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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday December 7, 2007 - 27 Munchkin Lunch time at the Y Child Care "I'm a little acorn brown. Lying on the cold, cold ground Everybody steps on me That is why I'm cracked you see I'm a nut." It's time for a song at the Waterford Long Term Care Facility where the YMCA of Oakville Junior Child Care Centre makes its home. Energetic resident, Douglas, is always there to clap and sing with the children, and he can do the actions almost as quickly as they can. Then it's off to the third floor, where eight little preschool bodies race for spots at a large cheerful table where four Waterford residents are already waiting for `Munchkin Lunch'. That's what unfolds every Wednesday at lunch time at the Waterford. Each week, different residents and children get a chance to enjoy each other's company and share a meal. "I have a great time with them. These are all my kids," says Bill as he makes a game of counting the poinsettias on the holiday tablecloth with the girl beside him. that is served downstairs in the Y Child Care Centre. But dessert is special ­ ice cream for all and each ice cream cup is a different colour, so the kids have fun guessing what colour they will be given and what flavour it will be. Does it taste like pickles? Or carrots? Daniel likes banana ice cream, but he does not see a yellow one. The whole Waterford experience is a wonderful one for both children and residents. Many children do not have senior citizens in their lives. Meeting the folks at Waterford opens up a whole new world for them -- a world of stories and wrinkles and warm hugs. And the Waterford residents benefit too ­ who would not enjoy the smiles and laughter that only children can bring? "Younger children adapt so easily to the residents. Their youth brings in energy," said Sarah Healey, Program and Support Services Manager at the Waterford. It's Wednesday at the Waterford and life is good. The YMCA of Oakville is a charitable association open to all, dedicated to providing life-long opportunities for health enhancement and personal growth. -- Submitted by the YMCA of Oakville In 1960 Bill and his wife moved to Oakville, where he worked at the offices of Ford. They did not have children of their own, so being with these little ones is a very special treat. Clara, another resident, also appreciates the time with the children. "I enjoy the kids. My room is close to where they are, and I make sure that if I have treats they have no nuts in them." Clara makes a point of decorating the door of her room for each season, because she knows that the children enjoy it. Fish and chips and vegetables are on the menu today ­ the same meal Nominations are now being accepted for the gateway to your winter destination Richmond, BC Ontario Junior Citizen of the Year Awards The strength of our community lies in solid citizens. Today's youth are tomorrow's leaders. If you know a young person, aged 6 to 17, who is involved in worthwhile community service; a special person who is contributing while living with a limitation; a youth who has performed an act of heroism; or a `good kid' who shows a commitment to making life better for others, doing more than is normally expected of someone their age ­ help us recognize their contribution ­ nominate them today! Nominations will be accepted until December 28, 2007 In Richmond, BC we welcome all visitors. Whether you visit before heading off to a sun destination or after a Whistler ski vacation, make Richmond, BC part of your next holiday destination. Experience award-winning spas and restaurants, museums and cultural facilities or try your luck at the newest gambling destination. Explore the Historic Fishing Village of Steveston or indulge in the Golden Village; an Asian mecca of ethnic markets, shops, people and authentic cuisine. Home to the Vancouver International Airport and over two dozen brand-name hotels, we are ideally located next door to Vancouver and offer excellent value. Stay overnight, enjoy shopping by day and choose from numerous events in the evening. Contact us today for bookings and information including the Spectacle of Lights Christmas event. Contact this newspaper or the Ontario Community Newspapers Association at www.ocna.org or 905.639.8720. richmond, gateway to british columbia® Places to stay and play in Richmond, BC: Sponsored by: 1 888 831 3388 Ask for our Tourism Special Rate! Free parking, high speed internet access, airport & casino shuttle. Co-ordinated by: 1 888 383 8393 Clean, comfortable rooms close to shopping, restaurants, airport. Free breakfast & access to wireless highspeed internet. Limited airport shuttle service. 1 877 273 8080 Ask for our Tourism Special Rate! Free continental breakfast, gated parking, local calls, high speed internet, airport & casino shuttle. holidayinnvancouver airport.com $82 - 99 CAD* ramada.ca holidayinnexpressvancouver airport.com info@tourismrichmond.com www.tourismrichmond.com 1 877 247 0777 *Rates based on availability, day of the week and are subject to change and applicable taxes. May have restrictions. Photo / A shopping experience. ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE NOMINATE SOMEONE TODAY!