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Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Edmonton Oilers home game

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Ralph Klein

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work."

—Thomas Edison

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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!

Which Edmonton festival is famous for celebrating winter with ice sculptures and outdoor activities?

A) Ice on Whyte Festival

B) Silver Skate Festival

C) All is Bright Festival

D) Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival

Last Week's Trivia:

What is the name of the historic hotel in the heart of downtown Edmonton, opened in 1915? Answer: A) Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

South Edmonton barbershop owner says one of his clients discovered dead baby in parking lot.(link)

Flair to substantially increase B.C.-Alberta flight frequency.(link)

🏦Finance

Edmonton Chamber of Commerce petitions Ottawa to drop emissions cap.(link)

🏒Sports

Oilers take win streak into game against the Wild.(link)

Edmonton Elks sign trio of defensive back players including Demetries Ford.(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. Florida Panthers
Rogers Place Edmonton
Monday December 16 | 6:30 PM | (more info)

🏒Edmonton Oil Kings vs. Prince Albert Raiders
Rogers Place Edmonton,
Tuesday December 17 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Concerts

👑A Drag Queen Christmas
Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Edmonton,
Tuesday December 17 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🔍Scavenger Hunt Edmonton
10000 Jasper Ave Edmonton,
Tuesday, December 17 | 12pm MST | (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 entirely underground 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

1952: The first television broadcast in Edmonton.

In 1952, Edmonton entered the television era with its first broadcast, marking a significant milestone in the city's media landscape and cultural development. This inaugural broadcast introduced Edmontonians to a new form of entertainment and information, revolutionizing the way news, events, and stories were shared within the community. The advent of television in Edmonton was emblematic of the city's post-war modernization and growth, reflecting broader technological and social changes occurring across North America. It provided a window to the wider world, bringing national and international news into homes, and offered a platform for local content that showcased Edmonton's unique culture and community events.

The introduction of television broadcasting in Edmonton had a profound impact on the city's social dynamics and daily life. Families and friends gathered around television sets to watch news broadcasts, live sports events, and variety shows, creating new rituals and shared experiences. This communal aspect of television viewing fostered a sense of connection among residents, bridging geographical distances within the sprawling city. For local businesses and advertisers, television presented a novel and powerful medium to reach consumers, altering the advertising landscape and boosting the local economy. Moreover, television played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and cultural trends, influencing everything from fashion to politics.

Over the years, the legacy of Edmonton's first television broadcast has continued to evolve, with the medium adapting to technological advancements and changing viewer habits. From black-and-white to color, and from analog to digital, television in Edmonton has mirrored the city's progress and innovation. Today, while new digital platforms and streaming services have diversified how content is consumed, the significance of television's arrival in 1952 remains a pivotal moment in Edmonton's history. It marked the beginning of a new era of connectivity and cultural exchange, highlighting the city's role in embracing and contributing to the technological advancements of the 20th century.

Famous Edmontonians

Ralph Klein (1942–2013): Former mayor of Edmonton and Premier of Alberta.

Ralph Klein: The Early Years (1942–1969)

Ralph Klein was born in Calgary, Alberta, in 1942, growing up in the vibrant post-war era that would shape much of his political outlook. His early life in Calgary instilled in him a profound understanding of the city's culture and challenges, laying the groundwork for his future in public service. Klein's formative years were characterized by a strong connection to his community, which would later inform his approach to both politics and policy.

Journalism and Public Profile (1969–1980)

Before venturing into politics, Klein embarked on a career in journalism, working as a reporter and television personality in Calgary. His time in the media spotlight helped him develop a keen sense of public opinion and a straightforward communication style that endeared him to many Albertans. Klein's ability to connect with the average citizen through the media was a critical asset in his political career.

Mayor of Calgary (1980–1989)

Klein's entry into politics came with his election as the Mayor of Calgary in 1980. His tenure as mayor was marked by significant urban development and preparation for the 1988 Winter Olympics, a pivotal event that showcased Calgary on the international stage. Klein's leadership during this period was characterized by fiscal conservatism and a pragmatic approach to city governance, earning him both accolades and criticism.

Transition to Provincial Politics (1989–1992)

After nearly a decade as mayor, Klein transitioned to provincial politics, being elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta. His political acumen and popularity in Calgary were significant factors in his rapid rise within the Progressive Conservative Party. This period set the stage for Klein's future leadership role in Alberta.

Premier of Alberta (1992–2006)

In 1992, Ralph Klein assumed the role of Premier of Alberta, embarking on a transformative leadership journey that would redefine the province's fiscal landscape. His tenure as premier was marked by aggressive debt reduction policies, deregulation, and cuts to public spending. Klein's approach to governance, often dubbed ""Kleinomics,"" polarized public opinion but ultimately left Alberta debt-free.

Fiscal Reforms and Controversies (1992–2006)

Under Klein's leadership, Alberta underwent significant fiscal reforms, including the privatization of public services and a reduction in the size of government. While these measures led to a balanced budget and a surplus, they also sparked controversy, particularly in sectors like healthcare and education, where cuts were felt most acutely.

Connection to Calgary (Throughout Career)

Klein's deep connection to Calgary was evident throughout his political career. From his early days as mayor to his tenure as premier, he remained closely tied to the city's development and its people. His legacy in Calgary includes not only the physical infrastructure projects he championed but also his populist approach to leadership that resonated with many Calgarians.

Later Years and Legacy (2006–2013)

After retiring from politics in 2006, Klein's contributions to Alberta and Calgary were widely recognized, including receiving the Order of Canada in 2012. His later years were marked by reflection on his time in office and the long-term impact of his policies on the province. Klein passed away in 2013, leaving behind a complex legacy of transformational leadership and contentious policy reforms.

Key Achievements

• Served as Mayor of Calgary, leading the city through significant growth and the successful hosting of the 1988 Winter Olympics.

• As Premier of Alberta, implemented fiscal reforms that eliminated the province's debt and led to a period of surplus.

• Known for his populist approach to politics, connecting with Albertans through straightforward communication and charismatic leadership.

Ralph Klein's journey from journalism to the mayoralty of Calgary and ultimately to the premiership of Alberta is a testament to his impactful presence in Canadian politics. His tenure was marked by significant fiscal reforms and a straightforward, populist approach that endeared him to many while also sparking debate. Klein's legacy, particularly in Calgary and Alberta, reflects a complex blend of fiscal conservatism and a deep connection to the communities he served, highlighting his lasting impact on the province's political and economic landscape.

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