Celebrating Seniors at Welcome Inn

Dayna, North End Resident and Reader

“I look forward to the always-prompt delivery of the next edition to my mailbox, and to receiving the email alerting me to its availability! I so appreciate that there remains a local community paper at a time when so many others have ceased publication. It’s been a great introduction to the North End!”

Kristina Santone

“Being a part of the North End Breezes board for the past two years has been a privilege. The team does amazing work within the community and serves as a resource hub for all. They are committed, and most importantly, passionate about preserving the North End’s legacy, while also continuing to foster its growth. Whether you are new to the area, or a longtime resident, I encourage you to volunteer with the Breezes in some capacity if you’re able. This team is small but mighty and they are always looking for more support. I’m grateful for the relationships and community I’ve been able to build while serving on the board.

I’ll be joining Welcome Inn as the Executive Director and look forward to taking on a new role in the North End Community while staying connected to The Breezes. “

By Ken Hirter

June 10^th was a beautiful afternoon when we gathered to Celebrate seniors at Welcome Inn for Seniors Month. Over 100 people came out to celebrate Seniors month. This annual BBQ is also a great way to kick start the summer season and wonderful yearly reunion with family and friends.

This year’s theme for Seniors Month is “Fit, Active and Healthy Seniors” highlighting the importance of wellness, social engagement and life long learning. It is a time to acknowledge and honor the amazing seniors in our life and community here in the North End, Hamilton and across the province.

Ruth Kaulback, Senior Coordinator opened this year’s celebration with gratitude and thanks. I am so happy for Compass, St. Matthews House and the Welcome Inn to be able to gather today. I helped to coordinate with Christine Sorbara, Community Development Worker here at Compass to bring our seniors together. Thanks to Kelsey on the BBQ and to the crew of servers. We enjoyed a summertime BBQ favorite of hamburgers with all the trimmings, potato salad with chips, all topped off with ice cream sandwiches. The beverage bar served coffee, tea and water.

Local singer Paula French was back again to entertain us with pop and rock tunes from the 1960’s and 1970’s and beyond. It filled the air with musical memories of the past, sung so beautifully by Paula. She even had the kids yet again at the Bennetto school up dancing on the lawn along with the seniors. Yet again it bridged the generation gap with music and was wonderful to see.

l sat and spoke to 4 special and delightful seniors here at the Welcome Inn Community Centres Seniors Diner Club. I asked the question, what does Seniors Month mean to you?

” Seniors month is very important. It is where we all are recognized and celebrated, not just for the month of June, but always.” Megs Smith ~

” Grateful for seeing the importance of seniors. Old is a state of mind and I don’t live in a state.” Jan Finch

” It is honoring the special senior population. Offering wonderful programs and to bring awareness to the great adventures within the North End and Hamilton.” Marne Paterson ~

” It is a gathering of all my friends celebrating Seniors month. I volunteer here at the Welcome Inn Community Centre where all of the seniors are so celebrated each and every day.” Lynne John

Did you know that the Welcome Inn Diners Club has been serving home style cooking since 1966. Next year they will be celebrating 60 years here in the North End.

Thanks again to Kristina Santone, Ruth Kaulback, Keri Dengerink and the host of volunteers that had everything running smoothly throughout the afternoon. Yes, the rain did back off and the weather showcased a delightful afternoon. Thanks to Christine Sorbara and volunteers and St. Matthews House as well.

A wonderful Community Event that l look forward to attending every year. It is another beautiful start to the summer season. Fun was had by all who attended in celebrating one another.

(Pictured – Lynne John, Megs Smith, Jan Finch and Marne Paterson)