Latest news with #communitySpirit
CBC
29-06-2025
- CBC
There are parades in small town Alberta and then there's this ...
What so special about the Ponoka Stampede parade? Might just be easier to show you how a community of 7,500 manages to attract more than 10,000 spectators an hour south of Edmonton.
CTV News
26-06-2025
- General
- CTV News
High River Rotary Club unites community through Canadian flag display
In a powerful show of patriotism and community spirit, front lawns across High River are flying the Canadian flag as part of a unique initiative organized by the local Rotary Club—and it's all for a good cause. In a powerful show of patriotism and community spirit, front lawns across High River are flying the Canadian flag as part of a unique initiative organized by the local Rotary Club—and it's all for a good cause. The program, which sees residents 'rent' a Canadian flag for $50 a year, has quietly grown into a town-wide tradition. Volunteers install dozens upon dozens of flags at homes three times a year—over the May long weekend, on Canada Day and again for Labour Day—each time transforming neighbourhoods into seas of red and white. 'We kind of set a very small goal when this first started in 2019 of selling 50 flags, and back then, we actually sold 100 flags in the first year,' said Damian Boyle, chairman of the Canadian Flag Program. 'And then this year—believe it or not—we've got 607 flags out right now.' While the program raises money for local and international charitable projects, its deeper impact is more personal. 'It's a massive expression of Canadian nationalism or patriotism within a small town in Alberta,' said Boyle. 'Canadians aren't always known to be overtly patriotic, but we give them the chance to display their patriotism. That's what it's all about.' In a powerful show of patriotism and community spirit, front lawns across High River are flying the Canadian flag as part of a unique initiative organized by the local Rotary Club—and it's all for a good cause. In a powerful show of patriotism and community spirit, front lawns across High River are flying the Canadian flag as part of a unique initiative organized by the local Rotary Club—and it's all for a good cause. James Young, a newer resident of High River, was one of many drawn to the initiative for its unifying power. 'Last year, I think there were maybe 12 or 14 flags here on my street. Today, there's 40 all lined up in a row,' he said. 'Our national pride is catching on big.' The response, organizers say, is almost entirely organic. 'We don't advertise. It's all word of mouth,' said Boyle. 'A lot of it has to do with neighbours—you'll see some streets in this town where every house has got a flag on the front lawn.' In a powerful show of patriotism and community spirit, front lawns across High River are flying the Canadian flag as part of a unique initiative organized by the local Rotary Club—and it's all for a good cause. In a powerful show of patriotism and community spirit, front lawns across High River are flying the Canadian flag as part of a unique initiative organized by the local Rotary Club—and it's all for a good cause. And behind every flag is a small army of volunteers—nearly 45 people helped power the project this year, from longtime Rotarians to locals who just want to contribute. Jerry Coackwell, a Rotary member for 35 years, called it one of the most memorable initiatives he's ever worked on. 'It builds our club, brings us all together as members and gives us a sense of purpose,' he said. 'When you pound that flag into the ground and you see the result of it, it makes you very proud to be a Rotarian and a Canadian.' Dianne Fedosa, a newer Rotary member, echoed that sentiment. 'When you stand back or you're driving away, you just feel a great sense of accomplishment and being very patriotic to our Canada,' she said. Even those not directly affiliated with the club, like Lana Ottewell, a friend of the Rotary Club of High River, say they feel a strong connection. 'As a proud Canadian, it's just amazing to have a flag in front of my home and to be able to help the Rotary Club and all that they do within High River and within the world, actually,' she said. The $50 donations fund a wide array of charitable efforts, with about $26,000 net this year going to local charitable initiatives. 'That money will go towards supporting a bus in town for seniors and disabled residents, food bank donations, youth scholarships,' said Boyle. 'It also helps fund international projects—from an ophthalmology clinic in Burundi to sanitation projects in Central America.' Knowing it's for a good cause means so much more for people like Young, who told CTV News that it all comes back to values. 'I think that we need to always celebrate our heritage,' he said. 'The people that made this land free don't get forgotten about, and we don't quit on them.' With more flags flying than ever before ahead of Canada Day celebrations next week, the message is clear: 'In High River, patriotism is alive, well and proudly on display,' said Boyle. For more information or to sign up, visit the Rotary Club of High River's website.
CTV News
24-06-2025
- Automotive
- CTV News
Volunteers needed for 2025 Grey Cup in Winnipeg
Are you wanting to be part of the Grey Cup festivities in Winnipeg? Well, organizers are now looking for volunteers to work Grey Cup Week between Nov. 10 and 16. 'Winnipeg is gearing up to host this once-in-a-generation event, recognized as Canada's biggest social, and we are calling on community-minded individuals eager to help deliver an unforgettable week of sport, music, culture, and celebration,' said Jennifer Thompson, the executive director for the 2025 Grey Cup Festival. Organizers are looking for up to 1,200 volunteers who can cover jobs like accreditation, fleet transportation, VIP hospitality, snow patrol and ticketing. To register, people must be 18 or older by Nov. 1, have a valid email address and a driver's licence if they are volunteering for a driving role. When completing the application process, people must also submit $100, which will help offset costs for the volunteer package. There is a Remove the Barriers to Participate Program, where people are encouraged to register even if they can't afford the registration fee. The package includes an exclusive jacket worth $300, a t-shirt and toque, as well as snacks and drinks during shifts. Volunteers would be required to work a minimum of four shifts, each lasting around four to six hours. There are also opportunities to work on Nov. 9 and Nov. 17 to help with set-up and tear down. 'This event is all about Canadian community spirit, and we know Manitobans will step up in a big way. Whether it's lending a hand behind the scenes or helping fans make lasting memories, volunteers play a crucial role and we're thrilled to help celebrate and support their efforts,' said Ken Larson, the president and CEO of Princess Auto. Those wanting to volunteer for the Grey Cup Festival can sign up online, while those looking to volunteer for the Grey Cup game are asked to apply on the Bombers' website.
BBC News
04-06-2025
- General
- BBC News
Why Minneapolis is one of the world's happiest places
Minneapolis ranked among the world's happiest cities for 2025. Locals say the secret lies in its Nordic roots, creative energy and community spirit that bring all-season joy. When it comes to measuring the happiest places in the world, the Nordic countries often come out on top. That was certainly the case in this year's 2025 Happy Cities Index, conducted by the Institute for the Quality of Life, where Denmark, Norway, Finland and Sweden all had at least one city rank in the top-marked "Gold" category. So perhaps it's no surprise that Minneapolis – the only US city aside from New York City to earn a Gold happiest city designation – has its own ties back to Scandinavia. Home to the largest population of Norwegians, Finns and Swedes outside of Europe, Minnesota and its largest city Minneapolis still maintain strong ties to their early settlers who came to the United States in the mid-19th Century, fleeing religious persecution and famine. With its long, cold winters and abundant lakes, Minneapolis's climate and landscape certainly can resemble its Nordic counterparts. In the same vein, its residents have long learned to embrace the four seasons, and even say it contributes to their overall sense of happiness. "Although the winters do get cold and the summers can be hot and humid, we have a lot more sunny days than many metros," says Steven Rothberg, who moved here from Winnipeg in 1988. "People here embrace the outdoors. It is a rare day that is cloudy, gloomy or drizzling, which makes outdoor activities much easier to plan and enjoy, even if it is cold or hot." He notes that the city consistently ranks among the country's highest number of commuters who bike to work, with more than two thirds of the population reporting they often or sometimes ride a bike to go to school or run errands. The Midwest city has made continuous improvements to its cycling infrastructure, with the 51-mile loop Minneapolis Grand Rounds Scenic Byway as its crown jewel, connecting the downtown riverfront with the Mississippi River and Chain of Lakes region to the north-east part of the city. In total, Minneapolis has 21 miles of on-street protected bike lanes and 106 miles of off-street sidewalk and trail miles – many which were converted from former railway lines. "The Rails-to-Trails paths converted abandoned former rail lines into bike and walking paths. If you look at a map of them, you can see how easy it is to get from almost anywhere in the Twin Cities to almost anywhere else without having to bike more than a mile on a city street," said Rothberg. "The beauty, serenity and safety of the trails is a massive benefit to living here, and one that I take advantage of almost every day, year-round." The Happy Cities Index gave Minneapolis particularly high marks in the environment category, measuring green spaces, pollution and overall sustainability – a factor that residents resoundingly agree with. Whether walking or cycling, the trails give residents easy access to the city's abundant park system, clocking in at 22 lakes and 180 parks. "The parks and lakes are incredible. Whether I'm shooting an engagement at Lake Harriet or a family session at Minnehaha Falls, I'm constantly reminded how much access we have to beautiful, natural spaces right in the city," said local wedding photographer Kristine Barron. "The city puts a lot into bike trails, public libraries and community centres, which shows how much they value wellness and connection." Minneapolis was also a standout in the economy category, ranking fourth of all measured cities in the index for its strong growth, reasonable cost of living, innovation and prioritisation of education. The index noted that nearly a quarter of residents hold a master's degree and one in five people speaks a second language. "The welcoming nature of the people and policies that mean anyone can come here or live here and feel at home," said Kristen Montag, senior public relations and communications manager at Meet Minneapolis Convention & Visitors Association, who lives in nearby St Paul, Minneapolis' "Twin City", which makes up the large metro area. The cultural diversity is held together by a sense of community. "Culturally, people here are kind, community-focused and resilient," said Barron. The city has been under the spotlight again recently as it marks the five-year anniversary of the killing of George Floyd. In honour, the city holds an annual Rise & Remember Festival to showcase the power of art and community activism to continue the healing process. More like this:• What it's like to live in the happiest country on Earth• The world's five happiest cities for 2025• Why people love living in Switzerland This creative energy reshapes the city from season to season. "Summertime means outdoor cafes, concerts and festivals that keep your calendar full, while wintertime brings a cosy embrace of sauna culture, outdoor recreation like cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and more, and the coffee culture, dining next to fireplaces (indoor and outdoor!) and outdoor beer festivals like the Winter Beer Dabbler," said Montag. "Spring and fall are gorgeous seasons too." For first-time visitors, residents recommend visiting the Stone Arch Bridge, the National Civil Engineering Landmark that offers views of St Anthony Falls. "Start around sunset," recommends Barron. "You'll get skyline views, riverfront beauty and a true sense of the heart of Minneapolis. It's also one of my favourite photo spots, so bring a camera." Locals also raved about Native American restaurant Owamni, winner of the 2022 James Beard national best new restaurant award. The restaurant proudly serves a "decolonised dining experience", removing colonial ingredients such as wheat flour, cane sugar and dairy from its recipes. Instead, it prioritises Indigenous food producers for its signature seasonal dishes, like bison ribeye, huckleberry-cured salmon and stuffed poblanos. Montag also recommends heading to one of Minneapolis go-to burger joints and ordering a "Jucy Lucy" – a Minneapolis-invented cheeseburger where the cheese is stuffed in the middle of the burger instead of on top. While its exact origins are hotly debated, former speakeasy 5-8 Club Tavern & Grill and Matt's Bar both claim an early version. Although the famous Mall of America – the largest shopping mall in the country with more than 580 stores – is a popular tourist draw, residents warn that it's not too dramatically different from a mall you might have visited before. "Just larger and with a small amusement park in the centre," says local author Michael MacBride. Instead, the truly unique photo ops are at the free Minneapolis Sculpture Garden with its 60 creative and oversized sculptures, including the city's iconic pop art-inspired Spoonbridge & Cherry fountain. The nearby Walker Art Center also has free nights on Thursdays and showcases contemporary art, performances and films. "Minneapolis has strong creative energy," said Barron. "Lots of art, music and photography. "It's a city that appreciates the little things." -- For more Travel stories from the BBC, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Grand feature parade showcases spirit of the West Virginia Strawberry Festival
Buckhannon's 83rd Strawberry Festival BUCKHANNON, (WBOY) — As the 83rd West Virginia Strawberry Festival draws to a close, the past several days have showcased the joy and community spirit that the festival's parades bring to attendees. On Saturday afternoon, the Grand Feature Parade continued that tradition, delighting the many spectators who lined the streets of Buckhannon to experience what is widely regarded as the festival's highlight event. For many of the residents, the Grand Feature Parade has become a cherished tradition, drawing visitors back year after year. 'I enjoy being here, this is the 83rd, I'm not quite 83 yet, but I've been to a lot of them and each one of them brings some uniqueness, something special that you want to take home with you and remember,' Upshur County resident Ed McDaniels said. Buckhannon's 83rd Strawberry Festival honors first responders 'I love this antique car parade that's going to be coming, and the reason is I see some of the cars that are in there that I used to own that I wish I had now, but when I had them I was happy to have them, but when I let them go I was happy to let them go. But now, when I see them go by, I wish I had them again,' McDaniels said. Each year, the festival attracts an increasing number of participants, with marching bands and performance units traveling from across the United States and the world to take part in the celebration. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
