Stampeding to Calgary

My family and I go to the Calgary Stampede every year. While Grandpa mostly enjoys the 40-plus agricultural events, my little sister Amelia and I spend a lot of time on the midway rides. I know, you’re shocked.

This year, though, my whole family is going with a different mission: to support the city of Calgary. I don’t know about you, but when the flooding hit southern Alberta last month, I was glued to the news and my Twitter feed. We have family in Calgary, and even though they are okay, many others were not. It’s going to take some time for the city to heal.

The Stampede is a good start.

I’m shocked at the recent pictures of the Stampede grounds as Calgary prepared for the annual kick-off parade. It looks GREAT! I guess that’s a testament to the sheer number of hard-working volunteers that showed up to get The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth ready for today – day 1 of a 10-day extravaganza.

I know four concerts were cancelled because the Saddledome isn’t ready, but everything else is a go – including the midway. That’s pretty amazing.

Amelia and I are going to take some time to really explore the grounds this year. After looking at the pictures during the flood, I really want to take time to appreciate – and congratulate – all of the clean-up efforts. How about you?

I hope you have a chance to go this year. I have a feeling it’s going to be one of the most awesome Stampedes in history.

Gotta jet!

- Chase Superman Duffy

PS – The author and illustrator of the Chase Duffy adventure books are going to be at the Stampede this year to launch Tasting my Story. Head to the Ag-tivity in the City red barn tent for a chance to win a caricature drawing by illustrator James Grasdal, or visit the booth on July 10 to have your book autographed by the author, Dawn Ius. It’s going to be a lot of fun!