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the YARDS SUMMER 2016 inside PUBLISHER FRONTYARDS JARRETT CAMPBELL 4 COMMUNITY 7 OLIVER COMMUNITY EDITOR LEAGUE UPDATES “Block Connectors” rekindle OMAR MOUALLEM community spirit; the long wait for an ART DIRECTOR 5 DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY urban bike route is almost over; inside JENNIFER WINDSOR How leagues can help refugees; the board games revival; plus league EDITORIAL INTERN the Valley Line LRT needs more events. Kalyna Hennig time; neighbourhood parents find play dates for their kids and selves; CONTRIBUTING EDITOR 9 AROUND THE CORE Lee Craig, Tracy Hyatt, plus league events. A grab bag of hidden gems, gossip Rhonda Kronyk and noteworthy events CONTRIBUTORS Tracey Anderson, Jessica Barratt,

12 INNER VOICES CBW Caswell, Jeff Day, Angela Designated dog parks strengthen Johnston, Roberta Laurie, Brittany communities. So why don’t we have Nugent, Samantha Power, Daniella 12 one yet? San Martin-Feeney, Celia Shea, Nikki Wiart The List THE MOVE Six reasons your 13 MARKETING & EVENTS An Oliver engineer masterminds a puppy loves the core Sona Chavda micro-home ACCOUNT MANAGERS Adriana Amelio, Sona Chavda, Dan Rose THIRD PARTY AD SALES Rob Lightfoot, T8N Publishing Inc. GOVERNANCE BOARD Live from the Core CHAIR After decades of struggle, a resurgence Jarrett Campbell of central music venues signals the 14 TREASURER beginning of a new era Eric Hermanns BY C.B.W. CASWELL SECRETARY Lee Craig COMMUNITY LEAGUE REPRESENTATIVES Lisa Brown & Simon Yackulic (Oliver); Chris Buyze & Milap Petigara (DECL) DIRECTORS AT LARGE: BACKYARDS Carolyn Jervis, Rhonda Kronyk

22 INFOMAGIC CONTACT US Quantifying our neighbourhoods’ wealth of trees The Yards Magazine 1011, 10301 104 St. NW 23 STREET SMARTS Edmonton, AB T5J 1B9 We asked our neighbours: Have you ever committed ADVERTISING SALES or witnessed a random act of kindness in the core? [email protected] Published by 24 NEW URBANISM The Central Edmonton Buoyed by the downturn, new surface parking lots News Society 18 threaten to undo urban progress in partnership with Is This the 26 YOU ARE HERE Next to Go? Friendly faces from last season’s community events A resident of the historic El Mirador apartments finds out how we weigh ON THE WEB heritage against infill, Grey Gardens: The Living Bridge is one the city’s finest density and economics examples of urban intervention, but it is not without its theyardsyeg.ca BY ANGELA JOHNSTON controversies BY CELIA SHEA theyardsyeg.ca/grey-gardens facebook.com/theyardsyeg @theyardsyeg COMMUNITY LEAGUE UPDATES

Downtown Edmonton Community League DECL board of directors: Chris he construction is underway. It couldn’t be more excited. Buyze (President), Ian O’Donnell (VP), sometimes come with headaches for Our community league continues to evolve Milap Petigara (Treasurer), Jillian Gamez T drivers and aggravating detours for to meet the needs of residents. Recently we (Secretary), Phil Anhorn, Erin Duebel, pedestrians. welcomed our first families to our regular Yvonne Epp, Laurissa Kalinowsky, The changes are long overdue and the Urban Kids Playgroup (p. 5). But as some Christie Lutsiak, Alena Manera, Jarrett investment to improve our Downtown—to things change, some stay the same: We’re Mykytiuk, Chris Pilon and Scott Winder. turn it from an auto-focused daytime place hosting our annual Toonie Pancake Break- to a 24/7 entertainment and residential fast this June but with an added twist—a decl.org enclave—are finally here. But the showy parking lot sale! Just another great way to [email protected] Downtown condos still only represent a support our community (p. 5). @declorg small percentage of the residential growth We hope you enjoy this construction in Edmonton. All core neighbourhoods—not season. It won’t be one of the last. just ours—have to do better jobs of encouraging residen- Remembering Patrick Cardinal tial infill, good urban design, “DJ Cardinal,” or Pat as 104 AVE pedestrian-oriented amen- he was known to friends, OCL

118 ST. 116 ST. 103 AVE

ities and active transportation passed away this April 112 ST. 111 ST. 109 ST. 105 ST. 104 ST. 103 ST. if our city is going to be vibrant after a two-year battle with 102 AVE and financially sustainable for pancreatic cancer. Pat will the next generation. always be known as a great JASPER AVE DECL This neighbourhood that supporter of DECL through 100 AVE we call home is improving his volunteerism as a board slowly to meet the needs of member (2010–2014), his residents. This June we cele- help with events, his can-do brate the long-anticipated ground-breaking attitude, and not to mention his good tunes. What’s a Community League? and construction of Alex Decoteau Park Pat was a radio industry guru who managed Community Leagues are unique to (details on p. 5). This amenity is to support major stations across North America, the thousands of residents who’ve made the including Power 92 in the 1990s. On the day Edmonton. They’re inclusive, grassroots, “Warehouse Campus” home, who provided before he died, Pat learned that he would be community-based organizations found a catalyst for further residences in the area. inducted into the Canadian Broadcasters in each of this city’s 150-plus neigh- The park is 10 years in the making, so we Hall of Fame on May 5. bourhoods. They facilitate healthy, safe, informed and connected communities Oliver Community League by promoting participation in recreation, social activities and civic advocacy at the ou walk by them everywhere. They Community League hosts events to bring our sidewalk level. They’re volunteer-run and are…your neighbours. But how well whole neighbourhood together. On June 18, promote volunteerism because getting do you know them? the league is hosting its annual rummage sale Y involved is a great way to learn more about There is a tendency to live in isolation, espe- (details on p. 7). The hall will be packed with cially when we reside among high-density trinkets and treasures, so be sure to stop by. your neighbourhood and city. It’s also a populations like Oliver. It’s easy to be unseen, Our annual Canada Day Pancake Break- fantastic opportunity to learn valuable to come and go and never truly connect with fast also returns this summer on, well, July professional skills, meet your neighbours those you live near. 1, of course. Join in this tradition and meet Efforts like the Abundant Commun- upwards of a few hundred neighbours over and have fun. Join the movement today! ities Initiative (ACI) are trying to reduce pancakes and maple syrup (details on p. 7). isolation and bring neighbours together. Summer is always a busy time for folks: “Block Connectors” literally knock on the Children are out of school, vacation time doors of homes and tirelessly unite neigh- gets put to use, gardeners—on their lawns, bours in similar interests, backgrounds, balconies or community plots—work hard OCL board of directors: Lisa Brown cultures and hobbies (read about them on on their bounty. And, of course, there are the (President), Craig Lidstone (Vice- p. 8). In doing so, they create micro-villages countless festivals filling summer days and president), Simon Yackulic (Secretary), of connection throughout Oliver—food is nights. Long, warm days bring us out of our Mary McPhail (Treasurer), Anika Gee, shared, stories are told, friendships are made. homes and onto our streets, which presents Marjorie Henderson, Justin Keats, Knowing your neighbours is a wonderful opportunities to share even a wave and smile Rowan Kunitz, Luwam Kiflemariam, Tim way to be connected to your community. We with a passerby. Take the opportunity—even Mallandaine, Angelika Matson, Marija encourage you to open your door to the ACI if you need a pet to break the ice (read about Petrovic, Erin Wright and Hossein Zahiri. Block Connectors and reap the benefits of the benefits of dog parks on p. 12). However neighbourliness. you choose to meet your neighbours, olivercommunity.com In addition to this initiative, the Oliver research shows that we’re all healthier for it. [email protected] Our community is stronger, safer, livelier and 780-454-2450 4 THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 more inclusive when we know one another. • FRONTYARDS

SUMMER DECL EVENTS The Streetcar JUN. 10 Alex Decoteau Park Returns! Groundbreaking Ceremony irst, the good news: Downtown’s treas- Join Mayor Don Iveson, Coun. Scott Fured summer festivals, such as Taste of McKeen, community members and Edmonton and Cariwest, won’t be displaced descendants of Alex Decoteau for this mile- from Churchill Square by Valley Line LRT stone almost 10 years in the making. After construction this year, as was first expected. the ceremony, stick around for activities The bad news? The new LRT might not and speakers on the park’s design. n 1pm, break ground in the core until 2018, which 105 St. and 102 Ave. means the connection from Downtown to Mill Woods will have to wait longer. JUNE 18 When it’s finally completed four years Annual Toonie Pancake Breakfast later, expect to feel a touch of nostalgia. and Parking Lot Sale Rather than the underground stations Down- This year we’re adding a rummage sale, towners have grown accustomed to, the new sponsored by Impark. It’s free to register line will operate at-grade, alongside traffic for DECL members, $15 for everyone with platform access from the sidewalks, like else. Proceeds support our programming an old-fashioned streetcar. But don’t expect efforts. Email [email protected]. n Breakfast a quaint and boxy car with a uniformed from 9–11am; Rummage sale 9am–2pm, conductor ringing his bell, either. The new The line will run alongside a single Freemasons Hall, 10318 100 Ave. line’s primary contractor, Bombardier, which eastbound lane of 102 Ave. traffic and newly has developed similar light rail systems developed bike lanes (see p. 7), with stations AUG. 13, SEPT. 3, OCT. 1. throughout Europe, promises spacious trains at Churchill Square and 102 St. But until DECL at the City Market Downtown with low floors, sleek bodies and easy access. then, it’s business as usual in Churchill Pick up your $5 2016–2017 league This change, simple to many, radical to Square this summer: food trucks, festivals, membership from the DECL table others, isn’t just less costly—it helps animate basketball games and relaxing in the sun, free at the outdoor market on select days. the streets with people coming and going. of noisy construction. —Kalyna Hennig n 9am–3pm, 4th Street Promenade

JUNE 17 Urban Kids Board Game Night Connecting Kids in the Core Our monthly children’s board game night is where kids can play, explore and make vonne Epp used to see a lot more making rare connections with other parents, friends in their neighbourhood. This is the Ystrollers on the streets. Previous to while the kids entertain one another. last game night of the season until the fall. moving to Downtown for work, Epp, her Epp hopes the group reaches a point where n 6–9pm, DECL Community Space, husband and their two small children lived in the kids can go on mini field trips around the 10042 103 St. downtown Ottawa, where they were accus- core, to the Epcor Tower or the AGA, and help tomed to seeing other kids in the core daily. establish a stronger sense of community. “We TUESDAYS (JULY AND AUGUST) The transition has been an adjustment. need to pull [the core’s families] out of the Urban Kids Gardening “When we first moved here, I’d see other woodwork,” says Epp, “and this group is like Show your little ones how to sow and grow, strollers, and almost wish I had a business the bait.” (For more information visit Urban then busy them with pretty craft-making to card that said ‘Downtown Mom: Do you want Kids’ Facebook page at facebook.com/ adorn your home. n 10am–11:30am, Urban to be my friend?’” she says. Epp, who joined yegurbankids) —KH Eden Community Garden, 9836 Bellamy Hill DECL in February because she wanted to contribute a parent’s perspective, was JUN. 13 & 27, JUL. 11, AUG. 15 & 29 initially discouraged and pondered moving Urban Kids Playgroup to a more family-friendly neighbourhood. It’s where downtown children (0–5) Instead, she decided to “be a part of the play together and their caregivers meet. change” and started the Urban Kids Play- n 10:30am, DECL Space, 10042 103 St. group to connect downtown’s few families. Heather Popowich, for one, is glad she AUG. 27 did. “It’s so important for [kids] to play with NEW! Summer Patio Pub Crawl other kids in a different environment,” Get a taste of the says the mother of a toddler. At the group bar scene when neighbours gather at the the kids have abundant toys, snacks and hall, then sets out on a sun-soaked social space to explore. “They get so excited!” says adventure. n 4–8pm, starts at DECL Space, Popowich, though she could say the same 10042 103 St. about the parents in attendance. The adults get to lounge in comfy couches with coffee, EDMONTON’S CENTRAL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2016 5 The chief concern for arriving refugees Glenora Community League and Robertson- isn’t integration but navigation, says Pilon. Wesley United Church. “These families Understanding housing, utilities, trans- come from very close-knit communities, and portation, banking and schools in Canada’s feeling welcome in their new neighbourhoods comparatively bureaucratic society is is very important for their integration.” Safe Haven complex. These hurdles can overwhelm The North Glenora-sponsored family is anyone, and immigrants often have a limited a multi-generational family from Aleppo— How community groups can grasp of English, which makes navigation four adults, three teenagers and six young support refugees harder. Even after short-term necessities are children. They lived in a Lebanese camp for managed, refugees face ongoing challenges. over two years after fleeing Syria in 2013, ver 1,400 Syrian refugees have moved to They may worry about how to support their following an explosion outside their home. OEdmonton since November and at least families after the sponsorship ends. Laws restricted the adults from working, so 1,000 more are to come. To help them settle, Pilon, who is also a DECL board member, the young boys took to selling paper on the community-based groups like DECL and All says community leagues play a vital role in street to support their extended family. They Saints’ Anglican Cathedral are pitching in. assisting refugees because their members arrived in Edmonton in February, but the “In dire times, we’re called to help [anyone] are naturally passionate about their eldest daughter, her husband and their two regardless of race, religion or anything,” communities and want to share them with children remain in Lebanon. Nash’s group says Chris Pilon, community engagement newcomers, whether from Syria or St. John’s. is working with another community-based coordinator of All Saints’. They also have connections to organizations, group in Glenora to reunite them. To show All Saints’ will soon assist one Syrian business owners and other resources that their appreciation, the family recently family. The church formed a sponsorship make them valuable sources of knowledge. bought, butchered and cooked a goat for a steering committee, and has raised about Leagues can also waive membership fees, thank-you dinner. $45,000 to sponsor the family for a year. supply information on their services and Pilon looks forward to the day he can see Equally valuable are the dozens of volun- programs, and provide a liaison to connect All Saints’ sponsored family comfortable, teers ready to greet them, arrange medical families to programs directly. “If there are confident and beginning to feel at home in appointments, help with job hunting and cultural issues happening, [leagues] could Edmonton. He hopes to meet them at a local so on. DECL also informally approached help to explain things to the families in a event, not as refugees that the church spon- the church in fall 2015 about its planned non-confrontational way,” says Elizabeth sored, but as “fellow Edmontonians” who response to the Syrian crisis; it’s committed Nash. She recently formed the Refugee ventured out independently to enjoy their to participating in any suitable capacity. Response Group with members of the North community. —Tracey L. Anderson

NEVER MISS A DOWNTOWN DETAIL You’re part of a Downtown community experiencing unprecedented change. Whether you’re planning five years or five minutes from now, stay in the loop at Edmonton.ca/GoDowntown

6 THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 FRONTYARDS

released every year— some of them selling millions of copies. Game On What’s behind the resurgence? Brian Struggling to meet new people? A solution Flowers, owner of Table awaits you—straight out of grandma’s closet Top Café, has a theory: “When you enter a ver since the German game Settlers competitive atmos- Eof Catan gained popularity in North phere, everyone’s paying America in the 2000s, there’s been a attention to the game, movement of people putting down their not their phones.” Plus, controllers or phones and taking up the die he says, “It’s a really in an effort to test their wits and meet new good icebreaker.” people, I.R.L. A new way to foster human Flowers’ friend and interaction is organically taking hold right self-admitted board- here in Oliver where two board game cafés game aficionado Rudy Janvier agrees. In fact checkers or backgammon. have opened, Table Top Café (10235 124 St.) it’s how he met Flowers. “It began as just a But with a constant rotation of new titles to and the Gamers’ Lodge (10459 124 St.). regular thing on Sundays with some friends. sample at Table Top and the Gamers’ Lodge, Prior to their openings, the OCL hosted And then when I moved to Oliver I started where does one even start? If you’re really free, all-ages games nights every month, going to the community league’s nights to up for a challenge, Janvier recommends complete with snacks, a table of new titles find more people who wanted to learn about Pandemic Legacy, an apocalyptic campaign like Hive—an addictive strategic game akin new games.” game giving you a chance to command to chess—and the promise of making new Another reason for this revival might just an imaginary centre for disease control. friends. (The league has since cancelled be that the games are getting better. Some of Looking for something more general? them, now that the needs are met by new the most funded Kickstarter campaigns are McPhail loves Dixit, a story-building card businesses.) Mary McPhail of the OCL says games dreamed up by highly creative people. game made for the word nerds among us. it’s the human touch missing from our digital Janvier also points to massive conferences, Of course, if you prefer the classics, they’re lives that’s spurring the trend. According to like SPIEL in Germany, that allow players to easy to come by. “I remember a retiree The Guardian, board game purchases have contribute to the creation process. In other coming in with her Chinese checkers board,” risen by as much as 40 per cent annually since words, designers have learned that we want recalls McPhail. “She kicked my butt!” 2010. There’s a constant flow of new games something more engaging than crib, Chinese —Jessica Barratt

SUMMER JUN. 18 program for children sets up next to the OCL EVENTS Annual Rummage Sale OCL Hall again this year. n 10am – 1:30pm, On the success of last year’s sale, we once Oliver Park, 10326 118 St. JUN. 13, JUL. 11, AUG. 8 again invite you to find treasures you didn’t Civics Committee know you needed. n 9am–3pm, OCL Hall, JUL. 19–20 This fully engaged committee meets on 10326 118 St. OCL Casino Fundraiser the second Monday of the month to discuss Are you able to help us with our biennial developments in Oliver. n 7pm, OCL Hall, JUN. 19 casino fundraiser to support our operations? 10326 118 St. Ollie’s Treehouse Inclusive Playgroup Contact us at [email protected]. Every third Sunday, come to the hall to let n 11am–3:30am, Baccarat Casino, JUN. 15, JUL. 20, AUG. 17 your little ones run wild and play with friends. 10128 104 Ave. Events and Programs Committee Ollie’s is a great place for parents to make If you like event planning, this is the friends of their own. (This is the last play- AUG. 2–5 committee for you. Join the committee and group of the season, until it returns again in Oliver Community Daycamp help make a difference in Oliver. n 6:30pm, September.) n 4pm, OCL Hall, 10326 118 St. Hosted by the City of Edmonton, OCL Hall, 10326 118 St. children ages 8 to 13 are invited to this JUL. 1 “paint, plaster and play camp.” Register JUN. 17 Annual Canada Day Pancake Breakfast online at ereg.edmonton.ca or through 311. Walking Pub Crawl of Oliver Nothing says Canada Day like maple syrup n 9am–4pm, OCL Hall, 10326 118 St. Meet with new and old friends at the hall on pancakes with friends and neighbours. on every third Friday of each month, before Join us for a tasty breakfast! n 9am–11am, AUG. 29 walking to pre-determined locations to OCL Hall, 10326 118 St. Gaming Afternoon enjoy the Oliver nightlife. (This is the last A fun afternoon of games—both crawl of the season, until it returns again in JUL. 4–AUG. 25 traditional and digital—hosted by September.) n 8pm, starts at OCL Hall, 10326 Green Shack Program the Edmonton Public Library. 118 St. The City of Edmonton’s popular drop-in n 1:30pm–4:30pm, OCL Hall, 10326 118 St.

EDMONTON’S CENTRAL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2016 7 A completed bike network in 2022? The ACI has set loose enthusiastic That’s longer than many are hoping to wait. people into the neighbourhood to combat “Oliver has one of the highest percentages social isolation—or, as Wanigasekera puts of bicycle commuters in the city,” says it, “to spread the gospel of citizenship Dustin Martin, civics director for the OCL, participation.” Wheels in Motion which has advocated for it for years. He Susana Chalut is in the first stages dmontonians have been asking for a would like to see delays remedied with of her role as a Block Connector. Like Ebike-friendly core since the ’80s. This temporary solutions such as plastic bollards Wanigasekera, Chalut goes door-to-door in summer brings dream closer to reality. or moveable concrete barriers. “[They] her high-rise, the Centurian Tower, to collect Expect to see construction start on the can be constructed quickly and cheaply information about people’s interests, hobbies Glenora section of the 102 Ave. Bike Lane, and this has been done in cities across and skills for a database that will connect which stretches from 136 St. to Connaught North America including Calgary.” (Go to like-minded residents. Chalut, a writer who Dr. It will become a “shared-use path” (a Edmonton.ca/cycling for further updates.) immigrated from Chile, wants to get to know widened sidewalk with one lane for cyclists —Staff her neighbours, to build community and to and one for pedestrians). Disruption to create a sense of belonging by connecting vehicular and foot traffic will be minimal people and hosting events. and during off-peak hours. Connect the Blocks Wanigasekera feels the same about his The Oliver section, from Connaught Dr. usy” is the new small talk. Instead condominium. “Community means people to 111 St., will see the lane transition into “B of discussing the weather, we talk who live around each other, care about each a cycle track on the north side (a two-way about how many things we’ve got on the other. I want to rouse people out of apathy painted road that’s separated from both cars go, and oftentimes the B-word has become and get people involved with one another.” and pedestrians) that continues through the the default response to “How are you?” —KH “City Centre” portion of Downtown from That mindset is why cities lack a sense of 107 St. to 96 St. community, says Oliver resident Viraj The Abundant Community Initiative is Construction on the Oliver section Wanigasekera, who yearns for “the eye 100-per-cent volunteer driven. The OCL begins in 2017; the City Centre track is to contact that you would make with stran- is looking for eager Block Connectors and be completed alongside the new Valley gers and the obligatory hello walking down Neighbourhood Connectors. If that could Line LRT, which does not have an official the street.” To rediscover community he’s be you, email Angelika Matson at construction date yet (see p. 5), but is likely become a “Block Connector” with the OCL’s [email protected]. four years away. Abundant Communities Initiative. We work like dogs for you!

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maybe undiscovered—bistros, AROUND THECORE JUL. 8 bakeries and bars, plus live Season Shout-Outs! Meals on Wheels at music and refreshing beer and Edmonton Prospects vs. wine gardens. Summer time equals market BY KALYNA HENNIG Medicine Hat Mavericks n Churchill Square, tasteofedm.ca time and a local favourite, [email protected] Step up to the plate and buy a the 124 Grand Market, 50/50 ticket in support of Meals AUG. 2, 9, 16, 23 is back! After spending on Wheels. Watch Edmonton’s Movies on the Square the winter indoors in the minor league baseball team the Set up camp in Churchill Square French Quarters, it returns OUTDOOR FUN Prospects take on the Medicine with lawn chairs, snacks and (just to Oliver and Westmount JUN. 17 Hat Mavericks and help this in case) blankets to enjoy outdoor every Thursday from May to Mercer Summer Super Party meal subsidy program continue screenings of family movies on October. But don’t expect to One of Edmonton’s coolest to hit home runs to those who a three-storey high inflatable find your go-to food producers cultural hubs, the Mercer are in need. n 7pm, Telus Field, screen. Come early for pre-movie and makers in the exact same Warehouse, opens its doors to a 10233 96 Ave., mealsonwheels entertainment like group games spot; due to street renovations closed 104 St. for one supersized edmonton.org and short films. it’ll be a few blocks south on block party. Explore all it has n 7pm, Churchill Sq., Edmonton. the east side of 102 Ave. and to offer inside—Mexican food, JUL. 21–30 ca/attractions 124 St. (124grandmarket.com) artisans and fashion designers— Taste of Edmonton Speaking of renos, the while outside music, art, food Look who’s turning the big famous Post Office Clock and dance awaits. n 5pm-10pm, 3-0! Celebrate the legendary FEAST FOR THE EYES Tower is getting some extra Mercer Warehouse, 10359 104 festival’s milestones with great UNTIL JUN. 11 TLC. Through the City’s Parks St., tinyurl.com/MercerSuperParty eats from your favourite—and Sean Caulfield Conservation program, the The local printmaker and mixed- “parklet” outside the Westin media artist uses traditional Hotel (10135 100 St.) will woodcut and linocut techniques get new landscaping, a tree to ponder how machines have replacement to maintain the VOLUNTEER changed our environment and green canopy and a plaque OF THE SEASON: bodies. By blurring the biological at the base of the 1910 and technological into his work, tower—the last evidence of Caulfield challenges the viewer a demolished neoclassical Brett to consider what happens when post office. they merge. n DC3 Art Projects, More good news for 10567 111 St., dc3artprojects.com heritage preservation. Hall Heritage Forward founder here’s always some- UNTIL JUL. 2 (and The Yards /OCL volun- “T thing you can do in your #ABCRAFT teer) Dan Rose’s efforts neighbourhood to make it a This exhibit shows viewers how to salvage the awesome better place.” digital technology is transforming entrance of the torched Leam- Sage words from Meals ’s fine craft artists, ington Mansion are paying on Wheels volunteer Brett Hall, an Oliver resident who’s been featuring 14 artists using digital off. The City of Edmonton’s delivering groceries to the non-profit’s members since August. technology in various forms— heritage planners and the To his welcome surprise, bringing food to people in need across research, prototyping, produc- landowners agreed to tempor- Edmonton and in his neigbourhood has become a kind of tion, etc.—to enhance their craft. arily dismantle and store the personal therapy. “I was looking to raise my confidence and find n Alberta Craft Council, 10186 106 artifact for future display. stability,” says the 35-year-old former nurse turned insurance St., albertacraft.ab.ca Congrats, Dan! agent. “Driving for [Meals on Wheels] humbled me and put my While we’re touting our own problems into perspective.” AUG. 25–OCT. 8 own, congratulations to The Hall has become somewhat of a guinea pig to test out Meals’ Juan Ortiz-Apuy’s the Yards writers Mack Lamoureux new Store-to-Door program for seniors and disabled people, Garden of Earthy Delights and Allison Voisin, winners which became an official program after a trial last fall. Twice The Montreal artist’s installations of two Alberta Magazine monthly, Hall purchases and delivers groceries for an elderly use juxtaposition, assemblage Awards. The MacEwan man named Michael, who lives only a few blocks away, but can’t and collage to connect and graduates took gold and silver, physically run the errands himself. There’s no cost for Hall and combine specific moments in respectively, in the Emerging his mileage is reimbursed by the non-profit. time. He describes his work as Writer categories at the March The project helps forge a connection to the neighbourhood for an encyclopaedia that draws on gala. Contributors Myrna those who aren’t able to easily get out into the community. “Now literature, theory, pop culture, Kostash and Rhonda Kronyk we have a rhythm,” says Hall. “It’s nice to think that he trusts me design, history and more. and editor Omar Mouallem enough to enter his home.” —Jessica Barratt n SNAP Gallery, 10123 121 St., also received nominations, snapartists.com bringing the total number of If you would like to become a Store-to-Door volunteer, or pitch in on magazine honours to five. other Meals on Wheels programs, email emow@mealsonwheels • edmonton.org. EDMONTON’S CENTRAL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2016 9 FRONTYARDS

worry about learning lines; AROUND THECORE just have fun in this stress-free environment and enjoy the laughs. No experience is neces- JUN. 3–AUG. 28 sary and all are welcome. Echo to Artifact Tickets $20. n 1pm–3pm, Jennifer Allora and Guillermo SAGE, 15 Churchill Sq., Calzadilla’s film, sculpture, geriactors.ualberta.ca sound pieces and performances use artifacts and antiques, JUN. 18 plus pieces based on Western Golden Girls Tribute Show Canada’s prehistoric history, to Take another adventure with create beautiful reminders of the Dorothy, Sophia, Blanche and past in harmony with the present. Rose in this tribute to a TV classic. n AGA, 2 Churchill Sq., youraga.ca/ Get your ticket and enjoy the show exhibitions along with hot drinks, snacks and a silent art auction. Tickets HIDDEN GEM OF THE SEASON: available at the Edmonton Seniors ON THE STAGE Centre. n 6:30pm, Edmonton JUN. 15–25 Seniors Centre, 11111 Jasper Ave., Get Cooking Improvaganza Festival edmontonseniorcentre.ca idden on the ground floor of MacEwan University’s student Rapid Fire Theatre’s 16th annual Hresidence, Get Cooking appears unremarkable—another comedy festival features some JUN. 30 takeaway café supplying students with sandwiches and muffins. of the world’s best improvisers. “Canada Day” Bus Trip to But step behind the counter and enter the working kitchen, and After 10 days of stand-up, Wabamun Lake you’ll discover a world of culinary excellence. Theatresports and social events Take a bus out to Wabamun for Owner Kathryn Joel, a graduate of London’s Le Cordon Bleu your abs will be sore from a day of lakeside fun, delicious and Leiths School of Food and Wine, brings her expertise of laughter. n , food and a memorable Canada global cuisine to this quiet corner of the university campus every 9828 101a Ave., rapidfiretheatre. Day celebration! Meet at evening. Her educational kitchen—with its central island, video com Edmonton Seniors Centre, join monitors and movable steel tables for flexibility and collabora- friends on the bus and play bingo tion—becomes a hub for the city’s top chefs. It also helps appren- JUN. 15, JUL. 20, AUG. 17 until you arrive at the water. tices wishing to learn from masters like Joel and Michelin-star Story Slam n 10am–3pm, Meet at restaurant trained chef Doreen Prei. Tell your best tale and see how Edmonton Seniors Centre, Joel marries an appreciation of local ingredients with her it stacks up against your fellow edmontonseniorcentre.ca international background. Born in Melbourne, Australia, Joel storytellers at this competitive lived in England, Scandinavia and the US before moving here story-telling event. Sign up JUL. 13 to teach culinary classes from her Riverbend home. But while at 7pm and get a chance to Pioneer Pancake Breakfast intimate, the small kitchen couldn’t accommodate her vision. take home some cash—but Don’t be afraid to pile up the Having a downtown location with a commercial kitchen has remember to keep your story pancakes at Edmonton Senior allowed her to cater private events, bring in other chefs and excite contained to five minutes. Centre’s famous $5 breakfast. young people about cuisine. n 7:30pm, Mercury Room, 10575 Mingle with your fellow Oliver She hopes classes like Cooking for Two, Seafood Skills or 114 St., edmontonstoryslam.com residents over some syrupy 30-Minute Meals will “demystify cooking” and encourage goodness and live entertainers, the use of quality local and international ingredients. “We’re JUN. 22 and start the day off right. bringing flavours from afar into Edmonton’s home kitchens,” Tiger Army n 9–11am, Edmonton Seniors says Joel. The classes come with wine parings and take-home The Berkeley, Cali., “psychobilly” Centre, 11111 Jasper Ave., recipe packs. “It’s a night out with restaurant-level food but in an legends bring their 20th anni- edmontonseniorcentre.ca interactive environment.” Her guest chefs love it, too: “It’s like a versary tour to Edmonton—itself playground,” says Prei. She enjoys the freedom the venue brings, once a punk rock hotbed—with allowing her to use locally sourced ingredients and meet foodies. openers The Bellfuries and Pine TAKE OUR SURVEY AND WIN But if you’d rather leave it entirely in the hands of the experts, Hill Haints. n Starlite Room, 10030 The Yards wants to connect you’re in luck. Saturdays’ pop-up brunches are served “family- 102 St., starliteroom.ca with you to find out how we style” with a focus on central Alberta ingredients like Jerusalem can serve the community artichokes and free-range chicken. and readers better. Meanwhile, Food Fight YEG events put on a reality TV-style FOR SENIORS Answer the five-minute cooking battle between Edmonton’s celebrity chefs, like JUN. 16, 23, 30, JUL. 7 & 14 survey for a chance to win Chopped competitor Shane Chartrand. Then there are the GeriActors Summer School a $50 gift card to Rosti- Kitchen Parties—culinary theme nights like “Gin, Pimms and The seniors’ theatre group’s zado. Go to tinyurl.com/ Gastropub,” a modern take on English pub favourites, and first-ever summer session offers YardsSurvey. “Greek Getaway,” featuring grilled octopus and cocktails. an introduction to storytelling, Tickets to these events often sell out in mere hours. Book acting and improvisation. Don’t yourself for a cooking class, Food Fight or Saturday brunch at getcookingedmonton.com. —Roberta Laurie 10 THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 Mortage Solutions that work for you.

Financing life can be filled with big decisions. At ATB we’ll work together to sort out the details and get you into the home of your dreams. Call today to find out the right mortgage option for you.

Tommy Kalita Mortgage Specialist 780-490-9570 [email protected]

EDMONTON’S CENTRAL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2016 11 THE LIST BY BRITTANY NUGENT Puppy Central @MDRNGIRL Six reasons your dog loves the core Get the Goods Looking to stock up on the good stuff? The (Un)Official Made with Love [4] The helpful staff atGlobal Pet Foods, Off-Leash Park On your next stroll down 124 St., a Canadian-owned chain, will guide you through [1]The core doesn’t have an [2] scoot into Food Dish Wishes their dizzying selection of dog foods—from off-leash park (yet), but the historical to treat your furry friend with homemade locally sourced to brand name and organic—and McKay schoolyard is the next best gourmet biscuits. Owners/sisters Tessa not to mention troves of toys. So if that old stuffed thing. It’s a quiet, hidden patch of and Ashley Lee not only serve up decadent animal is hanging onto its last leg, let your pooch greenery amongst the vast concrete, delights for dogs, but loving homes for cats; pick out something new to destroy. 10103 117 St.; and best of all it’s fenced in. Bring a ball the shop supports an animal adoption globalpetfoods.com and let them run free. 10425 99 Ave. service right inside this little gem. Here’s hoping they all get along. 10724 124 St NW; Fur on Fleek facebook.com/fooddishwishes Your paws are in good hands [5] with the Edmonton Journal Stress-free Socializing Readers’ Choice-approved groomers at The famed and trusted daycare the Pampered Puppy. All staff have [3] Divine K9 & Feline is tucked completed full certification in pet first-aid just behind Oliver Square. Conveniently and grooming, so you can just drop them located for quick and easy pickup/drop- off and enjoy a few hours to yourself, off, you can get on with your life while worry-free. On top of regular grooming your pooch socializes with others and services, you’ll also find supplies for gets some exercise with a “Pack Leader” those quick DIY touch ups. 10303 124 St.; staff who are trained themselves—in thepamperedpuppy.net animal behaviour, nutrition and health. 10552 114 St.; 780-421-7888; divinek9.ca Just the Two of Us Escape to Louise McKinney River- [6] front Park for a peaceful walk along the edge of Edmonton’s winding river valley. This stretch of greenery is perfect for an early morning walk or run with your furry friend—and thanks to a looping pathway, dogs can literally run laps. 9999 Grierson Hill Rd.

INNER BY DANIELLA SAN MARTIN-FEENEY VOICES Pawfect Strangers [email protected] Designated dog parks strengthen communities. dog-friendly spaces can strengthen community and quality of life. Public spaces have always served as a fulcrum for humans to meet, So why doesn’t the core have one? interact and strengthen their community experiences. People want hen my husband and I adopted a puppy early this year, I to form relationships organically, but they often hesitate, either in expected housetraining accidents, chewed shoes and accordance to some unwritten social rule or because they simply don’t W muddy paw prints. I was correct in all these predictions. know where to begin. A dog is a catalyst that makes conversations, But I wasn’t expecting Winston to change how I interacted with my and relationships, easier to start. downtown neighbours. Although the core has no shortage of dog-friendly sidewalks, it I had always considered my neighbours to be friendly, but we rarely is sadly lacking in designated dog parks. Downtown Edmonton and had reasons to talk. With a puppy by my side, I find myself striking up Oliver remain two of the only neighbourhoods in the city without conversations with many more passersby. “What’s his name?” is just off-leash parks—but not for long. When it’s completed next year, a starting point for conversations that often turn to discussions of local Alex Decoteau Park at 105 St. and 102 Ave. is sure to change the news or a new restaurant recommendation. experiences of dog-owners throughout the core. It will fill a void by Dogs get people talking. And research shows that when people talk, giving us a safe place to exercise our dogs—without a leash. But even briefly, it strengthens their interpersonal bond and plants the it will also become a gathering point for neighbourhood residents, seeds for a myriad of benefits. They feel safer and more connected dog-owners and non-dog-owners alike. to their community. They’re more likely to give time and energy to We might meet there because of our dogs, but we’ll keep going helping neighbours. In turn, this sense of connection benefits indi- back because of each other. • viduals, helping them deal with stress and anxiety, while encouraging their well-being by fostering a sense of belonging. In these ways, Naturalist Daniella San Martin-Feeney is a downtown dog-owner. She studied the benefits of urban parks for her Master of Science thesis. 12 THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 FRONTYARDS

THE MOVE

BY KALYNA HENNIG [email protected]

Murphy bed, custom sofa and Pop-down dining table ($250) cabinetry around murphy bed from Wallbeds Etc. ($7,000) from Wallbeds Etc. (wall beds-etc.com, 780.468-7088) Living room cabinetry ($2,000) from IKEA (Besta Shelving Flip-up desk ($250) from Units Djupviken) Wallbeds Etc. PHOTOS: TIM LUTIC

Living room chairs ($500/ea.) from Mobler Modern Furniture (13519 156 St., mobleredmonton.ca)

Small Miracles An Oliver engineer masterminds a micro-home

it your life into a space equivalent to the obvious economic aspects of living tiny,” are displaced when the bed is lowered from four parking stalls. It seems outra- says Creswell. Last September, after looking the wall. Her 12th-storey window seat creates Fgeous, but environmental engineer at over 40 tiny properties, she walked into a cozy spot to curl up with an unobstructed in-training Laura Creswell did just that. She’s an “empty shoebox” of a condo in Crestview view of the High Level Bridge. “I can make been living gracefully—and tastefully—in Tower in Oliver, and instantly felt at home. this [condo] a movie theatre for 10, a break- 335 square feet for almost a year. That was the easy part. Now everything fast bar with a view, a dining room for six When she set out to find “the tiniest place needed a place. Thanks to her careful or a full master bedroom,” says Creswell, a in the city,” her realtor (and her mother) engineer’s eye and modern style even her perennial host who loves the astonishment thought she was crazy. “I love the creativity 20 pairs of shoes fell perfectly into place in on guests’ faces when they enter. that a small space provides, not to mention the micro-condo. “A lot of people call me a Her biggest struggle with living tiny isn’t minimalist, which I am totally not,” says the space, but the perception of it. Creswell, pulling back a curtain to reveal a Friends often ask when she’s moving out, MEDIAN SELLING PRICE FEB 2016 – APR 2016 closet over-flowing with colour-coordinated as if her home were a short-term experiment. Oliver: $275,500 (+$24,833 from Nov ’15–Jan ’16) clothes. The apartment is immaculately But Creswell believes that this is the future of organized—even her stools have a wall housing. Smaller spaces, she says, encourage Difference from listing price: -$12,433 mount. tenants to explore the outside environment— Every inch of the $154,000 condo is to reside in their community as much as in Days on market: 38 (-22 from Nov ’15–Jan ’16) precious. The gap beneath her pantry is used their home. • Downtown: $340,037 (+$10,121 from Nov ’15–Jan ’16) for hidden “junk trays” that appear at the pull of a tab. A mystery door at the bottom of her Creswell consults on tiny living and design. Difference from listing price: -$7,496 murphy bed stores the couch cushions that Email [email protected].

Days on market: 35 (-34 from Nov ’15–Jan ’16) EDMONTON’S CENTRAL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2016 13 By CBW Caswell @CBWCaswell

FROM THE

14 THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 CORE After decades of struggle, a resurgence of central music venues signals the beginning of a new era. We take the pulse of the scene in a roundup of stories about local clubs’ past, present and future.

over the decades, and especially over the last couple governments—is strongly considering designating it years, Edmontonians have watched Downtown music the “Live Music District.” Might we be witnessing the venues fade, leading to something of a winter for the revival of something absent from this side of the river local scene. But now, in the spring of 2016, new life is for the last 50 years? sprouting from the core. In the past seven months, Back in the 1960s there were no fewer than 15 venues the Needle Vinyl Tavern, 9910 and the Chvrch of John on Jasper Ave. between 100th and 109th streets. They joined relative newcomers Bohemia, Rocky Mountain had names like the Old Bailey, the Shasta Upstairs, Icehouse and Stage 4 plus the mainstays like the the Midtowner, the Embers and Tita’s. Each hosted Starlite Room, Brixx and OTR. It looks like the start of musicians seven nights a week. They were so close to a live music renaissance, at least for the core. each other that bands could cross the street between In fact, the Edmonton Live Music Initiative—a new sets to watch another show. Musicians flocked to our program endorsed by the municipal and provincial city to earn a living doing what they loved—no side job

EDMONTON’S CENTRAL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2016 15 or supportive spouse required. And it happened practically over night. The Edmonton of the 1950s was a dry city Seven Days of Strumming where men and women were expected to socialize in separate nightclubs. s m t w th f s “No entertainment was offered or, for that NEEDLE VINYL TAVERN $ matter, necessary in these dismal establish- ments,” recalls Tommy Banks, who began MERCURY ROOM P his career in local clubs before becoming a DENIZEN HALL $ nationally recognized jazz pianist, talk-show host and senator. 9910 $ But to his and many other musicians’ CHVRCH OF JOHN $ fortune, Alberta broke away from prohibi- (on an event basis; check online) tion. “Edmonton’s nightlife scene changed ON THE ROCKS P $ suddenly and dramatically,” he explains. STAGE 104 The Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commis- (opening in June) sion’s antecedent was created to maintain a STARLITE ROOM/BRIXX P $ tight and orderly nightlife. Part of this control included prompt midnight shutdowns every BOHEMIA P $ night of the week. But the 1960s was a time when dancing was the social function, so the CASK AND BARREL liquor board said if a venue provided a band VIBE AT THE AGA $ of three members as entertainment, it would (once a month) allow drinking until 2:00 am. After some BRITTANY’S LOUNGE P $ quick calculations, venue owners grabbed P $ their telephones to hire as many bands a week Easy parking Food Open late Usually a cover charge as their rooms could hold. But, as is apparent today, the gig didn’t last. Cliff Minchau, a bassist who has been gigging in Edmonton for nearly 50 years, says venues by 2015. Austin, Texas—which often earns Bylaws, such as minimum parking and began replacing musicians with strippers and an Edmonton comparison as a similarly closing times, are currently being chal- installing VLTs. He says it brought a seedy sized, liberal bastion in conservative, lenged by passionate citizens. But the latter? tone that turned audiences off clubs, and the oil-soaked America—officially reported Local musicians have the talent, venue- payout from venue owners kept shrinking. last year that the once-heralded “live owners have the drive and our reinvigorated “Bookers wanted two guys who sounded music capital” was full of musicians living core is regaining its former glory. like five guys that they could pay like one below the poverty line. Closer to home, the Now all the music scene needs is an guy,” Minchau says. And with the advent of core’s Four Rooms, Sidetrack Cafe, New excited audience showing its support. This turntables, the DJ and disco movements City Suburbs and the Artery (recently means going to see bands you haven’t seen overtook live music as abruptly as a record revived in McCauley as the Aviary) before or buying an extra beer or meal to scratch. remind us that closing venues in this city is offset the venues’ costs and help increase No downtown venues founded before the nothing new. musician fees. It means taking a photo turn of the century remain. Modern main- “From our conversations with a number of the band and posting it to your social stays, such as the Starlite Room (established of venues, promoters and musicians,” media with a link to the band’s music and in 2004), have continued to host perform- says Jenna Turner, communications a shout-out to the club. It’s dancing with ances every other day, but these hangers-on director of the Edmonton Arts Council, abandon when the moment hits. (It’s defin- are the exception—the live industry decline “two [hindrances] arose: the red tape as itely not talking during a song.) is practically rote at this point, not only in far as zoning and development, and the Really, it just comes down to truly Edmonton but also abroad. London, England, not-so-simple issue of building a value and enjoying music. And what could be easier went from 430 venues in 2007 down to 245 appreciation for live and local music.” than that?

The Needle Vinyl The Aviary Tavern The Artery took flight and NEW From the minds that former owner/operator Phil birthed the Haven Social Muz is set to recapture ON THE Club comes a 400-person the magic on 111 Ave., venue in the old CKUA where you can expect a SCENE building. It features return of alt-rock, folk and bands at every Happy all other genres. 9314 111 Hour. 10526 Jasper Ave., Ave., facebook.com/artery. theneedle.ca edmonton

16 THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 Nightlife on ELM Street

Edmonton’s groundbreaking The third part to ELM is launching a marketing campaign to promote local music. live music initiative at a glance “There is a huge talent pool in Edmonton and no audience engagement,” says Bennett. pearheaded by musician Thom “I’ve been doing this 20 years, and there Bennett and supported by the used to be a lot more.” Through these efforts, Live by Edmonton Arts Council, as well as ELM will build a web portal serving as a prime advisors like Tommy Banks, the Edmonton resource to bands, venue owners and other Design Live Music Initiative (ELM) is a three-pronged music professionals. approach to establish new venues, keep them The initiative is the first of its kind to get an urban planning spur live music open and help them thrive. endorsements from two levels of govern- venues? Several cities across The first point includes establishing one ment—municipal and provincial—and so the world offer examples of how or two “Live Music Districts,” and naturally, innovative that Bennett has been invited progressive policies can help musicians. committee members are strongly considering to speak about it in Toronto and Brighton, For instance, in Melbourne, Australia, a chunk of downtown for that designation. England. It’s inspired by some of the factors under the “agent of change” principle, The second part involves allowing music involved in creating Edmonton’s golden era new developments such as condos venues to stay open an extra hour, until of music. being built next to established music 3:00 a.m., to help venue owners earn more Although some industry people have been venues are now responsible for their and offset the cost of hiring a band. It’s critical of Edmonton Live Music Initiative’s own soundproofing, which keeps venues been proposed that alcohol tariffs would strategies—some believe money is better from having to close because of noise be lowered for venues that close before spent on subsidizing the venue’s rental fees, complaints. midnight, allowing venues to keep more of the equipment costs and renovations—it’s going Seattle musicians have priority loading money that would normally go to government. ahead as planned. zones in front of venues, which makes it easy to unload those awkward 30 kg amps before and after gigs. It seems simple, but it means the world when you don’t have to make six trips in the snow for a drum kit parked five blocks away. And, of course, there’s the so-called live music capital, Austin, Tex. Earlier this year, it was proposed to the Austin city council that venues be given a two-year “entertainment” licence with a streamlining permit process. If it passes, the proposal will make it easier to understand whom in local govern- ment is responsible for enforcing venue regulations. Right here at home, some say it’s Edmonton’s parking regulations that have stalled venues from opening. The Aviary’s opening, for instance, was twice delayed last year after a long battle over parking ordinances. •

Stage 104 9910 The Chvrch of John Bohemia Formerly the Burg restau- If you enjoy the DJs at Denizen Hall introduced It’s not brand new, but rant, this upstart blends the Common, you’ll love its cover band shows to with Cara Carson over- craft cocktails, upscale what’s going on in their surprising success, so why taking management and casual fare by chef Mariano basement-turned-into- not repeat the live music Craig Martel of Wunderbar Rodriguez (formerly with music-venue for touring success downstairs?The on bookings, Bohemia has Niche) and live music every electronic, punk, rock and new venue hosts original been reborn. 10217 97 St., weekend. 10190 104 St., folks acts. 9910 109 St., local and touring acts. artmuzak.ca Twitter.com/stage104yeg 99ten.ca 10260 103 St., thechvrchof john.com

EDMONTON’S CENTRAL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2016 17 18 THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 IS THIS

THE NEXT ’ve lived in the el mirador apartments for 10 years. A whitewashed complex with Spanish flair in the heart of downtown—the buildings are impossible TO GO? ito miss. What most Edmontonians don’t see is the court- yard, a unique space where residents have created a sense The El Mirador apartments are of community that’s unusual for apartment dwellers. We Edmonton’s only known examples have communal barbecues and we relax together under of Spanish colonial architecture, the spruce tree on hot afternoons. Sometimes the court- yard draws strange visitors, but one neighbour with a but a plan is in the works to turn great vantage point acts as de facto building security. it into transformative towers However a sense of dread has always hung over us. How much longer can a modest three-storey building adding new retail and thousands hold its ground in a rapidly revitalizing neighbourhood? of residents. How do we weigh The answer came in late November when we learned that heritage against infill, density and the owner’s representatives had met with the Downtown Edmonton Community League to discuss future redevel- property rights? A resident of the opment. They’re currently in the pre-application stage historic apartments finds out. for rezoning several adjacent lots on 101 Ave. and 108 St., including the 75-year-old Rochester Apartments, a small brick building next door. If approved by city council, redevelopment will mean bulldozing our homes and replacing them with mixed-use retail and residential towers. The owner, developer and lawyer John Day, is celebrated for rehabbing and reinventing such heritage buildings as the and Kelly Ramsey. But there are no such plans for El Mirador, which sits on Capital Boulevard, the recently revamped street between the Alberta Legislature Building and MacEwan University. Property owners in the area are sitting on veritable gold mines, so it’s hard to blame anyone for wanting to redevelop, but tearing down El Mirador means yet another loss for the city’s architectural tapestry. Edmonton seems to have the same debate every year. A historical structure is threatened; there’s public outcry. Sometimes the building is saved, like the McDougall United Church in late 2015. Many times, it’s demolished, like the 117-year-old Etzio building on Whyte Ave., which earned a spot on the National Trust for Canada’s “worst losses” list last year. These historical buildings tell stories about the city and its communities. They are part of our shared memory, but they’re also owned by people with very real property rights. Their existence is precariously balanced between public and private interests. The question is: When does one outweigh the other?

el mirador has been part of the city’s landscape for 80 years. According to documents in the City of Edmonton archives, a building permit for R. H. Trouth was approved in July 1935, and he built the first 12 suites by the end of the year. Subsequent permits allowed Trouth to build more suites and the Patricia Annex, which was completed in 1954. The apartment complex is listed on the city’s Inventory of Historic Resources, a classification that offers little protection for the building; it’s simply an acknowledgement of the building’s historical significance. Owners of inventoried buildings can apply to have their properties added to Edmonton’s Register of Historic Resources and, if approved, the buildings are officially desig-

By Angela Johnston | Photos by Jeff Day

EDMONTON’S CENTRAL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2016 19 nated and owners agree to maintain them and least 50 years old and in their protect them from demolition. In exchange for original locations. Historical choosing to designate their buildings, owners significance can come from can receive financial incentives. This official the people or groups that designation was crucial to saving the Molson once occupied the building, Brewery and United McDougall Church. activities performed in it, Edmonton allocates $1.5 million per or its design. Above all, says year to its Heritage Reserve Fund, which is the City’s principal heritage primarily used for rehabbing buildings new planner David Johnston: to the registry. The department receives integrity is key. Do most of the about six applications for historical designa- original building materials tion per year, each one vying for a piece of this remain? Have significant very modest fund. changes been made to the Heritage guidelines vary across Canada, structure? Was the original but Alberta’s Municipal Heritage Partner- construction up to snuff? If the ship Program assesses properties by looking answers are no, it’s enough to at their eligibility, significance and integrity. sink a beautiful old building With rare exceptions, properties must be at with an important story. Even if buildings meet these requirements, many The Endangered List owners aren’t interested in designation, which becomes 1. The permanent on the property title and transfer- you can reap a reward, an immediate reward, 12845 102 Ave. able to every owner thereafter. Some owners perhaps at the expense of the community.” Nothing proves our disposable outlook on worry that such an inflexible property could The only thing that matters to most architecture more than the fact that mere be very hard to sell when the time comes. developers is a cost comparison of upgrading months after the museum moved out Beyond that, it has to be maintained to the a building versus tearing it down to build of its original home, a Provincial report City’s standards. anew. In strictly economic terms, the answer stating possible demolition emerged. The is rarely in favour of the former, so long as National Trust for Canada listed it as one two of my friends in El Mirador have a city council approves rezoning the site. Once of Canada’s top 10 endangered buildings shabby piece of plywood reinforcing their zoning changes, explains Johnston, property in May. bathroom ceiling, and they still experience owners have a “massive economic oppor- the occasional leak when their upstairs tunity sitting in their lap. … They can sell the 2. Paramount Theatre neighbor takes a bath. My windows don’t land with this additional opportunity now 10233 Jasper Ave. open all the way. Each winter, the heating enshrined.” The National Trust for Canada considers fails at least once or twice, and some apart- City council has to balance many inter- the dormant cinema, built in 1951, at ments are icy-cold until April. Each issue ests, and sometimes those priorities are in risk, and rumours about its doom have can be seen as yet another disincentive for conflict. Infill and density in the core are been swirling in the news for two years. designation. important goals, but they don’t necessarily With a lease sign up again, don’t expect Upgrading and maintenance are easier— align with historical preservation, as demon- ProCura’s plans for a glass residential and cheaper—said than done. However, strated by the fate of El Mirador. Upzoning— tower anytime soon. once an owner chooses to officially register changing the zoning to allow for larger a building, the City attempts to balance structures or retail space—is a significant 3. Immigration Hall the financial scales. Rehabilitation grants barrier to saving heritage buildings. “And 10534 100 St. for residential buildings cover up to half of every time we do that,” says Johnston, “it’s When newcomers arrived to the new approved costs to a limit of $75,000, and just another death blow to our ability to try to Alberta capital in the late 19th century, owners can apply for $10,000 for main- retain these historic buildings.” they often came here. Reconstructed in tenance every five years thereafter. There And while the costs of maintaining a 1930, the brick beauty behind the Ice are some things the grants won’t cover, historical building can be significant, there District is “limping to what could be a like heating or electrical upgrades. But can also be an economic benefit, says Dan sad conclusion of extinction,” according apartments like El Mirador are technically Rose of Heritage Forward and member of to the National Trust for Canada. commercial properties and, as such, they are the Edmonton Historical Board. Rose offers eligible for more generous grants. The City the example of 104 St., which was practically 4. The Graphic Arts Building contributed $225,000 to the Phillips Lofts derelict 15 years ago. “You can basically 9523 Jasper Ave. building, $260,000 to Westminster Apart- quantify the value of historic character based The quaint art-deco commercial building ments and $548,000 to the McLeod Building, on the foot traffic, the retail spending, the was hotly debated because the owner according to Johnston. economic activity of and 104 slated to demolish it was none other Former historian laureate Shirley Lowe St,” says Rose (who is also involved in the than the City of Edmonton itself. It’s now doesn’t express much sympathy for owners Yards and OCL). seeking a buyer or considering dismant- who argue that their buildings have fallen Despite its beautiful street renovations, ling and storing the building for future too far into disrepair to be salvaged. In some Capital Boulevard isn’t exactly Whyte Ave. or reconstruction. —Staff cases, lack of maintenance is intentional — 104 St., so what will happen to El Mirador? If “demolition by neglect,” she calls it. “Usually it’s demolished, the planned redevelopment 20 THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 the reason you want to demolish it is because will consist of two mixed-use high-rises on three-storey pedestals—similar to owner Young adults are promoting awareness John Day’s new Kelly Ramsey Tower—and about our heritage and Baby Boomers are 276 underground parking spaces. Day, like growing nostalgic. And that, he hopes, will many councillors and people living within be true of property owners too. “If the sole the core neighbourhoods, is a champion of motivation is to flip or to make money, then density. His two towers, alongside two more historic buildings are always going to lose,” proposed towers on the adjacent land owned he says. “But if owners have got a motivation by Maclab Enterprises, would each be up to preserve a landmark, to leave a legacy, to do to 90 metres and could ultimately add 800 right by the community, to make the tapestry units, perhaps doing for the street what the of the block stronger by doing their part [and] Icon Towers did for 104 St. taking care of their property, then there’s Historical buildings often lose out to more pride connected to that.” new developments; their chances are even Few apartment residents are as proud as El worse when the proposals tout principles Mirador’s, and our sense of community is by from Edmonton’s planning documents, like design. The courtyard is a central gathering increased downtown residents and street- place and our windows face our neigbours, level retail. Ultimately, when it comes to not a street or a parking lot. When I first heritage preservation, Lowe says we need to visited the building at 17 years old, I sat on the ask ourselves one question: “As a city, do we floor of my apartment, hoping desperately care?” that my rental application would be accepted. I still smile when I walk up to the building el mirador has been living on borrowed and someone excitedly asks if I live here. It’s time for decades. According to an Edmonton an irreplaceable feeling. • Journal article from August 1978, the landlord at the time told the paper, “I don’t Angela Johnston is a writer and journalist. She think El Mirador will be around in 10 years. is the former managing editor of MacEwan It may be even shorter.” The building’s University’s monthly magazine, The Griff. existence was precarious then for the same reason it is now: the land would be even more valuable with something bigger built on it. While bylaws and zoning influence the city’s development, market forces have shaped Due for a dental check-up? Edmonton’s urban fabric since its inception, and the oil industry’s peaks and valleys have been imprinted on our cityscape over the last half-century. “The booms have quite often Edmonton’s taken the buildings that were significant,” says Lawrence Herzog, who co-authored The heart of food, Life of a Neighbourhood: A History of Edmon- ton’s Oliver District with Shirley Lowe. Even Herzog seems surprised that fashion & art El Mirador has lasted. He attributes its Complete dental care services longevity to its place on the western edge Friendly staff of downtown, away from much of the past demolition in the city centre. In the last Call today decade, however, development has spread to schedule an appointment. outward from the downtown core, putting the building in the path of the wrecking ball. 780–423–1930 But demolitions also tend to be put on hold during busts, so El Mirador may be given a reprieve. “The economy has obviously slowed down, so I think it’s going to slow down a lot of projects,” says John Day. It could be four to General Dentists five years until redevelopment is underway— Dr. Joseph R. Lizotte, Dr. Hai Nguyen and if ever. But that doesn’t change his mind on Dr. Wesley R. Carlson salvaging the building; he insists some sort of 201, 10503 Jasper Ave, Edmonton [email protected] • www.2th.com redevelopment is inevitable. • Parking Fees reimbursed. It’s unsurprising, but saddening for me to hear this confirmation. El Mirador is Edmon- Bring this advertisement with you and www.124street.ca ton’s only example of this architectural style. we will enter your name in a draw for a Phillips Sonicare Toothbrush. Our city hasn’t always done a good job of (Retail Value $150.00) preserving its heritage buildings, but there’s a change in the atmosphere, says Herzog. INFOMAGIC

BY NIKKI WIART More Than Shade @NIKKIWIART Quantifying the wealth of trees in our core neighbourhoods Fraxinus pennsylvanica. Prunus virginiana. Ulmus americana. You probably don’t know these plants by their cryptic scientific names, but you’ve definitely seen them. According to the City of Edmonton’s open data portal, there are over 15,000 trees rooted on public property in the down- town area, including over 500 fruit trees. They contribute to flood mitigation, air pollution control, beautification and food security. They all require different maintenance, so leave the pruning, trimming and removal to City staff. But there’s one easy way residents and business owners can be better urban stewards: Point your hoses and sprinklers at nearby trees during drier seasons— especially after such a mild winter. Not everything has to be so complicated.

“If you know where they are, and you Most Populous Trees #1 Green Ash (5,411) notice the fruit is Scientific name: Fraxinus pennsylvanica up and ready to go, Different species This hardy tree makes up 39% of inner-city trees. It grows in the core 15–18 metres tall, with a canopy around 14–15 metres. The please help yourself.” 69 average lifespan is 120 years. —Catherine Falk, community greening coordinator, City of #2 American Elm (4,107) Edmonton Where Are They? Scientific name: Ulmus americana 67% Boulevards Elms can live up to 300 years, but Dutch elm disease has 29% Parks destroyed millions of these trees in other parts of North 4% Other America. Edmonton has one of the largest concentrations of uninfected American elms in the world.

Apple Pies The amount of desserts Queen Mary Central McCauley 70 Westmount Park McDougall you can bake with one year’s supply—90 kg—from an apple tree. For location 15,227 trees in these of all free-to-pick fruit six core neighbourhoods trees, including pears and plums, visit tinyurl.com/ Oliver Downtown FreeFruitDowntown

Cost of a City-owned Tree? $10.83 per sq. cm of trunk. That’s the basic unit value of shade and ornamental trees and anyone Four Ways to Help the Trees who damages or removes City- • Volunteer with the tree-planting initiative owned trees must foot the bill. The Root for Trees (tinyurl.com/RootsForTrees) City calculates the cost of damage • Water nearby trees during dry seasons based on the species, size and • Pick and enjoy fruit from trees on public condition of the tree. Some elms are property (and save tax dollars from City worth more than $45,000. cleanup) • If a public tree is damaged, needs pruning or is obstructing a construction site, call the city at 311 or email [email protected].

22 THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 STREET SMARTS BACK YARDS The Kindness of Strangers We asked our neighbours: Have you ever committed or witnessed a random act of AS TOLD TO JESSICA BARRATT kindness in the core? @JESSICABARRATT Sunday 8 | 9.15 | 11 Nadine Riopel Author of The Savvy Do Gooder: Giving That Monday to Friday Makes a Difference 8.30 “When CityTV was still downtown, I was on my way in Wednesday Eucharist to do a TV segment one early morning and had a ton of stuff and a baby in tow, struggling along from the nearest 5.30 parking spot a block away. A very kind passerby intercepted Thursday me and took my box of stuff, accompanying me all the way 12.10 to the door of the studio even though it was in the opposite direction from where he was headed.”

Olivia Hughes Arts student at MacEwan University “Working as a Team Director for Homeless Connect, I see homeless people standing off and alone, ignored by others who Come & See are maybe too afraid to reach out and help, or who don’t know how. That’s why I tell everyone to carry granola bars in their In addition to our regular bags. It’s a way to give, and a way to open yourself up to sharing respect with an equal. All because of a granola bar!” worship times, All Saints’ is now open during Ricardo Brito the week for prayer & Realtor with Royal LePage quiet reflection. “My girlfriend Natasha continues to amaze me. Whether it is a homeless person or an elderly person, she always tries to help them. She truly believes it’s her job to spread love, kindness, and hope. This year, around Christmas, she took $500 from the bank, all in twenties, and randomly gave it out to anyone she felt was in need.” 10035 103 Street NW

Michelle Mark Across from Laboratory Coordinator at the Royal Alberta Museum Downtown Community League “My friend has a teenage son who recently ‘adopted’ an old man he met on his daily bus ride to school. He learned that he had Near Bay/Enterprise Station almost no family in Edmonton. Since then, her son has had him over for a family dinner, and even took him out to a movie. It was refreshing for me to hear about a young person who cares, and who is brave enough to reach out to a total stranger.”

Neeraj Prakash English professor at MacEwan University “I was pumping gas at a station near MacEwan, when I saw a young, well-dressed man step outside with a plastic bag and a tray of four coffees billowing steam in the cold air. Without so much as a pause, he walked over to three men—possibly homeless—sitting on the curb and said, ‘I just got off a hard day of work, I have no plans and no one to go home to, and could use some company.’ For me, it wasn’t the shared coffee or fried chicken, but the talking and laughter that ensued afterward that brought warmth to my heart.” • NEW URBANISM BACK BY SAMANTHA POWER YARDS Return of the Dead Zone @SAMANTHA_POWER New surface parking lots threaten urban progress

f you spend a lot of time walking around The current property tax structure, working to change the environment of the the core, you’ve probably come to loathe mandated by the Alberta Government, core with the 2010 Capital City Downtown Isurface parking lots. They disconnect the is based on a property’s market value. If a Plan. In part the plan considers how to reduce urban landscape, create grey dead zones and developer has been granted a permit for surface lots by 20 per cent through the only are a dirt storm’s best friend. But there’s a future development, or holds land with tool at the city’s disposal: zoning. There has reason landowners love them: it’s cheaper to an older building or warehouse, it can, to been progress on 104 St., especially with leave them as they are than to create livable paraphrase Joni Mitchell, become more the development of the Fox Towers and the spaces. Despite Downtown and Oliver’s rewarding to pave over paradise and put up a . The current economic climate progress to build on and up, the economic parking lot than to a pay tax on the pink hotel. threatens to undo that progress. downturn may encourage landowners to It’s what happened in the ’70s and ’80s and The City would like stronger tools to leave parking lots fallow. the reason downtown is still riddled with combat the resurgence of surface lots and It’s happened before and it’s beginning to surface parking lots. to encourage development. This can only happen again. A parking lot at 99 Ave. and 104 During the first oil boom in the 1970s, happen if changes are made to the Municipal St. was recently approved through an appeal developers purchased low-rise buildings Governance Act, which is currently up for process, adding 15 parking stalls where there and obtained permits for high-rises as they review. The City has made suggestions for once were residents. As well, owners of the attempted to create a more cosmopolitan revising the property tax structure so that it International Beauty Salon building on 105 city. But not all of those permits were used: is not based on market value. If the City could St. and 103 Ave. have applied for a demolition “When everything crashed in the early ’80s adjust tax rates for underutilized properties, permit with no foreseeable plan to rebuild. it was expensive to maintain the buildings says Mayor Iveson, then property owners “The challenge,” explains Mayor Don that hadn’t been taken down for high-rises,” may have more incentive to build. Iveson, “is that our tax system incites people says historian Shirley Lowe. It made financial “That way there’s no tax upside for to demolish properties that might have some sense for landowners to tear down useful demolishing a good building,” he explains. economic life to them. That’s not useful to the buildings and create cheap parking lots. If an empty property continues to be used as neighbourhood in terms of streetscape, eyes “Instead of a warehouse district you a lot, a higher tax rate would go into funding on the street or even temporary arts [and] have created a parking lot district,” says alternative transit options. It would provide a pop-up business space.” Lowe. “We did that to ourselves.” The city is new tool to put an end to these eyesores. •

YOU ARE HERE

Journalists Andrea Ross and Otiena Ellwand at The Yards Spring Salon (March 10/16) City of Edmonton’s chief planner Peter Ohm and planning director Kalen Anderson at The Yards Spring Salon (March 10/16)

Architect Vedran Skopac and environmental planner Robyn Webb tend to urban beehives atop Manasc Isaac’s offices (May 11/16)

Special thanks to all the OCL members and friends who came out for the Spring Clean Up of Oliver Park DECL parks coordinator Christie Lutsiak at (April 23/16) the City Market Downtown (April 30/16)

Thousands came out to a DECL-sponsored Pancake Breakfast fundraiser in Churchill Sq. in support of Event Fort McMurray evacuees planner Caitlin (May 6/16) McElhone, City Hall School teacher Linda Hut and blogger Mack Male at The Yards Spring Salon (March 10/16)

A final send-off to longtime OCL board members James Eastham, Leah Hilsenteger, Danny Hoyt, Jarrett Campbell. THE YARDS SUMMER 2016 26 (April 20/16)

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