October 2024 issue

Be active Get involved Make friends 

The Sentinel - October 2024

2 

The Sentinel - October 2024 — Vol. 49, No. 2

The Guelph/Wellington Seniors Association 

A non-profit organization based at the 

Evergreen Seniors Community Centre 

http://www.gwsa-guelph.ca 

A MESSAGE FROM 

THE GWSA BOARD 

3 

Directors & Officers 

Pat Gage — President 

Cathryn Cortissoz— Vice-President 

Art Roelofsen — Treasurer 

Linda Jeffrey — Executive Director 

Directors 

Charlie Bishop Sam Montoya 

Karen Kelly Eva Quan 

Elizabeth Steggles Jeff Millard 

Yvonne Thomas Donna Keating 

Audrey Bishop—Admin. Assistant 

Sharon Lamers—Finance Administrator 

The Sentinel Team 

Carol Croft — Adminstrator, Printer 

Linda Green — Editor, Printer 

George Hughes — Printer 

Ray Miller — Part-time Assistant 

All of the above GWSA members 

are Volunteers. 

City Staff 

TBA — Supervisor, Senior Services 

Jill Hunt — Customer Service Clerk 

TBA — Recreation Program 

Co-ordinator — Senior Services 

Becky MacDonald — Recreation 

Co-ordinator — Volunteers 

Mark Leeming — Chef 

Joan Moynihan — Sous Chef 

Kitchen & Dining Room Staff — Volunteers 

Evergreen Seniors Community Centre 

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.: 519-837-5699 / 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 

It has been an interesting September – we have all 

been exploring different ways to see our friends and 

carrying on with our activities since the City began 

renovating the Evergreen. 

Despite our GWSA office and meeting rooms 

being closed, lots has been happening behind the 

scenes and I wanted to give everyone an update. 

1. The draft version of the 2024 by-laws, which 

we presented at the AGM in June, are now with 

our lawyers at SVLaw. Thanks to all our 

members who reached out with questions and 

constructive suggestions following the meeting 

which we were able to incorporate into the new 

document. As many of you know, we were 

required to update our bylaws and letters patent 

to comply with Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, 

2010 and we expect to meet the October 18 th 

deadline. 

2. In September, the Board met offsite to review 

our Strategic Plan. Our current plan expires this 

year, and it was time to evaluate the previous 

mission and vision of the GWSA to see if it still 

serves the Association going forward for the next 

5 years. We spent some time analysing our 

strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. 

It is important to create new strategic objectives 

to take us into 2030. If you have any ideas you 

would like the Board to consider, please drop me 

a line before the end of November. 

3. At the end of August, we launched a region 

wide survey of older adults who are 55+. This is 

(Continued on page 4) 

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). 


4 

(Continued from page 3) 

the first survey of its kind ever launched by the Association and it is focused 

on eight areas of an age-friendly community as defined by the World Health 

Organization. Our partners (County of Wellington, Guelph Foodbank, Guelph 

Public Library, Guelph Wellington Local Immigration Partnership, and the 

Wellington County Library) aim to gather insights to enhance services and 

programs for older adults in the community. 

The GWSA will be sharing the results and using the data collected from this 

survey to better address the needs of the older adult community. The closing 

date for the survey is October 15 th , 2024. 

Go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/368GVVZ to access the survey. 

If you have not yet participated, I strongly urge you to fill it out – your opinion 

matters. 

In closing, this past week I sat down with representatives of the City of Guelph 

to discuss our Community Benefit Agreement. 

We are a signatory to a five-year Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) with 

the City of Guelph which expires at the end of this year. We are a tenant of the 

city and every year we pay the city for staff support, facility space, office 

supplies, use of the RecEnroll software, and processing credit and debit card 

payments by our members. Much has changed since we signed the previous 

agreement, and the Board is now in the process of renegotiating this agreement 

based on the future needs of our members as we plan for the future. I will keep 

you informed at the talks proceed. 

Looking forward to seeing you at the Evergreen soon, 

Pat Gage - President 

ROYAL CITY MEN’S CLUB 

For a Friendly Alternative 

For men retired from full-time employment. Interesting lectures. Exchange views on topics of mutual 

interest. Participate in social activities. Fellowship. 

The Royal City Men’s Club meets at Trinity Church (400 Stevenson St. N., Guelph) every second 

Thursday of the month from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Alternate Thursdays, we meet locally for coffee. 

For more information, go to www.royalcitymensclub.ca or royalcitymensclub@gmail.com 

Contact Warren Gregg - President 519-837-9611 Bob Berry - Past President 


5 

THE EDITOR’S PAGE 

by Linda Green 

Halloween dates back more than 

2,000 years. 

Halloween is even older than 

Christianity itself. It all started as a 

pre-Christian Celtic festival 

called Samhain, which means 

“summer’s end”. Held in the 

beginning of November, the feast 

recognized the last day of the fall 

harvest and spirits crossing over, 

since they believed the veil between 

the living and spirit world grew 

thinnest at that time. People in 

Ireland, the United Kingdom and 

Northern France used to ward off 

ghosts by lighting sacrificial 

bonfires, and wearing costumes to 

trick the spirits. 

Trick-or-treating has existed since 

medieval times. 

Taking candy from strangers one 

night a year isn’t a new tradition. It 

once was known as “guising” in 

Scotland and Ireland. Young people 

dressed up in costumes and went 

door-to-door looking for food or 

money in exchange for performing 

songs, poems or other “tricks”. 

Today, the tradition has morphed 

into children getting dressed up and 

asking for candy. 

The Irish also brought us jack-o’- 

lanterns. 

As the story goes, an Irish man 

named Stingy Jack tricked the devil 

and therefore was not allowed into 

heaven or hell - so he spent his days 

roaming the Earth carrying a 

lantern; hence the name “Jack of the 

Lantern”. 

They used to be carved out of 

turnips, potatoes and beets. 

Jack-o’-lanterns did originate 

in Ireland, after all. Once Halloween 

became popular in North America, 

people used local produce like 

pumpkins instead. 

Candy corn was originally called 

“chicken feed”. 

This treat was sold in boxes with a 

rooster on the front to appeal to 

America’s agricultural roots. The 

sugary recipe has gone largely 

unchanged since the 1880s. Love 

them or hate them, you can’t argue 

with that kind of consistency. 

25. Princesses & superheroes rank 

as the most popular costumes. 

Barbie was one of the most popular 

costumes for adults last year, 

following the success of the 

Barbie movie, but princesses and 

superheroes still continue to be top 

choices, followed by witches, fairies 

and dinosaurs. 

Special Printing For Members 

Do you have a need for printing (i.e., bookmarks, booklets, calendars, 

dinner menus/programs, club bylaws, annual reports), large or small 

quantities, black & white print (10¢ per page) or colour (30¢ per page)? 

If so, please contact Carol Croft or Linda Green, either in the Sentinel 

office (we’re not here all the time, though) or by email at sentinel@gwsaguelph.ca, 

or leave a message at the front desk. You must be a GWSA 

member to take advantage of this. 

We will try to accommodate you with your project as much as we can. 

Personal Donations 

Online donations to the GWSA are done through 

Canada Helps. Canada Helps is a registered 

Canadian charity and non-profit social enterprise. 

Visit https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/ 

guelphwellington-seniors-association/ to access 

Canada Helps. Their mission is to increase 

charitable giving, and it’s critical that they pass 

along as much as possible out of every dollar they 

collect. You receive a tax receipt for 100% of the 

value of your donation. 

October 8, 2024, is the deadline for 

submissions for the 

November Sentinel. 

Email submissions to: sentinel@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Distribution of the November issue 

Will be Thursday, October 31. 

Editor is not responsible for quality of submitted photos 

(but we’ll do our best). 


6 

Volunteer Corner from Becky MacDonald 

Orientation and Training 

All volunteers will be required to 

complete the mandatory Orientation & 

Training. The trainings can be 

completed from the comfort of your 

home online. For those who do not have 

access to a computer, other methods can 

be arranged. 

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 be an asset but are not required. 

Other Volunteer Opportunities: 

GWSA COMMITTEES 

A valid GWSA membership is required. 

GWSA Board of Directors 

Looking for two new members to join the team. The 

Board meets on the 3 rd Wednesday of the month in the 

mornings except July. Knowledge, skills, and 

experience applicable to a not-for-profit board; 

commitment to actively supporting programs and 

services for seniors; willingness and ability to 

represent the GWSA in a professional manner; proven 

ability to work co-operatively with others. 

Governance Committee 

Looking for two new members to join the team. 

Morning meetings 4-6 times per year or once a month 

at the call of the chair. Assists the Board of Directors 

with the development and review of bylaws, policies, 

and procedures for the Association. 

Experience in governance with a not-for-profit 

organization, and comfort working with documents or 

willingness to learn would be assets. 

Membership & Marketing Committee 

Looking for two new members to join the team that 

meets on the 4 th Tuesday of each month at 9:30 am. 

Welcome & Information Desk 

There is an opening on Monday 

afternoons and Friday afternoons to 

assist with greeting community and 

GWSA members, providing tours, answering questions 

and assisting when required with other tasks. 

This is a co-volunteer weekly position. 

Bistro 683 – Kitchen 

Join the Bistro 683 team of volunteers! 

Looking for volunteers to assist as floaters when 

needed to assist in the kitchen with food preparation 

and with dishes. This would be an on-call position and 

perhaps a short term while spaces open for vacations. 

How to get involved? 

First, complete an online application form: 

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

No computer? Pick up a paper application at the 

Evergreen Seniors Community Centre customer 

service desk. Second, you will be contacted to set up 

an interview followed with training. 

If you are a current volunteer, you are more than 

welcome to take on more than one position. Follow up 

with Becky for more details. 

For more information about a particular position or 

about volunteering in general, contact: Becky 

MacDonald by phone 519-822-1260 X 2096 or email: 

becky.macdonald@guelph.ca 


7 

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT - Karen K. 

Karen is originally from Sydney, Australia, and moved 

to Canada when she was 18. She loves to go back to her 

homeland of Australia every few years, when she can, as 

she jokingly remarks, “to refresh my 

Australian accent.” 

Karen is a nature lover and both hiking 

and outdoor photography provide her 

with a lot of pleasure. Her passion of 

watching investigative/crime TV 

documentaries makes her wonder if she 

might have missed her calling of being a 

detective! 

Karen is an exemplary volunteer as her 

extensive background in Human 

Resources, and Executive Coaching 

provide her with leadership, management 

and people skills, inherently needed in the 

volunteer positions she fulfills through 

the GWSA. Karen became a GWSA member in 2023 and 

in that same year volunteered on the Governance 

Committee. Two accomplishments that she’s proud of 

during that time are the revision of the Diversity, Equity 

and Inclusion policy which included adding Accessibility 

and creating a draft version of a Code of Conduct for 

discussion and finalization. Karen currently also 

volunteers as the Chair of the Membership and Marketing 

Committee and serves on the Board of Directors. 

Karen loves to volunteer as she can share her diverse 

knowledge with others which keeps her mind alert and 

improves her sense of well-being. “There’s a real sense of 

purpose in making a difference. At this stage of life, it can 

be challenging to meet new people to socialize and 

connect with” and volunteering provides 

Karen with the opportunity to share ideas 

and experiences with a peer group of 

seniors. Volunteering helps Karen to feel 

less isolated especially after the alienation 

of so many during COVID-19. 

Why volunteer? Karen explains it this 

way: “You can try something out and see if 

you really like it, if it’s a good fit for you.” 

It’s an opportunity to do something you 

want to do knowing that you aren’t being 

paid for it, your payment is the chance to 

contribute to society. It’s something that 

you can do out of the goodness of your 

heart and it’s a mutually beneficial 

experience. “As a GWSA volunteer, we work together to 

improve the lives, health and well-being of both ourselves 

and our members.” This makes us all feel less invisible in 

society and more connected to our peer group. 

Written by: Jessie Watt, Volunteer 

EVERGREEN MARKET 

‘For Sale’ ads will be left in for 3 issues from first 

insertion (i.e., in Sept. issue — removed from Dec. 

issue); if you wish it to remain in longer, please 

contact The Sentinel office and/or leave us a message. 

If your item sells, please let us know so that we can 

remove it. NO ‘Accommodation’ or ‘Vehicle’ ads 

will be included in the Evergreen Market. Such ads 

will be treated as advertising inserted within these 

pages at the current Sentinel advertising rates plus 

HST. 

Thank you, Sentinel Administrator 

FOR SALE 

Women’s bicycle for sale. Excellent condition. Includes 

helmet, air pump and saddlebag. Asking $150 OBO. Call 

519-821-9797. 

Nikon SLR digital camera. Asking $80. Call Ron at 519- 

821-3367. 

Small Electric Lawnmower. 14” Very light and easy to 

push. Used for 3 seasons. $55.00. Aeropilates Exerciser as 

advertised on TSC. Never used. DVD and all accessories 

included. $300.00. Armstrong Flute with Case. Great for a 

beginner. $40.00. Yamaha Viola, Case, Bow and Rosen. 

$40.00. Paperback Books. Left Behind The Kids by J 

Jenkins and T. LaHaye. A series of 40 books. $50.00. Cat 

Bed. $10.00. (My cat prefers my bed.) Call Lorraine at 

519-763-0962 or email at lorjohnston1@gmail.com. 

Halloween and Fall door decorations. Approximately 20 

assorted available from $15-$20 each. Contact Judie at 226- 

203-5190. 

Wheelchair - purchased new and used only for a couple of 

weeks. Manual included. Asking $750. Call Kathy at (519) 

824-0238. 

WANTED 

Wanting to buy used walker. Call Rosie at 519-760-0717. 

Wanting to buy a one-person tent. Please call Lis at 226- 

668-9144. 

Free advertising for GWSA members ONLY. 

PLEASE REMEMBER TO INCLUDE YOUR NAME 

AND PHONE NUMBER WITH YOUR ITEM(S). 


8 

GWSA Group & Activity Reports 

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

Art in the Hall 

Art in the Hall is an opportunity for all artisans 

associated with the GWSA to showcase their work. It 

has been running for many years and will continue to 

display the fine artistic talents of GWSA members. 

Over the past year, the following groups have 

participated: Rug Hooking, Quilting, West End and 

West Hills Art Groups, Bunka, Photography, and the 

Guelph Carving Club. Work can be offered for sale 

or display only. 

A portion of the proceeds from each sale is given 

to the GWSA. If you have not had an opportunity to 

see the fine work, please make your way down the 

hall towards the library and look outside Room 4 for 

the display. Two large walls have been dedicated to 

hanging art and window space is also available for 

smaller items. Generally, art is displayed for a twomonth 

period. If you wish to buy a piece, please 

advise the staff at the front desk and they will be 

happy to assist you in making a purchase. Enjoy the 

changing displays. I trust you will be amazed by the 

talent! 

Badminton 

The Badminton Club continues to be a thriving and 

popular club with a full membership capped at 115. 

Our play days and times are provided under GWSA 

Groups & Activities Contact Information separately 

in the Sentinel. 

In addition to badminton, the club hosts a number 

of other social and activity events during the year. 

A number of our more skilled players continue to 

be involved in outreach programs at schools, where 

they help to coach badminton to our youth and hence 

ensure the future continuation of our sport. 

Our new season started April 1. During the new 

2024-2025 season, we had a number of Leadership 

Team volunteers step down at the end of March after 

serving for several years. During the next couple of 

months, the club will be looking for other members 

of the club as replacements. The change to an early 

registration by the City of Guelph has brought some 

new challenges that the Leadership Team has had to 

navigate. We will also be looking for volunteers for 

help in unofficial capacities. 

Thus far, it was a highly successful year. 

Badminton continues to grow in popularity and our 

club continues to grow and adapt to the needs of our 

members. Come check us out and maybe we’ll see 

you on the court! 

The Sentinel - October 2024 — Vol. 49, No. 2 

Beading & Jewelry Making 

Bring your kit along to the Board Room Fridays 

from 9:30-11:30 am to work on your personal 

beadwork and jewelry projects. Leslie will facilitate 

impromptu mini-classes on Metis beadworking. 

Cost $2.00 per session. beading@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Book Club 1 

Book Club 1 meets in the Board Room at the 

Evergreen Centre on the last Friday of the month 

from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. For October, we will be 

reading “The Secret Book of Flora Lea” by Patti 

Henry. Our November book is “The Art Thief ” by 

Michael Finkel. 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. 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. 

Join us for Recreational Bridge in the afternoon or 

evening. 

Tuesdays 6:30-9:00 pm Evergreen Room 3 

Thursdays 12:30-3:30 pm 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. We do not teach classes 

or have an instructor, but we will mentor new 

members. Supplies are ordered as a group. Every 

Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to noon in Room 3. 

Canasta 

Come out and join our friendly group for a game of 

canasta. We welcome all levels of players. If you are 

new to the game, we will be glad to teach you. Join 

us on Fridays from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. in Room 3. 

Chess 

Do you enjoy the game of chess? Come out and 

make friends! Our club is open to players of all 

levels. We are primarily amateur players simply out 

for the joy of casual chess, although with enough 

(Continued on page 9)


interest, we could organize small tournaments. We 

meet Fridays in the Hallway from 10 a.m. to noon 

and we ask for $2 per person each time for the 

GWSA. And don’t worry if you don’t have a chess 

set — we have three sets as well as a digital clock for 

those interested in a time control! 

Computer Mentoring 

There are four mentors available every Monday from 

1-3 p.m. to answer your questions. Two volunteers 

are available to help with Windows PCs and Android 

smartphones and tablets, and two volunteers are able 

to assist iPad and iPhone users! One mentor can help 

Chromebook users. If you are using a laptop 

computer, please bring it with you. 

The fee is $3 for members of the GWSA and $5 for 

non-members. Please register at the front desk for 

each session before joining us in the Computer 

Room, now Room 1. 

Craft Group 

The Craft Group at the Evergreen would like to 

thank everyone who has supported us this past year. 

With the new gift shop, we were able to continue 

selling our crafts and help support the GWSA. And 

to all our knitters at home who generously give of 

their time and talents, we thank you. Again this year, 

we have been able to donate hats, scarfs and mitts to 

those in need. 

Guelph Wood 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 is available. 

Meets Monday evening 6:00 pm-9:00 pm in 

Evergreen Room 2. 

Cribbage 

Come on out on a Tuesday afternoon for a friendly 

game of cribbage in Room 3 of the Evergreen 

Centre. The room is open at 12:30 pm and we start 

playing at 1:00 pm. Everyone is welcome, and we 

play 8 games, with prizes at the end of the 

afternoon. If you are not sure how to play, we have 

instructors to help. 

Darts Club 

Come out and give Darts a try. We are a social group 

and have darts for loan so you can see if this is for 

you. Also try 3 times before you pay Dart 

membership. We go out for lunch on the last Friday 

of each month. 

High scores for August: 

Vicki - 111, 122, 124, 118, 108 

Paul - 111, 111, 113, 125 

Ross - 100 

Frank - 140 

Doris - 120, 100, 100, 140 

Bill - 107 - 118 

Neville - 102, 121, 119, 100 

Heather - 103 

Dave - 108 

Jackie - 116, 117 

Art 107, 134 

Margaret O. - 108 

Marcel - 121 

Contact info: 

GWSA Dart Club gwsadartclub@gmail.com 

Line Dancing 

Evergreen Auditorium 

Line dancing is exercise not only for the body, but 

the mind as well. It’s an excuse to get out, meet new 

friends, enjoy good music, and no partner is 

required. If you have never line danced before or 

need a refresher, the Introduction to Line Dancing is 

where to start. Here you will learn the basic steps and 

easier dances to slower music. The Beyond the 

Basics classes is the next step up from the 

Introduction class. Some harder steps will be taught 

and some dances may be a bit faster and include 

more turns. The Intermediate class is for experienced 

line dancers looking for a challenge. 

Monday Line Dance Classes 

8:35-9:35 am Introduction to Line Dancing 

9:40-10:40 am Beyond the Basics 

10:45-11:45 am Intermediate 

Thursday Line Dance Classes 

1:10-2:10 pm Introduction to Line Dancing 

2:15-3:15 pm Beyond the Basics 

The first 3 visits are free. After that, in addition to 

providing us proof of a GWSA membership, it’s 

$2.00 each time you come. 

Mah Jongg 

Mah Jongg is in the hall on Mondays from 1:30-4:30 

p.m. It is a game played with tiles, similar to 

Dominoes. Instruction is available for those who 

don’t know how to play. 

Peer Learning 

Peer Learning is for seniors who like to have a good 

discussion with a small friendly group. It’s a great 

way to meet new people and have fun while learning. 

The Sentinel - October 2024 

9 


10 


Due to the closure of the Evergreen Centre for the 

month of September, Peer Learning classes will 

begin in early October and continue into early 

December. 

The following new topics will be offered: 

Mondays 9:30 – 11:30 am Current Events 

Thursdays 9:30 – 11:30 am The New Technologies 

For more information or to put your name on our e- 

mail list, contact Barb McLeod 519-823-2531. 

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 other. New members are 

always welcome. Our regular meetings are on the last 

Monday of every month in Room 4. 

If you are interested in joining, contact Stu 

McCannell (smccannell@rogers.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. 

Rug Hooking 

We have been gathering as a group of rug hookers at 

the Evergreen Centre since February 2022. 

Traditional rug hooking is both art and a craft. 

Many beautiful and unique items are made by pulling 

loops of fabric or yarn through a stiff, woven base 

such as burlap or linen. It is enjoyable, fun and a very 

social hobby. Beginners are welcome and we will 

help you get started. The Rug Hooking Group meets 

on Tuesday afternoon, 12-4, in Rm 2. 

Contact: Kathy McCallum, 226-821-1331. 

Email: rughooking@gwsa-guelph.ca. 

Scrabble 

Come join us for Scrabble at 1 pm to 3:30 pm every 

Thursday in the Hall outside the Library. All skills 

from newbie to expert. Drop-ins are welcome or call 

me for more information. Previous members, please 

join us again. Brand new players are most welcome. 

All you need is a GWSA membership! 

Any questions? Call or email Sebastian. 


Phone: 647-580-5780. 

Shuffleboard 

We are a very fun group and have had a lot of new 

members join recently, so now we can’t accept any 

more new members! Our membership fee is $25.00 a 

year plus tax and we play Tuesdays and Wednesdays 

from 1 to 3 p.m. 

Silver Drummers 

It’s fun to drum! You are welcome to come out on 

Thursday to experience a Drum Circle. We have 

drums and percussion instruments to share. Or bring 

your own. Each session takes the lead from the 

facilitator and the people in the room - sometimes we 

can get noisy, sometimes we dance! 

Our instructor also takes us through the basics as we 

learn a variety of different rhythms. 

There is no enrolment fee though we ask for a payas-you-go 

$2 participation fee after 3 try-outs. 

Register with us on Recenroll should you decide you 

are having too much fun. We now meet on 

Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30 am. Hope to see 

you! 

Silver Strummers 

The ukulele orchestra is an unqualified success story! 

There are now 65 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. 

silverstrummers@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Silvertones 

The Silvertones members practise weekly in Room 3 

on Fridays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. We do have a few 

openings so please contact Darlene Pembleton 519- 

822-0704 if you would like to join our choir or 

would like more information. You do not have to be 

able to read music, just have a love for singing. 

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 $70.00 (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 24 players a week. We are situated 

in Room 2. We charge $2 per week and pretty well 

all of that goes back to the GWSA. We play 

Tuesdays & Fridays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. 

Each player starts off with $650 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. 

Walking Club 

If you are interested in walking indoors during the 

fall/winter, starting in October, the Walking Club 

will be walking Wednesday mornings from 10:45 am 

to 11:45 am at the Guelph Sports Dome (375 College 

Ave. West). We recommend that you be there around 

10:30, to hang up your coat and change to indoor 

shoes. No outdoor shoes are allowed on the turf 

surface. 

If you are not already a Walking Club member, you 

can register online through RecEnroll or at the front 

desk of the Evergreen Centre. There is a $10 annual 

fee and you must be an active member of the GWSA. 

If you are interested in helping with this group or 

would like any additional information, please contact 

walkingclub@gwsa-guelph.ca. 

Watercolour Painters 

The Evergreen Watercolour Painters provides 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 in Room 2 from 12:30 to 4 p.m. 

on the 1st and 5th Wednesday of the month, and 

from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the third Wednesday. 

West Hills Art Group 

The West Hills Art Group has gathered for many 

years to create and display original paintings, 

drawings and event cards, enjoying conversation and 

sharing individual skills with other artists. 

Member artists at all levels are welcome to create 

their acrylic, watercolour, mixed media and cut-andpaste 

event card works of art. 

Writers Club 

If you enjoy the power of the pen, come join the 

Writers Club. We can toss around ideas and topics to 

get the creative juices flowing. Then let’s share the 

resulting written shape for constructive comments, 

while enjoying the company of others. Please feel 

welcome to join the journey. We will meet on the 1st 

and 3rd Wednesday of the month in the Board Room, 

from 1-3 p.m. There is a weekly fee of $2 for the 

GWSA. Contact Susan Jackson 519-265-3246. 

Writing Your Life Story 

Members of the Writing Your Life Story Activity 

Group are pleased to announce the publication of 

their anthology: Every Life Tells a Story. This 

comprises an eclectic collection of tales from the 

members’ own Life Stories. Some are nostalgic, 

some serious and some humourous. A sample copy is 

available to view in the GWSA office and copies are 

available on a print-to-order basis, for $20 each. If 

you would like to buy a copy – one or more (they 

would make great Christmas gifts), please contact 

Jennifer Blackie at 519-824-7204 or 

WritingYourLifeStory@gwsa-guelph.ca 

11 


12 


OUR EVERGREEN LIBRARY 

We are open 

Monday to Friday 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

Born a Crime 

by Trevor Noah 

I caught Trevor Noah on the late, late, show on TV a couple of times over the years. I learned he 

was a young, witty comedian from South Africa. But that was all I knew about him. Low and 

behold, we have his early autobiography in our library! 

Noah begins his story by explaining how and why the country of South Africa was set up under 

the Apartheid system. It’s a straight forward explanation, clear and concise. His father was Swiss 

and his mother was Xhosa (a South African tribe). Inter-racial marriages were banned, thus the title 

“Born a Crime”. 

His father was rarely in the picture. His mother kept him indoors and hidden in his early years 

because, if found out, she could have been jailed for 5 years and the child would have been taken 

away. 

When finally liberated from Apartheid, Trevor and his mother embarked on a new life full of 

adventure and many humorous situations. His mother was an intelligent, educated and determined 

woman who played a major role in shaping the Trevor Noah of today. 

The story seems somewhat disjointed but it really doesn’t affect the flow of the book. It is a 

humorous and touching account of Trevor Noah’s young life which I found very interesting and 

enjoyable. 

Written by Sue Gamble

GWSA Groups & Activities Contact Information 

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

Your GWSA Membership includes a copy of the Sentinel Newsletter, published 10 times per year, and the 

ability to join any of our many activities and events. Our ongoing activity groups have either a yearly fee or 

a pay-as-you-play fee. We also offer educational workshops, many at no charge for members. 

13 

Art In The Hall 

Kim Taylor 

ArtInTheHall@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Art Studio 

Evergreen Room 2 

Jennifer Storey 

ArtStudio@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Every 2 nd & 4 th Wed. 1-4 pm 

$25/year 

Badminton 


Michael Gareau (365-292-0078) 

Badminton@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Tues. 7-9:30 pm 

Thurs. & Fri. 10:30 am-1 pm, 

Sun. 1:30-3:30 pm 

Mon. & Wed. 1-4 pm (WECC) 

No play at WECC July & August 

$60/year. Currently we have a wait list 

Beading & Jewelry Making 

Board Room 

Beading@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Fridays 9:30-11:30 am 

$2/visit 

Bid Euchre on Thursdays 


John Finamore (519-993-8221) 

BidEuchre@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Thursdays 1 pm-4 pm 

$2/visit 

Euchre on Monday 


Earl Mead 

Euchre-Monday@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Mondays - 1:00-3:00 pm 

$2/visit 

Euchre on Friday 


Peter Smith (519-217-8986) 

Euchre-Friday@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Fridays - 1:30-4:00 pm 

$2/visit 

Book Club 1 

Board Room 

Veronica Sanche (519-767-9991) 

BookClub1@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Last Friday of month - 1-2:30 pm 

$3/visit 

Book Club 2 

Board Room 

Lynne Oxley (416-918-7466) 

BookClub2@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Second Friday of month - 1-2:30 pm 

$3/visit 

Bridge 


Sandi Kinsey 

Bridge@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Tuesdays - 6:30-9:00 pm 

Thursdays - 12:30-3:30 pm 

$1/visit 

Bunka Art Group 


Carol Ferrier (519-831-1387) 

Bunka@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Wednesdays - 9:00 am-noon 

$25/year 

Canasta 


Sandi Kinsey 

Canasta@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Fridays - 9:00-11:30 am 

$1/visit 

Casual Bicycling 

Various Locations in and 

around Guelph 

John Ness 

CasualBicycling@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Wed. - May 1-Oct. 31 - 9:00 am-noon 

$10/year 

Canoe Club 

Claude Bilodeau 

CanoeClub@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Canoe season runs from the Meet-N-Greet in April to the 

end of September. Canoe outings are generally every 

Thursday and Friday. 

$75/year 

Chess Club 

Hall 

Bruce Hurst (519-831-4340) 

ChessClub@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Fridays – 10 am-12 pm 

$2/visit 

(Continued on page 14) 


14 


Computer Club 

Room 1 

Ross Knechtel (226-706-4058) 

Ken Chupa (519-829-2476) 

ComputerClub@gwsa-guelph.ca 

January, March, May, September, November 

2nd Monday - 2-4 pm 

$3/visit 

Computer Mentoring 

Room 1 

Ken Chupa (519-829-2476) 

Computer.mentors@gwsa-guelph.ca 

No appointment necessary. 

Mondays from 1:00 to 3:00 pm 

$3/visit 

Craft Club 


Sheila Robinson (519-836-9478) 

CraftGroup@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Fridays - 8 am-12 noon 

Cribbage 


Elaine Miller 

Cribbage@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Tuesdays 12:30 pm-4 pm 

$2/visit 

Darts Club 

Auditorium Stage 

Neville Newman (519-400-9136) 

DartsClub@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 

$25/year 

Diabetes Support Group 

Room 1 

Bill MacDonald (519-400-0950) 

DiabetesSupport@gwsa-guelph.ca 

2nd Tuesday – 11 am -12 pm 

4th Tuesday – 10 am -12 pm 

Golf 

Tom Kane (519-827-1475) 

Golf@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Mondays, May to September 

$10/year 

Into Focus Photography 


Stu McCannell 

PhotographyClub@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Last Monday of every month—2:30-5 pm 

$25.00 a year 

Line Dancing 


Phyllis (519-760-9415) 

Donna (519-831-0943) 


linedancing@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Mondays – 8:30 to noon 

Thursdays – 1:00 to 3:15 p.m. 

Mah Jongg 

Hall 

Leona Petri (519-546-9993) 

MahJong@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Mondays - 1:30-4:30 p.m. 

Peer Learning 

Boardroom 

Barb McLeod (519-823-2531) 

PeerLearning@gwsa-guelph.ca 

$18/session 

Pickleball 

Pickleball@gwsa-guelph.ca 

We play at the Evergreen Seniors Community Centre and 

the West End Community Centre. Players play against 

similar skill levels. 

$60/year 

Currently we are full and not accepting new participants 

Quilting 


Beryl Drohan (519-827-0120) 

QuiltGroup@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Mondays - 12:30-4:00 pm 

Rug Hooking 


Kathy McCallum 

RugHooking@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Tuesdays 12-4 pm 

$25/year 

Scrabble 

Hall outside the Library 

Sebastian (647-580-5780) 

Scrabble@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Thursdays - 1:00-3:30 pm 

$2/visit 

Shuffleboard 


Carolina Augello (519-824-2853) 

Shuffleboard@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Tuesdays & Wednesdays - 1-3 pm 

$25/year 

Silver Drummers 

Room 3 

Sandy Isaacs 

SilverDrummers@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Thursdays 10:30 to 11:30 am 

$2/visit 


15 


New Activity! Silver Ringers 

Room 1 

Ann Sneyd (519-830-6640) 

silverringers@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Fridays 2:00-3:30 pm 

$30 

Silver Strummers 

Room 3 

SilverStrummers@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Fridays - Beginners 12-1 pm 

Experienced 1-2 pm 

$65/year 

Silvertones Choir 

Room 3 

Membership Enquiries: 

Darlene Pembleton (519-822-0704) 

Silvertones@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Fridays 2:00 - 3:30 pm 

$54.24/year 

Evergreen Snooker Club 

Evergreen Snooker Room 

Brian Yasvinski (905-301-2786) 

Snooker@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Daily - 9:00 am-4:00 pm 

$70.00/year 

Table Tennis 


Petr Vales 

TableTennis@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Evergreen: 

Mondays - 3-6:15 pm 

Wednesdays - 10 am-1 pm 

Saturdays - 9:00 am-12:00 noon 

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

(WECC - except July/August) 

$60/year 

Texas Hold’Em Poker Tuesday 

Room 2 

Dennis Canning (519-824-0552) 

Texasholdempokertuesday@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Tuesdays 6:30-8:30 pm 

$2/visit 

Watercolour Painters Club 


Marta Coutts 

WaterColourPainters@gwsa-guelph.ca 

1st and 5th Wednesday of the month - 12:30-4 pm 

Third Wednesday - 9 am to 4 pm 

Membership $30/year 

West End Art Group 

Rm 2 West End Comm. Centre 

Nancy Baker (519-822-6653) 

WestEndArtGroup@gwsa-guelph.ca 

September – June 

Tuesdays - 12:30-4:00 pm 


West Hills Art Group 

Rm 2 West End C. C. 

Dale Vardy 

WestHillsArtGroup@gwsa-guelph.ca 

September - June 

Thursdays - noon-4:00 pm 


Wood Carving Group 


Ken Fugler 

WoodCarving@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Monday – 6-9 pm 

$40/year 

Writers Club 

Board Room 

Susan Jackson (519-265-3246) 

WritersClub@gwsa-guelph.ca 

1st and 3rd Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. 

$2/visit 

Writing Your Life Story 

Board Room 

Jennifer Blackie (519-824-7204) 

WritingYourLifeStory@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Thursdays 1-3 pm 

$50 every 6 months 

Texas Hold’Em Poker Friday 

Room 2 

Brian Pittana (519-993-4024) 

Texasholdempokerfriday@gwsa-guelph.ca 

Fridays 6:30-8:30 pm 

$2/visit 

Walking Club Indoors 

Guelph Sports Dome 

walkingclub@gwsa-guelph.ca 

October 2 – March 31 

Wednesdays, 10:45 am – 11:45 am 

$10 annual activity fee 


16 

Solutions on pg. 32 


17 

SPECIAL BIRTHDAYS 

OF NOTE 

“Our Young Seniors” 

‘We’re not over the hill; we’re just 

gaining speed!’ 

Margaret I. Hammond - October 15 (99) 

SPECIAL WEDDING 

ANNIVERSARIES 

Jim and Carol Croft celebrated their 57th 

anniversary on September 2, 2023 (1967) 

Paxman, Len and Pat - celebrating 78 

years of marriage (Oct. 19, 1946) 

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, Sonny passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 

2024, at the age of 81. He was a member of the 

Cribbage group. 

Gadsby, Mary Patricia passed away on Friday, 

September 13, 2024. She was an avid quilter and 

long-time GWSA member. 


Clubs and Drop-In Activities OCTOBER 2024 

W West End Community Centre 

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 

7 

8:35-9:35a Introduction to 

Line Dancing 

9:40-10:40a Beyond the 

Basics Line Dancing 

10:45-11:45a Int. Line Dancing 

12-3p Pickleball (B/I) 

12:30-4p Quilting 

1-3p Euchre 

1-4p Badminton W 

1:30-4:30p Mah Jongg 

3-6:15p Table Tennis 

6-9p Carving Club 

14 

Weekend Activities 

Saturday 

9a-12p Table Tennis 

Sunday 

8:30a-10:45a Pickleball 

(B/I) 

10:45a-1p Pickleball 

(I/A) 

1:30-3:30p Badminton 

CLOSED 

Thanksgiving 

Day 

1 

8:30a-12:30p Pickleball (I/A) 

10a-12p Darts 

10:30a-12:30p Pickleball (B/I) 

12-2p Pickleball (A) W 

12-4p Rug Hooking 

12:30-4p Cribbage 

12:30-4p West End Arts W 

1-3p Shuffleboard 


6:30-8:30p Texas Hold 

’Em Poker 

6:30-9p Bridge 

7-9:30p Badminton 

8 


10a-12p Darts 


11a-12p Diabetes Support 








’Em Poker 



15 


10a-12p Darts 




2 

8:30-10a Pickleball (I/A) 

9a-12p Bunka 


10:45-11:45a Walking Club 

12:30-4p Watercolour Painters 


1-3p Writers Club 


1:30p BINGO 

9 


9a-12p Bunka 




1-4p Art Studio 


1:30p BINGO 

16 


9a-12p Bunka 

9a-4p Watercolour Painters 



3 

8:30-10:30a Pickleball (B/I) 

10:30-11:30a Silver Drummers 

10:30a-1p Badminton 


12-4p West Hills Arts W 

12:30-3:30p Bridge 

1-3p Writing Your Life Story 

1-3:30p Scrabble 

1-4p Bid Euchre 

1:10-2:10p Intro to Line Dancing 

2-4p Pickleball (B/I) W 

2:15-3:15p Beyond the 


10 






12:30-3:30p Bridge 








17 






4 

8a-12p Crafts 


9-11:30a Canasta 

9:30-11:30a Beading 

10a-12p Chess 

10a-12p Darts 


12-1p Silver Strummers Beg. 

1-2p Silver Strummers Exp. 

1-4p Table Tennis W 

1:30-4p Euchre 

2-3:30p Silver Ringers 

2-3:30p Silvertones 

6:30-8:30p Texas HE Poker 

11 

8a-12p Crafts 




10a-12p Chess 

10a-12p Darts 

11a-12p Beading 



1-2:30p Book Club 2 






18 

8a-12p Crafts 




10a-12p Chess 

10a-12p Darts 

18 


21 


Line Dancing 






1-3p Euchre 





28 


Line Dancing 






1-3p Euchre 



2:30-5p Into Focus 

Photography 








’Em Poker 



22 


10a-12p Darts 












29 


10a-12p Darts 















1:30p BINGO 

23 


9a-12p Bunka 




1-4p Art Studio 


1:30p BINGO 

30 


9a-12p Bunka 



12:30-4p Watercolour Painters 




1:30p BINGO 

12:30-3:30p Bridge 








24 






12:30-3:30p Bridge 








31 






12:30-3:30p Bridge 
















25 

8a-12p Crafts 




10a-12p Chess 

10a-12p Darts 




1-2:30p Book Club 1 






Everyday Activities 

Snooker—9a-4p 

Library — 

Mon-Fri – 10a-3p 

19 


20 

HANDYMAN 

HOME 

REPAIRS 

Small Job Specialist 

Indoor/Outdoor 

Picture & Mirror Hanging 

Furniture Assembly 

Painting 

Age-in-Place Services 

Drywall Repairs 

Eaves Cleaning 

$10 OFF your first service when 

you reference this ad! 

226-332-5154 

info@guelphresidential.ca 

www.guelphresidential.ca 


21 

The GWSA Shuffleboard members celebrate the End of Summer 

Over 40 members participated in the “End of Summer Get-together” which took place on Wednesday 

August 28th. It was a day filled with lots of camaraderie, good food and, of course, a mini tournament 

which definitely added an element of fun and excitement. Members were split into 3 teams (Red, Black and 

White) and the winners of this tournament were the “White” team. 

Also, Elaine Bigam took the opportunity before the event started to announce she was stepping down 

from her AGL position and introduced the new Committee which will be led by Carolina Augello (new 

AGL) assisted by Alice Romanick and Corinna DeGeer. 

The day was an excellent way to end the summer with a bang! Everyone’s enthusiasm definitely added a 

special touch to this event. Thank you to all those who contributed by bringing some yummy goodies and 

assisted with the set up and co-ordination! See you all in October!! 

The winning team, the Whites! 

Elaine Bigam, previous AGL. 

Two members from the new 

Shuffleboard Committee (left to right) 

Carolina Augello, new AGL and Alice 

Romanick posing with another 

member Ruth Nelson. 

Wesleen Grant (above) and Corinna 

DeGeer were the members in charge 

of the mini tournament games. 


22 


23 


24 


25 


26 

519-836-1697 

6981 Concession 4, Puslinch ON N0B 2J0 


27 


28 


29 

The Elliott Community is Guelph’s 

only not-for-profit organization to 

offer 4 lifestyle choices for Seniors. 

 

 

 

 

Life Leases 

Supportive Living 

Assisted Living 

Long Term Care 

elliottcommunity.org 

CALL TODAY FOR A TOUR 

519-822-0491 x2240 

Quality choices for mature living in a 

safe, caring, home-like environment. 

A proud tradition of serving Guelph and area since 1903 


30 

 

 

 

519-830-6634 

CAPELLATREE.CA 

Safe Tree & Stump Removal 

Pruning & Support Systems 

Fully Insured & Qualified 

Certified by the 

International 

Society of 

Arboriculture 


31 

Guelph FHT's Wellness Workshops are offered at no 

cost and open to everyone! Check out our Fall 2024 

workshop offerings! You can print and view the 

schedule by visiting our webpage: 

www.guelphfht.com/wellness-workshops-andprograms/ 

*Please note: the dates/times/locations may change. 

Keep checking website/email for any updates. 

FREE Wellness Workshops in October, presented by 

the Guelph Family Health Team: 

Calming Strategies (Topic: Mindfulness) 

Date: Thursday, October 3 

Time: 12:00 pm – 12:45 pm EST 

Location: *VIRTUAL webinar only 

Learn more HERE 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Part 1 

(3 sessions to attend) 

Dates: Thursday, October 3, 10, 17 

Time: 10:00 am - 11:30 am EST 



Let's Talk About: Panic 

Date: Monday, October 7 

Time: 9:30 am - 11:00 am EST 



Calming Strategies (Topic: Guided Imagery) 

Date: Thursday, October 17 

Time: 12:00 pm – 12:45 pm EST 



Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Part 1 

(3 sessions to attend) 

Dates: Monday, October 21, 28, November 4 

Time: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm EST 

Location: IN-PERSON workshop only 

Suite 500 – 649 Scottsdale Drive, Guelph 


Let's Talk About: Mild Cognitive Impairment 

Date: Wednesday, October 23 

Time: 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm EST 




32 

See Puzzles on pgs. 16 & 17 


33 


34 

Thursday, November 21, 2024 

“First Light” in Midland 

Total Cost - $140.00 members only (nonrefundable) Code: 57461 

Registration starts on Thursday, August 29, 2024 

Booking Deadline: Thursday, October 31, 2024 

Sainte-Marie’s “First Light” is an award-winning, must-see holiday event with a great lineup of family activities 

and live musical performances, all amidst the spectacular glow of thousands of candles. 

You will be transported back in time to the 17th century and early pioneer times. Wander the lantern lit pathways to 

the historical buildings dressed up for the holiday season with fresh greenery & festive decor. Talk with men and 

women in period clothing and learn what life was like in those days. 

Explore the vendor fair to get a head start on your holiday shopping, enjoy take-home crafts, historical 

demonstrations, and festive decor. Warm up with a hot cup of cocoa by the fire! 

Come and experience a little holiday magic! 

PLEASE DRESS WARMLY AS SOME OF THIS EVENT IS OUTDOORS 

Please note: Most of the vendors will not have the ability to accept credit or debit card payments and will only 

accept cash. There is no ATM on site. 

When you register in Recenroll or at the front desk, please choose your entree for dinner: 

Traditional French Canadian Tourtiere with mashed potatoes and cranberry chutney 

or Traditional Christmas dinner: turkey, stuffing, cranberry, sweet potato, carrot, turnip, mashed potatoes & gravy 

or Vegetarian. 

Departure Evergreen Centre: 12:30 p.m.; Carousel: 12:45 p.m. Reminder: Please park at the Carousel. 

Return: approx. 10:00 p.m. 

Cost: includes travel by coach, hot dinner, admission charge, all tips (including the driver), and taxes. 

Please have lunch or bring a snack. 

Don't wait - sign up when the trip opens. 

Refund Policy: This trip is NON-REFUNDABLE; doctor’s certificates will not be accepted. Should there be a 

mandatory provincial shutdown due to COVID-19 or GWSA cancels the trip due to lack of participation, all 

participants will receive a full refund to their method of payment. Don’t Wait! That means booking your trip before 

the trip must be cancelled due to low participation. 

Accessibility: Unfortunately there is no wheelchair accessibility on this trip. Travellers who can transfer to a 

coach seat may have their collapsible, manual wheelchair or walker stored in the cargo area of the coach. 

Parking: Please DO NOT park your vehicles in the Evergreen parking lot while you are on a day trip. Vehicles 

must be left at the Carousel parking area in Riverside Park where you will board the bus. This allows for other 

members to have a place to park when they come throughout the day. 

PROCEDURES FOR BOOKING THIS TRIP: All participants will be required to have a current GWSA 

membership. If your membership needs renewal, please see the front desk staff at the Centre. Please bring the 

completed contact list available on the GWSA website located on the Trips, Travel and Tours page. If you are unable 

to print this form, copies will be available from a Travel Committee member the day of the trip. 

Registration will be available until the trip is fully booked, or booking is closed on Thursday, October 31, 2024. 

Register online (preferred): Sign up for a RecEnroll account with the City of Guelph. MasterCard, Visa, 

Amex or Visa Debit are accepted for online booking https://cityofguelph.perfectmind.com/SocialSite/ 

MemberRegistration/MemberSignIn. 

Register by telephone: By contacting Customer Service at the Evergreen Seniors Centre at 519-837-5699. As 

of January 1, 2023, credit card information is no longer accepted over the telephone. If you wish to make a telephone 

payment, you must first save your credit card on your RecEnroll account. Customers can also pre-purchase a City 

Card or an account credit in-person at any of our recreation facilities to be used towards future purchases by 

telephone. 

Register at the front desk at the Evergreen until the trip is fully booked, or booking is closed on Thursday, October 

31, 2024. 

Please put the date on your calendar and arrive on time. 


35 

Thursday December 12, 2024 

Mystery Trip 

Total cost : $150.00 - members only (non-refundable) Code: 57463 

Registration starts on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 

Booking deadline: Friday, November 15, 2024 

Join us on a “Magical Mystery Trip” where you will enjoy a delicious hot meal, be inspired and 

entertained! Dress warmly! 

Choose one of the following when you register for the trip: 

1) Turkey Dinner (dark and white meat) with mashed potatoes and veg/gravy or 

2) Honey glazed ham dinner with mash potato/veg/corn bread/brown mustard sauce or 

3) Summer vegetable ratatouille with peas & peppercorn polenta 

Depart Evergreen Centre: 12:30 p.m. Carousel: 12:45 p.m. Return: 10:00 p.m. 

Please park at the carousel and not the Evergreen Centre. 

Cost: includes travel by coach, hot dinner, admissions, tips (including the driver), and all taxes. 

Reminder: please have lunch before the trip or bring a snack to eat on the bus as dinner won’t be 

served for a few hours after we get to our destination. 

Don’t wait - sign up when the trip opens. 

Refund Policy: This trip is NON-REFUNDABLE; doctor’s certificates will not be accepted. Should there be 

a mandatory provincial shutdown due to COVID-19 or GWSA cancels the trip due to lack of participation, all 

participants will receive a full refund to their method of payment. Don’t Wait! That means booking your trip 

before the trip must be cancelled due to low participation. 

Accessibility: Unfortunately there is no wheelchair accessibility on this trip. Travellers who can transfer 

to a coach seat may have their collapsible, manual wheelchair or walker stored in the cargo area of the coach. 

Parking: Please DO NOT park your vehicles in the Evergreen parking lot while you are on a day trip. 

Vehicles must be left at the Carousel parking area in Riverside Park where you will board the bus. This allows 

for other members to have a place to park when they come throughout the day. 

PROCEDURES FOR BOOKING THIS TRIP: All participants will be required to have a current 

GWSA membership. If your membership needs renewal, please see the front desk staff at the Centre. Please 

bring the completed contact list available on the GWSA website located on the Trips, Travel and Tours page. 

If you are unable to print this form, copies will be available from a Travel Committee member the day of the 

trip. 

Registration will be available until the trip is fully booked, or booking is closed on Friday, November 15, 

2024. 

Register online (preferred): Sign up for a RecEnroll account with the City of Guelph. MasterCard, 

Visa, Amex or Visa Debit are accepted for online booking https://cityofguelph.perfectmind.com/SocialSite/ 

MemberRegistration/MemberSignIn. 

Register by telephone: By contacting Customer Service at the Evergreen Seniors Centre at 519-837- 

5699. As of January 1, 2023, credit card information is no longer accepted over the telephone. If you wish to 

make a telephone payment, you must first save your credit card on your RecEnroll account. Customers can 

also pre-purchase a City Card or an account credit in-person at any of our recreation facilities to be used 

towards future purchases by telephone. 

Register at the front desk at the Evergreen until the trip is fully booked, or booking is closed on Friday, 

November 15, 2024. 

Please put the date on your calendar and arrive on time. 


36 

Bistro 683 - October 2024 

The Evergreen Restaurant is open to the public 

and serves a large variety of menu items that are 

available from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, Monday to 

Friday (except holidays): 

Featured Hot Lunch 

$7.50 + tax. 

Each hot lunch is served as a full and balanced, 

nutritional meal. 

Full Breakfast Plate Sandwiches 

Breakfast Sandwich Homemade Soups 

French Toast 

Fresh Bakery Items 

Toasted Western Sandwich Hamburgers 

Daily Breakfast Specials Salads 

Beverages 

Breakfast is served starting at 9:00 am. The daily 

featured Lunch is served from 11 am to 1 pm 

Monday to Friday and the menu is below. 

Coffee and tea services are available until 2:00 pm. 

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. 

7 

The Bistro serves a large variety of ‘Take Home 

Frozen Meals’ for your convenience. They are 

available in the Bistro freezer all day from 9:00 am 

until 4:30 pm. They can be purchased from the 

Bistro cashier or the front desk staff after 2:00 pm. 

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. 

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

1 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

2 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

3 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

4 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

The October Dining Menu will 

8 

9 

10 

11 

14 CLOSED 15 

21 

28 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

16 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

Room 

Chicken 

(Bistro 

Chicken 

683) 

Chicken 

once 

Chicken 

Parmesan Parmesan Parmesan Parmesan 

the 

22 

Evergreen 

23 

24 

Centre 

25 

Chicken 

Chicken 

Chicken 

29 

BREAKFAST served starting at 9:00 am 

FEATURED LUNCH served 11 am to 1:00 pm 

be available in the Dining 

Parmesan 

Parmesan 

17 

Parmesan 

has re-opened. 

30 

31 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

Chicken 

Parmesan 

18 

Chicken 

Parmesan

October 2024 issue

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?