JULY 2016
Facebook.com/SSCACalgary
THE OFFICIAL VOICE OF THE SILVER SPRINGS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
@SSCACalgary
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Silv
Outdoor Pool
Renovation Update
SAVE THE DATE:
Silver Springs Crafter’s Market: Nov. 19, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Applications being accepted August 1st.
Used Toy and Clothing Sale: Sept 24. Table rental details inside.
Dance Foundation registration begins August 1st.
SSCA Vision
Silver Springs Community Association will provide
the environment, the facilities, the programs and the
leadership to make Silver Springs the community of
choice in Calgary.
SSCA Mission Statement
5720 Silver Ridge Dr. NW Calgary, Alberta, T3B 5E5
Phone: 403-288-2616 Fax: 403-247-0820
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.silverspringscommunity.ca
Facebook.com/SSCACalgary
@SSCACalgary
Board of Directors
Executive
President.....................................................................Jeremy Gukert
Vice President............................................................ Cydney Elofson
Treasurer....................................................................... Jeff Van Wyk
Secretary..................................................................Scott Chomistek
Director, Bowmont Park............................................Judi Vandenbrink
Director, Outdoor Spaces................................................Tom Mayhew
Director, Building/Facilities.......................................... Murray Scotton
Director, Crowchild Hockey ........................................Darren Bourget
Director, Senior Housing............................................ Karen Kirnbauer
Director, Seniors Programs............................................... Kay Wilford
Director, Social Media Relations..................................... Crystal Levie
Director, Membership & Volunteers........................... Dominika Shetler
Director, Sponsorship & Grants................................. Jennifer Dotchin
Director....................................................................... Mark Campbell
Standing Liaisons
Scenic Bow Valley [email protected]
Scouts................................................. [email protected]
Crowchild Twin Arena................................. Roy Moore / Jeff Van Wyk
Soccer....................................................................... Dino Sorrentino
Softball........................................................................... Wayne Funk
Seniors Card Group......................................................... Betty Neary
MLA........................................................................Michael Connolly
MP Calgary Rocky Ridge.......................................................Pat Kelly
Councillor.................................................................Ward Sutherland
Friends of the Gardens................................................Duncan Badger
Silver Springs Community Association fosters
community spirit by providing facilities and services,
and by encouraging participation by all residents in
vibrant programs and activities.
Article Submissions
Get Involved with Silver Springs today! The Silver
Springs Spirit DEADLINE is the first Friday of
every month. Space is limited.
Classified Submissions
Call 403-288-2616 or e-mail [email protected] with your ad
of 40 words or less. The cost is $10 and you must have a
current Silver Springs Community membership.
Facilities To Rent
Silver Springs Community Centre has a wide variety
of rooms to rent. We are able to accommodate almost
all your meeting and function needs, whether it is a
wedding, party, family reunion, workshop, seminar or
meeting. A/V equipment for rent for Sunset and Board
Room. More information and photos on our website or
call 403-288-2616 to see how we can accommodate you.
Community Association Office Staff: 403-288-2616
Accountant........................................................................... Deb Hall
Administration......................................................Corrie Mildenberger
Building and Outdoor Facilities Coordinator.................... Rita McMillan
Program Coordinator..................................................... Sherry Gavlin
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am to 4pm
PLEASE NOTE: Summer Hours: Mon/Wed/Fri 9am to noon
Closed for all Recognized Holidays
This publication is published 12 times a year by Suburban Journals
Publishing and delivered to residents by volunteers in the community. This
publication is also available for pickup from local retail outlets.
Please note: the information and opinions in this newsletter are subject to
change, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the publisher or
editor. Content contained in this publication may not be reproduced without
the written consent of Suburban Journals Publishing. The information herein
is believed accurate but not warranted so. Any advertisements,
home businesses, babysitters & nannies, or other parties listed in
the Silver Springs Suburban Journal should not be interpreted as
recommendations or endorsements by the editor or the publisher.
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
JULY 2016
3
In Our Community
Thank You!
Notes from the Office
A HUGE THANK YOU goes out to everyone involved
in organizing and hosting this year’s Community Barb-q! The weather cooperated this year and hundreds of
community members, young and old attended this yearly,
fun event! Stacy and her gang of volunteers flipped
burgers and hotdogs and entertained the masses. We
really couldn’t have a function like this without the help
of our great volunteers!
T
Thanks to our event sponsors Thrive Health Centres,
Murray Scotton Realtor, Silver Springs Automotive and
Calgary Foundation Neighbour Grant.
hings are very quiet here in the SSCA office now
that Preschool, outdoor sports and all of our Adult
Programs are finished for this season. Construction on
the Pool will be ramping up shortly, so watch out for
changes coming soon!
Please note that summer office hours will be reduced
this year because of the pool closure. The office will
be open Mon/Wed/Fri from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. If
you are calling in, please leave a message and we will
call you back as soon as possible on the next work day.
Don’t forget that we have tons of information about the
community and upcoming programs on our website
www.silverspringscommunity.ca.
Newsletter Route
Looking for Volunteer
N
ewsletter Route looking volunteer for delivery. 53
homes along Silvergrove Bay and Silvergrove Place
Give us a call if you can help! 403-288-2616
Membership Application
Please fill out this form and include payment by
cheques, VISA or Mastercard and mail or drop off at
the Silver Springs Community Centre,
5720 Silver Ridge Dr. NW, Calgary, AB T3B 5E5
Parents Names: SURNAME
FIRST NAME(S)
Children’s Names: Mailing Address: Postal Code: Phone Number: Email Address: (Family $25 / Senior $10/household / Associate $35)
Amount Paid: $ Cheque:
Visa:
Credit Card #:
Mastercard:
Exp:
/
You can also purchase your membership online
at www.silverspringscommunity.ca
All memberships expire Aug. 31 of each year,
regardless of when in the year you purchase them.
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
JULY 2016
5
In Our Community
Friends of the Bowmont Natural Environment Park Area
Wildlife of Bowmont Park
Who Am I?
How do I fly? How do I fly?
I zip and I whip through the clear blue sky!
What do I eat? What do I eat?
Pesky mosquitoes and flies I meet.
Where is my home? Where is my home?
The pond is my home, or my aerodrome!
What is my name? What is my name?
Suffice it to say, I won’t drag on this game!
Ladybug
Butterfly
Silver Springs Outdoor
Pool Renovation Update
New Feature* - Multi-user all age friendly access
The City has identified funds within the current budget
to develop a switchback ramp at the shallow end of the
pool. The ramp will improve the ease of pool entry and
exit for people with reduced mobility, including seniors,
pregnant women, children and people with physical
limitations because of a disability or injury.
The decision to add the ramp is based on the need to
improve usability, giving everyone a chance to enjoy
the water. The design for the ramp (switchback) also
represents the best option for lifeguard sightlines and
allows people to move quickly and safety in and out of
the pool.
Dragonfly
Turn page upside-down for answer!
© Rosemary Gell, 2016
I’m a Dragonfly!
Swim Lessons for
SSCA Members!
H
ighwood Outdoor Pool is offering Silver Springs
community members with a current 2016
community membership a discounted rate for Swim
Lessons, Day Camps and Private rentals for the 2016
outdoor pool season while we await the re-opening of
our facility in summer 2017!
They are offering:
• Red Cross Swim lessons: $5 off per set per child (excl.
private & semi-private lessons)
• Day Camps: $10 off full day week long or $5 off half
day week long registrations
• Private Rentals: $5 off per hour
Check out their website www.highwoodoutdoorpool.
com for more details on registering
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
159 Scouts Group
1
59 Scouts Group included sections for all ages:
Beavers (5-7), Cub Scouts (8-10), Scouts (11-14), and
Venturers (14-17). Boys and girls are welcome! If you're
interested in joining any of the Scout groups, online
registration is now open at www.Scouts.ca for both new
and returning members.
This year Cub Scouting is celebrating 100 years since its
original formation in 1916, with celebrations starting
this summer and continuing into Spring 2017. With
the Cub motto of "Do Your Best" front and centre, Cub
Scouts are encouraged to try new and more challenging
activities. Along the way, Cub Scouts learn how to take
care of themselves and work as a team – and most
importantly have a lot of fun!
JULY 2016
7
In Our Community
Programs Offered
at the Silver Springs
Community Centre
Coming In September:
Silver Springs Community
Centre Programs
Adult Programs
Program information at
www.silverspringscommunity.ca
Seedlings Spanish
Preschool - contact Judith at 403-210-0604 and
Sportball - Saturdays Ages 18 mo - 5 years - contact
Sam at 403-975-2936 or www.sportball.ca/calgary
Watch for our full Fall program information in our
August newsletter. Aerobics, Fusion, Zumba, Line
Dancing, Senior’s Yoga, Pickleball.
The following are SSCA run programs from
mid-September to mid-June:
Tennis Lessons for
Adults
Adult Aerobics Classes: Mon. - Thurs. at 9:15 a.m.
Zumba: Mon. at 11:00 a.m. (Zumba Toning Gold) Wed. at
1:30 p.m., Fri. at 9:30 a.m.
Seniors Yoga: Fri. at 11:00 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.
Mah Jong: Thurs. 12:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Call for more info.
Qigong: Tues. 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Dance Foundation: Mon./Wed./Fri.
A variety of children’s dance classes including: Ballet,
Jazz and Musical Theatre.
+55 Seniors Club: Mon. afternoons
Drop-in Pickleball: Tues. 1:30-3:30 & Thurs. 7-9 pm
Other Programs Offered by outside groups:
Girl Guides: Contact [email protected]
159th Silver Springs Scouts: (Beavers, Cubs and
Scouts). Contact [email protected]
Calgary Karate: Call 403-338-0558 for more info.
Tai Chi: Call 403-240-4566 for more info.
Piloxing:
See scarybunnybefit.com for details.
Sunday Evening Zumba: Contact Lynn Ann at
[email protected] or 403-479-3202 for
more information
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
Are You Interested?
W
e have some great coaches and if there is enough
interest we’d like to offer adult tennis lessons in
the evenings. Email: [email protected] or give us a call to
get your name added to our interest list. 403-288-2616
Tennis Lessons
Get out your rackets!
S
ilver Springs Community Association will be offering
youth tennis lessons this summer! Sessions are 4
days long with the Friday saved as a rain-out option.
Lessons will be at the Silver Springs Tennis Courts.
There is a max of 8 registrants per time frame; small
class size.
Registrants need to provide their own, size appropriate
tennis racket.
Registration fee: $50 members,
$65 nonmembers per session
Instructor: Mitch Parnham and Jake Parnham
Two age groups: 6- 10 yrs, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. and
11 – 14yrs, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
We are offering the following sessions:
July 11 – 15
July 18 – 22
Aug 8 - 12
Aug 22 - 26
Sessions run Monday to
Thursday with Friday as a rain out makeup day.
Call to register 403-288-2616
*minimum of 6 needed to run sessions
JULY 2016
9
In Our Community
Know Your Neighbours
Driving along Silvergrove Crescent you might notice
something unique about a rooftop along this street; it is
covered with solar panels. This home belongs to Brian
and Maureen Dodd. I met Brian at a Renewable Energy
meeting and when I heard he lived in Silver Springs
I was sure that other community members would be
interested in learning more about our neighbours.
Brian and Maureen moved to Silver Springs in 1980 but
spent a few years in Houston, Texas and then London,
England before returning to the community. They
raised three boys here and were busy with a variety
of activities; soccer, with Brian coaching for 17 years
and Scouts. Brian was a member of the Silver Springs
Community Association Board in 1990 and is currently
active with Habitat for Humanity and Engineers
without Borders. He believes both organizations
are doing amazing work supporting people who are
underprivileged both locally and abroad.
Maureen has volunteered with WO Mitchell School,
Nursery School, and very much enjoyed going to the
local swimming pool when their boys were growing up.
She now attends Only Woman’s Fitness and is taking
classes at the Premier Dance Academy.
Both Maureen and Brian take pride in supporting
local businesses and in living in Silver Springs “a great
community.” They like the variety of people in the
community and are pleased that residents maintain
their property. They walk and cycle where they can
but when Maureen was asked what she would like to
change in Silver Springs, she said “it would be great
to level off the hill so it is not so hard to ride my bike
home.” They both are very supportive of getting some
type of senior’s housing development in the community
and hope that something will be built soon.
period for the cost of the panels will be 15 years but it is
important to do what you can to reduce your Ecological
Footprint. He was troubled when he used an Ecological
Footprint calculator to determine his footprint and saw
how high it was, so he did something about it. Brian
says he uses about 24 kilowatt hours of electricity on
an average day and his panels will produce up to 50
kilowatt hours on a sunny day. So all of his electricity
needs will be met, and the extra will be fed back into the
electrical grid.
Brian is happy to discuss the solar installation with
people walking by his house and welcomes inquiries. He
wants to persuade others to take this important step to a
cleaner, healthier future.
To test your Ecological Footprint http://www.
footprintnetwork.org/en/index.php/GFN/page/calgary_
footprint_calculator
KCP Energy http://www.kcpenergy.com/
I asked Brian and Maureen why they installed the 30
panel solar array on the house. They said that they
were concerned for the future of their sons and their
grandchildren. They believe that it is important to lead
by example and so made the investment. “We must
reduce our carbon dioxide emissions and find cleaner
forms of energy and this seemed like the perfect option”
said Brian. The system was installed by KCP Energy
and is leased through Enmax. Brian says the payback
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
Enmax https://www.enmax.com/home/renewableenergy/solar
Do you have a neighbour or business that you would
like to introduce to the community? Please contact
us at [email protected] to share their story.
Judi Vandenbrink
JULY 2016
11
In Our Community
Councillor Report
Transportation Corner
S
he “Transportation Corner” is a new monthly article
that will appear in the Spirit. The purpose of the
article is to provide Silver Spring residents with news
relating to our transportation system as well as provide
educational articles we hope you and your children will
find informative and interesting.
ummer has arrived. Ward 1 is fortunate to have
several notable parks in its communities. Pack
a lunch and enjoy a picnic while it is nice outside.
Take a stroll through your community park at the
12 Mile Coulee Natural Environment Park, Bowness
Park, Shouldice Park, Baker Park, Bowmont Natural
Environment Park, or the BirthPlace Forest in Silver
Springs.
Parks are an essential part of quality urban living. We
use our parks for sports, festivals and exercise as well as
for quiet respite and enjoyment of nature. Great parks
contribute to healthy communities and a high quality
of life in Calgary. If you have a dog, let’s remember to
take care of our precious parks by picking up after your
pet. Get involved and learn how you can educate other
dog owners by signing up for the Off-leash Ambassador
Program or attend a Pick Up Pooch’s Poo Yourself
(P.U.P.P.Y.) program. Contact the Ward 1 Office at ward01@
calgary.ca for more information.
Some of the parks are still in various stages of restoration,
repair and growth. Note that Calgary Parks has created a
Pathways & Trails 2016 Work Plans Map. This map details
the proposed locations of work for 2016, includes work
for future years (2017+), and shows locations completed in
2014 and 2015. As well, the map shows existing pathway
lifecycle projects as well as new missing link connections.
The “live” document that will be frequently updated so
check the list periodically throughout the year to keep upto-date and current at www.Calgary.ca.
Want to know more about municipal and community
updates in your community? Sign up for Councillor Ward
Sutherland’s community e-newsletter at
www.WardSutherland.com
Ward Sutherland, Councillor, Ward 1
SOKO: School’s Out
Kids Option
B
efore, lunch and afterschool
program located in the Silver
Springs Community Center. Come join the FUN! We are
an accredited program with qualified, experienced staff.
Summer spots still available. Please call SOKO at
403-286-3243 or visit our website at www.sokokids.ca
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
T
This monthly article will provide a link between
residents of our community and the Silver Springs
Board of Directors, who have a goal to develop a safer
and greener transportation strategy for the Silver
Springs Community. The “greener” component focuses
on promoting travel by walking, cycling and carpooling. The “safer” component focuses on ways to
improve safety such as promoting methods to reduce
excessive vehicle speeds, improving the visibility of
crosswalks and educating residents of key sections in
the Alberta Traffic Safety Act that focuses on safety.
We need your input. The Board is compiling a list of
potential transportation improvements and community
initiatives in Silver Springs to meet our goal. If you have any
comments or concerns related to our transportation goal,
please email your feedback to the Silver Springs Community
office at [email protected] providing a detailed description that
includes the location and statement why you feel it is a safety
concern or a way to promote “greener” travel. We plan to
forward our list to City of Calgary staff in the fall so that they
can be included in the City’s priority ranking system for
transportation improvements in the near future.
Current News
The City will be paving the following roads in
September:
• 54 Ave. NW from Silverdale Dr. to Silver Springs Blvd,
• Silver Ridge Dr from Silver Springs Dr. to Silver
Springs Blvd, South leg,
• Silver Springs Dr. from Silver Springs Blvd. to Silver
Springs Rd.
You will notice some preliminary work being carried
out now on the sidewalks and road drainage basins in
preparation for the paving in September.
2016 Calgary Transit Review. Calgary Transit has
posted the new bus routes on their website: www.
calgarytransit.com/news/2016-transit-service-review.
If you visit the site, you will see that the hours and
frequency of bus service to/from our community has
improved. However, the tradeoff is that some residents
will need to transfer to another bus if you plan on
traveling to areas such as Market Mall.
JULY 2016
13
In Our Community
Dance Foundation
Silver Springs
Crafter’s Market
Dance Foundation provides kids a fun and non-stressful
atmosphere where they can learn to love dance. We
encourage students to grow as dancers while meeting
new friends, gaining coordination and learning selfdiscipline. Dancers will learn to express themselves
creatively and gain better coordination. As a non-profit
program run through the Silver Springs Community
Association, we are able to keep our class sizes small
and prices low. Throughout the years we will give
the dancers the basics they need to know in order to
continue dancing and preforming in the future. We love
to dance and hope you will too. Registration begins
Aug. 1 online.
Monday
Nov. 19, 2016 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Applications being accepted beginning
August 1st.
Call office for form, details and
table availability.
Sunrise Room
Board Room
Sunset Room
• 4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pre Hip Hop
• 4:00 p.m – 4:30 p.m. Pre dance
• 4:00 p.m – 4:45 p.m. Bg. Ballet
• 5:00 p.m – 5:30 p.m. Pre Ballet 2
Wednesday
Downstairs gym
• 4:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Bg Hip hop
• 4:30 p.m.– 5:15 p.m. Jr/inter ballet
• 4:30 p.m.– 5:15 p.m. Jr/inter Jazz
• 4:00 p.m – 4:30 p.m. Pre ballet
• 5:15 p.m.– 6:00 p.m Jr hip hop
• 5:15 p.m.– 5:45 p.m. Pre Dance 2
• 4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. Bg jazz
Friday
• Bg/Jr MT 5:45 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.
• Teen MT 6:45 p.m.– 8:15 p.m.
Silver Springs Preschool
T
he preschool is overseen by
the Silver Springs Community
Association (SSCA) and operates
as a non-denominational and nonprofit organization (403) 288-2616.
Registration ongoing for 2016/17
school year. Contact [email protected]
to see if space is available.
Where your child learns through teacher
directed play activities
furniture
• Peanut-free facility
• Open door policy – opportunity for parent to
volunteer in the classroom
• All children receive graduation gifts at the end of the
school year.
• Link to the Alberta Child Care Subsidy Program
• Hand Writing Without Tears Program
• 22 Week Jolly Phonics Program for the 4 Year Old
Program
For more information please visit our website at
silverspringspreschool.com or email us at
[email protected]
• Experienced and qualified teachers with a low
student to teacher ratio
• Teacher & teacher assistant in each classroom
• Speech Therapy Program, Music Program, Exercise
Program (Yoga, Gym Time, etc.)
• Organized field trips and many in classroom visitors
• Organized special days (baking days, PJ days, etc )
• Halloween, Christmas concert & year-end party
where parents are invited to watch
• Use of a full gymnasium and playground
• Newly renovated classroom, offering new toys &
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
JULY 2016
15
In Our Community
Bowmont Natural
Environment Park
Project
Project Update – Material
Handling
Introduction
In November 2015 The City began construction of the
Bowmont Natural Environment Park.
The acquisition of the former Klippert gravel pit
presented a rare opportunity to protect the Bow River
How to Donate
Silver Springs Botanical
Gardens Society
Silver Springs Botanical Gardens Society is a nonprofit organization.
Tax receipts are issued for all donations.
Charitable organization #821268372RR0001
The information you provide will be collected and
maintained by the Silver Springs Botanical Gardens
Society in order to facilitate communication and assist in
our efforts. This information will not be shared with others.
Donation Form
I am pleased to support the Silver Springs Botanical
Gardens Society with a donation in the amount of
$ __________
Cheque ❑
Cash ❑
Please indicate your preferences by circling your choices:
I wish to be recognized in the Silver Springs Spirit. Yes No
as (Name) ______________________________________________
I wish my donation to remain anonymous.
Yes No
Please send a tax receipt made to:
Name
__________________________________________
Address
City
Email
_________________________________________
__________________
Postal Code _____________
______________________@___________________
We accept cash or cheques made payable to “Silver
Springs Botanical Gardens Society.” Donations can be
mailed or brought in person to the
Silver Springs Community Association
5720 Silver Ridge Drive NW, Calgary, AB T3B 5E5
Thank you for your support
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
by incorporating
green stormwater
treatment as
a functional
element in the
Bowmont Nature
Environment Park.
The construction
of stormwater
wet ponds in the
Bowmont Natural Environment Park will provide
benefits to park users, local fish and wildlife, our rivers,
and all Calgarians by:
• Protecting our drinking water by reducing pollutants
entering our river system
• Installing improved pathways for all users
• Beautifying the park with native trees, plant life and
a number of areas users can interact with water as it
flows through the park
• Increasing biodiversity
• Using a design that will minimize impacts on the
existing natural environment
Traffic increases
Trucks will begin hauling excess material away from the
project site beginning the week of June 6 and continuing
intermittently as needed until the end of October.
• The trucks will haul from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. during
weekdays and from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays
• During these hauling periods approximately 80-90
trucks a day will be travelling into and out of the
project site via Home Road towards 16 Avenue
• A flag person will be onsite at the site entrance to
ensure heavy construction traffic can safely enter and
exit the site and ensure pedestrian safety by the site.
• The project webpage will be updated throughout
the project to provide more details on hauling dates
(calgary.ca).
Safety
The work site is fenced off and restricted to construction
personnel. For your safety, please do not enter
the fenced-off construction area. There have been
numerous golf balls found on the site. Please refrain
from hitting balls from the slope into the job site. This is
very dangerous to the workers below.
Project information
Please visit calgary.ca to keep up to date on project
progress. If you have questions or concerns please
contact 311 (24 hours a day, seven days a week).
JULY 2016
17
In Our Community
Edible Garden Group
Mason Bees Have Arrived!
The mason bees for
the Edible Garden
arrived by FedEx in
May – yes, FedEx.
They came as
cocoons, 60 of them,
from BC. As you can
see from the photo,
the cocoons are well
camouflaged. In the photo you can see one mason bee
that has just emerged from its cocoon. All but one of the
mason bees emerged from their cocoons.
Some of our gardeners have seen the industrious little
creatures busy in the flowers that are in the perimeter
of the Edible Garden. Because it is early in the season,
the mason bees need to collect their pollen and nectar
from those flowers. Later they will be attracted to the
flowers on the growing vegetables as well. The pollen
and nectar nourishes them, providing proteins and fats
to help them maintain their strength. It is during this
foraging process that the bees inadvertently pollinate
the flowers they visit.
When we start to get our really nice summer weather,
they will begin to make their nests in the mason bee
chalet house we have in the garden. Each female will
create a pollen lump and put it in the nest. Then she
will lay an egg on the pollen lump, and close off the nest
cell with mud to create an isolated chamber for each
developing bee. Each female bee will lay 5 to 10 eggs
this way.
According to Alberta
Gardener magazine,
there are over 700
native species of bees
in Canada. Mason bees
are one of those native
species. These native bees,
through their pollination
efforts, are responsible
for approximately 70% of
the food we eat! So now
you know why it is so
important to nurture bee populations, such as what we
are doing at the Edible Garden.
Education for Silver Springs Schools
On Friday May 13 our mason bees arrived and on
18
The Silver Springs Spirit
Monday three classes of students from Silver Springs
Elementary School were able to observe many of them
emerging from their cocoons. Not only did these curious
grade 1 and 2 students have an opportunity to observe
the bees up close, they also learned about composting
with our 3 stage compost system and learned about
verma-composting which uses red wiggler worms to
break down the organic material. Many of them held the
worms in their hands. The pots which they planted with
herbs make an attractive addition to our garden. This
was their third visit to the Edible Garden.
Two classes of grade 1 students from Ecole St Sylvester
also enjoyed an opportunity to learn about bees,
composting, ladybugs and planting. They have been
studying ladybugs and bees in class so this was a great
opportunity for them.
Garden Speaker Series
We are very pleased to present a gardening themed
Speaker Series in partnership with The Botanical
Gardens of Silver Springs and Parkdale Community
Garden.
The Series features a different topic the 3rd Wednesday
of each month, and is hosted by either Silver Springs
Community Centre or Parkdale Community Centre.
Details on upcoming topics are available at: https://
silverspringsgarden.wordpress.com/events . Speakers
we have engaged are all very knowledgeable and
passionate about their respective topics!
Please join us for these information and dynamic
packed evenings!
Tickets are $15.00 + GST available on-line (PayPal) at
http://parkdalecommunity.com/garden-2/speaker-series/
or cash/chq at the door.
Companion Planting, Calgary Plant Selection &
Cold Season Extension
On May 18, 2016 Janet Melrose, “Calgary's Cottage
Gardener” did a presentation at the Community Centre
on Companion Planting, Calgary plant selection and cold
season extension.
After a career in Calgary's corporate world, Janet's
lifelong enthusiasm for gardening led her to complete
the Prairie Horticultural Certificate (with Distinction)
through Olds College, together with the Home Farm
Horticultural Therapy Certificate. She has a long list
of credentials and takes great satisfaction in sharing
her knowledge and passion for all things relating to
horticulture, contributing to the community through
positive and productive action.
SUBURBAN JOURNALS www.suburbanjournals.ca
In Our Community
Thank you to all who attended the May Speaker Series
session! You can attest to Janet's fun personality and to
the wealth of information we all came away with.
A few brilliant ideas and demonstrations included:successfully transplanting tomatoes..(Tums) coffee
sack potatoes, floating row covers, succession planting,
cold season/warm season planting, and milk jug seed
germination....just to name a few!
We thank Janet for a great evening and more than a few
new techniques to practice in our gardens!
Our next five speaker presentations will be hosted by
the Parkdale Community Centre 3512 5 Ave NW.
• Wednesday July 20, Adrian Buckley and Luke Kimmel
from Regenerate Design will speak about a Food
Forest.
• Wednesday August 17, Julie Walker will speak about
Culinary and Medicinal Herbs
• Wednesday September 21, the topic will be Canning,
Drying and Preserving
Watch for further details.
Classifieds
• Permanent Hair Removal by NEW YOU
ELECTROLYSIS: Certified Electrologist in Silver
Springs, Member of ESA FCEA with over 33 years
experience. Free consultation & Flexible hours Call:
403-286-2299
• Nick Reynolds Plumbing: Your Community Plumber.
Local plumber with 26 years experience available for
all your plumbing needs. No job too big or small. Fully
insured & Very reasonable rates. Call Nick on 403-6182707. E mail: [email protected]
• Butterfly Dayhome: Experienced, quality love and
care in Silver Springs. Age related activities. Group
piano lessons. Snacks and hot meals. Call 403-288-3390.
• Tutor in your own home: Gr 1-10 in L.A. & reading.
$100/mo. Certified teacher. 403-288-4870.
• Get ready for summer: Experienced electronics
repairman/handyman/nursery owner: Will also
reposition old sidewalk blocks, prune trees and bushes,
mow lawns, do gardening and yard care, repair bicycles.
Fast and affordable, reliable, quality workmanship.
Please call 403-923-6441 or 403-286-6308.
• Babysitting: My name is Claire and I am 15yrs old. I am
looking for some summer babysitting. I have had a lot
of experience and would love to babysit for you. Please
contact me at 403-700-7205.
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
Babysitters Available
T
he following youths have successfully completed
the Red Cross Babysitters course and are
waiting for your phone calls.
• Madison: 14.5 yrs, and Maya 12.5 yrs
587-894-0311
• Luna: 13 yrs, 403-286-1118
• Claire: 15 yrs, 403-700-7205
• Abi: 11 yrs, 403-247-6227
• Mariyke: 16 yrs, 403-828-8278
• Olivia: 13 yrs, 403-455-5554
• Jacelyn: 12yrs, 403-560-6002
• Sarah: 14yrs, 403-247-3808
• Mikaela: 14yrs 403-401-8403, Babysitter/catsitter
If your child has taken the course and would like their
name added to the list, call the office.
Norwest Soccer
With 60 teams and 567 players it takes a lot of
volunteers to keep the program running smoothly.
First of all, thanks to Dino Sorrentino and Steve Ward.
Between the two of them they organize our equipment
needs, order our uniforms and medals, run our
referee clinic, schedule our games and coordinate and
schedule the ICHL league for Norwest and the other 16
communities taking part. They also have been coaches
over the years.
Next, our teams wouldn’t get up and running without
the efforts of our Registrar, Susan and her Age Group
Coordinators: Aliah, Bev, Carmen, Carrie, Chelsea,
Connie, Hania and Shannon
Finally, we wouldn’t have teams without the volunteer
efforts of our coaches, assistant coaches and team managers.
Organizing a program of this size is a team effort and
we thank all those who volunteered this season! Have a
great summer!
DID YOU KNOW??
O Canada was written by
Robert Stanley Weir for
the Diamond Jubilee of
Confederation in 1927.
JULY 2016
19
In Our Community
Botanical Gardens
The Border Garden bids all a warm welcome to
Silver Springs
What’s the first thing of real beauty that you see as you
enter our community via Silver Springs Gate?
The Border Garden!
Silver Springs to plant a sunflower garden in our starter
bed area.
This task was completed during the first week of June
with the planting of 25 sunflowers and with some direct
seeding as well.
The Guides will tend to the garden area throughout the
summer and we will assist with the watering. A sign
will soon be placed at this garden space to acknowledge
the group that is involved with this project.
Hundreds of “Likes”!
When we first launched our facebook page a few short
years ago, our goal was to get 100 “likes.”
Well, we reached that goal in no time at all and we are
currently very close to having 300 “likes”
Be sure to check out our facebook page and our website
for fabulous photos, scintillating stories and interesting
news:
www.botanicalgardensofsilversprings.ca
Garden Tours
When the Border Garden was created 6 years ago, it was
only a two foot wide bed about 350 ft long.
We invite you to join us on one of our scheduled
informative Garden tours. These will be held on
Saturday, July 9th and 23rd and August 13th and 27th.
During the first few years, the area featured daylilies
seeing as there was no easy access to water.
One of our volunteers will meet interested people at the
Ball Diamond parking lot at 1:30 pm.
The area was then widened and daffodils were added.
Finally, last year, an irrigation system with sprinklers
was installed and we were able to add hundreds of
perennials to the area.
The Border Garden is now about 6 feet wide and
features a variety of perennials and annuals.
The most impressive show by far is still the daffodils
which erupt in early spring followed by the daylilies in
early summer. Both have matured and multiplied over
the years and the garden is very visible to walkers and
drivers as they pass.
In a few years, residents and visitors to Silver Springs
can look forward to an even more colourful and
spectacular welcome to our community!
Sunflowers and Girl Guides
You are never too young to begin gardening!
Children’s Used
Clothing and Toy Sale
Start cleaning out those closets in preparation for
September! Our Annual Used Toy and Clothing sale is
fast approaching!
Where: Silver Springs Community Centre
When: Saturday,
September 24, 2016
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Tables rent for $25
members $35 nonmembers
Call to book your table
starting in July!
403-288-2616
We received a request from the Girl Guide Group in
20
The Silver Springs Spirit
SUBURBAN JOURNALS www.suburbanjournals.ca
In Our Community
Crowchild Hockey News
S
chool is out and the kids are free to enjoy their long
awaited summer vacation. But before you pack up
and head away on your summer adventure, remember
to register your kids for hockey! Registration is now
open but ends August 15th.
Simply visit our website at www.crowchildhockey.
org and click on the link. If you have any questions
just drop us a line at [email protected].
Financial assistance is available through the Flames
Even Strength Program.
We would like to wish you all a safe, restful and HOT
summer. We look forward to seeing everyone back on
the ice in September.
Crowchild Hockey & the Northwest Warriors!
Community Website
I
bet you didn’t realize... You can read
the latest newsletter, get all the
information you need and even register
for programs on our website at
www.silverspringscommunity.ca.
Did You Know...
These Facts About July
• The birthstone for July is the Ruby.
• The birth flower is the Water Lily.
• The two zodiac signs in July are are Cancer (June
21 - July 22) and Leo (July 23 - August 22)
• July was named after Julius Caesar.
• On July 1, 1867, the Dominion of Canada
was established celebrating the anniversary of
the July 1, 1867 enactment of the British North
America Act, which united three colonies into a
single country called Canada within the British
Empire.
• July is National Blueberry, Ice Cream, and
Hot Dog Month.
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
Bowmont Natural
Environment Park 16th
Annual Photo Contest
T
he Bowmont Natural Environment Park Committee
is looking for your best shots taken in Bowmont
Natural Environment Park. Photos will be judged by
experienced photographers. Prizes will be awarded in
the following categories:
• Scenic Views: Scenic landscape views of the park
• Flora: Trees, shrubs, grasses or flowers
• Wildlife: Animals in the Park (not including domestic
animals)
• Environmental Issues: Damage within the park
(excluding private property)
• Park Users: People enjoying the park (submit their
permission using the consent form)
• Best of Show: Best photo in the show and Best photo
in the show by a first time entrant
Contest Rules
1. Contest is open to all amateur photographers. All
photos must be taken within Bowmont Natural
Environment Park between January 1, 2016 and
October 7, 2016.
2. Entry deadline is October 14, 2016.
3. Photos submitted MUST be accompanied by the
contest Photo Release Waiver or will be disqualified.
4. Some restrictions regarding prizes may apply.
5. Only two entries per each category may be submitted.
6. Submissions must be good quality 4” x 6” prints (no
slides) with entry form. Please do not write on the
back of your photos.
7. Please email a digital version if available of photos
(JPEG file) to [email protected] prior to entry
deadline.
8. Photos submitted will not be returned to the entrant.
They will remain with the committee for reproduction
and use as per the Photo Release Waiver form.
Entry forms and the contest Photo Release Waiver are
available at the following Community Centre Offices:
Bowness, Montgomery, Silver Springs and Varsity; or
by e-mail request to [email protected] and pdf
format form and release waiver will be forwarded to
your e-mail address.
For more information, contact:Linda Knight at
403-288-5496 or [email protected]
JULY 2016
21
In Our City
Events In and Around Calgary
East Village Street Fair and Show n' Shine:
July 1, East Village. The vision of the EV Street Fair is
to strengthen our community by providing enrichment
and enjoyment to our residents on Canada Day. This will
include involving nearby communities and the support
of many organizations that are part of the East Village.
This classic street fair will encourage Calgarians and
visitors to walk about our community and experience
our exciting transition. www.ev-na.com
Fort Calgary Canada Day:
July 1, Fort Calgary. Looking for some great family fun to
partake in on Canada Day? Look no further! The day kicks
off at Fort Calgary with a free pancake breakfast along with
bouncy castles, pony rides, a petting zoo, live music and
much, much more. www.fortcalgary.com
Heritage Park - Dominion Day/ Canada Day/
Family Games:
July 1, Heritage Park Celebrate Canada Day in Calgary
the old fashioned way with your friends and family at
Heritage Park! July 1, known as Dominion Day before
1982, commemorates the formation of Canada in 1867.
Join us for a day packed full of fun for all - including a
free pancake breakfast for the first 2016 Canada Day
guests in the gates before 10:30am!
www.heritagepark.ca
Calgary Stampede:
July 8 – 17, Stampede Park. Known as the "Greatest
Show on Earth". A 10-day rodeo, midway, western art
show, Grandstand show, Chuckwagons, and much more.
www.calgarystampede.com
TELUS Spark Adults Only Night:
July 21, TELUS Spark. Experience the ultimate
night out at the Science Centre. Open for extended
22
The Silver Springs Spirit
hours, from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., just for adults.
www.sparkscience.ca
Calgary Folk Music Festival:
July 21 – 24, Prince's Island Park. Calgary's ever popular
annual Folk Festival attracts many big names in the
industry. The festival is comprised of mainstage concerts
and workshops/ sessions. Single-day tickets and four-day
passes may be purchased. www.calgaryfolkfest.com
Historic Calgary Week 2016 :
July 22 – August 1, City Hall. Chinook Country Historical
Society is pleased to present the 26th annual Historic
Calgary Week. Join us as we celebrate the rich history,
culture and community of Calgary and area with more
than 60 events over 11 days. Enjoy neighbourhood
concerts, walks, talks, and explore museums, heritage
buildings, cemeteries, parks, libraries and archives.
www.chinookcountry.org/
Pet-A-Palooza Calgary:
July 25 – 26, Eau Claire Market. With events including:
“Running Of The Bulls” hilarious 20 ft French and English
bulldog races, agility demos, cool down stations, photo
lounges and up to 85 of the leading pet related exhibitors
your pet will never forgive you if you miss it!
www.petapaloozawest.com
Calgary Fringe Festival:
July 29 – August 6, Inglewood. The Calgary Fringe
Festival runs in the heart of Calgary's cultural corridor
- 17th Avenue. The Calgary Fringe Festival will host
indoor theatre productions, film entries, touring street
performers, and musicians and musical acts.
www.calgaryfringe.ca
Tickets, admission or registration may be required for
events. Event details are believed correct as of press
time but may change at any time.
SUBURBAN JOURNALS www.suburbanjournals.ca
In Our City
Where There’s Water,
There IS a Risk
C
algary’s rivers, lakes and waterways can be a fun
and refreshing way to spend a hot summer day. Your
Calgary Fire Department wants to remind you about
Water Safety.
Life Jacket Safety
Always wear a properly fitting life jacket or personal
flotation device (PFD) when boating or rafting anywhere.
• Check the PDF or jackets size and weight restrictions.
• Start with the buckles and straps loose, do them up from
the bottom of the jacket to the top. Make sure the jacket
or PFD fits snugly.
• Test the life jacket or PFD once you have done it up; hold
your arms over your head and ask a friend to grab the
tops of the arm openings and gently pull. Make sure
there is no extra room above the arm openings and that
the jacket does not ride up over your face or chin.
Swimming is a Lifesaving Skill
water sports throughout your life. The City offers swim
lessons for all ages, throughout the year. We also offer
First Aid and National Lifeguard certification classes.
Remember, always keep toddlers or young children within
arm’s reach while in or around all bodies of water.
Before You Raft or Boat
Always SCOUT, ASSESS and DECIDE from shore before
going on rivers, lakes and waterways.
Scout the river for potential hazards and check the
weather and water conditions.
Assess the level of danger. Check for river advisories and
assess the swimming and paddling skills of your crew.
Decide if it is safe to raft or boat.
Ensure you have emergency supplies on board with you.
For further information visit calgary.ca/CSPS/Fire/Pages/
Safety-tips/Safety-tips-for-water/River-Safety.aspx
Did You Know:
The Calgary Fire Department has Firefighters trained in
water rescue that work out of 6 station (downtown) 21
station (Silver springs) and 39 station (Douglasglen)?
Water skills give you the confidence to safely take part in
Going on a Holiday?
S
ummer is a great time to enjoy a vacation! But
before you do, make sure your home is as safe and
secure as possible. The keys to protecting your home
when you are on vacation are not just the ones you use
in your deadbolt lock.
Below are a few tips to help reduce your risk:
•D
ouble-check your insurance policy to find out if and
when you require someone to check in on your home.
• Give a trusted neighbour or friend a key and trip
details and ask them to check in on your home.
• Don’t advertise that you are going away.
• Create a lived-in appearance. Be sure the lawn
is cared for while you are away, and stop any
newspapers or have flyers collected from your door
or yard. Set lights and a TV’s on timers so your home
is not dark during evening hours.
• Encourage a trusted neighbour to park their car in
your driveway while you are gone.
• Ensure that your door and window locking devices
are working and are locked when you leave.
• Disable your garage door while you are gone. Most
have a switch that can be turned off. You can also put
THE SILVER SPRINGS SPIRIT
City of Calgary
a padlock or
similar device
through the
door tracks
to ensure it
cannot be
opened.
•P
ut away, or
secure all
lawn furniture
or tools (i.e.
ladders) so
they can’t be
used to assist
a burglar in
gaining access
to the upper
story windows
of your home.
For more helpful safety resources, check out the
Federation of Calgary Communities website at
calgarycommunities.com and visit the Virtual Resource
Centre.
Federation of Calgary Communities
JULY 2016
23