FEBRUARY 2019 - It's easy to #playinpa
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FEBRUARY 2019
On Valentine's Day we think of those
Who make our lives worthwhile,
Those gracious, friendly people who
We think of with a smile.
I am fortunate to know you,
That's why I want to say,
To a rare and special person:
Happy Valentine's Day!
By Joanna Fuchs
Happy Valentine’s Day
&
Family Day
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Special Events
Special Events Program – Submitted by Carrie Smith and Lue Carlos
Wednesday, February 13 at 1:30 pm
Happy Valentine’s Day! Bring your sweetheart to this month’s Special Events program and
enjoy an afternoon out together. We will have a variety show with love songs for our Valentine’s Day
theme, hosted by Jim and Babs (Jim Winters and Barb Lehtonen). There will be entertainment, music,
songs and even an opportunity for sing along and some romantic tunes. Participants will also enjoy
some comedy too. Bring your Valentine and join us for a wonderful afternoon.
The monthly Special Events are a great way to get out and enjoy some wonderful
entertainment, refreshments, goodies and to socialize. It is a fabulous way to spend the
afternoon. Mark your calendars now so you don’t miss this fun afternoon at Echo.
We encourage you to come on out and enjoy the entertainment and fun. It will prove to be a
great time! Tickets are $2 each and are available now at the Sunshine Club office. In consideration to
those who organize these events, we ask you to please purchase your ticket(s) by Monday, February
11. Buying your ticket ahead of time, allows us to know how much food to buy, places to prepare for
and how many tables to set up.
All those members with birthdays in February will also be honored and a tasty treat will be given to all
those celebrating a birthday. Hope to see you there! The ticket price includes refreshments, goodies,
entertainment and a ticket on the door prize. Doors open at 1:00 pm, entertainment begins at 1:30 pm
and tea service is at 2:15 pm.
Sunshine Club General Meeting *Last Minute Reminder!
Wednesday, January 23 at 1:30 pm at Echo Centre
Don’t miss our first General Meeting of the New Year! Mark your calendars now and
please make an effort to attend. Some of the agenda topics will include the evaluation of
Christmas events, upcoming Craft and Bake Sale, Treasurer’s position, door prize draw
and more! We encourage all Sunshine Club members to attend these meetings and support our Club.
We especially ask our activity directors to be present so they can pass along pertinent information to
their members. Direct and consistent communication with our Directors is imperative to a successful
Club and is the best method of reaching the membership in its entirety. Further to that, we do ask all
members to please make it a priority to attend the General Meetings throughout the year.
Dinner at the Casino and Rim Rock Restaurant
Tuesday, February 19 at 5:30 pm
Sunshine Club members are invited to attend the Casino for a dinner buffet. The dinner
buffet includes a delicious meat dish, greens, seasonal salads, roasted potatoes,
seasonal vegetables, fresh buns, baked cookies, tea and coffee. Dinner is $15 per
person and includes the buffet, a $5 entertainment coupon, taxes and gratuities.
January’s dinner is scheduled for Tuesday, February 19 at 5:30 pm. Sign up and pay
for this dinner NOW at the Sunshine Club office. In an attempt to be as fair as possible
to all members who are eager to go to this dinner, please note: there is a maximum of 2
tickets per person. Registration is open for members only until Friday, February 7 and starting Monday,
February 11, registration is available to non-members if there is space available.
Tickets will be issued on a first come, first serve basis and we require payment to be cash only and
exact change. Make sure you come early, to avoid disappointment because tickets for this dinner are
very popular. Registrations cannot be accepted over the phone as payment is required at the time of
registration. This activity always has a long waiting list of people eager to attend. Out of respect for
those people, if you are unable to use your ticket, please return it to the Sunshine Club office so the
next person on the waiting list can participate. Please do not promise your ticket to a friend, as we must
follow the order of the waitlist as people return their tickets. Please note, we will not sell or cannot
accept cancellations after 11:00 am on the day of the dinner as our reservation numbers are confirmed
with the restaurant at that time. Thank you to our Casino Dinner directors - Anne and Gerry Gagnon.
Happy Birthday To You… ♫♪♫
If you are celebrating a birthday in February. We hope your day is filled with love, laughter,
family and friends…and don’t forget to eat lots of cake!!! Happy Birthday greetings go out to
the following members who are celebrating their special day (5 year intervals):
Ida Prus Alan Cameron Gordon Scoffield Hugh Grist
Ken Moore Anna VanDyk Gretel Holden Ed Marshall
David Oscienny Dough Bjorklund Shelly Robbins
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Special Events Cont.
Kinsmen Club Heritage Dinner
Sunday, February 17, 5:00 pm at Echo Centre
Tickets available starting Wednesday, February 6 at 2:30 pm at Echo Centre
In celebration of Heritage Week, the Kinsmen Club will once again be putting on a “Heritage
Dinner” for seniors (65 years of age or “better”) in our community. This is open to all
seniors 65+. The dinner will be held on Sunday, February 17 at Echo Centre.
Doors open at 4:00 pm, entertainment begins at 5:00 pm and dinner will be served at 5:30 pm.
Tickets are available from the Kinsmen Club members, free of charge, on a first-come,
first-serve basis starting Wednesday, February 6 at 2:30 pm at Echo Centre. Please
note: there is a limit of 2 tickets per person when picking up tickets. Please be
prepared that you may have to show ID before getting your tickets. This dinner is
extremely popular and to avoid disappointment, we recommend that those who are
interested in attending pick up their tickets on February 6. After this time, any remaining tickets will be
available at the Sunshine Club office. The office will also be taking a waiting list so if any tickets are
returned they can be redistributed to those on the waiting list. Important - please note: If you get a
ticket and then are NOT ABLE TO ATTEND, please RETURN your ticket to Echo Centre or let us
know, so we can give it to someone on the waiting list.
The cost of the dinner is free, but there will be a donation box at the door for those who would like to
give a donation. These donations collected by the Kinsmen Club will be given to the BC Children’s
Hospital. Thank you to the Kinsmen Club for providing this delicious dinner each year free of charge for
seniors in celebration of Heritage Week. We really appreciate your efforts and contributions!!
Craft and Bake Sale Fundraiser - Mark your calendars!
Saturday, March 2, 1:00 – 3:00 pm at Echo Centre
The Executive is organizing a Craft and Bake sale as a Spring fundraiser. Mark
your calendars now for Saturday, March 2 from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. This event was
a wonderful success last year and we are excited to host it once again. There will
be a crafts section including quilting, knitting, woodworking, pottery and much
more, a bake stall, a 50/50 draw, Spring raffle and hamper raffles. We’re also
hosting an social area where tea, coffee and goodies will be available for purchase.
There are lots of ways to support the Sunshine Club – donate a craft, bake a treat, attend the event and
purchase some of these wonderful items…or, all of the above! Hope to see you there!
Contributions Needed
For this event to be successful and for our Club to benefit financially from this fundraiser event, we need
many, many contributions in the following areas:
Crafts: If you are a “crafty” person, we hope you would consider donating a few of your items to sell.
Baking: Baking is always very popular. We need a lot of baking items donated. “Fresh” baked goods
only please (no frozen items)
Hampers: We would like to reach our goal of 25 hampers to be raffled. To meet this goal we need a lot
of non-perishable items donated. Please check the expiration dates to ensure the food can
be used.
We are now accepting items of crafts and for the food hampers. Please feel free to bring your donations
in at any time to the Sunshine Club Office. Baking items will be accepted on Friday, March 1 and on
the morning of Saturday, March 2.
Support and Volunteers Needed
The success of the Craft and Bake Sale Fundraiser is dependent on the support of our members. We
would like to ask for your involvement with contributions and/or with helping as a volunteer. We need
volunteers to help with phoning and poster distributions. Please see the “Volunteer Corner” section of
this newsletter for more information on how you can help. Thank you.
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Regular Programs
Program Cancellations
Please note the following programs are cancelled due to other bookings, events or holidays:
Friday, February 8 No pickleball
Monday, February 18 Closed for Family Day – No Programs
New Program Ideas Are Always Welcome! – Submitted by Karen Freethy
Do you have an idea for a new activity? We are listening! We are always open to new ways to grow
and expand our offerings within the Sunshine Club. Activities require a director, a volunteer instructor
(not always necessary) and a minimum of eight, interested members. If there is an activity that you
would hope to add to the Sunshine Club, please contact Karen Freethy at 250 720-2509, email
Karen_freethy@portalberni.ca, or come for a visit in my office at Echo Centre.
Shimmy Sisters – Submitted by Teresa Robinson
Shimmy Sisters is a non-performing dance group based on belly dancing but uses other methods of
dance with a variety of music. If you are interested in trying out our group, we will lend you a coin belt
and veil. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing. We meet at 9:30 am on Friday mornings at Gyro Youth
Centre. If you require more information please call Teresa Robinson at 250-723-0599.
Turn the Page Book Club – Submitted by Pat & Alexander Miller
We did not meet in December but enjoyed a Christmas lunch at the Casino. Our next regular meeting
will be January 31 at 1:00 pm at which time we will share and possibly recommend our
individual reads over the holiday season.
Second Book Club – Submitted by Pauline Rice
Every month we all read the same book of the month from the library and then
discuss it at the following month’s meeting. The books all take us out of our
normal comfort reading zone and we have all discovered delightful books that
we would never have read were it not for the book club. We have lively discussions which
are very enjoyable even if that particular book was not our favorite. If you love to read, we
invite you to join our group. New members and guests are always welcome. We meet on
the first Wednesday of each month at 11:00 am in the Hemlock Room at Echo Centre. For
more information, email Pauline Rice at paulinerice88@gmail.com
Bowling Update
We are bowling and having a great time! We still have room for new bowlers to join
our activity. We encourage to you sign up and join in the fun and laughter! We bowl
Monday morning starting at 9:30 am at Rainbow Lanes. Participants are welcome
to sign up as a team of 4 but most people join individually and are placed on a
team. Bowling is a lot of fun and provides a great opportunity for exercise, friendship, laughter and
smiles! Cal Davies is the director. We are excited for our weekly games and are we are striving to start
a fun tournament with all players. The cost is $10 per person each week. This fee is paid directly to the
bowling alley each week. Each Monday, teams will play 3 games during this time. If you are interested
in joining this activity, please show up to the bowling alley on Mondays at 9:30 am to meet with the
director, Cal Davies.
Sunshine Garden Club – Submitted by Pauline Rice
If gardening is your passion, this is the Club for you! As always we share plant cuttings,
seeds and ideas. Occasionally we invite speakers to share their knowledge. Newcomers are
welcome whether you are just starting to dig in the dirt or if you are an experienced gardener.
Come to share and to learn. We regularly meet the second Wednesday of the month from
11:00 am – 12:00 noon, in the Hemlock Room at Echo Centre. New members and guests are
welcome! For more information, email Pauline Rice at paulinerice88@gmail.com.
Friendly Phone Service – Submitted by Wendy Stanley
Winter can be a lonely and depressing time for some. Wouldn’t it be nice to
start the day with a phone call from a friendly voice? We would like to remind
you that the Friendly Phone Service is available to anyone living alone in the
valley who would like to have a friendly contact each morning, between 8:00
am and 9:30 am. The Friendly Phone Service program is a free service. This
is an amazing program that helps people feel safe, cared for and comforted. We welcome
new clients. There are pamphlets available in the Sunshine Club office. On the pamphlet
there is a registration form for clients to fill out. You do not have to be a member of the Sunshine Club
to receive this service. It is available to all citizens who live alone. For further information please call the
Sunshine Club Office at 250 720-2505 or Wendy Stanley at 250 723-5285.
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Regular Programs Cont.
Floor Curling – Submitted by Larry Lehtonen
Drop-ins and beginners are welcome. There are always people willing to show beginners
how to play the game. All equipment is supplied and it’s an easy game to learn, so drop in
on a Tuesday or Thursday from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm at Glenwood Centre and
give it a try. New teams are drawn every morning. Start time is 9:45 am but we
ask everyone to please arrive before 9:30 am so that we have time to draw the
teams, set up and organize the play. Doors open at 9:00 am. It is an easy game to learn
and participants enjoy the fun and socialization. Coffee, tea and cookies are available
between games for $1.00. During the first part of the season, we collect .50 cents per person
to cover the costs of wax powder, paint and extra curling time. This collection is typically done for the
first couple of months. Floor Curling is a fun game and one of the Club’s most popular activities. We
usually have between 80 – 100 players. It is an easy game to learn and participants enjoy the fun and
socialization. Games end by 12:00 noon. We encourage everyone to come to Glenwood and join in the
fun – you will be glad you did!
Ukulele – Beginner (AKA “STUB”) - Submitted by Geerry Roe
Have you ever thought you might like to learn to play the ukulele? Now could be your chance
to learn with C-tuning, three-chord ukulele. This group is intended for very basic beginner
players. We ask you to supply the instrument and tuner and we will provide the instruction in
basic techniques and chords. No previous musical knowledge necessary. The aim is to have
fun while learning to play well-known songs. We call our group “STUB” which stands for
‘Sunshine Club Three- Chord Ukulele Band’. We have an enthusiastic group and everyone is
having fun while learning to play the ukulele. We welcome any newcomers to our group. If you would
like more information, please contact Lyle or Geerry Roe at 778 419-0554 or drop in anytime and see
what we are all about. We meet two days a week Wednesdays from 9:00 – 10:00 am at Gyro Youth
Centre and on Fridays from 11:30 – 12:30 at Echo Centre. Participants are welcome at either one or
both times. Hope to see you there!
Library Cart – Submitted by Carol Weiers
With the cooler weather staying around there is still some time before spring
cleaning and outside yard work can be started. It is a great time for
everyone who enjoys reading to come and check out the library cart located outside the
Sunshine Club office at Echo Centre. There are a variety of books and magazines so
hopefully there is something of interest for everyone. Maybe you have some magazines
or books at home and are unsure what to do with them. Donations of newer hardcover
and paperback books are always welcome and can be dropped off at the Sunshine Club
office during office hours. Any magazines that are less than a year old can also be donated. The
library cart operates on an honour system whereby you are welcome to borrow books/magazines and
then return them when you are done so others are also able to enjoy them. The library cart is well used
so thank you to everyone for your donations of books and magazines.
Lunch Bunch – Submitted by Barb Atkinson and Norm Taylor
Thursday, February 28 at 12:30 pm at Clam Bucket Restaurant
All Sunshine Club members are invited to enjoy lunch with the “Lunch Bunch” gang.
What a great opportunity to enjoy friends, great conversation and a delicious lunch!!
Each month this group meets to enjoy the company of others and a tasty meal at a
local restaurant. In February we will be going to the Clam Bucket Restaurant! It is
always a great group of people and a wonderful time and we hope you join us!
Each month we change our location and we circulate a variety of restaurants throughout the year. We
would love for you to join us!! We all look forward to this social lunch and we think you would too! If
you are interested in joining the Lunch Bunch please phone the Sunshine Club office at 250 720-2505
to sign up. Everyone is responsible for ordering and paying for their own lunch at the restaurant but ask
members to sign up ahead of time so we can confirm the reservation numbers with the restaurant.
Spanish – Submitted by Donalda Deas
Please come and join us in learning the wonderful language of Spanish. This is a good class
for those who want to brush up or those who want to become more fluent. Speaking another
language is a great way to keep the brain active. Whether you are a newcomer, with no past
knowledge and limited practice, all are welcome!! We are very fortunate to have Orlando
Delano as our teacher. He is patient, kind and very knowledgeable with the ability to bring this
beautiful language to life as well as make us laugh!! It is a very enjoyable time. There are lots of
laughs and support as we struggle with the grammar and pronunciation that is unique to this
language. Classes are held at Abbeyfield in the downstairs meeting room on Thursday and Friday from
9:30 – 11:30 am. Saludos!!
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Regular Programs Cont.
Light Lunch Service Update
Lunch is available Monday – Thursday from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm for Sunshine Club
members and their guests. Lunch orders will be taken until 12:30 pm and orders are
taken on a first-come, first-serve basis. We encourage you to drop by Echo Centre for
a tasty lunch at a very reasonable price. Menu items include soups, sandwiches,
muffins and refreshments. Did you know that the Light Lunch Service is one of the
Sunshine Club’s biggest fundraisers? When you have lunch with the Light Lunch Service, you are
supporting the entire Club and all its programs and activities. It is a win-win for everyone! Participating
in the Light Lunch is not only delicious and satisfying but it is also a great way to support the Club at the
same time! We hope you join us for lunch!
Woodworking Shop Update – Submitted by Ron Rutter
The woodworking group is looking for new members and volunteers to participate in the
shop. The Sunshine Club has an amazing woodworking shop! We would like to encourage
new members to come out and enjoy our shop. It is a fully equipped woodwork shop and is
open to all members for a nominal fee of $1.00 per visit to help maintain the blades, saws,
hand tools, etc. All members must supply their own wood. We would love to see more
people taking advantage of this facility. If you are interested in woodworking and have
never been to the shop why not pay us a visit! It is a great place to work on your projects
amongst other woodworkers that share your interest. Participants enjoy sharing their
knowledge, exchanging ideas, learning new skills or helping each other troubleshoot on
those more challenging projects. Are you new to woodworking? Don’t let that stop you. Come out to the
shop and start learning. There are always volunteers there willing to help you get started. If you are
interested, drop by our shop any time to check it out. Our hours of operation are:
Mondays and Thursdays 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Tuesdays 9:00 am – 12:00 noon
Please keep in mind that we are all volunteers and if there is no activity we may close up early. The
shop is located in the lounge area of the Industrial Heritage Building (3250 9th Avenue). We hope you
consider joining us!
Pickleball
Pickleball is being played regularly at Glenwood Centre. We have a great turnout each week and we
are proud to say there are many members who are we are really enjoying this wonderful sport. We
hosted our first Fun Tournament in December. Thank you to those who participated. A lot of fun was
had by all! Below are the results:
Mens Women’s Mixed Men’s Mixed Women’s
1 Place:
st
Cal Davies Donna Michaud Rick Willkomm Janine Langford
2nd Place: Jack Colmer Ingrid Bauer Cal Davies Lynne Fridfinnson
3rd Place: Mike Bauer Lynn Fridfinnson Ron Merwin Rinnie Hoekstra
There are five courts at Glenwood and there are nets, paddles and balls for anyone who is interested in
joining us. Pickleball is a great, social game and we have a fun, enthusiastic group. It is a user-friendly
sport and is accessible to people of all abilities. We would love to see new members join our group and
we encourage you to drop-in and join the fun. Beginners are always more than welcome. Don’t worry if
you haven’t played before because we are there to help and you will pick up the game in no time! There
are nets, paddles and balls for anyone who is interested in joining us. We are playing indoors and will
continue to do so during the wet and cold months. The schedule is as follows:
Mondays 7:00 – 9:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 – 11:00 am
Fridays 9:00 – 11:00 am
Please note there will be no pickleball on February 8 or February 18.
Writing Group – Submitted by Marilyn Bueckert
Have you ever wished you could share some stories with your family and with others? Everyone has
many stories inside them and the writing group will encourage and help you get them written. The
group is small, but comfortable. No one is asked to share unless they are comfortable doing that. In the
meantime, come and enjoy hearing the varied submissions from the others. We hope you will join us as
it is a fun way to get some writing done.
Painters Group – Submitted by Rose Windley
The painters continue to enjoy their craft using watercolour paints, watercolour pencils
in addition to acrylic paints. We meet each Monday to work on our latest paintings and
dream of our next great masterpiece.
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Regular Programs Cont.
Table Games – Submitted by Gillian Shearwater
The Table Games group invites you to drop in and join in -- no partner needed! We offer
all kinds of games for fun. Now available on Mondays: Settlers of Catan! Looking for
someone to play your favourite table game? Bring your own game or try any of the games
other members have brought. Selection varies: anything from Backgammon to Scrabble,
Dominoes to Quarto and some you have never seen before. Card games are always on
hand too – Rummy, Phase 10, Euchre and more. Come and join us! We play on
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:00 am – 12:00 noon at Echo Centre in the
Pine Room. For more information, please contact our activity directors, Judy Collins at 250
724-2370 or Diane McGregor at 778 421-4102.
Pottery – Submitted by Alanna Miller
What better time than the new year to reflect on what would make your life richer. If pottery
has been one of those things that you have been thinking about why not give it a try. For all
of us in the pottery room, having this wonderful space to create, absolutely enriches our
lives! We feel so grateful to have such a variety of tools, equipment and glazes at our
fingertips. If you have never done pottery why don't you sign-up for the pottery course through Parks
and Recreation where you will get a wonderful introduction to the world of creating with clay. You'll
have to opportunity to work on the wheel as well as learning hand-building techniques. There is
something for everyone. You are most welcome to visit us downstairs in Pottery Room B any Tuesday
or Friday between 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. We look forward to seeing you.
Table Tennis
Speed up your reflexes and enjoy a game of table tennis with other members. We play on
Tuesdays from 8:45 – 10:45 am, Wednesday evenings from 7:00 – 9:00 pm, and Fridays
10:00 am – 12:00 noon at Echo Centre. Equipment is supplied, but members may bring their
own racquet if they prefer. Both experienced and beginner players are welcome to join.
Volunteer Corner______________________________
New Volunteers Are Always Welcome
Volunteers play a vital role in the success of the Sunshine Club! The Club operates on the generosity
and involvement of our volunteers. I would like to thank all the volunteers who help throughout the year
and express our sincere appreciation for your time, energy and enthusiasm. Volunteers are integral to
the success of the Club. Thank you for your dedication and sharing your time and talents with us.
Volunteering is a great way to feel involved, share your knowledge with others, stay active and
contribute in a meaningful way. We are always looking for new volunteers to join us
and there are many different ways to become involved. If you are interested in
volunteering, please visit the Sunshine Club office (250 720-2505) or contact our
Volunteer Director, Shirley Shanks at 250 724-0666. We will work together to find the
right fit for you. Together, you really do make a difference!
Office Volunteers Meeting
Wednesday, February 6 at 10:00 am in the Hemlock Room
Mark your calendars! The regular office volunteer meeting will be held on Wednesday,
February 6 at 10:00 am in the Hemlock Room. All volunteers who help in the Sunshine Club
office, including spares are encouraged to please attend the monthly meetings to keep up to
date on Club information. Attendance at these monthly meetings is very important to the
operation of the office so we really hope to see you there!
Friendly Phone Service Update – Submitted by Wendy Stanley
Next Meeting: Monday, February 4 at 10:00 am in the Hemlock Room
Just a reminder that our next meeting is on Monday, February 4 at 10:00 am in the Hemlock
room. We are in desperate need of regular volunteers to phone once a week as
we now have two vacancies. Please, if you are able to give some on your time
once a week for an hour to make phone calls, we really need you to join our
team! We ask you to please consider this volunteer opportunity as it makes a
huge difference to the lives of our clients. To our current volunteers, please remember
your used record sheets and to pick up the monthly calendar, master schedule and
blank sheets so everyone will have the most up to date information. We hope to see you
all there! For any information regarding the Friendly Phone Service, phone the Sunshine Club Office at
250 720-2505 or Wendy Stanley at 250 723-5285.
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Volunteer Corner Cont.
Pocket Calendars for Volunteers – Submitted by Karen Freethy
There are still a few left… if you are a Sunshine Club volunteer and you haven’t picked up your 2019
pocket calendars, please feel free to pick one up from the Sunshine Club office. It is a handy pocket
calendar to keep track of all of those important dates, Sunshine Club meetings and events!
Looking for Hikers Group Director
Bob Hunter has stepped down as director for the hikers group. We are looking for a
new director to take on this position so this group can continue their activity. This hiking
group is a wonderful group of people who enjoy meeting for a hike and visit. This is a
fantastic program and participants would really like to see this program continue. We are
looking for a director who has local knowledge of the trails in our surrounding area who
would be willing to lead this group. We are grateful to Bob who has led this program and we
are really hoping we can find someone to fill his hiking boots! If you are interested or
would like to learn more about this role, please call Karen Freethy at 250 720-2509.
Big Buddy Program Update
We are running a wonderful “Big Buddy” program in conjunction with the Museum and a Grade 1 class
from Maquinna Elementary School. We had our first meeting in November and it was a lot of fun!
We will meet three more times from 9:15 – 10:15 am during the following months:
• Wednesday, February 6 at Maquinna School – the boys and girls want to show you
their classroom and do some Valentine’s Day crafts.
• Wednesday, April 10 at the Museum – we’ll celebrate Easter and Spring together
with books, colouring sheets and a simple activity. Big and little buddies will enjoy
refreshments and goodies.
• May meeting date TBA at the Museum – we say farewell to our new friends and celebrate with a
year-end visit. There will be refreshment, goodies, smiles and fun!
February’s Volunteer of the Month - Submitted by Shirley Shanks
Congratulations to Connie Bertossi for being February’s “Volunteer of the Month”. Connie joined our
Club in 2009 and started to volunteer in 2011 with floor curling and the friendly phone service. The
friendly phone program is a great service to our community and we
appreciate Connie’s involvement. We are pleased to present her with a gift
certificate for two for the Light Lunch Service. Thank you Connie for your
service, time and energy to the Club. We appreciate your involvement!
An Update On Our Volunteers - Submitted by Shirley Shanks
My sincere thanks to all the volunteers for all your contributions and your
dedication to our great Club. The Sunshine Club has many wonderful volunteers and there are always
new updates as people retire, change positions or new people join our volunteer group. I would like to
remind directors and volunteers to please keep us updated if there are changes to your current
position. Below are some of our most recent volunteer updates:
♥ Geerry Roe has stepped down from her position as Casino Dinner director
and Ann and Gerry Gagnon have filled her shoes in this position. Thank you
Geerry for your time and efforts on this activity over the years and thank
you to Ann and Gerry for stepping into this position.
Craft and Bake Sale Volunteers Needed
We need help from volunteers to assist with the Craft and Bake Sale promotions. The
event is on Saturday, March 2 but we require some help prior to the event in two areas:
Volunteers for Reminder Phone Calls
Volunteers are needed to phone other members to remind them to bring in crafts, non-perishable food
and baking donations. These phone calls have proven to make a tremendous difference. Our goal is to
phone every member. As there are 1,000 members, this is a big undertaking that we could use some
help with. Volunteers are able to pick up “phoning sheets” to take home with them to
make calls at their convenience. We need your help! If you are able to assist with these
phone calls, please sign up at the Sunshine Club office and we will distribute a phoning
list to you as they become available.
Volunteers to Distribute Posters
Volunteers are also needed to help distribute posters to various locations around town.
If you are able to help, please phone the Sunshine Club office at 250 720-2505 with
your name and phone number. We hope to circulate the posters around the middle of February.
-8-. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Notices
Sunshine Club Office Hours – Come In and Visit Us!
The Sunshine Club office is open regularly on Monday – Thursday from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
and Fridays from 9:00 am – 3:30 pm except for on statutory holidays. Do you have questions
about a trip or an activity or are interested in volunteer opportunities? Come in and see us,
we are always happy to help!
Ring Found In the Sunshine Club Office
There was a ring found on the floor of the Sunshine Club office. It looks like a special family ring
that we are sure someone is missing dearly. If you have lost a ring recently and you think this may
be it, please contact Karen Freethy at Echo Centre. A description of the ring will be requested.
Welcome New Members
Welcome to the Club! We would like to extend a warm “sunshine” welcome to the
following people who have joined our Club recently:
Frank Hastings Carol Hastings Lorne Hilmo Kimberly Smith
Ron Pedersen
Collection of Membership Email Addresses - Submitted by Leslie Wright
Thank you to the many members who have shared their email addresses with us. We expect to begin
using email communication in order to reduce the many phone calls from the Sunshine Club office.
Email is an efficient use of time and it allows for clear communication. We are excited to move in this
direction. If you would like to add your email address to our database for use of Club communication,
please contact the Sunshine Club office. Thank you.
In Case of Snow / Ice and Questionable Road Conditions
Winter is here! We want to advise members that some programs may be cancelled
due to snow or bad, icy weather. Sometimes the director will cancel an activity (especially if it
is a small group and members will call one another to let them know) or sometimes the activity
will still take place for those members who want to “drop in” and take part. If you are feeling
concerned about the weather conditions, we encourage members to stay home. We don’t
want anyone risking injury by falling or getting in an accident when it’s not necessary. If you
are unsure if the program is on or not, please call the Sunshine Club office at 250 720-2505
or phone Echo Centre front desk at 250 723-2181.
Please note: if an activity is continuing to run but you are uncomfortable with the road conditions and
weather, please stay home! We do not want anyone hurt or putting themselves in a dangerous position.
Important note for directors: If you are cancelling your activity, please be sure to call the receptionist
at Echo Centre (250 723-2181) as soon as possible and let her know so she can cancel the room and
let the maintenance know. Otherwise, the Sunshine Club pays for the room bookings if they are not
cancelled. Also let the Sunshine Club office know if the program is cancelled.
Community Notices____________________________
Seniors’ Directory – An Excellent Resource!
The Sunshine Club produces a directory of information pertinent to seniors. This
is an excellent resource for seniors! It provides information and references in
regards to the following topics: community care services, cultural groups,
death and bereavement, education, financial assistance and funding, federal
tax services, housing benefits and subsidies, pensions, government
representatives, health care and preventative services, government services,
legal resources, meal services, recreation, safety, senior housing, service groups,
support groups, transportation and more. It is extremely useful and the updated version is
available now at the Sunshine Club office for only $5.
2019 Island Lifestyles Coupon Books Are Available
The Island Lifestyle Coupon Books are now available! These books are full of great coupons,
discounts and deals to a wide variety of restaurants, retail stores, golf courses and
much more. It is also a fundraiser for the Sunshine Club! Each book costs $27 (price
includes tax). These books are available to purchase from the Sunshine Club office or
Echo front desk. Buying a book gives you an opportunity to save hundreds of dollars
and it is also a great way to support the Sunshine Club! If you would like to have a look
at a book or have any further questions please drop by the Sunshine Club office.
Cheques should be made payable to “Echo Sunshine Club”. Thank you for your support!
-9-. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Community Notices Cont.
Sunshine Club Newsletter is Available Online
We would like to remind everyone that the Sunshine Club newsletter is available online and can be
accessed at www.portalberni.ca. First go to ‘Parks, Recreation and Heritage’. Once that screen is
open, then click on “Echo Sunshine Club”. Click on the newsletter link and you can access the
newsletter from your computer. The newsletter and the calendar of events are posted each month.
March Newsletter Deadline
The deadline for submissions for the March newsletter is February 1. Submissions can be
dropped off at the Sunshine Club office to be put in the “Newsletter File” or contact Karen at
250 720-2509 or email: Karen_Freethy@portalberni.ca. The March newsletter will be ready to
be picked up at Echo Centre on Tuesday, February 19.
55+ BC Games Update – Submitted by Barb Sheare
The 55+ BC Games are in Kelowna from September 10 – 14 this year. The website is being updated
continuously. You can check it for the name of the coordinator and contact information for your favorite
sport and updates regarding qualification deadlines and rules. We are looking forward to a large
contingent of participants from Zone 2 at the Games. Join us! It is a lot of fun!!! For additional
information contact Barb Sheare, Area 3 Rep at shearepin@telus.net or 250-724-0364.
The Barkley Sounds Community Choir – Submitted by Marilyn Kapchinsky
We are starting our Spring session. We meet at the Alberni Valley United Church every Wednesday
from 6:45 pm to 9:00 pm. Our Spring Concert is scheduled for May 5. New members are welcome. No
audition is required. Singing in a Choir is very beneficial for health and well-being. The Barkley
Sounders love to sing and laugh. Join us and find out for yourselves! For more information, please call
Sylvia at 250 723-7185 or Tam at 250 724-4694 or visit our website at www.barkleysounds.ca.
Alberni District Historical Society – Submitted by Judy Carlson
We welcome anyone with a question about our local history to stop by and make use of our
resources. We have maps, newspapers, diaries, log books, minute books, personal recollections and
many other resources, but we are always looking for more that will add to the picture of our collective
past. We are open from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We will be hosting our next
public meeting in March. More details regarding that meeting will be in the March newsletter.
Canadian Council of the Blind, Alberni Chapter – Submitted by Jean Kanngiesser
The Canadian Council of The Blind (CCB) is a support group for the visually impaired and blind. We
meet on the first Wednesday of each month in the basement meeting room of Abbeyfield. Those who
are blind or who have a visual impairment, relatives and friends are welcome. The
coffee pot will be on. For further information call Jean Kanngiesser at 250 724-
1282, President Alberni Valley Chapter Canadian Council of the Blind.
Parkinson’s Support Group – Submitted by Linda Nicklin
Why join a Support Group. The title says it all “SUPPORT”. When you join a
Support Group, you may be nervous about sharing personal issues with people
you do not know. At first, you may benefit from simply listening. You are welcome to bring a spouse or
friend for that extra confidence. It is a social coffee time with guest speakers and time to visit. For more
information contact Linda 250 723-3755 or Jan 250 723-8230.
Jane Austen Event – Submitted by Gillian Shearwater
To all Jane Austen fans – ladies and gentlemen! All, are invited to enjoy a day full of Janeite activities,
including a workshop, lunch, a movie, discussion and tea! This event will be held on Saturday, February
23 between 10:00 am – 3:00 pm at the Port Alberni Youth Centre (4272 Cedarwood, off 10th Ave). The
cost for non-members is $5 and for members free with donation for the room rental We will start with a
general meeting for member, followed by a Turbans & Trims Workshop. This workshop is by
reservation only (limit: 16). You must register before February 16 by contacting Tricia at
jasna.cvi.bc.ca@gmail.com or Linda at lstclaire@shaw.ca Bring hat crowns, scarves, fabric, trims, etc.
Following the workshop will be lunch and the movie, “Northanger Abbey”. Please bring a lunch and
nibble to share. Lastly, participants will enjoy a discussion and tea. We hope you join us!
Heritage Place is Looking for Volunteers
Would you like to volunteer to read books to the tenants of Heritage Place? We are
looking for a volunteer to read chapter books to a group of our visually impaired
Seniors once a week. Days available are in the afternoons on Mondays, Fridays
and Saturdays. If you are interested, please contact Susan, Activities Coordinator
for Heritage Place at 250 723-0480 or 250 540-7129.
- 10 -. . . . . . .Community Notices Cont./Bus Trips
Volunteers Needed at Fir Park Village & Echo Village
We are seeking volunteers. There are many opportunities available such as specific program
volunteers, one-on-one visitors, bus drivers (class 4, unrestricted), and/or store volunteers. We are
very flexible with volunteer schedule times. If you have a bit of spare time and wish to share it with us,
please call 250 724-6541, extension 253 or email sjhaj@acccs.ca.
Parks and Recreation Fitness Programs
A reminder that the Parks and Recreation Winter Leisure Guide is out. It is full of fantastic fitness
programs to keep you healthy and strong. There are a wide variety of programs available for all levels
of fitness. From Fit Beginnings, Chair Yoga and Boot Camps, Aerobics and more. Full program
descriptions and information about dates, times and cost, please either visit the City’s website at
www.portalberni.ca or pick up a guide from the lobby at Echo Centre.
Reminder to Pay for Your Newsletter Postage
If you would like to have the monthly newsletter mailed to you each month please contact the
Sunshine Club to set it up. Please bring in cash or cheque to the Sunshine Club office. The
cost of receiving a newsletter starting in February is $13 annually. If you are interested, drop by
the Club office so we can process your request and add your name to the mailing list.
Rollin Art Centre News – Submitted by Melissa Martin
Gallery Exhibits: please contact the Rollin Art Centre for the gallery artist schedule
Book Donations
What better way to help the Rollin Art Centre by donating all your gently used books for their annual
book sale in May. Starting in February, please drop off all your gently used books, puzzles, DVD’s and
CD’s, in the wooden book bin under the stairs (no magazines, reader’s digest, text books).
Community Colouring Books
We have community colouring books!. This book, "Discovering the Valley” is filled with many landmarks
of this amazing valley, all drawn by local artists. The cost is only $20. Pick up your copy today!
Support Local Artists & Purchase your Annual Membership
Memberships play a crucial part to the sustainability of the Community Arts Council and the Rollin Art
Centre, which in turn offers support to local artists. Support local artists and purchase your
membership. The annual memberships are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, and $22 for a family.
Gallery hours are Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, located at 3061 - 8th Avenue. Admission is
by donation. Phone: 250 724-3412, www.portalberniarts.com, http://www.facebook.com/rollinartcentre.
Bus Trips ____________________________________
Upcoming Trips
If you are interested in the following trips and would like to sign up or learn more about it, please phone
the Sunshine Club office at 250 720-2505.
Elegant Ireland – Collette Travel
Trip Date: April 11 - 22, 2019
Cost: Single: $6,724 Double: $5,309
**There is still room to take part in this trip to Ireland!! This is a great trip geared for seniors with
many choices of outings! Visit Cathy Ferster at Twin Travel for the details!
Costs include round trip air from Vancouver, hotel transfers & 12 meals (Not included - insurance, flight
from Victoria) *Reminder – payment for this trip is due at Twin Travel. We are looking forward to a great
trip! We will start off with 3 days in Dublin. Highlights include Irish Night, Kilkenny, Castlemartyr Resort,
Killarney, cliffs of Moher. Choose to take planned tours or explore some of the sights independently.
The Sound of Music – Chemainus Theatre
Trip Date: February 17, 2019
Cost $120
Departure time: 10:15 am
Arrive home: 6:30 pm
Payment date: upon registration
Start with a delicious buffet lunch in the upstairs dining room, browse the gift shop or take a walk down
Main Street. Then come back to the theatre for a live production of the story of the Von Trapp family
singers. Watch Captain Von Trapp and governess Maria as they fall in love in the frightening times of
WWII.
- 11 -Karen’s Korner_______________________________
February’s Challenge
Happy February everyone! I hope you enjoy! Find the words in the list hidden in the puzzle below.
January’s Challenge Answers
1) What occurs once in a minute, twice in a moment and never in a thousand years? The letter M
2) I’m tall when I’m young and short when I am old. What am I? A Candle
3) If I have it, I don’t share it. If I share it, I don’t have it. What is it? A Secret
4) What can you catch but cannot throw? A cold
5) What has an eye but cannot see? A Needle
6) What gets broken without being held? A Promise
7) What is always coming but never arrives? Tomorrow
8) What goes through towns and over hills but never moves? A Road
9) What has 88 keys but can’t open a single door? A Piano
10) The more it dries, the wetter it becomes. What is it? A Towel
11) What is the next in this sequence: JFMAMJJASON_? D. The sequence is the first letter of each month
- 12 -- 13 -
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