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Lorena Smalley

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Hello valued members of Seba Seniors,

It is an honor to step into the role of President of this incredible organization, which serves as a true hub of activity, connection, and fun events in our community.

First, a heartfelt thank you to Cathie Duschesne for her 10+ years of dedicated service on the Board. She will be missed in her leadership role, but we’re delighted that she will continue attending and participating in our events.

A little about me—I have been a resident of Seba Beach for almost five years, though my connection to this area goes back much further. Before moving here, I spent over eight years camping in the region, and even earlier, I worked as a camp counselor at Yowochas—this place has always drawn me back!

I’m happily married to Gerald, and our daughter lives in South Seba. Our two sons live in Edmonton, and we feel fortunate that they visit often with their partners. We love the water, the natural beauty surrounding us, and the many activities and friends that keep us moving and engaged with others. I’m an avid cyclist and walker, so you may see me around with my dogs, Shylo and Stewie.

With my retirement on June 27, I look forward to even more opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Seba Beach and stay involved with our wonderful community.

Our Vision for Seba Seniors

Seba Seniors plays a vital role in bringing people together, and my priority as President is to ensure that our Board members, volunteers, and committees feel supported and valued for their contributions. I will also serve as a liaison with other local organizations to collaborate and exchange ideas.

Rather than control, my role is one of oversight and empowerment—leaders in various areas should have autonomy to make decisions that best support their initiatives, all within our guiding principles. There’s no need to rock the very successful boat that is Seba Seniors!

The Seba Seniors Board of Directors

Meet Your Board

I’m thrilled to work alongside a tremendously engaged and talented group of individuals. Their dedication to this organization is deeply appreciated!

At our recent AGM, we welcomed two new Board members who’s bios are below:

  • Barb Taylor – Director at Large
  • Karen Kenyon – Treasurer

Karen Kenyon – Your new Treasurer 

Karen recently retired from the 9 to 5. Her background is in management, administration and accounting, which has equipped her with skills appropriate for being our Treasurer. She’s been a full-time resident of Seba Beach since 2012 and has participated locally with curling, golf and even running for council in 2021. 

She’s had the privilege of working with many volunteer groups in a variety of roles over the years: treasurer for a church, the Pineridge Wednesday Ladies League, and the Seba Beach Lakeside Curling Club. In addition, she volunteers as one of the event organizers for the Seba Beach Regatta parade. Other involvements have included mentoring children through Sunday school, serving basic needs with Edmonton’s Mustard Seed and fundraising with the Lac Ste. Anne Community Choir. These experiences have shown her how dedication can lead to meaningful, lasting impacts within our community. 

Outside of her volunteer work, she enjoys singing with the community choir, motorcycle riding, glamping, golf, and leading a church service once a month which creates a sense of well-being that carries into her volunteer opportunities. 

In her own words… “I am proud to serve on the board of the Seba Seniors – a non-profit organization that serves a large and diverse community here in Seba.  Over the years, I have cultivated a diverse skill set through both professional and personal experiences, which I am eager to bring to this volunteer role and make a meaningful impact.”

Barb Taylor-your new Director at Large

As a youngster, Barb spent a large portion of her childhood in and around Seba Beach. Her parents purchased a property at Lake Isle in 1973. She grew up in Edmonton, obtained her BSc in Engineering from the U of A, and then proceeded to pursue other career opportunities outside of engineering.

She married her husband, Stan, and they had two boys, Mitchell and Steven. Barb was fortunate to be able to be at home with the boys – acting as chief cook, activity coordinator, and taxi service to sporting events. She and Stan were the kid’s biggest cheerleaders – and Barb was certainly the loudest!  Luckily, the boys (with Barb in tow) visited their grandparents at the lake each summer. The tradition of participating in Seba’s community continued with the boys loving the annual regatta, fishing and swimming.

Upon Stan’s retirement a couple of years ago, they decided to spend the majority of their time at the lake. Community activities were instrumental in growing their friend group and recreational participation. Barb has always been, and continues to be busy! Renovations, “make work” projects, creative hobbies, gardening, biking/walking, curling and chasing her new puppy Willow fill her days.

In her own words…”I’ve witnessed firsthand the many positive changes in the Seba community and the thrift shop. The vibrancy and diversity of programs for people of all ages is truly inspiring. I look forward to lending my skills for continued growth, outreach and fun socialization that this essential Seba group has to offer!”

A warm welcome to both! We also expressed gratitude to departing Board members, Cathie Duschesne (Past President) and Bruce Swanson (Past Treasurer), for their valuable service.

The AGM was a fantastic event, including an insightful guest speaker on art, meaningful discussions, and—of course—our traditional giveaways! Congratulations to the winners of the three $25 gift certificates to local restaurants—I hope you enjoy your meal!

 

Get Involved!

I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events or even just crossing paths while out walking the beautiful roads of our little piece of heaven. If you have time to volunteer, we would love to have you—every helping hand makes a difference

Warm regards,
Ingrid
President, Seba Seniors

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