AULD ACQUAINTANCES: JANUARY TO DECEMBER 2025
Auld Acquaintances by Peggy Oldfield
Postings from January 1, 2025 forward
Posted October 11, 2025:
Another month and another gathering for bowling at Grandview Lanes followed by lunch at Apollo's Restaurant. Wednesday, October 8th was the date and participants were Yves Bournival, Neil & Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hanson, Alex Kerr (who came all the way from Victoria to take part!), Bill Murray, Peggy Oldfield, Michael & Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Ding & Marichu Torrijos. With Thanksgiving and Hallowe'en in October, refreshments took on the colours of the season with fresh cherries and apple chunks courtesy of Ding & Marichu Torrijos; a Hallowe'en pumpkin filled with mini chocolate bars from Bill Murray; mini cupcakes, macaroons and Mandarin oranges from Peggy Oldfield. Autumn colours appeared in clothing too and while no one actually showed up in Hallowe'en costume, Bill Murray donned socks adorned with pumpkin faces for the occasion! After the games, Yves, Neil, Lynn, Alex, Peggy, Michael and Eleanor continued conversation and laughs over lunch at Apollo's. Look for more photos of the group in The Gallery, but here are a few from bowling....
Even the ten pin bowling balls go into the spirit of Hallowe'en!
Let the games begin! L-R: Bill Murray, Alex Kerr, Neil Gillon, Michael Taylor-Noonan and Lillian Hanson.
Bill Murray's pumpkin was the centerpiece for fresh cherries and apples from Marichu & Ding Torrijos;
Mandarin oranges, mini cupcakes and macaroons from Peggy Oldfield.
Secrets of the pumpkin revealed!
Neil Gillon, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Alex Kerr, Bill Murray and Yves Bournival give full attention to action on the lanes.
Not sure what's happening with Michael's pants....
L-R: Ding Torrijos, Marichu Torrijos, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Peggy Oldfield, Alex Kerr and Neil Gillon.
Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Neil Gillon and Yves Bournival on the lanes.
In the background are Ding Torrijos, Lynn Gillon, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Alex Kerr and Bill Murray.
What the bowling pins see just before Neil Gillon rolls the ball.
Ding Torrijos, Neil Gillon and Lillian Hanson are up to bowl. Behind them L-R:
Marichu Torrijos, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Alex Kerr and Bill Murray.
Bill Murray eyes the pins. Marichu Torrijos seated at left and behind Bill,
L-R: Yves Bournival, Lynn Gillon, Neil Gillon, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Lillian Hanson.
Who knew that laterAlex Kerr would roll three strikes in a row!
Ding Torrijos, Lynn Gillon and Bill Murray bowling.
In the background L-R: Marichu Torrijos, Yves Bournival, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Neil Gillon.
Alex Kerr, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Marichu Torrijos, Lynn Gillon and Neil Gillon.
Michael Taylor-Noonan muses, "Which ball should I use?"
"I'm the only one who wore anything for Hallowe'en!", says Bill Murray - showing off socks festooned with pumpkin faces.
Behind Bill are Lynn Gillon, Ding Torrijos and Michael Taylor-Noonan.
Posted September 7, 2025:
September 3 was this month's bowling date and there were eleven participants: Yves Bournival, Neil & Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hanson, Anne Mathisen, Rod & Lori Mundy, Bill Murray, Peggy Oldfield and Michael & Eleanor Taylor-Noonan. Nibbles to sustain everyone were provided by Peggy and this time consisted of green grapes, Bing cherries, and three types of mini cupcakes.
Bill Murray has prepared a special report stemming from the games to share with you....
We had eleven bowlers for the September 3rd bowling event at Grandview Lanes. We broke off into two teams of four and one team of three. Had we started to bowl with these numbers it would have meant that the team of three probably would have finished the games earlier than the others. This was resolved by the addition of a “Mystery Bowler” to the team of three, who were very happy to have him/her join them.
Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Bill Murray and Anne Mathisen with the Mystery Bowler!
As you can see, the Mystery Bowler (MB) had not come prepared to bowl on this day, but doffing the hat, MB quickly took a turn on the lanes, and as you can see bowled a superb first game. As a matter of fact, MB had the highest score among all 12 bowlers!
Later the entire Mystery Bowler’s family arrived and cheered from the stands.
Aside from the Mystery Bowler, there was another mystery developing.
Lillian, where is your shoe?
Ahh there it is!
The Bingo game was quite intense. All three teams studied their Bingo cards carefully.
Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hanson and Michael Teylor-Noonan
Anne Mathisen
Rod Mundy and Peggy Oldfield
When the timer went off, the Mystery Bowler had led their team to victory, leaving just 5 squares not crossed off.
Anne Mathisen, Bill Murray, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and the Mystery Bowler
The other two teams tied, having left 6 squares not crossed off.
Lillian Hanson, Peggy Oldfield, Lynn Gillon, Lori Mundy, Yves Bournival, Rod Mundy, Neil Gillon and Michael Taylor-Noonan.
And no, that's not a rude gesture Neil is making; he's confirming the two teams came in second!
Photos of the Bingo Game winners and runner-up are also posted in The Gallery along with one of the nine people who continued on to Apollo's Restaurant for lunch following bowling - Yves, Neil, Lynn, Anne, Rod, Lori, Peggy, Michael and Eleanor.
And here are a few pictures capturing bowling time....
Anne Mathisen and Lori Mundy have a chat in the foreground.
L-R behind them are Lynn Gillon, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Yves Bournival, Rod Mundy and Michael Taylor-Toonan.
Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Yves Bournival are on the lanes.
In the background L-R: Neil Gillon, Lillian Hanson, Michael Taylor-Noonan and Anne Mathisen.
Neil Gillon, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Yves Bournival are the bowlers.
Anne Mathisen is seated and Lillian Hanson and Michael Taylor-Noonan chat behind Anne.
Rod Mundy is ready to pick up a bowling ball. In the background L-R:
Anne Mathisen, Lillian Hanson, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Yves Bournival, Bill Murray, Lynn Gillon and Lori Mundy.
Lillian Hanson and Bill Murray on the lanes.
Michael Taylor-Noonan and Neil Gillon in the background.
Lillian Hanson, Anne Mathisen and Lori Mundy are the bowlers.
Michael Taylor-Noonan and Bill Murray are in the background behind Lori.
Bill Murray and Rod Mundy in serious conversation.
Anne Mathisen Lynn Gillon and Michael Taylor-Noonan in the background.
L-R: Anne Mathisen, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Bill Murray, Yves Bournival and Neil Gillon.
Lillian Hanson, Lynn Gillon and Michael Taylor-Noonan are in the background.
Lillian Hanson, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Neil Gillon and Lynn Gillon.
Posted August 9, 2025:
On August 6th, eleven bowlers participated in the monthly gathering amid lots of chat and laughter - Yves Bournival, Neil & Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hanson, Anne Mathisen, Bill Murray, Peggy Oldfield, Michael & Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Ding & Marichu Torrijos. Ding & Marichu brought fresh apple chunks which were the perfect compliment to the fresh fruit chunks and sweets supplied by Peggy Oldfield. After the games, Neil, Lynn, Anne, Peggy, Michael and Eleanor carried on with lunch at Apollo's Restaurant and were joined by Maurice Moses. Photos of the Bowling Bingo Game teams are posted in The Gallery and here are a few more from the games....
An assortment of treats provided by Peggy Oldfield.
L-R: Bill Murray, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Marichu Torrijos, Lynn Gillon, Neil Gillon and Yves Bournival.
Michael Taylor-Noonan reaches for a fresh apple chunk just put on the treats' table by Marichu Torrijos.
Lillian Hanson notes that the new bowling balls are heavier than the ones we've been used to.
Behind Lillian L-R: Marichu Torrijos, Ding Torrijos, Neil Gillon, Yves Bournival (behind Eleanor), Eleanor Taylor-Noonan,
Lynn Gillon and Anne Mathisen.
Lillian Hanson looks very determined to demolish those pins despite the heavy ball.
Neil Gillon and Anne Mathisen on the lanes. In the background L-R: Eleanor & Michael Taylor-Noonan, Bill Murray and Yves Bournival.
Marichu & Ding Torrijos
Neil Gillon and Michael Taylor-Noonan have a chat while Yves Bournival applauds action on the lanes.
Yves Bournival, Bill Murray and Anne Mathisen give their undivided attention to the bowlers.
Neil Gillon and Lillian Hanson
Eleanor & Michael Taylor-Noonan and Neil Gillon in foreground.
Lillian Hanson and Ding Torrijos behind them.
Marichu Torrijos gives Lillian Hanson some pointers.
Anne Mathisen steps up onto the next alley.
In the background are Peggy Oldfield, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Lynn Gillon, Ding Torrijos, Michael Taylor-Noonan and Neil Gillon.
Lillian Hanson, Marichu Torrijos and Ding Torrijos
Anne Mathisen looking for a little ray of sunshine after winning the Stupid Game trophy.
Posted July 27, 2025:
I’m very pleased to share the news that our former CBC Vancouver colleague Zafira Nanji has two children’s books now available through Amazon.ca –
My Ismaili Adventure: An activity book for Ismaili children
everywhere. Join Hamida and Shiraz on a joyful safar — an
Ismaili adventure filled with stories, questions, and meaningful
connections. Part story, part activity book, My Ismaili Adventure
invites children and families to explore faith, identity, and belonging
in ways that are playful, curious, and deeply personal. Centered
around a term of Bait-ul-Ilm, our Grade 3 friends are working on a
special project. Through reflective prompts, sensory activities, and
gentle storytelling, readers journey through Jamatkhana life — from
community traditions and seva to history and the quiet magic of
everyday discovery. Our characters come from diverse families,
mirroring the real stories of the Global Ismaili Community today.
Ideal for children ages 5–9, but meaningful at any age, this book
was designed with inclusivity and neurodivergence in mind — using accessible language, grayscale illustrations, and a spacious layout to create a calm, welcoming experience. Whether you're sharing it inyour living room, in a classroom, or on the Jamatkhana floor, My Ismaili Adventure offers a creative way to spark thoughtful conversations across generations.
My Ismaili: The First Safar: Activities for Little Jamati Explorers.
From their first visit to Jamatkhana to learning how to say
“Ya Ali Madad,” this gentle colouring and activity book introduces
young children to the spaces and people in ways that feel
familiar, friendly, and fun. Created for ages 3–6, My Ismaili:
First Safar is part of the My Ismaili series — a growing
collection of books that explore identity, belonging, and
cultural connection through play-based learning and inclusive
storytelling. Through the ABC's of Ismaili life, children will explore:
· What to expect at Jamatkhana, including greetings and rituals
· Concepts like celebration, tasbih and service
· Sensory-friendly spaces and community helpers
· Matching, word tracing, drawing, and reflection prompts
Every page is designed with early learners in mind: large grayscale
illustrations, clear outlines, gentle language, and opportunities for
quiet engagement. You'll meet Hamida and Shiraz — two recurring characters in the My Ismaili series — and follow them through a journey that affirms difference, encourages questions, and welcomes all kinds of families.
This book is:
· Developmentally appropriate for ages 3–6
· Culturally grounded in contemporary Ismaili experiences
· Neurodiversity-friendly, with calm layouts and low-stimulation visuals
· Non-doctrinal, accessible to interfaith and multi-generational homes
Whether you're preparing a child for their first Jamatkhana visit, sharing across generations, or building a quiet moment of reflection at home, My Ismaili: First Safar is a gentle first step on a lifelong journey of identity and care.
Click on the following link for complete ordering information:
Posted July 18, 2025:
I'm very pleased to relay the news that our colleague Paul
Grant (retired CBC Vancouver Host of the weekly jazz
program Hot Air and previously a broadcaster with CBC
Charlottetown and Regina, has a newly published novel now
available.
Astraphobia (BWL 2025), chronicles three generations of a
Moose Jaw farming family stalked by lightning. The story
begins as Saskatchewan becomes a province in 1905, and
continues through a world war, a depression, another world
war, a cold war that threatened nuclear Armageddon and on
into the sixties and seventies. Throughout, the McKenzie
family thrives, but lightning crackles in their veins as they
wonder who may be next victim of The McKenzie Curse.
Astraphobia is available as an e-book or paperback at: https://www.bookswelove.com/shop/p/astraphobia and via Indigo Books.
If you prefer a softcover pocketbook edition, it is available through Barnes & Noble bookstores.
The CBC/SRC Association bowling and lunch event on July 9 was a double celebration. First and foremost, to wish a Happy Birthday to Michael Taylor-Noonan - his birthday was actually ON July 9! - and secondly to celebrate Canada Day a little belatedly. In attendance for bowling were Yves Bournival (joining the group for the first time), Neil & Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hanson, Bill Murray, Peggy Oldfield, Michael & Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Ding & Marichu Torrijos. Bill Murray supplied a red and while maple leaf table cloth for the counter holding the edible goodies and also brought Canada Day themed prizes (2 pair of sunglasses, 2 fidgets for restless hands and one rain cape) for which he held a draw of names. Peggy Oldfield ordered a birthday cake for Michael and added some fresh fruit to the snack table, and in keeping with the Canada Day theme, the cake was iced in red and white and Canada Day paper plates and napkins completed the theme. After the three games, Yves, Neil, Lynn, Michael, Eleanor and Peggy carried on to Apollo's Restaurant for lunch and more chat. Photos of the teams and the lunch group are posted in The Gallery and here are a few of the bowling fun and birthday celebration....
Bob the bowling ball gets into the spirit of Canada Day at bowling.
Eleanor Taylor-Noonan welcoming Yves Bournival, a new bowler to our gang.
At right are Neil Gillon, Lynn Gillon and Lillian Hanson.
Its "elbows up" by the boys - Neil Gillon, Bill Murray, Michael Taylor-Noonan and Yves Bournival.
Celebrating Michael Taylor-Noonan's birthday with the red and white Canada Day theme. Michael's birthday actually was on July 9!
Shared celebrations of Canada Day in the colour scheme and birthday in the cake and fresh fruit.
Candles are lit on Michael's cake. Yves Bournal, Ding & Marichu Torrijos, and Neil Gillon await Michael to blow them out.
And the candles have been snuffed. Yves, Marichu, Ding, Eleanor, Neil and Lillian (cut off at right edge) cheer him on.
Eleanor Taylor-Noonan giving hubby Michael some cake-cutting tips. Happy Birthday, Michael!
Lillian Hanson gets ready to deliver.
Bill Murray begins his prize draw for Canada Day themed prizes.
Marichu Torrijos and Lynn Gillon chat at the counter; Lillian Hanson watches Bill.
Bill Murray checks the prize bag before beginning the draw.
Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Marichu Torrijos and Lynn Gillon are at the counter at left.
Canada Day sunglasses were one of the prizes!
Lillian Hanson gets ready to roll, sporting a maple leaf hat.
In the background: Marichu Torrijos, Bill Murray, Lynn Gillon, Michael Taylor-Noonan and Ding Torrijos.
Birthday boy Michael Taylor-Noonan gives a confident smile as he gets ready to knock down those pins.
Michael Taylor-Noonan, Ding Torrijos and Lillian Hanson watching the action on the lanes.
Lynn Gillon standing at the counter at left.
Bill Murray in a Canada Day ballcap and Marichu Torrijos on the lanes.
Yves Bournival delivers a very smooth roll while Ding Torrijos and Neil Gillon check their stocks.
Festive hosiery for the occasion!
Posted June 23, 2025:
A great turnout of ten bowlers were on hand June 18 at Grandview Lanes - Neil & Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hanson, Alex Kerr, Bill Murray, Peggy Oldfield, Michael & Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Ding & Marichu Torrijos. The group kept refreshed during the games with lovely fresh apple slices brought by Ding & Marichu. Following the fun and laughter of the games, Neil, Lynn, Alex, Peggy, Michael and Eleanor walked to Apollo's Restaurant for a leisurely lunch before heading off in their various directions. Bill and Peggy captured some of the action during bowling....
L-R: Alex Kerr, Lillian Hanson, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Neil Gillon, Lynn Gillon, Marichu Torrijos, Ding Torrijos and Michael Taylor-Noonan.
Eleanor Taylor-Noonan achieved a great "shot of the day" and happily posed with the trophy.
Alex Kerr takes careful aim; Peggy Oldfield seated in background.
Team Two receiving their @@#$%^&*Stupid Game trophy to try to get out of the rut of poor shots some were making!
Marichu Torrijos and Michael Taylor-Noonan watching the action on the lanes.
Ding Torrijos and Lillian Hanson in action.
Bill Murray and Michael Taylor-Noonan bowling.
In the background L-R: Alex Kerr, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Marichu Torrijos, Lynn Gillon and Ding Torrijos.
Neil Gillon on the lane at left and Bill Murray in the foreground.
Alex Kerr, Bill Murray, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Lynn Gillon are captivated by something happening on the bowling lanes!
Posted June 8, 2025:
Three of our former CBC Vancouver colleagues have recently published books and I’m pleased to relay the details of each publication and the information to order….
Paddy Moore is the author of Traveltinis - Around the World in 40 Cocktails. Here you will discover a bit of wit and wisdom to catch the “spirit” and the “spirits” of some of the world’s great destinations. Paddy’s book is a lighthearted survey of some cities we love and stories about the cocktails that are special to those places. In this unique book you will find a brief description of what to see, what to drink, and where to sip and sit when you travel. Expand your expertise and your palate by ordering a Czechmate in Prague, a Jabberwock in Cape Town, or a Fernandito in Buenos Aires. Between travels, you can make all forty of these cocktails at home - recipes and directions are included. Some are very simple, some will encourage you to expand your home bar and challenge your mixology skills. Non-alcoholic options are included for some of the drinks. If you love travel and a bit of tipple, this is your guidebook. Patrick (Paddy) Moore is a Travel Consultant, award-winning media journalist, and the author of Quarantinis, Eh?, a diary of cocktails inspired by our recent isolation. Produced in association with Expedia Cruises. ISBN 978-1-7776307-1-3. Available only through Expedia Cruises - or directly from Paddy Moore. Retail price $25.00. CBC colleagues price $20. + $5. mailing. Or better yet, Paddy suggests meeting him for a drink - or a cuppa for free delivery. For Paddy’s contact information, contact https://goo.gl/QNvaxu
David Mills has published a novel entitled Shadows in the Medina. David has spent the last three years writing a story inspired in Tangiers. Embark on an exhilarating journey of self-discovery in Shadows in the Medina as Robert Manion, a weathered and tired 40-year-old, finds his life forever changed after a soul-stirring motorcycle ride through the Okanagan Desert in British Columbia. Set against the backdrop of the early months of 2020, this captivating tale unfolds into a mystifying odyssey that spans continents. From the majestic foothills of Canada's Rocky Mountains to the arid, sun-soaked landscapes near the Rif Mountains in Northern Morocco, Shadows in the Medina delves into a vivid tapestry of charming characters and landscapes. Readers will be immersed in the bustling, vibrant souks and the beguiling kasbahs of Tangier and Casablanca. They'll wander through the Blue City of Chefchaouen and the Red City of Marrakech, forging a deep connection with Morocco's kaleidoscope of colors and its warm-hearted people. The narrative leads readers to experience the thrill of riding a Tuk Tuk through the bustling Jemaa el-Fna square, all in pursuit of the answers to the riddles that define Robert's life. Through the pages of this captivating story, they'll come to cherish Morocco and its spirited inhabitants. As readers accompany Robert on his quest for love, family, and the bonds formed along the way, Shadows in the Medina will take them on a spellbinding voyage, leaving them filled with wonder at every turn of the page. Check this out at Amazon.ca (printed in Canada) via this link: Shadows in the Medina: A Moroccan Mystery https://a.co/d/5QBPfLH
Drew Snider, our former colleague and son of CBC Vancouver TV Producer Andy Snider, is the author of a newly published book entitled Them – The Ones You Might Pass By on the Other Side. The book is a collection of anecdotes about the people Drew encountered during ten years of ministry on the Downtown East Side. The idea was to put names and faces to people who are often ignored, or even dehumanized (in some minds); collectively, they're one of the great political footballs of the 21st Century. The book is available as a download (or can be ordered in paperback version) from booksellers including Amazon and Indigo, or go straight to this site -- https://books2read.com/u/mqxyQ9. Aside from the family connection, Drew advises that there's a CBC connection to his publication as well. The book is an offshoot of the ministry profiled in a segment of The Other Side ... on CBC News -- suggested by Alan Waterman and reported by Gloria Macarenko.
Posted May 17, 2025 (with additional photos posted June 1):
Bowling on May 14 included a double birthday celebration - for Eleanor Taylor-Noonan (May 2) and Sharon Spruston (May 14). A birthday cake and assortment of cookies were compliments of Lillian Hanson, Anne Mathisen, Bill Murray and Peggy Oldfield. Sharon didn't bowl on this occasion but was a great cheerleader for the two teams participating. In addition to Eleanor, bowlers were Lillian Hanson, Anne Mathisen, Bill Murray, Peggy Oldfield and Michael Taylor-Noonan. Maurice Moses popped in towards the end of bowling to say hello. I'm sure it will be noticed that we had a smaller group of bowlers after two very large ones in March and April. There was, however, no drop off in the level of fun we all had! Following the three games, Anne, Peggy, Sharon, Eleanor and Michael carried on to enjoy a leisurly lunch at Apollo's Restaurant. Photos of the two teams and the lunch group will be found in the Gallery and here are a few more from bowling...
-may-14-2025-bowling-celebrating-sharon-(may-14)-and-eleanor-(may-2).jpg)
Bill Murray did the honours in ordering and picking up the scrumptious cake!
Sharon Spruston (birthday May 14) and Eleanor Taylor-Noonan (Birthday May 2) blow out the candles on their shared birthday cake.
Anne Mathisen, Michael Taylor-Noonan (taking a photo), Bill Murray and Lillian Hanson share in the festivities.
Bill Murray passes out plates to Sharon and Eleanor for the first pieces of their joing birthday cake.
Anne Mathisen and Michael Taylor-Noonan share in the laughter.
Eleanor has her piece of cake and Sharon serves up one for herself. Michael appears to be saying he'll have
the rest of the cake while Bill clenches his fists saying, "Oh no you won't!".
Birthday girl Sharon Spruston
There are big changes coming to Grandview Lanes, home of the monthly bowling events. New pins and replacement of the ancient bowling balls are just around the corner. We were given the very first opportunity to try out the bright new orange "Neon" bowling balls.
The results were immediate and remarkable as demonstrated by the high scores by a couple of our bowlers.
Bill Murray in particular had a terrific day, scoring 185 in the first game and 237 in the second!
The new "Neon" orange balls blended in quite well with the old collection of "soon to be retired" ones.
Lillian Hanson delivers another Neon ball for a second strike in a row.
Eleanor Taylor-Noonan squeezes the new Neon orange ball to see if it's ripe!
Peggy Oldfield and Eleanor Taylor-Noonan debate whether to try out the new Neons.
Michael Taylor-Noonan is game to try.
Lillian Hanson and Anne Mathisen discuss pros and cons of the effect the new pins to be installed will have on their game.
There was a four-way tie for the women's "Secret Score" award -
Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Peggy Oldfield, Anne Mathisen and Lillian Hanson!
Michael Taylor-Noonan shows off his "Secret Score" award in the men's category.
Posted April 20, 2025:
Spring is sprouting; Easter is here - and another gathering for once-per-month bowling at Grandview Lanes has come and gone. April 16th participants for bowling were Neil & Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hansen, Alex Kerr and granddaughter Alex Tumac, Anne Mathisen, Bill Murray, Rod & Lori Mundy, Peggy Oldfield and Ding & Marichu Torrijos. An Easter theme was evident in flowered and colourful tops among the women plus the cutest bunny ears adorning Lori Mundy's hair and in the edible treats supplied by Lori & Rod Mundy and Peggy Oldfield. Bill Murray came up with a new trophy for the Bingo Game to be awarded when numbers swell to three teams and it was awarded for the first time on this occasion. Photos of the three teams are posted in the Gallery plus two from the lunch at the Apollo Restaurant afterwards enjoyed by Neil & Lynn, Lillian, Alex and Alex, Anne and Peggy and Maurice Moses. Sorry to say that by the time the photos were taken at the restaurant, Maurice and Lillian had left the group.
Here's a selection of pictures from the bowling event....
-apr16-2025-bowling-easter-treats-from-lori-&-rod-mundy-peggy-oldfield.jpg)
Foreground Easter cookies courtesy Lori & Rod Mundy;
Hot Cross Buns, Mini Cupcakes and Celery/Carrot sticks with Dip courtesy Peggy Oldfield.
Alex Tumac, Lynn Gillon and Lillian Hanson on the bowling lanes. In the background, L-R: Alex Kerr, Ding Torrijos, Marichu Torrijos,
Anne Mathisen, Rod Mundy, Neil Gillon (back to camers) and Bill Murray.
A rabbit's eye view of the goings on! Bunny ears worn by Lori Mundy and looking across at Lillian Hanson and Ding Torrijos.
Alex Kerr patiently waits while Grandview Lanes staff member works to correct ball return function.
From lower right and around...Alex Tumac, Marichu Torrijos, Neil Gillon, Lynn Gillon, Lori Mundy (note the bunny ears!),
Anne Mathisen, Lillian Hanson and Bill Murray on the bowling lane.
Lynn Gillon and Rod Mundy bowling. In the background L-R are Alex Tumac, Alex Kerr, Lori Mundy, Neil Gillon, Bill Murray,
Llillian Hanson, Ding Torrijos and Anne Mathisen.
Rod Mundy in action. Behind Rod are Alex Tumac, Alex Kerr, Lori Mundy, Lynn Gillon, Neil Gillon, Bill Murray,
Lillian Hanson, Ding Torrijos and Anne Mathisen.
Lynn Gillon standing on the bowling lane. Facing her, L-R: Alex Kerr, Lori Mundy, Neil Gillon, Bill Murray,
Ding Torrijos, Lillian Hanson and Anne Mathisen.
Ding Torrijos and Lillian Hanson bowl while watched by Alex Kerr, Marichu Torrijos, Neil Gillon, Lynn Gillon,
Bill Murray, Rod Mundy and Anne Mathisen.
Watching the bowlers are Lynn Gillon, Bill Murray, Neil Gillon Rod Mundy and Anne Mathisen.
Anne Mathisen is extremely happy with one of the shots of the day that won her the trophy!
Chatting and watching...Alex Kerr, Alex Tumac, Marichu Torrijos, Ding Torrijos, Lori Mundy, Lynn Gillon,
Neil Gillon, Bill Murray and Rod Mundy.
Bill Murray picked up a Shot of the Day a few frames after Anne did!
Two trophies handed out for the female and male bowlers who beat their first game score in the second game by the most points.
Peggy Oldfield cleaned up in this category with a terrific second game score of 226, besting her first game by 87 points.
Bill Murray somehow picked up the men's trophy by beating his first game score by a measly 18.
T
New trophy designed and created by Bill Murray to recognize a third team in the Bingo Game.
Posted March 16, 2025:
Another month and another fun day for five-pin bowling and lunch at Grandview Lanes and Apollo's Restaurant in Vancouver. A terrific turnout of 16 people for bowling made for a great deal of hilarity and wonderful conersation and many attendees got into the spirit of celebration by donning shades of yellow or green for St. David's Day (March 1) and St. Patrick's Day (March 17). No one took Bill Murray up on the idea of coming in a pig or crayon costume, though! Bowling participants were Betty Carscadden, Neil & Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hanson, Alex Kerr, Anne Mathisen, Rod & Lori Mundy, Bill Murray, Bob Nixon, Peggy Oldfield, Michael & Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Ding & Marichu Torrijos. Sharon Spruson was a great cheerleader throughout the games and Maurice Moses arrived during the Bingo Game to join the group for lunch. The lunch group was made up of Betty, Neil, Lynn, Lillian, Alex, Anne, Maurice, Bob, Peggy, Sharon, Michael and Eleanor.
Snacks for bowling were provided by Marichu Torrijos and Peggy Oldfield. With so many bowlers, we had three lanes but on one of them, the ball return became problematic part way through the first game. One of the Grandview Lanes' staff members tried valiantly to resolve the problem but as it took some time, the team was moved to another lane to carry on.
Betty Carscadden won the "Shot of the Day" with an incredible one - she rolled a ball and knocked down the middle pin (the 5 pin). The ball then rolled to the left, missing the pin next to it (the 3 pin) and then hit the next pin (the 2 pin)! What an incredible shot!!!
Photos of the bowling teams and the lunch group are posted in The Gallery and here are a few more photos from bowlingL
Snacks with a St. Patrick's Day theme from Peggy Oldfield and Marichu Torrijos
Lillian Hanson and Alex Kerr on the lanes as Anne Mathisen (behind Lillian) heads off the far one.
In the background, L-R are Lori Mundy, Bob Nixon, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Sharon Spruston, Peggy Oldfield, Marichu Torrijos, Lynn Gillon, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Neil Gillon and Ding Torrijos.
Lillian Hanson and Alex Kerr trying to determine why the ball return is falling short!
Anne Mathisen heads onto the new lane for her team. L-R in the background: Sharon Spruston, Ding Torrijos, Lynn Gillon, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan, Neil Gillon, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Lillian Hanson, Bob Nixon, Betty Carscadden.
Alex Kerr and Neil Gillon bowling. Anne Mathisen, Bob Nixon and Michael Taylor-Noonan behind them.
Anne Mathisen, Lori Mundy, Bob Nixon, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Rod Mundy, Sharon Spruston,
Peggy Oldfield, Marichu Torrijos and Lynn Gillon.
Betty Carscadden with her richly deserved "Shot of the Day" Trophy!
Demonstrating the feat Betty achieved - knocking down the 5 pin in front, missing the 3 pin next to it at left,
and knocking down the 2 pin at rear left. Amazing!
Lillian Hanson points to her terrific first game score of 122! Great going, Lillian!!!
High game scorer Lillian poses with bowling newcomer Bob Nixon who didn't do quite so well
but accepted the lower score in good fun.
Bill Murray devised and presented Secret Score trophies to Anne Mathisen and Alex Kerr at the end of the second game.
Posted February 16, 2025:
An early celebration of Valentine's Day and showing Canadian pride were the themes of the monthly bowling get-together on February 12th at Grandview Lanes in Vancouver, generated in the snacks provided by Bill Murray and Peggy Oldfield and in clothing choices of several participants. Participation was terrific with newcomer Manjula Dufresne joining "regulars" Neil & Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hanson, Alex Kerr, Anne Mathisen, Bill Murray, Peggy Oldfield, Michael & Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Lawrence Wright. Maurice Moses arrived to cheer everyone on during the Bingo Game and to join the group for lunch at Apollo's Restaurant. While Neil, Lynn, Lillian, Alex, Anne, Maurice, Peggy, Michael, Eleanor and Lawrence were there, Peter Dobo - who had already been enjoying his meal there before the group's arrival - ambled over to say hello and spent a few minutes chatting with everyone before heading out. Team photos are posted in The Gallery and here are a few more from the day....
Sugary treats of mini chocolate and vanilla cupcakes, pink and red sugar cookies and oatmeal raisin cookies from Peggy Oldfield. Hershey Chocolate Hearts from Bill Murray didn't make the photo but were happily devoured by everyone.
Anne Mathisen in action while some of the gang - L-R: Alex Kerr, Lillian Hanson, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan,
Lynn Gillon, Michael Taylor-Noonan and Peggy Oldfield - watches.
Lawrence Wright rolls while Lillian Hanson waits to see whether she needs that second ball or not.
In the background at right: Lynn Gillon, Neil Gillon, Alex Kerr and Eleanor Taylor-Noonan.
Manjula Dufresne wins the "Darn Game!" trophy - the first of two she picked up during the games.
Neil Gillon smirks as he wins the "Shot of the Day" trophy for an incredible roll,
taking out the middle pin and the two corner pins with one ball!!!!
Manjula Dufresne and Bill Murray won the "Hidden Score" trophies.
The Bingo Game winning team - just showing off!
L-R: Neil Gillon, Lynn Gillon, Bill Murray and Lillian Hanson.
Posted January 19, 2025:
The new year was off to a great start for those who enjoy the monthly bowling with twelve turning out for this first gathering of the year on January 15th: Neil & Lynn Gillon, Lillian Hanson, Alex Kerr (who travelled over from Victoria), Anne Mathisen, Rod & Lori Mundy, Bill Murray, Peggy Oldfield, Michael & Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Lawrence Wright. In addition to the usual fun of bowling and sharing stories of the holiday season now behind us, this occasion was also a surprise birthday celebration for Peggy Oldfield who was turning 80 on January 17. The scoring screens for the three teams had a special "Happy Birthday" background and each time someone got a strike or spare, the animated cartoon that played had a birthday theme! Eleanor Taylor-Noonan brought a delicious birthday cake and other nibbles along with birthday serviettes, paper plates and all the necessary cutlery. Lynn Gillon added to the celebration by making and bringing chocolate dipped cookies and rum balls. Once the cake was cut and Happy Birthday had been sung to Peggy, the games got underway to a lot of laughter and chat. Two teams tied to win the Bingo Game, leaving the third team laughingly disgusted and posing with their backs to the camera (see below) before relenting and gamely smiling (check the Photo Gallery for that one!). Following bowling, Neil, Lynn, Alex, Anne, Peggy, Michael, Eleanor and Lawrence walked the short distance to enjoy lunch at Apollo's Restaurant (photo in the Gallery section).
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Peggy Oldfield points to the birthday background on the scoring screen
(the special background appeared on the screens for all three teams).
Peggy Oldfield, Rod & Lori Mundy and Anne Mathisen with the birthday cake for Peggy's 80th (on January 17)
brought by Eleanor Taylor-Noonan.
Blowing out the candles.
Eleanor Teylor-Noonan and Lillian Hanson led the group in singing "Happy Birthday" to Peggy.
The birthday cake chosen by Eleanor Taylor-Noonan was absolutely scrumptious!
Lynn Gillon brought delicious home-made Rum Balls and Chocolate-Dipped Cookies - it was really hard to have any willpower!!!
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Anne Mathesen, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Rod Mundy and Lawrence Wright watch the action on the bowling lanes.
Lynn Gillon and Rod Mundy on the lanes. In the background, L-R: Lillian Hanson, Alex Kerr, Neil Gillon, Anne Mathisen, Michael Taylor-Noonan, Lawrence Wright and Peggy Oldfield.
Take your choice ... is it The Three Amigos or the Three Muskateers? It's Michael Taylor-Noonan, Bill Murray and Rod Mundy.
Lynn Gillon, Neil Gillon and Eleanor Taylor-Noonan are standing by the counter at left of Michael.
The January Bingo Game Card part way through the game and with snake embelleshment on the clipboard all courtesy Bill Murray.
Bingo game runners-up Lori Mundy, Anne Mathisen, Eleanor Taylor-Noonan and Bill Murray turns their backs in mock disgust.