Edmonton Daily Photo

Reno Hell

2011-09-13T17:53:00.001-06:00

..... All i can say is FML. We had some water damage and as a result I have been living in a Saran wrapped house for a week or two... Sigh.

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Dog Park, if only for a day!

2011-09-05T23:31:00.006-06:00

This is a little something something I am working on... Feel free to attend!

Chess anyone?

2011-08-31T18:48:00.002-06:00

Have i pad.... Will take quick and dirty photo.

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AGA

2011-08-28T19:36:00.007-06:00

Despite the gallery fundraising a lot of the money for this renovation through private donors, there was a lot of out cry about public dollars being spent on an "elitest institution that no one would ever visit". I understand why people don't get art.. I just wished they understand that I pay taxes so they can drive to Walmart on public roads that I don't use cause I live car free... so why can't they give a bit and support art... O well!

From Wiki...

The Art Gallery of Alberta (formerly the Edmonton Art Gallery) is a public art gallery located in downtown Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Its collection of well over 6,000 works of art includes historical and contemporary paintings, sculptures, installation works and photographs by Canadian and international artists. In addition to its permanent collection, the AGA hosts visiting exhibitions and offers public education programs.

The vision statement of the AGA is: "The Art Gallery of Alberta creates a welcoming and engaging environment where people are motivated to transform their understanding of the world by connecting with the visual arts."

Originally designed in 1968 as a Brutalist building by Don Bittorf, the gallery recently underwent an $88 million renovation designed by Randall Stout Architects. It reopened in January, 2010. The newly renovated 85,000-square-foot (7,900 m²) space includes almost double the exhibition space of the original building; a restaurant, gallery shop, and 150 seat theatre; and dedicated gallery space for the AGA's permanent collection.

Following the renovation annual memberships of AGA increased significantly and there were 30,000 visitors within the first six weeks of reopening.

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Alberta Gallery of Alberta

2011-08-28T19:31:00.002-06:00

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Not just for eating

2011-08-26T12:00:00.000-06:00

I work part time for a young man who has some mental disabilities. I wanted to open a window which resulted in this photo. This is dedicated to Eddy and all he teaches me. I wish I had my real camera and not just my I pad.

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Location:Eddy's house

I found Nemo

2011-08-25T23:38:00.003-06:00

Today Economic Development Edmonton had a free BBQ under the theme of I heart yegdt. This was taken with my I pad. Not the best quality but a fun new way to show you my world. I'm getting used to the framing of the shot... It's rather odd to take a picture from something as wide as a sheet of paper.

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Location:Churchill square

122st Redevelopment...

2011-08-25T01:00:00.002-06:00

O my..... Recently I have become involved in some property and development activities in my community. This one is for a highly visible block along Jasper Ave. The developer has a long standing history of being very community sensitive...

I'm excited for this project, sadly the room was full of people who demand they "leave our community alone"

The disconnect between the young and future focused young demographic and the 50+ demographic is rather large.

At one point a lady started lecturing.. at one point she stopped and asked the group if she was exaggerating to which they all replied no.... and after they said no... I yelled YES.

Next time I will ask my question and leave...

Sobeys Downtown Edmonton Sidewalk Chalk Demonstration

2011-08-20T17:32:00.007-06:00

Sobeys in Downtown Edmonton WAS my favorite place to shop... Then they covered all their amazing windows with vinyl photos of fruit and veggies. There are a lot of upset people. Enough upset people that Sobeys national marketing team is flying out to meet with a few different people and to reassess their decision. I thought I might help them make up their mind!

2011-08-19T00:26:00.002-06:00

Urban Stream

2011-08-16T20:00:00.001-06:00

More Paul Kane park... more moving water... and some neat lines

Endangered Species

2011-08-15T07:58:00.003-06:00

O the rare and hard to find public fountain....

There is something so utterly fantastic about the way moving water photographs.

In response to one of the comments bellow I want to post a link to another photo. Take a look as it is what we have created as a replacement to lasting infrastructure.

2011-08-14T10:36:00.004-06:00

I was talking with a new friend about how I didn't feel that the majority of people "get" me. I'm very right brain. I organize in piles and often create wonderful things out of what other perceive to be chaos. I am almost fully ambidextrous, which made playing sports as a child rather hard. I never understood why we have to catch with one hand and throw with the other... I liked to do it both with the same hand. I write with my right but I hold my pen like a lefty. I play golf left handed and I have no back hand in tennis because I just toss the racket to the other hand. Edmonton was always known as the more artistic city. I am not surprised I was drawn here over other places.

Check this site out... http://www.wherecreativitygoestoschool.com/vancouver/left_right/rb_test.htm

Here are my results..

Thank you for taking the Creativity Test. The results show your brain dominance as being:

Left Brain	Right Brain
38%	62%

You are more right-brained than left-brained. The right side of your brain controls the left side of your body. In addition to being known as right-brained, you are also known as a creative thinker who uses feeling and intuition to gather information. You retain this information through the use of images and patterns. You are able to visualize the "whole" picture first, and then work backwards to put the pieces together to create the "whole" picture. Your thought process can appear quite illogical and meandering. The problem-solving techniques that you use involve free association, which is often very innovative and creative. The routes taken to arrive at your conclusions are completely opposite to what a left-brained person would be accustomed. You probably find it easy to express yourself using art, dance, or music. Some occupations usually held by a right-brained person are forest ranger, athlete, beautician, actor/actress, craftsman, and artist.

Your complete evaluation follows below:

Your left brain/right brain percentage was calculated by combining the individual scores of each half's sub-categories. They are as follows:

Your Left Brain Percentages

60%	Verbal (Your most dominant characteristic)
34%	Reality-based
18%	Sequential
16%	Linear
9%	Logical
0%	Symbolic (Your least dominant characteristic)

Your Right Brain Percentages

52%	Fantasy-oriented (Your most dominant characteristic)
46%	Concrete
42%	Holistic
29%	Intuitive
23%	Random
7%	Nonverbal (Your least dominant characteristic)

What Do These Percentages Mean?

Low percentages are common in the Brain Type Test and are not indicative of intelligence. Instead, medium to high scores (30 - 50%) are desireable, as they show an ability to utilize a processing method without an abnormal reliance on it. Special focus should be paid to highly dominant (50% or above) or highly recessive (0 - 30%) methods, as they tend to limit your approach when learning, memorizing, or solving problems.

If you have Highly Dominant characteristics, your normal thinking patterns will naturally utilize these methods. Conscious effort is required to recognize the benefits of other techniques. Using multiple forms of information processing is the best way to fully understand complex issues and become a balanced thinker.

If you have Highly Recessive characteristics, your normal thinking patterns naturally ignore these methods. You may only consider these under-utilized techniques when "all else fails," or possibly not at all. It is important to recognize the benefits of all of your brain's capabilities in order to become a balanced thinker.

Left Brain Categories

Verbal Processing

Verbal processing is a method used by the left hemisphere to process our thoughts and ideas with words. For example, through verbal processing, a left-brained person giving directions may say, "From this point continue east for two miles and turn north onto Bellevue Road. Continue north on Bellevue Road for seven miles and turn west on Main Street". With verbal processing, exact, logical directions are given in a very sequential manner compared to a right-brained person who, in giving the same directions, would use more visual landmarks.

Your Verbal Analysis

You are a highly verbal person. Using this method you process your thoughts and ideas with words. You use exact, technical logic for the descriptions of your thoughts and seldom use illustrations. If giving directions, you would say, "Continue two miles east on Court Street and turn north onto Jefferson Street" because, to you, this is the clearest way to get the information across.

Reality-based Processing

Reality-based processing is used by the left hemisphere as a method for processing information with a basis on reality. This processing tool focuses on rules and regulations. An example of this would be how a left-brained person would completely understand the repercussions of turning in a late assignment or failing a test. A left-brained person also usually easily adjusts to changes in their environment.

Your Reality-based Analysis

You process information with a basis in reality, but are not limited to it. You may recognize the repercussions of you actions, but proceed to do something anyway, in the heat of the moment. You can complete projects to whice you are emotionally attached as well as random tasks.

Sequential Processing

Sequential processing is a method used by the left hemisphere for processing information. The information that is received is processed in order from first to last. Information is processed in a systematic, logical manner. Through sequential processing, you can interpret and produce symbolic information such as language, mathematics, abstraction, and reasoning. This process is used to store memory in a language format. Activities that require sequential processing include spelling, making a "to-do" list, and many aspects of organization.

Your Sequential Analysis

You tend process information you receive without any priority as to which is processed first, last, or any place in between. It is difficult for you to learn or perform tasks involving sequence. For example, spelling is a task that involves sequence and you may experience problems remembering exact spelling or any type of rote memorization, for that matter. Creating daily lists and plans are probably not activities you enjoy. If you are having problems with tasks involving sequence, there are methods you can use to improve your skills. One method involves using colors to learn sequence. You assign a color to each task. For example, you may want to make the first step green, the second step blue, and the last step red. This helps because the right side of the brain, your dominant side in this case, is sensitive to colors. The important thing to remember is that consistently using the same sequence will help you both improve and recognize that this strategy can be used in many different circumstances involving sequence.

Linear Processing

Linear processing is a method by the left hemisphere to process information. In this process, the left brain takes pieces of information, lines them up, and proceeds to arrange them into an order from which it may draw a conclusion. The information is processed from parts to a whole in a straight, forward, and logical progression.

Your Linear Analysis

You tend to have difficulty in processing data in a linear manner. When processing information you tend see the whole picture first and work your way backwards, filling in the pieces as you go. The information you process is not done in a straight, progressive manner, but may take different paths as you start with an assumption and take different paths to discover the threads that lead you to that assumption. Seeing the big picture at the beginning of the process is a necessity for you if you are to understand additional information. When given a task, instead of naturally following directions in a linear fashion, you tend to feel the need to know "why" you are doing something or else you may have difficulty with it.

Logical Processing

Logical processing is a method that is used by the left hemisphere to take information piece by piece and put it all together to form a logical answer. When information is received through reading or listening, the left hemisphere will look for different bits of information that will allow it to produce a logical conclusion. This aspect of the left hemisphere is what aids you in solving math problems and science experiments.

Your Logical Analysis

Logical processing is not one of your strengths, so you may tend to rely on a "gut" feeling to help you make your decisions from the information you have received. For example, you will often choose an answer on a test because it "feels" right, and you may be correct. This is due to the fact of your tendency to look for the whole picture but not the details that create it. You can often start with the answer and work your way back to allow yourself to see the process and parts that create the whole. You may find math problems and science experiments difficult because of this.

Symbolic Processing

Symbolic processing is a method associated with the left hemisphere that is used for processing the information of pictures and symbols. The majority of functions associated with academics involve symbols such as letters, words, and mathematical notations. This process is what aids you to excel in tasks such as linguistics, mathematics, and memorizing vocabulary words and mathematical formulas.

Your Symbolic Analysis

You have difficulty processing the information of symbols, and would rather see the real object in order to understand. You probably hated algebra. For example, if solving a math problem, you need to "draw out" the problem to understand and solve it. You rely on the visualization of real objects instead of their symbols. Tasks such as memorizing vocabulary words or mathematical formulas are more difficult for you.

Right Brain Categories

Fantasy-oriented Processing

Fantasy-oriented processing is used by the right hemisphere as a method for processing information with creativity. It focuses much less on rules and regulations than the processing method of a left-brained person. Due to the fantasy-oriented processing mechanism of a right-brained person, they do not adjust well to change. Instead of adapting to the change in the environment, a right-brained person attempts to change it back to the way they liked it. But fantasy-oriented processing also provides the advantage of creativity to right-brained individuals, and since emotion is integral of the right side of the brain, anything a fantasy-oriented person becomes involved in emotionally will aid their ability to learn.

Your Fantasy-oriented Analysis

You are highly able to process information you receive with creativity. Your focus does not get caught up in rules and regulations. However, you usually do not adjust well to change. Instead of adapting to it, you often try to keep things as they were. Creativity is your big advantage as well as your tendency to become emotionally involved in your work.

Concrete Processing

Concrete processing is a method associated with the right hemisphere that is used for processing things that can be seen or touched. It processes much of the information you receive from real objects. For example, a right-brained person is not just satisfied that a mathematical formula may work, but will want to know why it works. A strongly concrete person often finds it easier to solve a mathematical problem by "drawing it out" because it allows them to visualize it. The more a concrete person can visualize something the easier it is for them to understand it.

Your Concrete Analysis

At times, you feel the need to see a real object in order to understand it. At other times, you are able to understand a problem on a symbolic level. For example, you may find that in solving math problems, it occasionally helps you to "draw out" the problem in order to understand and solve it.

Holistic Processing

Holistic processing is a method used by the right hemisphere to process information. The information is processed from whole to parts. A right-brained person, through holistic processing, is able to see the big picture first, but not the details that accompany it. A strongly holistic person may often find that prior to listening to a lecture given by an instructor, they must first read the chapter so that they better understand what the lecture is about. This function is also what provides to you your visual spatial skills. It also aids in tasks such as dancing and gymnastics. Through holistic processing, memory is stored in auditory, visual, and spatial modalities.

Your Holistic Analysis

You show some ability to process data holistically, starting with the whole and working backwards to find the parts, which inform the whole, to form your conclusion. When you process information in a linear manner you are able to start with the parts and work up to form the whole. It is important to be comfortable with both methods, as both are equally necessary in the learning process.

Intuitive Processing

Intuitive processing is a method that is used by the right hemisphere to process information based on if it "feels" right or not. For example, a right-brained person may choose an answer on a test because they had a "gut" feeling and often they will be correct. Another example of this is how a right-brained person will know the correct answer to a math problem but will not understand the procedure of how they arrived at the correct answer. A right-brained person will usually have to start with the answer and work their way backwards in order to be able to see and understand the parts and process that create the whole.

Your Intuitive Analysis

When processing information, at times you are able to go with your "gut" instincts. At other times you may doubt your instincts, or prefer to put information together piece by piece to form your conclusion. You should be careful not to ignore your intuition, but at the same time do not solely rely on it.

Random Processing

Random processing is a method used by the right hemisphere for processing information. The information that is received is processed without priority. A right-brained person will usually jump from one task to another due to the random processing by their dominant right hemisphere. Random processing is, of course, the opposite of sequential processing therefore making it difficult for right-brained individuals to choose to learn in sequence. In order to overcome this, a right-brained person may want to attempt to learn sequence by using colors since the right hemisphere is sensitive to color. For example, you may want to associate the first step with green, the second step with blue, and the last step with red. Consistently using the same sequence will allow you to see that this strategy can be applied to many tasks involving sequence.

Your Random Analysis

You tend to not process data randomly, preferring instead to follow a systematic, logical order from first to last. You have difficulty making "leaps of logic" which prevents you from making unique discoveries, or adapt to change during your thinking process.

Nonverbal Processing

Nonverbal processing is a method used by the right hemisphere to process our thoughts with illustrations. Reliance on this method is why it is occasionally difficult for right-brained people to "find the right words" in certain situations. A right-brained person cannot just read or hear information and process it, but first must make a mental video to better understand the information they have received. For example, through nonverbal processing, a person giving directions may say, "Continue going straight until you see a big, red-brick courthouse. At the courthouse turn right, and go down that street for a couple of miles until you se a gray stone church which will be on your right. Straight across from the church is the road to the left you need to take." With nonverbal processing, the directions that are given are extremely visual compared to the exact, sequential directions that would be given by a left-brained person.

Your Nonverbal Analysis

You have little ability in nonverbal processing. When you process your thoughts and ideas you mainly use words instead of illustrations. For example, if you were giving directions you may say, "Continue traveling west for 3 miles and turn north at the intersection." You would give exact, logical directions in a very sequential manner.

Billions!!

2011-08-13T08:39:00.004-06:00

Billions and Trillions of dollars.... Can you even fathon what a trillion dollars is? I can't, but yet we throw the words around..

The newly elected Canadian conservative government is a bit of a concern for me. Under them government spending has ballooned to it's highest levels. The public service has grown to be the largest it's ever been and they have cut progressive consumption taxes and replaced it with questionable tax credits. These tax credits allow families to claim for children's sports fees. Sadly giving a credit on your yearly tax return does nothing for those who couldn't pay the fees in the first place. In other words the socially disadvantaged cannot access these services and this tax program doesn't help it either. In fact it may even inflate the cost.

Harper finds himself in an interesting position. He did not get in by winning the popular vote. About 60% of Canadians voted for left or liberal leaning parties while only 40% voted for right leaning. When the 40% of Conservative canadians are polled they don't actually agree with a lot of Harpers more conservative campaign ideas.

We could open this up to a global perspective and talk about honduras and our recent free trade agreement, but this is a blog about Edmonton. So..... Canadian cities are horribly underfunded and rely on a taxation system that makes no allowance for peoples actual income, just the value of their homes. To top this all off Alberta is a Conservative strong hold. The political party can take Alberta for granted because no matter what they do or don't do Alberta votes blue.

This poster is plastered to one of the "decorative" polls on 124st. I like how it's decrepit state plays off the "billions" in corporate giveaways. I look at the riots in London and wonder.... is it time for a revolution?

Signs

2011-08-11T20:40:00.007-06:00

Ok.... I am not going to promise anything to anyone ever again! The U of A didn't happen but a stroll down 124 street did. Although the street itself is very beautiful and full of interesting little stores, the thing that jumped out at me were signs. As someone who feels that they owe the greater global community a duty to lessen his footprint on the world, I grow ever concerned with our throw away consumer society. Mix that in with a rough couple of years, a lot of personal growth and hint of battling depression and you get this photo.

It's nice to feel well again ;-)

Stalling...

2011-08-09T09:12:00.003-06:00

Oops.. missed a day! Because the inspiration to restart this little venture came out of no where, I have no prep of stock photos to fall back on. I also don't didn't have a theme... Until today.

Today I will head to the University of Alberta.. It has three Campuses ranging from Downtown with a very mod urban feel to Heritage buildings located on it's main campus..

Given the time of year and back to school looming... we might get some good shots! Scratch might insert will.

2011-08-07T00:01:00.003-06:00

This is Farrah. She is an 80lbs monster who everyone thinks is a boy due to her size. I'm her third home believe it or not. The last year has been a very hard one for me personally and she has held me accountable and demands structure. I needed her just as bad as she needs me. Now if only I could get her to stop eating shoes and play nice with other dogs.

I know the lighting in this is all wrong.. she needed to be more forward and it would have been nice if she looked into the light a bit more.... but have you ever tried to get a dog to pose? It's not easy. LOL

Sky Drops

2011-08-06T00:01:00.001-06:00

I heart the way the early morning sky is reflected in the water...... Maybe I'm not as rusty as I thought. Little do you know it took me 40 some shots to get 3 useful ones! HA

Edmonton is a unique environment. Just on the edge of where parkland meets the northern forests. The north east corner of the city is the best place in Alberta to grow vegetables and the city is extremely green in the summer. I will steal from wiki;

-Edmonton's river valley constitutes the longest stretch of connected urban parkland in North America, and Edmonton has the highest per capita area of parkland of any Canadian city; the river valley is 22 times larger than New York City's Central Park.

-This main "Ribbon of Green" is supplemented by numerous neighbourhood parks located throughout the city, to give a total of 111 km² (27,400 acres) of parkland.

-Edmonton's streets and parklands are also home to one of the largest remaining concentrations of healthy american elm trees in the world.

2011-08-05T23:18:00.000-06:00

Be Patient I am SUPER rusty at shooting.. and I will be busy the next couple days so I will do a few future posts. SPOILERS if you will.

The Old Brewery

2011-08-04T00:01:00.000-06:00

Built in 1913, the brewery was in operation until 2007. When, after the workers went on strike, it was closed. The modern structures have all been demolished leaving only the protected heritage buildings. Sorry about the chain link fence... I tried to break in but I couldn't. Shhhhh you didn't hear that from me!

Boy in a Bubble

2011-08-03T22:51:00.006-06:00

It's time to revive an old friend... After not touching my camera for a long time a muse ran smack dab into my life. Thanks muse.

The Academy

2010-10-10T16:07:00.003-06:00

Here is the Girls side of the school that sits between my back yard and the peace park...

From Wiki.. The schools namesake;

John Bosco (Italian: Giovanni Melchiorre Bosco, IPA: [ɡjovani melkiõrre ʙoskoː]; 16 August 1815^[1] – 31 January 1888), was an Italian Catholic priest, educator and writer of the 19th century, who put into practice the convictions of his religion, dedicating his life to the betterment and education of poor youngsters, and employing teaching methods based on love rather thanpunishment, a method that is known as the preventive system.^[2] As he was a follower of thespirituality and philosophy of Francis de Sales, Bosco dedicated his works to him when he founded the Society of St. Francis de Sales (more commonly known as the Salesian Society or the Salesians of Don Bosco). Together with Maria Domenica Mazzarello he founded the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, a religious congregation of nuns dedicated to the care and education of poor girls, and popularly known as Salesian Sisters. In 1876 Bosco founded a movement of laity, the Salesian Cooperators, with the same educational mission to the poor.^[3] In1875 he published 'Bibliofilo Cattolico - Bollettino Salesiano Mensuale (The Catholic Book Lover - Salesian Monthly Bulletin.)^[4]^[5] The Bulletin has remained in continuous publication, and is currently published in 50 different editions and 30 languages.^[4]

Bosco succeeded in establishing a network of organizations and centres to carry on his work. In recognition of his work with disadvantaged youth, he was canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1934.

Oliver Peace Park and Community Garden

2010-10-08T11:24:00.006-06:00

The History: Prior to 1914, 103 ave was known as peace avenue. The Garden was purchased from the Catholic School Board in 2008.

I sat in the initial meetings where we discussed what kind of green space the community wanted.

The park has a series of raised beds that allow the seniors in the surrounding assisted living complexes to garden as well. The large rock was to be a water feature... I'm not sure what is happening with that.

Fire Men!

2010-10-06T16:08:00.002-06:00

The Fire Boys were in the river valley practicing repelling and using other rescue equipment.

;-)

Dog Days of... Fall!

2010-10-04T21:55:00.002-06:00

This is not my dog... ;-)

All the pictures I took of Farrah turned out badly!

My Fav doggy Trail

2010-10-01T09:04:00.003-06:00

Sorry about the complete lack of dogs.. I went in the middle of the day and it was a tad slow.

THe Dog Park Foot Bridge

2010-09-30T17:55:00.002-06:00

THis bridge turns what would be a 30 min drive into a 10 min one. It connects the south and north sides of the river. In the winter half of the bridge is left unplowed for the cross country skiers.

The Dog Park

2010-09-29T20:53:00.002-06:00

It's fall and I have rediscovered my love for the dog park. My prior dog was lost in a separation so for a while I wondered around the park trying to decide if I wanted to be a single parent. In the end I decided to take the leap. Pictures of Farrah will come later.

Sadie

2010-07-20T20:08:00.002-06:00

HI... it's been a while since I have done this.... SORRY

I have been through a divorce, Major Depression, Gained 40 lbs, Lost 20, a new BF and now a career change.

Sadie has been with me through most of it ;-)

Food! Glorious food!

2009-05-20T08:26:00.003-06:00

Ok, I LOVE the cupcake shot.. esp because the cupcake is reflected in the glass nob of the cake dome.

The Jam Lay is where I get all my mustards from... mmmm fancy mustard!

Icon II

2009-05-19T10:26:00.002-06:00

Because I haven't been posting on a regular basis... I feel like putting up two pics today!

The second tower to the Icon development is well on its way to completion. When finished the second tower will be the tallest condo tower in the city.

Market Day

2009-05-19T07:52:00.004-06:00

The First day of the DT City Center Market brings another year of fresh veggies and unique goods. The 104st downtown market was voted one of Canada's best.

I like this photo bacase it's actualy the back of the sign. The City Market portion reads correctly but the other portion of the sign is bakwards and reveresed. It should read Market Day.

Is it Christmas?

2009-05-11T10:06:00.002-06:00

Despite the economic slow down Building continues in Edmonton. Planning and rezoning has not stopped. Edmonton metro is estimated to almost double it's population in 30-40 years. This has created a huge push for developement.

This building is wrapped in a tarp because any cement work done during times of lower temps must be kept at a min temp in rder to set right. I eagerly await to see whats under there!

The Wheels on the bus...

2009-05-08T09:03:00.003-06:00

OK this is the end of my little transit series. Due to the economic condition of the World, and because the gov't is trowing around money like mad trying to "keep things going" another extension of the LRT has now been funded. You would think that our city would be excited, but like most political issues their are many unhappy people.

LRT Service Vehicle

2009-05-06T20:39:00.002-06:00

This little guy was used to shuffle cargo around an industrial yard somewhere. It sat unused for years with hardly any hours put on it.

Edmonton Transit Purchased it, rebuilt it and now it's the lines service vehicle.

ETS

2009-05-05T21:52:00.001-06:00

Ok I am running out of photos, he he, so I am going to strech it a bit.

Edmonton Rapid LRT

2009-05-04T10:09:00.004-06:00

Edmonton City has a population of 750,000 but another 250,000 plus live just outside the city limits. To add to that Edmonton is expected to grow by 400,000 people over the next 30 odd years. LRT is becoming a major issue. Edmonton was the first city in Canada with a LRT line. It was started for the Commonwealth Games. Due to recesion in the 80's and then lack of prov gov't intrest funding for expansion in Edmonton stopped. That all changed a few years ago, these pictures are from the opening of the new South Extension. An anouncement was also just made that has provided funding for a North East expansion. our North West Leg is past the planning stage and now just needs Finacial commitment.

My Future Husband

2009-05-03T10:10:00.002-06:00

If anyone knows this man, please

let me eknow ASAP hehe ;-)

It seems somone either

a) Does not approve of my taste in men

b) Does not like the fact that I am gay.

as my entry has been given a one star rating.

Jasper Ave Rejuvination

2009-05-02T21:51:00.002-06:00

Text taken from a City of Edmonton report.

The purpose of this project is to develop a vision to re-establish Jasper Avenue as the main street of Edmonton, making it a place all Edmontonians can be proud of as well as a symbol of the vitality of the downtown and Edmonton as a whole.Jasper Avenue is Edmonton’s main street. However over the decades, Jasper Avenue lost much of its vibrancy and role as Edmonton’s premiere shopping street. Developments in the 70s, 80s, and 90s replaced much of the pre-war, historic fabric responsible for the distinctive character and sense of place of the street. The charm of Jasper Avenue as a premiere shopping street also diminished through the development of new shopping complexes within and outside of downtown.

Banff Township

2009-04-30T08:28:00.002-06:00

Banff Upper Hot Springs

2009-04-27T22:48:00.002-06:00

FROM WIKI-Upper Hot Springs are commercially-developed hot springs located in Banff National Park in Canada, near the Banff townsite. The hot pool is outdoors and while in the pool, visitors can look across the valley to Mount Rundle.
The Upper Hot Springs are one of nine different naturally occurring hot springs in the Banff area. The hot spring water flows naturally through the Sulphur Mountain Thrust Fault, with the source area located at higher elevations on either Sulphur Mountain or Mount Rundle. The flow rates fluctuate seasonally with snow melt, with highest flows in the spring and lowest during winter. Since the early 2000s, flow to the Upper Hot Springs has stopped for several months of the winter. During these times, municipal water is substituted for the recreational pools.[1] Water temperature is kept at approximately 38°C (100°F).

Banff Springs Hotel

2009-04-26T10:07:00.003-06:00

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a former railway hotel constructed in Scottish Baronial style, located in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. The hotel, designed by architect Bruce Price,[1] was built between spring of 1887 and 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, at the instigation of its President, William Cornelius Van Horne. The hotel was publicly opened on June 1, 1888[2] and rebuilt in the 1920s after a fire.
Under the stewardship of its current owner, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, the hotel has recently had an extensive renovation which, however, has not changed its original grandeur. A significant feature of the change has been the addition of a world class spa. An original construction flaw, the siting of the entrance and lobby on the river side, has also been corrected in this renovation. (The architect is said to have declared "you built my hotel backwards!")
The hotel is within a spectacular setting in the Rocky Mountains, just above the Bow Falls, close to thermal springs. It is within walking distance of the resort community of Banff. The main view from the hotel is across the valley and towards Mount Rundle, frequently cited in geology books for its exposed and tilted ancient seabeds.
The original wooden hotel burnt down in 1926, and was rebuilt larger and in its current form in 1928. In 1968, the hotel was winterized and has been open year-round since.[3] Some have compared its past operating schedule to the fictional Overlook Hotel from Stephen King's book The Shining in that, like the Overlook Hotel, it was quite large and grand, located in a remote wilderness area prone to impressive snowfall every winter, and only open in spring through autumn months.
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is one of the premier resort hotels of the world. The golf course in the river valley is also noted worldwide.
Halfway up the internal staircase closest to the Bow Falls may be found a noted painting of William Davidson felling trees on the Miramichi River in colonial times. Davidson was the first European settler in that area, and grew up in Moray, close to Banff, Scotland

Chateau Lake Louise

2009-04-24T09:58:00.004-06:00

From Wiki (including last picture)- The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a Fairmont Hotel on the eastern shore of Lake Louise, near Banff, Alberta. The original Chateau was gradually built up at the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century by the Canadian Pacific Railway and was thus "kin" to its predecessors, the Banff Springs Hotel, and the Château Frontenac. The hotel's wooden Rattenbury Wing burned down on July 3, 1924, and was replaced by the current Barrot Wing one year later. The Painter Wing, built in 1913, is the oldest portion of the hotel still standing. The Mount Temple Wing, opened in 2004, is the newest wing of the hotel and features modern meeting facilities, including the Mount Temple Ballroom.
The hotel was first conceived by the railway at the end of the 19th century, as a vacation destination to lure moneyed travellers into taking trains and heading West. By the time airplanes and automobiles had displaced the trains, it had gained sufficient renown to have a life of its own. The Canadian Pacific Railway long ago sold it to other interests.
From the start, the goal was to exploit the stunning natural beauty of the emerald-green lake and of Victoria glacier which rose above it. There were many hiking and canoeing itineraries for nature lovers. Eventually, all the natural areas around the hotel were incorporated into the Banff National Park. This park has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Originally built to function only in summer, the hotel was winterized in 1982 and now offers all of the regular ski resort fare during the winter months. In addition to the usual skiing, ice skating and snowboarding, there are sleigh rides, ice sculpture contests and snowshoe excursions.

Sleigh Ride

2009-04-23T09:10:00.005-06:00

A real Cowboy.. maybe!

Okay, so its actually a horse drawn snow plow.. but who's counting?

mountain filler shot

2009-04-22T09:47:00.002-06:00

These banff shots were my first attempts at shooting black and white.

Lake Louise

2009-04-21T09:18:00.003-06:00

Please forgive me.. as I am building up a library or current work I am going to back and post some "I always wanted to post, but never did shots" These were taken in February (of last year).

Lake Louise, or Lac Louise as it really is a french name, is picturesque to say the least. The lake is glacier fed and lies at the feet of two mountains. This particular day was very over cast and the clouds were low, but for a brief moment the clouds parted, sun shown in and I got this one shot of the lake.

Link

2009-04-20T02:08:00.006-06:00

Link is the other addition to my life.

I love the light that comes in from my round south facing window. In a perfect world my umbrella and sandals woulds not be in the shot, but i find they add something.

Link is grey and white. The pictures looked HORRID in colour, but they look fantastic in black and white.

Spring Cleanup

2009-04-19T16:25:00.004-06:00

Meet Angus. after the divorce i decided to rent out me spare bedroom. I also became a defacto dog owner.

Cute little bugger isn't he!

104 Street

2008-11-19T08:50:00.002-07:00

104 St is located in the heart of the warehouse district. In the late 90's it was 4 blocks of vacant buildings except for a gay night club at one end and the Cecil hotel at the other. The Cecil was later shut down to health code reasons so that tells you what kind of place it was.
Today the street is full of funky shops and is home to the DT farmers market in the warmer months. Condos have sprung up in the form of lofts and high rises.
This shot looks North up the street along side the Revlon building.

Paul Kane Park - The Story

2008-11-18T07:53:00.004-07:00

The story of the park's namesake - Paul Kane was born Sept 3, 1810, in County Cork Ireland and came to Canada with his family when they settled in the village of York. He attended the York District Grammar School and later was apprenticed to a furniture maker. As a young man he became interested in painting and in 1830, enrolled as a mature student in Upper Canada College, where he studied under the drawing master T. Drury. I in time he became a professional portrait painter. From 1836 to 1845 he roamed USA and Europe, earning enough to live on by painting portraits.
After this he returned to Canada to accomplish his dream of “devoting whatever talents an proficiency I possess to the painting of a series of pictures illustrative of the North America Indians and scenery.” The resulting paintings of Canada’s original inhabitants, over 400 of which are in The Royal Ontario Museum, have made him justly famous.

-Although Paul Kane lived in Toronto he spent a large amount of time out West and his name is attached to public spaces across Canada . My favorite just might be Paul Kane Skateboard Park in Sherwood Park ;-) -

Have a great Tuesday.

Little Frozen Apples

2008-11-17T09:27:00.006-07:00

The news has reported multiple Coyote sightings. They often live in the river valley system and come up into the neighboring communities to scour for food.

Little did I know, but they will eat the over ripe fruit as it falls from the trees in fall/winter.

All I have in my neighborhood are rabits! I'm fine with that.

PAZ

2008-11-16T12:37:00.001-07:00

Don't ask me what PAZ stands for or the symbol.

I have no idea

2008-11-15T08:29:00.002-07:00

Look at me being all Ansel Adams.

Paul Kane Park

2008-11-13T08:08:00.002-07:00

I very much enjoy how the crisp blue caused by the overcast conditions contrasts with that of the very warm but harsh lighting that is given off by a standard outside the picture boarders.

This picture looked very good in black and white, but the contrast was lost and so I have elected to leave it in colour.

Enjoy.

First Snow Fall

2008-11-12T07:37:00.002-07:00

Ok.. I woke up and a wet sticky snow had fallen.

The Blog has not been a top concern over the last 2 months as I am currently ending the relationship I have been in for the last 7 years.

It's amazing the energy it takes.

ANYWAYS.. I am back and once again committed.

Please enjoy ;-)

Vi's for Pies

2008-10-24T08:39:00.004-06:00

Vies is a great little cafe that has many things other than pies to offer. Because it's located in between the ritzy neighborhoods of Old Glenora and Glenora, you can grab a gourmet coffee and go for a walk and look at all the beautiful houses. Vi's is an Edmonton institution.

Earls

2008-10-19T10:29:00.002-06:00

I am starting to shoot some of my favorite haunts.

Earls is only a few blocks from my house so it's a quick and easy place to get a meal. I have been going to earls since I was a teenager. The chain has gone from great food at very affordable prices to good food at slightly above average prices.

The restaurants are all being redone in that ultra modern fashion that is so vogue today, and the parrot that you see was at one time a major symbol of the earls chain.

Fall in Parkland

2008-10-13T10:18:00.003-06:00

OK 70 bucks for a charger ACK!

O well....

The sad thing is I missed all the fall colours, except for this one shot which I took just before my camera died.

ACK!

2008-09-28T11:49:00.001-06:00

I Have lost the charger to my Camera... As son as I can take more pictures I will ;-)

The End of Jasper

2008-09-23T07:33:00.002-06:00

I am lucky to have such an amazing place so close to me.

Sadley enough I don't make the most of it.

That will have to change.

2008-09-22T06:37:00.001-06:00

This 5 km hike took us up the mountain onto sulpher ridge.

Log Jam

2008-09-21T15:07:00.000-06:00

Another fun texture shot

A Quiet Moment

2008-09-19T09:10:00.001-06:00

No explanation needed.

Punchbowl Falls

2008-09-18T07:51:00.004-06:00

On the road leading up to the hot springs you pass by these falls. The path to view the falls does extend much beyond the bridge that you see. So In order to get the shots you see I had to go mountain climbing AND LET ME TELL YOU! Balancing not dropping your camera, scaling a hillside and trying not to get your new Diesel jeans dirty is hard for a city slicker.

The 15 year old boy inside me is also fully aware that these falls also resemble the female sex organs. Which does absolutely nothing for me personally, but there is still a certain giggle factor.

The New Site

2008-09-17T07:07:00.004-06:00

I took these photos a little late in the day as you can see the sun had already set in the valley. It made for two very contrasting levels.

The new site has 4 pools, 2 unheated fresh water pools and the other two are hot spring feed.

There is a poolside cafe and the same family has help run this site for 3 generations now.

The water comes out of the mountain at 54 degrees Celsius and is cooled to 40 C or 104 F.

Old Hot Springs

2008-09-16T06:45:00.001-06:00

The fist pool was constructed in the late 1930's. It is situated on the side of a valley along side a small river. The site is truly amazing.

The Bathhouse had a spa and massage services. It's second story viewing area had would have had an amazing view.

The pool was not large enough to meet demand so It was filled in and the bathhouse was razed. The foundation of the structure remains as it houses a large part of the hot spring collection network that feeds the new site today.

I'm Back and With a Picture of Me to Boot

2008-09-15T07:38:00.003-06:00

I have had a very interesting vacation. Sorry I did not keep up with my photos, but I just needed to get away.

On one of my last days I rented a car and headed off to the mountains for a dip in the hot springs and to gain some clarity.

I hope you enjoy the photos.

2008-08-28T20:09:00.001-06:00

Sorry Guys,

I have been tied up at work. I am also going on a much needed vacation.

Posts will continue Sept 15

Ptincess Theatre

2008-08-25T07:35:00.003-06:00

Taken from the Princess Theatre website:

The historic Princess Theatre was built in 1915. The original auditorium, with a balcony, is still much the same as it was originally built. An intimate 90 seat screening room has been added to the basement. The main auditorium is partially wheelchair accessible (rest rooms are upstairs) but the downstairs theatre is not wheelchair accessible. It is the only theatre in Edmonton to have a Cry Room. It is a sound-proof viewing room equipped with volume control and a change table; ideal for families. Matinees are held every Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Monday is discount night, with all seats at $6.

Sorry Guys

2008-08-22T09:38:00.002-06:00

I have been going to plays a lot of this week.. and the last play time is 12:15 am, so it's been eat, sleep and fringe.

I have also taken over a new department at work so I am busy busy busy.

Street Performers

2008-08-20T07:32:00.003-06:00

On top of all the theatre, there are also street performers, beer gardens, vendors of all types and a children's area.

Posters and Playbills

2008-08-19T07:48:00.003-06:00

The Fringe is all about soliciting people. These boards are the only place casts and crews can post their posters. You will also run into performer after performer handing out fliers and playbills.

I met a very nice musician from the UK in the beer tents, went and saw Te Be Arthur's (Look in the blog archive) and ran into some old theater friends.

The Fringe

2008-08-18T08:09:00.002-06:00

From the fringe website;

“Doing the Fringe” or “Fringing” means being adventurous and taking a chance. Over 260 producers are taking a chance on being selected for the festival’s 100 available lottery placements. Fringe Festivals are your opportunity to experience bizarre and outrageous uncensored live theatre. There is no good OR bad…just raw human creativity needing to be expressed AND experienced. Sure there are the reviews, but you are not going to let a theatre critic tell you what to see…are you?? Its summer…Be Adventurous!

Orange County Bicycle

2008-08-17T07:01:00.003-06:00

These chopper style bicycles are popping up everywhere. Personally I can't stand the "ape hanger" style of handle bars, as I think they look a little too goonish. Regardless or what one thinks it's fantastic to see bikes are viewed as being vogue and stylish. This is the kind of thinking that is going to save our planet.

Capoeira Dancers

2008-08-16T05:00:00.000-06:00

The folowing is taken from wiki:

Capoeira (IPA: [ka.pu.ˈej.ɾɐ],Tupi-Guarani word for - clear area) is a blend of martial art, game, and dance that originated in Brazil, from the regions known as Bahia, Pernambuco, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, and São Paulo. The art form originated in Brazil during the 16th century, a result of the slave trading that took place in conjunction with the previously enslaved native Indians. Capoeira was created and developed by slaves brought from Africa. Participants form a roda (circle) and take turns playing instruments, singing, and sparring in pairs in the center of the circle. The game is marked by fluid acrobatic play, feints, and extensive use of groundwork, as well as sweeps, kicks, and headbutts. Less frequently-used techniques include elbow-strikes, slaps, punches, and body-throws.

The End of Cariwest

2008-08-15T23:17:00.001-06:00

Thats it... The end of the parade.
The cute little goober in the hat decided that she too belonged in the parade and was so kind as to stop right in front of me and pose.

Next up... The Fringe

Have You Figured Out I'm Gay Yet?

2008-08-15T09:45:00.010-06:00

Visible minorities accounted for 17.1% of Edmonton’s total population in 2006, up from 14.6% in 2001. This was the fifth highest proportion among Canada’s census metropolitan areas. Reaching 175,295 in 2006, Edmonton’s visible minority population grew by 29.1% between 2001 and 2006, almost three times faster than the 10.6% growth rate for the overall population of Edmonton.Chinese comprised the largest visible minority group in Edmonton, representing 4.6% of Edmonton’s total population, and 26.9% of the CMA’s visible minority population. South Asian was the second largest visible minority group in Edmonton, representing 3.9% of Edmonton’s total population, and 22.9% of its visible minority population.

Just in case it wasn't obvious to you.. I'M GAY. Various shot of men, gay pride parades, ABBA references and schooling in the preforming arts should have tipped ya off. Anyways.. Happy Friday guys and galls. This weekend will be the start of Fringe. Look for a new photo theme comming soon.

Cariwest

2008-08-14T00:21:00.003-06:00

Selecting the photos I will post of the parade has been agonizing. The colour, life and energy of this event made for great photo ops, and the best part was it was like shooting fish in a barrel.

This event was a photo no brainer

Cariwest

2008-08-13T07:34:00.003-06:00

More Cariwest

2008-08-12T07:59:00.001-06:00

You Can Dance! Having the Time of Your Life...

2008-08-11T07:57:00.002-06:00

Eat your heart out ABBA, because you have nothing on this guy!

Cariwest

2008-08-10T10:58:00.003-06:00

The Cariwest parade yesterday, t is a fantastic show. I will be posting pics for most of the week on Cari Wesr. The following is taken from Cariwest's homepage. http://www.cariwestfestival.com/

The City of Festivals present its most colourful festival - the Cariwest Festival! The Cariwest festival brings the spirit of the Caribbean to Edmonton. Enjoy the sweet sound of a steel pan, the spicy flavour on your tongue as you sample the foods of the West Indies, and “jump up” in the streets of Edmonton as you dance alongside the Mas bands, with Calypso music resonating through your soul! The Cariwest Festival is 3 days of fun filled activity. Join us on Friday night and be amazed by the artistic talent of the Colourful Costume Extravaganza, revel in the streets with the Cariwest parade on Saturday, dance the night away at the Saturday night fete and complete the weekend chillin’ in the park with us on Sunday, as we wrap up the festival. .

A Quiet Moment

2008-08-09T16:54:00.003-06:00

I thought I would try my have at a some male nudes.. The shoot turned out nicely.

Here is a pic.

O BTW.. He's from Edmonton so that is how I am linking it to the site ;-)

Cariwest parade is today.. It will be a good picture week.

Thai Beauty

2008-08-08T08:01:00.003-06:00

OK it's o8.o8.o8 and the Olympics have started. My personal belief is the IOC made an inappropriate choice.

This young lady and her friend put on a fantastic traditional Thai dance performance.

This weekend is the Cariwest Fest. I will have pictures of all the great Caribbean costumes that are created for the parade. Snap ya later ;-)

Kids Kids and Kids

2008-08-07T08:31:00.002-06:00

Edmonton's population boom is also the result of a small "Baby Boom"

Almost all the festivals this summer are supersizing their kid and family areas. Heritage days was no exception.

Alberta has the highest birth rate in North America and we have one of the youngest Urban populations with the average age sitting somewhere in the 30's

Mango on a Stick

2008-08-06T05:00:00.002-06:00

The Following is taken from the events website

Come Join The Fun!
Servus Heritage Festival 2008 marks the 33rd annual of this premier three-day showcase of Canada's vibrant multicultural heritage. We will feature over 60 pavilions representing over seventy-five cultures from all over the world. Sample culinary delicacies, see creative performances, shop for crafts, artwork, and clothing, or chat with people eager to tell you a little about their cultural roots and their present-day communities in Canada.Click here for Heritage Festival hours and details.

Sit and Stay

2008-08-05T08:15:00.003-06:00

The heritage Festival was this weekend. Outside the Hong Kong exhibit we found these two playing with each other. I think this is one dog that has the upper hand ;-)

More on the festival throughout the week

Happy Tuesday!

No School Today

2008-08-04T10:30:00.003-06:00

My house backs onto a schoolyard. It was once a regular catholic school, but now it's used by a private instiution. The only interesting elements are a couple of art deco features on the front of the building AND the old Boy's and Girl's entrances.

This Girl has the day off as it is the Civic Holiday.

The history of the "Civic" Holiday.

In 1869 Toronto City Council came up with the idea for a summer "day of recreation." In 1875, it was settled: the first Monday in August would be the official Civic Holiday. That name stuck as other cities followed Toronto's leisure-loving example and proclaimed this a municipal (rather than provincial) holiday.

Civic Holiday is the most widely used name for a public holiday celebrated in parts of Canada on the first Monday in August.
The holiday is known by a variety of names in different provinces and municipalities, including British Columbia Day in British Columbia, New Brunswick Day in New Brunswick, and Saskatchewan Day in Saskatchewan. It is also an official statutory holiday in Nunavut and Northwest Territories, where it is simply known as "Civic Holiday".
In Alberta, Heritage Day is an "optional" civil holiday. The first Monday in August is celebrated as Natal Day in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, but is not an official provincial holiday.
It is celebrated as a municipal holiday as Simcoe Day in Toronto, and Colonel By Day in Ottawa, Joseph Brant Day in Burlington, Founders' Day in Brantford, McLaughlin Day in Oshawa, Alexander Mackenzie Day in Sarnia, James Cockburn Day in Cobourg, and John Galt Day in Guelph. Although this is a day off work for many, including employees of federal and many municipal governments, the provincial government has not defined this day as a provincial statutory holiday and is not mentioned in either Ontario's Employment Standards Act or Retail Business Holidays Act.
Discovery Day is celebrated in Yukon on the third Monday in August.

Busy as a Bee

2008-08-03T10:24:00.001-06:00

Still hard at it here. I am in the garden this weekend pruning and dead heading.

Enjoy the rest of your long weekend.

Stopped to Smell the Flowers

2008-08-02T10:14:00.001-06:00

I am taking some me time.... I will be back making posts soon.

BMX, Inner City Style

2008-08-01T08:16:00.002-06:00

Some males in the animal kindom make sing, beat their chest or have beutiful multicoloured markings..... Maybe we aren't as "evolved" as we think ;-)

RIP Steph

2008-07-31T05:54:00.003-06:00

Edmonton has released it's census. Since 2005 the city of Edmonton has grown by 40,000 people, or another way to look at it is, On average 30-40 people move to Edmonton on a daily basis.
Our metro population is now somewhere in the 1.1 million range.

Today that number is one less as a good friend has passed away after a long struggle with a rare virus. We thought he was out of the woods but a relapse occurred Friday of last week. He was started on morphine for pain management and slipped away in his sleep surrounded by loved ones.

Today will be a tough day.

Lunch Break

2008-07-30T07:29:00.002-06:00

Really, who designed newspapers and why can't them make them so they fold easily!

Saint. Joe's - The Pulpit

2008-07-29T06:12:00.002-06:00

I think pulpit is the right term, but then again the Roman Catholics have different terms than what I new as a kid. My mother took us to the United Church which is more in line with my personal views.

Regardless.. This is one of the churches twice daily masses. I would have loved to get more shots, but I had to remain respectful.

Saint. Joe's Continued

2008-07-28T06:01:00.002-06:00

The is the courtyard between the Seminary and the church. I always find it odd when beautiful green spaces such as this are locked away. I would rather sit in a space such as this and reflect then in some dark solemn lifeless room.

Sacred Place #6 St. Joseph's Basillica

2008-07-27T12:41:00.002-06:00

I am not catholic and I know very little about this church. I CAN tell you that this is where Wayne Gretzky was married.

The following is taken from wiki;

St. Joseph's Cathedral Basilica is a minor basilica in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The basilica, located just west of the downtown core is the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton and is one of the largest churches in Edmonton. It is the only basilica in Alberta.
Of architectural note are the 60 stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Old and the New Testaments and from the church's connection to St. Albert.

For almost three decades the basilica was known as the church without locks. It was open 24 hours providing a sacred space for worship and quiet prayers while its pews gave refuge to the tired bodies of homeless people. However, in the early 1980s, the church without locks had to close at night. The number of people attending perpetual adoration declined while on the morning of Feb. 28, 1980 an arsonist set the altar and crucifix on fire, causing smoke and water damage to the whole building. It was the darkest hour in its history. To remove soot and smell, all the stones inside the church had to be scrubbed. Its prized possession, the Casavant Brothers organ, was sent to Quebec for cleaning and repairs. Clean up and repair costs reached $250,000.

It also had its share of fame when parishioners shrugged off the controversy and international publicity surrounding the wedding of hockey superstar Wayne Gretzky to actress Janet Jones, both non-Catholics. About a hundred people objected to the ceremony being held at the basilica but many more applauded the Church's openness.

Canada Place

2008-07-26T07:09:00.002-06:00

Canada place is our federal building. The interior of the building is a very Large and very open atrium that runs from end to end. It's a very neat space.

Below in the square "A Taste of Edmonton" is running. Restaurants from across the city are set up here offering tastes of there menus.

Batman, The Dark Night. Opening Scene Loction.

2008-07-25T07:40:00.003-06:00

The opening parkade scenes of the new Batman film were shot in Edmonton. This is the parkade of my office tower and it's also the place where batman jumps 4 storeys onto an escaping car.

Anyone who knows me knows I hate heights. To get this I had to lean over a 12 storey opening and thusly after the shot I was sick and dizzy for a good hour.

Enjoy!

West Edmonton Mall - Dragon

2008-07-24T05:49:00.002-06:00

West Edmonton Mall is a testing ground for marketing ideas. In the late 90's movie theaters tried to make themselves destinations by adding things like lounges and entertainment features. And thus our dragon was born. Every half an hour or so this guy comes to life. The lights dim, dramatic music plays and people stare.

We all sit around and comment how cheesy the stupid thing is, yet we can't help but watch ;-P

West Edmonton Mall - Rollercoaster

2008-07-23T22:21:00.002-06:00

I have waited as long as I could to post a pic of the famed West Edmonton Mall. This mall is HUGE, one of the biggest in the world and for years THE BIGGEST.
Most Edmontonions hate it. In my opinion the place is a dump. the censor police have to stop me here or else I may get charged with slander.

There are a few cool things about this mall. One being The apple store, The Sanrio store and the roller coaster.
Again this coaster is/was the largest indoor roller coaster in the world. It was made famous when early in it's life one of the trains flew off the track and killed several people. As a child I remember this monster sitting there unused as YEARS of tests were done.

It is a very fun ride, but is often overlooked by roller coaster fans. The initial drop is extremely steep and is almost straight down. I can ride this coaster over and over again!