By Ruth Troy
Director
Canton Woods offers a full calendar of programs and activities reflecting the varied interests of seniors from 60 years of age to 99 years of age all served by the center. The center offers opportunities from art and writing and bingo to Zumba!
The list also includes several card games. The benefits to seniors from playing card games are enhanced fine motor skills, memory exercise and of course the social aspect of card playing. If you’re not a fan of bridge, canasta, pinochle, pitch or poker, Uno has recently been added to the list of choices. If you would like to try your hand at Uno, stop by on Monday mornings at 10 a.m. Make a reservation and stay for lunch at noon!
Winter closing info
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
It is never too late to unearth your inner artist. Retired B’ville art teacher Mike Conway leads an art group at Canton Woods that focuses on drawing and painting for beginner and intermediate students. The Art Group will meet at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, and Tuesday, Feb. 18. New participants are welcome!
Make and Take Card Making Workshop takes place from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. This workshop includes packages of greeting card supplies to purchase (for approximately $2), instructions and assistance to complete the project. Call 315-638-4536 to register, but walk-ins are welcome.
Canton Woods Craft Group meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. Gather with your fellow crafters to share ideas and enjoy good company.
If you’re a reader, looking for a lively discussion, check out the Canton Woods Book Club. The Book Club next meets at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. Call the center to learn the book selection this month. The Book Club is facilitated by Edwina Hay.
Sharing Memories Writing Program takes place Wednesdays at 1 p.m. 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 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, Feb. 5 and Wednesday, Feb. 19. 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.
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 Monday, Jan. 27, the menu includes meat lasagna with marinara sauce, citrus tossed salad with poppy seed dressing, honeydew melon, and crusty Italian bread.
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.
