The Rosslyn Community Hall was abuzz with conversation and connection over displays, drawings and plans on the present happenings and next-step prospects of Pennock Village.
James Collie, project lead and Board Chair, has taken charge of necessary studies and permits, while providing guidance to the governing Board for over five years. Being a long-time leader and supporter of the project and its ongoing momentum, he was pleased with the outcome of Saturday’s public event.
“It was encouraging to see the interest and number of people who came out this past weekend. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet and talk with so many local residents to share the story of Pennock Village and what the future holds,” commented Collie.
Glenn Burton has been a special advisor with the Board since early 2024, offering his expertise in the marketing of the development.
“I’ve come to realize that retirement living is a challenging decision for many. Some don’t want to move, some know they have to, and others know they should but are looking for that right place. Ultimately, we will all confront this decision as we age, but what struck me at the event was the overall enthusiasm towards the rural development of Pennock Village and the unique lifestyle it offers. There was a great opportunity for those who attended the event, to talk to both the Board and other attendees in-person, addressing any questions or insecurities they had. And we, as a Board, were able to share the story of Pennock Village. I enjoyed being part of this event and meeting with a variety of people,” Burton shared.
Four of the six Board members, several special advisors, members of the Build Committee, and a few of the newest residents themselves, were among those in attendance. Nearly 70 attended from numerous surrounding municipalities and the city of Thunder Bay, taking advantage of the drop-in event which was intended to create connections and inform the community on the lifestyle specifics at Pennock Village.
Carole Long, Secretary of the Board, was also in attendance to assist in answering questions and making attendees feel welcome.
“It was great to see the energy and enthusiasm around Pennock Village. The event gave visitors the opportunity to have meaningful one-on-one conversations with Board members, learn more about the available housing options, and connect with current residents. As our community continues to grow, events like this help foster relationships and create a welcoming environment for future homeowners,” commented Long.
The largest focus of the event was the Garden Homes (Duplexes) housing, two of which have since been completed. There were opportunities to view both exterior material samples and interior colour palettes, and collect various handouts on the features and details of the Garden Homes themselves.
A timeline video, spanning photos from 2024 to present, was up for viewing and allowed attendees less familiar with the development, to gain a better understanding on the full scope of the project. The physical building process over this past year has generated many introductions and conversations between local area community members.
“It’s rewarding to me, to meet so many new people and get invited into their lives and journey’s. The discussions are centred around Pennock Village and what living there will look like for them, but it’s wonderful to learn about their entire life journey as they share their stories,” added Collie after Saturday’s event.
“It’s a pleasure to be a part of these conversations at a public event like this, but we’re also happy to meet people wherever they are in their retirement – to share the vision of this new seniors community.”
A special thank you to the following: The Municipality of Oliver Paipoonge & Rosslyn Community Hall (facilities), Jenny Mol (welcome & attendance table), Jenny Tuuttila (refreshments), Scott Sumner of Thunder Bay Business & Chris Vaclav of Design House Publications (media reps & coverage), Joel Brigham of Representative Designs (video slideshow), Thunder Bay Christian School (easels).
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