Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• UIAA Ice Climbing World Championships

• Upcoming Edmonton Oilers home game

• A deep dive into the life of Wilfrid Gariepy

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Whether you think you can or you can't, either way you are right.”

-Henry Ford

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 iconic Edmonton mall was once the largest in the world?

A) Kingsway Mall

B) Southgate Centre

C) West Edmonton Mall

D) Edmonton City Centre

Answer to Last Week's Trivia

What is the name of Edmonton's historic streetcar that runs from downtown to Old Strathcona?

A) The High Level Bridge Streetcar

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Several Edmonton businesses, including car washes and laundromats, were forced to shut down temporarily due to a water use ban imposed in the area​​. (link)

The business community in Edmonton focused on the importance of leadership and succession planning in private companies​​. (link)

The housing market in Edmonton experienced uncertainty, impacting various stakeholders in the region​​. (link)

Edmonton witnessed a surge in the self-storage industry, reflecting changing consumer behavior and business needs​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

Aurinia Pharmaceuticals, based in Edmonton, announced its plans to release the financial and operational results for Q4 2023 and the full year on February 15, 2024​​. (link)

The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce expressed disappointment over the tax increase, emphasizing the need for efficient spending and safeguarding of tax dollars​​. (link)

Aurinia Pharmaceuticals is set to review its financial and operational results, with a focus on treatments for autoimmune, kidney, and rare diseases​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Butterdome in Edmonton hosted the Alberta Indoor Games, featuring a range of age groups and events including combined events and relay provincials​​. (link)

Edmonton Oilers' Winning Streak: The Edmonton Oilers continued their impressive run by securing their 13th consecutive win. (link)

World Junior Football Championship: Edmonton is set to host the world junior football championship, marking the return of the event after a six-year hiatus​​. (link)

Winterfest in Castle Downs at Castle Downs Park Pavilion offered residents an array of winter activities, including sleigh rides and snowshoeing, free of charge​​. (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. Detroit Red Wings
Rogers Place, Edmonton
Tuesday, Feb. 13th | (More Info)

🧗 UIAA Ice Climbing World Championships & YEG Fest
ACC Ice Wall, Edmonton
February 16th -18th | (More Info)

🎭 Silver Skate Festival
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park, Edmonton
February 12th - 18th | (More Info)

🎿 Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival
Various Venues, Edmonton Area
February 12th - 18th | (More Info)

Concerts

🎸 Vader with Origin
The Starlite Room, Edmonton
Saturday, Feb. 17th | (More Info)

🎤 High Valley – Small Town Somethin Tour
River Cree Resort & Casino, Enoch
Tuesday, Feb. 13th | (More Info)

🎸 The Strumbellas
Midway, Edmonton
Wednesday, Feb. 14th | (More Info)

🎶 D’orjay and the Lovely Luvies Fam
Maclab Centre for the Performing Arts, Leduc
Wednesday, Feb. 14th | (More Info)

🎤 Dominique Fils-Aimé
The Arden Theatre, St. Albert
Wednesday, Feb. 14th | (More Info)

Family

🖼️ 5 Artists 1 Love Art Exhibition
Art Gallery of Alberta, Edmonton
February 12 - 18th | (More Info)

🎭 Rubaboo at Citadel Theatre
Citadel Theatre, 9828 101 A Avenue, Edmonton
February 12th | (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 “A steampunk-themed Edmonton with Victorian architecture” 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

The establishment of Edmonton’s first post office (1881)

In 1881, a significant milestone in the evolution of Edmonton as a burgeoning community was marked by the establishment of the city's first post office. This event was a clear indication of the growing importance and development of Edmonton, serving as a critical link for communication and commerce. The establishment of the post office signified Edmonton's transition from a remote outpost to a structured, connected community, laying the groundwork for its future growth.

The post office became a hub of activity, not just facilitating the delivery of letters and packages, but also acting as a gathering place where news was shared and community ties were strengthened. It played a crucial role in connecting Edmonton's residents with each other and with the wider world, fostering a sense of belonging and community. The reliability of mail services further encouraged the influx of settlers, businesses, and investment, contributing to the economic and social vitality of the region.

The establishment of Edmonton's first post office in 1881 is a testament to the city's enduring spirit of progress and community. It marked a significant step in the city's journey towards becoming a key player in the region, reflecting the transformative power of connectivity and communication in shaping the destiny of a community.

Famous Edmontonians

Wilfrid Gariepy (1877–1961)

Early Years and Education (1877-1900)

Wilfrid Gariepy, born in 1877 in Trois-Pistoles, Quebec, moved to Alberta in his youth. His early life in the predominantly French-speaking region of Quebec and his subsequent move to Alberta provided him with a unique perspective, shaping his future political and business endeavors.

Business Ventures and Community Involvement (1901-1920)

Gariepy's initial foray into business in Alberta saw him establish himself as a significant figure in the local community. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the development of various successful ventures, contributing to the growth of Edmonton's economy.

Political Career and Influence (1921-1940)

Gariepy ventured into politics, where he made substantial contributions. His work focused on the development of Edmonton and Alberta, advocating for the interests of his constituents and playing a pivotal role in regional politics.

Advocacy for Francophone Rights (1941-1960)

A champion for the Francophone community, Gariepy worked tirelessly to promote and preserve French culture and language in Alberta. His advocacy was crucial in ensuring the rights and recognition of Francophones in the region.

Legacy and Contributions to Edmonton (Posthumous)

Wilfrid Gariepy passed away in 1961, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to Edmonton's political, economic, and cultural landscape. He is remembered as a key figure in the city's development and an advocate for the Francophone community.

Wilfrid Gariepy's Key Achievements:

• Successful businessman and influential politician in Alberta.

• Played a vital role in the development and growth of Edmonton.

• Advocate for Francophone rights and culture in Alberta.

Wilfrid Gariepy's impact on Edmonton and Alberta was multifaceted, encompassing successful business ventures, a notable political career, and advocacy for the Francophone community. His contributions to the region's development and his efforts to promote cultural diversity and linguistic rights have left an enduring mark on Edmonton's history.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen 

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