February 2018 issue

11
GWSA’s CENTENARIAN CLUB
by Ross Coulter
It is rare that a seniors association such as the Guelph Wellington Seniors Association can recognize and
celebrate members who have reached the enviable age of 100. On December 11, the GWSA mounted a
plaque on the lobby wall that reads “The Hundred Year Old Club”. Under the plaque, the names and
pictures of those individuals who achieved 100 years or older while members of the association were
mounted. The first two members to be so recognized are Charlie Corcoran, at 103 years of age, who still
makes the occasional appearance at the Evergreen Centre, and Veronica Turner who achieved the magic
age while a still active member, but who unfortunately passed away last fall. Appropriate tribute was paid
to both as members of their respective families joined GWSA members in the celebration, which included
a few choral selections by members of the Silvertones.
Mayor Guthrie, accompanied by four city councillors, attended the event and lauded the accomplishments
of the GWSA in the support and recognition of Guelph’s growing senior community. It was noted
that there are a number of currently active GWSA members in their early to mid-nineties who may very
well become members of this club in the next few years. As a GWSA member himself, the Mayor expressed
his desire to one day find his picture on the wall alongside Charlie and Veronica.
At the end of the official recognition ceremony, all in attendance were invited to share in refreshments of
coffee and specially decorated cake. Many volunteers put the event together and received their due recognition.
T S - F 2018