How thrilling it is to be outdoors in this spring-like weather; soak in the sun and listen to bird’s songs. I’m sure I heard a magpie. Are there magpies in this area? Flocks of geese can be heard as they communicate with one another. It’s so good to be able to hear and see spring: the green shoots in the flower bed and the bright coloured ‘garage sale’ signs popping up all over town. News of the arrival of calves on a friend’s farm reminds me that this, for them, is a particularly busy and rewarding time of the year.
Bouchie Lake
Seniors Luncheon
On March 18 about 200 appreciative seniors filed into Bouchie Lake Hall for the annual Seniors Luncheon, bringing donations of non-perishable groceries for the Food Bank. It was made possible by Pat Klassen, one of the founding members, who has been organizing the event for 31 years, Geraldine Johnson, who only missed one of those years, as well as Gloria Kolenchuk and other volunteers of the Bouchie Lake Recreation Commission. There were 20 volunteers involved in preparation and serving including Brownies. Twelve volunteers helped set up for the dinner the day before.
Music by the Windy Reeds Harmonicas set the mood as old friends were sought out prior to the luncheon. It was such a great opportunity to socialize and catch up. Campfire Singers rendered some old familiar songs with assistance from voices in the audience.
In giving thanks for the food, Salvation Army Lieutenant Stefan Van Schaick also thanked the seniors for their donations to the Food Bank. He was really moved by their generosity.
Following the delicious roast beef dinner, Kerry LeMarsh and his son Denver provided lively guitar-vocal music.
Open House
The Quesnel Visually Impaired Society (QVIS) is holding an Open House May 13, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Seniors Activity Centre. President Deniece Furber advises that representatives from Prince George will be in attendance with various devices to demonstrate and help those with impaired vision. She can be reached at 250-992-5078 for information.
The QVIS meet at the Seniors Centre the second Monday of the month. In the event of a holiday on Monday, they meet the third Monday. No meetings during summer.
Further on lack of sight
Hearing and eyesight is often diminished as we get older. Sometimes we take these senses for granted. The Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB) claims to be the Voice of the Blind for Canada in Ottawa. Based on belief in ability, not disability, they are a vibrant network of people with vision loss who are active in local chapters across Canada.
They provide community networking/individual mentoring; advocacy; public awareness; recreational and social activities; health and prevention programs; knowledge and education opportunities. All members of the National Board of Directors are people with vision loss. Opportunities are available to participate in governance at local, regional and nation levels. Membership provides inclusion, purpose, fellowship and social interaction with peers who understand and support each person’s unique strengths and abilities. For further information call toll free 1-877-304-0968; E-mail ccb@ccbnational.net.
Ruth Scoullar is a seniors’ advocate and regular Observer contributor.