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Olympic spirit fills Lanark Heights during Winter Games
Residents and team members unite for Olympic-inspired fun
3/4/2026
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Deron Hamel
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While Canadian athletes competed in the XXV Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Lanark Heights residents and team members cheered them on during an Olympic-themed happy hour that Karla Verdesoto describes as “an incredible afternoon filled with energy and team spirit.”
Karla, the life enrichment manager at the Kitchener long-term care community, said residents and staff dressed in colours representing the countries they were supporting during the event, which was one of several Olympic-themed activities Lanark Heights hosted during the Games.
The reception area featured an Olympic-style entrance showcasing flags from different countries, creating “an exciting and welcoming atmosphere” for visitors, she adds.
“Our home was fully transformed for the occasion,” Karla tells S&R Today. “The afternoon was full of fun.”
During the happy hour, residents enjoyed champagne, Olympic trivia and friendly competition. Those who answered the most trivia questions correctly received medals, “and we definitely saw their competitive side come out,” Karla says.
The life enrichment team also built Olympic-style podiums so medal winners could stand and celebrate their victories.
The event concluded with music and karaoke, keeping the celebration lively and engaging, Karla notes.
“The room was beautifully decorated, proudly supporting Team Canada, and the excitement was contagious,” she says.
Lanark Heights team members also joined in, with some taking on roles such as coaches, assistant coaches and even the “crazy fan,” a part Karla says she was happy to play.
But the real highlight, Karla adds, was seeing the enthusiasm throughout the home.
“Residents and staff were truly all in, but the kickoff celebration was especially memorable,” she says. “It was an awesome time for everyone involved.”
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If you have feedback on this story, please e-mail deron(at)axiomnews.com.
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