway) and noticed they have some great Olympic inspired jackets in the window. These are a great alternative to the usual suspects in Olympic street wear.

Now what does Day Eight hold in store for me?

Olympic Countdown website

Her Story: A Trio of Women Hockey Writers Discuss the Winter Olympics

2010-02-04T01:38:00.000-08:00

By Lisa Ovens

I’ve been blazing the Hockey and High Heels trail for over six years now, and on that path I have been lucky to meet some remarkable women along the way. Last week I decided to hit up three of them (all hockey writers) and ask them to share with me their thoughts and feelings about the Winter Olympics.

I would like to introduce you to Jan Snyder, Leslie Silvey and Dee Karl. These three women have also been blazing their own trails covering NHL hockey in their markets. And at times, they've helped fill the gap when local sports media wasn’t giving hockey the attention it deserves.

Jan Snyder...Many of you may already be familiar with Jan Snyder. Jan has been an important contributor to Lisa’s Lounge at Hockeyandhighheels.com since 2006. She has written for numerous publications in Pittsburgh and Houston where she currently resides. Jan’s work on a hockey lifestyle piece for h&hh.com received national attention on Fox Sports during a Penguins broadcast. She has interviewed hockey celebrities including HNIC’s Scott Morrison, NHL referee Kevin Pollock, and long time AHL, WHL and NHL hockey coach, Kevin Constantine.

Jan Snyder puts it all into perspective...

Hi Lisa, First, I have to say that I’m delighted to be included with all of the other female hockey writers! Very nice company to be keeping. Here are the answers to your questions:

1. How do you watch Olympic hockey, do you do anything special?

I can’t say that I do anything special during the games, other than be constantly amazed at how players who are bitter rivals on their NHL teams suddenly bond with countrymen to produce fantastic hockey games. After the games end, I need Kleenex – I’m a sucker for anthems – any country, even if I don’t know where it is, when I hear that anthem, it gets to me and I cry. But when it’s USA that has won a medal, the tears are more tears of joy and my heart bursts with pride at the accomplishments of our dedicated athletes.

2. Do you have a fave Olympic Hockey Moment?

“And I’m proud to be an American….” Of course, my fave Olympic moment was the 1980 USA Miracle Team. The movie portrayed the whole story so well. If you lived through it, you remember the politics and how the Big Red Machine stood for more than just a hockey team. But beyond that, I wasn’t a hockey fan at the time. That Olympic tournament turned me into a fan of the game I love today. The speed, heart and determination of all the players were amazing and left me wanting for more after the Olympics ended. I went to my first Penguin game shortly thereafter. I just about had my pick of any seat in Mellon Arena because the Pens were “cellar dwellers” back then and nobody was going to the games. Watching games in person was even better than the Olympics! I was hooked, no doubt. In a moment of wonderful serendipity, the Pens drafted the Big French Canadian, #66, Mario Lemieux, in 1984 – and the rest, as they say, is history. Now he is the owner, the savior, the everything to Pittsburgh Penguin hockey. And he’s the reason my cat is named Mario LaMew.

3. What is your fave non hockey winter Olympic sport?

Because I like Winter Olympics better than Summer Olympics, I have two other favorites. I love to watch the luge competition! Oh, what fun that must be to fly through that tunneled course at such high rates of speed. I’d love to try it once. I guess it goes back to childhood when we had plenty of snow-covered hills for sledding in Pittsburgh. Three of us would pile on a sled and fly down the hill, laughing all the way. My second favorite is the ski jump competition. I think that must be the closest thing to flying that we have as humans. I wouldn’t even have the guts to climb to the top of the jump, let alone travel down so far suspended in the air! The skiers make it look so easy and they are so graceful. I envy them, but I don’t want to even try that sport.

Good luck to all the USA athletes and the Canadian athletes. I’m afraid the whole event will go by so fast – let’s all enjoy.

Jan Snyder's latest column, Breakfast With Champions will get you in the mood for everything Olympics. To read please visit Lisa's Lounge by clicking here: Breakfast With Champions

Twitter: @pensjan
Blog: Lisa's Hockey Lounge

Leslie Silvey’s hockey blog caught the attention of Washington Capital’s owner Ted Leonsis, and it wasn't long before Leslie became more involved with covering the team and rising star, Alexander Ovechkin. Last year the Capitals launched Club Scarlet, the first NHL team website spin off dedicated to producing content with the female fan in mind, and Leslie has been a featured blogger there ever since. When she’s not working at her day job in marketing or driving one of her twins to or from travel hockey practices or games, Leslie shares her passion for the Washington Capitals and the great game of hockey on Musings of a Hockey Mom and Scarlet Caps.com.

Leslie Silvey...Hockey Mom Counts Down to the 2010 Winter Olympics

When Lisa Ovens asked me to weigh in on the upcoming Winter Olympics in Vancouver, I was more than thrilled to share my excitement! I am also looking forward to keeping up with all the Olympic hockey happenings as Lisa reports all the historic action as only she can when the global games come to her hometown.

How do you watch Olympic hockey?

To be honest, I just caught the hockey fever a few years ago, so we don’t really have any traditions established (yet). As my beloved Washington Capitals have five players (Alexander Ovechkin, Alexander Semin, Semyon Varlamov, Tomas Fleischmann and Nicklas Backstrom) playing for their respective countries, we will all be wearing Capitals red when watching Olympic hockey to symbolize our support for all of our players. I also plan to have several cowbells on hand as we cheer on our teams, as the cowbell has become a huge fan accessory at Capitals’ home games. And of course, lots of hot chocolate with marshmallows and whipped cream…just because.

We are already counting down to the opening ceremony, which happens to take place on my twin boys’ 14th birthday. So we’ll be having a big party to celebrate both momentous occasions!

Do you have a favorite Olympic hockey moment?

As I always tend to root for the underdog, of course I have to say “Miracle on Ice.” We’ll probably never see anything like that again in our lifetime!

What is your favorite non-hockey Winter Olympic sport?

I absolutely love the figure skating! I spend lots of time at the rink and get to see figure skaters practice in the wee hours of the morning – the hard work and athleticism that goes into making it all look so effortless is nothing short of amazing. And my boys have really gotten me into snowboarding - I am a huge fan of USA snowboarder, Sean White. Now I am the worst skier in the history of snow-making, so I am in complete awe of those guys and gals soaring through the air while doing triple flips and landing on a dime!

But I really can’t wait to see the incredible lineup of the best hockey players in the world show their stuff on the global stage.

Twitter: @hockeymomva
Blog: Musings of a Hockey mom
website: scarletcaps.com

Dee Karl

Then there is Dee Karl on Long Island, New York. Dee’s passion for Islander’s hockey attracted a following with her blog, the Seventh Woman. Eventually she earned a spot in the press box at Nassau Veteran's Memorial Coliseum, home of the New York Islanders. Recently Dee went on her first road trip with the team to cover a game with the Philadelphia Flyers (her tweets enroute were hilarious!). Dee is also a New York Islanders beat writer at hockeybuzz.com.

Dee Karl says...

Olympics? That wonderful bi-annual time when the whole world comes together under the guise of sportsmanship. The pageantry, the drama, the peek into a country I know I will never see. The heartwarming stories of young athletes and their road to international competition as presented by one of the major TV networks. I’ve been hooked since I was a kid.

As a hockey fan, the summer Olympics never really excited me. I do watch, perhaps half-heartedly. But that 4th year, when the Winter Olympics roll around is when I really get excited. It doesn’t matter if the coverage is not live because of time zone. I don’t even care if I actually already know who won the medals because of it. I still watch in wonder.

I also use the broadcasts as an excuse to blend my love of the games with my love of -- believe it or not -- food. Yep. What an excuse to go searching for recipes indigenous to the host country to serve while I’m also watching the downhill skiing, snowboarding or the elegant figure skating competitions.

I actually catered an Olympic dinner party years ago complete with items from various countries and fake gold medals while the guests entertained themselves with bizarre cocktail games. Sadly, I couldn’t bring an Olympic torch to use to heat anything due to fire code restrictions. (It really would have made a perfect Fondue sterno.) One year, when my daughter was much younger, we had a calendar that listed all the Olympic events!

twitter: @7thwoman
Blog: 7th Woman
Website: Dee Karl on Hockeybuzz.com

I'd Like to thank Jan, Leslie and Dee for sharing their Winter Olympic stories with me, and with all of you. Ladies, I wish you all could be here in Vancouver with me during the Olympics. Now wouldn't that be a story? There's always Sochi 2014...

2010 and High Heels Tuesday Photo: Olympic Window Shppping

2010-02-02T23:20:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Glass Inuksuit (pl.) through the glass. photo: Lisa Ovens

If you are in Vancouver, and you see lots of these in window displays, one after another, chances are good you are in Gastown.

Historically, the Inukshuk was like a tool of communication: sometimes it meant "Someone was here". Suppose you were walking in the northern wilderness hundreds and hundreds of years ago, and you came across stones stacked in the form of a human. You'd instantly know some dude was there before you, and it could also mean you are heading in the right direction. You'd think" cool...I'm almost there!" Or perhaps you came across another one, but slightly different. From the sight of that one you might say "Awesome, there is fish near here and I am hungry."

The 2010 Winter Olympics Inukshuk means welcome and friendship for visitors from all over the world.

I think the ones in the Tuesday Photo mean "We are ready to stand on your credenza and remind you of all that was special on your Olympic journey."

Venue City: West Vancouver, Freestyle Skiing and Snowboarding

2010-02-02T00:03:00.000-08:00

Olympic Mascots ride the escalator in Park Royal

by Lisa Ovens

Since everyone's been talking about the lack of snow on Cypress Mountain, home of the Freestyle Skiing and Snowbaording events, I figured I'd head down the mountain to sea level and take a look at the North Shore's biggest Olympic Party, Park Royal's Winter Carnival.

The website is calling it "A Magical Outdoor Ice Skating Experience For All". From February 12th to 28th, Winter Carnival visitors can glide along an outdoor ice-skating canal. The canal will be about 6000 square feet and is "entirely synthetic." It's located at the Village of Park Royal Shopping Centre and will be free for skaters from noon until 10pm every day. There will be a limited number of skates to rent, and if you are bringing your own pair, here is a tip from the website:
- Your skates need to be super-sharp – the nature of the surface dictates that all skates be sharpened after only an hour and a half of skating. But don’t worry, we will have a skate sharpening service on hand and you can get yours sharpened for only $2.

- No hockey sticks please

- Helmets are recommended but not mandatory
- ALL skaters need to sign a waiver before they get on the – just go to our Skate Centre and sign in. Please note: Those under the age of 19 need to get their parent or guardian’s signature.

And then there is the Beverage Tent; can't forget about that! Wine, beer and other drinks will be available from 4pm to 10pm nightly. For a complete list of entertainers performing at the Winter Carnival please visit the webpage here on Park Royal's website
For the Village shopping and restaurant directory please click here.

Park Royal shopping Centre was the first covered mall in Canada. it opened in 1950. Above photo shows the Main Street of the Village during a hot rod event. photos from Park Royal's facebook page.

Lisa's West Vancouver...

Many moons ago I used to work at the north side of Park Royal Shopping Centre. And a few moon's before that I used to hang out at "Cypress Beach". With all the warm weather talk concerning the mountain and its Olympic events I was reminded of the springtime, and sunny days on Cypress Mountain. Digging a big fox hole in the snow with my friends, chucking in some lounge chairs, tanning lotion, snacks and stashing copious amounts of canned beverages in the snow. Nothing more fun than partying wearing big snow boots and bikinis!

Cypress Mountain: currently the most famous hill in the world
Here's a shot, not a very good shot of Cypress Bowl taken from Iona Beach Reginal Park, a park located next to the airport. I was walking on the breakwater and took the picture. The breakwater path has you walking straight out on the Pacific Ocean. It's long walk (over 3km's one way) and not much to see at the end other than the view of the long walk back.

If Lisa Ovens was "hiring" the Club Bud Party Crashers...

2010-02-01T01:32:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Before I get to my picks for the best party crashers I should announce...Party Crashers of BC...the search is still on! There is still time to apply to win an opportunity to crash some pretty cool parties hosted by Budweiser during the 2010 Winter Games. Club Bud's headquarters will be the Commodore Ballroom and two lucky party crashers will go behind the scenes and report live from at least two events. Visit Club Bud's facebook page to apply, and do it by February 3rd. (If'd you like to read my take on the Commodore Ballroom please visit my first article on Club Bud at the 2010 Winter Games )

I checked out the entries to date and I must say I am impressed. Here's my short list if I were hiring...

Party Crasher Goddess: Meghan MacLean, nickname: Golden Girl
Why I picked her? When asked to describe her typical Friday night she said " Eat chocolate covered espresso beans and run around Vancouver in a unitard." I can soooo relate to that...

Party Crasher Goddess: Jennifer Nelson, nickname: jenijealousy
Why I picked her? When asked what would you ask an elite athlete or celebrity if you met them at Club Bud? she said " Who are you listening to at this moment, fave classical composer and last book read? Jen would get some great anwers when asking those questions. Plus she actually kissed someone's ass (a radio contest) to get into an INXS event...hardcore!

Party Crasher God: Chris Walts, nickname: Cdub
Why I picked him? When asked to describe his typical Friday night he includes going to a downtown club "where I destroy the dance floor." A good crasher knows how to move it and shake it.

Party Crasher God: Chris Breikss, nickname ChrisBCunch.
Why I picked him? When asked what the craziest thing he'd ever done to get into an exclusive event he said "Joined the Liberal Party." After reading several MacGyver like feats pulled off by other applicants, I have to say Chris's answer was so unexpected and it made me laugh out loud!

Be sure to check out the other Club Bud Party Crasher applicants on Club Bud's facebook page.

Club Bud's Exclusive Party Agenda at the Commodore Ballroom...

Friday Feb. 19 Burton Party
Saturday Feb 20 NHL Party
Thursday feb. 25 Club Bud Party
Friday Feb. 26th Under Armour Party
Saturday Feb. 27th Lululemon Party

If you would like to know about the "who's who" heading to Vancouver for the 2010 Winter Olympics, check out this article for all of your celeb watching needs

BBC Sport's take on the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver

2010-01-30T17:10:00.000-08:00

By Lisa Ovens

Well I went a few hours without posting about the Olympics. This video is a breath of fresh air...enjoy!

While Watching Hockey Day in Canada...

2010-01-30T14:16:00.000-08:00

Photo by Lisa Ovens HDIC, 2006

by Lisa Ovens

I'm taking a little break from the Olympics today. Instead I'm relaxing and watching the Hockey Day in Canada coverage on CBC Sports. I am also reviewing tweets on Twitter and I noticed a journalist I follow re-tweeted a post from Vancouver Magazine's twitter page commenting on the up coming HDIC tilt between the Vancouver Canucks and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Van mag has a gimmick called the Vanagram, and this is what today's Vanagram is...

Today's Vanagram, for Canuck fans: Maple Leafs = Female Slap

Now,this is going to turn into a "Lisa's Tiny Rant": there is something wrong with this and I am going to fix it. Can you guess what's wrong with this Vanagram? It's sexist, that's what's wrong with it. If we are ever going to evolve as human's, then one particular sector, the writers of the world, have to put more effort in to their craft at times, especially when the subject is sports. And I am not talking about grammar. I am talking about the message.

Often times the worst examples of sexism come when someone is trying to be funny. If a little more thought and care went into the writing process, a writer could express humour without hurting anyone. What's happening right now with this Vanagram is people are re-tweeting it so even more people are reading this sexist comment. Plus, I am writing about it so my followers are reading it. But I am hoping people out there get what I am saying and will stop and think before taking the easy way out and resorting to the "weak female" punchline.

At this moment, as I write, a group of young, hockey playing girls at Hockey Day in Estevan are being interviewed, and we need to think of girls like these ones everytime we write about sports. We can't let them down, we can't put them down. Here is my re-write...

Today's Vanagram, for Canuck Fans: Maple Leafs = Niles Crane Slap

Who can really be hurt by that version? Niles Crane is a fictitious character not known for his brute strength. It's actually more humorous than the original Vanagram in my opinion.

If I see more examples of items in need of re-writing I will continue to add to this entry throughout the day. I need to come up with a gimmick name as well...

Cash in ICoke Points for Whistler Olympic Event Tickets

2010-01-29T14:10:00.000-08:00

Coca Cola refreshments are chillin' at the Olympic Superstore

by Lisa Ovens

Sooner or later I would talk about Coca Cola. If you have hundreds of thousands of ICoke points you can buy Ski Jump and other Nordic event tickets taking place in Whistler during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. The following is a sampling of the events listed on page seven of the Buy Stuff section at icoke.ca

Sky Jump Feb.22nd, 190,900 points

Nordic Combined - M Team Feb. 23rd, 79,540 points

Alpine Skiing - W Downhill February 17th, 204,540 points

If you don't have enough points for the tickets, icoke also are offering gift certificates redeemable at vancouver2010.com/store/ . Actually, they are called gift codes for official 2010 Winter Games memorabilia.

A ten dollar gift code costs 15,900 points

A 25 dollar gift code costs 39,850 points

Drink'em up and cash'em in!

Please note the Whistler event tickets purchased through icoke.ca to not include transportation to/ from Whistler.

Hockey and High Heels: The Commercial

2010-01-29T01:15:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

It's time to do a little plugging! I decided to make a commercial for my book Hockey & High Heels. Readers heading to Whistler during the Olympics might like to know H&HH is available there, but it's only sold at one store. You have to watch the video to find out which store (and it is the coolest store in Whistler!).

2010 Vancouver Shopping Notes

2010-01-28T18:48:00.000-08:00

Messenger bag at the Olympic Superstore

by Lisa Ovens

I had some free time to spend in downtown Vancouver today, and this is what caught my attention ...and oh, my camera died mid photo in the Ralph Lauren section at The Bay :o( The photos shown are from a previous visit...

1) Bumped into two men with arm loads of red mittens at the Olympic Superstore. When asked "whatever are you going to do with all of those red mittens, " the older man replied "Give them away. Everybody wants me to bring something back and these are cheap!" So that's why the mittens sell out so fast...they are the ultimate cheap souvenir for tourists to buy!

2) Just outside the little white Olympic Superstore fence, mixed in with the Team USA Ralph Lauren Collection you'll find a new Embroidery Counter. For about $30 you can have most any country's flag or colours sewn onto a ball cap or a toque. In fact if you are in the mood to customize, they will sew the patches onto any Olympic merchandise purchased in the Superstore...customizing costs extra of course.

3) The Team Canada hockey section is pretty small and it's tucked away in a corner of the Superstore area.

4) I'm a hat person, and the selection of Olympic hats is pretty dismal.

5) Inside Pacific Centre, Le Chateau has a little bit of Canada inspired products in stock like ear muffs, hats and pin sets.

6) After walking Pacific Centre, the Olympic Superstore inside The Bay and several blocks along Granville Steet I have to say I think I overdosed on Canada stuff today. Seriously!

Petro Kin: Set to Report from Vancouver 2010 and Other Olympic TidBits

2010-01-28T11:28:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Granville street, downtown Vancouver (it's where all the bars are)

It's a Random Happenings kind of column here today...

This is a great article introducing the three sets of families chosen to travel to Vancouver for interviews with Canadian athletes and their families during the first week of the Winter Olympics. Let's hope they get some scoops before the regular media does!
Petro Canada Family Correspondents webpage

Petro Canada's Athlete's Program is responsible for putting family members of our athletes in the stands when their loved ones are competing at the games. It was only fitting that their correspondent contest was a search for family members.

Updates from vancouver2010.com

Get a 2010 Winter Olympics Digital Souvenir!

For the first time in Olympic history, people from around the world can receive an official digital souvenir from the Opening Ceremony — and then participate in the Closing Ceremony...virtually! All you need is an e-mail address. Only available through Canada CODE: sharing our stories and images with the world.

Sign up before February 12th at Canada Code webpage

Tickets Still Available...

Buy tickets for some events, bid on tickets for other events. See what 2010 Winter Olympic Games tickets are still knocking about on vancouver2010.com's ticket webpage

And what to do when you buy them...

As I posted yesterday about some of the guidelines when attending events, vancouver2010.com are putting the word out as well. Visit the Spectator's Guide webpage for all the do's and don'ts. And be sure to read the article I posted on the subject too...mine has more humor, especially the last part!

Updates from 2010 and High Heels

Update: Belarus vs. Sweden Swag off

So far Round Three had been the closest race at the 2010 and High Heels Swag Off. Team Belarus's Ruslan Salei Fridge magnet is only 2 votes ahead of Team Sweden's Dala Horse. Voting ends tonight at midnight. Click here for the complete article on Belarus vs. Sweden Swag Off.
Cast your vote now at the top right of this page!

Lisa's 2010 Winter Olympics Calendar

Still working on the timetable. One thing is for sure; with all there is to do during the games a person's day planner can really fill up!

Torch Relay Videos: Days 64 to 77

2010-01-27T23:42:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

I enjoy these VANOC Webteam Torch Relay Videos because they are a wonderful way to see our big country: everyone is smiling, happy, and sporty. There is alway dancing, and waving and expressions of joy on the faces of young and old. I enjoy the sound bytes from the torch bearers, and what they have to say about what they are going to do, or what they've just done.

And here we are in Vancouver, waiting for that flame to arrive...

Day 64 to Day 70 video: The torch goes through what I call the mothership of my big family, my mom's hometown, Thunder Bay, Ontario and then heads into Manitoba.

Day 71 to Day 77 More Manitoba and then Saskatchewan and into Alberta...

Happy Thursday...

Canada Hockey Place and Other Olympic Venue Particulars

2010-01-27T05:22:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

photo: Lisa Ovens

Canucks season ticket holders received an informative email covering a couple of changes to expect this week as GM Place transofrms into Canada Hockey Place...

The Chevy Pickup Window, the Canucks Team Store and Gate 16 will be closed starting Thursday, January 28, re-opening in March (exact date to be confirmed). If you need to pick up tickets, purchase Canucks merchandise or require anything else related to these areas, you must stop by before the closure occurs.

If you are attending any events at Canada Hockey Place, please be advised that the only payment methods accepted during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games are cash and Visa. Your Canucks Card and other branded credit cards will not be accepted in the building during this time.

And from Vancouver2010.com, a few other bits of info for Olympic Hockey fans attending games at Canada Hockey Place...

Canada Hockey Place (GM Place) will play host to up to three games per day. On a three-game day, start times are as follows: Noon, 4pm, 9pm

Airport-style security screening stations will open to spectators two hours prior to the start of each game; businesses and residents should expect congestion and increased pedestrian activity starting at 10 a.m. in the areas surrounding Canada Hockey Place

Spectators will enter GM Place from one of two access points:

1. East of GM Place close to the Plaza of Nations
2. West of BC Place just east of Nelson Street

Spectators will exit GM Place via access points at Georgia and Dunsmuir Streets; connecting exiting crowds with the City of Vancouver’s Pedestrian Corridors at Beatty and Robson Streets (Pedestrian Corridor hours: Noon – Midnight) and public transport. end vanoc text.

After reading through the Entering the Venue page, here are some other things to think about if you have tickets and will be attending events, or "sessions" as they are described in the Ticket License Agreement...

Pick a pocket on your person, or in your purse or man purse and keep you ticket handy at all times. At any time during the "session" you could be asked to show your ticket, and if you can't produce it, you will be evicted from the venue.

Really think about what you are planning to wear to the "sessions." Will your T-shirt graphic be offending anyone? Will you be accidentally advertising Pepsi on your person? Let's say you are standing in front of the mirror... is the first accessory you notice on you a hockey stick or a hydrargyum medium arc-length iodide light? These are all spectator outfit issues that could become a headache come game time.

And what's in your bag? If you see a bottle of Tequila, a Nandos 1/4 chicken with Peri Peri sauce and some Throwing Stars left over from your last outing, now might be a good time to remove them or else "session" security will take them off you hands.

Oh, this one I love: Golf Umbrellas. Those things should be banned from everywhere but a golf course, seriously. During the last rainfall I saw an itty, bitty lady sheltering herself with one. She could have protected a family of five under there. Bravo to the Ticket License Agreement for turning the spotlight on the golf umbrella. They are just too big for our streets and our venues.

And ladies with those massive purses with shiny buckles and rivets that have been trendy for way too long, I'll see you inside because me and my small purse will be fastracked into the "espress line" at security. Toodles!
In conclusion, it might be prudent to have a look see at the Ticket License Agreement in the game guide, or visit this web page for more "session" restrictions, concerns and consequences.

Make your sessions as stress free as possible :o)

Purse photo from coach.com

Club Bud Searches and Three Beavers Quenches

2010-01-27T00:01:00.000-08:00

By Lisa Ovens

Budweiser Beer created a nice little 2010 Winter Olympics gig for itself: acting as an Official party host at the legendary Commodore Ballroom on Granville Street. "Club Bud’s" list of corporate party goers include The National Hockey league, Under Armour, Burton Snowboards, Lululemon, and of course, themselves. Five party nights promising sports stars, celebrities and keg after keg of ice cold Bud. And Club Bud wants you to crash the party!

Club Bud is searching for two official party crashers to go behind the velvet rope at a minimum of two parties and report on the action via their phones. This contest is only open to BC residents (sorry Ontario...you have to sit this one out!)

To apply for the party crasher gig, become a fan on Club Bud’s facebook page, click on “apply”, answer a few questions and you are entered in the contest. Good luck to the potential crashers.

Lisa’s Commodore Ballroom

Ah the fabulous Commodore Ballroom. I could fill a book with memories from that place. And every chapter would contain my exploits on the spring loaded dance floor. I went to punk shows, rock shows, jazz shows and some crazy Halloween parties, too. But my all time favorite show to see at the Commodore was Bootsy Collins. CAN YOU SAY FUNK??

I actually danced with Bootsy during that time in his show when he heads down into the crowd. I spun around and there he was. He grabbed me and my friend by our arms and we got the funk, baby!!

And that springloaded dance floor...you could stand perfectly still and the packed floor would do the dancing for you (but only a fool would do that). I remember the feeling of the first dance of the night: walking out, instantly feeling the floor doing it's own thing, then catching the groove and staying there forever because there was no good reason to stop (okay...eventually the call of a beer would grow louder and louder).

It's been a few years since I've walked up the stairs into the Commodore, and if I am not mistaken, that amazing dance floor was removed during renovations ( a major fire hazaard). If I am right, then when that floor was removed, a little part of Vancouver died with it. Maybe that's how the "No Fun City" nickname got a foothold on this town.

Three Beaver Quenches

And Finally, onto the beavers because the one thing this country needs more of is beaver stuff! Howe Sound Brewing Co of Squamish, BC has launched a new brew named Three Beavers. Like Club Bud, the beaver beer is not an official Olympic Sponsor, they just like to party like one...woot! The three beavers featured on the label even have adorable little medals hanging around their necks. Check it out here Howe Sound Brewing website. It's a red ale, complete with a dual action closure system: a pop stopper and a cap! Enjoy...

2010 Olympics Opening Ceremonies...Wanna Go?

2010-01-26T11:24:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

View of two stadiums and False Creek from Cambie Bridge

Hey, this is like another Tuesday photo. Happy Tuesday everybody! I like to call this photo "Dome and Dome's Little Brother" because Canada Hockey Place looks so tiny and child- like compared to BC Place Stadium, home of the Opening Ceremonies.

Just over two weeks away and I have heard from a few friends that have extra Olympic tickets available. Naturally I asked them if the tickets could be donated to 2010 and High Heels as a contest prize but I was turned down. I know I would love to have the opportunity to give away these to some luck loyal readers...

Opening Ceremonies: Section 253 Row J Four AISLE seats!!!

And speaking of aisle seats, another friend contacted me about these...

Men's Hockey Game: Feb. 23rd QP1 Section 111...row 2, two aisle seats!!!!

I should remind everyone with extra tickets for sale, that Vancouver can be a last minute kind of city; meaning we often don't decide we are doing something until the last minute (this is often dictated by the rain, the glorious rain).

Canada Hockey Place photo: lisa ovens

2010 and High Heels Tuesday Photo: Is that Vancouver?

2010-01-26T00:37:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

No mountains, no fir trees, no blue Pacific Ocean. Just an empty lot and a bridge. However it's the Canada Line Bridge! Heading to the Oval, the Ozone, the Airport...it's all possible with the Canada line train and this bridge. Olympic walkers and bikers might enjoy the pedestrian crossing feature.

Beware of the River Rock Casino stop just ahead...

2010 and High Heels Swag Off: Belarus vs.Sweden

2010-01-25T00:13:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

The Back Story....

2010 and High Heels Swag Off Round Three has historical significance to the hockey world at least... Remember the Quarter Final game between Sweden and Belarus during the 2002 Winter Olympic Men's Hockey Tournament in Salt Lake City? With less than three minutes left in a game tied at 3-3, Vladimir Kopat scored a crazy goal on Swede net minder Tommy Salo. In the end Belarus won 4-3, knocking Sweden out of the tournament. This was an upset indeed. It was recently selected the number one upset on the top ten hockey upsets list over the last decade by Puck Daddy at Yahoo Sports.

Quotes from the game...
"For sure, it is a miracle for us. But sometimes a gun without bullets can shoot, and that was us. We've made our place in history." Belarus goal tender Andrei Mezin
"I don't understand how we could lose against this team," Swedish captain Mats Sundin

The Swag...

Belarus Finding swag boasting the Belarus National Hockey team logo in Vancouver proved to be a challenge for me. So when the going gets tough, the tough get, um, creative!

I made my own Team Belarus hockey swag. 2010 and High Heels proudly presents the limited edition Ruslan Salei Fridge Magnet*.

Also adorn with the the Belarus Coat of Arms, this attractive Team Belarus Hockey swag item will jazz up fridges of all types and colors. (Ruslan Salei is a defenseman for the Colorado Avalanche (NHL), and Olympic Hockey veteran: Team Belarus 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010)
* only one magnet available on the planet.

Sweden Dalecarlian Horse (or Dala horse) No doubt there are plenty of Dala Horses standing at attention in display cases at hockey rinks around the world. The horse is a symbol of Sweden and the swedish province of Dalarna, but originally it was a popular wooden toy for kids.

This bad boy can be found in Burnaby, BC at the entrance to the Scandinavian Community Centre, a place that will be hopping during the 2010 Winter games. The King and Queen of Sweden, Carl XVI Gustaf and Silvia Bernadotte, will visit the centre on February 25th, 2010 for a Swedish Royal Reception.

Vote Now... Vote for your favourite swag. The poll is top right of this page.

Will this be another historically significant upset for Sweden?

Don't Talk to Jerome About Destiny...

2010-01-23T01:09:00.000-08:00

This is a great ad to view in the morning, before you leave the house to take on a big day. A big, Olympic kind of day...

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click on zamzuu for more

2010 and High Heels listed Among Top Olympic Content Sites

2010-01-22T16:13:00.000-08:00

By Lisa Ovens

Well, this was a nice surprise! Look at me...I'm cheering!!!

Vancouver View Magazine's Special Collector 2010 Olympics Issue covers many 2010 topics (for readers, local and from a far), including their top picks for online writers covering the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games.

Vancouver View's Special Collector's Edition on stands until Mar.15, 2010

Yours truly, Lisa Ovens of 2010 and High Heels and hockeyandhighheels.com made the list, and I have some pretty accomplished and cool company like Jeff Lee at the Vancouver Sun, Randy Starkman, thestar.com, and the New York Times Winter Olympics blog.

Many thanks to the Vancouver View Magazine!!

This special issue hit the stands last week, and will be out there until March 15th, so pick up your collector copy before they run out!!

Vancouver View Website

Publishers : Matthew Toren, Adam Toren

Hockey Night In Finland

2010-01-22T15:19:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Been receiving a few updates from my pal Michelle. She's in Finland on a hockey trip of a life time. A few things I have learned....

-Friday Night is Hockey Night in Finland
-Ball Hockey is televised there.
-On Finnish Hockey schedules, the home team is listed first, then the visiting team. That is the opposite of Canada.
-It's cold there, but a good kind of cold.

2010 and High Heels Swag Off Update

It's been a little while since the last 2010 and High Heels Swag Off so I am busy setting up a few more matches to post over the weekend. We last left off with the Finland Reindeer Hats vs. The Cheburashka Russian Doll.

Finland's reindeer Hats won by a landslide: The Cheburashka Russian doll scored only 28% of the vote!

For information about the 2010 and High Heels Swag Off click on the Round One link below...

To View details on Round One please click here

To view details on Round Two please click here

Round Three will be...Belarus vs. Sweden...stay tuned!

"I'll take Olympic things to Wear on your Neck and Chest for 200, Alex"

2010-01-21T02:21:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

The Core Fusion Lanyard from Vancouver 2010 Online store click here

You know what I'm thinking? As of February 4th or 5th, Vancouver will be the Lanyard Capital of the World. The reign won't last forever, but one would be hard pressed to come up with another location that will have more lanyards swinging, bouncing, getting tangled and then tucked inside pockets and V- neck sweaters than Vancouver will have because of the 2010 Winter Olympics.

I often wondered who invented the lanyard and why such a name was chosen to describe a necklace that conveniently holds relatively small and important documentation. So I searched and found this website:
http://lanyardsguide.com/. According to lanyardsguide.com, "lanyard is a nautical term used for holding things down on ships. In use since the 1700's, lanyards have a history of miltary use including the Napoleonic Wars."

Earlier today I saw plenty lanyards dangling around the food court at Waterfront Centre : the closest food court to the Main Broadcast Media Centre. My mission at the centre...visit the Tourism Vancouver Office to pick up my "ASK ME! Happy to Help" button.

I learned about the buttons from Andrea, a popular 2010 blogger ( http://2010vanfan.ca/) and Olympic Collector Pin enthusiast. (Andrea's blog rocks...be sure to check it out)

Local Vancouverites can wear the buttons when out and about during the Olympics as a beacon for visitors who may need "directions, advice, or just snapping a photo." I was born to wear this button, becasue I am like a tourist magnet. The buttons come in 24 different languages, so if you speak other languages, definitely pick up a button at the following places...

Tourism Vancouver – Visitor Centre (Plaza Level, 200 Burrard St.)

West End Community Centre (870 Denman St.)

Vancouver Public Library – Central Branch (350 West Georgia St.)

For more information on the Ask me buttons please visit the 2010 Host City Website.

Press Release: World's Smallest Olympic Hospitality House Lands First Sponsor

2010-01-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

For Immediate Release
Wednesday January 20, 2010

The 2010 Winter Olympic’s Smallest Hospitality House Lands First Sponsor

Vancouver Canada. Great things come in small packages. Measuring in under a foot high, Hockey and High Heels House is the smallest and most charming Hospitality House going at the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver. Named after the critically acclaimed hockey book and website, Hockey and High Heels House could possibly be the only completely mobile Olympic Hospitality House.

House Director, Lisa Ovens is pleased to announce the first sponsor, an atlas software company based in Salt Lake City, Utah. 360° World Atlas developers had been following Lisa's 2010 and High Heels blog since early October. Being Olympic Hockey enthusiasts, the software company owners jumped on board for this unusual sponsorship . " The irony that a software company that presents the vastness of the Earth is sponsoring something so small...wow! Now all I need is some tiny 360° World Atlas logos and I can start decorating!” says Ovens.

As pleased as Ovens is with her first sponsor, there is room for more. “Well, it would be nice to have a small tent as an alternative to this tiny house....that way I could actually invite people inside. How many do you think I could have in an eight foot by eight foot tent? I may have to get a velvet rope and a red carpet for the line up.” Ovens says with a wink.

At this point in time the house is so small Ovens can tote Hockey & High Heels House in her purse where ever she go during the Games. “For example, I’m booked in at the Lodge Restaurant at Holland’s Heineken House, so Olympic party goers there might get a peek at the house and maybe a free copy of my book ” Ovens added.

Some lucky Olympic enthusiasts may be in the right place at the right time to receive a complimentary copy of Hockey and High Heels. Ovens has a limited quantity of her hockey book to give away during the Games. “The book is exclusive for the events I do with hockey teams in the States, but I always planned on giving some away personally during the Winter Games.”

Ovens had planned to host a party during the Olympics, but everything had to be put on hold after her mother, Stella was diagnosed with cancer. Ovens took over a year off to help care for her mother as she fought for her life, but recently passed away. “My mom was my hockey buddy. This is my first Olympics without her, and that’s why I have to carry on with Hockey & High Heels House" says Ovens..."she was my number one supporter and she would have wanted me to keep going with my plans for the house, even if it turns out to be only eight inches high.”

Ovens has nicknamed the house Stella's House, after her late mother. Interested sponsors for Hockey and High Heels House can contact Lisa via email info@hockeyandhighheels.com.

About Hockey and High Heels

Author Lisa Ovens wrote the critically acclaimed Hockey & High Heels- A Different Kind of Hockey Book as a means to recognize and celebrate the female commitment to the game. She has been enlisted by US based hockey teams in the United States to help grow the game by hosting special events for women. Ovens has worked with the Pittsburgh Penguins, LA Kings, and Phoenix Coyotes among others. Her second hockey book is due out this fall. For book reviews and media interest please visit the official website.

website: http://www.hockeyandhighheels.com/
email:    info@hockeyandhighheels.com

About 360 Degrees World Atlas

The 360° World Atlas DVD software program is the world’s first interactive Virtual Reality atlas. One disc features over 1200 360° Virtual Tours from around the world. The easy-to-use software allows a viewer to explore the world by continent, and then zoom in by country or region. The specially designed maps are linked to Virtual Tours. One click will take you to a revolving Virtual Reality image - a 360° view of that destination. Clearly written historic and geographic information complements each tour.

360° World Atlas been featured in Air Canada’s Enroute Magazine, Discover Magazine, Popular Photography, National Geographic Adventure Magazine

website: http://360atlas.com/index.html
Salt Lake City, Utah
Email:                         service@360atlas.com
General Information: (801) 364-2642
Press Inquiries:          (801) 364-2642

About Hockey and High Heels House

House designed by Royal Canadian Academy of the Arts member artist, Robert Chaplin. It comes with its very own mortgage. Chaplin is a world reknowned Sculptor and Illustrator.

Website: Robert Chaplin's Treasury
Robert Chaplin's Publishing Website: http://www.robertchaplin.ca/pubs/brussels/

-30-

2010 Olympic Party Place: The House of Saxony

2010-01-19T22:01:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

I feel like Saxony House is a kindred spirit of mine: Saxony is a free state, just like Hockey and High Heels House is. We stand alone proudly, yet are a part of the 2010 Winter Olympic experience. That probably is the only thing Saxony House and Hockey and High Heels House have in common. They have rented the stately Tudor water front home of the Vancouver Rowing Club, where as my house, well, its only eight inches high, made of cardboard and fits in my purse.

Vancouver Rowing Club photo: torecles

It appears the Saxons might have a thing for rowing club venues: The water front venue they occupied during the 2006 Winter Games in Turin looks like it could be a rowing club (link to photo gallery here) . Go Saxons Go!

I have been to a few events at the Rowing Club in Stanley Park, and I definitely plan to visit Saxony House during the Winter Olympics. I am also a Saxon facebook fan (there are 63 of us now) and I am a fan of Wernesgrüner, a nice hoppy Pilsner and Saxony House's beer sponsor.

Saxony House at Vancouver Rowing Club, Stanley Park. Do it up like the Saxons: Saxon beer, sausages, sauerkraut, music, and entertainment!!! Winter Olympic hours: Open 12pm to 2 am

website: Saxony in Vancouver 2010

website: Vancouver Rowing Club

Finding new Friendships at the 2010 Winter Olympics

2010-01-19T14:37:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

I have received some feedback after posting my 2010 Winter Olympics Bucket List, particularily about item # 6...having an Olympic Fling. Funny, huh? The second I mention anything remotely related to cuddling at the Olympic level, people get off their butts and respond! Forget all the other cool stuff I report on! Anyway, I posted the one comment in the comment area below that was viewable for all ages. And thanks everyone for the comments and emails. They are appreciated.

Now let's look at one major opportunity the 2010 Winter Olympics can offer to the hosting citizens of Vancouver: meeting new people! You may have heard this before, but for some, the Winter Olympics is all about the joy of meeting new people. Whether you are an athlete, an employee or a fan of the Olympics, you will be meeting lots of new people. And singles in Vancouver should view this as a golden opportunity to put themselves out there in social situations surrounding the Olympics, have some fun, and enjoy the delightfully simple act of chatting with someone new.

The Olympics, and all of its stories and experiences are like the best and easiest of ice breakers for conversations. Anyone who might have had a New Year's Resolution revolving around meeting new friends or finding a new romance, Lisa's here to tell you... this is it! Forget going online looking for new friendship and love. Take your search outside and meet people face to face for a change of pace.

It doesn't have to cost you a lot of money either. The following link lists all the "free places" to be all over the lower mainland during the Winter Olympic Games. If you have a friend or family member that needs to get out more, be sure to convince them to join you on some Olympic outings. Getting out, being around groups of people in colourful places is great for the soul.

Link: Vancouver 2010 Free Event Guide

Start making some plans now, peeps!!

2010 and High Heels Tuesday Photo: The 2010 Money Photo!

2010-01-19T13:20:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

People have asked me about the title photo of my 2010 and High Heels Winter Olympics Blog, so I figured this Tuesday photo will be that one. Over a year ago, I was helping my good pal Rachel move. I spent the day cleaning up her apartment as she couldn't get the day off work. There were odds and ends left that still had to be packed up, and one of the "odds" was a big zip lock bag packed full of nickels. After we boxed up the last load and took them to her new place, Rachel gave me the bag. I was thrilled with this gesture. I told her the nickels would make an excellent prop for a photo.

One day, I decided to shoot the nickels. I loved looking at them; a big, shiny, mixure of the beaver image and the word "Canada". I dumped them out onto a dinner plate, knowing I had to add something to it. I had exactly $30 in bills in my wallet, and when I looked at the colourful money, the numbers "20" and "10" jumped out at me. Canadian currency is fun, and we have one of the 2010 Winter Olympic Sponsors, The Royal Canadian Mint to thank for that. They are responsible for the Athlete's gold, silver and bronze medals, and for placing the lovable beaver on our five cent piece.

And there you have it...the 2010 and High Heels Money Photo exposed!

Lisa Ovens' 2010 Winter Olympics Bucket List

2010-01-17T15:46:00.000-08:00

By Lisa Ovens

Back in October I began a list of things to accomplish before the 2010 Winter Olympics end. Sure the list has things like magically scoring free tickets to events like the Opening/Closing Ceremonies, the Women’s and Men’s Gold Medal Hockey Games. Some of it was more like a wish list, while other items involved some work.

After reviewing my list the other day, well, things are not going so well for my bucket list. Here’s the list....

Lisa Ovens' 2010 Winter Games Bucket List

1) Have my hockey art hanging in Molson Hockey House (click here for my art gallery)

2) Spend a day in Molson Hockey House (but get in for free)

3) Watch a Hockey game from the lux perches of the Vancouver 2010 Premier Lounge

4) Get a gig reporting from the games, in addition to my work here at 2010 and High Heels

5) Win a Trip to Vancouver for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games

6) Have an Olympic Fling with a sexy and single French Canadian man “Behind the Rings”!

7) Go To Whistler without a single ticket to an event

8) Enjoy a Cold Heineken over dinner with friends at reserved table at the Lodge Restaurant in Holland Heineken House

9) Have my very own Hockey and High Heels House

Here are the updates...

Art in Hockey House

I did try to do this, but I did not succeed. I contacted Molson Blogger/Twitter Adam Moffat and asked about displaying my work. Within seven minutes he responded, and within 30 minutes, the assistant producer from Vision Co, the Toronto based PR/ branding firm contacted me and requested to see some of my hockey art. Now, even though my art was ultimately turned down (mostly bureaucratic reasons), at least this Big Toronto Company gave a little guy like me a chance, and I am very appreciative of Vision Co for doing that.
Remember what Wayne Gretzky said...“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” I’m sure Molson Hockey House is going to look fabulous.
Be in Molson Hockey House...for free

Okay, I humored myself thinking if my Hockey Art got in, well that would be an automatic buy for me to get in...

Game at 2010 Premier Lounge

So far, I haven’t seen these expensive tickets drop down in price to $0, but here’s hoping...

Get a Gig Reporting from the Games

I tried here, too. I entered a video into a Petro Canada Family Correspondents contest, but I didn’t win. It would have been pretty cool, but I am excited for the winners and will follow them as they follow our Canadian Winter Olympic athletes. At least I still have this blog, and my beautiful followers around the world...hi beautiful followers...thanks for your support ;o)

Win a Trip to Vancouver

Now before you all say “But Lisa, you are already in Vancouver”, let explain my stance. You know that old saying “be a tourist in your own town?” Well, I’m just trying to exercise that popular expression! Weirder things have happened. Downed by the Petro Canada Contest again...winning the Petro Canada contest would have made this bucket item come true as that was part of the prize...

Olympic Fling with sexy, single, French Canadian man

Hey, can’t be the athletes in the Village getting all the action, many of us civilians are, and to put a spin on the Bode Miller quote, keen on cuddling at the "Olympic level". Now this item is cascading (just like buying Olympic tickets online) meaning Feb 12th...he’s a sexy, single French Canadian man. Feb 19th, he’s a boom microphone operator from the Mid West and his nickname is Frenchie. Feb. 28th he’s a man and hopefully has a part time job ;o)

Go To Whistler without a single event ticket

This would be fun...who doesn't love Whistler when there is a big event going on? The whole village is one big hospitality house! I was in Whistler watching the 2002 Salt Lake City Men's Gold Medal Hockey game when Team Canada won Gold. Of course this time could prove to be a logistical nightmare for me.
Here's hoping!

Reserved Table at Holland Heineken House
Done!

Hockey and High Heels House

I had this idea a few years back, have my own Hospitality House, in a white tent, and throw a super fun party! But, sadly my mom got sick and I needed to be with her as much as possible over a year’s time as she fought cancer. Recently she passed away. There was no time to plan the house. But I have a house now, however it's a little small...and its secret nickname is Stella’s House (my wonderful mom’s name). Perhaps with a little work, I can grow it bigger...

US Speed Skating Team Answer Fans' Questions

2010-01-16T22:04:00.000-08:00

By Lisa Ovens

2010 and High Heels receives almost as many visitors from the United States as it does from Canada, and yesterday I received a comment from Libby Issendorf (Libby assists the US Speedskating Team's social media campaigns) suggesting a recent video interview with several members of the US Speedskating team.

As a Winter Olympic fan without borders, I am featuring this video for our American readers, and for Speedskating fans everywhere.

The US speedsters were asked a variety of questions by speedskating fans on facebook. At about the 6:20 minute mark in the video, a few of the skaters talk about visiting Vancouver and skating at the Richmond Olymipc Oval. And wouldn't you know the topic of sea level came up! (My recent post on all things Richmond and Olympics mentions sea level.)

The US Skaters are very excited about the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, and having the opportunity to compete so close to their home country.

Official Website: USA Speedskating Team

A 2010 Winning Moment for Lisa!

2010-01-14T14:49:00.000-08:00

By Lisa Ovens

I stopped at Shoppers Drug Mart yesterday to pick up some tissue and this scatch & win card caught my attention. It just stood out like an image from Avatar. I had to buy it. Later on at home I scratched away and sure enough I won $30.00!

The BC Lottery Corporation is an Olympic sponsor and they are presenting The BCLC Winter Games Dome; a travelling, interactive experience for visitors. The Dome will be on location at the Richmond O Zone for the duration of the Winter Games.

If you want to try shooting, Biathlon style, or see what it's like to play Sledge Hockey, then you gotta do the Dome!

Click here to view an informative video on the BCLC Winter Games Dome

Richmond: 2010 Winter Olympic Venue City (Speed Skating)

2010-01-14T02:01:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Collector Pin relaxing in '55 Thunderbird convertible photo: Lisa Ovens

Late last night I saw a few TV commercials advertising the Richmond O Zone; the Olympic Fun For the Whole Family party site celebrating the Winter Games. Richmond is home to the Long Track Speed Skating Oval as well, giving Richmond its Venue City Status (I received the above Olympic pin at the Oval's Grand Opening Weekend celebration in December 2008.)

The O Zone is definitely a must see attraction for locals and visitors revelling in the Olympic games. Outdoor skating, live concerts, Ice sculpture artists including an Ice Arts competition, Holland Heineken House, the BCLC Winter Games Dome filled with interactive activity, BC Street, fireworks, an International Living Room, Torch Relay celebration (the torch hits the O Zone on February 9th), The Minoru Seniors Society Comfort Zone, food beverages and even more entertainment. The O Zone organizing committee have thought of everything and every age group when putting this project together and my hat is off to them. I have a feeling O Zone enthusiasts will need a few days to experience it all.

Here is the link to the O Zone website's programming page to learn more about everything O Zone!

Richmond Ozone

But there is more to the City of Richmond, and the following is my take:

Lisa's Richmond...

The city of Richmond is considered Vancouver’s original suburban neighborhood. And for many years, if we wanted to shop at Ikea, Richmond was the area we had to go to for our Billy shelving units, bags of tea lights and salvos of Glog.
Richmond is surrounded by a few arms of the Fraser River, and the Pacific Ocean. And where the Richmond Olympic Oval is built, well you can’t get any closer to sea level than that (How often are the Winter Olympics staged at sea level? ) Richmond is built on a river delta, so one thing you won’t find there are underground basements. The Oval is only nine miles (14 km) from Downtown Vancouver.

Richmond is home to Vancouver’s International Airport, and like a lot of Vancouverites, I view Richmond as a gateway to my travel dreams. I for one also visit Richmond just because the scenery is quite different that the rest of Vancouver. It’s a nice change of pace. Richmond is also is the sunniest place in the Lower Mainland, so this is my destination for the rays and a place to watch the sun go down long after it’s gone down elsewhere in Vancouver.

View of the Olympic Oval from the Middle Arm Trail. The Oval is the

rounded roof building on the right side of the bridge. Buildings on the

left side of the photo are part of the South Terminal at YVR

The cool thing about the location of the Olympic Oval is that it’s on a walking/ biking path that runs along the west (ocean side) of Richmond, with views of the Airport, the ocean, Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. People who have a long stop over at YVR (the airport) could easily take a short cab right to see the Oval, and then walk along the path and enjoy the views. The path leads to the historical fishing village of Steveston, a cute little place full of restaurants, treats, arts and culture. This is about a 12 km walk from the Oval, so depending on the weather in February, Olympic tourists looking for fresh air, exercise and some fish & chips might include a walking trip to Steveston in their speed skating spectating plans.

I mention fish & chips because I often have them at Pajo’s at Garry Point Park in Steveston. But not until I ride my bike to the Oval and back! I have never had a bad piece of halibut there, and some how I manage to avoid the long line ups. During the winter Pajo’s only opens when the weather is good, and like they say on their website: if it looks like a day you could enjoy eating fish and chips outside, then they will most likely be open. Another thing Pajo’s does that’s kind of cool: if it’s your birthday, your meal is free (details on their website).

Richmond Olympic Oval
Steveston official website

Pajo’s Fish & Chips

Middle Arm Trail Map
-the Olympic Speed Skating Oval is located close to the southend of the Number 2 Road Bridge (where the blue P sign is on the map. Click on map to enlarge

West Dyke Trail Map to Steveston
-wild life to see: ducks, turtles and get up close to some domesticated cattle along the trail (there is actually a cattle crossing along the trail!) Click on Map to enlarge

2010 Olympic Party : Holland Heineken House

2010-01-14T01:53:00.000-08:00

by Lisa Ovens

Less than thirty days to go, people. I have only one question...Are you ready to party at the Olympic level??? Well I am here to help. This is the first Installment of 2010 Olympic Party Places, and I am starting with one of the best, my "Go To Beer" for Global party madness....Holland Heineken House! How Ironic that my house, Hockey & High Heels House has three "H"'s...I swear this is a match made in Heaven (another H)!!!

Located at the Richmond Ozone, the legendary Holland Heineken House has taken over the Minoru Arenas to host one of the hottest Olympic party houses, and they know what they are doing, too. HHH has been doing it since 1992. If you want to dine at "The Lodge" restaurant in the House, you need to visit this website to make a reservation...I've got mine so if you want to party with "Hockey & High Heels House" let me know!

Holland Heineken House website

HHH on Richmond O Zone website

HHH actual address in Richmond
Minoru Arenas (MA)
7551 Minoru Gate
Richmond, B.C. V6Y 1R8

Check Out the HHH video...it's all there...