October Sentinel 2025

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Photo by Bill Adam

GWSA Photography Club

The Sentinel • October 2025

The Sentinel • October 2025 • Vol.50 No.2

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The Guelph Wellington Seniors Association is a nonprofit

organization based at the Evergreen Seniors

Community Centre

www.gwsa-guelph.ca

info@gwsa-guelph.ca

Board of Directors

Pat Gage, President

Art Roelofsen, Treasurer

Charlie Bishop

Kim Taylor

Elizabeth Steggles

Yvonne Thomas

Gerry Soules

Judith Sainsbury

Brigitte Geisler

Eva Quan

Gary Szczerbaniwicz

Donna Keating

Anders Bygden

GWSA Office Staff

Linda Jeffrey, Executive Director

Audrey Bishop, Program Coordinator

Sharon Lamers, Finance Administrator

Sidra Tawakal, Member Services Clerk

Sentinel Volunteers

Ray Miller, Administrator, Printer

Russ Brown, Editor

City of Guelph Staff

Melissa Haynes, Supervisor, Senior & Youth Services

Becky MacDonald, Volunteer Coordinator

Mark Leeming, Chef

Joan Moynihan, Sous Chef

Jill Hunt, Customer Service Clerk

In This Issue

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD ........................................... 4

GWSA GROUP ACTIVITY INFORMATION ..................... 5

ACTIVITIES CALENDAR: OCTOBER .............................. 12

THE ARTICLE SHELF ..................................................... 14

Researchers believe this salty snack can help

slow aging process ..................................................... 14

Chronological vs. biological age: What really

defines how old you are ............................................ 15

FOCUS ON MEMBERS ..................................................... 18

Art in the Hall Shows ................................................. 18

Recreation Volunteer Opportunities ........................ 19

Recent Passings .......................................................... 20

EVERGREEN MARKETPLACE .......................................... 21

For Sale ........................................................................ 21

Classifieds .................................................................... 21

PUZZLES, GAMES & COMICS ........................................ 34

SENTINEL SUBMISSIONS FOR NOVEMBER

Deadline for receiving submissions

to the November Sentinel is

October 6, 2025

Email your submissions to

sentinel@gwsa-guelph.ca.

EVERGREEN SENIORS COMMUNITY CENTRE is a

recreation facility owned by the City of Guelph. The

Guelph Wellington Seniors Association works in

collaboration with the city to provide diverse

programs, activities, and services for older adults of

Guelph and Wellington County.

683 Woolwich St.

Guelph, ON N1H 3Y8

GWSA: (519) 265-7722

City: (519) 837-5699 Fax (519) 823-8972

Hours: 8:30am to 4:00pm

Monday to Friday

(Closed Statutory Holidays)

Read previous issues of the Sentinel on our website.

www.gwsa-guelph.ca

ISSN: 0383 817X

SENTINEL OFFICE

You may contact the Sentinel Office by email

sentinel@gwsa-guelph.ca, phone (519) 265-7722

x68304, or written message left in GWSA office mailbox.

DISCLAIMER

The Sentinel and the GWSA do not necessarily agree

with, or in statements made by, advertisers or in other

submissions.


MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD

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Collaborating to achieve common

goals and better outcomes

I

n June, Councillor Ken Yee Chew came

to visit the Evergreen following a flag

raising at City Hall to celebrate the

contributions of older adults. He was

surprised at all the programming the

GWSA offers, and he ultimately posted

some information about our programming

in his newsletter for his Ward 6

constituents.

At the end of

August,

Dominique

O’Rourke, our

new Member

of Parliament,

visited the

Evergreen,

and we had

the chance to

update her

about all the

changes that have taken place over the

last year. She is extremely interested in

working with us and gave us lot of helpful

advice.

These visits help us publicize some of the

great collaborative work we are doing

with other agencies to support older

adults in Guelph and Wellington County.

There are three new programs starting in

September that we are particularly proud

to host. The first is with the team at

Waterloo Wellington Older Adult Strategy

Community Network on September 4 th .

They will be offering “Making the Most of

your Medical Appointments,” which will

recommend techniques and tips to

improve conversations with health care

providers.

The second program is one hosted by

Compass Community Services from

September 9 to November 18. They will

be offering “Healing Together,” which is a

free, 10-session, group-grief-support

counselling program. We are also working

with the Guelph Tool Library to offer a

weekly “Stitch Mentors” program, which

is a free, learn-to-sew-plus-needlecraft

program that began on Thursday,

September 11 th .

Collaboration with other organizations is

important because it helps associations

like ours leverage shared resources,

skills, and expertise. We serve many of

the same individuals and, by delivering

programs that address these needs, we

can build goodwill and support that lasts

beyond the projects we work on together.

There is a lot of uncertainty right now as

you know, both economically and

politically, and this will likely have

impacts across the non-profit sector.

Effective collaboration and partnerships

with other organizations is not just

beneficial, it is a strategic necessity.

This has been a year filled with change

and, as your president, I am excited to

see our membership grow and our

programs and activities diversify, while

we strengthen our role in the community.

Pat Gage, President


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GWSA GROUP ACTIVITY INFORMATION

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our GWSA membership includes a copy of The Sentinel newsletter published 10 times

a year, and the ability to join any of our many activities and events. Our activity

groups use two models for collecting group fees: pay-as-you-play or a yearly activity fee

(all fees include HST). We also offer regular educational and informational workshops,

many at no charge for our members. For more information, message the activity’s

email address herein or call (519) 265-7722.

Note All activity groups require an up-to-date GWSA membership to participate.

Art in the Hall

Art in the Hall is an opportunity for all

artisans to showcase their work. We

display the fine artistic talents on two

large walls in front of our Library and a

dedicated window space for smaller

items. GWSA receives 20% commission

from each sale. To purchase any of the

art pieces, the staff at the member

services desk will assist you.

Kim Taylor

artinthehall@gwsa-guelph.ca

Art Studio––Mixed Media

Art Studio members are welcome to work

with the medium of their choice. Current

techniques practised by members include

watercolour, acrylic, drawing, pastels,

greeting card creation, and diamond dots.

While most mediums are encouraged,

please note that the Evergreen Centre is

a scent-free environment. This excludes

materials with strong odours, chemicals

or solvents such as oil paints from the Art

Studio group.

Participants are responsible for bringing

their own supplies and managing their

own projects. There is no formal

instruction, but members often share

ideas, techniques, and inspiration. Art

Studio members are eligible to display

their work in the Art In The Hall exhibits

at the Evergreen Centre.

Room 2

Jennifer Storey

artstudio@gwsa-guelph.ca

Every 2 nd & 4 th Wednesday, 1–5pm

$35/year

Badminton

Evergreen Auditorium

Michael Gareau

badminton@gwsa-guelph.ca

Thursday & Friday, 10:30am–1pm

Sunday, 1:15–3:15pm

Monday & Friday, 1–4pm (at WECC)

(Currently there is a waitlist for interested

players.)

$140/year

Beading and Jewelry Making

We always welcome new members and

invite you to bring your beading supplies.

Leslie will facilitate impromptu miniclasses

on Metis beadworking.

Board Room

Eva Quan

beading@gwsa-guelph.ca

Tuesday, 9:30–11:30am

$2/visit

Book Club 1

For October, we will be reading The Boy

from the Woods by Harlan Coben. Our

November book is World of Curiosities by


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Louise Penny.

Board Room

Veronica Sanche

bookclub1@gwsa-guelph.ca

Last Friday of month, 1–2:30pm

$3/visit

Book Club 2

We enjoy reading a variety of books such

as mysteries, historical fiction, memoirs,

etc., and then we discuss them. We all

share our views on the books, some we

enjoy, some not so much, but sharing our

viewpoints helps us explore all sides of a

story. In October, we will be reading

Forgetting Time by Sharon Guskin.

Board Room

Lynne Oxley

bookclub2@gwsa-guelph.ca

2 nd Friday of month, 1–2:30pm

$3/visit

Bridge

The Bridge group welcomes players with a

basic knowledge of the game. Come and

enjoy playing in a friendly and

comfortable environment. We mix and

mingle with a room full of eager players

so that everyone has a partner.

Sandi Kinsey

bridge@gwsa-guelph.ca

¨ On Tuesdays:

Room 3

6–8pm

$3/visit

¨ On Thursdays:

Room 2

12–4pm

$2/visit

Bunka Art Group

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. The needle is

held and operates in much the same

manner as an artist’s brush or pencil. We

mentor new members and supplies are

ordered as a group.

Room 3

Carol Ferrier

bunka@gwsa-guelph.ca

Wednesday, 9am–12pm

$35/year

Canasta

All levels of player are welcome. We are a

friendly group and happy to teach you

how to play.

Room 3

Sandi Kinsey

canasta@gwsa-guelph.ca

Friday, 9–11:30am

$2/visit

Chess Club

Calling all chess lovers! We welcome

players of all levels. Primarily, we are

amateur players enjoying casual chess

games. Chess sets are available.

Evergreen Hallway

Bruce Hurst

chessclub@gwsa-guelph.ca

Friday, 10am–12pm

$2/visit

Colouring for Calm

Come and join this convivial group of

folks who love to chat while they colour.

Room 1

Rick Losole

colouringforcalm@gwsa-guelph.ca

Friday, 12–2pm

$2/visit

Computer Club

Room 1

Ross Knechtel & Ken Chupa

computerclub@gwsa-guelph.ca

January, March, May, September,


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November

2 nd Monday, 2–4pm

$3/visit

Computer Mentoring

Do you need help with your device? Our

team is here to help with any of the

following: laptop, tablet, smartphone. We

provide one-to-one support with devices

running Microsoft, Chrome, Apple or

Android operating systems.

We help with email accounts, organizing

files, learning new features. No

appointment necessary. Let us help you

build your confidence and skills with

technology.

Room 1

Ken Chupa

computer.mentors@gwsa-guelph.ca

Monday, 1–3pm

Members $3/visit

Non-members $5/visit

Craft Group

The Craft Group provides supplies for

those wishing to continue using their

skills to create products for sale in our

Treasure Chest. Our home-based knitters

and those who come to the centre have

produced amazing products, and the sales

support GWSA and its operations.

Room 2

Sheila Robinson

craftgroup@gwsa-guelph.ca

Friday, 8:30am–12pm

Cribbage

Every Tuesday afternoon, a group of

happy and welcoming folks get together

to play a friendly game of cribbage. New

players are always welcome. We will

teach you!

Room 1

Elaine Miller

cribbage@gwsa-guelph.ca

Tuesday, 12:30–4pm

$2/visit

Dancing at the Evergreen (Saturdays)


dances@gwsa-guelph.ca

October 18, November 29, December 27,

January 31, February 28, March 28

7:30–11pm

$20/ticket

Darts Club

Our Dart Club had some impressive high

scores and “outs” during June, July and

August. Congratulations to the following

for maintaining the highest scores during

these months: Richard, Vicki, Marcel,

Frank, Doris and Ken P. Congratulations

for highest finish go to Bill, Doris,

Francine, Vicki and Ken P.

Evergreen Auditorium Stage

Paul Anderson

dartsclub@gwsa-guelph.ca

Tuesday & Friday, 10am–12pm

$35/year

Dominoes (Mexican Train)

Are you ready to test your skills and show

everyone who’s domino master?

Evergreen Hallway

Fran Hendry

dominoes@gwsa-guelph.ca

Friday, 1–3:30pm

$2/visit

Bid Euchre

If you play Euchre, you can play Bid

Euchre. Make new friends enjoying this

stimulating game!

John Finamore

bideuchre@gwsa-guelph.ca

¨ On Tuesdays:

Room 2

1–4pm

$2/visit


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¨ On Thursdays:

Room 3

1–4pm

$2/visit

Euchre (Mondays)

Room 3

Earl Mead

euchre-monday@gwsa-guelph.ca

Monday, 1–3:30pm

Members $2/visit

Euchre (Fridays)

Room 4

Maureen Baird

euchre@gwsa-guelph.ca

Friday, 1–4pm

Members $2/visit

Line Dancing

Great exercise for your body and mind.

You meet new friends, enjoy great music,

and no partner is required. All levels are

welcome, especially new dancers.

Evergreen auditorium

Phyllis & Donna

linedancing@gwsa-guelph.ca

¨ Monday Line Dance Classes:

8:35–9:35am, Introduction to Line

Dancing

9:40–10:40am, Beyond the Basics

10:45-11:45am, Intermediate

¨ Thursday Line Dance Classes:

1:10–2:10pm, Introduction to Line

Dancing

2:15–3:15pm, Beyond the Basics

1 st visit free for GWSA members, then

$2/session.

Mah Jong

Mah Jong is a game played with tiles like

dominoes. We are happy to provide

instruction to new players.

Evergreen Hallway (near Library)

Leona Petri

Monday, 1–4pm

$2/visit

Mindful Drumming

It’s fun to drum! We look forward to

seeing you on Thursday mornings to

experience our drum circle. We have

drums and percussion instruments to

share or bring your own. We play with

joy!

Room 3

Jean Selinger

mindfuldrumming@gwsa-guelph.ca

Thursday, 10:30–11:30am

$2/visit

Move a Little, Move a Lot

A gentle exercise program using balls and

TheraBands.

Room 3

gwsa@gwsa-guelph.ca

Monday, 9–9:45am & 11–11:45am

Friday, 9–9:45am

Members: $3/session

Non-members: $5/session

Peer Learning

Peer Learning is for seniors who like to

have a good discussion with a friendly

group. Two sessions are available:

¨ Political Borders: Research and discuss

the effects of border conflicts and

changes in the past and in the present.

Possible topics: the Middle East,

Ireland, the U.S. and Canada, Ukraine

and Russia, North and South Korea,

even gang wars within a city.

Moderator: Ken Woodside

Mondays

September 8–November 17

9:30–11:30am

Board Room

$22.00

¨ Current Events: Research and discuss

stories that are making the headlines


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today. These stories could be local,

national, or international. The subjects

might include politics, science, the

arts, medicine or another subject

decided by the group.

Moderator: Malcolm Coutts

Thursdays

September 11–November 13

9:30–11:30am

Board Room

$22.00

For more information, send message to

peerlearning@gwsa-guelph.ca

Photography Club

The Photography Club is a friendly group

of amateur photographers. Our

equipment ranges from mobile phones

and point-and-shoot to fancy DSLR

cameras. We share a common interest in

this hobby, and we learn from each other.

Room 3

Stu McCannell

photographyclub@gwsa-guelph.ca

Last Monday of every month,

3:30–5:30pm

$40/year

Pickleball

We play at the Evergreen Seniors

Community Centre and West End

Community Centre (WECC) six days per

week. Players are tested and play against

similar skill levels.

pickleball@gwsa-guelph.ca

¨ At Evergreen:

Monday, 12–3pm

Tuesday, 8:30–10:30am &

10:30am–12:30pm

Wednesday, 8:30–10am


Friday, 8:30–10:30am &

1–4pm

Sunday, 8:30–10:45am &

10:45am–1pm

¨ At West End:

Tuesday, 12–2pm & 2–4pm

Thursday, 12–2pm & 2–4pm

(Activity/waitlist is currently full.)

$70 twice/year

Quilting

Our members come and create amazing

items for sale in the Treasure Chest. Join

us, grab some materials, and get your

creative juices flowing. The items

contributed are a crucial part of

GWSA fundraising.

Room 2

Beryl Drohan

quiltgroup@gwsa-guelph.ca

Monday, 12:30–4pm

Riverside Art Group

We are a friendly group of artists working

in varied mediums including oil, acrylic,

watercolour, pastel, pencil, and charcoal.

Room 2

Nancy Baker

riversideart@gwsa-guelph.ca

1 st , 3 rd , & 5 th Wednesday

8:30am–12pm

$35/year

Rug Hooking

Traditional rug hooking is both an art and

a craft. Many beautiful and unique items

are created by pulling loops of fabric or

yarn through a stiff, woven base such as

burlap or linen. Beginners are welcome

and we will help you get started. Please

bring your own supplies.

Room 2

Kathy McCallum

rughooking@gwsa-guelph.ca

Tuesday, 12–4pm

$35/year


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Scrabble

All skills from newbie to expert are

welcome. Drop-ins are welcome. We

especially love new players. Scrabble

boards are provided. All you need is a

GWSA membership!

Evergreen Hallway

Sebastian Hurwitz

scrabble@gwsa-guelph.ca

Thursday, 1–3:30pm

$2/visit

Sharing Dance Fitness

Six-week class designed for older adults

with reduced mobility.

Room 1

gwsa@gwsa-guelph.ca


September 4–October 9

November 6–December 11

Members free

Non-members $2 donation

Shuffleboard

All skill levels are welcome. Join a group

of active folks looking to share some

exercise and laughs. All supplies are

provided.


Carolina Augello

shuffleboard@gwsa-guelph.ca

Tuesday & Wednesday, 1–4pm

$35/year

Silver Strummers

We welcome all skill levels to our ukelele

orchestra. You will be provided with all

the information you need to get started.

Come and try the universally accessible

and friendly instrument of the ukulele.

Room 3

silverstrummers@gwsa-guelph.ca

Friday, 11:45am–1:45pm

$85/year

Silvertones Choir

To join this choir, you do not need to be

able to read music, just have a love for

singing.

Room 3

Gerry Soules

silvertones@gwsa-guelph.ca

September–June

Friday, 1:45–3:30pm

$85/year

Snooker Club

We are a group of active, friendly players

of all skill levels. Please drop by the

snooker room. You’ll be assured a warm

welcome. We have three tables so we can

accommodate many players. Ladies don’t

be shy. Our small ladies’ contingent

typically plays on Tuesday mornings.

Evergreen Snooker Room

Brian Yasvinski

snooker@gwsa-guelph.ca

Daily 9–5pm

$115/year

Table Tennis


Petr Vales

tabletennis@gwsa-guelph.ca

¨ At Evergreen:

Monday, 3–5pm

Wednesday, 10am–1pm

Saturday, 1:30–4:30pm

¨ At West End:

Friday, 1–4pm

(no play during July & August)

$140/year

Texas Hold ’Em Poker

Poker played on a point system, and the

one with the most points each week

comes out a winner. Your $3 will buy

$650 in “real” casino chips. We play until

there is only one player left or to a set

time, whichever comes first. New players


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are welcome. We can teach you!

Room 3

Dennis Canning

texasholdempokertuesday@gwsaguelph.ca

Tuesday, 6–8 p.m.

Members $3/visit

Non-members $5/visit

Walking Club

Walking Club is a great way to exercise,

enjoy nature, and make new friends while

discovering the trails in the area. Our

walks start out from Riverside Park, or we

meet at one of the many wonderful

Guelph walking trails or nearby

conservation areas. Walks are at your

own pace, and you must arrange your

own transportation to the trail head.

Walks happen rain or shine.

walkingclub@gwsa-guelph.ca

April–October

Thursday, 9am

$15/year

Watercolour Painters

This group provides painters the

opportunity to practise their hobby with

others sharing the same interest. No

classes or lessons are offered. We

welcome accomplished watercolour

painters.

Room 2

Marta Coutts

watercolourpainters@gwsa-guelph.ca

1 st , 3 rd , & 5 th Wednesday, 1–5pm

$35/year

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-and-paste event card works of

art.

Room 2 (room shared with Riverside Arts

Group on 5 th Wednesday)

Dale Vardy

westhillsartgroup@gwsa-guelph.ca

2 nd , 4 th & 5 th Wednesday

8:30–11:30am

$35/year

Wood Carving Group

We do carving in the round and create

cartoon characters, birds and wildlife,

spoons, bowls, etc. Other carving

techniques include marquetry and

pyrography. Training available.

Room 2

Ken Fugler

woodcarving@gwsa-guelph.ca

Monday, 5:30–8 p.m.

$50/year

Writing Your Life Story

Researching and writing your life story

can prove to be a very worthwhile

activity. We will guide you and help you

“fill in the blanks” as you create your life

story. Old photos, albums, etc., can be

used in researching your life history. Our

group is ongoing, and spaces are limited.

Join us and share your story!

Board Room

Jennifer Blackie

writingyourlifestory@gwsa-guelph.ca

Thursday, 12:30–3pm

$50 every 6 months


ACTIVITIES CALENDAR: OCTOBER

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E – Evergreen Seniors Community Centre

W – West End Community Centre

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

1

8:30a Pickleball E

8:30a Riverside Art Group

9a Bunka Art Group

10a Table Tennis E

1p Watercolour Painters

1p Badminton W

1p Shuffleboard

1:15p BINGO!

2

8:30a Pickleball E

10:30a Mindful Drummers

10:30a Badminton E

10:30a Sharing Dance Fit

12p Bridge

12p Pickleball W

12:30p Writing Life Story

1p Bid Euchre

1p Line Dancing

1p Scrabble

2p Pickleball W

3

8:30a Craft Group

8:30a Pickleball E

9a Canasta

10a Chess

10a Darts

10:30a Badminton E

11:45a Silver Strummers

12p Colouring for Calm

1p Art Studio

1p Badminton W

1p Dominoes

1p Euchre

1p Pickleball E

1p Table Tennis W

1:45p Silvertones

6

8:30a Line Dancing

9:30a Peer Learning

9a Move a Little, Move a Lot


12p Pickleball E

12:30p Quilting

1p Badminton W

1p Computer Mentoring

1p Euchre

1p Mah Jong

3p Table Tennis E

5:30p Wood Carving

7

8:30a Pickleball E

9:30a Beading & Jewelry

10a Darts

10:30a Pickleball E

12p Pickleball W

12p Rug Hooking

12:30p Cribbage

1p Bid Euchre

1p Shuffleboard

2p Pickleball W

6p Bridge

6p Texas HE Poker

8

8:30a West Hills Art Group

8:30a Pickleball E

9a Bunka Art Group

10a Table Tennis E

1p Art Studio

1p Badminton W

1p Shuffleboard

1:15p BINGO!

9

8:30a Pickleball E

9:30a Peer Learning


10:30a Badminton E


12p Bridge

12p Pickleball W


1p Bid Euchre

1p Line Dancing

1p Scrabble

2p Pickleball W

10

8:30a Craft Group

8:30a Pickleball E

9a Canasta


10a Chess

10a Darts

10:30a Badminton E



1p Badminton W

1p Book Club 2

1p Dominoes

1p Euchre

1p Pickleball E

1p Table Tennis W

1:45p Silvertones

13

Closed for Thanksgiving

14

8:30a Pickleball E


10a Darts

10:30a Pickleball E

12p Pickleball W

12p Rug Hooking

12:30p Cribbage

1p Bid Euchre

1p Shuffleboard

2p Pickleball W

6p Bridge

6p Texas HE Poker

15

8:30a Riverside Art Group

8:30a Pickleball E

9a Bunka Art Group

10a Table Tennis E

1p Watercolour Painters

1p Badminton W

1p Shuffleboard

1:15p BINGO!

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8:30a Pickleball E

9:30a Peer Learning


10:30a Badminton E


12p Bridge

12p Pickleball W


1p Bid Euchre

1p Line Dancing

1p Scrabble

2p Pickleball W

17

8:30a Craft Group

8:30a Pickleball E

9a Canasta


10a Chess

10a Darts

10:30a Badminton E



1p Badminton W

1p Dominoes

1p Euchre

1p Pickleball E

1p Table Tennis W

1:45p Silvertones


13

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

20

8:30a Line Dancing

9:30a Peer Learning


21

8:30a Pickleball E


10a Darts

22


8:30a Pickleball E

9a Bunka Art Group

23

8:30a Pickleball E

9:30a Peer Learning


24

8:30a Craft Group

8:30a Pickleball E

9a Canasta

11a Move a Little, Move a Lot 10:30a Pickleball E 10a Table Tennis E 10:30a Badminton E 9a Move a Little, Move a Lot

12p Pickleball

12:30p Quilting

1p Badminton W


1p Euchre

1p Mah Jong

3p Table Tennis E

5:30p Wood Carving

12p Pickleball W

12p Rug Hooking

12:30p Cribbage

1p Bid Euchre

1p Shuffleboard

2p Pickleball W

6p Bridge

6p Texas HE Poker

1p Art Studio

1p Badminton W

1p Shuffleboard

1:15p BINGO!


12p Bridge

12p Pickleball W


1p Bid Euchre

1p Line Dancing

1p Scrabble

2p Pickleball W

10a Chess

10a Darts

10:30a Badminton E



1p Badminton W

1p Book Club 1

1p Dominoes

1p Euchre

1p Pickleball E

1p Table Tennis W

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8:30a Line Dancing

9:30a Peer Learning



12p Pickleball

12:30p Quilting

1p Badminton W


1p Euchre

1p Mah Jong

3:30p Photography Club

3p Table Tennis E

5:30p Wood Carving

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8:30a Pickleball E


10a Darts

10:30a Pickleball E

12p Pickleball W

12p Rug Hooking

12:30p Cribbage

1p Bid Euchre

1p Shuffleboard

2p Pickleball W

6p Bridge

6p Texas HE Poker

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8:30a Pickleball E

9a Bunka Art Group

10a Table Tennis E

1p Art Studio

1p Badminton W

1p Shuffleboard

1:15p BINGO!

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8:30a Pickleball E

9:30a Peer Learning


10:30a Badminton E


12p Bridge

12p Pickleball W


1p Bid Euchre

1p Line Dancing

1p Scrabble

2p Pickleball W

Saturday Sunday Everyday

1:30–4:30p Table Tennis E

(No auditorium activities on October 4)

October 18: Dancing at the Evergreen

8:30a Pickleball E

10:45a Pickleball E

1:15p Badminton E

9a Snooker

10a Library

1:45p Silvertones

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8:30a Craft Group

8:30a Pickleball E

9a Canasta


10a Chess

10a Darts

10:30a Badminton E



1p Badminton W

1p Book Club 1

1p Dominoes

1p Euchre

1p Pickleball E

1p Table Tennis W

1:45p Silvertones

2025 Pilot Transit Program

for Seniors

Seniors age 65+ can ride free on Guelph

Transit every Thursday until December. 31.

Activity calendars are also available at the GWSA website:

https://gwsa-guelph.ca/activity-calendar/


14

THE ARTICLE SHELF

Researchers believe this

salty snack can help slow

aging process 1

Research suggests that peanuts may help

slow the aging process in young, healthy

adults, but there’s a catch

Turning back the clock by eating peanuts? It's

possible, if you choose the right kind.

Looking to turn back the clock with some

help from a salty snack? New research

published in the journal Antioxidants

suggests that, yes, it’s possible.

Telomeres, which are the caps at the

ends of your chromosomes, get shorter

as you age and that shortening can

contribute to age-related diseases such as

cancer, Type 2 diabetes and heart issues.

Your diet can impact telomere length,

however, and a new study has circled in

on a specific food that can be a

difference-maker by helping to slow down

your body’s aging process.

A team of researchers explored how

telomeres were affected by a daily dose

of peanuts and peanut butter.

Antioxidants have been shown to fight

telomere shortening, so it follows that

peanuts—a rich source of antioxidants

such as vitamin E, niacin and polyphenols

like resveratrol—would be beneficial.

Researchers said they believe that

peanuts are capable of neutralizing

reactive oxygen species and reducing

inflammation, two qualities that could go

a long way in preserving telomere length.

While it would seem likely that peanut

butter—made mainly from ground

peanuts—would have the same effect,

that didn’t turn out to be the case.

The study included 58 participants who

were divided into three groups. The first

group received 25 grams of skin-roasted

peanuts per day, the second consumed

32 grams of peanut butter and the third

received 32 grams a day of a control

butter made from peanut oil.

The participants were instructed to avoid

other nuts, grapes, dark chocolate and

wine during the trial.

Participants who ate peanuts showed a

significant increase in telomere length

after three months. None showed

telomere shortening.

Peanut butter eaters, however, did not

have the same results. There was no

increase in telomere length, and 22 per

cent had accelerated telomere shortening.

The results suggested that daily

consumption of skin-roasted peanuts

1 This article was originally published in the Toronto

Sun on August 24, 2025.


15

might slow telomere shortening in young,

healthy adults.

The study authors believe that, unlike

processed peanut butter, whole peanuts

might support gut microbiota-derived,

short-chain fatty acids linked to lower

cortisol and depression biomarkers in the

same trial.

“These findings highlight the importance Aging is a natural process of life, and, while time

of whole foods over processed

can’t be stopped, we are learning more than ever

alternatives in promoting cellular health,” about the biological processes that make us feel

the authors noted, per the New York Post. older than we are.

The news isn’t particularly noteworthy for For decades, myths about aging have

one segment of the population: Those

shaped how we think about it: that it’s

with a peanut allergy.

purely genetic, that nothing can slow it

down, or that aging must always come

with decline. In reality, lifestyle, genetics,

Chronological vs. biological environment and emerging research all

play a role, but so do the different types

age: What really defines how

of age. Chronological and biological age

old you are

can differ in immense ways, and science

is uncovering ways to better understand

Chronological and biological age can differ

it, and possibly help people age more

in immense ways, and science is

healthily than ever before.

uncovering ways to better understand it,

and possibly help people age more

What is chronological age?

healthily than ever before

Chronological age is represented by your

By Ben Hohener 2

birthday. It is factual, but not bodyevident.

Can you guess someone’s age

Aging is an inevitable natural biological

process, a gradual breakdown in how our just by looking at them? If all bodies

bodies function over time. While not

deteriorated over time in the exact same

necessarily signs of illness, we begin to way, you’d probably be able to.

wear down: wrinkles, slower metabolism, Chronological age is used to measure life

and reduced bone density are

experience, maturity and more often than

commonplace as we grow older.

not, a rough estimate of when things

Inflammation slowly increases, the

should be happening. For example,

immune system weakens and the body teenagers experience puberty roughly

becomes more vulnerable to chronic

between the ages of 8 and 14, and adults

diseases.

start noticing gray hairs between their

mid-30s and their 50s. The reason for

2 Reproduced from article at Healthing.ca


16

these broad estimates of when bodily

functions begin, cease and transform is

that every single human being on the

planet has a unique biological age.

What is biological age?

This is the age that your body functions

at physically, measured with fitness tests,

examinations, doctors’ appointments and

the like. One person may develop

dementia long before the average age

bracket, or another may have not had

their last baby tooth fall out until they

were 26. The importance of differentiating

chronological from biological age is that

no person can be measured exactly to the

standard of the entire population, which

makes personalized healthcare necessary.

If every person aged and changed

physiologically at the same rate, there

wouldn’t be a discrepancy. But that isn’t

how our bodies work.

Can you change your biological age?

There are multiple reasons why the two

ages can be different. Genetics and

environment contribute to one’s biological

age; you may be more at risk for illnesses

that show much later in life due to

hereditary traits or poor living conditions.

Stress and mental health are critical to

maintaining a young biological age. Have

you ever heard of hair going white or

gray following a traumatic event or

stressful situation? Stressful occupations

and exposure to chronic stress can also

increase inflammation, contributing to

early aging, according to the National

Library of Medicine (NLM).

However, the most likely difference in age

is due to lifestyle factors. Nutritional

intake, exercise and sleep habits all affect

your biological age in positive and

negative ways. Changing these factors is

the most effective way of improving your

biological age.

Nutrition

Diets rich in antioxidants (plenty of fruits,

vegetables and seeds) slow the

deterioration of cells, while diets that are

high in refined sugar and trans fats

(processed and fast food) contribute to

inflammation. In general, lower

inflammation helps slow biological age, so

keeping a healthy cholesterol intake and

low blood pressure support cell health.

Eating vegetables makes you big and

strong, but it also keeps you young and

well!

Physical activity

Functional fitness and keeping an active

daily lifestyle aren’t just for the young;

even those in their late 60s and 70s can

be consistent in the gym. Vitality is key to

reducing one’s biological age, and

strength is a big part of that. Exercise

produces energy and reduces

inflammation, as well as preserving

muscle mass and bone density, which

naturally decline with age.

Sleep habits

Sleeping is your time to recharge. During

sleep, the body performs critical DNA

repair and cell regeneration. Insufficient

sleep disrupts these processes, leading to

faster cellular wear and tear and an

accelerated biological age. Sleep also

regulates hormones like cortisol (a stress

hormone), and reducing stress is a key

factor in reducing biological age.

According to a 2025 study from Mayo

Clinic, adults require at least seven hours

of healthy sleep, and teenagers require


17

eight to ten. Sleep is an important factor

in allowing the body to grow and regulate

at younger ages, where growth is critical.

Reversal and slowing biological age

There are two hypothetical ways to

change your biological age: slowing down

and reversal. Slowing down one’s

biological age means adopting a healthy

lifestyle, including habits such as a

healthy diet and regular physical activity.

An individual living healthily will show on

paper like a 50-year-old who, in their

blood work and cell health, resembles a

40-year-old.

Reversal is a much more complex subject,

and one that is still under heavy scientific

scrutiny. In 2023, NLM published a case

study involving six women who, after

completing an eight-week methylationsupportive

diet (emphasizing nutrient-rich

foods high in B vitamins, zinc and

magnesium) and lifestyle program, were

reported to have an average decrease of

4.6 years off their biological age. The

program included diet, sleep, exercise

and relaxation guidance, supplemental

probiotics and phytonutrients and

nutritional coaching, the key factors

influencing biological age.

Anti-aging ‘solutions’

There are many unproven ‘solutions’ to

decreasing biological age that have been

discussed throughout history. In the 16 th

century, Mary Queen of Scots was said to

bathe in white wine, which was thought to

improve complexion based on its

antiseptic alcohol content. In 1995, the

FDA approved tretinoic acid, the main

ingredient in Retin-A cream, to treat

wrinkles, which caused further

inflammation and skin blemishes like

redness and peeling, and is now only

prescribed in cases of acne.

However, the future of anti-aging

research has shifted its focus from

temporary fixes for appearance to

targeting aging at its biological roots,

driven by advancements in biotechnology.

In gene therapy, researchers are

experimenting with ways to reset aging

cells by tweaking key genes, called

Yamanaka factors. When this set of

factors, first identified by Nobel prize

winner Shinya Yamanaka in 2006, are

introduced to adult cells, they can reprogram

them to a more ‘youthful’

condition.

In 2023, David Sinclair’s Harvard

research team found that an application

of Yamanaka factors to a control group of

mice reversed aging, improving their

vision and organ functioning, but human

testing is still incredibly experimental.

There is a risk of cancerous tumour

formation, and ethical questions arise:

even if gene therapy becomes safe, it

may be expensive or limited to private

clinics, heavily limiting accessibility.

Aging is a natural process of life, and

while time can’t be stopped, we are

learning more than ever about the

biological processes that make us feel

older than we are.

With research continuing to evolve, the

science of aging becomes clearer day by

day. Our bodies are machines that work

at their own pace, and by making healthy

lifestyle choices, we can respect that pace

in a proven, risk-free way.


18

FOCUS ON MEMBERS

Art in the Hall Shows

T

he works of the West Hills Art Group

are currently displayed on the walls

outside Room 4. This exciting show is

currently on until Tuesday, October 7,

2025. Most of the art is for sale, and one

piece has already found a new home!

Following this show, we welcome all

members to join us for the very first

Juried Art Show! Opening Night is

Thursday, October 16, 2025. Reception

starts at 6:30 p.m. and juror remarks and

talk at 7:00 p.m. Cash awards for top

three submissions and a people’s choice

will be awarded in November, closer to

the end of the exhibition.

Please come by and support your artists!


19

Recreation Volunteer

Opportunities

V

olunteers make a difference every day

in Guelph. It’s what makes us a

caring community. When you invest your

time, skills and enthusiasm in

volunteering, you help make our city a

vibrant and rewarding place to live, work

and play. The City of Guelph offers a wide

variety of volunteer opportunities for

students 14+, adults and seniors.

Why volunteer?

¨ Increase self-confidence

¨ Meet people with similar interests and

become a valuable member of a team

¨ Gain experience and develop new skills

¨ Explore career choices and enhance

your resume

¨ Contribute to your community

Why it matters

¨ It’s vital for strong, inclusive, and

resilient communities

¨ It assists organizations in reaching

their goals

¨ It helps builds relationships

¨ It’s fundamental to a healthy and

democratic society in Canada

Whether you’re looking for a short-term

project or a long-term commitment, there

are many ways you can get involved.

How to volunteer in recreation

¨ Meet the minimum age requirement of

14 years, 16 years to volunteer in the

Bistro Café kitchen.

¨ Decide which program area interests

you the most (children, youth, adults

or seniors).

¨ Complete and submit an application

online. Paper forms are available upon

request at all community centres.

(Please include a valid email address

for communicating and logging

volunteer hours.) You will be contacted

regarding the area of interest you

selected.

¨ Complete an in-person or virtual

interview.

¨ Complete the necessary online training

that will be sent following the interview

(other methods of training available)

and the in-person orientation.

¨ Review dates and times for your

scheduled volunteer position by

logging into Volgistics.

Evergreen Bistro 683

Join the Evergreen Seniors Community

Centre Bistro 683 team Monday to Friday

between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. assisting

one of the following areas providing

customer service, making new friends and

having fun.

To get started on a volunteer opportunity

in the Evergreen Bistro, please complete

the online application form 3 :

Evergreen Bistro Volunteer Application

Form (volgistics.com)

3 Evergreen Bistro application form is also available on

City of Guelph website under “Volunteer Opportunities.”


20

¨ Coffee volunteer: Volunteer at the

hot beverages counter in the dining

room throughout the week in the

morning or afternoon. This role

involves serving hot beverages,

cleaning tables and assisting patrons

when needed.

¨ Cash volunteer: Volunteer in the

dining room on the cash register

throughout the week in the morning or

afternoon taking payment from

patrons who enjoy lunch, snacks or

treats.

Temporary openings on Monday &

Thursday mornings from 8:45–

11:30 a.m.

¨ Food preparation and serving:

Volunteer in the kitchen, assisting the

chef with food preparation and serving

customers ordering food and eating in

or taking on the go.

Recent Passings

v Len Paxman, 101

v Patricia Paxman, 99

v Margaret Beale, 84

¨ Dishwasher: Volunteer in the kitchen

assisting with washing dishes using the

industrial dishwasher and completing

other tasks during the shift.

Opening on Wednesdays from

9:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

For more City of Guelph Volunteer

Opportunities or next steps, please

contact the volunteer coordinator

volunteer@guelph.ca.


21

EVERGREEN MARKETPLACE

S

ale ads will be left in for three issues

from first insertion. If you want to

leave it in longer, contact the Sentinel

office. (Let us also know if your item sells

so we can remove it.)

Accommodation or vehicle sale ads will

not be included here. Such ads will be

treated as advertising material inserted

within these pages at the current Sentinel

advertising rates.

For Sale

¨ Dog crate, folds flat, size

48”x30”x30”, $50. Call Jennifer (519)

824-7204.

¨ Sewing machine by Brother, includes

misc. sewing products, $50. Suitcases,

$10. Call Ray (519) 780-0462.

¨ Various items:

r Bowls and cups, $25

r Twin bed sheet set, $25

r Rubbermaid bins (4), $8 each

r Rubbermaid bin small, $4

r Box + quilt supplies, $24

r Painting supplies, $20

r Queen bedsheet sets (6), $25

r 4 throws, $20 each

r 10 embroidered table mats, $40

r 8 hand painted pieces, $15

Call Hariett (647) 200-6923.

¨ Piano, electric Yamaha portable, 61

keys, model PSR-E473, includes stand

and piano bench, $300. Call Joan

(519) 824-8519.

Classifieds

THE FOOT RETREAT

IN-HOME FOOT CARE SERVICES

Nail Trimming, Shaping, Exfoliation,

Moisturizing Treatments, Ingrown Toenail

Prevention, Foot Massages

Contact: Banna, RPN (519) 546-9553

NEED A CLEAN HOME? CALL THE CLEANING SHIFT

Professional, reliable cleaning service for your

home and office. Weekly, bi-weekly, or one

time deep cleans. Free estimate!

Call or email today: (519) 780-7669,

cleaningshift@gmail.com.

20% off for seniors providing own supplies

25% off for first time clean

LOOKING FOR A PERSONAL SUPPORT

WORKER/CAREGIVER/DRIVER?

Call Linda. I have over 25 years’ experience

in a nursing home. For more details, please

call (519) 400-8953 or email

lindasilberberg69@gmail.com.

REIKI ENERGY HEALING

Reiki is an alternative medicine modality that

helps with pain management, fatigue,

emotional well-being, and more. To learn

more and to book, visit

www.hnationwellness.com/reiki or

call Ashley at (519) 546-2207.

Seniors receive 20% discount on all services.

IN-HOME REFLEXOLOGY FOR SENIORS

Reflexology can help relieve pain and

improve circulation.

Liz Appleby (647) 888-0694

guidedwellnesswithliz@gmail.com

http://www.guidedwellnesswithliz.com/

Member of RCCO

Sliding scale fees for lower income seniors.


22

(Classifieds continued)

80-YEAR-OLD LOOKING FOR A 1:1 TUTOR FOR EXCEL

Great for student needing volunteer hours.

Willing to compensate.

Call Bob (Gramps) at (519) 994-3703 or

email Bobmar1945@gmail.com.


23



24

25

You’re Invited To Our Next Downsizing Seminar!

520 Victoria Rd N, Guelph N1E0E6

Discover Our Comprehensive Guide to Downsizing & Decluttering

We are here to assist you in making a smooth transition!

Discussion Topics:

Decluttering and Organizing Tips

Tackling Emotional Hurdles

Where to Sell or Donate Your Possessions

What to Expect When Selling Your Home

Should You Renovate Before Selling

Current Real Estate Market Trends

What is Stress-Free Independent Living

Tour Guelph Lake Commons

Dorothy Guerra,

Retirement Lifestyle Manager

Realtor

DorothyGuerra@bwliving.com

th

Oct 4 11:45-1:30

RSVP Call Dorothy Today 519-589-1187 Space is Limited!

1-5 Edinburgh Rd S, Guelph N1H5N8

Book A Free

Decluttering Consult

Attending this seminar was one of the best decisions my

husband and I made. We felt such relief in starting to

plan our move.

- Mary and Dave



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Getting an annual flu shot and

updated COVID-19 vaccine offers

the best protection from serious

illness during respiratory illness

season (October to April).

How to get your Fall vaccines:

• Contact your local Pharmacy

• Call your Family Doctor or

Primary Care Provider’s Clinic

Guelph FHT Clinics: guelphfht.com/clinics/

• Call WDG Public Heath at

1-800-265-7293 ext.7006

The Best Care for Everyone

www.guelphfht.com

Have feedback to share?

Take the Patient Experience

Survey at www.guelphfht.com

SCAN QR CODE

FREE Wellness Workshops happening in

October, presented by the Guelph Family

Health Team:

Calming Strategies webinar (VIRTUAL)

Date: Thursday, Oct 9 (Topic: Grounding)

Date: Thursday, Oct 23 (Topic: Mindfulness)

Time: 12:00 pm – 12:45 pm EST

Register online HERE

Register by phone: 519-837-4444, ext. 520

Let’s Talk About Food + Mood (IN-PERSON)

Date: Wednesday, Oct 8

Time: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm EST

Location: Suite 500 – 649 Scottsdale Drive, Guelph

Register online HERE


How to Have Hard Conversations: Death and

Dying (2 sessions, IN-PERSON)

Date: Wednesday, Oct 15, 22

Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm EST


Register online HERE (registration opens Sept 15)


SELF - Coping with Stress (2 sessions, IN-

PERSON)

Date: Thursday, Oct 23, 30

Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm EST




Intro to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - Part 2,

Depression & Anxiety (5 sessions, VIRTUAL)

Dates: Tuesday, Oct 28, Nov 4, 11, 18, 25

Time: 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm EST

Location: VIRTUAL webinar



View all the FREE Wellness Workshops online at

https://www.guelphfht.com/wellnessworkshops-and-programs/



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Easy

Aging

Walking with you step by

step on your Eldercare

Journey

Our services are currently available in

Guelph, Waterloo and the surrounding area

Easy-Aging is your one-stop shop for all your senior living needs.

We help you plan and navigate the aging journey with confidence—from

eldercare planning and care provider coordination to our specialty: technology

solutions that support aging in place. Our personalized approach ensures that

you and your loved ones have the tools, support, and peace of mind to make

aging not just safe, but also enjoyable and empowering.

Our Services

Eldercare

Planning

Senior Living

Navigation

** Ask us about our free LTC navigation promotion

Independence Boost

Tech as a Service for

Aging in Place

Contact Us

647-601-6622

info@easyaging.ca

Scan to learn more

about Easy-Aging

visit our website

www.easyaging.ca

BISTRO 683

Bistro 683 is the restaurant located inside

the Evergreen Seniors Community Centre.

It’s a great place to visit with friends and

enjoy a nutritious meal.

Hours

Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

(excluding holidays)

• Breakfast: 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

• Lunch: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

• Freezer meals can be

purchased until 4:30 p.m.

We’re always offering:

• Featured hot lunches

for only $7.50 +HST

• Rotating breakfast and

lunch menu

• Coffee and tea service

• Baked goods, soup,

sandwiches, burgers,

sausages

• Delicious frozen meals

for you to take home

Scan to view

our monthly

rotating menu

Evergreen Seniors Community Centre

683 Woolwich Street recreation@guelph.ca

519-837-5699 guelph.ca/bistro683


33


34

PUZZLES, GAMES & COMICS

Solution on page 37


35

Solutions on page 37



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October Sentinel 2025

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