I caught up with Marvin outside the Chestermere Whitecappers 50+ Centre and he graciously agreed to answer a few questions.
Me: Well Marvin, you’re looking pretty good for a guy that’s been here on Earth since July 24, 1948. That’ll be 73 years this year!
Marvin: We Martians are partial to long vacations. Besides, I was talking to my sister Moira The Martian and she tells me it’s getting kind of noisy on Mars with all the robots running around at all hours so I think I’ll stick around Earth for a while yet.
Me: So how long have you been a resident of Chestermere?
Marvin: I first moved to the area about 25 years ago, mostly to get away from that rascally rabbit Bugs Bunny. Mind you we kept each other in shape! Since Bugs and I stopped going at it hammer and tongs every Saturday morning I needed another way to stay physically and mentally active. It was then that I discovered the Chestermere Whitecappers who have been serving Chestermere and area since 1985. The Whitecappers have something for everyone in the 50+ community. Some of the many activities you can enjoy are:
Yoga, Line Dancing, and Carpet Bowling
Morning coffee meetings. I was zooming before Zoom was even invented and I currently enjoy the virtual ones.
Bridge, quilting, art, walking, the monthly “Lunch ‘N Learns” and of course the Whitecappers famous Pot Luck Suppers. I like sharing my Martian Meatballs, they’re literally “out of this world”! I also enjoy dancing to live musical entertainment by local artists. The discounted tickets to Stage West and the Rosebud Dinner Theatre are great as well. These are just a few of the many fun, fitness, and educational activities brought to members by our dedicated volunteers.
Me: So you’re probably looking forward to the Whitecappers 50+ Centre re-opening.
Marvin: You bet. As a matter of fact I’m just about to renew my membership. If you’re 50+ in Chestermere and area, it’s hard to beat the value a membership offers. It’s only $35 and due to Covid will run until April 30, 2022.
Me: So how do you join or renew your membership?
Marvin: Just get in touch with our Treasurer, Pat Shaw. She can be reached at 403-273-5108 or patshaw242@gmail.com.
Me: Anything else you’d like to add?
Marvin: Yes. Our facility lease cost was recently increased 60%. The Whitecappers are running a 50:50 draw to help with the increased rent. Tickets are 1 for $5, 4 for $10, or 10 for $20. There is a minimum prize of $600 and if all tickets are sold you could win $1500. Ticket sales end April 2, 2021 with the draw on April 4, 2021 here at the Whitecappers 50+ Centre, either inside or outside depending on the Covid restrictions. Ticket sales are open to any Alberta resident over 18. You can buy your ticket online at: https://www2.rafflebox.ca/raffle/chestermerewhitecappers.
Me: Thanks Marvin.
Marvin: You are most welcome. Don’t forget to buy your 50:50 tickets!