The 55+ Social Line Dance group recently had their annual dinner/Christmas party on November 28 at the Joyful Seafood Restaurant in Burnaby.  A total of 50 members came for this event. We also had the honour of Louise Kowalenko, our 55+ Board of Directors liaison, coming to join us and Louise was so generous to have brought along two huge prizes for our lucky draw.

The evening’s atmosphere was jovial with laughter and boisterous conversations.  Two of our members, Mabel and Jane surprised us with their karaoke prowess. Their singing skills rivaled that of a professional if not better.  Everybody had a wonderful time. One member even commented that she has never had this much fun in years, everyone seemed like family.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who is involved with our program, the Board of Directors, the staff, the volunteers and no less all the members for their support without which this would not have been possible.

Have yourself a marvellous holiday season and a magnificent new year!

At 9:00am, Monday, September 30, the Bonsor 55+ Board boarded our bus for a trip to Mayne Island in the Gulf Islands arranged by Paolo (staff) and Ernie our energetic and capable President who drove the bus for the day. This trip was a chance for board members to get to know each other on a more personal level as compared to the more business-like connection at Board Meetings.

The weather was perfect and the sea was calm. After docking at Village Bay on Mayne Island we proceeded to one of the sightseeing stops - the lighthouse. There we wandered, enjoyed the view, took photos and saw a whale breaching in the distance.

After a suitable time enjoying the fresh sea air we travelled to the Bennett Bay Bistro where we enjoyed some appies and some delicious food. Everyone was very impressed, not only with the menu’s variety, but also the presentation and quality of the food. Service was excellent!!

Next we drove to see the tranquil Japanese Gardens near Dinner Bay dedicated to the memory and legacy of the Mayne Island’s Japanese-Canadian community who were interned at New Denver for the duration of World War 2. When that time was up we headed back to the ferry for the return trip to Burnaby. Again a calm and peaceful crossing. We arrived back at Bonsor about 7:30 PM after enjoying a wonderful, worthwhile day together.

Freda Jenkins

What an enjoyable trip it has been!  From Sunshine Coast to Vancouver Island, we traveled all the way to the end of Highway 101, the historic village of Lund to Coombs, a bustling town with interesting unique shops among other things such as the live amusing goats on roof.  Along the way, we visited different places, all with its distinct flavour and history.  And so, after 4 days in each other’s company, friendship forged, experience enriched and memorable moments etched on the photographs.

Brett, thank you for organizing and planning all the details of our trip; Monica, thank you for coordinating and taking care of the paperwork; and Wing, thanks to taking us everywhere safely and minding the van.  Much appreciated and heartfelt thank you to the Bonsor Bus Committee!

Submitted by Stella Au
Tour Participant
October 1, 2019
 

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The Bonsor 55+ Sing-a-long started about 20 years ago.  We sing beautiful songs from the 1950s, 60s, classicals and famous Broadway musicals.  We have a musical team consisting of a pianist, two guitarists, two drummers, two song leaders plus two volunteers who prepare coffee and snacks.  We use a large mirrored room on the second floor of Bonsor Complex where you can dance with some of the music.

Each member is made available a song book with lyrics. You have 2 opportunities to sing a solo, duet, play an instrument or dance at each session.

We celebrate Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day,  Remembrance Day, Christmas, etc. We collect 50 cents for coffee or tea. Some members bring snacks, food and donate flowers.

From the feedback we received, our members enjoy the sessions very much. We grew from 25 members 4 years ago to about 45 members and our membership is still growing. Membership is free, but you must be a member of the Bonsor 55+ Society.

We meet every other Thursday from 12:45 to 2:45pm at the Bonsor Recreation Complex main building, multi-use rooms 1&2 (upstairs).

You are very welcome to join us for the nice music and have fun!