Golden Age Centre seeing the return of events

By Mo Cranker,

Special to Southern Alberta Newspapers

The Golden Age Centre is gearing up for a couple big events, and president Joyce Olsen says she hopes there can be more to come.

Just like every other group, organization and businesses, the Golden Age Centre has been affected by COVID-19 restrictions. Organizers at the centre have had to cancel, postpone or limit who can attend its events.

First up for the centre is a cribbage tournament on March 8.

“These tournaments are a lot of fun,” she said. “After every game you go to a different table and play against a different partner,” said Olsen.

“The more experienced players are happy to help with counting during games — everyone is great.”

Olsen says she is hoping there is a great turnout for the tournament.

“It’s great to see people come out,” she said. “Right now, we’re limiting events to people from our area. We’re hoping we can bring others in from other areas — we need to.”

Later in the spring, the centre will be hosting comedians Richard and Deborah Popvich.

The comedy duo began performing in the 1980s, and have performed more than 8,000 shows across Western Canada.

The pair has also recorded five albums and produced two television seasons in conjunction with Shaw TV.

“We’re excited to have Richard and Deborah coming to perform,” said Olsen. “They’re doing a ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s comedy rock and roll show.

“It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

The comedy show is on April 6 at 7 p.m. at the Golden Age Centre. Tickets can be purchased by calling Olsen at 403-545-6936.

“Each ticket is $20 and we’ll be serving dessert and coffee,” Olsen said.

Olsen says the centre is looking forward to future events where locals and non-locals can all be together.

“It’s been a bit hard for us, especially since we’ve only been inviting locals,” she said. “We really need to get back to inviting everyone.

“When the government says we can open things up fully, we will be doing it.”

Though many are optimistic that things may open up for good soon, Olsen says a realistic approach to future events is needed.

“We host a card tournament every year that is open to clubs,” she said. “We’re planning to have that in the fall this year, because we just don’t know what things will look like during the spring and summer.

“It’s just impossible to know, so we’ll plan for the fall and go from there.”

Olsen says the centre is always looking for new members, and that those interested in getting involved can give her a call.

“We would like everyone over 50 to join,” she said. “Just give me a call — we’d love to have you.”

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