Members of the Sylvan Lake Seniors Association celebrated their 50th anniversary with a special luncheon and program on Nov. 6 at the Seniors' Centre.
Things kicked off with some special tunes and a look back at a bit of history.
"We had a donated Quonset hut on 50th Ave. to gather in first in 1966. I wonder how warm that was in the winter?" said Bill McLeod, the association's vice president. At first, the group was known as the Sylvan Lake Friendship Club.
In 1974, it was registered as an Alberta Society. And then in 2001, the association filed for non-profit status and the name was officially changed to the Sylvan Lake Seniors Association.
In 2017, they made the move into current spacious digs in the NexSource Centre.
"Aside from the building changes, we have had big programming growth where we are effectively operating five days a week, and two evenings," said MacLeod.
"We have a vision for seven days and nights of activities - including rentals."
As the web site points out, 'The mission of the Sylvan Lake Seniors Association is to provide for the recreation, social well-being, and artistic expression of seniors of Sylvan Lake and area and to contribute to the education and social well-being of the community."
For McLeod, the association has proven to be a terrific means for him and his wife Joan to make new friends and connect with the community after relocating to town three years ago from Ontario.
"We met a lot of people in a short period of time," he said, adding they've really enjoyed the range of activities from the Wednesday lunches to playing cards to just having great visits over coffee.
"Everyone is very welcoming."
McLeod said there are plenty of enjoyable things to check out at the centre, running the gamut from guitar and ukulele lessons and exercise sessions, to all kinds of card games, art classes, and bingo. Other favourites include card making, yoga, line dancing, and Zumba classes.
Adding to the mix of programming is Sylvan Lake Wellness and Community Connections, which also runs activities out of the seniors' centre as well, he said.
Looking ahead with the approach of the holiday season, two Christmas dinners are also planned, he noted.
Ultimately, McLeod re-emphasized how the organization provides so many pathways to get more involved in the Sylvan Lake community.
"I would say it's a good spot to meet people - you can have coffee, or play some games or have some lunch. We also have a welcome committee, so if someone new comes, we will sit them at a table with myself, or someone else who can help to orientate them as to everything that is (available), and to help them feel comfortable," he said.
Meanwhile, the association serves more than 400 members, has dozens of volunteers and one paid part-time program coordinator.
McLeod also wanted to point out that practically all of the centre's activities and programs are open to any community member of any age.
Also, those who are at least 55 years of age can get information about the $25 membership by contacting the centre. Membership allows for voting rights, and also includes the monthly newsletters and events calendar.
For further information about the Sylvan Lake Seniors Association, visit www.sylvanlakeseniors.com, email slseniorspc@gmail.com, or call 403-887-5428.
