Headlines: June 5, 2024

June 5, 2024 · The Pulse
By Mariam Ibrahim

The City of Edmonton and the Winspear Centre have launched a pilot program to play Edmonton Symphony Orchestra music at downtown LRT stations to improve the transit experience and increase downtown vibrancy. The playlist includes a mix of classical, modern, and local compositions. Music will be broadcast at several downtown stations daily from 5am to 2am, with priority given to station and train announcements.
Tickets for Edmonton Oilers playoff watch parties at Rogers Place have increased to $20 for the Stanley Cup Final, up from the $5 cost in the earlier rounds, with proceeds going to the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation. An atmosphere of excitement and energy has blanketed Edmonton as the Oilers prepare to face the Florida Panthers, marking the team's first appearance in the final since 2006. The playoffs run has also had a "profound impact" on the city's restaurant and pub industry, which is continuing to recover from the pandemic, said Edmonton Chamber of Commerce CEO Doug Griffiths.
Hockey fans reacted to a video of Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid being mobbed by a trio of fans outside a liquor store while loading beer into his car. "It's a unique moment to get a chance to meet him, but go about it a little less obnoxiously," said Tom Gazzola, a host with Edmonton Sports Talk. Fans CTV News talked to said the hockey star's personal space and privacy should be respected. McDavid remained polite as fans thanked him and asked for hugs during the encounter, which happened after the Oilers defeated the Dallas Stars 2-1 to secure their spot in the Stanley Cup Final.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is planning a friendly playoff bet with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis as the Edmonton Oilers face the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final. Smith has successfully won previous bets with B.C. Premier David Eby and Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
The City of Edmonton's Compost School, located beside the John Janzen Nature Centre, will undergo upgrades this summer to enhance accessibility and visitor engagement, with construction expected from June to September. Throughout the closure, residents can continue to access composting resources and workshops through the Edmonton Public Library and the city's website.
WestJet announced an increase in its 2024-2025 winter schedule capacity by more than 20% and offering 30 nonstop destinations, including new routes to Montreal and Ottawa. The airline will operate approximately 313 weekly flights from Edmonton International Airport, enhancing connectivity for both business and leisure travellers.
CTV News published a piece offering advice from mortgage brokers for the more than two million Canadians who will renew their mortgages in the next 18 months. Many of those homeowners are expecting to face payment increases because of rising interest prices, explained Tania Bourassa-Ochoa, deputy chief economist with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Edmonton mortgage broker Cheryl Wilkes said homeowners should always seek a second opinion when renewing to secure the best deal.
Edmonton Elks head coach and general manager Chris Jones is under pressure to improve the team's performance in 2024 after consecutive 4-14 seasons. The team's recently signed veteran quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson is expected to start in the season opener against the Saskatchewan Roughriders at Commonwealth Stadium on June 8, despite Tre Ford's record leading the team to all four wins last season. In the off-season, the Elks also acquired receiver Kurleigh Gittens Jr., kicker Boris Bede, and returner Javon Leake.
The Alberta government has committed $15 million annually for nine years to support STARS air ambulance services, covering about half of its operating costs to help ensure continued emergency helicopter rescues across the province. The partnership means STARS will retain its independence from Alberta Health Services until 2033. STARS responds to about 1,000 emergencies each year, with bases in Edmonton, Calgary, and Grande Prairie.