Welcome to The Calgary Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Calgary population expected to rise

• Upcoming Calgary Flames games

• Whiskey Calgary Festival this week

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today."

– Franklin D. Roosevelt

My Goal For the Week

This week, I plan to wake up one hour earlier every day at 5:30am. I like how peaceful it is at that time of morning. I just re-read one of my favourite books called The 5AM Club over the weekend and I am motivated to get back to early rising.

One Idea For a Better Week

Every single day, write down one idea that you could do to make your life 1% better. Think small. Keep doing it. Stack these 1% improvements up over the course of a month, and watch how much it impacts your life.

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 what year did the Calgary Flames win their first and only Stanley Cup to date?

A. 1986

B. 1989

C. 2004

D. They have never won the Stanley Cup

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

The Bow River that flows through Calgary is a tributary of which river?

Answer: The Saskatchewan River

News

💼 Business

Stephen Poloz, former governor of the Bank of Canada, spoke at an event, emphasizing cautiousness amid current economic uncertainties, such as the impacts of AI and increased retirements. He noted Alberta's energy industries could help buffer global economic challenges, backed by Canada's technical recession evidence.

Expected population growth in Calgary, driven by housing affordability and lower living costs compared to other regions, will demand more housing, infrastructure, and public services.

🏦 Finance

HEMPALTA, an AgTech company, was selected for the 2023 Launch Party, wrapping up Innovation Week in Calgary, showcasing promising startups in the region.

Canacol Energy Ltd. announced that it would be releasing its financial results for the third quarter on November 9, 2023, with a conference call scheduled for the following day.

🏒 Sports

The Calgary Wranglers, with a record of 4-0-1, were gearing up for a match against the Colorado Eagles, hoping to extend their winning streak to four games. The Wranglers won 2-1 in overtime.

A new event center deal was finalized between the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation and the Calgary Stampede, with construction expected to commence soon, promising a new venue for various sports and entertainment events in the city.

📰 News

A book launch party for "In River Cardinal" took place at cSpace Marda Loop on November 5, providing a cultural enrichment opportunity for the residents of Calgary.

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

🏀 Men@First Drop in Gym Nights (November 6) Join the Men@First community for a friendly basketball game at FAC Calgary. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, this event promises a good time for all.

🏒Calgary Flames vs. Nashville Predators (November 7) Cheer for the Calgary Flames as they face off against the Nashville Predators in a thrilling ice hockey match at the Scotiabank Saddledome.

Music & Concerts

🎶 Portugal. The Man (November 8) Indulge in a night of alternative rock with Portugal. The Man at The Grey Eagle Resort.

🎸 The Beaches (November 9) Experience the electric energy of The Beaches at MacEwan Hall, promising an unforgettable rock performance.

Events

🎉 Millarville Christmas Market (November 9 - 12) Kickstart the festive season early at the Millarville Racetrack Farmers Market, where you can explore a plethora of unique crafts and goods.

😂 John Crist: The Emotional Support Tour (November 12) Laugh out the stress with comedian John Crist on his Emotional Support Tour at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

Hobbies

🥃 Whisky Calgary Festival (November 11) Whisky aficionados assemble at Hotel Arts for a spirited exploration of various whisky brands.

Family

🏮 St. Martin Lantern Parade (November 11) A cherished European tradition, the St. Martin Lantern Parade offers a twilight procession perfect for families to enjoy the onset of the darker season.

🎨 PD Day Camp (CBE) - Friday November 10th (November 10) Unleash your child's creativity at the Calgary Humane Society's PD Day Camp. Engage in a day filled with fun and interactive activities that provide a unique learning experience.

Image of the Week

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

This week, I typed in “Calgary in the year 2100” 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 Discovery of Oil at Turner Valley [1914]

In 1914, a significant event occurred that would drastically reshape the economic landscape of Alberta, Canada. The discovery of oil at Turner Valley, not far from Calgary, signaled the dawn of a new era. This find was the result of years of speculative drilling and geological surveys, fueled by the indomitable spirit of prospectors seeking to unlock the riches believed to be hidden beneath the western Canadian soil. Turner Valley would become the site of the country's first major oil boom, laying the foundation for the development of Alberta's vast energy resources. This momentous discovery ignited a series of events that would lead to the establishment of Calgary as the burgeoning center of the Canadian oil industry.

As the news of the oil strike spread, it spurred immediate growth and investment in the region. Calgary, previously a hub for ranching and agriculture, began to morph into the energy capital of Canada. Entrepreneurs, workers, and businesses flocked to the area, eager to tap into the economic opportunities presented by this newfound wealth. The energy sector's explosive growth fostered a new sense of prosperity and optimism, attracting a diverse array of industries and transforming Calgary into a dynamic metropolis. This pivotal discovery at Turner Valley not only triggered the expansion of the oil industry in Alberta but also marked the commencement of the province's long-standing relationship with fossil fuels, a relationship that would come to define its economy for over a century.

Famous Calgarians

Grant MacEwan (1902–2000): Steward of the Prairie, Scholar, and Statesman

Introduction: The Renaissance Man of the Alberta Prairies 

John Walter Grant MacEwan, born in 1902 in Brandon, Manitoba, and later a resident of Calgary, was a man whose legacy is interwoven with the fabric of Alberta's history. An agriculturalist, environmentalist, author, professor, and politician, MacEwan’s contributions spanned several fields, marking him as a true renaissance man.

Prairie Roots and Academic Pursuits [Early 1900s] 

Raised with a love for the prairie, MacEwan was deeply influenced by his agricultural upbringing. He pursued academic excellence at the Ontario Agricultural College and the University of Iowa, where he obtained degrees that set the stage for his future endeavours in Alberta.

Advocate for Agriculture [1930s–1940s] 

In the heart of the Dust Bowl era, MacEwan became a voice for sustainable agricultural practices. He tirelessly promoted soil conservation and was pivotal in the shift towards environmentally responsible farming in Alberta.

The Professor's Podium [1950s] 

As a professor at the University of Saskatchewan and later the University of Alberta, MacEwan was beloved for his engaging teaching style and his commitment to agricultural education, inspiring a generation of students to respect and cherish the land.

Political Horizons [1955–1974] 

MacEwan's venture into politics saw him serve as Mayor of Calgary from 1955 to 1959 and as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta. He championed policies that reflected his dedication to the environment and education.

Lieutenant Governor of Alberta [1966–1974] 

As the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, MacEwan brought a sense of humility and service to the vice-regal position, often eschewing formality for a more personal touch in his interactions with the people of Alberta.

A Pen for the Prairies [Post-Politics Career] 

After his political career, MacEwan authored over fifty books, many focused on Western Canadian history and the stewardship of natural resources. His literary work continued to reflect his profound love for the prairies and their history.

Environmental Champion 

Even in his later years, MacEwan was an outspoken advocate for environmental causes, leveraging his reputation to promote conservation and sustainable practices long before they became mainstream concerns.

The Final Chapter [2000] 

Grant MacEwan passed away in 2000, leaving behind a legacy as diverse as it was impactful. His life's work in the realms of agriculture, politics, education, and environmentalism had an indelible influence on Calgary, Alberta, and indeed all of Canada.

Posthumous Legacy 

Recognitions and tributes poured in from across the nation, solidifying his status as one of the great Canadians of the 20th century. Institutions, scholarships, and landmarks bear his name, ensuring his memory continues to inspire.

Grant MacEwan: A Steward's Legacy

• Advocated for sustainable agriculture during the Dust Bowl era.

• Influential educator and professor of agriculture.

• Mayor of Calgary and Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, serving with a community-first approach.

• Prolific author of over fifty books on Canadian history and environmentalism.

• Environmental champion who promoted conservation and sustainable practices.

Grant MacEwan's biography serves as a testament to a life dedicated to the service of his community and the betterment of his environment. The narrative is crafted with a commitment to factual accuracy and a storytelling approach that aims to engage readers with the compelling story of one of Calgary's most multifaceted citizens.

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