Community members and enthusiastic volunteers gathered at McCauley Community Orchard on September 21st to plant 1000 perennials.

This large scale community planting project was supported by the contributions of Foresters (a Life Insurance Company that looks to give back to its community through projects like food forests) and 5th World (a company that designs and builds regenerative properties, from food forests to passive solar greenhouses).

The Orchard has been under the stewardship of Sustainable Food Edmonton for the last couple of years, building on the work of Operation Fruit Rescue and supporting neighbourhood volunteers and organisations in their participation. The purpose of building an understory of native plants is to create more habitat for pollinators and increase biodiversity.  My neighbour Reuben Quinn shared a Cree word: manicos (pronounced mah-nee-chos): “insects are little creators.“

People can support these little creators by planting species that give them homes and allow them to do their work.

The 5th World regenerative agriculture folks designed the understory with the manicos in mind. Each species of plant provides some food or shelter for the small creators.The variety of plants chosen will provide blooms from May through October, attracting a variety of pollinators and beneficial insects.  

As fall and winter arrive, the perennials will be dormant and revive again in the spring.   

Patty Milligan, the Agriculture Educator at the Edmonton Urban Farm, explains what these pollinators do. 

Insects, especially bees, love to visit the flowers of plants, usually to eat nectar. While they are sipping that sweet liquid, they will get pollen grains on their bodies that they then carry to another flower. Bees have special hairs and other structures on their bodies specifically for carrying the pollen. Bees pick up pollen on purpose because they need it to feed it to their larvae (babies).

The pollen grains they carry to another flower will fertilise that flower and enable seeds to develop. If it’s a fruit or a berry, a fleshy material will form around the seeds that humans can pick and then eat.

If it’s a vegetable, the seeds will form and they can be harvested by humans and used to plant and grow vegetables next year.

There is an intricate and valuable dance between bees, flowers, and humans which enables bees to feed themselves and their babies, flowers to reproduce and create seeds, and humans—and other creatures—to eat fruits and vegetables!

Gail recently moved back to McCauley after living in Delton.

Festa Italiana on August 18th brought an Italian car show, bouncy castle entertainment for all ages, food trucks, and more to Giovanni Caboto Park. The event was presented by Amici Italiani and sponsored by Viva Italia Edmonton, ATCO, RE/MAX, and the Italian Centre Shop.

Edmonton’s Chinatown Summer Festival on August 25th featured performances representing different cultures in the community. The free festival also had local vendors, food trucks, face painting, and more. Kat Luu, from the Chinatown BIA (Business Improvement Area), says the event is “all about creating beautiful memories and a great way to bring community together in the spirit of good relations.” The festival was presented by the Chinatown BIA with support from the City of Edmonton and the Chinatown Transformation Collaborative.

Intuitively I knew it, but I was still shocked. That was my reaction when I got an email from my neighbour John saying McCauley’s population decreased by over 1,000 residents between the 2016 and 2021 censuses. 

McCauley’s population decline isn’t new. According to Canada Census data, there were 6,955 residents in 1971. Fifty years later, in 2021, the population was 3,355. That’s a decline of over 50%. Over the past 10 years (2011-2021), our neighbourhood population has decreased by 33%. There is no evidence this decline won’t continue. 

The federal government releases a census report every five years, with the next report due in 2026. Collecting personal information from people for research purposes is never easy and the census process has flaws and misses people. This is particularly true in low-income neighbourhoods like McCauley.

But the census report provides the best and most comprehensive data we have. The key is to look at trends over time rather than at a particular finding in a specific year.  

For each census, the City of Edmonton provides a report on the results for each neighbourhood in Edmonton called Neighbourhood Profiles_Federal Census. The report for 2021 can be found at https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/city.of.edmonton/viz/NeighbourhoodProfiles_FederalCensus2021/PopulationbyAgeandGender

Not only are there fewer residents in McCauley, but we tend to be older. 

Compared to the entire city, McCauley has fewer children and youth, and more pre-retirement and people over 65. In 2021, there were 10% fewer children and youth in McCauley than in the city. But McCauley has significantly more older adults: 37.1% of residents are 55 years and older compared to 24.7% for Edmonton. The results in 2016 were 32.9% in McCauley and 23.8% in Edmonton. This aging trend is unlikely to be reversed anytime soon. 

Consistent with the aging trend, there are fewer families in McCauley. The number of families decreased by about 6% in 2021 compared with 2016.  In real terms, the number of families decreased from 710 to 665.

This decline in families may be linked to such factors as the closure of schools and parents' concerns about safety in the neighbourhood. What’s the long-term impact of this decline in families? If we can’t open new schools, how else might we attract families to McCauley? What’s the impact of these trends on local businesses?

We need to explore and better understand what’s behind these trends that are hurting our neighbourhood. Then we can come together to take action to address these negative trends and build the community we want.

Phil O’Hara is a long-time McCauley resident and was research and policy analysis coordinator with the Edmonton Social Planning Council.

Happy fall, everyone!

It seems like only yesterday we were celebrating Festa Italiana at Giovanni Caboto Park in the heat of summer! It was wonderful to see so many people coming together and connecting. I hope the return to school has been a good one, filled with excitement for new learning opportunities, reconnecting with friends, and settling into new routines.

As many of you may have been hearing, City Council is facing some tough budget discussions in the coming months. We are facing structural budget issues years in the making, high inflation costs, high growth pressures, and decreased Provincial support. I recognize that Edmontonians are stretched in what they can contribute to our community through property taxes. I’ll be looking to find ways to alleviate current pressures without shortchanging the services that best serve our city.

A good example of this happened recently at City Hall. Over the past year, we’ve seen tremendous growth in the demand for low income transit passes - surpassing 100,000 individual users. This rising need reflects the affordability pressures many Edmontonians continue to face, and it’s also one that’s creating a pressure in our City budget as our transit fare revenue hasn’t kept pace. City Council was presented with an option to increase low income fares, including doubling the cost of monthly seniors’ passes. I’m proud to have supported keeping rates as planned, with a modest $1-2 increase per month starting in January instead.

Choices like this ensure we’re not decreasing City budget pressures by transferring the burden onto Edmontonians in other ways. Keeping people on transit is also important for our city’s long-term viability. It helps individuals connect to jobs, supporting our local economy. It keeps more cars off the road, helping to decrease traffic congestion and our carbon emissions. And it helps ensure all Edmontonians can access the wealth of amenities and opportunities in our city. I believe we need to continue investing so that short-sighted decisions today don’t end up shortchanging our long-term prosperity.

I would welcome hearing from you about the upcoming budget or any other issues that are top of mind for you. Your input is invaluable in helping me understand the diverse needs of our community. Through ongoing dialogue and engagement, we can work together to create a better community for everyone. Please continue to reach out to my office anytime and, whether it’s by phone or online, 311 is also available to assist. 

Anne Stevenson, City Councillor for Ward O-day'min
Email: anne.stevenson@edmonton.ca
Phone: 780-496-8333

Secondhand Dreamcar has been taking Edmonton's music scene by storm. A supergroup featuring many of the city's finest and best-known players, the band has a McCauley connection through vocalist and keyboardist Dana Wylie. The band played an afternoon set on the final day of the Edmonton Blues Festival on August 18th. Here's a look.

Problem properties—whether occupied or vacant—pose serious challenges to the well-being of surrounding communities and the people living or working in them.

These properties have a history of repeated violations relating to development permits, safety codes, nuisance conditions, public health, fire risk, or other illegal activity and/or criminal offences. They create an extraordinary demand on services, and often require a coordinated response from multiple agencies.

Edmonton’s Problem Property Initiative (PPI) coordinates the efforts of several City departments, the Edmonton Police Service, Alberta Health Services, and the Government of Alberta to address the many issues related to problem properties. 

Since its launch in January 2023, the PPI has shared stories about Edmonton’s approach to problem properties, including securing vacant buildings at risk of fire, demolishing unsafe abandoned structures, providing support to tenants, and a tax subclass for derelict residential properties. There’s so much more to tell. So, for this edition of Boyle McCauley News, here are 15 fast facts about the Problem Property Initiative.

The Problem Propery Initiative:

• Is designed in collaboration with community members affected by problem properties;
• Addresses both residential and commercial properties;
• Is an inter-jurisdictional partnership involving ten different agencies;
• Promotes the City of Edmonton’s goal of creating safe and inclusive spaces;
• Has four specialty teams to address different issues at problem properties;
• Addresses properties city-wide, with a data-driven focus on the neighbourhoods most affected by problem properties;
• Removes hundreds of thousands of pounds of debris and hazardous materials annually from Edmonton neighbourhoods;
• Proactively monitors several hundred vacant properties for nuisance conditions and breaches;
• Significantly reduces the number of structural fires occurring in Edmonton neighbourhoods;
• Ensures problematic residential properties comply with minimum housing standards;
• Connects vulnerable tenants to resources and services, including rehousing from unlivable problem properties;
• Holds private property owners accountable for the costs related to cleanups, board ups, and demolitions at their properties;
• Promotes neighbourhood vibrancy by stimulating the redevelopment of derelict vacant properties;
• Has a confidential problem property reporting form at its web page; and
• Is influencing how other municipalities across Canada address problem properties.

To learn more about the Problem Property Initiative, to register for the PPI newsletter, or to report a problem property, visit edmonton.ca/ProblemProperties or call 311. To report an unsecured vacant property call 311 or email communitypropertysafetyteam@edmonton.ca. 

Information provided by the City of Edmonton.

Recurring havoc
the twice a year ritual
that haunts us today

A case study of
scientific management
with awful results

Ask parents of young
children, work week commuters,
sleep deprived students

If one hour bent
over the weekend creates
any benefits

The weeks that follow
split against circadian
rhythms, feel bungled

Plodding continues
out of sync and off balance
persistent fatigue

I freely admit
that next door, Saskatchewan
was right all along

Jon Lai (he/him) is an aspiring researcher and writer who lives on Treaty 6 territory in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. His previous poems have been published in Happiness Reflected: A Community Poetry Project Vol. 1, Boyle McCauley News, NorthWord Literary Magazine, and Capital City Press Anthology Vol. 4. Jon believes everyone has creative abilities.

Friends,

Happy fall! I’m a big fan of summer, and I’ve done my best to take advantage of the warm weather and the sunny days that we’ve had over the past few months. I was so happy to connect with many of you at community events this summer, including the McCauley Community League carnival, events with Boyle Street Community Services and Bissell Centre, the EDLC Labour Day BBQ, Mary Burlie Day, and so many Chinatown events: the Chinatown Summer and Mid-Autumn Festivals, Chinatown clean-ups, and the 102nd Avenue LRT Plaque unveiling - to name just a few!

Anytime I’m in our Boyle Street and McCauley neighbourhoods (which is a lot!), I’m proud to say that I’m most struck by the great work that I see you all doing together to take care of each other. While there was a lot to enjoy about this past summer, I know that it came with its challenges, too. July 2024 was the hottest July on record for Edmonton, and of course we contended with some very intense wildfire smoke as well. I know that this hit many of our community members, especially our unhoused neighbours, so hard. I appreciate the care and support shown by Boyle Street and McCauley residents. So many of you set beautiful examples of what it means to be in community together. 

And while I may be wearing a few more layers of flannel as we move into fall, you can still expect to see me out and about—and I’m looking forward to seeing you, too. I’m already excited about many upcoming community events, but I am always happy to hear about more, so please keep me updated about any that you have planned!

My colleagues and I are headed back to the Legislature at the end of October, and I’m ready to keep fighting for our communities throughout Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood. Please know that I’ve been listening to your concerns. You’re telling me that you want to see action on a number of issues: affordable housing, mental health, the drug poisoning crisis, health care chaos, education funding, and more. I couldn’t agree more. I’ll keep pushing for this action, and I’ll keep amplifying your voices at every opportunity. Please keep in touch to share your priorities and concerns so that I can keep doing my best to represent you, and all of us, in the Legislature.

In the meantime, I’m looking forward to continuing to connect with you, and to celebrating all the ways in which our community comes together. As always, I want to hear from you. Please reach out anytime.

Take good care of yourselves and each other.

Janis Irwin, MLA for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood
Email: Edmonton.HighlandsNorwood@assembly.ab.ca
Phone: 780-414-0682

Dear constituents,

It is my greatest honour of my life to serve the good people of Edmonton Griesbach and to bring your stories, dreams, and hopes to Ottawa. This summer, my team and I heard from you, whether that was at your doorstep, a community event, or one of our BBQs we hosted. I wanted you to know I hear you. I got into politics to help people; I deeply believe Parliament needs to work for everyday people. A good opposition not only opposes bad policies but proposes and creates good ones.

From dental care to anti-scab legislation, New Democrats have always put Canadians first, but we need more from our federal government.

That is why I wanted to update you on the Supply and Confidence Agreement the NDP signed with the Liberal government in 2022.

With the support of Canadians across the country, the NDP has delivered:

• Dental coverage for millions of people – the largest expansion of Canadian public health care in generations.
• Access for birth control and diabetes medication for all Canadians.
• Funding through the Early Learning and Child Care Act to lower the cost of child care for families.
• Anti-scab and sustainable jobs legislation to protect workers, and more.

All of these measures were opposed by status-quo successive Liberal and Conservative governments until the NDP used our power to force the Liberal government to enact them. We listened to Canadians and carried their priorities forward to Parliament, reaching this agreement with the government to demand better for our constituents.

But the truth is, people are losing hope. I’ve heard from so many people who work hard and look out for their neighbours but are falling further behind while CEOs and big corporations continue to make record profits. Our country is at a crossroads, and we need to choose what type of country we want to live in – one that values hard work and puts people first, or one that caves to the interests of rich CEOs.

That’s why New Democrats have decided to end the Supply and Confidence Agreement after two and a half years.

While we secured historic investments and programs for Canadians with this agreement, it is no longer in the best interest of the country to continue with it. Justin Trudeau has proven again and again that he will never stand up to the elites and will always cave to corporate greed. The Liberal government is too weak and too selfish to bring the change Canadians desperately need. The cost: we pay for their inaction with higher utility bills, higher grocery costs, and higher rent and mortgages as the richest in Canada get even richer.

Meanwhile, Conservative policies would leave Canadians in an even worse financial position. We know this because Danielle Smith and the UCP have shown the damages of cut-and-gut policies. Pierre Poilievre is more of the same. Cuts to health care, pensions, and other services people rely on will only put us further behind – all while he funnels those savings into massive handouts for already profitable corporations instead of returning them to taxpayers. That is not the Canada I know, where we help others in need and put the interests of everyday people ahead of CEOs and big corporations.

While Liberals and Conservatives team up to shut down grocery price caps and deny workers their Charter right to bargain for better wages and safer working conditions, the NDP is focused on policies that benefit Canadians. As Parliament resumes this fall, we will continue to put people first and fight for policies that get you and your family ahead: fixing health care, building affordable homes, and stopping price gouging. We will take it one vote at a time, keeping the best interest of Canadians at heart.

There is no room for big corporations in government – they’ve had their time; now it’s the people’s time for a government that works for them. Don’t let them tell you it can’t be done.

In solidarity,

Blake Desjarlais
Member of Parliament, 
Edmonton Griesbach

Phone: 780-495-3261 
Email: Blake.Desjarlais@parl.gc.ca

Within our community, numerous non-profit agencies quietly carry out vital work, often going unnoticed. This oversight is concerning given the significant impact these organizations have on various communities in Edmonton. To address this, Resource Connect was created under REACH Edmonton's YEG Reconnect Initiative.

Resource Connect is a biennial gathering that brings together non-profit community organizations and service providers from across Edmonton. The event serves as a platform for these groups to connect, share information, and learn from one another. The primary goal of Resource Connect is to act as a communication hub, facilitating connections and resource sharing among agencies that may otherwise lack the capacity to do so. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, Resource Connect empowers non-profits to enhance their services and broaden their reach within the community.

In 2022, Resource Connect was a remarkable success, bringing together over 91 agencies from various sectors, local politicians, volunteers, and 630 guests to create a vibrant networking environment. This unique event hosted non-profit organizations focusing on addiction, career development, LGBTQ2S+ issues, crime prevention, and more. Many organizations connected and left with valuable resources, eager to return for the next Resource Connect event.

Sarah Mosaico from Just Serve highlighted the importance of these connections: 

"I’ve come to truly value the power of networking. Through Resource Connect, we've been able to identify needs and match them with the right people. For example, when someone is looking for a specific resource, we can often connect them with someone we've met through the program."

Many attendees of Resource Connect 2022 emphasized the need for more in-person events like Resource Connect to facilitate learning and resource sharing among non-profit organizations in Edmonton. Seventy percent expressed a desire for more frequent networking events throughout the year, with 41% specifically hoping for events tailored to agencies to learn about each other, whether virtually or in person.

From our assessment of community needs, non-profit organizations, and partner agencies, we have identified ways to create more opportunities and increase engagement. Understanding why the current non-profit sector lacks connections and resource sharing is crucial. Our "What We Heard" report from Resource Connect 2022 highlighted common themes contributing to this issue, including the absence of a social media presence, insufficient funding, lack of partner relations, limited networking opportunities, and reduced capacity.

Resource Connect has established a foundation for non-profit organizations to connect, but our goal is to extend this communication further. Attendee surveys revealed a need for a centralized, interactive portal or platform to share information and stay updated on available resources in Edmonton. Currently, the YEG Reconnect Forum serves as a medium for non-profit organizations to connect, and an upcoming newsletter through REACH Edmonton, launching this fall, will further support this initiative.

Looking ahead to Resource Connect 2024, we have implemented four workshops to address the needs identified by attendees in 2022. This includes a four-part Grant Writing workshop to equip non-profit members with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful grant applications. Two workshops hosted by Wellness Works Canada will explore the art of practicing balance, managing different roles in the non-profit world, and building resilience in the workplace. 

Kelly Holland, Community Engagement Manager at REACH Edmonton, emphasizes the importance of this:

“There is a need for us non-profit leaders to prioritize our well-being and health. We wear so many different hats, and it can become difficult to juggle multiple roles and responsibilities simultaneously. This workshop will be a great asset for us leaders to reflect and learn strategies to navigate such stressors.”

Finally, with the growing need and desire for non-profit agencies to keep up with technological advances, we are hosting a workshop hosted by Emdash Agency focused on digital fundraising and digital spaces.

As we look forward to Resource Connect 2024, it's clear that the dedication and collaboration of Edmonton's non-profits will continue to shine. By fostering connections, sharing resources, and embracing innovation, these hidden heroes are poised to make an even greater impact on our community. Resource Connect continues to be a beacon for non-profit organizations in Edmonton, fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth within our community.

Resource Connect 2024 is happening on October 16th at the Commonwealth Rec Centre. For more information and to RSVP to attend, click here.

Information provided by REACH Edmonton.

Photography is not only part of what I do for a living, it is also one of my passions. I tell people that I have been holding a camera and taking pictures since before I could even read and write. My earliest memory of taking pictures is at around the age of five. 

I take pictures at a lot of events where other photographers are also present. Afterwards, I always enjoy seeing their photos. I find it fascinating how we could all be in the same place, and yet document  the event through the lenses of our cameras so differently. For example, I often take wide shots that show a full context of where I am standing. Others prefer tighter shots that highlight a particular person or detail. 

As a result, multiple photographers can present different perspectives on the same topic, much like writers often do. Even the same photographer can present different perspectives by experimenting with different composition techniques, or simply by experiencing a place or event at different times. 

I often photograph skylines and landscapes, but usually during the day. Recently, I had the opportunity to take some skyline shots of downtown during sunset and after dark. The images of bridges and buildings depicted in those photos look quite different than they do during daylight. There are reflections and lights and contrasts that don’t exist at other times. 

If you want to expand your horizons, examine the world around you from different perspectives. Sometimes there is wisdom and beauty to be found even in the darkness of the night.

Happy autumn! The October-November edition of Boyle McCauley News features news, views, and event coverage from the neighbourhoods of McCauley and Boyle Street. 

Much of the content of this newspaper is thanks to community members who volunteer their time and talents to contribute. If you are reading a physical copy of the paper that was delivered to your home, that is thanks to our volunteer Block Carriers. We are always looking for volunteer contributors and Block Carriers. Email me at editor@bmcnews.org to learn more about the kinds of content we welcome, as well as what routes we have available. 

Many of our readers enjoy the paper online at bmcnews.org. Bookmark that address - it is where you can subscribe to our free e-newsletter that highlights content from each new issue, as well as exclusive stories you can only find at our website. 

Our website also hosts the sign-up page to become a member of the non-profit society that oversees the operations of the paper. Do you love Boyle McCauley News and want to see it thrive? Membership is free  and you will occasionally receive notices and information. To learn more  about membership visit the sign-up page here: bmcnews.org/membership.

Enjoy the issue and see you next time.

In our community at 10465 97th Street stands a public park named after Mary Burlie.

Who was Mary Burlie? She was born on February 15th, 1935, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, and moved with her family to Canada from Sacramento, California, in 1969. The family lived in the Boyle Street/McCauley community from 1971 through 1975. 

Mary Burlie began her career at Boyle Street Co-Op in 1971 as a volunteer. She was hired as an adult outreach worker a short time later and would serve the community until her death in July of 1996. 

Known by the endearing title of the “Black Angel of Boyle Street," Mary Burlie’s tireless dedication and service to the community was well recognized for its positive impact. An article published in 1997 by Boyle McCauley News (“Mary Burlie Bursary helps future social workers”) notes that “many inner city residents affectionately referred to Mary as ‘Mom,’ in recognition of her warmth, compassion and non-judgemental attitude.” As a result, she is also known as the “Mother of Boyle Street.”

As an advocate for the disability community, I [Ian] know that it helps when you have support from someone who understands, listens, and contributes to your quality of life. The people who dedicate time to improve, understand, and respect the diversity of our community - people like Mary Burlie - make this a wonderful place.

Mary Burlie’s memory and contributions were honoured with a park named after her, which was established in 1999. However, over the years the park has fallen victim to vandalism and garbage, has not been well maintained, has been a site of crime, and is often considered an eyesore.

But here is some great news: the City is going to renew Mary Burlie Park! According to the City of Edmonton’s website, existing infrastructure will be repaired or replaced, and efforts will be taken to improve the safety and accessibility of the park, which will hopefully increase its use. Construction is expected to start in 2025 and is scheduled for completion in 2026.

“The initiative to improve Mary Burlie Park was initiated more than eighteen years ago, in 2006, when community members began approaching me to express their concerns,” says Stephanie Burlie, one of Mary Burlie’s six children, in an emailed statement to Boyle McCauley News.

“The park had attracted negative attention due to issues such as crime, drug use, and violence, exacerbated by a lack of maintenance. Consequently, public perception deemed Mary Burlie Park unwelcoming, unsafe, unclean, and a place of violence, sparking discussions regarding its potential dismantlement. Those public perceptions went against everything my mother worked for and stood for.”

The Burlie-Sanders family began advocating for improvement to the park through the Friends of Mary Burlie Park volunteer group, founded in 2011. The goal was “for Mary Burlie Park to receive the same respect and honour as other parks with community leaders’ namesakes, urging the City of Edmonton to take action,” Burlie explains.

An online survey at the City’s website in July of this year allowed people to review concept design options and offer feedback. People also had the opportunity to meet the project team at the park in person on Mary Burlie Day, which was July 13th. The event featured music, balloon twisting, a petting zoo, and the opportunity to meet some of Mary Burlie’s family and friends. An annual event, it was organized by The Mary Burlie “Black Angel” Society, a non-profit organization created by the Burlie-Sanders family that supports community projects such as housing programs for youth aging out of Children’s Services. For more information, visit: www.tmbbas.com

“I am so pleased to see the City investing in this important park,” says Anne Stevenson, City Councillor for Ward O-day’min. “The new designs are exciting - the potential for basketball courts, new pathways, and seating areas are a great way to encourage active use of this park, and it’s a fitting legacy for its namesake who did so much to support and unite the community.”

Janis Irwin, MLA for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood, is optimistic about what the future holds for Mary Burlie Park. “Mary Burlie exemplified what it truly means to be in community with our neighbours, and her family has built on this legacy in a beautiful way. I’m so grateful that they are continuing their work through revitalizing the park that honours her memory. Together, in the spirit of Mary, we’ll keep creating a community of care that leaves no one behind,” she says.

Stephanie Burlie emphasizes how excited the Burlie-Sanders family is about the future of Mary Burlie Park. “Mary Burlie Park holds great significance for Edmonton’s Foundational Black American community as a space that honours the contributions of our community leaders. It serves as a monument celebrating the memory and work of these leaders and introduces newcomers to the legacy of past community leaders, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity,” she says.

“We want that space filled with joy, family, and community in a safe and healthy environment where everyone is welcome, as Mary Burlie would wish.”

Paula E. Kirman is the Editor of Boyle McCauley News. Ian Young is a columnist and Block Carrier with the paper. He lives in the area.

The Edmonton Intercultural Centre (EIC) is a community full of love, caring, and support. In this and future articles, we will inform readers of the non-profit organizations operating in the EIC facility in order to bring light to their many good deeds.

The Edmonton Intercultural Centre proudly hosts the Intercultural Child and Family Centre (ICFC). ICFC is dedicated to providing high-quality, culturally responsive early learning and care. With a mission to support families and foster community, ICFC integrates the Alberta FLIGHT Framework to create engaging, play-based learning environments. Emphasizing respect, innovation, and collaboration, ICFC builds on diverse perspectives and current research to nurture children’s growth and support educators. ICFC's commitment to quality and continuous improvement ensures a vibrant, inclusive space where children and families thrive together.

We are thrilled to spotlight the Intercultural Child and Family Centre (ICFC) and its exciting new Preschool Program. This new initiative perfectly aligns with ICFC’s mission to enrich young minds and support families, promising a vibrant learning experience for our community’s youngest learners.

The Intercultural Child and Family Centre (ICFC) opened its new Preschool Program for children aged 3 to 5 years old in September 2024. This innovative program, designed to foster a love of learning through a holistic, play-based approach, runs from 8:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., with options to attend two, three, or four days a week. ICFC’s curriculum is built around holistic play-based goals, integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and the 3Rs (Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic). The program emphasizes emotional well-being, creativity, and communication, alongside a strong focus on inclusiveness and social responsibility. Through play and exploration, children engage in imaginative activities that promote critical thinking and problem-solving.

ICFC’s STEAM curriculum guides children through inquiry and dialogue, fostering curiosity in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. The 3Rs focus on foundational skills: reading for comprehension, writing for expression, and arithmetic for mathematical understanding. Intended to be affordable and accessible, the program fees are as low as $100 per month per child. Please note that the ICFC is closed on professional development days and holidays.

For more details about the curriculum or to enrol your child, please contact Ellen at 780-298-1443 or via email at egenchez@icfc.ca. Visit us at 9538 107th Avenue. For a comprehensive overview of the curriculum, click here.

Welcome to all who join ICFC, where learning is an adventure and every child’s potential is nurtured.

Information provided by the Edmonton Intercultural Centre, which is located at 9538 107th Avenue.

Some McCauley residents may remember the old Xing Wang Bakery in Chinatown. But did you know that they have a sparkling new location on 98th Street and 108th Avenue, just west of the St. Josaphat Ukrainian Cathedral?

I’d been watching the very modern building going up for months and was excited to see it finally open. The space is bright and clean, with huge windows, and everything inside brand new. With plenty of round tables, there’s room for groups, and I saw that the take-out counter at the back was very popular. Large TV screens show a huge variety of dim sum items and bakery treats, and there are large printed six-page menus for the tables.

Since we were with another couple, we decided the simple way would be to order the “Dinner for Four,” which offered tea, spring rolls, wonton soup, and chicken fried rice, as well as our choice of four main menu items. We selected lemon chicken, stir-fried mixed vegetables, curry beef, and mixed fried noodles.

The tea arrived instantly in tall glasses, quickly followed by the wonton soup. The soup’s tasty light broth was filled with the freshest wontons ever - you can tell they make all sorts of dim sum items right on site. The golden spring rolls were evenly browned and not at all greasy, arriving alongside a heaping platter of chicken fried rice that could be a meal in itself.

The mountain of rice was an omen of good things to come. Next up was the lemon chicken, as generous as the rice and as golden as the spring rolls. Even better, the lemon sauce was not overly sweet, but beautifully balanced between sweet and tart. It was presented in a bowl on the side, so each of us could use as much or as little as we liked. And we liked!

During the feeding frenzy a chopstick went astray. Our smiling server ran over with a fresh pair of chopsticks the second she heard it hit the floor. That she did this the same moment we’d realized what happened, and before we could even think to ask for new ones, left us impressed us with the terrific, no-fuss service!

Both the fried noodles and stir-fried vegetables delighted us with the skillful balance of flavours within each dish. The cooks always let the main ingredients show up without being overpowered by one or the other. Each item was fresh and flavourful, the curry beef being a standout. A substantial thick and hot yellow Asian curry gets your taste buds’ attention, with tender cross-grain cut beef slices amid bright red and green bell peppers.

With such generous portions, our tummies said “Uncle!” with three containers of food left to take home and a total bill of $88 for the four of us. This much food would probably cost much more in other parts of town, which is one of the benefits of living in Edmonton’s best foodie neighbourhood.

Since we went at suppertime, we didn’t get a chance to try the dim sum items, so we’re looking forward to going back soon. Maybe those will be fuel for a “Part Two” in a future edition!

Xing Wang Steam Bun is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and is closed on Tuesdays . 

Alan lives in McCauley. He is the Chair of the paper’s Board of Directors.

Jacqueline Duttenhoffer lives just outside of the boundaries of McCauley in the Alberta Avenue area. Jacqueline is a long-time volunteer with the McCauley Community League. She is the President of Heart of the City Festival Society and says, “It’s the most rewarding volunteer job.”

Jacqueline got involved with Heart of the City when she was working at a restaurant called The Local Omnivore. James Jarvis, former Heart of the City board member who died in 2023, was working at VUE Weekly at the time, so he was always bringing in clients to eat. “If you know James, then you know that he was one of the hardest people to say no to, and so that is how it began.”

Jacqueline describes her first role with Heart of the City as “Stage Assistant.” 

“I was working with [former board member] Gautam Karnik and he was the kindest person ever. I was nervous because I had to walk up to people backstage, and then there was sound, and then there was the main stage and that is where I had to work all day! Gautam made it the funnest job.” 

The highlight of Heart of the City for Jacqueline this year “was doing the Round Dance in the rain. It was awesome because it just started pouring and Spirit Within (Alicia Cardinal) came on stage, and no one was there because of the pouring rain.”  

Jacqueline had done research on Spirit Within and she was so impressed with her story she was compelled to go watch. “I ran over and I grabbed her hands and then three other people came and then Gautam Karnik came and it was like magic. It wasn’t cold and the rain didn’t bother me.”

As for art, Jacqueline was a chef for 18 years. “I didn’t just make food to sustain, I made food to evoke emotion, you know really putting love into it. I made food that people reacted to. That’s art.”

Jacqueline also loves beading, Métis art, dot art, and making collages. “I really like to create something out of nothing if I had to sum it all up,” she says.

“Well, that is what we do with Heart of the City,” she adds. “We are a volunteer-run society. We don’t have any money. We have to go after funding and build the festival every year.” Jacqueline wishes to thank Heart of the City’s major sponsors: McCauley Community League, Edmonton Arts Council, the City of Edmonton’s Revitalization fund, and Boyle McCauley News.

Jacqueline and her family have found home and community here in the inner city. She first lived on 124th Street and 111th Avenue. “I was a young mom and just being able to walk out of my apartment and walk down and have all of the stuff [going on] made me fall in love with the inner city. Then I found Heart of the City. Then I got to meet everyone in McCauley and see all the beautiful stuff that community members just do to support each other out of the goodness of their hearts, something we have been moving around looking for our whole lives.”

Corine Demas lives in McCauley where she is the President of the McCauley Community League and a board member with Heart of the City.

The quick cave displayed by the City Councillors to placate car owners in our inner city neighbourhoods around parking fees shows us that some of our Councillors like to talk about a commitment to public transit and climate solutions but aren’t about to weather the backlash of a  privileged and vocal group.

We need all car owners to pay a reasonable fee for parking on public roads, reflecting the true costs to the environment of fossil fuel consumption.

These same drivers contribute to traffic congestion, noise and air pollution, as well as increase the costs of policing to deal with traffic violations and accidents.  

A nominal monthly parking fee, perhaps equivalent to the cost of a senior or student bus pass, could help offset the true cost of private vehicles to our city expenses and demonstrate the city’s commitment to healthy communities.

Gail Silvius is a former McCauley resident who is moving back to the neighbourhood.

For 30 years, Shelley Hollingsworth has hosted and coordinated the Inner City Kids Safe Halloween Party in McCauley. First held at The Mustard Seed in 1994, the celebration has happened at different locations in collaboration with various community organizations including Bissell Centre, Sacred Heart School, the Boys and Girls Club, e4c, and most recently with the McCauley Community League at the McCauley Rink.

Shelley has been the beating heart of the event from the beginning and has never missed a year. Even though Shelley recently moved out of the neighbourhood, she remains a committed and consistent volunteer and contributor to McCauley life.

The Inner City Kids Safe Halloween party is designed as an alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating for kids in the neighbourhood. There are many activity stations and games, a free meal and treats, free costumes, and lots of other fun. 

Shelley is planning a big anniversary celebration for this year, which will be happening at the McCauley Rink  from 5 to 7 p.m. She relies on donations and volunteers for the celebration. She eagerly welcomes new volunteers or donors. Shelley is asking for donations of Halloween candy, toys to be given as costume prizes, and food such as  hot dogs, water bottles, bags of chips, and hot chocolate mix. Volunteers are needed to help run the games and distribute food and candy. 

Many local families will remember attending the Halloween party. Now parents who used to attend as children bring their kids! In fact, Shelley is also looking for pictures that anyone might have of the previous Halloween parties.

If you are interested in helping out as a volunteer or donor, you can contact this newspaper to be put in touch with Shelley. Contact information is on page three.

Congratulations Shelley on 30 years of fun, community, generosity, and for putting the kids of McCauley first!

Kathryn Rambow is the Manager of Community Development at e4c.

The McCauley Community League wishes to thank all the volunteers who have tirelessly volunteered not only for the board, but also at events that we have held.

We held our AGM on June 23rd, 2024. We had the AGM at the Hull Block building in Chinatown because we want to build bridges between Little Italy and Chinatown North, which are both part of McCauley. We had food catered by the Italian Bakery and Kim Fat Market. I gave the address about our past and future events.

Kat Luu from the Edmonton Chinatown BIA and the Chinatown Transformation Collaborative Society joined the board as an associate member. We are pleased to have her joining us and networking with folks from Chinatown North. 

Members of the board who are serving their second term are me, Corine Demas (President); John Gee (Treasurer); Christa Ferland (Events Coordinator); Ruth Sorochan (who is in charge of communications and co-chair of the building committee); Regan Gee (who returned to the board as our Memberships Director); and Imai Welch (Contracts Supervisor). New to the board is Allan Suarez, who joined us midway through the year and has been serving as the Vice President. We also had two more new people sign up for the board this year: Jo Neville and Eugene Thomas Joseph. Returning to the board is David Williamson.

If you don’t have a membership to the McCauley Community League, it’s easy to get a free membership online. You’ll find a link to sign up for membership at www.mccauleycl.com.

Corine Demas is the President of the McCauley Community League.

Friends,

How is it already August? We wrapped up a tough session in the legislature in June, and since then I’ve found it quite restorative to spend as much time as possible with many of you out in the community. 

Since I last wrote, the Alberta NDP has elected a new leader, Naheed Nenshi. I’ve had the chance to spend some time with Naheed over the last few weeks, and I’m excited about what’s next. If you have any ideas you’d like me to pass on to him, or questions you’d like answered, please don’t hesitate to contact me at the contact information below.

I also want to take this opportunity to invite all of you in Boyle Street and McCauley (and across the other neighbourhoods I’m so proud to represent!) to join me in celebrating the summer at my annual Community BBQ in Borden Park on August 25th at 1 p.m. I’m so pleased to team up with some of my fellow elected representatives, including MP Blake Desjarlais, Councillor Ashley Salvador, and EPSB Trustee Trisha Estabrooks. We would all love to see you there!

Whether at the Community BBQ or at other opportunities, I’m looking forward to continuing to connect with you and to celebrating all the ways in which our community comes together. As always, I’ll keep pushing for much-needed action to build an Alberta for all of us, and I’ll keep amplifying your voices at every opportunity. Please reach out at any time. 

Take good care of yourselves and each other.

Janis Irwin, MLA for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood
Email: Edmonton.HighlandsNorwood@assembly.ab.ca
Phone: 780-414-0682

Mary Burlie was a beloved social worker in the Boyle Street/McCauley area and a pioneer of Edmonton's Black community. The park named after her on 104th Avenue and 97th Street will be undergoing much-needed renewal in the near future. Mary Burlie Day at the park on July 13th featured the opportunity for the public to provide feedback on some of the plans, as well as enjoy music, a petting zoo, balloon twisting, and the chance to meet some of Mary's family and friends. The event was organized by the Mary Burlie "Black Angel" Society. 

The McCauley Circus on July 13th in Caboto Park featured food, a bouncy castle, a t-shirt tie-dying station, and talented performers who contorted, juggled, and played with fire. Here's a look.

A year and a half of dedicated planning came together as the Heart of the City Music and Arts Festival celebrated its 20th anniversary at Giovanni Caboto Park on June 8th and 9th. Central Edmonton was buzzing with excitement that weekend, with the Chinatown celebrations, the midway at Fan Park, the Oilers in the Stanley Cup, the Elks’ home opener, and the ongoing construction in McCauley. 

Despite the hustle and bustle, Edmontonians showed up in full force to take in Heart of the City’s vibrant atmosphere, enjoy the performances, and participate in the many engaging workshops. Community engagement was at the heart of this year’s festival, highlighting the importance of coming together to celebrate our shared passions and support local talent.

On Saturday the 8th it rained on and off, but the weather did little to dampen the spirits of festival-goers who came to soak up the festivities. Umbrellas and raincoats were a common sight as people walked around the park, enjoying the music, art displays, and community activities. We even streamed the Oilers game!

By Sunday the 9th, the weather cleared up and the park buzzed with an even bigger crowd. Families, friends, and community members filled the park, creating a lively and welcoming environment. A highlight of Sunday was the Story Slam competition at the Beat Stage, which was a heartwarming tribute to former board member and friend, James Jarvis. His sister assumed his role as the Story Slam judge, adding a personal touch to the event. The success of the Story Slam was a testament to the power of storytelling in bringing people together and honoring those who have made a lasting impact.

A huge shout out to the many volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to ensure the festival ran smoothly, rain or shine. Their commitment and hard work were crucial in making the event a seamless and enjoyable experience for all. From setting up stages to guiding attendees and managing booths, their efforts did not go unnoticed.

And a big thank you to the numerous community partners and sponsors whose generous contributions and support were instrumental in bringing this year’s festival to life.

The Heart of the City Music & Arts Festival has always been about celebrating community, creativity, and our shared love for music and art. This year’s milestone anniversary was a reflection of those grassroots values. As the festival wrapped up, you could feel the sense of accomplishment and joy in the air. Despite the many competing events and unpredictable weather, our community came together to create an unforgettable weekend.

From everyone at Heart of the City: thank you Edmonton!

Jacqueline Duttenhoffer is the President of the Heart of the City Festival’s Board of Directors.

On June 8th, several people gathered to plant, celebrate, and support the Indigenous garden just north of the Ociciwan Contemporary Art Centre (10124 96th Street). The garden was started several years ago but is not yet widely known, except to people who live in the area and invite their friends to join them. 

If the 2024 planting party is any indication, that is about to change. This event offered free food and free entertainment: a delicious buffet provided by Double Greeting Won Ton House next door, and a fine performance by Indigenous folk musician Jay Gilday. The organizers even wisely provided a canopy tent to protect attendees from the rain that came and went throughout the day.

Kiona Callihoo Ligtvoet, Ociciwan Project Coordinator, says the garden is inspired by the late Mi’kmaq artist Mike MacDonald’s Butterfly and Medicine Gardens (kamâmak nihtâwikihcikan). Composed of plants indigenous to the Americas, the garden attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and features plants that Indigenous people use as medicine.

The garden is open 24/7, and visitors are welcome to enjoy lovely plants, which include highbush cranberries, bluebells, brown-eyed Susans, strawberries, sage, and sweetgrass, to name a few.

A key initiative of the Ociciwan Centre is to provide activities in the garden. For example, the space has hosted beading circles, talks by Elders, film nights, and Indigenous artists. “A number of our visitors like to meet outdoors,” says Callihoo Ligtvoet. “We want to accommodate people who might not visit exhibitions in the gallery space next door.” 

The garden and the June 8th party are supported in part by the Boyle Street Community League. Ociciwan supports Indigenous contemporary art and advocates for innovative, experimental creative practices and research.

Anita Jenkins is a retired writer and editor who lives in Boyle Street.

As organizations, Edmonton’s Community Leagues aren’t really ones to draw attention to themselves. Leagues and the people who run them are all about supporting others. Whether it’s maintaining the neighbourhood rink that welcomes everyone with a pair of skates — and has some you can borrow if you need — or giving local green thumbs a place to swap seeds and stories, Leagues are fulfilling their highest purpose when they’re allowing people to reach higher, see further, and do more than they would alone. 

So it shouldn’t be any surprise that Community League Day, which takes place this year on September 21st, is less about patting on the back and more about shaking hands and seeing new faces. Though the parties themselves are as diverse as the people who plan them and the neighbourhoods in which they take place, every celebration is ultimately about the one thing that’s at the heart of everything a Community League does: bringing people together. 

“We always have some amazing and creative people at our Leagues who come up with ways to get their community engaged, but whether it’s a sports tournament or celebrating a hall renovation or just eating together, it’s the conversations that happen in between everything that really make the day worthwhile,” explains Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues (EFCL) Executive Director Laura Cunningham-Shpeley. As the umbrella organization for Edmonton’s 163 Community Leagues, the EFCL helps support the dozens of parties that take place on Community League Day. “Neighbours make neighbourhoods, and making good neighbours so often starts with just getting out in the community and having a great experience together.”

Though the Community League movement has more than a century of history in Edmonton, the idea of setting aside a day just to celebrate the work of Leagues is a relatively recent invention — albeit one inspired by that history. Organizing city-wide events has almost always been a function of the EFCL: beginning with amateur sports tournaments in the 1930s, it extended everywhere from beauty pageants, to soap box races and even Community League parades in the heydays of the 1950s and ‘60s. Over the years, though, much of that had fallen by the wayside, either because the events grew enough to be taken over by dedicated organizations or, as some at the time argued, the community spirit just wasn’t what it used to be.

Enter Community League Day in 2006. Combining the best of the neighbourhood-driven ethos that has made Leagues such an integral part of their communities with Edmonton’s well-known love of a city-wide celebration, the Day was designed to remind us that even when we’re in different corners of the city, ultimately we’re all still in this together. As it’s grown into a staple of the city calendar — and the most important membership drive for Leagues city-wide — it’s become proof that coming together never really goes out of style. 

“We have had mayors come out of the Community League movement, councillors, MLAs, and a whole lot of community builders of all stripes, and they all started that journey just by getting to know the people who lived in their community,” says Cunningham-Shpeley. “There’s so much we can accomplish just by meeting each other and having some fun together.”

You can find out what your League has planned for Community League Day by visiting the EFCL’s website at efcl.org/community-league-day.

Information provided by the Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues.

Tansi neighbours.

Fresh out of a long spring session, I am so glad to be home for the summer, and I couldn’t be more excited to knock on as many doors as I can, attend events in our community, and catch up with all of you!

The spring legislative session saw New Democrats use our power to deliver important programs to help lower costs for Albertans.

I am proud of all the work that our NDP team has done for everyday Edmontonians. From providing more affordable child care to delivering anti-scab legislation, New Democrats fought hard to help people keep more money in their pockets.

With new programs like dental care and pharmacare, we know every dollar counts. Meanwhile, Danielle Smith and Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives spent their time threatening to cut the expanded health coverage that people rely on.

Just 25 NDP MPs were able to accomplish this. Imagine how much more we could do for folks if we formed a government that would truly tackle corporate greed and stand up to the ultra-wealthy that are making life so unaffordable.

I’m excited to be out in our neighbourhoods talking to folks about how we can make life better! Below you will find some upcoming community events. I hope you will join us. 

Free community BBQ in Evansdale Park with MLA Sharif Haji: August 11th, 1 p.m.

Free community BBQ in Borden Park with MLA Janis Irwin, Councillor Ashley Salvador & EPSB Trustee Trisha Estabrooks: August 25th, 1 p.m.

I hope to see you around the constituency this summer!

Blake Desjarlais
Member of Parliament, Edmonton Griesbach
Phone: 780-495-3261 
Email: Blake.Desjarlais@parl.gc.ca

Just one year after taking over Van Loc Vietnamese Submarines in Chinatown, co-owners Wilson Wong and William Chen got an idea. “Why not organize a block party in front of the shop?” they thought.

This idea, which became a reality on June 8th and 9th, demonstrates what two remarkable young people can do with sufficient vision and chutzpah - and lots of door knocking.

They didn’t produce just any block party, but rather a large, safe, inclusive, and vibrant one with 14 sponsors (some major ones such as ReMax, Servus, Qualico, and the Edmonton Community Foundation), 16 vendors, 19 performers, and six food trucks. As well, there were 27 volunteers who had been thoroughly briefed about safety and assisting visitors who might be unfamiliar with the inner city. The volunteers were enthusiastic. “I do it to meet people,” one said.

The closed-off space on 98th Street featured a large stage with full audio and video capability, a beer tent, and ambulance access. Wong and Chen worked with the neighbours. They arranged to rent the Ukrainian Federation Hall across the street for performers and volunteers to prepare and rest, and to have parking space in the Italian Bakery lot.

A wide range of excellent artistic performances included dragon dancing (which makes this reporter cry every time), kung-fu demonstrations, hip-hop dancers, and DJs. 

This all came together because Wong and Chen had devoted five months of their busy lives to making it happen. “Everyone deserves a Chinatown,” says Wong. They used social media to publicize, and benefited from word-of-mouth communication among businesses, performers, volunteers, and others. And as far as any problems went, their debriefing document (of course, they have debriefing) notes that “zero incidents occurred.”

Heartbreakingly, Mother Nature interfered in a major way. The weather was the coldest in the history of Edmonton for that date. As well, there might have been a larger crowd if there hadn’t been a Stanley Cup finals game in town that weekend.

Do major challenges defeat these intrepid young entrepreneurs? Not at all. The date for next year’s bLoc party is already set.

Anita Jenkins is a retired writer and editor who lives in Boyle Street.

The Edmonton Intercultural Centre (EIC) is a community full of love, caring, and support. In this and future articles, we will inform readers of the non-profit organizations operating in the EIC facility in order to bring light to their many good deeds.

The Filipino Language and Culture School of Edmonton was established in 1983 under the leadership and sponsorship of the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association of Alberta. The school is proudly affiliated with the International and Heritage Language Association (IHLA), located in the Edmonton Intercultural Centre. The school gained accreditation from Alberta Education for Grade 4 to Grade 12 in 2016.

In addition to core language courses, the Filipino Language and Culture School of Edmonton plays a crucial role in nurturing Filipino heritage through a comprehensive curriculum offered from kindergarten to Grade 12 on Sundays, with adult classes held weeknights at the Edmonton Intercultural Centre.

Moreover, the school enriches its offerings with opportunities in Rondalla (string orchestra), traditional and contemporary dances, and choral singing. These activities are pivotal in preserving and promoting Filipino cultural identity among diverse age groups, from preschoolers to young adults and the broader adult senior population.

Upcoming Events with Filipino Language and Culture School of Edmonton & IHLA

Edmonton Heritage Festival
Saturday, August 3
Sunday, August 4
Monday, August 5
Information and hours: www.heritagefest.ca
Edmonton Exhibition Lands and Borden Park 

San Juan Festival
Thursday, August 15
Time TBA 
San Juan, La Union, Philippines

Edmonton Filipino Fiesta 
Saturday, September 14
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 
Borden Park (7507 Borden Park Road NW)

All enthusiasts of Filipino heritage and culture are invited to attend these enriching events. Whether you’re interested in language classes, performing arts, or simply wish to connect with the community, there’s something for everyone at the Filipino Language and Culture School of Edmonton.

For more information, you can email filcan.saranay@gmail.com and visit: www.filcansaranayassociation.com.

Information provided by the Edmonton Intercultural Centre, which is located at 9538 107th Avenue.

I can’t believe we are more than halfway through 2024! I hope you’re all enjoying summer in our city. There is so much to do and so many places to enjoy. As you make your way through Edmonton during this hot weather, don’t forget that there are 27 water bottle filling stations throughout the city, with several in your area. Please make use of them when out and about to stay cool. Locate them here.

Residential Parking Programs
Earlier this year, the Urban Planning Committee supported changes to the Residential Parking Permit program. As this started to roll out, my office heard from many of you with concerns about the changes. I learned a lot about the nuances in each community when it comes to parking and that the current proposals weren’t doing enough to match them. As a result, I made a motion to put a pause on this work and asked staff to come back with suggested amendments to the program to better meet local needs. 

I’m sorry for the stress the initial announcement caused and I’m grateful to everyone who took the time to write in with their thoughts. For now, the current parking program will stay as is. I’m confident that the refined program will be much better, thanks to your input!

Good News on Transit
Transit safety has been top of mind for many over the past few years. I’ve been seeing improvements lately and the numbers we saw at a recent Council meeting confirmed we’re headed in the right direction. There’s been an 18% drop in crime severity on transit and perception of safety is up from 58% to 64%. There is much more work to do but I’m glad that our collective efforts are having a positive impact. If you see ways to improve transit further or concerns you want to share, please don’t hesitate to let me know. 

Connecting With Neighbours
I’m always excited to come out and meet residents in O-day’min. If you have a group of neighbours, or a condo board or residents’ association, and would like to meet, please let me know! I would love to come out and meet you. Reach out to my contact below and we can find a time to connect.

Thank You
Thank you for reading and being an engaged member of these communities. Please continue to reach out to my office anytime. As well, whether by phone or online, 311 is also available to assist.

Email: anne.stevenson@edmonton.ca
Phone: 780-496-8333

WIN House has been a pillar of support in Edmonton for over five decades, working closely with communities and neighbourhoods to provide a safe haven for women, non-binary individuals, and children fleeing violence.

Join us on September 7th, 2024, at the historic Roxy Theatre for an unforgettable evening steeped in the allure and mystique of old Hollywood with a captivating film noir twist.

Event Highlights:

• Powerful live monologues sharing stories from our shelter residents.
• Delectable drinks and hors d'oeuvres.
• Mesmerizing live performances.

This elegant event promises to transport you to a bygone era of glamour and intrigue while raising awareness about gender-based violence. Your support directly benefits our local community.

Event Details:

• Get your tickets here!
• Location: 10708 124 St., Edmonton, AB T5M 0H1
• Doors open at 6:30 pm.
• Show starts at 7:00 pm.

Mark your calendars and join us in supporting a safer, stronger community at WIN House Curtain Call: A Night en Noir!

Visit our website for more details: www.winhouse.org/winhousecurtaincallnightennoir 

Need support? Call our 24/7 Help Line at 780-479-0058.
Is someone in distress? Call the Crisis Diversion Team at 311.

Let’s come together to make a difference!

Information provided by WIN House.

Frank Spinelli, founder of the original Italian Centre Shop, often said, “When you have more, you don’t build a wall, you build a bigger table.” He and his wife Rina built a beautiful home with a big table across from the Shop. His statue in Giovanni Caboto Park still watches over the community and the Shop.  

After Rina died in March 2022, Teresa knew her parents would be pleased for their house to welcome people at challenging times in their lives. Ukrainian families fleeing the war stayed for several months. Then came families needing respite from the Yukon wildfires in 2022. Teresa wondered what more she could do.  

A friend knew the Alberta Lung Association wanted to build a house to support people waiting for a lung transplant. Teresa had been at fundraisers for “Breathing Space” but knew it would take several years to build the facility. She approached Leigh Allard, President and CEO, and the “Casa Spinelli” partnership was born and opened to patients in January 2024. Leigh knew “this community would love our people and in turn, they would enjoy the store, the café and the park.” Mike Newberry, Teresa’s husband, is a great supporter. In addition to bringing pizza, pastries, and smiles into Casa Spinelli, he brings Rocky, his golden retriever, realizing people were missing their pets. 

Alberta has the highest rate of lung disease in Canada. Edmonton has the second largest of four lung transplant centres in Canada, serving people in B.C., Alberta, Yukon, NWT, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Being ill and waiting for a transplant is a time of isolation, fear, and exhaustion from all the medical testing. You still have your everyday bills to pay and you don’t know how long you will have to stay in Edmonton. The Alberta Lung Association wants to remove the financial barriers so people have a second chance at life. 

I met with Teresa, Leigh, and Juanita Murphy around la tavola (Italian for “the table”). Juanita is a double-lung transplant recipient. She donated a blanket for a future transplant recipient. “I know the feeling of not being able to breathe, facing dying whether or not you have the transplant. It’s a lonely place, and you’re dealing with God on your own. When you wake up after surgery, you can’t believe that you can take a deep breath on your own.”  

Juanita grew up in McCauley and experienced the generosity of the Spinelli family. She is grateful for Teresa’s donation of her mother’s house. She said to Teresa, “Your mom is touching lives in so many ways; she is giving the gift of life and hope. When she was alive, she and your dad were feeding the neighbourhood. Now, through her house, she is giving a safe, quiet, calm place where you know you are not alone.”

Kate Quinn has lived in McCauley for 48 years. 

My name is Shelley Hollingsworth, and I coordinate the annual Inner City Children's Safe Halloween Party with the help of Inner many inner-city volunteers. We provide a safe environment for children to come to and participate in fun, games, costume contests and, of course, a meal. 

As this is our 30th anniversary event, we are looking forward to creating a very special event! We want to make this event bigger and better than our previous celebrations, and we are looking to your organization to help us make this an amazing family event in our neighbourhood! 

We are asking for donations of Halloween candy, costume prizes (toys), and we also will be needing a Covid-friendly meal (such as wrapped hot dogs) and water bottles, chips, and hot chocolate. 

We are also looking for some community-minded volunteers to help run the games and distribute food and candy. Last year it was held outdoors, and we look to set up a similar event this year, with social-distancing and sanitization available for the safest possible event. 

I am also looking for pictures that anyone might have of the previous Halloween parties. If you can share with us I would love it. And, I am inviting any families who.have attended the last 30 years to stop in and say hi. We'll be at the McCauley Rink from 5-7 p.m. on October 31st.

If you would like more information, or to donate, please call me at: 780-722-5001

Welcome to the August-September 2024 edition of Boyle McCauley News! June was a whirlwind of a month. There were so many events happening that I had a difficult time keeping up with them. This edition has coverage of many of those events, thanks to the help of our volunteer contributors. 

It is impossible to fit everything that happens in the area into the print edition, which is why we also publish exclusives at our website. Visit bmcnews.org to check out these features, including many more photos than we have room to publish in print.

I mentioned that volunteers help with the content of the paper. They also help deliver, proofread and help with a variety of other tasks. If you are interested in volunteering with the paper, contact me at editor@bmcnews.org to learn about current volunteer opportunities. In particular, we have a couple of block carrier delivery routes available, and always seek writers  and photographers available to cover local events.

It is difficult to believe that as we’re putting this edition together in the summer heat of July, that our next issue will greet the fall in October. Until then, I wish you all the best. Thanks for reading.

I have never claimed to have a green thumb, but I do enjoy my annual ritual of placing bedding plants into several planters on the patio at the home where I live. The variety of flowers provide pops of colours that carry us through from spring until the fall frost ends this cycle of life, to be repeated the following spring. 

Putting these flowers into potting soil and watering them in is something I do every year, with similar results. The flowers bloom and eventually wither away. Yet for a significant number of weeks the joy brought by seeing the beauty of flowers in full bloom compensates for the moments of melancholy as summer turns to fall on the path to winter. 

The flowers mark both an ending to a season and a passage of time. Endings are part of life. They make way for new beginnings. As winter wanes, I begin to long for the colour of flowers and appreciate this cycle of life every year. 

We can bear witness to this cycle everywhere. Someone recently commented to me how beautiful Giovanni Caboto Park looked when it became green in the spring. The big, beautiful trees in the area are hard to miss when they are alive with buds and leaves. The scent of lilacs and apple blossoms permeate many yards and gardens in the area. 

Then the temperature drops, the snow falls, and we look forward to another season of blooming. 

I know there is also beauty in the patterns of frost on windows and bright sunshine on fresh snow. But for now, I will cherish the present moments of colour. The future will take care of itself.

Noms Market took place at the Edmonton Chinatown Multi-Cultural Centre on June 15th. The market featured local Asian small businesses and food, as well as entertainment. Here's a look at the vendors' area shortly after the market opened. 

The Heart of the City Festival "rebooted" on June 8th and 9th in Giovanni Caboto Park. After a one-year hiatus, the festival was back with the theme "Reboot." Here is a look at some of the musical acts, activities, and magic of the weekend.

The people behind the Van Loc Vietnamese sandwich shop organized a two-daye block party on June 8th and 9th. The Van bLoc Party featured dance, DJs, a market, food, and more. While the rain and competing events affected attendance, there was a great lineup of entertainment.

The Dragon Festival Parade took over 97th Street on June 8th with Dragon and Lion Dances, as well as colourful inflated dragons. This was the first event of the Edmonton CHinatown Dragon Festival organized by the Edmonton Chinatown Collaborative Society. 

A walk through Edmonton's Chinatown with members of Indigenous and Chinese communities, as well as members of other communities. The walk was organized by the Edmonton Chinatown BIA, REACH Edmonton, and Berlin Communications, with support from the Edmonton Chinatown Transformation Collaborative Society, Chinese Benevolent Association, Standing Together, Ambrose Place, and other organizations and communities in the Chinatown area.

The 2024 Edmonton Homeless Memorial on June 6 commemorated 421 people who died in 2023 as a direct or indirect result of being unhoused. This number is a significant increase from past years, the previous highest being 222 deaths in 2021. The service included songs, speeches (including by someone with lived experience of homelessness), laying flowers at the Homelessness Memorial, and releasing butterflies. The event was organized by the Edmonton Coalition on Housing and Homelessness (ECOHH).

The second annual Blue Jean Jacket Day took place near 101A Avenue and 96th Street on June 7th, 2024, to commemorate missing and murdered Indigenous men and boys.

Stella Johnson is a McCauley-based singer/songwriter who performs regularly around Edmonton. 

“My dad’s a musician, and my mom’s a music lover. I was an only child and they always brought me to jams and festivals. Music was always a part of my life. It felt kind of inevitable that I would love it in some capacity and then I just took it my own way,” she says of her love of music. 

About her involvement with Heart of the City, Stella explains, “I’ve lived in McCauley my whole life. I remember being there when I was really little, and it was probably some of my first experiences getting up on stage because my dad would play, and I would get up and play some terrible harmonica with him or sing ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.’ I’ve always loved that festival. It was a big part of my growing up.”

When asked to share more memories of the festival, Stella said, “The first two things that come to mind are Netti Spaghetti who would be there with the hula hoops and Mary Rankin’s song circle. I remember face painting - it was Rhonda Hardcastle who would have done it back in the day. These people are still so close to me and my family. I think Heart of the City was a necessary community in this area.”

As someone who grew up in the inner city, Stella says, “I saw a difference. I look like this hippy chick but that doesn’t always represent how I was raised and what I saw. I made some really bad decisions and hung out with some really risky people. I don’t think my friends in other places would have done such risky things. Luckily, I had it a lot better than a lot of people but I think it gave me a really unique perspective having gone through that and coming out on the other side a much stronger person. I knew that I lived in a worse off area than a lot of people I went to school with.”

She continues, “I was aware that growing up in the inner city was a unique experience. I don’t think I was aware of how that would affect me or the decisions that I made. I wouldn’t trade it for the world, and I’m very grateful for it. In different places that I go I’m not a judgmental person, and I could have been if I lived somewhere else.”

Stella tells me that despite being the daughter of Steven Johnson, the McCauley Community League’s long-term guitar teacher, she taught herself to play the guitar. At the same time, she says,  “I have my dad to thank for my musical awareness.”

She goes on to say, “Music - it sounds cheesy, but it’s like an extra limb for me. It’s something that I have to do. It keeps me somewhat sane. I like finding different ways that I’m going to take it. I’m kind of at a point where I don’t know what I’m going to do next, but that’s exciting in itself.” 

Corine Demas lives in McCauley where she is the President of the McCauley Community League and a board member with Heart of the City.

Spring is here. Ice Man Dan has hung up his skates and our season of skating is over. But that doesn’t mean there is nothing to do with McCauley Community League. We’ve got lots of events on the horizon.

Saturday, June 8th, Noon to 10 p.m. and  Sunday, June 9th, Noon to 5 p.m.
Our community partner, Heart of the City Festival, happens this June 8th and 9th. It is back in Giovanni Caboto Park with an addition to the festival this year. The Indigenous Fashion Show is being integrated onto the main stage. 

Did you miss the festival? Check out the website (heartcityfest.com) for a link to our Story City App walk and take a virtual tour of the happenings. We’ll link you to videos and highlights.

Saturday, June 22nd, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
The McCauley Community League (MCL) is holding our Annual General Meeting (AGM) and lunch with an ice cream social at the Hull Block (9664 106th Avenue). Following the meeting there will be a short Q&A with Anne Stevenson, our City Councillor. 

Saturday, July 13th, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Come on out to the McCauley Carnival featuring bouncy castles, cotton candy, popcorn, hot dogs, and kids’ floor games. We will also have stand-up comedy from Kamal Alaeddine (who has appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno), and circus-style sideshow performances by Istace. Istace is a multi-disciplinary circus artist who serves a one-of-a-kind experience. They have honed their craft by training with top coaches in Las Vegas and San Francisco, as well as studying at the Beijing International Arts School. In 15 years of performing, Istace’s genre-blending shows have been seen internationally, toured across Canada, and have earned awards for originality. They juggle swords, swallow a sword, and spit fire.

Information provided by the McCauley Community League.

Dear friends,

Happy summer! Like so many of you, I’m a big fan of this season, and I’m looking forward to taking advantage of warm weather and long, sunny days to spend lots of time out in the community. I’m especially looking forward to connecting with you all at events throughout Boyle Street and McCauley. 

We all know that these opportunities for connection couldn’t happen without the dedication and hard work of so many of you. I’m so proud to see you all continue to show up for each other—not just once in a while, but throughout the year. 

I’m thinking of community builders like the fabulous Rosalie Gelderman, who recently won an Alberta Seniors Service Award for her nearly four decades of advocacy for seniors in our province. It was an honour to join her and her family and friends for the celebration. 

I’m thinking of Dan Glugosh, who once again dealt with the most adverse of conditions in an unpredictable winter, but managed to maintain the most beautiful ice in town down at the McCauley Rink.

I’m thinking of all the people who I’ve met who are doing so much to keep Chinatown vibrant – from the incredibly dedicated group of young folks bringing new energy and ideas to the community, to the elders who helped to build the Chinatown we have today and are still continuing this work. 

And I’m thinking of people like those who keep the McCauley and Boyle Street Community Leagues going strong, and all those who volunteer so much of their time. 

I wish I could name everyone who I know does so much to keep our neighbourhoods going. Know that we see you and appreciate you.

I look forward to continuing to connect with you, and to celebrating all the ways in which our community comes together. Whether it’s on housing, health care, education, or any issues that are top of mind for you, I want to hear from you. Please reach out, and know that as always, I’m here. 

Take good care of yourselves and each other.

Janis Irwin, MLA for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood
Email: Edmonton.HighlandsNorwood@assembly.ab.ca
Phone: 780-414-0682

Christie Smith stands outside a residential building, preparing to meet the individuals living inside. 

She’s a Community Safety Liaison working with the City of Edmonton’s Residential Inspection Safety Compliance (RISC) Team. RISC provides a coordinated multi-agency approach to complex residential living situations involving vulnerable individuals, families, and places. The team works to uphold minimum housing standards at high-risk properties and to reduce impacts in the surrounding community. 

Christie’s civilian clothes set her apart from her uniformed team members. She is not an enforcement officer, but a registered social worker providing support to people staying in or working at problem properties.

“My role is to assess the needs of vulnerable individuals and provide connections to resources and services that help meet their basic needs and enhance their overall social well being,” says Christie.

In 2023, RISC conducted 2,031 inspections at 207 properties citywide, with a significant number of these being located in the neighbourhoods of McCauley, Alberta Avenue, and Central McDougall.  

At every visit, Christie takes an individualized, human-centred approach that addresses the specific needs of each resident. 

“Every visit is different and every individual is unique,” says Christie. “Someone might need a connection to income support or health-care assistance. In the context of problem properties, many folks need support to leave an unhealthy living situation and access safe and secure housing.”

This work requires a variety of skills including active listening, patience, advocacy, and, above all, empathy. It also requires a knowledge of Edmonton’s broad network of social agencies - knowledge which Christie has acquired through years of work with Edmonton John Howard Society, Bissell Centre, and Sage Seniors Association.

Currently, Christie is working with Bruce (not his real name), a resident in his 80s. Bruce was renting a suite in a building that was very poorly maintained by its owner. Safety and health violations at the property led to the intervention of the RISC team, who learned that the company that owned the building was dissolved, the property was being sold, and the tenants were being evicted. 

“When I met Bruce he had less than two weeks to find another place to live,” says Christie. “I arranged an interview for him with GEF Seniors Housing, and supported him at the interview. Unfortunately, there were no GEF units available before Bruce’s eviction date. Then, to complicate the situation, the property Bruce was preparing to leave caught fire and he was forced to move immediately.”

Christie succeeded in locating a space that Bruce could move into quickly, then began helping him replace the furniture that had been damaged in the fire. 

“Bruce’s insurance company told us that most of his furniture was too old to replace,” explains Christie. “So I set him up with an inflatable mattress and connected him with Find furniture, a social enterprise of Homeward Trust Edmonton that offers essential furnishings free of charge to folks who are transitioning out of homelessness.”

Over the first five months of her work as a Community Safety Liaison, Christie has supported 51 unique individuals to overcome a variety of challenges. Her human-centric role is an important part of the overall work of the RISC team, ensuring that the people in need are connected to services and transitioned into healthier and safer environments.

The RISC team’s membership includes five City departments, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton Police Service, and three Government of Alberta areas. Each partner plays a unique role and brings different strategies and legislation to the team. 

RISC’s work is part of Edmonton’s Problem Property Initiative. In December of 2022, City Council approved permanent funding to implement the City’s long-term strategy to address properties that cause frequent and serious safety concerns and complaints to the City. 

In developing the strategy, the City took into consideration the perspectives of tenants, landlords, enforcement partners, and community members. This research revealed that the City’s approach to problematic residential properties would benefit from the inclusion of a Community Safety Liaison at property inspections. 

To learn more about the Problem Property Initiative or to report a problem property, visit edmonton.ca/ProblemProperties or call 311.

Information provided by the City of Edmonton.

McCauley is home to one of the city’s most dynamic commercial areas: Chinatown. While the area has faced challenges in recent years, I am so inspired and hopeful by many events and celebrations that are coming up.

One initiative that the City introduced this year to support the area is the Chinatown Vibrancy Fund. This $480,000 fund was open for applications from April 8th to May 31st, 2024. It aims to support the implementation of the Chinatown Strategy by bringing visitors into the area through festivals, events, and cultural projects building community cohesion and empowering both housed and unhoused residents. We’ll find out which projects were selected in July, and I can’t wait to hear about all the great events and ideas that will be able to come to life. 

I’m looking forward to taking part in the Van bLoc Party on June 8th and 9th! Based at 98th Street and 106th Avenue, this event will have local DJs, live music, food, dance showcases, and more. Follow @vanloc.ca on Instagram for the latest details or visit vanblocparty.ca. Also on June 8th is the Dragon Festival Parade on 97th Street at 11 a.m. More information is available at yegdragonfest.com. 

There are many events going on in Chinatown throughout the summer - be sure to watch Chinatown Transformation Collaborative events page (www.ctcyeg.ca/events) and the Chinatown Business Association Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ChinatownYEG/events) to stay posted on all the goings-on.

Outside of Chinatown, don’t forget that June 8th and 9th is the Heart of the City Festival at Giovanni Caboto Park, featuring music, art, spoken word, and more. Visit www.heartcityfest.com for the weekend’s schedule.

Along with great events and festivals, summer also brings construction. Neighbourhood Renewal should be well underway by the time this article is published. While I hope it’s going as smoothly as possible, I know that construction near your home or business can be challenging. Be sure to check out the website (edmonton.ca/BuildingBoyleStreetandMcCauley) or reach out to the project manager (ariel.couture@edmonton.ca) if you have any issues or questions.

It’s always a delight to connect with you so please never hesitate to connect with my office, and don’t forget that 311 is there to help too, on the phone or online. Thank you for reading, and happy summer!

Email: anne.stevenson@edmonton.ca
Phone: 780-496-8333

The Ben Calf Robe Annual Traditional Pow Wow celebrated its 40th anniversary on May 11th at Clarke Stadium. 

This year’s theme was “Honouring Our Sacred Languages.” The Pow Wow featured dancing, drumming, and singing from hundreds of participants of all ages. In addition, there were artisans selling crafts, and food trucks offering a variety of treats and meals.

The event was presented by Edmonton Catholic Schools, Indigenous Learning Services, and Ben Calf Robe Society, in partnership with the City of Edmonton and Football Alberta. As always, it was free to attend and open to anyone to experience.

Here are some photos from the first Grand Entry, held at 1 p.m. that afternoon.

Photos by Paula E. Kirman.

Tansi!

I’m excited to share that beginning May 1st, 2024, dental coverage for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) began for the first group of eligible applicants. Tens of thousands of Canadians across the country have already received care, some for the first time in their lives.

This program is life-changing for many Canadians, and by 2025, over 9 million Canadians will be eligible. The CDCP will cover a wide range of oral health care services aimed at maintaining teeth and gum health, and preventing and treating oral health issues and diseases.

Seniors aged 70 and above who missed the early phone registration can now register online. Additionally, seniors aged 65 to 69 can now register online. Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate and children under 18 can begin online registration on June 1st, 2024. All other eligible Canadian residents can register starting in early 2025. For CDCP online registration, visit: www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan/apply.html.

If you have registered for the CDCP and received your welcome package from Sun Life, you would have been notified of the date you can begin seeing a dentist or oral health provider. If you registered over the phone but haven’t received your welcome package, please contact the CDCP directly at 1-833-537-4342 to check your application status.

Over 300 dentists have already enrolled in the program in Edmonton alone. That’s more than 50% of dentists registered with the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta in Edmonton.

We hope to have as many dentists and oral health providers sign-up for the CDCP as possible. The participation of oral health providers across the country in this plan is critical to build a foundation for more equitable access to oral health care and make a difference in the lives of millions of Canadians.

If your adjusted family net income is lower than $70,000, the CDCP will cover 100%. You may have to pay additional charges directly to the oral health provider if:

• Your adjusted family net income is between $70,000 and $89,999, or
• The cost of your oral health care services exceeds established CDCP fees.

If you are seeking an oral health provider in Edmonton that accepts the CDCP, please visit: www.sunlife.ca/sl/cdcp/en/member/provider-search/

For questions about any federal government program, please contact me by phone at 780-495-3261 or by email at Blake.Desjarlais@parl.gc.ca.

Blake Desjarlais
Member of Parliament,
Edmonton Griesbach

The Valley Line LRT finally opened in November, and one of the stops (Quarters) is in Boyle Street, at 96th Street and 102nd Avenue. Boyle Street resident Audrey Whitson recently led me and another friend on an enjoyable and interesting tour of the line, which extends to Mill Woods.

Starting from The Quarters at about 10 a.m., we first visited the revamped Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre, where you can find a small art gallery with a wide range of artists working in various styles and mediums. Then it was time for coffee, and the Aum Café in the mall filled the bill nicely. The service was most hospitable and the prices lower than in downtown Edmonton (Americano: $3.50).

We hopped back on the line and went to the Grey Nuns Stop, where we toured the spacious Mill Woods library, an LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certified (energy-saving) building that features natural light and houses the Mill Woods Seniors and Multicultural Centre. The search for a late lunch took us to the nearby Punjab Parantha Hut in a strip mall at 6574 28th Avenue. Once again, a fine feast was extremely affordable.

On the way back home, we got off at the Muttart Stop and had another coffee at Café Bloom, located inside the Muttart Conservatory. We are looking forward to returning to see the exhibits at the Muttart at one or more future dates. The offering at the time of our visit was a display of spring bulb flowers.

There is a lot more to see and do at or near the various Valley Line stops and stations, especially restaurants and cafés that we downtown folks may not have visited. Now that the LRT is on our doorstep, we can do that quickly and easily.

Note: This tour, or a similar one, would be enhanced by a visit to Double Greeting Wonton House, right next to the Quarters Stop at 10212 96th Street (cash only!).

Anita Jenkins is a retired writer and editor who lives in Boyle Street.

Team Cafe
10858 97th Street NW
Phone: 587-520-6669 

Everyone knows 97th Street is full of interesting food, but did you know that restaurants extend well beyond Chinatown?

On the west side of 97th Street just north of St. Josaphat’s Ukrainian Cathedral, which is on the east side, you’ll find Team Cafe, which has been open for about a year. Owner Semir brings a delicious, homemade style of Ethiopian cooking to the area.Owner Semir brings a delicious, homemade style of Ethiopian cooking to the area.

Our curious group of five went on a Wednesday night and discovered that it’s a small space that does mostly takeout and delivery. There are a handful of tables for one or two as well as a small room off the side which had a booth perfect for our family group. We were charmed that the table was an oval kitchen table. It was like being invited into someone’s house!

With a smile, Semir gave us the small menu showing a variety of many different main meals on one side, and a breakfast menu on the flip side. We were lucky to go as a family, as it let us explore the choices, from mild to spicy, with something for each person’s preference.

After ordering, we each were served a complimentary bowl of soup based on red lentils, with small chunks of potato and carrot, seasoned almost like a very mild vegetable curry.

Dishes were served family style to share, arriving as each one was cooked rather than all at once. First came the Hanide (a roasted leg of lamb), then the (huge!) chicken thigh, both on a bed of amazing rice that is among the best I’ve ever eaten. Perfectly cooked, the grains were topped with crispy onion for a contrast in texture and were not at all dry. Never did I think that rice would be the part of a meal that I’d especially want to go back for. The seasoning was deep and mild, and may please even those who are hesitant to try Ethiopian food. Both dishes also came with salad on the side. After gnawing on the flavourful meats, only a bone was left where there was once roast lamb.

The Zilzil Tibs arrived next. It was little chunks of beef served on a “pancake” of injera bread. A little mound of berbere spice on the side of the platter is there for you to sprinkle on as much or as little spice as you like. There are also a few slices of a mild jalapeño pepper. You tear off a small piece of the bread, scoop up a few morsels of beef, and pop it into your mouth as a little parcel of meaty flavour. I considered this dish to be medium spicy.

Next came a traditional dish, Hulbat Marakh, a deep stew bowl with layers of injera under a very robust spicy sauce. This one’s for folks who want an experience: over-the-top flavour from a very spicy sauce covering two enormous hunks of beef, cooked to falling-apart perfection. 

At the end, we were given a big plate of fries with ketchup, which was like a mild dessert after the intense flavours - an unusual (for us) and very smart way to end the meal. Also smart was the price: just $82 for enough food for five stuffed people, including a bottle of water each, and with a container of food for tomorrow’s lunch. What a deal! As I write this, it’s just an hour afterwards, and we can’t stop talking about the flavour. We’ll definitely be back for another homemade Ethiopian meal.

Alan lives in McCauley. He is the Chair of the paper’s Board of Directors.

I recently travelled overseas for the first time in my life. I explored the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, as well as Helsinki, Finland. My time was spent learning about history, trying local cuisine, and taking in the experience of being so far from home.

While in Helsinki, I had a conversation with a cab driver about Edmonton. The city was on his list to visit, and I emphasized that there is more to Edmonton than a certain large shopping mall - a fact of which he was thankfully already well aware.

Being away certainly helped me appreciate home. The timing of the trip was purposeful. Besides being between deadlines for the paper so as not to affect our publication schedule, I also could not imagine missing my favourite seasonal festivals like the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, Blues Festival, and, of course, our very own Heart of the City that takes place in Giovanni Caboto Park. 

I’ve always been a huge fan of staycations. They are more affordable, less stressful, and don’t come with days of jet lag. I also enjoy conversations with people from outside the McCauley and Boyle Street neighbourhoods who find they enjoy coming here to shop, dine, or take in local events. Some of them never knew how much the area has to offer.

In fact, in the cities I visited I was able to go beyond just the “touristy”  areas into other parts that helped me to learn more about the cultures and histories of these places. Anyone abroad who is reading this should be sure to visit McCauley and Boyle Street if you are privileged to have the opportunity.

By the time you read this, I anticipate that spring will be in full bloom, with summer on the horizon. I hope we will all have a chance to enjoy some great weather. 

In this issue we pay tribute to two community members who died recently. I don’t think I ever met Ceno, but I knew of him and his incredible artwork. Linda Dumont is someone I knew  for quite some time through our various community and journalistic involvements. Both of these notable people will be dearly missed.

Part of what we do here at the paper is give space for people doing interesting things and unique events that may be overlooked by other media outlets. If you have suggestions about community happenings we should cover, contact me at editor@bmcnews.org.

On a related note, if you are interested in volunteering with the paper, drop me a line at editor@bmcnews.org to find out about current volunteer opportunities. We currently have a couple of block carrier delivery routes available, and always seek writers  and photographers available to cover local events.

Have a wonderful couple of months. We’ll be back in August.

Linda Dumont was a McCauley resident with an influence that reached far beyond the neighbourhood she called home. With her recent death from cancer, a powerful force for fair treatment of people living in poverty has been lost.

Dumont is best known as the publisher and editor of Alberta Street News (formerly Edmonton Street News) since 2003, one of the few surviving street newspapers in the world. The paper was her initiative to permit people to have the dignity of earning a living if they were not able to maintain more conventional employment. At the same time, it brought perspectives and personal experiences from marginalized people to a wider audience.

From her arrival in Edmonton in 1989, Dumont was anchored in her Christian faith and always active with urban core missions, her own and others. She loved to organize and host meals and parties for those who had little opportunity for a social life. She loved to share what she was learning about God’s love. And she loved to make a fuss whenever she encountered injustice, once setting up a tent at City Hall for several days to call attention to homelessness.

Dumont’s connection with newspapers began with selling the first street paper, Spare Change, on street corners to make money to support her family. But she went on to study journalism at MacEwan and worked for Our Voice and Boyle McCauley News (where she was Editor) before founding Edmonton Street News, which expanded to become Alberta Street News. As sales of street papers began to decline, Dumont never hesitated to take on teaching a few extra yoga classes to secure the funds to publish for another month.

Dumont had talents in abundance. In addition to journalism, she published several volumes of poetry and was a talented visual artist. She and a friend had the idea of an arts event for people living in poverty that became the Art from the Unknown show, still presented each year by MLA Rachel Notley. She served on the board of Songs of the Street, an organization that published anthologies of poetry by street-involved folks during the 1990s. The writers received awards donated by various organizations, and the anthologies were sold by the street newspaper vendors.

When she was honoured with an award as a peacemaker by Project Ploughshares in 2016, I said in introducing her, “Linda is a peacemaker because she never hesitates to disturb the peace of those who allow injustice. She is genuine, daring, tough, and loving.”

Dumont’s blunt message when something upset her was not always appreciated, but the hundreds of people who were blessed by her practical help when they needed it to survive have a much more generous opinion of her. She will be deeply missed by her children, grandchildren, and a host of friends.

Jim Gurnett is a social justice advocate who is also a former board member of Boyle McCauley News.

People may not have known William St. Savard personally, but in scores of homes and offices his distinctive drawings - often featuring feathers, eagles, and human faces - command attention. 

Known best as Ceno, St. Savard lived much of his life in McCauley and Boyle Street, after moving as a youth from Athabasca. He could often be seen around the community with a large piece of paper and his pens creating a work of art for someone. He loved to share his drawings and his sense of humour, and he was always quick to offer assistance and support to others who were struggling. 

In the final years of his life he lived at Ambrose Place, continuing to draw until arthritis made it difficult to use his hands.

Jim Gurnett is a social justice advocate who is also a former board member of Boyle McCauley News.

The Edmonton Intercultural Centre (EIC) is a community full of love, caring, and support. In this and future articles, we will inform readers of the non-profit organizations operating in the EIC facility in order to bring light to their many good deeds.

Located in the heart of Edmonton at the Intercultural Centre (9530 107 Avenue), the Intercultural Child and Family Centre (ICFC) epitomizes high-quality, culturally responsive child care and education. With operational hours from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and plans to extend these hours to 9:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday, ICFC aims to support parents working nontraditional hours, ensuring flexibility and inclusivity for all families.

At the core of ICFC’s mission is a deep commitment to celebrating the diverse cultural heritage of its community. This commitment is woven into the fabric of its playrooms and educational programs, designed to support not just the child care needs of families but also to foster a robust sense of community and enhance the professional development of its educators.

Serving more than 75 children ranging from newborn to 12 years, ICFC prides itself on providing individualized care. Each child’s educational journey is captured through detailed portfolios, which include educator bios, artifacts, and learning stories. This documentation process makes the learning journey tangible and engaging for children and their parents, ensuring a collaborative and transparent educational experience.

The centre’s educational philosophy is a blend of cultural richness and education, manifested through uniquely named playrooms such as El Nido, Salaam, Natonam, and Kapatiran. Each name reflects core values like nurturing, peace, wonder, and brotherhood/sisterhood, fostering an environment of creativity, exploration, and a strong sense of belonging among children of various age groups. For more information about the names of the playrooms, visit www.icfc.ca/ICFCMcCauley_Playrooms.

Beyond its educational ethos, ICFC emphasizes the importance of extended child care hours to meet the diverse schedules of families. This flexibility, coupled with the inclusion of nutritional, homemade, whole-food meals, underscores ICFC’s comprehensive approach to family support.

Visit the ICFC website to discover more about the Intercultural Child and Family Centre’s innovative offerings, educational philosophies, and unwavering commitment to community and cultural responsiveness: www.icfc.ca. The website provides a window into the pioneering spirit that defines early childhood education at ICFC.

Information provided by the Edmonton Intercultural Centre, which is located at 9538 107 Avenue.

Rosalie Gelderman is a recipient of a 2023 Minister’s Seniors Service Award. The awards were announced in mid-April of this year. She is one of three recipients of an Individual Award. 

Here is the official communication from the Government of Alberta about Rosalie and why she was chosen as a recipient. 

Rosalie Gelderman, a devoted advocate for seniors, has dedicated over four decades to seniors’ well-being in Alberta and beyond. Her extensive contributions include over a decade of impactful work with the Edmonton Seniors Coordinating Council, where she played a pivotal role in shaping projects such as the seniors home supports program, diversity resources for seniors centres, and outreach service models, leveraging her insights, extensive connections, and wisdom. With 26 years at Operation Friendship Seniors Society and subsequent roles as the Aging in Place Project Coordinator in Edmonton, Rosalie has been a catalyst for innovative strategies, ensuring housing and support for marginalized seniors. Her extensive volunteerism, spanning 28 years, includes chairing the Keiskamma Canada Foundation, which supports South African seniors, and serving on many non-profit and city boards. She is known for fostering community understanding, safety, and compassionate responses in all her roles. Rosalie is a positive role model and is described by her colleagues as a one-woman harm reduction program, embodying quiet determination in her decades-long commitment to improving the lives of seniors. Rosalie’s exceptional service, wealth of knowledge, and unwavering dedication to serving Alberta seniors across multiple sectors stands as a testament to over four decades of quiet activism, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those she has touched.

Rosalie said that she is honoured to receive the award and also to meet the Lieutenant Governor. In her acceptance speech, Rosalie said that, “it was in the inner city where I found a home and spent most of my working life – supporting and advocating for seniors on the margins, often struggling with mental illness and addictions. I learned that respect goes farther than the best laid plans to fix them.”

Rosalie's speech concluded with some words of wisdom: “We say it takes a village to raise a child. It also takes a village to age. May we all live well in community, giving and receiving a helping hand.”

Rosalie lives in McCauley, where she has volunteered with numerous community organizations, including the McCauley Community League and Inn Roads Housing Co-op. She is also Boyle McCauley News’ bookkeeper as well as a block carrier and proofreader. 

Congratulations Rosalie! 

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”-Helen Keller (June 27, 1880-June 1, 1968), American author, disability rights advocate, and lecturer.

Helen Keller, a legendary advocate for disability rights, was born and died in the same month: June (of course, in different years).

She lost her sight and hearing as an infant. This was attributed to an unknown illness at the time, but is believed to have been either rubella, scarlet fever, encephalitis, or meningitis.

Keller was non-verbal until age seven, when she met a remarkable teacher, Anne Sullivan, who taught her language, reading, and writing.

She then went on to graduate from Radcliffe College at Harvard University and became the first deaf-blind person in the United States to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Keller spent her lifetime lecturing, penning 14 books and hundreds of articles. She not only advocated for disability rights, but also other social justice causes such as world peace and women’s right to vote.

An example of strength, determination, and courage, she is heralded as one of the most notable humans in history.

As a disability advocate myself who was also born in June, I cherish Helen Keller as an inspiration and someone who worked to make the world a better place.

Ian is a columnist with the paper. He lives in the area.

While the George Spady Centre Society is moving from McCauley to the west end, it is unclear what will replace the social agency in the provincially-owned facility. Equally concerning is the future of the supervised consumption services currently offered at the Centre, but which will not be relocating to the new location.

At a public hearing on February 20th, City Council approved the Society’s request to rezone the lot at 15625 Stony Plain Road to allow for a 2,000-square-metre medically supported detoxification unit. This will double the floor area used for detox services compared to its current location in McCauley at 100th Street and 105A Avenue. 

In a statement to Boyle McCauley News, Hunter Baril, Press Secretary of the Minister of Mental Health and Addiction, explained that the Province approved the Society’s expansion of its detox program from 31 to 41 beds. As well, the number of residential recovery beds will increase from 10 to 19. In total, 19 new beds will be added. 

“An increase in detox and residential treatment services means a different location is needed,” Baril said. “This is also in an effort to decentralize services from the downtown core.”

During Council’s discussion about the Society’s rezoning application, Councillor Andrew Knack also addressed the need to decentralize social services from the inner city. He said the move would fulfil the City’s goal of offering services to address homelessness, mental health, and addictions outside the inner core, where agencies have been clustered for many years.

City Administration supported the rezoning application, while also citing the need to decentralize social services. 

Last November, a number of residents and organizations in McCauley and Chinatown opposed The Mustard Seed’s rezoning application to develop 124 emergency shelter beds in the former Operation Friendship facility at 9526 106 Avenue. This facility is also owned by the Province. City Council approved  this rezoning, which means that 88% of permanent emergency shelter beds in Edmonton are located in McCauley.

On April 8th, the Community and Public Services Committee will be discussing a much-delayed report on the decentralization of social services in the inner city, along with an inventory of services located in McCauley, Boyle Street, and Central McDougall. 

A key strategy in Edmonton’s Downtown Core and Transit System Safety Plan, the City’s 2022 report to the Province on safety issues, is that the “Administration will work with community, stakeholders and other orders of government to create a five-year plan to redistribute social services from Chinatown and Downtown to other appropriate areas of the city.”

Phil O’Hara lives in McCauley. He was one of the residents who spoke in opposition to The Mustard Seed’s rezoning application in November 2023.

Zocalo, the beloved community garden shop and cafe at 10826 95th Street, was severaly damanged in a fire in early January. Here is an update from the business at to how things are progressing. This update was sent directly to Boyle McCauley News, and versions of it have also been posted on Zocalo's social media accounts.

Zocalo continues to rebuild and renovate the store and greenhouse space. We are looking forward to the seeds of new beginnings and fresh starts. 

To our community, we thank you wholeheartedly for your support. Your thoughtful and caring messages cheer us on. We are grateful to every person who has left us warm notes of kindness and hope. Also, a big thanks to those who have purchased gift cards or sent smiles our way.

As we thaw from the winter storms, we look forward to enjoying warm coffee with you in the greenhouse. You are in our minds and hearts, and we look forward to kibitzing with you soon.

We want to assure you that, while it may look like little is happening from the outside, we are here. As the fire caused major damage to the electrical and heating systems, the renewal process will be long. However, we are working hard with project managers, insurance and staff to re-open our doors as soon as we can. 

Stay tuned for warmer, brighter, colourful new things coming your way.  Spring is coming and we hope to bask in its warmth with you soon.

Co-owner Miranda Ringma also adds that neighbouring businesses Venetian Barber Shop, Violets, and Love Object will likely re-open soon following some final details concerning the cleaning of their spaces.

Winter is almost over and our skating season was wonderful, albeit late to start. The McCauley Community League wishes to thank Rink Manager Dan Glugosh and his team for putting in the ice and running the rink. 

We held the McCauley Cup later in the season than usual due to the warm weather. On January 27th, Chief of Police Dale McFee played in the game and Mayor Sohi attended, along with our City Councillor, Anne Stevenson. The event was organized by Dan Glugosh and many Edmonton Police Service officers from the Downtown Division. The kids won the game and Mayor Sohi presented the cup to them. 

It was a fairly warm and sunny day and the event was well-attended. Folks were treated to doughnuts, sandwiches, coffee, and hot chocolate. The event was funded by the Edmonton Police Foundation and the Oilers Entertainment Group. Sponsors included United Cycle, Sport Central, Italian Centre Shop, Italian Bakery, Tim Hortons, Elite Sports Promotional Marketing, and Oilers Alumni, in addition to the McCauley Community League. 

On February 18th our community celebrated Family Day. More than 200 people came out on a beautiful afternoon to enjoy skating, face-painting, music, food, and more. We couldn’t have done it without the help of our volunteers. We would like to thank the following people: Jakki, Leanne, Laurie, Shelly, Roma, Re, Ruth, Maia, Nekoola, and Jackie.  

We especially want to thank the Pagnotta/Mannarino family for providing the most delicious meal of meatballs (so good!), hot dogs, doughnuts, and water. The meal was in memory of long-time McCauley resident Albert Pagnotta.

We are still seeking folks who live in the neighbourhood or own a business here to join our board. If you have an interest in coming to one of our meetings, we meet at The Boys and Girls Club on the third Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). We meet in the conference room that is accessible by the side door which faces 95th Street. You can ring the bell marked “conference room.” We can also be reached at league@mccauleycl.com.

Corine Demas is the President of the McCauley Community League.

Get ready to showcase your talent and be part of something extraordinary! We’re thrilled to announce that artist applications for the Heart of the City Festival, scheduled for June 8th and 9th, are now officially open. While our festival typically lands on the first weekend of June, this year, due to ongoing construction in Giovanni Caboto Park, we’ve moved the dates to the following weekend. Whether you’re a musician, dancer, visual artist, or another kind of artist or performer, we invite you to join us in making this year’s festival an unforgettable experience for all. Don’t miss out on this chance to showcase your talent and connect with our diverse audience. Visit our website at heartcityfest.com to access the application form.

Heart of the City’s AGM, held at Culina McCauley on February 26th, saw a robust turnout with over 40 community members in attendance. The event served as an inclusive platform for residents, local businesses, and volunteers to gather and reflect on the organization’s accomplishments over the past year. Overall, it was a testament to the strength and unity of Heart of the City’s mission in fostering a thriving and connected neighbourhood. Heartfelt gratitude goes out to the staff at Culina McCauley for their invaluable support and warm hospitality during the AGM. Their dedication and assistance played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the event, creating a welcoming atmosphere that facilitated meaningful connections and fruitful discussions among attendees. We extend our sincere appreciation for their hard work and commitment to serving our community, and we look forward to continued collaboration in the future.

We’re also excited to introduce the newly implemented - and free - Heart of the City (HOTC) membership program, designed to bring our community even closer together. With a HOTC membership, individuals gain exclusive access to workshops, events, and up-to-date information on society happenings. This initiative aims to provide members with enriching experiences, opportunities for personal and professional growth, and a deeper connection to our vibrant community. You can now become a member of HOTC by signing up on our website. Simply visit heartcityfest.com to register and become a part of our vibrant community. 

Information provided by Heart of the City.

Mike Tulley and I sat down for coffee and a chat at Spinelli’s in Little Italy.

“I’ve been doing sound and helping with production for Heart of the City since the beginning,” he says. “I came in right from the start as a sound technician [with] my previous company, which we named after my initials, MKT Systems. We were cheap but it was not volunteer work.”

He continues: “Heart of the City is a great little festival for introducing new performers to the world. Every year there are performers for whom Heart of the City is their first time on stage in front of an audience and they are terribly nervous but sometimes it’s still a great performance.”

When I asked Mike what has kept him going all these years, he responded: “Partly the fun, partly because I live in the neighbourhood. I’ve recently moved north to Alberta Avenue, but for most of the time of the Heart of the City Festival I lived in either Boyle Street or McCauley.”

Mike has officially retired but you can still catch him occasionally doing sound with Listen Louder Productions. He also mentors emerging sound techs.“The CO*LAB inner city venue is a place not only for emerging artists to perform, but for emerging techs to improve their skills and so we are getting young techs coming from MacEwan University helping us and improving their real world skills by working in a real world venue,” Mike says.

Mike shared the good news that “CO*LAB, as a venue, is going to pull through.” He said that many people made calls to the City and that our City councillor, Anne Stevenson, has been very helpful in saving the inner city venue.

Mike has been living in Edmonton, aside from one year in Toronto, since April Fools’ Day (April 1st) of 1970. “I didn’t actually pick that day consciously, but I needed to get out of the United States in a hurry because the U.S. Army had found out where I was living.”

Mike is an American citizen who fled to Canada so that he would not be sent to war in Vietnam. I asked him if we could keep this on the record and he said, “At my age I don’t think they want me back.”

He explains that he chooses to live in the inner city mostly for financial reasons. “Let’s face it: this is the least expensive place to rent a home in the city. When you’re supporting the arts, the paycheque is not great.” 

However, Mike also adds that, “In the arts community the rewards are other than money. The artists have always found cheaper places to live. What’s right about this [area] is that we have a lot of artistic and creative people here. I think that among people who are poor there is a better sense of mutual support.” 

Mike wanted to give a special shout out of thanks to McCauley-based musician AV (Ann Vriend) for her porch concert series during the pandemic. He said that it was a bright spot for those dark days. 

Corine Demas lives in McCauley where she is the President of the McCauley Community League and a board member with Heart of the City.

A takeout and catering outlet that opened on March 1st is the third component of the Caruso family’s thriving restaurant business. It joins the two Panini’s restaurants: one next door on Jasper Avenue and 85th Street and another in Sherwood Park.

Co-owner Tony Caruso says his brother Rob, the head chef for the company, was often frying chicken at home for family gatherings. “This is so good,” people said, nicknaming it “Rob’s famous fried chicken.” They teased him, saying, “Why don’t you serve this at Panini’s?” (They know that the Panini’s menu is firmly focused on pizza, pasta, and - of course - paninis.)

Then one day the Edgewater building’s landlord told Tony and Rob that a space was available next door to the Jasper Avenue Panini’s and asked if they wanted to expand. There was a need for storage and a cooler, so a deal was made. 

As things progressed, it became apparent that the front part of the newly acquired area was unused. “The rest is history,” Tony says. The added space is too small for a sit-down restaurant, but it works fine for takeout, and there is room for what Tony calls a “mighty kitchen.”

Rob’s father, who was a tile contractor and home builder, took over the construction job. The Carusos have high standards. For example, there are checkerboard tile floors and a custom railing for customer line-ups. So Tony ended up helping a lot, which meant extremely long days as he has many other duties in the business.

Tony says takeout only has proven to be a profitable business model, as “many people prefer to stay home.” The Carusos have also found that weddings currently include a late lunch featuring foods like pizza and even donairs. So why not fried chicken? Rob’s Famous Fried Chicken also plans to cater to company parties and events. 

The manager of this new venture, Reid Wald, has worked at Panini’s for the past two years. “Reid has mastered every single station,” Tony says. “It is great to have someone so responsible and talented to take over.”

Anita Jenkins is a retired writer and editor who lives in Boyle Street.

Imagine a future Edmonton where community groups tend and celebrate thousand-year-old trees. What would these ancient trees tell us about our past and our responsibility to the future? A group of Edmontonians calling ourselves the Secret LongTree Society have an ambitious plan to answer these questions and make this vision a reality.

More Abundant Futures

What does it mean to be a good ancestor? We have one past, one present, and many potential futures. Unfortunately, our cultural narrative has turned dystopian. From post-apocalyptic blockbusters to 24-hour news coverage, the future feels less certain than ever. Planting thousand-year-old trees challenges our narrative by suggesting that the future could be more abundant.

Join the Secret LongTree Society

Growing ancient trees means growing a community of dedicated, long-term thinkers. What better place to start than planting thousand-year-old trees in each Edmonton community league? Leagues are community-led organizations that often have access to centrally located green spaces, making them a natural fit for the planting and care of neighbourhood trees. That is why we’re searching for interested leagues and reaching out to community members to get involved in the project.

The Secret LongTree Society is a volunteer group of Edmontonians dedicated to propagating, planting, and tending better futures. You can learn more about us, get involved, and steward a LongTree in your community by visiting publicecology.com/longtrees.

Information submitted by the Secret LongTree Society.

The Edmonton Intercultural Centre (EIC) is a community full of love, caring, and support. In this and future articles, we will inform readers of the non-profit organizations operating in the EIC facility in order to bring light to their many good deeds.

Multicultural Health Brokers Cooperative (MCHB) merged out of a public health initiative to enhance maternal and infant health within immigrant and refugee communities. Since 1995, MCHB has supported immigrant, refugee, and other newcomer families isolated because of cultural and linguistic distance. 

What is a Multicultural Health Broker? A Multicultural Health Broker is a bilingual and bicultural community health worker who practices “cultural brokering” and is often a member of the community they serve. The practice of cultural brokering is an intentional act of linking, bridging, and mediating between our families or communities with formal systems for the purposes of reducing conflict and creating change. 

MCHB is an award-winning cooperative recognized for its services to communities by Public Interest Alberta, the Alberta College of Social Workers, the Canadian Worker Co-operative Federation, Capital Heath, and the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers.

MCHB is dedicated to fostering reciprocal exchange, mutual transformation, and equitable relationships. These are values that resonate throughout their diverse range of programs and services, such as the “First Step to Integration” initiative, a cornerstone of the English for Employment program launched in September 2016. This program has successfully assisted more than 190 newcomer students in acquiring training and securing meaningful employment in Canada. It not only imparts essential linguistic skills, but also aids participants in navigating and seamlessly adjusting to the intricacies of Canadian work culture. MCHB recognizes the importance of embracing multicultural perspectives as a means to enrich communities and fortify the fabric of society. 

Other programs and services include Perinatal Health Outreach, Multicultural Family Connections, Family Support for Children with Disabilities, Food Dignity Program (such as the MCHB Grocery Run), Mental Health Counselling and Therapy, and more. 

MCHB has more than 100 multilingual community health workers of diverse cultural backgrounds. They serve families within 25 local communities including Arabic-speaking, Bhutanese, Chinese, English-speaking African, Eritrean, Ethiopian, Filipino-speaking, South Asian, Somali, Spanish-speaking, Sudanese, Turkish, and Vietnamese, all working to deliver MCHB’s programs and services in the first language at no cost to the individual or family. 

For more information, please visit MCHB’s website at www.mchb.org or call 780-423-1973.

Information provided by the Edmonton Intercultural Centre, which is located at 9538 107 Avenue.

Dear friends,

As I write this, the days are getting longer, and I am so enjoying the sunshine. And when you read this, I hope we’re all the way into spring and enjoying warm weather and green leaves!

Because my letters are due a couple of weeks before they’re published in the wonderful Boyle McCauley News, writing them is a great exercise in looking ahead. What community events am I looking forward to? What are my hopes for all of us over the next couple of months, and what are some challenges that we may need to address together?

I know that this past winter was tough for so many of our neighbours. During some of the coldest days on record, we saw people scrambling to save their belongings and find safe places to stay. The cost of living has continued to rise, meaning that so many people cannot afford even the basic necessities they need to get by.    

I mentioned in my last letter that I know that we have a long way to go, and a lot of work to do, to meet the needs of everyone in our community. We must ensure that we are all able to live safely, that we are all treated with dignity and respect, and that we all have access to community care and support. This is truer than ever.

I also mentioned that, back in December, I had the opportunity to introduce my first private member’s bill in the legislature: Bill 205, the Housing Statutes (Housing Security) Amendment Act 2023. This bill includes a proposed four-year cap on rent increases in Alberta, and a requirement for the provincial government to report to Albertans on how much affordable housing is being built each year. I am pleased to share that this bill will go to debate in the legislature during the second week of March. 

As I prepare to debate Bill 205, please know that I’ll be thinking of all my constituents, including all of you in Boyle Street and McCauley. I’ll be thinking of the heartbreaking stories I’ve heard about spiking rents, and of folks who have been waiting for years to access safe, affordable housing. I’ll urge my colleagues in the legislature to do what’s right - to ensure that all of us have steady and secure access to this basic need.

I know that housing is an important piece of making life affordable, but it’s not the only piece. So please be assured that my Alberta NDP Caucus colleagues and I will also fight for things like funding for municipal infrastructure, including for the schools and hospitals that our communities desperately need.

I know that we have a lot more work to do together and, as always, I want to hear from you. Please reach out and know that I’m here to listen and to work alongside you as we build a better province for folks in Boyle Street, McCauley, and in communities all across Alberta. 

Take good care of yourselves and each other.

Janis Irwin, MLA for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood
Email: Edmonton.HighlandsNorwood@assembly.ab.ca
Phone: 780-414-0682

Greetings everyone! 

I hope you are enjoying the lengthening days and promise of warmer weather ahead - I know I am. As we switch from one season to another, there can be a gap where there isn’t enough snow and ice for winter fun, but it’s still not warm enough for summer activities. This makes it a perfect time to turn to some of the great indoor activities there are to enjoy around the ward.

Journey of the Horse is a new installation that showcases the life of the Chinese community that has been so crucial to our city’s history. The thoughtful displays offer a glimpse into Edmonton’s past and also the resiliency and strength of our whole community. I’m so impressed by the volunteers at the Mah Society who made this exhibit a reality and I encourage you to check it out at 9643 101A Avenue. For information on dates and times of public tours, visit journeyofthehorseyeg.wixsite.com/home.

While you’re in the neighbourhood, you can also visit the incredible Ociciwan Contemporary Art Centre located at 10124 96th Street. This beautiful gallery showcases contemporary Indigenous artists. The Centre is open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

In addition to these local gems, there are also great opportunities nearby. Did you know the Alberta Art Gallery offers free admission on the last Thursday of every month, from 4-7 p.m.? Take advantage and go check out their wonderful exhibitions, like Tom Thomson: North Star (until May 26th), and Dwayne Martineau: Boreal Fortress (until August 4th). The Royal Alberta Museum also offers free admission to all seniors during Seniors’ Week in June. Plan a trip and check out their special exhibit, Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia, until July 28th.

Don’t forget other great public indoor amenities like the Stanley Milner Library and Commonwealth Recreation Centre. Whether you want to get active in the pool or the gym, or relax with a good book or enjoy a free movie screening, these facilities have you covered.

While there are so many great places to enjoy in our neighbourhoods, what truly makes it fantastic is all of you: the people who make it a community. I’m grateful to everyone who has taken the time to reach out or say hello in recent months. It’s always a delight to connect with you so please never hesitate to connect with my office, and don’t forget that 311 is there to help too. Thank you for reading and happy spring!

Email: anne.stevenson@edmonton.ca
Phone: 780-496-8333

Before and after images of a demolition coordinated by DARC in Parkdale.. Supplied by Civida Residents of a central Edmonton community say they are feeling safer now that a long-standing derelict property has been demolished and the lot cleared of debris thanks to Edmonton’s Problem Property Initiative (PPI).

“The house was always derelict and falling apart and it just got worse and worse,” says Jeremiah Valleau, who also expressed feeling anxious for his personal safety living next to the Parkdale property since 2015. “The roof caved in. I’m sure it was full of mould and, for whatever reason, no one was willing to take care of the property. Living next to it, I noticed myself feeling a lot of anxiety. Fire was always a big fear. I was always worried about someone starting a fire. It was two metres away from my house and the main exit for my basement renters.”

Demolition of the derelict home, which included removing the structure, cleaning debris, and returning the property to level grade, took crews approximately one week.

John Bale, Operational Supervisor of Safety Codes Compliance who led the demolition project team with the City of Edmonton, says it’s all about engaging with communities and keeping neighbourhoods safe. “Our primary focus is on public safety and the well being of communities. Derelict properties are very unsafe structurally, but they also attract unwanted activity like illegal dumping and squatting which can lead to fire related issues.”  

The Problem Property Initiative coordinates the efforts of multiple City departments, the Edmonton Police Services, Alberta Health Services, and the Government of Alberta to address the issues associated with problem properties. Each organization brings different regulations and enforcement approaches to the initiative’s teams. 

One key team in the initiative - the Demolition Assessment and Response Committee, or “DARC” - is leading the City’s approach to the demolition of larger unsafe structures. 

DARC combines the regulations and enforcement approaches of four different City areas: Community Standards & Neighbourhoods, Fire Rescue Services, Legal Services, and Safety Codes. The committee identifies and prioritizes properties for demolition and uses the most effective legislation available to expedite demolitions where required.

The recent demolition in Parkdale was DARC’s first large-scale project. The property had caused considerable concern for neighbours, repeated calls for service, and had been dealt with by various PPI partners for several years. Ultimately, it was identified by DARC as unsafe to the surrounding community. And in December 2023, DARC, led by Safety Codes, demolished the house and backfilled the basement with dirt.

After years of such dealings, residents like Jeremiah Valleau are happy that something could finally be done. 

“For a long time it felt like the City wasn’t able to do anything about these properties,” he said. “It’s good to know that’s changed. And it’s good to know someone’s listening. The demolition company did a good job. Everyone in the neighbourhood was so happy to see the fences go up and the house come down. It was a glorious day. It was a joy to watch it come down.” 

The property is surrounded by other residential properties and having this derelict structure removed has improved the safety of the surrounding community. 

In all cases where the Problem Property Initiative facilitates the demolition of unsafe buildings, the costs incurred by the City are transferred to the property owner.

This work is part of Edmonton’s Problem Property Initiative. In December of 2022, City Council approved permanent funding to implement the City’s long-term strategy to address properties that cause frequent and serious safety concerns and complaints to the City.

Keep in Touch with Edmonton’s Problem Property Initiative

Edmontonians can now access several resources to stay informed about how the City’s Problem Property Initiative and its partners are addressing problem properties. 

An electronic newsletter - The Problem Property Initiative News - has been launched and is available for anyone interested to subscribe to get news delivered directly to their email inbox. Residents can sign up by visiting edmonton.ca/ProblemProperties. 

To learn more about the Problem Property Initiative or to report a problem property, visit edmonton.ca/ProblemProperties or call 311.

Information provided by the City of Edmonton.

The second issue of Volume 45 is in your hands (or on your computer/device screen). Hello, and thank you for taking the time to read the April-May 2024 edition. 

If you happen to be reading this on a computer, tablet, or smartphone, please take some time to explore our website (bmcnews.org) and enjoy the web exclusives, archives, and other features. You can also subscribe to our free e-newsletter which is delivered directly to your inbox with each new issue of the paper. We also post links to new features and photos from events in between issues at X (formerly Twitter) at @bmcnews.  

Our casino took place on February 28 and 29 and was organized by our Volunteer Coordinator, Colleen Chapman, who tirelessly worked to get positions filled for our biggest fundraising event. Thank you Colleen! As well, thank you to everyone who volunteered to take a shift (or two). 

Volunteers are a huge part of Boyle McCauley News. Most of the paper’s content is written and photographed by volunteers. Volunteers also proofread and deliver the paper. To learn about current volunteer opportunities, drop me a line at editor@bmcnews.org. 

Thanks again for reading. Enjoy the issue, and we’ll be back in June

As many of you already know, Boyle McCauley News has been publishing for 45 years. That’s quite a milestone, especially considering just a few years ago we were unsure if the paper was going to be able to continue.

We mark milestones in our lives usually through some large act of pomp and circumstance. In my life, “Pomp and Circumstance” was literally played in my presence as I graduated with a Master of Library and Information Studies from the University of Alberta in November.  It was an experience I shared with hundreds of others who graduated from various programs, and their loved ones. That collective experience alone made it a big deal.

As I completed my studies, I also celebrated a milestone birthday, which I consider to be one that ends in a “5” or a “0”. I kept things low-key with a small family celebration. After all, it was just about me, and when it comes to birthdays I prefer to keep them on the quiet side.  

If I were to be asked the biggest way we are marking 45 years of publishing, I would respond that it’s by still being here. Shortly after the start of the pandemic we found ourselves in a financial crisis that threatened the future of the paper. Fortunately, we pulled through, thanks to the efforts of our staff, board, and greater community. 

The work and effort it took to save Boyle McCauley News reflects the importance this non-profit, independent community newspaper has to its readers and supporters. In celebrating its survival, we also celebrate the dedication of its community. What an incredible milestone. Congratulations, and thank you.

No matter how hard it is to pay the bills, people shouldn’t be forced to neglect their dental health because of high costs. That’s why, for years, the NDP fought to deliver dental care for everyone who needs it. We used our power in this Parliament to force the implementation of a national dental care program for Canadians.

Since December, over 600,000 seniors have already been approved for the Canadian Dental Care Program and 9 million Canadians will be eligible by 2025. This is an important step toward the universal health coverage that Canadians need. It will make life more affordable for families and keep everyone healthier. 

Who is eligible?

• Who is eligible?
• Have no access to employer/pension-sponsored or private dental insurance;
• Have an annual adjusted family net income under $90,000;
• Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes; and 
• Have filed their tax return in the previous year.
• NOTE: Canadian residents already covered by provincial, territorial or federal dental programs are eligible for the CDCP.

When can you apply?

• Seniors aged 70+ began receiving a letter inviting them to apply by phone starting in December 2023 through March 2024, in sequence based on age.
• Seniors aged 65-69 will be able to apply online starting in May 2024.
• People with a Disability Tax Credit certificate and children under 18 will be able to apply online in June 2024. 
• Applications for all remaining eligible Canadian residents should start by 2025.

I’m excited to share that I’ll be hosting a Dental Care Open House with Norwood Dental on Sunday, April 28th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Alberta Avenue Community League. Childcare will be available from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Come and learn more about the program, take home some dental swag, and enjoy oral health freebies and education for parents, children, and adults with Dr. William Chin. 

For more information on the CDCP or the open house, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office at Blake.Desjarlais@parl.gc.ca or by phone at 780-495-3261, or visit www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan.html. 

Every Canadian deserves health care that covers them from head to toe. That’s why the NDP is using our power to secure new investments like dental care, pharmacare, mental health, and more. 

Thank you, Merci, Hiy Hiy,
Blake Desjarlais
Member of Parliament, Edmonton Griesbach

With so many dining options in our neighbourhood, restaurants change, yet some things stay the same. So while restaurants come and go, our love of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) stays the same! In our October-November issue, we covered Delicious Pho, which moved from its old space on 106th Avenue. Now that emptied space has been filled by a new restaurant called Pho Satay & Grill.

The new owners have renovated the space with a clean and modern design using grey wood and black furniture. The look features big wall menus, as well as glossy table menus that offer a broad selection of dishes. There’s not only Vietnamese cuisine but also a selection of Thai and Chinese items.

Being a group of four allowed us to try quite a few items, starting with crispy fried coconut shrimp which was a standout appetizer. The six pieces arrived with a creamy dipping sauce and was followed by four salad rolls filled with steamed shrimp and sliced pork and ham. The very meaty salad rolls came with a jumbo-sized bowl of peanut sauce which I especially enjoyed.

Any restaurant with pho in the name is all about the soup, and since this spot offers more than just pho, we gave the wonton soup a try. We didn’t expect how large each of the slightly sweet tasting meat-filled wontons were, and there must have been ten of them. It was certainly a filling meal in itself.

Next up was the #30 pho with flank, brisket, and tendon. If you’re hungry, I recommend this one - you’ll be very happy with the quantity of meat and noodles. The only surprise was that it didn’t come with the bean sprouts and basil that typically accompany most pho soups.

My partner enjoys pho bo kho, a traditional beef stew, so had to try the #49. It arrived with a plentiful, rich, deep red broth, the richness countered by a leaner beef that was well seasoned and slow-cooked.

To experience more than just soups, we also ordered a vermicelli bowl with grilled shrimp skewers, chicken, and spring roll. This was different in that it didn’t come with fish sauce that accompanies most Vietnamese bowls, and it might have been the biggest menu item. There was plenty left over for tomorrow’s lunch.

No matter what we chose, all the servings were substantial, most dishes being priced between $14 to $18, and with the choice of large or small soups. Alongside our meals we enjoyed two iced coffees, as well as a red bean smoothie and an avocado shake. And maybe next time we’ll get to explore the Thai items on the menu. This might be a great choice if you’re dining with companions who each enjoy different Asian cuisines.

Pho Satay & Grill is open 10:30 a.m.- 9 p.m. Wednesday to Monday. It is closed on Tuesdays.

Alan lives in McCauley. He is the Chair of the paper’s Board of Directors.

February 22 was the National Human Trafficking Awareness Day in Canada. A small group marked the date with a Red Sand prayer vigil and ceremony in front of Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples.

Participants  took turns reciting prayers and sharing stories from survivors of human trafficking.

The vigil and ceremony concluded with the spreading of red sand in sidewalk cracks. Organizers explained that the red sand symbolized both Jesus' sacrifice and people who have fallen through the cracks in society.

“I am different, not less” - Dr. Temple Grandin (American academic, animal behaviourist, and autistic person.)

April 2 marks World Autism Awareness Day. According to the Canadian Medical Association Journal 1-2% of the Canadian population is on the autism spectrum. Testing and diagnosis are usually done at an early age (3-8) but many adults also receive an autism diagnosis. 

According to WebMD: 

Autism, also called autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a complicated, lifelong condition that includes problems with communication and behavior. It's a spectrum disorder, which means it affects people in different ways and in varying degrees. It usually appears by age 2 or 3. 

People with autism have trouble with communication. They have trouble understanding what other people think and feel. This makes it hard for them to express themselves, either with words or through gestures, facial expressions, and touch.

People with autism may have problems with learning. Their skills might develop unevenly. For example, they could have trouble communicating but be unusually good at art, music, math, or things that involve memory. Because of this, they might do especially well on tests of analysis or problem-solving.

Here in Edmonton is a supportive non-profit organization called Autism Edmonton. From the About section of their Facebook page: 

Since 1971, Autism Edmonton (Autism Society of Edmonton Area) has provided services and support to autistic individuals in our community. Autism Edmonton has built a reputation as the "go-to" Autism Centre in Edmonton that connects families, individuals and professionals with autism-related resources and programs.

Their great services and experienced staff are very knowledgeable and communicate updated information via their newsletter, which can be accessed on their website.

There are myths and false information about autism. You can find a number of them debunked by Nevada’s Autism Treatment Assistance Program (ATAP) here like this one:

Myth: All individuals with autism have mental disabilities. a. Truth: Individuals on the autism spectrum are unique, with a wide range of intellectual abilities. Individuals with autism can be harder to test so IQ and abilities can be under or over-estimated unless testing is done by an expert in IDD and autism. Tests designed to include language and interpersonal analyses may misrepresent the intelligence of people with autism, who struggle with social skills. Many individuals on the autism spectrum have earned college and graduate degrees and work in a variety of professions. Conversely, it is sometimes mistakenly assumed that an individual with autism has a higher level of understanding than they do, based on their behavior, language skills, or high level of ability in a specific area.

The more we are aware, the more we can be supportive and help each other.

The editor of Boyle McCauley News, Paula E. Kirman, is not only energetic but also multi-talented. Music – not just printed words – has been an important and decades-long part of Kirman’s life. She is a singer/songwriter who plays the guitar (and dabbles with other instruments).

Kirman’s most recent achievement is the release of two full-length albums, The Crow (December, 2022) and Corners (May, 2023). The pandemic is in part responsible for kickstarting work on Corners, as Kirman was in isolation and set up a home studio for recording.

In 2019 Kirman began recording songs in collaboration with the late Bill Bourne, a prominent Canadian musician who often served as a mentor to aspiring artists. But the project had to be delayed: Bill had a busy touring schedule, his computer crashed, the pandemic hit, and then he was diagnosed with cancer and died in 2022. 

“However, [Bourne] left the bed tracks with me,” Kirman wrote about The Crow on her blog, “and I spent some time playing with them at home, adding backing vocals and other instruments like keyboard and mandolin. In the spring of 2022 I reached out to John Armstrong, a local musician and producer who used to work with Bill, and he was able to take what Bill and I recorded and brought in some of the most in-demand musicians in town to complete the album. I am especially grateful that, thanks to John and I being able to find Bill’s hard drives, we’re able to present Bill playing guitar on three of the tracks.”

Since around 2007, Kirman has performed in clubs and at events such as Heart of the City. Since the CDs were released - and pandemic restrictions lifted - Kirman has been appearing more often in local music venues. One show was scheduled at the Carrot Community Arts Coffeehouse during the January deep freeze and had to be postponed until May 3. Such is the life of an artist – the path is never smooth.

Paula, the superwoman

The title of Paula E. Kirman’s website is Words - Pictures - Music. This sums up her various and ambitious pursuits in communications, journalism, photography, and music. On her Facebook page, she has added “Community” to the above slogan. Kirman attends numerous social justice protest events taking place in Edmonton, often for causes she believes in herself. Her commitment to documenting progressive social movements was a reason she received the Human Rights Champion Award from the John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights in 2016 and the Edmonton Social Planning Council Award of Merit for Social Advocacy in 2018.

Recently added to this impressive CV: earning a Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) degree from the School of Library and Information Studies (SLIS) at the University of Alberta. Kirman proudly accepted her diploma on November 22, 2023.

Kirman is also a proud recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal, presented to her by MLA Janis Irwin in November of 2022.

Anita Jenkins is a retired writer and editor who lives in Boyle Street.

February 18th was a beautiful day filled with sunshine and fun at the McCauley Rink. The McCauley Community League once again organized its annual Family Day event featuring music, food, skating, face painting, wagon rides, and more. Food was provided by the Pagnotta/Mannarino families in memory of Albert Pagnotta. Here's a look!

The Year of the Dragon was welcomed in Chinatown on February 11th outside of Pacific Mall on 97th Street and 105th Avenue. Lunar New Year celebrations included the lighting of firecrackers by local dignitaries, a dragon dance, and a lion dance. Lion and dragon dances continued along 97th Street, while incdoor cultural performances took place at the Ukrainian National Federation building on 98th Street. 

The Mah Society of Edmonton may look like it occupies a small space at its location at 9643 101A Avenue, but its interior resonates with history.

One of the oldest Chinese association in Edmonton, the Society has occuped its current location since 1982. The Society is a network of the Mah family, offering an opportunity for members to stay connected while also giving back to the Chinese and greater Edmonton communities. 

A new exhibit on the main floor of the Mah Society features the family's history with photographs featuring Mah family members, framed lists of donors who helped support previous Mah Society buildings, and a timeline of the Mah family in Edmonton with notable members and their accomplishments.

However, the main attraction is in the basement of the building. "Journey of the Horse" is an extensive exhibit showcasing a century of Chinese history in Edmonton particularly through the lens of the Mah family. In fact, the surname "Mah" means "horse."  The exhibit includes photographs; immersive displays such as a laundromat, restaurant, and general store; and artifacts representing different aspects of Chinese culture and customs. "Journey of the Horse" is a unique, largely first-person look at Edmonton's Chinese history, curated by volunteer community members. There is a lot to see and absorb. Anyone interested in local history and the Chinese community should not miss the opportunity to check out the exhibit.

Opening ceremones for "Journey of the Horse" will take place on February 10th (Lunar New Year) from 10 to 11:30 a.m. The exhibit will be open to the general public starting on Sunday, February 11th, and will be available for viewing on several following Sundays. The opening ceremonies and exhibit viewings are free but require registration. For more information and to register, visit the Journey of the Horse website.

The Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market closed permanently on January 28th, marking the end of an era.

The market moved into the GWG/Army & Navy/Red Strap building on 97th Street and 103rd Avenue in 2019. The COVID pandemic and high operating costs of being in the building, which is over a century old, resulted in the association operating the market voting to cease operations and declare bankruptcy.

Here's hoping that the market can eventually be revived - it's the oldest farmers market in the city and one of downtown's gems. 

The photos here were taken on the market's last day of operations.

The weather could not have been better for the 2024 McCauley Cup, which took place on January 27th at the McCauley Rink. The annual hockey game between neighbourhood children and Downtown Division beat cops from the Edmonton Police Service was met with sunny skies, glistening ice, and lots of smiles. Participants got to enjoy doughtnuts and sandwiches from the Italian Bakery, as well as coffee and other snacks. There were appearances by former Oilers like Kevin Lowe and Al Hamilton, and Mayor Sohi presented the cup at the end of the game. 

Steven Johnson was five years old when he started playing guitar. “My parents signed me up for guitar lessons and I played this beat up guitar with rusty strings and my fingers were actually bleeding from that old guitar. I’m surprised I didn’t get tetanus,” he recalls. “Then, on my sixth birthday, I woke up in the morning and I saw a brand new electric guitar. It was way better after getting that guitar. I didn’t put it down for many years after that.”  

Steven wasn’t sure if he actually played the first year of the Heart of the City Festival or if the music lured him over to Giovanni Caboto Park to listen. He said that he’s pretty sure he had to apply to play and that he played the next 10 years consecutively.

“When the sun was out, [Heart of the City] was beautiful and busy. When it rained, the crew still did their jobs and the performers would play to no one,” Steven says, also noting that back then performers volunteered their time.

Speaking of volunteers, Steven adds: “A bunch of volunteers came out every year diligently. I saw the same people every year. The new faces on the team were ambitious and forthright and made sure [the festival] grew and it’s still going strong.”

Those of you who know Steven can’t help but remember watching his daughter Stella grow up alongside him at Heart of the City, starting from when she was a baby. As time went by, Stella began performing with her dad but later became a solo performer. “I got her playing harmonica initially and then she got over her stage fright doing that. She decided to sing, and she decided she was going to teach herself to play guitar and write her own songs. She started with the ukulele and wrote some wonderful songs. She began playing at the Heart of the City on her own.”

When I asked Steven what keeps him playing, he replied, “I sometimes have no idea what I’m doing. I have no idea why a guy works so hard. Well, it’s those times that you can make the sun come out, make the storm go away, if you play properly. In life, music makes the storms go away.”

Steven, who lives in McCauley, started teaching guitar lessons at the Boys and Girls Club 22 years ago after Dan Glugosh told him he needed to be teaching. Dan arranged for the McCauley Community League to sponsor the lessons. “There were some wonderful people that I met and the music changed their lives I believe,” he said. “It’s funny watching people get a guitar and a few weeks later, a month later, they start making headway and then they show up [with] a black leather jacket on and a different attitude.”

Steven is still doing the singer-songwriter thing and has a “psychedelic” solo project. As well, he has been playing with a band called Circle the Wolves for the last two years. The band’s music is on Spotify and Bandcamp. He continues to teach guitar lessons with the support of the McCauley Community League at 8 p.m. every Tuesday at the Boys and Girls Club here in McCauley. The lessons are free, open to anyone, and offered on a drop-in basis. 

Corine Demas lives in McCauley where she is the President of the McCauley Community League and a board member with Heart of the City.

Welcome to the new year, friends! Heart of the City’s 20th anniversary year has finally arrived! 

We will be hosting our Annual General Meeting at Culina McCauley (10821 95th Street) on Monday, February 26th at 6 p.m. 

This will be a family-friendly event with refreshments provided. We are so excited to share with you all of our updates and plans for the upcoming festival. 

We will be updating our socials with more information regarding the AGM as the day approaches. You can follow us at @heartcityfest on Facebook and Instagram.

In the meantime, stay warm!

Information provided by Heart of the City.

Dear friends,

At the time of writing this, temperatures here in Edmonton and across Alberta are plummeting and nearing record lows. I hope you’re all doing your best to stay safe and warm. 

I’ve been hearing from so many of you lately that as times get tougher and temperatures drop, the safety and well-being of our unhoused neighbours are at the top of your minds. I want you to know that this is true for me too. And I know that we have a long way to go and a lot of work to do to meet the needs of everyone in our community. We must ensure that we are all able to live safely, that we are all treated with dignity and respect, and that we all have access to community care and support.

When I wrote to you back in December, I noted that I would be introducing a private member’s bill in support of affordable housing. I’m proud to share that at the beginning of December, I did get to introduce this bill: Bill 205, the Housing Statutes (Housing Security) Amendment Act 2023. This bill includes a proposed four-year cap on rent increases in Alberta, and a requirement for the provincial government to report to Albertans on how much affordable housing is being built each year. I know that this bill, if passed, won’t solve the housing crisis in our province - this will take a multi-pronged, truly cooperative and collaborative approach. But I am confident that it will offer relief as we work towards permanent solutions.

This is hard work, but it’s work that we must do - and we’ll do it together. We’ll keep pushing to build the just, safe, and forward-thinking society that we all deserve. As I said in my last letter, it’s knowing that we’re together in this that makes me prouder than ever to be your MLA.

In addition to fighting for affordable housing for all, we’ll keep fighting for everything we need to build a strong, resilient province. We’ll keep fighting to protect your hard-earned pensions, to support renewable energy, to rebuild and strengthen our public healthcare system, and to ensure that our kids receive the education that they need and deserve.

I know that we have lots more work to do together and, as always, I want to hear from you. Please reach out, and know that I’m here to listen and to work alongside you as we build a better province for folks in Boyle Street, McCauley, and in communities all across Alberta. 

Take good care of yourselves and each other.

Janis Irwin, MLA for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood
Email: Edmonton.HighlandsNorwood@assembly.ab.ca
Phone: 780-414-0682

When newcomers connect directly to people in their new communities they have an easier time understanding English, making new friends, and learning more about Canadian culture. Therefore, they are able to have a smoother transition to life in Canada.

Getting settled in a new country is hard, but our Newcomer to Newcomer group will provide the chance to meet older and experienced newcomers who understand, and have been through, the transition of settling in Canada.

Our goal is to give newcomers the chance to learn about Canada and their new community from a personal viewpoint, one where they can also ask questions from other members who have been through the transition from their home country to life in Canada.

Newcomers are welcome to join us every last Sunday of the month. We look forward to seeing you! Come meet experienced newcomers who will share information that might help you simplify settling here in Canada.

For more information, please call the EIC at (780) 756-2655 or email EventsAtEIC@gmail.com.

Information provided by the Edmonton Intercultural Centre, which is located at 9538 107 Avenue.

Edmontonians can now access several resources to stay informed about how the City’s Problem Property Initiative (PPI) and its partners are addressing problem properties. 

An electronic newsletter - The Problem Property Initiative News - has been launched and is available for anyone interested to subscribe to get news delivered directly to their email inbox. Residents can sign up by visiting edmonton.ca/ProblemProperties. 

The PPI has also developed a data dashboard that uses charts, graphs, and maps to display details about the initiative’s performance. The PPI dashboard will provide residents with such information as the numbers of problem property files opened, inspections conducted, and days to close a file. This resource will also soon be found at edmonton.ca/ProblemProperties. 

These new resources add to several that already exist, including an increasingly informative and user-friendly web page, a confidential problem property reporting form, a PPI booklet, and a printable one sheet.

Through regular public communication, the PPI aims to build awareness of its work and strengthen relationships with residents affected by problem properties. These two new communication resources increase the ways that Edmontonians can keep in touch with the PPI.

Public communication is an essential part of the PPI’s long-term strategy to address problem properties. Since beginning to implement the strategy in late 2022, the PPI has:

• interacted with 4,891 people from 225 neighbourhoods and 62 stakeholder groups
• participated in 28 stakeholder meetings or neighbourhood events
• hosted 3 Meet & Greets with 157 community members from 26 neighbourhoods
• delivered 17 presentations
• surveyed 3,994 community members
• sent 8 newsletters 
• published 18 news articles or blogs
• activated 20 social media posts, with over 72,000 views
• received 12,329 web page visits
• mailed information to 32,464 addresses
• and distributed 600 PPI booklets

Resources and Contacts 

• To learn more about the Problem Property Initiative, visit edmonton.ca/ProblemProperties.  
• To report a problem property call 311, contact 311 online or use the confidential reporting form at edmonton.ca/ProblemProperties.
• To report an unsecured vacant property call 311 or email communitypropertysafetyteam@edmonton.ca. 
• For general inquiries or to engage directly with the Problem Property Initiative, email problemproperties@edmonton.ca.

Information provided by the City of Edmonton.

The Mustard Seed and Radius Community Health and Healing received a provincial grant in March of 2023 to provide a unique 24/7 program in a provincially-owned building at 9526 106 Avenue, previously operated by Operation Friendship Seniors Society.   

The Mustard Seed Central, which opened in December, is intended to be a stepping stone to bring those who are unhoused into appropriate housing. A ratio of 1 staff per 8 guests increases successful transitions. Individuals experiencing health issues are supported by nurses and social workers through the main floor’s “Respite to Recovery Program.”   

This required a rezoning application. City Council met on November 6, 2023. Six people spoke against the rezoning application, including McCauley residents and representatives from Chinatown associations. After a lengthy, emotional discussion, Councillor Anne Stevenson crafted a motion that passed: “Any Development Permit for Supportive Housing for the purpose of providing temporary accommodation for persons requiring immediate shelter and assistance shall be temporary and shall expire on July 1, 2025.”

McCauley resident Phil O’Hara spoke against the rezoning. I invited him to comment. He said, “With the opening of the Centre, 88 percent of all the permanent emergency shelter beds in Edmonton are in McCauley. That’s clearly unfair to the residents and businesses in McCauley as well as to the people who use the shelters. In 2019, former Edmonton Journal columnist Elise Stolte characterized the concentration of emergency shelters in McCauley as a ‘shelter ghetto’.” 

He continued, “Given our experience with encampments and the increasing need for affordable housing, we desperately need to rethink the operation and location of emergency shelters. Of course, the best solution is to ensure that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing that doesn’t involve staying in an emergency shelter.”

I met with Megan Schuring, the Community Engagement Specialist for The Mustard Seed, to learn how things are unfolding since The Mustard Seed Central opened in December.  

The 40-year-old building came with challenges. There is no elevator, so people with mobility limitations cannot easily access the second and third floors.  

The third floor is for women and has a secure entrance. The narrow rooms have built-in bunk beds. Although a best practice is for women to have a room of their own, this isn’t possible.  

It’s encouraging that couples feel comfortable accessing the 2nd floor cots, removing one barrier for those who don’t want to be separated. People who use drugs walk to the safe consumption site at Radius. 

It’s early days for this new program. Megan said, “Our commitment is to provide quarterly updates to business and community associations.” 

Kate lives in McCauley.

Greetings everyone! 

As I’m writing this article in early January, the new year is off to a rocky start. We experienced a big loss with the fire that impacted Zocalo and other businesses in the area. This is a hub of our community and it’s hard to see the damage that was caused. I’m grateful that only the physical building was hurt, and I know that the true heart of this space is the people who created it and gathered in it. The fire hasn’t changed this, and I know our community will make it through this setback more resilient than ever. 

The other challenge that has defined the beginning days of this year is encampments. I’ve heard from many of you highlighting the very real and unacceptable risks that encampments create for everyone in our community. This includes those living in encampments, as well as the people and businesses surrounding them. 

I hear universal agreement that encampments are not what we want in our community. What we need are durable solutions, including housing, supportive services, and health care options for all Edmontonians. This is something I remain committed to, both with the City’s own resources and through advocacy with the Provincial and Federal governments. In the meantime, the City continues to try to manage the symptoms of the housing and drug poisoning crises as best as possible. This involves a lot of uncomfortable balances as we look to manage the risk to those living in and around encampments.

Recent weeks suggest that we need better checks and balances to manage all risks. We also need action from all levels of government. I’m hopeful that with everyone working together, we’ll be able to provide the safe and supported housing that will make encampments a thing of the past.

Despite the difficult start, I believe 2024 will be a turning point for our ward and our city. We have a choice about how we respond to challenging times, and I know we will collectively choose to turn towards community and strength-based solutions. My confidence in saying this comes from knowing the incredible people like you who make up O-day’min. 

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to reach out or say hello in recent months. Please never hesitate to call 311 or connect with my office if we can help. Thank you for reading!

Email: anne.stevenson@edmonton.ca

Phone: 780-496-8333

For the last 10 years, Boyle Street and McCauley residents have been used to grabbing quick snacks, lottery tickets, and drinks from the Mini Mart on the southeast corner of 107A Avenue and 95th Street.

Things changed in June, when owner Sammy Teki opened the new food counter inside his family’s convenience store. They had the vision to leverage what had been a storage space into a brand new kitchen, with a take-out counter in front serving pizza, donairs, fried chicken, poutine, samosas, and ice cream.

When they opened in summer, the first thing I went there for was the ice cream. There are many flavours of hard ice cream, as well as soft serve. When the heat ended in fall, I enjoyed the fried chicken, which was well cooked and quite crispy. So I asked about it and found that they marinate the chicken overnight in eight different spices before preparing it fresh each day.

More recently my partner and I returned to try the samosas and the chicken shawarma and beef (combo) donair. The large mixed donair contained both chicken shawarma and spiced beef, as well as your choice of sweet or garlic sauce. We chose the garlic sauce which thankfully was mild instead of overpowering as many are.

The massive donair roll was made before my eyes as they sliced homemade marinated chicken shawarma from the grilling skewer, placing the meat on the hot grill until slightly crispy on the edges, with a candied Turkish spice flavour. I enjoyed the caramelized BBQ-like grilled texture, while my partner prefers more rare meats, so next time she might ask to have it grilled a little less. The beef was nicely spiced, and with the onion and tomato it definitely overflowed the pita bread - the one large donair was enough for two of us!

Next we had the samosas, which were beautifully seasoned, and full of carrots, potato, peas, and corn. The vegetable filling is wrapped in pastry, then deep fried into a warm triangular snack.

There are usually three kinds of pizza, with pepperoni, Hawaiian, and donair meat being the most popular flavours. They’re the regular crust, not thin or light as the Italian style, or as thick or heavy as the deep dish style.

I often see visitors enjoying a hot, cheesy poutine as a nice meal to warm up while sitting along the window counter, as it’s perfect in the cold weather.

Over the 10 years the Tekis have operated this unique space, I’ve seen the family grow to include six children, with ages up to thirteen. The Teki family keeps the space safe by having cameras inside and outside that are continuously monitored, and because of a mutually respectful relationship with unhoused neighbours, there’s never a problem.

The store is a neighbourhood icon, as the Teki family takes pride in serving everyone in the community, from rich to poor, young to old. For anyone who hasn’t dropped by, owner Sammy Teki says to come in and try it. He would be happy to know the preferences of and receive input from community members. Says Sammy, everyone is welcome here and “it’s part of our humanity to contribute to society.”

Alan lives in McCauley. He is the Chair of the paper’s Board of Directors.

Here is the schedule of events for McCauley Community League for 2024. All of them will be taking place at the McCauley Rink. Please note that all of these events are free and open to the public. We also need volunteers to help hand out food, staff tables and bounce houses,  and sit at the first aid station. If you want to volunteer with us, please send us an email at league@mccauleycl.com.

McCauley Cup 
January 27th, 1-3 p.m. 
Kids from the neighbourhood play hockey against the beat cops who work in McCauley. The Chief of Police usually attends as well as our government representatives. Food and door prizes available.

Family Day Party
February 18th, 1-4 p.m.
We are hosting a Family Day Party with a sleigh ride, food, and Mira Angela will be playing violin for us.

Mini Carnival with sideshow performance 
July 13th, 1-4 p.m
We will have food and beverages, street/sideshow performers, prizes, bounce houses, cotton candy, and popcorn. 

Community League Day Celebration 
September 21st, 1-4 p.m.
We are planning something very special for Community League Day but the only thing we can say is that it will be on September 21 from 1 to 4 p.m.

In the early morning hours of January 4th, a fire that was started behind Zocalo spread to vehicles and the business. 

“While the direct fire damage was limited to the vehicles, back storage area, back yard, and back of [the] greenhouse, there is substantial smoke damage throughout all three buildings,” says Miranda Ringma, co-owner of Zocalo.

Zocalo, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in the fall of 2023, is located at 10826 95th Street. However, it is now closed until further notice. As of press time, Ringma did not know how long the closure would last, saying that “it looks like it will be at least two months and likely quite a bit longer.” 

The costs of the clean-up and renovations were also not yet known. “Adjusters and insurance folks are busy sorting that out. While we have decent insurance, there are always a lot of extraneous costs to be considered, and we are still absorbing this,” Ringma said.

Neighbouring businesses Love Object, Violets, and the Venetian Barber Shop were also affected by the fire and were temporarily closed. 

When the news about the fire reached the public, the community immediately began expressing its support. For example, on social media posts pertaining to the fire, people in McCauley and beyond shared their love of Zocalo and memories of time spent there. 

“We are amazed and overwhelmed by the outpouring of community support and care,” says Ringma. “We have literally hundreds of messages and so many kind words. We really are awash in the love shared by our customers, friends, and community. We truly thank them all for their care.”

There have been several other fires in the immediate area in the recent past. A fire broke out at the rooming house just north of Zocalo in November of 2023, which also caused some damage to the outside wall of the Italian Centre’s warehouse. As well, numerous fires behind the Italian Centre Shop have occurred in the past few months.  

To stay connected and to learn about ways people may be able to help, follow Zocalo on social media (@Zocalo.ca on Facebook and @ZocaloEdm on Instagram) or visit Zocalo’s website: zocalo.ca. Readers can also follow the online version of this story at Boyle McCauley News’ website (bmcnews.org) for updates.

Paula E. Kirman is the Editor of Boyle McCauley News.

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” - Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919), 26th president of the United States.

Greetings for 2024 and welcome to my first article of the year. My column is titled “Ability and Community” for a reason. I enjoy my community and want everyone to enjoy it to their ability.

Accessibility is collaborative and should include the voice of those it affects. Statistics Canada’s most recently released public data from 2022 showed that 27% of Canadians aged 15 years and over (8 million people) have one or more disabilities that limit their daily life activities. So, chances are we all know someone in this category, or are in the category ourselves.

Awareness is relevant, and action is key. Some disabilities are recognizable and some are not. Some are born with a disability and some acquire it. Disability understanding and knowledge is a community, civic, provincial, and federal concern and issue. Thankfully, our community has great support from all levels.

We have an agency near the area called Voice of Albertans with Disabilities (VAD). You can look VAD up online at vadsociety.ca. VAD is located at the Hys Centre (11010 101 Street) and is a great source of information on many issues concerning the disability community. You can subscribe free to VAD’s monthly publication The Voice via the website. To access VAD’s services, visit the website, or call or e-mail to arrange an appointment: 780-488-9088 or vad@vadsociety.ca.

VAD often looks for volunteers of any ability to be involved in fundraising, be a board member, or to serve in other roles. If you would like further information on anything, contact VAD or me at ianyoung.ca. And remember: together we hold the power!

Ian is a columnist with the paper. He lives in the area.

The Edmonton Intercultural Centre (EIC) is a community full of love, caring, and support. In this and future articles, we will inform readers of the non-profit organizations operating in the EIC facility in order to bring light to their many good deeds.

In a vibrant initiative aimed at addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by the youth community in Edmonton, the Izwi Lethu Arts Society has emerged as a powerful force for cultural exploration and skill development. The name “Izwi Lethu,” meaning “our voice” in Zulu, aptly captures the essence of this community-driven project that resonates with diverse voices.

The project responds directly to the pressing need for educational opportunities that empower those members of the McCauley community who come from a variety of cultural backgrounds. Izwi Lethu Arts Society invites children and individuals from all walks of life to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of African music, theatre, and visual arts. This inclusive approach not only hones participants’ artistic abilities, but also fosters cross-cultural understanding, creating a melting pot of creativity and diversity.

Guiding this cultural exploration is Clayton Pasi Gunguwo, originally from Zimbabwe and a Canadian resident for over two decades. Alongside him are local associate artists from around the globe, forming a collective that transcends borders and barriers. This dynamic team provides participants with a comprehensive learning experience. Participants in the project will develop a wide range of skills which will foster their personal and professional growth.

The Izwi Lethu Arts Society is more than a creative space: it is a community hub where voices from different cultures harmonize to create something beautiful. Through this initiative the youth in Edmonton are not just learning about traditional rhythms and arts, but also gain a deeper understanding of one another. The Society’s commitment to cultural exchange and skill development makes it a beacon of unity and growth in the heart of Edmonton. Izwi Lethu: where diverse voices come together to create a symphony of shared experiences.

Classes are every Friday from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. For more information email pasigunguwo@gmail.com or call 780-802-2289.

Information provided by the Edmonton Intercultural Centre, which is located at 9538 107 Avenue.

Happy new year! Welcome to our February-March 2024 edition, which marks the first issue of Volume 45 of the paper. A lot has changed in Boyle Street and McCauley - and in the world of publishing - since 1979. The print edition is still here, along with a robust website, and a presence on a much newer phenomenon called social media. 

Speaking of our web and socials, you can find exclusive news and content published regularly at bmcnews.org. We are always publishing new content between print editions. If history is what you’re into, there is also a full, searchable archive of all of our past editions. 

At our website you can also subscribe to our free e-newsletter which is published to announce the new issue. We occasionally also publish an extra edition if we have a lot of new stories and photos on our website. 

On the social media side of things, our content is still unfortunately blocked to Canadian users at our Facebook and Instagram. However, we’re still on X (formerly Twitter) updating regularly at @bmcnews.  

If you have any questions or comments, or would like to find out about current volunteer opportunities, my email inbox is always open: editor@bmcnews.org. Enjoy the issue - see you in the spring!

I recently had the opportunity to introduce Boyle McCauley News to people who had either never heard of the paper (if you can believe it!) or had perhaps seen a copy in print or online, but were not overly familiar with the publication.

In every case, I emphasize the fact that Boyle McCauley News exists because of the dedication of its volunteers who write, photograph, proofread, deliver, sit on the board, and so much more. 

I have the chance to explain how the paper helps to build community by getting news and information out there that is often overlooked by other media, such as many of the great events that happen here and local folks making a difference in the community. 

I also talk about how the paper presents a different perspective in general about the neighbourhoods of McCauley and Boyle Street. While there are important social issues in the area that need to be addressed, the positive aspects of life here should not be ignored. I can’t recall how many times someone has told me they had no idea about all of the cool things that happen here until they started following the paper.

Boyle McCauley News gives people the chance to discuss issues and concerns from a first-person point of view. Many of these people would otherwise not have the opportunity to access a media platform. 

As we begin our 45th volume of publication, the role the paper has in building community and giving it a voice is more important than ever. We’re doing our part in keeping independent, community-based journalism alive.

The unusually warm weather brought lots of people to the McCauley Rink for the annual New Year's Eve skating party. Folks who attended enjoyed hot dogs, hot chocolate, snacks, marshmallows roasted over the fire pit, and prizes for the children. A broadcast of the OIlers game played over the speaker system and people also had the chance to view the City of Edmonton's early fireworks from the rink at 9 p.m. The rink officially opened just a couple of days before due to the challenges of making ice in such warm termperatures.

John Gee received the Garry Spotowski Volunteer Appreciation Award at the annual general meeting of the Boyle Street McCauley Community Newspaper Society on November 13th, 2023. The Spotowski Award recognizes and honours long-term volunteers who have made invaluable contributions to the paper and the community.

In presenting the award, Boyle McCauley News’ Editor Paula Kirman said, “John Gee has volunteered for the paper much longer than any staff members have been around,” noting that John has been a block carrier for over 20 years, and for the past six years served as the paper’s treasurer.

John has lived in McCauley since 1993, and he began volunteering for the paper then. “Doing paste-up,” he says, “which was a step in producing a newspaper in those days. Before that I had spent a number of years working for Alberta Report magazine doing several different jobs including production, so I had applicable skills.”

John was the bookkeeper and/or treasurer for the paper in the 1990s and was treasurer again in 2011-2013 before taking on the most recent six-year term. “I enjoy accounting/bookkeeping,” he says, "which I also do for the McCauley Community League, Inn Roads Housing Co-operative, the Greater Edmonton Alliance, and the Alberta Party, as well as in my day job.” (John is ordained as a deacon in the Anglican Church and is the secretary-treasurer of the Anglican Diocese of Edmonton.)

The current bookkeeper for Boyle McCauley News, Rosalie Gelderman, really appreciates working with someone with such excellent accounting skills. “His attention to detail makes my job easy,” she says.

John adds, “It was especially rewarding that I was able to play a role in the survival of the paper during COVID, when finances were precarious. I think it is a special institution that is the envy of other communities in the city. I also enjoy doing delivery for the exercise and to see what is happening in the neighbourhood.”

The Spotowski Award is presented to volunteers who have given exceptional service to the Boyle McCauley News. It is not awarded every year. The first recipients have been volunteers since nearly the beginning of the paper: Kate Quinn, Rosalie Gelderman, Bob McKeon, Larry Brockman, John Kolkman, Gary Garrison, and Phil O’Hara. For details, go to the Awards section of the Boyle McCauley News website. 

Anita Jenkins is a retired writer and editor who lives in Boyle Street.

What’s it like living in an affordable housing apartment building in the inner city? We’d like to share with you the mix of experiences, emotions and challenges from the point of view of two people who are relatively new arrivals at O-day’min Village on 95th Street and 103rd Avenue.

First, some background. O-day’min Village, once known as Melcor YMCA Village and now operated by Civida, has 148 apartment units spread over six stories with more than 200 people living here. It’s an interesting mix of Indigenous people, newcomers, single mothers, and formerly unhoused folks - all surviving on low incomes.

In such a diverse and large group, it’s a real challenge to make this place feel like a home. But with the help of a City of Edmonton grant (and a part-time coordinator), many residents are working together to create a sense of belonging in this large apartment building.

It started with creating a space on our main floor where residents gather for coffee, a chat, a game of cards, or doing one of those impossible puzzles. We have talked about physical health, shared the pain of abuse as youngsters, and how it feels to be Two-Spirit. But we also laugh and help each other too.

We have tapped into weekly deliveries of best-before dated food from the Italian Centre through the Leftovers program, hold the occasional bingo with the help of Mike from E4C, have an exercise class especially for people with mobility issues, and listen to cultural lessons and practice Indigenous crafts with Bent Arrow.

One of our long-time residents dips into his own funds to put on barbeques in the summer and group meals in our lobby. We meet once a month with Civida to discuss maintenance issues and ideas to build a stronger community, and to share concerns about safety.

We live in a challenging neighbourhood in a challenging time. There is a lot of drug use on the streets. We are hoping the City will take effective steps in the future to work with the people in a nearby encampment to help them transition to safer spaces.

It’s all part of turning a building into a community. It takes time to bring more residents into the circle, help residents feel comfortable with each other, and pursue new ideas to create stronger bonds and trust. We are just starting, but by creating a sense of community we aim to redefine the idea of home.  

Cathy and Ahmed are residents of O-day’min Village.

Ian, I loved your article about the Valley Line in the December 2023-January 2024 issue of Boyle McCauley News [“Accessibility on the Valley Line”]. 

Public transit has been beaten up so badly in the news lately, and I don’t think most of the reports are all that accurate. (Well, the more-than-a-few hiccups in the Valley Line construction were a bit much, but I have read that similar things happened around the world when cities were establishing train lines.)

Does the Valley Line have a station near the place where you live? Hope so.

-Anita Jenkins

Ian Young responds:

Yes, I do have the Quarters stop near me. It is so convenient and accessible. The ride is very smooth and quiet. It opens a lot of options for me to access things. 

Christmas at Hull Block on December 16th featured food, crafts, window art, and a visit from Santa. As well, volunteers filled and distributed 1,000 bagged lunches to seniors, families with kids, and social agencies in the Chinatown area. The event was organized by the Chinatown Transformation Collaborative Society. 

Photos by Paula E. Kirman.