Bennington Senior and Community News, July-August 2023

BenningtonSenior & Community News

July – August 2023

From the Director’s Desk:

Summer. Sun, sand, games, gardens, friends; what is your favorite aspect of summer? Personally, I love being able to go outside and pick veggies right before biting into them.

Green beans, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers; they always seem so much better when they are so fresh.

Bennington Senior Center - Hours of Operation

Our regular hours of operation are Mon – Fri from 8am – 4pm. We will be closed on the following dates:

July 4 Tuesday CLOSED in observance of Independence Day

July 19 Wednesday CENTER IS CLOSED - Picnic at Willow Park

August 14 Monday CLOSED in observance of Battle Day

To our Senior Community…

It is the mission of the Bennington Senior Center to engage persons 50+ in the lifelong learning process; promoting their physical, emotional and spiritual well-being by providing social, recreational, creative and cultural programs and enabling active participation in the center and community. Program costs are founded on a not-for-profit basis.

Conversely, what is your least favorite aspect of summer? For me, it’s oppressive humidity. I often joke that I need a summer home in the Yukon. That being said, remember that with hot weather your body loses more water. It’s easy to get dehydrated, so keep a water bottle with you and sip often. Also, remember your sunscreen if you are going to be outside. Avoid prolonged sun exposure during the hours of 11am to 1pm, when the sun is at its strongest.

My final recommendation: be vigilant when it comes to summer insects. Use bug repellant and check for ticks when you come inside. Stay safe while you’re having fun so you can enjoy the entire summer.

Carrie Fabricius - Program Director

CONTACT INFO:

Bennington Senior Center 124 Pleasant St., Suite 3

Bennington, VT 05201

Phone 442-1052 or 802-447-9714

cfabricius@benningtonvt.org

Sponsored by:

MONDAYS

Painting Group: This informal group meets Mondays & Fridays, but painters are welcome to work on their own at any time. The group works from photographs, calendar art, and old masters. Bring your own painting materials; group size limited to 8-10 participants. Come when you can, receive hints from each other, and enjoy some good conversation! 9am –Noon No Fee

Leslie Sansone Walking: These walking exercises are fun and easy! 1 - 3 mile aero -

WEEKLY PROGRAMS

bic walking video. The class is great for those in need of light to moderate movement and great fun with friends. The class is tailored to the needs/wants of the group each day. 9:00 am. No Fee

Beginner Ukulele: Learn the basics! Call the instructor for more information. 10:15 am

Instructor: Henry Simpatico (802) 379-6043 No Fee

Ukulele: Strum along with others at this gathering of musically minded folks. Beginners to seasoned players, this group also plays at community functions. Call

the instructor for more information. 11:00 am Instructor: Henry Simpatico (802) 3796043 No Fee

Cards & Games: Group decides the game. It may be cards, board games, Yahtzee…. the possibilities are nearly endless! 1:00 pm No Fee

TUESDAYS

Bone Builders: This low impact exercise, run through RSVP, promotes strength through weight training, plus helps with both balance and bone density. Class may include open discussion about nutrition, disease prevention, and alternate exercises. Class leader varies. 8:30 am OR 10:00 am No Fee Fall Prevention Tai Chi –

LEVEL 1: Falls become an increasing concern as we age. In this class we strive to fend off the stresses of modern life; maintain our agility, balance, and overall health; practice mindfulness; and enjoy the mood-lifting experience of practicing these engaging movement forms with others. This level one class is for new participants, or those feeling the need for more instruction before moving on to level two. Instructor: Carrie Fabricius 1:00 pm No Fee

WEDNESDAYS

Fall Prevention Tai Chi –LEVEL 2 Just what it says! A continuation from Level 1, this class is for people who have learned and feel comfortable and confident with the first 6 forms. Instructor:

Christine Kelleher 9:00am No Fee

Wednesday Movie: Twice a month, come in and enjoy a movie. 1:00 pm No Fee. July 12, August 2 & 23, September 6 & 20. Call ahead for title.

Trivia!: Enjoy some goodhearted competition as you and your team vie for the title of Trivia Champions! We will have a few laughs as we learn new facts. Come join the fun! 1:00 pm July 5 & 26, August 9 & 30, September 13 & 27. No Fee

THURSDAYS

Bone Builders: See class description on Tuesday list. Craft Corner: Bring whatever craft project you are working on. Quilting, crocheting, knitting, weaving, decoupage, coloring, the options abound! We have sewing machines available to use. You bring the materials, we supply the space, coffee, tea, and fellowship. 1:00 pm No Fee

FRIDAYS

Painting Group: See group description on Monday list. Crochet with Deb: Twice a month, come and learn basics of crochet, and try your hand at an easy project. 9:30 – 11:00 July 14 & 28, August 11 & 25 Instructor: Deb Matte

BINGO: Come play low stakes, high energy BINGO! 2 cards for $2, additional cards 50 cents each, 6 card maximum. Beverages provided; feel free to bring snacks to share! 1 - 3 pm

HEALTH & WELLNESS

INDOOR WALKING - Sponsored by the Bennington Senior Center at the River Street Firehouse

MON-FRI 8:15—9:15 AM

Sponsored by Saint Francis Parish Hall on West Main Street.

MON-FRI 8:30—11:30 AM & 1—4 PM. Call 442-3141 first to check availability.

**Please note: the parish hall is NOT air conditioned**

To keep floors/rugs clean, please bring a change of shoes.

FOOT CARE and BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC

Sponsored by VNA & HOSPICE of the Southwest Region.

1:00 pm, Tuesdays, July 11th, August 1st, Sept. 5th upstairs at the Bennington Senior Center. You must schedule appointment at least one day in advance by calling 802-442-5502. Please bring a towel.

If you can soak your feet beforehand, it is helpful.

Suggested donation fees: $10.00 for foot care and $3.00 for blood pressure clinic.

Dr. Seuss Museum

Wed, July 12, 8:30 - 6 $57 ea.

Bus leaves from Bennington Station Parking Lot on Depot St.

Did you know it was this close to us? This Museum is just one of five included within the Springfield (MA) Museums; you will have access to all of them! There is a café where you can purchase lunch.

Seneca Lake, NY

Thurs/Fri, August 10 - 11

$335 per person/double

$431 per person/single

Enjoy beautiful Seneca Lake on a luncheon

PARTICIPANT POLICIES

PAYMENT & REFUND POLICY

Checks are payable to the Bennington Senior Center, unless otherwise specified. If we have not received your payment by the due date, we must cancel your reservation. As a courtesy, we will remind you when payment is due. However, we cannot assume responsibility if we are unable to reach you. WE CANNOT REFUND

AFTER TICKETS HAVE BEEN PURCHASED.

If you have purchased a ticket and must cancel, we will try to sell your ticket to a party on the waiting list. If you miss the bus, we cannot refund. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

TRIP POLICY

Trips are open to all adults, regardless of place of residence. Intergenerational trips for younger children are available where indicated. In the interest of passenger safety, we reserve the right to cancel any trip due to inclement weather. We are not able to refund for weather related cancellations.

All Green Mountain Express trips depart from the senior center at 124 Pleasant Street. Please pay your van transportation in correct cash to senior center staff on the day of the trip as we are not able to refund if you pay ahead and the trip is cancelled.

Coach trips depart from the Bennington Station parking lot at the corner of Depot & River Street. We do not assign seating un-

TRIPS & TRAVEL

cruise. Learn about the winemaking process on a winery tour and tasting! Save some energy for a little gambling time, too.

New Hampshire Adventure

Tues, Sept. 5 - Fri, Sept. 8 $690 pp/double; $840 pp/single Pick up times TBA. Your stay at Indian Head Resort includes breakfast and dinner each day. Ride the Mt. Washington Cog Railway and have lunch at the Mt. Washington Hotel. Take in the scenery during your luncheon cruise on Lake

less you have medical documentation that special seating is required. We reserve the right to cancel trips with less than 8 passengers and coach trips with less than 30, as they are not cost effective. Transportation to airports is not always provided by the center. NOTE: Tipping for the coach driver is not included in the cost of trips. We recommend $2 per day unless otherwise stated in trip itinerary.

SPECIAL ASSISTANCE POLICY

An escort companion and/or personal assistant is required for all travelers having a disability (a physical or mental impairment which limits one or more of the major life abilities). The companion travels at full fare cost and is responsible for all special needs of the individual. To the extent possible, we will accommodate with proper transportation, lodging and access to facilities. To assist us in meeting any special needs, please notify us at the time of reservation. Medical documentation, including permission to travel from your physician, may be required and is strictly confidential. We reserve the right to refuse passage to any person who does not adhere to this policy.

CHANGE IN TRIP POLICY

Due to ongoing confusion with current reservation policies, anyone who wants a reservation must sign up themselves and must provide their own phone number.

Winnipesaukee. Enjoy nightly entertainment, visit the Old Country Store & Museum as well as the World War II Museum!

Radio City Music Hall

Thursday, Nov. 30

Pick up times and pricing TBA. Call for more information.

It seems like it’s been ages! We head to NYC to see the world famous Rockettes and their Holiday Spectacular. You will have a little time to take in the sights and sounds of the Big Apple during the holiday season. After the show we head to Carmine’s Restaurant for dinner on your own.

SHOWTIME

The Sound of Music at Mac-Haydn Theatre July 27

Jersey Boys at Mac-Haydn Theatre August 24

10:45 – 6:00 $72 per person

Lunch on your own @ Whitestone Grill

Bus leaves from Bennington Station Parking Lot on Depot St. NOTE: Payment due 30 days prior to show date.

IN-HOUSE PROGRAMS

A virtual Book Club for adults 60+ years young!

Meetings are held monthly, every Third Thursday at 10am on Zoom. You can join using your tablet, computer, or phone, including dialing in on your phone! If you are not sure how to join just ask.

For more information, please contact Lenora Volkmer, GMRSVP Volunteer coordinator, at (802) 447-1546 or lvolkmer@svcoa.net, or Karson Kiesinger, Reference Adult Services Librarian, (802) 442-9051 or reference@bfli. org. Updates may also be found at www.benningtonfreelibrary.org

QUILTING WITH ANNETTE

Join Annette Dixon for an easy project, learn some sewing and quilting basics, and have some fun! Please sign up by one week prior to get supplies list - we may have some supplies available here. Dates TBA COFFEE With…

Back by popular demand! These meetings give you the opportunity to learn about different local places, programs, activities, and businesses you may not know about, and give you the opportunity to ask questions and give direct input.

Greater Bennington Interfaith Community Services, Inc.

serves people through:

Kitchen Cupboard - Free food and nutrition education for those in need.

Greater Bennington Food and Fuel Fund - Discretionary funding for people who need help with shelter, utilities, food, and other basic needs.

You First - Free screenings for cervical and breast cancers and cardiovascular disease, as well as education and encouragement of healthy lifestyles for women.

Bennington Oral Health Coalition - Education and outreach about improving oral health outcomes using a grassroots organizing model.

Food Fit Bennington - Food, nutrition, cooking and exercise programming in a group setting that allows participants to take leadership roles.

The Dr. G. Richard Dundas Free Clinic - Access to primary medical care and health insurance for uninsured adults.

More information can be obtained by calling (802) 447-3700.

Friday, July 7th,10-11am - Linda Donigan, Youth Services Librarian @ Bennington Free Library

Friday, August 4th, 10-11am - Karson Kiesinger, Reference and Adult Services Librarian @ Bennington Free Library

These two amazing ladies asked to come on different days because they have so much to share with you! Linda Donigan will share what is available for children AND their adults. The library has great opportunities to spend time with your grandchildren, not to mention fostering a love of reading and making lasting memories! Karson Kiesinger will help us access all that is available to seniors, especially electronically. She suggests you bring your smartphone, tablet, or laptop (if you have them) so you can learn on your own device. Audiobooks, free classes, passes you can borrow for places throughout the state, there is no end to all you can do at or through the library!

JEWELRY DOCTOR

dates TBA Call for updates

Kelly Kimball returns to perform minor surgery on your broken jewelry items. Clasps, broken chains, missing pieces (like my earring that lost it’s hook)… she will let you know if it’s fixable. She will be here twice; once for repairs, and once for cleaning. When Dr. Kelly is here, it’s on a Thursday from 1-3pm.

SHOPPING

These shopping trips are sponsored by the Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging, which provides funding to cover 80% of the transportation cost. Transportation by Green Mountain Express. 9:30am - 4:00pm. Cost $3

Please Note: As with all things, the costs of transportation (labor, fuel, repairs, etc.) have increased which makes our trips more expensive. At this time, we realize we need to increase our fee to $4.00 just to cover our 20% of the bill. Thank you for understanding.

Sign up at the Senior Center for these shopping trips and pay the fee at the Senior Center front desk on the day of the trip.

Wednesday July 5th Colonie Center Albany, NY

Tuesday July 25th Crossgates Mall Albany, NY

Thursday August 3rd Colonie Center Albany, NY

Wednesday August 23rd Wilton Mall & Kohl’s Wilton, NY

Thursday Sept. 7th Colonie Center Albany, NY

1:00-2:00 PM

Silver Sneakers with Melissa at Sports Center

4:15-5:15 PM

Zumba! With Jasmine at Sports Center

5:30-6:30 PM

Meditative Hatha Yoga with Jasmine at Sports Center

Berkshire Family YMCA – Bennington Group Exercise | June & July 2023

4:15-5:15 PM

Restorative Yoga with Jasmine at Sports Center

5:30-6:30 PM

Cardio Flow Yoga with Jasmine at Sports Center

11:00a-12:00 PM

QiGong with Tracy at Sports Center

1:00-2:00 PM

Silver Sneakers with Melissa at Sports Center

Aqua Aerobics with Judi in the Pool 5:15-6:00 PM

OUT TO EAT!

Thu., July 6th Arlington Dairy Bar in Arlington, VT 11:00am – 1:30pm

Mon., Aug 21st Falls Diner in Hoosick Falls, NY 11:00am - 1:30pm

ANNUAL SENIOR PICNIC

Wednesday, July 19 11:30am - ??? Willow Park Pavilion $5

Come enjoy delicious food made by Meals on Wheels, great music, and fun conversation with friends.

Please sign up no later than Friday prior for any or all these events

Renette in the Pool

4:15-5:15 PM

Restorative Yoga with Jasmine at Sports Center

5:30-6:30 PM

Cardio Flow Yoga with Jasmine at Sports Center

PM Dance Fit with Wendy in the Pool

1:00-2:00 PM

Silver Sneakers with Melissa at Sports Center

www.bfymca.org

802.442.1053

- Required! Register for courses to be notified of changes and updates. Registration opens 3rd Monday of month.

- Classes are included in your membership!

- Check our online schedule for accurate schedule, including cancelled classes.

- Subject to changes.

ANNUAL ICE CREAM SOCIAL

Wednesday, Aug. 16th

1:00pm - ??? Senior Center Ice cream with all the fixings, or just plain if you prefer. We will also have a talk by the Bennington Historical Society.

SENIOR CENTER POT LUCK

Wed., Sept. 20th 11:30am - ???

Senior Center

Bring a dish and socialize! We aim to start serving at noon. Please sign up no later than Friday prior

POTLUCK TIP: If you don’t know what to bring, ask us! There is always something you can bring, even if you don’t cook or are low on funds.

Tai Chi - Level 2 9

Trivia 1

Colonie Center 9:30-4

Tai Chi - Level 2 9

Movie 1 Dr Seuss Museum 8:30am - 6pm

Annual Picnic at Willow Park 11am-??

Senior Center Building is CLOSED

Bone Builders 8:30

Bone Builders 10

Crafts Corner 1 Neurographic Art

1

The Sound of Music @ Mac-Haydn Theatre 10:45am - 6pm

Bone Builders 8:30

Bone Builders 10

Crafts Corner 1

Colonie Center 9:30 - 4

Bone Builders 8:30

Bone Builders 10

Craft Corner 1 Button Art

Bone Builders 8:30

Bone Builders 10

Crafts Corner 1

Bone Builders 8:30

Bone Builders 10

Craft Corner 1

Jersey Boys @ Mac-Haydn Theatre 10:45am - 6pm

Bone Builders 8:30

Bone Builders 10

Crafts Corner 1

POOL SCHEDULE

BENNINGTON RECREATION CENTER

www.bfymca.org

655 Gage St., Bennington, VT 05201 P: 802-442-1053

Typical Summer Pool Schedule

Please note that the pool schedule is subject to change and should be checked before arriving. Check online schedules for accurate pool schedule, group exercise, and more: www.bfymca.org/schedules Sign up for classes, learn about special events, and more on our website!!

Below are general schedules for each day of the week.

Kayla Becker – Branch Director kbecker@bfymca.org Taylor McGuire – Assistant Branch Director – tmcguire@bfymca.org

– COMMUNITY RESOURCES –

Bennington Town Clerk/Town Offices (802) 442-1037

Bennington Recreation Center/YMCA (802) 442-1053

Meals on Wheels of Bennington County (802) 442-8012

VNA & Hospice (Bennington Home Health) (802) 442-5502

Bennington Project Independence (802) 442-8136

Bennington Rutland Opportunity Council (BROC) (802) 447-7515

Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (802) 442-5436

Retired Senior Volunteer Project (RSVP) (802) 447-1545

Social Security Administration (Rutland office) (866) 690-1944

Green Mountain ExpressPublic Transportation Services (802) 447-0477

Support And Services at Home (SASH) (802) 442-9920 – HOUSING –

Bennington Housing Authority (802) 442-8000 Shires Housing (802) 442-8139

THM (office in Manchester) (802) 362-4663

Bennington Banner

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Learn what UVM Health Advantage plans have to of fer from plans star ting at $0 per month to dental, vision and hearing benefits, all in one plan

Our Medicare Product Seminars are live events hosted by a licensed UVM Health Advantage Plan Guide. Visit UVMHealthAdvantage.com / seminars to learn more and register for an event.

C all 1 - 833-368- 4598 ( T T Y 7 11)

October 1–March 31 , seven days a week, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

April 1–September 30, call Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Online Medicare Products Seminars

Friday, J uly 14 11:00 a . m .

Wednesday, J uly 19

12 :00 p. m .

Friday, J uly 21 2 :00 p. m .

Dates and times are subject to change

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