Welcome to The Calgary Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Týr performance

• The Calgary Flames announce relocation

• A deep dive into the life of Normie Kwong

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"For there is nothing either good or bad, thinking makes it so."

- William Shakespeare

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!

What is the name of the largest science museum in Calgary, known for its interactive exhibits and planetarium?

A) Glenbow Museum
B) The Military Museums
C) TELUS Spark
D) Fort Calgary

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:
The large urban park in Calgary, known for its picturesque lagoons and once the estate of Senator Patrick Burns, is A) Prince's Island Park.

News

💼 Business

A Calgary wildlife treatment and rehabilitation centre is cutting back on services due to staggering expenses and declining donations. (link)

The Calgary Real Estate Board says March home sales were up 9.9 per cent from last year as interprovincial migration to Alberta contributed to tight market conditions. (link)

🏒 Sports

Even as the season winds down, the Calgary Flames are trying to build something. (link)

Eight New Brunswick fighters finished first in the Calgary Cup Karate Championship. (link)

Calgary Wranglers couldn’t get enough eggs in the basket in Easter Sunday game.The Calgary Wranglers were fresh off the news of clinching a playoff spot and played the back half of their series against the San Jose Barracuda on Easter Sunday. (link)

Calgary Flames announce relocation to Red Deer, Alberta for 2024-25 season. (link)

🏦 Finance

Drew Morier has joined McCarthy Tétrault in the tax group, the firm said. Morier, who will be based in both Toronto and Calgary, Canada, has experience advising on cross-border M&A, financing, corporate reorganization, and restructuring transactions. (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

🏒 Calgary Wranglers vs. Abbotsford Canucks
Scotiabank Saddledome Calgary, AB
Thursday April 11 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🏒 Calgary Wranglers vs. Abbotsford Canucks
Scotiabank Saddledome Calgary, AB
Friday April 12 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🏒 Calgary Flames vs. Arizona Coyotes
Scotiabank Saddledome Calgary, AB
Sunday April 14 | 6:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 TYR “Battle Ballads - North American Tour 2024”
Dickens Pub
Wednesday April 10 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎤 Shaggy 2 Dope
The Back Alley
Friday April 12 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🕺Gimme Gimme Disco
The Palace Theatre
Friday April 12| 9:30 PM | (more info)

🎸 Calling All Captains w/ Chastity & Look Alive
Modern Love
Sunday April 14 | 6:00 PM | (more info)

Family

👗Kids Fashion Week 2024 Season 18 - Calgary
Calgary TELUS Comvention Center Exhibition Hall, North Building, 2nd Level
Sunday, Apr 14, 2024 | 12:00 PM - 7:00 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 “Urban landscape of Calgary with advanced public transport systems” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Calgary Historical Events

The opening of the Calgary Tower in 1968.

In 1968, a remarkable event took place in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, that would come to symbolize the city's ambition and modernity: the opening of the Calgary Tower. Standing at an impressive height of 190.8 meters (626 feet), this iconic tower quickly became a symbol of Calgary's growth and prosperity. The tower was initially constructed to commemorate Canada's centennial year and was known as the Husky Tower before being renamed the Calgary Tower in 1971.

The opening of the Calgary Tower marked a significant milestone in the city's skyline. Its observation deck offered panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and downtown Calgary, providing residents and visitors alike with a breathtaking vantage point to appreciate the city's beauty. Over the years, the Calgary Tower has become a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Calgary's progress and modernity. Its revolving restaurant, which provides guests with a unique dining experience while enjoying the picturesque views, has become a cherished destination for both locals and tourists. The Calgary Tower's presence continues to be a testament to the city's growth and a cherished part of its architectural landscape.

Famous Calgarians

Normie Kwong (1929-2016)

Early Years and Heritage (1929-1948)

Normie Kwong, born in Calgary, Alberta, in 1929, was a Canadian football player who made a significant mark both on and off the field. His early years were shaped by the vibrant, yet challenging, life in Calgary's Chinese community. Despite facing societal challenges, Kwong's family instilled in him a strong sense of determination and resilience. This foundation would later become the cornerstone of his success in various fields, from sports to public service.

Rise to Athletic Prominence (1948-1950)

Kwong's athletic journey began in high school, where his exceptional talent in football quickly became apparent. His prowess on the field led him to join the Calgary Stampeders in 1948, marking the start of an illustrious career in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Even in these early days, Kwong's remarkable skills and dedication to the sport were evident, setting the stage for the legendary status he would later achieve.

A Storied CFL Career (1950-1960)

Normie Kwong's CFL career is one for the history books. After his initial stint with the Calgary Stampeders, he went on to play for the Edmonton Eskimos, where he truly made his mark. Kwong's time with the Eskimos was highlighted by numerous achievements, including winning the Grey Cup four times. His powerful running style, combined with his ability to break through defenses, earned him the nickname "The China Clipper."

Connection to Calgary (Throughout Life)

Despite his career taking him to Edmonton, Kwong's connection to Calgary remained strong throughout his life. He was not only a celebrated athlete within the city but also a beloved community member. His contributions to Calgary went beyond sports, as he engaged in various community and charitable efforts, embodying the spirit of giving back to the city that had given him so much.

Beyond the Field: Business Ventures (1960-2005)

After retiring from football, Kwong ventured into the business world with the same vigor and determination he displayed on the field. He found success in various industries, including real estate and car dealership ownership. Kwong's business acumen and leadership skills allowed him to build a successful post-athletic career, further establishing his legacy as a versatile and accomplished individual.

Stepping into Public Service (2005-2010)

In 2005, Normie Kwong was appointed the 16th Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, marking a significant transition from sports and business to public service. His tenure in this viceregal role was marked by his dedication to promoting Alberta's culture, history, and values. Kwong's approachable nature and commitment to serving the people of Alberta left a lasting impact on the province's public life.

Advocacy and Philanthropy (Throughout Life)

Throughout his life, Kwong was deeply committed to philanthropy and advocacy. He supported numerous causes, focusing on education, sports, and community development. Kwong's efforts to give back to the community were driven by a belief in the power of sports to change lives and a desire to support the underprivileged. His philanthropic work has left a lasting legacy in the communities he served.

Honors and Recognition (Throughout Life)

Normie Kwong's remarkable contributions to football, business, and public service were recognized with numerous awards and honors. These include his induction into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame and the Order of Canada. Kwong's achievements were a testament to his excellence, leadership, and commitment to making a positive impact in every field he ventured into.

Legacy and Impact on Canadian Society (1929-2016)

Normie Kwong's legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments in football. He broke barriers as one of the first high-profile athletes of Asian descent in Canada, becoming a symbol of perseverance and success in the face of adversity. Kwong's impact on Canadian society is seen in his contributions to sports, his successful business career, and his dedicated public service, making him a cherished figure across the country.

Final Years and Passing (2010-2016)

Normie Kwong's final years were marked by continued involvement in community and charitable activities, despite stepping back from public life. He passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, service, and dedication that continues to inspire Canadians. His life's work has made him a revered figure, celebrated for his contributions to the nation's cultural and social fabric.

Key Achievements:

• Four-time Grey Cup champion with the Edmonton Eskimos.

• Served as the 16th Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.

• Inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.

• Awarded the Order of Canada for his contributions to Canadian society.

• Successful business career post-football, including real estate and car dealership ventures.

• Lifelong advocate for community development and philanthropy.

  
  Normie Kwong's life was a testament to hard work, resilience, and dedication to community. As a celebrated CFL player, successful businessman, and Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, he left an indelible mark on Canadian society. Kwong's legacy is not just in the records he set or the titles he earned, but in the countless lives he touched through his philanthropy, leadership, and commitment to making a difference.

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-Matthew Larsen

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