Welcome back! All programs are at The Thompson unless listed otherwise.
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.
Walking Group
Mondays, beginning May 12, 9:00 to 10:00 am
Join Carla Kamel, Community Care Coordinator, for an invigorating walk to enjoy the fresh air, socialization, and improve overall wellbeing. Our starting point will be the East End Park for the best parking location to walk in the village.
Please Note: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle.
Please ensure that The Thompson has your email address or phone number for notification on walking route changes or inclement weather days. Register in advance by contacting Carla at carla@thompsonseniorcenter.org.
Six-Week Writer’s Workshop
with Local Author Robin Fisher
Tuesday, May 20 – July 1, 1:00-3:00 pm (no class on May 27)
The Magic of Storytelling: The magic of good storytelling isn’t magic at all. It’s about digging deep and staying authentic. It’s hard work and it’s thrilling.
In this six-week course you will learn the basics of compelling storytelling: knowing how to communicate and listen on the deepest levels; character development, crafting cinematic scenes with mood, detail, description and dialogue. Ultimately, you will learn to trust your “voice” which sounds confusing but is simply letting your words and thoughts spill out onto the page in the way you think and speak. Please register in advance.
Robin Gaby Fisher is a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and New York Times bestselling author who has written 12 non fiction books. Her latest book, Unmasked, with Paul Holes, debuted at No. 3 on the New York Times bestseller list. She retired as Director of the Journalism Program at Rutgers University, Newark campus, last year. She resides full-time in Woodstock with her husband, Loren, co-owner of the Focus Fine Art Photography gallery, and their Bernese Mountain Dog, appropriately named Pudge.
SLN Virtual Program
Bering Land Bridge, Alaska
Tuesday, May 20, 2:00 pm
Bering Land Bridge National Preserve protects a small remnant of a once giant landmass that connected Asia to North America during the last ice age. In the preserve you can find rolling tundra, lakes, lava fields, winding rivers, hot springs, and miles of coastline. Arctic animals, plants, and people live harmoniously on this land as they have for time immemorial.
Register in advance by contacting 802-457-3277 ext 2 or cvang@thompsonseniorcenter.org.
Community Connections
Deanna Jones, Thompson Executive Director, and
Carla Kamel, Community Care Coordinator
Wednesday, May 21, 1:00 pm
This month, Deanna and Carla are teaming up for Community Connections to talk about the exciting developments at The Thompson, as well as the challenges we’re all facing in today’s world. They’ll address some of the common questions we’ve been hearing and share a wide range of helpful resources available through our community. Topics will include new technology and support services at The Thompson, Social Security concerns, and essential resources for food, fuel, and health. We look forward to connecting with you!
Older Americans Lunch & Birthday Bash
Thursday, May 22, 12:00 pm
Join us on Thursday, May 22nd for our Older Americans Month Celebration and Birthday Bash. What better time to celebrate all of the birthdays we missed during our renovation than at our annual Older Americans Month Celebration! The theme for this year is “Flip The Script on Aging” which means to change the way society perceives and approaches the process of aging. It encourages individuals and communities to challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions, and instead focus on the positive aspects of older adulthood, such as the experiences, wisdom, and contributions of older adults. At the Thompson, we challenge those negative stereotypes and celebrate aging! Please register in advance. Door prizes, good food, fun, and December through May birthdays celebrated!
Coin Collection Evaluation and Appraisal with Ron Ringenberg
Tuesday, May 27, 1:00 pm
Do you have old coins or a coin collection that you don’t know what to do with? Do you have a relative who wonders how to dispose of their coin collection? Bring your questions to the upcoming presentation: Coin Collection Evaluation and Appraisal, by Ron Ringenberg at the Thompson Senior Center – May 27th at 1 PM. Ron has enjoyed years of coin collecting and appraising. He’ll discuss managing coin collections as part of an estate, maximizing the possible value of coin collection inheritance and how to begin these processes. Register in advance by calling 802-457-3277 ext. 2.
SLN Virtual Program
POP! Goes the West! Whitney Art Museum
Tuesday, May 27, 2:00 pm
We are fortunate to catch this new art exhibition from the Whitney at Buffalo Bill Center of the West! Explore the compelling intersections between popular culture and the American West. Surround yourself with the iconic work of Andy Warhol and other artists who combine the styles and attitudes of the Pop Art movement with western subject matter. POP! features eye-catching artwork with bright colors and bold designs. Artists depict a West that is both familiar and unexpected, filled with Indians and cowgirls, wildlife and highways, horses and pickup trucks, cell phones and tourists, along with lariats, guns, geysers, and more!
Register in advance by contacting cvang@thompsonseniorcenter.org or 802-457-3277 ext. 2.
Storytelling Workshop
with Rev. Derek van Gulden
Wednesday, May 28, 1:00 pm
Do you enjoy storytelling and or listening to a good story? We all do! Please join us Wednesday, May 28th at 1pm to listen to Storyteller Derek van Gulden tell stories and give some pointers on creating enthralling and enjoyable stories. Please call The Thompson to sign up in advance.
Creative Beach Painting Class with Rose
Wednesday, June 5, 1:30 pm
Get inspired by the summer season! Join us on Wednesday, June 5th at 1:30 PM for a fun and relaxing art class with Rose, where you’ll create a beach-themed painting complete with real seashell accents. No experience necessary—just bring your creativity!
Cost: $10 per person (includes all materials) Register in advance at 802-457-3277 ex. 2
Summer Health & Safety Talk with Neva Cote
Friday, June 6, 1:30 pm
As the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to brush up on important summer health tips! Join us on Thursday, June 6th at 1:30 PM for an informative presentation by Neva Cote, Chronic Disease Prevention Specialist from the Vermont Department of Health. Neva will share helpful information on tick awareness, how to stay safe in the summer heat, and other seasonal health and safety topics. Don’t miss this chance to get informed and prepared for a healthy summer!
Tablet Program—All classes are now full!
Fridays, June 6, 13, 20 at 11:00 am at The Thompson
We’re excited to announce the opportunity to share free tablets and training with first time tech users! This will be for people that do not already have a tablet and are interested in understanding the benefits of owning one and using technology for the first time.
We will have three classes that will focus on setting a tablet up and using it for emails, photos, telehealth, and finally more advanced tasks like paying bills online, managing calendars and more.
Participants will receive the tablet for free thanks to a grant from the Maine Council of Aging and the Hannafords CHEF grant.
Tie-Dye Fun at The Thompson Center
Thursday, June 12, 1:30 pm
Add a splash of color to your day! Join Heidi and Kim van Gulden for a lively tie-dye event where you bring your own item to dye—whether it’s a t-shirt, tote bag, or even a pair of socks. We’ll provide the dyes, gloves, and all the supplies you need to create a colorful masterpiece. No experience needed—just come ready to have fun and get creative with friends!
What to Bring: One item made of 100% cotton (or similar fabric) to tie-dye.
Register in advance with Cory at 802-457-3277 ext. 2.
Veterans Disability Assistance at The Thompson
1:1 Appointments Now Available
Mondays, June 16 and June 23, 9:30am-2pm
Do you need assistance navigating the Veterans Administration (VA) for a disability? Even though the PACT Act assistance has expired, a local veteran and Thompson volunteer can help you with the application process as benefits are still available. For example; If you served in the National Guard you are eligible and if your service did not include a military conflict you are still eligible. Veterans who served on ships containing asbestos, experienced loud noise from artillery or aircraft, or those who were firemen on aircraft carriers are encouraged to let us help you with benefits assistance. Conditions such as heart disease related to hypertension or stent placement or those who were exposed to toxins and have cancer or asthma could qualify for benefits. Some veterans are receiving significant compensation each month for hearing loss. Could this be you? There is so much for you to learn if you are a veteran and we want to ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
To schedule your appointment, contact Pam Butler at pbutler@thompsonseniorcenter.org or call 802-457-3277.
Decluttering and Downsizing Talk with Patty Hasson
Tuesday, June 17, 1:00 pm
Thinking about getting organized or clearing out some space? Join us on Tuesday, June 17th at 1:00pm at The Thompson for an informative and inspiring talk with Patty Hasson, owner of Yellow House Organizing. With five years of experience helping people simplify their spaces, Patty will share practical tips and resources for decluttering, downsizing, and organizing your home, garage, office, and more. Whether you’re just getting started or looking for fresh ideas, Patty’s advice can help make the process easier—and even enjoyable! Sign-up in advance.
Stay Safe from Scams:
Protect Yourself from Fraud with Mascoma Bank
Tuesday, June 24, 1:30 pm
Fraudsters are getting more creative every day, using text messages, pop-ups, email attachments, and even phone calls to try to trick you into giving away personal information or money. Remember—never click suspicious links, download unexpected attachments, or share personal details over the phone unless you’re absolutely sure who you’re talking to. If something feels off, it probably is. When in doubt, hang up, delete, or ask someone you trust before responding. Stay alert and protect yourself! Register in advance.
Summer Supper Club at The Public House
Tuesday, June 24, 5:30 pm, RSVP in advance
Summer is short and we want to take advantage of the opportunity to gather and enjoy a fun evening out together. Join Deanna and friends at 5:30 pm at The Public House in Quechee for dinner. This will be a dine and pay on your own event where orders are placed individually. Call a friend, offer a ride if you can, and enjoy a summer evening with your Thompson friends.
Birthday Day Music with Liz Reedy
Thursday, June 26, 1:00 pm
Join us for a special Birthday Day lunch on June 26th, featuring live music by the talented singer-songwriter Liz Reedy! Come enjoy a delicious meal, great company, and the cheerful sounds of Liz’s performance as we celebrate all the June birthdays together. Don’t miss this fun and festive afternoon in the Community Room!
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
Call Shari for an appointment. 9:30am –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.
Reflexology will pause during May and June
Enjoy Reflexology to Relax, Rejuvenate, & Reboot Your Body
Please call Shari to schedule a morning appointment. $35 for 30 minute hand or foot treatment or $65 for 60 minutes.
Please wear loose fitting clothing and arrive a few minutes early to complete a health & disclaimer form.
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.
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.