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Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Insider Reveals Oilers' Adam Henrique's Financial Sacrifice

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Lionel R. L. Chartrand

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"There is no substitute for hard work."

—Thomas Edison

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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 iconic High Level Bridge, connecting downtown to the south side, was completed in which year?

A) 1913

B) 1921

C) 1901

D) 1935

Last Week's Trivia:

What large urban park in Edmonton features an artificial lake and a popular golf course? Answer: C) William Hawrelak Park

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Panel suggests Edmonton struggles to promote itself. (link)

🏦Finance

Edmonton-based CWB says shareholders approve National Bank takeover. (link)

🏒Sports

Blues' Dylan Holloway Opens Up About Bizarre Contract Negotiations. (link)

Oilers' Leon Draisaitl Signs Biggest Contract in NHL History. (link)

Oilers' Adam Henrique's Financial Sacrifice Revealed by Insider. (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

🏐 Golden Bears Volleyball v Team Canada Masters
Saville Community Sports Centre Edmonton, AB
Thursday, September 12 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

,🏒 Golden Bears Hockey v Macewan Griffins
Clare Drake Arena Edmonton, AB
Friday, September 13 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Concerts

🎤 RAP ICONS - Presented by BM Productions, Bara De Gera, Tal Maze, Michael Cadorna
Union Hall 6240 99 St NW Edmonton,
Friday, September 13 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎸 Canadian Coldwater Revival - Tribute to CCR
The Pearl Showroom, Pure Casino Yellowhead Edmonton, AB
Friday, September 13 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎨 Family Paint Party
Evario Kitchen + Bar 950 Parsons Road SW Edmonton,
Friday, September 13 · 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 “Futuristic urban zoo in Edmonton with holographic animals.” 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

1915: The inauguration of the High Level Streetcar.

In 1915, Edmonton witnessed the inauguration of the High Level Streetcar, a significant development in the city's public transportation system that would have a lasting impact on its urban landscape. Running atop the iconic High Level Bridge, which spans the North Saskatchewan River and connects the city's downtown core with the south side, the streetcar service provided a vital link that facilitated the movement of people and goods between these two key areas. This new mode of transportation was not only a marvel of engineering, given its route over the river at such a height, but also a symbol of Edmonton's growing ambition and its commitment to urban development and connectivity.

The introduction of the High Level Streetcar was met with enthusiasm by Edmontonians, who embraced this efficient and reliable form of public transit. It played a crucial role in the city's expansion, encouraging residential and commercial development beyond the riverbanks and contributing to the growth of communities on the south side. The streetcar service also marked a shift towards more organized urban planning and public transportation strategies, reflecting a modernizing city keen on improving the quality of life for its residents. The convenience and accessibility it offered helped to shape the daily routines of many, making the city more navigable and interconnected.

Over time, the High Level Streetcar became an iconic part of Edmonton's heritage, representing a bygone era of streetcar transportation that once crisscrossed the city. Although it ceased regular operation in the 1950s, replaced by buses and eventually the modern LRT system, the streetcar has been preserved and operates today as a heritage route, offering rides to locals and tourists alike. This nostalgic journey across the High Level Bridge offers passengers a unique glimpse into Edmonton's past, celebrating the city's historical commitment to public transit and its role in shaping the urban environment. The legacy of the High Level Streetcar, inaugurated in 1915, continues to be a point of pride for the city, embodying its rich history and continuous evolution.

Famous Edmontonians

Lionel R. L. Chartrand (1905–1997): Noted for his contribution to Edmonton's French community.

Lionel R. L. Chartrand: Early Life and Foundations (1905–1925)

Born in 1905, Lionel R. L. Chartrand grew up in a period of cultural and linguistic transformation in Canada. His early life in Edmonton instilled in him a profound appreciation for his French heritage, setting the stage for his lifelong dedication to promoting French culture and language in Alberta.

Commitment to French Education (1925–1945)

Chartrand recognized the importance of education in preserving and promoting the French language. He was instrumental in the establishment of French educational programs in Edmonton, ensuring that future generations had access to quality education in their native language. His efforts laid the groundwork for the thriving Francophone educational institutions present in the city today.

Cultural Advocacy and Community Building (1945–1965)

Throughout the mid-20th century, Chartrand emerged as a leading advocate for Edmonton's French community. He was pivotal in founding cultural associations and organizing events that celebrated French Canadian culture, fostering a strong sense of identity and solidarity among Francophones in Edmonton.

Political Advocacy for Linguistic Rights (1965–1975)

Chartrand's advocacy extended to the political arena, where he worked tirelessly to secure linguistic rights for Francophones in Alberta. His efforts contributed to policy changes that recognized French as an important component of Canada's multicultural mosaic, enhancing the visibility and status of the French language in Edmonton and beyond.

Strengthening Francophone Institutions (1975–1985)

Under Chartrand's guidance, several Francophone institutions in Edmonton were strengthened, including cultural centers, schools, and business associations. These institutions played a crucial role in providing services and support to the Francophone community, ensuring its vibrant presence in the city's cultural landscape.

Connection to Edmonton (Throughout Life)

Chartrand's deep connection to Edmonton was evident in his unwavering commitment to enhancing the city's French community. His contributions touched every aspect of Francophone life in Edmonton, from education and culture to politics and social services, making him a beloved figure in both the Francophone and wider Edmonton community.

Awards and Recognition (1985–1997)

In recognition of his contributions, Chartrand received numerous awards and honors, both locally and nationally. These accolades reflected the profound impact of his work on preserving and promoting French culture and language in Edmonton and across Alberta.

Legacy and Impact (1997 and Beyond)

Lionel R. L. Chartrand's passing in 1997 marked the end of an era but his legacy continues to influence Edmonton's French community. The institutions he helped establish and the policies he advocated for have ensured the ongoing vitality of the Francophone culture in the city.

Key Achievements

• Played a crucial role in establishing and enhancing French education in Edmonton.

• Advocated for the linguistic rights of Francophones in Alberta, contributing to significant policy changes.

• Strengthened Francophone cultural and community institutions in Edmonton, fostering a vibrant French Canadian identity.

Lionel R. L. Chartrand's life work significantly impacted Edmonton's cultural fabric, particularly its French community. His dedication to promoting French education, culture, and linguistic rights has left an enduring legacy that continues to benefit the city. Chartrand's contributions have ensured that the Francophone community in Edmonton remains a vibrant and integral part of the city's diverse mosaic, reflecting his deep connection to both his heritage and his city.

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-Matthew Larsen

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