HomeMy Public PortalAboutExplore Life Spring 2024Spring 2024Spring 2024
PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS TUESDAY, April 9
Cut n Run
Mayfest
CMP Survey
Trail Maps
EXPLORE LIFE
Recreation Selections Close to Home
2 EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24 When you’ve completed enjoying this edition of Explore Life please be sure to recycle it. This paper is produced in Nova Scotia.
Mayfest Booklets will be available at the Recreation Office (186 Central St, Chester - lower level, Annex Building) on May 1, 2, and 3, or on Saturday May 4, at CAMS, 204 Duke St., Chester.
Planning a Mayfest event or yard sale? To have your event included in our printed booklet submit it to chester.ca/events/mayfest-2024-yard-sale-weekend by Friday, April 19.
Mayfest 2024
Saturday, May 4 & Sunday, May 5
Yard Sale Weekend
Watch for lots of yard sales / events throughout the Municipality
PRO Kids Fundraiser
100% of the proceeds from the Dollar Auction and Bake Sale goes to the Municipality of Chester PRO Kids
For more information call Recreation & Parks Services at 902-275-3490 or email recreation@chester.ca.
Sat. May 4, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
Chester Area Middle School
• DOLLAR AUCTION
Chance to win a Sky Box Pass to the NS Tatoo on July 1st!
(Ten prizes valued at min. $50 each) $5 for 10 tickets
• BAKE SALE (If you’d like to donate baked goods to our fundraiser,
please call the Recreation Dept.)
• MAYFEST BOOKLETS • LOTS OF PARKING
• WASHROOMS
PROPROPRO
Spring 2024
EXPLORE LIFE: Recreation Selections Close to Home
EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24 3
PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS TUESDAY, April 9
When you’ve 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 StreetLower EntrancePO Box 369Chester NS B0J 1J0
phone: 902-275-3490fax: 902-275-3630email: recreation@chester.cawww.chester.ca
PROGRAMS
Education & Training 6
Dancing 7
Wellness 8
Hobbies 8
Movement & Fitness 9
Pickleball 11
Sport & Physical Activity 14
Outdoor Adventures 15
@ChesterRecParks ChesterRecreation @chestermunicipality
On the cover: A tranquil, riverside picnic table awaits you at the end of the ‘blue trail’ on the Gold River
Natural area (see map page 13).
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 Summer Edition of Explore Life will be in your mailboxes on Tuesday, June 11, 2024
Mayfest Booklets will be available at the Recreation Office (186 Central St, Chester - lower level, Annex Building) on May 1, 2, and 3, or on Saturday May 4, at CAMS, 204 Duke St., Chester.
Planning a Mayfest event or yard sale? To have your event included in our printed booklet submit it to chester.ca/events/mayfest-2024-yard-sale-weekend by Friday, April 19.
Mayfest 2024
Saturday, May 4 & Sunday, May 5
Yard Sale Weekend
Watch for lots of yard sales / events throughout the Municipality
PRO Kids Fundraiser
100% of the proceeds from the Dollar Auction and Bake Sale goes to the Municipality of Chester PRO Kids
For more information call Recreation & Parks Services at 902-275-3490 or email recreation@chester.ca.
Sat. May 4, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
Chester Area Middle School
• DOLLAR AUCTION
Chance to win a Sky Box Pass to the NS Tatoo on July 1st!
(Ten prizes valued at min. $50 each) $5 for 10 tickets
• BAKE SALE (If you’d like to donate baked goods to our fundraiser,
please call the Recreation Dept.)
• MAYFEST BOOKLETS• LOTS OF PARKING
• WASHROOMS
PROPROPRO
Above: Recent Pop-Up Men’s Shed participants proudly displaying their completed bat houses. Thanks to Dave Ostli (far right) for facilitating this latest 4-week series.
Many thanks to Chester Building Supplies for donating the materials for the bat boxes. To learn more about Men’s Sheds, visit: https://mensshedscanada.ca
4 EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24 Program registration opens Tuesday, April 9
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(March 27, 2024) While work slowed somewhat through the winter months, and while spiring weight restrictions remained in place, the provincial contractors have now been hard at work in the past few weeks getting new trail structures installed. Specifically, new bridges at Barry’s Brook, another north of the Castle Rock trailhead, and another near Goat Lake. By the time you read this, the decking and railing work should be nearly completed. Several new culverts were also installed through the Goat Lake to East River corridor.
Once the water crossings are completely reestablished, our municipal contractors can then gain access to Castle Rock. Keep in mind that Castle Rock is municipal property, while the rail-trail is provincial, hence why two separate contractors are doing this work - albeit in a complementary and sequential manner.
The first step of repairing the popular main route to Castle Rock (red trail) is to have an engineer provide some advice on how to rebuild it so that future flood events have less of an impact. Then our municipal contractor will be able to begin repairs. The same contractor will also begin doing the final top-dressing of the rail-trail tread to reestablish the surface we’ve had before.
Once the provincial contractor is done in the East River area, they will jump over to Western Shore and Middle River, where there are two other bridges to be installed. After that, they will tackle the Marriotts Cove bridge installation. The expectation is that both of those projects will be done by Summer. Again, trail resurfacing will follow once the bridges are installed.
While there is lots of materials and machine time still required, our hope is to have the Castle Rock trails, and the remaining sections of rail-trail completely re-opened before summer arrives.
As always, please respect trail closures and keep out of work areas 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.
Trail closure and reopening updates can be found at chester.ca; or destinationtrailsnovascotia.com/trails/rum-runners-trail/
Trail Repairs Continue
Gold River Bridge Update
A preferred design has been selected for the replacement trail bridge over the Gold River. The new design, a modified bowstring arch bridge, will incorporate three spans totaling 122m in length. Unlike the current bridge, the new bridge will not have piers located in the riverbed. This is an important benefit because it allows all construction activities to be located on the riverbanks - which also mitigates costs and impacts on the watercourses.
DesignPoint Engineering Ltd. designed the bridge and have now completed geotechnical engineering surveys to assess the characteristic of the construction site. Construction tender documents are expected to be released in April. If all goes according to plan, construction will hopefully begin this summer.
EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24 5Register at 902-275-3490 or www. chester.ca
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The Municipality of Chester Community Development and
Recreation & Parks Services is seeking applications from people
who would like to be part of our summer Recreation and Parks
team. Specifically, we are looking for:
Youth Leaders (starting late June). 4 positions. Student-aged.
If you are creative, energetic, organized, and enjoy working with
youth and the public, these positions are for you. Deadline to
apply for Youth Leader positions is Friday, April 12th.
Trail Maintenance and Public Engagement Ambassadors
(starting mid-May). 2 positions. One of these positions is funded
for ages 18-30. If you are passionate about natural history, trails,
outdoor adventures, and enjoy rewarding work outdoors and
sharing your passion with the public, these positions are for you.
Deadline to apply for Ambassador positions is Wednesday, April
24th.
*Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.
Send all applications to:
Municipality of ChesterRecreation & Parks Services
ATTN: Jody Conrad
186 Central St., PO Box 369
Chester NS B0J 1J0
Email: jconrad@chester.ca
Phone: 902-275-2712Fax: 902-275-3630
SUMMER EMPLOYMENT
The Church Memorial Park Board of Trustees is undertaking a feasibility study to determine whether the existing Eleanor Pew Morris Memorial
Arena should be renovated, or if it should be replaced by a
new facility built to meet the current and future recreation
needs of the community.
Your input is incredibly valuable to ensure that study outcomes reflect the needs of residents. What do you think are current
and future priorities for the Eleanor Pew Morris Memorial
Arena, and recreation in the Municipality of Chester?
Get up to date information on all the programs and events of the Recreation and Parks Department.
888-817-0791
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Community Survey:
CMP wants to hear from you!
Deadline: April 14, 2024
Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BLRLTYP?gf_
unique
Recreation At Your Fingertips
6 EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24
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Program registration opens Tuesday, April 9
Education & Training
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!
Castle Watch
Are you a high school student who likes the outdoors and are looking for a resume builder and a way to serve your community and develop
some skills? Recreation and Parks Services at the Municipality of Chester are looking for new members of the Castle Watch! Castle Watch
members volunteer to patrol the trails at Castle Rock and help us keep an eye on trail conditions. All training is provided and you even get some cool swag. Orientation and training will be happening this Spring but please let us know of your interest now. Contact Jody Conrad at jconrad@chester.ca or 902-275-2712 to learn more.
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. Bring pen & paper.
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 June 5 5:00 pm till finished
(usually just after 9:00 pm)
Wednesday, May 29
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 Forest Heights Community
School
Cost $115 Instructor(s)Roger Owen, Safety Response First Aid
Training
Weeks 1 Ages 15+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Saturday June 29 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday, June 24
Spring Bicycle Tune-Up
Listen! Do you hear that?! …It’s your bicycle screaming from the garage or basement to be let out!
Bring your bike down and we’ll give it a quick tune-up to get you going. We’ll clean and lube the chain, adjust and lube cables, adjust brakes,
inflate tires etc. We will not have parts on hand, so will not be doing major repairs, but can assess and advise you on needed work as well.
Please pre-register.
Location Chester Gazebo
(3 Parade Square Road)
Cost Donations to MoC
PRO Kids
Instructor(s)Gord Tate and Jody Conrad
Weeks 1 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Wednesday May 15 5:30 to 8:00 pm Wednesday, May 8
EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24 7
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Register at 902-275-3490 or www. chester.ca
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 (14 Union Street)Cost $50 Instructor(s) Erin Gore
Weeks 10 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Wednesdays April 24 to June 26 10:00 to 10:45 am Monday, April 22
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 (14 Union Street)Cost $50 Instructor(s) Erin Gore
Weeks 10 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Wednesdays April 24 to June 26 10:45 to 11:45 am Monday, April 22
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 (14 Union Street)Cost $50 Instructor(s) Erin Gore
Weeks 10 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Wednesdays April 24 to June 26 11:30 am to 12:30 pm Monday, April 22
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
(186 Pig Loop Road)
Cost $55 Instructor(s)Heidrun Lind
Weeks 4 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Tuesdays April 23 to May 14 9:30 to 10:15 am Thursday, April 18
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 needed. Coming with a partner is preferred.
Location Chester Brass Band Hall (186 Pig Loop Road)Cost $55 Instructor(s)Heidrun Lind
Weeks 4 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Thursdays April 25 to May 16 7:00 to 8:00 pm Thursday, April 18
Dancing
8 EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24
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Program registration opens Tuesday, April 9
Hobbies
Introduction to Reiki (Info Session)
Have you heard of Reiki and are unsure of what it is? Here is an opportunity to learn about the practice of Reiki, spiritual house cleansings, and psychic surgery. The session will include a presentation on each with a question-and-answer period afterwards.
Location Forest Heights Community School Cost FREE Instructor(s)Corrine Moland
Weeks 1 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Wednesday April 24 6:30 to 8:00 pm Friday, April 19
Wellness
Digital Photography Workshop 101
The Digital Photography Workshop 101 is the first of a two-part series consisting of six in-person classroom sessions plus three on location field trips focused on learning how to make better images. Intended for the beginner, this course sets the foundation on topics such as exposure, ap-erture, shutter speed, ISO, exposure compensation, metering modes, including camera settings, and is for anyone not happy with their photos.
This workshop includes instruction, hands on learning, weekly assignments and on location field trips. Student images are reviewed during the
in-person sessions providing positive feedback to help everyone improve their photography. The camera requirement for this workshop is the use of a DSLR, Mirrorless, or Bridge camera with manual control. No post-processing software is required. A full course outline is available at http://youcanlearnphotography.ca/courses/
Location Chester Area Middle School Cost $100 Instructor(s)Trevor Awalt
Weeks 6 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Wednesdays April 24 to May 29 (Field Trips:
Saturdays, May 11, 18 & 25)
6:45 to 9:00 pm Friday, April 19
Intro to Birding
Join in on a casual introduction to the world of birding. Each week we will explore a local park or green space searching out our avian friends.
We will work together to identify the species that we see and learn a bit more about birding in Nova Scotia. Guidebooks and some binoculars
provided by our “Adventure Loan Library” but bring what you have. No experience necessary. All levels of birders welcome to join. Come to one session or join them all. You must pre-register. Dress for the weather, bring water, binoculars if you have them.
Cost FREE Ages All Ages (under 16 must be
accompanied by an adult)
Instructor(s) Jody Conrad
Session Day(s)Date(s)Time Location Pay/Register By
1 Wednesday May 1 9:00 to 10:30 am Lordly Park, Chester Wednesday, April 24
2 Wednesday May 8 9:00 to 10:30 am Lions Park, New Ross Wednesday, May 1
3 Wednesday May 15 9:00 to 10:30 am Hubbards Barn, Hubbards Wednesday, May 8
4 Wednesday May 22 9:00 to 10:30 am Graves Island Provincial Park Wednesday, May 15
Magic: The Gathering Game Night
Welcome experienced Magic: The Gathering players! MTG is coming to Chester - come to meet new people or catch up with old friends while you play casual games and have fun! Please bring your own decks, participants must have previous experience playing MTG or have taken the
MTG “Learn To Play”.
Location Chester District Elementary School Cost $2 Drop-in Fee
Weeks 1 Ages All Ages
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Thursday April 25 6:00 to 8:00 pm Drop-in
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Register at 902-275-3490 or www. chester.ca
Digital Photography Workshop 102
The Digital Photography 102 workshop is the second of a two-part series consisting of six in-person classroom sessions plus three on location
field trips. We concentrate on techniques and composition intended for the beginner to intermediate photographer, who wants to learn more about understanding light, colour, resolution, controlling your camera in different situations, composition, introduction to post-processing, self-assessment and what to do with your photos. This workshop includes instruction, hands on learning, weekly assignments and on location
field trips. Student images are reviewed during the in-person sessions providing positive feedback to help everyone improve their photography.
Prerequisite is the Digital Photography Workshop 101 or already has similar knowledge. The camera requirement for this workshop is the use
of a DSLR, Mirrorless, or Bridge camera with manual control. Post-processing software is not required but can be helpful. http://youcanlearn-photography.ca/courses/
Location Chester Area Middle School Cost $100 Instructor(s)Trevor Awalt
Weeks 6 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Wednesdays June 5 to July 10 (Field Trips:
Saturdays, June 22, 29 & July 6)
6:45 to 9:00 pm Wednesday, May 29
Movement & Fitness
Nice & Easy Fitness for Seniors
In this workout for older adults we will be focused on building body strength with emphasis on improving balance, stability and flexibility.
Location Chester Brass Band Hall
(186 Pig Loop Road)
Cost $55 Instructor(s)Heidrun Lind
Weeks 4 Ages 50+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Tuesdays April 23 to May 14 11:30 am to 12:15 pm Thursday, April 18
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
(186 Pig Loop Road)
Cost $55 Instructor(s)Heidrun Lind
Weeks 4 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Tuesdays April 23 to May 14 10:30 to 11:15 am Thursday, April 18
Pilates/ELDOA
This class will include elements from the practices of both Pilates and ELDOA with stability and mobility exercises. The class will guide you into more awareness of your movement and will provide you with more balance throughout the body. ELDOA is a French acronym, when translated
into English it is LOADS (Longitudinal Osteo-articular Decoaptation Stretching). Developed by French Osteopath Dr. Guy VOYER, 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. This is a gentle class that works with alignment, posture and core activation. It will help participants bring awareness to their movement patterns and assist with those patterns to create more mobility and strength. Bring a mat and water.
Location Chester Brass Band Hall
(186 Pig Loop Road)
Cost $116 Instructor(s)Manuela Soares
Weeks 8 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Fridays April 26 to June 14 9:30 to 10:30 am Monday, April 22
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Springtime Yoga and Movement
Integrating mindful meditation concepts with yoga movement, this class will prepare you for all your favourite spring and summer activities. Whether you like to garden, hike, bike, golf or swim, yoga and meditation help your mind and body to enjoy everything to its fullest. Suitable for beginners. Bring a yoga mat, hand towel and water.
Location Hubbards Sailing Club
(215 Hwy 329)
Cost $75 Instructor(s)DeNel Rehberg Sedo
Weeks 5 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Mondays May 13 to June 17
(no class May 20)
5:30 to 6:30 pm Monday, May 6
Slow Flow Yoga
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
(60 Regent Street)
Cost $100 Instructor(s)Dawn Hatt
Weeks 8 Ages 20+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Wednesdays April 24 to June 12 9:30 to 10:30 am Friday, April 19
Flow and Let Go
Enjoy the balancing combination of movement and rest. Move through fundamental yoga postures with the help of your breath, and then
discover sacred rest and stillness. This class guides us to tune in, slow down and pay attention to our inner self in deeper and deeper ways. We
leave with a renewed sense of equanimity and peace. Suitable for advanced beginners. Bring a yoga mat, hand towel and water.
Location Hubbards Sailing Club(215 Hwy 329)Cost $90 Instructor(s)DeNel Rehberg Sedo
Weeks 6 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Fridays May 17 to June 21 5:30 to 6:30 pm Friday, May 10
Essentrics Mondays
Essentrics: Did you know that we can choose how we want to age?
This workout is based on the theories of Miranda Esmonde-White that 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 empowering 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. Bring a mat and water. Monique and Beth are working
towards their full instructor certification and we are confident in their abilities.
Location Chester Brass Band Hall (186 Pig Loop Road)Cost $30 Instructor(s)Monique Ferguson & Beth Lenco
Weeks 7 Ages 35+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Mondays May 6 to June 17
(no class May 20)
9:30 to 10:30 am Monday, April 29
Re-imagine, re-think, and re-purpose your neigbourhood to increase physical activity and social connections.
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Location Chester District Elementary School Gym Cost $4 Drop-in Fee Instructor(s)Local Pickleball Volunteers
Weeks 9 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
Day(s)Date(s)Time
Wednesdays May 1 to June 26 5:30 to 8:30 pm
Location New Ross Consolidated School Gym Cost $4 Drop-in Fee Instructor(s)Local Pickleball Volunteers
Weeks Sundays, 12 wks; Wednesdays, 11 wks Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Sundays April 7 to June 23 6:30 to 8:30 pm Drop-in
Wednesdays April 10 to June 26 6:00 to 8:00 pm Drop-in
Beginner Pickleball (Chester & New Ross)
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. Bring indoor
footwear, water, and a paddle if you have one.
Drop-in Pickleball at ACES
Have you heard of Pickleball? Whether you are a seasoned player or an absolute newbie to the sport, come join this fun, informal group for a good workout. 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. Bring indoor, athletic footwear and water. All equipment provided.
Location Aspotogan Consolidated Elementary
School
Cost $3 Drop-in Fee Instructor(s)Sally Langille
Weeks 9 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Mondays April 15 to June 10 6:30 to 8:30 pm Drop-in
Intermediate/Advanced Recreational Pickleball
Have you heard of Pickleball? Whether you are a seasoned player or an absolute newbie to the sport, come join this fun, informal group for
a good workout. 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. Bring indoor, athletic footwear and water. All equipment provided.
Location Forest Heights Community School Cost $4 Drop-in Fee Instructor(s)Chester Pickleball Group
Weeks 10 Ages 12+ (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Tuesdays &
Thursdays
April 11 to June 13 6:30 to 8:30 pm Drop-in
Find out how at:activateyourneighbourhood.ca
Or reach out to talk
about ideas for your
neighbourhood.
gtate@chester.ca
Pickleball
12 EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24 Program registration opens Tuesday, April 9
EASIEST. This route connects the parking lot with the rail-trail. It is a dry, 2m wide gravel trail with gentle-moderate slopes thoroughout. 1000m.Currently under construction.
MODERATE. This route is a 1m wide woodland trail. Expect roots and rocks. It is dry with occasional wet patches. Slopes are gentle but there are a few short, steeper sections. The trail passes by Halfway River. 1200m
MODERATE. A 1m wide woodland trail. Expect dry conditions, and roots and rocks. Slopes are gentle. This trail was constructed with mountain bike specific features (rollers, drops, berms). 200m
This 28-acre site was gifted to the Municipality by the estate of Danny Haughn and John Chataway in 2017. Portions of the property were formerly quarried, but in the years since operations ceased, and some limited tree harvesting occurred, a new forest of predominantly red spruce has regrown. Intact, majestic stands of pine and spruce, and some hardwoods occupy the northern portion. Halfway River is a peaceful streamside spot to pause on your travels.
Chester 5 km
Chester Basin 4 km
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Trail Kiosk Bicycle Trail
Parking Mountain Bike Trail
Picnic Area Snowshoeing
ATV’s NOT Permitted
Trail Rider
Trail Art
ESTATE and
NATURAL AREAHAUGHN
Above: Standing alongside Halfway River. Right: Four-seaon fun. A recent snowshoe hike on the ‘blue’ trail.
ADVENTURE LIBRARYDon’t forget we have lots of equipment to help you enjoy your next outdoor adventure - including the Trail Rider (pictured) which is great for folks who might need mobility assistance.
4952 Highway 3,Middle River
EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24 13Register at 902-275-3490 or www. chester.ca
Canada
MOST DIFFICULT. This route is a 1m wide woodland trail. Expect numerous roots and rocks. It is primarily dry with occasional wet patches, especially after rain. Slopes are gentle - downhill to the river, and uphill on the way back. Cyclists should have the skills to ride technical trails. 2300m
MODERATE. This route is a 1m wide woodland trail. Expect numerous roots and rocks. It is primarily dry with a few wet patches. Slopes are gentle throughout. Cyclists should have the skills to ride tech-nical trails. On it’s own, it is 650m long. Together with the blue trail, they form a 1300m, ’front-country’ loop.
Highway 3/Gold River 7.3 km
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Rudy Haase gifted this 75-acre property to the Municipality in 2015. Rudy’s desire was for the land to be retained in its natural state, while allowing for low-impact recreation and learning opportunities. Along these trails you will encounter mature stands of Red Maple, Yellow and White Birch, Red Spruce, Eastern Hemlock, and White Pine. This property has been used and enjoyed by local families for generations for hunting, fishing, and wood harvesting – particularly ship’s knees. We also recognize the important role the Gold River has played in the cultural history of local Mi’kmaq and early settlers.
Hiking
Bike Rack
ATV’s NOT Permitted
Trail Rider
ATV Parking
River/Stream
All-terrain Vehicle
Washroom(may be seasonal)
NATURAL
AREAGOLD RIVER
Above: The upstream view of the Gold River from the picnic table on the cover. Right: More four-seaon fun. A recent snowshoe hike on the ‘green’ trail.
We’re a proud memeber of:
1458 Beech Hill Rd.,
Beech Hill
You can download versions of these maps online at chester.ca/recreation-parks/trails
14 EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24
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Program registration opens Tuesday, April 9
Volleyball Drop-in for Girls
Come have fun on the court Thursday nights! Practice your serves, grab a friend for a BUMP relay, or start a casual game to improve your skills
and stay active over the Spring. Bring indoor sneakers and water bottle.
Location New Ross Consolidated School Cost FREE
Weeks 10 Ages 10-19 (under 16 must have an adult stay at the school)
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Thursdays April 11 to June 13 6:00 to 7:30 pm Drop-in
Basketball for Adults – New Ross 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! Bring indoor sneakers and water.
Location New Ross Consolidated School Cost $2 Drop-in fee
Weeks 10 Ages 14+ (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Mondays April 8 to June 17 (excluding May 20)7:00 to 8:30 pm Drop-in
Sport & Physical Activity
Basketball Skills & Drills with Chester Sharks
Basketball is a dynamic and fun sport that helps to build mental and physical stamina, strength, and skills. We have collaborated with the Chester Sharks
Minor Basketball to offer an exciting 8-week basketball skills and development training program. This program is designed for youth and has two divisions:
Under 10, Under 14. Each division will have an hour-long clinic uniquely designed to progressively teach the fundamentals of basketball and gradually
introduce different techniques that will increase their ability to effectively play the sport. Please bring indoor sneakers, water bottle, towel.
Location Chester District Elementary School Cost $85 Instructor(s)Mike Dickson, Chester Sharks Coach
Weeks 8 Ages 7-14
Day(s)Date(s)Time Pay/Register By
Fridays May 3 to June 21 6:30 to 8:30pm Friday, April 19
Badminton Drop-In New Ross
This friendly group meets weekly to play casually. Join us for a fun time - all ages and skill levels welcome! Bring indoor sneakers and water.
Location New Ross Consolidated School Cost $2 Drop-in fee
Weeks 11 Ages All Ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Tuesdays April 9 to June 18 7:00 to 8:30 pm Drop-in
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
provided but bring a racquet if you have one. Bring indoor, athletic footwear and water.
Location Aspotogan Consolidated Elementary School Cost $3 Drop-in fee
Weeks 10 Ages 16+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Wednesdays April 10 to June 12 7:00 to 9:00 pm Drop-in
EXPLORE LIFE Spring ‘24 15Register at 902-275-3490 or www. chester.ca
Outdoor Adventures
Gold River Tree ID 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. Join us as we learn some of the tree species in the area as we
walk. Come prepared for a few solid hours of hiking with some elevation change. Wear good hiking footwear, bring extra layers, water and a snack.
Location Gold River Property
(1458 Beech Hill Road)
Cost FREE Instructor(s)Jody Conrad, and NSCC Natural Resource Stu-
dents Reilly King and Rohan Kariyawansa
Weeks 1 Ages All Ages (under 16 must by accompanied by an adult)
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Saturday June 15 9:30 am to 12:30 pm Monday, June 10
Haughn Property Walk
The Haughn property in Middle River, bequeathed by the late Danny Haughn, supports a diverse variety of flora and fauna for such a small area. The new trail here winds through forest and along stream providing a nice emersion into the natural world. The trail is well built and is dry and easy to follow but does undulate up and down as you explore. Although only 2 kms total, come prepared for a bit of a work-out, bring water, and
wear good, sturdy footwear. We encourage hiking/walking and mountain biking on this trail (and snowshoeing in Winter).
Location Haughn Property
(4956 Hwy 3, Middle River)
Cost FREE Instructor(s)Jody Conrad, and Rec staff
Weeks 1 Ages All Ages (under 16 must by accompanied by an adult)
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Saturday May 4 10:00 am to 12:00 noon Tuesday, April 30
Try Tennis
Have you ever wanted to try tennis but didn’t know where to start? Chester Tennis Club is offering a series of small group lessons to get you
started. If you decide to stay with the sport at the end of the sessions, you can subtract the cost of your lessons from your membership to CTC for 2024. Bring water and athletic footwear.
Location Chester Tennis Club (109 Pig Loop Road)Cost $44 Instructor(s)Mary-Jane Saffrey
Weeks 4 Ages 18+
Day(s)Date(s)Time Register By
Mondays May 27 to June 17 5:30 to 7:00 pm Friday, May 17
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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 Services
186 Central Street, PO Box 369Chester NS B0J 1J0
There’s also a drop-off box located just outside the Recreation & Parks office.
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
Contact us anytime at 902-275-3490, or recreation@chester.ca
payments@chester.ca.
With your e-transfer, please note the purpose of your payment and provide your name and address.
CHESTERCUT N RUN
Sunday, June 2, 9:00am
Chester Area Middle School
• Registration opens Tuesday, April 9
• Pre-register/pay by May 15 to receive an event t-shirt
• Adults: $25 pre-register; $30 after May 15 • Register in-person, online, by phone, or email
• 18 and under: $10 (under 8 must run with an adult)