Your Weekly Dose of “Feel Good” Calgary News
Best of Calgary is a celebration of the people, places and voices that make Calgary an amazing place to live and call home.
Written by: Kelsey Woods
Another week down and there is even more positive news coming out of Calgary that we simply cannot keep up. The sun is out, spring is on its way and our fellow neighbours are stepping up all over the city so that we can not only survive, but thrive, during this time of uncertainty. Here are five local news stories to make you smile this week:
1. Village Brewery
Many local breweries have begun offering pick-up and delivery options during social distancing, but one, in particular, stands out above them all. Village Brewery has launched a new social initiative encouraging Calgarians to ‘spread cheers and send beers’ by going to their website and sending a beer - or five - to a friend with a personalized message. Simply fill in their address to enjoy a ‘virtual cheers’ with someone who deserves a beer right now, connecting from separate homes. Send your Village Brewery cheers beers here.
2. Lourdes Juan, Leftovers YYC and Fresh Routes
Lourdes is the founder of not one, but two, amazing not-for-profit social enterprises that collect leftover food from local restaurants, bakeries, grocers and distributors and provide people in need with this food. These organizations save tonnes of food from being wasted and redistribute it to those seeking affordable grocery options. With many local businesses temporarily shutting their doors, Lourdes’ organizations are seeing a spike in donations and therefore are able to provide local Calgarians in need with even more food than before the COVID-19 crisis. Learn more about these incredible charitable organizations here.
3. Marlo Brausse, Barre Body Studio
Marlo and her team have been working tirelessly to continually provide inspiring, full-body workouts for their fitness community. This business fully pivoted to an online platform in less than a week, offering free live stream classes every day for their community. Anyone who knows Marlo is familiar with her powerful teaching and meaningful classes, and this has only been improved upon during this difficult time. Check out their brand new Barre Body OnDemand website here.
4. Quarantine International Film Festival
Two Calgary filmmakers decided to inspire others by providing a creative outlet during this time of self-isolation and uncertainty. Spencer Streichert and Siobhan Cooney started the Quarantine International Film Festival only a few weeks ago and have already received hundreds of film submissions created during quarantine from around the globe. The new festival has brought countless people together and has inspired creators around the world to stay creative during the pandemic. Learn more about how you too can submit a piece here.
5. Tiffany, The Raven's Room
The Raven's Room is an amazing brick and mortar shop in the Devenish Building. Pottery, jewellery, soaps, candles - if you can think it, this little giftshop probably has it. Tiffany has been working immensely hard to support all of her local artists and vendors by hosting social media live feeds, online sales, behind the scene stories and so much more. We are so thankful for businesses like The Raven’s Room that support local creators and makers year-round.
If you notice someone going above and beyond for their neighbours or spot a local business who has pivoted and provided for their community during these uncertain times, we want to know! Nominate these local heroes so we can give them a shout out and continue to spread positive news.
Kelsey Woods is the Content & Editorial Manager for Best of Calgary.