Saskatoon Construction II

[dsim249]

^ Ohh cool. The Barking Fish was kinda old news anyway, needed an update.

And welcome to SSP!

[prairieguy]

I liked the vibe of the Barking Fish...hope it does not become another generic english/irish pub wannabe...at least BF had an urban feel to it...

[Echoes]

^ I'm excited! I still need to try out Duck Duck Goose too.

In other observations, I was driving past the old Continental Hotel on 2nd Ave across from the Galaxy the other day and noticed papers posted to the windows that looked like drawings and elevations... perhaps related to the proposed redevelopment of that building by Mark Bobyn. I'll need to stroll by soon to get a closer look. Hoping for something cool there, that block of 2nd Ave. needs help.

[Milosch]

Originally Posted by Echoes

^ I'm excited! I still need to try out Duck Duck Goose too.

In other observations, I was driving past the old Continental Hotel on 2nd Ave across from the Galaxy the other day and noticed papers posted to the windows that looked like drawings and elevations... perhaps related to the proposed redevelopment of that building by Mark Bobyn. I'll need to stroll by soon to get a closer look. Hoping for something cool there, that block of 2nd Ave. needs help.

I have seen the drawings too, i believe they are the original drawings but im not totally sure. They seem to be hand drawn and that is now a lost art with all the available computer programs.

[Jerry]

I took some photos of those last week. The reflection was pretty bad but here is one of them and yes they look like original drawings that have been copied.
Not sure why they are posted except for general interest.




Previous Post on the Continental Hotel from 2009


Hey Milosch welcome to the forum.

[circle33]

As I may have mentioned a few (dozen??) times here, Mr. Bobyn has been working on a house down the street from me going on at least 4 years now. It's still not quite done. I wouldn't expect the Continental project to move at too rapid a pace.

[Echoes]

^ That may be your dozenth time mentioning it, but hey, he's no slower than the developers of Parcel Y.

At least the building is in hands that will keep it safe from demolition. Sadly, it's the only structure with any heritage value left in the South Downtown. Seeing what the Empire Hotel/Capri/Lighthouse used to look like depresses me!

[WoodlandCritter]

Old Empire Hotel...

http://scaa.sk.ca/gallery/postcards/solr...otels%22&start=0&rows=10&mode=view&pos=2

Too bad it is what it is now.

[Echoes]

A fantastic and timely column by Gerry Klein:

'Politics of street' hurting city
By Gerry Klein, The StarPhoenix September 1, 2011

I have one daughter living in Montreal and the other bought a house in Victoria last year.

Both have fond memories of Saskatoon, but the likelihood of either returning for more than a visit is remote.

I blame myself. From the time they were small, my wife and I would bring them along when we visited other cities. We tried to instil in them an appreciation for those things that make a city more than just a patch of pavement with building sticking out of it.

Chantelle, our oldest, is drawn by the cosmopolitan feel of Montreal, even though it didn't make it to the Top 10 livable cities, as chosen by the Economist magazine.

In contrast to Saskatoon, where she felt she had to contextualize or apologize for the marginalization of First Nations people into the core neighbourhoods, in Montreal she finds an easy mixing of ethnic groups.

She also finds that, despite its flaws, Montreal cares about having convenient recycling facilities and maintaining its esthetic architectural cohesion. Its citizens take pride in their cultural heritage.

Sarah's home is about 100 metres from Langford Lake in Victoria. When she isn't in her garden, she spends her leisure time swimming, diving, biking and hiking on mountain trails. Although we used to take her canoeing down the South Saskatchewan and on the Churchill rivers, her recollection of Saskatoon's water features is that they are either artificial and indoors, or to be avoided for fear of currents.

Although much has changed in the few years since they left, and Saskatoon is increasingly investing in its identity, my daughters will observe these changes only as a tourists.

[....]

Read more: http://www.thestarphoenix.com/Politics+street+hurting+city/5337636/story.html#ixzz1WiJwRKav

________________

People need to see past the immediacy of the potholes on their street, and ask themselves what vision they have for Saskatoon. Realistically though, I can't expect that many ever will - people are too busy with their own lives to do so - but that is why we elect leaders, look to planners, and invite creativity in setting out a long term vision for the city. When people bitch and complain ad nauseum about the cost of the AGS, River Landing, or - God forbid - the lights on the Traffic Bridge, they don't see the long term strategy of these efforts, that the City isn't simply throwing cash in to a black hole, but that these investments made will have payoffs in the future, economic and cultural returns, business attraction, increased livability, and tax revenue.

I'm quite concerned that any progress we're making in this city in terms of 'growing up' can or will soon be derailed by these raging BANANAs (Build Absolutely Nothing At No time Anywhere). But here on SSP, I'm probably just preaching to the choir. /rant

[TechnicalRecession]

Originally Posted by WoodlandCritter

Old Empire Hotel...

http://scaa.sk.ca/gallery/postcards/solr...otels%22&start=0&rows=10&mode=view&pos=2

Too bad it is what it is now.

Wow, that was a nice building!

[mike474]

Originally Posted by Echoes

A fantastic and timely column by Gerry Klein:

'Politics of street' hurting city
By Gerry Klein, The StarPhoenix September 1, 2011



Read more: http://www.thestarphoenix.com/Politics+street+hurting+city/5337636/story.html#ixzz1WiJwRKav

________________

People need to see past the immediacy of the potholes on their street, and ask themselves what vision they have for Saskatoon. Realistically though, I can't expect that many ever will - people are too busy with their own lives to do so - but that is why we elect leaders, look to planners, and invite creativity in setting out a long term vision for the city. When people bitch and complain ad nauseum about the cost of the AGS, River Landing, or - God forbid - the lights on the Traffic Bridge, they don't see the long term strategy of these efforts, that the City isn't simply throwing cash in to a black hole, but that these investments made will have payoffs in the future, economic and cultural returns, business attraction, increased livability, and tax revenue.

I'm quite concerned that any progress we're making in this city in terms of 'growing up' can or will soon be derailed by these raging BANANAs (Build Absolutely Nothing At No time Anywhere). But here on SSP, I'm probably just preaching to the choir. /rant

The decisions the city makes in the next five years will probably determine whether or not I'll ever come back. Unfortunately, I'm as pessimistic as you are... especially when my neighbourhood has more to offer me than my home province at this point in my life

[brannelford]

Originally Posted by Echoes

A fantastic and timely column by Gerry Klein:

'Politics of street' hurting city
By Gerry Klein, The StarPhoenix September 1, 2011

Read more: http://www.thestarphoenix.com/Politics+street+hurting+city/5337636/story.html#ixzz1WiJwRKav

As a former Saskatonian who still has some family connections in the city, I'd pretty much have to agree 100% with this article.
Saskatoon "could" have a lot going for it, but a vast majority of citizens seem to ignore its potential.

Case in point, on my last visit a year ago, the brother and his wife beamed with pride as they chauffered through suburbs on the eastside replete with row after row of "snout houses". They also beam with pride about the increased traffic chaos, as somehow indicative that Saskatoon has achieved "big city" status.

Alternatively, these eastside denisons had not once visited the Farmer's Market, as his wife feels that Riversdale is 'unsafe'. To add to this, they questioned why on earth would I want to visit Caswell Hill to see any of the changes taking place (i.e. Eaton Lofts etc.). I insisted that we go, and they had to begrudgingly oblige, all the time denigrating various aspects of the westside.

When I made a favourable comment about the lofts at the former Bay store and across the street at the King George, both of them sniffed that they were overpriced and had a poor location. Albeit, they are not in a riverfront location, but I was dismayed that both of them seemed to disvalue any attempt at downtown revitalization.

We then drove back to their home on the eastside, and they once again beamed about all the new restaurants opening up on 8th Street. When I commented that one couldn't very well walk to any of these restaurants, and that 8th Street didn't really have any street vibe (apart from the auto), they both looked at me in a confused way, and no comments were made. I then had to change the subject.

Unfortunately, I suspect their opinions and views appear to reflect the majority of Saskatoon residents.

p.s. I know this is not the case with all Saskatonians. I smiled a bit when a former schoolchum of mine seemed to apologize for moving his family from Nutana to Stonebridge, but with a growing family and need for a larger house, the options were more plentiful and that neighbourhood and it had more kids, so I get it. But at least he and his wife, unlike the brother and his wife, can appreciate a more urban vibe.

[Echoes]

Originally Posted by mike474

The decisions the city makes in the next five years will probably determine whether or not I'll ever come back. Unfortunately, I'm as pessimistic as you are... especially when my neighbourhood has more to offer me than my home province at this point in my life

Interesting, seems you're a "test subject" of sorts to measure Saskatoon's progress - you left for greener pastures, but what the city can offer you down the road could bring you back.

(And I'm guessing it's not pavement and garbage pickup that will bring you back)

Originally Posted by brannelford

As a former Saskatonian who still has some family connections in the city, I'd pretty much have to agree 100% with this article.
Saskatoon "could" have a lot going for it, but a vast majority of citizens seem to ignore its potential.

Case in point, on my last visit a year ago, the brother and his wife beamed with pride as they chauffered through suburbs on the eastside replete with row after row of "snout houses". They also beam with pride about the increased traffic chaos, as somehow indicative that Saskatoon has achieved "big city" status.

Alternatively, these eastside denisons had not once visited the Farmer's Market, as his wife feels that Riversdale is 'unsafe'. To add to this, they questioned why on earth would I want to visit Caswell Hill to see any of the changes taking place (i.e. Eaton Lofts etc.). I insisted that we go, and they had to begrudgingly oblige, all the time denigrating various aspects of the westside.

When I made a favourable comment about the lofts at the former Bay store and across the street at the King George, both of them sniffed that they were overpriced and had a poor location. Albeit, they are not in a riverfront location, but I was dismayed that both of them seemed to disvalue any attempt at downtown revitalization.

We then drove back to their home on the eastside, and they once again beamed about all the new restaurants opening up on 8th Street. When I commented that one couldn't very well walk to any of these restaurants, and that 8th Street didn't really have any street vibe (apart from the auto), they both looked at me in a confused way, and no comments were made. I then had to change the subject.

Unfortunately, I suspect their opinions and views appear to reflect the majority of Saskatoon residents.

p.s. I know this is not the case with all Saskatonians. I smiled a bit when a former schoolchum of mine seemed to apologize for moving his family from Nutana to Stonebridge, but with a growing family and need for a larger house, the options were more plentiful and that neighbourhood and it had more kids, so I get it. But at least he and his wife, unlike the brother and his wife, can appreciate a more urban vibe.

That description made me laugh and cringe at the same time, brannelford. I've sufferred through the same ignorance, the "Why would we go to Riversdale?" remarks, and "I hate going downtown, I can never find parking" or "Why the hell would you take the bus?" (I choose to take the bus to and from work despite being financially able to drive, and I get a lot of puzzled looks when I tell people that I do.) Then there's the blind ignorance towards the west side...

I know the same kind of people as your brother and his wife, those folks living in their apparent suburban bliss. Those that seek to disvalue anything that's outside their own suburban realm. To some people, Saskatoon becoming a 'big city' means getting our first Chili's location. To be fair, I do know residents of suburban neighbourhoods that appreciate the urban amenities our city offers - I don't fault people simply for where they live, only for what attitudes, perceptions and beliefs they might hold that's attached to where they live and their lifestyle.

And still, I know a lot of young people who are quite sensitive to what Saskatoon has to offer and what they want out of living here, and still more who aren't satisfied with what there is to offer.

[shmakim]

Well, with all the international in-migration happening, perhaps we can look forward to a growing population in Saskatoon that values urban amenities, cultural diversity, and walkable cities. I only hope all those new people speak with their votes and their dollars.

[drm310]

First the Black Duck, then the Barking Fish, now the Rook and Raven. Sounds like a zoo.

Originally Posted by Milosch

Just noticed that the Barking Fish is closed and renovations are taking place. Also there is a note on the door saying the new name of the place will be The Rook & Raven Pub. Couldnt find any information about the Rook & Raven Put on the internet.

[Tilly]

Hey guys, quick question I hope the Saskatoonians can help me out with.

Sorry this is not construction related, but I dont want to start a new thread for this question. Anyways, my family is debating flying out of Stoon to Cancun in February. The cheapest option is with United via Denver. However the layover time is only 1:15 before the plane leaves Denver to Cancun. Now I know here in Edmonton there is the US preclearance, but YXE does not have this option it would seem. So I was wondering whether there is enough time to catch the connecting CUN flight once we land in DEN. Do we need to grab luggage and clear US customs before departing again, or is there a quick way of doing it? I have tried calling United and end up talking to a machine, so I decided to give you guys a try.

Thanks

[drto]

Would you even need to pick up your bags in Denver or would they simply be checked all the way thru to Cancun? Someone on here has got to have an answer for you.
Either way, definately would be tight so make sure you have your boardshorts and flip flops in your carry-on!

Originally Posted by Tilly

Hey guys, quick question I hope the Saskatoonians can help me out with.

Sorry this is not construction related, but I dont want to start a new thread for this question. Anyways, my family is debating flying out of Stoon to Cancun in February. The cheapest option is with United via Denver. However the layover time is only 1:15 before the plane leaves Denver to Cancun. Now I know here in Edmonton there is the US preclearance, but YXE does not have this option it would seem. So I was wondering whether there is enough time to catch the connecting CUN flight once we land in DEN. Do we need to grab luggage and clear US customs before departing again, or is there a quick way of doing it? I have tried calling United and end up talking to a machine, so I decided to give you guys a try.

Thanks

[Stormer]

Originally Posted by Tilly

Hey guys, quick question I hope the Saskatoonians can help me out with.

Sorry this is not construction related, but I dont want to start a new thread for this question. Anyways, my family is debating flying out of Stoon to Cancun in February. The cheapest option is with United via Denver. However the layover time is only 1:15 before the plane leaves Denver to Cancun. Now I know here in Edmonton there is the US preclearance, but YXE does not have this option it would seem. So I was wondering whether there is enough time to catch the connecting CUN flight once we land in DEN. Do we need to grab luggage and clear US customs before departing again, or is there a quick way of doing it? I have tried calling United and end up talking to a machine, so I decided to give you guys a try.

Thanks

My friends just did this out of Regina and United cancelled the flights in both directions. They lost a day of their 1 week vaction on front end and missed a day of work on the back end. I have talked to a half dozen people in the last month, including yesterday who have had their United flights in or out of Denver cancelled for lame reasons.

[Dino35]

Originally Posted by Tilly

Hey guys, quick question I hope the Saskatoonians can help me out with.

Sorry this is not construction related, but I dont want to start a new thread for this question. Anyways, my family is debating flying out of Stoon to Cancun in February. The cheapest option is with United via Denver. However the layover time is only 1:15 before the plane leaves Denver to Cancun. Now I know here in Edmonton there is the US preclearance, but YXE does not have this option it would seem. So I was wondering whether there is enough time to catch the connecting CUN flight once we land in DEN. Do we need to grab luggage and clear US customs before departing again, or is there a quick way of doing it? I have tried calling United and end up talking to a machine, so I decided to give you guys a try.

Thanks

Yes- you need to clear customs in Denver and if you are on the morning flight they are not even allowed to let you off the plane until 9am. You need to clear customs, pick up your bags, re-check your bags, go through security again and then take the train to your terminal. This can easily take 45 - 60 minutes depending on how busy it is. On a good day (without any luggage) it takes me 30 minutes

[Tilly]

Originally Posted by Dino35

Yes- you need to clear customs in Denver and if you are on the morning flight they are not even allowed to let you off the plane until 9am. You need to clear customs, pick up your bags, re-check your bags, go through security again and then take the train to your terminal. This can easily take 45 - 60 minutes depending on how busy it is. On a good day (without any luggage) it takes me 30 minutes

Hhhmmm...it would seem as though this would be almost impossible to make work, especially a family with kids in tow. Thank you all for all your responses!