Toolkit
Testimonials
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EDMONTON RESEARCH PARK
SHAW CONFERENCE CENTRE
TOURISM
Tourism
River Valley and Parks
“Like many great cities, Edmonton is defined by a river. The historic North Saskatchewan cuts through the heart of downtown and offers tremendous opportunity for scenery and wildlife in river-valley surroundings that feel remote and are remarkably pristine.” Alberta, Land of Elk & Money – Peter Brewster, The Toronto Sun 04/06/2006
"Edmonton’s downtown overlooks the city’s greatest asset – the North Saskatchewan River Valley. This lush park system provides a natural corridor for all-season recreation making it Edmonton one of Canada’s safest, cleanest and greenest cities.” Westjet’s Inflight Magazine
“The next thing I know, I've discovered a long set of wooden stairs that lead down into a forest. When I come to the bottom, it turns out to be part of the river valley, which is the biggest single green space of any city park anywhere- the river valley is like having 22 interconnected Central Parks right in the middle of your city. There are a few runners and cyclists down here, but the overall feeling is that here is a city where you can, if you want, get completely away from everyone. Then, in 10 minutes, find yourself right back in the middle of the action, without so much as having to park a car.” A Tale of Two Cities – Stephen Hunt, Calgary Herald 07/10/2007
“The river valley is the city equivalent of having a secret identity. Of course, the secret is there, for everyone to see. You just have to be able to see the city for the trees.” A Tale of Two Cities – Stephen Hunt, Calgary Herald 07/10/2007
“When an Edmontonian does lapse into a brief moment of boastfulness, it's usually about the river valley and the winding North Saskatchewan that weaves its way through the city and its environs”. A Tale of Two Cities – Valerie Fortney, Calgary Herald 06/12/2007
Lifestyle
“Relaxing in the peaceful ambience of the spa, surrounded by palms and foliage plants, scented candles and the soothing sound of cascading water, it was hard to believe I was in West Edmonton Mall-the world’s largest retail and entertainment complex with a staggering 800 shops, 110 restaurants, 21 movie screens, eight major visitor attractions and even a 355 – bedroom hotel-all under one gigantic roof.” Catherine Beattie – Spa Review July/Aug 2006
"Considered the 'Gateway to the Canadian Rockies’ – Edmonton actually offers a portfolio of attractions and lodging rich enough to keep vacationers busy and happy for days on end.” Edmonton: A gateway, but many reasons to stay put – Joe Rosen, Travel Weekly
“Of course there is much more to see and do in this city, think of the fact that it is Alberta’s capital and is known for its historic neighborhoods, amazing museums and festivals that span from season to season along with the smiling faces of the inhabitants who live there” Alberta: Something for Everyone- Rita Cook Waxahachie Daily Light Feb 11, 2007
"Edmonton is a culturally diverse powerhouse and more and more people are finding out. We should be proud to show off such a wonderful destination." Let's blow our own horn!; E-town scores big on festivals - and sunshine – Brookes Merritt, Edmonton Sun June 23, 2007
“Among the accolades citizens may take for granted, Edmonton has been named the Cultural Capital of Canada, boasts more hours of sunlight than most other major Canadian cities, and hosts more festivals and international events than any one person could possibly attend.” E-town scores big on festivals - and sunshine – Brookes Merritt, Edmonton Sun June 23, 2007
“Edmonton has the feel of a European city”. Capital Gains: Edmonton has evolved into one of Alberta’s best assets – Paula Felps, American Driver 2008
“Old Strathcona is a cultural melting pot, and that’s reflected in its impressive array of restaurants”. Capital Gains: Edmonton has evolved into one of Alberta’s best assets – Paula Felps, American Driver 2008
“The first thing you notice about Edmonton is the trees. There are lots of them, in fact more than almost any other city in North America -- beautiful, healthy elm trees that make Edmonton streets that much more walkable. The second thing you notice is the action.” A Tale of Two Cities – Stephen Hunt, Calgary Herald 07/10/2007
"We have cuisine, culture, touring artists -- we're not lacking in anything." A Tale of Two Cities – Valerie Fortney, Calgary Herald 06/12/2007
"Edmonton is the pleasant surprise." A Tale of Two Cities – Valerie Fortney, Calgary Herald 06/12/2007
Festivals
“Never a dull moment in Edmonton; Festivals are the lifeblood of this leafy artsy city”.
Stephen Hunt, Calgary Herald
“Recognized internationally as one of the best and most successful Fringe Theatre Festivals in the world and one of Canada’s foremost festivals, the event attracts artists and patrons from across Canada, the US, Europe, Asia and around the world.” Oh Canada! Northlands Surprises – John Geary, Skywest Magazine Nov/Dec 2006
“The Heritage Festival is now the largest cultural celebration taking place in one location in the world”. - Jack Little, Amanda Ferguson, Edmonton Journal
“The Edmonton Folk Music Festival is the gold standard for such events in Canada. Often sold out well in advance, the festival has attracted such diverse talents as Joni Mitchell, Elvis Costello and K.D Lang. It also has a great venue: a grassy hillside overlooking the North Saskatchewan River Valley and the city’s downtown that acts as a natural amphitheatre”. Edmonton Unplugged, Macleans
“Recognized internationally as one of the best and most successful Fringe Theatre Festivals in the world and one of Canada’s foremost festivals, the event attracts artists and patrons from across Canada, the US, Europe, Asia and around the world”. John Geary, Skywest Magazine
“How about this? Edmonton's festivals are its identity.” A Tale of Two Cities – Stephen Hunt, Calgary Herald 07/10/2007
West Edmonton Mall
“For something entirely different, a trek to Edmonton is definitely in order. The West Edmonton Mall, known as the largest indoor mall in the world, is an over-the-top experience that draws more visitors to Alberta than any other attraction in the province. The surreal shopping, eating, and entertainment arena is shoulder-to-shoulder with customers during the winter chill. Not only is it an architectural marvel with its domed curved glass ceiling, the larger-than-life complex boasts its own waterpark, amusement park, bungee tower, daily sea lion show, as well as mall hotel called the Fantasyland Hotel”. Alberta: A romantic couples getaway and high-flying family adventure- Kathy Chin Leong, Bay Area Family Travel
Shopping
“If you were born to shop, this is the town for you” A Walk on the Wild Side – Kelli Lemass, Weekend Gold Coast Bulletin Nov 18, 2006
“The phrase ‘shop until you drop’ was probably coined by an Edmonton mall shopper” A Walk on the Wild Side – Kelli Lemass, Weekend Gold Coast Bulletin Nov 18, 2006
Architecture
“Alberta’s legislature building is one of the most impressive government buildings in Canada” Alberta Jewel – Pat Brennan, St Catherines Standard Sept 16, 2006
Arts & Culture
“Every city should be so lucky to have a place like Edmonton’s Citadel Theatre for its performing arts center. Inside this spacious and airy enclave are four theaters, presenting everything from off-Broadway items to kids’ plays”. Edmonton: Home to the World’s largest mall and Much More – Robert Haru Fisher, Frommers Aug 11, 2006
“Judging by the number of art galleries and musical performances, Edmonton’s arts and culture scene are formidable”. Steven A. Shaw, The Montreal Gazette Magazine
“Where is the biggest pipe organ in Canada? Well I’m going to tell you. It’s in Edmonton and it is for your information, 11 meters tall. It has 6,551 pipes, four keyboards, 32-foot pedals and a gazillion knobs and buttons. Well, actually hundreds and the sound of it is as majestic as that instrument itself. Edmonton indeed has the largest pipe organ in Canada”. CIBC
“I've been driving all day and feel tired, but hanging out in the atrium-like lobby of the Citadel -- which features a wall of water, lots of skylights opening the hall out into the dusky summer night, and even more trees -- washes away those Highway 2 Blues.” A Tale of Two Cities – Stephen Hunt, Calgary Herald 07/10/2007
“This family friendly cosmopolitan centre is bursting with sensational entertainment, art, thrills, creativity and deep cultural roots offering something for children of all ages and parents and grandparents alike” – Carmel Mooney, California Kids! Family Fun Guide October 2008
“The city’s ongoing dedication to the arts and culture are seen at its art galleries, thriving dance scene, opera and theater offerings and its revitalized Downtown Arts District”. Capital Gains: Edmonton has evolved into one of Alberta’s best assets – Paula Felps, American Driver 2008
"This city has a great talent pool, and our audience here is incredible." A Tale of Two Cities – Valerie Fortney, Calgary Herald 06/12/2007
People
“When you return to town [Edmonton], you’ll be struck even more by the city’s lively spirit. Even in winter, people are out in full force at pedestrian – friendly places such as Whyte Avenue – searching for unique handmade folk art, funky consignment clothes, the perfect double latte and, of course, an armful of locally written books to tell them more about Edmonton and its many charms.” Exhilarating Edmonton: Alberta’s Capital is a great place to play on a winter day – Susan Mate, Horizon Air
“Edmontonians are special. They just make up their mind about something and go and get it done. We are a bit renegade. Don’t put a red flag up, we’ll just go after it. It [Edmonton] has everything a big city could have, and so there is a kind of casual sophistication about it”. Vi Becker, Vice President of Corporate Resources and Technology for Stantec Inc., excerpted from Paul Gains ‘Pioneering Spirit’, Business Traveler, March 2002
Edmonton Research Park
"The Research Park, with its solid concentration of research and development, is an ideal place for us to position and market our company."
Colm O'Carroll, President of Epsilon Chemicals Inc.
"We chose to base ourselves out of the Edmonton Research Park for several reasons: the lower cost of doing business in Canada, our close ties with University of Alberta research and the ability to retain top researchers."
Chris Lumb, President of Micralyne Inc.
Shaw
"We have had previous functions at the Shaw, so we know what type of service to expect. Interactions with the Client Service Managers are always first rate. We always enjoy our time at the Shaw."
Marilyn Byers
Alberta Federal Council
"We enjoyed holding our event at Shaw Conference Centre, everyone is very helpful. All are looking forward to next year’s convention."
Carolina Lancaster Castellino
Triple Threat Dance Convention
"Thank you for all of your help and support with the AISI conference which, by all accounts, was a huge success. We received many, many positive comments on how well staged the event was and that it was 'world class'. The service throughout the entire event was great as was the quality of the food."
Marilyn Macyk, Improvement Manager
Alberta Learning
"Everything was perfect, and we could not imagine a better venue, service or food. Everyone we had contact with at the Shaw delivered incredible customer service. We will definitely recommend the Shaw to our friends."
Daniel Calder and Sarah Van Tassel Calder
Van Tassel/Calder Wedding
"Edmonton is the destination that no matter what obstacle arises, there are always people eager to work their magic and define a solution. Martin rose to a challenge with mission critical deadlines, led and garnered the support of others for a very rewarding outcome for our event and all future events at the Shaw."
Jean-Marc Demers, Canadian Institute of Mining
"The service was great, the food was the best I've had in the three years I have attended, and your new facility was a good venue for the event."
Wendy Saunders
Ancillary Services
United Way of the Alberta Capital Region
"It's always a pleasure to have events at the SCC because everything is handled professionally and it takes a great burden off of us."
APEGGA
"The conference was a tremendous success, with the Shaw Conference Centre being a great facility for the entire event. The gala evening was spectacular; the food, the entertainment, and the view were all something we continued to talk about."
Tim Stover
President CSAE Trillium Chapter
"Our conference in Edmonton was one of the smoothest, user-friendly conferences I have managed in my (too) long career. This was directly due to the managed care by your on-site team. My congratulations to all your staff for their high level of work ethic and professionalism, and knowing how to make me look like a star."
Nancy Coll, CMP
National Conference & Events Manager
Canadian Pharmacists Association
“My compliments to you… and all your associates in contribution to what we consider to be one of the most successful events for the Grand Prix of Edmonton in the kick off of our 2006 Event. Many thanks to the Chef for the quality of presentation and the delivery of the food services, it was absolutely outstanding.”
Keith Porritt, Special Events Manager
Grand Prix of Edmonton
"The outstanding facilities of the Shaw Conference Centre and the attention to detail displayed by the Centre's management and staff, all combined to make our National Conference one of our most memorable and successful events."
Michael Anderson, CAE
President & CEO Canadian Society of Association Executives
"Excellent service, all the way. We love your new addition and pedway."
Cindy Sparks
TELUS Corporation
"You and your staff outdid yourselves in the organization, food preparation and presentation and service throughout the evening. The ambience of the Riverview Room certainly adds to the enjoyment of the evening. You and your staff provided us with a truly exceptional culinary experience."
A. Murray, International Wine & Food Society
"Our thanks and gratitude to all of the staff and chefs for the great food and service. The comments from the people say it was the best meal they have had in many years. Great work on all you did in helping make our 100th Anniversary Banquet a huge success."
Tom Olenuk, President, Edmonton & District Labour Council
"We enjoyed holding our event at Shaw Conference Centre, everyone is very helpful. All are looking forward to next years convention."
Carolina Lancaster Castellino
Triple Threat Dance Convention
"Thank you for your generous support of Victory’s Annual Christmas Banquet. It was a tremendous success as thousands of people received a free turkey dinner! With your partnership we are able to make a significant contribution to our city. Thank you again for your support. We look forward to working with you in the future."
B.J. Brahmacharie, Community Events Director
The Victory Group
"The room was spectacular, and the staff was amazing."
Laura Ferguson
Shaw Communications
"On behalf of the Missions Fest Planning Team, Board & Staff we would like to thank you, your managers & staff for helping to make our conference a great success."
Joan Hubert, Missions Fest Society
"On behalf of International Conference Services, we wish to thank you for assisting with the SIDS International Conference in Edmonton, Canada, July 2-6, 2004. Your professionalism, your willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty and your positive enthusiasm certainly helped make our job as Meeting Managers a lot more efficient and enjoyable!"
Cathy Duncan, Conference Manager, ICS
"On behalf of the organizing committee, thank you for providing such a terrific venue for the picnic. Hall C is convenient for the seniors with ample room and easily accessible amenities. The set up was well done and the seniors were comfortable and enjoyed being out of the hot sun. The friendly and efficient staff, as always, was a pleasure to work with and their assistance is very much appreciated."
Bill Smith, former Mayor, City of Edmonton
