Calgary Stampede 2010 was the most exciting time I have experienced. Nothing could have prepared me for the ten days of celebration.

I met hundreds of people at the many events I attended. The entire city of Calgary was alive with Western Heritage and Values, the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth had finally arrived! Many visitors came to watch and participate in the parade that was the kick off, to the Stampede. This year as the Indian Princess, I rode the Indian Princess horse Stormy in the parade. That was an unforgettable experience, to have a chance to wave and greet all the people of the city and world as they watched the parade.

There were many pancake Breakfasts that I attended with the trio. It was wonderful to meet so many people at the many breakfast hosted by the local corporations and businesses.

The rodeo was the one of the many great attractions for many professional cowboys and cowgirls. I was thrilled for the opportunity to ride in the rodeo grand entry. It was very exiting to see all the friendly people smiling and waving back at me.

Each evening the chuck wagons races created high energy as the crowds cheered on their favorite chuck wagon driver and outriders. I had the honour, along with the trio to escort daily rodeo and chuck wagon winners onto the main stage for their trophies and prize money.

The most exciting event was the celebration of dances, ceremonies and tea gathering at the Indian Village. I was so proud to represent the first Nations people as I was at these Indian Village events.

I am deeply grateful to the many sponsors, chaperones, Indian Events Committee and Indian Princess Committee members that made my experience at the Stampede a memorable one.

Until next time,

Your 2010 Calgary Stampede Indian Princess
Sahvanne Weasel Traveller

Not much is happening at Stampede Park this week as cleanup and other tasks finish up now that Stampede 2010 is in the books. Many staff and volunteers are using this opportunity to take some much needed time off for themselves while others are already busy planning Stampede 2011 and beyond!

Of course, that isn’t to say that things aren’t happening elsewhere. For example, speaking of Stampede 2011, we’re running a contest on our official Facebook fan page right now where you can win a return flight for two people from WestJet that you can use on next year’s Stampede! And as always, the Stampede Casino is open year-round and always has something going on down there, including an excellent food menu.

• “See You in 2011″ Facebook Fan Contest: Submit your best photo of Stampede 2010 and win a pair of return tickets from WestJet! Simply become a fan of our Facebook page by signing into Facebook using your account and click on the “Like” button at the top of the official Calgary Stampede Facebook page, and then navigate to this page for all the rules and details on how to enter. Up for grabs is a return flight for two people to and from any scheduled WestJet destination. Approximate retail value: $1,500. Contest ends August 16, 2010.
• Stampede Casino: The Stampede Casino is now a part of the Stampede Family! Open all year-round and featuring all your favourite slots, tables, a 24 hour poker room, as well as fine dining and special events throughout the year, there’s always something going on down here, so why not drop by for a visit?

So that’s it for this week. For updates and info on everything Stampede, make sure you follow us on Twitter at @calgarystampede, on Facebook through our official Facebook fan page, visit our website, and stay tuned to the official Stampede Blog to learn more about some of the things happening Here. All Year.

What a wild ride!

Our thanks go out to all of you who lived up to your promises to make the 2010 edition of The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth the best ever. You did it! You changed your status to Yahoo, you wore your hat head proudly and you showed your kids how the West was fun. Thank you all so much. We look forward to seeing you again next July and Here. All Year. Yahoo!

Wow, what a day Sunday turned out to be.  For me, it started off watching my good friend Neal Walgenbach sell off all his horses to other wagon drivers at an auction at his barn.  I guess it really hit home for me when I saw those horses go that Neal is actually retiring.  But I guess everything comes to an end, and ol’ Neal sure went out in style by winning the aggregrate title and making it to the $100K dash for cash.  I was really hoping he would pull it off and complete the Cinderella story, but second place behind Kelly Sutherland is still something to be proud of.  I would like to thank the Walgenbach family for allowing me to be a part of it with them.  I was pretty sad when I got off that outriding horse, knowing it was the last time I would outride for Neal.  Congratulations to Kelly Sutherland for winning his 11th Title at Calgary.  It’s amazing what he has done, and I can’t think of anybody that has been at the top of their respective sport for more than 40 years.  History was made last night; thumbs up to Kelly and his outriders.  I would also like to congratulate Devin Mitsuing for winning my grandfather’s award, The Orville Strandquist Memorial,  for the top rookie driver.  Way to go Devin, you drove like a champ!  For me, it was a great week.  I had 2 of my wagons make the final heat, but we couldn’t quite pull it off.  That’s wagon racing.  In closing, I would like to thank the Calgary Stampede for putting on such a first class event, it is the greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.  God Bless, and we hope to see you down the Chuckwagon trail

Sincerely

Ed Melville Jr.

This morning, the Calgary Stampede Lotteries announced the winners of over $1.4 million in prizes at the Stampede.

Congratulations to the following lucky contestants:

Andrea Strain-Gray, Surrey – GMC Terrain & Mountain Bikes: 2010 GMC Terrain AWD, 4-door SLT that comes with a family pack of 4 Giant Rincon Disc mountain bikes & SUV-friendly fold-away bike rack (value $47,790)

Andrea Thomas, Edmonton – Harley-Davidson: 2010 Electra-Glide Ultra Limited (value $44,499)

Barb Swyripa, Edmonton – Boat & Wheels: 2010 Chaparral model 186 ski boat, trailer & 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 4WD Crew Cab truck (value $94,351)

Victor Giese, Airdrie – Truck ‘n Toys: 2010 Hybrid GMC Sierra 1500 4WD Crew Cab truck & a truck bed full of camping gear plus a family pack of 4 Ultra Motro A2B electric bicycle (value $72,120)

Jim Brandon, Calgary – 2010 Chevrolet Camaro 2-door Coupe (value $39,170)

Sheryl Gooch Charlotte, Calgary – Fifth Wheel & Truck: 2010 Seville luxury fifth-wheel trailer & a GMC Sierra 3500HD 4WD Crew Cab truck (value $149,824)

Kassandra Reed, Strathmore – Lions Groceries for Life ($700 a month for 20 years)

Robert Olisoff, Calgary – Lions Lucky Loot: a beautiful custom diamond bracelet from J. Vair Anderson Jewellers & $250,000 cash

Guido Deciancio, Calgary – Rotary Dream Home, valued at over $770,000

Proceeds from the Calgary Stampede Lotteries ticket sales support charities in southern Alberta through the Stampede’s service club partners – Kinsmen Club of  Calgary, Calgary North Hill Lions Club, Rotary Club of Calgary South and the Calgary Marching Show Band Association.

The Winners’ Reception will be held July 22, 2010.

Here’s what some of the NGC hosts had to say about introducing the Western Culture to new audiences at the 2010 Calgary Stampede.

The Western Oasis in the BMO Centre was really great this year.  I really enjoyed being able to walk around and enjoy the western art with all of our guests as well as look at the unique entertainment that was showcased.  One of my favourite parts was the living statues.  A lot of people really liked looking at them from afar and then slowly getting closer and closer to them, to see when they would move and what they were going to do next. I also really enjoyed looking at the Royal Trio Alumni exhibit.  It was so interesting to see how much history the Stampede has and also how the outfits have changed over the years (for example the bright yellow pant suit from the 1970’s).  Another highlight was watching the artist build the Inuksuk’s.  Western Oasis was great as it was a chance to really interact and get to know our guests in a quiet, calm and very interesting setting. 
-Andrea Miller

I really enjoyed the whole weekend so it will be hard to pick out a favorite part.  But after initially being scared to tears by the living statues in Western Oasis, the 4 year old from the Chinese community association asked “Mom, why did it move?” then wanted to go back and see it again, that was definitely up there for favorites!  Or the little boy from Vietnam who, after eating Bannock at Indian Village exclaimed “I’ve ALWAYS wanted to try Indian food!” and the lady from Eritrea who was so impressed with the vibrancy of the Native culture.  The teenage girl from Afghanistan who told me her favorite part of the tour was looking the artwork in Western Oasis.  And the father from Somalia who stopped to do his Muslim prayers next to one of the nature displays in the Western Oasis.  Those moments really stuck out for me.
- Nicole Mosher

There isn’t too much happening this week at Stampede Park as the majority of the week will be dedicated to tear-down and clean up as Stampede 2010 has come to a close.

That said, just because Stampede is over for this year, it doesn’t mean that things aren’t happening here the rest of the year!

Stampede Park hosts all sorts of events (private and public) at various venues on Park throughout the year, such as concerts, exhibitions, tradeshows and other activities, and you can learn all about them by tuning into the Stampede Blog or by keeping an eye on our official Twitter and Facebook accounts each and every week, all year round.

Plus, you never know; A contest or give-away could happen at any time some point down the line…

Here’s what’s going on at Stampede Park this week, as well as the results from the final day of Stampede 2010:

• Drake: Juno Award winning Canadian hip-hop recording artist and actor Drake will be making an appearance this week at the Big Four Building as part of his Away From Home tour. Best known for playing character Jimmy Brooks on the television series Degrassi: The Next Generation, Drake has worked with several other hip-hop artists such as Lil Wayne, Kanye West, and Jay-Z. He recently released his first studio album Thank Me Later, and will be performing at the Big Four Building on Sunday July 25 at 7 p.m. Tickets for this concert are available through Ticketmaster.
• Stampede Casino: The Stampede Casino is now a part of the Stampede Family! Open all year round and featuring all your favourite slots, tables, a 24 hour poker room, as well as fine dining and special events throughout the year, there’s always something going on down here, so why not drop by for a visit?

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The other day, a few of my friends and I entered Stampede Park thru the Olympic Gates- only to discover one of the coolest new (free!) attractions on Park this year!  Just to the left of the Olympic Way entrance, you will find the entrance to the GMC Test Drive area. Friendly hosts will give you some information, a hat sticker for your Cowboy Hat, and send you down the road to register to drive ANY one of these vehicles listed below…SO cool!

Test Drive Vehicles Include:

2011 GMC Sierra HD
2010 GMC Sierra Hybrid
2010 GMC Terrain
2010 GMC Acadia
2010 GMC Yukon Hybrid
2010 Chevrolet Equinox
2010 Chevrolet Avalanche
2010 Chevrolet Camaro
2010 Cadillac SRX
2010 Cadillac CTS
2011 Buick Regal
2010 Buick LaCrosse

The area runs daily from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. And if getting to drive one of these award-winning GMC vehicles wasn’t enough…you will also receive a FREE pair of Silver GMC Rangeland Derby tickets to sit in the GMC Fan Zone (while supplies last)!!  Imagine you being able to watch the GMC Rangeland Derby Chuckwagon finals for FREE, just for test driving a brand new GMC vehicle ?! Sign me up!

2011 GMC Sierra HD 2500- a super sweet ride!

I can picture myself in this truck...can you?

This was seriously a great time; I chose to drive the 2011 GMC Sierra HD 2500 which was super fun to drive! I recommend everyone come down to the grounds today and try out these amazing GMC vehicles in a no pressure environment.

It’s very sad to think today is the last day of Calgary Stampede 2010, but if you can make some room in your busy schedule between all the other fantastic and free attractions on Park, I highly recommend it! Click Here for more details. Have a great final Sunday everyone, Yahoo!

Just outside the Big Top tent, you will be able to see John Deere’s 2010 Front-wheel assist Tractor with front end loader and grapple fork that is used on many farms for handling the round bales, manure and other daily chores.

Behind that tractor is a brand new John Deere big round Baler – these bales can weigh up to 900 kg (one ton) and are used to feed livestock and horses. Farmers use this machine to bale such crops as straw and hay.

An innovative machine can also be seen by the Big Top - the John Deere Tracked Tractor which uses rubber tracks instead of tires. The benefits of this tractor are that it makes less of a footprint in the fields (between rows) and causes less compaction than most wheeled tractors.

Inside the tent you will find a vintage crop duster. This plane was used to spray the crops in order to prevent disease and control pests which may adversely affect yield. This plane is provided by the Aerospace Museum of Calgary. Also at this display you can find video and information from the Alberta Aerial Applicators Association.

Also in the tent at the International Agriculture booth you can see a vintage horse drawn rig, provided by Will Irvine. This would have been used by past generations to transport people and supplies before the advent of the automobile. Come check them out!

Well, the final 4 are decided.  After 8 hard days of racing and 1 rainout, Neal Walgenbach; the Sutherland brothers, Kirk and Kelly; and Jason Glass, are in the final dash tonight.  I think it is going to come down to a barrel draw because all 4 outfits are pretty evenly matched.  Personally, I have 2 wagons in the final 4: Neal Walgenbach and Kirk Sutherland.  I will ride for Neal Walgenbach tonight, and it will be sad as it is for the last time.  However, win, lose or draw, I am proud to say that I have been with him all these years, and it is an honor to be with him in his final race.  It has been fun all week hanging out with our American steer wrestling friends Stockton Graves, Dean Gorsuch, Wade Sumpter, Gabe LeDoux, and Todd Suhn.  They all like to come over to the barns at night and have a beer with us.  They are selling Neal Walgenbach’s horses this morning at 11 - it will be a sad day I am sure.  These horses are like family, and when they leave, I imagine it will be like a kid going off to college. Like something is missing.  Congratulations to Dustin Gorst on being named the Top Outrider at this year’s Stampede.  For him to fight back from 2 broken legs last year shows his true heart and character.  That was well deserved.  Anyway, tonight is a big night, stay tuned!

It’s the final day of Stampede 2010 and highlights include the finals of the Stampede Rodeo, GMC Rangeland Derby, the Heavy Horse Pull, and many other agricultural events and competitions. Also, the draw for all of the Stampede Lotteries prizes will happen live at midnight.

Here are the details on all that and more, as well as the results from Day Nine:

• Stampede Lotteries: It’s the final day to purchase your Stampede Lottery tickets! Only $50 for 20 chances to win including groceries for life, a boat, a motor home, a truck and much more. The Lottery booths are located throughout Stampede Park. Winners are announced live on Park at midnight.
• Rodeo Finals: With over $1,000,000 to be given away, Showdown Sunday is truly “Rodeo’s Richest Afternoon”. This progressive final sees all 10 qualifiers in six events compete once, with the four highest scores or fastest times advancing to the showdown round. These top-four contestants will let it all hang out for the top prize of $100,000 and the Calgary Stampede Championship. It’s straight-up rodeo, an exciting format, top dollars, elite athletes and superstar stock. Don’t miss the action starting at 1:30 p.m. in the Grandstand. Tickets still available.
• Hearts of the West Trick Riders: Watch Sunday as a family of trick riders amaze audiences in the Agriculture barn. The show starts at 6 p.m. Free with Park admission.
• Heavy Horse Pull Finals: The big boys are in the Big Top! The Stampede Heavy Horse Pull is Canada’s premier pulling competition, with teams from across North America vying for top honours. Teams will be pulling up to five times their body weight a distance of 14 feet. Be in the Big Top tent at 7 p.m. Free with Park admission.
• GMC Rangeland Derby Finals: That pounding of hoofs and trembling of the ground can mean only one thing; the world’s premier chuckwagon event, the GMC Rangeland Derby, has begun! Sunday is the $150,000 final heat. The races start at 8 p.m. The world famous Grandstand Show follows. Tickets still available.

On Stage:

• Nashville North: Krysta Scoggins, Justin Ament, Gord Bamford, Jo Hikk
• Coca-Cola Stage: The Heebee-jeebees, Terry Stokes, Martina McBride
• Saddledome Plaza Stage: Splash n’ Boots, Calgary Stampede Showband, Circo Comedia (new!), Treaty 7 First Nations dancers, Michael Harrison, Visiting Bands performance, Calgary Stampede Showband small ensembles, Recycled Percussion, A Band of Outriders

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View from 2nd floor balcony during the Jason Aldean set.

Howdy everyone! Can you believe today is our last day to enjoy the 2010 version of The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth? It’s quite a sad day for many; we look forward all year to partaking in this incredible event and it truly does pass by too quickly.

One of my highlights of this year’s Calgary Stampede (even though there are so many to choose from!) definitely has to be attending the Jason Aldean and Miranda Lambert concert last night at the Saddledome. These are two of country music’s hottest young performers and they lived up to their reputations last night.

Hats off to the Calgary Stampede for working so hard to bring incredibly talented artists to the Saddledome for many fans to enjoy during the 10 day show. Miranda Lambert and Jason Aldean brought down the house last night at the Saddledome.  Nearing the end of her set, Miranda took off her silver high heels to get even more into the music…finishing off by performing White Liar, a cover of I Love Rock and Roll and finally one of my personal favourites, Gunpowder and Lead.

Jason Aldean was playing loud and rowdy for his entire set. His energy couldn’t have been more contagious thru the ‘Dome. He even performed two Brian Adams songs, including Cuts Like a Knife, which really got the crowd dancing to a local Canadian Artists’ song! Jason was an incredible performer, sharing his love across both sides of the stage, bending down to shake hands with very lucky fans in the front row…just an awesome and talented musician!

Jason Aldean, what a performer!

I can’t wait to see what concerts are in store for us in 2011. It would be a very wise idea to sign up to be a Calgary Stampede Insider to be one of the first to know about next year’s lineup. See y’all next year!!

Ken Stuart standing next to the Chuckwagon 101 Wagon.

Ever wondered what actually happens behind the track on a daily basis behind the scenes at the GMC Rangeland Derby? I had the opportunity to catch up with Ken Stuart, a member of the Chuckwagon Committee to learn some more about the Chucks.

1. How did you get involved with Chuckwagons?

As a kid I was friends with a neighborhood family that were Chuckwagon advertisers. Then my wife gave me a membership in the Pardners Chuckwagon Team, and here we are over 20 years later doing one of the things I love.

2. You’re very passionate about the sport and the people involved in it. What makes the Chucks at Calgary Stampede so special?

I think it is the gathering together of the best Chuckwagon people in the world and the close relationships that are associated with the “Chuckwagon Family”. Competition on the track is fierce but they all take care of each other after the races are over, and that is very special.

3. What have been some of your roles on the Committee?

I have had several roles since joining the Committee. I have been a wagon caller during the races, I have been responsible for media barn tours during the day, and since I am one of the few Committee members that have time off during the Calgary Stampede I do whatever needs to be done. I am currently responsible for the Outrider Recognition Program as well as an advertiser liaison for two wagons.

4. It takes a lot of people to put this all together, how do you guys do it?

We have close to 40 people on our Committee during Stampede week. Our Committee is very diverse and knowledgeable with many people bringing special skills to the table. This base allows us to work together and at the same time allows us to use our skills to contribute to the success of the “Show”.

5. How long is an average day for you and your fellow volunteers during the 10 day show?

My day is quite long, sometimes from 6:30 AM to midnight; but I usually try and get some down time for an hour or two in the afternoon. It may be long, but if you are having fun you don’t notice the time.

6. Do you have one standout memory from all your years at the track?

I have a whole bunch of them but probably the most satisfying was last year’s successful implementation of the first ever Outstanding Outrider Award at the Calgary Stampede. These are Cowboys that deserve some recognition.

7. Can you give a little bit of insight into what happens behind the scenes in the barns?

Sure: the mornings usually begin with the barn help walking horses and then a video review for the drivers to review the previous day’s races. Around 4:00 PM in the afternoon the anticipation begins to rise as the advertiser’s guests begin to arrive in the barns. The excitement continues to rise until an hour before race time. The barns are then cleared of guests and the outriders horses are moved to the infield. Just prior to the start of the show the first heat of wagons begin to hook up their horses and warm up around the H barn and the races begin. After the races are done we welcome all the guests back in to enjoy the atmosphere.

8. For newcomers to the Calgary Stampede, what do you think is the most exciting aspect of coming down to watch the Chucks?

I think the most exciting part of being there for the races is the sound and feel of 4 wagons and 32 horses coming down the home stretch at the same time. It is something you will never forget. It sends a chill down your spine.

9. What do you see for the future of the sport?

I would like to see the sport grow and become one of our premier sports in Western Canada. The excitement is addictive.

10. What is your personal “Promise” for this year’s Calgary Stampede?

I “Promise” to get my boots dirty. Mission accomplished many times over!

Ken and I in the barns.

Thank you Ken, it was wonderful to gain some insight into what happens behind the scenes at the GMC Rangeland Derby. You and your Committee do an incredible job putting on a safe, exhilarating show for 17,000 lucky spectators every evening. I hope that all you Calgary Stampede blog readers make it down to check out the Final Four “Dash for Cash” tonight at 8:00pm. It’s going to be an exciting night of Chuckwagon Racing with a $150,000 final heat!

We have talked about the cereal crops that make up a good chunk of your dinner menu, let’s talk about the main course…the meat!

Your first stop in the Agrium Ag-Tivity in the City tent should be the Alberta Beef Producer’s booth, just inside the north entrance. Our beef is world famous for a reason – it is the best beef anywhere. You will have many opportunities on park to try it for yourself, as most of the Stampede concessions are part of the ‘Grown Right. Here.’ commitment.

You will see a Speckle Park steer in this booth- the Speckle Park breed is a fairly new cattle breed, and was developed in Saskatchewan in the 1970’s. In 2006, this breed has been recognized as a distinct breed of purebred cattle by Agriculture Canada.

Which came first, the chicken or the egg…it will depend on which way you are walking! As you make your way into the Ag-Tivity tent you will see the Alberta Chicken Producers’ and Alberta Egg Producers’ booths. These are both great sources of protein and provide an important part of a well-balanced diet. The Associations’ representatives will be happy to answer any questions you have about these valuable parts of the agricultural community.

This reminds me of a great question I have been asked by many schools over the years. How does a chick get out of its egg? When a chick is about two days away from hatching (19-21 days after the egg is laid) it develops a hard tooth on its beak. It then begins to tap on the shell for many hours before the shell actually breaks and allows the chick to emerge. The tooth falls off shortly after the chick hatches.

If you love pork, ham or bacon, be sure to check out the Alberta Pork Producers’ display. Stop by and talk with local producers who will explain all about the pork industry and you’ll discover how this nutritious food source gets to your plate. You will even get to see pigs of all sizes.

And don’t forget to visit the Alberta Lamb booth. This producer group provides not only meat (lamb chops and mutton to name a few) for our dinner table, but also the wool that we use in socks, sweaters, blankets and the many cozy items we need to survive Alberta’s chilly July nights!

Here is another installment of our feature “10 Questions With…”. This week I had the opportunity to interview Angela Benson, the Co-Artistic Director of The Young Canadians School of Performing Arts.  Angela has had the opportunity to travel around the world as a professional dancer and performer from London’s West End, to cruise ships and music videos, but believes there is no greater profession than working with The Young Canadians! The Young Canadians have been entertaining audiences at the Grandstand Show for over 41 years and each year the level of professionalism, training and experience allows the show to grow and bring even more to our audiences.

1. How long have you been a part of the Young Canadians and how were you introduced to the organization?

I am going into my ninth Grandstand Show working alongside our great Choreographer/Director Mr. Brian Foley.  When I was in high school I was fortunate enough to be part of this amazing group of talented youth as a Senior Female Dancer and I am so happy to give back to an organization that has given me so much.

2. What are you most looking forward to for this year’s grandstand show?

Let me tell you first hand that there is no group who works harder than the Young Canadians.  This year’s Grandstand Show is titled “World Party”, and boy is this going to be a party!   The theme of this year’s show celebrates the astounding beauty and wonder of life on Earth with singing, dancing, Cirque du Soleil acrobatics, daredevil motocross stunts, comedy routines, drumming, magical special effects, and a fireworks display you’ll remember forever. Also included are over 400 high definition video panels projecting images on stages and screens, surrounding spectators with digital elements.  With a line-up of world class performers like Canada’s own Eva Avila, Ta’Rea from Disney’s Lion King on Broadway, thrilling Cirque Du Soleil acrobats and original scores from Mr. Dave Pierce, the musical director for the 2010 Winter Olympics, Stampede 2010 is sure to be unforgettable.

3. How much preparation and practice do the Young Canadians go through each year in order to get ready for each Stampede’s Grandstand show?

The Young Canadians is a year-round training facility.  We start every September with fresh new faces and begin our performance education from a world class faculty.  The Young Canadians have other performances throughout the year like our annual Christmas Spectacular, and the YC’s favourite Spring Show where Senior Students under the mentorship of the faculty get to choreograph and direct their own pieces.   April is when Mr. Foley begins the magical process of choreographing the Grandstand show.  We move to a hockey arena to rehearse because the stage is that big and our props are even bigger – trust me, we need all the space we can get.  At the end of June we move to the TransAlta stage where everything comes together and all of our hard work pays off!

4. What advice can you offer to aspiring singers and dancers who would like to become a member of the Young Canadians?

Make sure that you have vocal and dance training, and more importantly that you have the drive, dedication and passion to be part of this internationally recognized group of performers.

5. What is an interesting fact about the Young Canadians that very few people know?

That the Young Canadians is a tuition free performing arts school funded by The Calgary Stampede Foundation.  Classes in all disciplines of dance, gymnastics, acro, lift/partnering, vocal, circus, and performances are all FREE!!!  All you have to do is audition and we will take it from there.

6. Other than the Grandstand show what is one of your favourite aspects of the Calgary Stampede?

There is no other city around this world like the city of Calgary, and trust me I have been a lot of places.  Calgary totally shuts down for 10 days out of the year and everyone embraces their inner Cowboy. We dust off our boots, put our hats on and the party starts!

7. Do you have a funny or embarrassing story to share about one of your performances?

Wow, what a question!  I always say we should start a reality TV series about what happens behind the scenes of putting a show of this scale together.  Let me tell you, we would have a hit on our hands.

8. The TransAlta Light Up the Night is a big part of the Grandstand show and also must be very exciting to work with some amazing visuals. How does your group prepare to work with such a spectacular light display?

Not only are the Young Canadians an amazing group of professionals, but the talented Production Team we have working “behind the scenes” is what really makes the show so special.  These professionals educate our cast on the safety, technique and beauty of the fantastic firework displays!

9. What do you do each evening right before the show? Do you have any sort of pre-show rituals?

Taxi’s pick up our cast and bring them down to the stage door every evening.  We gather up the cast and give notes on the previous night’s show, then they all head up to the warm-up tent to focus, prepare and condition themselves to be show ready.  After that they head back to the basement of the stage to their state of the art dressing rooms to get their hair done, make-up on and transform into the characters of “World Party”.

10. The Young Canadians have had the opportunity to perform with a number of famous individuals in the past such as Bill Cosby, Lorne Green, Arte Johnson, Rich Little, Roy Rogers, Jerry Reed, Tommy Hunter, Andre-Philippe Gagnon and most recently stars from The Cirque du Soleil. Has there been anyone in particular you had the opportunity to work with? And what was that experience like?

I think this year tops them all.  This year’s Grandstand Show features Daniel ‘Da FunkyMystic’ Celebre.   Mystic was hand picked as a dancer by Michael Jackson himself for Jackson’s ‘This Is It’ tour - a tour that unfortunately never happened. Mystic trained with Michael Jackson himself for 12 weeks and can be seen in the documentary of the same name, http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/michaeljacksonthisisit/.   A Michael Jackson tribute segment will happen during the 2010 Grandstand Show and thanks to Mystic, Jackson’s signature style will be featured.

The Young Canadian cast members and myself have had the opportunity of training with Daniel “Mystic” since April, learning the art of Electric Boogaloo and Michael Jackson’s iconic movements.  Let me tell you first hand this is no easy feat, but we are working with the best of the best.

For tickets and more information visit: http://cs.calgarystampede.com/events/grandstand-show.html. I look forward to seeing you at this year’s Greatest Outdoor Show On Earth, The Calgary Stampede Grandstand Show, World Party!  Yahooo!!

Thanks Angela for sharing your experiences with us! This year’s show sure sounds amazing. There are only 2 days left so make sure you make it down to the grounds to check out the show!

The six main crops produced in Alberta are wheat, durham, barley, flax, peas and canola. If you look at your dinner table, this list makes up a big part of your dinner every night and you can learn more about them in Agrium Ag-Tivity in the City.

Let’s start with the wheat. At Agrium Ag-tivity in the City, you can see a mill turn wheat into flour, which is the main ingredient in most breads and baking. A common question I’ve been asked is what makes up all purpose flour, and there is only one ingredient – milled wheat.

As well you can see the process barley seed undergoes to become pearl barley – which involves removing the hull from the barley so that it can be used more easily for cooking and also can be turned into flour (commonly used in pancakes and some breads). Pearl barley is a main ingredient in Western meal-time favourites such as hamburger soup and Scotch broth.

In our post from Wednesday, July 14 “Everything you ever wanted to know about Agriculture” we discussed the importance of the Canola industry to Alberta and many of the products that are derived from this crop. Check out that post for more details.

Flax is a specialty crop and is used in foodstuffs and is high in fibre and healthy fat, and low in carbohydrates. Flax seeds can be added to yogurt, cottage cheese or smoothies and is a great addition to baking, and pizza or bread dough. Flax can also be turned into linseed oil, a main ingredient in paint.

Durham is another form of wheat and is the main ingredient in pasta; some of my favourites like spaghetti, ravioli and the eternal stand-by Mac and Cheese wouldn’t be part of dinner without durham.

Peas need little introduction – on their own, in the pod or in soup and many other dishes, they are a staple of a balanced dinner.

And of course, our chicken, pork and beef wouldn’t make it to the table without these crops being part of their balanced diets.

When you visit the Agrium Ag-Tivity in the City tent, you will also see the Twister grain bin, the primary means of storing these crops on the farm after harvest and before shipping to the grain elevators. Inside you will see models of past and present grain handling facilities and learn about their operation. Also on park, the Grain Academy in the Upper level of the BMO Centre is a great stop if you want to learn more about the field to fork process in the crop production business.

Remember all the farming and crops involved when you sit down to dinner tonight!

The Cinderella story played out a little bit last night as Neal Walgenbach won the Richard Cosgrave Memorial as the aggregate champion.  Like I said earlier, I have been with Neal when we were so close to winning this award in the past and just missed it.  To win in his last year - what a story!  While we were on stage, they played a clip of Richard that just about brought us to tears.  For those of us that knew him, it was emotional to be given our buckles by Richard’s wife Tara, mother Bernice, and son Colt.  That is a moment I will never forget.  I would like to thank Dustin Gorst for allowing me to go on stage with Neal, that was a classy thing for him to do.  I rode the first 4 nights with Neal, and Dustin rode the last 3 nights in my place because I had to ride for Luke Tournier in that heat.  Dustin is a great guy and I will find a way to make that up to him.  Anyway, the final 8 is decided and we run the last 2 heats tonight to see who makes the $100K dash on Sunday night.  The Orville Strandquist Rookie title is still up for grabs between Devin Mitsuing and Brian Mayan.  I wish they could both win it as I know it would be special to both of those drivers.  Anyway, you should come watch the last 2 nights, I know it will be exciting.

Thank You

Had enough rides, drinks and mini-donuts? Check out the Western Oasis, located in Halls D & E of
the BMO Centre. The Western Oasis features the western art and lifestyle elements of the Calgary
Stampede we know and love in an oasis-style atmosphere where you can unwind and relax. While
you’re inside check out phenomenal western photographs, bronzes, paintings, cooking
demonstrations, arts & crafts and western entertainment. Or, put your feet up and relax in one of
the natural oasis environments.

Day Nine of Stampede 2010 features the finals of the Stampede Talent Search and the finals of the International Livestock Auctioneer Championships.

Here are the rest of the daily highlights, as well as the Day Eight results:

• Jason Aldean and Miranda Lambert: Two of country music’s hottest young performers will join forces Saturday evening. Jason Aldean and Miranda Lambert played a significant role in the 2009 Country Music Association Awards in Nashville. Lambert was a nominee in the Female Vocalist of the Year category, while Aldean performed his number one hit Big Green Tractor. The show starts at 7:30 in the Pengrowth Saddledome. Tickets are still available.
• Pow Wow Competition: There is always lots going on at Indian Village. On Saturday at 3 p.m. stop by to see the adult Pow Wow competition. While there, try some bannock, shop for amazing hand-made jewelry and learn about the traditions of the five tribes in Treaty 7. Free with Park admission.
• International Livestock Auctioneer Competition Finals: The fastest mouths in the west are at it again during the 22nd annual International Livestock Auctioneer Competition finals in the Big Top tent. Competitors will be judged on rhythm, clarity, voice control, and livestock knowledge, as well as their ability to spot bids and conduct a sale. The fun starts at 11 a.m. Free with Park admission.
• Western Showcase: At 5:30 p.m. on Saturday stop by the Western Showcase in BMO Centre and watch the Dueling Chef competition finale. This popular area is the perfect way to relax, look around the many artists’ booths and unwind in the Western Oasis wine gardens. Free with Park admission.
• Must-try Midway Food: Expand your taste buds with deep-fried Twinkies, deep-fried Snickers bars or deep-fried strawberry shortcake. Feeling extra adventurous? What about deep-fried jelly beans or even deep-fried dill pickles! A few other fun and crazy menu items to keep your eyes (and mouth!) open for are the hot beef sundae, taco-in-a-bag, meat pie, pulled pork sandwich, pork parfait, alligator pizza and cheddar nuggets.

On Stage:

• Nashville North: Krysta Scoggins, Justin Ament, Hey Romeo, Jo Hikk
• Coca-Cola Stage: The Heebee-jeebees, Terry Stokes, Crash Karma, Default
• Saddledome Plaza Stage: Splash n’ Boots, Calgary Stampede Showband, Circo Comedia (new!), Treaty 7 First Nations dancers, Michael Harrison, Visiting Bands performance, Calgary Stampede Showband small ensembles, Recycled Percussion, A Band of Outriders

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Well Neal Walgenbach is one day closer to winning the Richard Cosgrave Memorial and the new GMC truck that goes with it.  That would be one of the coolest endings if he were to pull it off in his last stampede.  Also, Richard and Neal grew up together and were pretty much best friends, so I know how special that would be to Neal.  It would also be special for me because I have outrode for Neal since 1992, and he has been so close so many times.  Well, we have 1 more night to go and Neal needs a good run tonight to hold off Jason Glass and Buddy Bensmiller.  The track was great tonight with a lot of good races.  I better get to bed, tomorrow is a big night.