River Valley News - Jan 16/25

Hotel Selkirk, past employer of the toughest bartenders and bouncers

C.W. Mathers photo

When the Hotel Selkirk first opened as the Windsor Hotel in 1903, most thought it was doomed. The 40 room hotel was built on Jasper Avenue and 100 Street, which is now the centre of the city. But back in 1903, this was considered the edge of town, as it was several blocks west of what was then Edmonton’s core. However, as time went on Edmonton grew explosively, and it wasn’t long before the intersection where the Selkirk was located became the city’s busiest.

In 1911, Robert MacDonald purchased the Windsor Hotel and immediately started extensive renovations. When it reopened in 1913, MacDonald had expanded it to 100 rooms and changed its name to the Hotel Selkirk. It contained a massive dining room that, according to MacDonald, served up to 600 patrons each day. Johnson’s Café opened in the hotel in 1920 and quickly became a regular haunt for many Edmontonians.

The Mahogany Bar was also a big part of the hotel’s draw. The pub got its name from the mahogany wood used to craft a bar that was claimed to be the longest in the country. The pub also boasted likely the toughest bartenders and bouncers in the city. MacDonald had a side gig as a boxing promoter and often employed his fighters at the bar between fights or after retirement.

For half a century, the Selkirk continued to be one of Edmonton’s favourite spots. But in 1962, a fire tore through the building. Hundreds of people came out to watch the prestigious hotel burn. Despite the efforts of a reported 450 firefighters, the hotel was heavily damaged. It was torn down several months later. The Royal Bank Building now occupies the former site where the Selkirk once stood. Today, Hotel Selkirk lives on through a re-creation that stands in Fort Edmonton Park, which gives people a chance to see the hotel that helped shape Jasper Avenue. https://edmonton.taproot.news/briefs/2025/01/10/a-moment-in-history-jan-10-1916 

Contractor hired by the city responsible for killing 25 coyotes in 2024

Larry Wong photo

Edmonton Journal recently shared that in 2024, 25 coyotes were killed by an independent contractor hired through the city. The article also showcases that 100 more coyote sightings were reported by the public last year than in 2023, but the vast majority of encounters were not aggressive.

The city tries to avoid killing wildlife by adopting a few strategies. This includes helping coyotes learn to stay away from people by “hazing” or scaring them off by yelling or clapping. It also means teaching people to remove any food sources and fill holes that could be used for dens on their properties and keeping dogs on leash. Launching plastic bullets, specifically inert pepper balls without the active itching ingredients, is the latest method available for Edmonton park rangers.

The Edmonton River Valley Conservation Coalition (ERVCC) had a few thoughts about the city hiring a contractor to kill coyotes. They share that coyotes belong on this land, especially in the river valley and its surrounding parks and neighbourhoods. They have an intrinsic right to be here, and they furthermore perform all kinds of important “ecosystem services” that we benefit from, including helping to control mouse populations. 

ERVCC believes that instead of hiring someone to kill coyotes, the city should be taking a lead in education and enforcement to manage ourselves better. The organization has long advocated for national parks-style garbage cans in the river valley, for a trap-neuter-release program to humanely bring down the out-of-control feral cat population (estimated at over 60,000), and for a review of the wildlife impacts of unenclosed off-leash dog parks in the river valley. https://mailchi.mp/1c7a2c4cbeff/what-you-need-to-know-for-february-16573726?e=efc4639c49

Chickadee, magpie and blue jay make top three finalists for Edmonton’s city bird

Gerald Romanchuk, Ethan Denton, Chris Rees photo

More than 300 bird species have been recorded in Edmonton. Some live here year-round, while others just visit when migrating to and from their breeding territory. Last year, the Edmonton Nature Club consulted hundreds of local naturalists and members of the public to see which of these birds should represent our city. 

Thousands of votes were cast in this first round, and the list has now been narrowed down to Edmonton’s top 3 choices. In no particular order, the three candidates are the Boreal Chickadee, the Black-billed Magpie, and the Blue Jay. These three birds are all found in many Edmonton neighbourhoods and natural areas throughout the year. 

Everyone in the Edmonton area, of any age, is invited to cast one vote for their favourite candidate. By taking part in choosing a bird to represent our city, you will be raising awareness about how important urban wildlife and biodiversity is and celebrating Edmonton's birds. The final round of voting will be open until March 31, 2025. To learn more about these three candidates and vote for your favorite, visit this link: https://www.birdfriendlyedmonton.org/city-bird-vote-final-round.html 

January 9 Issue

Makere wrote “Loving this edition so much! Thank you!”

Kennedale Eco Creatures by Brandon Blommaert, Kennedale Eco Station https://www.edmontonarts.ca/public-art/kennedale-eco-creatures

Comment or Contributions

Please note articles may not reflect the position of NSRVCS. River Valley News is meant to be a clearinghouse for the variety of opinions and ideas about Edmonton’s River Valley.

Email river valley photos, event information, comments, or questions to nsrivervalley@gmail.com

Forward this link to anyone you think may want to sign up for this newsletter https://www.edmontonrivervalley.org/newsletter-signup

River Valley News - Jan 9/25

Foote Residence valued for its four-square style and past tenants

The Foote Residence is a historical structure in Edmonton that was built in 1907. The two and one-half storey home is located on the north side of 97th Avenue on 106th Street, and is well known for its four-square style. This style uses symmetry and classical detailing, and it derives from American colonial and classical revival architecture. The four-square style became popular during the Edwardian-era. 

The Foote Residence is valued for its association with an early Edmonton builder and architect, Richard E. Foote. Foote was an important figure in the early era of the construction industry. With Nathaniel Purcell, he owned a substantial contracting business and eventually designed and built important structures such as Edmonton's first Civic Block. As well, he also served on city council and worked for the city architect's department later in his life. The house was his residence in 1907, and then from 1911 until 1916.

The Foote Residence also had other significant tenants. Those of which illustrate the range of middle class and professional individuals who shaped Edmonton in the years immediately after 1900. They included one of the earliest important scientists and civil servants in Alberta, Dr. Daniel G. Revell. The provincial bacteriologist resided here from 1908 to 1910 and was involved in teaching, research, criminal investigations and medical practice and study throughout his life. John McLaren, the business manager for the Edmonton Journal, also resided at the home in 1917. https://www.historicplaces.ca/en/rep-reg/place-lieu.aspx?id=3012

The Franklin’s ground squirrel and its musical whistles

Susan Elliott

Squirrels can be spotted almost anywhere in Edmonton. The Franklin’s ground squirrel is specifically found in semi-open shrublands and aspen forest. This is how it got the nickname “bush gopher.” Bush gophers are often seen along forested grassland edges and the tall grasses bordering croplands or marshlands. During harsh winters, they hibernate underground in extensive tunnel systems.

Living in small, loosely knit colonies, the Franklin’s ground squirrel is the least social of the ground squirrels. Their prairie cousins are more aggressive, but fighting does occur, especially during mating season. They are also known to be quite vocal. When interacting with other squirrels, they can growl or unleash what has been described as a “bubbly trill” or musical whistles.

In Alberta, the population status of the Franklin’s ground squirrel has still not been determined. The provincial government maintains that there is not enough information to say whether the population is stable or imperiled. When talking to experienced naturalists, though, you will hear stories of serious concern about the fate of this animal.  

In the spring of 2022, Nature Alberta initiated a citizen science project to help fill some of the data gaps with respect to Franklin’s ground squirrels in the province. Citizen science projects use volunteers to gather data on wildlife and ecological processes. To learn more about the Franklin’s ground squirrel and citizen science, visit this link:  https://naturealberta.ca/franklins-ground-squirrel/

Cycling in a winter wonderland

Every winter, thousands of Edmontonians use their bicycles to get to school or work, buy groceries, explore the river valley’s trails, and so much more. Many of these folks use ‘fat bikes’ when riding through the snow. This is because fat bikes have thicker and wider tires. Regular bikes can also be used in winter, but many local cyclists add studded tires to their cruisers or road bikes for better traction. 

The benefits of ‘cycling in a winter wonderland’ are shared by many here in the city. This is evidenced by David LeDressay, who takes his daughters to school using what he calls his “mini-van”. It’s a bicycle with a rear seat that fits two of his children—and a trailer for the third. LeDressay says his children like the bike commute as much as he does. “It’s a lot of fun,” he says. “They get to see a lot more, you move at a much more kid-friendly pace. We have opportunities to stop—they can get off and play much easier than if they were in a vehicle or even on public transportation.” 

On a similar note, Dr. Kate Storey uses her fat bike to get to and from work as an Associate Professor in the School of Public Health at the University of Alberta. She loves being active and enjoys being out in the fresh winter air. “It’s a good reset between home and work and work and home and just being outside and enjoying nature and the trails and everything that Edmonton has to offer,” says Storey.

For Gary Tait, the general manager of Mud Sweat and Gears, a bike shop in the west end, the best part about winter cycling in Edmonton is the community. “Every Saturday morning, I get to work and there’s a group of guys that are meeting here in our parking lot to go ride trails together. We see that a couple of times throughout the week.”  He ends off by sharing, “We’re so lucky to have our river valley, the trail system. I can’t think of too many other places I’d rather live than Edmonton to be able to ride single-track trails right outside our front doors, in winter or summer.” https://why.edmonton.ca/stories/cycling-in-a-winter-wonderland/

A poem by Patti Kim

Below is a poem about Edmonton and the river valley written by Patti Kim. It is featured on PoemCatcher: Visions in the web. This site was put together by Edmonton’s 4th Poet Laureate, Anna Marie Sewell, and is meant to celebrate the poetic voice of Edmonton.

When I think of Edmonton, I think of…

The River Valley, fresh air, green, nature

Whyte Ave, energising, pulsing with activity

a sense of community – familiar faces everywhere I go

U of A, nice grounds, proud to be an alumnus

bitter cold winters – can’t have Christmas without that bite and lots of snow

active, nature-loving Edmontonians

hockey, of course

I think of Edmonton as a very compact, energised, yet calm kind of city. I (heart) Edmonton, 

proud to be Albertan.  PEACE AND LOVE ALWAYS – Patti Kim

To enjoy more poems about Edmonton and the river valley, go to this website:

https://webofvisions.wordpress.com/miscellany/

Gigi by Louis Munan, Borden Park

Winifred emailed “I’m so happy to see where Gigi disappeared to! I was at her/his unveiling on Rice Howard way years ago. Thanks!”

January 2 Issue

Zanne wrote “This was a lovely edition of the newsletter. Just thought I'd say.”

Pancakes on the North Saskatchewan River

Susan emailed “Thank you for the excerpt on the impressive North Saskatchewan river phenomenon. Attached are photos I took from the Quesnel bridge; I imaged Swarovski crystal lily pads! I had never heard of pancake ice formations - brilliant. This site always gives me great insights into our extraordinary River valley ecosystem for this I am ever so grateful.”

2FOLD by Eduardo Aquino & Karen Shanski (spmb), Ellerslie Fire Station, 2943 Ellwood Drive SW https://www.edmontonarts.ca/public-art/2fold

Comment or Contributions

Please note articles may not reflect the position of NSRVCS. River Valley News is meant to be a clearinghouse for the variety of opinions and ideas about Edmonton’s River Valley.

Email river valley photos, event information, comments, or questions to nsrivervalley@gmail.com

Forward this link to anyone you think may want to sign up for this newsletter https://www.edmontonrivervalley.org/newsletter-signup

River Valley News - Jan 2/25

Laura Barakeris’ story of discovering snowboarding as an adult

The winter I turned 40, I learned how to snowboard. We had gotten our kids lessons at Snow Valley and in my search to find equipment for the boys, I found a ladies’ set of boots, board, bindings and helmet for $50, so I bought it. Everyone I told tried to talk me out of it. “You’ll hurt yourself, You’re crazy, Ninety per cent of people over 40 break their wrists snowboarding.”  No, you are not crazy. If you have a good instructor, you’ll do fine.

Snowboarding is fun, and despite the impression given watching 15-year-old boys zip straight down the hill, I find snowboarding slower than skiing. I can dip and weave, turning wide lazy loops all the way down. Initially the learning curve was sharper than the groove I dug into the hill as I slid down heel-side trying to stay upright. I landed on my butt a lot. My muscles ached from tensing up when I fell. But with practice and repetition of proper techniques, it got better.

One evening, I ended up being the only student showing up for the lesson. I joked to Kayla, my instructor, that it was our private lesson. It had snowed that day and was powder heaven. I couldn’t dream feeling better, I floated on air. My motions slowed, but exaggerated, my body felt looser, like moving through a marshmallow. Tornado swirls marked my descent. I felt like a kid again, back when summer holidays lasted forever and I didn’t worry about how I looked.

I sat at the top of the hill, strapped on my board and looked out towards the Whitemud. Commuters driving home, headlights shone through the falling snow. Sounds muffled. The air glowed and cloud filled the sky except for a wide low swath to the east. Flakes melted on my face, as I tilted my head back. “Ready to go again?” Kayla asked me. “Absolutely.”

Adult lessons and rentals are available at local ski hills in the river valley. These locations include Edmonton Ski Club, Rabbit Hill Snow Resort, Snow Valley Ski Club, and Sunridge Ski Area. https://www.wintercityedmonton.ca/snowboarding-over-40/

Call out the army, the blizzard of 1942

It’s November 15, 1942, and Edmonton is an integral link in the United States Army Air Corps northwest staging route stretching from here to Fairbanks. On land, the city is the staging point for the construction of the highway to Alaska. American service personnel are everywhere. They’ve built their own hospital and a club for off-duty soldiers. Every available vacant space is now part of their hive of activity.

Then, the unexpected happens. The heavy sky unleashes a snowfall the likes of which Edmonton hasn’t seen since the 1880s. We are not prepared. Nearly 20 inches, or 50cm, of snow comes down in some spots. The city is at a standstill. Edmonton Transit abandons its streetcars in drifts, some of which are up to 15 feet high! Edmonton has no snow removal equipment. But there is hope.

American Army Air Corps personnel and crews from the Alaska Highway construction receive a call. They quickly convert equipment to remove snow. In two days, our American guests clear the roads. The city moves once more.

City council and administration vowed to never be unprepared for such weather again, and to solve the winter snowfall road-clearing problem. https://www.edmontoncommonwealthwalkway.com/winter/it-s-snowing-call-out-the-army

Pancakes on the North Saskatchewan River

Have you ever looked at the surface of the North Saskatchewan River and noticed that it seems to bloom with frozen lily pads? This blossoming phenomenon is not unique to this river, but it’s certainly a captivating event. Every year, as the cold sweeps across the prairies, these discs appear and proliferate, covering our river with pancakes. The official name of this ice is pancake ice.

Pancake ice forms on waterbodies across the world including Scotland’s River Dee, Antarctica, and even the Great Lakes. These round plates are observed from 30cm-3m in diameter and can grow to be 10cm thick. They form on water that has some wave action and temperatures that are just below freezing.

The agitation of the river, paired with the slowly dropping temperatures create an ideal environment for grease ice, a very thin layer of ice, to form in somewhat circular discs with a raised edge. While watching these pancakes glide downstream, you could hear them bump into each other with an audible slosh.

Folks are always encountering new formations appearing on the surface of the North Saskatchewan River during the dynamic season of winter. For example, the river is known for gently freezing into soft ice crystals since the water is constantly moving and being stirred up. The name for this clumpy ice is frazil ice. https://www.swimdrinkfish.ca/north-saskatchewan-riverkeeper/blog/serving-up-pancakes-on-the-north-saskatchewan

Gigi by Louis Munan and members of the Alberta Sculptors’ Association, Borden Park, YEG

https://www.edmontonarts.ca/public-art/gigi

Comment or Contributions

Please note articles may not reflect the position of NSRVCS. River Valley News is meant to be a clearinghouse for the variety of opinions and ideas about Edmonton’s River Valley.

Email river valley photos, event information, comments, or questions to nsrivervalley@gmail.com

Forward this link to anyone you think may want to sign up for this newsletter https://www.edmontonrivervalley.org/newsletter-signup