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Crazy Larry
By Dave Cipollone + Erin Moroz
Ever try to corner a leprechaun? Crazy Larry is somewhat elusive…enigmatic if you will…and an entirely enthusiastic character. He’s also a man of vision. Altruist, Friend, Dreamer, Clown, Philosopher, Outreach Worker, Volunteer, Fundraiser and Organizer—Crazy Larry is the Bow Valley’s cheerleader. Decked out in yellow bloomers or perhaps a tutu, you’ll find him dishing out high fives and balloon animals at events around the valley.
Crazy Larry was born and raised in Windsor, Ontario and headed west to Banff more than 20 years ago. He has worn many hats in his (if the vague hints and math are right) 40-plus years: nursing student, vacuum cleaner salesman, public transit bus driver and most recently, oil sands electrician. Shortly after arriving in the valley, Larry Melnik found himself working at Lake Louise’s Deer Lodge as a dishwasher. Here, he became known for night skiing escapades involving a strobe light and his co-workers, accordingly, christened him Crazy Larry. A legal name change is in the works.
Crazy Larry believes that he wasn’t just born, but that he was “born to make a difference.” When asked who’s stepping up, he responds: “I am.” Drawing on what he describes as a dysfunctional childhood and motivated by the alcohol-saturated culture that pervades life for Banff’s young, transient citizens, Larry endeavours to provide an alternative to drug and alcohol use through his dream, Canada’s Meet You At the Top Clubs. As a result of this pay-it-forward attitude and his industrious nature, he was named one of the 2007 Stars of Alberta for volunteerism.
If you find yourself cruising the streets of Banff and cross paths with a guy in a 24 Hours of Adrenaline shirt, duct-tape shoes and warm mitts for the needy hanging from his belt, that’s Crazy Larry. Ask him what you can do to help. And while you’re at it, ask him about his interest in neuroplasticity and epigenetics.
Crazy Larry is seeking sponsorship. If you’d like to find out more about his vision and how you can lend a hand, check out www.crazylarry.info.
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