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Welcome to The Calgary Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Calgary surge home games

• Oilers' Stanley Cup run boosts Calgary businesses

• A deep dive into the life of William Aberhart

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Information is a lot like water; it's hard to hold on to, and hard to keep from leaking away.”

― Ruth Ozeki

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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!

Calgary's Stephen Avenue is known for what?

A) Its historic architecture and shopping district

B) Being the longest street in Canada

C) Its modern skyscrapers

D) The annual car show

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia: A popular spot for outdoor concerts, festivals, and events, located on the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, is A) Canada Olympic Park.

News

💼 Business

An initiative by Calgary Economic Development, Platform Calgary, and Rogers, aims to leverage the benefits of 5G technology. (link)

Calgary businesses benefit from Oilers reaching Stanley Cup finals. (link)

🏒 Sports

Calgary Stampeders seek return to former glory in 2024. (link)

Bethel-Thompson to take charge of Elks' present while mentoring their future. (link)

🏦 Finance

Calgary home sales tick down in May amid limited supply of lower-priced options. (link)

Userful Appoints Jeff Metcalf As Chief Financial Officer. (link)

TC Energy shareholders approve spinoff, creation of South Bow pipelines business. (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. Edmonton Stingers
WinSport Event Centre Calgary, AB
Friday June 14 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🏀 Calgary Surge vs. Brampton Honey Badgers
WinSport Event Centre Calgary, AB
Sunday June 16 | 3:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎷 I'm A Soulman - A Tribute to the Blues Brothers
Grey Eagle Event Centre Calgary, AB
Thursday June 13 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

🎸Skillet
MacEwan Hall Calgary,
Friday June 14 | 8:00pm MDT | (more info)

🎤U2 Station - a Tribute Almost Better Than the Real Thing
Meridian Central Station Calgary, AB
Friday June 14 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎻Free Throw with Slow Joy & Year Over Year
Modern Love 613 11 Ave SW Calgary, AB
Sunday June 16 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

 Family

🎨Sketching & Watercolor for Kids and Up+
Kui's art studio 16 - 4740 Dalton Drive NW Calgary,
Saturday June 15, 2024 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM MDT | (more info)

🦁Wildlife Park for Kids
CF Market Mall 3625 Shaganappi Trail Northwest Calgary,
Friday June 14, 2024 11:30 AM MDT |(more info)

🤸‍♂️Tuxedo Park Fitness Bootcamps
202 29 Avenue Northeast Calgary, AB
Sunday, June 16 · 1 - 2pm 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 “Calgary with gravity-defying structures.” 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 Great Fire of Calgary in 1886.

The Great Fire of Calgary in 1886 was a catastrophic event that left an indelible mark on the history of the city. On the evening of November 7, 1886, a small fire broke out in a cabinet shop on Stephen Avenue, quickly engulfing the wooden structures that made up most of Calgary at the time. Fueled by strong winds and the absence of firefighting infrastructure, the flames rapidly spread, resulting in a devastating inferno that razed a significant portion of the city.

The fire's impact was profound, as it wiped out nearly the entire business district, leaving many residents homeless and countless businesses in ruins. However, this tragedy also served as a catalyst for change. In the aftermath of the Great Fire, Calgary began to rebuild using more fire-resistant materials like brick and stone, and the city implemented modern firefighting techniques and equipment to ensure such a catastrophe would never happen again. This resilience and determination laid the foundation for Calgary's future growth and development, transforming it into the thriving and resilient city we know today.

The Great Fire of Calgary in 1886 remains a pivotal moment in the city's history, symbolizing both the devastation that can be wrought by natural disasters and the spirit of resilience and progress that defines the people of Calgary. It serves as a reminder of the city's ability to overcome adversity and rebuild, ultimately shaping its destiny as a thriving urban center in Alberta, Canada.

Famous Calgarians

William Aberhart (1878-1943) - Premier of Alberta and founder of the Social Credit Party.

Early Life and Education of William Aberhart (1878-1895)

William Aberhart was born on December 30, 1878, in Ontario, Canada. Growing up in a farming family, he developed a strong work ethic from an early age. Aberhart pursued his education with great diligence, showing an early inclination towards teaching and religious studies, which later played a significant role in his political and social views.

Beginning of Teaching Career (1896-1901)

After completing his education, Aberhart embarked on a teaching career. He started teaching in rural schools in Ontario, demonstrating a natural aptitude for educating and engaging with his students. This period was crucial in shaping his communication skills, which he later utilized effectively in both his political career and religious endeavors.

Relocation to Alberta and Educational Advancements (1902-1910)

In 1910, seeking better opportunities, Aberhart moved to Calgary, Alberta. This move marked a significant turn in his life, leading him to significant involvement in the city's educational sector. In Calgary, he continued to advance his career in education, eventually becoming a principal, and started to develop his unique educational philosophies.

Deepening Religious Involvement (1911-1924)

During this period, Aberhart deepened his involvement in religious activities. His strong Christian beliefs started to intertwine with his professional life, influencing his perspectives and future policies. He became increasingly involved in the local church community in Calgary, laying the foundation for his later radio broadcasts.

Rise in Public Speaking and Broadcasting (1925-1934)

Aberhart's engaging public speaking skills led him to a new avenue – radio broadcasting. He began hosting a popular religious program, which rapidly gained a large audience in Alberta. This platform significantly boosted his public profile and allowed him to convey his socio-political and religious views to a broader audience.

Formation of the Social Credit Party (1935)

Responding to the economic hardships of the Great Depression, Aberhart founded the Social Credit Party in 1935. The party proposed innovative economic theories aimed at addressing the financial distress of the era. This move marked Aberhart's official entry into provincial politics, highlighting his commitment to social and economic reform.

Premiership and Implementing Social Credit Policies (1935-1940)

William Aberhart became the Premier of Alberta in 1935. His government attempted to implement the Social Credit policies, which faced both enthusiasm and resistance. This period was marked by significant legislative efforts, though many were challenged by the federal government and judicial system.

Challenges and Controversies (1941-1943)

Aberhart's tenure as Premier was not without challenges and controversies. He faced opposition from various sectors, including the federal government and the media. His administration was marked by attempts to control the press, which drew criticism and legal battles.

Later Years and Legacy (1943)

In his later years, Aberhart's health began to decline. He passed away on May 23, 1943, while still in office. His death marked the end of an era in Alberta politics, but his legacy continued to influence the province's political landscape.

Key Achievements of William Aberhart:

• Founded the Social Credit Party, introducing new economic theories during the Great Depression.

• Became the Premier of Alberta and attempted to implement Social Credit policies to address economic challenges.

• Pioneered the use of radio broadcasting for religious and political communication, significantly influencing public opinion in Alberta.

• Advanced educational practices and policies during his tenure as a school principal and educator in Calgary.

William Aberhart was a pioneering figure in Alberta's history, known for his roles as an educator, religious broadcaster, and politician. His most notable contribution was founding the Social Credit Party and serving as Premier of Alberta, where he attempted to implement innovative economic policies during challenging times. Aberhart's legacy remains a subject of study and debate, reflecting his complex impact on Alberta's social, political, and economic landscape.

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-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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