Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Business leaders oppose property tax increase

• Upcoming Edmonton Oilers games

• Struggling Edmonton restaurant owners looking for support

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“One of the things I learned the hard way was that it doesn’t pay to get discouraged. Keeping busy and making optimism a way of life can restore your faith in yourself.”

– Lucille Ball

Photo of the Week

Edmonton Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the historical significance of the Edmonton area known as Strathcona?

A) It was originally a separate city from Edmonton.

B) It was the first industrial area in Edmonton.

C) It is the oldest residential district in the city.

D) It was the site of the first railway in Edmonton.

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

The Edmonton Grads, a legendary women's basketball team, hold an unmatched record in sports history. What is this record?

Answer: C) The highest all-time winning percentage in professional team sports

The Best Links of the Week

💼 Business

Business leaders in Edmonton strongly opposed a proposed 7% property tax increase, arguing that it is not the right time for additional financial burdens as businesses are still recovering from the pandemic. The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce advocated for alternatives to manage the city’s budget increases​​. (link)

Restaurant owners in Edmonton are facing difficulties in meeting operating costs, indicating ongoing struggles within the food and hospitality industry. These challenges highlight the need for more support and viable solutions to sustain the sector​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

National Bank reported a rise in profits, leading to an increased dividend payout to shareholders. The bank's performance, marked by a quarterly dividend increase from $1.02 to $1.06 per share, reflects a solid financial growth trajectory, showcasing the bank's resilience and robust business strategy​​. (link)

Edmonton's budget allocated substantial funds for affordable housing, homelessness prevention, and transit services. These investments reflect the city's commitment to improving living standards and transportation facilities for its residents​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

Connor McDavid, star player for the Edmonton Oilers, delivered an exceptional performance with a goal and four assists in an 8-2 victory against the Anaheim Ducks. McDavid's leadership and skill were pivotal in the team's commanding win​​​​. (link)

The Edmonton Oilers achieved their fourth consecutive victory, led by Leon Draisaitl's tiebreaking goal, in a 3-1 win over the Winnipeg Jets. This streak marks a significant upswing in the team's performance, showcasing their resilience and strategic play​​. (link)

📰 News

The manufacturing sector in Edmonton faced a significant downturn with new orders hitting a 15-month low. This downturn reflects broader economic challenges impacting the manufacturing industry in the region​​. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏒 Edmonton Oilers vs Carolina Hurricanes (December 6): The Oilers take on the Hurricanes in a thrilling NHL match at Rogers Place, promising an exciting game for hockey fans. (link)

🏒 Edmonton Oilers vs Minnesota Wild (December 8): The Oilers face the Minnesota Wild in a must-see game at Rogers Place, offering high-level hockey action. (link)

🤼 Top Talent Wrestling Saves Christmas (December 8): A unique wrestling event featuring top talents in action-packed matches, perfect for wrestling enthusiasts. (link)

Concerts

🎤 Serena Ryder (December 5): Experience the powerful voice and emotive performances of Serena Ryder at the Winspear Centre. (link)

🎸 Lagwagon (December 6): Enjoy a night of energetic punk rock with Lagwagon at Union Hall, perfect for rock music enthusiasts. (link)

🎶 Hawksley Workman (December 9): Catch Hawksley Workman's performance at The Citadel Theatre, showcasing his unique blend of music. (link)

Family

🏒 Edmonton Oil Kings Promo Nights & Family Fun (December 10): Live hockey action with the Edmonton Oil Kings, including special theme nights like the Teddy Bear Toss and Star Wars Night. (link)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Edmonton inside a snow globe” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Edmonton History

Edmonton Tornado (1987)

On July 31, 1987, Edmonton experienced one of the most devastating natural disasters in its history – the Edmonton Tornado, colloquially known as "Black Friday." Rated as an F4 on the Fujita scale, the tornado tore through parts of the city and the neighboring areas, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Originating near the town of Leduc, the tornado moved northeast through Edmonton, particularly impacting the areas of Mill Woods, Clareview, and the industrial areas around the Refinery Row.

The tornado claimed 27 lives and injured hundreds, making it one of the deadliest tornadoes in Canadian history. It caused extensive property damage, estimated at over $330 million, devastating homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The destruction was widespread, with whole neighborhoods left in ruins, and the community deeply shaken by the severity of the event.

The aftermath of the tornado led to significant changes in emergency preparedness and weather alert systems in Edmonton and across Canada. It prompted improvements in weather forecasting technology and emergency response strategies, including better public warning systems. The disaster also united the Edmonton community in recovery and rebuilding efforts, showcasing resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity. The memory of Black Friday remains a poignant reminder of nature's unpredictable power and the importance of disaster preparedness.

Famous Edmontonians

Robert Goulet: 1933-2007

Robert Goulet, an Edmonton-raised entertainer, rose to prominence with his powerful voice and dramatic flair. His career spanned several decades, marked by notable achievements in theater, music, and television.

Early Life in Edmonton (1933-1951)

Although born in Massachusetts, Goulet moved to Edmonton with his mother after his father's death. It was in Edmonton that he first discovered his love for singing, performing in local choirs and theater productions during his youth.

Pursuing the Dream – Early Career (1952-1959)

Goulet's early career saw him performing on Canadian radio and television. He honed his skills as a performer, gradually building a reputation for his rich baritone voice and charismatic stage presence.

Broadway Breakthrough – 'Camelot' (1960-1964)

Goulet's big break came with his role as Sir Lancelot in the Broadway production of "Camelot" in 1960. His performance, particularly the song “If Ever I Would Leave You,” catapulted him to fame and established him as a leading figure in American musical theater.

Recording Success (1965-1970)

Riding on his Broadway success, Goulet embarked on a recording career. He released several albums throughout the 1960s, achieving chart success and further solidifying his position as a prominent singer.

Television and Film Appearances (1971-1980)

In the 1970s, Goulet expanded his career to include television and film. He appeared in various TV shows and movies, showcasing his versatility as an actor and performer.

Continued Stage and Recording Work (1981-1990)

Throughout the 1980s, Goulet continued to perform in musical theater and record albums. His enduring talent and charisma kept him in the public eye, and he remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Later Career (1991-2000)

In the 1990s, Goulet's career transitioned into that of a seasoned veteran. He took on roles in both new productions and revivals, earning acclaim for his performances and mentorship to younger talents.

Final Years and Performances (2001-2007)

Even in his final years, Goulet continued to perform, his voice and stage presence largely undiminished by time. He remained active in theater and concert performances, beloved by fans for his enduring talent.

Passing and Legacy (2007)

Robert Goulet passed away in 2007, leaving behind a legacy as one of the great baritones of his time. His contributions to theater and music were commemorated by fans and peers alike, highlighting his impact on the entertainment industry.

Robert Goulet and Edmonton

While his career took him far beyond Edmonton, Goulet's formative years in the city were instrumental in shaping his path as an artist. Edmonton's vibrant cultural scene provided the foundation for his lifelong passion for performance.

Key Achievements of Robert Goulet:

• Starred in the Broadway hit "Camelot," earning critical acclaim for his performance.

• Enjoyed a successful recording career with several chart-topping albums.

• Became a familiar face on television and in films, showcasing his acting skills.

• Continued to perform in theater and concerts throughout his career, inspiring new generations of performers.

• Remembered as a versatile and charismatic entertainer with a powerful baritone voice.

Robert Goulet's journey from Edmonton to the heights of American entertainment is a testament to his talent, hard work, and charisma. His legacy endures in the many songs, performances, and productions he graced with his distinctive voice and presence.

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-Matthew Larsen