free and low cost guide here
Transcription
free and low cost guide here
ELGIN COUNTY & ST. THOMAS Free & Low Cost ACTIVITY GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS & INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION KIDSPORT Active Elgin is happy to give the people of Elgin County and St. Thomas a special feature guide showing free and low cost activities. The Free and Low Cost Guide provides a listing of activities for all ages to join in and stay active for a small fee or for FREE! Active Elgin knows that sometimes sports can cost a lot of money to play. This guide also gives you information on ways that you can receive money to help with the costs of some sports. Don’t forget to visit www.activeelgin.ca where you can find information on all of the over 250 sport, recreation, and leisure activities offered in Elgin-St. Thomas. KidSport is a national program that helps children and youth in financial need to participate in organized sport. The grant covers up to $250 dollars per year for registration fees and personal sport equipment for a child. For hockey, the grant provides funds up to $500 per child which is funded through the Hyundai Hockey Helpers program. Residents of Elgin St. Thomas may access support through the London office at 519-438-7203 x370. For the KidSport Ontario Grant Guidelines and application form go to www. kidsportcanada.ca and click on ‘How to Apply’. TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 2 FINANCIAL HELP PAGES 3-8 WESTERN REGION ACTIVITIES CANADIAN TIRE JUMPSTART Canadian Tire Jumpstart is a national program dedicated to making it possible for children to be able to participate in organized sport and recreation by helping to remove financial barriers. Each child’s financial needs are different so the grant will help cover registration, equipment and/or travel costs for children ages 4 to 18 years. West Elgin, Dutton Dunwich & Southwold The National network has local offices with volunteer members that are committed to helping get kids active and healthy. PAGES 9-20 Children are able to select the program they are interested to participate in. Some of the 73 sport and recreations activities that have been supported by the Canadian Tire Jumpstart include hockey, swimming, soccer, basketball, dance, yoga, climbing and martial arts. CENTRAL REGION ACTIVITIES Central Elgin & St. Thomas PAGES 21-23 EASTERN REGION ACTIVITIES Aylmer, Malahide & Bayham ACCURACY OF INFORMATION While every effort is made to maintain the accuracy of these listings, activity availability and details may change. Please contact each service provider using the contact information provided in their listing for up-to-date information. SHADED LISTINGS INDICATE FREE ACTIVITIES If you would like to apply for your child to receive assistance, contact one of the local chapters below. For residents living in St. Thomas contact: Katie Payler, YMCA St. Thomas-Elgin, 519-631-2418 ext. 226 For residents living in East Elgin contact: East Elgin Community Complex , 519-773-5631 Applications can be submitted from January 15 to June 1 for spring/summer programs, and from July 1 to November 1 for fall/winter programs. You will need to be prepared to provide the following information when you call your local representative: •• Your contact information. •• Details of the sport or recreational activity your child would like to participate in. •• Financial information may be required to prove funding eligibility. All information received is kept confidential. Applicants will be notified by the local Canadian Tire Jumpstart office representative if they are approved or if further information is required. For more information, visit jumpstart.canadiantire.ca Cover photo credits: fotolia.com/corbis_fancy, istockphoto.com/blyjak, istockphoto.com/quavondo, istockphoto.com/anatols, fotolia.com/maksim kostenko, fotolia.com/maureen rigdon, fotolia.com/yanlev, fotolia.com/BlueSkyImages, istockphoto.com/kate_sept2004 2 FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca WESTERN CENTRAL REGION S helley Crawford, 519-762-3750, www.cadets.ca A rmy Cadets Teens • Ages 12-19. Thurs 6:30-9pm. Physical training, leadership training, orienteering, marksmanship and hiking. Weekend trips and outdoor skills. Uniforms provided. Summer camps (4-6 weeks) available across Canada and internationally. Cost: Free Adult Basketball est Elgin Secondary School, W 139 Graham St, West Lorne, 519-768-1350 Ron Wilkins, 519-768-2530 Adult Basketball Adults • Mon nights in the fall and winter season. Bring running shoes. Basketballs are provided. For adults of all ages to practise their basketball skills and get exercise. Cost: $50/person/season Adult Recreational Volleyball est Elgin Secondary School, W 139 Graham St, West Lorne, 519-768-1350 Paul Dupuis, 519-768-1500 Adult Recreational Volleyball League Adults • Co-ed recreational volleyball for adults 25+. Wed evenings, 7:30-9:30pm, Oct to Mar. Cost: $25/year Dutton Cooperative Child Care Centre utton Co-Operative Child Care Centre, 3 Lions Rd, Dutton D P am Wardell, 519-762-2399, www.duttonchildcare.ca S ummer Camp, Before & After School Programs Children • Children 6-12. Includes swimming 3 times/ week, games and activities. Morning and afternoon snacks plus a hot lunch is included in the daily rate. Field trips are an additional fee. Centre is open from 7am-6pm Mon-Fri. Closed on Jul 1 and the Civic holiday in Aug. Before & After School Programs offered at Dunwich-Dutton and Aldborough PS. Cost: $29.50/day, plus field trips Dutton Dunwich Horticultural Society St. John’s United Church, Dutton Dutton Dunwich Parks & Recreation utton Dunwich Community Centre, D 1 Scotland St, Dutton, 519-762-3209 Katie Ambrose, 519-762-3209 Adult Swim Adults, Seniors • 8:30-9:30pm Tues & Thurs, July & Aug. Prices and times are subject to change. Call for details. Cost: $3/swim Drop-in Co-ed Volleyball A dults • Offered in winter, once a week, indoors. For those who want to come out to practise and play for fun. Tues nights starting Nov 12, 6:30-8pm. Cost: $2.25/participant Men’s Floor Hockey A dults • Open over the winter and offered weekly (pending availability). Private rentals only. Cost: $25/hour rental fee Walking Program A ll Ages • Mon-Fri weekly, holidays excluded, 9-10:30am, beginning Sept 9. Cost: $0.25 Dutton Dunwich Seniors Centre utton Dunwich Senior’s Centre, 185 Main St, Dutton D L ouie Lackey, 519-762-2364 C ard Games Seniors • All welcome! Various card games including pepper and bridge. Cost: $5 initial membership, suggested donation $1/activity Quilting Group S eniors • Mon afternoons from 1-4pm. ost: $5 initial membership, suggested donation C $1/activity ©istockphoto.com/Alan Orr 2884 West Elgin Army Cadet Corps oyal Cdn Legion Branch 525, 177 Victoria St, Rodney R St. Joseph’s Catholic High School, 100 Bill Martyn Pkwy, St. Thomas, 519-675-4434 Gail Driscoll, 519-762-3315, www.gardenontario.org Gardening All Ages • Meet third Mon of every month, except July and Aug. Maintaining the gardens of Dutton Dunwich. Cost: $10/year membership SHADED LISTINGS INDICATE FREE ACTIVITIES FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca3 CENTRAL REGION WESTERN REGION Elgin County Library 1 0 Branches: •• Aylmer Old Town Hall Library, 38 John St S, Aylmer, 519-773-2439 •• Belmont Public Library, 14134 Belmont Rd, Belmont •• Fred Bodsworth Library, 21 Pitt St, Port Burwell, 519-874-4754 •• John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library, 236 Shakelton St, Dutton •• Port Stanley Library, 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley, 519-782-4241 •• Rodney Library, 207 Furnival Rd, Rodney, 519-785-2100 •• Shedden Library, 9557 Union Rd, Shedden, 519-764-2081 •• Springfield Library, 12105 Whittaker Rd, Springfield, 519-765-4515 •• Straffordville Library, 9366 Plank Rd, Straffordville, 519-866-3584 •• West Lorne Library, 160 Main St, West Lorne, 519-768-1150 Elgin County Library, 519-631-1460, www.elgincounty.ca/library Baby/Infant Programs ©istockphoto.com/kate_sept2004 Under 5 • At Aylmer, Belmont, Dutton, Port Stanley, Shedden, Springfield & Straffordville branches. Aylmer: Mon,Tues & Thurs 10-10:30am. Dutton: Baby & Me (ages 6 months-2 years) Tues 10:3011am. Dutton: Family & Me (ages 2-5), Fri 10:3011:15am. Springfield: Thurs 10:30-11:30am, Oct to May. Belmont: Tues 10:30-11:30am. Port Stanley & Shedden: Infants are welcome at preschool storytime programs. Straffordville: Baby & Me Mon 10:30-11am. Cost: Free Boys Club hildren • At Rodney, Straffordville & West Lorne C branches. An hour of fun for boys (grades 4-6). Straffordville: every 3rd Mon 6:30-7:30pm. Rodney: first Tues of the month 5-6pm. West Lorne: first Tues of the month 4-5pm. Cost: Free/minimal Computer Lessons A ll Ages • At all branches. Free group and individual lessons on our Community Access Site (CAS) computers by our Youth Intern (YI) students. Topics include basic computer usage, email, internet searching, etc. Call your local branch to register and to make an appointment. Come and learn about our Cyber Camps. Sept to Mar. Cost: Free Girls Club hildren • At Dutton, Rodney, Straffordville & West C Lorne branches. An hour of fun for girls aged 9-12. Straffordville: every third Thurs 6:30-7:30pm. Dutton: every third Thurs 4-5pm. Rodney: last Tues of the month 5-6pm. West Lorne: first Tues of the month 4-5pm. Cost: Free/minimal Kids Club hildren • At Port Stanley, Rodney, Springfield, C Straffordville & West Lorne branches. A fun-filled program for children (grades 1-3) that focuses on reading, songs and crafts. Straffordville: Kids Korner first Tues of each month 6:30-7:30pm (Oct to May). Port Stanley: Mon evenings 6-6:45pm (Sept to May). Rodney: Tues 4-5pm. West Lorne: Thurs 4-5pm. Cost: Free/minimal Mother/Daughter Book Club T eens, Children • At Aylmer, Dutton & Straffordville branches. Mother/guardian and daughter read the book of the month and share their thoughts. Aylmer: for girls ages 12+, third Thurs of each month at 6:30pm. Dutton: for girls grades 4-6, second Thurs of each month at 6:30pm. Straffordville: third Thurs of the month at 6:30pm. Cost: Free Pre-School Story Time nder 5 • At all branches. Come and join us for a U fun-filled morning with stories, songs and crafts. Caregivers are encouraged to allow children to attend and participate on their own but must remain in the library at all times. Please call your local branch for more information on dates and times. Cost: Free Seniors Book Club S eniors • At West Lorne branch only. Visit the library for a lively discussion about books and authors. Last Tues of each month, 2:30-3:30pm. Cost: Free 4 FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca WESTERN CENTRAL REGION Summer Reading Club hildren • At all branches. A fun way to keep C school-age children interested in reading over the summer months. Each branch has a variety of activities that encourage reading through fun activities and programs based on a Summer Reading Club theme. Check our web site or your local branch for more information and dates. Cost: Free Teen Summer Reading Club T eens • At Aylmer, Belmont, Port Burwell, Dutton, Rodney, Springfield, Straffordville & West Lorne branches. Teens are encouraged to read, relax and have fun during the summer (July-Aug) and win lots of prizes! Call your local branch or check our web site for more information on dates and events. Cost: Free Wii at the Library A ll Ages • At Dutton, Port Stanley & Shedden branches. Dutton: Wii drop-in available on most PD days and Sats. Port Stanley: Wii is available during open hours. Shedden: Wii is available during open hours. All other branches: call the library or check our web site for more details on special events. Cost: Free Winter Reading Club A ll Ages • At all branches. The Winter Reading Club in Jan and Feb is focused on families reading and having fun together at the library. Call your library or check our web site for more information on dates, times and events. Cost: Free ©istockphoto.com/monkeybusinessimages Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority Crane Conservation Area, 10588 Iona Rd, Southwold Rodney & District Horticultural Society Royal Canadian Legion Branch 525, Pearce Williams Christian Centre P earce Williams United Church Christian Centre, Rodney Area Senior Shuffleboarders & Carpet Bowlers Rodney Community Centre, 135 Queens Line, ommunity Relations Coordinator, 519-264-2420, C www.ltvca.ca Walking/Hiking All Ages • From Hwy 401 take interchange #157, turn south onto Iona Road (County Road 14). Crane Conservation Area is located on the east side of Iona Road, almost directly across from Shackleton Line. No facilities. Grassland and naturalized arboretum. Cost: Free 8009 Iona Rd, Fingal Joe Richards, 519-764-2317, www.pearcewilliams.org Hiking All Ages • Over 7km of marked hiking trails open to the public daily. Cost: Free 177 Victoria St, Rodney Mary Bodnar, 519-785-0937 Gardening Adults, Teens, Seniors • Meet every third Tues of the month, except Jul, Aug & Dec. Activities include speakers, outings and planting various flower beds and hanging baskets. Cost: $5/year membership Rodney, 519-785-0291 Adam Hrabinski, 519-785-2184, sites.google.com/site/shufflebowls/ Carpet Bowling and Shuffleboard Seniors • New members are invited to play shuffleboard or to carpet bowl on Mon & Thurs mornings, 9:30-11:30am, Oct through June. Cost: $25/year, $3/per game FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca5 ©istockphoto.com/Spanic CENTRAL REGION WESTERN REGION Serenity Now Yoga S erenity Now Yoga Studio, 36499 Second Ln, Southwold icole Balogh, 519-777-9400, www.serenitynowyoga.ca N H ealing Circle All Ages • Last Sat of each month 9:30-11am. A Healing Circle is a gathering for anyone who would like to experience a hands-on healing session or anyone who would like to practise their skills. All forms of energy work are welcomed and appreciated. Everyone is welcome, no need to register, just show up! Cost: Donation Journey Circles (Meditation) Please join us every Thurs evening 8-9pm. A Journey is essentially a guided meditation that allows us to learn, heal and grow. The 3rd Thurs of each month is a Shamanic Journey to a live drum that requires training. All other weeks are open to everyone. Please see website for more details. Cost: Donation St. Thomas Field Naturalist Club L ocations published in TJ or contact club on Casier, 519-631-5279 R S pring Evening Walks All Ages • A great opportunity to learn about birds, insects in general, wild flowers, fauna and plants native to the Carolinian Zone, at a variety of public and private areas. Most are open to the public; 6:30pm start time every Wed in Apr & May. Locations posted in TJ and Community News, or contact club. Cost: Free Winter Walks A ll Ages • A great opportunity to observe winter flora and fauna while enjoying the Canadian winter with good fellowship. Starting at 1:30pm on the third Sun of Jan, Feb & Mar. Springwater CA for Jan, Fingal Wildlife MA for Feb, Pearce Provincial Park for Mar. Open to the public. Cost: Free 6 Tiny Tots Co-op Nursery School T iny Tots, 217 Furnival Rd, Rodney, 519-785-2100 Shelly, 519-785-2164 Co-op Nursery School, Play Groups, Toy & Resource Lending Library, Second Hand Childrens Clothing Store All Ages • Preschool Class 2 mornings per week. Toddler Class 1 morning per week. Two play groups per week. A large assortment of toys, games, videos, DVD’s, books, electronic games etc, to borrow on a 2 week loan basis. Tiny Tots Closet sells gently used children’s clothing. Cost: $15 membership plus program fees Tyrconnell Heritage Society / Backus-Page House John E. Pearce Provincial Park, 29424 Lake View Line, Dutton Dunwich Angela Bobier, 519-762-3072, www.backuspagehouse.ca Provincial Park Nature Trail Access All Ages • Enjoy the trails in the John E. Pearce Provincial Park, at your own leisure, as well as experience a glimpse of beautiful Lake Erie at one of the very few public access points above the bluffs that line the northern shoreline. Hiking through the park year round visitors may encounter native species like the pileated woodpecker or migratory birds. Cost: Free VON Middlesex-Elgin Pam Buys, 519-637-6408, www.vonmiddlesexelgin.ca S.M.A.R.T - Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together (Seniors Exercises) Seniors • Classes are Mon-Fri for seniors or adults with disabilities. Classes are led by trained instructors to improve strength, balance, and flexibility, helping to prevent falls, maintain activities of daily living and maintain independence at home. Please contact VON for class locations, levels and volunteering opportunities. Cost: Free FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca ©istockphoto.com/Leslie Banks ©Relish Elgin ©istockphoto.com/Eric Cote WESTERN CENTRAL REGION West Elgin Choral Society utton Dunwich Upper Town Hall, 199 Currie Rd, Dutton, D 519-762-2204, westelginchoralsociety.weebly.com Helen VanDyk, 519-633-1259 Singing Adults, Teens, Seniors • The West Elgin Choral Society members love to sing. If you love to sing, come and try us out—we are always looking for more voices! We have two concerts per year and sing classical, sacred, and secular music. Rehearsals are Tues evenings from 7:30-9pm. Victoria Rondinelli is our conductor. Cost: $30/term or $50/year West Elgin Community Band est Elgin Senior Elementary School, W 139 Graham St, West Lorne Martha Foster, 519-762-3609, www.westelgincommunityband.ca Community Band Adults, Teens, Seniors • A fun, relaxing, welcoming group. If you played in high school and have an instrument, we welcome you. We play two concerts a year. Great activity for parent/child, adults of all ages. Must be able to read music. Even if it’s been years since you played, we understand and invite you to join us. Mon 7-9pm Sept to June. Cost: $60/year West Elgin Community Health Centre West Elgin CHC, 519-768-1715, www.wechc.on.ca Children’s Fitness Programs Children, Under 5 • Dutton Dunwich Community Centre, 1 Scotland St, Dutton, 519-762-3209 Free programs in the three communitities of Dutton, West Lorne and Rodney. Children 3-6 and 7-9 years of age can come out and enjoy a variety of physical fitness activities that teach Fundamental Movement Skills while being fun and interactive. Contact Kim McCready at x2299 for details or registration. Cost: Free Home Support Exercise Program A ll Ages • West Elgin Community Health Centre, 153 Main St, West Lorne, 519-768-1715 Contact x2210 for more information or to register. Cost: Free Pre-Natal & Post-Natal Pilates A dults, Teens • West Elgin Community Health Centre, 153 Main St, West Lorne, 519-768-1715 Free Pilates exercise classes for pregnant and new moms! Available in Dutton, West Lorne and Rodney. Come to one location, or come to all. Infants welcome for post-natal classes. Childcare is available for older children if needed. Contact Kim McCready at x2299 for details or registration. Cost: Free Walk & Dine A ll Ages • West Elgin Community Health Centre, 153 Main St, West Lorne, 519-768-1715 Contact x2210 for more information or to register. Cost: Free Walking Down Your Blood Sugar A ll Ages • West Elgin Community Health Centre, 153 Main St, West Lorne, 519-768-1715 Contact x2301 for more information or to register. Cost: Free Youth Fitness Programs T eens • Free youth fitness programs. Zumba, Kettle Bell Weight Training, and aerobics. Contact Kim McCready at x2299 for details or registration. Cost: Free West Elgin Nature Club race Anglican Church, Morden St, West Lorne G J oanne Reive, 519-768-1365 M onday Morning Walking Group All Ages • Scheduled Mon morning walks from the end of Sept to end of June. Cost: $10/person or $20/family membership FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca7 WESTERN REGION West Elgin Pool est Elgin Pool, 259 Ridout St, Rodney W West Elgin Walking Program est Elgin Secondary School, 139 Graham St, W S helley Smith, 519-785-2164, www.westelgin.net A dult Aquafit Classes Adults • Mon to Fri 9-10am & 8-9pm. Cost: $3/visit or $25/10 visits Family Swim A dults, Children • Enjoy a fun hour exploring both the big pool and the wading pool with family, Fri, Sat & Sun from 3-4pm. Cost: $2/person or $5/family Public Swimming A ll Ages • Open swims daily 1:30-3pm & 6:30-8pm. Monthly passes also available. Cost: $2/person or $5/family; season passes $80/ person or $160/family Swim Team T eens, Children • Twice weekly one hour practices to improve swim strokes and endurance. Participate in local swim meets for ribbons, medals and team trophies. Cost: $40/season West Elgin Summer Day Camp est Elgin Recreation Centre, 135 Queen’s Line, W ©istockphoto.com/Kali Nine LLC Rodney, 519-785-2164 Shelley Smith, 519-785-2164, www.westelgin.net West Elgin Summer Day Camp Children • 8 different theme weeks with daily swimming, games, crafts and activities. July to Aug, Mon-Fri 9am-4pm (extended care available 8am4:30pm, $3/half hour). For ages 4-12 (limited 4 year old spaces available). Must pre-register and pre-pay. Contact for more information. Cost: $80/week (sibling discounts available) 8 West Lorne, 519-768-1350 Shelly Vergeer, 519-768-1715 Indoor Walking All Ages • A warm, safe place to walk during cold weather. Usually starts in Nov when it starts to get cold. There are benches for resting and water fountains. Weekdays from 3:30-6pm. Cost: Free West Lorne & Community Horticultural Society West Lorne Community Complex, 160 Main St, West Lorne Susan Lilley, 519-768-2665, www.gardenontario.org Gardening All Ages • Meet the 2nd Tues of each month from Mar to Dec. A great way to learn for the inexperienced and experienced gardener, with knowledgeable speakers, workshops, bus trips, carpooling trips, plant sales, door prizes, 50/50, and refreshments. Community beautification with public flower beds, hanging baskets, season decorations. “Come grow with us!” Cost: $10/person membership (not mandatory) West Lorne Tai Chi Group race Anglican Church, Morden St, West Lorne G arg Hulls, 519-762-2049 M T ai Chi Adults • Excellent form of low-impact exercise and balance of body, mind and spirit. A 108 movement Yang Style set on Tues at 7pm and double 24 set on Tues and Fri at 9:30am. Cost: $15/month YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin utton Dunwich Community Centre, D 1 Scotland St, Dutton, 519-762-3209 Rodney Community Centre, 135 Queens Line, Rodney, 519-785-0291 YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, 519-631-9800, www.ywcastthomaselgin.org Drop In Recreation Children • Evening recreation programs for school age children. Children participate in games, physical activities, crafts and sports. Offered in fall, winter & spring sessions, Sept to June. Thurs in Dutton 6:30-8pm. Cost: $2.25/visit SHADED LISTINGS INDICATE FREE ACTIVITIES FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca CENTRAL REGION Dutton Dunwich Horticultural Society S t. John’s United Church, Dutton St. Joseph’s Catholic High School, 100 Bill Martyn Pkwy, St. Thomas, 519-675-4434 Gail Driscoll, 519-762-3315, www.gardenontario.org Gardening All Ages • Meet third Mon of every month, except July and Aug. Maintaining the gardens of Dutton Dunwich. Cost: $10/year membership ©istockphoto.com/kzenon Elgin County Library 1 0 Branches: Belmont & Area Horticultural Society elmont Public Library, 14134 Belmont Rd, Belmont B S andy Strukye, 519-631-9900, 519-644-0129 G ardening Adults, Seniors • Meets 4th Tues of every month. Cost: $10/year membership Big Brothers/Big Sisters of St. Thomas-Elgin Big Brothers/Big Sisters of St. Thomas-Elgin, 146 Centre St, St. Thomas, N5R 3A3, 519-633-3830 Barb Matthews, 519-824-8648, 519-633-3830 1-to-1 Matching, Couples Matching, Big Bunch Teens, Children • Activities, outings, and mentorship for ages 6-16. Cost: Free Family Match A ll Ages, Children • Families can now apply to our agency and be matched with a boy or a girl with the intent of including a child in need with their family outings. The family would be screened similarly to our Couples Matches but we would include all children who would be involved with the match. Cost: Free Go Girls! (Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds) T eens • Female mentors work with groups of girls aged 12-14 (grades 7-8). A variety of activities emphasize healthy, active living. In partnership with elementary schools. Cost: Free •• Aylmer Old Town Hall Library, 38 John St S, Aylmer, 519-773-2439 •• Belmont Public Library, 14134 Belmont Rd, Belmont •• Fred Bodsworth Library, 21 Pitt St, Port Burwell, 519-874-4754 •• John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library, 236 Shakelton St, Dutton •• Port Stanley Library, 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley, 519-782-4241 •• Rodney Library, 207 Furnival Rd, Rodney, 519-785-2100 •• Shedden Library, 9557 Union Rd, Shedden, 519-764-2081 •• Springfield Library, 12105 Whittaker Rd, Springfield, 519-765-4515 •• Straffordville Library, 9366 Plank Rd, Straffordville, 519-866-3584 •• West Lorne Library, 160 Main St, West Lorne, 519-768-1150 Elgin County Library, 519-631-1460, www.elgincounty.ca/library Baby/Infant Programs Under 5 • At Aylmer, Belmont, Dutton, Port Stanley, Shedden, Springfield & Straffordville branches. Aylmer: Mon,Tues & Thurs 10-10:30am. Dutton: Baby & Me (ages 6 months-2 years) Tues 10:3011am. Dutton: Family & Me (ages 2-5), Fri 10:3011:15am. Springfield: Thurs 10:30-11:30am, Oct to May. Belmont: Tues 10:30-11:30am. Port Stanley & Shedden: Infants are welcome at preschool storytime programs. Straffordville: Baby & Me Mon 10:30-11am. Cost: Free Computer Lessons A ll Ages • At all branches. Free group and individual lessons on our Community Access Site (CAS) computers by our Youth Intern (YI) students. Topics include basic computer usage, email, internet searching, etc. Call your local branch to register and to make an appointment. Come and learn about our Cyber Camps. Sept to Mar. Cost: Free In-School Mentoring hildren • School based mentoring program during school C year. Activites are with one child on school property. Volunteers spend one hour a week with one child. Cost: Free FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca9 CENTRAL REGION Kids Club hildren • At Port Stanley, Rodney, Springfield, C Straffordville & West Lorne branches. A fun-filled program for children (grades 1-3) that focuses on reading, songs and crafts. Straffordville: Kids Korner first Tues of each month, 6:30-7:30pm (Oct to May). Port Stanley: Mon evenings 6-6:45pm (Sept to May). Rodney: Tues 4-5pm. West Lorne: Thurs 4-5pm. Cost: Free/minimal Mystery Lovers Book Club A dults, Seniors • At the Belmont branch only. Do you have a passion for mysteries? Come and check out the Mystery Lovers’ Book Club, every 3rd Tues from Sept to May. Cost: Free Pre-School Story Time nder 5 • At all branches. Come and join us for a U fun-filled morning with stories, songs and crafts. Caregivers are encouraged to allow children to attend and participate on their own but must remain in the library at all times. Please call your local branch for more information on dates and times. Cost: Free Summer Reading Club hildren • At all branches. A fun way to keep schoolC age children interested in reading over the summer months. Each branch has a variety of activities that encourage reading through fun activities and programs based on a Summer Reading Club theme. Check our web site or your local branch for more information and dates. Cost: Free Teen Summer Reading Club T eens • At Aylmer, Belmont, Port Burwell, Dutton, Elgin County Museum E lgin County Museum, 450 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas eorgia Sifton, 519-631-1460, www.elgin-county.on.ca G M emories in Wool Rug Hooking Club Adults, Seniors • Meets twice a month to work on projects, trade ideas, and socialize. Access to a library of craft books, as well as a cutting machine. Geared towards those with some experience. Cost: $30/year Elgin Hiking Trail Club L oretta Vaughan, www.elginhikingtrailclub.org Walking and Hiking Trails All Ages • We organize more than 40 walks/year that are open to the public, maintain the 41 km Elgin Hiking Trail from Port Stanley to Southdel drive, and promote safe hiking. Cost: $20/year membership Ggolfs The Bluffs Golf Club, 35593 Lake Line Rd, Port Stanley, 519-782-7447 Grant Gulych, 519-902-7980, ggolfs.com Junior Golf Camp Teens, Children • Offered by one of the top 100 instructors in the World Golf Teachers Federation and Master Teaching Professional, Grant Gulych. Grant has been instructing for over eight years. Ages 7-14 years. Includes instructions, contests, prizes, and lunch on final day. Cost: $100/week Hawk Cliff Hawkwatch Hawk Cliff Hawkwatch, www.ezlink.ca/~thebrowns/ Rodney, Springfield, Straffordville & West Lorne branches Teens are encouraged to read, relax and have fun during the summer (July-Aug) and win lots of prizes! Call your local branch or check our web site for more information on dates and events. Cost: Free HawkCliff/index.htm Hawkwatching, Birdwatching, Walking All Ages • On-site education program about hawks and hawk migration. Hawkwatching, birdwatching and walking along Hawk Cliff Road are some of the activities available. Activities are funded through Hawkcliff memberships and donations/grants. Cost: Free Wii at the Library A ll Ages • At Dutton, Port Stanley & Shedden branches. London Minor Football Association entrefield Sports, 25 Midpark Cr, London, 519-691-1200 C utton: Wii drop-in available on most PD days and D Sats. Port Stanley: Wii is available during open hours. Shedden: Wii is available during open hours. All other branches: call the library or check our web site for more details on special events. Cost: Free Winter Reading Club A ll Ages • At all branches. The Winter Reading Club in Jan and Feb is focused on families reading and having fun together at the library. Call your library or check our web site for more information on dates, times and events. Cost: Free 10 rock Burgess, 519-852-4465, www.lmfafootball.ca B I ndoor Football Skills Camps Teens, Children • Indoor winter Football Skills Training Camps presented by LMFA for new and returning players. No contact, dress in shorts and T-shirt. Come out for one night or all 10. Starts Fri Jan 17th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm for 10 weeks on Fri nights. Cost: $5/week (tax included), $5/player/night SHADED LISTINGS INDICATE FREE ACTIVITIES FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca CYCLING SAFETY ©istockphoto.com/Christopher Futcher IN ELGIN ST. THOMAS The Elgin St. Thomas Cycling Master Plan is coming to life with a variety of new cycling features, such as bike lanes and new signs, popping up across the County and within the City. Take a look inside for information on what the new signs and road markings mean and how to safely use these new cycling features! Check out the website for a map of the new cycling routes. www.activeelgin.ca PULL-OUT SECTION REMOVE CENTREFOLD FOR FUTURE REFERENCE SHARE THE ROAD Elgin-St. Thomas is a Share the Road community. Bicycles are vehicles under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, with the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles. Same Road, Same Rules, Same Rights Dedicated Bike Lanes Bike lanes are marked lanes on a roadway to be used by cyclists only. • Cyclists do not have to ride within bike lanes, and may ride outside the lane (to avoid hazards, pass slower cyclists, turn) after yielding to motor vehicles in the vehicle lane • Drivers cannot park in a bike lane • Drivers must yield to cyclists in bike lanes at intersections and when passing Bike Lane Signed Bicycle Routes Bicycle Route Marker signs provide route guidance on shared roadways within a bikeway network. • Drivers and cyclists share the same lane Signed Routes with Edge Lines • Edge lines show a shared roadway; this gives cyclists space outside of the roadway to ride Non-Signed Roads Shared Route with Edge Line Remember that ALL roadways are shared roadways for cyclists and drivers, even if there are no signs posted. • Bicycles may be on the road in all seasons • Cyclists should ride to the right of the driving lane, one metre from the curb and parked cars (to avoid doors opening), in a single-file line • Cyclists may enter the driving lane to avoid hazards or to make a left-hand turn • Drivers must leave at least one meter when passing a bicycle - it’s the law! • Drivers should always do an over-the-shoulder check for bicycles when turning right and opening their door when parked • Cyclists must follow all traffic laws, including pavement markings, signs and signals Shared Use Lanes Shared Use Lane Markings, or ‘sharrows’, show drivers and cyclists the correct line of travel for cyclists. Share the Road signs appear where shared use lanes are wide enough for cyclists to ride beside drivers, and sharrows appear near the curb. Shared Use Lane with Sharrows Single File signs appear where shared use lanes are too narrow for cyclists to ride beside drivers, and sharrows appear in the centre of the lane. Sharrow Single File Shared Use Lane Paved Shoulders Paved shoulders create a buffer zone to provide separation between drivers and cyclists travelling in the same direction on rural roads. • Paved shoulders also make room for stopped vehicles, emergency use, and pedestrians Multi-Use Trails Multi-Use Trails may be used by both pedestrians and cyclists. • Pedestrians have the right of way • Use your bell or horn when passing Sidewalks and Pedestrians Sidewalks and crosswalks are only for pedestrians. • Cyclists must get off of and walk their bicycle across when using crosswalks • Children (those with bicycle wheel diameters under 510mm/20”) are allowed to ride their bicycles on sidewalks, but should watch for pedestrians, driveways and intersections CYCLING SAFETY INFORMATION Proper Hand Signals For Turning LEFT › STOP › ‹ RIGHT › (TWO OPTIONS) Graphics courtesy of Ministry of Transportation Make your Bike Safe & Legal • Helmets must be worn by all cyclists under the age of 18 ($80 fine), and are strongly recommended for all ages; parents or guardians should not knowingly allow cyclists under 16 to ride without a helmet • All bikes must have a white front light and red back light or reflector when you ride between one-half hour before sunset and one-half hour after sunrise ($110 fine) • All bikes must have white reflective strips on the front forks and red reflective strips on the rear stays • All bikes must have a working bell or horn to let cars and pedestrians know you’re there ($110 fine) • Riders should wear bright and/or reflective clothing when cycling at night Other Fines • Cycling within a crosswalk: Cyclists must walk their bike when using a crosswalk ($110) • Not stopping for traffic signals and signs: Cyclists must stop for red lights and stop signs and follow all other signs ($110-$325) • Dooring cyclists: Drivers must check to make sure there are no cyclists before opening their door ($365) • 1-metre passing: Drivers must leave a one-metre distance where possible when passing cyclists ($110 and 2 demerit points) CENTRAL REGION Ontario Early Years Elgin-Middlesex-London Ontario Early Years Centre-St. Thomas, 7 Morrison Dr, St. Thomas, 519-631-9496, www.ontarioearlyyears.ca B aby Time All Ages, Under 5 • C ontact us for locations and times. By joining our friendly atmosphere, together you and your infant (ages 0-1) can meet other families and share in discussions, singing, crafts and circle time. Infant massage and sign classes available at various locations in Elgin and Middlesex Counties. Contact Amanda Eveland for details. Cost: Free Literacy Programs A ll Ages • Programming suitable for children 0-6 yrs unless otherwise specified. Please contact for locations and times as a variety of programs are offered throughout region. Parent and professional literacy resources are also available to borrow (free of charge). Contact Marilyn Heffren at x246 for details. Cost: Free Outreach Playgroups A ll Ages • Please call for locations (throughout Elgin and Middlesex counties) and times or visit the website for our event calendar. Parents must stay with their children. Programming suitable for children 0-6 yrs. Outreach programming includes: games, crafts, songs, stories and fine/gross motor. Everyone welcome. Contact OEYC for details. Cost: Free Play and Learn A dults, Children • Offers a variety of activities for families and caregivers with children 6 and under. Activity areas include dramatic play, crafts, blocks, books and puzzles, sensory and fine motor. Weather permitting, we will also have outdoor activities. Children will enjoy snack time and circle time is offered everyday at the end of the program. Contact Amanda Eveland for details. Cost: Free Romantic Designs Artist Studio omantic Designs, 120 Wellington St, St. Thomas R aniel and Sharon Brassard, 519-860-6851, D www.romanticdesigns.ca Open Studio Thursdays Adults, Teens, Seniors • An opportunity for “newbies” and “seasoned” artists to come together and work on their current projects at the Romantic Designs Artist Studio with sculptor Sharon Brassard. These afternoons are not classes but an environment of learning through exchange of ideas as you work on your project. Thurs 1-4pm. Cost: Free Run For Your Life un For Your Life, 204 Carlow Rd, Port Stanley R T erri Biloski, 519-637-0333 L earn to Run Adults, Teens • 1 2 weeks, 3 days a week. All you need is a good pair of shoes and a desire to succeed. We offer flexible group time. Call for more information. Cost: $50/12 weeks Youth Running Club T eens, Children • Youth friendly weekly meet ups and monthly races. Call or email runforyourlifecanada@ rogers.com for more information or to pre-register. Cost: $50/12 weeks Sparta Community Society S parta Community Hall, RR1, Sparta S ally Martyn, 519-775-2292 S parta Stitchers Adults • Come join our stitchers. We quilt, knit, crochet, embroider, tat, smock, etc. and have a good time visiting from 1-4pm every Tues. Learn a new skill or teach others a new skill. Cost: $5/session (tax included) Workshops Adults • Most workshops are for parents/caregivers/ professionals. Workshop topics include: parenting, child behaviour, toilet training, make-and-take learning opportunities and many more. Please contact for workshops available. Visit www.familyinfo.ca for our calendar of events. Contact Amanda Eveland for details. Cost: Free Port Stanley, 519-782-3983 Evelyn Finch, 519-782-3919 Choir Adults • Choir has been in operation for more than 25 years. Group meets Tues at 7:30pm only during the spring, fall and winter. Choir will start on Sept 24. Cost: $30/term © Mark Girdauskas Port Stanley Community Choir P ort Stanley Public School, 350 Carlow Rd, FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca15 © Relish Elgin CENTRAL REGION Spring Evening Walks L ocations published in TJ or contact club All Ages • A great opportunity to learn about birds, insects in general, wild flowers, fauna and plants indigenous to the Carolinian Zone, at a variety of public and private areas. Most are open to the public; 6:30pm start time every Wed in Apr & May. Locations published in TJ and Community News, or contact club. Cost: Free Winter Walks L ocations published in TJ or contact club All Ages • A great opportunity to observe winter flora and fauna while enjoying the Canadian winter with good fellowship. Starting at 1:30pm on the third Sun of Jan, Feb & Mar. Springwater CA for Jan, Fingal Wildlife MA for Feb, Pearce Provincial Park for Mar. Open to the public. Cost: Free St. Thomas Horticultural Society onsignor Morrison Catholic School, M St. Thomas Doll Club E lgin Mall Community Room, 417 Wellington St, St.Thomas S haron Brassard, 519-633-5239, www3.sympatico.ca/brassarddaniel/ Monthly Meetings Adults, Teens, Seniors • We meet from 7-9pm, last Mon of every month, except July, Aug and Dec. Doll artists, collectors, and doll enthusiasts are welcome. Meetings include show and tell, guest speakers, themes and projects. Cost: $10/year St. Thomas Field Naturalist Club Ron Casier, 519-631-5279, stfnaturalist.wordpress.com Hawk Cliff Raptor Migration Weekends Hawk Cliff, Hawk Cliff Rd, end of Fairview Rd, Central Elgin All Ages • 2nd and 3rd weekends of Sept. An opportunity to see Hawks up close and hear local banders speak on the raptor migration. Monarch butterfly demonstrations and tagging, and tours of Hawk Cliff Woods available. Showings at 11am and 2pm daily. Cost: Free Speakers, Regular Meetings K nox Presbyterian Church, 55 Hinks St, St. Thomas, 519-631-2414 Adults, Teens, Seniors • Every first Fri of the month from Oct to June starting at 7:30pm. A variety of speakers on any environmental or natural issue and experience to begin, followed by the regular business meeting. Public is always welcome. Nov meeting is the Annual Banquet and requires tickets. Club Field Guides and T-shirts available. Cost: $20/year family membership 16 10 S Edgeware Rd, St. Thomas Shelley MacKenzie, 519-769-2529, www. gardenontario.org/site.php/thomas Gardening All Ages, Adults, Seniors • Founded in 1870. Annual Plant Sale, Flower Show and Garden Tour. Public meetings feature informative speakers and interesting demonstrations. We meet on the 4th Wed at 7:30pm, Sept-Nov and Jan-May. Cost: $12/year membership St. Thomas Parks & Recreation Department St. Thomas Timken Community Centre, 2 Third Ave, St. Thomas, Micheal Balderston, 519-633-7112, www.city.st-thomas.on.ca Leisure Skate: Adults with Preschoolers, Little Players, Adults Only A dults, Children, Under 5, Seniors • Runs daily Mon-Fri Oct to Mar. Times vary - pick up a schedule at the Timken Centre or visit the Parks and Recreation Services page on the City of St. Thomas website. Cost: $2/drop-in, contact for info on season passes Reith Fitness Track A ll Ages • Stay active and keep fit by walking all year around. Walking track free and open to the public daily for the fall/winter season 8am-10pm, and spring/ summer season 8am-8pm. Closed for holidays, STARS games and special events. Please check the Timken Centre or call for blackout dates. Cost: Free FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca CENTRAL REGION St. Thomas, 519-633-7641 Judy Ross, www.stthomasphotoguild.com St. Thomas Photographic Guild All Ages • Regular meetings 2nd and 4th Tues of the month starting at 7:30pm with doors opening at 7pm; Sun morning photo shoots; digital meetings (hands-on). Children are welcome if accompanied by adults. Cost: $25/year or $40/family membership St. Thomas Public Library S t. Thomas Public Library, 153 Curtis St, St. Thomas uth Crocker, 519-631-6050, www.stthomaspubliclibrary.ca R B ooks and Bounces Under 5 • For babies from birth to 24 months. Come into the warmth of the library to enjoy a gentle, funfilled 20 minutes of simple stories, lap and nursery rhymes, movement and music making. Must be registered to participate. Cost: Free Library Book Club A dults • All are welcome. We are a friendly group of people with an interest in reading and discussing good books. Meetings: 10am, the first Tues of the month in the Carnegie Room, lower level of the library. Members read the selected title, then discuss the book. Book Club runs from Sept to June. No registration required. Cost: Free Pre-School Story Time nder 5 • For children aged three and four years. U Children, with parents/caregivers accompanying them, will be treated to a program jam packed with reading and telling of stories, finger-plays, songs and musicmaking. Must be registered to participate. Cost: Free Tales for Twos (Toddler Time) nder 5 • For children who are 2 years old. A one-onU one (adult and child) interactive program that includes simple stories, songs, nursery rhymes and music making. Must be registered to participate. Cost: Free St. Thomas Seniors’ Centre S t. Thomas Seniors’ Centre, 225 Chestnut St, St. Thomas Angela Davis or Angela Ostojic, 519-633-2850 Art Class (Young @ Art) Seniors • With instructor George Bishop. This class is for everyone from beginners to experts. Tues 9-11am. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Ballroom Dancing S eniors • Wed evenings 7-8:30pm. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Bridge, Cribbage, Euchre, Pepper, Poker, Hand & Foot Seniors • Regular Bridge Fri 1-4pm; Partnership Bridge Mon 1-4pm; Cribbage Tues 12-3:30pm, Thurs 7-9pm; Euchre Tues 1:15-4pm, Fri 7-9pm; Pepper Wed 10-11:30am, Sun 1:30-3:30pm; Poker Wed & Fri 1-3:15pm; Hand & Foot (conasta) Fri 9:30-11:30am, Mon. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Busy Bee Quilters S eniors • Enjoy an afternoon of chit chat and quilting Tues & Wed 12-3:30pm. Over 40 programs available and all included with a membership. Room rentals are available. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day © istockphoto.com/Brian McEntire St. Thomas Photographic Guild E lgin Military Museum, 30 Talbot St, Teen Advisory Board T eens • The St. Thomas Public Library’s “Teen Advisory Board” members offer suggestions for materials to purchase and provide input about teen reading interests, recreational activities, programming, and space planning. They advocate on behalf of teens, earning volunteer hours while developing leadership and teamwork skills. Cost: Free SHADED LISTINGS INDICATE FREE ACTIVITIES FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca17 © Mark Girdauskas CENTRAL REGION Line Dancing, Twilite Cloggers, Belly Dancing S eniors • Line Dancing: Mon 11:30-12:30pm, Tues 11:15am-12:15pm, Wed 11:45am-12:45pm, Thurs 11am-12pm, Fri 11:15am-12:15pm; Stepping Out Cloggers: Mon 10-11:15am, Thurs 1-2:30pm; Beginners Clogging: Thurs 12:45-3:30pm. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Shuffleboard Seniors • There is a reason this program is so popular. Come and enjoy a friendly game of shuffle board and loads of fun. Mon 10-11:30am, Tues 6:30-8pm, Wed 1-3pm & 6:30-8pm, Thur 9:30-11:30am, Fri 1-3pm. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Snooker, Darts S eniors • P lay on our professional size snooker table or 2 regular tables. Instructor available for lessons. Mon 124pm, Thur 10-11:30am & 1-4pm, Fri 1-4pm. Darts: Wed 9-11:30am, Fri 7-9pm. Please bring your own darts. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Table Tennis S eniors • Anyone can play, just bring your paddle. Wed & Fri 9:45-11:30am. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Carpet Bowling S eniors • Come out for a fun afternoon of carpet bowling. No bowling shoes or skills necessary. Tues 9:30-11:30am and Thurs 1:30-3:30pm. Over 40 programs included with a membership at the St. Thomas Senior Centre. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Cindy’s Conditioning Class, Shirley’s Senior Sensations, Dance to the Music Seniors • Cindy’s Conditioning Class: Mon, Wed, & Fri, 8:30-9:30am (*optional volunteer donation); Senior Sensations: Mon & Wed 8:50-9:50am; Dance to the Music: Tues & Thur 8:30-9:30am. These exercise classes are adapted for seniors to increase energy levels, improve mobility and balance and have a great time. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Crafters Seniors • This group gets together for an afternoon of crafting and make many wonderful projects at the Centre. No skill is necessary as the instructors will teach you. Thurs 1-3:30pm. All programs are included in the membership fee. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Gentle Yoga S eniors • Wed 1-2pm. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day Knitting, Crochet S eniors • Come out for an afternoon of knitting, Fri 1-3:30pm. There over 40 programs which are all included in the membership fee. Room rentals are available. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day 18 Tai Chi S eniors • T ai Chi improves balance, improves lower body strength, reduces stress and cuts the risk of falls. To try one of these classes come out to the St. Thomas Senior Centre Tues & Fri 10-11am; beginners Thurs 10-11am. Cost: $215/year, $150/6 months, $6/day St. Thomas Soccer Club Terri Sinclair, 519-633-2110, www.stthomassoccer.com Summer Camp (Competitive & Recreational) Teens, Children • The St. Thomas Soccer Club offers 3 separate Summer Camps for children ages 6-18 (2007-11 birthdays Recreational Players, 2001-06 birthdays Recreational Players, 1998-2006 birthdays Competitve Players). Camps run from 9am-12pm with early dropoff available. Camps are run by our Club’s Technical Staff and focus on skills development. Camp registration will be available online via the Club’s website in the early spring. Cost: $125/5 days St. Thomas Special Olympics Rob Davidson, 519-633-5085, www.specialolympicsontario.com Basketball St. Joseph’s Catholic High School, 100 Bill Martyn Pkwy, St. Thomas, 519-675-4434 Adults, Teens, Children • Wed 6:30/7:30pm, Dec to Feb. Cost: $3/practice Bocce Forest Park Public School, 295 Forest Ave, St. Thomas A ll Ages, Adults, Teens, Children, Seniors • Thurs from 7-8pm, Sept-May. Recreational and competitive indoor Bocce for those 8 years and older. Cost: $3/practice FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca CENTRAL REGION Curling St. Thomas Curling Club, 38 Parkside Dr, St. Thomas Adults, Teens, Children • Sun 4:30-6pm, mid-Oct. Cost: $3/practice Floor Hockey P arkside Collegiate Institute, 241 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, 519-633-0090 Adults, Teens, Children • Fri 6:30/9pm, Jan to Apr. Cost: $3/practice Golf Fore Golfers Only, 43765 Talbot Line, St. Thomas-Elgin Family YMCA S t. Thomas-Elgin Family YMCA, 20 High St, St. Thomas hris Robb, 519-631-2418, www.ymcawo.ca/sty.html C A dult Swim Adults, Seniors • Enjoy the congenial atmosphere of the pool with the company of other adults. Participants must be 16 years of age to have access at this time. Cost: Members free, non-members contact for info Aikido Adults, Teens, Children • This non-competitive St. Thomas, 519-631-8617 All Ages • Recreational and skill building activity. Tues 6:30-8pm May to Aug. Cost: $3/practice Japanese martial art focuses on conflict resolution. This is achieved through the development of balance, focus and timing, along with the application of hand to hand techniques, including joint locks and pins. Cost: Members free, non-members contact for info Power Lifting S t. Thomas Strength Athletics, 1258 Talbot St, St. Thomas Aqua Prime Tyme A dults, Seniors • A gentle water class for those with Soccer St. Joseph’s Catholic High School, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu A dults, Teens • B razilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art, Adults, Teens, Children • Tues 4:30pm, year-round. Cost: $3/practice 100 Bill Martyn Pkwy, St. Thomas, 519-675-4434 Adults, Teens, Children • Mon 6:30-7:30pm, June to Aug. Cost: $3/practice Softball, T-Ball L ions Park, Hughes St, St. Thomas Adults, Teens, Children • Softball Fri 6/7:30pm, May to Aug; T-Ball Fri 6/7pm, May to Aug; Juniors: Thurs 6/7pm, May to Aug. Cost: $3/practice Swimming St. Thomas-Elgin Family YMCA, 20 High St, St. Thomas Adults, Teens, Children • Mon 6:45/7:45pm, Sept to May. Cost: $3/practice Track & Field S t. Joseph’s Catholic High School, 100 Bill Martyn Pkwy, St. Thomas, 519-675-4434 Adults, Teens, Children • Wed 6:30/7:30pm, May to Aug. Cost: $3/practice St. Thomas SPIKES P arkside Collegiate Institute, 241 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, 519-633-0090 Dennis Dlouhy, 519-495-9179, www.ontariovolleyball.org/events/st-thomas-spikeswinter-2016-programs-fridays Volleyball Teens, Children • For grades 1-8. Volleyball is one of the most exciting sports in the world. St. Thomas SPIKES is committed to introducing players of all skill levels to its beauty and fun. We focus on small-sided games which allow for maximum engagement and repetition in a non-competitive atmosphere. No matter what your volleyball goals are, St. Thomas SPIKES can help you. Registration includes 13 Fridays of fun, excellent coaching and a t-shirt. Cost: $85/13 weeks arthritis, fibromyalgia or mobility concerns. Cost: Members free, non-members contact for info combat sport and an effective self defense system with its main emphasis on ground fighting and submission holds involving joint locks and choke holds. Kimono (Gi) is required. Cost: Members free, non-members contact for info Family & Recreational Swim A ll Ages • A swim time for all family members to attend. Children under the age of 9 must be accompanied by an adult (age 14+) within arms reach in the pool. Cost: Members free, non-members contact for info Group Active A dults, Teens, Seniors • For all ages and fitness levels. The class uses choreographed step moves, barbell exercises, balance and core strength. A great total body workout. Cost: Members free, non-members contact for info Group Power A dults, Teens • Y our hour of power! This 60 minute barbell program strengthens all your major muscles in an inspiring, motivating group environment. With simple, athletic movements such as squats, lunges, presses and curls, Group Power is for all ages and fitness levels. Discover results, discover Group Power! Cost: Members free, non-members contact for info YMCA Leader Corps T eens, Children • The program aims to provide a sense of responsibility for the well-being of others and a sound foundation of formal and supervised in-service training that prepares youth for future volunteer and employment opportunities. Cost: Members free, non-members contact for info Yoga Adults, Teens, Seniors • A class designed to use flowing yoga-inspired movements to create a strong, flexible body. Cost: Members free, non-members contact for info FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca19 CENTRAL REGION Step Above Dance & Music Studios S tep Above, 4-795 Talbot St, St. Thomas J acqueline Reichenbach, 519-207-7837, www.stepabovedance.ca Summer Dance & Music Camp Children • Summer dance and music camp offered in July and Aug. Includes many different dance forms, music, & crafts. For ages 4+. Cost: $90+/week Talbotville Minor Ball T albotville Optimist Park, Gore Rd, Talbotville J anice Fisher, 519-633-2522, www.talbotvilleminorsports.com Softball Children • Ages 4-10. End of May to July. Talbotville Minor Ball, part of the South Elgin Minor Ball League, offers non-competitive Tball, 4Pitch, and Atom softball. Home and away games are with teams from Shedden, Union, Sparta, Springfield and Port Stanley. Players may join whichever team they choose. There are no geographical requirements. Cost: Registration $40 and up Union Sports Club nion Community Centre, 519-631-3840 U V icky Snowsell, 519-631-3840 S eniors VON Exercises Seniors • Tues and Thurs mornings, 10-11am. Cost: Free VON Middlesex-Elgin Pam Buys, 519-637-6408, www.vonmiddlesexelgin.ca Bereavement Walking Program Pinafore Park, Elm St, St. Thomas The Bereavement Walking Program is for individuals who are grieving the death of a parent, spouse, child or significant individual. The group provides bereaved individuals the opportunity to walk with others in similar circumstances and receive support of volunteers and fellow walkers. We walk to share ideas and support, and benefit from exercise. Cost: Free S.M.A.R.T - Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together (Seniors Exercises) Seniors • C lasses are Mon-Fri for seniors or adults with disabilities. Classes are led by trained instructors to improve strength, balance and flexibility, helping to prevent falls, maintain activities of daily living and maintain independence at home. Please contact VON for class locations, levels and volunteering opportunities. Cost: Free YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, 16 Mary St W, St. Thomas, 519-631-9800, www.ywcastthomaselgin.org A dult Education Adults • Helps adults set and achieve goals. Adults wanting to improve their skills for grade 12, GED equivalent, computer skills, financial literacy, or employment skills will develop their own plan to work towards their goals at their pace. Tutoring also available. Cost: Free © istockphoto/com/monkeybusinessimages PA Day, March Break & Winter Break Camps hildren, Under 5 C 20 At McGregor & Mitchell Hepburn Public Schools Working through the holidays? Just want to keep the kids busy on PA Days? Send them to a holiday camp! Children participate in games, recreation, crafts, dramatic arts and self directed play with a High Five certified staff. Licensed by the Ministry of Education. Cost: PA Day $32/day, March Break $135/wk, Winter Break $135/wk YWCA Computer Classes A dults • A great introduction for beginners to learn the basics of computer operation, how to create documents, how to set up and use an email account, and the basics of internet safety. Classes in St. Thomas and Aylmer. Call for more information, including dates and times. Cost: Free FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca CENTRAL REGION EASTERN Alymer, 519-773-8476 Stephen Douglas, 519-765-3136, www.gardenontario.org/site.php/aylmer Gardening Adults, Seniors • M eetings are held the first Wed of every month except July and Aug and include speakers, friendly competitions, plant exchanges and auctions. Field trips, garden tours and a picnic are offered. Members are entitled to discounts at local nurseries and a newsletter. Gardens are planted as part of community beautification efforts. Cost: $10 membership Aylmer Lawn Bowling A ylmer Lawn Bowling, 39 Fourth Ave, Aylmer S hirley Fallowfield, 519-773-2358 L awn Bowling All Ages • Bowl Mon, Wed & Fri nights starting at 6:45pm, May through Sept. Cost: $50 for new members Aylmer Minor Baseball A ylmer Steen Park, www.aylmerminorball.com ike Holmes, 519-765-3283 M B lastball House League Under 5 • Blast Ball is a fun and easy to play initiation program which introduces the 5 fundamentals of baseball - hitting, throwing, catching, running and fielding. Players hit from a tee and run to a single base which makes an audible honk as it is stepped on. Teams are generally limited to 6 players. Sessions are Sat mornings at 10am. Jerseys provided. Running shoes required. Gloves and helmets not required. Cost: $40/10 sessions Cy’s Bowling Lanes and Lounge y’s Bowling Lanes, 486 Talbot St E, Alymer C S teve Kelly, 519-773-8072 A ylmer Youth Bowling Congress Teens, Children • Children and youth bowling, individual and mixed team. Wheelchair accessible. Sat mornings. Cost: $20 registration, $9 jrs/srs, $7 bantams East Elgin Community Complex East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St W, Alymer, 519-773-5631, www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca Adult Skate Adults • Tues & Thurs 9:30-10:30am (subject to change). Cost: $3/hour (tax included) Family Skate A ll Ages • Traditionally, the last Fri of each month, 5-6pm (subject to change). ost: $6/family (tax included), rental skates $2/pair C Figure Skating A ll Ages • Mon, Wed & Thurs 3-5pm (subject to change). Maximum 25 skaters. Not endorsed by Skate Canada. Cost: $5/session (tax included) © Mark Girdauskas Aylmer & District Horticultural Society Immanuel Christian School, 75 Carverly Rd, Horseshoes All Ages • Juniors Mon at 7pm, Adults Thurs at 7pm. Weather permitting. Open to public anytime. Cost: Free In Be “Tween” Shinny hildren • Shinny hockey for kids ages 6-12. Mon 4:45C 5:45pm (subject to change). Cost: $3/hour (tax included) Indoor Walking S eniors • Tues & Thurs 7:30-9am (subject to change). Cost: $1/session (tax included) Mini Shinny A ll Ages, Under 5 • Shinny for preschool age children (5 and under) and their parent/guardian. Wed 11am12pm (subject to change). CSA approved equipment is strongly recommended. Cost: $2/session (tax included) Public Skating A ll Ages • Sept through Mar, Sun 1-2:30pm (subject to change), plus PD Days and School Holidays (Christmas, Mar Break & Summer). Contact for specific dates/times. Cost: $2/student, $3/adult, $6/family, rental skates $2/pair (tax included) Seniors Day Out S eniors • Held once per month. Includes shuffleboard or adult skate, guest speaker, coffee break and lunch. 9:30am-12:30pm. Registration required. Cost: $10/session (tax included) Shuffleboard Seniors • Mon & Wed, 2-4pm. Cost: $3/session (tax included) Tiny Tots Skate nder 5 • Skating for preschool aged children (5 and U under) and their parent/guardian. Tues & Thurs, 10:3011:30am (subject to change). Sign in at admin office. Cost: Free Youth Day Camp hildren • Ages 6-12. 8am-5pm. Crafts, games, C activities, and sports. Public skating or roller skating included on regular public skating days. Registration required. Held on PD Days and during school holidays. Cost: $20/day (tax included) FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca21 CENTRAL REGION EASTERN Elgin County Library 1 0 Branches: •• Aylmer Old Town Hall Library, 38 John St S, Aylmer, 519-773-2439 •• Belmont Public Library, 14134 Belmont Rd, Belmont •• Fred Bodsworth Library, 21 Pitt St, Port Burwell, 519-874-4754 •• John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library, 236 Shakelton St, Dutton •• Port Stanley Library, 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley, 519-782-4241 •• Rodney Library, 207 Furnival Rd, Rodney, 519-785-2100 •• Shedden Library, 9557 Union Rd, Shedden, 519-764-2081 •• Springfield Library, 12105 Whittaker Rd, Springfield, 519-765-4515 •• Straffordville Library, 9366 Plank Rd, Straffordville, 519-866-3584 •• West Lorne Library, 160 Main St, West Lorne, 519-768-1150 Elgin County Library, 519-631-1460, www.elgincounty.ca/library Baby/Infant Programs Under 5 • At Aylmer, Belmont, Dutton, Port Stanley, Shedden, Springfield & Straffordville branches. Aylmer: Mon,Tues & Thurs 10-10:30am. Dutton: Baby & Me (ages 6 months-2 years) Tues 10:3011am. Dutton: Family & Me (ages 2-5), Fri 10:3011:15am. Springfield: Thurs 10:30-11:30am, Oct to May. Belmont: Tues 10:30-11:30am. Port Stanley & Shedden: Infants are welcome at preschool storytime programs. Straffordville: Baby & Me Mon 10:30-11am. Cost: Free Boys Club hildren • At Rodney, Straffordville & West Lorne C branches. An hour of fun for boys (grades 4-6). Straffordville: every 3rd Mon 6:30-7:30pm. Rodney: first Tues of the month 5-6pm. West Lorne: first Tues of the month 4-5pm. Cost: Free/minimal Computer Lessons A ll Ages • At all branches. Free group and individual lessons on our Community Access Site (CAS) computers by our Youth Intern (YI) students. Topics include basic computer usage, email, internet searching, etc. Call your local branch to register and to make an appointment. Come and learn about our Cyber Camps. Sept to Mar. Cost: Free Girls Club hildren • At Dutton, Rodney, Straffordville & West C Lorne branches. An hour of fun for girls aged 9-12. Straffordville: every third Thurs, 6:30-7:30pm. Dutton: every third Thurs 4-5pm. Rodney: last Tues of the month 5-6pm. West Lorne: first Tues of the month 4-5pm. Cost: Free/minimal 22 Kids Club hildren • At Port Stanley, Rodney, Springfield, C Straffordville & West Lorne branches. A fun-filled program for children (grades 1-3) that focuses on reading, songs and crafts. Straffordville: Kids Korner first Tues of each month, 6:30-7:30pm (Oct to May). Port Stanley: Mon evenings 6-6:45pm (Sept to May). Rodney: Tues 4-5pm. West Lorne: Thurs 4-5pm. Cost: Free/minimal Mother/Daughter Book Club T eens, Children • At Aylmer, Dutton & Straffordville branches. Mother/guardian and daughter read the book of the month and share their thoughts. Aylmer: for girls ages 12+, third Thurs of each month at 6:30pm. Dutton: for girls grades 4-6, second Thurs of each month at 6:30pm. Straffordville: third Thurs of the month at 6:30pm. Cost: Free Pre-School Story Time nder 5 • At all branches. Come and join us for a U fun-filled morning with stories, songs and crafts. Caregivers are encouraged to allow children to attend and participate on their own but must remain in the library at all times. Please call your local branch for more information on dates and times. Cost: Free Summer Reading Club hildren • At all branches. A fun way to keep school-age C children interested in reading over the summer months. Each branch has a variety of activities that encourage reading through fun activities and programs based on a Summer Reading Club theme. Check our web site or your local branch for more information and dates. Cost: Free Teen Summer Reading Club T eens • At Aylmer, Belmont, Port Burwell, Dutton, Rodney, Springfield, Straffordville & West Lorne branches. Teens are encouraged to read, relax and have fun during the summer (July-Aug) and win lots of prizes! Call your local branch or check our web site for more information on dates and events. Cost: Free Winter Reading Club A ll Ages • At all branches. The Winter Reading Club in Jan and Feb is focused on families reading and having fun together at the library. Call your library or check our web site for more information on dates, times and events. Cost: Free Royal Canadian Legion Branch 524 oyal Cdn Legion Br 524, 171 Wellington St, Port Burwell R harlotte Seaman, 519-631-9900, 519-874-4308, C www.legion.ca Darts, Meat Darts Adults, Seniors • Darts Wed nights; Meat Darts Fri nights. Cost: $2/day FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca CENTRAL REGION EASTERN 519-773-5720 Sonja Oslach, 519-773-5249 Fun Darts, Ladies’ Darts, Men’s Darts Adults • Mixed Darts Wed nights; Men’s Darts Thurs nights. Cost: $3/day Springfield Minor Baseball S pringfield Baseball Diamonds, Springfield T ammy Ross, 519-631-9900, 519-773-9615 T -Ball, 4 Pitch, Slo-Pitch Children, Under 5 • T his is House League only. We have T-Ball up to and including adult slow pitch. House league and travel information available. Cost: $30 St. Thomas Field Naturalist Club L ocations published in TJ or contact club on Casier, 519-631-5279 R S pring Evening Walks All Ages • A great opportunity to learn about birds, insects in general, wild flowers, fauna and plants indigenous to the Carolinian Zone, at a variety of public and private areas. Most are open to the public; 6:30pm start time every Wed in Apr & May. Locations published in TJ and Community News, or contact club. Cost: Free Winter Walks A ll Ages • A great opportunity to observe winter flora and fauna while enjoying the Canadian winter with good fellowship. Starting at 1:30pm on the third Sun of Jan, Feb & Mar. Springwater CA for Jan, Fingal Wildlife MA for Feb, Pearce Provincial Park for Mar. Open to the public. Cost: Free Tri-County Squares T illsonburg Senior Centre, 45 Hardy Ave, Tillsonburg orothy Dahm, 519-842-9212, D tri-countysquares.webstarts.com Bring a Friend Open House Adults, Seniors • Live lively & square dance at our Tillsonburg square dance club. Dance weekly Wed (Sept to Apr). We invite all from teen to senior to come out open houses Sept 16 and/or 23 7:30-9:30pm to see fun, fitness and friendship set to music with caller Tom Charlton. No special equipment except for comfortable shoes. Cost: Free to new dancers YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, 519-631-9800, www.ywcastthomaselgin.org PA Day, March Break & Winter Break Camps At McGregor & Mitchell Hepburn Public Schools Children, Under 5 • W orking through the holidays? Just want to keep the kids busy on PA Days? Send them to a holiday camp! Children participate in games, recreation, crafts, dramatic arts and self directed play with a High Five certified staff. Licensed by the Ministry of Education. Cost: PA Day $32/day, March Break $135/wk, Winter Break $135/wk Summer Public Swimming A ylmer Public Pool, 7 Myrtle St, Aylmer All Ages, Adults, Teens, Children, Under 5, Seniors Cost: $2.50/child, $4/adult, $8/family; season passes: $70/child, $100/adult, $140/family YWCA Computer Classes Y WCA St. Thomas-Elgin, 16 Mary St W , St. Thomas Adults • A great introduction for beginners to learn the basics of computer operation, how to create documents, how to set up and use an email account, and the basics of internet safety. Classes in St. Thomas and Aylmer. Call for more information, including dates and times. Cost: Free © istockphoto/com/Spotmatik Royal Canadian Legion Branch 81 oyal Cdn Legion Br 81, 211 John St N, Alymer, R VON Middlesex-Elgin Pam Buys, 519-637-6408, www.vonmiddlesexelgin.ca S.M.A.R.T - Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together (Seniors Exercises) Seniors • Classes are Mon-Fri for seniors or adults with disabilities. Classes are led by trained instructors to improve strength, balance and flexibility, helping to prevent falls, maintain activities of daily living and maintain independence at home. Please contact VON for class locations, levels and volunteering opportunities. Cost: Free FREE & LOW COST ACTIVITY GUIDE | www.activeelgin.ca23 Elgin-St. Thomas has NEW CYCLING ROUTES & SIGNAGE PULL-OUT CENTREFOLD INSIDE: NEW SIGNAGE & CYCLING SAFETY INFO FOR MORE, VISIT