Calgary marathoner hosts fundraising relay for Alzheimer's research

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👀 In today's edition:

• RCMP search for missing 5-year-old boy

• How young offenders can avoid court

• Calgary traffic deaths prompt police campaign

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Calgary marathoner hosts fundraising relay for Alzheimer's research

When Jeff Shikaze lost both his grandmothers to Alzheimer's disease, he knew he wanted to do something meaningful to honour their memory. The Calgary marathoner is channelling his grief into action with One Track Mind, a unique fundraising event happening November 8 at the Calgary Olympic Oval that combines his love of running with raising money for Alzheimer's research.

The three-hour relay around the indoor track isn't your typical stuffy fundraiser. Shikaze envisions something more like "running a race in a street festival setting" with local vendors, a live DJ pumping up the crowd, food and drinks, and a cheer corner for friends and family. "If you have also been affected by this disease, you know how devastating it is, not just for the person, but for their loved ones around them," he said, hoping to raise $10,000 for research through the Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories.

With more than 46,000 Albertans currently living with dementia—a number expected to double in the next 25 years—Shikaze's personal mission taps into Calgary's thriving running community for a cause that touches many families. The seasoned marathoner, who's conquered the Boston Marathon twice, believes combining fitness with community spirit can make a real difference in the fight against a disease he hopes "no family will have to face again."

Need to know

🔍 RCMP and multiple search agencies are using drones, dogs, and helicopters to find five-year-old Darius Macdougall, who disappeared near Island Lake Campground in southern Alberta and has a medical condition that may prevent him from responding to searchers.

🚗 Calgary police and the city launched the "Join the Drive to Zero" campaign after 27 people died on city roads this year, surpassing 2024's total of 29 deaths with three months still remaining.

🎓 University of Calgary engineering program now requires a 90% average for admission, leaving students like Evan Wray with 89.5% scrambling for alternatives as the province's booming population drives fierce competition for limited university spots.

⚖️ Alberta is expanding youth justice committees that allow young offenders to avoid court by taking accountability and making amends, with only 12% of participants reoffending within a year compared to traditional court processes.

🪑 Two dozen disabled Calgarians staged a mock die-in protest at the McDougall Centre over changes to AISH benefits that would claw back federal payments and force recipients into work programs despite their inability to work full-time.

🏠 Two homes in Coventry Hills were deemed uninhabitable after a fire spread from one house to another on Sunday afternoon, displacing all residents who found shelter with family and friends while firefighters rescued two turtles.

🗳️ Calgary voters will wait longer for municipal election results this year due to the province's ban on electronic tabulators, with mayoral results expected by 1 a.m. on October 21 and council races counted later that day.

👱‍♂️ Over 120 boys are waiting for a male mentor. Big Brothers Big Sisters is calling on men to step up. Volunteering a few hours a week can be transformative. Be the reason he stops waiting.*

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YYC Music Awards celebrates 10th anniversary with diverse Calgary lineup

After a decade of championing local talent, the YYC Music Awards is throwing quite the party this year. The 10th Annual Gala happening September 28 at Grey Eagle Resort & Casino will feature eight live performances that truly capture what makes Calgary's music scene so special—everything from Indigenous artist Sunflower Dreams kicking off the pre-show to EDM duo Jaxx & Niteshade keeping the energy going at the after-party.

The lineup reads like a love letter to Calgary's musical diversity. Jazz vocalist Angela Wrigley will share the stage with rock group Jade Elephant, while blues artist Ollee Owens brings his nominated songwriting chops to the mix. Perhaps most impressive is Madhuban Performing Arts, who've managed to snag nominations in five different categories including Live Performer and People's Choice—no small feat in a city brimming with talent.

What started in 2016 as a way to celebrate Calgary's often-overlooked music scene has grown into an annual tradition that brings together everyone from bedroom producers to seasoned performers. With 29 awards recognising not just musicians but also the educators, venues, and industry folks who keep the scene thriving, it's become the kind of event where Calgary's music community can actually see itself reflected and celebrated.

Where to eat and drink

🍴 Comery Block: Indulge in authentic West Tennessee barbecue featuring 10-14 hour smoked meats like famous brisket and Nashville hot chicken, paired with craft whiskey cocktails from a collection of over 150 bottles in the heart of 17th Avenue.

🍴 Frenchie: Discover this mysterious cocktail hideaway hidden in plain sight where stepping behind the curtain reveals an intimate speakeasy-style experience that's been waiting for the right guests to find it.

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Things to do

🎟️ Cirque Italia: Experience the magic of North America's largest traveling water circus featuring performers dazzling above 35,000 gallons of water while delivering breathtaking acrobatics and artistry under the big tent.

🎟️ Night Light: Join Calgary's outdoor public art festival that transforms Victoria Park with illuminated installations from local and international artists, creating magical nighttime experiences across multiple neighborhood locations.

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