By Ruth Troy
Director
One sure sign of spring, St. Patrick’s Day is just about here and it’s time to don your green!
The sounds of lively Irish music, the festive rhythm of Irish dance shoes and of course the bright Irish smiles of talented step dancers fill Canton Woods each year. Rince Na Sonas School of Irish Dance returns to the center at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 17, bringing the favorite tradition of Irish step dance to Canton Woods. This performance is sure to lift your spirits! Plan to join in the celebration!
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 next meets at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 17. New participants are welcome!
The next Make and Take Card Making Workshop is Friday, March 20, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. 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. 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 next meeting is 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 17. The March book is “The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek” by Kim Richardson.
Tina Trainham hosts the Sharing Memories Writing Program at 1 p.m. each Wednesday. 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 at the center. 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 call the center at 315-638-4536 for more information and to schedule a 20-minute appointment.
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
Canton Woods offers easy ways to add exercise to your daily routine. Find the class that is right for you and start moving!
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.
Tai Chi is held at 8 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. There is a fee payable to the instructor.
Aerobics is held at 9:15 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. There is a fee payable to the instructor September through May.
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.
Join instructor Susan Petrilli for 45 minutes of Zumba Gold 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, March 25. The fee is $10 for a 10-minute massage. Call 315-638-4536 to make an appointment.
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, March 16, the menu includes cranberry walnut chicken salad served on a croissant, chunky tomato Florentine soup, and fruit cocktail. Make a reservation and join us for lunch!
Canton Woods Senior Center, 76 Canton St. in Baldwinsville, is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 315-638-4536 or visit baldwinsville.org/departments/cantonwoods.