Easy Carrot, Ginger & Apple Soup

It was a quick flight of an hour and 20 minutes from Vancouver to Edmonton on Westjet. Upon arriving I visited Vish, a great spot in the NW neighbourhood that recently closed their dine-in service in favour of being a pickup spot for takeout as well as deliveries. They make delicious, mostly vegetarian multicultural dishes and everything I tried was outstanding. Enjoyed a delicious lunch of their house-made hummus, falafel, kibbeh, greens tahini, peppers, labneh, tahini, babaganoush, pita, and chopped salad. They even have stuffed falafels that tahini or beef inside and it’s all so good. Vish is a multicultural restaurant located at 10326 124 St, in Edmonton; that now offers online ordering for pickup as well delivery through Uber eats, DoorDash and Skip the dishes. Follow them on Instagram @vishcanada  The next stop on my day long restaurant tour was to Thamel Eatery where it has been all about Nepalese dishes since opening and they are now adding a wide selection of Indian dishes to the menu. I had a selection of their chicken filled signature momos – steamed, pan fried, tandoori and deep fried with accompanied by 2 sauces (yellow is mild) and (red is hot). I also tried some of their delicious butter chicken and naan as these were 2 new menu additions. Thamel Eatery is located at 12413 118 Ave NW, Edmonton. Follow them on Instagram @thameleatery  My next stop was to Lochi Afro Nija that specializes in East Nigerian cuisine. I tried some of their unique and tasty dishes that included Nigerian style fried chicken, Jollof rice, Plantains and beans, Fried rice and an African spiced Hibiscus drink to pair with the dishes. The restaurant offers plentiful seating and they also offer takeout as well as for pickup and delivery through Uber eats, DoorDash and Skip the dishes. Lochi Afro Nija is located at 10335 100 Avenue NW in downtown Edmonton. Follow them on instagram @lochiafronija  I sat down for dinner at Maria Northern Mexican Cuisine also in the downtown area and some of their delicious dishes that included a Beef Chimichanga, Taco el Pastor and their Sonoran Tortilla Soup. Maria Northern Mexican Cuisine is located at 10220 103 St NW in downtown Edmonton. The restaurant offers plentiful seating in their beautiful restaurant and they also offer takeout as well as for pickup and delivery.Follow them on Instagram @maria_restaurantca  In the evening met up with my friends Lilah and David who took me to the Old Strathcona neighbourhood for some sweets and more eats. We started off at Doughut Party where we had some yummy donuts including the Caramel Apple Macchiato donut. The fun and bright pink bakery is located at 7906 B 104 St NW. Follow them on Instagram @doughnutparty The next stop was to a New Orleans style diner DaDeO Diner where we had some of their jalapeno biscuits, crab cakes, and a selection of savoury fritters. The long standing restaurant is located at 10548 A 82 Ave NW. Follow them on Instagram @dadeorestaurant  We ended the night at Block 1912 Cafe is a very large and happening coffee house where I had their delicious Honey and Walnut Cake. Block 1912 is located at 10361 82 Ave NW, Follow them on Instagram @block1912  This is only the tip of the iceburg and I look forward to future visits to the sunniest city in Canada. By: Richard Wolak

You may have heard that City Council is contemplating a planning process to revitalize Granville Street downtown. This idea was first floated a couple of years ago, and is a positive move. A draft Terms of Reference was discussed by Council on January 18 of this year, and there will be further debate coming up this week. While we’re generally supportive of the initiative, we feel that the scope of the proposed work could be bolder. From our perspective, the current approach is constrained by two key factors: an unnecessarily limited geographic scope and the need for a stronger, more comprehensive and unified focus on the role of the street as a central public space. With this in mind, we’re sharing seven key suggestions that we thing would improve the proposed Terms of Reference and result in an improved planning process for this important public space. (1) Expand the Granville Street study area so that it stretches “shore to shore” across the Downtown Peninsula As currently envisioned, the proposed planning area covers the five block stretch between Robson Street and Drake Street. This area coincides with policy geographies set out in the Downtown Official Development Plan (DODP) dating from 1975. Given the prominent role that Granville Street plays, the various urban design and transportation considerations at play, and the way visitors and residents actually use the street, we feel this insufficient. In our opinion, the current focus on the entertainment district would be better served were it to be part of a study area that spanned the full 12 blocks between Granville Square and the Granville Bridge. This would allow for a more integrated consideration of critical rapid transit connections, an assessment of the existing (2009) public realm treatment (which needs to be refreshed), the inclusion of other large rezonings (the Bay, Granville Loops), not to mention the broader public life opportunities that come with treating the street ‘as a whole.’ The street has a number of different character areas, but what makes it exciting is the opportunity to make them work together. We note that the original Council motion (referenced on page 2 of the report) directs staff to deliver “a scope of work and budget for a future planning program for Granville Street Downtown.” This pan-peninsula scope is important. (2) Bring special attention to key intersections While the idea of a promenade is important, one of the important features of Granville Street downtown is its centrality on the downtown peninsula. Intersections are key punctuation marks in the sequencing of the street – ones that invites a pause, curiosity, decision, transition and more. They are also, functionally, linkages to and from other key areas – such as Robson Square, the civic facilities of Georgia St, the Davie Street Village. A larger geography allows for more attention to be put on these core intersections, and suggests the possibility of developing more substantial connections (and related public realm connections) to nearby amenities. Public space is a network – so let’s ensure this program approaches Granville St. with this sort of ‘systems’ thinking. (3) Ensure laneways are included as part of the planning effort While the focus of the planning program will be on Granville Street, there is a further opportunity to bring additional focus and attention on improving laneways in the study area, turning these spaces into vibrant people places. Some important initial work has been undertaken by the DVBIA and others, but this planning program could accelerate this work in a more comprehensive fashion. How can these sizeable areas – often overlooked because of their secondary functions – be enhanced and better integrated into the fabric of the downtown? Done strategically, this could enable additional programming opportunities for restaurants and cultural spaces, or provide additional seating or gathering opportunities. The scale of these areas – often more intimate than the city’s main streets – makes them an important opportunity. (4) Consider Howe/Seymour transit opportunities An assessment of opportunities for Granville Street would be further strengthened by incorporating Howe and Seymour into the conversation. During the lengthy construction of the Canada Line, these streets effectively took over bus routing functions that were normally on Granville. As was noted during the Council discussion, there is only a limited right-of-way on the street. This brings a related challenge in establishing priorities – is the street a bus “mall” or a pedestrian promenade? A space for moving people, or a place for people to linger, gather, spill out of cultural facilities? It is difficult for the street to do both without needing to make compromises. Can we be bolder here? Perhaps it’s time to think about the role of Granville as part of a network of key pedestrian primary streets – in the same vein as current thinking about Water Street, Robson, and other key areas. (5) Ensure public space is the central focus of the Terms of Reference It was encouraging to hear staff recognize Granville Street’s long and storied role as a significant public space in the city. Looking forward, a focus on ensuring the highest quality public realm and a thoughtful activation of the street will be critically important. In our opinion, and given the array of tools that the City has at its disposal, there is a need to better centre the role of public space and public life in the present Terms of Reference. While public space functions are named in a number of

A simple summer recipe, this roasted cherry tomato soup is packed with flavour and comes together in 30 minutes with just 7 ingredients and fresh herbs! Naturally vegan and dairy free. Got too many tomatoes this time of year? This roasted cherry tomato soup is for you. I couldn’t believe how easy this soup was when I made it: a handful of simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes will give you THE most savory and delicious soup. Truly the best tomato soup I’ve tried and perfect for lunch or dinner. And who says it has to be complicated? Just roast cherry tomatoes, onion and garlic in a little olive oil then blend with vegetable broth and basil, and you’ve got one delicious summer meal. Perfect served with crusty bread, a delicious high protein sandwich or your favourite side dish ! And if you’re tempted not to the roast the vegetables and just blend them straight away – don’t! Roasting the tomatoes, onion and garlic brings out their natural flavor and will give you a really creamy roasted tomato soup. Trust me, it’s worth a little time in the oven to level up the flavor in this recipe! What to serve with tomato soup This vegan tomato soup is delicious on its own as a light lunch, but you can also serve it with any of the following: Fresh crusty bread (sourdough is my favourite) Grilled cheese sandwiches Croutons A high protein sandwich to make it extra filling A caprese salad a vegan cheese board Vegan parmesan cheese Main ingredients Cherry tomatoes – I use cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes as they have natural sweetness. Ideally, buy when they’re in season (tomato season is roughly July to late September) as they’ll taste much better! Use the most flavorful fresh tomatoes you can get as these are the star ingredient that will form the base of the soup. I love getting them from my local farmers market. Onion and garlic – Add rich flavor to this cherry tomato soup recipe. Roasting them makes SUCH a difference – the garlic caramelizes and the onion has a slightly sweet flavor. Basil – Really enhances the flavor of this homemade tomato soup recipe. Use fresh basil ideally for maximum flavour (there’s something about basil and tomatoes that taste so good together). If using dried, use 1 tablespoon only. Vegetable broth – You can use ready made broth or vegetable stock cubes (I dissolve one stock cube in 2 cups boiled water). If using a low sodium variety, you’ll likely want to add a little more salt. Love what you see? Get my once-monthly newsletter with my latest recipes straight to your inbox! Yes, I agree to the processing of my personal data to receive email marketing. /* real people should not fill this in and expect good things – do not remove this or risk form bot signups */ Leave this field empty if you’re human: How to make homemade tomato soup Preheat the oven to 350℉/175℃. Slice onion roughly into 8 pieces (by slicing in half and then quartering each half) and add onion, 2lb cherry tomatoes and 4 cloves of garlic to a large sheet pan (divide between 2 pans if you need more space). Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Roast in hot oven for 20 minutes until tomatoes have burst and onion is soft. Allow to cool slightly for a few minutes. Squeeze garlic cloves out of their skins, and add to high-powered blender along with roasted tomatoes and onions, 2½ cups vegetable broth/stock, ½ cup fresh basil leaves, 1 teaspoon sea salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper (you can also use an immersion or stick blender). Blend hot soup until smooth, adjust seasoning and reheat if desired. Serve in bowls and optionally decorate with basil leaves, a swirl of coconut yogurt, red pepper flakes and/or homemade croutons. Check out my step-by-step guide on how to make this homemade tomato soup . Expert Tips Make it high protein – Blend a can of rinsed white beans (I like cannellini) into the soup to add protein and make it creamier. Be sure to add a little extra salt if you do this as the beans will soak up a lot of flavour. Don’t scrimp on roasting! Don’t be tempted to skip roasting your veggies – it adds so much flavour and makes them sweeter too. You won’t regret it. How to make tomato soup less acidic If your tomato soup tastes too acidic, try adding a pinch (¼ teaspoon) of baking soda. Stir it into the soup and allow it to froth. When the baking soda has finished reacting, taste the soup and add another ¼ teaspoon if it still isn’t to your liking. This works because baking soda is alkaline and so adding it to your soup will neutralize the acidity of the tomatoes. Simple! Storage Store this cherry tomato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen up to one month in freezer-safe containers. FAQs What other herbs can I add to tomato soup? I personally think this roast cherry tomato soup is perfect as it is, but if you want to add more flavor try adding a pinch of any of the following herbs: rosemary, oregano, thyme, marjoram or Italian seasoning. How can I

Rub and tug services are a subject of interest for the overwhelming majority looking for unwinding and stress help. The  rub and tug ottawa are accessible in different areas, each offering various encounters. Types of Services Offered The clubs offer customary back rub treatments, Swedish or deep tissue massages, aimed at relieving muscle tension and promoting relaxation. It’s fundamental to really look at the assistance menu of every area to comprehend what kinds of back rubs are offered and whether they line up with your inclinations. Choosing the Right Establishment While picking a rub and tug administration in Ottawa, think about a few variables: Reputation and Reviews: Search for foundations with positive surveys and a decent standing. Online surveys from past clients can give bits of knowledge into the nature of administration, neatness, and by and large experience. Certifications and Qualifications: Guarantee that the back-rub advisors are ensured and prepared experts. Qualified specialists are bound to give a protected and compelling backrub. Hygiene and Cleanliness: A perfect and very much kept up with climate is urgent. Check assuming the foundation sticks to exclusive expectations of cleanliness and tidiness. Price and Value: Costs can shift in light of the sort of backrub and the length of the meeting. Contrast costs and services with guarantee you are getting great incentive for your cash. What to Expect During Your Visit Upon appearance, you will normally be welcomed by staff who will direct you through the cycle. You may be approached to finish up a structure specifying any wellbeing concerns or inclinations. The back rub advisor will then, at that point, talk about your requirements and design the meeting in like manner. During the back rub, correspondence with the advisor is vital. Inform them as to whether you have any areas of distress or explicit inclinations. The objective is to guarantee that you feel loose and agreeable all through the meeting. Respecting Boundaries Regarding the limits and amazing skill of the back rub therapists is fundamental. The essential spotlight ought to be on giving remedial help and unwinding. Any unseemly way of behaving or demands for services past the extent of an expert back rub ought to be stayed away from. The rub and tug ottawa offer different choices for unwinding and stress help. By understanding the kinds of services accessible, investigating foundations, and setting clear expectations, you can partake in a satisfying and positive experience. Continuously focus on impressive skill and regard to guarantee a useful and wonderful visit.

After capturing the attention of the British Columbians with the broad strokes of the Barcelona Housing Policy 2015-2023, Eduard Cabré Romans quickly shifted to the nitty gritty, starting with a fundamental question: What exactly is “affordable” and “social “housing”? In British Columbia, “affordability” is typically defined as housing costs not exceeding 30% of pre-tax household income. However, this guideline becomes increasingly unclear the more one examines it. Different organizations use varying benchmarks. For example, the Province’s Defining Affordability page, for example, has visitors leaving with more questions than answers, stating: “Many organizations, programs, and even mortgage lenders consider housing affordable if it costs no more than 30% of household income before taxes.” This is followed by “This measure is a useful tool that can be used when choosing a place to live, but housing affordability is often based on a combination of factors, and every situation is different.” What does that mean? What “households” are the target? What are the “factors” referred? How are “situations” different?  Let’s look elsewhere. BC Housing uses the Housing Income Limits (HILs) for their calculations, which sounds promising at first. But these figures are often misaligned with current data. For example, according to the document the average Canadian who earning just over $57,000 per year, would  struggle to afford a one-bedroom apartment Complicating matters , HILS are based on figures established by yet another organization, the Canadian and Mortgage Housing Corporation (CMHC) whose site is equally vague. Presumably, these numbers are tied to the Rental Market Survey, though the exact calculation method remains unclear. The reality is that there is no universally agreed-upon definition of “affordable housing,” and few understand how the baseline figures are derived. The housing field is flooded with a lack of transparency, with many organizations creating their own baselines legitimized through consultant reports. Moreover, this lack of clarity makes it difficult for the average person to understand. Most simply want to know: How much will rent be in an “affordable housing” project? This vagueness opens the door to manipulation —something that became very evident recently as a taxpayer-subsidized ‘affordable’ rental project in Vancouver’s Kitsilano targeted a household income range between $130,000 and $190,000 a year. In contrast, Barcelona avoids such ambiguity by distinguishing between two housing categories—affordable and social housing—each with clear definitions and purposes. Affordable Housing In Barcelona, “affordable housing” refers to residences that are accessible to middle- and lower-income households at prices—rent or sale—that are 60%-80% below the market average rental rate. This type of housing is regulated by law as “Officially Protected Housing”—Vivienda de Protección Oficial—and can be developed both by public and private entities. Eduard explained that under current market conditions, rents for such housing must range between €600 and €800 per month, compared to the market average of €1,200 per month for new rentals. The cost of these units is determined based on income thresholds and maximum rent or sale price limits for their target population. The primary goal is to offer housing options that are affordable for those who cannot pay market rates but do not qualify for social housing. Barcelona’s policy allows affordable housing to be developed through several mechanisms, such as inclusionary zoning (like the “30% Measure,” which will be described in another article), subsidies, and incentives for private developers to include affordable units in their projects. Social Housing Social housing, on the other hand, is designed for the most vulnerable and low-income individuals and families. It is typically owned and managed by public agencies or non-profit organizations. Eligibility for social housing is strictly based on income, family composition, and other socio-economic factors. Applicants must meet these criteria to qualify. Rent is calculated as a percentage of household income, ensuring long-term, stable housing solutions for those who cannot afford even the lowest-tier affordable housing. Social housing often includes additional support services to help residents maintain their tenancy and improve their quality of life. It is funded through public resources, including municipal budgets, national subsidies, and occasionally, European Union support. Rents in social housing typically range from €200 to €500 (or less) per month. Households also receive a voucher funded by National, Regional, or Local governments—depending on the case—to cover the remaining costs. So, while both affordable and social housing address below-market housing needs, affordable housing serves a broader spectrum of low- to middle-income households, while social housing focuses on the most vulnerable populations and includes support mechanisms. In both cases, there is no negotiation. Projects must meet the defined criteria for rent levels to qualify as “affordable” or “social” housing. Barcelona’s success is rooted in the clarity of its definitions. There is no ambiguity. Developers understand the requirements and collaborate with public institutions to meet the criteria. The public also knows what each category means, who qualifies, and what to expect regarding rent. This clarity stands in contrast to the confusion surrounding the housing “affordability” policy in British Columbia. Now, I am sure readers are still scratching their heads from Part 3, wondering how Barcelona can provide affordable social housing while holding the market suspiciously at arm’s length. With these definitions understood, Cabré Romans was ready to delve deeper into the housing supply side of the equation… *** Other pieces in The Barcelona Chronicles: Part 1 – Introduction  Part 2 – Cerdà and Colau: Two Key Figures Part 3 – The Barcelona Housing Policy 2015-2023 Overview Part 4 – Defining Affordable & Social Housing Part 6

The MNP Tower (the accountancy tenant who were first to sign up were given the naming rights by the developer, Oxford Properties) was squeezed into a small site between the iconic Marine Building and the Guinness Tower (both also co-owned by Oxford). Initial designs were by Vancouver-based MCP, but after rejection by the Urban Design Panel a new architect, US based Kohn Pederson Fox were brought on board and they generated the gently curving dark blue-grey tower that has just been completed. The base of the building incorporates the façade of the University Club, abandoned for many years (except for movie shoots), which was designed by Thompson, Berwick & Pratt in 1929 when it was known as the Quadra Club. Before images: 2011; after images 2015