On a clear, crisp, and sunny September afternoon, about a dozen men are gathered in Ottawa for quattro chiacchiere and a card game. They reunite behind the Marconi Centre, arriving on foot, by car and surprisingly one gentleman rides in on his motorcycle.
They are members of the Golden Age Club, better known as L’Età D’Oro.
When asked if the friendly card game is a weekly event, the group enthusiastically responds: No, no! Tutti i giorni! Every day the men get together and choose a game of Scopa, 10-card Scopone, Cinquecento or Briscola.
Two packs of Italian playing cards, a few tables and chairs paired with a spirit of community is all that is required to make for an enjoyable afternoon. No need for cell phones and hidden algorithms to track preferences. The only thing being tracked is the score and for this task, a pen and scrap piece of paper will do. In an age of technology overload and digital dependency, the simplicity of the scene is downright heartwarming.
On this day, the men range in age from 71 to 88. Each with their unique personality, it is quietly understood that the group works because of its diversity. The quiet one, the one who giggles, the leader, the talker. The one who wishes his wife might occasionally join for a game and the one who appreciates the break from le faccende at home.
The group is hopeful that others from Ottawa’s Italian community will be interested in resuming social gatherings. As the weather becomes cooler, the men are particularly looking forward to the monthly lunch banquets which are set to resume later this month. Se Dio vuole, warmer temperatures in the spring will also attract a new group of people to come out and enjoy a game of cards as well as the adjacent bocce court.
Anyone 50 years or older who wishes to join or renew a membership in the L’Età D’Oro group can do so online at www.villamarconi.com or by calling 613-727-6201 ext.5000. Individuals of any age are also welcome and encouraged to volunteer.
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