Financial Empowerment Month at HSCA – October 2025

Financial empowerment is vital for building strong,
resilient communities. When individuals build a
foundation of financial knowledge and can manage
their finances effectively, they’re better equipped to
make more informed decisions, achieve personal goals,
and contribute to the local economy. Moreover, gaining
confidence in the job market and in personal finances
helps to build a sense of independence and stability for
community residents. By prioritizing financial education
and access to resources, we can help strengthen our
community’s foundation and create opportunities for
all members to thrive together.

This month at HSCA we have three Financial Empowerment workshops for free!
Drop-in welcome, but if you plan to attend, please RSVP to Claire.l@hsca.ca so we can have an idea of numbers.

🧑‍🎓 Free Youth Financial Literacy Workshop – “Turn your Cents into Sense”

Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: HSCA Hearth Room

Led by Lilypad Learning, this workshop is best suited for youth ages 11–17 (but everyone is welcome!). Participants will explore budgeting, debt, and investing in a fun, relatable way using gamification learning models.

Lilypad Learning’s mission is to empower youth to achieve financial literacy by making personal finance accessible, engaging, and personal.

Learn more at Lilypad Learning.

🥘 Cooking on a Budget 101 – FREE Workshop

Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Time: 5:45 PM – 6:45 PM
Location: HSCA Hearth Room

Rising grocery costs can stretch anyone’s budget. Join Melisa Centofanti from Chento Nutrition for practical tips on:

• Buying groceries on a budget

• Simple five-ingredient recipes

• Storing food to reduce waste

• Advocating for better access to healthy food

💼 Career Skills Workshop – Resumes, Job Hunting, and Interviews

Date: Thursday, October 9, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: HSCA Hearth Room

Cody Reeves, Client Manager and Recruiter, will teach participants how to effectively navigate the job market—from what stands out on a resume, to building marketable skills, and shining in interviews. Bring your questions, and feel free to bring your resume in case there is time for a review.

All workshops are free, with drop-ins welcome. Space is limited, so RSVP to Claire.l@hsca.ca to help us plan.

Join us this October at HSCA to build financial literacy, practical money-saving skills, and career confidence!

Getting Organized this September

By Abir (HSCA’s Neighbour Night Facilitator)

Neighbour Night: Thursday, September 4th, 5:30-7:30pm
Make your own pocket journal Decorate the cover, create your own daily to-do pages, and take home a fun, practical little notebook. Perfect for back-to-school—or just for fun!

RSVP & join us at Claire.l@hsca.ca

September can be a busy month for most of us.

When I moved back to Calgary in September of 2012, I felt overwhelmed by all the items on my to do list. I was experiencing anxiety, insomnia, and binge eating as a result.

When someone would ask me for something that took up my time, I would add it to my to do list making it feel never ending and demotivating.

I went to the Calgary Counseling Centre for support as they had couseling appointments with sliding scale fees based on income.

The counselor suggested breaking down my to do list of 20 items into separate lists and giving myself 3 to do items a day as that was more reasonable and less overwhelming than having 1 list with 20 items.

The counselor validated my anxiety by pointing out that because my list was not broken down into items that needed to be completed once versus weekly or monthly that it did look overwhelming.

Getting organized started with managing my time and my expectations of myself so I could communicate them to others.

I got into the habit of dividing my day into 3 parts:

Morning                

Afternoon          

Evening               

If I worked a full day (9 hours) that counted as a morning task and afternoon task leaving me with the capacity to work on 1 task from my to do list in the evening.

It was also important to plan time for relaxing and having fun.

Looking at my to do list in its new format after my couseling appointment I realized that my to do list actually required 1 month and not 1 day - no wonder I was feeling so stressed and my list was feeling unmanageable!

The benefit of pacing myself was being to able to explain to others that as much as I wanted to help, my schedule for that month was already full.

By taking 2 full sheets of paper and cutting them in half, then cutting them in half again and stapling them in the middle to make a booklet I was able to make myself a day by day planner that fit in my pocket.

Naming my to do list something fun and personalizing it with stickers or art made it feel fun.

Getting organized means being practical with ourselves. Self care in this way helped me set boundaries.

If people care about us they will be able to understand that we need to put ourselves first and take care of our commitments before those of others. 

I felt satisfaction when I looked at the crossed out completed tasks in my to do list in its new format at the end of the month and saw how much I had accomplished.

In the end, reducing my stress helped me get more done.

Once you get into the habit of organizing your to do list over a month in this way, you can start using an online calendar to plan out your time weeks in advance.

Stay ’n Play is Back—and It’s FREE!

Parents, caregivers, and little ones—get ready! Stay ’n Play is making its return to HSCA this fall. Wednesday, September 10, 2025, from 9:30–11:00 a.m. in the North Social Hall.

And the best part? It’s totally FREE! Just drop in, no cost, no fuss.

Stop by with your little ones, have a coffee, and connect with other parents and caregivers in a relaxed, friendly space. Toys, room to roam, and lots of opportunities to make new friends—both for kids and grown-ups (we see you!)—are all waiting.

Who’s it for? Kids ages 0–5 (parental or caregiver supervision required).

We can’t wait to see you there!

Bowview Outdoor Pool- THANKS

Thanks for Making a Splash! 
The Bowview Outdoor Pool’s last day of the season is Monday, September 1, 2025. 

Thank you to our amazing staff, our rockstar volunteers, and everyone who came out for lessons, programs, and (some) sunny days at the pool! Rain or shine, you made this season one to remember. 

We can’t wait to welcome you back for more fun in the sun (fingers crossed!) in 2026! 

Help Us Bring Violet King Park to Life!

HSCA’s Heritage Committee is thrilled to announce a new initiative in Sunnyside: naming the bus loop park “Violet King Park.” The park is located just south of Violet King’s former family home, which still stands today. Her family moved to Sunnyside in 1919 and began renting this house in 1929, the year Violet was born. They purchased the property in 1939 and remained there until 1975.

Violet King

Violet King, the first Black woman admitted to the Alberta Bar, and to practise law in Canada. E.J. McCormick, with whom she articled, shakes her hand, 2 June 1954.

(courtesy Glenbow Archives/NA-5600-7760a)

This project honours Violet King, a pioneer and trailblazer whose life represents inclusion, resilience, and leadership. The park will be a welcoming community space that shares her inspiring story—one that shaped Canadian history and continues to inspire today.

About Violet King

Violet King made history as Canada’s first Black woman lawyer, breaking racial and gender barriers in a time when opportunities for women—especially Black women—were extremely limited. Her work focused on justice, equality, and social change, making her an extraordinary figure locally and nationally.

How You Can Support

While this project is still in its early stages, donations are being accepted to help bring this vision to life. Contributions will support planning, design, and the creation of interpretive elements that share Violet King’s story within the park. These elements may include a bench, signage, public art, and other forms of interpretation that aid in highlighting Violet King's contribution and her family's importance to our community.

A portion of funds will help with project administration, and any excess will go toward HSCA’s food security programs for local families.
Tax receipts will be issued for all donations.

To donate or learn more, visit: https://www.hsca.ca/violet-king-park

LEARN MORE ABOUT VIOLET KING

Discover the inspiring story of Violet King, Canada’s first Black woman lawyer and a trailblazer for justice and equality. Explore these resources to learn more about her life and impact:

1. Building Social and Community Life: Violet King and Theodore King
   This blog post delves into Violet King's contributions to social and community life, highlighting her role alongside Theodore King in shaping their community.

2. February is Black History Month in Canada: Violet King
   An insightful article commemorating Violet King's achievements during Black History Month, emphasizing her groundbreaking role in Canadian legal history.

3. Violet King: The Professional Trailblazer Who Broke Down Barriers
   A compelling video that narrates Violet King's journey as the first Black woman lawyer in Canada, shedding light on her challenges and triumphs.

Let’s come together to celebrate a local hero and ensure Violet King’s story continues to inspire our community!

Back on the Mat: Richelle Returns for Evening Yoga—Plus Her Q&A

We’re so excited to welcome Richelle back to HSCA, this time for an evening time slot right here in our community! Starting Monday, September 15th, join her Monday evening Vinyasa Flow classes from 6:30–7:30 pm.

Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, Richelle’s inclusive Vinyasa Flow class combines breathwork, meditation, and flowing movements to help you feel both energized and at ease. With over a decade of experience on the mat, she has completed her 200-hour teacher training at Yoga Santosha and a 30-hour certification in unified mindfulness coaching. And if she seems like a familiar face, you’ve probably seen her strolling around the neighbourhood with her golden retriever, Tucker!

About

HSCA Yoga will return Monday, September 15th from 6:30pm-7:30pm.

Fall Vinyasa Yoga – Monday Evenings

Join Richelle for our Monday evening Vinyasa Yoga class this fall!

• Start Date: Monday, September 15, 2025

• Time: 6:30–7:30 p.m.

• End Date: Monday, December 15, 2025

• Total Sessions: 13 (No class on Monday, October 13 for Thanksgiving)

• Drop-In: $12 per class

• HSCA Members: Save 10%

This class flows through a dynamic Vinyasa sequence, perfect for all levels.

Register online here: Sign up for Vinyasa Yoga

We’re excited for you to join Richelle and our community on the mat! 

A Quick Throwback: Richelle’s Spotlight Q&A

We asked Richelle a few fun questions when she first joined the HSCA yoga family—here’s what she shared:

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

A: I love how family-friendly the HSCA is, with an on-site daycare, a weekly farmers market, and the lively Riley Park just across the street. 

Q: What inspires you? 

A: Hearing family and friends share their challenges with stress and body aches motivates me to show them how yoga can help. Seeing yoga's positive impact on others inspires me to share its benefits with everyone. 

Q. What does community mean to you? 

A. To me, community means having a welcoming space to come together and connect. Working from home makes me crave that shared energy with others who love this neighbourhood as much as I do. 

Q. What’s something that recently made you smile? 

A. Getting a free sample of delicious cheese while I waited for my sandwich at Peasant Cheese. If you know, you know.  

Q. Anything else you'd like to share? 

A. As much as yoga and mindfulness has been there for me, so has journaling. It's a way for me to process feelings and emotions (good and bad) and I actually kept every single one of my journals since I was a kid. Dating back to 2003. 

Wayfinding Together: Celebrate Our Community Mural

We’re thrilled to invite you to a very special event at HSCA—Wayfinding Together—on Saturday, September 13th, from 1–3pm. This is your chance to experience an in-depth look at our completed mural project, a vibrant reflection of how we—and our community—navigate life together.

This multi-year project has been a journey of research, creativity, and collaboration, and we can’t wait to share the results with you. The event will feature:

• Opening and closing remarks by Siksika Elder Adrian Wolfleg

• An artist talk with daniel j kirk, from Blank Page Studio

• Light refreshments and treats, perfect for enjoying while connecting with fellow community members

Whether you’ve followed the mural’s progress from the beginning or are seeing it for the first time, everyone is welcome. No registration is needed—just drop in, explore, and celebrate this artistic milestone with us!

This project was made possible with the generous support of Calgary Arts Development and The City of Calgary.

We look forward to seeing you there—let’s find our way together!

Find Calm in a Chaotic World: How Hypnotherapy Helps with Anxiety

Community Submission

By Krista Francis, PhD, RCH 

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health concern worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, over 301 million people live with an anxiety disorder globally. In Canada, 1 in 4 people will experience significant anxiety at some point in their lives. For many, symptoms like racing thoughts, insomnia, and constant worry can take a toll on both mental and physical health. 

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, on edge, or unable to quiet your mind, there’s a powerful tool that may help: clinical hypnotherapy. 

Though often misunderstood, hypnosis is far from stage magic. It’s a safe, evidence-based therapeutic approach that uses focused relaxation and guided imagery to help people shift unhelpful patterns stored in the subconscious mind. And now, science is backing up what many have experienced firsthand. 

In a comprehensive meta-analysis Valentine et al. (2019), reviewed 17 clinical trials comparing hypnosis to control groups for the treatment of anxiety. The results were striking: the average person treated with hypnosis reduced anxiety more than 79% of those in the control group. Even more impressively, at long-term follow-up, that number rose to 84%, with hypnosis showing a large and lasting effect on anxiety relief. 

The study also found that hypnosis worked especially well when combined with other psychological therapies—suggesting it can be a powerful addition to existing treatment plans. 

So how does hypnotherapy help with anxiety? By guiding you into a calm, focused state, a trained hypnotherapist helps you access the subconscious patterns that drive anxious thoughts and feelings—such as perfectionism, catastrophizing, or chronic fear. In this relaxed state, it becomes easier to shift these patterns and install healthier emotional responses. 

Hypnotherapy can be especially helpful for: 

• Overthinking and excessive worry 

• Social or performance anxiety 

• Panic attacks 

• Sleep issues tied to anxiety 

• Anxiety related to health or life transitions 

To ensure the best results, it's important to work with a well-trained, certified hypnotherapist. Look for a practitioner who is certified by a recognized hypnotherapy association and who takes the time to understand your goals and tailor sessions to your individual needs. A qualified practitioner will always work ethically, collaboratively, and with your safety and comfort in mind. 

If anxiety is interfering with your daily life, you don’t have to manage it alone. Hypnotherapy is a well-researched, holistic option that supports emotional resilience and long-term change. 

Valentine, K. E., Milling, L. S., Clark, L. J., & Moriarty, C. L. (2019). The Efficacy of Hypnosis as a Treatment for Anxiety: A Meta-Analysis. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 67(3), 336-363. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207144.2019.1613863  

Celebrating Kate: A Heartfelt Farewell to Our Executive Director

We want to share some important news with our community. After many years of dedicated service, our Executive Director, Kate Stenson, has decided to step down. Her leadership has left an indelible mark on the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA), and we want to take a moment to honour her contributions.

Below, you’ll find a message from our team followed by a formal message from the HSCA Board of Directors. 

From the HSCA Team: With Gratitude and Love 

While Kate’s official title may have been Executive Director, to us — her team — she’s been so much more: a compassionate leader, a tireless advocate, a fierce supporter, and a kind, steady presence through every high and low. 

Kate, you’ve led with heart through every moment, every challenge, and every celebration. Your impact is woven into the fabric of this place — into the relationships, the programs, the laughter, and the care that defines HSCA. We’re grateful for the countless ways you’ve lifted others up, and we wish you all the best as you step into your next adventure. 

With appreciation, 
Your HSCA Family 

A Message from the HSCA Board of Directors 

The Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA) Board of Directors announces the resignation of our Executive Director, Kate Stenson, with gratitude for her years of service. Kate joined HSCA in 2013 as the Community Food Program Coordinator and has served as Executive Director since 2019. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping a more connected, resilient, and inclusive community. 

Under Kate’s guidance, HSCA secured federal funding through the Community Services Recovery Fund to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Kate also championed resident-led actions by supporting work like Sunnyside’s Neighbour Day Parade, advocacy efforts for improved flood protection and several grassroots placemaking and art projects throughout the neighbourhood. 

Kate’s legacy is one of compassion, collaboration, and vision. While we are sad to see her go, we are excited for what lies ahead for her and confident that HSCA is stronger because of her leadership. Together, the Board of Directors, Kate, and the Leadership Team will steward this transition with thought and care for the staff team and the community we serve.  

With thanks, 

HSCA Board of Directors 

A Farewell Evening to Remember

Last night, we gathered to send off our Executive Director, Kate, with warmth, laughter, and gratitude. Community members, colleagues, and friends had the chance to say their farewells, write messages, and share stories in a photo book capturing memories from Kate’s time at HSCA.

The evening was filled with meaningful connections, joyful catch-ups, and heartfelt goodbyes. Guests shared gratitude for Kate’s leadership, recounted memorable moments, and celebrated the lasting impact she’s had on our programs and community.

As Kate steps down from her role at HSCA, she embarks on a new and exciting chapter. Her leadership, compassion, and dedication have shaped our community in countless ways, and the impact of her work will be felt for years to come. Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate, share memories, and wish her well—we can’t wait to see where this next adventure takes her!

Unlocking the Mind: The Transformative Power of Hypnotherapy

Community submission

By Krista Francis, PhD, RCH 

In a world saturated with self-help strategies and wellness trends, one therapeutic method continues to quietly reshape lives from the inside out—hypnotherapy. Often misunderstood and occasionally met with skepticism, hypnotherapy is emerging from the shadows of stage shows and Hollywood dramatizations to claim its rightful place as a powerful tool for psychological healing and personal growth. 

What is Hypnotherapy? 

At its core, hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis—a deeply relaxed, trance-like state—to access the subconscious mind. Unlike the theatrical portrayals of people clucking like chickens under a magician’s command, clinical hypnotherapy is a safe, guided process where clients remain fully aware and in control. It’s not about surrendering your will; it’s about tapping into your mind’s untapped potential. 

Registered clinical hypnotherapists use this state to help individuals explore thoughts, memories, and feelings that may be buried beneath the surface. The subconscious mind, which drives much of our behavior and emotional response, is far more suggestible under hypnosis, making it easier to reframe negative patterns and adopt healthier mental habits. 

Applications: More Than Just Quitting Smoking 

While many associate hypnotherapy with quitting smoking or losing weight—and it is effective for both—the applications go far beyond. From managing chronic pain and anxiety to healing trauma and overcoming phobias, hypnotherapy offers a gentle yet profound pathway to healing. 

Hypnotherapy is solution based, and it creates a space where real transformation can happen. People are often surprised by how much better they feel after a session. 

The Science Behind the Trance 

Research into hypnotherapy has grown in recent years, offering scientific validation for what practitioners have long observed. Brain imaging studies reveal that hypnosis can alter the way the brain processes information, reducing activity in areas related to self-awareness and critical judgment while increasing focus and suggestibility. 

This altered state can be especially useful for breaking cognitive loops—those stubborn mental patterns that reinforce anxiety, self-doubt, or addiction. By quieting their inner critical voice, people can gain access to insights that are otherwise blocked. 

What to Expect in a Session 

A typical hypnotherapy session begins with a conversation about the client’s goals and concerns. The therapist then guides the client into a relaxed state through breathing techniques, visualization, or gentle verbal cues. Once in a hypnotic state, the therapist may suggest new ways of thinking or help the client explore root causes of emotional pain. 

Most sessions last 60 minutes, and many clients report feeling calm and refreshed afterward, even after emotionally intense work. Results vary, but many people see lasting improvements in as few as three to six sessions. 

Is Hypnotherapy Right for You? 

Hypnotherapy isn’t a magic cure-all, but it can be a powerful complement to other forms of therapy or self-development. It's particularly helpful for those who feel stuck in a cycle of behaviors or emotions that talk therapy alone hasn’t resolved. 

As with any therapeutic approach, it’s essential to work with a qualified, ethical practitioner. Look for certification from reputable organizations, and don’t hesitate to ask about their training and experience. 

A Window Into the Self 

In a fast-paced world that often rewards surface-level fixes, hypnotherapy offers something rare and valuable: the chance to go inward, slow down, and listen deeply to the self. Whether you're battling anxiety, trying to break a habit, or simply seeking clarity, the power to change may be closer than you think—hidden in the depths of your own mind. 

Neighbour Nights at HSCA: A Place to Connect, Create & Celebrate Community

Every first and third Thursday of the month, our Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA) comes alive with Neighbour Night — a free, welcoming event where neighbours of all ages gather to share a meal, try something new, and build community. Whether it's card-making, zine making, storytelling, or chalk art in the parking lot, each Neighbour Night brings a fresh activity and a whole lot of heart. These evenings offer more than just fun — they create space for connection, creativity, and conversation in a time when we need them most.

Read on for a wonderful reflection from one of our talented facilitators, Sima, about the July 3rd Neighbour Night! The next Neighbour Night will take place on Thursday, July 17th where we’ll make DIY Card Making! Please RSVP by emailing Claire at Claire.L@hsca.ca

Chalk Night by Sima Chowdhury

Our July 3rd Neighbor Night involved chalk art and letter writing kits. During our dinner of noodles and sandwiches we nervously watched the weather hoping the rain would break long enough for us to go outside to do some drawing in the back parking lot. Abir brought recycled sheets of giant cardstock where the children sketched their ideas until everyone finished eating. They were so excited that we did a quick introduction and while we had a break from the rain everyone rushed outside. While the facilitator, Erica, had some prompts to get us thinking about themes to connect with our neighbors, the children led the way, working together to draw a bunny and beautiful messages promoting peace among other works of art. 

Collaboration, community building and creativity are positive influences that promote well-being. These protective factors can help us navigate during difficult times, so it’s important to practice coming together to do fun things with supportive people. Naturally after all the excitement, the event ended early as the children collected their coloring books to take home and the adults received a letter writing kit. 

Because no one writes letters anymore, sending them to politicians with our concerns often attracts their attention better than an email. Handwriting or a drawing takes extra time and effort that reflects our commitment to our ideals. When they are aligned with current events our concerns become harder to ignore. Writing letters together allows people to share ideas around the issues they care about and if enough people have similar concerns, they become harder to ignore. The letter writing kits contained paper, an envelope and a pen. Letters to the House of Commons don’t require postage. 

As facilitators Erica, Abir and I had to be creative, flexible and ready to meet people (and the weather) where they were at, so we could all have a great time. Abir always has a lot of supplies on hand for participants of all ages. While I didn’t get a chance to talk about letter writing, I’m glad I have the opportunity to capture the essence for the blog and other community members. The next Neighbor Night will be July 17th where everyone will make upcycled greeting cards.

Membership Spotlight: Welcome As One Acupuncture and Massage!

We’re thrilled to welcome As One Acupuncture and Massage to our growing HSCA Membership Partner family! Every new partner means more ways for our members to support local while enjoying exclusive perks—and this one’s all about wellness, balance, and feeling your best.

HSCA Members now receive 10% off all services at As One Acupuncture and Massage! Get to know As One a little better in the blog post below—hear directly from them about what they offer, what they value, and why they’re excited to be part of the Hillhurst Sunnyside community.

Want to learn more about the benefits of becoming an HSCA Member? Visit hsca.ca/membership to learn more!

Discover Affordable, High-Quality Wellness at As One Acupuncture and Massage in Hillhurst/Sunnyside

At As One Acupuncture and Massage, we understand that wellness isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. That’s why we’re committed to making high-quality paramedical services like acupuncture and massage accessible to everyone in our community, regardless of income or insurance status. We believe that everyone deserves the benefits of healing touch and holistic care, and we are here to help make that happen.

Our Mission: Accessible Care for All

Our mission is simple: to break down the barriers that often prevent individuals from accessing the care they need. Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain, stress, or simply looking to maintain your health and well-being, we offer services that cater to all walks of life.

We proudly serve the Hillhurst/Sunnyside community by offering 20% off your first service and 10% off all services for HSCA (Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association) members. It’s just one way we can say "thank you" for being part of this vibrant neighborhood.

Comprehensive Services for Your Health Journey

At As One, we offer a range of services to support your wellness journey:

• Massage Therapy

• Acupuncture

• Herbal Medicine

• Fire Cupping/Cupping Therapy

• Gua Sha/IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization)

• Lifestyle Recommendations

Each service is designed to work synergistically, providing you with a holistic approach to healing that addresses both your physical and mental well-being.

Community Acupuncture: Affordable Wellness Without Compromise

One of the things that truly sets us apart is our Community Acupuncture sessions. These small group acupuncture treatments are designed to make acupuncture more affordable without compromising quality. Our community acupuncture allows you to experience the benefits of acupuncture in a supportive group setting, helping to reduce costs while still receiving exceptional care.

We also understand that financial barriers can sometimes make it difficult to access the care you need, which is why we offer sliding scale pricing on a case-by-case basis. If you’re facing financial hardship, simply reach out to us via email, and we’ll work with you to find a solution.

What Is Acupuncture and How Can It Help You?

For those who are new to acupuncture, it’s a holistic therapy that involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. This process helps to promote balance, restore energy flow, and improve overall health.

Acupuncture is incredibly versatile and can help with a wide range of conditions, including:

• Stress & Anxiety

• Insomnia

• Digestive Issues

• Chronic Pain

• Fatigue

• Women’s Health (Menstrual Issues, Fertility, Menopause)

• Headaches & Migraines

• Autoimmune Disorders

Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or simply want to maintain a balanced, healthy lifestyle, acupuncture can provide lasting relief and support.

Conveniently Located in Hillhurst/Sunnyside

We’re proud to be located in the heart of Hillhurst/Sunnyside at 207 14th Street NW #200, Calgary, AB, inside the beautiful Within Wellness Center. Our central location makes it easy for residents of Calgary to access our services and start their wellness journey today.

Visit our website at www.asoneacu.com for more information on our services, booking options, and wellness resources.

Stay Connected

Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Follow us on social media at @asoneacu to stay informed about available appointments, events, and to learn how acupuncture and massage therapy can improve your life.

We look forward to welcoming you to our community and supporting your journey to better health!

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Neighbour Day Farmers’ Market: Appreciating HSCA’s Incredible Volunteers

We celebrated our amazing volunteers on June 25 during the Neighbour Day Farmers’ Market with a special appreciation tent. Despite the rain, spirits stayed high as we shared stories, music, and small tokens of thanks. We’re so grateful for all you do! Here’s a photo from the event!  

Neighbour Day Parade Brings Community Together in Sunnyside

On Sunday, June 22, the Sunnyside community gathered for the annual Neighbour Day Parade—an event rooted in connection, resilience, and local pride. Following the 2013 flood, neighbours across Calgary came together in remarkable ways to support one another. In recognition of that community spirit, the City of Calgary declared Neighbour Day an annual event, held every third Saturday in June.

This year’s parade welcomed around 160 attendees, including many Sunnyside residents who joined in the parade itself—dressed in colourful costumes and carrying creative props. Children, families, and neighbours waved from porches and sidewalks as the lively procession passed by.

The parade featured contributions from Norfolk, Blank Page Studio, Acme Pizza, Arusha, Lasting Strides Equestrian Stables, and the Cowtown Collection marching band, adding music, energy, and community pride to the event.

Before the parade began, the City of Calgary presented the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA) with a Certificate of Recognition for “Building a Better Community.” The award was presented by Ward 7 Councillor Terry Wong, honouring HSCA’s continued efforts to create positive impact.

The parade wrapped up at McHugh Bluff playground. Currently, HSCA’s Sunnyside Brightening Committee (SBC) is actively advocating for improvements to ensure it continues to serve as a safe and welcoming space for local the community.

A big shout-out to Acme Pizza and Norfolk for keeping parade participants fuelled and refreshed with pizza, drinks, and snacks

Neighbour Day in Sunnyside is more than a tradition—it’s a celebration of neighbourliness, creativity, and the everyday ways people come together to make their community stronger.

More photos to come!

Flip into Summer with Pancakes at the Flea Market!

Free pancakes for the first 100 customers. After that, it’s just $5 for a plate (pancakes + sausage)

There’s nothing quite like the smell of pancakes on a sunny summer morning—and we’re serving them up fresh at the HSCA Flea Market!

Join us on Sunday, July 6 starting at 9:00 AM for a delicious Pancake Breakfast right here at the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA). It’s the perfect way to kick off your Sunday: warm stacks of pancakes, sizzling sausage, and the friendly buzz of our local flea market vendors.

Here’s the details:

• Free pancakes for the first 100 customers

• After that, it’s just $5 for a plate (pancakes + sausage)

• Stick around to explore the unique finds, vintage treasures, and handmade goods at the Flea Market

• 📍 Location: HSCA, 1320 5 Ave NW

• Breakfast starts at 9:00 AM—come hungry and early!

Whether you're a long-time market regular or just looking for something fun and local to do, we’d love to see you there. Bring your appetite and your curiosity—you never know what you’ll discover at the Flea Market!

Farewell to Michelle’s Market

Farewell to Michelle’s Market 

After many wonderful seasons at the HSCA Farmers’ Market, Michelle’s Market will no longer be attending. On behalf of HSCA and our entire community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the folks behind Michelle’s Market for their years of participation, dedication, and service. 

Known for bringing wholesome, fresh produce and a welcoming presence to our market, Michelle’s Market has been a valued part of the community. Your hard work and commitment have been deeply appreciated. 

While we’ll miss seeing your stand at the market, we wish you all the best as you return to grain farming. Thank you for being such a meaningful part of the HSCA Farmers’ Market story. 

—With appreciation, The Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association 

A note from Janice of Michelle’s Market: 
After 25 consecutive years participating in the Hillhurst-Sunnyside Farmers Market we’ve made the very difficult decision to retire from the Produce Business. Our farm has returned to its roots as a grain farm. We can’t thank our loyal customers, who have become our friends, enough for their support over the years. You all will be greatly missed! 
 
Yours in Veggies, 
Janice, Mark, Michelle, Amy, Diane, Sharon and Family 

Membership Partner Spotlight: Welcome Badyal Legal

We’re excited to shine a spotlight on the newest addition to our HSCA Membership Partner team—Badyal Legal!

We love adding local businesses to our partner network because it means more value and variety for our members. HSCA Membership holders can now enjoy exclusive savings at Badyal Legal, and we’re thrilled to have them on board.

Get to know them a little better below, and don’t forget to check out the perks they’re offering just for HSCA Membership holders. Want to learn more about the perks and benefits of becoming an HSCA Member? Visit hsca.ca/membership .

Why We Became an HSCA Membership Partner 

At Badyal Legal, giving back has always been a core part of who we are. Our firm began in 2009 as a small law office in Calgary’s northeast, built on the values of integrity, service, and meaningful relationships. Over the years, we’ve grown steadily not only in size but in our commitment to the communities we serve. 

Our leadership team has called Calgary home for over 40 years, and we’ve always believed that being part of a city means contributing to its people. Whether it's through volunteer work, supporting local initiatives, or simply showing up when it matters, we take pride in giving back in ways both big and small. This spirit of contribution and seva, as we call it, continues to shape how we do business every day. 

In 2024, we moved into the Campana Building on 14th Street NW, right in the heart of the Hillhurst Sunnyside community.  

We were drawn here not just by the location, but by the neighborhood’s local roots, its strong sense of connection among residents and businesses, and the energy and inclusivity that define the community. It feels like the perfect place to continue our next chapter. 

Joining the HSCA Membership Program was a natural extension of our commitment to community involvement. We see this as more than just a listing or partnership, it’s a chance to actively engage with our neighbors, support local programming, and be of service in ways that matter. 

At Badyal Legal, we offer a full range of legal services, including: 

• Litigation and dispute resolution 

• Residential and commercial real estate transactions 

• Wills, estate planning, and probate 

• Business law and incorporations 

As a small gesture to support HSCA members, we’re pleased to offer: 

• $50 off legal fees for residential real estate transactions 

• $50 off wills and estate planning packages 

We know legal needs can arise during life’s biggest transitions, navigating a dispute, buying a home, planning for the future, or launching a new venture, and we strive to make those experiences clear, respectful, and supportive. 
 
Questions? Contact us:  
 
📞 (403) 457-0722 
📧 info@badyallegal.com 
🌐 badyallegal.com 

Follow Us: 
Instagram & Facebook: @badyallegal 
YouTube: @Badyal_Legal 

Visit Us: 
Suite 302, 609 14th Street NW 
Calgary, AB T2N 2A1 

Come Explore the HSCA Antique & Collectibles Market – Saturday, July 26 | 10AM–4

If your idea of a perfect Saturday includes a treasure hunt, a walk down memory lane, and maybe a slightly creepy 80s doll… you’re in luck.

The HSCA Antique & Collectibles Market is back on Saturday, July 26, and it’s a really fun way to spend your Saturday. This market is a mix of vintage finds, retro oddities, and just the right amount of kitsch to keep things interesting.

At the May market, I came across a Cricket doll—does anyone else remember those? With the cassette tape in the back and those blinking eyes? It was nostalgic gold. It’s so fun to experience that kind of nostalgia, and the 80s and 90s toys are always my favourite part. They pull you right back into that carefree time—before smartphones and grown-up responsibilities.

My son had a great time exploring the toy tables too. He was wide-eyed looking at all the “old” stuff, but I had to make sure we held hands—there was also a lot of beautiful, very breakable retro glassware nearby. It's definitely a market for all ages, but maybe with a little hand-holding for the little ones!

You’ll find:

• Vintage toys and collectibles (hello, Polly Pocket and Hot Wheels )

• Retro jewelry

• Records, books, postcards

• Classic kitchenware, décor, and curiosities

The vendors are great and always happy to chat—it’s part of what makes this market feel so special. We’re so glad to have it back at HSCA! It’s a great way to support local and connect with real people who are passionate about what they do.

Here’s the scoop:
📅 Saturday, July 26
🕙 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
📍 Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (1320 5 Ave NW)
🎟 Admission is $2 (kids free)

So grab a coffee, bring a friend (or your mini shopping buddy), and get ready to browse, reminisce, and maybe even bring home a piece of your past.

And if you want to know more about that Cricket doll, here’s a commercial from 1987 on YouTube.
You’re welcome/sorry.

What do you love hunting for at the antique market? Let us know in the comments—we love hearing from you!

Community Town Hall June 24: An update on creosote contamination in our neighbourhood

This blog post is intended to help share information about the upcoming community-led townhall. While the HSCA is not organizing the event, we are holding space at our facility to support open dialogue on this issue of importance to a resident group.

Guest Blog: Submitted by  Helen Henderson

Bring your questions, concerns, and experiences to a townhall addressing the ongoing issue of creosote contamination in our neighbourhood.  

Parts of West Hillhurst sit on deposits of the chemical that have seeped under the river from the site of a former wood-preserving plant on the south side of the river as seen below.

  Creosote is a known carcinogen, and the problem has proven tricky to resolve.  There are dozens of monitoring wells on both sides of the river, including in Broadview Park.   

A creosote remediation facility (below) is located on the south side of the river to actively reduce the creosote levels in that area.  No such remediation is taking place in our neighbourhood, where existing homes are already built.

Area residents asked that existing contamination be addressed in the Riley Local Area Plan to ensure public health and wellness were protected.  There was no response to our requests and our comments weren't included in reports out of engagement sessions.  

There's a lot of development planned for the area, including on the contaminated former CBC site (below).  Plans to dig a parkade on the site mean the creosote below could well be disturbed. 

A paper from the Environmental Law Centre talks about how complex building on contaminated land is, especially where the city and province share jurisdiction.  It warns about a "lack of regulation of risk management through exposure control at contaminated sites in Alberta". Right now there are no existing city policies to regulate or monitor the creosote vapour release from the proposed development on the old CBC site for example.

There hasn't been a public meeting to address the contamination since 2018. Given we've had no luck as individuals getting answers, we're gathering as a community to seek accountability.

 Please join us on Tuesday June 24 in the Hearth Room at the HSCA community centre from 7:15-8:30.  We expect to have representatives from City Council and Administration as well as from Alberta Environment.  

Your involvement is crucial in demonstrating to every level of government that our neighbourhood deserves attention and solutions.

Celebrating Our Educators: ECE Appreciation Day at HSCA Honouring the Heart of Early Learning

Each May, communities across the country mark Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Appreciation Day—a time to celebrate the educators who play a vital role in shaping the early years of children’s lives. 

At the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA), we marked the occasion with a fun and thoughtful display that invited families to share personalized messages with our educators. Throughout the week, children and families added paper tacos to a vibrant display titled “Let’s Taco ‘Bout How Awesome You Are.” Many also shared tokens of appreciation, notes, and kind words—some even celebrated all week long. It was a meaningful gesture that left our educators feeling seen and valued. 

As Director of Programs Shannon shared, “ECEs lay the foundation for lifelong learning in children. Appreciation brings visibility to their essential work—nurturing emotional development, teaching foundational skills, and creating safe, supportive environments.” 

Shannon also noted a recent moment of pride: the preparation our Daycare and Out-of-School Care teams put into HSCA’s AGM. Staff created posters, signage, and baked cookies to help showcase the work happening in their programs—another example of the care and commitment they bring to their roles every day. 

Our Daycare Manager, Kerin, highlighted how much the team appreciated the recognition. She also shared her pride in the educators’ ability to balance the unique needs of children and families while navigating the many behind-the-scenes responsibilities that come with the role. What makes her especially proud is the strong, trusting team culture—built on two-way communication, shared knowledge, and a genuine commitment to supporting one another. 

Chelsea, our Out of School Care (OOSC) Manager, shared, “I'm always in awe of the all educators who are effortlessly dedicated to their work, creating a space that feels like a second home for the children. Every single day, this incredible team puts in their all to ensure that each child feels safe, happy, and valued. We are so lucky to have such a strong, committed team and forever grateful for the work they do.”

ECE Appreciation Day is more than a thank-you—it’s a recognition of the deep, ongoing impact early educators have on children, families, and our broader community. We’re grateful for all they do, every single day.