Heat warning and live music — a warm Thursday ahead
It's going to be hot, the river's running high, and there's plenty to do tonight if you want to get out.
We're hitting 17°C this morning but the UV's already at 7 — that's high, so plan accordingly if you're outside most of the day. There's a heat warning in effect, so if you're heading out for lunch or sticking around the Ave or downtown, bring water and find some shade. The good news is we've got sixteen-plus hours of daylight, and sunset doesn't come till 9:45 tonight, so there's time to move around.
One thing worth knowing if you're heading to the river valley: the North Saskatchewan's running high on the back of summer rain. If you've got plans on the water or around the banks, take it slower than usual — rescuers and boaters are dealing with the current.
Downtown's been quiet on the restaurant front. At least six places have closed since early June, and owners are pointing to the usual squeeze of rising costs and thin margins. It's worth noting if you've got a favourite spot you've been meaning to hit — don't assume it's still there. On the flip side, Greg Sweeney's HOM Street Food is moving into Bibo's old kitchen on Whyte Avenue, and Coliseum Steak & Pizza just marked fifty years running in Parkdale, if you're in the mood for something reliable.
If you're staying in tonight, there's live music and comedy happening. The Starlite Room's got Absolute Losers with Red Grace at seven, and Rick Bronson's has Rell Battle doing stand-up at half past. The Citadel's got The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee on stage too. And if you want something bigger, bbno$ is playing KDays Music Fest over at the Expo Centre at 7:30 — that's a good bet for energy on a work night.
There's also a baseball game: Sylvan Lake Gulls come to town to take on the Energy City Cactus Rats at Myshak Metro Ballpark at 7:05 if you want to catch that instead.
One more thing that landed this week: Alberta's putting $30 million toward 400 new treatment beds for the opioid crisis in the Edmonton area, with involuntary detention part of the plan. It's a significant move and worth paying attention to.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and if you're catching anything live tonight you'll have plenty of light even after the shows start. See you out there.
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