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.
Join Free Spanish Conversation Group Wednesdays 12-1 pm
Is your Spanish rusty? Are you trying to learn Spanish? Were you once fluent in Spanish and now want to get it back? It doesn’t matter how fluent you are–we want you to join our conversation group at the Thompson, starting Wed. July 2. We’ll meet upstairs in the small conference room from noon until around 1 p.m. Bring your snack or lunch, your dictionary, your desire to enjoy the sounds and expressions of Spanish. Vamos a charlar!
SLN Virtual Program at The Thompson
Belmont-Paul National Monument
Tuesday, September 16, 2:00 pm
Home to the National Woman’s Party for more than 90 years, this was the e picenter of the struggle for women’s rights. From this house in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court, Alice Paul and the NWP developed innovative strategies and tactics to advocate for the Equal Rights Amendment and equality for women. Built on Capitol Hill in 1800, the brick federal-period house that today is Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument is among the oldest residential properties in Washington, D.C. The house is located on land used by the Nacotchtank, or Anacostans, for hunting and trading. The tract was included in a land grant to Cecil Calvert, the second Lord Baltimore, in 1632 by King Charles I of England as part of the colony of Maryland.
Register in advance by contacting Cory at 802-457-3277.
AARP Smart Driver Class
This 4.5 hour refresher course is open to all drives 50 years and older
Friday, September 19, 8:45 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Lunch Break 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Cost: $20 for AARP Members, $25 for Others
The curriculum addresses the normal physical changes brought on by the aging process, how these changes can affect driving ability and how to compensate for those changes. The course also addresses changes in vehicles, regulations and roads. Participants will also learn how to interact with other road users, including truckers, bikers, pedestrians and distracted drivers. The class will address Vermont driving regulations, many of which have changed over the years. Many insurance companies offer a discount to drivers who have completed the class. Drivers who have qualified for a discount by taking the course must take a refresher course every 3 years. There are no tests. Register in advance.
Movie Monday at The Thompson
Monday, September 22 & 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!
Supper Club at Woodstock Pizza Chef
Tuesday, September 23, 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 Woodstock Pizza Chef 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 friends at The Thompson.
Medicare Talk with Zedaina Blanchard
Financial Professional and Insurance Representative with Bankers Life
Tuesday Sept 23, 1:30 PM, Please sign up ahead of time
In this session we will be educating you on Medicare. We will go over all the different parts and how they work. We will explain the differences between supplements (Medigap plans) and Advantage (Part C) plans and how they both work.
We will also go over the changes to Medicare for 2026. We will explain how the Part D will work next year. You will also have the opportunity to schedule a one on one to go over personalized options for yourself based on your doctors and medications if you would like to but there is no obligation.
SLN Virtua Program at The Thompson
“No Mail, Low Morale”: The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion – US Army Museum
Tuesday, September 23, 2:00 pm
Since the Revolutionary War generations of African Americans have served the armed forces, but it was not until World War II that Black women joined the Army as part of the Women’s Army Corps (WAC).
In February 1945 members of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion arrived in Birmingham, England. Nicknamed the “Six Triple Eight,” they were the first and only all-Black WAC unit sent overseas during World War II. They faced the daunting task of sorting and delivering mail to the roughly 7 million service members stationed in the European Theater. Their mission boosted morale across the entirety of deployed forces. They completed their mission in three months’ time before deploying to France to undertake the same work. The battalion was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in honor of their dedication and service to mission in 2022.
Register with Cory in advance.
Day Trip to Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Yankee Candle Village
Wednesday, September 24
Cost $75 per person includes admission to Magic Wings and round-trip motor coach bus through beautiful fall landscapes. See Trips page for more details.
SLN Virtual Program at The Thompson
Seaport Village Virtual Walkabout: Mystic Seaport Museum
Tuesday, September 30, 2:00 pm
Join us in our favorite seaport town- Mystic! Learn about maritime trades that supported life at sea and on land in the 19th century. Museum interpreters demonstrate skills in the cooperage, shipmith, print shop, shipcarver shop, and more in the re-created seaport village. Stroll through the re-created seaport village to immerse yourself in the life of a 19th-century coastal New Englander. Interpreters bring to life the bustling maritime trades, including shipsmiths, coopers, printers, and shipcarvers, that supported life at sea and on shore at that time. Also, get a glimpse into domestic life with gardening techniques and cooking demonstrations in the Buckingham-Hall house. Trade shops, businesses, and houses from the 1800s were transported to Mystic Seaport Museum from locations around New England to re-create this historic village.
Register in advance to receive your Zoom link or view from The Thompson’s media room.
Art with Finnie from ArtisTree
October Project: Shape
Thursday, October 2, 1:30 PM
Explore the beauty of both geometric and organic shapes in this colorful collage workshop inspired by artist Reggie Laurent. Using bright construction paper, metallic markers, and your own creative touch, you’ll design a vibrant composition filled with shapes, patterns, and bold contrasts. No experience necessary, just bring your imagination and enjoy an afternoon of playful, hands-on art making. Register in advance.
Oktoberfest Celebration
Friday, October 3, Noon
Join us as we partake in this celebration with a traditional meal of:
Grilled Bratwurst, Sauerkraut and Apples, German Style Potato Salad, Grain Mustard Sauce, Whole Grain Dinner Roll, Fresh Fruit Salad
Enjoy delicious pretzels from Pretzel Village and BYOB. Pre-register by calling The Thompson.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
SLN Virtual Program: The Monuments of Gettysburg
Tuesday, October 7, 2:00 PM
Join us at Gettysburg National Military Park, as we learn about the various monuments, and battle sites in and around them. These monuments represent “one of the largest collections of outdoor sculpture in the world.” Most are listed as contributing structures within Gettysburg Battlefield Historic District, which was approved by the Keeper of the National Register of Historic Places on January 23, 2004.Join us as a park ranger takes us on a virtual tour of these monuments, and the history behind them.
Register in advance and indicate if viewing from home or from The Thompson.
Nobody Wants to Fall
A Special Falls Prevention Event
Wednesday, October 8, 10-11:30 am
There are SO MANY things we can each do to keep ourselves safe and healthy and upright! We want to avoid falling, and this special program will help remind us all of steps we can take to remain healthy.
Join Tai Chi instructor Anne Bower, and Yoga instructor, Linda Harvey, for a lively and relaxing hour of gentle exercise and information sharing. Try out some easy tai chi and yoga exercises, enjoy some relaxing deep breathing and stretches, share knowledge about how we falls-proof our houses, play with two simple exercises that help determine your balance and strength. We’ll have healthy snacks for you and door prizes too! This part of the program will end at 11:00. There’s no cost and the program is open to all.
Anyone who actually wants to get tested for their balance can stay after and do that with Linda Harvey between 11-11:30. If you want balance testing, please call the Thompson and let them know beforehand.
Urinetown the Musical at the Grange Theater-FREE
Wednesday, October 8, 3:00 PM
ArtisTree is offering a special matinee performance free of charge for all area seniors. To read more about the musical and to buy tickets, click here.
Community Connections
with Woodstock Fire Chief, David Green
Thursday, October 9, 1:30 PM
Join us for an important and timely discussion with Woodstock Fire Chief David Green. In recognition of Fire Prevention Week (October 5–11) and its theme “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work for You!” Chief Green will talk about the critical role smoke alarms play in saving lives.
He will also share updates from the Woodstock Fire Department and Emergency Services, plus address the growing concerns around lithium-ion batteries—including the dangers of unsafe charging and how to protect yourself and your home.
Don’t miss this chance to learn practical safety tips and ask your fire safety questions!
Middlebury College A Cappella Group Performs at The Thompson!
Friday, October 10, 1:00 PM
Stuck In The Middle (SIM) is Middlebury College’s youngest low voice a cappella group. Founded in 2002, they have two primary goals: make music and have fun. They bring a modern outlook to a cappella, differentiating themselves from other campus groups through a focus on contemporary repertoire rather than traditional barbershop style. From singing for Senator Sanders to welcoming new students to college, they always strive to bring good sound and great energy!
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.
Tech Appointments Are Back 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, October 9
10:30 – 11:00 AM
11:00 – 11:30 AM
Thursday, October 23
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.
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.
Pumpkin Painting Class on Tuesday
October 21, 1:30 PM, Cost: $20
Come join the fun on October 22nd 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 uthentic 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
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.
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.