December 2021 issue

T S - D 2021

2 

T S - D 2021 — V. 46, N. 4

The Guelph/Wellington Seniors Association 

A non-profit organization based at the 

Evergreen Seniors Community Centre 

http://www.gwsa-guelph.ca 

Ross Knechtel - Webmaster 

Directors & Officers 

Brian Smith—President 

tba — Vice-President 

Roger Stevens — Treasurer 

Tonie MacInnis — Secretary 

Directors 

Pat Gage Ken Fugler 

Wenda King Charlie Bishop 

Teresa McKeeman 

Ross Knechtel 

Adam Rutherford 

The Sentinel Team 

Carol Croft — Adminstrator, Printer 

Linda Green — Editor, Printer 

George Hughes — Printer 

Bill Shephard, Ray Miller — Part-time 

Assistants 

All of the above GWSA members 

are Volunteers. 

GWSA Community Support Services Staff 

TBA — Manager 

Audrey Bishop — Administrative Assistant 

Margaret Iutzi — Move Well Co-ordinator 

Molly Roberts — Eat Well Co-ordinator 

Paula Frappier — Outreach Co-ordinator 

All others working for CSS 

are GWSA Volunteers 

City Staff 

Adam Rutherford — Program 

Manager 

Sheri-Lyn Roy — Customer Service Clerk 

Tonie MacInnis — Recreation Program 

Director — Senior Services 

Becky MacDonald — Recreation 

Co-ordinator — Volunteers 

Jocelynn Desroches — Chef 

Brian Treleaven — Assistant Cook 

Don Harris — Facility Maintainer 

Lorne Wollis — Cleaner 

Lynne Briggs — Manager of Recreation 

Services 

E S C C 

A City of Guelph Recreation Facility run in 

partnership with the Community Services Department 

of the City of Guelph and the Guelph/ 

Wellington Seniors Association 

683 Woolwich St., Guelph, ON, N1H 3Y8 

Tel.: 519-823-1291 / Fax: 519-823-8972 

Hours: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm M-F 

(closed Statutory Holidays) 

Read The Sentinel on our website, 

www.gwsa-guelph.ca 

ISSN: 0383 817X 

A MESSAGE FROM THE GWSA 

BOARD 

As December is upon us, we look forward to crisp, clear air, snow 

underfoot, and the fascinating surprises and celebrations of the holiday 

season! This has been a year of change and opportunity, as we collectively 

tackled the isolation arising out of pandemic, to restore life to almost 

normal. We extend appreciation to many volunteers who have helped the 

Board of Directors launch an amazing reopening of programs and activities, 

and to the City of Guelph who has worked tirelessly alongside. 

The Sentinel recently started printed copies, so be sure to pick up yours 

when you come by. Remember, memberships were extended at no cost 

during the shutdown, so if you haven’t been by yet, there is likely a 

membership card waiting for you in an envelope with your name on it. 

The enthusiasm of everyone returning to the Evergreen Centre has 

become contagious, as we hear of members happy to see their ‘family’ 

again. With about 2700 members, it hasn’t taken long for a hum of activity 

to fill the space, and some groups already have waiting lists. Over twentyfive 

activity groups have returned, with more to come. Fortunately, capacity 

limits have normalized, which relieves some scheduling pressure. If you 

want to try something new, consider some of our new groups, like the 

Guelph Carving Club. Check the GWSA website often for the latest. And, 

yes, proof of vaccination and wearing of masks are still required. 

Things are happening. Did you notice the Evergreen Restaurant is 

offering hot meals again? Some of our member favourites like cabbage 

rolls, and liver and onions are back! You can even grab generouslyportioned 

frozen meals to take home. The Craft Group has some interesting 

items for sale by the front desk, and we are planning space for a larger 

display. The Book Nook is seeing increased interest and has been adding to 

its collection. And, you can sign up for computer mentors if you are 

interested in sharpening your skills. We are pleased that a new board 

member, Charlie Bishop, is eager to form a Technology Advisory 

Committee that will help support our ongoing needs and set future 

priorities. 

You likely noticed that membership fees will increase in January, for the 

first time in over a decade. With The Sentinel newsletter subscription still 

included, it remains a relative bargain. Membership fees contribute to our 

building lease and related expenses, maintaining and improving our 

programs and equipment, and keeping technology current for the benefit of 

all members. 

The GWSA Community Support Services (CSS) continues to help 

hundreds of vulnerable seniors, and receives funding through grants, 

including the United Way. Its services remained in high demand during the 

shutdown. If you know families and caregivers who would benefit from 

their programs, like Outreach, Eat Well, Feel Well, Seniors Offering 

Support, or Links2Wellbeing Social Prescribing, please contact CSS at the 

Evergreen. The existing role of CSS manager is being broadened to provide 

an Executive Director presence for the GWSA to raise our profile and 

support our strategic priorities. We are strongly committed to this 

remaining a members-focused organization through its active volunteer 

Board of Directors and Committees. 

For now, it is time for twinkling lights and holiday festivities! To all 

members, we extend our wishes for health and happiness, and relaxing 

times with friends and family throughout the season. 

NOTE: Disclaimer—The Sentinel and the GWSA do not necessarily agree 

with or support statements in the Sentinel made by advertisers, or submissions 

by writers (no political or religious topics please). 

T S - D 2021 

3

4 

News of Interest 

The GWSA Board of Directors has been actively working towards a full resumption of services as the 

Province reopens. It has been a long road, and we are thrilled to get back to normal and involved with 

friends. We are working daily with the City of Guelph and are happy that room capacities are back to 

normal, social distancing has relaxed and our programs can gain full participation. Please note that 

requirements for Proof of Vaccination and wearing masks when not engaged in ‘active’ programs or when 

dining remain. We will keep everyone updated and appreciate your patience. 

Over the last 18 months, the GWSA Board has continued to meet and plan for the future. Our Strategic 

Planning has considered Accessibility and Inclusion, Long-term Sustainability, Expansion of Programming 

throughout the City and the County of Wellington, and thoughtful planning about the leadership of our 

wonderful Community Support Services (CSS) team. 

With these in mind, we do have some positive news to share. The opportunity for the GWSA to move 

towards an Executive Director-led model has presented itself. The idea has been expressed many times over 

our history, and the current Board of Directors has unanimously voted in favour of this meaningful and 

future thinking decision. The responsibilities associated with GWSA stewardship can be onerous and recent 

influences like COVID-19 have further illuminated the need for Board and membership-directed 

professional leadership. 

The transition better positions the GWSA for future funding opportunities, increased connection with 

community, an expansion of programming options, and greater advocacy for the needs of older adults in 

Guelph and Wellington. That means that the Executive Director will be working for you at the Evergreen 

and across our community, to improve opportunities, supports and resources for all seniors. The Executive 

Director will work closely with the Board and committees to implement member priorities, and will report 

to the Board of Directors to ensure that we remain focused on those we serve. 

This transition is made possible by incorporating the role of our vacant CSS Manager into the Executive 

Director’s portfolio, continuing with responsible investing, and using grant funding as we do every year to 

employ our small staff. Moving forward, we expect the new position to identify additional funding 

opportunities. The Board is eagerly undertaking the job search and will keep members informed. 

In other news, the Board agreed to increase membership fees which incredibly have remained the same 

for over 10 years. Your extra $ 0.20 per week will be recommitted to additional programming, asset 

replacement and maintenance, and other GWSA needs as they arise. The change, effective in January, 

improves our alignment with similar organizations and is a fiscally responsible decision. Please note that we 

will always work with members to support access to the GWSA, regardless of financial means. 

We hope you have friends who might like to join us. Now that the Evergreen Restaurant has reopened and 

is now called Bistro 683, it is a perfect time for people to come by for a hot lunch and a tour. Thank you for 

working through recent challenges with us, for your trust in your Board of Directors and for continuing on 

as the reason why the GWSA exists. 


Special Printing For Members 

Looking for that 

Special Unique Christmas Gift? 

The Sentinel can print a custom 2022 Calendar using your 

own photographs (14 pictures-landscape style) for $10.00 + 

HST per calendar. If you want the calendars for Christmas, 

please submit them no later than December 10. Email us 

your request or leave us a message in our mailbox. You can 

usually find us in the office on Monday, Wednesday, or 

Friday mornings. 

THE EDITOR’S PAGE from The Sentinel Team 

We would like to wish one and all 

A Very Merry Christmas and 

A Very Happy New Year 2022! 

5 

DONATIONS 

To donate easily, with a credit 

card, visit our website 

www.gwsa-guelph.ca and click 

on the ‘Donate’ button or call: 

519-823-1291 

December 2, 2021 is the deadline for 

submissions for the 

January 2022 Sentinel. 

Email submissions to: sentinel@gwsa-guelph.ca 

or drop yours off at the Evergreen Front Desk. 

Distribution of the January issue 

is on December 23, 2021. 

Editor is not responsible for quality of submitted photos 

(but we’ll do our best). 


6 

We are pleased to announce that Charlie Bishop has been appointed as a 

new GWSA Board member. This will fill a vacated three-year term 

which ends at the AGM in June 2022, subject to re-election. I have 

contacted him and welcomed him on behalf of the organization. Charlie 

has much to contribute to the GWSA and, as part of his role, has agreed 

to provide leadership for our broad range of technology needs. 

Charlie Bishop is looking ahead for retirement where he can engage in 

the community doing something he enjoys. His previous experiences 

include: design and development for global, world class high tech 

companies such as Nortel and BlackBerry, Chairman and Executive 

Director on an international Board of Directors for a wireless 

consortium which brought not only technology aspects but HR, multiple 

years of IT support/implementation, finance and business. Charlie has 

extensive background in technology and is looking to apply that 

background for GWSA and its members. He is looking to meet more 

people, and give back to his community while having fun and making a difference. Charlie is a forward 

thinker, seeing the bigger picture. His motivation is seeing opportunities to do things. If he sees something 

that isn’t working, he’ll be able to create ways to move forward and change what needs to be done. 

Technology Advisory Committee 

Attention all you Technology buffs, geeks and TechnoRats, 

If you've been called one of these or aspired to be one... then we are looking for you 

to come and have some fun. This committee will be looking at all kinds of wired/ 

wireless networking, computers, programs, audio, video and so much more. 

Have you ever wanted to be a Lighting Engineer for a concert... how about a Sound 

Engineer? Well, those opportunities and more are waiting for you if you simply 

respond. Come out, meet people, learn some things, and most of all, have some fun. 

Email me at charlie.bishop@gwsa-guelph.ca with a brief outline of your background 

and interests... :) 

PLEASE NOTE THAT MEMBERSHIP FEES WILL 

INCREASE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2022 AS FOLLOWS: 

Membership Fee (effective January 1, 2022) 

The Annual Fee is $32.00 plus any cost for optional newsletter 

delivery (plus HST): 

$32.00 + $4.16 HST = $36.16: pick up The Sentinel at the 

Evergreen Centre 

$38.00 + $4.94 HST = $42.94: have The Sentinel hand-delivered 

to your home (only within Guelph city limits) 

$55.00 + $7.15 HST = $62.15: have The Sentinel mailed to your 

home 


Bistro 683 - December 2021 

7 

The Evergreen Restaurant is open to the public 

and serves a large variety of menu items that are 

available from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm, Monday to 

Friday (except holidays): 

Breakfast Foods 

Homemade Soups 

Bakery Items 

Sandwiches 

Salads 

Beverages 

The daily featured Lunch is served from 11:30 am 

to 1:00 pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 

the menu is below. Take-out is available for your 

convenience. 

Our goal is to provide balanced, nutritious meals. 

We provide great quality, while keeping costs 

reasonable. The tremendous support of volunteers 

in the restaurant helps us achieve this goal. 

Featured Hot Lunch 

$7.50 + tax 

Each hot lunch is served with 2 sides to ensure a 

balanced nutritional meal. 

Catering 

Catering is available by special order: Hot/cold 

drinks, sweet trays, sandwiches, etc. Please have 

your order to the customer service clerk in the 

office at least 48 hours prior to your event. This 

allows staff to ensure that your catering needs will 

be met. Thank you for your co-operation in this 

matter. 

FRESH BAKED TEA BISCUITS 

ARE AVAILABLE ON MONDAYS 

Home-made pickles, relishes, chili sauce and preserves 

are available for purchase. 

FEATURED LUNCH served 11:30 am to 1:00 pm — Monday, Wednesday & Friday 

All menu items available 8:30 am to 3:00 pm 

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 

1 

Meatloaf 

2 3 

Chicken a la King 

6 

7 8 

9 10 

Salmon 

Lamb Shepherd’s 

Pie 

Salisbury Steak 

13 

14 15 

16 17 

Beef & Tomato 

Skillet 

Stuffed Chicken 

Roast Beef 

20 

Chicken Meat Pie 

21 22 

Roast Pork 

23 24 CLOSED 

Merry 

Christmas! 

27 28 

29 30 31 

THE DINING ROOM WILL BE CLOSED FROM DECEMBER 24 TO JANUARY 3, 

REOPENING ON JANUARY 4 


8 

Volunteer Corner from Becky MacDonald 

Merry Christmas! 

Another year has come and passed, yet we managed to 

enjoy the final few months of 2021 back together again. 

Starting to see the Centre fill with activities, volunteers 

and members, has truly made this holiday month shine. I 

would like to wish everyone a happy, healthy good season 

and looking forward to seeing you all in the new year! 

Merry Christmas! 

Preparing for In-Person Return 

With such a long break, all volunteers will be required 

to complete the mandatory Orientation & Training and 

COVID Training prior to returning in person when the 

time permits. These trainings are to be completed from 

the comfort of your home online. For those who do not 

have access to a computer, training dates will be set up 

for you to attend in the near future. 

Please contact Becky MacDonald for more information 

and if you have any questions. 

becky.macdonald@guelph.ca 

For more information and for details on each position, 

please contact becky.macdonald@guelph.ca 

If you are a current volunteer, you are more than 

welcome to take on more than one position. If you are not 

a current volunteer, you will be required to complete the 

“Volunteer Application Form – online” at: 

https://gwsa-guelph.ca/1749-2/. 

No access to a computer? Please stop into the Evergreen 

Seniors Community Centre to pick up an application to 

complete for a volunteer position that is of interest to you. 

GWSA COMMITTEES 

Board of Directors 

The Board is looking to recruit up to four (4) new 

members. Experience in law, fundraising and HR are an 

asset. The Board meets on the third Wednesday of each 

month at 9:30 virtually (min of 8 meetings per year). 

Duties include: being an active member on the board and 

assisting where needed on committees; provide reports 

and updates to all members; review monthly financial 

statements; report Board issues to the Committee and 

report the Committee’s issues to the Board; participate in 

self-development training, where and when appropriate. 

T S - D 2021 — V. 46, N. 4 

Governance Committee 

The GWSA is looking for up to three (3) additional 

members. The Governance Committee assists the Board 

of Directors with the development and review of bylaws, 

policies, and procedures for the Association. 

Morning meetings during a few months of the year. 

Experience in governance with a not-for-profit 

organization 

Knowledge of legislative requirements 

A keen interest in document research, development, 

and review would be helpful. 

Human Resources Committee 

Qualified Volunteers are needed to assist on a quarterly 

or as needed basis to implement the GWSA HR Policy for 

GWSA staff which includes anyone who receives 

payment for services. Duties also include: implementing 

Board decisions based on the GWSA Human Resources; 

ensure that actions of the committee are aligned with the 

GWSA strategic plan. We would greatly benefit from 

someone with Human Resources background. 

Secretary 

The Governance Committee is looking for someone 

with a laptop and who is interested in taking minutes at 

the meeting and updating any documents as needed. 

Membership & Marketing 

Three (3) more committee members needed to join the 

team. Meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 9:30 

am. The committee reports to the Board for all 

membership and marketing initiatives, focusing on the 

maximum interest of members and advancement of the 

Board’s Strategic Plan. The Committee provides content 

and messaging advice to the webmaster for the website 

and social media accounts and prepares monthly GWSA 

Email Updates. Marketing and recruitment experience 

would definitely be assets, but are not required. 

Monitors membership satisfaction 

Develops plans to improve member recruitment and 

retention 

Marketing responsibilities include arranging for 

media coverage and creating advertisements 

Developing promotional material 

Arranging special events such as Open House and 

New Members’ Welcome - either virtually or inperson 

as appropriate. 

Special Events Committee 

The GWSA is looking for energetic individuals to lead 

the special events committee when initiated. Duties 

include: responsibility for the Friday afternoon Dances 

(every two months) and other significant events 

throughout the year (Mental Health Symposium). The 

Committee sees the overall organization of the event, 

maintaining communication with the Board and the City 

(Continued on page 9)

9 

(Continued from page 8) 

of Guelph staff; promote the event in the Sentinel, website 

and other avenues with support from the M&M 

committee. 

Succession Planning Committee 

Seeks people who have leadership qualities, who would 

be appropriate candidates for the Board of Directors and 

who are current GWSA members, or eligible for GWSA 

membership. Ensures that there is a full slate of 

candidates to fill the positions of retiring Board members. 

facilitate one-hour gentle exercise classes in the 

community. As little as one hour per week is all that is 

required. No fitness experience is necessary. Full training 

will be provided. 

In-Home Move Well Gentle Exercise Program 

We are also looking for volunteers to assist older adults 

in their own homes to guide them through a 12-week 

exercise program (this is a once-weekly program). Full 

training and orientation will be provided. All participants 

and volunteers are required to be double vaccinated. 

Technology Committee 

Advise the Board of Directors and provide technical 

leadership in support of the Strategic Plan. 

Production support: we need a group of technically 

savvy and interested members to prioritize a list of needed 

projects for planning and implementation. 

Experience in: electrician, sound tech, lighting 

technician, carpentry or design would be useful, and 

possibly computer-aided design skills. 

IT (Information Technology): 

Make hardware and software recommendations to 

address employee and volunteer needs, including the 

Board, Finance Committee, and members. 

Oversee a small wireless network. 

Provide guidance regarding the technical aspects of the 

website and membership mailing list. 

Establish a modest A/V recording/live streaming 

studio 

Interest and background experience in IT, including 

network management and video production would be 

assets. 

Activity Groups 

The following Activity Groups are in need of volunteers: 

Bid Euchre 

Book Nook 

Canasta 

Darts President 

Dominoes 

Euchre Wednesdays 

6-Handed Euchre 

MahJongg 

Secretary for various committees 

Scrabble President 

Scrabble Assistant 

Sentinel Delivery Drivers 

Walking Club 

CSS VOLUNTEERS 

Move Well Gentle Exercise Program 

Are you interested in active living? If you are looking 

for a new challenge and would like to help other seniors 

maintain their physical well-being, please consider 

volunteering with the Move Well Gentle Exercise 

Program. We are currently seeking volunteers to 

Volunteer Drivers - Outreach Program 

Help make a difference to support seniors who have 

trouble getting out on their own. The Outreach 

Program is looking for volunteers who are willing to use 

their own car to drive participants between their home and 

the Outreach program at the Evergreen Seniors Centre. 

This commitment can be once per month or up to 3 x per 

month. Participants are picked up around 9:45 am and 

brought to the centre for their program. We then ask our 

volunteers to pick them up from the centre at noon and 

return them to their homes. All Outreach events happen 

on Fridays. All participants and volunteers are required to 

be double vaccinated. 

Seniors Offering Support Telephone Visiting 

Volunteers 

Help brighten another senior’s day by making a 

friendly telephone visiting call from your home to theirs. 

Scheduling and time commitment are flexible according 

to your availability. We are looking for men and women 

volunteers as well as those who speak additional 

languages. Full training will be provided. Your 

commitment can be as little as 1 hour per week or more if 

you wish. 

Evergreen Dining Room Coffee Volunteer 

Volunteers are needed to assist in the dining room 

throughout the week in the morning or afternoon, serving 

hot beverages, clearing tables and assisting patrons when 

needed. 

Bistro 683 Dining Room Cash Volunteer 

Volunteers are needed to assist in the dining room on 

the cash register throughout the week in the morning or 

afternoon. 

Bistro 683 Grocery Shoppers Needed 

Assist the chef with grocery shopping at the local No 

Frills on Fridays. A rotating schedule will be developed so 

you might only shop once a month. 

If you are interested in volunteering in any of the areas 

listed, please contact Becky for more information. 

becky.macdonald@guelph.ca 


10 

Solutions on pg. 22 


11 

SPECIAL BIRTHDAYS 

OF NOTE 

“Our Young Seniors” 

‘We’re not over the hill; 

we’re just gaining speed!’ 

Miller, Ray – December 10 (76) 

SPECIAL WEDDING 

ANNIVERSARIES 

If you have a birthday or anniversary that 

you would like to include in the Sentinel, 

please let us know the month before. 

This column is NOT done automatically. 

We DON’T have access to your 

personal information. 

“Passages” 

We would like to convey our 

Condolences to Association Members 

and their Families 

Martin, Ed passed away on June 7, 2020, at 

the age of 91. He was a former GWSA 

member. 

Hershaw, Bill passed away on March 24, 

2020, at the age of 91. He was a former 

GWSA member. 

Klein, Ray passed away on November 7, 

2020, at the age of 90. He was a former 

GWSA member. 

Bleach, Joan passed away on Sunday, 

October 17, 2021. She was a long-time 

member of the craft club and walking club. 

Dennis, Shirley passed away on Thursday, 

October 28, 2021, at the age of 94. She was 

involved in Bridge, volunteered as a Sentinel 

proofreader and helped in the dining room. 

Barnes, Ray passed away on Wednesday, 

November 10, 2021, at the age of 84. H was 

past leader of Friday Euchre and a member of 

Monday Euchre. 


12 

The service that volunteer Snow Angels provide 

contributes a tremendous amount to the overall 

well-being of our community. Volunteering with 

the program is truly ‘the neighbourly thing to do’ 

and is a great way for families to volunteer 

together, or high school students to complete their 

40-hour community service requirement. 

A volunteer snow removal service for seniors 

and persons with disabilities 519-822-1155 

In partnership with the City of Guelph, we offer 

a volunteer snow removal service for eligible 

seniors and persons with physical disabilities. 

During a significant snow event, after the 

residential streets are plowed, volunteers visit 

their match within 24 hours to clear the windrow 

(the accumulation of snow left at the end of a 

driveway). 

Last year, 73 Snow Angels contributed 949 

hours of snow shoveling service. In total, 184 

residents were helped during the winter season of 

which one shared, “without the help of our Snow 

Angel, it would be difficult for us to stay in our 

home.” 

Residents eligible to receive this service: 

- Must reside in the City of Guelph in a single 

dwelling or semi-detached house with private 

driveway. 

- Are unable to remove their own snow and cannot 

afford to pay for snow removal. 

- Have no able-bodied person living in the 

household to shovel snow. 

- Must be a senior citizen (aged 65 years or older) 

and/or have a physical disability. 

Please note that the People and Information 

Network (PIN) reserves the right to ask for 

documentation verifying proof of disability and/or 

inability to pay for private snow removal services 

in order to ensure services are provided to those in 

our community who truly require assistance. 


13 

REPORT FROM THE PROGRAM COMMITTEE 

Now that COVID room capacities have returned to normal and social distancing is no longer a 

government concern, the Activity Groups may now return to “normal”, whatever that may be. 

Members must still abide by the GWSA COVID rules: that means showing ID and Vaccination 

Certificates at the door, using sanitizers that are available in the buckets in the rooms, and wearing 

your masks. The Bistro683 is open and we can get food – hot or cold. 

I would like to welcome back all our members to the groups who were brave enough to start in 

September. Some of those groups are to capacity and have wait lists. 

I welcome those groups who decided to take a slower approach – Monday Euchre, Cribbage, Texas 

Hold ’Em, Book Club 2, Bid Euchre, Computer Mentoring and the Computer Club. 

If you are interested in any of our groups, sign up at the Front Desk of the Evergreen or on-line 

using RecEnroll. 

We are still looking for group leaders for the following: Monday Bid Euchre, 6-Hand Bid Euchre, 

Wednesday Euchre, Canasta, Chess Club, Darts Club, MahJongg, Scrabble and Walking Club. If 

you have been a member of any of these clubs and wish to return, maybe you might consider 

stepping up and become the group leader. 

A new group started in November, Wood Carving. There is a wait list of new groups who wish to 

become part of the GWSA Programs. Those groups above who do not have group leaders by 

January will lose their booking spot to a new group. 

Please contact me (pat.gage@gwsa-guelph.ca) if you wish to have your group “return to play”. 

Have a Happy Holiday Season and a very Happy New Year! 

Pat Gage 

Chair, Program Committee 

NEW 

Guelph Carving Club 

est. Circa 1986 

This new GWSA group is a well-established 

wood carving club of mostly seniors (both men 

and women) operating in the Guelph area for 

decades. 

We do carving in the round, like cartoon 

characters, birds and wildlife, spoons, bowls etc. 

Other carving techniques include relief carving, 

marquetry, and pyrography. Training is available. 

This group meets Monday evening 6:00 pm-9:00 pm in Evergreen Room 2. For more 

information, contact activity leader: Ken Fugler at fugler@rogers.com. 


14 

GWSA Group & Activity Reports 

ALL Activity Groups require that you MUST have an up-to-date GWSA Membership to participate. 

Badminton 

Our Badminton Club welcomes 

all, from beginners to experienced 

and competitive players. Join us as 

many as 6 times a week for friendly, 

active games and competition 

at two locations. We play at the 

West End Community Centre on 

Monday and Wednesday afternoons 

at 1:00 pm. 

At the Evergreen Centre, play is 

on Tuesday evening at 7 pm, 

Thursday at 9 am, Friday at 10 am, 

and Sunday afternoons at 1:15 pm. 

We do our best to keep members 

alerted of any changes to our times 

or cancellations. Racquets are 

available for short-term loan and 

players are required to wear indoor 

court shoes. 

Your membership fee covers 

participation at both locations. If 

you are a member of the GWSA, 

we allow 3 free visits to give you a 

chance to discover if you are able 

and will enjoy this very active 

sport. The yearly fee is $60.00 and 

you must have an up-to-date membership 

with GWSA to be a member 

of our club. 

For further information regarding 

our activities and membership, 

contact Jeff Millard (519-993- 

1362). 

Book Club 1 

Our group will now meet in Room 

3 on the last Friday of each month 

from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. For 

December, our selection is 

“American Dirt” by Jeanine 

Cummins. In January, we will be 

reading “The Curious Charms of 

Arthur Pepper” by Patrick Phaedra. 

Monthly fee is $3.00. 

Bridge 

GWSA welcomes all Bridge players 

with a basic knowledge of the 

game to enjoy playing bridge in a 


friendly and comfortable environment. 

We offer both Recreational 

and Duplicate Bridge. 

No partner? No problem! We mix 

and mingle with a room full of eager 

players so that everyone has a 

partner for any of our regularly 

scheduled games. 

Bridge-Recreational 

Join us for recreational bridge in 

the afternoon or evening. 

Mondays 12:30-3:15 pm (WECC) 

Tuesdays 6:30-9:00 pm Evergreen 

Room 3 

Thursdays 12:30-3:30 pm Evergreen 

Room 3 

Bridge-Duplicate 

This group is for individuals who 

have already taken bridge lessons 

and would like to work on improving 

their game. Volunteers are on 

hand to coach you. 

We request you know the Bidding 

Basics. We will make you 

comfortable playing Duplicate 

Bridge with Duplicate Boards and 

using Bidding Boxes. 

Fridays 9:00-11:30 am Evergreen 

Room 3 

Bunka 

Bunka embroidery is created by 

using a unique combination of 

punch needle and special silk-like 

rayon thread. When completed, 

many pictures resemble delicately 

shaded paintings. In fact, the needle 

is held and operates in much 

the same manner as an artist’s 

brush or pencil. The Bunka artist 

uses many different stitch techniques 

in order to achieve the desired 

effect of depth and interest, 

but unlike other forms of needle 

art, there are no knots to tie and 

mistakes are easily corrected. This 

group is for all skill levels and 

meets every Wednesday from 9:15 

a.m. to noon in Room 3. 

Bunkawithflair.com. 

Craft Group 

The Craft Group is full and 

capped. There is a waiting list. 

Guelph Carving Club 

est. Circa 1986 

A well-established wood carving 

club of mostly seniors (both men 

and women) has operated in the 

Guelph area for decades. 

We do carving in the round, like 

cartoon characters, birds and wildlife, 

spoons, bowls etc. 

Other carving techniques include 

relief carving, marquetry, and pyrography. 

Training available. 

Meets Monday evening 6:00 pm- 

9:00 pm in Evergreen Room 2. 

Line Dancing 

Evergreen Auditorium 

Phyllis Carnochan 

(519-836-9415) 

Donna Holmes (519-831-0943) 

Mondays: 

10:10 - 11:10 am (Beginners) 

11:20 - 12:20 pm (Beginners) 

Thursdays: 

1:10 - 2:10 pm (Beginners) 

2:15 - 3:15 pm (Improver) 

We are currently restricted to 25 

people in the Auditorium. Our 

classes are full, but we can put you 

on a waitlist and get you dancing 

as soon as capacity is increased. 

Into Focus Photography 

We are a friendly group of amateur 

photographers with equipment 

ranging from mobile phones and 

point-and-shoot cameras to fancy 

DSLR models. We share a common 

interest in photography as a 

hobby and we learn from each oth- 



er. New members are always welcome. 

Our regular meetings are on 

the last Monday of every month by 

Zoom. 

If you are interested in joining, 

contact Bill Adams at: 

(olar57@gmail.com). 

Pickleball 

Pickleball is a sport in which four 

players use solid paddles made of 

wood or composite materials to hit 

a perforated polymer ball over a 

net. The sport shares features of 

other racquet sports: the dimensions 

and layout of a badminton 

court and a net and rules similar to 

tennis, with a few modifications. 

This sport is for people of all 

ages who are looking for some 

fun, laughter, socialization and exercise. 

It’s easy to learn, but can be 

challenging for those with a competitive 

nature. All levels of skill 

invited. Pickleball equipment is 

provided. 

Shuffleboard 

Come on out and join our group. 

Enjoy some gentle exercise, 

friendship and fun. Membership is 

available to all paid-up GWSA 

members for a $10 fee every six 

months. Register the first time you 

play. Beginners are welcome and 

instruction is available. The group 

plays Tuesdays and Wednesdays 

from 1:30 to 3 p.m. 

Silver Strummers 

The ukulele orchestra is an unqualified 

success story! There are 

now 30 individuals who have 

joined The Silver Strummers. We 

welcome ALL skill levels, beginner 

through advanced! We will 

provide you with all the information 

you will need to get started. 

If you would like to try the universally 

accessible and friendly 

instrument of the ukulele, please 

contact Ann Sneyd at 519-830- 

6640. 

Silvertones 

The Choir was formed in 1980 and 

now boasts almost 60 members. 

Our mixed group of seniors, aged 

anywhere from 55+ to 100, share 

the love of singing - songs old and 

new. We also love to entertain 

with singing to spread good cheer. 

For more information about joining 

the choir, please call Doreen 

Muir at 519-831-8323. 

Evergreen Snooker Club 

The Evergreen Snooker Club is 

composed of a group of active, 

friendly players with skill levels 

covering the full spectrum from 

learner/beginner to accomplished 

player. If you are interested in 

learning the game, or have played 

in the past and want to get back 

into it, please drop by the Snooker 

Room. You will be assured a 

warm welcome and a place to try 

your hand at one of our three tables. 

The Snooker Room is open 

weekdays between 9:00 am and 

4:00 pm and any other time the 

Evergreen Centre may be open. 

The primary focus of the club is 

to have fun, build friendships and 

socialize. Your snooker skill level 

is irrelevant, so don’t feel intimidated 

if you are a beginner. Prospective 

members may visit the 

club room up to three times without 

charge to help with their decision 

on whether to join. While 

most of the current members are 

men, there is a small group of 

women who play regularly 

(typically on Tuesday mornings), 

so ladies, don’t be shy, give it a 

try. 

Membership is available to all 

paid-up members of the GWSA on 

payment of the prescribed annual 

snooker activity fee. The current 

fee of $70 (plus tax) buys you access 

to the Snooker Room any 

time it is open and to all the snooker 

you care to play. 

Texas Hold ’Em 

Why not come out and have fun 

with us? We are averaging about 

15 

16 players a week. We are situated 

in the Dining Room. We charge $2 

per week and pretty well all of that 

goes back to the GWSA. We play 

Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. 

Each player starts off with $500 

in real casino chips, and, as we do 

not play for money, we work on a 

point system. The one with the 

most points each week is the winner. 

We play until there is only one 

player left or 8:30 pm comes, 

whichever is first. 

We will gladly teach anyone 

who is interested in playing. Just 

follow the laughter to find us. We 

welcome everyone who wants to 

play and enjoys company. 

We have quite a few ladies playing 

at present and would always 

welcome more; we do not want to 

become a men’s club! Remember, 

you have to be a member of the 

GWSA to play. 

Thank you to Mike Rooke for 

his excellent leadership for many 

years! 

Watercolour Painters 

The Evergreen Watercolour Painters 

provide an opportunity for watercolour 

painters to practise their 

hobby along with others sharing 

the same interest, while encouraging 

one another and receiving information, 

ideas and inspiration. 

While we do not offer classes or 

lessons, we welcome accomplished 

watercolour painters. 

There is a small annual membership 

fee and membership with the 

GWSA is required. We meet on 

the 1st, 3rd and 5th Wednesday 

from 12:30 to 4:00 p.m. in Room 

2. 


16 

GWSA Groups & Activities Contact Information 

You may be required to show your up-to-date GWSA membership card at any activity. 

A I T H 

Judith Canham 

jjcanham@gmail.com 

Art Studio In 2 

Evergreen Room 2 

Jennifer Storey 

jennifersgarden2@gmail.com 

Ted Pritchard 

tpritcha@rogers.com 

Every 2 nd & 4 th Tues. 

6:30-9:30 pm, Wed. 1-4 pm 

B 


Jeff Millard (519-993-1362) 

Tues. 7-9 pm 

Thurs. 10 am-1 pm 

Fri. 10 am-12:30 pm 

Sun. 1:30-3:30 pm 

Monday 1-4 pm (WECC) 

Wed. 1-4 pm (WECC) 

No play at WECC during summer 

C B 

Various Locations in and 

around Guelph 

Ned Coates (519-835-9799) 

Wed. - May 1-Oct. 31 

9:00 am-noon 

Inactive until April 2022 

B E 


Phylllis Goodhew 

phyllisgoodhew@gmail.com 

Thursdays - 1:00-4:00 pm 

6-H B E 


TBD 


Inactive 

B C 1 

Room 3 

Veronica Sanche (519-767-9991) 

Last Friday of month - 1-2:30 pm 

B C 2 


Christine Trimble (519-823-2086) 

3rd Friday of month 1:30-3:30 pm 


B - R 

gwsa.bridge@gmail.com 

Mondays - 12:30-3:15 pm 

(WECC) 

Tuesdays - 6:30-9:00 pm 




B - D 


Pauline Smith 

(2paulinesmith@gmail.com) 

Fridays - 9:00-11:30 am 

B A G 


Diane Barber (519-763-2996) 

designbunny@rogers.com 

Wednesdays - 9:15 am-noon 

C 

Evergreen Hallway 

Wednesdays - 1-4 pm 

INACTIVE 

C C 

John Ness (519-994-8611) 

canoeclubmembership@gmail.com 

Inactive until May 2022 

C C 


Dave Wurr (519-509-1032) 

Fridays - 9:30 am-noon 

Inactive 

C C 


Ross Knechtel (226-706-4058) 

Ken Chupa (519-829-2476) 

January, March, May 

2nd Monday - 7:00-9:00 pm 

C C 


Judy Montgomery (519-824-8047) 

Fridays - 8:30 am-1:30 pm 

C 


Elaine Miller (519-836-7874) 

Joy Halliburton (519-822-9714) 

Tuesdays - 12:30-4 pm 

January, 2022 

D C 

Evergreen Auditorium - Stage 

Contact TBA 

Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays 

10:00 am to 12:00 noon 

Inactive 

D 

Evergreen Dining Room 


Inactive 

E M 


Maureen Baird (647-519-2006) 

Mondays - 1:00-3:30 pm 

E W 

Evergreen Dining Room 

TBA 

4th Wednesday - 1:30-4:00 pm 

Inactive 

E F 


Peter Smith (519-217-8986) 

Fridays - 1:00-4:00 pm 

Inactive 

G 

Tom Kane (519-827-1479) 

Mondays, May to September 

Inactive until May 2022 

L D 


Phyllis Carnochan (519-836-9415) 

Donna Holmes (519-831-0943) 

Mondays: 

10:10 - 11:10 am (Beginners) 

11:20 - 12:20 pm (Beginners) 

Thursdays: 

1:10 - 2:10 pm (Beginners) 

2:15 - 3:15 pm (Improver) 



MJ 

Room 2 

TBD 


Instruction available 

Inactive 

P L 

Barb McLeod (519-823-2531) 

Andrew Webb (226-500-4755) 

Mon., Tues., Thurs. 

(times as assigned) 

I F P 


Stu McCannell 

(smccannell@rogers.com) 

2:30-5 pm - last Monday of every 

month - $24.00 a year 

P 

Rudy Simon 

gwsapickleball@gmail.com 


Tues. - 8:30 am-12:30 pm 

(Beginners & Intermediate) 

Friday - 12:45-4 pm 

(all levels of play) 

West End Rec Centre 

Tues. - noon-4:00 pm 

(advanced play) 

Thurs. - 2:15-5:00 pm 

(all levels of play) 

Q 


Beryl Drohan (519-827-0120) 

Mondays - 12:30-4:00 pm 

S 


Contact TBA 


Inactive 

S 


Elaine Bigam (519-824-6498) 

Ilbigam@gmail.com 


Wednesdays - 1:30-3:00 pm 

S S 


Ann Sneyd 519-830-6640 

Fridays (alternative weeks) 

12:30-3:45 pm 

S C 


Doreen Muir (519-831-8323) 

Choir Director - Ann Sneyd 

Fridays (alternate weeks) 

12:30-3:45 pm 

S C 

Evergreen Parking Lot by 

The Enabling Garden 

Shane Hamilton (519-994-2204) 

Email: crs.hamilton@gmail.com 

Mondays from January to the end 

of March 

8:00 am car pool at Evergreen 

to Blue Mountain 

6:00 pm return to Evergreen 

Inactive until December 2021 

E S C 

Evergreen Snooker Room 

Nick Harris (519-836-4547) 

Daily - 9:00 am-4:00 pm 

Tuesday - 7:00-9:30 pm 

1st Thursday of every month 

7:00-9:30 pm 

T T 


Petr Vales 

(ttguelph@outlook.com) 

Harley Nicholson (519-265-1921) 

Evergreen: 

Monday - 3:30-6:30 pm 

Wednesday - 9:00 am-12:45 pm 

Saturday - 9:00 am-12:00 noon 

West End: Friday - 1:00-4:00 pm 

(WE - except July/August) 

T H ‘E P 

Dining Room 

Paul Phillips (416-996-2112) 

Bruno Szafran (519-823-2317) 

Frank Holden 

(bigbluesmon@gmail.com) 


17 

W C 

April to October 

Thursdays - 9:30 am-12:30 pm 

Contact TBA 

Inactive until April 2022 

W P C 


Mary Mulholland (519-836-4889) 

watercolourclub@gwsa-guelph.ca 

12:30-4 pm on 1st, 3rd, and 5th 

Wednesdays 

W E A G 

Rm 2 West End Rec Centre 

Nancy Baker (519-822-6653) 

September – June, 


Membership is $20.00 

W H A G 

Rm 2 West End Rec Centre 

Dale Vardy (519-823-5746) 

bdvardy@rogers.com 

Jan. - June; Sept. - Dec. 

Thursdays - noon-4:00 pm 

Membership is $25.00 

W C G 

Room 2 

Ken Fugler 

(kenfugler@rogers.com) 

Monday – 6-9 

W C 

Evergreen Board Room 

Ross Coulter (519-823-5746) 

Inactive 


18 

A VIEW FROM THE BOOK NOOK 

Chris Fraser 

The Book Nook — “A Lending Library” 

We are now re-opened 

Monday to Friday 9 am - 1 pm 

* * * * 

I have a great book to tell you about: The Rose Code 

by Kate Quinn. This story takes place in 1940 at the 

mysterious estate, Bletchley Park. 

Three very different young girls sign up to use their 

skills to help with the war. Osla is a debutante who 

needs to prove to everyone she is not just a society 

girl and lands a job translating German coded 

messages. Mab comes from the poverty of the East 

End of London and works on the legendary 

codebreaking machines where she hopes to find a 

wealthy husband. Beth is a very shy girl but, due to 

her ability to do puzzles, soon is working as one of 

the few female cryptanalysts. 

Due to the secrecy surrounding them, they could 

not discuss their jobs with each other, often working 

very long hours trying to decode German messages. 

Together they form a great friendship until years 

later, when they receive an encrypted message, the 

key to which will reveal what happened to cause one 

of them to be put into an asylum. They need to find 

the traitor so the three of them work together to crack 

one last code. 

This is a wonderfully written book which I hope 

you will enjoy reading as much as I did. I could not 

put it down. 

Stay safe and healthy. 

Happy Reading, 

Your bookworm and Librarian, 

Chris Fraser 

Administraon Office — 519‐837‐5696 

The Diabetes Support Group is a support group meeting in-person with a virtual 

option at the Evergreen Community Seniors Centre. 

We are welcoming new members to join us on the second and fourth Monday of the 

month at 11 am in the Board Room. 

This includes members who have diabetes or care for someone else who has 

diabetes. We share ideas to live with diabetes and support each other. The group is 

facilitated by Community Dietitian, Molly Roberts. 

Consider joining us this fall on the following dates: 

Monday, December 13 at 11 am 


19 

GWSA Email Updates 

Each month, approximately mid-month, the Membership 

and Marketing Committee at the 

GWSA sends out the GWSA Email Update. It 

highlights a few of the exciting things happening at 

the GWSA, important communications from the 

Board, and upcoming programs by CSS 

(Community Support Services). 

You can subscribe to receive the GWSA Email 

Update by completing the steps below: 

1. To begin, please send an email to: 

subscribe@gwsa-guelph.ca . You can enter 

Subscribe in the Subject line, or just skip that 

part, it will work either way. In just a few 

minutes, you will receive a message with a link. 

2. Click on the link you received, fill in the appropriate 

fields, and click “Subscribe to List”. 

3. To ensure you really want to receive GWSA 

Email Updates – and to make sure all emails are 

error-free – we’ll send a message asking you to 

confirm. 

4. Once you respond to the confirmation message, 

your registration is complete and you’ll receive 

our Welcome Letter. 

You can also subscribe from the “Popular 

Links” section on the GWSA website. Starting 

the process from the web page will take you to 

step 2 above. Simply follow through with steps 2 

to 4 to complete the process. 

You can expect to receive your first GWSA Email 

Update approximately mid-month after you sign 

up. 

You can unsubscribe from the GWSA Email Updates 

at any time by clicking on the “unsubscribe” 

link that is displayed at the bottom of every update. 

Membership & 

Marketing Committee 

This graphic by Unknown Author is 

licensed under CC BY‐ND 


20 

Wellington Foot Clinic 

Professional Footcare & Custom Foot Orthotics 

Jessica K. Mann 

Registered Chiropodist / Foot Specialist 

Professional, Safe Treatment of a Variety of Foot Conditions 

- Nail Disorders, Corns, Callus, Warts, Ingrown Toenails & much more 

- Custom Foot Orthotics 

- Covered by most extended health insurance providers 

- No referral needed!!! Free parking 

- Morning, Evening and Saturday Appointments Available 

3 – 245 Edinburgh Rd S. (enter off Municipal or Edinburgh) 

519‐546‐3737 wellfoot@outlook.com 


21 

$25.00 discount coupon 

with this ad 

Please call 519-821-6683 


22 

See Puzzles on pgs. 10 & 11 


23 

CREMATION: $1935 +hst BURIAL: $5995 +hst 

If prearranged and prepaid by December 31, 2021 If prearranged and prepaid by December 31, 2021 

Membership Benefit: 

Every Day is Seniors Day 

at Bulk Barn! 

For years, Bulk Barn has offered a Seniors Day 

discount every Wednesday. Anyone over 65 

years of age enjoyed a 10% discount on regular 

priced merchandise. Now, Bulk Barn locations 

in Guelph are offering this 10% discount every 

day for all GWSA members. Show your 

GWSA membership card to take advantage 

of this special offer when you shop for your 

favourite regular-priced Bulk Barn products. 

Available at: 370 Stone Rd. W across from 

Stone Road Mall, 49 Woodlawn Road W in the 

Walmart Plaza, and 103 Clair Road E at the 

Pergola Commons. 


24

December 2021 issue

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