Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• AI art of the week

• Upcoming Edmonton Elks home game

• A deep dive into the life of Percy Page

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare.”

-Juma Ikangaa

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!

Which Edmonton neighborhood is known for its historic homes and views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley?

A) Glenora

B) Garneau

C) Oliver

D) Riverdale

Last Week's Trivia:

The Edmonton Oilers, the city's NHL team, won their first Stanley Cup in what year? Answer: A) 1984

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Edmonton's Mandolin Books to close in September. (link)

🏦Finance

Jasper wildfire caused $880M in insured losses. (link)

National Bank Earnings Beat Extends Quarterly Winning Streak. (link)

🏒Sports

Edmonton Oilers, Leon Draisaitl reportedly ‘a little further apart’ than earlier believed in contract negotiations. (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

🤼‍♂️ WWE Friday Night SmackDown
Rogers Place Edmonton, AB
Friday, September 6 | 5:45 PM | (more info)

🏈 Edmonton Elks vs. Calgary Stampeders
Commonwealth Stadium / Stade du Commonwealth Edmonton, AB
Saturday, September 7 | 5:00 PM | (more info)

Concerts

🎶 Purple City Music Festival 2024 Weekend Pass
Various Venues Edmonton,
Friday, September 6 - Monday September 9 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎸 Marcus King: Mood Swings The World Tour
Midway 6107 104 St NW Edmonton,
Saturday, Septemb 7 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎨 Family Paint Party
Evario Kitchen + Bar 950 Parsons Road SW Edmonton,
Friday, September 6 · 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 with a central park featuring exotic, genetically engineered plants.” 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

1899: The Klondike Gold Rush and its effects on Edmonton.

In 1899, the Klondike Gold Rush had profound effects on Edmonton, transforming it from a quiet agricultural community into a bustling gateway for prospectors dreaming of striking it rich in the Yukon. As news of gold discoveries in the Klondike reached the south, Edmonton quickly positioned itself as the ""Gateway to the North,"" offering a shorter, albeit more challenging, route to the gold fields than the more commonly used passages through Skagway or Dyea in Alaska. This strategic positioning led to a significant influx of people, capital, and goods, injecting vitality into the local economy and accelerating the city's development. Stores, trading posts, and outfitters proliferated to supply the would-be miners with necessary provisions and equipment for the journey north, showcasing Edmonton's entrepreneurial spirit.

The Klondike Gold Rush's impact on Edmonton extended beyond the immediate economic boom. It catalyzed infrastructure development, including the improvement of transportation networks such as trails and water routes, which were essential for moving goods and people to and from the north. This period also marked the beginning of Edmonton's reputation as a major transportation and logistics hub, a characteristic that has defined the city to this day. Moreover, the influx of people brought diverse skills and backgrounds, contributing to the social and cultural fabric of the community. Edmonton's role in the Gold Rush helped to establish its identity as a key player in the exploration and development of the Canadian North, laying the groundwork for future growth and prosperity.

In the years following the Klondike Gold Rush, Edmonton's strategic importance continued to grow, further cemented by the arrival of the railway in the early 20th century. The Gold Rush was a pivotal event in the city's history, demonstrating the potential for rapid transformation driven by economic opportunity. It left a legacy of resilience and adaptability, qualities that have continued to define Edmonton's development. The city's involvement in the Gold Rush is a reminder of the role that historical events play in shaping the trajectory of communities, influencing their economic, social, and cultural landscapes for generations to come.

Famous Edmontonians

Percy Page (1902–1983): Coach of the Edmonton Grads, a women's basketball team.

Early Life and Passion for Sports (1902–1922)

Percy Page was born in 1902, growing up in an era where organized sports began to gain popularity across Canada. His early life in Ontario fostered a deep love for athletics and education, leading him to pursue a career that would eventually intertwine both passions. Page's commitment to sports and education laid the foundation for his future role as a coach and mentor.

Move to Edmonton and Beginning of Coaching Career (1922–1929)

In the early 1920s, Page moved to Edmonton, Alberta, where he began his teaching career. It was in Edmonton that Page's path crossed with the Commercial Graduates Basketball Club, later known as the Edmonton Grads. His involvement with the team started in 1924, marking the beginning of a legendary coaching career that would bring unprecedented success and recognition to women's basketball in Canada and beyond.

The Edmonton Grads: A Legacy of Excellence (1929–1940)

Under Page's guidance, the Edmonton Grads became one of the most successful women's basketball teams in history. From 1929 to 1940, the Grads dominated the sport, winning numerous national and international titles, including several unofficial women's world championships. Page's innovative coaching techniques and his emphasis on teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship were key to the team's success.

Connection to Edmonton (Throughout Career)

Percy Page's connection to Edmonton was integral to his identity and career. The city not only served as the backdrop for the extraordinary achievements of the Edmonton Grads but also benefited from Page's contributions to sports and education. His legacy in Edmonton is a testament to his impact on the community and the lasting influence of the Grads.

Advocacy for Women in Sports (1940–1950)

Page was a staunch advocate for women's participation in sports at a time when opportunities were limited. Through his work with the Edmonton Grads, he championed the cause of women athletes, pushing for greater recognition and equality in sports. His efforts helped pave the way for future generations of female athletes in Canada and beyond.

Political Career and Public Service (1950–1966)

After his coaching career, Page transitioned into public service, serving as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and later as the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta. His political career was characterized by a continued commitment to community development, education, and the promotion of sports. Page's contributions to public life in Alberta were marked by the same leadership and dedication he had shown as a coach.

Awards and Honors (1966–1983)

Percy Page's contributions to sports, education, and public service were recognized through numerous awards and honors, including his induction into the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame and the Order of Canada. These accolades reflected his significant impact on Canadian society and his pioneering role in the development of women's sports.

Legacy and Impact (1983 and Beyond)

Percy Page passed away in 1983, but his legacy lives on through the continued celebration of the Edmonton Grads' achievements and his contributions to sports and public service in Canada. His life and career continue to inspire those who advocate for equality in sports and those who recognize the power of sports to unite and uplift communities.

Key Achievements

• Coached the Edmonton Grads to national and international success, establishing them as one of the most successful women's basketball teams in history.

• Advocated for women's participation in sports, contributing to the advancement of women's athletics in Canada.

• Served in public service as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and as the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, contributing to the province's development.

Percy Page's remarkable career as the coach of the Edmonton Grads and his later contributions to public service in Alberta mark him as a pivotal figure in Canadian sports and civic life. His advocacy for women's sports laid the groundwork for future advancements in gender equality in athletics. Page's legacy in Edmonton and across Canada is a testament to his leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence, both on and off the basketball court.

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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