Welcome to The Calgary Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Calgary Stampeders home game

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of A.E. Cross

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Whether you think you can or you can't, either way you are right.”

—Henry Ford

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 festival in Calgary that focuses on sustainability, green living, and environmental awareness?

 A) Green Calgary Festival

B) EcoLiving Fair

C) YYC Earth Day Fest

D) Sustainable Calgary Showcase

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The international event in Calgary focused on animation and digital arts is C) Quickdraw Animation Society's GIRAF.

News

💼Business

Rail stoppage cost Old-area ag business thousands of dollars. (link)

Calgary leaders drive innovation and community impact. (link)

🏒Sports

Sportsnet Names Jon Abbott as New TV Voice of the Calgary Flames. (link)

Hilltops stay perfect with win over host Calgary. (link)

🏦Finance

QuadReal offloads downtown Calgary hotel for $112m. (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 Stampeders vs Elks
McMahon Stadium
September 2, 2024 at 4:00pm | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Kaleo Payback Tour
Grey Eagle Event Centre Calgary, AB
Monday September 2 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎤 Kings of Leon: Can We Please Have Fun
Scotiabank Saddledome Calgary, AB
Tuesday September 3 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Family

🔍 Scavenger Hunt Calgary
1575 1 St SW Calgary, AB
Monday, September 2 | 10am MDT | (more info)

🎨 Neon Paint night (Dark). Paint and Sip
1575 1 St SW Calgary,
Tuesday, September 3 | 10am 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 a focus on pedestrian pathways and green spaces.” 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 1982 recession's impact on Calgary.

The 1982 recession had a profound and lasting impact on the city of Calgary, Alberta. At the time, Calgary was a major hub for the Canadian oil and gas industry, and the recession was largely triggered by a sharp decline in global oil prices. This downturn resulted in a severe economic crisis for the city, leading to significant job losses and a collapse in the real estate market.

During the recession, Calgary experienced a sharp increase in unemployment rates as many oil and gas companies were forced to lay off workers or shut down operations. This had a ripple effect on other sectors of the economy, with businesses across the city feeling the strain. The housing market was hit particularly hard, with property values plummeting, leaving many homeowners in a state of financial distress.

In the years following the 1982 recession, Calgary underwent a period of economic diversification to reduce its dependence on the energy sector. The city learned valuable lessons about the need for resilience and adaptation, leading to the development of a more diversified economy that includes technology, finance, and other industries. While the 1982 recession was a challenging time for Calgary, it ultimately spurred the city to become more resilient and prepared for future economic challenges.

Famous Calgarians

A.E. Cross (1861-1932) - One of the Big Four, founder of Calgary Brewing and Malting Co.

Early Life and Family (1861-1880s)

Born on October 10, 1861, in Montreal, Canada, Alvin Edgerton Cross grew up in a family with deep agricultural roots. He moved to Manitoba in the 1880s and worked as a farmhand, gaining valuable experience in agriculture.

Journey to Calgary (1880s-1890)

In the late 1880s, Cross migrated to the burgeoning city of Calgary, attracted by its potential and opportunities. He became involved in the local ranching community and established connections that would shape his future.

Founding of Calgary Brewing and Malting Co. (1892-1893)

In 1892, A.E. Cross, along with fellow entrepreneurs, founded the Calgary Brewing and Malting Co., a venture that would become one of his most enduring legacies. The brewery rapidly grew, providing a vital service to the city and contributing to its economic development.

The Big Four and the Canadian Pacific Railway (1880s-1890s)

Cross was a prominent member of the ""Big Four,"" a group of influential businessmen who supported the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. His financial support and dedication played a crucial role in connecting Calgary to the national railway network, stimulating further growth.

Community Involvement and Philanthropy (1900s-1910s)

A.E. Cross was deeply committed to his community, serving on the Calgary Board of Trade and contributing to local charities. His philanthropic efforts improved the lives of many Calgarians, reflecting his dedication to the city.

Rodeo and Western Heritage (1912-1920s)

Cross had a passion for rodeo and played an essential role in establishing the Calgary Stampede in 1912.His commitment to preserving and celebrating western heritage made him an iconic figure in Calgary's cultural history.

Business Expansion and Legacy (1920s-1932)

Throughout the 1920s, Cross continued to expand his business interests, including ranching and real estate. He left a lasting legacy in Calgary, not only as a successful entrepreneur but also as a community builder.

Connection to the City of Calgary

A.E. Cross's connection to the city was profound; he played a pivotal role in shaping its economic, cultural, and philanthropic landscape. His contributions to Calgary's development are still celebrated and remembered today.

Key Achievements:

•   Co-founder of Calgary Brewing and Malting Co.

• Member of the "Big Four" supporting the Canadian Pacific Railway.

• Philanthropist and community leader.

• Founding contributor to the Calgary Stampede.

• Entrepreneur and investor in various businesses.

• Significant figure in Calgary's history and development.

A.E. Cross, a pioneer and visionary, left an indelible mark on the city of Calgary. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a key figure in the city's growth and development is a testament to his determination and dedication. Cross's contributions to business, culture, and community have solidified his legacy as one of Calgary's most influential and beloved historical figures.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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