By Ruth Troy

Director

As 2020 begins we look forward with renewed enthusiasm and commitment to serving the seniors of Greater Baldwinsville!

Canton Woods Senior Center has a proud tradition of meeting the challenges facing older Americans and is committed to its mission of helping seniors to remain active members of the community. This mission has historically been accomplished with support from the village of Baldwinsville, the town of Lysander and the town of Van Buren, cooperating through a three way municipal agreement. The municipal agreement has been in place for several decades.

Please take a moment to thank your town supervisors, the mayor and municipal boards. Please remind them that the senior center is very important to the quality of your daily life. Let them know that you, a family member, friend or neighbor utilize and benefit from the center. Canton Woods appreciates and depends upon the municipalities continued support and cooperation.

The center also receives funding from Onondaga County. The Onondaga County Department of Adult and Long Term Care Services fund the tremendously valuable Neighborhood Advisor and the B’ville Express Transportation programs. These programs directly support seniors remaining independent and engaged in their community.

Individuals also support Canton Woods, so we extend a heartfelt thank you to all who included Canton Woods Senior Center in their year-end charitable giving, supported the holiday wreath sale or Baldwinsville calendar project. All of your generosity helps continue Canton Woods’ mission and allows us to offer special programs throughout the year.

Weather-related closings

Winter weather has arrived!

• Canton Woods Senior Center is closed only when the village of Baldwinsville is closed.

• When the Syracuse City Schools are closed the senior nutrition lunch program is canceled.

• B’ville Express does not transport when the Baldwinsville Central School District is closed. In the event of a school delay, all morning rides are canceled.

Always use your best judgment and stay safe this winter.

Upcoming activities

If you are 60 years old and have never visited the center, now is the time to stop in and spend some time at a dynamic center. You are sure to find programs that you will enjoy.

It is never too late to unearth your inner artist. Retired B’ville art teacher Mike Conway leads the Canton Woods Art Group, which focuses on drawing and painting for beginner and intermediate students. The Art Group will meet at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21. New participants are welcome!

Make and Take Card Making Workshop is from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17. This workshop includes packages of greeting card supplies to purchase (for approximately $2), instructions and assistance to complete the project. Call 315-638-4536; walk-ins are welcome.

Canton Woods Craft Group meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m.

If you’re a reader looking for a lively discussion join Canton Woods Book Club. The Book club will meet on Jan. 21. The book this month is “Miracle Creek” by Angie Kim. The Book Club is facilitated by Edwina Hay.

Sharing Memories Writing Program takes place at 1 p.m. each Wednesdays. The group is facilitated by Tina Trainham. Just come with your memories.

Resources for seniors

Nadine Kerr, B’ville family and consumer science teacher, offers Smartphone, iPad, Tablet or Laptop Computer Assistance will be at the center from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3. Need help figuring out how to use the calendar, email or going online? Bring your devices and questions (it’s a good idea to write them down) and she will try to help you! Please schedule a 20-minute appointment by calling 315-638-4536.

HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) is federally funded and helps income eligible individuals and families pay their heating bills. Canton Woods Neighborhood Advisor is ready to assist you to determine your eligibility for HEAP. If you are a senior 60 or older call Canton Woods at 315-638-4536 to request assistance with the HEAP process.

Health and fitness

The New Year offers a perfect time to try something new and make healthier choices. Canton Woods offers several fitness programs. Find the one that is right for you and start moving!

Zumba Gold is back! Join instructor Susan Petrilli for 45 minutes of fun on Wednesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. Class fee is $5 (pay as you go), payable to the instructor. Zumba Gold is an easy to follow program that lets you move to the beat at your own speed. Zumba Gold provides modified low-impact moves for all levels, and is designed for active older adults and beginners. Zumba is invigorating and fun!

A licensed massage therapist will offer chair massage at Canton Woods from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22. The fee is $10 for a 10-minute massage. Call 315-638-4536 to make an appointment.

Instructor Yvonne Martin brings Kripalu “chair optional” yoga to Canton Woods. Kripalu yoga is a gentle mindful practice that emphasis compassionate self-acceptance, and awareness. Class is held every Monday at 10:30 a.m. Call the center for more information.

Aerobics is held at 9:15 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. There is a fee payable to the instructor September through May. The new session has begun!

Canton Woods offers a free falls prevention class at 10 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday led by licensed physical therapist Julie Hall. Julie is enjoying warmer temperatures. The falls prevention class continues during her vacation using a DVD featuring Julie guiding you through the class.

Canton Woods has a medication return collection unit. This is a safe, environmentally friendly way to dispose of medications. You may drop off your unused medication to the return box at Canton Woods from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Senior nutrition

The center is a PEACE senior nutrition lunch site on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Make your reservation by calling 315-638-4536 and stop by at noon for lunch. Suggested donation is $3.50. The nutrition program is open to anyone 60 years of age and older.

Wondering what’s for lunch? On Friday, Jan. 17, the menu includes sliced turkey on a whole wheat Kaiser, lettuce and tomato, hearty minestrone soup, and tiramisu parfait.

Canton Woods Senior Center is located at 76 Canton St. in Baldwinsville. The center is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. To learn more or to register for programs, call 315-638-4536 or visit baldwinsville.org/departments/cantonwoods.