Canada Day 2023
Every year we look forward to July 1st and the best outdoor party of the year. Again this year the residents of Islington 2000/2010 were eager to join the festivities. Even though there were some ominous signs in the weather forecast, everyone formed a line at 5:30, got a name tag and found a table. All expectations were positive for a great evening.
With very little warning, the storm blew in just as we stood up to sing the anthem. And the storm kept on and on, with driving rain and thunder. We all tried to wait it out but eventually the issue of food became pressing.
The social committee made the decision to set up a serving table in the fireside lounge and invited us to take our food to eat indoors, or if we could find shelter under a gazebo, to go back outside to eat. And it all turned out fine.
Our social committee had planned and worked for long weeks to make everything perfect – then were forced to pivot and come up with a new plan. They showed tremendous grace under pressure and set the tone for everyone else to be flexible and amenable. The committee is Kam Chari, Mary Daversa, Santina Fasciani, Valerie Fiachetti, Gina and Luciano Galiano and Angelica McGowan. We are so grateful to each of them, and to all others who volunteered on the day. It was a Canada Day party to remember!
Memories
On Tuesday afternooon the Social Committee invited everyone at Islington 2000 to gather and remember Josie Sandrin, a long time resident, a friend to all, and enthusiastic volunteer. Josie was a central part of every event and the first welcoming face at all our parties.
We knew from the great success of Josie’s 90th birthday party just how much she was loved and respected in our community. That was a very memorable occasion. Josie was clearly thrilled to welcome everyone that day.
And again for her memorial, the party room was filled with friends who reminisced and talked about the contribution she made to life at Islington 2000. Attendees brought pot luck finger food and it was abundant.
Thanks to the Social Committee for arranging a heartfelt celebration of Josie’s life.
Book Club Luncheon
At Islington 2000 our book club runs monthly from October to June. Every June we hold a luncheon to mark then end of the season. When weather permits we meet outdoors at the barbecue area.
After a year of meeting indoors it was a decided pleasure to get outdoors, take off our masks, and enjoy some food and conversation together. We had catered sandwiches and some homemade desserts, provided by a few wonderful volunteers.
We had chosen “Nothing But the Truth” for our final book of the year, and after eating everyone was eager to talk about the ideas in it. We pulled our chairs into a circle and a lively discussion ensued about the courts and our democratic rights. It was a fitting end to a great year in reading. Here is a book list for next year.
Pickleball Anyone?
Pickleball has arrived at Islington 2000.The game has become extremely popular elsewhere but very few residents at Islington 2000 had joined the bandwagon. That has changed now.
Beginners were keen to enrol in two classes to be held on May 4. Unfortunately, that was the week when it either rained or threatened rain, so the classes were re-scheduled for Saturday afternoon. A number of residents who hadn’t heard about the change of plans showed up at the court and an improptu lesson ensued. Again on Saturday enough novice players showed up to easily fill two courts. There may be some more classes planned for future dates, but it certainly appears that Islington 2000 pickleball players are already hooked on the game.
