Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming 2024 U Sports women's basketball final

• Edmonton's Downtown Farmers Market returns to outdoor format

• A deep dive into the life of Lois Hole

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine."

- Roy T. Bennett

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 largest public park in Edmonton?

A) Fort Edmonton Park

B) William Hawrelak Park

C) Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park

D) Rundle Park

Last Week's Trivia: In which year did Edmonton host the Commonwealth Games? Answer: A) 1978

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

HireGood employing the homeless in Edmonton. (link)

The City of Edmonton proposes a 'best and final' deal to CSU 52 members, featuring wage increases, retroactive pay, and hybrid work options. (link)

Edmonton's Downtown Farmers Market is set to return to its outdoor format, bringing fresh, local produce back to the community in an open-air setting. (link)

Despite owing $67 million to the CRA, Edmonton-based Flair Airlines remains optimistic about its prospects for 2024. (link)

🏦 Finance

How the City of Edmonton could cut or reallocate $300 million. (link)

Top global energy traders face multi-billion cash quandary. (link)

🏒 Sports

Draisaitl, Bouchard help Oilers beat Kings 4-2.(link)

Oilers’ Hyman extends goal streak to five games with one-time blast.(link)

McDavid’s Home Point Streak Reaches Career-High 23 Game.(link)

Kings Face Calgary Flames in Upcoming Match.(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

🏀 2024 U Sports Women's Basketball Final 8 - Day 1 Afternoon
Saville Community Sports Centre Edmonton, AB
Thu | Mar 07 | 12:30 PM | (more info)

🧘 Yogalates for Athletic Performance with Allison
Royal Glenora Club, Edmonton
March 9 | (more info)

📣 Cheerleading City Championships
Harry Ainlay High School, Edmonton
March 9 | (more info)

🏊 Development LC Race Day
Kinsmen Sports Centre, Edmonton
March 9 | (more info)

Concerts

🎸 Kxllswxtch: The Walls Have Eyes Tour
The Starlite Room Edmonton, Canada
Mon | Mar 4 2024 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎵 Dillanponders w/ k-riz + tea fannie & Mussedese
The Buckingham
Fri | Mar 8 2024 | 5:00 PM | (more info)

🎶 Napalm raid & languid w/ false body & malicious intent
The Starlite Room - Temple
Fri | Mar 8 2024 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎶 Tritonal with special guests DOWSKI, DJ KEEGS, DANGEROSS
Midway Edmonton, Canada
Fri | Mar 8 2024 | 9:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎭 Harlem Globetrotters 2024 World Tour presented by Jersey Mike's Subs
Rogers Place Edmonton, AB
Sun | Mar 10 | 3:00 PM | (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 “Futuristic Edmonton with a network of sky bridges” 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

1900: The great fire of Edmonton.

In 1900, the city of Edmonton was struck by a devastating event that would be etched into its history as the Great Fire of Edmonton. The fire, which ignited on a seemingly ordinary day, rapidly engulfed the young city, leaving a path of destruction in its wake. Fueled by wooden buildings and the dry conditions of the time, the flames spread with alarming speed, threatening the lives and livelihoods of Edmonton's residents. The community faced a dire situation as the fire ravaged through the heart of the city, decimating businesses, homes, and landmarks that had stood as symbols of Edmonton's burgeoning growth.

The response to the fire showcased the resilience and solidarity of Edmontonians. Citizens, alongside firefighters, banded together in a desperate effort to combat the inferno. Bucket brigades were formed, and every available resource was mobilized in an attempt to contain the blaze. Despite their efforts, the fire claimed a significant portion of the city's infrastructure. However, the spirit of the community remained unbroken; the tragedy became a catalyst for change and renewal in the city.

In the aftermath of the Great Fire of Edmonton, the city embarked on a journey of rebuilding and transformation. Lessons learned from the fire led to the implementation of new fire safety measures and building codes, aimed at preventing future tragedies of a similar scale. The reconstruction period saw the emergence of more resilient structures and a more unified community, determined to rebuild their city stronger than before. The Great Fire of 1900, while a moment of great loss, ultimately highlighted Edmonton's capacity for resilience and renewal, marking a pivotal point in the city's history.

Famous Edmontonians

Lois Hole (1933–2005)

Early Life and Passion for Horticulture (1933-1959)

Lois Hole, born on January 30, 1933, in Buchanan, Saskatchewan, moved to Edmonton, Alberta, where she developed a deep interest in gardening and horticulture. Her passion for plants and nature was evident from a young age, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.

Establishment of Hole's Greenhouses (1960-1980)

Lois and her husband Ted Hole established Hole's Greenhouses & Gardens Ltd. in St. Albert, near Edmonton. Their business grew from a modest venture into one of the most respected and successful horticultural establishments in the region.

Community Involvement and Gardening Expertise (1981-1995)

Lois Hole became a prominent figure in the community, known for her gardening expertise. She authored several popular gardening books, sharing her knowledge and passion with a wider audience. Her contributions to horticulture were widely recognized.

Political Career and Lieutenant Governor (1996-2000)

In 1996, Hole's career took a significant turn when she was appointed the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta. Her tenure was marked by her warmth and approachability, and she was highly regarded for her commitment to the province and its people.

Advocacy for Education and Health (2001-2005)

As Lieutenant Governor, Lois Hole was a strong advocate for education and healthcare. She dedicated herself to various charitable and community causes, enhancing the quality of life for many Albertans.

Awards and Honors (Throughout Career)

Lois Hole received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to horticulture, community service, and public life. These accolades reflected her impact on both the local and national stages.

Legacy in Horticulture and Public Service (Posthumous)

Lois Hole passed away on January 6, 2005. Her legacy lives on in her contributions to horticulture, literature, and public service. She is remembered as a beloved figure in Alberta, with a lasting impact on the province's cultural and social landscape.

Key Achievements:

• Renowned horticulturist and successful businesswoman in Alberta.

• Authored several influential gardening books.

• Served as the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, advocating for education and health.

• Received numerous awards for her contributions to horticulture and public service.

Lois Hole's journey from a passionate gardener to Lieutenant Governor of Alberta is a story of dedication, passion, and service. Her contributions to horticulture, literature, and public life made her a cherished figure in Alberta. Her legacy continues to inspire those in the fields of gardening, community service, and public administration.

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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