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Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Edmonton Oilers Named 2025 Stanley Cup Favorites

• Upcoming KDAYS Music Fest

• A deep dive into the life of Muriel Stanley Venne

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”

– Og Mandino

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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 annual Edmonton event showcases international performers and artists in Churchill Square?

A) The Edmonton Folk Music Festival

B) The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival

C) The Works Art & Design Festival

D) The Edmonton International Film Festival

Last Week's Trivia: Which historic Edmonton building, completed in 1913, is known for its marble interiors and impressive dome? Answer: B) The Alberta Legislature Building

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Intuit to close Edmonton offices as company cuts jobs, invests in AI. (link)

Lack of funding, planes leads to cancellation of Edmonton-area international airshow. (link)

🏦 Finance

ATCO Electric fined $3 million for unearned rate increases, overstating its costs. (link)

🏒 Sports

Unfinished Business Will Keep Leon Draisaitl With Oilers. (link)

Edmonton Oilers Named 2025 Stanley Cup Favorites. (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

⚾ Baseball Goes Bollywood with the Edmonton Riverhawks
RE/MAX Field
Friday July 19 | 7:05 PM | (more info)

Concerts

🎸 KDAYS Music Fest - Amanda Marshall
Edmonton EXPO Centre
Friday July 19 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

🎵 Flavour - African Royalty Tour - presented by Duke Concepts
Union Hall 6240 99 St NW Edmonton,
Saturday July 20 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎨 Family Paint Party
Evario Kitchen + Bar 950 Parsons Road SW Edmonton
Friday, July 19 | 6 - 8pm MDT | (more info)

👗 Kids & Youth Runway Training
The Orange Hub 10045 156 Street Northwest Edmonton,
Saturday July 20 | 12:30 PM - 3:15 PM 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 “High-tech entertainment district in Edmonton with virtual reality arcades.” 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

1978: Edmonton Oilers join the National Hockey League.

In 1978, the Edmonton Oilers embarked on a transformative journey by joining the National Hockey League (NHL), marking a significant milestone in the city's sports history. Previously part of the World Hockey Association (WHA), the Oilers' inclusion in the NHL heralded Edmonton's arrival on the major North American professional sports stage. This transition was not just a change in league affiliation but symbolized the city's growing prominence and its residents' deep passion for hockey. The Oilers' move to the NHL was met with great enthusiasm and anticipation, setting the stage for what would become one of the most illustrious chapters in the annals of professional hockey.

The Edmonton Oilers' entry into the NHL in the 1979-1980 season quickly altered the dynamics of the league, introducing a team that would become renowned for its dynamic play, legendary talent, and championship pedigree. With the drafting of Wayne Gretzky, who would emerge as one of the greatest hockey players of all time, along with a roster of talented players including Mark Messier, Jari Kurri, and Paul Coffey, the Oilers dominated the 1980s, winning the Stanley Cup five times (1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, and 1990). This era of success not only solidified the Oilers' legacy but also deeply ingrained the team in the cultural fabric of Edmonton, earning the city the moniker ""City of Champions.""

The Oilers' ascension to the NHL and subsequent success had a profound impact on Edmonton, fostering a strong sense of community pride and unity. The team's achievements on the ice inspired a generation of athletes and fans alike, contributing to the growth of hockey at all levels throughout the region. The presence of a successful NHL franchise in Edmonton has also had significant economic and social benefits, from the development of local sporting facilities to the hosting of major events. As the Oilers continue to compete at the highest levels of the sport, their journey from a WHA team to NHL champions remains a source of inspiration and pride for Edmontonians, encapsulating the spirit of perseverance, excellence, and community that defines the city.

Famous Edmontonians

Muriel Stanley Venne (1933–2001): Indigenous rights activist.

Early Life and Advocacy Beginnings (1933–1955)

Born in 1933, Muriel Stanley Venne's early years were shaped by her experiences within the Indigenous community in Alberta, Canada. Growing up in a time when Indigenous peoples faced significant legal and social challenges, Venne developed a strong sense of justice and advocacy from a young age. Her early life laid the foundation for her lifelong commitment to fighting for Indigenous rights and equality.

Foundational Work in Indigenous Rights (1955–1975)

During this period, Venne began her formal journey into advocacy, focusing on Indigenous rights within Alberta and throughout Canada. Her efforts were instrumental in raising awareness about the issues facing Indigenous communities, including legal rights, education, and healthcare. Venne's work during these years established her as a formidable voice for Indigenous peoples, setting the stage for significant achievements in her later career.

Establishing Key Organizations (1975–1985)

Venne's passion for justice led her to establish and contribute to several key organizations dedicated to advancing Indigenous rights. Among her accomplishments was her involvement in the creation of the Native People’s Defense Fund, aimed at providing legal assistance to Indigenous individuals. Her leadership in these organizations underscored her dedication to empowering Indigenous communities and advocating for systemic change.

Advancing Indigenous Women's Rights (1985–1995)

In the 1980s and 1990s, Venne's advocacy took on a more focused approach towards Indigenous women's rights. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Indigenous women, she worked tirelessly to promote gender equality, fight against discrimination, and support victims of violence. Her efforts during this period were critical in bringing national attention to the issues affecting Indigenous women.

Connection to Edmonton (Throughout Career)

Edmonton, Alberta, served as both home and the operational base for much of Venne's advocacy work. Her contributions significantly impacted the city's Indigenous community and beyond, making Edmonton a central hub for Indigenous rights advocacy in Canada. Venne's work in the city helped to foster a greater understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures and rights.

Recognition and Awards (1995–2001)

Venne's decades of advocacy and contributions to Indigenous rights were recognized through numerous awards and honors. These accolades reflected her significant impact on Canadian society and her tireless efforts to promote justice and equality for Indigenous peoples. Her legacy was celebrated not only within Indigenous communities but also by the broader Canadian public.

Legacy and Continuing Impact (2001 and Beyond)

Muriel Stanley Venne's passing marked the loss of a powerful advocate for Indigenous rights, but her legacy continues to inspire new generations. Her foundational work in establishing organizations, advocating for women's rights, and promoting legal reforms has had a lasting impact on Canada's legal and social landscapes. Venne's life and achievements remain a testament to the power of dedicated advocacy in driving meaningful change.

Key Achievements

• Pioneered advocacy for Indigenous rights in Alberta and across Canada, raising awareness and driving social change.

• Founded and contributed to key organizations focused on legal assistance and support for Indigenous communities.

• Championed the rights and welfare of Indigenous women, contributing to national conversations on gender equality and justice.

Summary

Muriel Stanley Venne's life was characterized by her unwavering commitment to advocating for Indigenous rights and equality in Canada. Her work, especially within the Edmonton community, laid crucial groundwork for future advancements in Indigenous and women's rights. Venne's legacy is marked by her profound impact on legal and social reforms, her dedication to empowering Indigenous voices, and her role as a trailblazer in the fight for justice and equality, inspiring continued advocacy and progress in her wake..

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

-Matthew Larsen

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