Capitol theatre marquee so hot, sidewalks stayed snow-free in winter!
The Capitol Theatre opened in 1918 as the ‘Allen Theatre’. Designed for Famous Players by architect H. L. Gage, this two-storey building was constructed of concrete with brick cladding.
In 1929, Famous Players closed the theatre, now called the ‘Capitol Theatre’, for three months to install sound equipment for the new "talkies" and to add a balcony, giving the theatre an additional 500 seats.
They also added an electric sign and marquee, as well as hired noted Montreal theatre designer Emmanuel Briffa to redecorate the interior of the theatre. When the renovations were complete, the Capitol Theatre became the first theatre in Edmonton to show movies with sound.
An additional renovation in 1938, designed by Magoon and MacDonald, saw the installation of air conditioning and a 2000-light marquee, the largest in Western Canada. The 2000 60-watt bulbs generated so much heat that the sidewalk in front of the theatre stayed snow and ice-free almost all winter.
In 1954, the theatre was renovated and modernized once again. However, the movie industry was changing and by the 1970s, larger theatres were no longer profitable. For that reason, the Capitol Theatre was demolished in 1972. A scaled-down replica of the 1929 version of the theatre was built at Fort Edmonton Park in 2011.
https://www.edmontonhistoricalboard.com/structures/capitol-theatre/
Don’t forget to embrace the RV this International Trails Day on June 7
Richard Dixon art
Come explore Edmonton’s extensive trail system this International Trails Day, June 7, using the City’s Discover YEG Map. International Trails Day is celebrated on the first Saturday in June and is a global event to promote the benefits of trails and encourage use.
In Edmonton, this event will highlight the River Valley Parks and the importance of green spaces for recreation, health and connection with nature. Did you know Edmonton has one of the most expansive urban trail systems in Canada? With a mix of 92 kilometres of paved and 93 kilometres of unpaved paths, these maintained routes link parks across the city through the Ribbon of Green that is the Edmonton River Valley.
While celebrating International Trails Day, please remember to stay on designated trails to prevent damage to ecologically sensitive areas. Check the weather and trail conditions before heading out and obey any trail closures in effect. Report concerns about trails to 311 to do your part in keeping these spaces enjoyable and safe for everyone.
More information on how to enjoy International Trails Day in Edmonton at https://movelearnplay.edmonton.ca/.
River Valley Bylaw Public Hearing: Action Needed!
A public hearing at City Council will be held June 9 for review and approval of a revised River Valley Area Redevelopment Plan (aka River Valley Bylaw) governing protection and development in the North Saskatchewan River Valley and Ravines. The North Saskatchewan River Valley Conservation Society is concerned this bylaw fails to consistently deliver binding rules rather than “suggestions” and lacks a strong risk and impact review process. As our valley is public land, protected for the benefit of current and future generations, the bylaw must be amended to also impose the duty to notify and offer opportunity for public comment for any proposed major developments or changes to the bylaw. We have been active stakeholders during the “Bylaw Modernization” process and will attend the public hearing to share specific recommendations to strengthen the River Valley Bylaw.
The public hearing will also discuss the Ribbon of Green Strategic Plan revised during the River Valley Planning Modernization project. We recommend this Plan also be officially approved by City Council as a guide to future decision making. We encourage Edmontonians to share their voices to City Council on the need for a strong bylaw to ensure that decisions on our valley ensure a legacy of river valley protection for years to come.
You can speak at the Council June 9 public hearing and also send emails directly to the Mayor and councillors expressing your views.
To register to speak at the June 9 City Council Public Hearing item 3.11 apply at the City of Edmonton site or call 780-496-8178. Emailed comments may be forwarded to city.clerk@edmonton.ca referencing the North Saskatchewan River Valley Area Redevelopment Plan hearings, Item 3.11. Written submissions are forwarded to Mayor and Council.
British Columbia Centenary Totem Pole submitted by Rhonda Taft
“Hidden treasure at the Legislature!”
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