Welcome to The Calgary Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming local comedy show

• Calgary Flames game recap

• A deep dive into the life of John Ware

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“A pessimist is one who makes difficulties out of his opportunities; an optimist is one who makes opportunities out of his difficulties.”

— Robert Mansell

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 is often referred to as "Cowtown." What is the origin of this nickname?

A) Due to its many dairy farms

B) Its rich cattle ranching tradition

C) Named after a historic town in Scotland

D) Because of a famous cow sculpture in downtown

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

Calgary is home to the famous Spruce Meadows equestrian facility. What makes Spruce Meadows unique in the equestrian world?

Answer: A) The largest prize money for a single event

News

💼 Business

Suncor Energy's Production Update: Suncor Energy achieved a significant milestone by reaching their 2023 upstream production guidance. This was marked by record annual production and high utilization rates in both their upstream and downstream operations. The company emphasized their focus on safety, operational excellence, and reliability​​. (link)

Calgary Co-op Acquires Care Pharmacies: In a strategic move to expand its health and wellness sector, Calgary Co-op acquired Care Pharmacies. This acquisition is part of Calgary Co-op’s ongoing growth strategy and follows recent enhancements to their pharmacy operations and other acquisitions​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

The University of Calgary's women's hockey team had a home-and-home series with MacEwan, aiming to build on their strong finish last semester. The men's and women's volleyball teams also commenced their second-half season with matches against Brandon​​. (link)

The Calgary Flames secured a challenging win against the Philadelphia Flyers. The game was marked by strategic plays and crucial goals, including an empty-net goal that proved to be the game-winner​​​​. (link)

The Okotoks Oilers achieved an impressive 9-2 victory over the Calgary Canucks. This game featured standout performances, including a hat trick and multiple assists, contributing to the Oilers' exhilarating win​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

Calgary Housing Market Trends: The Calgary housing market in 2023 saw a notable increase in apartment-style property sales, leading to record-high sales numbers. The benchmark price for apartment condominiums exceeded the previous high from 2014, indicating a robust growth in the housing sector​​. (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 Flames vs. Ottawa Senators (January 9): Gear up for an exciting NHL game as the Calgary Flames face off against the Ottawa Senators. This matchup is a great opportunity to see high-level hockey action, with both teams bringing their best to the ice. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Matthew Murray Comedy Show (January 13): Get ready for a night filled with laughter at The Comedy Cave, where Matthew Murray will be showcasing his comedic talent. This show promises to be a delightful blend of humor and wit, perfect for a light-hearted evening out. (link)

🎵 Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra - Drag Story Time (January 14): Experience a unique and entertaining event as the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra presents Drag Story Time at Jack Singer Hall. This event combines the elegance of classical music with the vibrant and expressive world of drag, creating an unforgettable and inclusive experience. (link)

Events

🍸 Cocktail Competition - Dry January Mocktail Edition: Dive into the world of mixology with the Dry January Mocktail Edition of the Cocktail Competition. This unique event brings together mixologists to create innovative and delicious non-alcoholic cocktails, perfect for those participating in Dry January or anyone looking to enjoy creative and refreshing drinks. (link)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Calgary during the Wild West Era” 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

Calgary Allied Arts Foundation Establishment (1959)

In 1959, the Calgary Allied Arts Foundation (CAAF) was established, marking a significant development in Calgary's cultural landscape. The Foundation was created with a vision to support and enhance the arts in the city. Its establishment represented a growing recognition of the importance of arts and culture in contributing to the quality of life in Calgary.

The CAAF set out to provide crucial support to artists and arts organizations. It offered financial assistance, resources, and advocacy, playing a foundational role in nurturing the city's artistic talent. The Foundation's efforts led to the development of various art projects and initiatives, significantly enriching Calgary's cultural scene.

Over the years, the Calgary Allied Arts Foundation has become a pillar of the arts community in Calgary. Its ongoing commitment to fostering the arts has had a lasting impact, helping to transform Calgary into a vibrant center for cultural expression and creativity. The Foundation's work continues to inspire and support generations of artists in the city.

Famous Calgarians

John Ware: 1845-1905

Enslaved Beginnings and Early Life (1845-1865) 

John Ware was born into slavery around 1845 near Georgetown, South Carolina. Little is known about his early life, but he grew up during the tumultuous times of slavery and the Civil War in the United States, an era that shaped his resilience and strength.

The End of Slavery and Journey West (1865-1882) 

After the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, Ware moved westward, working in Texas as a cowboy. Here, he honed his skills as a horseman and cattle handler, skills that would later define his legendary status.

Arrival in Alberta and the Bar U Ranch (1882-1885) 

Ware moved to Alberta, Canada, in 1882, driving cattle from Texas for the North West Cattle Company. He found work at the Bar U Ranch, one of the largest and most influential ranching operations in Canada.

Exceptional Skills and Reputation (1885-1890) 

At Bar U Ranch, Ware quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional cowboy. His skills in breaking horses and his innovative techniques in cattle ranching earned him respect and admiration.

Marriage and Family Life (1892-1900) 

John Ware married Mildred Lewis in 1892, and they started a family. The Wares initially settled near Calgary, where they became respected members of the community, contributing to the city's emerging multicultural fabric.

Establishing His Own Ranch (1890-1900) 

Ware eventually established his own ranch in the foothills near Calgary. His ranching operations were successful, and he became known for his fair and innovative practices.

The 1900 Flood and New Beginnings

The devastating flood of 1900 destroyed Ware's ranch. Undeterred, he rebuilt his operations, relocating near Brooks, Alberta. This period highlighted his resilience and ability to overcome adversity.

John Ware's Legacy in Ranching (1900-1905) 

Ware’s contributions to ranching were significant. He was known for his ethical treatment of animals and sustainable practices. His innovations in ranching techniques had a lasting impact on the industry in Alberta.

Tragic Death and Enduring Legacy (1905) 

John Ware tragically died in a horse-riding accident in 1905. His death was widely mourned in Calgary and beyond. Ware left an indelible mark on Alberta’s ranching community and its history.

Posthumous Recognition and Remembrance 

John Ware’s legacy lives on in Calgary and Alberta. He is remembered as a pioneering Black cowboy whose skills, character, and life story broke racial barriers and left a lasting legacy in the Canadian West.

Key Achievements of John Ware:

• Pioneering African-American cowboy in Alberta’s ranching history.

• Known for exceptional skills in horse-breaking and cattle ranching.

• Integral to the development of ranching techniques in Western Canada.

• Overcame racial barriers and became a respected community member.

• His legacy continues to be celebrated, contributing to the multicultural narrative of Calgary and Alberta.

John Ware’s life story, from slavery to becoming a celebrated cowboy in Calgary, reflects a journey of resilience, skill, and character. He remains a symbol of the rich and diverse heritage that shaped the Canadian West.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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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