by Pam Swan, BRCA Hall Manager
Dear friends,
On behalf of the Bridgeland-Riverside Community Association, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make our 75th Anniversary celebration on September 13 such a memorable success.
Throughout the day, we welcomed 800 to 1,000 guests, many of whom joined us for both the BBQ and the movie in the park. We couldn’t be happier with the turnout and the wonderful energy that filled our community.
The day began with Board Member Deb Lee sharing the history of our association, reminding us that our roots are in bringing neighbours together through sport. We are proud to continue that legacy today with programs such as children’s soccer, the farmers’ market, seniors’ wellness classes, and so much more. We were also honoured to have Elder Charlotte Yellowhorn McLeod offer a blessing, speaking to the importance of community, gathering together, and cherishing the next generation. We also appreciate that MLA Kathleen Ganley, Mayor Jyoti Gondek, and Adam Schwartz from the Federation of Calgary Communities were able to attend and spend some time mingling with guests.
A special thank you goes to our top sponsors, Bridgedale Pharmacy and Bridgeland Crossings Dental, who joined us in person to host information booths and connect with our guests.
The afternoon BBQ was filled with energy and laughter, with a variety of games and activity stations to keep everyone engaged. Green Fools Theatre delighted guests of all ages with their mini circus workshop—teaching how to juggle, spin plates, walk a tightrope, and even try out stilts. Younger children enjoyed the toddler play area from Sprog and Sprocket, while the Crate Art Therapy booth was buzzing all day with creative little hands at work. Kiss Productions kept the music lively, and the inflatable obstacle course, jumping races, and lawn games brought out plenty of fun competition and smiles.
As the sun set, families and friends gathered in Murdoch Park with blankets, lawn chairs, popcorn, and mini doughnuts to enjoy the How to Train Your Dragon movie under the stars. It was the perfect way to end a truly wonderful day of celebration.
We were very fortunate to have the help of 25 incredible volunteers who welcomed guests, ran activity stations, and handed out prizes. Your time, energy, and enthusiasm made all the difference in keeping the celebration running smoothly. A special thank you as well to Mitzi, who created a wonderful slideshow featuring photos from our archives, and to Chelsea, whose creative posters and signs added so much fun and colour to the event.
Finally, we are deeply grateful to our local business community for the overwhelming financial support we received. Your generosity helped make this milestone celebration possible. With all our appreciation to our sponsors:
• Entertainment Sponsors: Mari Bakery, Bridgedale Pharmacy, and Bridgeland Crossings Dental.
• Activity Sponsors: Rising Sun Psychological Services, Amy Skinner Law, Jemm Properties, Bridgeland BIA, Servus Credit Union, and Calgary Foundation.
• Community Sponsors: Inglewood Art Supplies, Village Ice Cream, Little Big Recycling, Bono Coffee, Doodle Dogs, and Bucci.
• Door Prize Sponsors: Jin Bar, La Brezza, Leela Eco Spa, Calgary Flames, Lil Empire, and 5 Vines.
This anniversary was a celebration not only of our history, but also of the strong and vibrant community we continue to build together into the future. We are deeply grateful for everyone’s support and participation in making this milestone so special – thank you!
Cheers,
Pam
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