Legendary hotel host, Donald Ross, approves sleeping on pool tables
The first train to reach Edmonton steamed across the Low Level Bridge on October 20, 1902. Donald Ross occupied a place of pride in the locomotive cab. His honoured presence was fitting as a few years earlier, he had driven the ceremonial final rivet to complete the bridge.
That wasn’t the only thing Ross was known for though. Before driving the completion of the Low Level Bridge, Ross managed the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Fort Edmonton farm in 1874. After a short time, he asserted ownership of the farm and erected a popular hotel. As a hotel host, he was legendary.
When no beds were available, one guest received accommodations on the pool table. When the guest complained about having to pay the regular rate of 50¢, Ross told him he could have charged the 75¢/hour rate for a game of billiards!
They say Ross was also involved in any early Edmonton organization that you can name. He was so deeply entwined in early Edmonton that his wife’s wedding ring was forged of North Saskatchewan gold. https://www.edmontoncommonwealthwalkway.com/history/sure-you-can-sleep-on-the-pool-table
City rolls out Shinrin-yoku forest therapy sessions this summer
Brendan Bush photo
The City is introducing Forest Bathing sessions and invites residents to discover the healing benefits of mindful connection with the urban forest. Forest Bathing offers a unique opportunity to reduce stress and enhance wellness by engaging the senses in Edmonton’s natural spaces while learning about our urban forest.
Forest bathing, also known as forest therapy or Shinrin-yoku, involves spending intentional time in a forest or natural area, fostering relaxation and a deeper connection to the environment. Guided sessions, led by certified Shinrin-yoku guides from the City’s Urban Forestry team, provide a safe and comfortable environment for exploration and discovery.
Activities include mindful sensory exploration, silent meditation, exploratory walking and opportunities for group and individual reflections. Free guided sessions are available weekly throughout the summer on Tuesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. and Thursdays from 9 to 11 a.m. at various parks across the city. For more information, visit edmonton.ca/ForestBathing.
Are you an urban forest ambassador at heart?
CIF photo
The City of Edmonton is introducing the Urban Forest Ambassador Program and inviting residents to become ambassadors to help protect Edmonton’s urban forest from threats like Dutch elm disease and emerald ash borer.
Residents can participate and receive free training to detect early signs of these threats to trees. Upon completion, residents become Urban Forest Ambassadors who serve as key community contacts, raising awareness in their neighbourhoods, supporting surveillance, and contributing to city-wide reporting and the long-term health of Edmonton’s elm and ash trees.
The first training session is scheduled for Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Lois Hole Library. Additional training sessions will be scheduled throughout the summer. Space is limited and registration is required.
To learn more about the Urban Forest Ambassador program and to register for the upcoming training, visit edmonton.ca/UrbanForestAmbassador
The Eagle Point Moth Ball is back!
On Thursday July 17, from 6:30 pm to 1:00 am, get involved in the Eagle Point Moth Ball. This is a celebration of Alberta’s night creatures! The event will take place at Pembina Nordic Centre, 7010 Twp 494, Eagle Point Provincial Park. It is free and family-friendly.
This evening under the stars will shine a light (literally!) on some of Alberta’s most fascinating nocturnal creatures. From live bats and snakes to moths and frogs, the Eagle Point Moth Ball is a celebration of the creatures that come alive when the sun goes down.
You will get the chance to experience live presentations, as well as get up close with expert presenters and their real-life creature companions. This year’s lineup includes Alberta Lepidopterists’ Guild, Alberta Community Bats, Alberta Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy (AARC), Edmonton and Area Land Trust, and Native Bee Council.
Register here https://www.ealt.ca/event-listing/community-events-2025
City as an Advocate by Dawn Marie Marchand, City Hall
https://www.edmontonarts.ca/public-art/city-as-an-advocate
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