EDMONTON – Back in 1986, the Shaw Fire Log made its first appearance on television sets for the holiday season.
The vice president of community programming wanted to find a way to keep some content on the TV but still allow employees to take time off to be with their families on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
The Shaw Fire Log started in Edmonton but took off and spread like… well… you, know. It soon expanded to other markets.
Since then, millions of people have warmed to the crackling flames and toasty ambiance. For many, it’s become a Christmas tradition or a holiday party staple. It’s even been featured on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart in a skit with Steve Carell.
Nearly three decades later, the familiar fire log has seen a few reincarnations: high-definition, a new fire, and more recently, a Twitter account and smartphone app.
However, despite those modernizations, the foundation remains the same: a cozy fireplace and a mysterious – but constant – flannel arm that stokes the flames. In fact, it’s the same mystery man poking the fire now that has done the job for nearly 30 years.
READ MORE: The Shaw Fire Log: The mysterious hand has been stoking the fire since 1986
You can still catch all the magic on your TV on channels 222 for HD and 165 for SD. Shaw Direct customers can tune into channels 299 SD and 955 HD. But now, you can also tune in using the Shaw Fire Log app – available on iTunes and Google Play.
Every time the free app is downloaded before Jan. 8, $1 will be donated to give the gift of sport to under-resourced children through Kidsport Canada.
This year, some updates mean you can also play some interactive games, swipe away the smoke or tap to put out the sparks. “Yule love it!” the app promises.
Speaking of puns, the @ShawFireLog Twitter account was charming more than 12,200 followers as of Dec. 13.
Comments