Leanne Murray’s 5 favourite Calgary Citizen stories of 2022

As I reflect back on the year that was, I am filled with so much gratitude.

I started working with Calgary Citizen in May and since then, I’ve had the privilege of covering some incredible stories about the people, organizations, and businesses that make this city so wonderful.

I am so thankful to everyone who has taken the time to chat with me and who trusted me to share their stories this year.

It was difficult to choose just five of my top stories because I enjoyed every single one I have written.

However, here are some that stood out the most to me.

A Calgary dog owner is warning others after a close call with her pooch and a stove

I came across this cautionary tale on social media and thought Calgary Citizen readers would get a kick out of it. Thankfully the fire didn’t cause any injuries or much damage and Leanne Walker was happy to share the lesson she learned from the incident. Here’s hoping Mason hasn’t caused any more mischief since.

A long shot: Cinematographer enjoying successful career in Calgary against all odds

Craig Wrobleski is by far one of the coolest and most interesting people I have ever had the joy of interviewing. We are both graduates of Mount Royal’s broadcasting program and it was so fascinating chatting with him and hearing about how the program had changed in the 20 years between when he and I attended. It’s incredible to see the career he’s made for himself.

Calgary Stampede concertgoers delighted by unlikely crowd surfer

Sometimes stories will pop up when you least expect them (literally), and this one is proof of that. When I headed down to the Stampede grounds to watch Alexisonfire, I never thought something so unique would happen. I managed to track down Darryl Tait on social media and I loved hearing his story. He is truly an inspiration.

Calgary woman surprises ailing father with a birthday drive-by show and shine

Nicole Coffin grew up going to car shows with her father, Tim Mathieson. Tim’s health has been declining, so for his birthday this year, Nicole asked the classic car community to gather for a surprise drive-by show and shine. I felt honoured that Nicole and her family welcomed me on the day of Tim’s party and allowed me to share this incredible story.

Healing through music: How a Calgary singer-songwriter is coping after husband’s suicide

This was not an easy story to write. What Kristen Scott has been through is nothing short of gut-wrenching but it was a privilege to help share such an important message. Kristen is wildly talented and I watched the video for her new song many times while writing this story. I commend her for putting something so deeply personal into the world.