Minoru Place Activity Centre, 7660 Minoru Gate Richmond, BC, V6Y 1R9

604.238.8450 seniors@richmond.ca

Newsletter September/October 2016

President’s Report

Minoru Board of Directors held a development workshop in early July 2016 at Branscombe House in Richmond. The day long workshop was designed to redefine priorities and goals identified last year. The Board was able to connect Minoru’s five priorities with the five priorities from the City of Richmond’s Seniors Service Plan for 2015 – 2020. As the Board moves forward we will be dealing with developing performance questions (what does the board need to measure) as well as performance indicators. In July, 2016 a request for proposals from qualified, experienced consultants to write a Food Service Review and Business Plan was sent out. The chosen consultant will be working with the Board of Directors and City Staff to deliver a guide for food services in our current location and at the new Minoru Complex. Fall has crept up on us and it’s time to ensure that you have registered for Special Events, Global Grill and Dining with David as well as classes in fitness and of general interest to you. Minoru Place Activity Centre is jammed packed with activities this fall, something for everyone.

~ Kathleen Holmes

From Chef David…

Wow, that summer was so fast! They say time flies when you’re having fun. We have certainly had many good times and laughs with all of our fantastic hard working volunteers, staff and supportive patrons. This summer was our busiest ever with a big turnout for hot lunches still averaging about 65 per day!

A big warm hug and thank you to our incredible volunteers! We could not do it without you. We are always looking for more assistance in the Cafeteria if anyone is interested, especially since the walls of our new Seniors Centre are already being raised.

During the next few months we will continue to offer a wide variety of new and very popular delectable menu delights. Keep your eyes open for the next exciting menu being offered at the October Special Event that should prove to be another fun filled evening. As always your feedback is much appreciated and welcomed at any time as we are always looking for ways to improve in food services.

Please note: The cafeteria will back at regular operating hours starting on September 6th.

A Note From City of Richmond, Senior Services One unique and important service here at Minoru Place is our full service Cafeteria where nutritious and healthy meals are offered. In anticipation of the move and the expansion of food services, the Society is embarking on a Food Services Review. This is an opportunity to develop a Business Plan to assist in developing a food service program to meet the needs of our current patrons along with plans to meet the demands at the new Minoru Complex; a larger Cafeteria for seniors, expanded Catering services and a Concession for the general public. Check out the facility plans in our lobby for design details of the new building.

Also this fall, we are embarking on a Public Art Project to capture the history of the Murdoch Centre (pre 1986) and Minoru Place Activity Centre as well as to honour the past contributions of community members. This project is a catalyst to inspire excitement for our new home at the Minoru Complex while recognizing where we have come from. The work will be publicly accessible, allow visitors to connect with the past, engage with the present and look forward to the future. Stay tuned for an opportunity to provide input.

~Heather Muter | Coordinator, Seniors Services

On The Cover:

Sous Chef Lucy and some of our superb Cafeteria volunteers after our Annual Picnic.

Left to right: Shirley, Louisa, Lucy, Susanna, Juliana and Gloria in front.

Up & Coming NEW! Wellness Information Drop-in

Fridays in the Lounge, October 14 & 21

Topic: GP for Me. A GP for Me is a province-wide initiative jointly funded by the Government of BC and Doctors of BC that is helping more British Columbians get access to a family doctor and primary care allowing them achieve their best possible health close to home.

Time: 1-4pm.

Meet one-on-one with Student Volunteers

Partnership with UBC Pharmacy Department/Division of Family Practice

Minoru Bicycle Group - Actively aging and staying fit.

This group of spirited seniors meet twice

a week to ride to various locations

around Richmond. Recently a memorial

ride was held for member Dorothy

Kennedy, who was still actively cycling

with the group on her 89th birthday!

Dorothy was a great role model and

proof that you’re never too old to

maintain a healthy lifestyle and continue

the activities you love. The group is on

the road every Wednesday & Saturday,

and invites you to join them for exercise,

socializing and loads of fun.

Halloween Dinner and Dance

Spend an entertaining evening with great food and friends as we celebrate Halloween in style.

Dancing to Deejay “Little h” with prizes and surprises. Don’t be tricked, this evening will be a real

treat. Costumes are optional. Registration in person at MPAC.

Thu Oct 27 5:00-8:30pm $23.81 1/sess. 1560470

Out Trips

Check out the board by the main hall to see the variety of trips on offer for the fall season. If you

have an idea for a trip, or a new restaurant to try, please let our Recreation Leader, Sonja Pickering

know either by e-mail spickering@richmond.ca or drop by and say hi. Just a reminder that all trips

have a general cancellation policy of no refunds less than 7 days in advance, trips going to theatres

and other ticketed venues need 30 days’ notice for refunds as purchases are made based on

registration numbers well in advance of the trip. Don’t be disappointed, register early.

Queensborough Shopping Trip

Hop aboard the bus and head out to explore the shops at this East Richmond complex with major

retailers, grocery stores and fantastic eateries. Price includes transportation only. Select from

various pick up locations. Registration required.

Wed Sep 28 10:00am-2:00pm $7.50 1669438

If you would like to ‘Go Green’ and have the newsletter emailed to you, send a note to

joostergo @richmond.ca

Bits & Pieces

Closures

September 5 - Labour Day

October 10 - Thanksgiving

Important Dates

October 1 - National Seniors Day and International Day of the Older Person

Friday Night Live 6:00-8:00pm $2.00

September Karaoke

September 9 Name That Tune

September 16 The Magic Microphone

September 23 Sing Along with Ying and Dance Music Social

September 30 Minoru Live Variety Show Celebrating Culture Days (Free – All Welcome)

October 7 Karaoke

October 14 Sing Along with Herb & Ying

October 21 The Magic Microphone

October 28 Name That Tune (Halloween)

Two fish swim into a concrete wall. One turns to the other and says, 'Dam!

FREE> Chinese Orchestra Performance – Fri, Sept 16 1:00 – 2:00pm

Celebrate the Chinese Autumn Festival in the Year of the Monkey with a concert of traditional Chinese music and Cantonese Opera performed by The Alumni Association of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (British Columbia). Everyone is welcome. Free - drop in.

FREE> Culture Days (Sept 30 – Oct 2)

Visit MPAC to take in some of the many activities for adults 55+ years for this annual cross-Canada celebration of arts and culture. All events are free. Find more details at www.culturedays.ca.

FREE> Culture Days – Minoru Live Come to this lively evening of entertainment that offers seniors a chance to learn about and participate in some of MPAC’s various performance-based groups.

Fri, Sept 30, 6:00 – 8:00pm Free/Drop-in

FREE> Culture Days - Arts Programs Open House

Come out and try a variety of visual arts, music and dance classes with mini classes for 55+ years offered throughout the afternoon.

Sat, Oct 1, 1:00 – 3:00pm Free/Drop-in

FREE> Culture Days - Open Studios

Drop-in and meet members of MPAC’s arts-based groups and learn about the many activities available for 55+ year olds. Open Studio hours vary throughout the weekend. Find more details at www.culturedays.ca.

FREE> Over 90’s Tea

Minoru Place Activity Centre Members who are 90 years and over are celebrated at this annual tea.

Sat, Sept 10, 1:00 – 2:30 pm #1655288 Free/Registration required

Flu Shot Clinic

Vancouver Coastal Health will be holding a free Flu Shot Clinic for seniors 65 + years at Minoru Place Activity Centre on October 31. Flu Clinic sign up will begin on October 1, 2016. Call or come in to the Centre to sign up.

Bits & Pieces pt.2 Young people have theirs,

now Seniors have their own texting codes: ATD At the Doctor's BFF Best Friends Funeral BTW Bring the Wheelchair BYOT Bring Your Own Teeth FWIW Forgot Where I Was LOL Living on Lipitor

Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him for

a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?

If the professor on Gilligan's Island can make a radio out of a coconut, why can't he fix a hole in a boat?

Howling Tales

Halloween is simply my favorite holiday. There always seems to be an air of magic nipping at the heart strings during this time of year. At childhood there was nothing more magical than an empty bag filling up with candy, all that was required were a couple of smiles and some miles of walking. Once realizing that Halloween candies can easily be bought, the magic of the season displaced into Halloween movies. Whether it be the old classics of Bela Lugosi defining the term Dracula, or a slasher flick making fingers curl up and feet leap off the floor in fear of a monster hiding under the couch. Halloween was and is the definition of fun.

One of the best traditions of the holiday is sharing stories. Usually they are filled with ghosts, ghouls and slimy things, but I’ve got a couple of real funny tales both taking place on All Hallows’ Eve.

Bad Segeberg, Germany is a town so small the concept of Halloween is forgotten. Late at night a 24 year old man was found in a train, bloodied and bruised and immobile. Passengers called the police fearing he was a murder victim. By the time the police arrived they were shocked to discover the young man to be alive. He was returning home from excessive partying, and passed out from one too many drinks while wearing his zombie costume. The moral of the story here is never drink and ride; you never know what may happen.

Another fun little story happened in County Burn, Prince Edward Island. Here it is illegal to have outdoor recreational fires from 6PM to 6AM. On Halloween night, two firefighters were dispatched by neighbours to put out a fire in the backyard of a house. When they approached the door to receive permission to get into the backyard, they were greeted by an old woman who pulled out a bowl of treats, and placed a candy each into the firemen’s hats, saying, “Aren’t you boys a little too old to trick-or-treat?”

Originally on Halloween children wore costumes to protect themselves from spirits, over the years the tradition has drastically changed. It’s no longer a ritual about the dead but about living life and enjoying every moment of it whether it is filled with sugary treats, or tricks that bring a healthy dose of laughter. ~ Atifah Kotadia

Season Change

The “Autumn” is coming

or is it the “Fall” the summer was “iffy”

no heat wave at all

But - here at the Centre we don’t care a bit

the weather’s the weather we’re busy and fit

There’s something to suit you whatever you choose

so - sign up - and quickly if you snooze - you lose

By Pat Stewart

Learn, Grow and Be Active *New* This Fall: Saturday morning yoga – set the mood for your weekend! Zen-ercise in our new

yoga class held Saturday mornings 9-10am Register now #1552668, starts September 17th, 2016

Reminder to Saturday morning Core and Cardio participants – new name: Total Body Conditioning and new time: 10:15am Starts Sept 17, 2016

MPAC is pleased to support Richmond’s 5th Annual Writer in Residence, Karen X.Tulchinsky.

Writer in Residence: Memories into Stories - Free

Create a short story based on true events by transforming personal stories and family history into fiction. Learn the basics and publish the completed piece in a chapbook. The fourth session will focus on editing, rehearsal and presentation skills in preparation for presenting participant’s stories at the finale event. Beginners welcome.

Sunday October 16 – 30, 12:30 – 3:30 pm Minoru Place Activity Centre, Multipurpose Room 1 and

Saturday, Nov 12 10:30am – 12:30 pm Richmond Public Library – Brighouse Branch, Community

Place, 2nd

Floor.

Board of Directors Elections and Annual General Meeting

It’s that time of year again to make your voice heard during the nominating and election process for the Minoru Seniors Society Board of Directors. If you are interested in getting involved with the Board, or would like to nominate a member, we want to hear from you. The Nominating Committee will be posting information on the Society board with important dates for nominations in October. The Nominating Committee Chair, Jacob Braun, will contact members who wish to stand for election. For more information please leave your name and contact information at the front desk.

Pat’s Ramblings

The Annual Picnic was held in the Main Hall this year unfortunately due to the morning rain, but the menu remained the same with David and his crew serving up the tasty BBQ goodies, lovely salads and dessert. The entertainment - LJ & Gabriel Jazz Duo brought people to their feet for dancing as did some of the musical evenings in the Plaza again this year.

The Garden party which was held outside, had the tables under a huge tent this year so no risks of sunburn to anyone. Sean Davies was an excellent M.C. introducing Mayor Malcolm Brodie and Members of Council as well as special guest Ivan Sayers and his models showing hats and clothes through the ages with the emphasis on the styles of hats. Ivan Sayers will be at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery in September for those who would like to see him again.

Ralph Shaw was the musical entertainment with his comic George Fornby songs as well as music for dancing, and as always, David’s plated goodies served by City Staff members, were delicious. The flower volunteers filled the fancy tea cups and saucers with little posies of fresh flowers, a very pretty touch to the tables.

Fit Tips:

Fight afternoon fatigue. Fatigue is a common problem among older adults, especially after lunch. Having a glass of water and a high-antioxidant food like a prune recently shown to promote bone health) can revitalize the body and stimulate the mind.

Break routines. Routine limits brain stimulation. It can be as easy as introducing new foods or new ways of eating the same food. For example, replace canned peaches with freshly sliced ones. Also try taking a different route to the grocery store or shopping centre.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2015-2016

President..………………...…...........Kathleen Holmes 1st Vice-president...….…..……....……..Shirley Parker 2nd Vice-president..…….....………….....Barry Gordon Treasurer………………...…...…...……..Bill Sorenson Secretary.…………………………….….Shirley Khong Director…………………………………………Theo Au Director...…………..………....……....….Marie Belway Director……………..……………………….Peter Chan Director...........…………...…..……...Eleanore Mitchell Director………………………………..…..Evelyn Thom

COMMITTEE LIAISONS

Building Expansion Committee……..….Bill Sorenson Cafeteria Committee…………………...Shirley Parker Clubs & Groups Committee………..Kathleen Holmes Membership Committee…………..................Theo Au Newsletter Committee...………...………..Pat Stewart Program Committee…..………..…….….Evelyn Thom Special Event Committee……………....Marie Belway Travel Committee…...………...…..….....Evelyn Thom

Cafeteria

Minoru Place Activity Centre has a great cafeteria that serves delicious and nutritious meals, six days a week. Minoru Seniors Society members get a discount in the cafeteria.

Lunch - $5.00 members $7.00 non-members

Dinner - $7.00 members $9.00 non-members Fall Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:30am-4:00pm Friday 8:30am-7:00pm

Saturday 10:00am-2:00pm Sunday CLOSED

Hot Meals

Lunch: Mon - Fri 11:30-1:00pm Soup &Sandwiches 11:00-2:00pm

Dinner: Friday 4:30-6:00pm Menus Weekly menus are available at the Front Desk or can be found online at http://www.richmond.ca/parksrec/seniors/minoruplace/minoru.htm

Catering

If you or your friends are hosting a party, we would love to cater for you. By using our catering services, you are supporting the provision of hot, nutritious, and affordable meals for seniors at Minoru Place. 604.238.8461

STAFF - City of Richmond

Coordinator, Senior Services Heather Muter

Seniors Wellness Coordinator Debbie Hertha

Community Facility Coordinator Melanie Burner

Recreation Leader Sonja Pickering

Recreation Facility Clerk Tammy Davies

STAFF - Minoru Seniors Society

Food Services Coordinator Chef David Langmuir

Community Leisure Transport Coordinator Roop Nagra

Volunteer Coordinator Jacqui Oostergo

Older Adults Coordinator Chester Sun \

Fitness Coordinator Donna Bishop

CENTRE HOURS

Monday - Friday 8:30am-9:00pm

Saturday 8:45am-4:00pm

Sunday 12:00pm-4:00pm

Please call the Front Desk at 604.238.8450

for additional information.

MEMBERSHIP

Membership provides free access to all Clubs and Groups, a member’s discount in the cafeteria, the option to purchase a parking pass, and the right to vote at the Annual General Meeting.

Membership $22.00 Billiards $28.00 Woodworking $22.00 Table Tennis $30.00

Centre Information

MONDAY

8:30am Woodworking Group*

9:00am Busy Fingers

10:00am Chinese Seniors Circle Back Sept 12

12:30pm Bridge - Contract

1:00pm Crib

1:30pm Parkinson’s Support Group (2nd week)

3:45pm Happy Chorus

6:15pm Whist

TUESDAY

8:30am Wood Carving Group*

8:45am Walking Club

10:00am Diabetic Support Group (1st & 3rd week)

11:00am Poker

12:15pm Carpet Bowling

1:00pm Amateur Writers Group

(Returning Sept 6)(1st & 3rd week)

1:00pm Photography Group (2nd & 4th week)

1:30pm Musical Interludes not Sept 13 & 20

2:00pm Platinum Players

4:30pm Red Leaf Multicultural Arts

WEDNESDAY

8:30am Woodworking Group*

10:00am Happy Chorus (1st, 2nd & 4th week)

10:00am Bicycle Group

10:00am Mah Jong

12:15pm Spanish Instruction

12:30pm Bridge - Contract

1:00pm Artist’s Workshop (2nd & 4th week)

1:00pm Crib

2:00pm Glee Club

THURSDAY

8:30am Woodworking Group*

9:00am Busy Fingers

9:00am Computer Assist Group

11:00am Poker

12:00pm Scrabble

1:45pm Kingsland Calligraphy

3:30pm Ballroom Dance $2.00 Drop In

FRIDAY

8:30am Woodworking Group*

10:00am Mah Jong

12:30pm Bridge-Duplicate

1:00pm Chinese Calligraphy

1:30pm Euchre

4:30pm Red Leaf Multicultural Arts

SATURDAY

8:30am Woodworking Group*

10:00am Bicycle Group

10:30am Spanish Social

11:15am Ballroom Dance $2.00 Drop In

12:30pm Crib

1:00pm Peking Opera

SUNDAY

12:00pm Red Leaf Multicultural Arts

12:15pm Poker

1:00pm Chinese Line Dancing

1:00pm Movie Matinee - $2.00 Drop In

Member Weekly Activities

A Minoru Place Facility Pass is required to attend Groups. In some cases, additional fees may apply.

Please check with the Front Desk at 604-238-8450 for more information and cancellation dates.

* Woodworking & Woodcarving Groups require additional Memberships to attend.