SSAC Echo

SEASHELL

ECHO

APRIL 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.

In this Issue

SECHELT SENIORS ACTIVITY CENTRE NEWS

40 Years of Purpose

and Perseverance

1

4

5

6

8

12

23

24

40 Years of Purpose and

Perseverance

SSAC Presidents

Annual General Meeting

A Month To Remember

Volunteer of the Month

Not An April Fool's Joke

Lunch Menu

Pickleball Schedule

Activity Schedule

BY RICHARD WARD

As we celebrate the 40 th anniversary of the Sechelt

Seniors Activity Centre (SSAC), we find ourselves at

a natural vantage point. It is a time to look back at the

winding path that brought us to this milestone and to

honour the individuals who stepped forward to lead

the way. Although our journey began on January 16, 1969, when our

predecessors were granted status as Branch No. 69 of the Senior

Citizens Association of British Columbia, the SSAC story began in

1986, sparked by the official certification of our charitable society.

Since that foundational moment, the spirit of the Centre has been

shaped by the hands of 25 different presidents. In any organization

spanning four decades, leadership styles inevitably vary; some of these

individuals were widely lauded for their vision, while others faced

the inevitable critiques that come with public service. However, to

focus only on the "mixed reviews" of history is to miss the heartbeat

of the SSAC. The true common thread among every president and the

dozens of volunteer board members who served alongside them, is a

profound, selfless commitment to service.

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

April 2026

SEASHELL

ECHO

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

APRIL 2026

Seashell Echo

is the official newsletter

of the Sechelt Seniors

Activity Centre

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

40 Years . . .

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Each leader stepped into their role during unique challenges,

dedicating countless voluntary hours to do what they genuinely

believed was best for our community.

But the Centre has never been a "one-person show."

While presidents helped set the direction, it took an army

of volunteers to keep the lights on and the programs and

services running. From those making high-level decisions in the

boardroom to the many hands performing the quiet, everyday

tasks, the SSAC stands today as a monument to collective effort.

We celebrate not just the years, but the spirit of volunteerism

that has steered our course since 1986.

On a personal note, I feel incredibly fortunate to have served as

your President for the last three years. This period has been one

of monumental change for the SSAC. We’ve modernized our

operations with electronic member scanning and overhauled

our audio-visual equipment to keep us connected and current.

Yet, of all these changes, the achievement that fills me with the

most pride is the Affordable Lunch Program.

By September 2023, it was clear we needed a new strategy.

While our talented kitchen team, led by Emily, was turning out

exceptional meals, rising food costs were pushing prices out of

reach for some. It saddened me to hear members mention that a

$15 roast beef dinner had become a luxury they could no longer

easily afford. I've been very fortunate in my presidency to

have Gill Smith as a manager. I was trying to work out a way of

making sure the less fortunate of our members could get good

hot meals, possibly giving free meals supported by donations.

2

| April 2026


40 Years . . .


However, during a conversation about this with Gill,

she suggested a modification of my idea, and thus the

Affordable Lunch Program was born. We would try to

hold prices for everybody at a low level supported by

donations. It has been a tremendous success. We have

been able to hold prices constant since that time, due

to member donations plus income now from the BC

Seniors Online 50/50.

As I step over the threshold into my final month as

President, I do so with immense joy. Our growth

necessitated a shift from being a volunteer-run

"business" to a professionally staffed organization. We

have been blessed with superb additional staff such

as Jackie and Liz in the kitchen, and sparkling Heather

at the front desk, and most significantly, our first

Executive Director, Vicki Raw. This transition marks

a fundamental change in how we are governed; we

are moving from an operating board to a governance

board. Reflecting this evolution, you will notice that

the upcoming April 22 nd AGM will call for a Board

Chair rather than a President. I am confident that our

E.D. Vicki Raw will steer the Centre efficiently but

with the same values of caring and service that I have.

No leader stands alone, and I owe a debt of gratitude

to those who sustained me including all the incredible

board members I have worked with. I thank my

wife, Helen, for her tireless support, from editing my

writing and securing grants to the daunting task of

coordinating our kitchen volunteers. Most of all, I

must thank our Treasurer, Alison Kowalewski. The

title "Treasurer" hardly captures the scope of her

work and the endless hours she has poured into this

Centre. Quite simply, her dedication made me an

infinitely better President than I could ever have been

without her.

While my term is ending, I’m not going far. I’ll still be

working on the online 50/50 with Alison and Jurgen,

but primarily, I look forward to simply being a "happy

user" of the Centre. As I close this chapter, remember

that the SSAC is, above all, about community. Keep

smiling and keep caring for one another. .

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

40 Years of SSAC Presidents

Larry Grafton

1985–86

Gerry Challier

1987

Mike Timms

1988–89

John Miller

1990–91

Len Herder

1992

Stan Johnson

1993–94, 1996

Martin Flynn

1995

Dennis Horlock

1997–98

Bonnie Hewitt

1998

Anne Clitheroe

1999

Mike McCarthy

2000

Peggy Connor

2001

Joan Scales

2002

Lila Buchhorn

2003

Barbara Scodras

2004–05

Mo Farn

2006

Patrina Thomson

2007

Wilma Lorimer

2008–09

Douglas Smith

2010–12

Barbara Lightfoot

2013–14

Joanne Rykers

2015–17, 2019

Charlie Jensen

2018

Chris Kane

2020

Gillian Smith

2022

Richard Ward

2023–26

4

| April 2026


Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre

Annual General Meeting

Date:

Time:

Location:

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

1:30 PM (Doors open at 1:00 PM)

Auditorium

All members are encouraged to attend.

Members in good standing, age 50 and

older, are eligible to vote.

MEMBERS' SPECIAL RESOLUTION 2026-1

2026 Bylaws Amendment Resolution

There are 26 proposed changes to our Bylaws. Most, if not all, are to help with the transition

from an Operational (working) Board to a Governance Board. Read these proposed changes on our

website at secheltactivitycentre.com/agm.

If you have any questions, please connect with our Executive Director, Vicki Raw, or any of our

current Board Members: Jay Alexov, André Casaubon, Val Galat, Mark Garland, Alison Kowalewski,

Mark Patterson, Gail Riddell, Birgit Stefani, Richard Ward, and Jeff Weeks.

Time Capsule Items

Needed!

We’re creating a special time capsule

to preserve meaningful memories and

pieces of today for future members, and

we’d love your help. If you have small

items, notes, photos, or mementos that

represent this moment in time or even

from the past, relating to the Sechelt

Senior Activity Centre—please consider

donating them. Your contribution

can help tell the story of who we are,

what we value, and how we live today.

Together, we can build a collection that

will inspire and connect people years

from now.

Please contact Jay Alexov via email if

you have something to donate at

jay.alexov@myssac.com.


SSAC Dance

A Month To Remember!

Company B made their debut in Sechelt

and treated everyone to some jazz and

swing music. People appreciated that

this event was in the afternoon, some

came just to listen to the music and we

saw some new faces in the crowd.

The food was beautifully done! Sandwiches, scones

and delicious desserts made by SSAC kitchen staff.

Many thanks to The Independent Grocer which

donated $100 toward the food.

The door prize of tickets to Mad Cow coming up in

April was won by Pat Hausberg. Thank you to the

50/50 draw winner who donated funds back to

the Centre. A few lucky people bought some of the

gorgeous decorations Amanda made. Those funds

will go towards the next event’s decorations.

6

| April 2026


Line Dance Workshop - 33 people turned out

for the line dance workshop led by Jay Alexov,

Collene Sand and Krystyna Wisniewska.

The participants learned 3 new dances and

had a blast.

Blue Western put on a great performance

on Saturday night. Mike Evans - guitar and

vocals, Archie MacLean - drums and vocals,

Warren Allan - bass and vocals and Bill Barclay

on keyboards and vocals. Attendees had a

wonderful time and danced up a storm.

The door prize of tickets to our April dance

were won by Maria Engler. And the 50/50

draw of $120 was split by Lois Pickard and

the SSAC.

As always, many thanks to all the volunteers

who make these events possible. As you can

imagine there is a lot of organizing, making

the beautiful decorations, setting up tables

and chairs, tending bar and washing dishes,

clearing up after and putting everything away

(thanks to all the people who stay behind to

pitch in), washing and ironing tablecloths . . .

the list goes on.

Get ready for Mad Cow - April 18 th - Randy

Shepherd - vocals and bass, Darren Cassidy

- vocals and guitar and Jim Foster - vocals,

guitar and harmonica playing a mix of country

rock, folk rock and a touch of rock and blues.

Doors and the bar open at 6:30 pm and Mad

Cow play from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Tickets

are $15 in advance - at the front desk or Little

Brit of Heaven or $20 at the door. Get your

tickets and put on your boogie shoes!

Coming Up in May:

The 16 th is the 40 th Anniversary Gala Dinner

with music bingo - read further in the Echo in

May for more information.

The May Dance is on the 23 rd with The Steve

Hinton Band! .

- Jay, Ann, and the Dance Committee


Volunteer of the Month

Helmut Horn

Helmut became a member of the SSAC

in 2003 and has been a dedicated

volunteer since then, in a variety of

roles.

At the present time he is the Friday prep person in

the kitchen. His focus is carefully slicing, dicing and

chopping the vegetables that become the centre's

much loved coleslaw. He is also a talented pastry

chef who regularly bakes, decorates and donates

beautiful cakes for the Centre's fundraisers.

When he's not volunteering he stays active by

attending our fitness classes, enjoys hiking and is a

member of the SC dragon boat club. His energy, skill

and willingness to give back make him a wonderful

addition to our list of volunteers.

The SSAC Board and membership appreciate your

hard work and dedication. .

CLOSED FOR

EASTER

The Centre is closed on Good

Friday, April 3, and Easter Monday,

April 6. Some activities will

continue, please check with your

activity chair.

8

| April 2026


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

Creative Crafts

Get creative with us! Drop by the Lunch Room

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

welcoming space to make art.

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

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


DANCE TO THE SUNSHINE COAST'S FINEST!

APRIL 18 . 7:00-10:00 PM

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

SSAC AUDITORIUM

BEER, WINE, CIDER,

NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS 50/50

TICKETS $15 ADVANCE AT SSAC FRONT DESK OR AT A

LITTLE BRIT OF HEAVEN, $20 AT THE DOOR.

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, April 17

12:30 am to 2:00pm

Anchor Hearing provides hearing

aid cleaning at the lounge

SENIORS

COMMUNITY

CONNECTOR

Friday, April 10

Meet Courtney from the Resource

Centre and learn more about

how they support seniors achieve

personal health and wellness goals.

10

| April 2026


Pickleball Adventure to Alaska!

July 11, 2026 • 7-Night Alaska Cruise on the Koningsdam

Exclusive Court Times for

Sunshine Coast Pickeball Players

Inside Cabin:

Outside Cabin:

Balcony Cabin:

Suite:

No Flights Required!

$1,719 CAD pp

$2,514 CAD pp

$3,116 CAD pp

$4,022 CAD pp

Mini Tournament & Prizes!

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

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.

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.

In-Person Tax Clinic at the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre

Tuesdays 10am to 3pm - By appointment only

Call 604-740-2184 to make your appointment


From the Executive Director

Not An April Fool's Joke!

BY VICKI RAW

Iam thrilled to announce that at the end of

March, our 21-passenger bus drove off into

the sunset with trumpets blaring. Okay . . .

maybe it happened more quietly than that, but

there was definitely some excitement in the

office when the certified cheque was delivered.

The bus is now the property of a local business owner,

Michael Worboys, who plans to offer rentals and

group transportation to locals and those visiting the

Sunshine Coast. This means that the Centre will be

able to work with Michael should we wish to plan any

future excursions for our members. Anyone interested

in connecting with Michael to offer their services as

a driver, inquire about renting the bus, or arranging

transportation for a group, can reach out to me

(vicki.raw@myssac.com) for his number.

I would like to extend a special bus-sized THANK

YOU to Richard McGowan, who did such an amazing

job steering us in the right direction by managing our

bus program over the years. I can only imagine how

much work it took to keep the bus maintained and

operational and to organize the numerous outings.

Thank you to our fabulous volunteer drivers, as well.

Funds from the sale of our bus will go into general

revenue and, with Board approval, may be used to

install heat pumps in our Craft and Farish rooms

to help regulate the temperature in these well-used

spaces. Something that has been on our wish list for

a while.

As we ready ourselves for the Annual General

Meeting on April 22, 2026, at 1:30pm, please watch

your inboxes for the AGM package. You will also find

it posted on the bulletin board at the end of the main

hallway and on our website at secheltactivitycentre.

com/agm. The list of returning Board Members and

Nominees will also be posted at the front entrance.

We hope you will join us as we share highlights

from 2025, elect new Officers and Directors to fill

vacant positions, vote on changes to our bylaws,

and acknowledge the significant contributions to

the management and growth of the Centre by our

outgoing Board Members, Richard Ward (President)

and Alison Kowalewski (Treasurer).

The week of our AGM is also National Volunteer

Week, celebrating the ways in which people in Canada

have ignited volunteerism in their communities and

deepened our collective impact. I don’t have to tell

you that our Centre would not be as vibrant, our

activities so vast, our meals so plentiful, without our

incredible volunteer force. The impact you have is

visible every day. Thank you, to all of our Volunteers

- you truly are the lifeblood of our organization!

I trust you’ve all been paying attention to the new

format of our 50/50 lottery (and buying tickets!)

Shifting from a local format to provincial one - by

partnering with the seniors’ centres in Campbell

River, Gibsons, Mckenzie and Oliver - has seen our

jackpots almost triple since last year. February’s

winner (from Halfmoon Bay) took home $6,298 and

March’s winner (from Mckenzie) took home $5,705!

12

| April 2026


Not An April . . .


This lottery not only benefits our Centre in multiple

ways, but it is also helping the smaller centres build

sustainability and increase their profiles. It really is a

win-win.

You may have also noticed new window, table and

wall decals, and (coming soon) outdoor signage and

light pole banners all showcasing the Centre’s 40 th

Anniversary and a sample of our activities. Our

committee is also busy planning a special evening in

May (the month of our anniversary) and an outdoor

event in the summer, so keep an eye out for dates

and ticket sales!

And we are creating a time capsule which will hold

photos, documents, small items, etc. that represent

the Centre (past and present). If you have something

you would like us to consider including, please

contact Jay Alexov (jay.alexov@myssac.com).

Lastly, I hope you've checked out the amazing,

framed paintings hanging above the wooden bench

in the main hallway. This is a unique fundraiser

for the Centre. Russell McRae will create a oneof-a-kind

watercolour painting of you, your loved

ones (including pets), family home or favourite

location/scene for only $199. Your finished image

will arrive framed and beautifully packaged, perfect

for you or to give to someone special. And, as if

that wasn't already an incredible offer - 25% from

every painting comes back to the Centre! We really

appreciate Russell sharing his talents with us in such

a charitable manner.

Looking forward to seeing you all at the AGM, at

upcoming events and around the Centre. I’m also

really looking forward to the sunshine - I know

it’s coming! .

Gypsy Soul Adventures

Fishing + Charters

Design Your Adventure

Explore the Sunshine Coast and

experience the beauty of our

pristine waters . . .

We’ll help create a custom package tailored to your interests

and wish list. We know the best fishing spots, secluded islands,

quiet beaches, hidden channels, scenic paddling routes,

and perfect swimming coves. Whether you’re into fishing,

sightseeing, catching a glimpse of whales or sea lions, a boat

ride is always fun. We look forward to preparing a package that

suits you and your family. Let the adventures begin!

gypsysouladventures.ca

Contact Peter Forster

604.740.2599 . skipper@gypsysouladventures.ca


Feature

Direct to Smelter

Precious Metals

Roadshow Returns to

Sechelt

Ursa Major Gold, Silver & Coin returns to

the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre on

Monday, April 14 th and Tuesday, April 15 th .

You can bring your gold, silver, coins and

collectable banknotes between 10am and 4pm on

Monday or Tuesday. No appointment is required.

Barry Dick is a precious metals buyer and President

of Ursa Major Gold, Silver & Coin.

“Ursa Major has the unique advantage of dealing

direct with a smelter” said Dick. “That allows us to

cut out one or even two middlemen. Ursa Major

purchases gold and silver from other gold buyers,

pawn shops, dentists, jewellers and jewellery makers

as well as the general public.” In terms of the US

dollar, gold and silver prices appear low but the weak

Canadian dollar means prices are strong.

Ursa Major analyzes your gold, silver, coins and paper

money while you watch, with the process explained to

you in detail. Coins with numismatic value are graded

and set aside from those with a ‘melt’ value. Silver

items such as jewellery and flatware are analyzed

for hallmark identification. Items thought to contain

gold will also be analyzed for hallmarks, and then

confirmed using precise testing that is done while you

watch. Then a cash offer is made and you decide to

sell or not.

“If you decide to sell after hearing the quote, great, but

it is also about information” says Dick. “A lot of times

people just need to know a ballpark of what things are

worth; we don’t pressure anyone into selling”. Dick

took out his first gold claim when he turned 16 in the

1970’s and has been involved with precious metals

ever since. An ardent gold panner, he was a regular

at the world championship gold panning competition

with a personal best of 3rd place in 1984.

“Nearly half of the world’s annual gold harvest comes

from recycled gold. Energy costs are about $500

to mine a new ounce of gold where recycled gold is

about $10 per ounce. That prevents a lot of diesel

from being burned.” Gold and silver purchased at

the show and later melted goes back into the market

without incurring that environmental cost.

Out of fashion jewelry, single earrings, broken chains,

unloved jewelry, charm bracelets, dental gold, nuggets

and fine gold are all accepted. “We can assess any

coin ever made for collector or precious metal value,

including world coins and ancient coins.” People

are encouraged to bring in any and all coins for

assessment.

Ursa Major also assesses and purchases Canadian

and Dominion of Canada Paper Money. They have

extensive experience working with estates, executors,

widows and widowers in a respectful and caring

manner. No appointment necessary. .

14

| April 2026


Get Your Green

Sleeve Finished!

Have you already attended one of our Introduction

to the Green Sleeve and Advance Care Planning

workshops but your Green Sleeve is still sitting in a

pile on your desk?

Then this workshop is for you!

This will be a practical, hands-on workshop for those

people who already have a Green Sleeve but have not yet

completed them and need help to get them done. Ideally,

you will have already attended an introductory workshop

about advance care planning and you know who you want

speaking for you if you are unable to speak for yourself.

Together, we will go through all the documents in the Green

Sleeve kit, completing them as we go. Come ready to do

some work: bring pen, paper, your Green Sleeve kit, your

health card, and any documentation you may already have

regarding decision makers and your wishes.

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

2:00–4:30pm

Line Dancing Class

Join Louise Parker's class every Tuesday, 12-1 pm.


Food For Thought

Emeritus

Professor

Lecture Series

LOAD YOUR WALLET

RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP

NEW!!!

NEW!!!

NEW!!!

E-TRANSFER

NEW!!!

E-TRANSFER

E-TRANSFER

NEW!!!

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

E-TRANSFER

to load your SSAC Wallet or renew your SSAC Membership!

LOAD YOUR WALLET

RENEW Now you can YOUR e-transfer MEMBERSHIP

funds to E-TRANSFER

etransfer@myssac.com

T o e n s u r e 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 :

toload your SSAC Wallet or renew your SSAC Membership!

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

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MEMBERSHIP TAG # and the word WALLET in


And thank you to Gail Riddell, a SSAC Board

NOTE: Please allow 2 etransfer@myssac.com

business days for your record and/or


Member and Emeritus Professor herself for

w a l l e t t o b e u pT dO aRt eE dN E W Y O U R M E M B E R S H I P

organizing such an amazing series. .

Now you can e-transfer

Include your MEMBERSHIP

funds etransfer@myssac.com

to

TAG


# and the word MEMBERSHIP


to load T O L O Ayour D Y OSSAC U R W AWallet L L E T or renew your SSAC Membership!

Include your MEMBERSHIP NOTE: Please TAG allow 2 # business and the days for word your record WALLET and/or in

w a l l e t t o b e u p d a t e d





SSAC Emeritus Professors Lecture Series

Wednesday, April 15, 2pm

Include your MEMBERSHIP TAG # and the word MEMBERSHIP

T O L O A D Y O U R W A L L E T


Include your MEMBERSHIP TAG # and the word WALLET in


Dr. Neil Guppy

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

w a l l e t t o b e u p d a t e d


Emeritus Professor, etransfer@myssac.com

Department of Sociology

Include your MEMBERSHIP

University

TAG

of British

# and

Columbia

the word MEMBERSHI


This talk focuses on the

NOTE: Please allow 2 business social history days of for gender your record and/o

w a l l e t t o b e u p d a t e d relations in Canada. Has

there been etransfer@myssac.co

a revolution?

If so, is it over?

No pre-registration necessary.

Entrance by donation to the

Affordable Lunch Program. Seating

is limited, please come early. SSAC

membership is not required.

16

| April 2026


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INVESTMENT ADVISOR

604-988-0958

admin@presmanwealth.com

109-5725 Teredo St., Sechelt

PRESMANWEALTH.COM


SSAC Kitchen

Volunteers

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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

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18 | April 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

Hans Helmut Haas

September 23, 1930 - February 22, 2026

Christa Eva Haas (née Weichert)

March 14, 1936 - February 22, 2026

Hans Helmut Haas and Christa Eva Haas passed away

together peacefully at their home in Sechelt on February

22 nd , 2026, surrounded by the love of their family.

Both grew up during the war years, experiences that would

shape their resilience and their lifelong appreciation for the

peace, opportunity, and natural beauty they later found in

Canada.

Helmut was born in Offenbach, Germany, on September

23 rd , 1930. He immigrated to Canada in 1953 and built a

career as a skilled cabinet maker. A talented gymnast and

coach, he made many lifelong friends through the sport. A

highlight was the 1962 World Championships in Prague,

where he coached the Canadian men’s team.

Christa was born on March 14 th , 1936, in Breslau, Germany.

She trained as a bookkeeper after finishing school. An

adventurous spirit with a love of travel, she spent her time

off exploring Europe and beyond. In 1963, her travels took

her to Canada to visit her brother, a good friend of Helmut’s.

She fell in love with the country, and not long after, she fell

in love with Helmut as well.

Helmut and Christa were married in September 1964 and

began their life together on West 61 st Street in Vancouver.

A year later, they made what they often called the best

decision of their lives: they purchased a property with a

small, one-room shack on Sakinaw Lake, accessible only by

ferry and dirt road. There, they built the cabin that would

become the centrepiece of their family. Helmut and Christa

often said the cabin kept the family close, as it hosted many

birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and holidays. It remains

their enduring legacy.

Hospitality, curiosity, and a shared sense of adventure

defined their lives together, as did their openness and deep

interest in the people around them. Time spent in their

company meant lively conversations, warm welcomes, and

never a dull moment.

They embraced the outdoors by camping, skiing, and hiking

all over British Columbia. Road trips were the preferred

method of travel, and they completed many journeys across

Canada, Alaska, and the western United States.

After retiring, they moved to the Sunshine Coast and

became members of the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre.

Christa volunteered in many roles, most notably as

bookkeeper, for over 20 years and was honoured to be

nominated for a lifetime membership.

In those golden years, they continued to travel, taking 19

cruises, some with the whole family. The two spent most of

their time at Sakinaw Lake, enjoying many sunny summer

days with a constant rotation of visitors, friends, and

family, including summer holiday babysitting stints with

grandchildren. They never let a gathering pass without

expressing how lucky they felt to have such wonderful

family and friends.

They were devoted parents and grandparents who put

family first and instilled strong core values through their

daily example of love, kindness, and partnership. To those

who knew them, they were role models for what a good

life—and a good marriage—could look like.

Helmut and Christa are lovingly remembered by their

daughters, Sonja Dickinson (John) and Petra Helfer (Adam),

and by their grandchildren, Stefanie, Danica, Joshua, and

Jakob, as well as many extended family and close friends.

They touched many lives deeply.

The family would like to thank their doctors, nurses, home

support and Rami of Sechelt Pharmacy for the excellent

care they provided over the last 2 years. By request, no

formal service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please feel

free to donate to a charity of your choice. A private

Celebration of Life took place with immediate family one

week before their passing, where fond memories were

shared with much laughter.

Together in life for more than six decades, Helmut and

Christa chose to leave this world as they lived in it:

side by side.

“Heiterkeit und Frohsinn sind die Sonne unter der alles

gedeiht.”

A cheerful heart and positive spirit are the sun that makes

everything flourish.

20

| April 2026


Janet Elizabeth Matheson

February 28, 2026

"Jan was funny, brave and

disarmingly honest."

With love, we remember Janet

Elizabeth Matheson, 70, who died

peacefully at home with family by

her side on February 28, 2026.

She is survived by her older

sisters, Sybil and Dyan; her

CHRIS

daughters, Amy and Lindsay; and

CHRIS

CA

CA RE

grandchildren, Paige, Payton

CH

R

and

Kai. She was predeceased by her

CH HR HR RIS RIS

CA

CA

RE

CA RE ES

ES RES

RES

parents, Bill and Kaye.

Jan grew up in Edmundston, New Brunswick, and

Madawaska, Maine, with summers at beloved Baker Lake. COASTWIDE LTD.

She moved west with her parents to Vancouver at 16.

672-999-3308

Her love of skiing brought her to Whistler, where she

raised her daughters and built many of

672 672-999-

the family’s

HOUSEHOLD TASKSS ~ PERSONAL

ERRANDS ~ DRIVING SERVICES ~ WELLNESS CHECKS

~ AND MORE

happiest memories: colourful birthday parties,

672 2-9

a legendary

2-9 99- 672 99-

330 2-9

330 0899-

330 08 08

BONDABLECLEAN

DRIVING RECORDPATIENT

chris@lennoxservices.ca

Halloween house, dogs tearing through the snow, and long


ERRANDS ~ DRIVING SERVICES ~ WELLN

summer days at the lake. HOUSEHOLD TASKSS ~ PERSONAL HOUS

SEHOLD ERRANDS HOUSEHOLD TASKS ~ DRIVING TASKS S ~ PERSONAL

S ~ SERV

VICES ~ ERRANDS L WELL

NESS ~ CHECKS

BONDA DRIVING ABLECLEAN

~ AND SERV

MORE VICES DRIVING ~ WELL ~ WELL NESS REC NESS CORDPATIE

CHECKS CHECK

~ ANN


ERRANDS ~ DRIVING SERVICES ~ WELLNESS CHECKS

~ AND MORE

After Pemberton and West Vancouver, Jan made

BONDABLECLEAN

her way

DRIVING REC BONDA CORDPATIE

ABLECLEAN

NT

N DRIVING chris@le

REC

CORDPATIE

ennoxservices NT NT s.ca

BONDABLECLEAN

DRIVING RECORDPATIENT


s.ca

to the Sunshine Coast. She lived first in Davis Bay to be chris@lennoxservices.ca


close to her father, someone she loved deeply and helped

care for. Finally, she settled in Greenecourt in Sechelt,

where the community and support was exactly what Jan

needed at that moment in her life.

At Greenecourt she met Jim, a kindred spirit who quickly

became her best friend. They formed a deep and special

bond, and shared many hours watching the hummingbirds

and the night sky.

Jan was funny, brave and disarmingly honest. To her

daughters she embodied fun: singing at the top of her lungs

in the car and making holidays feel magical. That joy lives

on in the way they raise their own children.

She met life’s challenges with courage, and with support

from her family. Her sisters’ generous, unwavering care

helped her hold on to the independence she valued so

deeply.

COAS

COASTWIDE L

COAS

STW STW WID CO WID OAS DE DE LTD

LTD

D. D.

LTD.

The family is grateful for the care and support Jan

received from Greenecourt/BC Lions Club, Brightspot, and

Vancouver Coastal Health Services.

COASTWIDE LTD

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

330

seniors

If you know of

anyone who has

passed, please let

us know.

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

BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registered Employer


Friendship Tea

April 16 - 2 pm

Are you interested in learning

more about Music Therapy? Join

us on Thursday, April 16 for the

Friendship Tea when our special

guest will be Allison Ashdown

Stone, a Music Therapist from

Victoria. She will share some

information on what it is, how

it works, and how it can benefit

us. And we will have some piano

music to enjoy as well! Come for

music, treats, and good company.

Friendship Tea is held every

month on the third Thursday from

2 to 4 pm. It’s free!

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

th

Special 40 Anniversary

th th

Insulated Special 40 Tote Anniversary Bags

Insulated Tote Bags

SAVE THE DATE!

AGM

April 22, 2026

1:30 pm (doors open 1:00 pm)

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!

22

| April 2026


APRIL 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

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.

Roast Beef

1 2 3

Closed

Chicken Cabbage Quesadillas Rolls

for Good Friday

6 7 8 9 10

Closed

Baked Salmon

Roast Ham

Lasagna

Fish & Chips

for Easter Monday

Sole

13 14 15 16 17

Turkey Cannelonni Chicken Parmesan

Meatloaf w/

Fish & Chips

Mac & Cheese

20 21 22 23 24

Filipino

Chicken Adobo

Seafood Linguine

Roast Pork

Beef Dip

Fish & Chips

27 28 29 30 MAY 1

Chicken

Hot Reuben

Shepherd's Pie

Shawarma/Falafel

Chicken Cordon Bleu

Fish & Chips

Sandwich

APRIL

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

3.0—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

3.0—3.5+

1:00–2:30

w/ Coach

3.25

9:30–11:30

2.0—3.0

11:30–1:30

3.25

3:00–4:30

3.25—3.5

3:00–4:30

w/ Coach

1.0—2.5

(no April 22 - AGM)

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+

4:30–6:00

2.0—3.0

4:30–6:00

3.25—3.5+

4:30–6:00

2.5—3.25

4:30–6:00

3.0—3.25

4:00–5:30

1.0—3.25

or 3.5 Coaching

3:30–5:30

2.5—3.25

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


APRIL 2026

SSAC ACTIVITY SCHEDULE

The Centre is closed on April 3 & 6. Some activities will

continue, please check with your activity chair.

ACTIVITY TIME ROOM CHAIR COST

MONDAY

Hatha Flow Yoga

Chair Yoga for Arthritis series

Chair Yoga for Strength & Mobility

Duplicate Bridge

Social Bridge

Carpet Bowling

Creative Class

TUESDAY

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

AM

AM

AM/PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Craft Room

Farish Room

Auditorium

Lunch Room

John McDougall-Goulet

Bobbie Seale-Cobiskey

Tenaya Kivlichan

Karyn Burney/Andy Hopkinson

Fran Engst

Katie Caple

Nicol/Nina/Ruth

$6

$36

$6

$4

$4

$4

$4

Fitness with Jacqui or Lisa

Memory Café

Line Dancing - Experienced

Line Dancing - Beginners

Craft Group

Strength for Seniors

Table Tennis - Int-Adv

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

AM

AM

AM

PM

PM

PM

PM

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Jacqui Allan/Lisa Alexander

Maryanne Brabander

Jay & Ann

Louise Parker

Carol Maynard

Lisa Alexander

Amber Cottle

$6

$6

$4

$4

$4

$6

$4

WEDNESDAY

Emergency HAM Radio

Hatha Flow Yoga

Line Dancing - Beginner/Improver (no April 22)

Table Tennis - (no April 22)

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

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

AM

AM

AM

PM

PM

AM

PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

PM

Farish Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Craft Room

Auditorium

Farish Room

Craft Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Lunch Room

Craft Room

Larry Peterson

John or Marina

Jay & Ann

Marilyn Heinrich

Nicol Mentis

David Carson

Mary Pinniger

Tenaya Kivlichan

Katie Caple

Peggy Halliday

Margaret Parker/Norm Ross

Lisa Alexander

Liz Hennessey

Collene Sand

$6

$4

$4

$4

$6

$4

$6

$4

$4

$4

$6

$4

FRIDAY

Tai Chi - Beginners

Hatha Flow Yoga or Yin Yoga

Badminton

Poker

Games Group

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

Craft Room

Auditorium

Auditorium

Farish Room

Lunch Room

Cam Ellison

John or Andre

Val Galat

Paul Groves

Angelina & Gill

$6

$6

$4

$4

$4

WEEKENDS

Quilting - Sunday, April 12

Darts - Saturday, starts April 10

9:00–4:00

1:30

AM/PM

PM

Lunch Room

Craft Room

$4/$8

$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.

24

| April 2026


SSAC Echo | April 2026

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