Welcome to The Edmonton Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Edmonton Oilers injury updates

• Edmonton Elks release Aaron Grymes

• A deep dive into the life of Bruce Allen Powe

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“A pessimist is one who makes difficulties out of his opportunities; an optimist is one who makes opportunities out of his difficulties.”

— Robert Mansell

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!

Whyte Avenue is a well-known area in Edmonton for its vibrant culture. What is its historic significance?

A) Named after a former Mayor of Edmonton.

B) It was the original location of the University of Alberta.

C) Site of the first Edmonton Fringe Festival.

D) It was the main trading post in the early 20th century.

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

The Edmonton River Valley is the largest urban park in Canada. How many kilometers of trails does it offer?

Answer: C) Nearly 250 kilometers

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Alberta's construction industry is facing a significant labor shortage, with a need to replace about 38,200 workers, or 21% of its 2022 workforce, over the next decade. This challenge is intensified by a decline in new enrollments in key construction trade programs. Efforts are being made to enhance recruitment from underrepresented groups and to change societal attitudes towards skilled trades, drawing inspiration from models like Germany's early trade education system. (link)

🏦 Finance

Edmonton's wealth management professionals highlight the impact of technology, fintech, inflation, interest rates, and demographic changes on wealth management strategies. With a significant portion of the population approaching retirement and the trend of delayed retirement, there is a growing need for flexible, adaptive, and comprehensive wealth management planning. This includes considering prolonged post-retirement careers and diverse investment strategies in times of economic uncertainty. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Edmonton Elks announced the release of veteran defensive back Aaron Grymes. Grymes had an eight-season stint with the Elks, contributing significantly to the team's defense with 240 tackles and 12 interceptions in his career. He was a key member of Edmonton’s Grey Cup championship team in 2015 and spent 2016 in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles​​. (link)

As the Edmonton Oilers headed into January, they were in a relatively good position health-wise. Dylan Holloway and Sam Gagner were dealing with injuries but were expected to return soon. Holloway, on long-term injured reserve since mid-November due to a knee injury, was anticipated to rejoin the team shortly. Gagner, who suffered an undisclosed injury, was listed as day-to-day and projected to return for the home matchup against the Flyers​​. (link)

Edmonton has been announced as the host city for the 2023 Football Canada Cup. This national championship event for provincial teams at the U18 men’s level is a significant event in Canadian football, showcasing top young talent. Edmonton's strong community engagement and history of supporting football events make it an ideal location for this championship​​. (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 vs UBC Thunderbirds Volleyball (January 12): The University of Alberta Golden Bears volleyball team faces off against the UBC Thunderbirds. This match promises to showcase high-level collegiate volleyball with both teams bringing their best to the court. (link)

🏒 Edmonton Oil Kings vs. Tri-City Americans (January 11): Watch the Edmonton Oil Kings take on the Tri-City Americans in a thrilling Western Hockey League game. This encounter is expected to be a dynamic and action-packed match, featuring some of the best young talents in hockey. (link)

🏒 Pandas Ice Hockey vs Calgary Dinos (January 12): The University of Alberta Pandas ice hockey team competes against the Calgary Dinos. This game is a great opportunity to see the skill and intensity of women's collegiate hockey. (link)

Concerts

🎻 Spirit of Ukraine — Chamber Orchestra of Edmonton (January 14): Experience the rich musical heritage of Ukraine with the Chamber Orchestra of Edmonton. This concert, titled "Spirit of Ukraine," is set to feature a blend of traditional and classical music, showcasing the cultural depth and artistic beauty of Ukrainian compositions. (link)

🎵 Winter Concert at McDougall United Church (January 14): Attend a soul-stirring Winter Concert at McDougall United Church. This event promises an evening of beautiful music and performances, providing a perfect setting to enjoy the arts in a serene and historic venue. (link)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Edmonton during the Wild West Era” 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

Edmonton Hosts the World Masters Games (2005)

In 2005, Edmonton gained the honor of hosting the World Masters Games, a significant event in the international sports calendar. This event was a testament to the city's growing reputation as a capable host for major international sporting competitions. Athletes from around the world, spanning a wide range of ages and abilities, converged in Edmonton, transforming the city into a vibrant, global sports hub.

The World Masters Games in Edmonton celebrated the spirit of sportsmanship and inclusivity. Unlike other sporting events that focus on elite athletes, the Masters Games emphasized participation and healthy competition for all, regardless of age or skill level. This inclusive approach to sports fostered a unique and welcoming atmosphere throughout the city, encouraging community involvement and engagement.

Hosting the 2005 World Masters Games significantly impacted Edmonton's community and economy. The event not only showcased the city's facilities and organizational capabilities but also brought together diverse groups of people, promoting cultural exchange and unity. The success of the Games left a lasting legacy, highlighting Edmonton's role as an inclusive and dynamic host city on the international stage.

Famous Edmontonians

Bruce Allen Powe: 1946-1996

Early Life and Education 

Bruce Allen Powe was born in 1946 in Edmonton, Alberta. Growing up in Edmonton, Powe was exposed to a diverse cultural and educational environment that shaped his early interests and intellectual pursuits.

Academic Pursuits and Early Career 

Powe's academic journey in Edmonton laid a strong foundation for his career. He attended local schools where he developed a keen interest in literature and the arts, areas that would later define his professional path.

Literary Contributions and Writings 

Powe emerged as a significant literary figure in Edmonton. His writings, which often reflected on contemporary issues and the human experience, garnered attention for their depth and insight.

Community Engagement and Teaching 

Apart from his literary work, Powe was actively involved in Edmonton's community. He took on roles in education, sharing his passion for literature and the arts as a teacher, inspiring many young minds in the city.

Exploration of Media and Communications 

Powe's interests extended into the realms of media and communication. His exploration of these fields was influenced by the changing landscape of technology and its impact on society, a topic that resonated deeply with the Edmonton community.

Advocacy for Cultural Development 

In Edmonton, Powe became known for his advocacy for cultural development. He championed the arts and literature, believing in their power to enrich society and foster a sense of community.

Literary Achievements and Recognition 

Powe's literary achievements were recognized both within Edmonton and beyond. His work contributed significantly to the cultural tapestry of the city, earning him respect and admiration from peers and readers alike.

Influence on Edmonton's Literary Scene 

Powe's influence on Edmonton's literary scene was profound. He was a driving force in promoting literature and cultural discourse in the city, influencing future generations of writers and thinkers.

Later Years and Continuing Impact 

In his later years, Powe continued to be an active member of Edmonton's literary and cultural communities. His contributions continued to shape the city's cultural landscape.

Legacy and Posthumous Recognition 

After his passing in 1996, Powe's legacy in Edmonton remained strong. His impact on the city's literary and cultural development was lasting, with his work continuing to inspire and influence.

Key Achievements of Bruce Allen Powe:

• Influential figure in Edmonton's literary community.

• Contributed significantly to literature and cultural discourse.

• Advocate for the arts and cultural development in Edmonton.

• Inspired future generations of writers and educators.

• Left a lasting impact on Edmonton's cultural and intellectual landscape.

Bruce Allen Powe's life and work in Edmonton reflect a deep commitment to literature, arts, and cultural development. His legacy as a thinker, writer, and advocate continues to influence the city's cultural identity.

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 

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