Sunday in E-town: warmer air, a Grey Cup-bound Elks, and a full bill of plans

Morning, Edmonton. Six degrees this morning, which after the last few days feels almost generous. UV is sitting at 1, so you can leave the sunscreen in the drawer, but the sun sets at 5:48 this evening, so if you're planning anything outdoors, get it done in the afternoon and don't let the day slip away on you. Nine hours of daylight is plenty for a river valley walk, a patio coffee, or a long drive out past the city limits.

The big news for anyone who bleeds green and gold: the Edmonton Elks beat the BC Lions 28-16 to reach the Grey Cup. Connor and the Oil may have their own troubles this week, but the Elks have given the city something to cheer about, and the buzz is real. Speaking of the Oilers, Zach Hyman is back in the lineup Saturday against Vancouver after his stiff-neck absence, which is good news for a team that's been running thin on the blue line and in goal, with Levi headed to IR and Walman sitting.

There's some heavier local news worth knowing too. Alberta's women's shelters are admitting fewer callers as the cost of living pushes women to stay in unsafe homes, a number that should sit with all of us. And tenants at Kennedy Towers in Old Strathcona are protesting a proposed 60 per cent rent hike, which is the kind of story that hits close to home for anyone who has ever opened a lease renewal with a sinking feeling.

For food, there's some fresh energy around town. Westblock Glenora's Ayco Cafe is one of several new spots opening around the city, and Hazeldean Bakery has reopened in south Edmonton with hundreds turning out to welcome its new owners, so that's a good excuse for a Sunday morning drive south. Elio's has also opened on the south side with Filipino comfort food and a gathering-around-the-table feel, which sounds exactly right for a long, lazy lunch. Sad news at the Old Strathcona Farmers' Market: Paperbirch by Chartrand is closing after two years, so if you've been meaning to stop by, don't wait. And in a pleasant bit of accountability, Duchess Bake Shop admitted its Harry Potter gingerbread house was a mistake, dropped the theme, and is donating all proceeds, matched, to the Pride Centre of Edmonton.

If you want something on the ice today, the Edmonton Oil Kings host the Prince Albert Raiders at Rogers Place at 4:00 PM, which makes for a solid afternoon out, especially with the Ice District buzzing. Earlier in the day, The Great Gatsby - The Musical opens at the Shoctor Theatre at The Citadel at 2:30 PM, a good pick if you want something polished and indoors on a cold November afternoon.

Tonight has plenty going on. Bed By 10PM (18+) plays Midway at 5:00 PM. Blue Rodeo takes over River Cree Resort & Casino at 8:00 PM, and Snuffed On Sight, Foghorn, Mugger, Smoked909, and Desoectomy play Rat King Studios at 8:00 PM. Pick your lane, whether that's a big-sound rock night or something smaller and grittier. Since Monday is Remembrance Day, a lot of people have the day off, so there's no reason to rush your Sunday night.

Enjoy the sun while it's here, Edmonton, and make it a good one.