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NewsJanuary 13th, 2012 Fifth Year Anniversary Celebrating our FIVE year Anniversary this month Thornebridge Gardens first opened its doors January 2007 and has been a busy place ever since. Both residents and staff that have been here since the first quarter of 2007 were honored at a well-attended reception with champagne and hor dourves, speeches, letters read, a special photo slide show, scrap book of mementos and photos, flowers and gifts. It was a very special afternoon of celebrating. January 12th, 2012 Men's Club Outing
Our Men’s group enjoyed visiting the Trev Deeley Motorcycle Exhibition and had the opportunity to jump on for a wild ride! December 31st, 2011 New York New Years Eve Party It was a great party including a Frank Sinatra impersonator singing the old favorites along with many getting up to the dance floor under the “New York, New York” themed skyline and lights. December 22nd, 2011 Resident Christmas Party 2011 Christmas activities and celebrations for the month of December were many but a real highlight was our resident party with carolers, gifts and goodies galore. December 15th, 2011 COMMUNITY FUND GIVING
We are pleased to introduce the Thornebridge Gardens Community Fund which has been set up to support programs or activities that will benefit seniors in the community. The first two initiatives were a donation to the New Westminster Symphony Orchestra and the Senior Peer Counselling Program at Century House. The Senior Peer Counselling Program, which has been in place for 25 years, provides emotional support to the older adult population through trained volunteers. In January we were pleased to present this cheque for $6,500 to support the 2012 training session of 12 new volunteers. Receiving the cheque are from the left, Patricia (Peer Counsellor), Dorothy (resident of Thornebridge Gardens and Peer Counsellor), Deb and Debbie (Thornebridge Gardens). More details regarding the fund will be posted shortly.
September 15th, 2011 COWGIRLS AT WESTERN DAY
June & Nancy enjoying the BBQ WESTERN DAY DANCERS
Our Chef Bruce is not only a great cook but an awesome dancer seen here with Pat August 12th, 2011 Caribbean Summer Party
A beautiful day for bright tropical clothes, steel drum music and a staff led limbo competition in our courtyard. Here is a photo of one of our residents, Joye, showing the staff how to limbo. June 21st, 2011 1950's Day
It was a great day of poodle skirts, hula hoops and bubble gum blowing contests. Many got up to dance to the 1950's live music or chose to watch and remember the "good ole days". June 10th, 2011 BC Seniors Week
Amanda, our Life Enrichment Manager organized a fabulous week of speakers and entertainment with something different each day of the week. Honourable Wayne Wright, Mayor of New Westminster started off the weeks festivities speaking about upcoming events and changes in the “Royal City”. Senior athlete Darlene Currie who holds an executive position with the BC Seniors Games shared her life story of her commitment to sports. On Wednesday Constables Cole and Ballingall from the NWPD spoke about protecting yourself from frauds and scams targeting seniors. Century House staff also updated us on their ongoing activities calendar and events. For the last day of the week we were honoured to have the Vaudevillians entertain us with their multi talented cast of singers, dancers and colorful costumes and backdrop. Last but definitely not least was Dal Richards and his lovely wife who shared about his life story and recently published book “One More Time” the Dal Richards Story. Many residents purchased his new book and had it personally signed by Dal. A special thanks to all who participated and we look forward to next years activities! **Photo of Mayor Wayne Wright with residents Joan, Ray and Betty after his speaking engagement at Thornebridge Gardens
March 3rd, 2011 Greetings from Sophie
January 19th, 2011 SEAL OF APPROVAL
Thornebridge Gardens is proudly awarded the Seal of Approval designation by BC Seniors Living Association. BCSLA launched its Seal of Approval program in November 2009, which assesses their member communities for the highest quality of standards within the Senior Living Communities. Amir Hemani, President of BCSLA, states, “The Seal of Approval is a self assessment and external review of five areas within a senior living community that assures the senior and their family the very best quality of service and care.” The assessment process details criteria within each of the five areas – Safety, Infection Control, Staff Training, Resident Services and Assisted Living – which must be met in order to achieve and be rewarded the designation Congratulations to the team at Thornebridge Gardens for their continued success and achievement.
August 12th, 2010 THORNEBRIDGE HAS A NEW PUPPY
We welcome little Sophie who is not even four months old yet. She comes to work with her mommy Linda and has many, many aunts and uncles here at Thornebridge Gardens who love her lots. Sophie has a way of making you smile or laugh with her cute little ways. She now visits one or two days a week and is in the process of being trained so that she can eventually come to work everyday. We hope to update you with her growth and stories of her life here at Thornebridge. July 29th, 2010 EVENING WITH ELVIS
A wonderful summer evening in the garden with Elvis, actually two Elvis impersonators! The residents were thrilled as our entertainers sang, shook, and worked the crowd with their charm! July 2nd, 2010 B.B.Q. and Cherry Social
The sunshine decided to come out just in time for our special Canada Day Celebrations. Our B.B.Q. was mouth watering and topped of with Cherries Jubilee and fresh made cherry tarts. The terrace turned out to be the perfect place to enjoy the warm rays of sunshine along with the good food and great company. Welcome Summer!! May 29th, 2010 2010 Hyack Parade Honoring the Royal City and the Queen, Thornebridge’s royal crown also represents the many seniors who are considered to be ”jewels of the city” and now call Thornebridge home. It is a royal place to live! April 22nd, 2010 Art Show and Display
A BIG THANKS to all participants in our first Art Show and Display held April 22nd. This included Thornebridge Garden’s residents, family and staff, Century House guests and Art in the Park guests. We were honored to have well known Vancouver harpist Llewellyn Adam grace us with her wonderful musical ability. Our rooms were filled with all styles of paintings, photography, needlecraft, pottery and more. Delicious refreshments were enjoyed and a memorable afternoon was had by all. What a talented community!! Beautiful Art
February 16th, 2010 Inukshuk Winners
Our first gold, silver and bronze winners enjoying their win on our podium. Participants were timed as they built an Inukshuk out of six stones that were expected to balance and take the recognizable shape. Staff Inukshuk Winners
February 15th, 2010 Thornebridge Olympics
Here at Thornebridge Gardens we have caught the spirit of the 2010 games. The "official" events are on TV around the clock in our pub lounge and if there are those wanting a little added action we are also sponsoring our own 2010 games. We have started with the Torch Relay that has gone from suite to suite for any residents wishing to participate, starting on the fourth floor following through to the ground floor for the Opening Ceremony. We had our own flag representing the countries that our staff have come from as well as our special torch bearer lighting the caldron as "Chariots of Fire" set the mood. What cheers and tears followed as we sang our National Anthem. GO CANADA GO Torch Relay
Lighting of the Thornebridge Caldron
Our Own Thornebridge Flag
Representing staff that have moved to Canada from 25 other countries plus those that are good ole Canadian born. February 12th, 2010 Olympic Door Decorations
To encourage the Olympic spirit many residents have chosen to decorate their doors with trophies, awards, newspaper articles, flags and any other special pieces that represent their special interests. Here is my favorite! December 5th, 2009 Hyack Christmas Parade
What a beautiful day to be out and a part of the annual Hyack Christmas Parade of Lights. We had a full bus with residents that wanted to ride IN the parade. The best part was being able to watch much of the parade from the warmth and comfort of the inside of the bus while enjoying hot chocolate and baked cookies. November 18th, 2009 Black & White Gala Thornebridge Gardens Dining and Recreation Staff pulled out all stops in hosting our first ever Black & White Gala Event! The evening started off with a bang featuring our gourmet dinner of special soup and salad, Roasted Rack of Lamb and the best Crème Brulee dessert. Dinner and dancing music was provided by the PK3 Trio Band who played an assortment of familiar and new dance tunes. Many went on to socialize on or around the dance floor while others chose to just watch their fine looking neighbors dressed up in their best. It was an evening to remember! From the response and comments of residents here it won’t be our last of such an event!! Gala gals enjoying the evening!
Distinguished Gentlemen of Thornebridge!
October 31st, 2009 HALLOWEEN
Starring our last two contestants who did a great job at passing the pumpkin and not getting stuck with it in the game"hot pumpkin toss". MORE HALLOWEEN
Happy times at our Halloween party! October 9th, 2009 OKTOBERFEST
A great day of celebration including our entertainment, German beer and wine at the Pub and a very special dinner menu! OKTOBERFEST IN THE PUB
September 23rd, 2009 WELCOME TO FALL
To help celebrate the beginning of Autumn, Bruce and Lisa hosted a pancake breakfast that was much enjoyed! August 10th, 2009 SUMMER MEMORIES
Our Thornebridge bus has been putting on miles this summer with many wonderful day trips. Some of those include two lunch cruises, one up Indian Arm and another to Pitt Lake. We have also enjoyed some delicious BBQ's out on our front terrace. FRONT TERRACE Beautiful Summer flowers to be enjoyed! July 25th, 2009 COMMUNITY CONCERT
WONDERFUL MEMORIES OF SUMMER! What is better than sitting in the shade under a big tree listening to some fabulous live music while sipping on a cold drink and having your brow cooled by the warm summer breeze? Scott Robertson's "SWING PATROL" five piece band played swing, Dixieland and dance favorited for all ages to enjoy. Our front gardens were the perfect location for such an event that residents, friends, and staff could experience together. July 11th, 2009 SHOW AND SHINE POKER RUN
Our wonderful city of New Westminster has earned a great reputation for hosting one of BC's largest car shows. This was Thornebridge Gardens first year to sponsor and also to participate in the Saturday community Poker Run. A variety of participants drove up in their special vehicles to our front entrance to pick out their card and hope for a lucky hand. Our residents manned the front table and played their part in serving up a grand time for all involved!! February 27th, 2009 Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras celebrations included fun with a Dixieland Band and dancing as well as masks and costumes displayed. It was a grand time! February 14th, 2009 Valentines Day Beauties
Lovely Ladies waiting for the Valentines Day Party! January 25th, 2009 Robbie Burns Day
Piping in the Haggis! December 17th, 2008 MERRY CHRISTMAS 2008
Our wishes to each of you for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Our holiday festivities are in full swing and have been heart warming for a cold December. It is wonderful to cherish the many positive memories that we all hold dear and also to remember those that struggle at this time of the year when they are reminded of a loved one that is no longer here. May each of us take the time to share some love and understanding with those who need it. October 31st, 2008 Halloween 2008
What a day for creativity and some good laughs. Here we have a very special lady receiving her prize for such a wonderful costume that she pulled together. Many residents and staff showed us their imagination put to good use with everything from witchs and a pirate to nuns and a good fairy. The afternoon included great food, crazy games and a parade of costumes with prizes and plenty of pictures taken to enjoy later.
September 10th, 2008 Crazy Hats and Sports Day Events
We at Thornebridge have enjoyed our summertime (as short as it was) with all sorts of events and activities. Two favorites were our Crazy Hat Day and our Sports Day where many gave their best at one of the events. Everything including golf, hockey, ring toss, bean bag throw and more. First, second and third prize ribbons were awarded and the winners wore their ribbons proudly. One resident mentioned with a smile that it had been close to 75 years since she had won a ribbon. June 26th, 2008 1950's Party
We rocked and rolled residents, guests and staff with everything from hula hoops to a life size Elvis. Many dressed for the day in poodle skirts and chiffon scarves and the men with white t-shirts and slicked back hair (for those that still have it). Our souls were warmed with a fabulous BBQ lunch and live 50's music that even got a few up to boogie. What a great way to start off the summer! May 24th, 2008 Hyack Parade
What a beautiful day it was! The anticipation was high as the parade participants lined up to start the parade right at our corner. Most residents pulled up a chair on our grounds, on their balconies, or looking out of the Country Kitchen to watch the many interesting sights and people. Not only did we get to watch the parade but we loaded up our own decorated Thornebridge bus and joined in the parade line to wave to the happy faces lining the streets of New Westminster. It was an event to be remembered by all. Our Bus in the Parade
Residents and staff joined in the fun as we traveled the parade route! February 14th, 2008 VALETINES CELEBRATION
We enjoyed a special day celebrating Valentines together. There was standing room only as many joined in the festivities dressed their best in red or pink. Lively entertainment and Valentine treats warmed hearts and put a smile on everyones face. November 23rd, 2007 FULL HOUSE CELEBRATION
Our residents, staff, and board members all came together for a very special night of fine dining and celebration. Management helped serve the gourmet dinner so that other hard working staff could also enjoy the meal. The three piece band "Ice Jam" helped set the mood as a few residents got up to dance and found it hard to sit still. We had a wonderful dessert table with champagne served. There were also special speeches and staff appreciation that was given. What a night of celebration it was as we all took the time to reflect on how far we have come in such a short time. October 1st, 2007 NOW FULL!
In nine short months we have reached full status with a total of 158 wonderful residents who now call Thornebridge Gardens home. The sense of "community" continues to grow and blossom as individuals try out the many opportunities to meet both old and new friends and get involved in a variety of activities. We the staff are honoured to be a part of such a positive environment where residents can feel at home and also be a vital part of that caring community. September 10th, 2007 CARIBBEAN DAY
Everything seemed just perfect for our special day. The colorful decorations, the unique costumes of both residents and staff, and the delightful assortment of delicious "appies" for all to enjoy. Besides all that was the tropical music from the steel drum band filling the courtyard with music while the staff entertained as they gave their best effort in the limbo contest. The most wonderful part was seeing the happy faces and hearing all of the positive comments of how much fun it was for both residents and staff. One new residents smiled with tears in her eyes as she said "I am so happy to be here, I can't believe that I am really here enjoying so much." July 11th, 2007 Summer Events
Things are sizzling in more ways than one. As we now experience the wonderful days of summer our calendar of events and entertainment heat up as well. Hawaiian Day was enjoyed by all with a fabulous variety of costumes, decorations, food and tropical drinks, along with beautiful Hawaiian Dancers. Our next special event was our Strawberry Tea held in the Courtyard and Multi-Purpose Room with a tasty selection of Chef Bruce's specialties including chocolate dipped strawberries. Entertainment was provided by the Scott Robertson Trio who added that special touch of class to the warm summer celebration. Next month we will be enjoying a Caribbean Day with a live steel band and all the trimmings. May 24th, 2007 Beautiful Landscaping Nearly Complete
The corner of 6th St. and 8th Ave. has truly been transformed with the recently landscaped gardens. The meandering concrete pathway that follows the perimeter of the property has recently been enjoyed by many residents as the weather improves. Thornebridge Gardens also boasts a lovely inner courtyard between the new building and the old heritage church with benches and arbour surrounded by a variety of newly planted flowers, trees and schrubs. The sense of community continues to grow as new residents become a part of the many social and recreational opprtunities available as well. February 9th, 2007 NOW OPEN
Thornebridge Gardens opened it's doors to the first residents on January 8th, 2007. We have long awaited this special day. We have had people moving in weekly for the past month now and it is feeling more like home. It's wonderful to see the many happy faces enjoying their new suites and new neighbours. The interaction between everyone is truly creating a vital community. October 13th, 2006 GREAT PROGRESS!
Finishing touches are taking place at Thornebridge Gardens and everything is looking great! Landscaping has begun and will be in progress for the next few months.The common areas on the ground floor are taking shape. Individual suites are nearing completion and feeling more like home. We are on schedule for our opening date of January 8th with approximately three residents moving in each day thereafter. At this time over 65% of the suites have been reserved and our future residents are counting down the days for their move. Once our display suite is open it is likely that the remaining suites will fill up very rapidly, so if you don't have one, don't delay in selecting yours soon. August 3rd, 2006 Construction Progress
Great progress has been made as the hard working construction crew continue to focus on both inner and outer details. Outside, they are starting to install the balcony railing as well as continuing to paint the siding as it goes up. Within the suites they have begun installing the bathroom vinyl flooring, the cabinets, sinks and lighting in both the bathrooms and the kitchenettes. Out of the total 144 suites, 90 have been reserved and there are 54 wonderful choices still available. Make sure that you book yours sometime soon to avoid dissapointment with our completion date of early 2007 rapidly approaching.
CONSTRUCTION PHOTO
View of the progress from the North/West side June 2nd, 2006 Presently Under Construction In the heart of New Westminster, at 6th Street and 8th Avenue, the construction of Thornebridge Gardens is well underway. Thornebridge Gardens will contain 144 rental suites of varying sizes. Hospitality services consisting of meals, housekeeping and social programs as well as 24 hour emergency assistance will be available as part of the basic package. Additional personalized services up to the level of Assisted Living will also be available. There is a lot of interest in this residence; 43 of the suites have already been reserved, as of February 15, 2006. This site has seen a lot of activity over the years. From 1928 until the 1980's, unfortunate and orphaned children were housed there in the Loyal Protestant True Blue and Orange Home for Children. The name was later changed to the Loyal Protestant Home for Children. Since the Home closed, the Royal City Christian Centre has operated on this site. Diversicare Canada Management Services will be overseeing the operation of the residence. Diversicare has distinguished itself as a leader in the industry for many years, having been a recipient of the National Quality Institute Award for Excellence in Service. The company is guided by a commitment to residents that honors personal choice, independence, respect, privacy and dignity. The Presentation Centre is now open and is located in the Royal City Christian Centre at 601 – 8 th Avenue . Debbie Clarke, the Marketing Coordinator, can be reached at 604 – 524 – 6100 or marktg.tg@Diversicare.ca |