Calgary Consulate celebrates Western heritage on July 4

4 July 2012

At July 4 Celebration. Photos provided courtesy Monique de St. Croix

Consul General Laura Lochman celebrated her last Independence Day in Calgary by highlighting the common western heritage shared by Canada and the United States.

The event paid tribute to the Centennial of the Calgary Stampede and the Americans who played roles in preserving Western “cowboy” culture, among them Stampede founder Guy Weadick, rancher George Lane, artist Charlie Russell and cowboy John Ware. Toe-tappin’ entertainment was provided courtesy of the youthful Bow Valley Fiddlers.

The Hon. Jason Kenney, Canada’s Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, thanked Consul General Lochman for her work to further U.S.-Canada relations. Alberta Premier Alison Redford also expressed appreciation for Lochman’s efforts to strengthen ties and understanding, and wished her well in her future endeavors. The Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, the Hon. Donald S. Ethel, brought greetings on behalf of the Queen. Approximately 500 guests attended the event, including a few American cowboys in town to compete in the Stampede rodeo.