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Bingo: Bingo is played on a weekly basis on Tuesdays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. You must be 60 years of age and older to play or under 60 with a handicap/disability. The cost is $.25 per card with a 10 card maximum. Beverages are served during the break. Participants bring in their own refreshment/snack.
Ballroom Dance Lessons: Lessons are held on Tuesday nights at the Easthampton Enrichment Center. The suggested cost is $5.00 per person per class. Instructor: Stephan Bailey. Update: The Easthampton Enrichment Center Ballroom Dance Lessons will now be offering three seperate sessions. LESSONS WILL RESUME ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH
Beginner's Ballroom Dance Lessons: 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Intermediate Ballroom Dance Lessons: 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Advanced Ballroom Dance Lesson (NEW CLASS): 8:00 - 9:00 p.m.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PARTY: Join us on Monday, August 30th and Friday, September 24th at 11:30 a.m. Call 527-6151 ext. 14 to pre-register.
Bocce: Organized Games are played on Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. at the Bocce Courts in Nonotuck Park during the late Spring to early fall.
Computer Lab/Classes: The Enrichment Center offers a variety of computer learning labs including:
BEGINNER'S COMPUTER CLASS: The Beginner's Computer Class is designed for people who have never operated a computer. People interested in taking this course need no special knowledge of computers or even typing skills. In the first lesson, students learn how to turn a computer "on" and "off" and play a simple computer game. Later class topics cover several Window applications including: word processing, drawing, games, music, saving and retrieving files and more. If you are a new computer owner or considering purchasing a computer, this may be a good place to start. If you already use a computer, but want to know more about using a Windows based computer, there's a place for you in this course as well. The instructions in the course can be applied to Windows 95, 98, ME, XP, or Vista. Each session includes a comprehensive, multi-page handout. This 10-week course meets on Mondays from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. The cost is $75.00 per person. A similar computer course at a local college cost $159.00. Call the Enrichment Center at 527-6151 tro pre-register. Instructor: Denis Bessett.
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY 1: Are you interested in learning more about Digital Photography? This program will include: understanding the most common features of a digital camera. Getting the most out of your digital camera by taking better pictures, editing pictures, transferring pictures to your computer, editing pictures and printing. Pictures via e-mail and the internet. Organizing and storing images and imaging software. There is a $50.00 charge for the 5-week program. Payment and reservations must be made in advance. Please call the Enrichment Center for dates/times.
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY 2 For those who want to go beyond the basics of taking digital pictures, this course will put you in the producer's chair. Create a slide presentation extraordinaire using software that you may already have on your computer!! We start by adding motion to ordinary still photos. Add a video clip or two, tag on some captions, titles, credits and background music to produce a slideshow movie. The course includes instructions on how to incorporate your favorite music into the finished product and archiving your pictures and the movie into a writable CD. Participants should have either completed the Beginner's Digital Photography course or have a good working knowledge of basic digital cameras and photo editing software. The 5-week program will be meeting on Wednesdays There is a $50.00 charge for the 5-week program. Please call the Enrichment Center at 527-6151 for dates/times.
INTERNET & E-MAIL CLASS: This Internet/E-mail course will focus mainly as an introduction to the Internet. During the course, students will establish a free e-mail account using "Yahoo.com". Students will practice sending and receiving e-mail messages to and from each other within the classroom or can use their e-mail account to communicate with friends and family as well. The course will include instructions on how to send and receive pictures or other computer files through their e-mail account. Students will learn to send and receive electronic greeting cards. The Yahoo e-mail account can be used as the student's permanent e-mail address even after the course is finished. This account is accessible through any computer with an Internet connection. Call 527-6151 to sign-up. Dates to be determined based on how many sign-up.
Cribbage/Pitch: Games are played on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
CASABLANCA POKER PLAYERS: We offer poker at the Enrichment Center on Mondays at 9:30 a.m.. Call Kim Jensen at 527-6151 for further details.
Movies: Free movies are offered every Thursday at 12:30 p.m. Dates and movie shown are listed in the newsletter. Popcorn and beverage provided.
Thursday, August 26th: "My Sister's Keeper" (2 different movies with the same name)
Thursday, September 2nd: "Extraordinary Measures"
Thursday, September 9th: "Hachi: A Dog's Tale"
Thursday, September 16th: "Shattered"
Thursday, September 23rd: "Remember Me"
Thursday, September 30th: "Million Dollar Baby"
Reading Library: The Enrichment Center, in conjunction with Cherry Picked Books provide a variety of books and some books on tape for loan at the Senior Center.
Game Room: The Enrichment Center game rooms offers billiards, darts and a variety of board games.
Seminar/Training:
Workshop Training: My Life, My Health: Chronic Disease Self Management Program. The 6-week program will be meeting Fall 2010. Highland Valley Elder Services is pleased to join Stanford University and participate in Training for Chronic Disease Self Management. Highland Valley is looking to identify interested persons of all ages and caregivers willing to participate in a workshop series. Each workshop will be for 6 consecutive weeks, 2-1/2 hours each session. The workshop series is free of charge and Highland Valley will provide the accompanying textbook, "Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions", published by Stanford University School of Medicine. The workshop will empower persons living with conditions such as arthritis, heart problems, asthma, stroke, pain, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, emphysema, cancer, etc. Topics of interest will include symptom management, dealing with anger, depression and emotions, goal setting and problem solving, improving nutrition and developing a suitable exercise program, medication management, breathing exercises, managing stress, and communicating with family, friends and health care professionals. The program has been successful worldwide as persons with chronic disease or their caregivers participate in a peer support model. Participants and caregivers learn tools so that they can work on setting personal goals, to improve their quality of life and to learn to relax and handle stress. Participants in the program have demonstrated decrease in hospitalization and out-patient visits, as well as improvement in exercise, reduced symptoms and increased activity. We are pleased to partner with the Easthampton Council on Aging Enrichment Center who will host this workshop beginning in the Fall of 2010. Informational Session scheduled for Wednesday, September 8th at 1:00 p.m.
New Monthly Health Lecture Series: "How's the Body" Safe Stretching Program: Thursday, September 23rd at 10:30 a.m. Cooley Dickinson Hospital is offering a free Safe Stretch Program, instructed by Joann Burns, a licensed physical therapist with over 34 years of experience. Safe stretching is important, especially for senior citizens because it safely assists in warming up for more vigorous activity, helps prevent postural muscles from tightening, and may help decrease a risk of injury and muscle soreness from other daily activities or fitness activity. Knowing safe stretching techniques is especially important for those who have had a joint replaced or has an arthritic joint. Joann Berns will focus on parts of the body such as hips, knees, ankles, shoulders and also posture for the duration of the 45-minute program. All who are interested in learning safe stretching techniques should attend. Please call 527-6151 to pre-register. Limited to 15 participants.
Heart Health: Wednesday, September 29th at 10 a.m. Kathleen Bowers, Manager of the Cardio-Vascular Unit at Cooley Dickinson Hospital will give a 45-minute lecture on heart-related issues. Heart disease is the #1 killer of women in the U.S. More women die each year for heart disease than from cancer. Do you know the symptoms of a "heart attact"? Did you know that symptoms for coronary problems are different in women? Learn how the hear is affected by a lack of exercise, hormones or high blood pressure. This free lecture is open to the public. You must pre-register by calling 527-6151 by Friday, September 24th. There will be time for general questions after the presentation.
NEW BRIGHT LIGHT THERAPY PROGRAM: The Enrichment Center in conjunction with psychologist, Reed Schimmelfing will be offering a free Bright Light Therapy Program at the Enrichment Center. Bright Light Therapy is a well-studied medication-free tool used to treat sleep difficulties, all depressions, including Seasonal Affective Disorder (also known as "winter blues"), and other conditions. Reed's services will help you determine if Light Therapy is something you want to try. The Friends of the Easthampton COA, Inc. have provided the funding necessary to initiate this new program, including the purchase of the equipment for use at the Enrichment Center. Come meet Reed and learn more about this FREE NEW PROGRAM. Please call Linda Talbot at the Enrichment Center 527-6151 for additional information.
SEEKING ACTIVE ADULTS: The Enrichment Center is organizing a group of like-minded "Active Adults" who are interested in hiking the local area (3-5 miles), skiing, rafting, canoeing, dog sledding and more. Do you have what it takes? If you are interested in learning more about this exciting new activity, please call Linda Talbot at 527-6151 for further information.
Next Planning Meeting: Friday, September 10th at 2 :00 p.m.
ACTIVE ADULTS MT. TOM HIKE: Friday, September 24th at 10 a.m. Enjoy a hike on the Beau Bridges Trail to Goat's Peak. No more than a 2 mile up and down hike. You must be in good physical condition and be able to keep up with the group in order to participate. Please bring your own lunch, snacks and water. Limited to 8 participants. Please call 527-6151 to pre-register by Friday, September 17th. Van Fee: $4.00. Please notify us in advance if you plan to drive yourself or take the van.
Quilting Classes: Come join us for Quilting Classes with Lillian Dembeck. Lillian is a master quilter and wonderful teacher, classes meet on Fridays at 12:30 p.m.
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM: A new offering here at the Enrichment Center. We would like to see everyone have an opportunity to attend a variety of programs and trips. In a soft economy, finances can be a problem for the "extras" in our lives. If you notice a program/trip you would like to attend, and you see there are scholarships offered for it, please put your name in with Linda or Kim, and we will take care of the program fees for you. Scholarship recipients are not chosen only on a financial basis.
Wii: Join our "Wii Queen" Barbara Wagner for a one-on-one personal instruction or to play a game. Call Kim at 527-6151 ext. 15 for dates/times.
Wii Bowling/Wii FIT UPDATE: Join us for an all new Sports Program. Wii is an interactive computer-based method of exercise. Barbara Wagner, our Wii Queen, has lots of experience working with people who "used to do" activities. She helps them find a way to enjoy them again at their own pace. Image being able to bowl, ski, play baseketball or golf again. This is a great program and you can request one-on-private instruction by appointment. Offered at no charge on Thursdays at 10 a.m. call to let us know you are coming and have fun.
WE'RE STEPPING OUT!!! The Enrichment Center has been stepping outside its doors to establish office hours and monthly meetings at the three Easthampton Housing Complexes (Sunrise Manor, Dickinson Court and Cliffview Manor) with Outreach Worker, Glafyra Ennis-Yentsch "Gliffy:, College Highway Apartments with Linda Talbot, Executive Director and J.F. Sullivan Housing with Linda Talbot and Kim Jensen. These meetings will be held in the community rooms and are a great way to meet your neighbors and staff from the Enrichment Center. Bring your ideas, concerns, and suggestions to the meetings. We will assist you in finding services to meet your needs, assist with problem-solving, help you to organize special events or activities and provide you with important updates. We will also be available to meet with you in private, one-on-one to discuss private and personal matters. The first meetings will be held as followed:
J. F. Sullivan Housing Complex: Linda Talbot and Kim Jensen will hold their monthly planning meeting on Wednesday, September 15th 10:00 a.m. with Debbie James. A BBQ was held on Monday, June 28th for all housing residents. The new picnic table was purchased and enjoyed by all residents. A new DVD/VCR will also be purchased so residents can enjoy exercise classes.
Sunrise Manor: Every Thursday from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Exercise Class and Meeting with Glafyra Ennis-Yentsch, "Gliffy" Outreach Worker. Planning Meeting with Gliffy: Thursday, September 2nd at 3 p.m. Residents were invited to a Social Network Luncheon at College Highway Apartments on Wednesday, August 25th.
College Highway Apartments: Planning Meetings with Linda Talbot: Tuesday, September 14th at 1:00 p.m. Movie Night on Fridays at 7:00 p.m. and a new exercise class. Call Linda for details. Wii demonstration was held in August. Vermont Train Ride is scheduled for October 15th and already is booked up.
Dickinson Court: Every Monday 1-3 p.m. Bingo. Every Sunday at 6 p.m. Pitch. Planning Meeting with Gliffy Wednesday, September, 1st at 3:00 p.m. A new 8-week Watercolor Painting Classes for 8 residents began on Wednesday, July 21st. Art Exhibition is scheduled for Wednesday, September 15th. Call Gliffy for details.
Cliffview Manor: Every Monday & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. Exercise Class. Every Monday and Wednesday at 10 a.m. Walking Group. Planning Meeting with Gliffy on Wednesday, September 1st at 1:00 p.m. A picnic/BBQ is planned for Monday, September 27th
GARY'S WORLD TOUR: Gary Guyette, Transportation Coordinator will be traveling around the world by visiting a new and exciting restaurant each and every month. In January, Gary traveled to China and enjoyed a delicious lunch at Amherst Chinese Restaurant. In February Gary continued his journey to Italy at The Common Italian Restaurant. In March, Gary visited Donvan's Irish Pub. In April, Gary visite Japan via The GoTen Restaurant. Join Gary as he continues his journey around the world. He plans on visiting the following countries: India in June: Paradise of India Restaurant in Amherst. USA in July: Bub's Barbeque Restaurant in Sunderland. Spain in August: EM & EM Bakery and Restaurant in Springfield. Africa in September: Baku's African Restaurant in Amherst. Germany in October: The Hofbrauhaus Restaurant in West Springfield. Greece in November: El Greco Cafe in Greenfield. Cajan/Louisiana Cuisine in December: Chef Wayne's Big Mammou Restaurant in Williamsburg. We hope you can join Gary on his exciting new tour around our wonderful world. Enjoy new and exciting foods from many different ethnic backgrounds and countries.
THE YEAR OF THE 50S: If you are already a member of our Fitness Center, you are all set. If you have not joined, NOW is the time. Fitness Membership at the Enrichment Center is only $35.00 for an entire year. A real bargain! Open to Easthampton residents age 55 and older. Call 527-6151 for more information. The Fitness Center is available Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. This years participants will be asked to walk 50 miles on our treadmills to compete for $50.00 grand prize. All miles must be logged on our treadmills. You have ALL year to log your miles, improve your health and have fun. SIGN-UP NOW in January and get started. Everyone will be invited to the party at the end of 2010 for the drawing.
THE YEAR OF 50'S SEPTEMBER UPDATE: Now that Linda Talbot and Kim Jensen have reached the age of 50, it is time to "weight" in on their weight loss thus far. As previously stated, Linda, Kim and Gary set a weight loss of 50 pounds. As of August 1st, all three staff members have lost a combined total of 26 pounds. Congratulations!!!
ZUMBA UPDATE: If you are not already on the list, please call the Enrichment Center at 527-6151 to pre-register for ZUMBA. We will begin classes on Friday, September 3rd at 4 p.m.
MEMORY GARDEN UPDATE: Just a few reminders for folks who have donated for plants and plaques:
1. We always welcome donations for maintaining the gardens. Consider this if you have already purchased a plant and a plaque. or are donating to The Enrichment Center. Your donations cover the price of the plant and partial cost of the plaque. We pass any discounts we receive for the COA onto our donors. The Friends of the ECOA, Inc. cover part of the fee for the plaques. Donations do not cover the materials to maintain the garden yearly, such as mulch, fertilizer, gloves, plant stakes, buckets, equipment like hoses, sprinklers, nor the time to repair or replace them. Plant donations do not "pay" people to work in the gardens.
2. We no NOT have regular personnel who come to weed, rake, water, or otherwise tend the garden. ALL work is done by a small group of volunteers as they are able. Volunteer gardeners give up their own time to come here and often bring their own tools. Work crews from the Hampshire County House of Corrections are sometimes available to do the heavy work at no cost to us. YOU may also volunteer to come and help maintain. If you see something that needs doing, come to a Garden Group Meeting and suggest it there, or call Kim Jensen at 527-6151 and leave a message. Because we have no personnel for the garden, please understand your suggestions may not get acted upon immediately.
We have received so many compliments on our gardens. Many people are amazed when they are told this is done with donations and volunteers. We have created a wonderful green space here. Remember it takes time, people, patience and a little money now and then to keep it looking beautiful.
GARDEN GROUP MEETING: Monday, September 20th at 10 a.m. This is the last meeting for this year. We will be discussing the need for replacement plantings, fertilizing and bedding for the winter months.
TAI CHI EXERCISE CLASSES. Began on Friday, July 16th with 6 people in attendance. Call Kim at 527-6151 for details
AUGUST SPECIALS:
DUCK & DUNK FUNDRAISER: Monday, August 23rd from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. This is your chance to dunk the Council on Aging staff: Linda Talbot, Executive Director, Gary Guyette, Transportation Coordinator, or Kim Jensen, Activity Coordinator OR Mike Superson of Big E's Foodland in the DUNK TANK. Or..... throw a whipped cream pie at Mayor Mike Tautznik!!! Cost: $2.00 per pie and $1.00 per chance at the dunk booth. This is your chance to take a shot and make it count!! Popcorn, ice cream sandwiches, edible slices of real pie and beverages will be available for purchase. Proceeds to benefit the COA gardens.
SOCIAL NETWORK LUNCHEON: Wednesday, August 25th at the College Highway Apartments. FREE LUNCH AND FREE RIDE. Meet new friends and enjoy great times. We are requesting that Sunrise Manor residents sign-up and join us. Please call to sign-up by Friday, August 20th.
AUGUST BIRTHDAY PARTY: Monday, August 30th at 11:30 a.m. Summertime babies!! Join our blow out birthday party and pre-register by calling 527-6151 by Wednesday, August 25th.
SEPTEMBER SPECIALS:
Enrichment Center Picnic: Friday, Septmber 17th at 11 a.m. Come join us for a day filled with fun, great food, and great friends. Free hamburgers, hotdogs and beverages will be provided. Please bring a hot or cold side dish, salad or dessert. We have a suggested list of items we know we'll need. When you call to RSVP, the Receptionist can help you decide what to bring or let you know if what you are offering to bring has been filled. Monetary donations will be accepted if you prefer not to cook (but we love and prefer your delicious home-cooking). Please call the Enrichment Center at 527-6151 to RSVP by Monday, September 13th. Picnic sponsored by the Friends of the ECOA, Inc, and the Elks of Northampton. A very special thank you to Senator Knapik for providing the delicious Sundaes.
For September 2010, don't miss the $50.00 raffle at our annual picnic!! We will be offering tickets at 3/$1.00 for a chance to will $50.00 in honor of our 50's theme. Better odds that Wall Street and a better % earnings than the Financial Institutions. Only available at the Picnic on September 17th.
**THE ENRICHMENT CENTER WILL BE CLOSED FROM 10 AM TO 2 PM ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH WHILE WE ATTEND OUR PICNIC.
New Money Management Program for Easthampton Seniors. "Stretching Your Dollars" a free, 3-part Money Management Program will be held on Mondays from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. September 20th, 27th and October 4th. This program will be held at the Enrichment Center, 19 Union Street and is especially designed for Easthampton residents, 60 years of age and older. Topics will include Free Local Resources, Your Rights as a Consumer, Dealing with Creditors and Budgets That Can Work for You. Free individuals sessions for confidential financial counseling will also be available to participants. Limited to 15 people and registration is required by calling 527-6151 by Wednesday, September 15th. This program is sponsored by Valley Community Development Corporation and the City of Easthampton/DHCD with ARRA and CDBG-R Program Funds. Refreshments will be served. Attend all 3 sessions and you will be entered to win a Big E's Foodland $50.00 gift card.
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