THE LINK

March 2017

Celebrating 90 Years of O.O.M.A.

OVERSEAS OLD MARGARETIAN ASSOCIATION

1927 - 2017

O.O.M.A. “Old Girl” Pins

OVERSEAS OLD MARGARETIAN ASSOCIATION

The first Q.M.S. Old Girl’s gathering was held on June 11, 1927. The School was only six years old, so the fifteen Old Girls present at that meeting would seem a very good percentage of the total number. At that gathering, the Overseas Old Margaretian Association (O.O.M.A.) was formed. A Constitution was drawn up which stated, “The object of the Association is to be a bond of fellowship between former members of the School, and to help them to carry out the School ideals of loyalty, self-discipline and service.” It was at that meeting that the Old Girl’s blazer was designed, with its red and gold binding.

For a number of years, since the first School Magazine appeared in the summer of 1928, news of Old Girls was put in the Magazine, but, for some years now, the Old Girls have had their own paper, most suitably entitled, “The Link.”

It has been the policy of the Association, throughout the years, to keep dues for members as low as possible to enable everyone to join. It cannot be too strongly stressed that this “bond of fellowship between former members of the School” is a great asset to the School.

Since 1945, the O.O.M.A. has had a Memorial Bursary Fund which, each year, has helped a child financially. It was founded “In memory of those former pupils who lost their lives in the World War of 1939-45.” The O.O.M.A. gathering is usually held at the weekend nearest to Queen Margaret’s Day, June 10th. Through the years, there have been various activities at that time—School sports, Old Girls tennis and cricket matches and entertainments—but the most important events that always take place are the beautiful Chapel Service and the Annual Business Meeting.

At other times, there have been Gatherings in , Victoria, and even in . Small reunions are sometimes held for those in a particular year. This is an excellent way to keep in touch with old School friends, besides the fact that fellowship of this kind does form a link with the School. It is hoped that, in the years to come, a great many more old members will join the Association.

Since the early days, old members of Staff are welcomed as Associate Members, with half fees and no voting power, and, through the years ahead, it is hoped many more will join O.O.M.A.

Q.M.S. MEMORIAL BURSARY FUND

In the School Magazine of Summer 1945, there is an account of the O.O.M.A. gathering of that year, and there is mention of the founding of the Q.M.S. Memorial Bursary Fund. I quote from my Speech Day address of that year, “It is of a decision of that meeting that I was particularly asked to speak today. It was unanimously decided to start a Bursary Fund, this to be called the Q.M.S. Memorial Bursary Fund and is to be in memory of old members of the School who have laid down their lives in the war. This fund is eventually to be available to help some child, who could not otherwise afford it, to come to Q.M.S. and receive the benefits which they believe Q.M.S. can give.”

[From Beyond All Dreams 1975–2006]

O. O. M. A.

This year, 2017, marks the 90th anniversary of the Overseas Old Margaretian Association, otherwise known as the O.O.M.A.

Miss Denny and Miss Geoghegan realized that as the years went by, many students who were so close in school would go out into the world and gradually lose contact. They felt that an association of Old Girls would keep former students in touch with the school and help them to find their childhood friends, so the O.O.M.A. was founded. They also decided that the O.O.M.A. should be an autonomous society, entirely apart from Q.M.S. and responsible only to its Members.

In 1945, it was decided to expand our responsibilities and raise money for a Memorial Bursary [above] to benefit the child of an Old Girl whose family was experiencing financial difficulties. Nowadays we often donate enough for more than one bursary, and also contribute financially to the school—for example, the recent repairs to the Chapel.

Many years have passed. Each year there are fewer Old Girls who remember Miss Denny and Miss Geoghegan as Heads, or even as “The Founders,” who would visit on important occasions. Times have changed and traditions are changing, but it is still so important to remember our roots! We also need to remember the “other things” that they felt were part of a complete education: kindness, sportsmanship, loyalty, and service— to name just a few. The phrase “making the world a better place” was frequently used. The world is so much more complicated now, but these goals are still valid, and today’s students are still learning them.

The O.O.M.A. is the body that links the Past with the Present of Q.M.S. The Future will join us in due time. But for it to continue we need people willing to stand for our Board of Directors. We have a great mix of older and younger members, and retired staff on our Board. Some of them have children of their own enrolled at Q.M.S. – Heritage Students. Directors meet about five times a year, and are instrumental in planning Old Girls’ Weekend. We also have tables at the annual School Bazaar [photos, following] to raise money, and attend as many functions at school as possible. We realize that life is very busy, and plan what we do accordingly. Anyone interested in joining us will be most welcome!

O.O.M.A. BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2016-2017

Elizabeth Abercrombie (’88; Parent of 3 QMS Students) Director Dola Boas (Mitchell, ’59; Parent of 1 Old Girl; Cousin of 3 Old Girls; Board of Governors) 1st Vice-President Shelagh Boggs (Randel, ’56; Parent of 3 Old Girls; former Board of Governors) President Nicole Bond (MacDonald, ’88) Secretary Chris Compton (Parent of 1 Old Girl; Staff ’78- ) Director, School Liaison Dawn Fox (Lesiuk, ’96; Parent of 2 QMS Students) Treasurer Rita Mayer-Webb (’88) 2nd Vice-President Lily Anne Millar (Staff, retired) Director Melissa Spencer Montgomery (’84) Director Rebecca Staley (Class of ’17) Grade 12 Rep Yuki Watanabe (Class of ’17) Grade 12 Rep Trudy Byers (Conibear, ’56) Editor, The Link Melissa Spencer Montgomery (’84) Communications

Message from the O.O.M.A. President

Hello to all of our Old Girls/Boys and friends, and my congratulations on our 90th anniversary of the O.O.M.A.

My first thoughts are to thank the Board of Directors who have been very supportive this past year. 2016 was an interesting year.

One of the best events for me was the 60th Reunion of our Class of ’56 (May 6-8). Fourteen of our small class stayed at the Best Western Chemainus Inn and participated in all of the Old Girls’ Weekend events at school. It was a fabulous success—sharing memories, fun and friendship. A wonderful time was had by all.

Founders’ Day in October was well attended. Carol Newington (Student ’55-’57; Staff ’70-’73 &’05-’16) was our guest speaker.

Our Christmas Bazaar [below] in November was a huge success—everyone contributed items to wear, to eat or to decorate Christmas Trees!! The best part of this two-day event is gathering at school and enjoying the fun of being together. A big thank you to Bruce and the Facilities/Maintenance staff who are always there to help!

A highlight in January was the visit of The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia for the school’s celebration of Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation. A Tea was held at the Head's House before the morning ceremony—a lovely opportunity to meet and talk with the very special guest.

We are looking forward to Old Girls’ Weekend (May 6-7), and hope to see you all there. Saturday is always a fun day for family and friends as we celebrate our Strawberry Tea (High Tea), with special plates for the children. Games for the little ones, assisted by older students, make it a successful event. Raffles for our "famous" goodie baskets raise funds for our annual Bursary. Sunday is our day: Chapel Service, luncheon given by the school – where we “pin” our newest O.O.M.A. Members, the Class of ’17—then our Annual General Meeting, and the beginning of another year.

Thanks everyone.

Shelagh Boggs (Randel, Class of ’56)

1997 Shelagh [front], our Bazaar Chair Extraordinaire! 2012 Dola

[In 1997, we set up one small table, and the Parents provided us with a second table as we had “too much stuff to sell” – we raised $150! Times change (e.g., 2012), and continue on – our main fundraiser.]

Message from the Head Girl – Murphy Zhang

Queen Margaret’s School is a harmonious community where we all feel a sense of belonging. I learned about this soon after arriving at the school campus and seeing so many friendly, smiling faces.

Over my last two years here, I enjoyed enriched subjects, a unique equestrian program, innovative clubs, and numerous opportunities within this thriving community. With our diverse population, I have created long-lasting friendships with students from all over the world. I have also been very fortunate to bond with our junior students and members of the O.O.M.A., often being inspired by them. As an international student myself, these strong connections have made Q.M.S. my second home.

The legacy Q.M.S. provides for her students is felt throughout our campus, our programs, and our people. At Q.M.S., we have the chance to inquire, to learn, and to lead from anywhere we stand. We are expected to find our voices and become strong, independent individuals.

Our school has a long tradition of service to others as well. As we all put efforts into making positive changes in the school and the local community, we learn empathy and respect. Our passion for contributing to the world is being fuelled. Given this positive environment, every student here is encouraged to look inwards, outwards, and onwards.

When this year comes to an end, our Grade 12’s will continue the journey of our lives. We take what Q.M.S. gives us to be ready to conquer the challenges that lie ahead. It’s more than an offer from a university—it is a profound sense of oneself with which we will leave.

As Q.M.S. students, we proudly call ourselves academics, riders, artists, volunteers, leaders, and mostly, lifelong learners. We are so grateful that our education and experience here equips us so well for the outside world.

Thank you for the school values embodied in Q.M.S., including staff, teachers, and classmates with whom we work. This incredible year and all the beautiful moments I have encountered at Queen Margaret’s School are certainly life-changing. I am lucky to be included in this big and growing family.

GRADUATING CLASS OF 2017

Deng (Pam) Chen 2015 * Wenxi (Maggie) Liu China 2013 Alysha Collette Canada 2015 * Yiyi (Eva) Lu China 2014 Gabriela Delgado Pardo Canada 2013 * Shuyi (Shirley) Qiu China 2014 Maya Gaudry Canada 2013 * Jiayi (Sunny) Ren China 2014 Ale Gordillo Navarro Mexico 2013 * Marlena Sawras Canada 2016 Xinyuan (Elle) Gu China 2014 * Kelsea Sebastian Canada 2012 Yuchen (Nicole) Han China 2012 * Rebecca Staley Canada 2014 Yuki Hosotani 2014 * Xin (Chloe) Wan China 2014 India Hounsome Canada 2012 * Ruiyan (Ace) Wu China 2013 Tianna Jerome Canada 2015 * Chenguo (Alice) Zhan China 2013 Jimin Lee South Korea 2014 * Ziyi (Murphy) Zhang China 2015 Jingxian (Elena) Liu China 2014 * Yichun (Calendia) Zhao China 2013

Welcome to the O.O.M.A.

Message from the Chair of the Q.M.S. Board of Governors

Congratulations to the O.O.M.A. on celebrating their 90th anniversary.

I have been contemplating the significance of this special milestone in the context of both this year’s school theme of Harmony and one of our community’s most cherished values: Legacy. To me, both Harmony and Legacy capture the special relationship between the O.O.M.A. and the QMS Board of Governors and serve to highlight the important role both organizations hold at Q.M.S.

Our School Song illuminates the three links of the chain: “Past with Present, Joining Future.” With the O.O.M.A. as the guardians of our traditions and memories and the Q.M.S. Board as the strategic visionaries for the School, we are the two anchors of the Q.M.S. Chain. The current students and staff of the school form the central link in our chain, the “present,” and we all work together keeping our chain balanced and strong.

Since the days of the Founders, Q.M.S. has encouraged its students to thrive in all aspects of life. Over the past year, Q.M.S. students have continued to shine in distinct areas of focus: arts, equestrian, athletics, academics and service. There are numerous successes to celebrate and I would like to bring your attention to a few that I feel illustrate the strategic goal of providing “innovative and unique programs that focus on the development of the whole person” and the ongoing excellence our school:

 Q.M.S. String Orchestra earned a First-In-Class award at the 2017 Cowichan Music Festival, as well as the PEO Sisterhood Joyce Fox Memorial Award.  In November, over 20 Q.M.S. equestrian riders competed in 22+ classes at the first schooling show of the year.  Before Christmas, students from K – Grade 12 made 75 stockings for the local homeless people, which included donated items such as toothbrushes, tooth paste, shampoo and socks.  The Q.M.S. Junior Volleyball team won the Junior B Mid-Island Championship in a final showdown with Brentwood College.  The Q.M.S. Junior School swim team competed at the 90th Annual Elementary School Championship Swim Meet and had excellent results. They achieved top three overall placings in several events.  Grade 12 student, Jimin Lee, had her piece “Reflection” chosen for exhibit at the CVAC studentWorks Show and successfully sold it to a local collector.  Senior School unveiled their newly renovated Room 10. This unique project began as a “Dragon’s Den” competition, in which students presented ideas for the room to a panel of judges, and then all decided the direction they would take. It was a delight to see the pride of accomplishment and excitement on the girls’ faces. We are grateful to the Zhou Family who made this valuable opportunity possible through their generous donation.

I am proud to be a part of this resilient school and community, and I am excited to engage further with the alumni of Q.M.S. and deepen my understanding of the bonds that keep the O.O.M.A. flourishing after 90 years.

On behalf of the Q.M.S. Board of Governors, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the preservation of our legacy and the anchoring of our traditions that the O.O.M.A. provides for our school. I look forward to many collaborative years together.

Ms. Mary DeLury Chair, Q.M.S. Board of Governors

Message from the Head of School

“We didn’t realize we were making memories. We just knew we were having fun.” Winnie the Pooh and Friends

Why begin this message with a quote from Winnie the Pooh and friends? Well, Winnie the Pooh celebrated his 90th anniversary in the Fall of 2016.

I’m very pleased to congratulate our O.O.M.A. on their 90th anniversary, a milestone many do not reach. Other notable 90th anniversaries in 2017 include:  Charles Lindbergh’s historic New York to Paris flight  the Harlem Globetrotter’s First Road Game  the 90th season for the NHL’s New York Rangers  first appearance of The Hardy Boys, Joe and Frank, fictional teenage characters and amateur detectives  the Alpha Romeo 6C  opening of the Ginza Line in Tokyo, the first underground train line in the Orient

Critics have offered many explanations for the longevity and success of these ventures and the people behind them. Some say they embody the possibility of the triumph of good over evil; others say they embody beauty, athleticism, and technological perfection. Lindbergh’s lifelong belief was “all achievements of mankind have value only to the extent that they improve the quality of life.”

However the critic in me is much more like the character of Winnie the Pooh. I see the longevity and success of our O.O.M.A. due to the ability of its members to have fun, to be positive influences and mentors, and to spread joy. It is through these actions that our O.O.M.A. has improved “the quality of life” at Q.M.S.

Anniversaries mark the passage of time. Nowadays, it is a sign of trust and continuity when an organization celebrates an anniversary. It signifies that great work is being done by people who are not afraid to take on leadership roles, who remain true to their values and commitment to the organization, and give service unselfishly. This description aptly describes members of our O.O.M.A., and the work done by this group of dedicated alumni.

So to our O.O.M.A., I know I speak for myself and others within our community when I say that working with you, whether it be at fundraising events or through the work of the Board of Governors, and meeting you at alumni events and school activities, has been a pleasure.

Like the links of the QMS chain, thank you for your past, present and future contributions to Queen Margaret’s School. Your continued mentorship and support will help us open doors for future generations of O.O.M.A.

Wilma Jamieson Head of School

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Q.M.S. Archives – O.O.M.A. Centennial Project

Latest information in “Message from the Director of Development & Alumni Relations,” (paragraph 4; below).

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Message from the Director of Development & Alumni Relations

Happy 90th Birthday to the Overseas Old Margaretian Association!

I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to the O.O.M.A. and its generations of strong women who have been a part of it for the past 90 years. It is amazing to think that in the same year that Charles Lindbergh made the first non-stop solo trans-Atlantic flight, the O.O.M.A. was formed on a sunny Saturday in June 1927. There were 15 Old Girls in attendance, along with Miss Denny and Miss Geoghegan.

I know first-hand the importance Queen Margaret’s School places on our relationship with the O.O.M.A. and our alumni. Collectively, your feet have created the path on which we, the current staff and students of Q.M.S., now walk. Your work as loyal supporters to the school, ambassadors of our community, and role models to our current students has been and continues to be invaluable. Whenever I travel to meet alumni, I am always excited to hear the stories that they share. Although experiences span over decades, all include wonderful memories of time at Q.M.S.

In my conversations with many graduates of Q.M.S., I know that there are many alumni who are very passionate about the Q.M.S. Archives. I am pleased to report that the School is working with a professional Archivist, and is in the early stages of an inventory of our current holdings and the archival records and artefacts on hand. The first stage of this work will include storage in archival folders and boxes for preservation. This work will continue until it is completed. If you have any mementos that you would like to donate to our growing Archives, please contact [email protected].

If you have not visited Q.M.S. recently, I invite you to return to your school that will make you proud to be an Old Girl. Recent upgrades to our Equestrian Centre, the buzzing of students enjoying their studies, and the tranquillity of our Chapel are among the sights and sounds that await you! I’ve listed some upcoming events on campus that you may be interested in attending. I look forward to meeting you at one of our alumni events or on campus one day soon.

Thank you for all you do for our School.

Tracy Arden Director of Development & Alumni Relations

Upcoming Events & Initiatives:

 O.O.M.A. Weekend – Saturday and Sunday, May 6th and 7th. This year, we are offering a bus service from Victoria to Q.M.S. to provide the opportunity for more Old Girls to attend the Strawberry Tea (to confirm your spot on the bus, please contact [email protected]). A Weekend Registration Form is enclosed.  “Denim & Diamonds, Dinner & Dance” – Saturday, May 13th, 2017 in Founders’ Hall. A poster is enclosed with further details.  “Pave the Way” Pathway – the Order Form is enclosed; the cut-off dates for ordering are Friday, April 7th, 2017 (installation for Old Girls’ Weekend) and Friday, September 22nd, 2017 (installation for Founders’ Day).

Each of you is an important part of the heritage of Queen Margaret’s School, and we want to strengthen that heritage by celebrating you and your accomplishments. If you are not receiving our electronic or printed invitations and magazines, please send an email to [email protected] so we can update your contact information. We would love to hear from you!

Message from the Q.M.S. Parents’ Advisory Council

The 2016-2017 Q.M.S. school year has proven to be a busy one for all. The first Tuesday of the school year the PAC held its AGM at which point the Executive were elected and plans were put into place for the upcoming year. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at 8:15 am in Karin Quinn Hall.

The Q.M.S. PAC organizes a variety of fundraisers throughout the school year. Funds raised through these various events go towards purchasing items on the School’s wish list. The PAC endeavours to support projects throughout campus under the guidance of Mrs. Wilma Jamieson, Head of School.

As is tradition, the PAC hosted two welcome events at the beginning of term:  A Social following the Parent Information Evening gives parents the opportunity to network with Q.M.S. faculty and other parents. This event is always well attended.  The Welcome BBQ offers families the opportunity to socialize with each other as well as with staff and faculty. The children especially enjoyed the opportunity to swim in the pool and participate in other outdoor activities. In addition, the Unicycler opened allowing families the opportunity to shop for gently used uniform items as needed.

October saw the PAC hosting one of its ever popular “Dinner & Movie” nights. We are always grateful to the parents who participate by baking for the concession stand, assisting with movie night set up and clean up, and all the energetic families who support our events.

A Q.M.S. tradition which the PAC manages each year is the Q.M.S. Christmas Bazaar, which falls on the last Saturday in November. The Bazaar brings together parents and students from all grades of the school as well as O.O.M.A. members. Poinsettia and festive wreath orders were also placed in advance for pick-up on Bazaar Day. The addition of a ‘Q.M.S. Crafters’ table added to the event a vast selection of hand crafted items from the Q.M.S. community. This event is well attended by members of both the general public and school community and is enjoyed by all.

One of the PAC ongoing projects is the Unicycler Shop where parents can shop and consign for gently used uniform items. Sales are split between the Q.M.S. PAC and the consignor. We are very fortunate to have two dedicated parents who take responsibility for this project on an ongoing basis and others who step forward to assist at busier times of year. Another fundraiser is the Thrifty Foods Smile Cards. Available in the Administration Office, the re‐loadable cards pay a commission back to the Q.M.S. PAC whenever they are loaded. They are easy to use and what a wonderful way to support a great cause when you shop at any Thrifty Foods. Mabel’s Labels fundraising is an ongoing Q.M.S. PAC initiative, where personalized labels purchased at our school link will pay a percentage of sales, while keeping lost items to a minimum. Visit the online link at https://www.mabelsfundraising.com/campaigns/10763-qms-pac for all the great labels you can order.

The annual Easter event is always popular with the Primary students, and we appreciate the Intermediate students who take a leadership role with this project. Bulb orders add to our Spring fundraising as do beautiful hanging baskets - available to order with delivery in time for Mother’s Day.

All Q.M.S. PAC events and fundraisers are promoted through the QMS Royal Reminder which is published electronically every Thursday during the school year.

On behalf of the Q.M.S. PAC, we sincerely thank the O.O.M.A. for their dedication to Q.M.S. and to its students.

Kirsty Grant, Q.M.S. PAC Chair 2016-2017

FOUNDERS’ DAY 2016

Every October, students, staff and alumni come together to mark Founders’ Day, celebrating the heritage of our School by honouring those who came before us.

This year, Carol Newington (Student ’55-’57; Staff ’70-’73 & ’05-16) shared memories of her time at Q.M.S. as both student and staff, what it meant to her, and what she takes away from the School.

HERITAGE PINS 2016

Heritage pins are awarded to students at Queen Margaret’s School who had a close relative (from a different generation) attend the school. Pins are awarded each Founders’ Day at our annual assembly that celebrates our traditions and our history as a part of who we are.

The pins illustrate the fact that the character, tone and spirit of a school do not depend on fine buildings, but on the people themselves.

In recognizing our heritage pin recipients, we acknowledge that one of the greatest legacies that our school can claim is that we are a school of choice for families throughout generations.

NAME GRADE HERITAGE CONNECTION

Heather Ellard-Webster 11 Susan Webster (Lutener,’49), Grandmother. Darcy Benham 10 Tara Benham (’88), Mother; Jolene (’86-’90) and Kim Benham (’81-’84), Aunts. Ryder Corby 1 Karen Berkey (’64-’65), Grandmother.

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Speech Day 2017

Thursday, June 22, 11:00 a.m., Founders’ Hall

Guest Speaker: The Honourable Suzanne Anton, Q.C., MLA Luncheon to follow

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OLD GIRLS’/OLD BOYS’ WEEKEND INVITATION MAY 6th & 7th, 2017

The Overseas Old Margaretian Association’s big Old Girls’/Old Boys’ Weekend is coming, and we are again hoping to see many alumni come together to celebrate their graduations, especially grads from those classes ending in “2” and “7”.

Saturday, May 6th Strawberry Tea/Fun Day 12:30–2:30 p.m. The Strawberry Tea has been part of OOMA Weekend for years. The tea is a fun event for the whole family; with games for the children, a bake sale, raffle, entertainment by QMS music students, campus tours and a delicious traditional tea served to guests by the Graduating Class of 2017. We really do hope that as many of you as possible will try to attend this year. Proceeds will be shared with our Graduating Class of 2017.

Queen Margaret’s School would be delighted to share with the Old Girls/Boys the remarkable changes that have taken place on campus. This year, we are offering a complimentary bus service from Victoria to QMS (return) to provide the opportunity for more alumni to attend the Strawberry Tea. For more information and to confirm your spot on the bus, please contact [email protected].

Location: Glide Hall, Queen Margaret’s School Details: Tickets: $10 each (Children’s admission includes three tickets for games/entertainment.)

Alumni Social 5:30 p.m. Join other alumni, staff and QMS community members for a drink or meal. This is a wonderful opportunity to share stories and celebrate your “Royal Ties”.

Location: Old Firehouse Wine & Cocktail Bar, 40 Ingram Street, Duncan Details: No Host Dinner – Visit http://www.theoldfirehouse.ca/dinner/ for menus and pricing.

Sunday, May 7th

10:00–10:30 a.m. Coffee Service, Glide Hall

11:00 a.m. Chapel Service, QMS Chapel

12:00 p.m. Lunch, Karin Quinn Hall (OOMA Pins will be presented to our Graduating Class of 2017)

1:30 p.m. (approx.) 91st Annual General Meeting of the O.O.M.A. Followed by the first meeting of the OOMA Board of Directors for 2017-2018

For all events, please register no later than Friday, April 21, 2017 on the attached Registration Form.

OFFICIAL NOTICE To all Members of the O.O.M.A.

The 91st Annual General Meeting of the Overseas Old Margaretian Association will be held at Queen Margaret’s School, Duncan, BC, on Sunday, May 7, 2017, at approx. 1:30 p.m.

To receive the annual report of the Association for the year ended February 28, 2017; To establish the amount of the annual Bursary donation for the current year; To consider any necessary Motions; To elect three Directors for a term of three years; one Director for one year; and one Director for two years. To consider such other business as may come before the meeting.

Vote The O.O.M.A. Bylaws 2010 changed the voting system to allow Proxy votes [Bylaws, Part 4 – Meetings 4.7.1, Voting may be by proxy for all purposes of the Association]. Proxy forms shall be delivered to the Secretary prior to commencement of the meeting at which they are to be used [Bylaws, 4.7.3].

Election of Directors Elizabeth Abercrombie, Chris Compton and Trudy Byers will stand for the three-year terms, 2017-20. Allison Hunt (Charbonneau, ’82) (England) will stand for the one-year term, 2017-18. Elisabeth Ruiter (Christensen, ’96; Faculty; Parent) will stand for the two-year term, 2017-19. Nominations may be accepted from the floor.

A candidate must accept the nomination either in person at the AGM or in writing (if she cannot attend the AGM), and must be willing to fulfill her term to the best of her ability.

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O.O.M.A. FINANCIAL REPORT 2017

Account and Term balances as at January 31, 2017: Term 1 $12,930.99 Term 2 (Life Membership) 20,455.82 Current Account 5,829.66 Fundraising 2016: Christmas Bazaar 2,317.00 Old Girls’ Weekend 586.80 Expenses/Donations 2016: Hayes, Stewart Little 5,175.71 BC Registries – Filing 25.00 BC Registries – Amendment 15.00 Ministry of Finance – Certificate of Good Standing 35.00 Bookkeeping – Tanya Friese 390.00 QMS Donation – Gym Equipment (in Jan Green’s honour) 250.00 CRA – Filing re: Charitable Status 500.00 Kitchen Staff – Old Girls’ Weekend 140.00 Special Occasions – Old Girls’ Weekend 224.00 Gala Donation – QMS Parents’ Advisory Council 200.00 QMS Bazaar Donation – Silent Auction 250.00 Science Bursary – (in Lea Burburuz’ honour) 1,000.00 O.O.M.A. Annual Bursary 1,500.00

OVERSEAS OLD MARGARETIAN ASSOCIATION

Annual General Meeting, May 8, 2016, at Q.M.S.

Directors Present: Shelagh Boggs, Dola Boas, Chris Compton, Liz Abercrombie, Trudy Byers.

Directors Excused: Kirsty Grant, Rita Mayer-Webb, Dawn Fox, Nicole Bond, Melissa Spencer Montgomery, Sarah Wilson.

Members in Attendance: 8.

Call to Order: 1:45 pm.

Approval of the Minutes of the 2015 Annual General Meeting: Moved by Dola Boas, seconded by Jan Green.

President’s Report: The year was very successful.

Amount of the Annual O.O.M.A. Bursary for 2016: Jan Green made a motion “that $1500 would be given to the School for the O.O.M.A. Annual Bursary Fund,” seconded by Dola Boas.

Election of Directors: To elect three Directors for three years, 2016-2019; and two Directors for two-year vacancies, 2015-2018. For 2016-2019: Three Directors from 2013-2016 were “rolling off”: Shelagh Boggs agreed to stand again for a three-year term, 2016-2019. Kirsty Grant had declined to stand again. [Thanks, Kirsty, for your years of hard work.] Melissa Spencer Montgomery (Vancouver) agreed to stand for this three-year term, 2016-2019. Rita Mayer-Webb had filled a one-year vacancy, 2015-2016, and had agreed to stand again for one year at a time, 2016-2017. For 2015-2018: Nicole Bond’s one-year position, 2015-2016, was ending, and she had agreed to stand again for one year at a time, 2016-2017. Sarah Wilson was unable to complete her three-year term, 2015-2018. Lily Anne Millar agreed to stand for this two-year vacancy, 2016-2018. As there were no further nominations from the floor, and all Members were in favour, Shelagh Boggs, Melissa Spencer Montgomery, Rita Mayer-Webb, Nicole Bond and Lily Anne Millar were welcomed to the O.O.M.A. Board of Directors.

Other Business: In honour of Jan Green’s many years of service and dedication to the O.O.M.A. Board of Directors, $250 was donated to the School’s Fitness and Health Program.

Thanks were extended to the Board members for their hard work.

Members in attendance were thanked.

Meeting Adjourned: 2:15 pm.

NEWS

Earliest to latest:

Eileen Balbi Swingle (early ’40s) is planning to come for Old Girls’ Weekend this year [May 2017]. She would love to connect with anyone who remembers her!

Susan Webster (Lutener,’49). For the past number of years I have not received any QMS news and wonder why! I am a life member and contributed to the bursary fund every year. I have grandchildren in Victoria who are interested in going to QMS [granddaughter Heather Ellard-Webster is currently in Grade 11 at QMS]. I attended a OOMA tea along with Wendy Smith (Denny, 40s) and Rosemary Hawthorne (Hooper,’49) in Victoria a couple of years ago, and was told that I would be back on the list - not so! If you would contact me, I would appreciate it. [I hope we have corrected this omission, Susan. If not, please get back to me. Jan Green]

From our files – received too late for The Link 2015 (March), and missed in The Link 2016. With apologies… Catherine Spencer (Windeyer,’51) was presented with a certificate at a ceremony at Government House of BC: “The Vice-Regal Commendation is awarded to Catherine Spencer in recognition of commendable service rendered to the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia [signed] Judith Guichon. December 6, 2014.” Information accompanying the certificate noted: Since 2007, Catherine has volunteered with the Friends of Government House Gardens Society, Friends’ Board of Directors, and Government House Foundation. She organized the archives and the library, and her work assisted in the planning for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012-13. She also promoted new roles for volunteers – staffing a tea room and costume museum. Catherine’s enthusiasm and keenness to support the Vice-Regal Office and Canada’s constitutional monarchy set a fine example for of all ages.

Mary Farris (Larsen,’56), to classmates, Jan 4/17: “Thought I'd share with you great news about [husband] Haig...he recently received notice that he has been selected to be awarded a Companion of the Order of Canada for lifetime contributions to the development of the venture capital industry and to the technology sector in Western Canada. We will be going to for the ceremony in where the Governor General will present his award along with other recipients.”

Susanna Blunt (’50s). At the Royal Academy in , UK. [First newsletter] Although I have exhibited widely in Canada and in other countries during the course of my career, I recently had the privilege to have been invited by two of the curators to show my work at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, June 2016. The image [following] is the sculpture I showcased. This piece was done in 2004, it depicts a naked man made from an antique rag doll, he has a third leg, a glass specimen dome for a head with a boxing glove in it to represent testosterone for a brain. He is waving a vagina lollipop. Let’s also add that this was the one chosen by the curators. To get into this exhibition meant competing with 12,000 applicants and to have been invited was the most wonderful surprise of my life. The exhibition closes mid-August, but I was there for the opening in early June. This was certainly made more special because I studied there when I was a young student. The Royal Academy provides scholarships, which take care of all the students’ fees, and only 17 students per year from all over the world are accepted into that program. Most students that graduate from the Royal Academy continue to be artists for the rest of their lives. This tradition dates back to 1768, and many of the Greats sat at the same drawing bench where I sat in the schools too, still unchanged, like Turner, Blake, Reynolds and Constable to name a few. It was even more remarkable having David Mach give a dinner party at his studio in my honour, and I met a great many artists while I was visiting London for three weeks. In the photo of me wearing the hat that I made, you can see David Mach's stag on the wall behind me. It was such an honour to be in the same room with him and Anish Kapoor. I welcome your comments and would love to hear from you. [email protected]. Susanna

Susanna Blunt...

Judy Hayne (Gowing,’57), from Ontario, drove from the Kootenays to Victoria with sister Sally Passey (Gowing, ’54). A lunch with local OGs was quickly arranged at the Crooked Goose Bistro on April 8.

Front: Trudy Byers (Conibear, ’56); Sally; Judy; Heather Richards (Barnes, ’57); Nille Fibiger-Crossman (Fibiger, ’57). Back: Diana Abbott (Horsfall, ’54); Luella Donk (’56); Sue Boulton (March, ’56); Verelyn Murphy (Moffat, ’57); Diana Symons (’57).

Laura Graves (Mabel Smart,’59) from Dartmouth, NS, and her sister Sheila Dempsey (Smart,’60) from Richmond, BC, came to Vancouver Island last fall for a quick trip and were able to have lunch with Pat McLellan (Gunnarson,’59) in Campbell River. They had lots of fun catching up on old times.

Laura, Pat, Sheila

Geri Kurpel (Laird,’63). “I had my left hip replaced last May (2016) and it went fabulously...the right hip is scheduled for replacement Jan 12...Welcome for me to the New Year!! Sure glad I only have 2 hips. I will be the titanium gal...2 hips and a spine!!! Other than that, I am doing well...my family, Don, who is healthy as a horse and so supportive of me...I am so fortunate...3 happily married kids with 5 grandkids amongst them, all live nearby, so the holidays are a special time for us to get together, as they are all so busy. I find I still miss Lea Buburuz (Liz Sinclair, Class of ’63); died July 21, 2015] regularly...guess this will diminish over time, but they are good memories.

Barbara Meihuizen (’79), last October: My daughter's name is Tara and she is 31 years old, 32 next month. She is the most amazing daughter and friend I could have ever wished for. She works in a Veterinary Hospital. She has been with her partner Kent for eleven years. She's never wanted children so I am not expecting to be a grandmother. Too bad (I am smiling as I write this) because I think I would be a good one! I borrow other people's children though, so I still get to be a part of their youthful energy. I live in Victoria but for several years I have gone back and forth to Hawaii. In one of the foster families I was in, the foster mother's daughter and I remained friends. On a visit to her, I met and fell deeply in love with a friend of her family's. I spent a lot of time in Hawaii with him. Unfortunately, he passed away of a completely unexpected heart attack 15 months ago, my heart is slowly accepting his loss. I am in Hawaii now for a period of time visiting my foster sister. She has two children aged 2 and 5 and with them, I am healing in this place in which I had found so much happiness.

Judith Bisiker (’81). Things are going gangbusters here in Ontario. It's hard to believe it's been five or six years since I left my UK life behind. I still miss parts of life over there, however I am happy here. My barn is full of fun- loving and talented boarders and our second annual horse trials was a huge success. QMS gave me a huge sponsorship this year which was amazing!! My daughters, Amy and Emily, are still living in the UK however, being the optimist that I am, I'm hopeful they will both eventually follow me to Canada. In the meantime, they are doing well and they are very happy. I really miss them though.

Heather Bisiker (’81). [March 2017] Judith and I are in Fort Langley visiting family...with Michell Morefield, she hasn't changed a bit. Well neither have we...except the part where we all look older!

Judith, Michele, Heather

Glynis Boggs-O’Shea (’82): In September 2016, Shelagh Boggs (Randel,’56) celebrated her 80th birthday. Her daughters Gillian Bell (Boggs,’79) and Glynis treated her to a wonderful week of relaxation on Maui. We enjoyed walking the beautiful beaches of Kihei, shopping in Lahaina, and visiting many restaurants and fun pubs! A great "girls" vacation.

Allison Hunt (Charbonneau,’82) is teaching drama in the UK, and is married to Andrew (Head of a large school in Derbyshire). Sons Tristan and Oliver live close to Allison’s sister Robyn (’85) and mother Lorraine (McCaul, Class of ’59). Lorraine hopes to visit Vancouver Island again next year. Allison, Robyn and Lorraine hope to attend QMS Centennial Ceremonies in 2021.

Melissa Spencer Montgomery (’84) lives in Vancouver. She manages Dania Stables and is an actor. Last year, she appeared in Supernatural episode 1122, Haters Back Off episode 103, as well as the feature film Colossal.

Kirsty Grant ('85) lives in Shawnigan Lake with her husband Devon and two sons, Alexander and Dane. Both the boys are students at QMS and love the experience. Kirsty is active on the QMS campus, currently in the role of president of the QMS Parents’ Advisory Council. As the coordinator of the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre, she enjoys meeting visitors from around the world and showcasing the bounty of the Cowichan Valley. www.tourismcowichan.com

Andrea James (’85) loves her new job teaching Early Childhood Education at Langara College in Vancouver.

Alice McKay (Henshaw,’86). I’m working for JEA Pension Systems. I’m the Quality Assurance Practice Lead, which basically means I’m the Software Test Manager. I have a team of 23 folks scattered across Canada, and we test our pension software product for new implementations, defect fixes, and upgrades, etc. We have multiple clients, the biggest one being PWGSC (the Canadian Federal Government including the DND and RCMP). It keeps me busy and can be stressful at times, but I enjoy it overall. It allows me to work from home most days – you have to love technology – no more driving the Malahat on a daily basis. [See also Reunions]

Patricia Mortenson (Loewen,’89) and her husband Ben enjoy many outdoor pursuits with their children Kathryn (9), Sean (12) and Christopher (14). They spend time in such places as Desolation Sound and various western Canadian National Parks during their summers, and ski at Manning Park in the winter. Patricia is a Girl Guide Leader and a busy Occupational Therapist.

Kristal Timmer (’96) lives in Saskatoon and has two little girls, Ella (2-1/2) and Kaitlyn (5). She works for a survey company and her husband works for STARS [Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service] keeping their helicopters running. Kris is working with her lovely thoroughbred mare (about eight). Her girls love the horse too, especially Ella. Kristal’s mother Gail and father Simon ride their bikes and paddle outrigger canoes in their spare time. Gail took an Orton Gillingham tutor course [approach to reading instruction for dyslexia] and is in great demand.

Misty Zagozewski (Schrag,’98). Grandmother Anne Saunders [See also Staff News] says the grandchildren are all growing way too quickly. Misty and her husband Brett have Eva (18 months) and Graham (4).

Sarah Baldry (Becker,’99). Teaching is everything I hoped it would be! I love it!

Melanie (Mel) Thiede (’99) came to School for a tour with Heather Bartfai (Administrative Assistant, Development & Alumni Relations) in September 2016. She finished her BA in 2013 and is now working towards her MA/MEd.

Patricia Loudon (Walton,’00) is doing well, working part time to spend more time with Charlotte (21 months), who has become quite a talker and climber! Patricia, James and Charlotte live in Newmarket, ON.

Megan Polack (’04) has been working hard with her miniature mare and is enjoying much success. She is one of five Doctors working with Cowichan Eye Care with clinics in Duncan, Lake Cowichan, Cobble Hill and Chemainus. “I love my job and I know I owe much of my success at university and in my career to my 13 years at QMS!” Most exciting – Megan and her husband will welcome a new member to their family in June!

Barbara Walton (’05) seems to have lots on the go. She just finished one job, and got a great review for her singing in Opera Today: “Cole-Walton wowed in her florid coloratura aria, ‘You are my shepherd and lover’, by climbing to heights which I had thought were beyond the reach of human voice (top G?). She leapt and glided into dog whistle territory without the slightest hint of strain, as if propelled ever higher by infinite ardour and delight; the intonation was spot on and the tone pleasing as she slithered and curled back down again. Stunning! (http://www.operatoday.com/content/2016/09/bampton_classic.php ).” She also had a role in the Helios Collective contemporary opera in London, and a variety of solo performances in November/December. Her revised webpage (www.barbaracolewalton.com) lists her current work as singing. See under “schedule”. Barbara was also listed in the CBC’s “30 hot Canadian classical musicians under 30, 2016 Edition” (http://www.cbcmusic.ca/posts/11704/30-hot-canadian-classical-under-30-2016). “Barbara Cole Walton, soprano. Age: 29. Hometown: Chemainus, B.C. [Soprano] Coloratura soprano Barbara Cole Walton is spending the summer in Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire, England, where she's singing in a double bill at Bamptom Opera, including the role of Baucis in Gluck's one-act Philemon and Baucis that will show off her sparkling high Gs. Just another day at the office for this Sylva Gelber Music Foundation award recipient and 2015 graduate of 's Royal Conservatoire, who in February sang "My Illness is the Medicine I Need," a song cycle by Thomas Larcher, with Ensemble Kontraste at the Nürnberg Tafelhalle. Despite all the glamour, Cole Walton loves simple domestic pursuits: she's a former blogger on baking and recently took up crochet. Her latest creation? A shark hat for her sister's cat. (Yes, that's a thing)”

..... “A thing” – like this?! [Editor! Crochet Pattern.]

Stephanie Parker (’08) has recently qualified as a Registered Nurse and is working at Victoria General Hospital. She is really excited to be finally working doing what she loves.

STAFF: Sharon Klein (’03-’14) and her daughters, with Ms. Jurisic (School Secretary), during Christmas Break 2016/17, in Duncan. Sharon is really enjoying the responsibilities of Head of School at St. George’s School of Montreal, and is very happy there. Both daughters are settled and happy.

Linda Lightbody went to Claresholm, AB, in January 2017 for 12 days to see her daughter Jennifer and her three grandchildren.

Lily Anne Millar (Grady; Senior English) and Brian Millar (Drama) will spend three weeks this spring travelling in Greece, with side visits to London, England and Iceland.

Helen Pulford (Roberts,’79-’81, Biology – before returning home to England) has three grown children with husband Mal. She and Mal are retired so decided to come back to Canada for a visit. They toured and then I was able to meet them in Cowichan Bay for a very enjoyable dinner. It was amazing how many students and staff we remembered from those long ago days. And a very happy time was had by all – including Mal!!! [JG]

Penny Quinlan (Scott Moncrieff,’71; teacher for several years) and her husband Doug have recently moved into their new house in Sidney, BC.

Anne Saunders (Schrag) has finally retired and returned to Canada after working in the Middle East for many years. She visited daughter Misty Zagozewski (Schrag,’98) [in News], in over Christmas – and it was - 25C! She is learning to cope with those temperatures after the heat of the desert, and now lives in Kimberley. “I am really enjoying myself – playing tennis, pickleball, hiking and swimming. Retirement life is very hectic!”

Peggy Vincent underwent major surgery in January 2016 to remove an aneurysm and is trusting all will continue to go well. She enjoys swimming about three times a week, and is now waiting for her rotator cuff to heal so she can again play pickleball!! She enjoys her pets, TeddyCat and a kitten Elsie, which go tearing around the house, hissing and swatting but still sleep about two feet from each other.

DEATHS We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and friends

Sara Ashby (Norris,’97) lost her mother in November 2016.

Timothy Brooks, on October 23, 2016, unexpectedly. Brother of Janis Brooks (’05).

Susan Cruikshank also lost her mother in November 2016.

Lois Godfrey (Turner,’44), in mid-March 2017, at the age of 91, after a brief stay in hospital. Lois lived in North Burnaby, BC, for many years and is believed to have been the last surviving member of the Class of 1944. At her request there will not be a Memorial Service. [We send her daughters and other family members our sincerest condolences. JG]

Sonja Goodlad, on October 2, 2016, after a lengthy stay in Cowichan District Hospital. She worked at QMS in Administration for several years and also chaperoned Choir trips organized by Mrs. Regier and Mr. Hamer. Her daughters Anita and Robyn also attended QMS. [Cathy Sheepwash (Kitchen; now a nurse at CDH), and Tiera Vale (Staff; now a lab technician) took care of Sonja and visited her frequently.]

Zoe Braten – just two weeks later, on October 13, 2016, peacefully in the Chemainus Health Care Centre. Mother of Sonja Goodlad [above] and grandmother of Jennifer, Anita and Robyn. A pelvic fracture had previously forced her to move to Chemainus Health Care from Dove Hill House in Chemainus where she had spent many happy years. Her 100th birthday in July had been a wonderful celebration of her life.

Jon Magwood, on March 22, 2016. Husband of Faith Magwood (Windeyer, Class of ’54), and brother-in-law of Catherine Spencer (Windeyer,’51).

Dr. Peter Postuk, on June 25, 2016. He was a beloved doctor with a poet's soul, a passionate prospector, a reluctant gunrunner and a true adventurer! His daughters. Jayne and Morley (’76) both attended QMS. Peter, his wife Peggy and the girls were often seen at QMS events.

Brian Preston, in early 2017, father of Kim Preston (Class of ’86) and Kelly Preston. [See also Reunions]

Thomas Richards, on November 23, 2016. Husband of Rosanne Richards (Idiens,’50s), and father of Mrs. Yvonne Snow.

Sydney Elizabeth ‘Fifi’ Russ, on April 17, 2016, peacefully in her own home. Mother of Old Girls, Beckie and Rusty MacDonald.

Karen Smart (Pettapiece,’79), on April 1, 2016, after a brief illness. Karen graduated from Malaspina College as a certified dental assistant and worked in the field of dentistry for over 30 years. Karen and Ron Smart were married May 3, 1986. When Karen became sick, her sister Trish (’82) immediately left her family and practice to be by Karen’s side. Their parents, Ken and Shirley Pettapiece, provided a peaceful, loving and supportive environment for Karen to spend her final weeks.

Parker Gordon Williams, on August 31. 2016, husband of Ann Williams (Lee,’59), father of David, Alan and Christine, and grandfather of Andrew, Abby, Lucy, Emma and Duncan.

WEDDINGS Our congratulations

Corelli Mattice (’09). A wedding to remember! Serious rain leads to Serious Coffee wedding in Parksville. [From CHEK News (Victoria) telecasts] Corelli (now Mattice-Mills) and Jai Mills were married in Parksville, BC, on October 8, 2016. A potluck beach wedding was planned – 120 family and friends, afternoon, rain or shine, WEAR RAIN GEAR. All prepared. But not for the first major storm of the year hitting the area – torrential sideways rain, the park a sea of mud! Local hotels had no vacancies. The ceremony at the beach, under tarps, would work, but then the guests would leave, cold and miserable. A friend went to get a hot coffee to warm up on, and the owner of Parksville Serious Coffee asked how her day was going. On hearing about the disaster at the beach, the owner did not hesitate – she invited all 120 guests to come, closed her shop early and called in extra staff to prepare for a wedding reception, which then looked like it had been planned for months. The newlyweds were amazed – it saved their big day! They felt that it must have been karma, a blessing, a connection to their four years of taking care of a dying friend in their home. Then a second surprise – guests collected money to pay, but the owner would not accept it! Corelli and Jai were incredibly grateful, and happy – it was a party for all, including the Serious Coffee staff. Corelli noted, “To have people be willing to be hospitable and just kind and open up their place of business to strangers is just a really beautiful thing to see.” Corelli works at Time to Heal in Duncan.

Corelli and Jai

Yianna Mihalatos (’06) will be married in Port Coquitlam on September 2, 2017. Her sister Stephanie (’08) will be her Maid of Honour.

Hannah Weems (’05) married Robert Everett Meyer in October 2016. They met at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy and both graduated from there.

BIRTHS Our congratulations to the parents

Danica (Longair,’99) and Hanson Ho welcomed son, Eliot Tsi Sing (智誠) Alexander Ho to their family, on November 20 (exact due date), 2016.

Roen Janyk (’04) and fiancé Alex welcomed a beautiful baby boy, Ari Alexandre Labrequ, to their family on December 15, 2016.

Megan Polack (’04) and her husband will welcome a new member to their family in June 2017! Most exciting!

REUNIONS

We invite you and your classmates to campus! See how things have changed over the years – become inspired about our shared future. The QMS Alumni Office is happy to assist in planning – [email protected]

OLD GIRLS’/OLD BOYS’ WEEKEND

2017 - Classes ending in 2 and 7 will be celebrating Milestone Reunions. 2016 saw a fantastic turnout of Alumni – with much laughter, and new memories being made.

60th!! Class of ’56. 2016 was a year of great joy and celebration for our class. It had been 60 years since we graduated from Queen Margaret’s School where we were privileged to have the Founders, Miss Denny and Miss Geoghegan, present in our lives, instilling in all of us the importance of education and dedicated service to others.

We started by making our plans for attending Old Girls’ Weekend (May 6, 7, 8). There were 14 of us, including Shirley who came from Florida, accompanied by a delightful young couple – her granddaughter Alisha and partner Andy.

On May 6, we all travelled to Chemainus to our hotel for the first event of the weekend, a champagne reception. Shelagh (O.O.M.A. President) and Trudy presented each of us with a champagne glass engraved with the School Crest and “60th Reunion 1956” as a memento of the occasion. A shuttle bus – a requirement of the ride being to don a fun hat from the overhead rack – took us to a local taphouse where the merriment continued. We were warmly welcomed on behalf of the School by Tracy Arden and Heather Bartfai (Development/Alumni Office) who arrived with a beautiful long-stemmed rose and a Class photo for each of us.

Our first trip to School took place the next day when we attended the Strawberry Tea – a tradition for many years. That evening at the Banquet we were again warmly welcomed and treated to a wonderful array of delicious foods. We were thoughtfully placed at tables with the present year’s graduates. At our table we had fascinating conversations with students from China, Korea, and the US.

The next morning was the Chapel Service, another great School tradition. The Head of School, Wilma Jamieson, read one of Miss Denny’s addresses from our time. It was very emotional for us to hear Miss Denny’s words across the years, and to sing the School Hymn which we had sung so many times in the past.

After a lovely Lunch (where the graduating students were presented with O.O.M.A. pins), and the Annual General Meeting, we said our goodbyes feeling very blessed to be together and to be so honoured and appreciated by our remarkable alma mater, QMS.

[Orlando, FL – Shirley Brewer (Grey). Greater Vancouver – Signe Jurcic (Lang), Sherrill MacLaren (McBean), Jill Alexander (Diespecker), Anne Dobell (Codville). Bowen Island – Mary Farris (Larsen). Victoria – Trudy Byers (Conibear), Luella Donk. Gabriola Island – Sue Boulton (March), Joan Walton (Hoyland). Nanaimo – Shelagh Boggs (Randel), Verelyn Murphy (Moffat).]

 40th. Class of ’76. Twenty-two of 24 in the class gathered at QMS on Old Girls’ Weekend, May 2016.

 30th. Class of ’86. Seventeen of 29 in the class gathered at Whistler, BC. Alice McKay (Henshaw): A lot of the time was spent reminiscing rather than talking about what was currently going on in people’s lives so I might have some of the details slightly incorrect! [Apologies from both Alice and me if this is the case! Jan Green] Cindy Lee works, I think, for ICBC, or something to do with insurance. She has a loft near Gastown in Vancouver and lives with her husband Lou. She was her usual outgoing, funny self. She always makes everyone feel at home. I’d say she keeps in touch with more people than anyone else. Lesley Lim was sooooo funny. She is very open about being gay, and made a funny joke about the stereotype of lesbians having to be able to BBQ. We had all been telling her how awful we were at BBQ’ing, so she gave us BBQ’ing instructions on the built-in BBQ in the townhouse and then told us we were now all lesbians in training. She is the kindest individual, and crazy about mountain biking. She just broke up with her long-time partner of about six years – they have a dog and they share custody. It was so great to catch up with her, such a wonderful person she is. She promises to get me mountain biking next time I see her – I can’t wait. Trish Lamont – goes by Brynn now which is her middle name – has two boys and lives an artistic life. We didn’t know at the time but her closest friend had passed away unexpectedly right before she left for the reunion and she considered not going. She said she was so glad she did come as it made her feel connected again to friends. When I mentioned to her about us being roommates at QMS, she said, “Oh, we weren’t actually, I just slept on the floor in your room for the entire year instead of my room.” I had forgotten about that – so funny!!! Barb Horner married a fireman. Joanne Fraser met her husband at Barb’s wedding so their husbands are good friends. Barb didn’t stay in the house, but came both days. She has two children, I think. She was as funny as ever, such a great sense of humour, she kept us laughing all weekend. Cathy Gossett hasn’t changed a bit. She is still married to her high school sweetheart with two grown children, a boy and a girl. She is as sweet and charismatic as she always was, and has a great sense of humour as well. I will be seeing her again soon as she ordered some woodwork from me. I might head over to Saltspring or she may come here. They sold the farm and live in town. I believe she’s a teacher. Cynthia Miller lives in the States. They have an ice making company which is very successful. It is a family business that she and her hubby own, and her two kids are adults and, I think, in university now. The business keeps them all super busy. Cynthia and Lise hit it off again as they did in high school, and would tease each other about whatever it was they were doing at the time, like an old married couple. Nikki Matthews is so energetic! She has two grown children, recently divorced and loving life. Jackie and Nikki drove out together from Alberta, and from the sounds of things had the trip of a lifetime. Nikki has a career as a travel agent, and, I think, manages an agency or is very high up in it. It was Sears Travel before but I don’t know if she’s still at that one or a different one. I think Nikki, Jackie, Cindy and, hopefully, a few others will head to Vegas for a weekend later this year or early 2017. Jackie Schuurmans has two younger children (8 and 10, maybe?) and is recently divorced. She had breast cancer a few years ago but is healthy and happy now. She was the exact same as in high school, fun loving, always smiling and fun to be around – just like time stood still. Stephanie Svensson lives in Thailand and her company designs furniture that is exported all over the world. She only gets back to Canada once in a while and we were so thrilled she came back for the weekend. Poor thing was so jet lagged, but she didn’t let it stop her. She is also the same as high school, great sense of humour, straight up and tells it like it is. It was so great to catch up with her. She has a son who is about 10, I think? Her sister lives in Seattle and she has a daughter.

Suzanne Rowsell didn’t stay in the house with us as her son, who is graduating this year, had a major golf tournament that weekend and she wanted to make sure she was there to support him Saturday night for his Sunday round. She is as sweet as ever and looks about ten years younger than she actually is. Debbie Morris came with her hubby. He is her second hubby, and they each have two children from a previous marriage. She is the only other person that still rides (dressage) from our graduating class. She works at a garden centre and was super funny – they told us right off the bat that her hubby and her bicker a lot but that’s normal for them and not to be alarmed. They were hilarious. Obviously in love, but also very cheeky to each other which was highly entertaining for everyone! He was a good sport, he and Alistair stuck together – who can blame them being in a house with all us girls. Kim Preston left School in Grade 11, I think, but her sister Kelly also attended QMS. She was very funny! She has four kids, the youngest is about 24 so they are all adults. She also looks ten years younger than she actually is. She works at her family jewelry business in Campbell River, and is also active in the local drama scene, taking part in plays/musicals frequently. Henrietta Fang. OMG – ok, she was the surprise of the bunch. She rarely said boo in high school, but moved to Scotland in 1986, and lived in Glasgow for university, met her hubby and has been there ever since. She travels all over the world, a high-up person in the Gore-Tex fabric company, so visits their offices all over the world dealing with crisis or major issues. She has the strongest Scottish accent (even I had a hard time understanding her at times), and her language is very colorful and hilarious! We all agreed that she was the most different from high school. Her husband was such a good sport. When we were up on the peak-to-peak gondola ride he mentioned he might throw himself off there as all of our high pitched women’s voices were driving him nuts! Hahaha! Lise Jensen was the same as in high school. She is married with two boys and a girl ranging from about 12 to 18, I believe. She showed us a movie her kids made which was a mix-up of Star Wars and Star Trek. It was really comical. She was great fun. Her daughter is the same age as mine and also graduating this year. Joanne Fraser also left in Grade 11. She is married with two girls about 10 and 14, maybe? She was great to catch up with. She worked for years for IBM as a project manager and long hours, etc. She started her own company a couple of years ago which is very successful. She is still a go-getter and very motivated, and highly active. She runs every day, but likes her wine and cheese (much like myself). We found out we have lots in common; when we were getting groceries we both bought the exact same stuff - it was quite funny!

The first night we all made dinner in the fabulous kitchen, looked through old year books, drank our fair share and stayed up until 3am. The next day, Joanne went for a run first thing in the morning. Leslie went for a mountain bike ride. Henrietta and hubby arrived from Vancouver. We made a fabulous breakfast and then all walked up to the village. We got our tickets for either zip lining or gondola rides, then had some liquid courage at one of the pubs. Barb had to head back to Vancouver so we said our goodbyes and split into the two groups. Later we all met back at the townhouse. We made dinner again, some took advantage of the hot tub and there was another evening of taking photos, reminiscing, eating and drinks. Everyone pitched in with cooking and cleaning, and it was just like being back at boarding school, minus the acne and bloomers.

CONTACT

QMS Website. www.qms.bc.ca Click on Alumni; then Update the QMS Alumni Office; and Reconnect with QMS Alumni Office. Fill in the form. Tell us a bit about yourself and your life – “after QMS”! Keep up with our School, and with our students’ accomplishments.

OOMA Website. OOMAQMS.com OOMA Records. Please keep us up to date – especially on changes in email addresses!

OOMA Facebook. OOMA The Link. Overseas Old Margaretian Association (OOMA) – annual business and news publication. Update. Email publication (3-4 a year). Send news, photos, etc., to Jan Green, [email protected].

Enclosures: OOMA Weekend Registration Form; “Denim & Diamonds, Dinner & Dance” Poster; “Pave the Way” Pathway Order Form.

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SCHOOL SPIRIT(s)?

Do you remember having our meals in the dining room, and occasionally there would suddenly be a hush and everyone would stop talking for a few seconds? It was generally agreed that an angel was passing over us. No one mentioned this in their reminiscences of school life so maybe I am the only one that carries this memory with me still. I like to think that there are guardian spirits around to help us with troubled times. [Diana Symons, ’57]

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WHO KNEW? — THE ORIGIN OF THE Q.M.S. GREEN SOCKS

One day in 1942, two QMS students were shopping in Victoria. They were looking for black stockings, then the much-disliked regulation wear at QMS. These stockings had to be held up by garter belts and were very uncomfortable. The two young ladies were wandering around when one of them saw some green woollen knee-high socks which they examined excitedly and decided that they would purchase two pairs and take them back to school with them after the weekend. Though only in Grade 9, these two were very daring and decided to show the socks to Miss Denny. Having steeled themselves, they approached Miss Denny and suggested that the socks would be so much more comfortable than the black stockings and garter belts. Miss Denny listened to their pleadings and examined the socks. She liked what she saw and told the girls that, if a regular supply of the socks could be assured for the school, she would consider introducing them into the uniform. In due course, confirmation was received that the socks could be purchased in future. And thus, green knee- socks became part of the QMS uniform. [Mary Dyson (Turner,’45; Parent; Past Board of Governors Member]