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Alberta, Calgary see rise in COVID-19 cases as large events return

Alberta, Calgary see rise in COVID-19 cases as large events return


The lack of restrictions and return of large events could be behind Alberta’s latest rise in COVID-19 cases, according to a Calgary developmental biologist.


“One could map it even when you have regions with a lot of festivals, a lot of large gatherings, then the spread might be bigger,” said Gosia Gasperowicz, developmental biologist and researcher at the University of Calgary.


“For example, with Stampede, it’s not only people being at Stampede but all the parties and especially indoor parties that people have after.”


The latest COVID-19 numbers as of July 18 show the test positivity rate increasing across the province — even more so in Calgary.


Hospitalizations in Alberta are also rising.


Gasperowicz said COVID might not turn out to be a seasonal virus, like the flu, that spikes in the winter.


“That’s not what we could have predicted by seeing how it’s evolving, so we can in the future, we can see those waves of new variants several times a year,” she told CTV News.


MIXED THOUGHTS ON COVID RISK


While life continues to look more like it used to before COVID-19, some Calgarians are still worried about their risk of getting infected.


“It’s still something that’s a concern for us. That’s why we’re still wearing our masks, even if we’re outside,” Gabriel Gana said.


Dino Gana agreed, adding, “even with Stampede, there’s a lot of people outside, so I guess COVID could rise. I know some people that just got it.”


Others like Katerina Palova believe the risk is low.


“I have three vaccines, three shots, and I think the precautions are pretty good here. I think people are kind of careful as well and whoever has symptoms stays at home,” she said.


With the pandemic entering the seventh wave, some people are choosing to put their masks back on and get another booster shot — two things Gasperowicz recommends.  

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Calgary events share Indigenous culture, promote healing and reconciliation – Calgary | Globalnews.ca

Calgary events share Indigenous culture, promote healing and reconciliation - Calgary | Globalnews.ca

This week brings a new opportunity for Calgarians to connect with southern Alberta’s rich Indigenous culture.

It’s a chance for people to learn about the past and to make healing connections for the future.

It comes in the form of a series of weekly events at St. Patrick’s Island.

The free events will feature Indigenous knowledge-keepers sharing traditional stories, as well as drumming and singing.

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Among those leading the gatherings is Clarence Wolf Leg Jr., a member of the Siksika Nation.

“I’m a Blackfoot powwow singer — I’ve been doing this for about 30 years,” Wolf Leg Jr. said. “I’m just creating some positive energy.”

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The events are being organized by Tarra Wright-Many Chief, whose company Many Chief Tours offers Indigenous-themed walking tours of St. Patrick’s Island.

Wright-Many Chief says, the purpose of free events is “to teach people about the history of the Blackfoot people and our connection to this area.”

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Calgary woman offers Indigenous history tours: ‘I love that it’s something I can share’

St. Patrick’s Island is in the Bow River, directly across from the place the Elbow River flows into it.

“[It is] close to the confluence of the two rivers, which is a sacred site for the Blackfoot people — people would come here to do ceremonies,” Wright-Many Chief said.  “And so it makes sense for us to come here and start creating space for Indigenous stories and knowledge to be shared — where it was traditionally shared thousands of years ago.”

Everyone is invited to attend the events, which run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on six consecutive Fridays from July 22 to August 26.

“We’ll be providing some good vibes, and that’s what the powwow songs are meant for,” Wolf Leg Jr. said. “They’re meant to heal and to break down barriers, to help complete this reconciliation that we’re all going through.”

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© 2022 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

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GlobalFest; supported by Global Calgary – GlobalNews Events

GlobalFest; supported by Global Calgary - GlobalNews Events

20th Anniversary of GlobalFest – 20 Years of Celebrating a World of Difference

GlobalFest @ Elliston is an annual celebration of Calgary’s multi-cultural communities, featuring pavilions, performances, international food, children’s programming and fireworks. Illuminating the sky with a colliding orchestra of light and sound, this year’s 20th Anniversary celebration event will showcase presentations produced by world-class pyro musical artists hailing from India, Austria, France, and Germany, plus a Canadian-produced finale.

Aug. 18 = India

Aug. 20 = Austria

Aug. 23 = France

Aug. 25 = Germany

Aug. 27 = Finale

Elliston Park gates opens at 6:00 pm, so arrive early and take in the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes that OneWorld has to offer. Calgary’s cultural communities will showcase their heritage dress, cultural music and incredible performances on two stages in the park. Shuttle service to the festival gates available from Marlborough Mall.

Event tickets are available online, at Calgary Co-op Customer Service and, Marlborough Mall Info Desk.

Visit globalfest.ca for full information.

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‘Strength of community’: Trudeau praises Calgary Stampede, resiliency of the west

'Strength of community': Trudeau praises Calgary Stampede, resiliency of the west

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Calgary to attend several events, including a trip to the Stampede grounds on Sunday morning.

First off, he stopped for a brief appearance at the Stampede breakfast hosted by Calgary Skyview MP George Chahal.

Along with flipping a few pancakes for guests, Trudeau shared his well wishes for The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth and the city of Calgary.

“I know Stampede is an extraordinary time for people coming across the country, gathering to celebrate, gathering to enjoy pancakes and celebrate everything about Calgary and the west,” he told the gathering. “I am just incredibly excited to be here.”

He noted the last couple of years, which have resulted in a different look for the Calgary Stampede because of pandemic health restrictions.

“We really saw the strength of community, Canadians leaning on each other, being there for each other and that’s what it’s all about. We are facing more challenges with the war in Ukraine, with the global inflation crisis but at the same time, we are seeing it time and time again, Canadians stepping up to be there for each other.”

Trudeau will then be visiting the Calgary Stampede at 10:30 a.m. and later appear at a fundraising event in Calgary at 1 p.m., where he is expected to make a speech.

CONSERVATIVE PARTY HOLDS ANNUAL EVENT

While many of the Conservative Party leader hopefuls, along with interim leader Candice Bergen, attended a breakfast on Saturday morning, the party held its own annual event at Heritage Park later in the day.

Four of the people running for leadership were allowed to make remarks at the event, which was well attended by many of the party’s faithful.

The Conservative Party says it has approximately 675,000 members – the most its ever had – and has raised $11.5 million during the latest leadership campaign.

Bergen says Conservatives need to return to power in Canada and take pride in what they have done in the past.

“We are the party that built Canada and continues to build Canada,” she told supporters. “From Confederation to the railway to the Bill of Rights to a national pension plan to universal child care benefits, these are all Conservative ideas that became policy for the country of Canada.

“We need to be very proud of that.”

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Prime Minister Trudeau to attend Calgary Stampede events

Prime Minister Trudeau to attend Calgary Stampede events

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scheduled to make a stop in Calgary to attend several events, including a trip to the grounds on Sunday morning.

Organizers of Calgary Skyview MP George Chahal’s Stampede breakfast say he is scheduled to make a brief appearance at the event at the Genesis Centre.

The free in-person event, located at 7555 Falconridge Blvd. N.E., will serve pancakes, halal and vegetarian sausages along with chai and coffee to guests. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The breakfast runs from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Trudeau will then be visiting the Calgary Stampede at 10:30 a.m. and later appear at a fundraising event in Calgary at 1 p.m., where he is expected to make a speech.

CONSERVATIVE PARTY HOLDS ANNUAL EVENT

While many of the Conservative Party leader hopefuls, along with interim leader Candice Bergen, attended a breakfast on Saturday morning, the party held its own annual event at Heritage Park later in the day.

Four of the people running for leadership were allowed to make remarks at the event, which was well attended by many of the party’s faithful.

The Conservative Party says it has approximately 675,000 members – the most its ever had – and has raised $11.5 million during the latest leadership campaign.

Bergen says Conservatives need to return to power in Canada and take pride in what they have done in the past.

“We are the party that built Canada and continues to build Canada,” she told supporters. “From Confederation to the railway to the Bill of Rights to a national pension plan to universal child care benefits, these are all Conservative ideas that became policy for the country of Canada.

“We need to be very proud of that.”

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Rain! Calgary takes steps to prep for a major weather event – LiveWire Calgary

Rain! Calgary takes steps to prep for a major weather event - LiveWire Calgary
Higher steel gates have been placed along the Glenmore Dam. This mitigates the effect of smaller scale floods, allowing resources to be diverted to more vulnerable areas, ETHAN WARD/ FOR LIVEWIRE CALGARY

Calgary is forecasted to get a lot of rain over the next few days, and that’s raised the flood alert in the city.

The City issued a boating advisory for the Elbow River due to higher-than-expected flow rates. Calgarians are asked to stay off river during this time.

But before we get too far, it’s important to put things in perspective. The forecast – as it stands – calls for between 75 to 100 millimetres of rain over the next few days.

That’s roughly half the 220 millimetres averaged during the 2013 flood, according to Francois Bouchart, director of Water Services with the City of Calgary.

Still, he said the forecasts have changed continuously since the middle of last week.

“We knew there was an event coming, the event was identified as being much smaller,” he said.

“Now, as we get closer to the events materializing, we’re working very closely with the province and Environment Canada and we’re now at a point where this is a significant enough event that we’ve taken specific steps to prepare for the event.”

Water levels have been dropped in the Glenmore Reservoir in preparation. It will be 3.5 metres below crest to prepare for the additional water.  Bouchart said they also have an agreement with TransAlta for the Ghost Reservoir further upstream to draw it down. He said it’s been drawn down lower than the expected amount.

Pathways in lower-lying areas are being closed. The City is also stockpiling materials to provide riverbank protection and temporary barriers. Protective balls are also being deployed so rising water can’t push back into the stormwater system.

The next 24 to 48 hours

The first layer of defense is the forecasts, said Bouchart. As they receive Environment Canada information, they’re able to extrapolate potential flow rates upstream. They work with the province to confirm that the data and the forecasts are telling the same story.

“That allows us to understand what flow rates we can anticipate, when we can anticipate the peak occurring. And that allows us to start looking at what are the triggers at different points,” Bouchart said.

Even though the risk appears to be smaller, Bouchart said they’re taking things very seriously.

“There’s always a risk. We can never eliminate the risk,” he said.

He said flood investments made over the past nine years have significantly improved the protection of lower-lying areas. At this point, Bouchart said they don’t anticipate it being put to the test.

“I want to caution people that the models are still predictions. The weather is so dynamic that we will just continue monitoring, forecasting and responding as it evolves,” he said.

The City is asking residents in lower-lying areas to take precautions.

  • Move valuables and documents out of your basement as basement seepage is possible in river communities in lower-lying areas.
  • If you have a sump pump or backflow valve, ensure it’s working.
  • Direct rainwater away from your home: Eavestroughs and extensions should drain at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) away from your and your neighbour’s home and onto a landscaped area so the water can soak into the ground.

They also want Calgarians to be cautious around the rivers. While they don’t expect the banks to be breached, the flows will be higher and it’s dangerous.

The water can also lead to pooling on streets. If a storm drain is unable to clear within 90 minutes, take a photo and send it to Calgary 311.

Monitor flow rates here: https://rivers.alberta.ca/

More Calgary flood info here.

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Adoption event at Calgary mall marks National Pet Appreciation Week

Adoption event at Calgary mall marks National Pet Appreciation Week


Calgarians who already own pets and those who are looking for a new furry friend will be able to participate in a number of events for National Pet Appreciation Week.


First, the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS) is hosting an adoption event for residents looking to open their homes to pets that are in need.


The group says it’s seen a big jump in the number of animals coming into the shelter, so want to provide Calgarians who are able to adopt them a chance to do so.


“In 2021, AARCS began managing adoptions for The City of Calgary as a partnering agency. Together, we have helped hundreds of animals into new loving homes,” said Deanna Thomson, executive director for AARCS in a release.


At the event, which is taking place at the Skechers location in Sunridge Mall, the shelter will receive a $20,000 grant from BOBS from Skechers and Petco Love in honour of the organization’s pet-saving efforts.


In addition to the adoption event, the City of Calgary is offering microchipping for owners who bring their cats to be licenced with the city’s animal services.


Officials say the device contains all identification information about your pet and can help staff reunite animals with families if needed.


“A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is quickly and relatively painlessly implanted beneath your pet’s skin between the shoulder blades,” officials said in a release.


The event takes place between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Animal Services Centre, located at 2201 Portland St. S.E.

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Sip themed cocktails, shop & enjoy live performances at this adults-only pride event in Calgary

Sip themed cocktails, shop & enjoy live performances at this adults-only pride event in Calgary

Pride month is here and while many of Calgary’s biggest events like the annual parade won’t hit the streets until later this summer, businesses and venues like the Telus Spark Science Centre are still taking this time to celebrate love in all forms.

This Friday, go Beyond The Rainbow during an adults-only event meant to explore the intersections of gender and sexuality through workshops, talks, displays, and even some incredible performances.

Featuring local drag superstars, a queer creators market, face and body painting, as well as professional pole dancers – this 18+ experience will showcase a ton of 2SLGBTQIA+ talent and artists from all over the city – but there’s more!

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in addition, attendees will be encouraged to grab a bite from a food truck, pet one of many adorable dogs from the Pet Access League Society, and can bust a move on their dance floor – all with a specialty cocktail in their hand!

If you’re interested in checking it out, tickets are available now and can be purchased at the link below – but don’t hesitate!

You don’t want to miss the chance to check it out. It’s going to be something special! 

TELUS SPARK – BEYOND THE RAINBOW PRIDE EVENT, CALGARY 

When: Friday, July 10th
Where: 220 St. George’s Drive NE
Time: 6 pm – 11 pm
Cost: $26+

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8 gifts & events you can treat your Dad to this Father’s Day in Calgary

8 gifts & events you can treat your Dad to this Father's Day in Calgary

They’re trendsetters, go-getters and everything from a shoulder to lean on to the family’s BBQ legend. This June, celebrate your Pops -biological, chosen, or otherwise – with some quality time or a box that’ll make them giddy! Not sure what’s going on? Here are 8 gifts and events that you can treat your Dad to this Father’s Day in Calgary!

FATHER’S DAY MINI GOLF AT DEERFOOT CITY

There’s nothing that the average Dad loves more than a round of golf – but not everyone has their long-distance swing on par. Luckily there’s a fun and exciting solution! This Father’s Day, check out Deerfoot City for a mini-golf extravaganza, instead. Here you don’t need to be good at the sport – you just need to be willing to try!

When: Friday, June 17th – 19th
Where: 901 64 Ave NE, Calgary
Cost: FREE

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BURWOOD DISTILLERY OLD FASHIONED KIT

If of course, sports just aren’t your thing, you can also just enjoy a drink with ’em! With a limited number available – Calgary’s Burwood Distillery has the perfect gift for your Dad this Father’s Day! This year, pick up a DIY Old Fashion Kit – which includes a burn after reading instruction card, a bottle of award-winning whiskey, sugar cubes, some bitters, and a dried orange garnish!

Cost: $94.99

FATHER’S DAY MINI GOLF & BBQ AT GRANARY ROAD

Who doesn’t love a little healthy competition? This Father’s Day check out Granary Road where they’ll be holding a shot-gun-style mini-golf tournament and BBQ! Hot dogs and a chance to win? Sounds like a pretty solid day to us!

When: Saturday, July 18th – 19th
Where: 226066 112 Street West, Foothills County
Time: 11 am
Cost: $15.95+

SOCKS FROM CALGARY’S FRIDAY SOCK CO.

Some might try to tell you that socks are a cliche dad gift – but we’d strongly disagree! Who doesn’t love a comfy pair of feet bags?! From fish and golf balls, funky designs, and ‘world’s best’, get you Pops a pair that showcases his unique personality. Heck – get him a few and support local in the process.

Cost: $16+

BRUNCH AT THE CALGARY ZOO

Who doesn’t love brunch? After all, it’s the most important meal of the day! This Father’s Day, treat your dad to a tasty meal at the Calgary Zoo and make a day of it! With a dessert spread and cuddly creatures, you can never go wrong!

When: Sunday, June 19th
Where: 210 St. George’s Drive NE
Time: 9 am
Cost: $44+

FATHER’S DAY BBQ TRAIN 

All aboard! This Father’s Day, Alberta’s Aspen Crossing will be holding an exciting train excursion and BBQ that you won’t want to miss! From stunning views of the prairies to tasty grub, this event will be unlike anything in and around Calgary. Enjoy!

When: Sunday, June 19th
Where: Box 30 Mossleigh, AB
Time: 11 am
Cost: $123+

COFFEE SUBSCRIPTION FROM ROSSO

Is your Dad a coffee aficionado? This June, gift your Dad with a java subscription from Calgary’s Rosso – a local favorite – and celebrate with the gift that just keeps on giving!

Cost: $42+

HERITAGE PARK FATHER’S DAY BRUNCH

Carving stations, skillet, pancakes, and more? Take our money! This Father’s Day, treat your Dad to a wholesome brunch at Calgary’s Heritage Park – one of the happiest places in the city. After that, check out the sights and sounds of the area! Here’s to hoping for great weather!

When: Sunday, June 19th
Where: 1900 Heritage Dr. SW
Time: 9:30 am
Cost: $36+

And there you have it, friends! 8 gifts and events that you can treat your Dad to this Father’s Day in Calgary! Now get out there and enjoy!

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Glory of Vivaldi; The Calgary Bach Choir – GlobalNews Events

Glory of Vivaldi; The Calgary Bach Choir - GlobalNews Events

The Calgary Bach Choir presents works for choir and chamber string orchestra with Kensington Sinfonia.

The concert features the music of Vivaldi including Vivaldi’s famous Gloria, RV 589 with its Introduction for coloratura soprano, strings, and continuo (Calgary premiere), and selections from ‘The New Four Seasons – Vivaldi Recomposed’ by Max Richter (b. 1966).

Featuring:
 Andrea Hill, mezzo-soprano
Lauren Woods, soprano
Jonquil Koddo, soprano Kensington Sinfonia
 Andrea Case & Genevieve Micheletti, Artistic Directors Calgary Bach Choir
 Terry Edwards, Artistic Director

Tickets are $20 (adults/seniors) and FREE (students/children) and are available online through BrownPaperTickets or at the door (cash only).

For more information, visit http://www.calgarybachsociety.com.

*** Masking is requested, and physically distanced seating is recommended.