To some, including one Calgarian who tweeted an image of Naheed Nenshi as Superman, the mayor attained near superhero status during the flood of June, 2013 with his daily briefings at Calgary’s Emergency Operations Centre.
Here are five of his most memorable quotes:
The worst is yet to come:
“Particularly on the Bow, the worst is yet to come. I grew up here. I spent a lot of time on the Bow and Elbow Rivers and I have never seen the river that high or that fast.”
Be careful:
“You say ‘stay away from downtown and the bridges’ but dozens, even hundreds, are trying to get close to take pictures. What do you say to them? We care more about your safety than anything else. I know why you’re there. It’s part of your community, the city you love. You want to see with your own eyes what is happening to us. There is nothing wrong with that motive or intent.
But I have to say to people ‘Be careful.’ Our emergency services are stretched. We have to focus on real emergencies, not create any more emergencies. The way to not create any more emergencies is to stay safe and stay far away from the river ban.”
The famous Darwin quote:
“I can’t believe I actually have to say this, but I’m going to say it. The river is closed. You cannot boat on the river.
I have a large number of nouns that I can use to describe the people I saw in a canoe on the Bow River today. I am not allowed to use any of them. I can tell you, however, that I have been told that despite the state of local emergency, I’m not allowed to invoke the Darwin law.”
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On community spirit:
“We’re heading into tough times. As people get into their homes and their home is in trouble, people will feel despair… we have to lift them up with our love and support.”
Touched by support:
“My heart is full.” – Nenshi after a young girl handed him a card with the message: “Dear Mayor Nenshi, thank you for keeping Calgary strong!”
READ MORE: Alberta floods: One year later
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