“Hell or High Water” – The Stampede Begins in Calgary

Two weeks ago, downtown Calgary, including the Stampede Grounds, was under several feet of water. Mayor Naheed Nenshi promised rodeo fans that the city would be ready for the scheduled opening of the 101st Calgary Stampede on July 5. Well, they did it. This morning Alberta Premier Alison Redford was there flipping pancakes for Stampede fans, and astronaut Chris Hadfield led the parade, and the 10-day party that is the Calgary Stampede is underway!

Never mind the cowboy hats, boots, and buckles. My guess is this T-Shirt will be the best-selling souvenir this year:

 It helps that the shirt if a fund-raiser for ongoing flood relief efforts, and there is plenty to be done yet. Click HERE to link to the official Calgary Stampede web store, if you'd like to order a shirt.

Oh, and there's a G-rated version for the little ones, Mom. Click HERE to order.