JBNH: This Centre is My Centre

James Bay New Horizons

By Nancy Floyd

The year was 1984, a bus strike (which was to last 3 months) had begun. I had just arrived in Victoria, having lived on a small Caribbean island for many years. It was there that I was being taught how to play bridge. With a strong desire to continue learning I went in search of someone to teach me. I knew nothing about Senior's Centres but now walking, due to the bus strike, I stumbled across James Bay New Horizons (JBNH).

I discovered a very busy establishment offering, amongst many other activities, bridge lessons. I was pleased to learn that I did not have to live in James Bay to become a member, and I soon discovered that there were several extremely good bridge teachers. Those lessons enabled me to continue learning and enjoying this most pleasant of card games. Too, there was the joy of meeting others with similar tastes which continues to this day.

Through the ensuing years volunteering has been a means of giving back some of the help extended when I was a newcomer to the City. One of those pleasant volunteer tasks is sharing desk duties as a receptionist for several hours each week, with Helen who is well informed, not only concerning JBNH but James Bay generally. A wealth of knowledge and understanding occupies the chairs behind the front desk.

I have had the privilege of serving on the Board of Directors, an experience that I have greatly enjoyed and would like to think that I have made some contribution to the Centre. This service is due to end in February and, sad as it is, it is time for another to take my place.

It was suggested, in 2012, that a newsletter be considered to encompass not only JBNH but also items of interest to the community. To that end a committee, of which I am a member, was formed. The name chosen was THE SPIRIT, which fitted nicely with our SPIRIT OF JAMES BAY logo. Issue number 7 is now available at the reception desk.

In the afternoon of the first Monday of each month at 2:00 p.m., friends and strangers alike gather to share an hour or so over cups of tea or coffee and cake, served by some of our Board members. This is aptly named Friendship Tea, for that is exactly what it is. Old friends meet and greet, and new friendships are formed during that delightful pastime, afternoon tea.

A one-hour forum takes place each Friday morning. On two occasions I have had the pleasure of giving power point presentations depicting my life before Victoria, the beautiful city I am now pleased to call home. Fairfield is where I live, but James Bay New Horizons has my loyalty.