Welcome to The Calgary Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Calgary Hitmen home games

• The Calgary polar plunge in Bow River

• A deep dive into the life of W.O. Mitchell

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened."

– Lao Tzu

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 of these neighborhoods is known for its vibrant arts scene and historic buildings in Calgary?

A) Kensington

B) Inglewood

C) Bridgeland

D) Beltline

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

The iconic structure offering a panoramic view of Calgary is B) Calgary Tower.

News

💼 Business

Celebrate Galentine’s Day with Michelle Minke highlighted on Global News Morning Calgary. (link)

Former CFL running back Jon Cornish spoke at the Calgary Public Library during Black History Month. (link)

Baun and Pate Investment Group at Wellington-Altus Private Wealth featured in Money Matters segment. (link)

🏒 Sports

Medicine Hat Tigers traveled to Calgary for their game against the Calgary Hitmen, marking their 5th meeting of the season. (link)

Calgary Flames faced off against the New Jersey Devils on February 9, 2024​​. (link)

Calgary Flames were at a 25-23-5 standing, 5th in the Western Pacific division, with their next game against the Sharks. (link)

Jacob Markstrom of the Calgary Flames ended a four-game win streak with a 2-0 loss to the New York Rangers, despite a strong performance. (link)

🏦 Finance

The Money Matters segment with Baun and Pate Investment Group at Wellington-Altus Private Wealth provided financial insights. (link)

Culinaire Magazine featured YYC's Best Egg Dish, spotlighting local culinary businesses and their economic contributions. (link)

The Calgary Folk Music Festival’s Block Heater event warmed up the city, possibly highlighting the event's economic impact on local businesses. (link)

📰 News

Calgarians participated in a polar plunge in Bow River, reflecting on the mental and physical benefits. (link)

A Trash2Treasure fashion show was held in Calgary, showcasing sustainable fashion initiatives. (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

🥌 2024 Scotties Tournament of Hearts
WinSport Event Centre, Calgary, Alta.
February 19 – February 25 | (More Info)

🏒 Winnipeg Jets at Calgary Flames
Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary
Tuesday, Feb. 19th | (More Info)

🏒 Lethbridge Hurricanes at Calgary Hitmen
Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary
Monday, Feb. 25th | (More Info)

🏒 Wenatchee Wild at Calgary Hitmen
Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary
Sunday, Feb. 24th | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Ice Cube - Straight Into Canada Tour 2024
Grey Eagle Event Centre, Calgary
Friday, February 23 | (More Info)

🎤 Nate Smith
The Palace Theatre, Calgary
Friday, February 23 | (More Info)

🎶 Chelsea Handler: Little Big Bitch
Jack Singer Concert Hall, Calgary
Friday, February 23 | (More Info)

🎸 The Heebee-jeebees
Rosedale Community Association Hall, Calgary
Saturday, February 23 | (More Info)

Family

🎭 Jubilations Junior: Beach Barbie’s Birthday Bash
Jubilations Dinner Theatre, Calgary
Event runs until March 23 | (More Info)

🏛 The Military Museums Family Day
The Military Museums, Calgary
Family Day, February 19 | (More Info)

🐾 The Wildlife Festival
Nutrien Event’s Centre Stampede Grounds, Calgary
February 19 | (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 “Calgary streets bustling with holographic advertisements” 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 incorporation of Calgary as a city (1894)

A decade after its incorporation as a town, Calgary marked another monumental milestone in its rapid progression by becoming officially recognized as a city in 1894. This significant event underscored the remarkable growth and dynamism of the community, reflecting its emergence as a prominent urban center in the region. The transition to city status was not just an administrative change but a clear testament to the economic vitality, population growth, and ambitious urban development that characterized Calgary during this period.

The incorporation of Calgary as a city heralded a new chapter of governance, with a greater capacity and mandate to address the increasingly complex needs of a growing urban population. It allowed for more sophisticated municipal services, urban planning, and infrastructural development, ensuring that the city's expansion was managed effectively and sustainably. This transition also bolstered Calgary's position as a hub for trade, agriculture, and industry, attracting investment, talent, and innovation.

The year 1894, marking Calgary's official recognition as a city, was a defining moment in its history, symbolizing the aspirations, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of its residents. This milestone laid the foundations for Calgary's future as a dynamic, diverse, and prosperous city, shaping its trajectory for decades to come and reflecting the community's commitment to progress and excellence.

Famous Calgarians

W.O. Mitchell (1914-1998)

Early Life and Educational Background (1914-1935)

W.O. Mitchell, born William Ormond Mitchell on March 13, 1914, in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, grew up in western Canada. His early life in the prairies deeply influenced his writing. Mitchell attended the University of Manitoba, where he began to cultivate his literary skills.

Early Writing Career and Development (1936-1946)

After university, Mitchell worked in various jobs while honing his writing. His experiences during these formative years provided rich material for his later works, deeply rooted in the Canadian prairie experience.

"Who Has Seen the Wind" and Breakthrough (1947-1956)

Mitchell's breakthrough came with the publication of "Who Has Seen the Wind" in 1947. This novel, set in the Saskatchewan prairies, became one of Canada's most beloved literary works, celebrated for its poignant depiction of prairie life and profound exploration of universal themes.

Continued Literary Success (1957-1966)

Following the success of "Who Has Seen the Wind," Mitchell continued to write novels, short stories, and plays. His works often reflected themes of identity, belonging, and the quintessential Canadian experience.

Move to Calgary and Impact on Cultural Scene (1967-1976)

In the late 1960s, Mitchell moved to Calgary, Alberta. His presence in the city had a significant impact on its cultural scene. He became an influential figure in Canadian literature, mentoring young writers and contributing to the literary community.

Radio and Television Work (1977-1986)

Mitchell expanded his career into radio and television, where he shared stories and reflections on Canadian life. His storytelling ability and distinctive voice made him a popular figure in Canadian broadcasting.

Later Works and Acclaim (1987-1990)

In his later years, Mitchell continued to write and publish. His later works were well received, and he remained an esteemed figure in Canadian literature, earning numerous accolades for his contributions.

Retirement and Legacy (1991-1998)

Mitchell retired from active writing in the 1990s. He passed away on February 25, 1998. His legacy as a storyteller and writer is deeply etched in Canadian culture, particularly in his portrayal of the prairie landscape and its people.

W.O. Mitchell's Key Achievements:

• Author of the celebrated novel "Who Has Seen the Wind."

• Significant contributor to Canadian literature and the cultural scene.

• His works offered insightful perspectives on Canadian life and the human condition.

W.O. Mitchell's career was marked by his profound ability to capture the essence of the Canadian prairie experience and the human spirit. His writing, characterized by vivid storytelling and deep empathy, has left an indelible mark on Canadian literature and continues to resonate with readers across generations.

Connect With Me

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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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