Okotoks Seniors Corner By Val Thom and Emmie Jenkins Christmas markets and Light up festivities are all around — a timely reminder of the upcoming advent season. At the Okotoks and District Seniors Club, preparations are underway for the festive season's start with the annual Christmas dinner and dance on Monday, Dec. 3. This is the social highlight of the year for members, so don't delay getting tickets and come out for an excellent dinner and live music to show off your dance moves, and get into the spirit of advent. As usual this time of year, we are calling upon all the dedicated knitters in the club to make knitted articles for High River Hospital. There is an appeal out for more wool donations – the more wool, the more items for the Hospital Gift Shop, or for the local food bank Christmas hampers. Our many thanks go out to all the established and new program organizers at the Club. Just recently mahjong has been added is played every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon. It seems to be well attended. The Canasta group has an overflow of participants, and the organizers are most appreciative for all the help they receive with set-up, from the players. Speaking of overflow, the fitness groups on Tuesday and Thursday mornings may have to expand to the parking lot! There are so many in those groups that space is becoming an issue, but we'll never stop encouraging more or new members to join in. We will find space! Beverly Quail, a new volunteer at the Club, leads a “Gentle Fitness” class on Tuesdays and she also has a “not so traditional” yoga class one weekday morning. The men's group continues to walk twice a week and has a few new participants this Fall: more is always better here ! It is encouraging to see the increased numbers in physical activity programming at the club. Any member may join any of the fitness activities, by simply inquiring at the office. There are numerous programs to choose from, so drop in and find out what appeals to you – there is something for everyone. Our Senior Club would not function without active members, but like all establishments, finances for operating costs are essential. In the new year many club members will volunteer at our major fundraiser: Casino Days. The club is granted two casino days every three years and our turn is in early January. The money earned in those days covers a major part of our operating costs for a few years. It does involve a lot of volunteer time and accolades go out to all the members working these 2019 casino days. The Seniors Club will be closed for the Christmas season from Dec. 24 - Jan.2. This is a board decision and must be respected by all members. Could it possibly be an opportune time to include some Senior Club friends you may know and appreciate, in a Christmas get-together you have planned at your home? May the joy, love, peace, and hope of the Christmas season be shared among everyone in our club, and their families, this advent season and throughout the new year.
