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Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• McDavid Warns of Future Contract Updates

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of J. Percy Page

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.”

—Soren Kierkegaard

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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!

In what year did Edmonton's LRT (Light Rail Transit) system first begin operation?

A) 1978

B) 1981

C) 1985

D) 1974

Last Week's Trivia:

Which annual Edmonton event celebrates LGBTQ+ pride and culture? Answer: A) The Edmonton Pride Festival

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

City of Edmonton tightening the purse strings amid budget deficit. (link)

🏦Finance

City of Edmonton projecting $34M deficit for end of 2024. (link)

🏒Sports

Play Alberta becomes Edmonton Oilers’ sports betting and online gaming partner. (link)

Oilers' Connor McDavid Issues Warning on Future Contract Updates. (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 Elks vs. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Commonwealth Stadium / Stade du Commonwealth Edmonton, AB
Saturday September 21 | 5:00 PM | (more info)

🏒 Edmonton Oilers vs. Winnipeg Jets
Rogers Place Edmonton, AB
Sunday September 22 | 4:00 PM | (more info)

Concerts

🎶 Explosions In the Sky - The End Tour
Midway 6107 104 St NW Edmonton,
Friday September 20 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎤 Sam Hunt: Locked Up Tour 2024
Rogers Place Edmonton, AB
Saturday September 21 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Family

🖍️ Draw Funny, Comics and Cartooning Workshops for Students 
Rolling Tales 10219 106 Street Edmonton,
Thursday, September 19 · 5 - 7pm 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 with an underwater section accessible to the public.” 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

1943: Edmonton becomes a key military base in World War II.

In 1943, Edmonton's strategic role during World War II was significantly enhanced, as it became a key military base and a northern gateway for the Allied war effort. Situated far from the battlefronts yet crucial due to its geographic location, Edmonton served as a vital point in the transfer of personnel, supplies, and equipment to the Soviet Union under the Lend-Lease program. The city's airport, Blatchford Field, was expanded to accommodate the increased military air traffic, becoming one of the busiest in the country. This period saw Edmonton transform into a bustling hub of military activity, with soldiers, pilots, and support personnel becoming a common sight in the city.

The establishment of military bases and the influx of troops brought about significant changes to Edmonton's social and economic landscape. Local industries saw a boom as they began to cater to military needs, from supplying goods and services to supporting infrastructure projects, such as the construction of the Alaska Highway, which was crucial for North American defense. This military presence also fostered a sense of unity and purpose among the residents of Edmonton, many of whom participated in war efforts through volunteer work, bond drives, and hosting servicemen. The city's strategic importance was further underscored by the presence of the Northwest Staging Route, a series of airfields used to ferry American-built aircraft to the Soviet Union, highlighting Edmonton's contribution to the Allied victory.

Post-war, Edmonton's role as a key military base had lasting impacts on its development and global connections. The infrastructure built during the war laid the groundwork for future growth, particularly in aviation and transportation. The wartime experiences also left a legacy of international relationships and a strengthened sense of community and resilience among Edmontonians. This period of military significance not only shaped the city's physical landscape but also its identity as a community capable of contributing significantly to global efforts and challenges. Edmonton's transformation during World War II into a key military base is a testament to its strategic importance and the adaptability and spirit of its people.

Famous Edmontonians

J. Percy Page (1887–1973): Teacher, coach, and Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.

J. Percy Page: Early Life and Education (1887–1909)

J. Percy Page was born in Rochester, New York, in 1887 and moved to Alberta, Canada, in his youth. His early education and passion for sports and teaching shaped his future contributions to education and athletics. Page's formative years laid the groundwork for his significant impact on Canadian sports, particularly women's basketball, and his eventual political career.

Teaching Career and Move to Edmonton (1909–1924)

After completing his education, Page began his teaching career, which led him to move to Edmonton, Alberta. In Edmonton, he dedicated himself to education and the development of youth sports programs. His commitment to teaching and community involvement in Edmonton marked the beginning of a lifelong endeavor to positively influence young lives through education and sports.

Coaching the Edmonton Grads (1924–1940)

Page's most notable contribution to sports came when he became the coach of the Edmonton Commercial Graduates Basketball Club, famously known as the Edmonton Grads, in 1924. Under his guidance, the Grads became one of the most successful women's basketball teams in history, winning numerous national and international titles. Page's innovative coaching methods and dedication to his team left an indelible mark on women's sports.

Connection to Edmonton (Throughout Career)

J. Percy Page's connection to Edmonton was profound, with his work as a teacher, coach, and community leader deeply intertwined with the city's history. His leadership of the Edmonton Grads made him a local and national hero, and his contributions to education and sports significantly impacted Edmonton's cultural and social landscape.

Political Career and Public Service (1940–1959)

After his coaching career, Page turned to politics and public service, where he continued to serve the people of Alberta. He was elected to the Alberta Legislature, where he championed education, public health, and sports development. Page's political career was characterized by his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Albertans through policy and reform.

Lieutenant Governor of Alberta (1959–1966)

In 1959, J. Percy Page was appointed Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, becoming a symbol of leadership and stability in the province. During his tenure, he focused on promoting education, cultural development, and unity among Albertans. Page's role as Lieutenant Governor allowed him to further his lifelong goals of public service and community development.

Advocacy for Education and Youth Sports (Throughout Career)

Throughout his life, Page was a staunch advocate for education and youth sports, believing in their power to shape character and foster community spirit. His efforts to promote sports among young people, particularly young women, helped break down barriers and pave the way for future generations of athletes.

Key Achievements

• Coached the Edmonton Grads to international success, establishing a legacy in women's basketball.

• Served as Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, promoting education, health, and unity.

• Advocated for youth sports and education, significantly impacting the development of these fields in Alberta.

J. Percy Page's multifaceted career as a teacher, coach, politician, and Lieutenant Governor of Alberta demonstrates his profound impact on the province and particularly on the city of Edmonton. Through his leadership of the Edmonton Grads, he played a crucial role in the development of women's sports. As a politician and Lieutenant Governor, Page championed education, public health, and sports, leaving a legacy of dedication to public service and community development that continues to inspire.

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

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