SSAC Echo

SEASHELL

ECHO

MARCH 2026

The Mission of the Sechelt Seniors Activity

Centre Society is to support and enhance the

lives of our members, by providing mental and

physical stimulation and social experiences.

1

4

6

10

12

19

20

In this Issue

A History of Feeding

Our Spirit

British Invasion Shindig

Volunteer of the Month

From the Executive Director

Food For Thought

Lunch Menu

Pickleball Schedule

Activity Schedule

SECHELT SENIORS ACTIVITY CENTRE NEWS

A History of

Feeding Our Spirit

BY RICHARD WARD

There is a simple reason the Sechelt Seniors Activity

Centre exists and that is “community.” As the years

advance, many people find their circles growing smaller.

Friends move away, one’s mobility worsens, and isolation

can quietly creep in. Seniors Activity Centres were born

out of that reality, to ensure that no one need face those years alone.

Here in Sechelt, activities, dances, and food have become far more

than programming. They are lifelines of connection.

One of the most joyful expressions of that spirit can be found on

the dance floor. Thanks to the dedication of Jay Alexov and her

hardworking team, the Centre now boasts a thriving schedule

of monthly dances. The vintage music evenings are especially

meaningful. Watching members step onto the floor to tunes from their

youth, smiling and laughing, is to witness memory and community

intertwined. These dances are not simply events; they are celebrations

of lived history.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

5604 Trail Avenue, Sechelt, BC

PO Box 564, V0N 3A0

Office: 604.885.3513

Manager: 604.885.8910

Office Hours:

Mon–Fri, 9 am–2:45 pm

Except Holidays

info@myssac.com

www.myssac.com

SEASHELL ECHO | SECHELT SENIORS ACTIVITY CENTRE NEWS

March 2026

SEASHELL

ECHO

MARCH 2026

Seashell Echo

is the official newsletter

of the Sechelt Seniors

Activity Centre

A History of . . .

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

CENTRE INFORMATION

2024-2025 Board Members

President: Richard Ward

Vice President: Mark Garland

Treasurer: Alison Kowalewski

Secretary: Valerie Galat

2024-2025 Directors at Large

Jay Alexov

Andre Casaubon

Mark Patterson

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS

Emergency 911

Sechelt Hospital 604.885.2224

SC Community Services 604.885.5881

Senior’s Advocate 877.952.3181

(www.seniorsadvocatebc.ca)

Seniors Crisis Line 604.872.1234

Seniors Abuse and Information Line 1.866.437.1940

Community Information and Help Line 211

Healthlink BC 811

Community Resource Centre 604.885.4088

Sunshine Coast Transit 604.885.6899

HandyDART 604.885.6897

VCH - Adult Mental Health 604.924.8370

Many thanks to the following sponsors

for contributing to our weekly ad in the

Coast Reporter. When out exercising your

consumer vote, it is always good to be aware of

those businesses that help our community to

remain strong and vibrant.

SOUTH COAST

1979

Gail Riddell

Birgit Stefani

Jeff Weeks

Executive Director: Vicki Raw

Manager of Operations & Engagement: Gillian Smith

Front Desk Administrator: Heather Doré

Chefs: Emily McPherson, Liz Mathews, Jackie Coombs

Custodian: Jim Coffin

If music feeds the soul, food feeds both body and fellowship.

Today, our food services are among the most significant

contributions the Centre makes to the wider community.

While much has been written about the frozen meal program,

the daily hot lunches deserve equal recognition. Affordable,

welcoming, and dependable, these meals provide nourishment

alongside companionship. Each month, when the new edition

of the ECHO is released, many members turn first to the

calendar page listing daily hot entrées. For some, lunch at the

Centre is part of their weekly rhythm, and the ever-popular

$10 Fish & Chip Friday has become a cherished tradition.

The foundation for this remarkable service was laid when

our current building was completed in late 1992. For the first

time, a proper kitchen made regular meal service possible. In

early 1993, the kitchen was leased on a three-month trial to a

private operator on a small percentage basis. The arrangement

was not successful, and the responsibility for food service

returned to the Centre. A call went out for volunteers, and our

long, proud history of volunteer-driven food service began.

What started in 1993 as a modest daily soup and sandwich

offering has steadily grown into the comprehensive program

we know today.

A major chapter in that growth began in February 2012, when

Emily McPherson joined the team. That month marked the

departure of the Centre’s chef, who happened to be Emily’s

aunt, Kathleen Davis. Hearing of the opening from her mother,

Emily applied, but her hiring was far from guaranteed. She was

one of twenty candidates interviewed by a four-person panel.

When she was selected, it proved to be a pivotal decision for

the Centre.

This February, Emily celebrated her 14 th anniversary with

us. In 2013, in response to members concerned about a twomonth

summer closure, she launched what has since become

a substantial frozen meal program. It began humbly, with just

four recipes priced at $5 each, not far from today’s $6 and

$8 offerings. From those modest beginnings, the program

expanded to meet a growing and vital need within the

community. While Emily rightly receives widespread praise

for the quality and variety of meals produced in our kitchen,

she is quick to acknowledge the team around her. Volunteers

2

| March 2026


A History of . . .

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

have given countless hours in support of food

services; some have been with us longer than Emily

herself, including Derrick Pye, Sahra Hailey, Barb

Christie, and Irene Jankovits. Although the workforce

now includes chef Jackie Coombs and assistant Liz

Mathews, volunteer contributions form the backbone

of the program’s success.

Where Flavours Meet Artistry

Experience unforgettable dining with fresh,

local flavours and uninterrupted harbour views.

Open starting March 10 . Tuesday to Saturday . 5pm–9pm

Call 604.883.3000 for reservations

12849 Lagoon Road, Madeira Park, Pender Harbour, BC

paintedboat.com

Make it Beautiful

Chef Emily McPherson

The work is demanding, but for Emily it is deeply

rewarding. She often speaks of the kindness, caring,

and appreciation she experiences daily at the Centre.

Above all, she says she continues in her role “because

I feel like I’m contributing to my community. It just

warms my heart so much that we’re filling such a

big need.” In many ways, that sentiment captures

the history of the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre

itself. From abundant activities to dances that

rekindle cherished memories to meals that nourish

both body and belonging, the Centre stands as a

testament to what can be accomplished when a

community recognizes a need, and chooses to meet

the challenges. .

2040 Porter Road, Roberts Creek 604-886-1371

Thursdays through Sundays 12 - 4 pm bruinwood.com

SEASHELL ECHO | SECHELT SENIORS ACTIVITY CENTRE NEWS March 2026 | 3

SSAC Dance

British Invasion Shindig!

The dance Saturday night with the Mitch

Lazer Quartet was sold out and everyone

had a cracking good time and a top notch

evening. The dance floor was packed all

night. Thanks to Mitch, Bruce, Peter and

Eddy for giving it your all!

Holly Bruno won the 50/50 draw and took home a

prize of $87.50.

There were 3 door prizes - one was a $50 gift certificate

for Little Brit of Heaven, won by Eva K. - thanks so

much to Rachel for this generous gift, 2 tickets to the

Company B dance/concert, and 2 tickets to the line

dance workshop and Blue Western Dance on the 28 th of

March - winners were Chris Tingle and Violette Clark.

Congratulations to all the winners.

Company B Concert/Dance - March 21 st - 2:00 pm to

5:00 pm. Tickets $35 in advance or $40 at the door.

Included with your ticket price are English style

snacks and the bar will be open to purchase both

alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks. Drink specials will

be Mimosas, Cosmopolitans, Baileys coffees and Monte

Cristo coffees.

Are you available to make sandwiches for the Company

B event on March 21 st ? Jay is looking for people to help

out in the morning of the 21 st . Please contact Jay or

Vicky if you can lend a hand.

If you would like more information about Company B,

please check out their website companybjazz.com or

jazzlives.wordpress.com.

Line Dance Workshop/Blue Western Dance - March

28 th . Tickets for the dance will be $15 or $20 at the

door. If you are coming to the workshop please bring

$5 cash.

Doors open at 5:00 pm. with the workshop starting at

5:30 pm. The dance with Blue Western starts at 7:00

pm and the doors will not be open until 6:30 pm if

you are only coming to the dance. The bar will be

open from 5:00 pm til 9:30 pm.

Tickets are available now for both these events so

hurry and get yours before they sell out!

Thanks so much to all the volunteers for all the help

to organize, set up, tend bar, decorate, do snacks, clear

tables, wash and iron table cloths, take everything

down again and put it away. All of you are very much

appreciated. .

- Jay, Ann, and the Dance Committee

4

| March 2026



Volunteer of the Month

Jurgen Kowalewski

Creative Crafts

March 2

March 9

March 16

March 23

March 30

Nicol - Origami vases

Nina - Tiny Book Pendant

Lesley (guest instructor)

Leprechaun Mushrooms

Ruth - Quilling

Nina - Victorian Puzzle Purse

Get creative with us! Drop by the Lunch Room

every Monday from 2–4 pm and enjoy a fun,

welcoming space to make art.

We are proud to recognize Jurgen

for his dedicated leadership of

our Community Frozen Food

Program.

With efficiency he organizes the

distribution of nutritious frozen meals to seniors

and community members from Halfmoon Bay to

Madeira Park to Pender Harbour and Egmont.

On average 80 meals are delivered to the Gibsons

Senior Society and 80 meals to the Upper Sunshine

Coast every two weeks.

Through his commitment and care not only is

food brought to the table but also comfort and

connection to those we serve.

The SSAC Board and Membership value and thank

you for a job well done. .

6

| March 2026


SSAC AuditoriuM

5604 Trail Ave, Sechelt

March

28 th

7:00 to 10:00

doors will NOT open

before 6:30 pm

$15 in Advance

$20 at the Door

Bar Open 5 – 9:30pm

Beer, Wine, Cider

& Non-Alcoholic

BONUS

50/50

Tickets available at

SSAC Front Desk

Or

$5 Cash

5:30pm

Doors open at 5pm

led by Jay Alexov, Collene Sand and Krystyna Wisniewska

SAY HELLO TO

SPRING AT JOE'S

RESERVE ONLINE OR CALL

joesonthebeach.com . 778.949.7013

VISIT OUR SECOND

LOCATION IN GIBSONS

joescabin.com . 604.318.6510

SSAC Auditorium

5604 Trail Ave, Sechelt

Afternoon Tea

With

Company B

Sat March 21 st

2:30 – 5pm

Doors open 2pm

S E N I O R & C A R E G I V E R S U P P O R T

C O F F E E A N D

C O N V E R S A T I O N

Mondays | 9:30 - 10:30am

Tuesdays | 11:30am - 1pm

N U R S E N E X T D O O R

I N F O S E S S I O N

Tues, March 10 | 1 - 2pm

Dance / Concert

$35 in advance, $40 at the door

includes English style tea snacks

Available at: SSAC Front Desk, or

50/50 draw

Beer, Wine & Cider Bar

C A R E G I V E R S U P P O R T

G R O U P M E E T I N G

Thurs, March 12 | 1 - 2pm

C O M M U N I T Y P A R A M E D I C

Tues, March 24 | 11:30am - 1pm

Location: Seniors Gathering Place, Resource

Centre, 5674 Cowrie Street, Sechelt


GOLD

SILVER

Buyer

&

Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre

Thursdays 9-noon

Jewellery • Watches • Coins

Nuggets • Bars • Diamonds

Silverware, etc...

FREE APPRAISALS

For in-home appointments

Call: 604-740-6474

GOOD AS

CASH!

A reminder to all our members to

continue to drop off Claytons grocery

receipts. Don’t throw those receipts

away! They are as good as cash

for the SSAC.

FREE LEGAL AID

CLINIC

Every Tuesday

10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Lawyer Robert Hart provides FREE

weekly 30-min.legal aid consultations

(not criminal or ICBC matters). Book

your appointment at the front desk.

FREE HEARING

AID CLEANING

Friday, March 20

12:30 am to 2:00pm

Anchor Hearing provides hearing

aid cleaning at the lounge

SENIORS

COMMUNITY

CONNECTOR

Friday, March 13

Meet Courtney from the Resource

Centre and learn more about

how they support seniors achieve

personal health and wellness goals.

8

| March 2026


Friendship Tea

March 19 - 2 pm

Join us for treats and good

company. Friendship Tea is held

every month on the third Thursday

from 2 to 4 pm. It’s free!

Pickleball Adventure to Alaska!

July 7, 2026 • 7-Night Alaska Cruise on the Koningsdam

Exclusive Court Times for

Sunshine Coast Pickeball Players

Mini Tournament & Prizes!

No Flights Required!

Inside Cabin: $1,719 CAD pp

Outside Cabin: $2,514 CAD pp

Balcony Cabin: $3,116 CAD pp

Suite:

$4,022 CAD pp

All Taxes & Port Fees Included!

Anar Kanji | 604 809 2627 | Anar.kanji@travelmasters.ca

Free Tax Clinics

Get your benefits & credits

Volunteer Income Tax Program

March 1 to April 30, 2026

It is a free service for eligible clients

The best medicine is local.

Tuesday, March 3 rd , 2026

(Doors 1:00) 2:00—3:30pm

Raven’s Cry Theatre, Sechelt

Emergency Preparedness

on the Sunshine Coast

What to Do When the Unexpected Happens

Earthquake • Wildfire • Evacuation • Highway Closure

Join us for an important community conversation on emergency

planning and response for the Coast. Learn what happens behind

the scenes in an emergency and how you should prepare.

Income limits: Individual $55,000; Family $65,000 for two,

plus $5,000 for each additional dependant. Couples must

provide complete tax information for both spouses.

The program does not serve clients with employment

expenses, self-employment income, rental property income,

or capital gains. Interest income must be less than $1000.

In-Person Tax Clinic at the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre

Tuesdays 10am to 3pm - By appointment only

Call 604-616-7041 to make your appointment

Featuring:

SCRD Protective Services

Sunshine Coast Emergency Program

Sechelt Fire Department

Sunshine Coast RCMP

BC Emergency Health Services

Sechelt | shíshálh Hospital, VCH

Please RSVP by phone or email:

604-885-8637 | sh.foundation@vch.ca

www.sechelthospitalfoundation.org


From the Executive Director

A Fresh Season

of Connection

and Gratitude

Spring is just around the corner, and so

is our Annual General Meeting! We look

forward to seeing you on March 25 at 1:30

pm here at the Centre. We will be sharing

highlights from 2025 along with current

plans for our 40 th Anniversary celebrations which

are scheduled to take place throughout 2026.

It’s also your opportunity to participate in the

election of new Directors and the process of

amending our Bylaws. The proposed changes will

not only clarify some of the existing language but

also help facilitate our transition from a working

Board model to one of governance. One item up for

consideration is the removal of the section that states

we must hold a second meeting of the members in

the fall of each year. Please watch for the full list

of proposed resolutions which will be shared with

members in early March by email, and be posted at

the Centre, advertised in the local paper and available

at the front desk.

Want to help our Centre continue to meet the needs

of our members and our community? Consider

joining our governance Board of Directors. There’s

still time to be included on the election ballot.

Nomination Forms are available at the front desk. All

names submitted by February 28 will be included

with the notice and AGM packages; however,

nominations will still be accepted until March 23

(2 days before the AGM).

As we march towards spring, it is the perfect time

to reconnect with friends and try something new.

Perhaps it’s time to participate in one of the activities

here at the Centre that you haven’t tried before,

attend a dance, sign-up to volunteer in the kitchen or

to sell 50/50 tickets out in the community. All great

ways to shake off the winter blues, feed your mind

and body, and expand your circle of friends!

Here’s to fresh beginnings, blooming friendships, the

joy of community and brighter days ahead! .

10

| March 2026


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CARES

Have Your

Say!

Recreation, parks and culture - what’s

most important to you?

Sit down with a coffee and sweet treat, and chat

with us to help make a plan that will guide parks,

rec and cultural projects in Sechelt.

Learn More

March 4 from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Wheùe? Sechelt Activity Centre

Holistic In-Home Nursing & Care Services

Maintain your independence &

dignity in the comfort of your

own home

HOME CARE SERVICES FOR SENIORS:

Personal care and hygiene tasks

Errands, shopping, and daily task support

Meal preparation & light housework

Respite for caregivers

Medication management & nursing care

Palliative & dementia care

Providing comfort & companionship to

seniors

BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registered Employer

CONTACT US - Your 1st visit is free

1-888-383-4569 Info@CoastCare.ca

Asking for help isn’t giving up, it’s GETTING UP!

www.CoastCare.ca


Food For Thought

Emeritus Professor

Lecture Series

Returning by popular demand! Our

January talk on democracy by Dr. David

NEW!!!

Laycock was very well received, but there

just wasn’t time to learn enough about

the topic.

E-TRANSFER

We are happy to announce that David is returning for

our March talk, his talk will focus on 6 key criteria for

democratic assessment, as Canadians face notable

challenges to our democratic self- governance. This

talk will interest both those who attended last time,

and those who did not!

TAKING DEMOCRACY

SERIOUSLY IN CANADA AND

THE USA

Wednesday, March 18, 2 pm

No pre-registration necessary

The lectures are held on the third Wednesday of each

month at 2:00 pm in the Lunch Room of the Seniors

Activity Centre - free, open to drop-ins, and do not

require SSAC membership. Donations are gratefully

accepted in support of our subsidized lunch program.

AD YOUR WALLET

OUR MEMBERSHIP

NEW!!!

Now you can e-transfer funds to etransfer@myssac.com

to load your SSAC Wallet or renew your SSAC Membership!

NEW!!!

E-TRANSFER

NEW!!!

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E-TRANSFER

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LOAD YOUR WALLET

RENEW Now you can YOUR e-transfer MEMBERSHIP

funds to E-TRANSFER

etransfer@myssac.com

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toload your SSAC Wallet or renew your SSAC Membership!

L E T

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RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP

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to load your SSAC Wallet or renew your SSAC Membership!

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Include your MEMBERSHIP TAG # and the word WALLET in

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OTE: Please allow 2 business days for your record and/or

y o u r a c c o u n t i s p r o p e r l y c r e d i t e d :

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12 | March 2026

y o u r a c c o u n t i s p r o p e r l y c r e d i t e d :

Y O U R M E M B E R S H I P

Emeritus Professors

Lecture Series

Dr. Neil Guppy

Wednesday

April 15, 2pm

Dr. David Laycock

Wednesday

March 18, 2pm

No pre-registration necessary.

Entrance by donation to the Affordable Lunch Program.

Seating is limited. SSAC Membeship not required.


Personalized

Compassionate

Home Care Services

Personal care • Respite care

Companionship • Overnight care

Meal preparation • Palliative care

Post operative care

Shopping and transportation

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Offering local and independent

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Estate & Legacy Management

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INVESTMENT ADVISOR

604-988-0958

admin@presmanwealth.com

109-5725 Teredo St., Sechelt

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SSAC Kitchen

Volunteers

North Shore Nursing

Sunshine Coast Regional District

North Vancouver | Gibsons | Sechelt

Halfmoon Bay | Madeira Park

Preppers . Servers . Dishwashers

To volunteer, give your information

at the front desk or email

info@myssac.com

604-779-1170

Your Home, Your Care!

24 Hour Nursing Care

Alzheimer's &

Dementia Care

Home Support

Companionship

Wound Care

Respite Care

Grocery Shopping

Meal Preparation

Much, Much, More!

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FEBRUARY

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$6,298

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MARCH DRAW

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Proceeds go directly to support Seniors

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Problem Gambling Help Line 1-888-795-6111 19+

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Know your limit, play within it

14

| March 2026


Remember to check into the

kiosk when entering the Centre,

when volunteering, dining, or

joining activities.

Thru 2025 and with grant funding,

Dial A Dog has proudly provided 1649

hours supporting Coastal seniors.

dialadog.ca 778 549-8664


In

M

emoriam

Norman Royce Curry

May 20, 1939 - January 1, 2026

Norman Royce Curry

passed away peacefully in

Sechelt, BC on January 1 st

at the age of 86. A proud

and loving father of Daxton,

Scott, Samantha, Lisa and

grandfather of Amelia, Olivia,

Brooke and Kaleb. He was

the eldest son of the Curry

family from Rotorua, New

Zealand. He was predeceased

by his parents Joseph (Joe)

and Doris (nee Black) Curry, brother Joseph Colin

and Janice Gail and half-sister Gillian in the UK. He is

survived by sister Barbara, brothers’ Ian and Bruce.

Royce was married twice, first to Susan and then to

Eva.

Royce was a talented entrepreneur who invented and

solved everyday engineering problems during a long

and successful career designing and adapting heavy

machinery to perform more efficiently and safely.

Musically talented playing several instruments and

artistic in his approach, he continued to design selfsteering

bogies for the North American market well into

his retirement and retained his passion for this work.

Royce will be greatly missed and mourned by his

children, grandchildren, brothers and sister in Canada

and New Zealand. Forever remembered as a largerthan-life

uncle by many nieces and nephews in the UK,

NZ and Australia. Royce was appreciative of his friends

in Sechelt and they became very important to him as

he enjoyed meaningful friendships and a shared faith.

Royce, adventurer, eternal optimist, lover of life, friend,

brother, uncle, devoted dad and loving grandpa - Rest in

peace.

A celebration of life will be held at the Calvary Chapel

in Sechelt ( date TBD).

William "Bill" Rawson

October 12, 1939 - February 5, 2026

The family of William ‘Bill’

Rawson solemnly announces

his death on Thursday, the

5 th of February, 2026, at the

age of 86. He passed away

peacefully in his home, with

his family by his side.

Born on a kitchen table in

Healdsburg, California, on

October 12 th , 1939, Bill lived

and worked in many places

across the world. He traveled

across North America, Africa, Central America, Asia,

and Israel.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 58 years, Kati,

as well as his two daughters, Karen and Julie (Jeff), his

grandchildren Aurora, Callum, Amira, and Aliyah, his

sisters Maurine and Carol, and his nieces and nephews.

Bill will also be missed by his friends at the Bethel

Baptist Church, as well as the Loan Cupboard and the

Sechelt Seniors Centre, where he volunteered.

He is predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Alice

Rawson, as well as his sister Pat.

Bill would want to be remembered as a devout

Christian who was proud to be where God sent him.

He loved serving Him and His people, and did so with a

gentle, quiet spirit.

A celebration of life for Bill was held February 16 th ,

2026, at the Bethel Baptist Church.

If you know of

anyone who has

passed, please let

us know.

16

| March 2026


Ron Walsh

It is with great sadness,

but a lifetime full of happy

memories, that we announce

the passing of Ronald

Frederick "Ron" Walsh on

January 22 nd , 2026. He is

predeceased by his mother

Dorthy Giroday, father Edward

Giroday, and devoted wife of

49 years, Darlene Walsh. He

is survived by his sisters Sue

(Jeff) Hebert, Melody (Rob) St.

Pierre Towpich, daughter Lori (Glenn) Davis, son Ron

Walsh Jr., daughter Leann Horth, grandchildren Sarah

(Albert) Davis Cornet, Brittney Davis, Katie (Chris)

Smith, Travis (Brenna) Schultz, Mitchell Walsh, and

great grandchildren Kamaria, Mekhi, and Carson, as

well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended

family members.

Ron was a proud boom man for many years and loved

his time on the water. One of his most cherished

memories was being part of the last and largest river

drive in BC, in Iceberg Bay, on the Nass River. Ron was

passionate about his cars and was always scoping out

the next great find to top the last. He loved his time

with the Coasters Car Club and his Mustang buddies

in his many years on the Sunshine Coast. Ron was

frequently seen at many of the car shows along the

coast and loved his time driving in the Sleepy Hollow

rod run year after year. His love for cars was only

surpassed by his love for his family and friends, and he

was always quick to bring a smile to their faces with

a goofy joke or fun story. Although he will be greatly

missed by all who knew him, his memory will live on in

the stories, jokes, and love he had in abundance.

Ron's family would like to express our deepest

gratitude to the staff at Sechelt Hospital, as well as

Judi and Wayne, who stepped up to provide care and

companionship. We also would like to extend our love

and appreciation to Ron's sister-in-law, Debbie Horth,

for her unshakable kindness and compassion over the

years. A memorial for Ron will be held in the spring

to gather and celebrate our loving brother, father,

grandfather, and friend.

Neil Olafson

August 9, 1939 - January 23

It is with great sadness and

deep love that we announce

the passing of Neil Olafson.

Neil was predeceased by

his beloved wife, Marlene;

his brothers, Ray and Ron;

and his son, Len. He was

the proud father of three

boys — Dave (Angie), Ron,

and Len — and the cherished

stepfather to Sherry, Gerald (Betty Lou), Dean, and

Greg (Stacey).

Family meant everything to Neil, and his love

extended through generations. Affectionately known

as Grampa Neil to his 12 grandchildren and 13 greatgrandchildren,

he brought endless joy, warmth, and

laughter into their lives. Each of them was truly

blessed to share in his playful spirit and kind heart.

Neil was, to say the least, an extraordinary person —

youthful, fun-loving, generous, and always a pleasure

to be around. He enjoyed many things, including

golf, billiards, and, most of all, spending time with his

family. Whether it was beach days, adventures on the

pier, backyard games, or simply following the kids’

lead, Neil was always ready to play and create lasting

memories with those he loved most.

While family filled his life with joy, Neil also had

many cherished, longtime friendships. In recent

years, one of his favourite places was The Lighthouse

Pub in Sechelt, where he enjoyed good company, a

cold Kokanee, lively stories, endless laughter, and

always coveting his Keno Road tickets

Neil will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved

him. His warmth, humour, and gentle spirit touched

many lives, and his legacy of love, laughter, and family

will continue to shine in the hearts of those he leaves

behind.

Rest in peace, Neil. You leave behind a legacy that will

never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, Neil would have appreciated a

donation to the local SPCA.


40 th Anniversary

DINKATHON

SSAC Auditorium

Saturday March 14 th

1:00 – 4:30pm (doors open 12:30pm

LEVELS 2.0 – 3.5+ 32 player Round Robin

Enter as an

individual

8 games

Random

Partners

Please

THINK GREEN

HELP KEEP OUR

MEALS AFFORDABLE

We know our portions can be

generous and sometimes you

may find yourself with leftovers...

We get it!

But the cost of containers adds

up, so we ask that you now bring

your own containers to take your

leftovers home.

Bring

Your

Own

LUNCH TIME

LEFTOVERS

Rally Scoring

to 7 points

Tables arranged around the dinking court

Bring treats and beverages (alcoholic OK)

Entry is first come first served

through SPOND, sign-in starts March 4 th

Entry fee $10 paid from your wallet

as you scan in at the tournament

SAVE THE DATE!

AGM

March 25, 2026

th

Special 40 Anniversary

th th

Insulated Special 40 Tote Anniversary Bags

Insulated Tote Bags

ENTRÉES START AT $25

Only

$15 each

or

2 for $27

Only

$15 each

or

2 for $27

Only

$15 each

or

2 for $27

Perfect Perfect for for Frozen Frozen Meal Meal orders,

groceries, picnics picnics and and so so much more!

18

| March 2026


MARCH LUNCH MENU

Lunch Service is available weekdays from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm.

Everything is made from scratch! We also serve soup, sandwiches

and salads. Desserts vary.

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

2 3 4 5 6

Baked Salmon Turkey Cannelloni

Roast Beef Chicken Chinese Quesadillas

BBQ Pork Fish & Chips

9 10 11 12 13

Chicken Souvlaki

Lasagna

Ham & Scalloped Quiche & Salad

Fish & Chips

Potatoes

16 17 18 19 20

Butter Chicken

Cabbage Rolls Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf w/

Fish & Chips

Mac & Cheese

23 24 25 26 27

Hot Reuben

Chicken Wings Seafood Linguine

Roast Pork

Fish & Chips

Sandwich

Shepherd's Pie

30 31

Chicken Quesadilla

Members are welcome to bring guests to dine for a surcharge. Only items

on the menu are available. Frozen entrées are available on weekdays when the

office is open from 9am to 2:45pm and are priced $6 or $8.

MARCH

SSAC PICKLEBALL SCHEDULE

Beginners and New-To-Us players wanting to join - contact ssacpickleball@gmail.com

MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN

7:30–9:15

3.25—3.5

7:30–9:15

3.0—3.5+

7:30–9:15

Social Play

7:30–9:15

3.0—3.5+

7:30–9:30 (not 29)

3.0—3.5+

1:00–2:30

w/ Coach

3.25

Mar 14

PB Dinking

Tournament

1:00–4:00

9:30–11:30 (not 29)

2.0—3.0

11:30–1:30 (not 29)

3.25

3:00–4:30

3.25—3.5

PB Cancelled

Table Tennis

3:00–4:30

3:00–4:30

w/ Coach

1.0—2.5

3:00–4:30

2.5—3.00

2:30–4:00

w/ Coach

2.5—3.0

1:30–3:30

3.5—3.5+

(not 8 or 29)

4:30–6:00

2.0—3.0

4:30–6:00

3.25—3.5+

4:30–6:00

2.5—3.0

4:30–6:00

3.0—3.25

4:00–5:30

1.0—3.25

Mar 6 - 3.5

Coaching Drills

10 people

3:30–5:30

2.5—3.25

(not 8)

6:00–8:00

3.5+

6:00–8:00

2.5—3.5+

6:00–8:00

3.25—3.5+

6:00–8:00

3.5—3.5+

5:30–7:30

Social Play

5:30–7:30

3.0—3.5+

Watch for extra coaching and assessment dates. For more information, please contact ssacpickleball@gmail.com


MARCH 2026

SSAC ACTIVITY SCHEDULE

MONDAY

ACTIVITY TIME ROOM CHAIR COST

Hatha Flow Yoga

Chair Yoga for Arthritis series

Chair Yoga for Strength & Mobility

Duplicate Bridge

Social Bridge

Carpet Bowling

Creative Class

TUESDAY

Fitness with Jacqui or Lisa

Memory Café

Line Dancing - Experienced

Line Dancing - Beginners

Craft Group

Strength for Seniors

Table Tennis - Int-Adv

WEDNESDAY

Emergency HAM Radio

Hatha Flow Yoga

Line Dancing - Beginner/Improver

Table Tennis

American Mahjong

THURSDAY

Tai Chi

Ukulele Jam & Sing-along

Chair Yoga for Strength & Mobility

Mahjong

Painting Pals

Carpet Bowling

Strength for Seniors

Friendship Tea (3 rd Thursday)

Line Dancing - Experienced

FRIDAY

Tai Chi - Beginners (series starts Feb. 20)

Hatha Flow Yoga or Yin Yoga

Badminton

Poker

Games Group

WEEKENDS

10:00–11:15

10:15–11:15

11:45–12:45

12:00–3:30

1:00–3:30

1:00–3:00

2:00–4:00

9:15–10:15

10:30–12:30

10:30–11:30

12:00–1:00

1:00–3:00

1:30–2:30

3:00–5:00

9:15–9:45

10:00–11:15

11:30–12:30

1:00–3:00

1:30–3:30

10:00–11:30

11:15–12:45

11:45–12:45

1:00–3:00

1:00–3:00

1:00–3:00

1:30–2:30

2:00–4:00

3:15–4:15

10:00–11:30

10:00–11:10

11:30–1:00

12:00–3:00

1:45–3:15

AM

AM

AM/PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

AM

AM

AM

AM

PM

PM

PM

AM

AM

AM

PM

PM

AM

PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

AM

AM

AM/PM

PM

PM

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Craft Room

Farish Room

Auditorium

Lunch Room

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Farish Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Farish Room

Craft Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Lunch Room

Craft Room

Craft Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Farish Room

Lunch Room

John McDougall-Goulet

Bobbie Seale-Cobiskey

Tenaya Kivlichan

Karyn Burney/Andy Hopkinson

Fran Engst

Katie Caple

Nicol/Nina/Ruth

Jacqui Allan/Lisa Alexander

Maryanne Brabander

Jay & Ann

Louise Parker

Carol Maynard

Lisa Alexander

Amber Cottle

Larry Peterson

John or Marina

Jay & Ann

Marilyn Heinrich

Nicol Mentis

David Carson

Tenaya Kivlichan

Katie Caple

Peggy Halliday

Margaret Parker/Norm Ross

Lisa Alexander

Liz Hennessey

Collene Sand

Cam Ellison

John or Andre

Val Galat

Paul Groves

Angelina & Gill

Quilting - Saturday, Mar 11 9:00–4:00 AM/PM Lunch Room $4/$8

$6

$36

$6

$4

$4

$4

$4

$6

$6

$4

$4

$4

$6

$4

$6

$4

$4

$4

$6

$4

$6

$4

$4

$4

$6

$4

$6

$6

$4

$4

$4

Non-members may attend an activity one time without a SSAC membership (still pay the activity fee).

Memberships may be purchased from the office over the phone or in person weekdays between 9am and 2:45pm.

You can fill your "Wallet" at the front desk or by phone 604-885-3513 or by e-transfer to etransfer@myssac.com -

Include your membership # and the word WALLET in the note section. Pickleball schedule is on page 19.

20

| March 2026


SSAC Echo | March 2026

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