To the editor:

Lately, I have been bubbling over with enthusiasm for what I consider two great community assets: our CRIS TimeBank and the gorgeous trails that lace through our forests and open green spaces.

Many residents may be familiar with our trails but not our TimeBank which was initiated by Community Resources for Independent Seniors (CRIS) over two years ago. One unique feature of the TimeBank is the Potluck dinner aspect. Members and those interested in becoming members get together for a potluck dinner several times a year to meet, greet and enjoy the company of neighbors and friends in the Cazenovia area. Please join us at our next potluck at 6 p.m. on Oct. 27 in the Cazenovia Public Library community room. Bring a dish to pass to learn more details and how to become a member of the TimeBank; or call the CRIS office at 655-5743.

Based on other TimeBanks in the country, our membership has grown to over 75 (area residents ages 21 and over) with hundreds of exchanges. The TimeBank is a wonderful way to build supportive networks, strengthen our community while providing each other needed services whether big or small.

This is a “pay it forward” program whereby services are traded/exchanged between members for TimeBank hours. A diversity of membership exists including dog-walker, gardener, cooks, companion, Reiki master, veterinarian, knitter, electrician, bike repair and more. I recently joined with our “green team” members who help with gardening tasks like mulching, raking, and preparing another member’s lawn for the winter.

Now for the trails in our area. A wonderful website, GoCaz.com will direct you to an interactive trail map (gratitude to CACDA for this). Also, gratitude to Cazenovia Preservation Foundation for their maintenance of many miles of trails in and around our beautiful countryside.

Now if only I can find a TimeBank member who is an expert guide of sorts to help me find those trails I have yet to discover!

Jean Shirley

TimeBank Member