A Sip N Chat Farewell to Reiko!

Sip ‘N’ Chat runs Every Tuesday, 2-4pm

Last Tuesday, HSCA and Sip ‘N’ Chat participants said farewell to Community Connections Coordinator, Reiko. Participants and staff shared their heartfelt appreciation and parting words over sweets and warm beverages in HSCA’s Hearth room. Reiko has shared that one of her primary objectives was to ensure people felt welcomed, supported, and included (HSCA’s 2023 Annual Report). Reiko joined the HSCA team last summer to cover Shaye’s parental leave and will be moving on to a new opportunity. During her time at HSCA, Reiko led our Neighbour Night, Tuesday’s Sip ‘N’ Chat and Monday’s sustainable food program. Although we’re all very excited for Reiko’s next adventure, we will miss her compassion, enthusiasm, and, of course, her impressive origami skills that she has shared across programming and around the centre. Thank you for making a lasting impact on our community, Reiko!  

More about Sip ‘N’ Chat

Sip 'N' Chat runs EVERY Tuesday from 2-4pm at HSCA. The weekly program offers a casual, low- committal, drop-in format where all are welcome. The connections and relationships that participants make in the Hearth room have sprouted and extended far beyond the walls of HSCA. “Participants have truly created a network of support” says Reiko.

Sip ‘N’ Chat’s ‘Basket of Questions’

Community members often connect and chat using ‘the basket of questions'. Just like it sounds, the basket of questions is basket full of questions or talking points for participants to pull from to break the ice and promote conversation. Read one participant’s experience below.

“One person picks a question out of the basket, answer[s] it, and paper is passed around so everyone present gets a chance to answer. This has resulted in unbelievable discussions! Everyone answers from their perspectives, and this often leads to many interesting facets of our lives being discussed! The coffee, tea, and goodies, oranges always included is a highlight for those with food insecurity! However, everyone enjoys these treats! This group works so well, because it involves all age groups! I believe this is one of the keys to its success. We also come from many different countries and many different cultures. This enriches our discussions and opens our minds to new horizons! Of course, all good groups are led by good leaders. Thank you for all your hard work, Reiko”. ~ 2023 Sip ‘n’ Chat Participant 

Mental Health Moment

Submitted by Nancy Bergeron, R.Psych. | info@nancybergeron.ca

 How to ‘Hold Space’ for Someone 

As a therapist I do many things that are educational, directive, and methodological. However, there is a magic that happens in the room when I seem to do nothing at all. All it looks like is a slight nodding of my head and/or a concerned expression on my face. But what’s really happening is that I am holding space for my client.  

To hold space for someone means to offer them your presence, attention, and support without judgement or interruption. It involves creating a safe and accepting environment for them to express themselves fully, without feeling rushed or invalidated. It’s about being fully present for someone, and allowing them to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. 

People are starving for a witness to their existence. Why do you think Instagram and Tik Tok are so popular. Sometimes the therapy is just there to listen, not to fix anything. A majority of the time, the answers lie within my clients. We live in a society where we praise those who are always talking, and say so little about those who are great at listening.  

Therapists hold space by actively listening, being empathetic, and creating a safe environment for our clients. We provide unconditional support and encouragement for our clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Therapists also offer validation, understanding and guidance as needed, while allowing our clients to lead the conversation and set their own pace for their healing journey. We live in a fast paced, fix it, task-oriented world, and we miss the opportunities to hold space.  

Many times, my first session starts with a client stating their problem and asking me how to fix it. That’s my cue to slow things down. When they say “what do you think I should do?” I like to answer with “how do you see this unfolding, or what are your thoughts on some of the choices you’ve thought about?” Most times, just slowing things down and allowing folks to feel relaxed, safe, and heard, they can come to their own decisions and empowerment. They truly just needed to feel okay with being in their emotions and that I will listen without judgement. 

How can you hold space for the people in your life? Be present. Your physical presence can be more powerful than any words. Listen actively by not interrupting and allowing them to express their feelings. When they are done pouring out their heart, validate the feelings they shared. Do not engage in clichés as they can feel dismissing. Respect their process of working through intense feelings. Check in with them regularly. And finally, offer practical support by asking if you can take over a specific task. Asking them to reach out to you if they need anything falls flat as they are in their emotional brain and do not have the capacity to constructively think about what they actually need help with. 

HSCA Turns 76 this July! The Evolution of a Community Association

 HSCA has been serving our community since 1948! Over the last 76 years the association has evolved, pivoted, and grown. Check out our ‘Looking Back: Evolution of a Community Centre’ map from our 2023 Annual Report’ to get a snapshot over the years.  You can view our entire 2023 Annual Report here.

We want to hear from you!  

Do you have memories, photos, or stories from years before you would like to share? Reach out to stephanie.c@hsca.ca. OR tell us/share what you love most about your community.

Learn more 

To learn more about the history of Hillhurst Sunnyside, check out these two great resources:  

• Check out the Hillhurst Sunnyside Context Paper 

• Read through the digital version of Hillhurst Sunnyside Remembers by Margaret Tanko 

 

UPDATE: Gladstone Connect Community Drainage Improvements Project – State of Local Emergency

As part of the Gladstone Connect Community Drainage Improvement project, The City is investing in utility infrastructure upgrades to enhance resident safety and protect vulnerable areas from damage caused by stormwater flooding.

Update: Construction Schedule and Road Closures Impacted by State of Local Emergency.

As result of the ongoing State of Local Emergency, part of the planned timeline for work that was previously communicated has changed. An update regarding ongoing and completed construction activities is included below:

  • Completed: Eastbound lane on 5 Av NW at 11 St NW.

  • Delayed: 11 St NW from 5 Av NW to Kensington Gate will remain closed.

Please note crews will be off-site supporting the 16th Avenue feedermain repair.

  • Delayed: Planned closure of Northbound lane on 10 St SW between 3 Av NW and 5 Av NW.

  • Delayed: Planned closure of Southbound lane on 10 St NW between 3 Av NW and 5 Av NW.

Construction Impacts

  • Calgarians should expect construction vehicles, and heavy equipment to remain in the area.

  • For safety, fencing is installed around construction areas and on-site signage has been installed.

  • Temporary water services will remain.

  • No access to on-street parking.

    Detours

    Pedestrian, pathway, and vehicle detours will vary as the project progresses. For the most up-to-date detour information related to this project, please visit www.calgary.ca/rileyconstruction Pathway detour information can always be found at maps.calgary.ca/PathwaysandBikeways

    If transit detours are required, full transit detour information, and temporary stop locations will be posted to calgarytransit.com/service-updates and on the mobile Transit app.

    Temporary Water Service

    During construction, some residents and businesses will be provided a temporary water supply, and access to your property will be required. Before construction starts, a contractor representative will request entry to your property. Should it be necessary to disrupt water service, all affected customers will receive notice at least a day in advance. Please note that internal fire suppression systems will not work if a building is being supplied by temporary water services.

    We thank residents for your patience and understanding while we complete this necessary work to protect the community from flood risk.

Project Information or Questions

If you have any questions about this work or the project please contact 311, visit Calgary.ca/RileyConstruction for more information.

Commons Church Stampede Breakfast is back!

A message from our friends and community partners at Commons Church


Join us on July 7, 2024 9am - 12pm for the biggest block party in Kensington.
Pancakes and sausages are standard fare, so we'll have those bases covered, plus a few extra surprises.
Live music, a family Photo Booth, a huge play area for kids complete with bouncy castles, face painting and a petting zoo.
https://www.commons.church/stampede

Commons Church first connected with HSCA in the summer of 2016. Amanda Palmer was the Neighbour Support Network Coordinator at HSCA at the time. We joined up and reached out to the other non-profits in the neighbourhood and started hosting the Kensington Collaborative lunches.
Our first donation to HSCA was during our Advent Campaign in December 2016. We donated $1000 to support Fresh Food Basket program that was closing for two weeks at Christmas. Those funds were used to give extra fresh food to the 70 or so families from the community who used the program. Since that time, Commons Church has continued to support this food program through its evolution. We’ve always had a great relationship with HSCA and are happy to support your ongoing work in the area of food security.

The Corless’ | HSCA Volunteer Family

Memories and photos shared by Bob Corless. Compiled by Lisa Chong 

This article was originally published in the March 2022 edition Hillhurst Sunnyside Voice and the HSCA blog on March 1, 2022 (memories and photos shared by Bob Corless and compiled by Lisa Chong).

Editor’s Note: On May 17, 2024, 2024, Bernice Helen Corless passed away at the age of 98 years. Bernice was a dedicated volunteer and spent countless hours at HSCA and other community organizations. A Celebration Of Life for Bernice will be held on Saturday, June 29th from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (1320- 5 Ave NW, Calgary, AB). To express condolences, visit Mountain View Memorial’s page here.

If you have been around HSCA, you have probably seen Bob Corless working away outside the building, volunteering on various projects, and working on his home renovations. Bob’s parents, Bernice and John managed the community association facility in the 1950s as volunteers. “Dad and I used to flood the HSCA ice rink where the tennis courts are now. Mom ran the concession,” Bob recalls. 

The following text snippets were taken from Margaret Tanko’s Hillhurst Sunnyside Remembers (1978) book.  

In the fifties, Bernice and John Corless, caretakers at the community hall, were active in the community’s sports programs. 

“My husband did the ice. He was manager of the teams and helped the coaches,” explains Mrs. Corless. 

“Hockey was the most popular sport in the fifties. We had good teams,” says Mrs. Corless. We took lots of teams out of town and competed in the provincial finals which I think is pretty good. We tried baseball in the summer but it’s vacation time and now families go away. We also noticed that since television became so popular, kids seemed to be less active in sports.” 

“Our coaches were all volunteers except for figure skating and dance instructors. We paid experienced teachers to come in. After the season the dancers would put on a recital at St. Barnabas Hall.” 

Two ice rinks were maintained at the community grounds: one for hockey, the other for pleasure skating. The pleasure skating rink was always packed. 

“We had the best outdoor skating rink in the city and people would come from all over,” Mrs. Corless says proudly. Music was played and skaters used the old hall to change and warm up. Parents helped out in the concession and the check room. 

“We had some wonderful workers,” she says thinking back. “A lot of kids played over at the hall. To me the community is one of the best in the city.” 

Tennis courts were opened in the mid fifties and square dancing was held regularly in the hall. 

“We also put on banquets for the athletes in the hall, remembers Mrs. Corless. “We had some wonderful times and used to bring down the little [Indigenous] boys from Morley to play hockey with kids their own age here in the community. We had a hot meal for all the boys. Then they would invite the kids to come out and play an exhibition team up there. The kids would be just thrilled!” 

“You know we dedicated all our time there but we loved it!” 

Bob Corless grew up in Hillhurst Sunnyside and spent much of his time at the HSCA playing for the Hillhurst Sunnyside youth hockey team. The Hillhurst Sunnyside Midget hockey team won the city championship one year. “I earned my HSCA letter jacket that year. Our team colours were black with yellow on the leather sleeves. How did we get our letter jackets? We picked up bottles on the side of Highway 2!”

A community member of many talents, Bob owned and managed the local theatre in Kitimat and later, served as councillor for 16 years before moving back to the neighbourhood to care for his mother. Bernice, now 96, recently moved to a care home. Bob and Grace now reside in the family home. 

House Relocation 

The Corless’ moved their entire house on the west side of 14th Street, a few blocks to the east when 14th Street was widened in 1960. Always the DIY expert, Bob recently renovated his home and upon removing the mantlepiece, a document was discovered with the original address: 303 14th Street NW. 

Corless Corner today is a community within the community – it features an upcycled bench from the HSCA flea market and 11A Street’s own Little Free Library!

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada

Friday June 21 is National Indigenous People’s Day in Canada

As we all live, work, and play on the traditional territories of the Treaty 7 First Nations, we have a responsibility to educate ourselves on the diverse peoples whose land we share. While this month it is important to listen, learn, and celebrate the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples, there are many ways to be an ally year-round. Check out the resources and event listing below. If you have events and resources related to Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous People’s Day (June 21) you’d like to amplify in our community, please reach out to Stephanie.c@hsca.ca.

EVENTS

Resources

Visit the Calgary Public Library's Indigenous Services page for a list of events celebrating and honouring National Indigenous History Month. The CPL also offers resources and information on Truth & Reconciliation on your learning journey.  

·                     The Calgary Foundation invites you to listen, acknowledge and reflect using their Ally Toolkit & Resource Guide.

·                     Check out the National Film Board's (NFB) Indigenous Cinema page and view their collection of Indigenous-made films.  

             

Neighbour Day is Saturday, June 15th

This year, Neighbour Day falls on Saturday, June 15th, 2024 and as many Hillhurst Sunnyside residents know, Neighbour Day is an important event in Sunnyside because it marks the tremendous support and community spirit that occurred following the 2013 floods. Last year marked the 10-year anniversary of the flood and the Sunnyside community gathered to march, connect, create, and celebrate their resiliency. An eclectic and vibrant display of costumes, music, and art were on full display along the parade route followed by a gathering at the containR site in Sunnyside. See the photos captured from last year’s resident-led event!

This year Sunnyside residents are organizing a Neighbour Day parade and festival. Like last year, people are encouraged to wear costumes, bring their noise makers and march in the parade.

Details

  • Staging will begin at noon at the bus loop located at 5th Street and 7th Ave NW.

  • The parade will begin at 1pm

  • 3pm meet at New Edinborough Park for family fun, games, and potluck picnic

Check out the poster below for more details.

Neighbour Day 2023- Celebrating Resiliency: 10-Year Later

High river flow season May 15 – July 15. Be flood ready.

A message from the City of Calgary

High river flow season May 15 – July 15. Be flood ready.

Did you know that even in a drought, flooding is possible?

It's all because of location, location, location. With our proximity to the mountains, we can experience unpredictable swings in the weather, from weeks of dry temperatures and little rain leading to drought, to heavy rains leading to floods. As heavy rainfall in the mountains and foothills is the most significant contributor to river flooding in Calgary, The City prepares every spring for the possibility, and monitors conditions 24/7 during flood season (May 15 – July 15).  

These annual flood preparations are now complete and The City is ready for high river flow season. While they monitor continuously, remember that the mountains can change our weather very quickly and The City may have less than 24 hours to really confirm what’s coming. That’s why it’s so important we’re all prepared.


A quick and easy way to help you understand daily river conditions

Starting May 15, visit calgary.ca/floodinfo for a daily snapshot of the river conditions and forecast. The City will let you know how they're responding to the current conditions, and what actions you may need to take to be prepared. Be sure to check it out and sign up for The City’s Flood E-newsletter to get information delivered to your inbox every week!

 

What’s new along the Elbow & Bow Rivers?

Since 2013, Calgary has come a long way in building a more flood resilient city, reducing our city’s risk by 55 per cent. Here’s a quick update on some major flood mitigation initiatives:

Springbank Off-Stream Reservoir
Construction continues on the Government of Alberta’s Springbank Off-Stream Reservoir and is expected to be complete in early 2025. This is a critical piece of infrastructure that will help manage our flood risk on the Elbow River. Together with the higher gates at the Glenmore Dam, they will protect thousands of residents that live and work along the Elbow River and downtown Calgary from a 2013-size flood.

Sunnyside projects
Work continues on the Sunnyside Flood Barrier project, as part of the Memorial Parkway Program that will incorporate ways to enhance and honour this important part of our city, while adding critical flood protection. Construction on the flood barrier component is underway and will continue into 2025. Meanwhile, progress continues on the Upper Plateau Separation project that will help prevent stormwater flooding in the Sunnyside area, with full completion anticipated by 2025. 

Bow River Reservoir Options Study
The Government of Alberta has progressed Phase 2 of the Bow River Reservoir Options study, looking at the feasibility of a new reservoir upstream of Calgary. This spring, the government is engaging Albertans on two of three potential sites for a new reservoir on the Bow River.

 

Are you flood ready?

Despite all these efforts, we can’t prevent flooding entirely. If you live or work in an area that’s at risk of river flooding, it’s important to take simple steps so that you’re ready too.

1.     Understand your risk. Check our online, interactive flood maps to find out if your home and community is at risk of river flooding.

2.     Be prepared. Take steps to reduce flood damage, keep your loved ones safe and be prepared if you need to evacuate quickly.

3.     Stay informed.  Heavy rainfalls in the mountain areas, which are the major cause of flooding, are hard to predict, meaning you could have less than 24 hours warning. Visit Calgary.ca/FloodInfo for a quick snapshot of daily river conditions and sign up for alerts to stay informed.

VisitCalgary.ca/FloodInfoand be sure tosign up for The City’s Flood E-newsletterso you can get current river conditions and tips delivered to your inbox every Thursday.

HSCA Spotlight Series: Meet Giselle

Meet Giselle! Giselle is HSCA’s Community Programs Coordinator and Farmers’ Market Manager. You may see Giselle around HSCA on Monday’s during our Sustainable Food Program or during the weekly Wednesday Farmers’ Market.  We’re thrilled to have her part of the team so please say hello to her when you see her around! Let’s get to know Giselle... in 5 questions or less.  

Q. Ask me more about: 

A. Traveling, family, gardening, music, cooking, creating / building a sustainable retreat center and home outside of the city. 

Q. What is your favourite part about HSCA or the Hillhurst Sunnyside community? 

A. Staff, volunteers, community members and market vendors enjoy their roles and are eager to work together towards shared goals. 

Q. Finish this sentence: 'On Saturday mornings, you can usually find me...' 

A. [To me] Community means people coming together to get to know each other, offer friendship and support and work towards a common goal.  

Q. What keeps you busy outside of your role at HSCA? 

A. Facilitating Breathwork practices and offering group workshops, making & selling chocolate bliss balls and sacred smudge bundles, spending time with family & friends, exploring and hiking in nature, taking photos, gardening, playing guitar, drum and singing.  

Q. Finish this sentence: 'On Saturday mornings, you can usually find me...' 

A. Enjoying a cacao elixir, listening to music, heading out to the mountains for the day with friends.  

 

May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada

May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada. Asian Heritage Month offers us an opportunity to learn more about the history of Canadians of Asian heritage and to recognize the struggles and challenges faced by Canadians of Asian descent and celebrate their diverse contributions to our society (Canada, 2024).  

Learn: Information and Resources 

Below are some resources, information, and events related to the history and contributions of Canadians of Asian Heritage:

·         History of Canadians of Asian Heritage 

·         Asia: Canada Timeline 

·         The Virtual Museum of Asian Canadian Cultural Heritage 

·         Model Minority Myth  

Participate: Local Events

Check out the Asian Heritage YYC's site for a list of events for Asian Heritage Month. To date, they have three events listed for May but follow @ahfcalgary on Instagram and Facebook for the most up-to-date info. 

Share: Let’s Amplify

Want to share an event, story, or resource with our community related to Asian Heritage month? Great we can’t wait to hear from you! You can connect with us on Instagram (@hillhurst_sunnyside), Facebook (@hillhurstsunnyside) or email Stephanie.c@hsca.ca so we will do our best to share and amplify it across our communication channels.

May is Caregiver Awareness Month Across Canada

1 in 4 Canadians identify as a caregiver and it is expected that 1 in 2 Canadians will give care at some point in their lifetime and across Canada Caregivers provide 5.7 billion hours a year supporting the individuals they are caring for. 

If you know someone who is a caregiver, and you are able, think of a way to celebrate them this month. Caregiving can be challenging and draining on the Caregiver. 

If you want to explore more about Caregiving, check out caregiversalberta.ca for more information, ideas etc. or check out the information below. 

Resources for Caregivers 

Caregiving organizations across the country provide many different types of supports to caregivers who provide care due to illness, aging or disability. Explore national and regional resources to support your caregiving journey. 

• Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence – Caregiver Resources 
• Caregivers Alberta 
• Caregivers Nova Scotia 
• Family Caregivers of British Columbia 
• L’Appui proches aidants 
• Ontario Caregiver Organization 
• Young Caregivers Association 

 

Cut Through Traffic Survey Results

By Tim Schaefer, Sunnyside Resident

Thank you everyone who took the time to complete the HSCA Mobility survey on ideas to mitigate cut-through traffic during the Sunnyside flood barrier construction. The City will have Memorial Drive reduced to 1 lane in either direction for up to 2 years. With traffic volume above pre-Covid levels, the lane reduction will inevitably result in cut-through traffic in Sunnyside.

In total there were 95 responses, which provides a 95% confidence level with a +/- 10% margin of error. In non-statistical terms, the results provide a good indication how the community feels about the temporary ideas discussed. The survey was NOT a vote on whether any of the ideas will proceed. It is up to the City of Calgary to decide what measures are taken, if any, and they will use their own process and engagement before any measures are taken.

Overall, there was majority-support for all the temporary measures covered. In summary, the positive support was as follows:

76% Yes - 30km/h Limit

67% Yes - Memorial Limit

75% Yes - Inbound Access

59% Yes - Outbound Access

64% Yes - Closing Lower Deck

74% Yes - Limit Lower Deck

Speed Limit

On the idea of temporarily lowering the speed limit to 30km/h for the entire neighbourhood, 76% of respondents supported the idea. This isn’t surprising because Sunnyside has, for the most part, narrow streets that are better suited for a 30km/h limit. It seems that residents see this as a great opportunity to try out a safer speed for people not in cars.

Temporarily lowering the speed limit on Memorial from 14 St to Centre Street was supported somewhat less, with 67% responding Yes. Today the Memorial limit is 50km/h within Sunnyside, but east of Centre St the limit is 70km/h. The idea of lowering the limit is to reduce the appeal of using Memorial by expanding a lower speed beyond just the construction zone.

Limiting Access

For the idea of limiting access inbound to Sunnyside on the streets connecting to Memorial, 41% liked the idea for most but not all streets, while 34% liked the idea only during rush hour. The last time the City closed access to a street was 7 St NW in the 1980’s and the additional comments provided in the survey suggested the greatest interest to try out the next closure would be on one or all of these streets: 4, 4A, 5 and 5A St NW.

For the idea of limiting access outbound from Sunnyside on 2 Av and 4 Av NW where they connect to 10 St NW, thereby limiting the feasibility of cut-through, the support was a bit nuanced.  30% liked the idea only during rush hour, while an additional 29% liked the idea all the time for 4 Ave. Since the survey was released, the 2024 Gladstone Connect project has become known which will involve major construction on 4 Av NW. This project will result in partial and full closure that will effectively deliver the same result.

Lower Deck Bridge

Limiting the amount of traffic on Memorial that comes from the Centre Street bridge was the last idea covered in the survey. The concept here is limiting or eliminating traffic from the Lower Deck would lower the source of traffic and lessen cut-through during the flood barrier construction.

For the idea of temporarily closing the Lower Deck to all vehicle traffic, 64% of respondents said Yes. There was greater support for limiting the traffic with 74% of respondents saying Yes to not having alternating lanes on the lower deck during rush hour.

Since the survey was released, the rehabilitation of the 4 Ave flyover into downtown has become known. That project is expected to last 18 months and will reduce that connector from Memorial from 2 lanes down to 1. Given this, it is unlikely the City will close the Lower Deck as access into downtown will already be impacted but limiting outbound access could still be an option for the City to consider.

Survey Comments

Lots of additional comments were provided by respondents, thank you! The most common “other ideas” shared were adding speed bumps, more 4-way stops and more police enforcement. About 9% of all survey respondents were opposed to any measure being taken whatsoever, with their comments focused on their ability to drive.

When asked what would upset people the most, the comments most frequent and equally shared were 1. If the City severely impacted resident’s vehicle access and 2. If the City were to do nothing to address cut-through.

Your Health is Your Wealth: Badminton at HSCA

By Grace Yuen

Come try Badminton and experience the wonderful benefits for you. It can build up strong muscle mass and strengthen your heart and bones. It boosts your metabolism and improves your mental agility. In a relaxing and fun atmosphere, it can ease your stress and help develop good social relationships. A sport that has a very long history and is well loved around the world in Asia and Europe. 

We meet every Monday and Thursday, year-round from 10:30 am-1:00 pm at the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Center (1320-5 Ave NW), a very centralized location. We are also the cheapest in town with only $4 (cash) per each visit and $1 drop-in shuttle fee but for a better deal you can purchase a punch card online of $70 for 20x or $10 annual shuttle fee. Most of the players are post beginners to advanced level. High school and up students are also welcome. There are four well maintained rubberized compound floors, showers and lockers, water fountain, vending machine and ATM machine. There is also free parking. We have been playing here for almost 20 years. We are using Yonex 300 plastic shuttles as a group and some of our players are gold medalists of the Alberta Provincial  55+ this year. So come and join us and have some fun playing this interesting sport which is both exciting to play and beautiful to watch! 

For more information, please contact Grace Yuen at gymyuen@gmail.com or visit www.hsca.ca/badminton. 

 

An EGG-stra Special Flea Market

On Sunday, March 31 the HSCA Flea Market hosted a family fun Easter egg hunt! Along with hunting for treasures and bargains, patrons we’re invited to hunt for eggs hidden throughout the market. Here’s a look at some of our winners!

Thank you to everyone who participated! Keep an eye out for more family fun events during Sunday Flea Market!

Rain Barrel Program: A Message from the City of Calgary (Ward 7)

The City has collaborated with Green Calgary to deliver the Rain Barrel Sales program since 2010. These sales act as a major fundraiser and community engagement tool for Green Calgary and are an important part of The City’s water conservation programming. Rain barrels collect rainwater and provide a free source of water for our yards. Plants appreciate the soft, warm water, and homeowners can help reduce the amount of rainwater runoff that enters our rivers and creeks untreated. Calgary's average rainfall of 5 cm per month will provide approximately 4,000 liters of water. This can fill a typical 45-gallon rain barrel 20 times.

Starting this April, the “Together we can make every drop count” campaign will provide Calgarians with simple ways they can do their part to conserve water and use it wisely at home, in their yards and at their businesses. As we look ahead to spring, we should think about preparing our yards for dry conditions and potential water restrictions. Using a rain barrel is a great way to capture and reuse rainwater in your yard during this drought.

Rain barrels are available for pre-order through Green Calgary and cost $78+GST. You can also buy them later this spring at the following dates/locations between 10am and 2pm:

  • April 27th – IKEA (8000 11 Street SE)

  • May 4th - Dalhousie Co-Op (5505 Shaganappi Trail NW)

  • May 11th – Calgary Horticultural Society (2725 33 Avenue SW)

  • May 25th - Deer Valley Co-Op (1221 Canyon Meadows Dr SE)

  • June 1st – The Genesis Centre (7555 Falconridge Boulevard NE)

  • June 8th - West Springs Co-Op (917 85 St SW)

  • June 15th - Inglewood Community Garden (2297 17 St SE)

  • June 22nd - Community Natural Foods Chinook (202 61 Ave SW)

Pre-orders for rain barrels start on April 1st and can be picked up at these locations or can be delivered to you by Green Calgary for a delivery fee. Please note, pre-order sale quantities are limited.

Various types of rain barrels are also available at local hardware stores and garden centres around Calgary.

Remember, every drop counts when it comes to water conservation. By incorporating a rain barrel into your outdoor routine, you're not only benefiting your yard but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable Calgary.

For more information about rain barrels, visit The City’s rain barrel program page.

HSCA Volunteers: THANK YOU!

HSCA has an incredible team of volunteers! National Volunteer Week takes place April 14-20. Volunteer Canada’s theme for 2024 is ‘Every Moment Matters’. This theme highlights the importance of every volunteer and contribution they make at HSCA. THANK YOU to our incredible volunteer community—we truly couldn’t do it without you! The sharing of time, skills, empathy, and creativity is vital to the inclusivity, strength, and well-being of our community. Now more than ever, Every Moment Matters.  

Are you an HSCA Volunteer? Consider being featured in HSCA’s Spotlight series so we can highlight the important impact you’re making in our community! What is the HSCA Spotlight series? HSCA ‘Spotlight’ series is a fun way to ‘spotlight’ the amazing people around our community and within HSCA. The spotlight form consists of a short series of questions, and you are welcome to skip any and you may also submit an optional photo/selfie (instructions included in the form). If you are interested in being featured in this series, please take a moment to fill out our HSCA Spotlight form or connect with an HSCA Team member to arrange an in-person Q & A. Your submission/interview may be included in HSCA Communication channels, including The Hillhurst Sunnyside Voice newsletter, e-newsletter, HSCA social media, and/or our Annual Report. We recognize volunteer efforts continue year-round so you may submit this form at any time! 

Here is the HSCA Spotlight Form

Samaritan Club of Calgary Sale

Samaritan Club of Calgary Sale
Saturday, April 27th, 9am-1pm

It’s that time of year again! The Samaritan Sale will be back at HSCA on Saturday, April 27 from 9am-1pm. This semi-annual sale is a great way to save on household goods, clothes, shoes, books, toys, collectibles, and more. Bring your own bag and stop by HSCA to check out this exciting and longstanding event sale.  

 

Did you know? The Samaritan Club of Calgary’s Super Thrift Sale is the oldest, largest, single day ‘thrift’ sale event in the city. 2024 marks the 39th year, All proceeds from the sale go to Calgarians in need.

 

Check www.samaritanclub.ca for more details.

Bowview Bluefins Swim Club is BACK!

Bowview Bluefins Swim Club- Reg NOW OPEN!

Bowview Outdoor Pool is bringing back a new and exciting approach to learning advanced swimming skills for swimmers 7 - 12 years old. The swim club will provide professional coaching, stroke correction/improvement, technical instruction, and a non-competitive swim meet at the end of the season! 

Swimmers must have completed Swimmer 4 or be able to comfortably swim a minimum of 25 meters. 

$220 for 11 weeks of swimming, PLUS all swimmers receive a Bowview Bluefins Swim Cap and T-Shirt!

Bowview Bluefins runs June 18th – August 27th; Tuesday evenings from 7:50pm-8:50pm at Bowview Outdoor Pool.

Registration can be found at: https://app.amilia.com/store/en/hsca/shop/programs.

Visit: https://www.hsca.ca/bowview-outdoor-pool for more information.