A very hectic last few days in Vancouver.
Saturday Feb 27th Bronze medal game between Finland/Slovakia. Finland winning the bronze. Shift 4:00 to 11:00. As this was the only game that day not sure why we we had a full 8 hrs shift. Left early to do some more exploring before my shift. I ended up getting a manicure and my nails painted Smurf blue. The salon's name was called "Bling" a very trendy spot. I was again working as an usher, the section I had was quite large but after awhile you start to recognize the faces as they come and go for beer, snacks, etc.. Glad that Finland won, I made a little faux pas and starting telling a few fans that there was no medal presentation that it would only happen later, oops... then they started the presentation. When the medals are being given out it is very hard to control the crowd. Everyone is trying to get close and take pictures. What a thrill to watch the guys get their medals.
Sunday Early shift, big game day.
Left around 6:30 for a 9:00 start. Even while getting to the game you could feel the excitement. Went to Starbucks for coffee and talked to some girls who started lining up at 3:00 a.m. to get into the Molson House to watch the game. On the street not far from the rink there was a pick up game of road hockey being played: Cops vs a bunch of guys. Pretty cool to see. There was definitely excitement in the air, lots of people already in town and the line ups started. Security today was strict everyone had to go through screening and our schedules checked to make sure we were supposed to be there, then we received another sticker to put on our accreditation that said gold medal game. Only people with the stickers were allowed in the rink. It seems every volunteer showed up today as the debriefing room was packed. Way more people then they needed. We were given strick instructions on who was allowed in or not. I was posted to an outside job,manning the accessible gate, basically just opening the gate for wheel chairs, stroller,and certain VIP's. After lunch I was working the security gate but the game was well under way and not many people came late. Heather Moyse and Kaillie Humpries, came running through about 5 minutes into the second period. Stopped long enough for a picture with the medals then ran off. Around 10 minutes into the third period I desserted my post, there was no way I was going to stay outside while the big game was happening. So I quietly left for "break", most other volunteers did the same. I was lucky enough to get a spot behing the US net, in the 100's. The stands were so jammed packed we had to try to keep the aisle clear but almost impossible. The atmosphere was incredible and the fans were prepared for the game of a "lifetime". It was obviously a very "Canadian" crowd. A few notables that I was able to see; Bryan Adams, Vince Vaugh, Mike Weir, the guy from Corner gas. I actually did not see the winning goal, but it was shown over on the jumbo screen. The crowd was on their feet and cheering jumping, it was LOUD. The cheering went on for quite some time before the medal presentation. It was so exciting to be in the stands, cheering for Crosby and Loungo and the rest of the team. The team was on the same side as I was standing so it was hard to get a good view of the medal presentation but I was able to see the last few players get the gold, which included Sidney Crosby. I keep saying it over and over but one more time: It was so awesome to be there the atmosphere was amazing and no one wanted to leave. People were hugging high fiving, just a massive celebration. Finally people started to leave and I was helping to direct traffic outside, either people were heading downtown or to the closing ceremonies. Like magic the sun game out and the party started. The line up for people to get to the closing ceremonies was endless, I thought it would never end but again security was tight and there was only one entry so approx 50,000 or so had to pass through. I wish I had tickets to the closing but that was another hot ticket item that I could not afford. Once the crowd cleared I headed downtown, (said I wouldn't go, but it was impossible not to get caught up in the excitement). The crowd and noise level again mind boggling. When did the practice of these cow bells become popular? The crowds were everywhere, roof tops, patios, singing of "oh Canada etc. The crowd just kept getting bigger and bigger...and louder and louder. The party had begun, It was amazing to be part of the crowd. It took about an hour to get to the Skytrain as the crowds were so big and even walking was difficult, you just sort of moved with crowd. As the crowd got bigger so did the police presence. They were trying to control the crowd with mega phones, but you couldn't even hear them. For the most part they just kept an eye on things and tried to keep things moving. Once at the station they wer checking drinks and bags for people coming into the city.. All in all a very peaceful and friendly party. Definitely a once in a life time experience and I was happy to be part of it.
Up Early on Sunday morning for a noon flight home. Was hearing all sorts of stories how crowded the airport would be. Took the Skytrain one last time. It was a beautiful sunny morning, one last look at the mountains and the beautiful cherry blossoms already in bloom. Once at the airport sailed right through security no line ups at all. This gave me plenty of time to have breakfast. At the airport Jon Montgomery was leaving for a flight to Calgary, what a nice guy. He took time to have his picture taken and shake hands with everyone. A pretty cool guy. Also saw Patrick Chan who did the same. Even at the airport the mood was exciting and everyone wanted to talk about their Olympic experience. Long day as the flight had stops in Regina and Winnipeg. Sat with another volunteer until Winnipeg,and talked all the way about our experience. Arrived home about midnight.
Glad to see Jim and be back home.
This was a great experience and I was so proud to be a small part of the Olympic team. The pride that we showed as Canadians was amazing. Another great part of this adventure was going out to BC and being immersed in that life style even for a short while. A very unique and beautiful place. Thanks so much to Susan, Robert and Matthew for their hospitality who helped in making this once in a life time a reality.
All in all a great time and now I have to get back to my "real life".
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
WOW, just a great day yesterday. The downtown area is so exciting right now as the Olympics gear down. The crowds are huge, but depending on the time you can still visit certain pavilions. I was lucky enough yesterday to watch the entire game, Canada Vs Slovakia. There is always such rowdy crowds for the men's games tonight was no exception. I was "working" at section 110, a little to the right of the net. Great spot and most fans stayed in their seats during the game so I was able to watch most of the game, talk about a nerve racking last 5 minutes. The shouts of USA were a little premature. It all worked out and the show down is Sunday vs USA. The noise level inside is so loud when any team scores, but when Canada scores forget it!! It was so amazing to be able to watch the game. The only incident was a couple of drunk guys who were annoying the lady in front of them and I just called security and they kept an eye on them. I did not venture downtown after the game,but stayed closer to CHP. I can only imagine what it was like dtown, as the crowds were pretty lively were I was.
I went to the Ontario Pavilion, they had a 4D movie (6 minutes) showcasing the province, it was very well done and the effects were too cool!
The volunteers are now winding down as for many last night was their last shift, so there were good byes and email addresses exchanged. I was working with Lorraine and it was her last night and she was very glad that her last shift was such a great job! When our section left last night there were lots of high 5's and a hug from a Don Cherry look alike. Don and his friends sat in our section, their tickets were not for this section but asked if they could sit there. It was fine as long as the ticket holders didn't show up. There were a few empty seats in this section and at our discretion we let a few people sit there. The rumour is that the seats belonged to some Russian fans but they were so upset just headed back to Russia.(apparently poor losers). Another rumor is that the president of Russia also headed back and will not be present to receive the Olympic flag on Sunday, but will send a delegate. Also talked to one of the performers in the closing ceremonies, another great show is planned. I asked if he could get me a ticket but no luck, I will try on Sunday after the game. I do not want to go downtown after Sunday's game, either I will go to the closing or head home and watch on TV. Weather we win or loose the crowds will be crazy, I heard a young adult at the bus stop talking and saying that if Canada does not win be prepared for riots. The police presence will be so strong I am sure it will be kept in control.
Question: Why would a grown man paint a red maple leaf on his bare chest, walk around drinking beer and yelling and think he is cool? Boggles the mind! he was the obnoxious guy in our section last night.
I never knew what a big deal pin trading was. I have given out most of the Brockville pins I have but not worth anything on the Pin Market, (I know that is shocking to hear). Pin trading is serious business, there are vendors set up all over the place and the occasional rogue trader on the street alone. I have a few pins and made the odd trade, but not like the serious trader.
Two more games to go.
I went to the Ontario Pavilion, they had a 4D movie (6 minutes) showcasing the province, it was very well done and the effects were too cool!
The volunteers are now winding down as for many last night was their last shift, so there were good byes and email addresses exchanged. I was working with Lorraine and it was her last night and she was very glad that her last shift was such a great job! When our section left last night there were lots of high 5's and a hug from a Don Cherry look alike. Don and his friends sat in our section, their tickets were not for this section but asked if they could sit there. It was fine as long as the ticket holders didn't show up. There were a few empty seats in this section and at our discretion we let a few people sit there. The rumour is that the seats belonged to some Russian fans but they were so upset just headed back to Russia.(apparently poor losers). Another rumor is that the president of Russia also headed back and will not be present to receive the Olympic flag on Sunday, but will send a delegate. Also talked to one of the performers in the closing ceremonies, another great show is planned. I asked if he could get me a ticket but no luck, I will try on Sunday after the game. I do not want to go downtown after Sunday's game, either I will go to the closing or head home and watch on TV. Weather we win or loose the crowds will be crazy, I heard a young adult at the bus stop talking and saying that if Canada does not win be prepared for riots. The police presence will be so strong I am sure it will be kept in control.
Question: Why would a grown man paint a red maple leaf on his bare chest, walk around drinking beer and yelling and think he is cool? Boggles the mind! he was the obnoxious guy in our section last night.
I never knew what a big deal pin trading was. I have given out most of the Brockville pins I have but not worth anything on the Pin Market, (I know that is shocking to hear). Pin trading is serious business, there are vendors set up all over the place and the occasional rogue trader on the street alone. I have a few pins and made the odd trade, but not like the serious trader.
Two more games to go.
Friday, February 26, 2010
It is hard to keep track of what day it is...I am on the home stretch now. Three more shifts before heading home on Monday morning.
Last night the women's' gold medal game. What a difference in the crowd compared to the men's. The game was on Thursday afternoon (western time) a much calmer group than the men's' evening game the night before. Fans coming in the gate did not have the same rowdy spirit as the men's but once the game started they made up for it. I did not see most of the game but was able to catch the last few minutes and the medal presentation. Is is such an emotional feeling watching these very talented women receive their gold medals. You also feel for the US team lots of hard work etc...silver isn't bad though. The pressure on the men's team is incredible. tonight is another must win game. I actually work 9 hours tonight, that should be fun? There was a big crowd also on hand for the victory ceremonies, Burton Cummings (Burt as he is called here) was the headliner. Not sure who is playing tonight but I am working anyway.
The staff of VANOC have been so nice to the volunteers. There has been allot of grumbling at the way things were organized for the shift scheduling etc..quite a few people have dropped out, rumour has it that it was about 40%. So for the ones that are left they are trying to make sure that things are fair and that we are treated properly. Every third shift you get a small token of appreciation, last night we had our own medal ceremonies and everyone was given a medal. Then on the last shift we all receive a watch. I have had a great experience and like any business there was room for improvement and we wonder if some people just volunteered just to see the games. When I volunteered I was prepared to take on any role that was offered and luckily my roles have been varied. Hoping that my last few shifts see me inside the arena. There are always people who know how to work the system, and it is disappointing to the ones that have come here with the best intention and for all the organizers.
One of the best experience here is the friendliness of everyone. (almost everyone). No matter where I am, bus, skytrain, walking, working etc. people always smile and say hi. The number of people that have thanked me for volunteering is amazing and when they find out that I am from the East it is like wow, so appreciative.
I also have the transit system down pat. When I first got here I carefully wrote down detail instructions, now it is like okay take the 345 to King George etc..however I still get lost in CHP place, the other night after returning a wheel chair to the first aid station I got lost and went out the wrong door and set off an alarm. OOPS. Of course they let me back in but a pretty embarrassing time.
Last night went to Robson Square, it is a very lively part of town, versions of O Canada breaking out all over the place, people watching Joannie on the big screens and when she got her medal lots of cheers and tears an emotional skate for sure.
Another topic of conversation is that the Russians are not liking the food here. Whatever!
Anyway it is cool and rainy here, and I am off to get may Starbucks.
Last night the women's' gold medal game. What a difference in the crowd compared to the men's. The game was on Thursday afternoon (western time) a much calmer group than the men's' evening game the night before. Fans coming in the gate did not have the same rowdy spirit as the men's but once the game started they made up for it. I did not see most of the game but was able to catch the last few minutes and the medal presentation. Is is such an emotional feeling watching these very talented women receive their gold medals. You also feel for the US team lots of hard work etc...silver isn't bad though. The pressure on the men's team is incredible. tonight is another must win game. I actually work 9 hours tonight, that should be fun? There was a big crowd also on hand for the victory ceremonies, Burton Cummings (Burt as he is called here) was the headliner. Not sure who is playing tonight but I am working anyway.
The staff of VANOC have been so nice to the volunteers. There has been allot of grumbling at the way things were organized for the shift scheduling etc..quite a few people have dropped out, rumour has it that it was about 40%. So for the ones that are left they are trying to make sure that things are fair and that we are treated properly. Every third shift you get a small token of appreciation, last night we had our own medal ceremonies and everyone was given a medal. Then on the last shift we all receive a watch. I have had a great experience and like any business there was room for improvement and we wonder if some people just volunteered just to see the games. When I volunteered I was prepared to take on any role that was offered and luckily my roles have been varied. Hoping that my last few shifts see me inside the arena. There are always people who know how to work the system, and it is disappointing to the ones that have come here with the best intention and for all the organizers.
One of the best experience here is the friendliness of everyone. (almost everyone). No matter where I am, bus, skytrain, walking, working etc. people always smile and say hi. The number of people that have thanked me for volunteering is amazing and when they find out that I am from the East it is like wow, so appreciative.
I also have the transit system down pat. When I first got here I carefully wrote down detail instructions, now it is like okay take the 345 to King George etc..however I still get lost in CHP place, the other night after returning a wheel chair to the first aid station I got lost and went out the wrong door and set off an alarm. OOPS. Of course they let me back in but a pretty embarrassing time.
Last night went to Robson Square, it is a very lively part of town, versions of O Canada breaking out all over the place, people watching Joannie on the big screens and when she got her medal lots of cheers and tears an emotional skate for sure.
Another topic of conversation is that the Russians are not liking the food here. Whatever!
Anyway it is cool and rainy here, and I am off to get may Starbucks.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
What another great day! Again I worked the midnight shift, but that is the last one, as there are no more 3 games per day. The competition is starting to get competitive also for the volunteers as more people want the primo jobs. Last night I was lucky enough to watch the 2 and 3rd period of the BIG game. The crowd in and outside is incredible at first it is a little intimating so many people,all pumped up about the game. The police presence is very strong!
The crowd is a sea of red.. The way some people come to the games is a little bit like Halloween also, very creative people cheering on their country. The chant in the crowd last night was " Whose house is it" "it's our house".
I heard allot of people saying there is "Tiger" I couldn't figure it out until I saw that it was Tiger Williams (imagine the other Tiger at the games.) I saw Scotty Bowman and there was a few people around him but Tiger was all alone. I wonder why!
Once the game was over as you start clearing the bldg for the next game, I very happy group left, lots of high fives, the occasional hug and just one big party heading downtown.
Tonight I work 1:00 - 7:30 shift so after I plan to stay out and spend some time in the city.
It is crazy how fast the time has gone!
The crowd is a sea of red.. The way some people come to the games is a little bit like Halloween also, very creative people cheering on their country. The chant in the crowd last night was " Whose house is it" "it's our house".
I heard allot of people saying there is "Tiger" I couldn't figure it out until I saw that it was Tiger Williams (imagine the other Tiger at the games.) I saw Scotty Bowman and there was a few people around him but Tiger was all alone. I wonder why!
Once the game was over as you start clearing the bldg for the next game, I very happy group left, lots of high fives, the occasional hug and just one big party heading downtown.
Tonight I work 1:00 - 7:30 shift so after I plan to stay out and spend some time in the city.
It is crazy how fast the time has gone!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
WE Want Russia, was the chant heard loudly last night at the rink, downtown, and the Sky train.
Tuesday I worked the midnight night shift, time just flew by. Game between Canada and Germany I was mostly a ticket scanner, and hand stamper for when people wanted to leave for a smoke. Very busy spot but also fun, especially when Canada is winning. There were also lots of Russians at the game, many left 10 minutes into the 3rd period. The Russians are really nice people, even though there is a strong language barrier all the ones that I have talked to are so nice, and for some reason like to hug. (could it be the Vodka) Next game Slovakia vs Norway I saw most of the game, when I say saw I mean I was in the "tunnel". You can watch the game, but you also have to pay attention to what is happening around you. But when the puck is in play you can watch.
I left after the third, game as I did not want to take a chance to miss the bus. I got home after 1:00 not to bad, but still a long day.
Another big game tonight.
Tuesday I worked the midnight night shift, time just flew by. Game between Canada and Germany I was mostly a ticket scanner, and hand stamper for when people wanted to leave for a smoke. Very busy spot but also fun, especially when Canada is winning. There were also lots of Russians at the game, many left 10 minutes into the 3rd period. The Russians are really nice people, even though there is a strong language barrier all the ones that I have talked to are so nice, and for some reason like to hug. (could it be the Vodka) Next game Slovakia vs Norway I saw most of the game, when I say saw I mean I was in the "tunnel". You can watch the game, but you also have to pay attention to what is happening around you. But when the puck is in play you can watch.
I left after the third, game as I did not want to take a chance to miss the bus. I got home after 1:00 not to bad, but still a long day.
Another big game tonight.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Tuesday Feb 23, 2010
Tonight I will be working the 4 - midnight shift. Canada is playing Germany in a must win game so it should be pretty exciting.
Not sure how I am going to like the late shift but I will let you know, I only have to work 2 nights to midnight than the next few days the hours differ every day until closing ceremonies.
What can I say about Sunday's game. There was so much excitement and noise that it was hard not to get caught up in the party! The US fans were even hoping for a victory so that there would be a big party after. This was the busiest day so far for Men's hockey as all games were important, it was also dubbed Media Sunday as the coverage for the day was incredible I worked the tents outside for most of the day, luckily the day was gorgeous. Joe Sakic came thru the tent I was working, so I had to ask Joe to empty his pockets etc.. All the guys at the tent commented on his hot wife. Wayne was there but there was such a huge crowd around him it was impossible to get near him. It was definitely a party like atmosphere while waiting for the game to start, at times you could not even hear anyone in conversation or hear the beeps from the scanners. When I did get a chance to watch the game what a view. A sea of red! The mood leaving the rink was very somber and the ride home was "ugly". There were allot of unhappy fans. Lets hope for a better result tonight.
After my shift I bought a ticket from a scalper to go to the victory ceremonies.
This was also fun, hosted by Ben Mulroney, Tamara Taggart this is a very lively and upbeat show. The gold medals are given out here and there is a live broadcast from Whistler. It is so amazing to watch the happiness in the faces of the athletes when they get their medal. After the medal there was a performance by Tropper and Lover
Boy. A pretty decent concert. Then the journey back on the Skytrain with the unhappy Canada hockey fans. Lots of blame on the goalie. There was this guy in his mid 20s alone, and seriously crying, everyone around was a little uncomfortable until we heard him on his cell saying why he was so upset" Man I lost a ounce I am so p___ off" ! Pretty strange scene to say the least.
Yesterday I had a day off so I went to Stanley Park. It was beautiful The weather was definitely spring/summer like. Walk for what seemed miles, but the scenery is incredible. People on bikes, roller blades and walking. Stopped and had a nice lunch at the Tea Room, sat overlooking the ocean and the mountains, pretty awesome. The restaurant was full of Russians I may have been the only Canadian customer. Back in the city I met and talked with Kyle Parrot (speed skater Canada) and his mother. What a great experience they were having.
If you like Sushi Vancouver is the place to be. My recognition sign for the bus stop is "Sushi and BBQ (BBQ what I do not know)all you can eat.
Off to Starbucks now for my Cafe grande in a venti cup!
The big winner of the games has got to be The Bay, Olympic Store the line ups are ridiculous still, and they are now opened 24hrs a day. I will not wait 2 hrs in line to buy then wait even more to give pay..Buy share in the Bay.
Tonight I will be working the 4 - midnight shift. Canada is playing Germany in a must win game so it should be pretty exciting.
Not sure how I am going to like the late shift but I will let you know, I only have to work 2 nights to midnight than the next few days the hours differ every day until closing ceremonies.
What can I say about Sunday's game. There was so much excitement and noise that it was hard not to get caught up in the party! The US fans were even hoping for a victory so that there would be a big party after. This was the busiest day so far for Men's hockey as all games were important, it was also dubbed Media Sunday as the coverage for the day was incredible I worked the tents outside for most of the day, luckily the day was gorgeous. Joe Sakic came thru the tent I was working, so I had to ask Joe to empty his pockets etc.. All the guys at the tent commented on his hot wife. Wayne was there but there was such a huge crowd around him it was impossible to get near him. It was definitely a party like atmosphere while waiting for the game to start, at times you could not even hear anyone in conversation or hear the beeps from the scanners. When I did get a chance to watch the game what a view. A sea of red! The mood leaving the rink was very somber and the ride home was "ugly". There were allot of unhappy fans. Lets hope for a better result tonight.
After my shift I bought a ticket from a scalper to go to the victory ceremonies.
This was also fun, hosted by Ben Mulroney, Tamara Taggart this is a very lively and upbeat show. The gold medals are given out here and there is a live broadcast from Whistler. It is so amazing to watch the happiness in the faces of the athletes when they get their medal. After the medal there was a performance by Tropper and Lover
Boy. A pretty decent concert. Then the journey back on the Skytrain with the unhappy Canada hockey fans. Lots of blame on the goalie. There was this guy in his mid 20s alone, and seriously crying, everyone around was a little uncomfortable until we heard him on his cell saying why he was so upset" Man I lost a ounce I am so p___ off" ! Pretty strange scene to say the least.
Yesterday I had a day off so I went to Stanley Park. It was beautiful The weather was definitely spring/summer like. Walk for what seemed miles, but the scenery is incredible. People on bikes, roller blades and walking. Stopped and had a nice lunch at the Tea Room, sat overlooking the ocean and the mountains, pretty awesome. The restaurant was full of Russians I may have been the only Canadian customer. Back in the city I met and talked with Kyle Parrot (speed skater Canada) and his mother. What a great experience they were having.
If you like Sushi Vancouver is the place to be. My recognition sign for the bus stop is "Sushi and BBQ (BBQ what I do not know)all you can eat.
Off to Starbucks now for my Cafe grande in a venti cup!
The big winner of the games has got to be The Bay, Olympic Store the line ups are ridiculous still, and they are now opened 24hrs a day. I will not wait 2 hrs in line to buy then wait even more to give pay..Buy share in the Bay.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Saturday Feb, 20th, 2010
What a day, not sure what the temperature was but it had to be at least 15C. Again today I had to walk a little further to catch the bus, as they were on the weekend schedule. Once I get into the City in the morning it is so nice, the city is just waking up and the view is beautiful and you can really appreciate the beauty of the river and the mountains before the huge crowds take over the city. Leaving tonight was crazy, never been in a city so busy. the Sky trains were jammed packed.
Every morning before we begin our shift we meet in the debriefing room. We get a little motivation talk from the supervisors but in a really fun way and lots of thanks from different groups. There is usually a few trivia questions and prizes for the right answers, usually a pin or sometime tickets. My job today was so much fun, I was a ticket scanner. Not as easy as it sounds when there are hundreds of anxious fans trying to get in. Once I got the hang of the scanner it went quite well, there were some that were not allowed entry, either they had the wrong tickets or they had already been scanned. Some were genuine mistakes a few others were questionable tickets. Apparently the schemers have figured a way to sell void tickets to the unsuspecting public. Vanoc has caught on to this and are waiting for the next scheme that they will come up with, they are always trying to be one step ahead but it is not always easy. Anyway the day went by so quickly, as there are 3 games most days, so it is hectic. It is really amazing to see how organized the entire process is: out with one group in with the next. Between games there are crews of people cleaning re-stocking, re programming the tickets scanners, writing, coping and delivering recaps of the games to give to all the media, preparing the ice concession stands, wash rooms cleaned and lots more. It all happens so fast but when the gates open for the next game you would never know that 16,000 or so had just left then the same thing all over for the third game.
The fans from Latvia are so much fun, two guys tried to convience me that one was a pilot and flew in on his private plane, possible but they were only having fun.
Another great part of this job is the people you meet and talk to, today I was working with a girl from Beconsfield, then later in the day you are
talking to people from Latvia and having a great laugh with them.
walked around a bit after my shift and being Saturday night and beautiful day the crowds were insane.
Tomorrow is a another busy day: Canada vs US. It is also Canada day for the volunteers, we are encouraged to wear our red mitte4ns, and there is a Canada day lunch for the workers. There will also be prizes awarded out during the day for various contests.
Look for me at the game tomorrow I am the one with the blue jacket and red mitts.
Notes; Prie of gas here $1.11
What a day, not sure what the temperature was but it had to be at least 15C. Again today I had to walk a little further to catch the bus, as they were on the weekend schedule. Once I get into the City in the morning it is so nice, the city is just waking up and the view is beautiful and you can really appreciate the beauty of the river and the mountains before the huge crowds take over the city. Leaving tonight was crazy, never been in a city so busy. the Sky trains were jammed packed.
Every morning before we begin our shift we meet in the debriefing room. We get a little motivation talk from the supervisors but in a really fun way and lots of thanks from different groups. There is usually a few trivia questions and prizes for the right answers, usually a pin or sometime tickets. My job today was so much fun, I was a ticket scanner. Not as easy as it sounds when there are hundreds of anxious fans trying to get in. Once I got the hang of the scanner it went quite well, there were some that were not allowed entry, either they had the wrong tickets or they had already been scanned. Some were genuine mistakes a few others were questionable tickets. Apparently the schemers have figured a way to sell void tickets to the unsuspecting public. Vanoc has caught on to this and are waiting for the next scheme that they will come up with, they are always trying to be one step ahead but it is not always easy. Anyway the day went by so quickly, as there are 3 games most days, so it is hectic. It is really amazing to see how organized the entire process is: out with one group in with the next. Between games there are crews of people cleaning re-stocking, re programming the tickets scanners, writing, coping and delivering recaps of the games to give to all the media, preparing the ice concession stands, wash rooms cleaned and lots more. It all happens so fast but when the gates open for the next game you would never know that 16,000 or so had just left then the same thing all over for the third game.
The fans from Latvia are so much fun, two guys tried to convience me that one was a pilot and flew in on his private plane, possible but they were only having fun.
Another great part of this job is the people you meet and talk to, today I was working with a girl from Beconsfield, then later in the day you are
talking to people from Latvia and having a great laugh with them.
walked around a bit after my shift and being Saturday night and beautiful day the crowds were insane.
Tomorrow is a another busy day: Canada vs US. It is also Canada day for the volunteers, we are encouraged to wear our red mitte4ns, and there is a Canada day lunch for the workers. There will also be prizes awarded out during the day for various contests.
Look for me at the game tomorrow I am the one with the blue jacket and red mitts.
Notes; Prie of gas here $1.11
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