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Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• United with food, Taste of Edmonton celebrates its 40 years

• Upcoming Edmonton Stingers home game

• A deep dive into the life of George Hugh Boyd

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”

— Maya Angelou

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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!

"Edmonton's ""Festival City"" nickname is due to its hosting how many festivals annually?

A) Over 30

B) Over 40

C) Over 50

D) Over 60

Last Week's Trivia:

Which Edmonton neighborhood, named after a Scottish castle, is known for its early 20th-century architecture? Answer: A) Glenora

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

United with food, Taste of Edmonton celebrates its 40 years. (link)

🏦Finance

Canadian Competition Bureau Seeks Feedback on 'Greenwashing' Crackdown. (link)

🏒Sports

Edmonton Elks defensive back Scott Hutter to miss the rest of the 2024 season. (link)

Connor McDavid Reunited With Edmonton Oilers. (link)

Stuart Skinner Makes Exciting Family Announcement. (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 Stingers vs. Winnipeg Sea Bears
Edmonton EXPO Centre Edmonton, AB
Monday July 29 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Concerts

🎸 The Buck Gets Warped ‘24
The Buckingham 10439 82 Avenue NW Edmonton,
Wednesday July 31 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Family

📸 Snapshot Quest Photo Scavenger Hunt Game
City Center 10000 Jasper Ave Edmonton,
Monday, July 29 · 12am MDT | (more info)

🎨 Family Paint Party
Smitty's Restaurant - Westmount 13336 114 Avenue Edmonton,
Tuesday, July 30 · 6 - 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 “Edmonton where traditional and digital art forms merge in public spaces.” 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

1984: Wayne Gretzky leads the Oilers to their first Stanley Cup.

In 1984, Edmonton Oilers' captain Wayne Gretzky led the team to its first Stanley Cup victory, marking a defining moment in both the team's history and the city of Edmonton's sporting legacy. This victory was not just a triumph in the National Hockey League (NHL) but a culmination of years of hard work, talent, and determination, with Gretzky at the forefront as a key architect. The Oilers defeated the New York Islanders, who were seeking their fifth consecutive Stanley Cup, in a series that underscored the passing of the torch to a new dynasty in hockey. Gretzky's leadership and extraordinary skill played a pivotal role in securing the championship, solidifying his status as one of the greatest hockey players of all time.

The Oilers' 1984 Stanley Cup win had a profound impact on Edmonton, instilling a deep sense of pride and unity among its residents. The city, often referred to as the ""City of Champions"" following the victory, basked in the glow of international attention and acclaim. The win not only boosted the city's morale but also its identity on the global stage, showcasing Edmonton as a hub of excellence in professional sports. Celebrations filled the streets, as fans of all ages came together to honor their team's achievement, creating memories that would last a lifetime. The victory was a testament to the team's hard work and the community's unwavering support, highlighting the special bond between the city and its beloved Oilers.

Over the years, the 1984 Stanley Cup victory has remained a cornerstone of Edmonton's rich sports history, symbolizing the beginning of an era dominated by the Oilers in the 1980s. The team went on to win four more Stanley Cups within the decade, but the first victory in 1984 holds a special place in the hearts of Edmontonians. It represented not just the pinnacle of success in hockey but also the spirit of a city capable of achieving greatness. Wayne Gretzky's leadership and the Oilers' triumph in 1984 continue to inspire future generations of athletes and fans in Edmonton, cementing the legacy of a team and a city bound by the pursuit of excellence.

Famous Edmontonians

George Hugh Boyd (1895–1976): A pioneer in radio broadcasting in Edmonton.

George Hugh Boyd: Early Years and Education (1895–1914)

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, in 1895, George Hugh Boyd grew up during a period of rapid technological and cultural change. His early life was characterized by a curiosity about the emerging field of communication technology. Boyd's education, which focused on electrical engineering, provided him with the foundational knowledge that would later fuel his pioneering work in radio broadcasting.

Military Service and Technological Skills (1914–1918)

During World War I, Boyd served in the Canadian military, where he honed his skills in radio communication. His experience with military communication technologies significantly influenced his understanding of the potential of radio as a tool for mass communication. This period was instrumental in shaping his future career in radio broadcasting.

Early Involvements in Radio Technology (1918–1922)

After the war, Boyd returned to Edmonton and began experimenting with radio technology. He was among the first in the area to recognize the potential of radio for public broadcasting. His early experiments laid the groundwork for the development of radio broadcasting in Edmonton and across Alberta.

Founding of Edmonton's First Radio Station (1922–1930)

George Hugh Boyd's vision and dedication led to the establishment of Edmonton's first radio station. As a founder, he was instrumental in the station's early success, overseeing its technical setup and programming. This venture marked a significant milestone in the development of the broadcasting industry in Edmonton and served as a model for future stations in the region.

Expansion and Innovation in Broadcasting (1930–1945)

Throughout the 1930s and into World War II, Boyd continued to innovate in the field of radio broadcasting. He introduced new programming and technological advancements that enhanced the quality and reach of broadcasts. His efforts during this period contributed to the growth of the radio broadcasting industry in Canada.

Connection to Edmonton (Throughout Career)

George Hugh Boyd's career in radio broadcasting was deeply rooted in Edmonton. His work had a profound impact on the city's cultural and technological landscape. Boyd's contributions helped establish Edmonton as a center for broadcasting innovation in Alberta and influenced the development of the industry across Canada.

Leadership and Advocacy (1945–1960)

After the war, Boyd emerged as a leader and advocate for the broadcasting industry. He played a key role in regulatory discussions and policy development, aiming to ensure the responsible growth of radio broadcasting in Canada. His insights and experience were invaluable in shaping the future of the industry.

Retirement and Reflection (1960–1976)

Upon retiring, Boyd took the time to reflect on his contributions to radio broadcasting. He remained interested in the field, offering mentorship and support to the next generation of broadcasters. Boyd's legacy was recognized by industry peers and the community, acknowledging his role as a pioneer in Canadian radio broadcasting.

Key Achievements

• Played a pivotal role in establishing Edmonton's first radio station, marking the beginning of the city's broadcasting industry.

• Innovated in radio broadcasting technology and programming, enhancing the quality and reach of radio in Canada.

• Served as a leader and advocate for the broadcasting industry, contributing to its growth and regulation.

George Hugh Boyd's contributions to radio broadcasting in Edmonton and across Canada were groundbreaking. His pioneering work in establishing Edmonton's first radio station laid the foundation for the city's vibrant broadcasting industry. Boyd's innovations in technology and programming significantly advanced the field of radio broadcasting, making him a respected figure in the industry. His legacy is characterized by his vision, leadership, and lasting impact on the development of radio as a key medium of communication in the 20th century.

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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.

-Matthew Larsen

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