Sponsored By:

Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Edmonton Oilers Playoff game

• Red Lobster Files For Bankruptcy

• A deep dive into the life of Nellie McClung

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Power is not about being in control. It’s about making a difference”

-Michelle Obama,

Sponsored

Ditch Winter Blues, Learn a Language All Summer Long with Babbel's Award-Winning Program

Imagine strolling through charming European villages, confidently asking for directions in perfect Italian, or ordering fresh seafood at a quaint Greek taverna. Make your summer travel dreams a reality with Babbel's Lifetime Subscription! 

Their interactive lessons, packed with practical phrases and culturally relevant topics, get you conversing with confidence in just 10 minutes a day. No more awkward fumbling with phrasebooks – with Babbel, you'll be engaging in meaningful conversations and connecting with locals on a deeper level. 

Unlock a lifetime of travel possibilities and transform your summer adventures with Babbel Lifetime. Right now, during Babbel’s Memorial Day Sale, they are offering a whopping 67% off!

Start Now

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!

In Edmonton, what is Hawrelak Park known for hosting annually?

A) The Edmonton Folk Music Festival

B) The Silver Skate Festival

C) The Heritage Festival

D) The Edmonton International Fringe Festival

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

What historic Edmonton street was originally the main thoroughfare for fur trading? Answer: A) Jasper Avenue

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Several business owners at Edmonton's Westmount Shopping Centre say they've been given only 30-days notice to find a new location. (link)

Independent grocers see uptick in business during Loblaw boycott. (link)

🏦 Finance

AI guidelines take the stage at Edmonton's Upper Bound convention. (link)

Construction labour shortage weighs on Alberta businesses as growth accelerates. (link)

Red Lobster Files For Bankruptcy Protection, Jeopardizing Nearly 30 Canadian Stores. (link)

🏒 Sports

Edmonton Oilers defeat Vancouver Canucks 3-2 in Game 7 to advance to Western Conference Final. (link)

Edmonton Elks take defensive lineman Alfano in CFL supplemental draft. (link)

Elks Release American RB Justin Rankin. (link)

Edmonton Elks sign former NFL QB Cole McDonald. (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

🏒 Western Conference Finals: Dallas Stars at Edmonton Oilers
Rogers Place, Edmonton,
Monday May 27 to May 2 | (more info)

Concerts

🎤Allan Rayman - The All Allan Tour
Midway 6107 104 St NW Edmonton,
Wednesday May 29, 2024 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎵 Tempo - A Symphony of EDM
Midway 6107 104 St NW Edmonton,
Saturday June 1, 2024 | 9:00 PM | (more info)

🎤Byron Messia
Union Hall 6240 99 St NW Edmonton,
Friday May 31, 2024 | 9:00 PM | (more info)

🕺Edmonton Dance Factory: Recital 2024
Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Edmonton
Saturday June 1, 2024 | 11:00 AM | (more info)

Family

🎨Draw Funny, Comics and Cartooning Workshops
Rolling Tales 10219 106 Street Edmonton,
Sunday, June 2 | (more info)

🖌️Family Paint Party
Evario Kitchen + Bar 950 Parsons Road SW Edmonton,
Friday, May 31 · 6 - 8pm MDT | (more info)

🌊WEM Waterpark Beach Party
World Waterpark 8882 170 Street Northwest Edmonton,
Friday, May 31, 2024 5:30 PM - 8:30 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 “Edmontonscape with a fusion of different historical eras.” 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

1947: Oil is discovered near Leduc, impacting Edmonton’s economy.

In 1947, a transformative event occurred near Leduc, just south of Edmonton, that would irrevocably change the economic landscape of the region and the city itself: the discovery of oil. This momentous find, known as the Leduc No. 1 discovery, marked the birth of the modern petroleum industry in Alberta and signaled the beginning of an economic boom that would have far-reaching effects. For Edmonton, located in close proximity to Leduc, the discovery acted as a catalyst for unprecedented growth, positioning the city as a key player in the burgeoning oil sector. Almost overnight, Edmonton transformed from a primarily agricultural and trade-based economy to the epicenter of Canada's oil industry, attracting investment, talent, and businesses from across the globe.

The impact of the oil discovery near Leduc on Edmonton's economy was profound and multifaceted. The city experienced a surge in population as workers, engineers, and their families flocked to the area in search of employment and opportunity. This influx led to a boom in construction, with residential, commercial, and industrial developments springing up to accommodate the growing workforce and the needs of the oil industry. Edmonton's infrastructure expanded rapidly, with improvements in transportation networks, the establishment of educational and research institutions focused on petroleum engineering and geosciences, and the proliferation of services and industries supporting the oil sector.

Over the decades, the oil discovery near Leduc has continued to shape Edmonton's identity and economic trajectory. The city has evolved into a central hub for the energy sector, with a diversified economy that also embraces innovation, education, and technology. The events of 1947 set Edmonton on a path toward prosperity and growth, fostering a dynamic business environment and a vibrant community. While the oil industry has faced its ups and downs, the legacy of the Leduc discovery remains a pivotal chapter in Edmonton's history, highlighting its adaptability and resilience in the face of change.

Famous Edmontonians

Nellie McClung (1873–1951): Famous suffragette and member of "The Famous Five.

Nellie McClung: Early Life and Education (1873–1890)

Born in Chatsworth, Ontario, in 1873, Nellie McClung was raised in a family that valued education and independent thinking. Despite limited formal education opportunities, McClung was an avid reader, which laid the foundation for her lifelong advocacy for women's rights and social reform. Her family's move to Manitoba in her teenage years brought her into a community that would play a significant role in her development as a leader in the suffrage movement.

Teaching and Early Writing (1890–1908)

McClung began her career as a teacher in Manitoba, where she developed a passion for public speaking and social activism. During this time, she married Robert McClung, and together they started a family. Nellie's experiences in the classroom and her observations of the societal limitations placed on women and girls inspired her first writings and speeches on gender equality.

Rise to Prominence as a Suffragette (1908–1914)

McClung's involvement in the women's suffrage movement gained momentum with her move to Winnipeg in 1911. Her eloquence, humor, and persuasive writing made her a prominent figure in the campaign for women's voting rights in Canada. McClung's novel, ""Sowing Seeds in Danny,"" became a bestseller, providing her with a platform to address issues of social justice and women's rights.

The Political Arena and Women's Suffrage Victory (1914–1920)

In 1914, McClung staged a mock parliament in Winnipeg, where women debated whether men should have the vote, effectively using satire to highlight the absurdity of the arguments against women's suffrage. This event was a pivotal moment in the movement, contributing to the public support for gender equality. Her efforts, along with those of her peers, led to Manitoba becoming the first Canadian province to grant women the right to vote in 1916.

The Famous Five and the Persons Case (1921–1930)

McClung moved to Edmonton, Alberta, and continued her advocacy work. She became part of ""The Famous Five,"" alongside Emily Murphy, Henrietta Muir Edwards, Louise McKinney, and Irene Parlby. Together, they launched the Persons Case, challenging the Canadian Supreme Court's ruling that women were not ""persons"" under the law. In 1929, the British Privy Council overturned this decision, marking a landmark victory for women's rights in Canada.

Connection to Edmonton (1921–1933)

In Edmonton, McClung's influence extended beyond her activism. She was involved in the local community, contributing to the city's cultural and social landscape. Her time in Edmonton was marked by significant achievements, including her role in the Persons Case and her election to the Alberta Legislature in 1921, where she served until 1926, advocating for social welfare, education, and public health reforms.

Later Life and Continued Activism (1933–1945)

After moving to Victoria, British Columbia, McClung continued to write and speak on issues of democracy, gender equality, and peace. She remained an active member of the Canadian Authors Association and contributed to the war effort during World War II. McClung's later years were characterized by her unwavering commitment to social justice and her belief in the power of education to effect change.

Legacy and Recognition (1945–1951)

Nellie McClung's contributions to Canadian society were widely recognized in her later years. She was celebrated as a trailblazer for women's rights and a key figure in the early 20th-century social reform movements in Canada. Her legacy includes not only her political achievements but also her extensive body of written work, which continues to inspire feminists and social activists.

Key Achievements

• Instrumental in the Canadian women's suffrage movement, contributing to Manitoba becoming the first province to grant women the vote.

• A member of ""The Famous Five,"" who won the Persons Case, recognizing women as ""persons"" under Canadian law.

• Served as a member of the Alberta Legislature, where she advocated for progressive social policies.

• Author of numerous novels and works of nonfiction that explored issues of gender equality and social justice.

Nellie McClung's life was marked by her tireless advocacy for women's rights and social reform in Canada. Her role in the suffrage movement and the landmark Persons Case established her as a leading figure in the fight for gender equality. McClung's connection to Edmonton and her broader contributions to Canadian society reflect her deep commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable world. Her legacy as a suffragette, legislator, and author continues to inspire and influence the pursuit of social justice and gender equality today.

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.

-Matthew Larsen

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

Poll