By Ruth Troy

Director

Canton Woods is a Food $en$e location. Food $en$e is a monthly food buying co-op for anyone who wants to stretch their grocery dollars. The Food $en$e package is $20.50. If you have an EBT card, you may use it to purchase Food $en$e. The February deadline is 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 10. For more details call the center at 315-638-4536.

Make heart health a priority this Valentine’s Day! Canton Woods welcomes Dr. Hani Kozman from Upstate Cardiology at 11:15 a.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Dr. Kozman, who has an office in Baldwinsville, will talk about heart health. Bring your questions for Dr. Kozman.

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, Feb. 18. New participants are welcome!

The next 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; walk-ins are welcome.

Canton Woods Craft Group meets at 10 a.m. every Tuesday. 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 will meet 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. The book selection this month is “The Gown: A Novel of the Royal Wedding” by Jennifer Robson. The Book Club is facilitated by Edwina Hay.

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

Resources for seniors

Canton Woods’ Neighborhood Advisor Nancy Sullivan is available to assist seniors 60 and over in the towns of Lysander and Van Buren. Nancy can help you with information and referral, as well as determine if you may be eligible for benefit programs such as HEAP and SNAP. Call 315-638-4536 or come by and meet with your Neighborhood Advisor. The Neighborhood Advisor program is funded by the Onondaga County Department of Adult and Long Term Services.

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. 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, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day, the menu includes beef pot roast with gravy, smashed red skin potatoes, California blend vegetables, pineapple tidbits and fresh baked whole wheat roll. Make a reservation and join us for lunch!

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.