Labour Day 2013 looked very different in Caboto Park, and I am pleased to report the feedback about the first annual McCauley Family Fair was hugely positive. McCauley Community League organizers Kylee Nixon and Paula Anderson made the event something everyone could enjoy. Their tireless efforts and leadership reflect the spirit the League relies on.

We continue to build and develop our recreation and leisure programs. We have purchased a bouncy slide, many field games including croquet, badminton, tether ball, and volleyball, and now have secured funding through 2018 to host these types of gatherings. This is made possible by the City of Edmonton, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and countless hours of dedicated neighbours who come together to make amazing things happen. We would also like to send a huge thank you to the Edmonton Police Service for all their hard work.

We have also developed many relationships along the way, and would like to thank everyone who came out to assist us: Mike and Marissa of The Skips, Bill Bourne, Owl at the Moon and Marakatu, Dan Aire and Jen Stronschein, Wendy Aasen, Georgina Fiddler, Steven, Stella and Jody Johnson, Ping and Ione Nixon-Hermansen, Stephanie, Celeste, Nick Hermansen, Tory Zenkewich, Sebastian Lysz, Sophy Yeung, Karena Tran, John Friesen, Mike and Heather Van Boom, Cynthia and Jake and friend, and Mike Eaton.

There was something for everyone! Resident musical talent was showcased, volunteering their skills and abilities for two days of wonderful musical performances. Local puppeteer and storyteller Mike Eaton stole the show and drew crowds. Many people had an excellent time at the petting zoo with the pot bellied pig that apparently sat on command for an apple. Bunnies cuddled into many people’s laps and chickens enjoyed many baby cuddles (and vice versa). Endless hours of fun were had on the bouncy slide. Neighbours had an opportunity to work together to design and create concrete garden stones with shells, sparkles and glass, facilitated by Dan and Jen. Local artist Cynthia and the Nina Haggerty Centre generously donated time and attention to introduce fair participants to printmaking. Ping and her pals made amazing paint and glitter tattoos for all who came. And StreetEats was on hand for delicious fare!

There is even talk of a Winter Solstice party for 2013; work is underway to determine if we can plan and organize it in time. It was lovely to see an event put on by residents for residents during the last good-weather long weekend before the start of fall and inevitable school-time, hard work chaos.

We have had many people come forward asking for a bit of an expansion for 2014 – a local produce and garden competition, a flower arranging event, and possibly bridge, checkers, and chess. Get in touch if you’re interested in facilitating one of these passions, or something else.

Finally, thank you to everyone who attended the event. It was lovely to meet you.