Jeromy (Pathfinder) Farkas

Today, on Indigenous Veterans Day, we honour the First Nations, Métis and Inuit people who served Canada with courage and distinction.

Here in Calgary and southern Alberta, we have remarkable stories of Indigenous military service.

Siksika Elder Clarence Wolfleg Sr. left Crescent Heights High School to join the Canadian Armed Forces in 1966. He went on to serve overseas before returning home to dedicate his life to public service.

Major Bob Crane of Siksika Nation served our country for 33 years. His military career took him around the world, including service during the Gulf War. Today, he continues to support fellow veterans.

We also remember Métis veteran Amber Boyd, who passed away earlier this year. She dedicated much of her life to preserving Indigenous history and honouring those who served.

These are stories of courage, sacrifice and service. Many Indigenous veterans fought for freedoms they were denied here at home. Their contributions were too often overlooked.

Today, we recognize their service and honour their legacy. We thank Indigenous veterans and their families for everything they have given our country.

Lest we forget.

Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas, Calgary!

Today, we join millions of people around the world in celebrating the Festival of Lights.

Diwali celebrates hope and renewal. It marks the triumph of light over darkness. It's a time to gather with family and friends and look forward to brighter days ahead.

For our Sikh community, Bandi Chhor Divas commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and 52 imprisoned kings. It reminds us of the importance of freedom and justice. It also celebrates the importance of standing up for others.

I want to extend my warmest wishes to everyone celebrating across Calgary. Thank you for everything you contribute to our city and for sharing these traditions with your fellow Calgarians.

May these celebrations bring happiness and good health to you and your loved ones. May the year ahead bring peace and prosperity.

Shubh Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas di lakh lakh vadhai!

What a comeback! Congratulations to Cavalry FC on their 2-0 win over FC Supra and a fourth straight Canadian Premier League Final! Calgary gets to host the championship at ATCO Field against Atlético Ottawa. Let's pack the stands and bring that trophy home! Go Cavs! cplsoccer.com/news/cavalry-f…

Four days in the green! Keep it up, Calgary!

We’re asking everyone to reduce their indoor water and avoid outdoor water use while reinforcement work is underway on the Bearspaw South Feeder Main. 

For approximately the next four weeks, we need to keep overall water use below 500 million litres per day (the green zone). Staying within this green zone helps ensure there is enough water for essential daily living, emergency response and critical services city-wide.

In addition to no outdoor water use, we’re asking residents to continue saving water by focusing on a few simple, high impact actions: 

* o   Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.
* o   Keep showers shorter. Aim for three minutes or less 
* o   Flush toilets only when necessary. 

Every action counts. When everyone does their part, we can protect the water system and get through this reinforcement period safely. Visit Calgary.ca/savewater for tips and updates. 

As part of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main construction, there will be traffic impacts in the communities of Bowness, Montgomery and Parkdale. We appreciate your patience while this work is underway.

The Field of Crosses is one of the most powerful and moving places in Calgary. Every cross represents a life lost in service to our country. Every name tells a story of courage, sacrifice, and a family that never got to welcome their loved one home.

I was deeply honoured to join Premier Smith for the sunset ceremony. The beautiful performance by the Bishop Carroll -- our alma mater! -- choir made an emotional evening even more meaningful.

A heartfelt thank-you to founder Murray McCann, executive director Susan Schalin, board chair Sean Libin, and the hundreds of dedicated volunteers who make this extraordinary tribute possible each year. Your work ensures that the names, stories, and sacrifices of our fallen heroes are never forgotten.

The crosses remain until November 11th. I encourage every Calgarian to visit, reflect, and remember the extraordinary price paid for the freedoms we enjoy today.

Lest we forget.