Fran reads, Mother’s Day, and running naked through the streets.

Fran Kimmel’s Book Launch May 9th, 7 p.m.

We’ve been waiting a long time to have a Fran Kimmel reading at Sunworks. It’s finally happening. We’re delighted to host her book launch event. It’s free for everyone to attend.

Fran Kimmel is an award-winning author of numerous short stories, plays for both theater and radio, and the novels No Good Asking and The Shore Girl. Born and raised in Calgary, Fran now lives in Lacombe, Alberta, and can be reached at frankimmel.com.

The reading begins at 7 p.m. Come a little early and have some wine and appetisers with Fran courtesy of ESW Press. Get your copy of her new book early. They will be arriving any day in store. We’ve only ordered in 60 copies. Give us a call  at 403-341-3455 if you would like us to hold a couple of copies.

#NakedEspy 2025

Just before going on vacation I sent you the last newsletter. So much has happened in just one month. March I shared with you that I was participating in #NakedEspy, a run in support of prostate cancer research and mental health. My vacation ended. I left plus 30 degree weather, flew overnight, arrived in Calgary to a blizzardy snowstorm. 74 underwear-clad guys ran through the streets of Calgary in blowing snow. We had a blast, and raised $170,000 for the cause. Thank you so much to those that donated.

Here’s your reminder to follow the Prostate Cancer Centre and #manvan, and MEN get your PSA checked regularly because 1 in 6 of us will be diagnosed with prostate cancer.

I’m taking pledges for next year’s event already. Send me a quick reply to let me know that I can count on you next year. I’ll contact you when the fundraiser starts late this fall.  

Enough about me and fake streaking.  Next up…

Mother’s Day is May 11th

It’s the perfect time to do something special for the mothers in your life. Think about all the amazing women who are mothers and how much they mean to you. Whether it’s your mom, wife, sister, or friend, show them you care. Plan something nice to make them feel appreciated and loved on this special day.

The store is packed with things for mom’s. The new products we discovered on our January buying trip are still coming in. Honestly, Sunworks has never been better. It’s so interesting and fresh. Stop by and poke around.  

And a final word.

We have had an election.  I was so proud of every leader and the dignity and grace with which they concluded their campaigns election night.  There was no name calling or vitriol. Canadians have been asking for positivity and cooperation to come back to governance, in stark contrast to what is happening in other parts of the world. Perhaps we’re turning the corner. Perhaps civility and working together is returning.  It takes everyone to respect, share and listen. Now is the most important time to stay engaged. You don’t just check a box and call it done. Now is the time to participate and support good ideas.  We at Sunworks are committed to doing our best to weather whatever storms are coming. It’s going to be a great year. Election is over Spring is here. Summer is around the corner. Support your independent retailers. We care about you and our community.

As Always, Paul, Janet, Loraine, Michelle, Blaine, and Lea.

Welcome Spring 2025

Pens, buckets, and sunshine.

It’s been three weeks since I wrote. I was out in Toronto again this time for some professional development. It was great to be in the classroom again. Mom is proud.  

Over the time we’ve continue to receive out Spring orders from the January trade show. Last we received a charming collection of buckets. Yes buckets! This week we received our shipment of pens and pencils from Germany. Stilform. These are beautiful and make such a handsome gift for anyone in your life that loves to use old school writing instruments the old-fashioned wetware attachment that connects directly to your brain.  We have ballpoint, rolling ball, and fountain pens in a variety of colours. Stilform makes a amazing pencil as well, long lasting with replaceable leads…. and so we have erasers for when the wetware glitches out.  

Today is cinnamon bun Friday, as is every Friday. Loraine is baking up a storm, as she does.  

And for those of you who follow us on Social Media platforms you’ll notice our game has improved. Lea is a rockstar. It’s a good place to hear about what is new and is happening at Sunworks.  

Find us on instagram at sunworksliving or scan our QR code.

Now, a note of clarification. There are rumours circulating that Terry and I own the building which houses Taco Loft (our former location) and The Velvet Olive. We do not. We sold the building (although the title does not transferred until May 2026) to local folks about two years ago and we do not have control nor have say on any negotiations or changes. When asked, we offer our advice to the new owners. I’m happy to chat with anyone to dispel misinformation and assumptions.

We look forward to seeing you all this spring. Fantastic changes in the shop. So many new things. We remain happy and cheerful as we transition to warmer weather and sunnier skies. 

As Always, Paul, Janet, Loraine, Michelle, Blaine, and Lea.