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HomeMy Public PortalAboutExplore Life Fall 2023Fall 2023Fall 2023Recreation Selections Close to Home PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS TUESDAY, September 12 EXPLORE LIFE Fall 2023 EXPLORE LIFE: Recreation Selections Close to Home PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS TUESDAY, September 12 2 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 When you have completed enjoying this edition of Explore Life please be sure to recycle it. This paper is produced in Nova Scotia. Recreation and Parks Staff Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development and Recreation Cosette Howlett, PRO Kids Coordinator Debbie Harnish, Administrative Assistant Jody Conrad, Recreation Coordinator Nadine Hackney,Community Development Coordinator Gord Tate, Active Living Coordinator Municipality of ChesterCommunity Development and Recreation Department186 Central StreetPO Box 369Chester NS B0J 1J0 phone: 902-275-3490fax: 902-275-3630email: recreation@chester.cawww.chester.ca PROGRAMS Education & Training 4 Movement & Fitness 7 Yoga 10 Outdoor Adventures 11 Sport & Physical Activity 13 @ChesterRecParks ChesterRecreation @chestermunicipality@ChesterRecParks On the cover: Pausing on a hike by Cooks Branch on the new Haughn Natural Area (page 15). Recreation is the experience that results from freely chosen participation in physical, social, intellectual, creative and spiritual pursuits that enhance individual and community wellbeing. -Canadian National Recreation Framework The Chester Municipal Recreation Committee, a volunteer group of citizens and Councilors, have crafted a new set of strategic priorities to help guide how the Recreation and Parks Services will support our communities for the next several years. These priorities are intended to better align with today’s health, social, and community imperatives, especially in a post-pandemic world. The Committee would now like you to comment on the direction they’ve set for our work. Recreation and Parks Services will aspire to be recognized as a passionate, innovative, and agile leader in creating equitable recreation opportunities for our diverse communities so that they may thrive physically, mentally, and spiritually. Every day, we will work to empower, and enable, everyone to find joy, fulfillment, health, and community through recreation. The guiding principles that were crafted represent our values and they direct our actions. Thus, we have committed New Strategic Priorities for Recreation and Parks as individuals to live recreation-rich lifestyles and to act to instill our passion in others. We will respect the needs of each individual we serve and act to remove their unique barriers to participation. We will strive to be knowledgeable and trusted partners and align with, and support, community groups and individuals who share our common goals. Lastly, we will optimize our communication tools and approaches to broaden our reach and inspire participation. With these guiding principles at our core, the following five strategic priority areas were developed. These represent our broad goals. The expectation is that if we focus our activities in these areas, we will be more successful at achieving the vision and mission of the department. 1. Leisure Education/Active living – We will encourage and empower citizens to include recreation and physical activity into their daily lives. This includes sharing the skills and wisdom needed for people to be active independent of our programmed offerings. 2. Communication, reach, participation – We are committed to improving our communication techniques and tools. The premise of this is that if we communicate more effectively, we will broaden our reach to more citizens and communities, and we will increase participation in programs and use of our facilities and spaces. 3. Social justice/Equity- We are committed to removing barriers to participation and expanding our audience beyond the traditional participants. This includes our own journey to better understand and respond to the unique needs of African-Nova Scotians, First Nations, members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, low-income families, and those with accessibility needs. We will strive to welcome everyone into supportive and inclusive environments and experiences. 4. Collaboration – We are committed to EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 3 Barry’s Brook on the morning of July 22. Repairs are Underway on the Rail-Trail Ne w s a n d N o t e s (September 1, 2023) The Chester Connection Trail sustained significant damage during the July 21 floods. More than 300mm of rain fell in the headwaters of the East River and Barry’s Brook systems. Barry’s Brook severed the trail more than 2m deep in multiple locations north of the Castle Rock trail head. Downstream, the force of the accumulated water damaged or destroyed the two bridges that cross it. After the Barry’s Brook joined the East River, that huge volume of water undercut the East River highway 3 bridge which is still partially closed. A wetland just north of the highway 103 overpass swelled and overtopped its banks sending water downstream that scoured our hundreds of meters of the trail and dislodged Goat Lake bridge #1. Further west, large washouts occurred at Henneberry Lake, Marriotts Cove, and Beaver Brook. Very little of the trail was not impacted in one way or another. But since the floods, engineering and construction crews have begun to mobilize. The Aspotogan Trail (Hubbards to East River) had relatively small washouts. Repairs were completed quickly and it working with, and supporting, individuals and organizations who are similarly committed to providing recreation and healthy lifestyle opportunities. We will lend our skills and expertise to relationships that help increase our collective impact. 5. Parks, trails, open spaces- People need spaces and places to recreate, be physically active, and connect to nature. This priority reflects our recent focus on developing open spaces and the desire of community members for more of these opportunities. It also reflects a community, asset-based approach to recreation facility development. We feel that these strategic priorities and the guiding principles that inform them reflect the strengths of the professionals in our department, and represent what we are called to do by the citizens we serve. Now the Committee wants to know what you think. Ask yourself these questions: Are these strategic priorities relevant? Do they reflect the supports you need to be an active participant in recreation? Do they reflect what is needed to support a healthy community? Do they reflect the broad spectrum of activities that is recreation (definition at top of page 2)? If you answered yes, then we’re on the right track? If not, what have we missed? Either way, we welcome your insights. Call us for a chat at 902-275-3490, or email your thoughts to gtate@chester.ca has since reopened. Similarly, a stretch from Chester to Duncans Rd. (near Graves Island Provincial Park) has reopened. Trail resurfacing has started in Martins River and is progressing eastward. The majority of the reconstruction to date has been focused between Goat Lake, north past Castle Rock, and south again to East River. Here, the scoured-out trail has been refilled, two bridges have been reinstated (permanent and temporary), and new, larger culverts have been installed. The focus of the work has been to ‘future proof’ the rail. While the rain that fell in July was historic for this area, our aim is to reduce the impact of similar events in the future. For example, Barry’s Brook #1 bridge was previously a 24-foot span. The new bridge is 80 feet long with the abutments further back from the main channel. Once the work between Goat Lake and East River is complete, the crews will begin to tackle the other impacted locations. The landslides above Walker Road are undergoing reviews by engineers to develop stabilization plans. Fortunately, there has been no further slippage of the slope since the floods, and we have been monitoring them frequently. The Castle Rock trail system, particularly the main, red trail to the top also was severely washed out on July 21. When access via the rail trail is reinstated, we can get to work filling those holes. It’s important for folks to know that there is a lot of large, heavy equipment on the closed sections of the trail. Please stay out so that the crews can safely work. Additionally, there is no emergency vehicle access in those areas that have been cut off. If you were in there and something were to happen, fire and ambulance services could not get to you. Thank you to the representatives from the Nova Scotia Department of Community Culture and Heritage, and the Nova Scotia Trails Federation who have been leading the reconstruction efforts. The scale of the destruction was immense. Without their efforts, those of the construction crews, and the Canadian Disaster Financial Assistance Program, we would not have been able to make the progress we have. The new bridge bridge being installed on August 30. Trail closure and reopening updates can be found at chester.ca; or destinationtrailsnovascotia.com/ trails/rum-runners-trail/ Pr o g r a m s Education & Training Program registration opens Tuesday, September 12 Eight is Enough Is there something you would like to try or learn, but need a little help finding the resources and getting organized? If you have a group of 8 in- terested people together, contact us at the Recreation and Parks Department and we will do our best to put a program together for you. Pricing depends on the activity of course (instructor fees, facility rental etc.), but will be based solely on cost-recovery. Eight is enough! Men’s Shed Pop-Up Woodshop Rambling Come learn more about “Men’s Sheds” while taking in a guided tour of David Ostli’s wood-working shop in Chester. Learn about the tools and machinery used in modern-day wood-working, what they do and how they work. Dave may share a few tricks of the trade along the way. No wood-working experience necessary. Coffee and snacks to follow in the shop as we discuss the potential of a Men’s Shed in our area. All men welcome. No fee. Location 101 Valley Road, Chester Cost FREE Instructor(s)David Ostli and Jody Conrad Weeks 5 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Thursday October 12 10:00 am to 12:00 noon Tuesday, October 10 Healing Your Brain After a Concussion: Parts 1 & 2 The aftermath of a concussion is often a quiet battle of survival. And it’s hard to find the tools we need to heal when our brain hurts! In these workshops, you will learn how to support your brain while it is healing, through lifestyle adjustments, better food choices, and gentle NIA movement to calm the nervous system. You will create a personal map for your healing journey and discover proven strategies for coping with the losses that often come with concussion. In Part 1 of this two-part series, you will learn strategies to create an optimal healing environment for your brain, including Pacing and Points, community resources for post-concussion, and gentle movement (NIA) to relax your nervous system. In Part 2, we will address using food as a healing tool for concussion, and will show you how to create simple, healthy meals and snacks to support your recovery. Participants can attend part 2 without attending part 1. Both facilitators have lived experience with concussion, moving from “just surviving” to living full lives again. One of us will reach out to you prior to the workshop for fur-ther information. If you are unsure if these workshops are for you, go ahead and call the registration number to get connected to one of the instructors to discuss. Nancy Hanlon is a therapist, registered social worker, Compassionate Inquiry practitioner and a NIA Black Belt Instructor. She’s also a nature lover, gardener and lover of all dance. Elizabeth Peirce is a writer, editor, gardener, mother, and community builder. She is the author of Lost and Found: Recovering Your Spirit After a Concussion. Location Forest Heights Community School Cost $30 for one class,$50 for both Instructors Nancy Hanlon and Elizabeth Peirce Ages 18+Weeks 1 week per part Part Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By 1 Saturday September 30 1:00 to 4:00 pm with breaks Tuesday, September 26 2 Saturday November 4 1:00 to 4:00 pm with breaks Tuesday, October 31 Intro to Fishing Fishing is not only ingrained in our Nova Scotian history; it’s also a whole lot of fun! Not everyone has the chance to learn their way around a rod, so join us for a free afternoon of knot tying, the basics of a rod, and how to fish for beginners. Bring a rod if you have one (we will have a few to share if you don’t have one). Location Chester Ferry Wharf Cost Free Instructor(s)Amy Barkhouse Weeks 1 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register by Sunday October 29 1:00 to 4:00pm Thursday, October 26 4 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 5 Pr o g r a m s Memory Cafe Do you struggle with memory challenges or dementia? Why not come out this Winter to our new Chester Memory Café! Memory Cafes are fun social outings for people living with memory challenges and dementia and their care partners. We will have live music, warm drinks, treats and interactive art in a fun welcoming environment. There is no cost to attend. The Chester Memory Café will be held monthly in the community room at Our Health Centre. Some Winter events will be held via Zoom so you can attend right at your kitchen table! We meet once a month on Tuesday afternoons 2:30 to 3:30 pm starting on December 12, 2023. For more information check out the Memory Café NS website at www.memorycafens.ca. Location Our Health Centre, 3769 Hwy 3, Chester Cost FREE Instructor(s)Cynthia Myers & Christelle Boudreau Weeks 5 Ages All Ages Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Tuesdays Dec 12, Jan 16 (virtual), Feb 13 (virtual), Mar 12, Apr 16 2:30 to 3:30 pm Tuesday, December 5 Food Handlers Certification If you are currently working or would like to work in the food industry, this course is for you. You will learn the causes and types of food borne illness focusing on the practices designed to enhance food safety. The topics of safe food preparation, storage and personal hygiene are covered. This one-evening course is conducted by McMullin Food Safety and will provide you with the Nationally recognized certification now mandatory for all food service workers directly handling food. Location Forest Heights Community School Cost $50 Instructor(s)McMullin Food Safety (Al McMullin) Weeks 1 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Wednesday October 18 5:00 pm till finished (usually just after 9:00 pm)Wednesday, October 11 Emergency First Aid & CPR Level C with AED Training In this Emergency First Aid course you will learn the basics of CPR, how to restore breathing, treat bleeding, shock, and more. A St. John Am- bulance instructor will lead you through the first aid techniques you need to know. This course also includes training for use of AED machines, now found in many public facilities. Bring pen, paper, lunch, and snacks. Location Chester Area Middle School Cost $115 Instructor(s)Safety Response First Aid Training (Roger Owen) Weeks 1 Ages 15+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Saturday October 7 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Tuesday, October 3 Community Grants Workshop Do you work or volunteer with a non-profit group in the community? Are you interested in learning more about how to access funding for your upcoming projects? This workshop is for you! Representatives from the Municipality of Chester, Sport Nova Scotia, and the NS Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage will be discussing various grants available, providing tips on how to successfully complete applica- tions, and hosting a Q & A session to answer any questions about your specific needs. Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)Cost FREE Weeks 1 date per session Session No.Day Date(s)Location Time Register By 1 Tuesday October 24 Aspotogan Heritage Trust Office (10 Pte. Richard Green Lane, Hubbards)3:00 to 5:00 pm Drop-in 2 Tuesday October 24 Chester Area Middle School 6:00 to 8:00 pm Drop-in 6 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 Pr o g r a m s Program registration opens Tuesday, September 12 Accessibility for Social Media This workshop is designed for community groups and non-profit organizations, to provide guidelines for creating content for social media using an accessibility lens. Why is accessibility important and what does exclusion in social media look like? Participants will get step-by-step instruc-tions for creating Alternative Text, Image Descriptions, and creating posters with easy-to-read fonts, graphics, and colors for assistive technol-ogy. Municipal staff will be leading the group and discussing what is needed and why when community groups submit posters for us to share. Bring a laptop (optional, for hands-on learning). We are offering three workshops (two in-person and one via zoom). Location Recreation & Parks Office, Chester Instructors Recreation and Parks Staff Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)Weeks 1 week per session Cost FREE Session No.Day Date(s)Location Time Register By 1 Tuesday October 17 186 Central St, 1st floor 10:00 am to 12:00 noon Monday, October 16 2 Wednesday October 18 186 Central St, 1st floor 1:00 to 3:00 pm Tuesday, October 17 3 Wednesday October 18 Online via Zoom 6:00 to 8:00 pm Tuesday, October 17 Beginner Spanish Lessons Did you know Spanish is the second most natively spoken language in the world? Come practice what you know, learn beginner concepts, or have a full Spanish debate! Location Chester Area Middle School Cost Free Instructor(s)Luis Guillen Aoki Weeks 12 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register by Mondays Sept 18 to Dec 18 (no class October 2 or 9) 5:00 to 6:00 pm Drop in Intermediate Spanish So, you have the basics of Spanish, now what? Join our group to learn more about the rules and grammar of the language, and an overall deep- er understanding. Location Chester Area Middle School Cost $120 Instructor(s)Luis Guillen Aoki Weeks 6 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register by Mondays Sept 18 to Oct 30 (no class October 2 or 9) 6:15 to 7:15 pm Thursday, September 14 Intro to Sewing Are you interested in making your own clothes? Fabrics? Don't want to throw away your favourite shirt with the rip in it? Come learn how to sew with us! You will learn the basics of hand sewing and machine sewing, stitches, and fabric use. Over 10 weeks, participants will complete 3-4 projects to keep – a small stuffed animal, an apron, “magic” pillowcases, and a fun felt character! You will also receive information sheets and make stitch samples to store in a duotang for future reference. All materials are provided. Just bring yourself. Location Chester Area Middle School Cost $150 Instructor(s)Julie Chandler Weeks 10 Ages 12+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register by Wednesdays Sep 27 to Nov 29 5:30 to 7:30 pm Friday, September 22 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 7 Pr o g r a m s Movement & Fitness Plant/Flower/Produce Swap With so much success in our Spring plant swap, we're coming back even better! This Fall let's celebrate our community by sharing with your neighbours. Did you plant too much of one vegetable? Did you save seeds from your vegetables? Did you save seeds from your flowers? Are you looking to swap out your indoor plants? Or are you just starting out and looking for greenery? We look forward to seeing and sharing with you all! All extras will go towards our seed banks and community programs. Location Chester Area Middle School Cost Free Instructor(s)Amy Barkhouse Weeks 1 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Sunday October 15 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Cardio & Muscle Conditioning Cardio and Muscle Conditioning is an energetic class that gets the heart rate up and promotes good cardio-vascular function as well as chal- lenging the major muscle groups in the body. Benefits of this type of exercise include lowering blood pressure; regulating blood sugar; aiding with sleep; helping manage body composition; strengthening the immune system; improving brain power; boosting mood; and improving muscle strength and endurance, overall balance, coordination and flexibility. Music will be used to motivate and encourage everyone to have fun and move the body! Participants are asked to bring their own hand weights and a mat for floor work as these cannot be provided. Partic- ipants will be asked to choose a spot on the floor and movement will take place around this spot. Please wear comfortable workout clothing, appropriate dress and footwear for the location and bring a towel and water. Location Chester Basin Legion Cost $90 Instructor(s)Nancy Timbrell-Muckle Weeks 10 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Thursdays October 5 to December 7 10:00 to 11:00 am Thursday, September 28 Cardio & Stretching (50/50) Cardio (aerobic) exercise is a rhythmic activity that raises your heart rate into your target heart-rate zone. This is the zone where you burn the most fat and calories. The extra bonus is - it's done to music, and it is a lot of fun! After the class we will do a good overall stretch to keep the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy. We need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints, otherwise the muscles shorten and become tight. You will leave the class feeling comfortable, flexible, and relaxed! Location Chester Brass Band Hall Cost $110 Instructor(s)Heidrun Lind Weeks 8 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Tuesdays October 3 to November 21 11:30 am to 12:15 pm Tuesday, September 26 Full Body Strength & Tone 10 minutes of a fun warm up will be the beginning of a great class that will work through all your muscle groups. Improve your overall health and wellbeing and strengthen/tone your body to look and feel better. We finish with stretching and relaxation. Classes are done to uplifting music. Start your day full of joy! Location Chester Brass Band Hall Cost $110 Instructor(s)Heidrun Lind Weeks 8 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Tuesdays October 3 to November 21 10:30 to 11:15 am Tuesday, September 26 8 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 Pr o g r a m s Program registration opens Tuesday, September 12 Beginner Latin & Ballroom Dance This class will include instruction on Jive/Swing, Foxtrot, Waltz and Cha-Cha, the most popular dances so you can go out and enjoy a social evening of dancing. No experience required. Coming with a dance partner is preferred, but not required. Location Chester Brass Band Hall Cost $110 Instructor(s)Heidrun Lind Weeks 8 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Thursdays October 5 to November 23 6:30 to 7:15 pm Thursday, September 28 Dance Fit This is a great way to work up a sweat while enjoying 45 minutes of various music styles, rhythms, and dance steps for singles. No experience or partners required. Location Chester Brass Band Hall Cost $110 per session Instructors Heidrun Lind Ages 16+Weeks 8 weeks per session Day(s)Session No.Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Tuesdays 1 Oct 3 to Nov 21 9:30 to 10:15 am Tuesday, September 26 Thursdays 2 Oct 5 to Nov 23 5:30 to 6:15 pm Thursday, September 28 Beginner Salsa/Bachata Salsa is an uplifting, Latin, fun and sensual dance with lots of turns and twirls. It is originally from Cuba and is now popular worldwide. Bachata was created in the Dominican Republic and is not only danced in the Caribbean; it’s getting more and more popular in our area. The hip moves are soft, and it is an easy dance to learn. Location Chester Brass Band Hall Cost $110 Instructor(s)Heidrun Lind Weeks 8 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Thursdays October 5 to November 23 7:30 to 8:15 pm Thursday, September 28 Nia Moving to Heal Nia Moving to Heal is a gentle, playful movement class where the focus is on healing by bringing awareness to our sensations. The moves and music are chosen to calm the nervous system and reconnect body, mind, spirit, and emotions. We encourage personalizing and adapting the moves for your own body’s needs. Chairs will be available, and you can participate seated or standing or both. All are welcome. Wear comfort- able dress and bring water. Location Forest Heights Community School Cost $85 Instructor(s)Nancy Hanlon Weeks 8 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Sundays Oct 1 to Nov 26 1:30 to 2:30 pm Wednesday, September 27 Details on Page 5 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 9 Pr o g r a m s Line Dancing - Advanced This is an ongoing class for dancers who have taken the classes before. Dancers that are new to the group should contact the instructor to dis-cuss their experience level to ensure a good fit. Please note that this is a fragrance-free class. Wear comfortable footwear, clothing and bring water. Location Chester Legion Cost $70 Instructor(s)Erin Gore Weeks 14 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Wednesdays Sept 27 to Jan 10, 2024(no class Dec 20 and 27)11:30 am to 12:30 pm Wednesday, September 20 Line Dancing - Beginners Beginner class in country line dancing, starting with simple steps and dances, and progressing at a pace that suits the class. Please note that this is a fragrance-free class. Wear comfortable footwear, clothing and bring water. Location Chester Legion Cost $70 Instructor(s)Erin Gore Weeks 14 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Wednesdays Sept 27 to Jan 10, 2024 (no class Dec 20 and 27) 10:00 to 10:45 am Wednesday, September 20 Line Dancing - Intermediate This is an ongoing class for dancers who have taken the classes before. Dancers that are new to the group should contact the instructor to dis-cuss their experience level to ensure a good fit. Please note that this is a fragrance-free class. Wear comfortable footwear, clothing and bring water. Location Chester Legion Cost $70 Instructor(s)Erin Gore Weeks 14 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Wednesdays Sept 27 to Jan 10, 2024 (no class Dec 20 and 27) 10:45 to 11:45 am Wednesday, September 20 ELDOA This class will include the basics of ELDOA, with stability and mobility exercises. The class will guide you into more awareness of your move- ment and will provide you with more balance throughout the body. The ELDOA are very precise postures that target a specific joint region, increasing space within the joint to provide relief from pain and restore balance. This helps create positive tension around the joints which promotes neutral alignment in the body. Numerous benefits include better movement; increased blood flow; reduced pressure on the spinal discs; disc rehydration; organ health; and postural alignment. Bring a mat & water. Location Chester Brass Band Hall Cost $116 Instructor(s)Manuela Soares Weeks 8 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Tuesdays Oct 3 to Nov 21 12:30 to 1:30 pm Tuesday, September 26 Essentrics Did you know that we can choose how we want to age? This workout simultaneously lengthens and strengthens every muscle in the body, resulting in greater joint mobility and lean long muscles. This is a full body-technique that works through the muscle chains, liberating and em- powering the muscles, relieving them from tension in the process. A completely original workout that draws on the flowing movements of tai chi which create health and balance, the strengthening theories behind ballet which create long, lean, flexible muscles and the healing principles of physiotherapy which create a pain free body. Class is done in bare feet. Wear comfortable clothing. Bring a mat and water. Location Chester Brass Band Hall Cost $140 per session Ages 35+Weeks 10 weeks per session Day(s)Session No.Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Instructor Mondays 1 Oct 16 to Dec 18 9:30 to 10:30 am Monday, Sept 25 Laurissa Manning Wednesdays 2 Oct 4 to Dec 6 9:30 to 10:30 am Wednesday, Sept 27 Robert Urquhart 10 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 Yoga Pr o g r a m s Program registration opens Tuesday, September 12 Slow Flow Yoga in Chester Move slowly and deliberately through sequences of yoga postures and breathing techniques to focus attention and free our minds from the busyness of everyday life. Focus is on strength, flexibility and movement through standing, balance, floor, and twisting postures. Suitable for all levels, especially for those wanting a slower paced class with posture modifications. Bring a yoga mat and blanket. Location St. Stephen’s Parish Hall Cost $125 Instructor(s)Dawn Hatt Weeks 10 Ages 20+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Wednesdays Sept 27 to Nov 29 9:30 to 10:30 am Friday, September 22 Gentle/Beginner Yoga Join a gentle class where poses will be modified, as needed. Asanas (poses) will build strength, treat chronic pain and strengthen your immune system. This will be a small class with individual attention provided. Wear comfortable stretchy clothes and bring water. Location St. Stephen’s Parish Hall Cost $109 per session Instructors Wenda Fraser-Housego Ages 40+Weeks 8 weeks per session Day(s)Session No.Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Tuesdays 1 Oct 10 to Nov 28 10:00 to 11:00 am Tuesday, October 3 Thursdays 2 Oct 12 to Nov 30 6:00 to 7:00 pm Thursday, October 5 Chair Yoga Yoga is for everyone! No matter what age, physical limitation, or body type, one can experience the health benefits of doing Yoga with the help of a chair! With a chair, we can do most Yoga poses, breathing and relaxation techniques…some poses are seated, and some are standing… with a chair, one does not have to get up and down from the floor. Chairs are provided. Soft music plays in the background. Chair Yoga is gentle, easy, and fun and it is accessible for everyone! Wear comfortable clothing, indoor shoes, bring a towel and water. Location Chester Basin Legion Cost $90 Instructor(s)Nancy Timbrell-Muckle Weeks 10 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Thursdays October 5 to December 7 11:30 am to 12:30 pm Thursday, September 28 Slow Flow Yoga in Chester Basin Slow Flow Yoga is a gentle healing practice that invites participants to move slowly through best loved yoga poses, flowing gently from one pose to another with emphasis on deep breathing. This practice benefits everyone from those new to yoga to those further along in their yoga journey and those seeking a therapeutic experience to help soothe the body, mind and spirit. Poses are done barefoot on a mat (participants bring their own) and are done lying down, seated, kneeling and standing. The practice incorporates music and meditation. Wear comfortable workout clothing, bring a yoga mat, towel, and water. Location Chester Basin Legion Cost $120 Instructor(s)Nancy Timbrell-Muckle Weeks 10 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Mondays Oct 16 to Dec 18 7:00 to 8:30 pm Monday, September 25 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 11 Pr o g r a m s Outdoor Adventures PLEASE NOTE: We ask that you arrive 10 minutes early to allow time to sign the waiver and allow us to get started on time. Although canine friends are like family to many, not all people are comfortable around dogs, so for this reason, we do not permit dogs on our hikes. Introduction to Lichens and Mosses Join us for an informative walk along your new trails at the Haughn property with Frances Anderson and Anne Mills. Besides being beautiful and hugely diverse in appearance, lichens are a unique example of symbiosis in nature with fungus providing structure and algae providing nutrients. Frances will introduce you to these unique organisms and provide interesting facts and some fun common names for some of the different varieties. Anne will introduce you to the wonderful world of “Bryophytes”- mosses and liverworts. These were the first plants to colo- nize land and can be found from the Arctic to Antarctica and everywhere in between. Often walked by without being seen, you will learn more about these small and beautiful plants that cover our forest floor, rocks and trees. A fun and informative meander. Come prepared to squint, peek, crouch and wonder. Dress for the outdoors, bring water & snack, a hand lens or magnifying glass if you have one. Location Haughn Estate & Natural Area, Middle River (4952 Hwy 3) Cost $5 Instructor(s)Frances Anderson and Anne Mills Weeks 1 Ages 5+ (children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Saturday November 18 (Raindate: Nov. 19) 10:00 am to 12:00 noon Monday, November 13 Explore Tancook Have you always been meaning to finally visit Big Tancook? Come get a tour by a local resident and learn about the Islands mystery, magic, and beauty. The ferry leaves Chester wharf at exactly 10:00 am, and leaves Tancook at exactly 5:00 pm, don't be left behind! There will be a lot of walking. Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch. Location Big Tancook Island/ Chester Wharf Cost Free Instructor(s)Amy Barkhouse Weeks 1 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register by Sunday September 24 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Thursday, September 21 Lions Park/Ross Farm Fall Hike Venture to New Ross and Cruise with Cose as she leads you through the Lions Park Trail in New Ross. This well-groomed trail meanders through the woods and country road. We’ll take a minute to view the Meadow at the Observation Deck, then walk by Larder Lake while enjoying the beauty of the Fall leaves and take the country road to Ross Farm where we will circle back to our starting point. Participants should wear appro- priate footwear for trail walking, proper clothing and bring water. Location Lions Park, 4676 Hwy 12, New Ross Cost Free Instructor(s)Cosette Howlett Weeks 1 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By Tuesday October 17 2:30 to 4:00 pm Tuesday, October 10 Gold River Hike The Gold River Natural Area was bequeathed to the Municipality by the late Rudy Haase and the Chester Educational Foundation. Rudy’s desire was to see the land retained in its natural state, while allowing low-impact recreation opportunities. This is an absolutely beautiful area, the trail here leading you through mature stands of Acadian Forest species of Eastern Hemlock, Yellow Birch, Maples and Red Spruce all the way to Gold River itself where we will break for a snack and chat before heading back. Come prepared for a couple solid hours of hiking with some elevation change. Wear good hiking footwear, bring extra layers, water, and a snack. Location Gold River Natural Area, 1458 Beech Hill Road Cost Free Instructor(s) Jody Conrad & Rec Staff Weeks 1 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By Saturday October 14 9:30 am to 12:30 pm Tuesday, October 10 12 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 Pr o g r a m s Program registration opens Tuesday, September 12 Graves Island Fall Leaves Hike Have you ever thought of walking the trail around Graves Island but just never got yourself in motion? Well now’s your chance to cruise with Cose as she leads you around the Island on the well-groomed trail to enjoy the Fall colors. You’ll get to experience the sounds and smell of nature, including the ocean on this leisurely paced walk. We ask that you arrive 10 minutes early to sign the waiver and allow us to start on time. Park in the lot on the left just before the causeway. Wear appropriate footwear for trail walking, proper clothing and water. Location Graves Island Provincial Park Cost FREE Instructor(s)Cosette Howlett Weeks 1 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By Friday October 20 10:00 am to 12:00 noon Friday, October 13 Wild Medicine Walk Come explore the abundance of nature and learn how the wild plants growing around us can be used as food and medicine. At the end of our medicinal plant walk, the conversation will continue around a pot of wild medicine tea that we will brew together. About the instructor: Oren Hercz helps people on the South Shore struggling with chronic health conditions who want to feel a greater sense of ease and wellness in mind and body. He also leads classes and workshops on turning the wild plants around us into medicine for ourselves and our families. He is a graduate of David Winston’s Centre for Herbal Studies, and a registered practitioner with the Herbalist Association of Nova Scotia. He has been working with clients since 2009. Dress for outdoors, wear good shoes, hat, etc. Bring a mug for tea. Location Graves Island Provincial Park Cost $18 Instructor(s)Oren Hercz Weeks 1 Ages 5+ (children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Sunday October 29 2:00 to 4:30 pm Monday, October 23 Ross Farm 5k Run/Walk The New Ross Trails Society will be hosting a 5km Run/Walk on the wonderful trails at Ross Farm Museum. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. The run wil be timed, but no one will be taking it too seriously. This event is a fundraiser for the Society. Registration can be completed prior to via the Recreation Department, or the day of beginning at 10:00 am at the Ross Farm main entrance parking lot. For schedule updates in the event of rain, and for more information, visit www.facebook.com/newrosstrailssociety. ~Happy Trails~ Location Ross Farm Museum Cost $10 Hosts New Ross Trail Society Weeks 1 Ages All ages (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Pre-Register By Saturday October 14 (Raindate: Oct 15) 11:00 am start Thursday, Oct 12; or at the event Ruby’s Spot Mobility Day Ruby’s Spot, on Porcupine Hill, is a special place of inspiration and reflection surrounded by beautiful gardens perched on the hill overlooking New Ross. The trail has become recognized as a must-see place to visit by people from near and far and it uplifts the spirits of many with all the amazing painted rocks inspired by Ruby. The New Ross Trails Society understands that not everyone who might like to visit Ruby’s Spot is able to make it there on their own, so they have organized a Mobility Day where ALL ages and abilities are welcome! From the Murphy’s property on the Forties Road, a motorized ‘ferry’ will be available to transport people to and from the lookoff. As an added bonus, refreshments and entertainment will be provided. Dress for the weather. Location Meet and park at 180 Forties Rd.Cost FREE Hosts New Ross Trail Society Weeks 1 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Sunday September 10 (Raindate: October 22) 1:00-3:00pm EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 13 Pr o g r a m s Sport & Physical Activity Fairy Walk at Larders Lane Join us for a “Fall Fairy Fun Walk”, on Larders Lane in New Ross. As you make your way along the lovely fall-inspired forest path, you’ll spy plen- ty of different types of woodland fairies in unusually wonderful places, gather certain items along the way to create something special at the end of your journey, capped off with refreshments, a craft and a chat at the school ballfield. Location Meet at the New Ross Baptist Church, 61 Forties Rd. Cost FREE Hosts New Ross Trail Society Weeks 1 Ages All ages (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Saturday October 28 (Raindate: October 29) 2:00 to 4:00 pm Location Aspotogan Consolidated Elementary School Gym Cost $3 Drop-in Fee Weeks 11 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Mondays Sept 25 to Dec 18 (no pickleball Oct 2 or 9) 7:00 to 8:30 pm Location Chester District Elementary School Gym Cost $4 Drop-in Fee Weeks 14 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Wednesdays September 13 to December 13 5:30 to 8:30 pm Location New Ross Consolidated School Gym Weeks 14 Ages All ages (children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Cost Wednesdays September 13 to December 13 6:00 to 7:15 pm $2 Drop-in Fee Sundays September 10 to December 10 (no pickleball October 8) 6:30 to 8:30 pm $4 Drop-in Fee What is Pickleball? Pickleball is a racket sport played with paddles and a whiffle ball (similar to tennis or badminton) and is played indoors on a badminton court. Come join the fun and be part of the fastest growing sport in North America. This is a drop-in session for players who are new to the game or working on developing basic skills and/or just wanting to play for fun! Volunteers will be available for instruction in the fundamentals of Pickleball including game rules and etiquette, how to keep score as well as specific skills such as serves, ball control, ground-strokes, forehand, backhand and “dinking”. A limited number of paddles are available, but regulars are encouraged to purchase their own paddle. Wear indoor, athletic footwear, water, a paddle if you have one. Intermediate/Advanced Recreational Pickleball For players who have progressed beyond basic Pickleball play and are looking for a friendly faster-paced game, these drop-in sessions will help develop and improve higher level skills. Players will be comfortable playing at the non-volley zone and using a variety of strategies such as drop shots, lobs, shot selection, ball placement and putting spin on the ball to challenge their opponents. Bring indoor, athletic footwear, water, and a paddle if you have one. Location Forest Heights Community School Cost $4 Drop-in Fee Instructors Chester Pickleball Group Weeks 12 Ages 12+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Tuesdays & Thursdays Sept 26 to Dec 14 6:30 to 8:30 pm 14 EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 Pr o g r a m s Program registration opens Tuesday, September 12 Badminton Drop-In - Aspotogan Consolidated Elementary School Whether you are a seasoned player or an absolute newbie to the sport, come join this fun, informal group for a good workout. All equipment is provided but bring a racquet if you have one. Bring indoor, athletic footwear and water. Location Aspotogan Consolidated Elementary School Gym Cost $3 Drop-in fee Weeks 12 Ages 16+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Wednesdays Sept 27 to Dec 13 7:00 to 8:30 pm Badminton Drop In - New Ross Consolidated School Gym This friendly group meets weekly to play casual games of badminton. Join us for a fun time - all ages and skill levels welcome! Bring indoor sneakers and water. Location New Ross Consolidated School Gym Cost $2 Drop-in fee Weeks 14 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Day(s)Date(s)Time Tuesdays Sep 12 to Dec 12 7:00 to 8:30 pm Learn to Curl with Chester Curling Club This learn to curl program is a great way to learn one of Canada's best Winter sports! The program is designed to teach the basic rules, strate- gies, and techniques of the game in a fun and safe environment. It is designed for beginners, and those with some experience who would like to expand their curling knowledge/skill. This is a great way to stay active in the Winter! Wear warm clothing that you can move in and clean sneakers. Brooms & sliders are provided by the Curling Club. Location Chester Curling Club, 190 Pig Loop Road Cost $85 Instructors Chester Curling Club Weeks 6 Ages 19+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By Mondays Nov 6 to Dec 11 7:00 to 8:30 pm Monday, October 30 Adult Basketball Drop-In Come have fun playing basketball! All skill levels welcome, we can run 1-on-1 games, play with teams, or just have shooting practice. See you on the court! Please bring indoor sneakers and water. Location New Ross Consolidated School Gym Cost $2 Drop-in fee Weeks 14 Ages 14+ Day(s)Date(s)Time Wednesdays Sep 13 to Dec 13 7:30 to 9:00 pm PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS TUESDAY, September 12 Easy Ways To Register and Pay for Programs Call 902-275-3490 Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pmPayment may be made with credit card over the phone. Send cheques payable to “Municipality of Chester” to: Recreation & Parks Services186 Central Street, PO Box 369 Chester NS B0J 1J0 There’s also a drop-off box located just outside the Recreation & Parks office. EXPLORE LIFE Fall ‘23 15 Contact us anytime at: 902-275-3490 recreation@chester.ca Have a credit card ready, and set up an account online. Step 1: Visit www.Chester.ca, under the Explore tab, click “Register for a Recreation Program”. Step 2: Sign in or Create an Account. Step 3: Once complete, you can register for activities payments@chester.ca. With your e-transfer, please note the purpose of your payment and provide your name and address. For the past year, work has been underway to open two new natural areas in the municipality. Each of them has their own unique character and have been developed to invite you to explore their incredible natural beauty. Gold River Natural Area. 1458 Beech Hill Road. This 75-acre property was gifted to the Municipality in 2015 by the late Rudy Haase. Two new trails have been built. The Blue Trail (#1, 2300m one way, rated ‘Most Difficult’) is the main route that departs from the parking lot and winds its way downhill to the banks of the Gold River. It’s a 1 m wide machine-built woodland trail. It is dry with occasional wet patches after a rain and expect roots and rocks along the way. Its slopes are gentle throughout. A picnic table sits at the water’s edge. Rest and enjoy the tranquility of the moving water before retracing your steps uphill. The green trail (#2, 1000m, rated ‘Moderate’) forms a loop off of the blue trail. It’s close to the parking lot and is perfect for folks who want a shorter, less challenging hike through a beautiful hardwood stand. Both trails, while challenging, can be ridden on a mountain bike by folks with the requisite skills. Haughn Natural Area. 4952 Highway 3, Middle River. Gifted by the late Danny Haughn in 2017, this 29-acre property contains a beautiful mix of mature hemlock and pine stands, and a quickly regenerating spruce forest. The blue trail (#2, 1200m, rated ‘Moderate’) is a 1m wide woodland trail that is dry with only occasional wet spots. The slopes are gentle throughout, but there are a few short, steeper sections. The trail passes by Cooks Branch Stream which you can see on the cover of this edition. It’s a tranquil, contemplative spot, perfect for a picnic in the woods. The yellow trail (#3, 200m, rated ‘Moderate’) creates a short side loop off the blue route. This trail has been built with some fun, mountain bike specific features included (rollers, berms, drops). New Places to Hike and Bike A third trail, the green trail (#1, 1000m, rated ‘Easiest’) is under development. This will be a 2m wide gravel trail intended to create a more accessible connection from the rail-trail to highway 3. It will also ‘kiss’ the blue trail, thus creating a stacked loop system to provide more variety of route types and lengths. A new parking area off the rail-trail will allow cyclists and OHVers to park their machines and wander through the property. Castle Rock. Two new trail options have been added to the Castle Rock system. Both were designed to minimize slopes (which is hard to do up there), access some unique views of Mahone Bay, and take hikers close to otherwise unknown rock faces. The green trail (#4, 700m, rated ‘Easiest’) connects the existing blue trail to the yellow trail. It is intended to be a more Photos: Left: The blue-yellow junction at Haughn. Centre: Riverside picnic area at Gold River. Above: Rubbing shoulders with the cliffs on the Castle Rock purple trail. accessible option off of the red trail to at least get folks to the ‘lower look-off’ in case they can’t make it all the way to the peak. From here, the new purple trail (#5, 300m, rated ‘Moderate’) is a technical footpath through the woods as you rub shoulders with the cliffs, but it does provide a slightly more gentle final approach to the peak than the yellow trail affords. Reminder! Castle Rock is currently closed. Visit chester.ca for updates. We’re incredibly pleased with the quality of all the new trails that have been constructed in the past year. They were unimpacted by the the July 21st floods thankfully. Our mission with these properties is to make places that people want to explore and love. We think you’ll appreciate the new adventures that these properties provide and that you’ll gain a sense of tranquility, challenge, and a connection with nature in each. While much of the trail development work is complete, you’ll see us continuing to put a few finishing touches on the trails over time (benches, a little bit more signage, etc.). We always welcome your feedback and suggestions. 902-275-3490 or recreation@chester.ca. Regulations and maps of the three properties noted above can be found at chester.ca/ recreation-parks/trails. CHESTERCUT N RUN Sunday October 1 Chester Area Middle School 9:00am NEW DATE! Registration OPEN NOW Adults: $30 after Wednesday, September 6. 18 and under: $10 (under 8 must run with an adult). The pre-registration date to receive an event t-shirt has past. All those who registered for the original June 4 run/walk are still registered for the new October 1 date. Registration options: Recreation & Parks Services, 186 Central St. chester.ca recreation@chester.ca 902-275-3490 Day of