centre piece - burlington...centre piece the printed, published and distributed by the city of...

Winter 2018/2019 Burlington Adult 55+ Magazine Volume 13, Issue 1

Centre PieceTHE

Printed, published and distributed by the City of Burlington Parks and Recreation Department for Adults 55+

burlington.ca/adult55

Learn more about our Boutique group and how you can join on page 25.

Unique Boutique!

Relax thisWinter

2016 Victoria Avenue, Burlington, ON L7R 1R4

Our of f ice is located in the neighbourhood

(905) 637-1509Seniors Discounts

L e t u s w o r r y a b o u t y o u rS n o w S h o v e l l i n g, C h r i s t m a s L i g h t s ,

H o m e M a i n t e n a n c e, a n d R e p a i r s .

1THE CENTRE PIECE / Winter 2018/2019

Our team

Customer Service Ext. 6336 or ext. 6337

Specialized Instructor – Day Trips and SocialsSara Parker, ext. 6343

Recreation Programmers Marcia Huibers, ext. 6340 Michael Gris - Food Services, ext. 6346

Recreation Coordinators Bruno Viacava, ext. 6248 Maddy Berki, ext. 6341

Supervisor of Recreation Mandy Newnham, ext. 6339

Adult 55+ locations

Aldershot Pool 50 Fairwood Pl. W. 905-637-5688

Brant Hills Community Centre 2255 Brant Street 905-335-7720

Burlington Seniors’ Centre 2285 New Street (Centre Park) 905-335-7888

Haber Community Centre 3040 Tim Dobbie Drive 905-335-7748

Mainway Ice Centre 4015 Mainway 905-336-1877

Mountainside Community Centre 2205 Mount Forest Dr. 905-332-6060

Tansley Woods Community Centre 1996 Itabashi Way 905-332-1996

Find us online

Burlington.ca/adult55 Burlington.ca/play BurlingtonParks&Rec @Burl_ParksRec @Burl_ParksRec

The Centre PieceVolume 13, Issue 1 Printed, published and distributed by the City of Burlington, Parks and Recreation Department for Adults 55+

On the Cover

The Boutique Group .......................................................................................................25

Features

Early Postal Service in Burlington ..................................................................................3

One Hour - Change a Life ................................................................................................5

Holiday Gift Ideas for Seniors ......................................................................................... 7

Is your home fire safe? .....................................................................................................9

City of Burlington receives Age-Friendly Community Recognition Award .............. 21

Meet Sara Parker ............................................................................................................23

Visiting Library Services Launches Cognitive Care Kits ............................................27

Showcase

Artist’s Corner ................................................................................................................. 10

Short Story: Yes, Virginia ............................................................................................... 13

Short Story: Lessons in a Barrel ................................................................................... 15

Poem: Snowflake .............................................................................................................17

Poem: One ........................................................................................................................17

Poem: In My Life Time ................................................................................................... 20

Lady Muskoka and Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh Day Trip .........................................24

In Every issue

You said…We did................................................................................................................2

Word Search .................................................................................................................... 19

From the Bistro ...............................................................................................................26

Socials, Happenings and Holidays ................................................................................28

Publishing of advertisements in The Centre Piece does not indicate endorsement or recommendation by the City of Burlington for any products or services featured in this magazine.

Contents

THE CENTRE PIECE / Winter 2018/20192

You said… We did:Adult 55+ Suggestion Box Feedback Burlington Seniors’ Centre

“The Bistro has been quite noisy since the recent renovations.”Please bear with us! Phase one of the Bistro renovation was completed during the summer shutdown and further improvements will be continuing in the coming months.

“Can we have a seminar on the operations of the AED’s? There are lots of opportunities for individuals to complete this training on their own in the community. Please feel free to contact Saint John’s Ambulance, Life Saving Society, The Red Cross, or other organizations if this is something you are interested in!

“Can we have more program offerings in Aldershot?”In Spring 2017 we started introducing 55+ programs to the Community Room at Aldershot Pool. We currently offer Yoga – Beginner and Chair Fitness program at that location. Let us know about other opportunities you would like to see!

“Why is there a two week wait to register for Non-Residents?” Non-Residents only have to wait 6 days after Burlington Residents to register! This has been in place since the Fall 2017 registration.

“Is there a way to register when I am away on holiday?”If you will be away on registration day there are a few different options available to you:1. If you have an internet connection, you can register online from wherever you are in the world! Visit: liveandplay.burlington.ca

to login.2. Leave your completed registration form with a friend or family member who is available to register you on registration launch

day; you can add a credit to your account ahead of time to pay for your courses.

“Can we have more Day Trips please?”We are working to make more day trips available. We have introduced a new line of day trips called “Discover Burlington Meet Ups” These trips are shorter, local, and cost less per person. Day Trip information is available in our brochure from the Customer Service Desk.

“Could you add a section of courses offered by the day of the week? Eg. All Monday classes with time and location, etc.?”With our new Program Registration and Facility Booking system you can now choose to filter the programs you see by day of the week. We will also make a listing of our programs by day available at the Customer Service desk starting Winter Registration for you.

“Parking for a Senior Facility must have different requirements for accessible parking spaces than other facilities”The city complies with all parking guidelines in all of its public parking including the Burlington Seniors’ Centre. However, we have ensured there is greater ease of access here by including additional spaces for persons with limited mobility that far exceeds the parking guidelines. We ask and encourage those who are able, including program instructors, to park in lots further away to leave space in the parking lot closest to the entrance available for those who cannot walk as far.


Early Postal Servicein BurlingtonBy: Joan Downey Burlington Historical Society

In this digital age we take instant communication for granted. The days of mailing letters to friends and family are gone. But, in earlier times the mail was a major form of communication.

In early Canada postal service was under control of British authorities. By 1816 there were only nine post offices in all of Upper Canada. The Post Office was created as a federal department in 1867.

Library & Archives Canada

Delivery of the mail was originally by stagecoach. The driver of the stagecoach put the mailbag under his seat or on top of the coach. Upon reaching a post office, the driver blew on his horn and threw the mailbag off. The postmaster emptied the bag, took out what was destined for his district and put the rest back, along with any outgoing mail which he had collected. Of course, in winter a sled replaced the stagecoach.

The mail was carried along Dundas Street (Hwy 5) which connected York (Toronto) to the head of the lake (Dundas). Dundas had been selected as a distributing point for mail to the country farther west.

The second post office on this route, established in 1822, was the Nelson Post Office at Hannahsville. Hannahsville, later named Nelson, was located at Guelph Line and Dundas Street. The first Postmaster was George Notman. This post office operated until 1 December 1913.

To avoid climbing the Niagara Escarpment on the way to Dundas, the route turned south at Nelson to the lake where it turned west. A post office was established at Wellington Square, now Burlington.

The Wellington Square Post Office opened in 1826 with Augustus Bates as Postmaster. Bates served as Postmaster until 6 October 1836 when Hiram Smith succeeded him in the position.

By 1836, the mail was carried on horseback between the Wellington Square and Nelson post offices. On 29 January 1836 a 4 year contract was signed between Augustus Bates and the Government to carry the mail between the post offices, twice weekly, for a “sum of 13 pounds of currency per Annum, in quarterly payments”.

In time, a number of post offices were established in the towns and villages which make up present day Burlington. These were usually located in the village store and included Lowville, Aldershot and Kilbride There were also post offices in the former villages of Port Nelson, Cumminsville, Tansley, Freeman, Appleby, Zimmerman, and others.

Continues on page 4


In 1871, Canada issued a post card which sold for one cent at the post office. Very quickly this became a popular method of communicating with friends and family. This postcard, dated 27 August 1904 was sent from Greece to Mr. W.F.W. Fisher in Burlington. Notice there is no street name and it was received by Mr. Fisher – without a postal code!

The Burlington Historical Society has a collection of approximately 350 postcards sent to the Fisher family.

Early Burlington Post Offices on Brant Street

ca 1900 – If you look closely you can see “Post Office” over the door

ca 1941

More recent history -

From stagecoach to carriers and postal trucks – Canada Post continues to deliver. @canadapost.ca

Bibliography:

Early Post Offices of the Oakville-Burlington Area, Max Rosenthal, BNA Topics, April 1963

Post Offices & Postmasters, Library & Archives Canada www.bac.lac.ga.ca

Unless otherwise noted, all photos are from the Burlington Historical Society Archives. The Archives are located at the Burlington Public Library, New Street in the History Room on the 2nd floor.

Join us on the second Monday of each month from January to May and September to November at 7 pm at the Burlington Public Library, Central Branch. n

The Burlington Historical Society, Founded 1899Website: www.burlingtonhistorical.ca Email: [email protected] Collection: http://burlingtonhistorical.ca/collections/archives/

Continued from page 3


One Hour - Change a LifeBy: Joanne Berrigan, Acclaim Health

Jeanine’s husband had passed away and she was living alone in her home in Montreal. Her family made the difficult decision to move Jeanine to Oakville to be closer to her daughter, Huguette. This meant giving up her family home and moving to a completely new community. Alone in her new apartment, while mourning the loss of her husband, friends and her family home, Jeanine “felt as though the walls were coming down on me”. Worried that Jeanine was lonely and declining very quickly, her daughter reached out to Acclaim Health seeking help. Jeanine was matched with Enis, a volunteer from the Friendly Visiting program. As a shy person, Jeanine was having a hard time meeting people in the area and was reluctant to try this program but she’s so glad she did. “This program has opened her up. Her true personality has really come out since then. The program is really a win-win. I get some respite from looking after mom and mom got involved with the community and has made a very important

personal connection,” says Huguette. As Enis puts it, “I come to visit because I really love to do it. I’m always waiting for the next visit to come because we have so much fun together. We’re always laughing and telling jokes.” They say it feels like an extended family. Jeanine also enjoys her visits with Enis and it’s clear they’ve made an incredible positive impact on her life, “I look forward to the visits all the time. It’s a very good program. Life is better now. Much better.” At Acclaim Health, we work with seniors in the Halton region, providing them with the highest quality of life possible. Strong social connections are one of the top factors for healthy aging, and our volunteer programs help seniors maintain those connections. One hour, once a week, will change someone’s life for the better. Acclaim Health’s volunteers are working with isolated seniors in the Halton region to change lives like Jeannine’s every day. n

The views expressed are those of Acclaim Health and do not necessarily reflect those of the Mississauga Halton Local Health Integration Network, the Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant Local Health Integration Network (HNHB LHIN) or the Government of Ontario.Charitable Registration Number: 11928 4602 RR0001.

Funded in part by: Acredited by:

ONE HOUR

CHANGE A LIFEIS ALL IT TAKES TO

Acclaim Health offers a wide variety of meaningful and rewarding volunteer opportunities, high quality education with ongoing support, and a variety of flexible hours. Volunteer position opportunities include:

WWW.ACCLAIMHEALTH.CA/VOLUNTEER • 905-827-8800 • 1-800-387-7127

FRIENDLY VISITING, MEMORY VISITING, BEREAVEMENT PEER SUPPORT VOLUNTEER,VOLUNTEERS AT OUR DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES, AND MORE


Ask a Senior Connector!

The Senior Connector program is a volunteer program offering resources and referrals to seniors and their families.

Senior volunteers provide face-to-face contact, connecting seniors with community information and services in Halton.

The Senior Connectors empower others with the knowledge to help them make informed decisions. Speak to a peer who is educated in providing senior support.

Find out about: • Information about services in your community• Housing Options• Volunteer Opportunities• Long Term Care, Retirement Living• Driver Renewal at age 80• And Much More!

For more information contact: Community Development Halton: (downstairs Bd. Room)

126 Plains Rd. E


Holiday Gift Ideas for SeniorsBy: Matt Del Vecchio, Certified Professional Consultant on Aging (CPCA)

Do you sometimes struggle to get the perfect gift for your elderly parent or grandparent? Inevitably, we get caught up in our day-to-day activities and before we know it, we find ourselves scrambling for a last minute gift for mom or grandpa. Perhaps they are also getting tired of the standard sweater, or pair of winter gloves, or slippers to add to their existing pile.

Here is a list of some holiday gift ideas for seniors that may be a little more appreciated than most:

Healthy Meals: There’s nothing better than a home-cooked meal by a relative that can be heated up when a senior is either not in the mood to cook, or having difficulty cooking. You can also offer one of the many home delivery meal services that are available throughout town.

Cleaning Service: Hiring someone to clean the house is always a welcome gift, particularly for seniors with mobility issues.

Home Caregiving Service: Many home caregiving services offer blocks of hours that can be purchased for a senior. They can help with daily living, such as cooking and preparing meals, light housekeeping, laundry, linens, and making the bed. For those who require greater care, services can include assistance with grooming, bathing, dressing, medicine management assistance, bed transfers, and much more.

Brain Games: It is always healthy to increase cognitive stimulation. Puzzles, crosswords, board games, and card games are all gifts that will keep the mind sharp.

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Audio books: These are ideal and convenient, particularly for seniors with vision challenges.

Memoirs: Seniors have a treasure trove of memories and they are very often proud to share their past.

Children admire their stories and inevitably learn something new that they will cherish forever. Constructing memoirs might involve compiling journals, video tributes, and photo albums. One of the fastest growing methods of creating


Helping seniors live with dignity and independence and

thrive in their communities.

We specialize in:Companionship Services

Transportation AssistanceGrocery Shopping, Errand Running

Vacation Home Checks

Website: www.burloakseniorsupport.caEmail: [email protected]

Call or email us to book your free 30 minute in-home consultation today!

Call us (289) 919-5370

memoirs is through voice recognition software that allows you to talk into a microphone and then convert to text on your computer.

Tablets and iPads: Seniors are becoming more and more comfortable with technology, especially if it means that they will be able to stay in closer and more frequent contact with family. Tablets are a convenient and practical gift.

Granchild technology lessons: What better way to get your child closer to your parents! Grandparents always love to have their grandchildren around. It is made even more special when the kids are able to teach their grandparents about the basics in technology. A “win-win” all around.

Mobile home pedicure: Foot care is important for seniors. Take advantage of the growing number of mobile services that will do the job in the comfort of your own home.

Gift of Time: This is perhaps the most valuable and appreciated gift. Whether it is doing the groceries, helping out around the house, or simply talking, this will make a world of difference for a senior. There is nothing like companionship and social interaction to brighten up their day. n

Matt Del Vecchio is a Certified Professional Consultant on Aging (CPCA). He is the founder and president of Lianas Services, a Canadian company that assists families and their senior loved ones with retirement home search and transition support (www.lianasservices.com). Matt can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 1-877-450-3365.


Is your home fire safe? The Burlington Fire Department can help.By: The Burlington Fire Department

Two of the most important things you can have in your home to protect you from fire are working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. Not only do they warn you if there’s smoke or carbon monoxide in your home, it’s the law that every home has them.

The Burlington Fire Department has a program, specifically for older adults, to help make it easy to install and maintain your home’s smoke and CO alarms. Join the Alarm Assistance Program to receive a free, annual home safety visit with firefighters from your local fire station.

Who is this program for? This program is offered to Burlington homeowners over the age of 65 or residents with a disability that prevents them from maintaining their home’s smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. This program is for people with no support network or agencies available to assist.

Why should I join the Alarm Assistance Program? • The program is free• The Burlington Fire Department will make sure your alarms

are installed properly in the best place to detect and warn you in the event of an emergency

• The Burlington Fire Department can help you stay safe in your home and give you peace of mind you’re protected with the right alarms

• The program is voluntary, so you can cancel at any time if you decide you don’t need or want the help

What can I expect during the visit? On-duty firefighters will arrive in a fire truck on the day of your scheduled visit and will:• Test your smoke alarms and CO alarms to make sure they are

working and are installed in the proper locations of your home.• Replace batteries in smoke and CO alarms, including back-

up batteries in hard-wired alarms.• Install/replace battery-operated smoke alarms and CO

alarms, as needed.

How can I sign up? Simply contact the Burlington Fire Department directly for more information and to find out if you’re eligible. Call: 905-637-8207, ext. 6236 or email: [email protected]. You may also be referred to the program by your doctor, a family member, friend or emergency responder.

Don’t put your safety on hold. Call us today. Learn more www.burlington.ca/AAP. n


Artist’s CornerShowcasing beautiful pieces crafted by program participants in our various arts programs.

Chippy by Coleen Tew Watercolour

Horses by Monique Malison Watercolour

Birds on a Birch Tree by Marion Burnson Watercolour


Loon by Garry Walduda

Wolf by Terry Slade

Jeep by Rosie Edwards


Want to showcase art that you’ve created in one of our Arts & Crafts programs? Contact us at [email protected]

Bird by Junee Teague

Wreath by Sharon Blakely


Yes, VirginiaBy: Glen Benison Creative Writing Workshop, Holiday Edition 55+ participant

Virginia,

While a friendship is one of the most important assets that we can possess in our lives, there are times when we are left to wonder why.

I, too, had friends who tried to shatter my belief in Santa Claus. I was a little older, then, than you are now.

Two of those friends teased me because of my belief and they tried hard to make me see their ways. One day we were at the mall with Robert’s mother and as she was getting a gift wrapped, we stood off to the side and watched Santa as he welcomed a line up of kids. My day to sit on Santa’s knee was still to come.

My two friends looked at Santa and snickered. “Look. He’s such a fake,” said one friend.

“You betcha,” replied the other.

I tried my best to avoid scrutinizing Santa so closely and, instead, I held my focus on the Christmas carols playing over the sound system.

When it came time for Santa’s break, he wandered off down a vacant hallway and we followed quietly behind.

Santa leaned into the exit door and held it ajar with his boot. My heart sank when he pulled a cigarette out of his pocket.

“Santa smokes?” I whispered.

Both my friends snorted.

And then I watched as Santa tugged at his beard. The whole

beard shifted, including the moustache, as if it were on an elastic. He pulled the full beard right down to beneath his chin and slipped the cigarette into his mouth.

“I told you,” shouted one of my friends, as they both laughed loudly and ran back towards my friend’s mother. I stood there with my mouth agape. Santa heard the commotion and turned to look directly at me. I wasn’t sure about the expression I read in his eyes but it certainly wasn’t that of a jolly, old man.

The next day my friends cornered me in the schoolyard and asked if I still believed. I couldn’t speak, but a voice inside me was whimpering.

“So,” one of my friends said, “if you still think Santa is real, how can you explain the elves at the North Pole? Do you really think that little men with pointed ears actually exist?”

“Well, yeah,” I said somewhat reluctantly, “that’s who makes the toys.”

The two boys laughed out loud again.

And then, Virginia, on the last day of school before the Christmas break, I walked home full of excitement. We had just had a really fun day in class and Christmas Eve was just two days away.

As I was coming up my street, carrying my knapsack in one hand and a gift I had made for my parents in the other, our neighbourhood bully approached me. Yes, Virginia, there were bullies when I was a kid and, back then, people didn’t do much to control them.

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The bully made fun of me. He laughed at my woolen hat that was pulled down over my ears and covered my eyebrows. He wasn’t wearing a hat and his ears were as red as cherry tomatoes. He made fun of my heavy boots and my long winter coat. He said I looked like an astronaut who was dressed to walk on the moon.

“How can you move in all that ugly stuff?” he sneered. “You are such a sissy.” The bully was wearing running shoes and a denim jacket that didn’t cover his waist.

I didn’t respond to him because I was scared and then he moved towards me and pushed me into the snowbank. I yelped. He laughed.

“Sissy, sissy,” he shouted.

My gift got crushed in the snow as I landed on top of it. I ran home and explained to my mother, when she asked, why I was so upset.

She tried to explain to me that the bully-boy had come from a much more difficult life than me. His father had abandoned the family a few years ago, leaving three young children behind with the mother. Mom said the boy’s mother couldn’t afford certain things that were normal for others and because of that, according to my Mom, the young boy turned nasty against the world around him.

On Christmas Eve, after I went to bed, I had trouble falling asleep. I kept thinking about my two friends’ insistence that Santa didn’t exist. I was troubled.

Later, I heard our front door open and close. I peered out my bedroom window into the heavy falling snow and, in the glow of the street lamp, I saw my father leaving our house and

walking down the street. He carried something under his arm. I wondered where he was going so late at night.

In the morning, once Father had first gone downstairs and given the ‘all clear’ that Santa had already been to our house, I charged down into the living room. The Christmas tree was beautifully lit up and presents were stacked beneath it. I ignored the gifts and the over-flowing stockings hung by the mantle. My eyes flittered towards the fireplace and I noticed that the plate that was put there last night was now empty except for cookie crumbs. An empty bottle of Ginger Ale sat beside the plate.

“Santa was here,” I shouted to my parents.

After lunch, as Mom and Dad were busy preparing for the turkey dinner, I went outside to play on the roadway with my brand new hockey stick and net. I saw the bully approaching and I felt a chill run through me.

“Hey,” said the bully, “Can I play with you?”

I looked at him quizzically. He wanted to play with me? I noticed that he was wearing a woolen hat pulled down over his ears. It was red, white, and blue and had the Montreal Canadiens’ team logo on the front. He wore a shiny pair of winter boots with thick treads. He also had a hockey stick, exactly like mine.

“Let’s play,” I said. And so we did.

When our fingers were frozen and our shortened breaths were vapourizing before us, he sat down on a snowbank and looked at me with his eyes wide and bright.

“Santa came to my house last night,” he said. “The first time ever.” A tear trickled from his eye.

Yes Virginia, I knew it right then. My two friends were wrong. n

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Lessons in a Barrel By: Robert English Memoir and Narrative Writing, Instructor: Kim DeBon

It was July 1952 and grade one finished only a couple of weeks before. Two doors away lived my best friend Ricky. The summer was a time of exploring, fun, and more exploring. We both had bikes and our days were like an army routine. Meet out front. Ride to the park. Check out the creek a mile away. If it was hot, put our bathing suits on and ride to the outdoor pool. If it was raining, check out Woolworths or the butcher or the hardware store. You see, back in those days, kids could freely roam the community without the dangers of today’s predatory society or the imposed fears created by paranoid mothers. Everybody knew everybody. The neighbourhood was bounded not by distance, but by time. As long as you made an appearance at lunch and were home for dinner before the streetlights came on, with no cuts that required stitches, everything was okay. Yes, those were the days when every morning was the start of a new adventure.

It was one of those hot summer rainy days and the hardware store on the corner was our target to explore. Oh, the

memories: the creaky, narrow planked hardwood floors that announced the arrival of each customer, the smell of a kerosene lamp oil that dropped on the counter, missing the tin cans brought in to be filled, and the canvas apron clad proprietor personally helping every customer. When he wasn’t helping a customer, he was cleaning or rearranging his stock. Cloth bags of grass seed were piled in one corner while hammers, axes, and wrenches with handwritten price tags sat displayed on a long table. Nails were ladled into brown paper bags and sold by the pound, and all rope was made from jute rather than synthetics. Leather gloves, buckets, and mops sat near the manual dinging cash register while plumbing and electrical parts were arranged on shelves behind the glass top counter.

We were too young to have interest in all those things, but seldom refused the opportunity to touch the saws and hammers, or try on work gloves that dwarfed our hands. As I look back, the proprietor was a good man.

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Every time we went into that hardware store, we were drawn to a wooden barrel full of medium brown biscuits, each no bigger than a plunker marble. A scoop lay on a small table beside the barrel with a sign mostly hidden behind a stack of wire. There was even a uniquely pleasant aroma that wafted off the contents. The biscuits became more interesting and compelling every time we went there. Our under-developed bravado overpowered our under-developed common sense. A plan was born. The next time we had the chance, we would go in the hardware store and while I distracted the owner with some dumb question, Ricky would steal two biscuits.

The next rainy day we went in and I asked the owner about the function of some obscure tool. He took great pride in telling me all about a set of carving chisels. In the meantime, I could see Ricky reach in the barrel and quickly grab two biscuits that looked like they were perfectly concealed in his small hand. When Ricky coughed, the agreed upon signal, we made our excuses and leave the store. The plan worked like a charm.

Less than a minute later, we stood behind the building gnawing on the hard brown biscuit. It wasn’t sweet and felt gritty on my tongue, so I spit it out. Ricky did the same. The plan may have worked, but the reward was awful.

Just after supper that night, there was a knock on the door. It was the hardware man along with Ricky and his father. After a couple of minutes talking to my father, the hardware owner departed, leaving Ricky, me, and our fathers alone. The next ten minutes was the perfect lesson.

“A dog biscuit. Why would you steal a dog biscuit?”

After five minutes of crying and several apologies later, we promised never to steal again.

I can still taste that dog biscuit. n




SnowflakeBy: Bev Heilbron Poetry Circle 55+, Instructor: Kim DeBon

She is a snowflake -The juxtaposition of winter.From a child’s delight sprinkled from the heavensTo many an adult’s annual torment, almost a curse.

She arrives with no clang or clatterLanding more gently than a butterfly -Less aromatic than clean, fresh airAnd totally tasteless on the tongue.

She pounds her anger on busy cities,Shovels paining to clear sidewalks -Needing a push off fragile roofs.Piles heavy, piled deep, piling higher.

She turns a dull world into a wonderland -Dirt roads now gauze highways,Sleighs carrying red-cheeked passengersPast green fields now tissue white.

She demands that motorists grip steering wheelsDrivers pump brakes, trying to stop,Eyes wide open watching for skidders,Praying for the heavens to stop.

She is a snowflake.A winter without herIs a long romance novel without any words on the page. n

OneBy: Robert English Poetry Circle 55+, Instructor: Kim DeBon

Spare me but one seed from the field of friendship

So that I may nurture a crop of love.

Allow me but one drop of wine from the vines of kindness

So that I may moisten the rag of understanding.

Share with me one leaf in the forest of meaning

so that I may teach others respect.

Grace me with one ray of sunshine from the sky of hope

So that I may comfort those in need.

Place upon me one touch from the Creator

So that I may have peace of mind. n


Turn to page 27 for answers.

Word Search: Snow around the world


In My Life TimeBy: Bev Heilbron Poets’ Circle: Instructor, Kim DeBon

In my life time, women couldn’t go out at night alone.In my life time, women were not believed to be raped,But in my life time, sexual assault was re-examined and perpetrators were prosecuted,And In my life time, sexual orientation was decriminalized.

In my life time, women needed their husband’s permission to travel.In my life time, women couldn’t obtain an abortion,But, in my life time, birth control became available without a husband’s consent,And in my life time, child support became mandatory.

In my life time, married women couldn’t work outside the home,In my life time, women couldn’t get a mortgage, buy a car or get a bank loan,But in my life time, women could run for public office,And in my life time, a doctor, lawyer, pilot or magistrate could be female.

In my life time, women were restricted to positions with 70% of the salary.In my life time, women could not wear pants to work,But in my life time, the designation of “ess” disappeared, as in actress, stewardess.And in my life time, jeans were made to fit women.

In my life time, brave young women began “Me Too” to expose the enormity of abuse.In my life time, women speak freely without fear of reprisal,In my life time, I have watched my daughters flourish and reach goals.But in my life time, I have hopes for all women to reach this plateau where there is no glass ceiling and where women are accepted for who they are -equal and unafraid to speak their truth. n

#1158989 Contact your Local Travel Agent to make your reservations today! Contact your Local Travel Agent to make your reservations today! Contact your Local Travel Agent to make your reservations today!

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73 14th Ave, Hanover, ON N4N 3W9

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Free Shuttle Service to join any tour from local pick up points

Departs Feb 20 or Mar 13* Explore amazing landscapes created by nature and wonders designed by man to adapt to such a unique terrain. Discover the cities & canyons of this great state including 4 nights in Tucson and 3 nights in Phoenix. City tours, tram ride and Steamboat Cruise let us delight in the marvelous vistas from all angles. Experience the history the “Old West” still holds and the magical energy of Las Vegas. Our journey takes us to the best of Arizona and beyond! Twin per person $4,689.00 CDN HST does not apply *Mar surcharge 120.00 per person

Best of Arizona 22 Days

Departs Apr 2 -A lush tropical journey boasting truly unique wildlife, volcanos and vegetation. Explore waterways, forests and mountain ranges all offering magnificent vistas! Protected land ensures a natural habitat for the Toucans, monkeys & sloths, just to

name a few. Volcanoes, waterfalls, Natural Hot Springs, & a tremendous canopy present an exceptional adventure. The hospitality of this tropical paradise is beyond extraordinary & the experience of all that

it offers is amazing! Twin per person $5,669.00 CDN incl. all taxes & Round Trip Air from Toronto

Departs Mar 15 - Amazing experiences, fabulous food & relaxation are all on the itinerary! Grand Ole Opry gets our toes tapping and the Bayou enchants as we discover on board an air boat. Exploring the Gulf

Coast of Biloxi and its vast diversity takes us to a Gator Ranch, a Shrimp Boat excursion, amazing Bellingrath gardens and mansion, and of course the beach! Revel in the easiness of the deep south! Twin per person

$2,299.00 CDN HST does not apply

Costa Rica 12 Days

Mississippi Beach 10 Days


City of Burlington receives Age-Friendly Community Recognition Award By: Jim Thurston Chair, BSAC

Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee was in attendance this past spring in Toronto when the City of Burlington received its well-deserved Age-Friendly Community Recognition Award from the Hon. Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs. The award was presented at the first ever Ontario Age-Friendly Communities Symposium in March, which brought together communities that were granted funds to develop strategies to create more enabling age-friendly environments and services.

The development of the Active Aging Plan, which was adopted by Council in July 2017, honours Burlington’s work in this area. To quote Mayor Rick Goldring: “The Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee was a critical part of developing this strategy, and they continue to do a tremendous amount of work advocating for seniors”.

From left to right: Hon. Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs, Mandy Newnham, Supervisor of Recreation – Adult Programs, Jim Thurston, Chair, BSAC



Thank you to Community Development Halton’s Manager of Age-Friendly Initiatives Heather Thompson, and community members Ancilla Ho-Young and Hilda Thomas, who helped to support BSAC’s nomination to the Ministry of Senior Affairs. Their letters of support and testimonials documented the value of the age-friendly community work already underway and helped to support BSAC’s nomination.

The Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee sees this award not as an end to a lot of hard work, but just a beginning to the development of a more age-friendly community. The Active Aging Plan is a living document intended to evolve with the community and provide actionable changes to improve the lives of Older Adults in Burlington.

For more information on the Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee or to view the Active Aging Plan, visit our website at burlington.ca/BSAC. A hardcopy of the Active Aging Plan can also be picked up from the Burlington Seniors’ Centre.

Recruitment for volunteer roles on City of Burlington Committees or Boards is now underway! If you would be interested in volunteering on a citizen advisory committee to contribute to projects, initiative or have a council advisory role, apply online at burlington.ca/volunteer by November 23, 2018. n


From left to right: Mandy Newnham, Supervisor of Recreation – Adult Programs,

Rob Axiak, Manager, Recreation Services, Sheila Burton, Chair, BSAC Advocacy Sub-committee,

Jim Thurston, Chair, BSAC


Meet Sara ParkerBy: Sara Parker Specialized Instructor – Day Trips and Socials

The Adult Programming Team is excited to introduce you to the newest member of our team! Sara Parker began working with us in May 2018 and is our Specialized Instructor for Day Trips and Socials and has also recently accepted the position of Assistant Cook in the Food Services area. Learn a little more about Sara and the great energy she brings to her positions:

Having grown up in the Burlington and Hamilton area I feel a strong connection to the Burlington Seniors’ Centre. My Great Grandfather Willoughby met his second wife at the Burlington Seniors’ Centre in 1982 and our very large family celebrated their wedding in this building. He brought 11 adult children to the marriage and she brought 6. My parents grew up in Burlington and the vast majority of my 37 immediate cousins continue to live in the community. I grew up skating for the precision teams in the Hamilton & Burlington Arenas. The memories from those years fill my heart and I am thankful that we did not have any social media back then. The hair in those days was far too big for pictures!

Currently I live in Ancaster with my Husband John and Judy the Wonder Dog. We love all things Golf, Football and Netflix. Our dream trip would be aboard a Viking Cruise and we are open to suggestions. We love hearing about travels and adventures that others have enjoyed.

I have worked in and managed many local restaurants over the years including the Poacher and Joe Dogs. I became a Wine Specialist while employed in wineries and that led me to become a Tea Sommelier. The world of Tea and Wine is really quite similar. From the subtle tasting notes, elements of terroir, vast health benefits and social etiquette, the properties of Tea and Wine compliment one another perfectly.

My love for tea empowered me to venture out on my own and open a small tea room in Stoney Creek Ontario. This adventure allowed me the opportunity to engage with the community and organize numerous social events, markets and festivals. I had found my happy place and my passion. And then, My Husband

was transferred to beautiful British Columbia. We sold the business and headed west. We enjoyed the mountains and ocean for a few years before returning home to Burlington to be with family and embark on our new adventures.

I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve the wonderful members of the Burlington Seniors’ Centre. The energy in this building is contagious and I look forward to joining forces with the invaluable volunteers so that we may organize fun and exciting social events, gatherings and outings for all to enjoy.

Recently I have stepped into a new position in the Bistro to assist Chef Michael and join his Food Service team. Currently I am baking scones some mornings but I hope to roll up my sleeves and help out a bit more in the future.

If you see me in the Centre please do not hesitate to bend my ear with any ideas for social events or suggestions for daytrip destinations. I look forward to many new friendships and I’m excited to welcome new volunteers to the Bistro team and social committees.

Cheers, Sara n

Sara Parker, Specialized Instructor – Day Trips and Socials


Square Dancing Workshop Learn to Square Dance by professional caller Bill Everett. All you need to know if your left hand from your right hand and he will lead you through the rest. Flat shoes are recommended. Singles are welcome.

Burlington Seniors’ Centre, Auditorium Thursday November 29, 3:30-5:00pm Course ID: 00011852 Fee: $4.50 M

Lady Muskoka and Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh Day TripBy: Sara Parker Specialized Instructor – Day Trips and Socials

It was a crisp and sunny morning in September when we boarded our luxury coach bus bound for beautiful Muskoka. Our wonderful driver Chris made the drive smooth and care free. We arrived in Muskoka at about 11am to begin our adventure upon the Lady Muskoka Cruise of the Muskoka River and Millionaires Row. We enjoyed a lovely lunch and beautiful scenery while the captain shared some local stories and trivia.

Our next stop was Johnston’s’ Cranberry Marsh for some wine tasting and a train ride around the marsh. The gift shop was packed with many yummy treats and local crafts just in time for Thanksgiving shopping. We boarded the coach for the journey home with a quick stop in Barrie. It was a great day and the company of friends made it extra special.

An interview with Isabella Kynaston, Muskoka Day Trip participant by Sara Parker:

SP: Why did you want to join this trip?

IK: “I have never been to Muskoka and I thought it would be a nice to go. There were many Bistro friends going so that made it even more appealing”

SP: What was your favourite part of the day?

IK: “2 things actually. The boat ride was really pretty & calm. The top of the boat was the best with the view of the big expensive houses that I would hate to clean. The cranberry marsh was really neat, oh I liked that”

SP: What did you learn?

IK: “I learned that bears really do like honey. The workers at the marsh built bee hives and the Bears ruined them. The workers built electrical fencing around the hives and the Bears still got into the honey. I learned that white cranberries are fresher than the red, that cranberries grow on the ground not in a bush and that they flood the marsh in winter to make community skating rinks. ”

SP: It was a long day how did you cope?

IK: “Yes it was a long day but it didn’t feel long until the last stop in Barrie. I was never bored and I enjoyed the whole day. I would do it again”

SP: Thank you so much for the interview. I agree the day was really great and we will not stop on the way home next time.

I will just bring more snacks and better jokes for the ride home.

Join us for our upcoming Day Trips:

The Wine and Dine in Niagara-On-The-Lake Nov. 27, 2018

Holiday Traditions, Trains and Afternoon Tea at the RBG Dec. 11, 2018

Winter Warm Up Mystery Tour Feb. 13, 2019 n


The Boutique GroupBy: Maddy Berki Recreation Coordinator

If you’ve been to the Burlington Seniors’ Centre then you have certainly seen the display cases showcasing the lovely knit toddler sweaters, cozy hats and mitts, beautiful baby quilts and tenderly crocheted blankets and stuffed animals. The items in these display cases are hand crafted by the “Boutique Group” (or “Boutique Ladies” as they are sometimes known) and available for sale at the Burlington Seniors’ Centre, with all proceeds being donated back to the centre.

The Boutique is a group of about 30 volunteers who drop-in to the Burlington Seniors’ Centre on Thursdays between 9am and 1pm to knit, crochet, and quilt together. Some volunteers come every week, while others choose to come less often. One lady is no longer able to attend but the lovely baby sets she makes from home are a best seller. Everyone works on their own project, having the opportunity to chat and socialize with those sitting near them throughout the morning and with years and years of experience in the room, there is always someone to turn to for advice, help with a stitch or problem solving on a project.

A few times a year, the Boutique Group host a sale in the lobby at the Burlington Seniors’ Centre where you can shop tables brimming with scarves, socks, hats, mitts, sweaters, quilts, dishcloths, small sewing projects such as aprons, placemats, household items and so much more. Through these sales, as well as daily sales from the display cabinets, this group

raises about $10,000 each year which is donated back to the Burlington Seniors’ Centre to support equipment purchases and enhancements that will benefit all those who enjoy the centre. In years past, money raised by this group has supported the purchase of new grand Christmas Tree and Decorations, Hot Plate warmer for Social Events and Breakfast @ the Bistro, new table cloths for Duplicate Bridge Players, installation of Dixie Cups and holders in the washrooms for anyone who may need them to take medication, and more.

New volunteers and new ideas are always welcome to the Boutique group! If you love to knit, crochet or quilt, consider volunteering your time to join this fun, social group. Examples of the work this group creates can be seen in the display cases by the Front Desk at the Burlington Seniors’ Centre, the Boutique mostly focuses on creating baby and toddler items. All materials are provided and all crafted items are sold to support the centre. A Burlington Seniors’ Membership is not required to join the Boutique Group, just your crafting skills and willingness to donate your time.

If you’re interested in joining the Boutique Group, please complete a volunteer application form in person at the Burlington Seniors’ Centre or online at burlington.ca/volunteer. Or you are welcome to drop-in on a Thursday morning to meet the group and ask any questions you may have! n


From the BistroBy: Michael Gris Recreation Programmer – Food Services

My favorite memories of the holiday season centre around family gatherings, the star of which were the amazing selection of foods such as spicy sausage with peppers and onions, a dozen different kinds of pasta and pizza, licorice flavored cookies called pizzelle and fresh baked breads of all shapes and sizes. (In case you didn’t already know, I come from Italian ancestry ).

How does a Chinese Wonton fit into this Christmas food story then?

A very dear elementary school teacher made them one year for my older brother David and shared her family’s guarded recipe with our family. He was so proud of this treasured secret that he convinced my mother to make them that year and include them for the entire family to have at our holiday feast. They were an instant hit then and continue to be many decades later. Note: you can certainly substitute beef or even ground chicken for the pork. Refrigerate any leftovers promptly.

Crispy Chinese Wontons

Ingredients

1 pound ground pork

½ cup diced green onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon ground black pepper

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 (14 ounce) package wonton wrappers

1 egg, beaten

1 quart canola oil for frying

Method

Mix all ingredients together (except wrappers and oil). Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Heat oil to 350. Place wrapper on work surface, using the tip of your finger, rub water around the entire edge of wonton. Make sure as you are working to cover the remaining wrappers with a damp cloth or paper towel to prevent from drying. Place a ½ teaspoon or so of your filling in the centre. Begin to fold wrapper over filling to form a triangle. Then fold the three remaining corners into the centre and dab with a bit of water. Make sure wonton is sealed all the way around. After you have made a dozen or so, begin to drop in the hot oil. Wontons should take about 4 minutes or so to cook. They will turn golden brown and will be crispy. You can keep them warm in a low oven for up to an hour, they will lose some crispness as they sit. Serve with plum sauce or extra soy sauce. If you don’t want to fry them, you can cook them in boiling stock or even water, of course they won’t be crispy. Enjoy! n

Crispy Chinese Wontons

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View the Bistro’s Monthly Special Menu online at burlington.ca/adult55.


Visiting Library Services Launches Cognitive Care KitsBy: Suzanne Acharya, MLIS Community and Programming Librarian, Visiting Library Services

Burlington Public Libraries Visiting Library Services is proud to announce the launch of their Cognitive Care Kits!

These kits have been created to help support the interests, skills and abilities of those living with dementia or cognitive impairment and to bring enjoyment to their lives through leisure activities. Included in the kits are specially prepared books, workbooks, games, puzzles and memory prompts to encourage social engagement, retain gross and fine motor skills, and to promote fun and success!

Kits are available to borrowed by any library customer for a 3-week period, and may be booked through Visiting Library

Services at 905-639-3611, ext. 1304. An initial half-hour appointment with a VLS staff member is required in order to train customers on how to use the kits for the greatest success.

I have attached a digital poster for you to print out and display on your bulletin boards or use at your discretion. BPL is at the forefront of bringing support materials of this kind to the general public and we are proud to be serving the needs of our community.

Call Visiting Library Services to book kits for early, mid, and late-stage dementia: 905-639-3611, ext. 1304. n

Advertise in The Centre PieceBurlington Adult 55+ Magazine

The Centre Piece is published twice a year with distribution in the Spring and Fall. Over 1,300 copies are printed and distributed quarterly to our community centres and enjoyed by our older adult participants and members.

If you are interested in placing an advertisement in The Centre Piece Magazine please contact Maddy Berki at [email protected] for information on deadlines and pricing. n


Socials, Happenings and HolidaysCity of Burlington

Nov. 19 ........... Foot Care Clinic, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

Nov. 27 ........... The Wine and Dine in Niagara Day Trip

Nov. 30 .......... Dinner @ the Bistro, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

Dec. 8 ............. Breakfast @ the Bistro with Gospel Choir

Dec. 10 ........... Hearing Screening, Music Centre

Dec. 11 ............ Holiday Traditions and Afternoon Tea at the RBG Day Trip

Dec. 15 ........... Christmas Dinner

Dec. 24-Jan. 1 .. Holiday Closure at maintenance at Burlington Seniors’ Centre – no programs

Jan. 7 .............. Foot Care Clinic, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

Jan. 12 ............ Breakfast @ the Bistro with The Silver Swing Band

Jan. 19 ............ Robbie Burns Supper, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

Jan. 25 ............ Dinner @ the Bistro, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

Feb. 9 ............ Breakfast @ the Bistro with FootNotes

Feb. 11 ........... Hearing Screening, Music Centre

Feb. 13........... Winter Warm Up Mystery Tour

Feb. 18 .......... Family Day – no programs

Feb. 22 .......... Dinner @ the Bistro, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

Feb. 23 .......... Registration Launch Day, Spring and Summer 2019 Programs

Feb. 25 .......... Foot Care Clinic, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

March 9.......... Breakfast @ the Bistro with Golden Horseshoe Women’s Chorus

March 29 ....... Dinner @ the Bistro, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

April 1 ............. Spring 2019 program session begins

April 6 ............ Breakfast @ the Bistro with Escapade Trio

April 7-13 ....... National Volunteer Week

April 8 ............ Foot Care Clinic, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

April 8 ............ Hearing Screening, Music Centre

April 11 ........... Volunteer Appreciation Night

April 12 ........... Dinner @ the Bistro, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

April 19........... Good Friday – no programs

April 22 .......... Easter Monday – no programs

May 4 ............. Breakfast @ the Bistro with Dixieland Plus

May 20 ........... Victoria Day – no programs

May 27 ........... Foot Care Clinic, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

May 31 ............ Dinner @ the Bistro, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

June 8 ............ Breakfast @ the Bistro with Rich Harmony Choir

June 21 ........... Dinner @ the Bistro, Burlington Seniors’ Centre

centre piece - burlington...centre piece the printed, published and distributed by the city of...

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