The Mayor`s Advisory Council for Kitchener Seniors

The Mayor’s Advisory Council
for Kitchener Seniors presents
and the 2015 Kitchener Senior of the Year award.
Program
Master of Ceremonies:
Mike Farwell
Welcome and Introduction of Honourees
Mike Farwell
O Canada
Victoria Whiteman, King School of Vocal
Greetings from the Mayor’s Advisory Council
for Kitchener Seniors (MACKS)
Donna Carter, MACKS Chairperson
Entertainment
Eastwood Collegiate Chamber Choir
Eastwood Collegiate in Kitchener is home to the Region’s only Integrated Arts Program, offering full
range courses in all areas of the arts, including instrumental, strings, vocal music, drama, visual arts,
and dance. The Chamber Choir is an auditioned group and practices one hour a week on a variety of
ambitious repertoire. The choir performs regularly in the community, has appeared on CBC Radio, and
with the KW Symphony, they performed this spring at the region’s Kiwanis Festival Finale Concert and
were invited to Kiwanis Provincials, and recently received a Gold Standard for their performance at
MusicFest National Festival in Toronto. They are directed by Tammy McMath, B.Ed., H. Mus, ARCT (Perf).
Tammy has been teaching music and/or leading choirs for singers of all ages in the KW community
since 1987. The choir is honoured to have been invited to perform at this evening’s prestigious event,
and it is their hope that their music selections not only provide enjoyment but also encourage
continued volunteerism in our great community!
Greetings from City Hall
Councillor Zyg Janecki
Salute to Seniors Honourees Presentation
Councillor Zyg Janecki with Donna Carter, MACKS Chairperson
Senior of the Year Award Presentation
Councillor Zyg Janecki
Closing Remarks and Appreciation
Mike Farwell
Musical Accompaniment (Prelude)
Emily and Daniella Veltmeyer
Emily is 17, is in grade 11 and goes to Cameron Heights in Kitchener for the IB program. She has been
playing the violin for 13 and a half years. When she started violin at the age of three her teacher was
Vanessa Vari at the Suzuki String School of Guelph, and now studies with Atis Bankas in Toronto. She
also has played the piano since she was four with Gail Lange.
Daniella is 15, in grade 10 and goes to Cameron Heights in Kitchener for the IB program. She has been
playing the harp for eight and a half years. Her first teacher when she was seven was Robyn McLaren, and
she currently studies harp with Marie Lorcini and Sharlene Wallace. She has also studied the piano since
she was five with Tracey Clarke-Rankine. She enjoys composing music and writing short stories as well.
Both girls are studying music theory with Valerie Candelaria, and have just completed the Analysis
exam. They are also both in the Kitchener-Waterloo Youth Orchestra. They have been playing as a harp
and violin duo since Daniella was eight, and Emily was nine. They often play together at weddings,
other events, and are sometimes seen busking at the Old Quebec Street Mall. In 2010 they were chosen
to be one of the forty under forty by the Guelph Mercury. They are both taking music classes in high
school, where Emily is playing the clarinet, and Daniella is playing the bassoon.
Master of Ceremonies
Mike Farwell
Mike was born and raised in Kitchener before flying off to British Columbia to start his career in radio.
Eighteen years later, he’s back in his hometown as the co-host of Campbell and Farwell in the Morning
on Country 106.7 as well as the colour analyst for Kitchener Rangers broadcasts on 570 News. Mike
is a member of Kitchener’s Safe and Healthy Communities advisory committee and volunteers with
Oktoberfest. He is an active fundraiser for cystic fibrosis, a fatal disease which has directly affected his
family.
Musical Accompaniment (Reception)
Miriam & Paul Hewson
Miriam Hewson is 19 years old and has been playing the violin for 16 years. She is currently attending
WLU for Health Sciences, and has taken lessons with Jerzy Kaplanek of Laurier and the Penderecki
String Quartet.
Paul Hewson is 17, and has been playing the cello for 14 years. He takes lessons with Paul Pulford at
Laurier. He is in grade twelve at St David Catholic Secondary School and enjoys graphic design and
video games.
Message from the Mayor and Council
Welcome everyone to the 9th Annual Salute to Seniors! On behalf of my council colleagues and the
citizens of the City of Kitchener, it is an honour to recognize the outstanding contributions made by
our many citizens aged 50 years and better.
Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees! Your dedication and consideration for the seniors in
our community contributes to the excellent quality of life we enjoy in Kitchener and throughout
Waterloo region. Your good works have caught the attention of others within our community
who feel that you are deserving of recognition. Your actions and the support you provide not only
benefit those who may be considered “seniors”, they create a positive impact on our community as
a whole, making us all better for your efforts.
Congratulations also to this year’s Kitchener Senior of the Year award
winner – your significant volunteer contribution in our community is
sincerely appreciated and has not gone unnoticed!
Thank you to our countless volunteers, especially the dedicated
members of the Mayor’s Advisory Council for Kitchener Seniors, for
bringing this evening’s celebration together and for your work as
advocates and representatives throughout the year. Keep up the
great work!
Best wishes,
Berry Vrbanovic
Mayor
City of Kitchener
Message from the Mayor’s Advisory Council for Kitchener Seniors (MACKS)
A warm welcome to our Senior Volunteers, Nominators and Guests. The Mayor’s Advisory Council for
Kitchener Seniors presents our 9th annual Salute to Seniors to honour and recognize contributions
to our community. This also marks the second year that the Kitchener Senior of the Year will be
recognized at the Salute to Senior’s event.
I hope each of you will take a moment to read the profiles of our honoured volunteers prior to
beginning the program. You will discover there are so many ways to make a difference, to make
Kitchener such a wonderful place to live and to make their own lives interesting. There are the leaders
who take the reins of an organization and their mandate, there are the ‘people’ people who reach out
to others, there are the worker bees who are up to their elbows getting things done, there are the
communicators who man the telephones to get the word out and there are the shy ones who just like
to follow and pitch in. Inspiration abounds.
A special welcome to Mayor Vrbanovic. Your advisory council looks forward to supporting you with our
insight regarding your Kitchener Senior Citizens and learning from you how council is working for us.
On behalf of M.A.C.K.S., thank you for joining us to express our deep and sincere gratitude at our
‘Salute to Seniors’.
Yours truly
Donna Carter
Chairperson, M.A.C.K.S.
City of Waterloo
Dave Jaworsky, Mayor
Welcome from the Mayor
On behalf of Council and the citizens of the City of Waterloo, I am delighted
to welcome you to the 9th Annual Salute to Seniors.
The City of Waterloo is proud of its vibrant and diverse population, and we
are delighted to be honouring seniors who volunteer their time mentoring
youth and making a difference in our community.
Thank you for your outstanding contributions to our residents and our city.
Your efforts help to enrich Waterloo Region and make it a wonderful place
to live, work, and play!
Sincerely,
Dave Jaworsky
Mayor
Message of Greetings from Harold Albrecht, M.P.
Seniors are woven through the entire fabric of Waterloo Region; bringing a richness and strength to
this wonderful tapestry. Your experiences, through challenging times and times of celebration, and
your ability to surmount difficulties, bring a much needed perspective to people of all ages. Your
understanding of life, derived from many years of hard work, commitment, loyalty and experience
gained over the years, is a rich source of wisdom.
As you continue to set goals and dream of the many possibilities in front of you, take time to reflect
with pride on all that you have accomplished in life and the rich legacy that you are leaving for those
who follow. Thank you for investing your talents and heart in making our communities great places to
live and raise our families.
Your footprints have made a path that future generations will do well to follow.
May God grant you many more years to enjoy the fruit of your labours.
Harold Albrecht, MP
Kitchener-Conestoga
Message of Greetings from Stephen Woodworth, M.P.
Dear Friends, it is essential that we pay tribute to Kitchener’s seniors for all of the outstanding work they
do for our community.
They deserve much gratitude for making Canada the great country it is today. Thank you to all the
award recipients who have mentored our youth and selflessly volunteered in our community.
The Government of Canada is very mindful of seniors: increasing their benefits and allowing them to
keep more of their hard-earned money. For my part, I have offered information on issues affecting
those over the age of fifty in my annual Fifties-Plus Expo, for the past six years!
I offer my warmest congratulations to all the award recipients and my best wishes for the continued
health and vitality of all the seniors in our community.
Sincerely,
Stephen Woodworth
Member of Parliament, Kitchener Centre
Message of Greetings from Catherine Fife, M.P.P.
Friends, as a Member of Provincial Parliament for Kitchener-Waterloo, I am pleased to welcome you
to the 9th Annual Salute to Seniors, hosted by the City of Kitchener, the Mayor’s Advisory Council for
Kitchener Seniors, and area business sponsors.
Each year Salute to Seniors honours the contributions made by community members aged 50 and
better through their volunteerism and leadership. This year’s nominees represent a number of areas in
which seniors and volunteers make Kitchener a better place to live.
I am proud to represent a community that celebrates citizens’ active contributions to making our
community welcoming, beautiful, healthy and active.
Thank you for making Kitchener a wonderful place to live.
Sincerely,
Catherine Fife
MPP Kitchener-Waterloo
Message of Greetings from Ken Seiling, Regional Chair
Dear Friends,
The City of Kitchener’s “Salute to Seniors” event is an ideal opportunity for us to pause and take time
to applaud and celebrate the tremendous contributions seniors make every day in Kitchener and
Waterloo Region. In some way, each of you here today has made a positive difference in the life of our
community. Your involvement enriches all of us.
On behalf of Regional Council, thanks to each and every one of you for giving freely of your time and
energy to help make this a more caring community and a place we are all proud to call home.
Sincerely,
Ken Seiling
Regional Chair
2015 Individual Honourees
Profiles provided by nominators
Cindy Armstrong
Cindy has volunteered her time to improve life in the City of Kitchener through participation at Tim
Horton’s camp day and McDonald’s McHappy day. She also has given freely of her time to demonstrate
C.P.R. and A.E.D. on behalf of Medstar First Aid Services Inc. at Waterloo Regional Police, South Division,
open house. She also demonstrated being a good role model by volunteering to play her saxophone
during Remembrance Day services at Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Kitchener.
Submission by Walter Waganka
Edward Aves
Edward has volunteered with Community Support Connections – Meals on Wheels and More since
2009, as a volunteer driver. Twice a week, Edward picks up clients and drives them to and from medical
appointments. This means of getting around is crucial for our clients, who have no other way to get
to their medical appointments. Edward is an easy going gentleman with a great smile and wonderful
personality. He is extremely reliable and always makes our clients feel at ease while in the car with him.
Submission by Community Support Connections, Meals on Wheels and More
Ted Blanchett
Ted is the head floor hockey coach for KW Special Olympics. He has also coached track and field.
Ted has a gentle manner, is understanding and respectful of the athletes he supports. He provides a
fun-filled hour of recreation for all the participants, encouraging them to be the best they can be. Ted
makes all the athletes feel special. He listens to them and also helps them with their equipment. We
are so thankful to have Ted as part of the Special Olympics team.
Submission by Sharon Lavoie, Special Olympics KW
John Brown
John has been supporting Community Support Connections – Meals on Wheels and More for 20 years.
Over the years, John has supported the agency in a variety of different positions including driving
clients to and from medical appointments, Community Dining sites and delivering hot and nutritious
meals over the noon hour. John is kind, generous and always has a smile on his face. He provides much
more than just a ride or hot meal to our client. He is nice, polite, always on time when picking clients
up and is very knowledgeable about directions and site locations. John puts clients at ease, reassuring
them that they will get to their appointments on time. John is always willing to help out when we are
short of drivers and is also an advocate for letting others know about volunteer opportunities with our
agency. John is a fantastic volunteer and we are very lucky to have him.
Submission by Community Support Connections, Meals on Wheels and More
Silvia Burnett
Silvia Burnett is a longtime volunteer with Special Olympics KW. Silvia has been volunteering with
Special Olympics KW for many years as part of the team that runs the 5 pin bowling program, every
fall until spring. Silvia ensures the bowling program runs like clockwork, and does all the money and
accounting side of the activity every week for almost 70 athletes! Much revered and looked up to by
many athletes, Silvia is one of those people without which the Special Olympics program could not
take place.
Submission by Donal Crooke, Special Olympics KW
Marian Cooper
Marian is a volunteer hostess at the welcome desk at the Rockway Centre. She greets everyone who
enters the Centre with consistent warmth and friendliness. Marian years of commitment to Rockway in
various roles have provided her with knowledge of activities and events at and around Rockway. She is
a great resource and her time given to assist the members of Rockway is very much appreciated.
Submission by Brenda van De Keere, Rockway Centre Program Coordinator
Denise Dolff
Denise has been to Rwanda four times in the last few years. She is part of a team that is helping
the Rwandan people forgive each other after the terrible genocide of 1994. She has worked with
priests, teachers, social workers, etc. to teach them how to communicate and ask forgiveness (for the
perpetrators and the victims). She is very involved in her Church. She is President of an international
association of Christian (therapists, doctors, nurses, social workers, psychiatrists, etc.). She volunteers at
Laurelwood Retirement community in Waterloo. Denise is a person who is always helping friends and
neighbours with her kindness and counselling skills.
Submission by Larry Missere
Jan Fell
Jan is a grandmother of 2 and has been a dedicated Stanley Park Community Association volunteer
since the fall of 2007. As the Stanley Park Community Association Fitness Co-Chair, Jan has worked
with other volunteers and City staff to advocate for and offer a broad range of fitness programs to
the community; Jan is also an avid fitness participant. She has supported the SPCA board by bringing
in new program ideas as well as making challenging decisions involving scheduling, wait lists,
cancellations and much more. Jan was part of bringing the Neighbourhood Association programs
online which was a very big commitment and a huge success.
Submission by Cindy Hanby & Abbie Grafstein, Stanley Park Community Centre
Deanna Gerber
Deanna is a volunteer hostess at Rockway Centre on a weekly basis. Her kind, approachable demeanor
is a perfect welcome for people who visit Rockway Centre. Whether it is your first visit or not, Deanna
will greet you with kindness and discuss any questions you may have concerning Rockway Centre and
its activities. Her volunteer time is a welcome addition to Rockway.
Submission by Brenda van De Keere, Rockway Centre Program Coordinator
Mary Gingerich
Congratulations to Mary Gingrich who is celebrating her 25th volunteer anniversary with the Kitchener
Public Library. Since the beginning, Mary has been taking reading material to individuals who are
unable to visit the library themselves through our Visiting Library program. She has connected books
with seniors living in nursing care facilities, with adults who have limited mobility and she now selects
books for the Grand Valley Institute for Women. Grand Valley recently opened a minimum security
unit and Mary has graciously agreed to look after this second location as well. She takes great care in
sending resources that are based on requests, relevant interests and important topics. Mary, thank you
for making a difference in our community!
Submission by Kitchener Public Library
Heike Gravelius
Heike is my daughter. When she is not working she attends the Rockway Centre knitting group and
helps me wherever she can.
Submission by Paula Gunkel
Heather Heick
Heather’s passion for and commitment to the neglected animals of the Kitchener community has
influenced much of what she has accomplished over the last 9 years. Always ready to pitch in, Heather
has also initiated events to raise both much needed funds and awareness of the Animal Welfare Centre.
For example, Heather’s annual event, Santa Pictures, has raised more than $12,000 which directly
supports animal care at the centre.
Submission by Gail Blanchard, Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society
Alma Henry
Since the early 1970s, Mrs. Henry has served as a receptionist for a blood donor clinic, helped seniors
through a senior’s home, the library’s books-on-tape program for seniors in their own homes, and
as a companion and driver to doctor appointments, banking, church and other errands. She has also
provided free informal respite for single parents in her community and shares her love of children with
LINK Picnic Festival through their children’s programming and activities.
Submission by Sylma Fletcher, LINK Picnic Festival
Karolyn Heubner
Karolyn has volunteered with Special Olympics for 25 years as a parent, 5 pin bowling coach and head
coach of rhythmic and martial gymnastics. She organizes hosts and attends friendly meets, local
competitions and provincial qualifiers. Karolyn is also an active fundraiser. She is also a committed
Council member. Karolyn is a caring, compassionate coach, encouraging each athlete to be the best
they can be.
Submission by Sharon Lavoie, Special Olympics KW
Henry Klingspon
Henry has been volunteering with Community Support Connections – Meals on Wheels and More since
2008 and has been delivering hot and nutritious meals on a weekly basis. Henry is very helpful, always
willing to pick up any extra routes when we are short of drivers. Henry also enjoys learning and staying
up-to-date on different topics. He always makes sure to attend volunteer training education sessions.
Henry also enjoys chatting and socializing with other volunteers. He is friendly and very concerned
about the well-being of others. He always reports any concerns about clients to staff.
Submission by Community Support Connections, Meals on Wheels and More
Theron Kramer
Theron Kramer is a tireless advocate and activist who has worked for more than four decades within
Kitchener for the betterment of our community. He was the first director of the K-W Multicultural
Centre in 1973 when it began offering services to new immigrants to the area. He’s had a long career
working with community groups, working with the Global Community Centre, founding the K-W Race
Relations Committee, delivering social justice programs and funding community work through the
Ontario Trillium Foundation. He currently serves on the board of the Immigration Partnership Council
and the Community Research Ethics Office. Theron will be recognized April 13th by City Council for his
eight years serving on Compass Kitchener, including four years as Committee Chair.
Submission by Sarah Marsh
Donna Kuehl
Donna Kuehl is the Chair of the Downtown Neighbourhood Alliance, a volunteer organization that
coordinates community programs at the Downtown Community Centre. In addition to her outstanding
organizational skills in program development, she has a kind and compassionate nature, with a keen
sense of what the community needs. She has also assumed other board roles including having been the
president of the Gilbert Sullivan Society (Waterloo Branch).She not only gives her voice to community
needs but also to entertain, as she does in singing with the Gilvan Singers and the Silver Stars. She further
engages the community, organizing a Speaker Series as the President of 404 KW Wing Royal Canadian
Airforce, a not for profit association. Donna constantly aspires to be more and do more. She has an
indomitable spirit, coupled with the mental and physical stamina to do what it takes, and simply does it!
Submission by Agnes Das, Downtown Community Centre Resource Centre Coordinator
Renate Lipowitz
Renate has been volunteering with Community Support Connections – Meals on Wheels and More
for over 10 years, as a volunteer driver with our Meals on Wheels program. Renate delivers hot and
nutritious meals during the noon hour on a weekly basis. She is also always willing to take extra routes
when we are short of drivers. Like many of our volunteers Renate’s support is crucial in ensuring that
meals are delivered on time. Renate is a great volunteer, who is very dedicated and very reliable. We
know that we can always count on her.
Submission by Community Support Connections, Meals on Wheels and More
Sue Morgan
Sue Morgan is a Kitchener icon and an outstanding citizen. Often seen around town riding public
transit going from meeting to meeting carrying a bag of books to deliver to her “clients” with the KPL
Visiting Library or a card, gift or note to someone she likes to make smile. Over the past 25 or 30 years,
this SENIOR-ITA has contributed her time to organizations such as The Independent Living Centre
of Waterloo Region as Board Member and chair, and as part of the Grand River Transit Accessibility
Committee, Mayor’s Advisory Council for Kitchener Seniors, the Kitchener Public Library board
and various other regional committees. Sue supports her causes with a dedicated effort by staying
informed and interested in all that she can and by sharing her knowledge with those who may be
unaware of their ability to become a voice for their own rights. Sue is a mentor and an elegant reminder
that we all can choose to be our best and keep a smile on our face while we are doing it! Thank you Sue
for all you do to inspire and care for others through your many volunteer contributions, philanthropy
and countless random acts of kindness. Congratulations!
Submission by Dianne Boston-Nyp, Volunteer Action Centre
John Oswald
John began volunteering with Community Support Connections - Meals on Wheels More (CSC) just this
past year; however he has quickly become an invaluable volunteer. John was instrumental in helping
paint CSC’s new facilities and helping with any maintenance issues. John also delivers hot meals during
the noon hour for the Meals on Wheels program. Whenever we are short of drivers, John is always
willing to help out. We know that we can always count on John. John has been volunteering as a scout
leader for over 40 years. He truly enjoys helping others and his community.
Submission by Community Support Connections, Meals on Wheels and More
Elaine Paquette
Elaine volunteers her time at Rockway on a weekly basis as a hostess for the Centre. Her commitment
to helping visitors to Rockway is evident and her willingness to help others is obvious. It is a pleasure to
have Elaine as part of our volunteer hostess group. Her dedication is truly appreciated.
Submission by Brenda van De Keere, Rockway Centre Program Coordinator
Joan Rising
Joan has been a member of Kitchener’s three Older Adult Centres for 20 years. She has convened or
assisted several card groups at many of the neighbourhood Community Centres. Bid Euchre originated at
the Downtown Community Centre in 2008. Joan accepted the challenge of convenorship even though
Bid Euchre was a new game in our region and not many knew how to play. Joan is always willing to assist
and teach new players and encourages them to stay and play. Perfection comes with practice. Joan also
convened a Bid Euchre game on Friday nights for one and a half years at the Downtown Community
Centre. She assisted with Solo at the Victoria Hills Community Centre for five years and is still convening
the Friday afternoon group at the Downtown Community Centre, and is assisting with the Solo group on
Wednesday evenings. Many thanks Joan for all your help and patience.
Submission by Rose-Ann Ropchan
Dianne Ritz
“You’ve got a Friend in Me” describes Dianne’s life philosophy. Dianne’s random acts of kindness at a
Sauerkraut Supper at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church included spontaneously serving me, a disabled senior,
and chatting with me. Some of Dianne’s volunteer acts are cooking for the affirmation class, and assistant
to the Pastors, elected Church board member and treasurer. Now, she runs her own income tax and
bookkeeping business. Since 2000, Dianne has sung with the Grand Harmony Sweet Adelines chorus in
K-W, the Overtones in Guelph and Circle of Harmony Sweet Adelines in Oakville, as well as four quartets,
such as Rezonation, Page Four, Champagne Dreams, Last Minute. Dianne loves the challenge of learning
new songs. She loves to travel to new magical places. Dianne is blessed with two daughters and a
grandson. “If we stick together, we can see it through, ‘cause you’ve got a friend in me.”
Submission by Sue King
Elsie Rogan
Elsie has been supporting Community Support Connections – Meals on Wheels and More for six
years. As a volunteer with our Meals on Wheels program, Elsie’s support is vital as it helps us ensure
that seniors and adults with disabilities have access to hot and nutritious meals. Elsie currently
accompanies one of our drivers on their meal route, and she helps with delivering the meals to clients’
homes, providing a short visit and security check. Elsie is friendly and always greets clients with
kindness and compassion. Elsie cares very much about all our clients and their wellbeing. She is sure to
report any concerns to the office.
Submission by Community Support Connections, Meals on Wheels and More
Pauline Schaefer
Pauline is a longtime volunteer with Special Olympics KW. Despite having several people with special
needs in her close and extended family, Pauline tirelessly volunteers her spare time, as part of the
bowling team which run a winter program every Tuesday night, and also more recently attending
committee meetings to ensure important issues are addressed. Pauline recently moved to an assistant
head coach role at the bowling program, where her organization skills and attention to detail have made
a big impact in the reporting and record keeping side of the program. A true asset to the community!
Submission by Donal Crooke, Special Olympics KW
John Schneider
John has been volunteering with Community Support Connections - Meals on Wheels and More since
1999. For the last 15 years, John has been delivering hot and nutritious meals to clients who, for many
reasons, are no longer able to cook for themselves. Perhaps just as important as a hot meal is the need
to receive some works of kindness. John is very friendly and enjoys meeting new people. He is very
concerned about clients and always reports any concerns to the office. John is extremely reliable; he
rarely takes any time off from volunteering. John is an invaluable volunteer and we truly enjoy having
him as part of our volunteer family.
Submission by Community Support Connections, Meals on Wheels and More
*Mike and Joan Schurter
(Mike Schurter – Kitchener Senior of the Year Nominee)
Mike volunteers at Sunnyside Home, St Vincent D Paul, The food bank and St Daniels Social committee.
He has been involved with KW softball for over 35 years. Mike is our neighbourhood Mr. Fix it and helps
with lawn care and snow removal for many of us and several seniors can continue to live in their houses
because of him. Joan has devoted over 30 years in many capacities to Brownies, Sparks and Girl Guides.
She is President of the Catholic Woman’s League. She also volunteers an insurmountable amount of
time to St. Daniels Catholic Church. Any neighbours who are ill or under the weather are always treated
to some home baking or help from Joan and Mike.
Submission by Lorna Hall Taggart
Agnes Sebastian
I would like to nominate by wife Agnes Sebastian as a senior that should be recognized. She is 68 years
old and since her retirement in 2000 she has been a volunteer instructor in the water fitness program at
the Kaufman YMCA. She instructs twice a week for one hour, Monday and Friday. Agnes has also been
volunteering at the New Hamburg Mennonite Thrift Store Thursday afternoons from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. as
a cashier for 2 years. Agnes is also a member of the Transylvania Club and the Women’s Auxiliary where
she volunteers many hours to aid that cause.
Submission by Chris Sebastian
Tatyana Segal
K-W Counselling Services would like to celebrate Tatyana Segal, the president of the Parents Club
Russian Community of Waterloo Region. Tatyana immigrated to Canada later in her life and has
been able to apply her lived experience to help those in her community. Older immigrants are often
brought to Canada as caregivers and Tatyana has created programs and social networks to reduce
their isolation, increase their health and well-being and improve their English. Tatyana is a founding
member of our Together is Better program and is an inspiration to other multicultural communities
who wish to connect with their elder members.
Submission by Georgina deBarros, K-W Counselling Services
Steve Singer
Steve was approached by an athlete asking him to start a basketball program for Special Olympics KW.
He readily accepted the challenge. Today the program has grown to accommodate three athletic levels
of athletes practicing two different nights a week. The B team has won the Provincial Championship
twice and is preparing for its third win. Steve is knowledgeable in his sport and commits to each
athlete in a positive manner. It is evident that his sportsmanship, sense of fair play and leadership
qualities made this club a successful one.
Submission by Julie Wetzler, Special Olympics KW
Heather Stride
Heather has been volunteering with Community Support Connections – Meals on Wheels and More
since 2008, as a volunteer driver with our Meals on Wheels program. Heather delivers hot and nutritious
meals during the noon hour on a weekly basis. Besides delivering her regular route, whenever we are
short of drivers, Heather is always willing to take on extra routes and help us out. Heather is friendly,
outgoing and enjoys chatting with other volunteers, while they pick up meals. Heather cares very much
about all clients and is concerned for their wellbeing. She always makes sure to let staff know of any
concerns.
Submission by Community Support Connections, Meals on Wheels and More
George “Joe” Watson
Joe is a member of the Stanley Park Optimist Club. He has been the President several times, is currently
the Secretary and has been a Chairperson of many projects such as their annual Bike Rodeo, T-ball,
Bass Derby, Youth Appreciation and fundraising events that the Club undertakes such as bi-weekly
bingos. Joe does many odd jobs, helping fellow neighbours with minor repairs and clearing snow from
driveways in the winter. He volunteers as an usher at St. Daniels Catholic Church and has worked on
Habitat for Humanity’s projects, having gone to Nicaragua twice.
Submission by Alan Bluhm and Mark Kerr, Optimist Club of Stanley Park
Maryanne Weiler
Maryanne is a long term volunteer in the community. Currently she volunteers with her Church (Blessed
Sacrament) as a Eucharistic Minister and as a Lector. She is also active with the Kitchener Master
Gardeners (speaking to groups in the area about Horticulture); the Kitchener Horticultural Society
(Rockway Gardens and Society activities) and the St Vincent de Paul Society as a driver.
Maryanne was instrumental in bringing the Master Gardeners to KW, served on the Kitchener Blooms
Committee. She has also organized people in the area to create and maintain a community garden.
Submission by Bruce MacNeil
Dave Williams
Dave Williams has been volunteering with the KW Special Olympics for over ten years. He has been a
very dedicated coach and treasurer for the KW ten pin bowling team. He is always very reliable and has
barely missed a practice. Dave has gotten even more involved with the KW Special Olympics over the
past two years. He is now an extremely valuable softball coach during the spring and summer season
as well as an amazing sports tech, and as a member of the KW Special Olympics Council. He visits
every sport and makes sure they have everything they need equipment wise, to have the best practice
possible, and acts as liaison between the coaches and Council. We are very lucky to have him on our
team.
Submission by Dana Rethoret, KW Special Olympics
Heather Wilson
Heather Wilson has dedicated over ten years coaching the Kitchener-Waterloo ten pin bowling team.
For the last four years she has increased her responsibilities by becoming the head coach. Not only
has she been devoting three or more hours a week during practices, she has also hosted a tournament
for other special Olympic athletes in South Western Ontario to attend and compete. She also goes
above and beyond her duties by baking treats and giving presents to her athletes at special occasions
throughout the year. We are very lucky to have such a wonderful person on our team!
Submission by Dana Rethoret, KW Special Olympics
Angelica Young
Angelica brings great energy and enthusiasm to many community building ventures. Prior to
retirement, Angelica was a 911 operator and dealt with many people in distress. Upon her retirement,
Angelica volunteered for her local neighbourhood association. She then volunteered for the
Downtown Community Centre where she helped in the meal program, making delicious desserts
and serving meals. Angelica is also a current member of the Downtown Community Centre Advisory
Council, serving as secretary and treasurer. She was formerly a member and vice-chairperson of the
Mayor’s Advisory Council for Kitchener Seniors (MACKS), where she always brought her special treats to
every meeting. Angelica currently provides social support for older adults by running a bingo program
at the Downtown Community Centre. Angelica generously shares her joyful presence, talents and time.
Always ready to share her feedback, her collaboration has been invaluable. She is an avid volunteer
who lends a hand wherever needed and deserves to be recognized as such.
Submission by Agnes Das and Sue Morgan, Downtown Community Centre
2015 Team Honourees
Alzheimer’s Society of Waterloo Wellington Touch Quilt Project Volunteers
Doina Agotesku, Marilyn Barber, Marilyn Blacker, Jeannette Brenneman, Mayda Cagran
“Our Five Team Sewers” are a dedicated group who make 15 Touch Quilts a month for the Alzheimer’s
Touch Quilt Project. They meet twice weekly to cut, sew, tie and create beautiful quilts that are donated
to long term care and retirement residences and throughout the community. These wonderful ladies
have made quilts for us since the project started in 2008 and there has never been a month that we did
not receive their bag of quilts. Their caring, dedication and hard work has been appreciated by all of us
at the Alzheimer Society of Waterloo Wellington.
Submission by Marj Bellingham and Barb Smith, Touch Quilt Project Coordinators
Carizon Family and Community Services Telephone Team
Linda Guacci, Joanne Hepditch, Joan MacDonald, Mary Smits, Charlotte Wilson
Every day of the week, the smiling face of one of the Telephone Team members arrives at the Carizon
office to make friendly calls to remind clients of scheduled appointments. These calls are a valuable part
of providing a warm, welcoming and supportive experience for Carizon clients at a time in their lives
when they may be living with significant stress and it’s easy to forget an appointment. Linda Guacci,
Joan MacDonald, Mary Smits and Charlotte Wilson have been doing this for more than 5 years! Joanne
Hepditch joined the team 3 years ago. Over the years, many clients have expressed appreciation for this
caring service and more than a few appointments have been kept that might have been missed! As busy
retirees, finding the time each week to make this commitment for so many years can’t be easy, but this
group is consistently reliable and dependable. When we have the opportunity for the whole group to get
together at the same time, they are always quick to offer great suggestions for improving processes and
they definitely know how to roll with the punches and adapt easily when change is in the air. In addition
to their weekly commitment, every one of them has also assisted the agency in other ways over the
years, joining in to help with fundraising events and the Spirit of Giving program at Christmas. This team
of ladies is an essential and greatly valued part of the Carizon team and the service they provide to the
community through their volunteer work supports many people in the community each and every week.
Submission by Dale Gellatly, Carizon Family and Children Services
Downtown Community Centre Sunshine Café Volunteers
Christina Chan, Michele Doucette, Heather Esbaugh, Sheerin Gul, Carol Heideman, Naina Jethani,
Elaine Keller, Sophia McConnery, Angela Munch, Helen Neff, Linda Pellegrini, Robert Ross, Christine
Runstedtler, Sayeqa Sayeqa, Orvie Sauder, Joan Tryggve, Gladys Grant, John Atcheson
The Sunshine Cafe at the Downtown Community Centre provides a wonderful service to patrons of the
building and could not run without the tireless efforts of all the volunteers who dedicate their time,
skill and knowledge to its operation. Whether people are stopping for a snack, a coffee or lunch, they
are greeted by amazing volunteers who work hard to make the customer’s experience a great one.
Volunteers are active in all aspects of the cafe whether it be behind the counter, making and selling the
items, as purchasers, as trainers or as members of the committee.
Submission by Fabienne Prior, Downtown Community Centre Facilitator
Rockway Centre Darts Group
George Baker, Joyce Blake, Eileen and Mike Blewitt, George Goade, Jim Neil, Doug McClement, Isolde
and Alan Rigby, Ronald Thompson
I nominate the Rockway Centre Dart Group for this recognition. This group of fun-loving, entertaining
and hardy souls comes to play darts whatever the weather – rain, snow, hail and even sunshine. They
are always upbeat and friendly. They welcome all and one to join them. But mostly they enjoy life,
come what may, and intend to fill every moment with fond memories. Truly, this beloved dart group is
an inspiration to us all!
Submission by Audrey Charbonneau
Rockway Centre Quilters
Ling Brace, Shirley Bunce, Beatrice Geiger, Rita Hoy, Joyce Johnston, Linda Lee, Millie McQuillin, Sophie
Neufeld, Penny Pahl, Evelyn Pye, Diana Pollmann, Janet Spreight, Marjorie Tinklin, Maria Williams,
Marian Smeding
The Rockway Quilters group meets weekly on Thursdays from 9am-3pm to work as a group on
quilting projects. New and experienced quilters are always welcome, and friendships are guaranteed.
Proceeds from their quilt creations are contributed to the Rockway Advisory Council to be used for
the betterment of the Rockway Centre community. This is a lovely social group that provides good
fellowship, promotes quilting among seniors and gives back to the community.
Submission by Brenda van De Keere, Rockway Centre Program Coordinator
Rockway Centre Thursday Morning Tuck Shop Volunteers
Nancy McCall and Jane Koebel
I nominate Nancy McCall and Jane Koebel, two wonderful ladies who volunteer tirelessly every
Thursday at the Rockway Centre Tuck Shop. Nancy’s bubbling, great to be alive personality, and her
morning greetings always make you feel so very, very special. She’s always got a happy song, and
sometimes a little dance. Jane’s more refined, quieter personality shines through with a humorous
quip or two; and the remarkable ability to remember each of our quilter’s group individual “usual”
orders from week to week. Quite a feat considering we are 8-13 members at any one time ordering our
lunches. For those who have particular difficulties, Nancy and Jane take “serving” to its’ highest level by
carrying trays to the tables to ensure patrons’ lunches are an even more enjoyable experience. I believe
Nancy and Jane deserve to be recognized and honoured for their unswerving dedication.
Submission by Diana Lapointe-Pollman
Kitchener Senior of the Year Award Candidates
Congratulations to our six Kitchener Senior of the Year Award nominees! The Senior of the Year
Award is a recognition initiative of the province of Ontario. Each year Ontario municipalities have
the opportunity to name one resident aged 65+ as the recipient of this very prestigious award.
Nominations were sought from the community through the Salute to Seniors to recognize deserving
individuals whose volunteer activities significantly benefit the Kitchener community. The recipient
was chosen by a selection panel made up of 11 members including: City of Kitchener Council Members
– Councillor Yvonne Fernandes and Councillor Dave Schnider; Mayor’s Advisory Council for Kitchener
Seniors members – Marj Bellingham, Randy Farrell, Shobana Rajan, Carrie Speers, Mary Trottier;
Volunteer Action Centre Executive Director - Jane Hennig; City of Kitchener Facilitator of Volunteer
Resources and Community Engagement - Janice Ouellette; and last year’s Kitchener Senior of the Year
Award recipient – Ken Cressman.
Please join us in congratulating this year’s deserving nominees:
Simon Banda
Kitchener Senior of the Year Nominee
This adored individual within our senior community should be recognized for over 20 years of daily
service with the Kitchener Soccer club referee program. Simon has been a catalyst, establishing a
community referee program second to none, being the envy of many clubs within our district. Being
a referee is not always a glamorous job. It often is a position that is conducive to a lot of verbal abuse;
however, with dignity our Senior Club Head Referee – Simon, tirelessly toils for the club attending
games within the city at multiple fields. He consistently goes above the expectation of the club to
ensure our officials are well looked after and remain safe. As a strategic pillar to the Club, our beloved
Simon is monumental to the foundation of the club, and we recognize this individual as being critical to
the overall success of not only the Kitchener Soccer Club but to our extended community. It’s time to
recognize a referee who despite his position must wear black but has a heart of gold.
Submission by Brett Homes, Kitchener Soccer Club
Charlotte Craven
Kitchener Senior of the Year Award Nominee
Charlotte demonstrates an exemplary and long-standing commitment to volunteerism and enhancing
the lives of those who live in Kitchener. Charlotte dedicates time and effort to helping people with
developmental disabilities live richer, fuller lives. She is a strong voice in advocacy and doesn’t miss
an opportunity to talk to politicians, parents, and support staff about positive ways to help persons
with disabilities. Charlotte is passionate about seeing persons with a developmental disability find
belonging as full members of the community. Charlotte has been an active volunteer with KWACL
for over fifty years. Charlotte’s commitment to community building extends to her volunteer work as
parent representative on KW Habilitation Board of Directors, where she has been active on numerous
committees and working groups.
Submission by Susan Hipperson, Kitchener Waterloo Association for Community Living
Mayo Mellecke
Kitchener Senior of the Year Award Nominee
It is my pleasure to nominate Mr. Mayo Mellecke. Mr. Mellecke is a volunteer driver for the “Wheels of
Hope” program for the Canadian Cancer Society. He has been doing this for years and does not regret
a minute. His experience as a Lutheran minister gives him knowledge of how to approach his clients in
a compassionate way. As a person who is facing cancer for the second time, having him as a driver has
made me feel comfortable. His sense of humour breaks any of the concerned feelings I may have.
I know that he demonstrates this attribute to his clients.
Submission by Terry Pook
Joyce Palubiski
Kitchener Senior of the Year Award Nominee
My grandmother, Joyce Palubiski is an outstanding citizen who has contributed so much to the
Kitchener community. She is not only a role model for me, but also many students and friends. Twice
weekly she volunteers at the Franklin Public School breakfast club. She makes breakfast and is a
crossing guard. She provides students motherly guidance as a role model and as a retired teacher and
school administrator. She is also part of the Stanley Park Community Association as a Board member
and secretary. She participates in meetings and decision making for programs and policies for the
Stanley Park community. While juggling this, my grandmother still finds the time to provide my siblings
and me with the best guidance and encouragement as our guardian. She is a widow who provided
us with a bright future by allowing us to be active in community organizations. For example, she was
inspirational as we represented Canada at CISV (Children’s International Summer Villages) around
the world. She also encouraged us to get involved in Federal, Provincial and Municipal politics as
volunteers to help local candidates. We were active in her own campaigns when previously elected as
Trustee for the Waterloo Region District School Board and most recently in the 2014 election for one of
the four Trustees positions. She also volunteers with K-W Waterpolo as the bingo coordinator and gives
up her time to drive us to practices and tournaments out of town. She has shown me that there are
many obstacles in life, but these should never allow you to hold back your potential. My grandmother
has overcome obstacles and yet is still the strongest woman I know, who always radiates positive
energy. She is a strong advocate for positive thinking and bravery having overcome life threatening
health issues, and is currently a role model and volunteer for Grand River Cancer Patient Recovery,
serving on the Committee as an advocate for family and caregivers, and providing input for policy and
decision making. As a second year university student, I have come to realize that my grandmother has
molded me into a great citizen who has much to contribute. I am eternally grateful for everything she
has taught me and I will continue to share the positive energy she gives me every day.
Submission by Hunter Le Truong-Nguyen
Frank Roorda
Kitchener Senior of the Year Nominee
Frank’s commitment to a healthy community makes him an ideal candidate for recognition by the City
of Kitchener. Frank has spent 20 years providing food delivery to Ray of Hope and House of Friendship
and has volunteered as part of Out of the Cold and Community Christian Reformed Church to improve
the lives of poor people. He personally arranges donations to a local community centre and shelter and
has doubled the amount of fresh produce at these locations. Frank’s ability to work for citizens as an
individual and as part of a community demonstrate the expanse of his leadership; for this, he is worthy
of recognition as the Senior of the Year.
Submission by Ismail Mohamed, Chandler Mowat Community Centre & Devon Spier, House of
Friendship – Chandler Mowat Community Centre
Mike Schurter
Kitchener Senior of the Year Nominee
Mike is a warm individual who is always volunteering to help others in our neighbourhood and around
the community. His generosity is endless. Mike drives people to appointments, volunteers at Sunnyside
Home with the Day program, helps out at St Vincent D Paul, the food bank and the St Daniels Church
Social committee. He has been involved with KW softball for over 35 years. Mike is our neighbourhood
Mr. Fix-It and several of our senior neighbours would not be able to stay in their homes if it wasn’t for
Mike who looks after their lawn care and snow removal. Mike is the real deal and deserves this award.
Submission by Lorna Hall Taggart
Congratulations to each of our
Kitchener Senior of the Year Award Nominees!
Mayor’s Advisory Council
for Kitchener Seniors (MACKS)
The purpose of MACKS is to enhance the quality of life for adults 50+ by providing a representative
voice for older adults across the Kitchener community.
MACKS 2014/2015 Members
Chairperson
Donna Carter
Kitchener Community Centre Representatives
Sharon Alvarez (Downtown Community Centre)
Lois Ogden (Rockway Centre)
Elizabeth Fraser (Rockway Centre)
Community-At-Large Representatives
Marj BellinghamRandy Farrell
Janet MayhewPaul O’Rourke
Shobana RajanCarrie Speers
Mary Trottier
City Staff
Carolyn Cormier, staff liaison
Bethany Pearce, Supervisor of Older Adult Services
Lori Palubeski, Manager of Programs and Resource Services
City Council
Mayor Berry Vrbanovic
If you are interested in becoming involved with MACKS we’d like to hear from you! MACKS
will have two committee vacancies starting in the fall term. For information on how to apply,
please visit the MACKS display table this evening or contact Carolyn Cormier 519-741-2200 x 5345
or [email protected]
Our appreciation to the following supporters of the 2015 Salute to Seniors:
Singing of Oh Canada Victoria Whiteman, King School of Vocal
M.C. Mike Farwell
Entertainment: Eastwood Collegiate Chamber Choir
Catering provided by: Café Bon Choix
Musical Accompaniment: Emily and Daniella Veltmeyer, Miriam and Paul Hewson
Student Art – Mackenzie King Public School Grade 3/4 Class
We would like to thank the students and teachers at Mackenzie King Public School for providing the art
work for tonight. A special thank you to Mrs. Johnston’s grades 3/4 class for the “volunteer sunflowers”
that spell out our thanks to you, the volunteers.
Thank-you for celebrating with us this year!
For information about the 10th Annual Salute to Seniors to be held June 2016, or if you are interested
in joining MACKS, please contact Carolyn Cormier at 519-741-2200 x5345.
Submissions for the 2016 Salute to Seniors will be available in February at www.kitchener.ca
A Very Special Thank-you to our Sponsors:
ROCKWAY
Centre
Tuck Shop
DOWNTOWN
Community Centre
Tuck Shop
ROCKWAY
Centre
Advisory Council
BREITHAUPT
Centre
Snack Bar