A new term promising growth and achievement has begun at the Senior
Drop-In with the election of some new executive and board members at
our January annual meeting.
A sincere welcome and congratulations to Lester Bishop, as the new president, Basil Dalton as vice-president, Jeanne Anderson as treasurer, and Elizabeth Mangan who is taking over the membership portfolio.
New to our board of directors are Eunice Jenson, Denise Niegum, and Morley Thompson.
Those remaining in their positions -- Joyce Morgan as
secretary, and directors Cecil Brook, Nyna Marr, Teresa Rolvink, Elaine
Sinnamon, Marg Oxtoby and Jean Bennett -- are look forward to working with the new recruits to have a very successful 2014.
Thanks go out to the nominating committee of Gunnar Hansen and Basil Dalton for a difficult job well done.
Special thanks and appreciation are extended to our long-
serving treasurer Jack Layton and dedicated membership chairman Martha Hayes who are both willing to assist their executive replacements if
needed.
We also offer great appreciation to others retiring from their positions -- Alex Bozek, Margaret Medak, Elaine Jones and Gilbert
Nielson. We look forward to seeing all of you at many of the Drop-In
activities and events.
There was a good turnout for the tasty potluck dinner that
preceded the meeting. One highlight of the meeting was a quick visit
by Sharron Matthewman, our new, enthusiastic FCSS (Family and
Community Support Services) representative who requested our input on
new senior activities and special events. She was very pleased with
the feedback received and will assist us in planning future seminars
and social functions. Welcome to your new position Sharron.
Thank you to the FCSS board and the Town of Innisfail for
the $7,400 grant which will be applied to the presentation of wellness
seminars (open to the public), special events, also open to non-members,
and supplies to facilitate and enhance the operation of the drop-in
programs.
The monthly wellness presentations have been popular. So far the
topics have covered elder abuse, disaster preparedness, victims
services, wills and estates, meaningful memorials, nutritious meals
(with samples) and fraud and scams.
All the presenters have been impressive, giving us lots of worthwhile information and answering many questions. Thanks to them and also to all attendees and to members who helped with setup and lunch.
The upcoming session on Feb. 12 will feature heart health, stroke
symptoms and a summary by Helping Hands which provides home assistance for seniors. Please watch for display ads in the Province for further information.
To balance all these serious educational events we had to throw
in a few parties. On Dec. 9 we all gathered at the legion for a
joyful Christmas celebration with delightful entertainment from the
Senior Serenaders and Rosaire Parenteau. During the singalong Santa
and an elf arrived to pass out hugs and oranges to all the "good
little seniors".
Two very special Christmas presents were received by two lucky
ladies when their names were drawn in the Senior Drop-In raffle.
Annette LeBlanc won the exquisite crocheted picture of a rose and
butterfly donated by our talented Teresa Rolvink. Susan Gagnier was
the excited winner of the Power Shot digital camera. It was a greatly
appreciated donation by Jack Layton, who is an accomplished
photographer with his specialty being snaps of fascinating local wildflowers. Thank you both for your valuable contributions to the Drop-In.
Thanks also to the organizing committee -- Marg Oxtoby, Priscilla Hughes,
Pat Lawrence and Alberta Reberger and to all who helped create a merry
time.
The senior centre was rocking as our jammers helped us
celebrate on New Year's Eve. With music and dancing, and mountains of
delicious snacks, gifts under the tree and a 50/50 draw, it can be said
that a good time was had by all. Morley Thompson, Elaine Sinnamon and Jean Bennett appreciated all the help in bringing in the new year senior style.
On behalf of Matt Coninx, a huge thank you goes to all who worked the
two days and nights at the Jackpot Casino. It was fun and we had the
opportunity to get better acquainted with some of our members.
Recent entertainment at the monthly birthday parties has included Me and Friends, Brenda and Jerry Meding, Rosaire Parenteau,
and Steve Potter -- all of them delighting the large gatherings.
Margaret Medak, Marie Gibbon and Eunice Jenson deserve a big round of applause for the enjoyable parties.
This past week some of our members travelled to Rimbey to
take part in their crib tournament and returned with the top prize.
Congratulations Tom and Carrie Courtney!
Our usual cards and games continue at the centre with everyone having a few good laughs, win or lose. You would be welcome to
join our other new members to have a good time.
The program schedule is available in the Community Program Guide or at the drop-in. For more Information call 403-227-6601 or 403-227-3913. Have a fantastic 2014!
