It’s a waiting game in Lumby.
Voting ended Monday night and the community will now have to wait until April 2 to find out if it’s won the Kraft Hockeyville title.
“I feel optimistic. I think we did awesome,” said Angie Clowry, who has been leading the troops.
Lumby first made it into the top 10 and then was selected as one of two finalists with Saint-Isidore, Que., on Saturday night.
Voting meant people using their computers and phones non-stop.
“People right around Canada have put their lives on hold for this,” said Clowry.
“There’s a strong sense of community. It’s about the relationships we’ve had as a community with others.”
Lumby and Saint-Isidore, Que. have automatically won $100,000 each for arena upgrades by being in the final two, and the final voting Sunday and Monday determined who wins the Hockeyville title and an NHL pre-season game.
The winner of Kraft Hockeyville will be announced April 2 and there will be a live broadcast from Lumby during Hockey Night In Canada.
“We will have a tailgate party,” said Clowry.
“Everyone can bring their lawn chairs and enjoy each other’s company.”
Kevin Acton, Lumby’s mayor, has challenged his counterpart in Saint-Isidor a case of 24 beer to see who wins the competition.
“Our local brewing company, Okanagan Spring, makes a wonderful selection of beer that will surely interest you,” said Acton in a letter.
Real Turgeon, Saint-Isidore mayor, has also embraced the bet.
“It is with great pleasure that I accept your challenge for a case of beer, and with the best beer that we have with one of our local breweries in the area, Frampton Brasse,” he said.
Clowry is confident that win or lose, the Hockeyville experience will be beneficial for Lumby as there has been national exposure.
“Everyone knows where Lumby is,” she said.