Calgary Stampede Press Releases

Calgary Stampede the only Alberta stop for Country Superstar Brad Paisley

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Calgary – He’s the Country Music Association’s reigning Entertainer of the Year. He’s a 14-time CMA award winner and today the Calgary Stampede is pleased to announce that country music sensation Brad Paisley will join the Stampede’s Centennial celebration when he takes to the Scotiabank Saddledome stage on Saturday, July 14. To make an outstanding show even better, Paisley’s opening act will be one of the hottest groups in country music, Grammy nominated - The Band Perry.

“We said that our Centennial was going to be one to remember,” says Paul Rosenberg, vice president, Programming, Calgary Stampede. “Having Brad Paisley and The Band Perry at the Calgary Stampede for their only Alberta show is incredible and sure to knock your boots off!”

Along with his CMA Awards, Paisley has also captured a record-setting five consecutive Academy of Country Music Male Vocalist honors. His current album This is Country Music debuted at number two on the U.S. Billboard 200 and sold 153,000 copies in the first week of release.

Inheriting a cross-pollinated love of country and rock and roll from their parents, The Band Perry - siblings Kimberly, Reid, and Neil Perry - say they bleed the bright red blood of American music. The Band Perry’s debut album, THE BAND PERRY, features the #1, triple-Platinum smash If I Die Young; Gold-certified single You Lie and their current ballad All Your Life.

Tickets for Brad Paisley with The Band Perry go on sale February 11 and start at $39. Check out our concert series tickets packages at Calgary Stampede tickets.

Brad Paisley with The Band Perry is presented by Country 105.

Please join us for our biggest year ever at the 2012 Centennial Calgary Stampede July 6 – 15, 2012. For more information visit calgarystampede.com.

For more information, please contact:

Jennifer Booth
Publicity Manager
T 403.261.0327
C 403.463.6834
E jbooth@calgarystampede.com

Country Music Superstar to perform in Centennial Grandstand Show

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:45:00 -0500

Calgary – Country music superstar Paul Brandt is returning to the Calgary Stampede for not one, but 10 performances! From July 6-15, Brandt will be featured with The Young Canadians of the Calgary Stampede on the TransAlta Stage for “Century”, the Calgary Stampede’s Centennial Grandstand Show.

“When I heard that Paul Brandt agreed to celebrate our Centennial by performing in our Grandstand show, I was over the top with excitement,” says Mike Casey, president and chairman of the board, Calgary Stampede. “He has accomplished so much since he won our Calgary Stampede Talent Search and now he is coming back for our biggest show ever!”

Brandt exemplifies the Stampede Centennial theme “We’re Greatest Together”. Born in Calgary and raised in Airdrie, Paul began singing gospel music a cappella when he was six years old. By 14, Brandt became hooked on guitar, and in 1992 he won the Calgary Stampede Talent Search, formerly known as Youth Talent Showdown. Record executives took notice and he soon released the hit singles, “My Heart has a History” and “I Do”. Since then, he has become the most awarded male Canadian Country Music artist in history.

As the headliner, Brandt will perform a set each night, as well as star alongside The Young Canadians throughout the show.

“The Grandstand Show plays a key role in defining what it means to be Western, and what family values are; it is living proof of what can be accomplished if one will only dream big enough. My career and music have followed in step with these ideas from day one,” says Brandt, “This is an exciting and natural partnership.”

Brandt released his most recent album, entitled Give It Away, in late 2011, which was recently named Canadian Country Album of the Year 2011 by iTunes Rewind. In addition to his music, Brandt is also known for his many humanitarian efforts, both locally and around the world.

“Century” is dominated by popular songs from the past 100 years, the show’s fast paced delivery is overrun with excitement that builds to the final pinnacle of fireworks exploding from a three-storey tall birthday cake arriving onboard a big-rig convoy lead by Brandt.

Catch Paul Brandt performing nightly during this historic Centennial TransAlta Grandstand Show. For tickets visit Calgary Stampede.

For more information, please contact:

Jennifer Booth
Publicity Manager
Calgary Stamepde
T 403.261.0327
C 403.463.6834
E jbooth@calgarystampede.com

For Paul Brandt inquiries please contact:

Paula Worthington
Brookline Public Relations
T 403-538-5641 ext. 104
C 403-585-2429
E pworthington@brooklinepr.com

We're Greatest Together - celebrating 100 years in 2012

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:00:00 -0500

It’s been a celebration 100 years in the making. New rides, new shows and new fashions are just a few of the programs and events visitors to the 2012 Centennial Stampede will have a chance to enjoy next year from July 6-15.

“We’ve already come a long way in planning The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth for 2012, but we also know we’ve still got a lot of work to do,” says Mike Casey, president and chairman of the board, Calgary Stampede. “We’re literally inviting the world to join us next year, whether you’re from a nation half-way around the world or a community in southern Alberta.”

Next year’s Stampede will be built on three pillars: showcasing Alberta to the world; creating an experience of a lifetime; and building a lasting legacy. While much of what is planned for 2012 is still under wraps, several new highlights with the theme "We’re Greatest Together" have been announced including:

TOGETHER WE CREATE – The 2012 Calgary Stampede will feature a show unlike anything anyone has ever seen. Featuring the best western horsemanship, incredible sets and effects and the finest in First Nations performances, audiences will be most spellbound by the beauty of the stars of the show - the horses. Like the Centennial, this production, hosted in the Corral, will only be here in 2012.

TOGETHER WE DRESS – Roots Canada will feature a Calgary Stampede product line including a classic Centennial rodeo jacket, Centennial branded leather products and more. The Roots Canada Calgary Stampede Centennial products will be available in Roots stores across Canada as well as the Stampede Store on Stampede Park.

TOGETHER WE DANCE – As one of Canada’s largest music festivals, we are pleased to announce the first concert of our Stampede Saddledome Concerts series. On July 13, 2012 we welcome Canadian Country superstar, Johnny Reid. Reid is a two-time Juno winner and 15-time Canadian Country Music Award winner. Tickets go on sale November 19, 2011 and start at $39.

TOGETHER WE RIDE – We are thrilled to announce a new midway ride this year to commemorate our 100-year anniversary. The rollercoaster, named “Outlaw” for the Calgary Stampede’s famous bull, will be the first midway ride to ever carry the Calgary Stampede brand. Riders will need to hold on tight as they blast out of the chutes, dipping and twisting, much like the famed Stampede Outlaw – who was considered one of the rankest animals in the world of rodeo.

Calgary Stampede guests will also be able to experience the Park from new heights. The longest temporary zip line in Canada will change the skyline of Stampede Park for 2012. Guests will climb the steps of an 80-foot tower and fly 850 feet over Stampede Park while reaching speeds of over 60 km/hr.

TOGETHER WE DINE – The Calgary Stampede is well known for its world-famous pancake breakfasts as a way of reaching out and celebrating within the community. Starting in the New Year, we are taking it one step further. The Calgary Stampede will be surprising Albertans at events throughout the province with spontaneous birthday party celebrations, complete with Centennial birthday cake, baked by Calgary Stampede catering.

A new website has also been created for the Centennial and beyond. My Stampede will be a collection of the millions of wonderful Stampede memories that people have gathered over the years. Simply log on and follow the links to share your wonderful memories.

Additional details, including the announcement of the 2012 Centennial Parade Marshal will be released at the 100-Day Launch on March 29, 2012 so mark your calendars!

Check out the Stampede's YouTube channel to watch the latest Centennial commercials.

Working together for the HART of Ukraine

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:30:00 -0400

When two Stampede guests suggested a recycling area for unwanted midway toys, little did they know their idea would spark a relationship that has provided thousands of toys for impoverished children in Ukraine.

“When we received the guests’ comments in 2007, we thought it was an excellent initiative,” says James Radke, Stampede Midway Operations manager. “We came up with a collection bin system and started looking for local charities who would be interested in the toys.”

Due to Canada’s laws and charitable standards, the charities in Calgary were unable to accept them but in 2008, Radke and his team partnered with the Humanitarian Aid Response Teams (HART) Society. HART programs support many poverty-stricken families and orphanages in Ukraine. Now for the fourth year, the Stampede and HART have once again donated unused midway toys to children who need them most.

In a country where the average standard of living has decreased by 80 per cent over the last 20 years, Ukraine is laden with social problems such as poverty, alcoholism and crime. Often, it is the children who suffer the most.

“The families we visit in remote villages are so poor they struggle to provide food for their children, so toys are out of the question,” says Cyndi Chomick, Executive Director of HART. “We also give toys to children in orphanages or through our street-kid programs. Many of them have suffered unimaginable violence and tragedy at home – the toys are such a welcome gift.”

The midway toys used to be thrown away by guests who didn’t want to take them home. Now, guests leaving Stampede Park can drop off their midway prizes in special recycle bins and the toys are picked up each night. This year, 60 bags were collected – about 2,000 toys.

“Instead of midway toys being thrown away, they go to children who love them. We are so grateful to the Stampede for the opportunity to help these very needy children,” says Chomick.

Western Legacy Awards honours outstanding individuals and organizations

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:30:00 -0400

Calgary – At a beautiful awards gala today, the Calgary Stampede honoured inspirational individuals and exceptional organizations to receive the 2011 Western Legacy Awards. The Western Legacy Awards were established in 2005 to recognize those who demonstrate commitment to western values and support for western heritage.

“We are extremely impressed by all of the nominees, their contributions to the community and their desire to share western values,” says Dawn MacDonald, chair of the Calgary Stampede Western Legacy Awards committee. “The passion the winners have for the community is inspiring.”

This year’s recipients genuinely embody the values and commitment to the Stampede’s western legacy:

Youth –Sheliza Kassam is a member of the Mayor’s Youth Council and is an inspiration to all young people in her community.
Innovation – Bill Dunn is a Calgary-area rancher who shares the stories of the old west with his community and makes it exciting to learn about western history.
Sustained Contribution, Individual – Larry and Mitzie Wasyliws, driven by a vision and western fortitude, beautifully restored the old ranch house in Fish Creek Provincial Park to become the The Ranche Restaurant.
Sustained Contribution, Group – The RCMP Veterans’ Association provides an essential public service, delivering western values with purpose and advocating for its members.

The Youth category is open to young people under 25 years of age, and recognizes youth who have demonstrated their commitment to making a difference. The award for Innovation recognizes a person or group that has created a single visionary project that speaks to western values. Recipients of the Sustained Contribution category exhibit extraordinary community support over a number of years.

Shaw TV will televise the 2011 Western Legacy Awards beginning Tuesday, October 25 at 7 p.m., with repeats on Sunday, October 30 at 8 p.m. and Tuesday, November 1 at 7 p.m.

For more information, please contact:
Jennifer Booth
Publicity Manager
T 403.261.0327
C 403.463.6834
E jbooth@calgarystampede.com

Centennial Stampede Queen and Princesses crowned

Sun, 02 Oct 2011 15:45:00 -0400

Calgary – 30 days, 22 ladies, nine intense competitions culminated in one Queen and two Princesses. At a glittering crowning ceremony, Candice Lee, Dani Gariepy and Jessica Manning were crowned as the 2012 Calgary Stampede Centennial Queen and Princesses in front of hundreds of family, friends, volunteers and staff on Sunday.

“It’s so overwhelming,” said 2012 Calgary Stampede Princess Gariepy. “I’m so happy, this is a dream come true.”

“I ran for this before and I was hoping for the best but prepared for the worst,” said 2012 Calgary Stampede Queen Lee. “Thankfully, the best happened. I am so happy and grateful for everyone that helped me over the past month. I really hope that I can live up to the three girls that just left.”

Candice Lee - 2012 Stampede Queen
Candice works as a personal trainer. She would like to open a gym/rehabilitation center for people suffering from obesity and other health related issues. She loves working out, training her horse, and coaching and playing volleyball.

Danielle (Dani) Gariepy – 2012 Stampede Princess
Dani is a 3rd year nursing student at Mount Royal University. She would like to pursue a career in nursing, travel and eventually make it back to the ranch where she wants to continue training horses and breeding cattle. She enjoys playing ringette for MRU, skiing, mountain biking,wall climbing and extreme cowboy racing with her horse Nitro

Jessica Manning – 2012 Stampede Princess
Jessica is a polo groom and equine manager at Sorrel Springs Ranch. She is currently studying equine osteopathy. Once she has graduated, she is hoping to work with other local graduates in the field to start a total Equine Osteopathy treatment and recovery centre. She loves riding horses spending time with friends, family, and her miniature Australian shepherd dog.

The Stampede Royalty act as official ambassadors of the Stampede by promoting western heritage and values within the community and around the world. The winning three contestants must embody the Stampede values of integrity, pride of place, western hospitality and commitment to community.

The 2012 Calgary Stampede will take place July 6-15. For more information on the Calgary Stampede please visit www.calgarystampede.com.

Get your seat for the Centennial Calgary Stampede

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 -0400

Calgary – Are you ready to celebrate the Calgary Stampede’s Centennial? Experience the daily thrill of the richest ride in rodeo, the vibration of chuckwagons thundering around the track and the nightly spectacle of the one-of-a-kind evening show. Tickets for the 2012 Centennial Calgary Stampede officially go on sale Monday, October 3, at 10 a.m.

“The 2012 Calgary Stampede will be an unforgettable celebration of the past 100 years,” say Jason Coxford, Calgary Stampede ticket manager. “We encourage everyone to plan their Stampede and buy their tickets in advance, plus, they make great stocking stuffers!”

There is no doubt that this is the year to experience The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. Visitors from around the world will be planning to attend the Stampede’s Centennial celebration. Whether you want to be behind the chutes during the rodeo or watching the chuckwagon races from high above, Monday, October 3 at 10 a.m. is the date and time to remember.

The Stampede ticket office in front of the Grandstand will officially open at 10 a.m. on Monday, or you can purchase your tickets online at Calgary Stampede or by phone at 403.269.9822 or 1.800.661.1767.

We’re looking forward to seeing you at the 2012 Centennial Calgary Stampede, The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth July 6 – 15, 2012.

For more information, please contact:

Jennifer Booth
Publicity Manager
T 403.261.0327
C 403.463.6834
E jbooth@calgarystampede.com

Centennial Indian Princess crowned

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 11:25:00 -0400

Calgary – It’s been a dream since she was little and yesterday, that dream came true as Amelia Crowshoe captured the title of Calgary Stampede’s Indian Princess for 2012, the Stampede’s Centennial year. Crowshoe received the crown from 2011 Indian Princess Eva Meguinis after a traditional transfer ceremony.

A jingle dress dancer, Crowshoe’s other hobbies include photography, writing short stories, sewing, beading as well as cooking healthy meals and recipes. Her desire is to become a lawyer specializing in the needs of the First Nations community. Currently, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in communications and culture. Crowshoe’s family has proudly participated at Indian Village on Stampede Park for five generations.

“Serving as the 2012 Centennial Indian Princess will afford me the opportunity to encourage other young First Nations women to strive for their life goals and maintain their traditions and culture,” said Crowshoe. “This is a dream come true for me.”

The Calgary Stampede Indian Princess is a positive youth role model who represents the Indian Village and the Tribes of Treaty 7 (Tsuu T'ina, Piikani, Stoney, Kainai and Siksika Nations). Along with the Calgary Stampede Queen and Princesses, the Stampede Royalty makes an incredible team who carry their titles with pride and confidence as the main ambassadors promoting the Calgary Stampede and the City of Calgary.

For more information, please contact:
Sophie Pilon
Media Relations Coordinator
Calgary Stampede
T 403.261.0196
C 403.585.0351
E spilon@calgarystampede.com

Canadian Country Music Association recognizes the Calgary Stampede

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 14:20:00 -0400

Calgary – The Calgary Stampede is pleased to accept the Canadian Country Music Association Award for Country Festival, Fair, or Exhibition of the year.

The Calgary Stampede was recognized during an industry awards ceremony hosted in Hamilton, Ontario.

“We are so pleased to accept this honour,” says Rod Tate, Stampede programming manager. “We are very proud of the music acts that our team secures each year and we look forward to an incredible Centennial line-up for 2012.”

The Calgary Stampede will welcome the world for its Centennial celebration July 6-15, 2012.

For more information, please contact:

Jennifer Booth
Publicity Manager
T 403.261.0327
C 403.463-6834
F 403.261.0190
E jbooth@calgarystampede.com

Capturing western heritage and values

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 12:00:00 -0400

Calgary – In honour of its Centennial year, the Calgary Stampede is teaming up with Canadian Geographic to showcase western heritage and values. The first of a number of initiatives to be rolled out is the Western Heritage Values Photo Contest celebrating the spirit and values of Canada’s western heritage.

Photos can be submitted in any of the four categories:

Western Hospitality
Lending a helping hand, sharing what you have and welcoming others is what western hospitality is all about.

Community
A strong sense of community is at the heart of the western spirit.

Role models
Whether it’s a heroic family member or a kind neighbour, we all have role models.

Junior photographer
The above three categories for photographers 15 years and under.

Winning photos will be published in Canadian Geographic Travel and the winning photographer will receive a Calgary Stampede vacation package for two and other fabulous prizes! Deadline for entries is Tuesday, October 4, 2011.

For contest details and rules please visit: Photo contest

For more information, please contact:
Jennifer Booth
Publicity Manager
T 403.261.0327
C 403.463.6834
E jbooth@calgarystampede.com

Calgary Stampede Press Releases

Calgary Stampede the only Alberta stop for Country Superstar Brad Paisley

For more information, please contact:

Country Music Superstar to perform in Centennial Grandstand Show

We're Greatest Together - celebrating 100 years in 2012

Working together for the HART of Ukraine

Western Legacy Awards honours outstanding individuals and organizations

Centennial Stampede Queen and Princesses crowned

Get your seat for the Centennial Calgary Stampede

For more information, please contact:Jennifer BoothPublicity ManagerT 403.261.0327C 403.463.6834E jbooth@calgarystampede.com

Centennial Indian Princess crowned

For more information, please contact:Sophie Pilon Media Relations Coordinator Calgary Stampede T 403.261.0196 C 403.585.0351 E spilon@calgarystampede.com

Canadian Country Music Association recognizes the Calgary Stampede

Jennifer BoothPublicity ManagerT 403.261.0327C 403.463-6834F 403.261.0190E jbooth@calgarystampede.com

Capturing western heritage and values

For more information, please contact:

Jennifer Booth
Publicity Manager
T 403.261.0327
C 403.463.6834
E jbooth@calgarystampede.com

For more information, please contact:
Sophie Pilon
Media Relations Coordinator
Calgary Stampede
T 403.261.0196
C 403.585.0351
E spilon@calgarystampede.com

Jennifer Booth
Publicity Manager
T 403.261.0327
C 403.463-6834
F 403.261.0190
E jbooth@calgarystampede.com