Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Edmonton Oilers home games

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Wop May

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way."

—Martin Luther King, Jr.

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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!

What is the name of the major public research university located in Edmonton?

A) MacEwan University

B) Northern Alberta Institute of Technology

C) University of Alberta

D) King's University College

Last Week's Trivia:

Which Edmonton festival is famous for celebrating winter with ice sculptures and outdoor activities? Answer: B) Silver Skate Festival

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Edmonton city council expands Alberta avenue business improvement area.(link)

Edmonton business owners prepare for GST break.(link)

🏦Finance

Alberta to commit $4.2 million towards recreation projects across the province.(link)

🏒Sports

Edmonton Oilers Place Travis Dermott On Waivers.(link)

Oilers' Head Coach Issues Update on Evander Kane’s Recovery.(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. Boston Bruins
Rogers Place Edmonton,
Thursday December 19 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🏒Edmonton Oilers vs. San Jose Sharks
Rogers Place Edmonton,
Saturday December 21 | 2:00 PM | (more info)

Concerts

🎧DANNY AVILA - Presented by Union Hall and Nightshift Entertainment
Union Hall 6240 99 St NW Edmonton,
Friday December 20 | 9:00 PM | (more info)

🎶MARTEN HØRGER - Presented by À La Maison
Union Hall 6240 99 St NW Edmonton,
Saturday December 21 | 9:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎄Glow & Pose: Holiday Makeover and Minis
Evolution Hair Salon 140 Bonnie Doon Shopping Center Northwest Edmonton,
Saturday, December 21 | 9am - 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 “Edmonton celebrating a futuristic international festival.” 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

1955: The opening of the Edmonton Coliseum.

In 1955, the city of Edmonton celebrated the opening of the Edmonton Coliseum, a significant development in the city's sports and entertainment landscape. Known initially for its versatility and modern facilities, the Coliseum quickly became a beloved landmark, hosting a wide array of events from sports competitions to concerts and trade shows. Its inauguration marked a new era for Edmonton, providing a state-of-the-art venue that could accommodate the growing demand for large-scale events in the city. The Coliseum not only served as a home for local sports teams but also attracted international performers and events, placing Edmonton on the map as a key destination for major touring acts and sporting events.

The impact of the Edmonton Coliseum on the community was profound. It became a hub of activity, drawing people from across the city and beyond, fostering a sense of pride and unity among Edmontonians. The venue played a crucial role in the development of local sports, particularly hockey, with the Edmonton Oilers calling the Coliseum home. This association helped to cultivate a strong sports culture in the city, contributing to Edmonton's identity as the ""City of Champions."" The Coliseum was more than just a venue; it was a place where memories were made, where local heroes were celebrated, and where the community came together to share in the excitement of live events.

Over the decades, the Edmonton Coliseum underwent several renovations and name changes, adapting to the evolving needs of the city and its residents. Despite the changes, it remained an iconic fixture in Edmonton's cultural and social life until its closure. The legacy of the Coliseum lives on in the memories of those who experienced its events, embodying a period of growth and vibrancy in Edmonton's history. Its opening in 1955 is remembered as a milestone that contributed significantly to the city's reputation as a vibrant and dynamic urban center, highlighting Edmonton's capacity to host world-class events and its enthusiasm for sports and entertainment.

Famous Edmontonians

Wop May (1896–1952): Aviator and WWI flying ace.

Wop May: Early Life and WWI Service (1896–1918)

Wilfrid ""Wop"" May was born in Carberry, Manitoba, in 1896, but it was his move to Edmonton, Alberta, that marked the beginning of his connection to aviation history. His early life was characterized by a spirit of adventure and a keen interest in mechanics and flying. May's service as a pilot in World War I saw him quickly establish himself as a skilled aviator, where he famously became the last enemy pilot pursued by the Red Baron before the German ace's death in 1918.

Post-War Aviation Pioneer (1919–1926)

After the war, May returned to Edmonton, where he channeled his passion for aviation into pioneering work in the field. He played a critical role in establishing the first air mail routes in Western Canada and was instrumental in the early development of commercial aviation in the region. His efforts during this period laid the groundwork for the future of flight in Canada.

The Race Against Death (1926–1929)

Perhaps one of May's most heroic acts came in 1929 when he undertook a daring flight to deliver diphtheria antitoxin to the remote community of Little Red River, Alberta, saving countless lives. This ""Race Against Death"" not only showcased May's flying skills but also his deep commitment to using aviation for humanitarian purposes.

Advancements in Bush Flying (1929–1935)

Throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s, May continued to push the boundaries of aviation. He was a key figure in the development of bush flying techniques, which improved the safety and efficiency of air travel in Northern Canada's challenging environments. His work during this time significantly contributed to the opening up of Canada's North.

Contribution to Airborne Law Enforcement (1935–1940)

In the mid-1930s, May's expertise in aviation saw him assist in the formation of the Edmonton Police Air Division, one of the first of its kind in the world. Through this initiative, he demonstrated the potential of using aircraft in law enforcement, particularly in search and rescue operations and in monitoring remote areas.

World War II Efforts and Training Pilots (1940–1945)

With the outbreak of World War II, May once again served his country by training young pilots for combat. His school in Edmonton became a critical part of Canada's contribution to the war effort, preparing a new generation of aviators through the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.

Connection to Edmonton (Throughout Career)

Wop May's connection to Edmonton was a constant throughout his life. From his early flying exploits to his contributions to the community and his pioneering work in aviation, Edmonton served as the backdrop for many of his achievements. The city was not only his home but also the launchpad for his remarkable career in aviation.

Post-War Innovations and Legacy (1945–1952)

After the war, May continued to innovate, focusing on aerial photography and mapping services that played a crucial role in the development of Western Canada's resources. He remained an active advocate for aviation safety and the potential of air travel until his untimely death in 1952.

Key Achievements

• Recognized as a WWI flying ace and a key figure in Canadian aviation history.

• Pioneered the first air mail routes in Western Canada, significantly contributing to the development of commercial aviation.

• Undertook the ""Race Against Death,"" demonstrating the life-saving potential of aviation.

• Played a pivotal role in the advancement of bush flying, improving safety and efficiency in Canada's North.

• Contributed to airborne law enforcement and trained WWII pilots, enhancing Canada's military aviation capabilities.

Wop May's life was a testament to the pioneering spirit of early aviation. His contributions went beyond his combat achievements in WWI, extending to vital developments in commercial and bush flying in Canada. Edmonton was not just his home but also the heart of his aviation legacy, where he left an indelible mark on the community and the field of aviation. May's innovative use of aircraft for humanitarian, law enforcement, and training purposes showcases his lasting impact on both Canadian aviation and society.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Yannick Lyons

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