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On Sunday February 5th, 2023, the Qualicum-Graham Park Community Association (QGPCA) hosted the first QGP Winter Carnival since 2019. It was clear that our neighbourhood was craving community events again post-pandemic as we had a HUGE turnout. Our neighbourhood has certainly seen a turnover in the last few years and many young families have moved in.
There were horse wagon rides, skating, maple taffy, hot dogs, and lots of hot chocolate. We also had a local Scout Troop come out and put on a fire for roasting marshmallows and hot dogs. The Scout Troop also had Klondike sleds and were giving out free rides. Our own DJ Steve was back playing tunes and pumping up the crowd. Mother Nature also played a helping hand and brought us mild weather on the Sunday following a bitter cold snap.
The Winter Carnival owes much of its success to our amazing community volunteers. The QGPCA would like to thank the following folks: Steve Bergin (DJ Steve), Lauria Blackwell, Ray Cheng, Larissa Law, April and Dave MacDonald, Cynthia Mar, Steve Mate, Colin Mayes, Carla Schmitt, Christine Smith, and Sarah Sumner. We also had volunteer support from our neighbourhood youth including Abby, Adam, Grace, Heather, Anne, Eve and Jojo. Also special thanks to our local Scout Troop: Scouters Serge, Anthony, Kurt, Charles and Scouts Aidan, Alex, Caitlin, and Vincent. The Scouts not only helped with managing the roasting fire and Klondike sleds, but also helped DJ Steve with setup and takedown of his equipment.
I would also like to take the opportunity to thank my fellow executives for their support in making this event happen: Steve MCAvoy (president), Daphne Snelgrove (treasurer) Christine Smith (secretary), Michael Revells (facility director) and Alison Buchanan (social director). In particular, I would like to thank Daphne for her tireless work as treasurer and helping to organize the Winter Carnival, and Alison who led the charge in bringing the Winter Carnival back and without whom this wonderful event would not have happened.
If you enjoyed the Winter Carnival, then mark your calendars for the return of the QGP Community Day on Sunday June 25th from 2-5pm. Bouncy castles, live entertainment, games, food, refreshments, face painting and more! Please bring cash for some ticketed activities and food.
If you would like to volunteer for this fun event and meet new neighbours, please contact: vicepresident@qualicum.org
Simmi Mangat
VP QGPCA