Still growing

Dear editor:
On behalf of local seniors at the Sister Kennedy Centre, I would like to say we had a great year. Our records show we surpassed, by huge numbers, our 2012 attendance—and we are continuing to grow.
This is an extremely proud event, and we will do everything to continue to exceed.
This is our second year of presenting a huge hamper to a family in need at Christmas (the beautiful recipient family resides in Rainy River).
I honestly can tell you the seniors outdid themselves this year, and I’m sure the recipient family will be well-surprised when our SKC senior elves (Ethel Lowey, Ken and Cindy Nobel, and Ron Grabowski) pull up to their door with their bundle of goodies.
Meanwhile, our Senior Games were a great success in Kenora this year. And our 30th-anniversary celebrations was the highlight of the year, with seniors coming in from Atikokan, Rainy River, International Falls, Mn., and all points in between.
The senior volunteers who worked hard to pull off this event were just amazing. I applaud every one of them for a job well-done.
We also created a memory board, which includes the names of those who made the SKC possible. Dave Bourgeault, former mayor Deane Cunningham, and the late Sister Betty Kennedy were the inductees so honoured.
Also this year, the SKC seniors formed an active group called Senior Retirees Against Pension and Elder Abuse to deal with a complexity of issues.
As well, we were honoured to recognize our first Senior Citizen of the Year. Selected for his love, dedication, and hard work on behalf of all SKC members was Hubert Medhurst—a truly deserving recipient.
The Senior Citizen of the Year Award will be an annual event, with the recipients’ pictures to be proudly displayed on our new Senior Citizen of the Year wall at the centre.
I encourage any and all seniors over 55 to stop by and have coffee, tea, and dainties at the SKC. Coffee and tea is only $1—and refills are free.
We have a great variety of daily activities at the centre, including floor shuffleboard, card games, pool, tai chi, and advocacy for those who require assistance in life or simply need a little help.
Regular pot luck suppers also are held, followed by musical entertainers. Breakfast, as well as a soup-and-sandwich dinner menu, are available.
We have a workshop where seniors can bring things of their own to repair—and the list goes on. There is so much to do at SKC, including good socialization, recreation, and a great alternative to getting out of the house and away from the television.
I look forward to seeing you at the Sister Kennedy Centre in 2014.
Regards,
Nick Wihnan
Chairman,
Sister Kennedy
Centre board