Calgary foragers Denis Manzer and Malcolm Saunders reveal the wild foods and medicinal plants growing in urban landscapes. This documentary screening explores ethical foraging practices, followed by a live Q&A with Denis Manzer and filmmaker Kimberly Gray.

The Food Beneath Our Feet Overview

The Edmonton Permaculture Guild hosts Denis Manzer and Kimberly Gray from Calgary for a screening of the documentary The Food Beneath Our Feet. This film follows an educational plant walk through Calgary’s river valleys and urban forests, showing how wild foods and healing plants thrive in spaces most people walk past without noticing.

Denis Manzer and Malcolm Saunders guide viewers through the city, identifying edible and medicinal species, explaining sustainable harvesting techniques, and sharing the ecological relationships that make wild foraging possible.

The film treats the urban landscape as a living classroom, where attention and respect reveal abundance.

After the screening, Denis and director Kimberly Gray answer questions about foraging ethics, herbalism, plant identification, and the process of making a documentary that centers place-based knowledge.

Whether you’re curious about starting to forage or want to deepen your understanding of wild plants in Alberta, this evening offers practical insight and inspiration.

The event creates space for conversation about how we relate to the land around us. Foraging is not just about gathering food. It’s about learning to see what grows, understanding seasonal patterns, and developing reciprocal relationships with the ecosystems that sustain us.

What You’ll Discover

• How to identify common edible and medicinal plants growing wild in Alberta’s urban and rural landscapes

• Ethical harvesting practices that protect plant populations and support ecosystem health over time

• The ecological relationships between wild plants, pollinators, and the broader food web

• Practical methods for using foraged plants in cooking, medicine making, and fermentation

• How urban foraging connects people to seasonal cycles and builds resilience in local food systems

• The process of creating documentary films that capture place-based ecological knowledge

RITCHIE PRESENTS

Our 2025-2026 session of Ritchie Presents is hosted by our friends at the Edmonton Permaculture Guild. They’re bringing together organizations across Edmonton who work, advocate, and organize across a variety of fields with the common values of “Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share”.

The Edmonton Permaculture Guild connects you with hands-on education, a growing community of practitioners, and practical skills for building food security and resilient landscapes across Edmonton and all of Alberta. Click here to learn about all of their upcoming events.

Special meeting on Thursday, June 4 at 6:30pm for members to vote on a special resolution regarding memberships. 

Information from the Ritchie Hall Revitalization Committee will also be available on the updated site plans and construction timelines. 

Regular board meeting to start at 7pm. 

SPECIAL RESOLUTION

Ritchie Community League Special General Meeting

MOTION:

BE IT RESOLVED that the Ritchie Community League (“RCL”) amend the Membership section of its bylaws to revise the definition of “Associate Membership” and establish a new category of “Affiliate Membership” as follows:

Current wording (Associate Membership):

“Associate memberships may be granted to any business, institution or organization located within the defined boundaries of the League … Associate members are non-voting members.”

Proposed wording for Bylaws:

1. Associate Membership

   Associate memberships may be granted to individuals who reside outside the defined boundaries of the League, have submitted a completed membership registration form, and paid the required membership fee to the League Board of Directors. Associate members are non-voting members.

2. Affiliate Membership

   Affiliate memberships may be granted to any business, institution, or organization located within the defined boundaries of the League, have submitted a completed membership registration form, and paid the required membership fee to the League Board of Directors. Affiliate members are non-voting members.

RATIONALE:

This amendment updates the membership categories to better reflect how RCL currently engages both non-resident supporters and local businesses.

The proposed change:

• redefines Associate Membership to apply to individuals living outside the Ritchie boundaries who wish to support and participate in the League, including volunteer growth opportunities; and

• creates a distinct Affiliate Membership category for businesses and organizations operating within the Ritchie boundaries.

This amendment aligns the bylaws more closely with current community league practices and EFCL model bylaws, while providing clearer distinction between individual supporters and business/community partners.

The amendment does not change voting eligibility. Both Associate and Affiliate memberships remain non-voting membership categories.

The Public Market is BACK for the summer!

Tuesdays all summer, from 3:30-7:30pm

Closes during severe weather

June 2 - September 29

Want to join as a vendor? Contact moffatmarket@gmail.com

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY

RCL is looking for volunteers to run our League market booth!

Sell memberships and merch and meet your neighbours. This is a fun opportunity to sign up with a friend or on your own if you're looking to meet new people!

Let’s Build Something Together!

Ritchie Business Mixer
Connect. Collaborate. Be part of Ritchie’s future.

Join fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of the Ritchie neighbourhood – and find new ways to grow your business along the way.

Click here to RSVP!

Thank you to this month’s event sponsor! Please note the new day of the week and location!

Event Details

• What: Ritchie Business Mixer

• When: Monday, June 1

• Time: 5:15 – 6:45 PM

• Where: The Faculty Event Center (10151 Whyte Ave NW)

• Cost: Free (RSVP required)

Who Should Attend

This event is open to:

• Business owners located in Ritchie

• Ritchie residents who own a business elsewhere

• Businesses from bordering neighbourhoods (Hazeldean and Old Strathcona) interested in collaboration

• Businesses curious about the new Ritchie hall project and how local businesses can get involved

Why Attend

• Grow your network: Meet other business owners, community champions, and potential partners

• Showcase your business: Find out how to be featured in our Business Directory and our Ritchie Crew

• Learn about our new hall project: Hear how your business can be part of something meaningful

• Explore collaboration opportunities: Sponsorship, pop-ups, co-hosting events, donation drives, and more

• Light refreshments & welcoming vibes: Come for the connection, stay for the snacks and stories

Ritchie is defending our 2025 Bike Month trophy…and we need your help!

Pump up your tires, clip on your helmet, and get ready for BIKE MONTH!

WHAT IS BIKE MONTH?

The BIke Month Challenge is an annual Edmonton event, taking over our streets and our hearts every June.

Community leagues track their members’ kilometres, and this year there will be more prizes in more categories! Ritchie might have started it, but EFCL and leagues across the city have adopted the challenge as a fun way to promote active transportation and recreation in their neighbourhoods through a little friendly competition.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

There are a few easy ways to participate in the Edmonton-wide Bike Month Challenge this June:

1. Download Strava, join the Ritchie United group and start tracking your KMs automagically

2. On Sunday morining, email your KMs from the whole week to ritchie-united@ritchie-league.com

3. Join in a GROUP RIDE throughout the month, hosted by our fabulous volunteers.

GROUP RIDES

Some amazing RCL volunteers have stepped up this year to host a few group rides throughout Bike Month. The goal of these rides is to rack up some KMs, connect riders of Ritchie, and to enjoy exploring our neighbourhood on bikes! All levels of cyclists welcome and encouraged to join in!

Rides will be cancelled in case of inclement weather.. That includes rain and smoke.

SHARROWS? NEVER HEARD OF HER - JUNE 1

Start: 7pm at at Ritchie Hall (7727 98 Street)

This 10km route takes us through Ritchie and Strathcona, concentrating on the cycling infrastructure. Explore the various bike lanes, sharrows, and bike corridors we have in our neighbourhoods.

Pace: leisurely

Host: Lisa

SCAVENGER HUNT - JUNE 14

Start: 8am at Ritchie Hall (7727 98 Street)

This route hits all the scavenger hunt locations in Ritchie and our surrounding communities. We’ll end our ride at a local hot spot for some treats. Don’t forget your Ritchie Crew discount card!

Pace: leisurely

Host: Lisa

Come down to the Ritchie Hall on the last Saturday of the month for beers, snacks, and music. Bring your neighbour!

May 30 - BINGO

Bingo Details

• NO cost to enter

• Ritchie merch prizes

Pub Night Details

• Bent Stick brews, cider option, NA options

• Snacky snacks and pizza-by-the-slice

• FREE admission for Ritchie members and their guests

• Music: a chill playlist in between bingo rounds

Helping Out Opportunities

• Set-up the seating / entry / games on tables

• Welcome table: explain BINGO, hand out BINGO cards, sell memberships, door watching

• Sell drinks and food at the bar

• Pro-server to supervise event (all night) and jump in to help at the bar when busy

• Tear down and clean up with help from friends

Visit our PUB NIGHT PAGE for more details and future events.

Kickoff Garden Season in West Ritchie!

Find us at the corner of 79 Avenue at 101 Street

We are hosting our annual block party to celebrate this season’s opening of the West Ritchie Community Garden! There will be local vendors, Master Composter volunteers, activities for all ages, and a formal introduction to the Community Garden.

We look forward to seeing you there!

SPECIAL EVENT!

We will be hosting a special tree planting event during our block party this year. Help us continuing transforming this former roadway into a true community park.

SEED SWAP

We are hosting a seed swap at the party! How to participate:

• bring your seeds from home

• they must be labeled with name/variety

• no weeds!

• no “wildflower” mix

You can bring flowers, veggies, or native plants - we accept them all! RCL has 20+ varieties that we will be trading, thanks to Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Help us with all the things it takes to make this event great!

• Set up

• Selling memberships and merch

• General helping

• Tear down

APPLY FOR A GARDEN BOX

We have 26 boxes available in the West Ritchie Community Garden. APPLY NOW for the 2026 growing season.

Unplug & Connect: Open Hall Hangout!

Looking for a low-pressure way to meet your neighbors and get out of the house? Join us at Ritchie Hall for a relaxed, screen-free evening designed for the whole crew.

Whether you’re looking to spark a conversation, share a hobby, or just enjoy a change of scenery, our "Open Hall" night is all about community connection.

We’re creating a warm, "basement rec room" atmosphere where you can kick back and enjoy the company of folks of all ages.

What to Expect:

- Casual Vibes: No set agenda—just a welcoming space to hang out and chat.
- All-Ages Friendly: From toddlers to seniors, teens to Millennals, everyone is welcome.
- Accessible & Inclusive: Whether you’re a long-time resident or brand new to the neighborhood, come as you are!
- Community Spirit: It’s the perfect spot to find a new friend or catch up with an old one.

The best part? Admission is entirely FREE for RCL members and their guests.

Bring your neighbor, bring your kids, or just bring yourself. We can’t wait to see you there for an evening of good company and great conversation!

Questions? Email volunteers@ritchie-league.com

MAD Science

Ritchie Community League is teaming up with MAD Science North to bring you programming for 2026.

This is a weekday camp for kids when schools are closed for PD days or Teacher’s Convention!

Let's Get Chemical - Crazy Concoctions

Have a ton of fun and whip up potions! Dynamic chemistry reactions that "excite" and "ignite" our world to epic proportions! Campers will team up to experiment with their lab equipment and will find their love of Chemistry as they spend the day creating cool chemical reactions.

details:

Cost: $60

CLICK HERE to learn about the camp on May 27

CLICK HERE to learn about the camp on May 28

THIS IS FOR kids whO:​

• Are in grades 1 to 6 (ages 6-12)

• Interested in science experiments

• Would rather be with friends from the neighbourhood than stuck at home for the day.

Mad Science of Northern Alberta (Edmonton)

Mad Science of Northern Alberta is a leading science enrichment provider. We deliver unique, hands-on science experiences for children through after-school programs, birthday parties, workshops, special events, and vacation camps. Our innovative programs are as entertaining as they are educational!

More information at Northern MAD Science

MAD Science

Ritchie Community League is teaming up with MAD Science North to bring you programming for 2026.

This is a weekday camp for kids when schools are closed for PD days or Teacher’s Convention!

Let's Get Chemical - Molecules in Action

Campers put on some goggles and get to handle laboratory tools, build and break molecules, and pick up some tricks on chemical
changes. These experiments are a great opportunity for kids to learn about the physical and chemical reactions that take place around us in everyday life.

details:

Cost: $60

CLICK HERE to learn about the camp on May 27

CLICK HERE to learn about the camp on May 29

THIS IS FOR kids whO:​

• Are in grades 1 to 6 (ages 6-12)

• Interested in science experiments

• Would rather be with friends from the neighbourhood than stuck at home for the day.

Mad Science of Northern Alberta (Edmonton)

Mad Science of Northern Alberta is a leading science enrichment provider. We deliver unique, hands-on science experiences for children through after-school programs, birthday parties, workshops, special events, and vacation camps. Our innovative programs are as entertaining as they are educational!

More information at Northern MAD Science

MAD Science

Ritchie Community League is teaming up with MAD Science North to bring you programming for 2026.

This is a weekday camp for kids when schools are closed for PD days or Teacher’s Convention!

Let's Get Chemical-You're in Lab

Have a ton of fun and whip up potions! Dynamic chemistry reactions that "excite" and "ignite" our world to epic proportions! Campers will team up to experiment with their lab equipment and will find their love of Chemistry as they spend the day creating cool chemical reactions.

details:

Cost: $60

CLICK HERE to learn about the camp on May 28

CLICK HERE to learn about the camp on May 29

THIS IS FOR kids whO:​

• Are in grades 1 to 6 (ages 6-12)

• Interested in science experiments

• Would rather be with friends from the neighbourhood than stuck at home for the day.

Mad Science of Northern Alberta (Edmonton)

Mad Science of Northern Alberta is a leading science enrichment provider. We deliver unique, hands-on science experiences for children through after-school programs, birthday parties, workshops, special events, and vacation camps. Our innovative programs are as entertaining as they are educational!

More information at Northern MAD Science

Crafternoon is an opportunity to hang out with likeminded crafters and work on your projects, maybe get some tips, and definitely get inspired!

Bring your favourite craft supplies or a project on the go for our FINAL event of the season. We'll set you up at a table, and you can craft the afternoon away!

Crafternoon Guarantee: 3 hours of dedicated no distraction time, and at least one MOM will tell you how amazing you are. ;-)

Would you appreciate a friendly reminder email a few days out? Great! Click here for a no obligation RSVP.

Crafternoon is a low barrier way to spend some time creating for you, in a friendly and safe environment, with rad folks who also love crafting.

NEED TO KNOW

• Crafternoon! happens every 2 months at the hall, usually on the second last Sunday

• If you forgot supplies (or get bored with yours) we have some on hand!

• Allergy-free snacks, coffee, tea and juice are included.

• You must wear a mask in the crafting space.

• Admission is variable, and helps us cover the costs—so we can keep running!

WHO IS THIS FOR?

• Any and all type of crafts and crafters; no experience required.

• Folks who are looking for a craft community, and who value safe and accessible spaces.

• Crafters who want to get some work done on a project while they make a new friend.

WHAT TO BRING

• A mask; these are required in the crafting space to help keep us all safe

• Your own supplies or project to work on.

• Arts and crafts supplies for our Swap Table! You are welcome to take items from the table, even if you didn't bring any. Anything leftover at the end of the day will be donated to the Reuse Centre. No garbage please.

• We are an environmentally minded Community League, so we ask that you bring your own refillable water bottle or cup.

• Cash or card, "pay what you can" admission is payable by either at the door (minimum $5).

Heads up: Your photo might be taken to use in future Ritchie Community League. Please inform a volunteer immediately if you have any concerns.

Unplug & Connect: Open Hall Hangout!

Looking for a low-pressure way to meet your neighbors and get out of the house? Join us at Ritchie Hall for a relaxed, screen-free evening designed for the whole crew.

Whether you’re looking to spark a conversation, share a hobby, or just enjoy a change of scenery, our "Open Hall" night is all about community connection.

We’re creating a warm, "basement rec room" atmosphere where you can kick back and enjoy the company of folks of all ages.

What to Expect:

- Casual Vibes: No set agenda—just a welcoming space to hang out and chat.
- All-Ages Friendly: From toddlers to seniors, teens to Millennals, everyone is welcome.
- Accessible & Inclusive: Whether you’re a long-time resident or brand new to the neighborhood, come as you are!
- Community Spirit: It’s the perfect spot to find a new friend or catch up with an old one.

The best part? Admission is entirely FREE for RCL members and their guests.

Bring your neighbor, bring your kids, or just bring yourself. We can’t wait to see you there for an evening of good company and great conversation!

Questions? Email volunteers@ritchie-league.com

AI: The Good*, The Bad, and The Ugly

AI is becoming more and more a part of our daily lives, whether we like it or not.

Trevon Romanuik is a software developer who uses AI daily in his job, but that doesn’t mean that he agrees with everything that is happening.

Trevon isn’t anti-AI, he is pro-human. He believes that the path we are on currently is fundamentally anti-human, but it isn’t too late to change things for the better.

This presentation will go over the current state of AI, what has been promised to us by the companies building AI, what the reality is behind the scenes, and what we can do collectively to ensure that we steer things towards a more pro-human future.

This presentation is open to all residents of Ritchie and beyond.

Content Warning: This presentation will include discussions about the harms caused by AI, including psychosis and suicide.

Screen-free fun for the whole family!

Join us at the Ritchie Community Hall for a FREE all-ages game night.

Bring your favourite game to share, try something new with your fellow board game enthusiasts, or just watch the fun and chat over a drink in our "loungy" atmosphere.

We always have some longer board games, and short social games available for folks to try their hand at. All family-friendly and accessible to newbies.

Drinks, snacks and pizza by the slice available to purchase. The laughter and good company are priceless. Did we mention it’s FREE to attend?!

Ritchie’s monthly games night is for RCL members and invited guests.

Questions? Email volunteers@ritchie-league.com

This event is hosted by Ritchie Community League member-volunteers!

Phenology tracks seasonal events like when plants leaf out, birds migrate, or ice breaks on rivers. Nathan Binnema introduces this observational practice, showing how repeated visits to one place reveal patterns in weather, plants, animals, and your own attention.

Phenology: Reading Nature’s Seasonal Calendar Overview

Phenology is the practice of paying attention to recurring seasonal events and tracking those observations through time.

When does river ice break? When do aspen catkins bloom? When do crows return in numbers?

These events happen on rough schedules each year, responding to temperature shifts, daylight changes, and moon phases. Recording what you notice builds a calendar grounded in your local ecology rather than arbitrary dates.

Nathan Binnema has been practicing phenological observation for three years at a single site in Edmonton’s river valley.

His approach combines repeated visits, careful notation, and attention to both solar and lunar cycles. He brings insights from his study of Blackfoot phenology with Ryan First Diver, adapted for accessible community learning.

This session introduces phenology as a tool for deepening ecological literacy. Nathan walks through what to observe, how to track patterns, and why this practice matters for understanding the places we live.

You’ll leave with a framework for starting your own phenological observations, whether at a backyard garden, a neighborhood park, or anywhere you return to regularly.

What You’ll Learn

• What phenology is and how observational practice builds ecological knowledge over time

• Key events to track in Edmonton’s river valley, including ice thaw, plant emergence sequences, bird migrations, and insect appearances

• How to structure observations using both solar seasons and lunar cycles as time markers

• Patterns Nathan discovered through three years of monthly visits to one location

• Why repeated visits matter for noticing changes that single observations miss

• Practical starting points for beginning phenological practice in your own neighborhood or watershed

• Connections between observations and ecological systems like pollination timing, food webs, and habitat use

RITCHIE PRESENTS

Our 2025-2026 session of Ritchie Presents is hosted by our friends at the Edmonton Permaculture Guild. They’re bringing together organizations across Edmonton who work, advocate, and organize across a variety of fields with the common values of “Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share”.

The Edmonton Permaculture Guild connects you with hands-on education, a growing community of practitioners, and practical skills for building food security and resilient landscapes across Edmonton and all of Alberta. Click here to learn about all of their upcoming events.

Are you new to gardening? Or maybe you like spending time with community and doing art?

As the temperatures rise and the days get longer, we are that much closer to the gardening season. 

Join New Grocery Movement in a designing a garden that feeds both your plate and your creativity.

In this hands-on workshop, NGM will share a quick presention on basic gardening knowledge. Followed by the participants getting to create what their garden will look like.

All skill levels are welcome—no art or gardening experience needed. Your registration helps New Grocery Movement connect more neighbors with fresh, local produce and practical tools to grow their own food.

All supplies provided and participants will receive a small plant for their garden. 

DETAILS:

• Location: Ritchie Hall

• Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026

• Time: 1-2pm MST

• Tickets: Pay what you can

• Parking: Free vehicle parking available at the hall. Bike racks onsite. Bus routes get you within 1-2 blocks.

The Edmonton Photographic Historical Society is holding its annual sale of used photo equipment at Ritchie Hall!

Dealers and collectors will be offering for sale collectible, used and new cameras and photo equipment. It’s a great opportunity to see a large variety of camera equipment in one location!

Admission is free.

This event is sponsored by McBain Camera and Grove Camera and Pawn.

POSTPONED Celebrate Earth Day at Ritchie with our annual Mill Creek Cleanup

Due to inclement weather, we will be postponing our annual Mill Creek Cleanup to a later date. Please stay tuned for more details.

Come down to the Ritchie Hall on the last Saturday of the month for beers, snacks, and music. For Ritchie members and your neighbours!

April 25

CRIB Anyone?

DETAILS

• Drinks: Bent Stick brews, cider ($5), Edna Mocktails ($4)

• Pizza by the slice

• Free entry!

Volunteer Opportunities

• Set-up the seating / games on tables

• Entry table for memberships, merch, and door watching

• Sell drinks and food

• Pro-server to supervise event (all night) and jump in to help when the bar gets busy!

• Tear down and clean up with help from friends

Visit our PUB NIGHT PAGE for more details and future events.

Let’s Build Something Together!

Ritchie Business Mixer
Connect. Collaborate. Be part of Ritchie’s future.

Join fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of the Ritchie neighbourhood – and find new ways to grow your business along the way.

Click here to reserve your spot

Event Details

• What: Ritchie Business Mixer

• When: Thursday, April 23, 2026

• Time: 5:15 – 6:45 PM

• Where: Ritchie Community League Hall (7727 98 Street NW, Edmonton)

• Cost: Free (RSVP required)

Who Should Attend

This event is open to:

• Business owners located in Ritchie

• Ritchie residents who own a business elsewhere

• Businesses from bordering neighbourhoods (Hazeldean and Old Strathcona) interested in collaboration

• Businesses curious about the new Ritchie hall project and how local businesses can get involved

Why Attend

• Grow your network: Meet other business owners, community champions, and potential partners

• Showcase your business: Find out how to be featured in our Business Directory and our Ritchie Crew

• Learn about our new hall project: Hear how your business can be part of something meaningful

• Explore collaboration opportunities: Sponsorship, pop-ups, co-hosting events, donation drives, and more

• Light refreshments & welcoming vibes: Come for the connection, stay for the snacks and stories

Screen-free fun for the whole family!

Join us at the Ritchie Community Hall for a FREE all-ages game night.

Bring your favourite game to share, try something new with your fellow board game enthusiasts, or just watch the fun and chat over a drink in our "loungy" atmosphere.

We always have some longer board games, and short social games available for folks to try their hand at. All family-friendly and accessible to newbies.

Drinks, snacks and pizza by the slice available to purchase. The laughter and good company are priceless. Did we mention it’s FREE to attend?!

Ritchie’s monthly games night is for RCL members and invited guests.

Questions? Email volunteers@ritchie-league.com

This event is hosted by Ritchie Community League member-volunteers!

Join us for an evening with Mark Stumpf-Allen, former City of Edmonton Compost Programs Coordinator. Discover practical techniques, soil biology basics, and simple solutions for building nutrient-rich growing environments in Edmonton gardens.

Simple Solutions from Edmonton’s Compost Expert

The success of gardens and food forests relies on healthy soil.

With so many products and amendments advertised, the process gets complicated fast. Mark Stumpf-Allen is here to tell you the solutions are simpler than you think.

Mark, fondly known as Markster Composter, has gardened in the Edmonton region for nearly fifty years. His goal has always been building soil that grows tasty, nutrient-dense food. As the former Compost Programs Coordinator with the City of Edmonton, he helped thousands of residents learn how to turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into black gold.

Tonight he walks through the steps to building healthy compost, understanding soil as a living system, and achieving the benefits of growing food in an environment that nurtures plants, ecosystems, and people.

You’ll also meet other gardeners working to build better soil and discover what’s happening locally in Edmonton’s growing permaculture and regenerative agriculture community.

What You’ll Learn

• Composting fundamentals – balancing greens and browns, managing moisture and aeration, knowing when compost is ready to use

• How soil biology works – the bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and larger organisms that make nutrients available to plants

• Building compost systems that fit your space – from apartment balconies to large properties, simple methods that work

• Troubleshooting common problems – addressing smell, pests, slow decomposition, or materials that don’t break down

• Soil as a living ecosystem – understanding how organic matter, mineral content, and biological activity create fertility

• Regenerative soil practices – moving beyond amendments to building self-sustaining soil health over time

• Seasonal composting in Edmonton – managing systems through freeze-thaw cycles and making compost work in cold climates

Mark’s teaching draws on practical experience from city-scale organics management, community gardens, and decades of home composting across different conditions.

His approach focuses on understanding principles rather than following rigid rules, so you can adapt techniques to your specific situation.

After the presentation, there’s time for questions about your composting challenges, soil conditions, or gardening situations.

Bring your questions – Mark’s conversational teaching style makes complex soil science accessible.

RITCHIE PRESENTS

Our 2025-2026 session of Ritchie Presents is hosted by our friends at the Edmonton Permaculture Guild. They’re bringing together organizations across Edmonton who work, advocate, and organize across a variety of fields with the common values of “Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share”.

The Edmonton Permaculture Guild connects you with hands-on education, a growing community of practitioners, and practical skills for building food security and resilient landscapes across Edmonton and all of Alberta. Click here to learn about all of their upcoming events.

Come down to the Ritchie Hall on the last Saturday of the month for beers, snacks, and music. Bring your neighbour!

March 28

Details:

• Bent Stick brews, cider option, NA options

• Snacks for purchase (no clue what, yet)

• $5 admission at the door (price of admission includes one drink ticket for Ritchie resident members)

• Music: a chill playlist

Helping Out Opportunities

• Set-up the seating / entry / games on tables

• Entry table for ticket and memberships and door watching

• Sell drinks and food

• Pro-server to supervise event (all night) and jump in to help bar when busy)

• Tear down and clean up with help from friends

Visit our PUB NIGHT PAGE for more details and future events.

Let’s Build Something Together!

Ritchie Business Mixer
Connect. Collaborate. Be part of Ritchie’s future.

Join fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of the Ritchie neighbourhood – and find new ways to grow your business along the way.

Click here to reserve your spot

Event Details

• What: Ritchie Business Mixer

• When: Thursday, March 26, 2026

• Time: 5:15 – 6:45 PM

• Where: Ritchie Community League Hall (7727 98 Street NW, Edmonton)

• Cost: Free (RSVP required-link coming soon)

Who Should Attend

This event is open to:

• Business owners located in Ritchie

• Ritchie residents who own a business elsewhere

• Businesses from bordering neighbourhoods (Hazeldean and Old Strathcona) interested in collaboration

• Businesses curious about the new Ritchie hall project and how local businesses can get involved

Why Attend

• Grow your network: Meet other business owners, community champions, and potential partners

• Showcase your business: Find out how to be featured in our Business Directory and our Ritchie Crew

• Learn about our new hall project: Hear how your business can be part of something meaningful

• Explore collaboration opportunities: Sponsorship, pop-ups, co-hosting events, donation drives, and more

• Light refreshments & welcoming vibes: Come for the connection, stay for the snacks and stories

With the days getting warmer and the sun staying up longer, join New Grocery Movement and Master Gardener, Aida Mustapic, in a FREE seed starting workshop.

Aida Mustapic is a certified organic master gardener and a passionate urban gardener with nearly two decades experience growing her own organic backyard vegetable garden.

Mustapic’s understanding of soil chemistry along with chemical and microbial interactions are a key to her gardening success. She is also a strong proponent of regenerative agriculture practices and eco-friendly pest management.

Aida will share a workshop on seed starting and the steps to growing healthy seedlings for your garden season. There will also be a seed planting activity where you gain hands-on experience working with seeds and soil.

Materials provided: Resource for companion planting and seed starting, seeds, soil, containers.

NGM & Aida are excited to help you on your gardening journey!

This session is free.

Crafternoon is an opportunity to hang out with likeminded crafters and work on your projects, maybe get some tips, and definitely get inspired!

Bring your favourite craft supplies or a project on the go. We'll set you up at a table, and you can craft the afternoon away! The Crafternoon guarantee is that at least one MOM will tell you how amazing you are. ;-)

Would you appreciate a friendly reminder email a few days out? Great! Click here for a no obligation RSVP.

Crafternoon is a low barrier way to spend some time creating for you, in a friendly and safe environment, with rad folks who also love crafting.

NEED TO KNOW

• Crafternoon! happens every 2 months at the hall, usually on the second last Sunday

• If you forgot supplies (or get bored with yours) we have some on hand!

• Snacks, coffee and tea are included

• You must wear a mask in the crafting space

• Admission is variable, and helps us cover the costs—so we can keep running!

WHO IS THIS FOR?

• Any and all type of crafts and crafters; no experience required.

• Folks who are looking for a craft community, and who value safe and accessible spaces.

• Crafters who want to get some work done on a project while they make a new friend.

WHAT TO BRING

• A mask; these are required in the crafting space to help keep us all safe

• Your own supplies or project to work on.

• Arts and crafts supplies for our Swap Table! You are welcome to take items from the table, even if you didn't bring any. Anything leftover at the end of the day will be donated to the Reuse Centre. No garbage please.

• We are an environmentally minded Community League, so we ask that you bring your own refillable water bottle or cup.

• Cash or card, "pay what you can" admission is payable by either at the door (minimum $5).

Heads up: Your photo might be taken to use in future Ritchie Community League. Please inform a volunteer immediately if you have any concerns.

Screen-free fun for the whole family!

Join us at the Ritchie Community Hall for an all-ages game night

Monthly Games Night for RCL members and invited guests!

Email volunteers@ritchie-league.com for any questions  All ages welcome, family friendly. Varied of game options from longer board games to shorter social games. Snacks, light food and drinks for sale. 

No fee to attend.

Bring your favourite game to share, or try something new with the neighbourhood board game enthusiasts.

Drinks and snacks available for purchase. Laughter and good company are guaranteed.

This event is hosted by Ritchie Community League members!

Join us for an informative and engaging evening with New Grocery Movement!

Learn community garden strategies and discover how the Mill Creek Healing Park project combines food production, accessibility, and neighbourhood connection.

New Grocery Movement started with a simple question: what if more people could grow their own food without needing land, tools, or experience?

The NGM Garden Club answered that by providing everything needed to start: plots, seeds, soil, water, and guidance.

What began as a supported way for community members to garden has evolved into the Mill Creek Healing Park project, transforming an underused public green space at 95A Street and 82 Avenue into a community-designed healing park and long-term garden hub.

Tonight’s presentation brings together the people doing this work.

You’ll hear about the Mill Creek Healing Park project, learn practical strategies for starting and sustaining community gardens, and meet experienced Garden Club members who share what they’ve learned through challenges, successes, and ongoing experimentation.

Mark your calendars and we'll see you there!

What You’ll Learn

• How the Mill Creek Healing Park project works, from initial vision through city designation process and community governance structures

• Practical strategies for starting community gardens including site selection, securing land access, and building partnerships with municipalities

• Building accessible programs that lower barriers through shared tools, seeds, soil, water, and educational support

• Creating inclusive spaces focused on equity-deserving communities while remaining open to all skill levels and backgrounds

• Balancing multiple goals – food production, ecological restoration, urban biodiversity, mental and physical wellbeing, and community gathering

• Sustaining engagement beyond the growing season through winter programming, planning meetings, and skill-sharing events

• Real challenges and solutions from Garden Club members who’ve navigated obstacles and found what works

The presentation covers the vision behind Mill Creek Healing Park, then opens into Q&A and discussion with community garden members who possess deep knowledge from hands-on experience. You’ll hear about challenges they’ve faced, solutions that worked, and tips for building strong community around shared food-growing spaces.

RITCHIE PRESENTS

Our 2025-2026 session of Ritchie Presents is hosted by our friends at the Edmonton Permaculture Guild. They’re bringing together organizations across Edmonton who work, advocate, and organize across a variety of fields with the common values of “Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share”.

The Edmonton Permaculture Guild connects you with hands-on education, a growing community of practitioners, and practical skills for building food security and resilient landscapes across Edmonton and all of Alberta. Click here to learn about all of their upcoming events.

Learn how to prepare a cultural dish, cook with friends, and package it to be shared with neighbours experiencing food insecurity!

New Grocery Movement, Touch Grass Club, and the 4B Harm Reduction Society are teaming up to bring you Community Cooks!

Community Cooks is a mobile program, bringing cooking classes to a kitchen in your community. Each bi-monthly class features a different cultural dish led by diverse community members, from chefs to neighbours. We cook A LOT of food, grabbing a plate to share together and gifting warm meals to community members experiencing food insecurity with the help partner 4B Harm Reduction.

We are excited to announce this Community Cooks class will be led by Chef Madan Lal who will teach us how to prepare Butter Chicken, Peas Pilaf, and Folded Paratha.

DETAILS:

• Location: Ritchie Hall

• Date: Sunday, March 8, 2026

• Time: 1:00-4:30pm MST

• Tickets: $5

• Parking and Directions: Free parking available at the hall.

There are limited spots, so secure your ticket ASAP to ensure a space in the class!

If you have any questions or are interested to volunteer for this class, please reach out to Maia at maia@newgrocerymovement.com.