We Need Your Help!
Please remember to register in advance for all meals, programs and trips. For our daily lunches, please call no later than 9:30 am to sign-up so that we can easily accommodate everyone. If you come every day and would like to be added on an ongoing basis, let us know and we can set that up, however, we ask that you call to cancel if you cannot make it. This helps our kitchen staff and we greatly appreciate your cooperation. Please remember to check into the computer system too! We need a record of all attendance to receive funding.
Special Events & Programs in Order by Date
Please pre-register for all programs. In the event that scheduling changes need to be made, we can let you know. Call 802-457-3277 ext. 2 or email cvang@thompsonseniorcenter.org.
SLN Virtual Program
The Wonders of Yellowstone Park
Tuesday, October 14, 2:00 PM
Yellowstone National Park is a wonder to see and experience. The wildlife is unbelievable, but the geology is even more spectacular. Yellowstone geology is tied to a process that began in deep time and continues to the present. It has shaped the surface of the western United States. Spend an hour with Outreach Educator George Miller from the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and explore the forces that have shaped Yellowstone and the West.
Register in advance and indicate if viewing from home or from The Thompson.
Walk-in Thompson Flu Clinic
Provided by Smilin’ Steve (Ottauquechee Pharmacy)
Thursday, October 16, 9:00am- 12:00 PM
High-dose flu vaccines for those 65 and older will be available at our October clinic, as well as a limited number of regular dose vaccines.
Anyone 65 and over will need to bring their Medicare card Part A/B card, which is different than a prescription coverage card.
For people under 65, please bring your regular prescription drug coverage insurance card, which in order to bill insurance needs to have an Rx BIN number, an Rx PCN number, an Rx Group number, and an ID number. It might be a different card than a medical coverage card.
This is a walk-in clinic and no prior reservation is required. Any questions regarding the actual vaccine type or which one you should be getting should be directed to Ottauquechee Pharmacy or your personal physician.
Individual Medicare Counseling Appointments
with Andy Hayward, licensed Insurance Agent with Gateway Retirement Solutions
Thursdays beginning October 16 from 8:00 AM—3:00 PM at The Thompson
October 15th through December 7th is the Annual Enrollment Period for Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) and Prescription Drug Coverage Plans (Part D). During this time you are able to join a Medicare Part C or D plan. Your plan will take effect on January 1, 2026. If you already have a Medicare plan, this is the time to re-evaluate your health care needs and compare them to your current plan benefits. If you decide to stay with your current plan there is no further action required to renew it. Call Shari at The Thompson to make your appointment: 802-457-3277.
Fraud Awareness Seminar with M&T Bank
Friday, October 17, 1:30 PM
Fraud continues to evolve, and staying informed is the best way to protect yourself and your business. M&T’s upcoming seminar will provide valuable insights into today’s fraud trends, real-world examples, and practical strategies you can use to safeguard your finances.
Tis is a great opportunity to learn directly from banking professionals, ask question, and strengthen your defenses against potential threats.
Movie Monday at The Thompson
October 20, 1:15 pm in the new Media Room
Beat the heat with a cool movie experience! Come relax and enjoy a summer movie day at The Thompson. We’ll be showing a selection of popular recent films — you get to vote and choose what we watch on the day of the event!
Registration required — please sign up in advance! Snacks will be provided. Bring a friend and enjoy the show!
Pumpkin Painting Class on Tuesday
October 21, 1:30 PM, Cost: $20
Come join the fun on October 21st for a seasonal Pumpkin Painting class. Everything needed to paint one pumpkin will be provided for $20. Rose Young Smith, WUHS Class of 78, will guide you through the process of creating a festive pumpkin for upcoming Halloween fun! Register in advance.
SLN Virtual Program
Lincoln at Ford’s Theatre
Tuesday, October 21, 2:00 PM
On the morning of April 14, 1865 (Good Friday), actor John Wilkes Booth learned President Abraham Lincoln would attend a performance of the comedy Our American Cousin that night at Ford’s Theatre—a theatre Booth frequently performed at. He realized his moment had arrived.
By 10:15 that evening, the comedy was well into its last act. In the Presidential Box, President and Mrs. Lincoln and their guests, Major Henry Rathbone and his fiancée, Clara Harris, laughed at the show along with the audience—not knowing that Booth was just outside the door. Join us as visit once again this event that changed history- and maybe learn something we never knew before!
Register in advance and indicate if viewing from home or from The Thompson.
SLN Virtual Program
Historic Train Travel with the Durham Museum
Tuesday, October 28, 2:00 PM
Hop aboard our passenger cars, steam engine, and caboose for an authentic look at train travel and how it shaped our country!
Join us for a virtual tour of the museum’s authentic train cars! We will start with a look at our 1890s steam engine and 1950s caboose, followed by a walk through our passenger trains. Luxurious rail travel awaits!
Register in advance and indicate if viewing from home or from The Thompson.
Thompson Annual Meeting
Wednesday, October 29, 10:30 am
The Annual Meeting is an opportunity to vote on and welcome new board members and council members, celebrate achievements, and review our year-end (unaudited) financial statements.
We have lots to celebrate this year! Our newly renovated and expanded building is helping us to accommodate growing services. Over 200 new participants join us each year, as well as, many guests and family members. The future with the Thompson is looking brighter than ever!
Join us for lunch afterwards. Our menu includes: Chicken Parmesan, Angel Hair Pasta with Marinara Sauce, Steamed Broccoli, Fresh Fruit Salad, Carrot Cake
Suggested Donation: $7.00, charge of $12 for age 60+. Call 457-3277 to order lunch and RSVP for the annual meeting. In person with virtual option available.
Soup Supper Club
Thursday, October 30, 1:30 PM
Join us for an afternoon soup demo and soup to go. This month’s soup is a Fall Harvest Soup. Sig up in advance.
This program is made possible by a CHEF grant from Maine Council on Aging and Hannafords
Holiday Recipe Swap & Social Hour
Tuesday, November 4, 1:00 PM
Get into the holiday spirit with friends and festive flavors! Join us for a cozy afternoon of sharing and exchanging your favorite recipes for the upcoming Thanksgiving and holiday season. Bring a printed copy of a recipe you love—whether it’s a family favorite, a new discovery, or a treasured tradition—and gather inspiration for your holiday table. Enjoy good company, light refreshments, and plenty of holiday cheer!
SLN Virtual Program
Eisenhower on the Farm-Eisenhower National Historic Site
Tuesday, November 4, 2:00 pm
In 1950—after 34 years of marriage and dozens of moves—the Eisenhowers found a place they could call home in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. After World War II, Eisenhower looked forward to retirement with his wife Mamie and this farm on familiar ground seemed the perfect fit. The couple purchased the property, but Eisenhower’s retirement was short lived. After the move he was called soon back to Europe to be the Supreme Commander of NATO forces. The following year, he left that role to run for the presidency, and was elected the 34th President of the United States. Over his two terms in office, his Gettysburg farm was a central feature of Eisenhower’s time as president. Ike spent over 365 days here while he was Commander-in-Chief, using the farm for rest and relaxation, as well as a locale for hosting world leaders. Finally, in 1961, 11 years after buying their farm, the Eisenhowers left the White House and, at long last, had their retirement home of their dreams. Join us as we visit the farm, which includes background on the Eisenhower story and the significant events that took place here. Register in advance.
Thanksgiving Dinner
Thursday, November 6, 12:00 pm
Menu includes: Roasted Turkey, Mashed Potato, Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce, Parsnips & Winter Squash, Dinner Roll, Fruit Salad, and Pumpkin Pie.
RSVP in advance!
Art with Finnie
November Project: Color-Ed Harrison Landscapes
Thursday, November 6, 1:30 PM
Explore vibrant landscapes inspired by Ted Harrison. Learn to see the land, water, and sky as bold shapes, then fill them with warm and cool colors to create a striking, layered scene. Register in advance.
Pie for Breakfast
Friday, November 7, 9:00 am
Pie Buffet, Quiche, Fruit, Cheese, Coffee and Tea
No Lunched served. RSVP in advance.
SLN Virtual Program
Veteran’s Day at the Mighty Eight Museum
Aftermath of War: The Wham! Bam! Crew and the Russelsheim Massacre Trial
Tuesday, November 11, 2:00 pm
The crew of the B-24 Liberator, The Wham! Bam! Thank You, Ma’m” failed to return to base from the August 24, 1944 Hanover mission when it was downed by flak. The nine man crew bailed out successfully, was captured as POWs and later became the focus of the first War Crimes Trial of World War II. Join us as we honor the many brave men and women who have served, sacrificed, and serve today to protect our nation. Register in advance.
Celebrating our Veterans
Wednesday, November 12, Beginning at 11:45 am
The Thompson annual Veterans Day lunch and ceremony is a poignant celebration as we honor those who have served and who continue to serve. In recognizing our Veterans, we invite you to join us at 11:45 am as the American Legion leads us in a short ceremony around the flag. A group photo will be taken.
Immediately following we will enjoy a meal of Baked Ham with Pineapple Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, Stewed Green Beans, Whole Grain Dinner Roll, Pumpkin Bread with Whipped Cream, and Fresh Fruit.
Music will be provided by Jerry Blakeney. We ask that you make your reservation in advance. Free meal for Veterans.
Thank you to all of our Veterans for your service and your sacrifice which will never be forgotten.
Movie Monday
Monday, November 17, 1:15 PM in the Media Room, Pre-register
Come relax and enjoy a movie day at The Thompson. We’ll be showing a selection of popular recent films — you get to vote and choose what we watch on the day of the event! Snacks will be provided. Bring a friend and enjoy the show!
Japanese Calligraphy with Chris Eldridge
Tuesday, November 18, 1:15 PM
Join us for a relaxing and inspiring afternoon of Japanese Calligraphy with our very own Chris Eldridge! Discover the beauty and mindfulness behind this traditional art form as you learn brush techniques and the graceful flow of Japanese characters.
All materials will be provided. No experience necessary — just bring your curiosity and creativity!
SLN Virtual Program
“Wind and Sand” Wright Brothers National Memorial
Tuesday, November 18, 2:00 pm
Come Fly with us! The Wind and Sand Program highlights the evolution of the Wright brothers from bicycle mechanics to aviation legends. We will learn about many of the people who aided the Wrights in their work, talk about why Kitty Hawk was picked as the place to do their experiments away from Ohio, and present how the two brothers were eventually able to succeed with their flights on December 17, 1903. We will also discuss how their work may have influenced you!
Beginner Line Dancing Class
Friday, November 21, 1:00 – 2:30 PM
Get ready to kick up your heels with Britt and Olivia Line Dancing! Join us for a fun and easy Beginner Line Dancing Class — no experience (or partner!) needed. The first part of the class will focus on learning the basic steps and popular routines, and then we’ll put it all together for some lively dancing in the second half. Come enjoy great music, friendly company, and a good dose of exercise. This class is by donation.
Community Connections
Ottauquechee Health Foundation: Supporting Our Community
Monday, November 24, 1:00 pm
Come join us for a special presentation with the Ottauquechee Health Foundation (OHF), an organization that has been improving health and wellness in our community for nearly 30 years!
David Sleeper, OHF’s Executive Director, will share the inspiring story and mission of the foundation, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2026.
We’ll also hear from Lizzie Coelho, OHF’s Grants Coordinator, about the many ways OHF helps neighbors in need. From Good Neighbor Grants that assist with medical costs like dental work and hearing aides, to Homecare Grants that support caregiving services right at home, OHF is here to make sure no one has to face health challenges alone.
Don’t miss this chance to learn how OHF continues to make a difference—and how you or someone you know might benefit from their programs.
Soup Supper Club
Tuesday, November 25, 1:30 PM
Join us for an afternoon soup making demo and soup to go for dinner. Sign up in advance.
This program is made possible by a CHEF grant from Maine Council on Aging and Hannafords
SLN Virtual Program
Francis Perkins : FDR Presidential Library and Museum
Tuesday, November 25, 2:00 pm
When FDR was elected President in 1932 there was speculation over who the President would select for his cabinet. One name that kept coming up was that of Frances Perkins. Because no woman had previously served in a presidential cabinet, any woman appointed would be closely scrutinized and be targeted for criticism. Impressed by her ability and accomplishments, President Franklin Roosevelt offered Frances Perkins the position of Secretary of Labor. As Secretary of Labor, Perkins took on the responsibility of developing solutions to the problems being caused by the Great Depression. Most pressing was the fact that between 13 and 18 million Americans were unemployed (Downey 149).
Frances Perkins leaves behind an even greater legacy: she helped pave the way for women to enter the male dominated political world. Twenty-one women have held cabinet positions since Frances Perkins first accepted Franklin Roosevelt’s offer to become Secretary of Labor. By accepting a position in Roosevelt’s cabinet, Frances Perkins changed the course of women’s history in America.
This program is scheduled by popular request!
Ongoing Programs in Order by Date
Advance Directive Assistance by Appointment
Would your loved ones know your wishes about medical care if you were unable to speak for yourself? An Advance Directive spells out your wishes and appoints someone to represent you if you are not able. A trained and caring volunteer will take the time to explain this simple process. Call Shari at 802-457-3277.
Benefits Assistance
1st Tuesday of the Month
9:30 am –12:30 pm by appointment
As temperatures start to drop, there are programs available to help you stretch your budget. You might be eligible for:
- Seasonal Fuel Assistance to help pay heating and energy bills
- 3SquaresVT monthly benefits to pay for groceries (if you’re eligible for one, you’re eligible for the other!)
- Free weatherization services to improve your home’s energy efficiency (you’re eligible if you get fuel assistance!)
- Crisis Fuel Assistance if you’ve hit your monthly heating budget
Individual assistance is available by appointment with Senior Solutions Benefits Counselor, Liz Carey. Call Shari for your appointment.
Caregiver Support Group
In-person, 2nd Tuesday of each month at 12:00 pm
Virtual participation still available upon request
Support and education can make a critical difference for family members and caregivers of patients with memory loss or disorders such as Alzheimer’s. Please join our confidential monthly support group on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, and share ideas, concerns, and constructive feedback with others facing similar challenges.
Tech Help Appointments at The Thompson
We’re excited to welcome back one-on-one tech help sessions, thanks to the generous support of Emily Gibson from the Norman Williams Public Library.
Available Time Slots:
Thursday, November 6
10:30 – 11:00 AM
11:00 – 11:30 AM
Thursday, October 23 & November 20
2:00 – 2:30 PM
2:30 – 3:00 PM
Each session is 30 minutes long and space is limited — please call The Thompson to reserve your spot.
Bridge
Wednesdays, 1:00 pm
Learn the game or improve your skills in a low intensity, friendly setting. Everyone welcome! Coached by Bill Boardman, bridge teacher for decades.
Cribbage
Thursdays at 10:00 am
Foot Clinic
Call for schedule and to make your appointment. Towels are supplied
Beverly Sinclair has been a practicing registered nurse for 22 years with extensive experience as a staff nurse and in nurse management. She has been providing local foot care service for older Vermonters for the past 6 years.