A “Celebration of Senior Co-operators” to recognize contribution of co-op movement pioneers

WELLINGTON, PEI – May 23, 2012 – Wishing to recognize the enormous contribution made by the pioneers of the Evangeline area’s co-operative movement, Le Chez-nous Co-op and Le Bel Âge Seniors’ Housing Co-op are jointly planning a “Celebration of Senior Co-operators” on the afternoon of Friday, June 15.

Organized on the occasion of International Year of Co-operatives, this bilingual social event will take place under a big tent in the yard of the Chez-nous in Wellington, starting at 1:15 p.m. The 52 residents of the two organizing co-ops as well as the entire community are invited to attend.

The PEI Senior Citizens’ Federation will participate in the celebration to present certificates of recognition to Le Chez-nous residents who are aged 85 and over.

“We have to recognize and appreciate our seniors for having established and developed our co-operatives and our community,” says Carmella Richard, events coordinator for both co-ops. “The Evangeline region could certainly not have remained as strong and culturally vibrant as it is today if it wasn’t for our co-ops. So, the very least we can do for our seniors to established all our co-ops, literally from the sweat of their brow, is to ensure they have a comfortable residence, to show them some respect and to organize a few social and recreational activities with them.”

The entertaining afternoon will begin with a few messages of welcome and congratulations. Local musicians will perform. A bingo, hosted by Grade 4 students from Evangeline School, will offer an opportunity for those present to win a variety of prizes donated by local businesses and organizations. Those wishing to play bingo have to bring their own dabbers.

Members of the Red Hat Society from the Evangeline and surrounding areas will serve a snack of cookies, cinnamon rolls, muffins, fudge and tea. The traditional Acadian characters of Evangeline and Gabriel will also partake in the festivities.

Residents of the two homes as well as others will be clad in period costumes from the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s and 2000s, which will contribute a special ambiance to the afternoon celebration, added Richard.

Organizers are really hoping many people will attend the tent party.

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CUTLINE: Corinne Arsenault, queen of the Evangeline and Area Red Hat Society, helps Roger Arsenault, president of Le Chez-nous Co-op, serve tea and cookies to home residents Eddie and Rita Arsenault in preparation for the special “Celebration of Senior Co-operators” being planned for Friday, June 15.

For more information:
Carmella Richard
Events co-ordinator
902-315-2821