The UBC pancake breakfast captivated media attention, as the Calgary Stampede, “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”, kicked off on July 5th.
Members and their families from Alberta Locals 2103, 1325, 2010 and 1460, and Local staff were welcomed to the Calgary UBC office for a pancake breakfast to celebrate the start of the Stampede. There were plenty of fresh pancakes to eat, a live band to listen to, and fun activities for the families of UBC members. It was an excellent chance for members to get together, connect, and kick off the exciting event.
The UBC was honoured to welcome both provincial and federal political leaders, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. Many other notable politicians were also in attendance, including Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, Interim Federal NDP Leader Don Davies, and Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi. Prime Minister Carney spoke to media at the event and expressed his commitment to work with the UBC, “we’re working very closely with them to create not just tens of thousands of jobs, but tens of thousands of careers – a lot of those here in Alberta, but also across the country.” Carney was also invited to flip pancakes for the breakfast, and to onlookers’ amusement each pancake landed with a playful splat.
And the Stampede wouldn’t have been the same if hardworking UBC members weren’t there to help with the job. Before the rodeos, performances, food, and carnival rides, UBC members prepared the infrastructure for the 10-day event. Local 2103 member Erin Ermine commented on the set-up process saying that it takes hours to assemble the stages, secure fences, and construct booths for vendors. The efforts of Erin and other UBC members ensure the Stampede runs smoothly, safely, and successfully.
Canada’s political leaders and visitors from all around the world were able to come and enjoy the Calgary Stampede, thanks in no small part to the hard work of UBC members in Alberta.
