Edmonton Newsletter (August 22nd)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

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Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Costco testing membership card scanners

  • Edmonton Elks to be sold

  • A deep dive into the life of Dorothy Livesay

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”

-Franklin D. Roosevelt

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Disclosures:

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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!

The University of Alberta in Edmonton was founded in what year?

A) 1908

B) 1912

C) 1921

D) 1899

Last Week's Trivia:

Which Edmonton museum focuses on the history of law enforcement in the city? Answer: C) Edmonton Police Museum

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Man suspected of setting Surrey business owner on fire wanted on assault charges in Alberta. (link)

🏦Finance

Costco testing membership card scanners at several locations across Canada. (link)

🏒Sports

Edmonton Elks to be sold to local businessman Larry Thompson. (link)

Blues tender offer sheets to Oilers' Broberg and Holloway. (link)

Oilers' power forward Evander Kane set to undergo surgery, new report seems to confirm. (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

Twin Otter Pub Annual Golf Tournament
1305 175 Street Southwest Edmonton,
Sunday, August 25 · 12:30 - 8:30pm MDT | (more info)

Concerts

🎸 Metallica
Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton, AB, Canada
Friday 23 August | (more info)

Family

🎨 Family Paint Party
Tony Roma's 17115 100 Ave NW Edmonton,
Thursday August 22 | 7 - 9pm MDT | (more info)

🎉 BKS Dance Party at the Playground
Parkallen Community League 6510 111 Street Northwest Edmonton,
Saturday, August 24 · 4 - 8pm MDT | (more info)

Image of the Week

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

This week, I typed in “An architecturally symmetrical Edmonton.” 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

1996: The Edmonton International Airport is expanded.

In 1996, the Edmonton International Airport underwent a significant expansion, marking a pivotal moment in the city's development and connectivity with the global community. This expansion was designed to accommodate the growing demand for air travel and to enhance the airport's capacity to handle international flights, reflecting Edmonton's rising status as a key economic and cultural hub in the region. The introduction of new terminals and the expansion of existing facilities were aimed at improving passenger experience, increasing operational efficiency, and facilitating smoother connections for both domestic and international travelers. This ambitious project underscored the city's commitment to fostering global connections and supporting economic growth through improved transportation infrastructure.

The expansion of the Edmonton International Airport had a profound impact on the local economy, stimulating growth in tourism, trade, and investment. By increasing the airport's capacity to welcome more flights and passengers, Edmonton became more accessible to international visitors, business travelers, and investors, thereby opening up new opportunities for cultural exchange and economic collaboration. The enhanced airport facilities, including upgraded passenger services, retail spaces, and logistics capabilities, not only improved the functionality of the airport but also contributed to a positive first impression of Edmonton for incoming visitors, setting the stage for further development and international engagement.

Over the years, the 1996 expansion of the Edmonton International Airport has continued to pay dividends, serving as a critical infrastructure asset that supports the city's ongoing growth and global outreach. The airport's evolution reflects Edmonton's dynamic nature and its aspiration to be a welcoming, connected, and forward-thinking city. As the primary gateway to Northern Alberta and beyond, the Edmonton International Airport plays a crucial role in the region's economic vitality and cultural richness, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and ideas that enrich the community and enhance its place in the world.

Famous Edmontonians

Dorothy Livesay (1909–1996): Poet and officer of the Order of Canada.

Dorothy Livesay: Early Life and Literary Beginnings (1909–1929)

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in 1909, Dorothy Livesay's early life was steeped in a rich literary environment, nurtured by her parents, who were both writers. Her initial forays into poetry during her teenage years displayed a keen awareness of social issues and a deep empathy for human suffering. This early period was crucial in shaping Livesay's voice as a poet committed to exploring themes of social justice, love, and the human condition.

Education and Exploration (1929–1939)

Livesay pursued higher education at the University of Toronto and later at the Sorbonne in Paris, where she was exposed to the burgeoning modernist movement in literature and art. These experiences broadened her literary horizons and deepened her commitment to using poetry as a means of social commentary. During this time, Livesay's poetry began to gain recognition, marking her emergence as a significant voice in Canadian literature.

Social Activism and Literary Recognition (1939–1950)

The tumultuous years of the Second World War and its aftermath saw Livesay's increasing involvement in social activism, reflected in her poetry's themes. Her collections ""Day and Night"" (1944) and ""Poems for People"" (1947) exemplified her commitment to addressing issues of inequality, war, and peace. Livesay's work from this period earned her critical acclaim and established her as a prominent figure in Canadian poetry.

The Vancouver Years (1950–1960)

Moving to Vancouver in the 1950s, Livesay became a central figure in the city's literary community. Her involvement with the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) and her advocacy for peace and social justice were mirrored in her poetic output. Vancouver's vibrant cultural scene provided Livesay with new inspirations and challenges, enriching her work as a poet and activist.

Connection to Vancouver (Throughout Career)

Dorothy Livesay's connection to Vancouver was profound, significantly impacting her literary and personal life. The city's natural beauty and its dynamic social and political environment influenced much of her poetry during this period. Livesay's contributions to Vancouver's cultural and literary communities left a lasting legacy, making her an integral part of the city's artistic history.

National and International Recognition (1960–1970)

Livesay's work continued to garner national and international recognition throughout the 1960s. She received several awards, including two Governor General's Awards for Poetry, affirming her status as one of Canada's leading poets. Her involvement in international writers' conferences and festivals further established her reputation beyond Canada's borders.

Feminism and Later Works (1970–1980)

The rise of the feminist movement in the 1970s had a significant impact on Livesay's work, leading her to explore themes of women's experiences and rights more explicitly. Her collections from this period, including ""The Phases of Love"" (1972) and ""The Woman I Am"" (1977), reflect a deep engagement with issues of gender and identity, contributing to the feminist discourse in Canada.

Officer of the Order of Canada (1980–1990)

In recognition of her contributions to Canadian literature and her activism, Livesay was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1987. This honor highlighted her achievements as a poet and her lifelong commitment to social justice, peace, and equality.

Legacy and Influence (1990–1996)

Dorothy Livesay passed away in 1996, leaving behind a rich legacy as one of Canada's most distinguished poets. Her work continues to inspire new generations of writers and activists, reflecting her profound impact on Canadian literature and society. Livesay's poetry remains a testament to her belief in the power of words to effect change and her unwavering commitment to exploring the depths of human experience.

Key Achievements

  • Recognized as a leading voice in Canadian poetry, with a career spanning over six decades.

  • Awarded two Governor General's Awards for Poetry, reflecting her significant contributions to Canadian literature.

  • Appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada for her literary achievements and social activism.

Dorothy Livesay's life and work were characterized by a relentless pursuit of social justice, a deep empathy for the human condition, and a profound connection to the Canadian landscape, particularly Vancouver. Her poetry, marked by its activism and exploration of personal and societal themes, earned her national and international acclaim, including two Governor General's Awards and the designation of Officer of the Order of Canada. Livesay's legacy as a pioneering poet and activist continues to influence Canadian literature and culture, underscoring the enduring power of her words and vision.

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