SLNA News - February 11, 2022

Remembering John Wichelow - Co-op Housing Advocate


By Suzanne Kavanagh, Former SLNA President
 
At the January SLNA meeting I learned of John’s passing. The image that immediately came to mind was his cheer and smiling face. Whenever you saw John and his wife Anna they immediately were beaming and always happy to stop and chat.

John served on the Board of Directors for the SLNA from 2010 to 2014. He also served as our Treasurer. For many years the SLNA hosted a cheering section for the Scotiabank Marathon and John would be there wearing the bright yellow shirt and ringing the cowbells to cheer the runners on to the finish.

For many years John was the SLNA delegate for Windmill Line Co-op and wrote in the Windmill Line newsletter making sure residents were kept up to date on the comings and goings of the SLNA neighbourhood.

John was also a big supporter of co-op housing and through that helped start the William Morris Society of Canada. Morris was a British textile designer, poet, artist, conservationist and socialist activist. Marries was instrumental in creating co-operative workplaces and believed in the co-operative movement in all aspects of life.

Gianna, his daughter shared how she and a friend were at a local restaurant when her parents walked in and sat down. She said to her friend watch this . . . her parents did not see her there and Gianna watched her parents carry on deep in conversation as if it was their first date. Animated, happy, and excited like teenagers. They chatted together for over 60 years.

Thank you to Anna and Gianna for sharing John with our community.



St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre
Older Adults Group

By Ilse 

The local "Older Adults Group" has been meeting in the Adult Lounge at the St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre ( 230 The Esplanade) for many years. Now that we are beginning to enjoy milder weather and a rolling back of pandemic restrictions, some of you may be interested in joining with us!

We meet Wednesdays from 1-3pm. 
The group is free and welcomes drop-in's. Participants over 55 can come once, weekly, or whenever they like. 

Some activities include game days, pot lucks, film showings, guest speakers and day trips. Sometimes we just sit around and socialize! Mostly we enjoy each other's company, especially since most of us live alone. Many good friendships have started here.

All are welcome!

If you are interested in learning more, or wish to be on our mailing list, you can contact Ilse at [email protected].



Call for Participants - Jamii Seniors and Youth Initiative: