Calgary Newsletter (July 18th)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

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Welcome to The Calgary Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Odd Burger Launches in Calgary

  • Upcoming Calgary Surge game

  • A deep dive into the life of Margaret Southern

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”

– Og Mandino

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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 Calgary, which historical event is commemorated by the annual "Heritage Day" holiday in August?

A) The founding of Fort Calgary

B) The arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway

C) The signing of Treaty 7

D) The establishment of the Province of Alberta

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia: The Calgary event known for its international films and documentaries is B) Calgary International Film Festival.

News

💼 Business

Accenture has acquired True North Solutions, a provider of industrial engineering solutions headquartered in Calgary. (link)

Odd Burger Launches Mobile Food Operations in Calgary. (link)

🏒 Sports

Steer, two horses euthanized at Calgary Stampede rodeo competition. (link)

Katelyn Scott applauds her horse after barrel race win at Stampede. (link)

🏦 Finance

ATCO Electric fined $3 million for unearned rate increases, overstating its costs. (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 Surge vs. Montreal Alliance
WinSport Event Centre Calgary, AB
Friday July 19 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Teenage Bottle rocket
Dickens 1000 9 Ave. SW T2P 2Y6 Calgary,
Friday 19 July | 8:00PM | (more info)

🎶 JHNN and Vanden Dool
Loophole Coffee Bar, Calgary, AB, Canada
Saturday 20 July | 8:00PM | (more info)

Family

🐾 Wildlife Park for Kids
CF Market Mall 3625 Shaganappi Trail Northwest Calgary,
Saturday July 20 | 10:30 AM 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 “High-tech entertainment district in Calgary with virtual reality arcades.” 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 arrival of the first streetcar in 1909.

In 1909, the bustling city of Calgary witnessed a groundbreaking moment that would forever change its urban landscape and transportation system - the arrival of the first streetcar. This event marked a significant milestone in the city's history, as it brought about a new era of accessibility and connectivity for its residents. The sleek and modern electric streetcar, manufactured by the Calgary Municipal Railway, was a symbol of progress and innovation, serving as a testament to Calgary's commitment to embracing modern technology and infrastructure.

The arrival of the first streetcar not only revolutionized transportation within the city but also paved the way for the expansion of Calgary's suburbs. It made commuting more convenient, encouraging residents to explore new neighborhoods and opportunities, ultimately contributing to the city's growth and development. The streetcar network soon expanded, connecting various corners of Calgary, and became an integral part of daily life for its citizens.

Today, the legacy of that historic arrival in 1909 can still be seen in Calgary's public transportation system, which has evolved into a modern and efficient network of buses and C-trains. The event serves as a reminder of Calgary's enduring spirit of progress and innovation, as the city continues to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of the 21st century.

Famous Calgarians

Margaret Southern (1927-2016) - Philanthropist and co-founder of Spruce Meadows

Early Life and Education (1927-1945)

Margaret Southern was born in 1927, growing up in an era marked by significant global changes. Her early life was shaped by a strong family environment that valued education and community involvement, laying the foundation for her future endeavors in philanthropy and business.

Beginning of a Business Career (1946-1955)

In the post-war period, Southern embarked on her business career. This era was characterized by her keen interest in entrepreneurship and her early forays into the business world, where she began to develop the skills that would later contribute to her success.

Family Life and Personal Development (1956-1965)

During these years, Southern focused on her family life, which played a crucial role in shaping her values and perspectives. Her experiences during this period deepened her understanding of community needs and the importance of giving back, influencing her later philanthropic activities.

Co-founding Spruce Meadows (1966-1975)

Alongside her husband, Southern co-founded Spruce Meadows, a world-renowned equestrian facility in Calgary. This period marked a significant chapter in her life, as she combined her passion for horses with her business acumen, creating a venture that would gain international acclaim.

Expansion and Success of Spruce Meadows (1976-1985)

Under Southern's guidance, Spruce Meadows saw tremendous growth and success. She was instrumental in its expansion, making it not just a sports venue but a cultural and community hub. Her vision transformed Spruce Meadows into a symbol of excellence in equestrian sports.

Philanthropic Endeavors (1986-1995)

In the late 1980s and 1990s, Southern's focus shifted more towards philanthropy. Her contributions during this time were significant, encompassing various fields including education, health, and community services. Her philanthropic efforts reflected her deep commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Recognition and Awards (1996-2005)

Southern's contributions to philanthropy and business were widely recognized during this period. She received numerous awards and honors, reflecting her significant impact on both the local and international stage. These accolades highlighted her as a role model in philanthropy and business leadership.

Lasting Impact on Calgary (2006-2015)

Southern's connection to Calgary was profound. She played a key role in the city's development, both through Spruce Meadows and her philanthropic activities. Her dedication to Calgary's development and well-being made her a beloved and respected figure in the community.

Reflection and Legacy (2016)

In her final year, Southern reflected on her accomplishments and the changes she had witnessed and influenced. She remained a respected figure, offering wisdom and inspiration to the next generation of entrepreneurs and philanthropists. Her legacy was marked by her contributions to both the business world and philanthropic sectors.

Key Achievements

  • Co-founder of Spruce Meadows, turning it into a world-renowned equestrian facility.

  • Instrumental in transforming Spruce Meadows into a cultural and community hub.

  • Significant contributions to various philanthropic causes, particularly in education, health, and community services.

  • Received numerous awards and recognitions for her work in business and philanthropy.

  • Played a pivotal role in the development and growth of Calgary, positively impacting its community and culture.

Summary

Margaret Southern's life was a testament to the power of combining passion with entrepreneurship and philanthropy. Her journey from a businesswoman to a renowned philanthropist and co-founder of Spruce Meadows exemplifies her dedication to excellence and community service. Her legacy, particularly in Calgary, continues to inspire future generations, showcasing the profound impact one individual can have on both the business world and society at large.".

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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