FCSS Holds Seniors’ Week BBQ And Activities

Lorna Hamilton Reporter

On June 6, the Vermilion Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) organized a delightful BBQ lunch and activities at the Vermilion Heritage Park and Senior Centre to honour and celebrate the seniors in the community. The event was blessed with beautiful weather, setting the perfect atmosphere for a couple hours of camaraderie and enjoyment.

The Cornerstone Co-op generously provided its BBQ equipment for the occasion, and some employees from Cornerstone Co-op volunteered their time and skills to ensure the burgers were cooked to perfection, for the 170 attendees. The meal also included potatoe salad, coleslaw, beans, and tea, coffee and water.

Adding to the spirit of community involvement, members of the Town of Vermilion Council Kirby Whitlock and Kevin Martin stepped up to lend a helping hand. They devoted their time to assist in serving food, collecting plates and cups, and ensuring a smooth and efficient cleanup process, while also enjoying an opportunity to interact with the seniors during the activities, and lunch.

The event received further support from the staff of the Vermilion Continuing Care, Vermilion Valley Lodge, and volunteers from the Vermilion Senior Centre members, and Family Community Support Services.

The Seniors’ Week BBQ and activities have been celebrated in the Town of Vermilion for 20-plus years and is organized as a token of appreciation and recognition for the seniors in Vermilion. It provided a valuable opportunity for the community to come together, express gratitude, and show admiration for the contributions made by the older generation.

“We often hear about the importance of exercise and a healthy diet as a person ages, but did you know that social interaction provides many physical and mental health benefits to seniors? Watching and listening to the chatter among the crowd that gathered to attend was proof that some adventures are truly worth the effort. New memories were made, reconnecting with old friends and the talk of “can’t wait until next time we all get together” were heard.

This was a wonderful start in our community to celebrate Seniors’ Week

2023, please remember to reach out to a senior you know during the other weeks of the year. Seniors always enjoy visiting, sharing their family’s history, their stories, or just talking about the weather!” commented Shirley McRobert, Senior Support Coordinator, FCSS.

The Vermilion FCSS deserves commendation for its efforts in organizing this successful event, as well as for promoting the well-being and inclusivity of seniors within the community. Such initiatives go a long way in recognizing the valuable experiences, wisdom, and achievements of our esteemed senior citizens. More photos on page 4.

The 36th Annual Irma Summerspiel And Irma Days

Lorna Hamilton

Reporter

The 36th annual Irma Summerspiel is just around the corner, set to take place from August 2 to August 7. Alongside Irma Days, this event promises a week filled with excitement and enjoyment for all attendees. People from near and far eagerly look forward to joining in the festivities, whether they are ball teams, curling enthusiasts, campers, or simply those seeking a good time and an early taste of the curling season.

Throughout the extended weekend, attendees will have a multitude of activities to partake in and sights to see. The Summerspiel attracts teams from various locations, making the curling rink a vibrant hub of activity for both participants and fans. Similarly, the ball diamonds will be abuzz with games throughout the weekend.

The schedule of events for the Summerspiel begins on August 2 with the Rock off Party BBQ, a gathering for sponsors and curlers, but is open to anyone who would like to attend. From 5 to 7 p.m., participants can enjoy food and drinks, including beer and wine, to set the celebratory mood.

On August 3, there will be the Curlers Golf event, allowing participants to showcase their golfing skills. August 4 presents a unique opportunity for attendees to dress up as their favourite bands, with a chance to win the coveted best-dressed prize.

August 5 will be a highlight, featuring the Banquet, Calcutta, and live entertainment. Sunday Funday will happen on

August 6.

The grand finale of the Irma Summerspiel will take place on the last day of the event, with the curling finals for men’s, ladies’, mixed, and mixed doubles categories. Witness the thrilling conclusion of these highly competitive matches as teams battle it out for victory.

In addition, Irma Days, organized by the Irma Agricultural Society, will kick off on August 5 with a pancake breakfast. The festivities will continue with a parade at 11 a.m., followed by a day filled with various activities suitable for all age groups.

Sports enthusiasts can look forward to participating in a range of events during the Irma Summerspiel. Teams can enter the Main Curling Spiel, which will run from August 2 to August 7, as well as the Mixed Double Event and the Slow Pitch Tourna- ment. Ball teams can register for a fee of $350, while the entry fee for curling events is $480, with a reduced rate of $120 for Mixed Doubles.

To register your team for the Slow Pitch Tournament or obtain more information, please contact Lee Larson via text at 780-336-5495. For inquiries regarding the curling events and registration forms, reach out to Bill Oracheski at 587-2814221 or Dianne Jones at 780-209-4604. Alternatively, visit the official website at www.irmasummerspiel.com for comprehensive details and registration forms.

Make sure to mark your calendars and join in the fun for the 36th Annual Irma Summerspiel. It promises to be a week filled with sports, camaraderie, and community spirit that you won’t want to miss!

Edna Joyce Cook

August 2 - August 7 2023