#Alberta Prosperity Project

[lookb4uleap]

Settler Historians Need More Education, Less Ideology: Rebutting Sean Carleton on Senator Lynn Beyak and Indian Residential Schools

By Michelle Stirling ©2023 Image licensed from Adobe Stock. Have I been “Beyak-ed?” Someone has tried to cancel the publication of this paper which rebuts claims made by Sean Carleton of the University of Manitoba, about a paper that he did about Senator Lynn Beyak’s efforts to have people recognize the enormous good that Indian Residential Schools provided for thousands of children. Yes. Some…

[riotouseaterofflesh]

I posted 18,676 times in 2022

46 posts created (0%)

18,630 posts reblogged (100%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@tangent101

@hunterhufflepuff

@uuuuutan

@bogleech

@cowards-sorcery

I tagged 1,223 of my posts in 2022

#yes - 14 posts

#lmao - 7 posts

#life is strange - 6 posts

#😭 - 5 posts

#til - 5 posts

#same - 5 posts

#oh my - 4 posts

#catholic - 4 posts

#holy shit - 3 posts

#yes please - 3 posts

Longest Tag: 140 characters

#does anyone else read this imagining someone yelling and getting dragged away from the mic and gagged while still yelling out their sentence

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

The crypto project has had 13 years to try and find a problem to solve. It has not found one.

A dynamic money supply is a fundamental necessity for a modern economy. A small amount of inflation discourages hoarding and incentivizes investment into productive enterprises which grow the economy and produce prosperity. Conversely a static fixed money supply encouages hoarding, and is inflexible in times of crisis because it does not allow intervention. Economies do not stabilize themselves and require active intervention to curb recessions.

Even playing devil’s advocate and assuming cryptocurrency could function as money—which they can’t—we come up against the hard limitation that everytime private money has been tried in history it creates a form of corporate feudalism coupled to a toxic environment that encourages fraud and discourages commerce.

When we logically deconstruct the crypto narrative by tossing out the phoney populism and cult-like structure of faith in economic absurdities, we end up with an inescapable conclusion that fits firmly within our existing regulatory framework. Crypto assets are simply unregistered securities on ventures whose stated aspiration is to develop technology to become digital wildcat banks. They’ve just synthesized their corporate equity and alleged notes into one financial product.

12 notes - Posted January 2, 2022

#4

“We too have seen our share of anti-choice women, ones the counselors usually grit their teeth over. Just last week a woman announced loudly enough for all to hear in the recovery room, that she thought abortion should be illegal. Amazingly, this was her second abortion within the last few months, having gotten pregnant again within a month of the first abortion. The nurse handled it by talking about all the carnage that went on before abortion was legalized and how fortunate she was to be receiving safe, professional care. However, this young woman continued to insist it was wrong and should be made illegal. Finally the nurse said, ‘Well, I guess we won’t be seeing you here again, not that you’re not welcome.’ Later on, another patient who had overheard this exchange thanked the nurse for her remarks.” (Clinic Administrator, Alberta)

(Far from being a bloodless liberal gotcha, I’m reading these examples as a demonstration of how necessary abortion is. Everyone getting an abortion here is blameless for that - the only issue is their refusal to acknowledge it.)

15 notes - Posted June 26, 2022

#3

This duplicity on Tesla’s part, I reasoned, couldn’t be a mere accident. To borrow the folksy saying favored by Warren Buffett: There is never just one cockroach. So I began digging into every aspect of Tesla’s business, and in the years that followed, my investigations turned up no shortage of cockroaches.

The following year, in 2016, I discovered some of the ways Tesla maintained this gap between public idealism and private cynicism, when I found the company had been requiring customers to sign nondisclosure agreements in return for free repairs to defects. This practice not only propped up Tesla’s buoyant stock price by keeping bad news away from investors’ ears, but also cut off auto safety regulators from their only independent source of information about defects. Then, even after major media outlets picked up the story and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration called the practice “unacceptable,” Tesla published a blog post saying I had fabricated the story, implying I had done so because I was short selling their stock in order to profit from the declines caused by my story.

Despite having not even known what short selling was up to that point, I was mobbed by an online army of angry fans who repeated these smears. Here was the turducken of Tesla’s information control strategy: NDAs for customers, smears against critical reporters, a vicious pack of online enforcers, and a total disregard for facts holding it all together. It didn’t matter how much evidence I had and how little Musk had, there was always a large and growing “community” willing to assert that I had to be wrong, biased, and outright evil to contradict their hero.

28 notes - Posted May 27, 2022

#2

Today, evangelicals make up the backbone of the pro-life movement, but it hasn’t always been so. Both before and for several years after Roe, evangelicals were overwhelmingly indifferent to the subject, which they considered a “Catholic issue.” In 1968, for instance, a symposium sponsored by the Christian Medical Society and Christianity Today, the flagship magazine of evangelicalism, refused to characterize abortion as sinful, citing “individual health, family welfare, and social responsibility” as justifications for ending a pregnancy. In 1971, delegates to the Southern Baptist Convention in St. Louis, Missouri, passed a resolution encouraging “Southern Baptists to work for legislation that will allow the possibility of abortion under such conditions as rape, incest, clear evidence of severe fetal deformity, and carefully ascertained evidence of the likelihood of damage to the emotional, mental, and physical health of the mother.” The convention, hardly a redoubt of liberal values, reaffirmed that position in 1974, one year after Roe, and again in 1976.

When the Roe decision was handed down, W. A. Criswell, the Southern Baptist Convention’s former president and pastor of First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas—also one of the most famous fundamentalists of the 20th century—was pleased: “I have always felt that it was only after a child was born and had a life separate from its mother that it became an individual person,” he said, “and it has always, therefore, seemed to me that what is best for the mother and for the future should be allowed.”

29 notes - Posted June 25, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

The website "Have I Been Trained?" taps into the LAION-5B training data used to train Stable Diffusion and Google's Imagen AI models, among others. To build LAION-5B, bots directed by a group of AI researchers crawled billions of websites, including large repositories of artwork at DeviantArt, ArtStation, Pinterest, Getty Images, and more. Along the way, LAION collected millions of images from artists and copyright holders without consultation, which irritated some artists.

When visiting the Have I Been Trained? website, which is run by a group of artists called Spawning, users can search the data set by text (such as an artist's name) or by an image they upload. They will see image results alongside caption data linked to each image. It is similar to an earlier LAION-5B search tool created by Romain Beaumont and a recent effort by Andy Baio and Simon Willison, but with a slick interface and the ability to do a reverse image search.

Any matches in the results mean that the image could have potentially been used to train AI image generators and might still be used to train tomorrow's image synthesis models. AI artists can also use the results to guide more accurate prompts.

Spawning's website is part of the group's goal to establish norms around obtaining consent from artists to use their images in future AI training efforts, including developing tools that aim to let artists opt in or out of AI training.

41 notes - Posted September 16, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

[woodwayenergy]

"Pipeline Powerhouse: Enbridge's Continued Expansion Through Acquisitions"

Enbridge Inc., a global leader in energy transportation and infrastructure, has maintained its status as a pipeline powerhouse through strategic acquisitions. With a history of growth and innovation, Enbridge continues to expand its footprint and enhance its capabilities in the energy sector through targeted acquisitions.

Let's explore how Enbridge's acquisition strategy has propelled its continued expansion and solidified its position as a key player in the industry.

🛢️🚚 Enbridge Inc.: A Leader in Energy Transportation

Enbridge Inc., headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America. With a diverse portfolio of assets spanning pipelines, storage terminals, and renewable energy facilities, Enbridge plays a critical role in the transportation and distribution of crude oil, natural gas, and renewable energy resources across the continent. 

🎯 Strategic Acquisitions: Driving Growth and Innovation

Enbridge's growth strategy is centered around strategic acquisitions aimed at expanding its asset base, diversifying its operations, and capturing new growth opportunities. By acquiring complementary businesses and assets, Enbridge has been able to strengthen its market position, enhance its operational capabilities, and deliver value to its stakeholders. 

These strategic acquisitions have been instrumental in fueling Enbridge's continued expansion and ensuring its relevance in an evolving energy landscape.

��� Recent Acquisitions: A Testament to Expansion

In recent years, Enbridge has completed several high-profile acquisitions that have significantly augmented its portfolio and positioned the company for future growth. 

One notable example is the acquisition of Spectra Energy Corp in 2017, which created one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America. This transformative deal expanded Enbridge's presence in key markets, diversified its asset base, and unlocked synergies that drove operational efficiency and value creation.

📈 Strengthening Core Operations: Focus on Pipelines

As a pipeline powerhouse, Enbridge remains committed to strengthening its core operations in pipeline transportation. Through strategic acquisitions, Enbridge has expanded its pipeline network, increased its capacity, and improved its ability to meet the growing demand for energy transportation services. 

By investing in pipeline infrastructure, Enbridge plays a vital role in ensuring the reliable and efficient delivery of energy resources to markets across North America.

🌈 Diversification Initiatives: Beyond Pipelines

While pipelines remain the cornerstone of its business, Enbridge has also pursued diversification initiatives to adapt to changing market dynamics and capture new growth opportunities. In addition to pipelines, Enbridge has invested in renewable energy projects, natural gas distribution systems, and midstream assets, broadening its revenue streams and enhancing its resilience in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

💼 Creating Value for Stakeholders: Delivering Results

Enbridge's acquisition strategy is driven by a commitment to delivering value for its stakeholders, including customers, shareholders, employees, and communities. By expanding its asset base, diversifying its operations, and optimizing its portfolio, Enbridge seeks to generate sustainable returns and contribute to the long-term prosperity of the regions it serves. Through responsible stewardship and strategic decision-making, Enbridge aims to create value for its stakeholders while advancing the transition to a low-carbon energy future.

🚀Future Outlook: Sustaining Growth Momentum

Looking ahead, Enbridge remains focused on sustaining its growth momentum through a combination of organic expansion and strategic acquisitions. 

With a strong balance sheet, a proven track record of execution, and a commitment to innovation and sustainability, Enbridge is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the energy sector.

As Enbridge continues to evolve and adapt to changing market dynamics, its acquisition-driven growth strategy will play a crucial role in shaping its future success and ensuring its continued leadership in the industry.

🏁 Conclusion

Enbridge's continued expansion through acquisitions underscores its position as a pipeline powerhouse and a key player in the energy sector. By strategically acquiring complementary businesses and assets, Enbridge has strengthened its market position, diversified its operations, and delivered value for its stakeholders. 

As Enbridge looks to the future, its acquisition-driven growth strategy will remain a cornerstone of its efforts to drive innovation, sustainability, and long-term value creation in the evolving energy landscape.

🛠️ Woodway Energy Infrastructure is your premier source for customized midstream solutions. Our offerings are cost-effective, reliable, and tailored to meet your needs. Let us drive your success forward. Reach out to us at Woodway Energy Infrastructure to learn more. Reach out to us at Woodway Energy Infrastructure.

[mythoughtsverbatim]

Balancing development and climate concerns

In Africa, climate activists wanted to cancel a 895-mile-long pipeline from Uganda’s Lake Alberta region, which has a potential to carry 216,000 barrels per day and provide indirect employment for more than 105,000 people.

In India, activists want to end dozens of hydrocarbon projects across the country – initiatives that would directly contribute to the energy independency of a country that relies heavily on imported hydrocarbons.

Poverty undeniably remains a crippling reality for vast swaths of Africa and Asia. Billions still grapple with securing access to clean water, sanitation, non-polluting cooking fuels and reliable electricity. Infrastructure development holds the promise of changing this narrative, injecting much-needed capital, creating jobs and laying the groundwork for future prosperity.

By disrupting fossil fuel projects, activists contradict their claim of caring for people’s economic future. A thoroughly anti-human philosophy that envisions Earth untouched by people has them blindly adhering to an unscientific theory of a climate emergency.

[calgarymover]

Calgary will see a lot of positive changes in 2024

2024 CALGARY ECONOMIC OUTLOOK We have completed an extensive market research on Calgary economic development in s2023 and 2024 and outlined our major findings in this article. Calgary, the vibrant city in Alberta, Canada, is poised for a series of positive changes in 2024, reflecting its dynamic and forward-thinking nature. This article will delve into these transformative developments, offering a comprehensive overview of what residents and visitors can expect in the coming year.

Moving Companies Calgary

Economic Growth and Business Success The Calgary and region business community is entering 2024 with a positive outlook. This optimism stems from various factors, including robust commodity prices, increased consumer spending, and record population growth. These elements are expected to bolster Calgary's economy, positioning it and Alberta for a prosperous year ahead [6].

City of Calgary Approved Updated Off-site Levies Bylaws City Council approved an updated Off-Site Levies Bylaw, an important measure to support local development and fund growth-related infrastructure required to meet the needs of Calgary’s growing population. The bylaw will come into effect on March 1, 2024, and will see an 8% increase to the off-site levy rate, from $564,000 per hectare to $609,0000 per hectare. This increase will contribute to the initial expenses of crucial infrastructure, such as water pipes, roads for transit and community access, and emergency service stations to name a few.

Housing Market The Calgary real estate market is showing signs of robust growth as we look towards 2024 and 2025. This growth is underpinned by several key factors, including economic recovery, demographic shifts, and market dynamics. Calgary's housing market is expected to witness a significant price increase in 2024. Aggregate home prices are forecasted to jump by 8% year-over-year by the end of 2024. This growth is consistent across various reports, emphasizing the market's strong recovery and growth trajectory [6], [7]. The projected average price for a home in Calgary is estimated to be around $711,612 to $720,000 by the end of 2024. This indicates a return to the pandemic peak levels, suggesting a strong rebound and investor confidence in the market [8], [9].

Government and Budgetary Developments In November 2023, the Calgary City Council voted in favor of budget adjustments for 2024. These changes reflect the council's commitment to sustainable financial planning and addressing the city's evolving needs. The budget adjustments aim to balance fiscal responsibility with strategic investments in public services and infrastructure [2].

Salary Increase for City Council Amid Challenges As Calgary homeowners prepare for a property tax increase in 2024, the city council will receive an automatic 2.41% salary increase. This decision has been made amidst various economic challenges, reflecting the council's efforts to maintain a balance between fair compensation and the city's financial health [3].

Boost in Film and TV Production Calgary is set to experience significant growth in its film and TV production industry. After meetings with major Hollywood studios, the city is hopeful for increased production activities in 2024. This growth in the entertainment sector is a testament to Calgary's appeal as a location for filmmaking and its potential as a cultural hub [4]. MovieMaker Magazine ranked the 25 best places to live and work as a moviemaker(opens in a new tab) for 2024, with Calgary – called an “affordable, thriving and growing film hub” – coming in at number eight on the list.

Health Care System Transformation In a significant move, Alberta's Premier announced plans to launch health care changes in 2024. The Alberta Health Services (AHS) will be replaced by four agencies, with AHS taking a more focused role in acute care. This restructuring aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery in the province [5]. In summary, 2024 is shaping up to be a year of positive change and growth for Calgary. From economic development to the arts and health care, the city is embracing transformations that promise to enhance its standing as a dynamic and progressive urban center. These developments not only bode well for Calgary's future but also demonstrate its resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. 🌐 Sources

calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com - 2024 Economic Outlook: Calgary set to navigate…

calgaryherald.com - What did Calgary city council members say about the 2024…

cbc.ca - City council gets automatic 2.41% salary increase for 2024

calgary.ctvnews.ca - Calgary hopeful for film, TV production growth in 2024

globalnews.ca - Alberta premier to launch health care changes in 2024

calgaryherald.com - Calgary house prices projected to climb 8% next year

newswire.ca - Canadians to adapt to new reality as housing market…

bnnbloomberg.ca - Home prices will return to pandemic peak by end of 2024

ratemasters.ca - Calgary Housing Market Forecast 2024, 2025, 2026 & 2030

https://newsroom.calgary.ca/city-council-approves-updated-off-site-levies-bylaw-to-support-the-development-industry-and-growth-related-infrastructure/

Read More: Cross Country Movers

[calgarymoverssparta]

Calgary will see a lot of positive changes in 2024

2024 CALGARY ECONOMIC OUTLOOK We have completed an extensive market research on Calgary economic development in s2023 and 2024 and outlined our major findings in this article. Calgary, the vibrant city in Alberta, Canada, is poised for a series of positive changes in 2024, reflecting its dynamic and forward-thinking nature. This article will delve into these transformative developments, offering a comprehensive overview of what residents and visitors can expect in the coming year.

Moving Companies Calgary

Economic Growth and Business Success The Calgary and region business community is entering 2024 with a positive outlook. This optimism stems from various factors, including robust commodity prices, increased consumer spending, and record population growth. These elements are expected to bolster Calgary's economy, positioning it and Alberta for a prosperous year ahead [6].

City of Calgary Approved Updated Off-site Levies Bylaws City Council approved an updated Off-Site Levies Bylaw, an important measure to support local development and fund growth-related infrastructure required to meet the needs of Calgary’s growing population. The bylaw will come into effect on March 1, 2024, and will see an 8% increase to the off-site levy rate, from $564,000 per hectare to $609,0000 per hectare. This increase will contribute to the initial expenses of crucial infrastructure, such as water pipes, roads for transit and community access, and emergency service stations to name a few.

Housing Market The Calgary real estate market is showing signs of robust growth as we look towards 2024 and 2025. This growth is underpinned by several key factors, including economic recovery, demographic shifts, and market dynamics. Calgary's housing market is expected to witness a significant price increase in 2024. Aggregate home prices are forecasted to jump by 8% year-over-year by the end of 2024. This growth is consistent across various reports, emphasizing the market's strong recovery and growth trajectory [6], [7]. The projected average price for a home in Calgary is estimated to be around $711,612 to $720,000 by the end of 2024. This indicates a return to the pandemic peak levels, suggesting a strong rebound and investor confidence in the market [8], [9].

Government and Budgetary Developments In November 2023, the Calgary City Council voted in favor of budget adjustments for 2024. These changes reflect the council's commitment to sustainable financial planning and addressing the city's evolving needs. The budget adjustments aim to balance fiscal responsibility with strategic investments in public services and infrastructure [2].

Salary Increase for City Council Amid Challenges As Calgary homeowners prepare for a property tax increase in 2024, the city council will receive an automatic 2.41% salary increase. This decision has been made amidst various economic challenges, reflecting the council's efforts to maintain a balance between fair compensation and the city's financial health [3].

Boost in Film and TV Production Calgary is set to experience significant growth in its film and TV production industry. After meetings with major Hollywood studios, the city is hopeful for increased production activities in 2024. This growth in the entertainment sector is a testament to Calgary's appeal as a location for filmmaking and its potential as a cultural hub [4]. MovieMaker Magazine ranked the 25 best places to live and work as a moviemaker(opens in a new tab) for 2024, with Calgary – called an “affordable, thriving and growing film hub” – coming in at number eight on the list.

Health Care System Transformation In a significant move, Alberta's Premier announced plans to launch health care changes in 2024. The Alberta Health Services (AHS) will be replaced by four agencies, with AHS taking a more focused role in acute care. This restructuring aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery in the province [5]. In summary, 2024 is shaping up to be a year of positive change and growth for Calgary. From economic development to the arts and health care, the city is embracing transformations that promise to enhance its standing as a dynamic and progressive urban center. These developments not only bode well for Calgary's future but also demonstrate its resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. 🌐 Sources

calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com - 2024 Economic Outlook: Calgary set to navigate…

calgaryherald.com - What did Calgary city council members say about the 2024…

cbc.ca - City council gets automatic 2.41% salary increase for 2024

calgary.ctvnews.ca - Calgary hopeful for film, TV production growth in 2024

globalnews.ca - Alberta premier to launch health care changes in 2024

calgaryherald.com - Calgary house prices projected to climb 8% next year

newswire.ca - Canadians to adapt to new reality as housing market…

bnnbloomberg.ca - Home prices will return to pandemic peak by end of 2024

ratemasters.ca - Calgary Housing Market Forecast 2024, 2025, 2026 & 2030

https://newsroom.calgary.ca/city-council-approves-updated-off-site-levies-bylaw-to-support-the-development-industry-and-growth-related-infrastructure/

Read More: Cross Country Movers

[spartamover]

Calgary will see a lot of positive changes in 2024

2024 CALGARY ECONOMIC OUTLOOK We have completed an extensive market research on Calgary economic development in s2023 and 2024 and outlined our major findings in this article. Calgary, the vibrant city in Alberta, Canada, is poised for a series of positive changes in 2024, reflecting its dynamic and forward-thinking nature. This article will delve into these transformative developments, offering a comprehensive overview of what residents and visitors can expect in the coming year.

Moving Companies Calgary

Economic Growth and Business Success The Calgary and region business community is entering 2024 with a positive outlook. This optimism stems from various factors, including robust commodity prices, increased consumer spending, and record population growth. These elements are expected to bolster Calgary's economy, positioning it and Alberta for a prosperous year ahead [6].

City of Calgary Approved Updated Off-site Levies Bylaws City Council approved an updated Off-Site Levies Bylaw, an important measure to support local development and fund growth-related infrastructure required to meet the needs of Calgary’s growing population. The bylaw will come into effect on March 1, 2024, and will see an 8% increase to the off-site levy rate, from $564,000 per hectare to $609,0000 per hectare. This increase will contribute to the initial expenses of crucial infrastructure, such as water pipes, roads for transit and community access, and emergency service stations to name a few.

Housing Market The Calgary real estate market is showing signs of robust growth as we look towards 2024 and 2025. This growth is underpinned by several key factors, including economic recovery, demographic shifts, and market dynamics. Calgary's housing market is expected to witness a significant price increase in 2024. Aggregate home prices are forecasted to jump by 8% year-over-year by the end of 2024. This growth is consistent across various reports, emphasizing the market's strong recovery and growth trajectory [6], [7]. The projected average price for a home in Calgary is estimated to be around $711,612 to $720,000 by the end of 2024. This indicates a return to the pandemic peak levels, suggesting a strong rebound and investor confidence in the market [8], [9].

Government and Budgetary Developments In November 2023, the Calgary City Council voted in favor of budget adjustments for 2024. These changes reflect the council's commitment to sustainable financial planning and addressing the city's evolving needs. The budget adjustments aim to balance fiscal responsibility with strategic investments in public services and infrastructure [2].

Salary Increase for City Council Amid Challenges As Calgary homeowners prepare for a property tax increase in 2024, the city council will receive an automatic 2.41% salary increase. This decision has been made amidst various economic challenges, reflecting the council's efforts to maintain a balance between fair compensation and the city's financial health [3].

Boost in Film and TV Production Calgary is set to experience significant growth in its film and TV production industry. After meetings with major Hollywood studios, the city is hopeful for increased production activities in 2024. This growth in the entertainment sector is a testament to Calgary's appeal as a location for filmmaking and its potential as a cultural hub [4]. MovieMaker Magazine ranked the 25 best places to live and work as a moviemaker(opens in a new tab) for 2024, with Calgary – called an “affordable, thriving and growing film hub” – coming in at number eight on the list.

Health Care System Transformation In a significant move, Alberta's Premier announced plans to launch health care changes in 2024. The Alberta Health Services (AHS) will be replaced by four agencies, with AHS taking a more focused role in acute care. This restructuring aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery in the province [5]. In summary, 2024 is shaping up to be a year of positive change and growth for Calgary. From economic development to the arts and health care, the city is embracing transformations that promise to enhance its standing as a dynamic and progressive urban center. These developments not only bode well for Calgary's future but also demonstrate its resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. 🌐 Sources

calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com - 2024 Economic Outlook: Calgary set to navigate…

calgaryherald.com - What did Calgary city council members say about the 2024…

cbc.ca - City council gets automatic 2.41% salary increase for 2024

calgary.ctvnews.ca - Calgary hopeful for film, TV production growth in 2024

globalnews.ca - Alberta premier to launch health care changes in 2024

calgaryherald.com - Calgary house prices projected to climb 8% next year

newswire.ca - Canadians to adapt to new reality as housing market…

bnnbloomberg.ca - Home prices will return to pandemic peak by end of 2024

ratemasters.ca - Calgary Housing Market Forecast 2024, 2025, 2026 & 2030

https://newsroom.calgary.ca/city-council-approves-updated-off-site-levies-bylaw-to-support-the-development-industry-and-growth-related-infrastructure/

Read More: Cross Country Movers

[thehomess-realestate-canada]

10 Reasons to Moving Chestermere, Alberta - Is good Place to Live

Moving to Chestermere, is a decision that promises a fulfilling and enriching life. From the breathtaking natural scenery to the abundant job opportunities, Chestermere offers a unique blend of tranquility and prosperity.

Read more: https://thehomess.com/news/move-to-chestermere-alberta

[zentnersteelbuildings]

Alberta Pipelines: A Comprehensive Overview of the Energy Backbone

Introduction

Alberta, known for its abundant natural resources, is home to a vast network of pipelines that serve as the energy backbone of the province and play a crucial role in powering the nation. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at Alberta Pipelines, exploring their importance in Canada's energy landscape, their environmental impact, safety regulations, and the challenges they encounter. Join us on this informative journey to understand the vital role these pipelines play in sustaining Alberta's energy-driven economy.

The Significance of Alberta Pipelines

Alberta pipelines are the lifeline of the province's energy sector, transporting vast quantities of oil and natural gas from extraction points to refineries and consumers both within Alberta and across the country. These pipelines are the driving force behind Alberta's economy, contributing significantly to its prosperity and energy security.

Alberta's Diverse Pipeline Network

The province boasts a diverse array of pipelines, including crude oil pipelines, natural gas pipelines, and refined products pipelines. These pipelines collectively ensure the efficient transportation of various energy resources to meet the demands of consumers, industries, and international markets.

Environmental Considerations and Mitigation

While pipelines are efficient for energy transportation, they raise environmental concerns. Alberta pipeline operators implement robust measures to mitigate environmental impacts, such as leak detection systems, land reclamation, and wildlife protection programs.

Safety Standards and Regulations

Ensuring the safety of Alberta pipelines is paramount. The province adheres to stringent safety standards and regulations, overseen by regulatory bodies to monitor construction, operation, and maintenance activities. Companies operating pipelines must prioritize safety to minimize the risk of accidents.

Economic Impact on Alberta

The Alberta pipeline industry is a significant driver of the province's economy, generating employment and attracting investment. The construction, operation, and maintenance of pipelines create job opportunities in various sectors, fostering economic growth and development.

Pipelines and Energy Export

Alberta's pipelines facilitate the export of energy resources to global markets, contributing to Canada's position as a major energy exporter. This export-oriented approach bolsters the nation's trade balance and strengthens international partnerships.

Balancing Energy Transition with Existing Pipelines

As the world transitions to cleaner energy sources, Alberta faces the challenge of balancing its existing pipeline infrastructure with the growing demand for renewable energy. Collaborative efforts between the energy sector and environmental groups are essential for a sustainable energy future.

Technology and Innovation in Pipeline Operations

Advancements in technology have revolutionized pipeline operations. From sophisticated monitoring systems to aerial inspections, technology plays a crucial role in enhancing safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.

Indigenous Engagement and Consultation

Alberta pipelines often intersect with indigenous lands, necessitating meaningful engagement and consultation with indigenous communities. Companies must prioritize building positive relationships, respecting land rights, and offering economic opportunities to indigenous groups.

Alberta Pipelines and Water Crossings

Water crossings pose unique challenges for pipeline construction and operation. Alberta's pipelines implement stringent measures to protect water bodies, employing advanced technologies to detect and prevent leaks near waterways.

Pipelines and Community Development

Pipelines contribute to community development, supporting local economies and infrastructure development. Pipeline companies engage in community initiatives and social responsibility projects to benefit the regions they operate in.

The Role of Pipelines in Disaster Response

In times of emergencies or natural disasters, pipelines can aid in disaster response efforts by transporting critical resources to affected areas, assisting in relief and recovery operations.

Environmental Conservation and Pipeline Development

Balancing environmental conservation with pipeline development is crucial for Alberta's sustainable growth. Companies invest in environmental studies and habitat restoration to minimize the ecological impact of pipeline projects.

Public Perception and Education

Public perception plays a vital role in pipeline projects. Communication, education, and transparency are essential to address misconceptions and gain public support for responsible pipeline development.

Future Prospects for Alberta Pipelines

The future of Alberta pipelines lies in diversifying energy resources and embracing innovation. Adapting to changing energy landscapes while upholding safety and environmental standards will determine the industry's sustainability.

 Conclusion 

Alberta Pipelines form the backbone of the province's energy infrastructure, playing a pivotal role in powering both Alberta and the nation. These pipelines are essential for Canada's economic growth, energy security, and global energy market contributions. While facing environmental challenges, Alberta's Pipeline industry strives to implement advanced technologies and sustainable practices to minimize its impact on the environment.

[superjaysons]

Alberta government in court to stay judge’s order regarding oilsands decision

Alberta government in court to stay judge’s order regarding oilsands decision

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By The Canadian Press

Posted February 26, 2020 8:23 am

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Alberta government lawyers are to be in a Calgary court on Wednesday to ask for a stay of an order requiring it to make a decision on a proposed oilsands project near Fort McMurray.

Last…

[yegarts]

2021 Grants for Individuals & Collectives Recipients - October Deadline

Individual artists and their work are the foundation of our arts community. As they create work that explores and expands their artistic practices, their art provides our community with a reflection of itself and contributes to the innovation and growth of the sector. Through the Grants for Individuals & Collectives program, the Edmonton Arts Council supports a wide range of art forms and practices to foster experimentation and exploration, creative collaborations and public presentations, as well as activities to invest in the individual skills or artists, including mentorships and professional development. 

For the second intake process of the 2021 Grants for Individuals & Collectives program (deadline October 1, 2021), more than 250 eligible applications were assessed. From these, 79 grants were recommended by the peer assessment committee for investment. Focusing on fostering experimentation, supporting artists from Equity-seeking groups, and professional development and mentorship (addressing the Aims and Actions found in Connections & Exchanges: A Ten-Year Plan To Transform Arts & Heritage in Edmonton) a total of $1,097,030 will be invested in Edmonton’s arts community through this round of Grants for Individuals & Collectives.

Interested in applying? Our next deadline is February 15, 2022. You can find more information here. 

Curious about the successful applicants from the October 2021 intake? Read on...

For stream 1 of the program – Exploration and Experimentation – 30 applicants were recommended for funding ($5,000 each). Congratulations to the following recipients:  

Juwariya Abdullahi will create an oil painting collection visually capturing the ancient history and forgotten mythology of East Africa.

Asal Andarzipour will be integrating her current practice of representational oil paint with her background in design and art history.

Jacqueline Baker is working on Stigma: A Memoir of Fallen Motherhood, about trauma sustained in homes for unwed mothers.

Tariq Bakir is investing in time to improve his art sonically, lyrically and visually.

Mallory Chipman is working on Untamed Melodies, a songwriting and recording project based on the melodies of Alberta birds.

Meghan Eaker, an emerging neheyaw iskwew poet, will write new niâcimowak.

Daniela Fernandez is working on a self-guided exploration of music production and sound design.

Mika Haykowsky will explore the field of intimacy, queer studies and healing with technology.

Alison Hughes will explore short story literary forms.

Dara Humniski will explore and expand the use of narrative devices in the artist’s visual art practice.

Emily Jan will create Great Lakes Beast, a large-scale sculptural installation for the 10e Biennale National de Sculpture Contemporaine.

Kev Liang will work with photo, video and documented performance while using printmaking in new ways to confront concepts of lineage and prosperity.

Michael Magnusson will create new, wearable sculpture and photography that explores Queer culture.

Molly McDermott will undergo training in Butoh dance and Body Mind Centering to develop a solo project, Urge.

Veronika McGinnis will create a series of paintings and an experimental video exploring the nature of psychosis.

Jaron Morin will create a cutout animation, Grandson, about a grandson grieving his grandmother’s passing.

Anica Neiman will create large oil paintings assembled from plant and animal hybrids.

Diana Ohiozebau will undertake research around the creation of African masks.

Carley Okamura will travel to North American taiko groups to learn their local culture, history and practice.

Candice Joy Oliva’s exploration will bridge the artist’s distances and discomforts with her heritage languages (Bikol and Tagalog).

Eliana Parrado will develop digital illustration skill sets in integration with printmaking, storytelling and zine-making.

Stephanie Patsula will undergo independent work in residence in Ísafjörður, Iceland.

Joëlle Prefontaine is writing and composing La Ville, a new satirical musical.

Liam Salmon will write a new stage play entitled OUTMODED.

Palana Shah will undergo a year of intense training to perform a solo Bharatanatyam recital.

Autumn Sjolie will interview people with profound blindness, to explore tactile artworks.

Ana Smith will create a small edition of a comic zine, exploring fantasy and her trans/disabled experience.

Evan Stewart will write, arrange, and record music for instrumentation of three double basses and one voice.

Uchecukwu Umezurike will work on a manuscript illustrating the experiences of people whom dominant cultures tend to overlook because of their histories, class, skin colour and what they appear to represent.

Jordan Van Biert will engage in a body of work to improve the artist’s choral conducting practice and study collaborative musical leadership models.

Stream 2 of the grants for Individuals and Collectives program focuses on Skills and Career Development. The assessors have made recommendations to fund seven applicants, for a total of $63,700. Congratulations to the following recipients:  

Jessica Holtby will pursue a music career mentorship with Will Stroet and Kim Thé.

Kristi Hansen will embark in an independent study of Moment Discovery’s motion capture technology with other disabled Edmonton artists.

Girija Nagappan will expand her traditional training in Indian music to encompass western notation.

Danielle Okemaw will explore Nimihtotân: Let's dance!, an Indigenous grassroots movement that focuses on creating a safe dance space.

Benjamin Oswald will undertake a mentorship in Ceramic Materials and Sculpture with Selfridge Pottery.

Andrew Ritchie will begin a mentorship with Sheiny Satanove, producer of Punctuate! Theatre.

Tatiana Zagorac will pursue a mentorship with Robbie Townsend to develop music producing skills.

Stream 3 of the grant program invests in Major Artist-Driven Projects. These funds are allocated to support artist-initiated projects, including production/presentation that is clearly considered in light of public health advice and restrictions. 42 projects were recommended for funding, for a total of $883,330. Congratulations to the following artists and collectives:  

Makram Ayache will mount the premiere of The Hooves Belonged to the Deer by Makram Ayache, directed by Peter Hinton-Davis.

As part of the Ultra Violet Ensemble, Allison Balcetis will commission two new pieces and create music videos for the compositions.

Christina Beamish will use the funds for the pre-production phase of Nirvana, a dystopian drag-themed musical feature film.

Elisabeth Belliveau will write and draw a new graphic novel titled CONDOLADY.

Ariana Brophy’s project Under the Covers & Standing by the Window will explore the vulnerability of how one’s mental health can deteriorate when we lose our home, loved ones and sense of self.

Michelle Campos will illustrate and complete a graphic novel memoir about her life in El Salvador and eventual migration to Edmonton at the age of 8.

Scott Carmichael will create an Edmonton Comic Anthology with short comic story contributions from emerging local artists.

Marco Corbo will record an eight-song album as a follow up to his last recording, Basement Sessions.

As part of the MAKE Collective, Adrienne Dagg will develop new work over the course of six months and exhibit that work in the fall of 2022.

Onaolapo Dagunduro will use the funds for the development of the third book in the children's picture book series, My Little Trouble.

Amy DeFelice will present an outdoor production of Euripides’ Helen at Queen Elizabeth II Planetarium with and all-female cast in May-June 2022.

Lebogang Disele will produce “Breaking Ground”, a collective creation that fuses dance, poetry, and visual art to center African, Caribbean, Black women and gender non-conforming artists’ voices.

Noel Fanaeian will produce his third album, Mass Gathering.

Tim Folkmann will produce Watershed, a musical-film that will raise awareness of the beauty and importance of the river environment.

Ryland Fortie will facilitate and curate a group exhibition of artist-created mini-golf at the Lowlands Project Space.

Marina Fridman will create and ship an immersive drawing installation to the Monument Gallery in upstate New York.

Lauren Gillis, a.k.a. Lucette, will record her third studio album.

Yong Fei Guan will work on the project Goji Paradise, researching 枸杞gojis as a medium to create eco-public art.

Darrin Hagen will rehearse and record an original piece of modern classical music with the Strathcona String Quartet, and film the process for use in a music video / documentary.

Tiffany Hall will be recording a four song EP.

Emma Houghton will produce the world premiere of the play Freaky Green Eyes, an adaptation of the novel of the same name by Joyce Carol Oates.

Darren Jordan will curate the 16th Annual 5 Artists 1 Love concert and art exhibit.

Aleem Karmali will create a documentary marking the 50th anniversary of the expulsion of Ugandan Asians in 1972 and the settlement of refugees in Canada.

Frederick Kroetsch will make a creative documentary, Save My Video Store!, about The Lobby, Edmonton's last video store.

Danielle LaRose will create an in-person workshop of the new classical play The Amazonomachy, culminating in a public sharing which will also be filmed for at-home audiences.

Christine Lesiak will provide support for two Edmonton artists to participate in a design workshop of original play, The Spinsters.

Courtney Loberg will complete the fourth graphic novel in the series titled We Don't Go Through the Angelgrass.

Jonathan Luckhurst will create an artwork for the Edmonton International Airport that merges elements of art and sustainability.

Haidee Manansala will write, record, and promote an eight-track pop/R&B album.

Gabriel Molina will create Memory Palace, a visual art and technology project for solo-exhibition at Latitude 53.

John Musyoki will write a play based on the life and work of internationally known politician, trade unionist, activist, and visionary Tom Mboya.

Nauzanin Najaf-Toumeraei-Knight will produce a 14-minute comedy short, "Queens of Band-Camp", as proof of concept for a web series.

Leif Oleson-Cormack will produce and tour his one-person show The Disney Delusion.

Jacob Planinc and High Rise Productions -- a new collective of emerging, professional artists -- will come together to produce a site-specific production of Mike Bartlett's play Bull.

Theresa Shea will complete a novel that explores the climate crisis through the lens of the atomic tests conducted by the US government from 1946 -1992.

Kami Van Halst will record an EP for Jezebel Slade & Incura Duet.

Janine Waddell will create a training opportunity for Edmonton local theatre and film artists to learn basic and intermediate Intimacy Direction and Coordination skills.

Jordan Billie Zizi Watchel will record ten original songs at Riverdale Recorders in Edmonton.

Mary Whale will engage older adults to capture their portraits and stories shared during the sitting to reduce the social isolation exacerbated by the pandemic and give voice to the richness of ageing.

Kelly Wolfert will create UNSEEN, a one-hour documentary about living with MS.

Singer-songwriters Dana Wylie and Sammy Volkov plan to record and release an album of original classic-country duets.

[lookb4uleap]

Dangerous Dreams: What Climate Ideologues Get Wrong on Agriculture and Energy

by Michelle Stirling © 2023 Many thanks to Alberta Prosperity Project for inviting me to share these facts with some of their members. Feel free to peruse the power point to go to the links. Additional links to Albrecht Glatzle’s work are posted below. For my fellow Albertans and Canadians, here is the global warming contribution we have made in the past hundred years. Hardly worth destroying…

[karynlibrarian]

Manning lacks a plan for its infrastructure, a common shortcoming in rural Canada. Only 29 per cent of small municipalities – those with fewer than 5,000 people – report having an asset management plan that tracks the state of their infrastructure and maps future costs, according to the 2019 Canadian Infrastructure Report Card. Roughly 56 per cent of municipalities with populations between 5,000 and 30,000 keep such plans, compared with 70 per cent of large municipalities, says the report card, which is based on a survey conducted by the federal government in 2017 to which 90 per cent of the 2,000 jurisdictions polled responded.

Meanwhile, public assets are in rough shape. According to the report card, almost 40 per cent of the country’s public roads and bridges are in fair, poor or very poor condition; between 30 and 35 per cent of recreational and cultural facilities such as rinks and pools are in the same shape; and that goes for 30 per cent of water infrastructure such as sewers as well.

Roger Epp, a political studies professor at the University of Alberta, said the financial reckoning in small municipalities is not just a product of the recent economic collapse. It has been decades in the making.

“It has been the hidden story of Alberta for generations,” he said. “Beneath all the big, booming, impressive provincial aggregate numbers has been a serious, documented set of disparities" between rural and urban communities.

In good times, the province threw money at organizations such as agricultural societies and infrastructure projects in rural areas, creating a veneer of prosperity, Prof. Epp said. But now the government is cracking down on spending and shifting costs, such as a greater slice of the policing bill, to its municipal counterparts. Indeed, Prof. Epp is surprised that only a handful of the province’s small jurisdictions are on the verge of dissolving.

@allthecanadianpolitics

[theleftgazette]

Erin O’Toole contra Indigenous Peoples

Although Conservative Party leader Erin O’Toole had come under fire a month ago for suggesting that residential schools were initially “just about education,” his entire leadership of the party thus far has been thoroughly steeped in racism against indigenous peoples. O’Toole has made it explicitly known that he is more concerned with representing the interests of mega-corporations which profit off of the destruction of our environment—that is, who profit off of the destruction of colonized territories—than he is with representing indigenous interests in the slightest. Whereas a vast proportion of federal politicians at least have the courtesy to pretend like they care about indigenous issues whilst acting to make these issues worse, O’Toole has abandoned pretense entirely.

In a report from 350.org titled Human Rights Abuses by Fossil Fuel Companies, they highlight a review from 2006 which indicated that the fossil fuel industry accounted for two-thirds of corporate human rights abuses, and the extraction industry accounted for “the most allegations of the worst abuses, up to and including complicity in crimes against humanity.”

Some of their human rights violations include extrajudicial killings, and—what has become a Canadian pastime through our cooperation with the fossil fuel industry—the encroachment upon the rights of indigenous peoples. Particularly within the developing world, political corruption is just a normal part of how the fossil fuel industry operates. Within Nigeria, for instance, Shell and Eni were revealed to have bribed the president and politicians with hundreds of millions of dollars—money which we can be sure O’Toole would love to have the chance to accept himself.

As far as we are aware, however, fossil fuel companies aren’t offering O’Toole hundreds of millions of dollars, but his approval of the human rights violations which are part-and-parcel of their industry has no such price tag. He, like an over-exaggerated villain from a comic book, appears just to be corrupt for the sake of being corrupt.

How exactly is he corrupt? Well, within an article he wrote for the National Post, he not-so-cautiously paints a picture wherein indigenous peoples are criminals who are a threat to the prosperity of Canada, and this threat comes in the form of protesting the activities of the fossil fuel industry. Using a popular propaganda technique known as priming—which refers to, crudely speaking, the act of using misinformation to shape the way that an audience views information prior to receiving that information—he opens his article as follows:

Investment is leaving our country at a record pace. Billions of dollars of projects have been cancelled — most recently Teck Frontier, a project that would have created 7,000 construction jobs and 2,500 operational jobs in hard-hit Alberta. Every decision to pull investment from Canada is a threat to our social programs. Teck Frontier alone would have provided $70 billion to governments, money that is desperately needed to maintain and strengthen our health system as our population ages.

The question on the lips of Canadians today is: how did we get here? The answer to that is clear.

Not only is the appeal to emotion so incredibly present here, through a “think about the elderly!” claim which is directly associated with a fossil fuel mega-corporation, but he also makes an appeal to popularity, i.e. “The question on the lips of Canadians today is: how did we get here?” Perhaps this rhetoric would be more effective if he hadn’t already stated previously the intent to “ends fossil fuel subsidies, a form of corporate welfare.” Oops. It’s very difficult to argue that the fossil fuel industry is so strongly connected with the general welfare of Canadians when you admit that the billions of dollars in subsidies to the fossil fuel industry is, in fact, corporate welfare.

O’Toole continues by providing the “clear” answer to the question he raised:

We face this threat to our country’s future because of a Liberal government that has cancelled pipelines, banned tankers and passed legislation that makes it nearly impossible to build major projects. The illegal blockaders have taken their cues from more than four years of the Trudeau government’s attacks on our resource sector and those who work in it.

Yes, he portrays the blockades—which are largely done by indigenous peoples, and those acting in solidarity with indigenous peoples—as just illegal. Emphasizing the issue of legality here is a way to shut down serious discussion about it; it is a common tool for delegitimizing an issue. To further stress his authoritarian intent, he asserts that

An O’Toole government will pass a Freedom of Movement Act that will make it a criminal offence to block a railway, airport, port, or major road, or to block the entrance to a business or household in a way that prevents people from lawfully entering or leaving.

So, O’Toole’s chosen method to address indigenous issues relating to the fossil fuel industry is to use vague and authoritarian legislation in order to make it illegal for indigenous people to protest in the first place? (I’m sure this legislation wouldn’t be abused to shut down any number of other legitimate and peaceful protests…).

But O’Toole assures us that Canada already has a pretty progressive relationship with indigenous peoples:

In the days ahead, the Liberals may try to argue that adopting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP) is the correct way forward, but nothing could be further from the case. Canada has, entrenched in our Constitution, a world-leading recognition of Indigenous rights.

Okay. Let’s take a look at what indigenous rights are entrenched in our Constitution, and compare that with UNDRIP. Specifically pertaining to the rights of indigenous peoples, Section 25 of Charter of Rights and Freedoms asserts that

The guarantee in this Charter of certain rights and freedoms shall not be construed so as to abrogate or derogate from any aboriginal, treaty or other rights or freedoms that pertain to the aboriginal peoples of Canada including: (1) any rights or freedoms that have been recognized by the Royal Proclamation of October 7, 1763; and (2) any rights or freedoms that now exist by way of land claims agreements or may be so acquired.

Despite the emphasis on treaty rights, Canada has a long history of neglecting treaties entirely. For example, Treaty 6—which covers the territory I currently reside upon—meant an even split of resources and the distribution of food and medicine to the tribes which had theirs depleted. Not only was Treaty 6 signed under conditions of distress, alongside vastly different interpretations by indigenous peoples and settlers regarding what the treaty meant, but it also has a history of being violated. The Papaschase Cree were at the forefront of Treaty 6 violations during the 19th century; large portions of Edmonton, Alberta was once a reserve occupied by the Papaschase Cree until they were later coerced to surrender the land to settlers who didn’t want them in the city.

Beyond this, according to one hundred scientists who issued a proposal for a moratorium on the expansion of the tar sands in Alberta, the tar sands have hitherto constituted a great violation of indigenous rights:

Rapid expansion of the oil sands in Canada violates or puts at risk nation-to-nation agreements with Aboriginal peoples. In Alberta, oil sands mining is contributing to the degradation and erosion of treaty and constitutionally protected rights by disrupting ecological landscapes critical to the survival of Aboriginal culture, activities, livelihoods, and lifeways.

So, what exactly does O’Toole mean when he asserts that Canada already has a “world-leading recognition of indigenous rights”? Clearly he must think he lives in an alternate reality of some sort.

What about UNDRIP, then, does O’Toole see as so threatening? Perhaps it is Article 26, which declares that “Indigenous peoples have the right to the lands, territories and resources which they have traditionally owned, occupied or otherwise used or acquired.” Emphasis here on which they have traditionally owned. O’Toole most likely sees UNDRIP as threatening precisely because it calls into question lands which have been seized under treaty violations—lands which, if returned to indigenous peoples, would pose a threat to the all-consuming expansion of the fossil fuel industry.

I must remind you again that O’Toole, to our knowledge, hasn’t accepted hundreds of millions of dollars from fossil fuel mega-corporations. His unwavering support for them, and his consequential disregard for indigenous peoples, is free.

To read more articles like this, visit our website at theleftgazette.com

[mythoughtsverbatim]

“Green” Activists Menace Humanity – Watts Up With That?

In Africa, climate activists wanted to cancel a 895-mile-long pipeline from Uganda’s Lake Alberta region, which has a potential to carry 216,000 barrels per day and provide indirect employment for more than 105,000 people.

In India, activists want to end dozens of hydrocarbon projects across the country – initiatives that would directly contribute to the energy independency of a country that relies heavily on imported hydrocarbons.

Poverty undeniably remains a crippling reality for vast swaths of Africa and Asia. Billions still grapple with securing access to clean water, sanitation, non-polluting cooking fuels and reliable electricity. Infrastructure development holds the promise of changing this narrative, injecting much-needed capital, creating jobs and laying the groundwork for future prosperity.

By disrupting fossil fuel projects, activists contradict their claim of caring for people’s economic future. A thoroughly anti-human philosophy that envisions Earth untouched by people has them blindly adhering to an unscientific theory of a climate emergency.

[battle-of-alberta]

BoAB Meta Essay 1: 5 W’s

Hello and welcome to this strange and silly yet semi-serious project of mine. Battle of Alberta is a Hetalia-inspired comic and ask blog following the adventures and mishaps of rival Canadian cities Edmonton and Calgary. I started this blog in 2018, though I first created the characters a decade ago in 2010 as fan characters for the I Am Matthewian Project. This little illustrated essay is just an introduction to me, my orientation towards this project, and why the heckaroonie I’m doing this.  

Who: About the Author 

My name is Hapo. As I’m writing this, I’m a graduate student at the University of Toronto and hope to have that wrapped up in the spring of 2020. Though I’ve been dragged around the continent for one reason or another (usually the result of a gravitational pull of a university town), I consider Edmonton to be my hometown and fully acknowledge and relish in the resulting bias I was raised with. I am a 3rd or 5th generation Albertan depending on how you count it and a settler on Treaty 6 territory. My educational background is in Classics, Ancient Societies and Cultures, Linguistics, Archives, and Museum Studies; my academic interests kind of revolve around the construction of culture and memory. I also tend to enjoy challenging stereotypes and misconceptions and disturbing ideas about seemingly hierarchical top-down, center-periphery relationships. Most of all, I love drawing satirical comics of varying degrees of silliness and sharing them with people. I currently use a Wacom tablet and Clip Studio Paint for my comics.

What: Writing About Cities

I chose to focus on cities because it’s the kind of granularity I like to write about; I find writing from a national perspective too broad and difficult to rationalize from my own experience and while I’ve written from the provincial level in the past, I most enjoy the level of nuance and every day information that comes from living in and studying cities. My other comic, @athensandspartaadventures​, kicked off my love of writing city-states, and my travels to other Canadian cities over the course of my post-secondary studies fueled my desire to learn more about municipal histories. 

Listening to the news, joining protests, and navigating my way through adulthood pushed me to learn how to participate politically on a local level as well. The 10th Annual Hurtig Lecture at the University of Alberta featuring mayors Don Iveson and Naheed Nenshi on the future of cities is an event I feel shaped my attitude towards cities in general, but it also encouraged me to look at the cities I knew with a different, optimistic perspective. I want to inspire readers to understand their own municipalities as complicated, messy, and in need of love and support from the inside.  

When: Then and Now

While I wouldn’t define myself as a historian per se, I tend to look at many things through a historical lens. The history is an integral part of the story that shapes these characters, and while I don’t mean to use history to justify one narrative over others, I do have to make some decisions and choices about the stories that I tell and the characters I am building for consistency’s sake. 

What sets interpretations of personifications apart is the author’s own experience, and at the end of the day it’s my interpretations, gut reactions, and personal experience that colour my work and my view of history. I recognize that I have my own biases and ways of thinking that are rooted in my view of the world as it is today, and I also recognize that those understandings can change. This blog is less a chronicle of one monolithic view of history and more a chronicle of my own perspective and growth. 

During this project, I won’t be shying away from certain historical periods and certainly not modern politics. That said, I also will not be answering asks that are deliberately politically or historically insensitive, nor will I be going out of my way to render explicit periods of great pain or violence. My own discretion is not perfect, but I will be using it as I see fit and trying my best to be responsive about it.

Where: Oil Country

Gavin Crawford probably says it best in his Wild West miniseries satirizing a wide cast of provincial stereotypes: “What do I like best about Alberta? It’s where I live.” My family settled in Alberta before it was a province and while I was not born there originally, it is where I would always leave from and come home to, it was where I went to school and kept all my things, it was where I formed my fond childhood memories and my political attitudes as an adult, and whether I was living in sub-rural or suburban Alberta or across the continent from it, it was always Where I Lived and Where I Would Go if I could click my heels three times. 

I was born in the economic fall out after the NEP reinforced divisions with the rest of the country. I was in grade school while Klein was handing out prosperity bonuses at the height of the boom when we still couldn’t afford textbooks from after the fall of the Soviet Union let alone teacher’s salaries. I didn’t really understand the ire we drew from the rest of the country and the world until I joined the I Am Matthewian Project in high school, and suddenly I had to make a lot of decisions about my own political identity I hadn’t previously considered. 

I understand what it’s like to live in a (tongue-in-cheek) ‘petro-archy' and the culture shock of stepping outside it. I know how it is to feel constantly under siege by the rest of the world to the point that all rhetoric is reduced to calling out hypocrisy while refusing to analyze yourself. I have felt inexplicable rage boil up when hearing jokes or perceptions of my backyard from people in central Canada or other countries, and then having nothing to fall back on when being accused of having no history or culture. Most of all, I get what it’s like to be bombarded with all this stuff as a teenager and as a young adult, and I get how difficult it can be to navigate when you’re constantly and almost exclusively met with “everybody hates Alberta”. My province is dumb, it should be criticized, but I also love it fiercely and I dare everyone, Albertan or otherwise, to start to imagine it better.

Why: Battling it Out

We’ve been through why I am writing about cities, why I’m looking through a historical lens, and why I am a little obsessed with the problematic image of my home province. I think the final question is: why frame it with the Battle? The Battle of Alberta is an age-old rivalry that transcends the sporting events it is commonly associated with, as I touch on in Chapter 1. It’s the source of a lot of amusement for me when reading headlines and listening to petty jabs whether on the radio or in restaurants. It’s something that dies down with each new generation only to flare up again over some issue or another. 

Most of all though, I like to think of it as the start and the end of a healthy relationship, a competitive spirit that makes us strive to be better than each other and better than ourselves. It’s the thesis statement of this project and the wish I have for the future. I don’t mind whether you want to read it as petty or serious, as platonic or romantic, but it’s enduring, it’s constant, and I believe at the end of the day it can be used for good.  

That’s all from me for now, I look forward to your questions and comments as well as to writing more meta stuff like this!  

Hapo