Events & Programs

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.

WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON BAZAAR CRAFT WORKSHOPS

2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the Month, 1-2:30 pm

Calling All Crafters! Join us as we prepare for our annual Holiday Bazaar. We will be making an assortment of knitted and sewn items as well as holiday decorations. Our workshops will be held the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month up to the Bazaar from 1:00-2:30 pm. We will have projects set up. We need your helping hands to put them together.

Do you have items to donate for us to sell at the Bazaar? If so, please contact Paula.

What, Where, and Why Fiber

A Community Webinar by Visiting Nurse and Hospice and Central Vermont Council on Aging

Friday, October 15, 12:00 pm

Are you unsure of the difference between soluble and insoluble fiber? Do you wonder which foods are good sources of fiber? Do you know wonder why fiber is important? If you answered yes to any of these, questions, this presentation is for you.

This webinar can be viewed on the VNH Facebook page : www.facebook.com/VNHcare

Flu Clinic

Seasonal Drive-Thru Clinic Offered by VNH of Vermont and New Hampshire

Tuesday, October 19, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Located behind The Thompson Center at Heritage Condos – no appointment necessary.

Stay in your car and receive the vaccine

Limited supply of high dose vaccine available
No cost to those with commercial insurance, Medicaid, or no insurance. Please bring your Medicare part B insurance card if you have one.
To find flu clinics at other locations click here or call 888-300-8853.

Join us for an Age Well Workshop

This Month’s Topic: How to Hire a Caregiver & Resource Fair

Workshops are FREE and open to the public

In-person (masks required) AND virtual option

Tuesday, October 19 from 4pm-6pm

How to find the right caregiver and how to pay for it. The panel will cover home care options, demystify the transition from hospital to home, and discuss establishing ongoing care. Panel: Cynthia Stadler and Heather Welch-Smith, Bayada; John Mitchell-Beam, VNH; Carla Kamel, OHC Community Care Coordinator; Deanna Jones, TSC and Tayo Kirchhof, OHF. You’ll also hear voices of lived experience.

*Ends with a caregiver resource fair to further explore local options*

Please Preregister: Call The Thompson (802) 457-3277 OR click here

Brought to you in partnership with these participating organizations:

Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center, and the Ottauquechee Health Foundation.

Senior Learning Network Virtual Program at The Thompson

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library

“The Extraordinary Life of Jimmy Carter “

Tuesday, October 19, 2:00 pm

Throughout his life, President Carter has found himself in extraordinary circumstances faced with extraordinary opportunities, many of which were brought about by the American Presidency. This presentation will examine civic engagement and discuss the primary sources of the Carter Library and National Archives to address the question, “What is the secret to an extraordinary life?”

Please note that these are all group viewings so leave the technology issues to us and watch with friends in the comfort of The Thompson. Call to reserve your seat.

Honky Tonk Angels at the Grange Theater at ArtisTree

October 20 at 2:00 pm

Join us for a matinee of the show that is sweeping the nation! “Combining over 30 classic country tunes with a hilarious story about three gutsy gals who are determined to better their lives and follow their dreams to Nashville. The all-hit song list includes I’ll Fly Away, Stand by Your Man, 9 to 5, Coal Miner’s Daughter, Ode to Billy Jo, These Boots Are Made for Walking, Rocky Top, and I Will Always Love You. This charming, foot-stompin’ musical has played to sold-out audiences across the country.”

The performance is available to us at a special rate of $20/ticket made possible by the generous sponsorship from Junction Fuels. Prepayment and reservations through The Thompson are required. ArtisTree requires proof of vaccination at the door, as well as masks inside the theater.

Guiness World Record Bingo

Join us at 1pm on October 22, 2021, to help set a World Record!

The Thompson is excited to participate in a historic community event as an official venue. On October 22, 2021, we’re attempting to set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title with an exciting game of online bingo! Fore more details and to register, click here.

Educational Programming by the Alzheimer’s Association

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Wednesday, October 20, 1:00 pm

Effective Communication Strategies

Wednesday, October 27, 1:00 pm

Both programs will be offered virtually via Zoom at The Thompson as well as available for individual home viewing. For more information and to register in advance, contact Pam.

Senior Learning Network Virtual Program at The Thompson

National Mall and Memorial Parks in Washington, D.C

“A Visit to America’s Front Yard”

Tuesday, October 26, 2:00 pm

Visit with a Park Ranger from National Mall and Memorial Parks in Washington, D.C, for a virtual tour of the park sometimes referred to as America’s Front Yard. We will explore the history and symbolism of memorials, such as Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Martin Luther King, Jr and more!

Please note that these are all group viewings so leave the technology issues to us and watch with friends in the comfort of The Thompson. Call to reserve your seat.

Annual Meeting 2021

Staying Connected

Wednesday, October 27, 10:30

As we reflect on our year in preparation for the Annual Meeting, we keep coming back to what is most important — the connections to the people we serve– YOU! Annual meeting guest speakers will reflect on this and share inspiration.

The Annual Meeting is also an opportunity to vote on and welcome new board members and council members, celebrate achievements, and review our year-end (unaudited) financial statements. Delicious lunch to follow.

Menu: Butternut Squash Soup, Turkey Wrap Sandwich, Cottage Cheese, Apple Pie

RSVP for the annual meeting and lunch. In person and virtual options.

PARTY OF ONE PARTY!

Monday, November 1, 5:00 pm at 506 on the River Inn

Come out on your own, and make new friends; gather around a lovely fireplace for some hors d’oeuvres and sparkling conversation. This will be a fun way to go out individually, and to be in good company. Cost: $12.00 – Additional food and beverages are optional and will be available at your expense. Please call The Thompson to reserve your spot and to pre-pay.

Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum

A Senior Learning Network Virtual Program at The Thompson

Tuesday, November 2, 2:00 pm

From January 20, 1953-January 20, 1961 Dwight D Eisenhower served two terms as President of the United States; brought armistice to Korean War; promoted Atoms for Peace; dealt with crises in Lebanon, Suez, Berlin, and Hungary and established the U.S. Information Agency. Did you know he also created the Federal Council on Aging? As President he also saw Alaska and Hawaii become states; signed the 1957 Civil Rights Act, the first civil rights legislation since the end of Civil War; sent federal troops to enforce court-ordered integration of Little Rock Central High School and signed the bill creating the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Join us at the Presidential Library and Museum as we discover more about our 34^th President.

Please note that these are all group viewings so leave the technology issues to us and watch with friends in the comfort of The Thompson on our newly updated large screen tv. Call to reserve your seat.

Poppy Art Project with ArtisTree

Wednesday, November 3, 1:30 pm

We will honor our veterans in creating poppy art with Finnie from ArtisTree on November 3 at 1:30 pm. Please join us and pre-register by calling The Thompson. Newcomers are encouraged!

Get ready! Medicare’s Open Enrollment is October 15 – December 7

The Thompson Center’s Individual Benefits Assistance Program offered by The Windsor Community Health Clinic Can Help

November 4, 12, 18, & December Dec 2, call for appointment

You can enroll in Medicare health and drug plans from October 15 – December 7. Get ready for Medicare’s Open Enrollment with these 5 tips:

Check your mail. You may get important notices from Medicare or Social Security. If you’re in a Medicare plan, you’ll get an Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) telling you of any changes in coverage, costs, or service area. Note any 2022 changes to your health coverage or any Extra Help you may get to pay for prescription drugs. You may also get brochures and other marketing materials from insurance companies that offer Medicare health and prescription drug plans. Remember — plans aren’t allowed to call or come to your home without an invitation from you. Find out how to protect yourself from Medicare fraud.

Think about your Medicare coverage needs for 2022. Carefully review your current Medicare coverage, and note any upcoming changes to your costs or benefits. Decide if your current Medicare coverage will meet your needs for the year ahead. If you like your current coverage, and it’s still available for 2022, you don’t need to take any action to keep it.
Review your 2022 “Medicare & You” handbook. It has information about Medicare coverage and Medicare plans in your area. If you want to get your handbook electronically, you can go paperless by logging into (or creating) your secure Medicare account.
Preview 2022 health and prescription drug plans. We make it easy to compare coverage options and shop for health plans. For a personalized search, log in or create an account (if you have a Medicare Number) to create or access a list of your drugs, compare your current Medicare plan to others, and see prices based on any help you get with drug costs.
Get personalized help in your community by calling The Thompson Center for individual in person (or via zoom or phone) appointments during this annual enrollment period. Don’t delay!

Visit Medicare.gov to sign up to get important news & updates by email from Medicare.

Excerpts from Medicare.gov.

National Museum of the Pacific War

A Senior Learning Network Virtual Program at The Thompson

Tuesday, November 9, 2:00 pm

In honor of Veteran’s Day, we will take a return visit to the National Museum of the Pacific War. This is always a favorite live tour!

Come and experience key events, numerous artifacts and hear more stories of those who served in the Pacific or the Home Front during WWII. Staff members will take you on an island hopping journey from Pearl Harbor to the surrender of Japan as they move through the George H.W. Bush Gallery.

THE POWER OF A POWER OF ATTORNEY

A virtual Presentation

November 9, 1:00 pm

A legal Power of Attorney document can be a powerful tool to safeguard your financial wellbeing, but it can also lead to serious consequences if not done correctly. Attorney Leah Burdick will explain the ins and outs of what a Power of Attorney document is, how it is created, and what it means to be a named agent in a Power of Attorney under Vermont law. Leah Burdick, Esq. is an Elder Law attorney within the Elder Law Project at Vermont Legal Aid, Inc. Her practice areas include advanced planning for aging, Medicare/Medicaid, Social Security, housing, and individual rights.

Please register through the Thompson to receive your Zoom link.

Celebrating our Veterans

Friday, November 12, 12:00 pm

The Thompson annual Veterans Day lunch and ceremony has always been a poignant and joyful celebration as we honor those who have served and who continue to serve. In recognizing our Veterans this year, we invite you to enjoy a meal with us on Friday, November 12 at 12:00 pm and ask that you make reservations as space is limited. Reservations are on a first come, first served basis. Alternatively, you are welcome to either pick-up your complimentary meal or dine in any day during that week. (reservations required). At 11:45 am the American Legion will lead a short ceremony around the flag. A group photo will be taken.

Elephant Sanctuary

A Senior Learning Network Virtual Program at The Thompson

Tuesday, November 16, 2:00 pm

It’s time to re-visit the amazing elephants and hear their stories as we gain an understanding of how they are cared for in captivity. Your audience will foster compassion for animals and an awareness of animal welfare by hearing about the life stories of our resident elephants. We also discuss what goes into caring for the elephants at The Sanctuary, hopefully inspiring the next generation of animal care and non-profit.

Please note that these are all group viewings so leave the technology issues to us and watch with friends in the comfort of The Thompson on our newly updated large screen tv. Call to reserve your seat.

Thanksgiving Dinner

Tuesday, November 16, Noon

Due to safety concerns, space will be limited this year.

Please call early to make your reservation. Walk-ins will be offered take-out meals, if available

Menu: Roasted Turkey, Mashed Potato, Gravy, Squash, Cranberry Sauce, Stuffing, Peas & Carrots, Pumpkin Pie.

Suggested donation of $5 for those 60 and over. $7 charge for those under 60 years of age. 457-3277

Let’s Go Holiday Shopping!

Wednesday, November 17, depart from The Thompson at 8:30am

We are encouraging vaccinated friends to car pool together for this outing.

The Christmas Tree Shop has long been a favorite of Thompson shoppers and though we are unable to provide group transportation as in the past, we encourage you to collect your shopping friends and plan to carpool. Longhorn Steakhouse is within walking distance of the Tafts Corners plaza and many other restaurant and shopping options are close by.

Please pre-register with The Thompson by November 12^th and indicate if you are willing to drive.

Hoover Presidential Library and Museum

A Senior Learning Network Virtual Program at The Thompson

Tuesday, November 23, 2:00 pm

Herbert Clark Hoover, (August 10, 1874–October 20, 1964), mining engineer, humanitarian, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, and the 31^st President of the United States. In addition to public service, Hoover devoted his post-Presidential years to social causes such as the Boys Clubs of America and the Hoover Institution, a research center he had established on the Stanford campus in 1919. He also wrote more than 40 books during those years.

Hoover’s attention returned to Iowa late in the 1950s when he agreed to allow friends and associates to construct a “Presidential library” near the site of his birthplace. Hoover insisted that the building be modest in size in accordance with scale of the other buildings in the community. The former President made his last visit to Iowa on August 10, 1962, to dedicate that building to the American people. Join us at the Presidential Library and Museum to discover more!

Please note that these are all group viewings so leave the technology issues to us and watch with friends in the comfort of The Thompson. Call to reserve your seat.

Memory Tree for the Holidays

Each year a tree is set up in the foyer of The Thompson Center and is dedicated as a memory tree. For $2 people can have an ornament placed on the tree with the name on it of someone they are remembering during the holidays.

Thompson Holiday Bazaar & Cookie Walk

Saturday, December 4, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Please join us for this annual holiday event where you’ll find a great selection of unique holiday gifts, handmade pottery, ornaments, jewelry, knitted and felted items, wreaths, homemade goodies, jams, jellies, pickles, and more! Santa will visit and the Cookie Walk will be pre-packaged and pre-orders are encouraged.

Raffle Items:

Watercolor painting by Kate Reeves

Queen size, fall inspired quilt made by Janet Maxham

Tickets are $5 each or 6 for $20. All proceeds benefit The Thompson Center.

Masks required for this event.

AARP Safe Driving course

If you are a Smart Driver course participant who may not be able to renew your car insurance discount due to course cancellations, consider taking the AARP Smart Driver online course. A special 25% off discount has been extended until the end of the year for those who may have to take it online now.

- Website: www.aarpdriversafety.org
- Promo code for 25% discount: DRIVINGSKILLS

Ongoing Programs in Order by Date

Advisory Meetings on 1st Monday of the Month

We are very happy to report that Dick and Bonnie Atwood will be our new Advisory Council Members. They will facilitate our meetings held on the 1st Monday of every month at 1:00 pm. All are encouraged to attend.

Advance Directive Assistance

Trained and caring volunteers are available to assist you with creating your advance directive at The Thompson Center on the second Monday of the month, by appointment, 1:00 and 2:00 pm time slots.

Please call Shari at 457-3277 to schedule an appointment.

Note new time of 12:00 pm for the month of November only!

Caregiver Support Group

2nd Tuesday of each month, 1:00 pm

We welcome participants back to The Thompson in June to gather outdoors in The Thompson Tent. This gathering remains a safe place to share ideas, concerns, and constructive feedback with others facing similar challenges.

A complimentary bagged lunch will be provided at time of registration. Newcomers are always welcome.

Reflexology at The Thompson

Enjoy Reflexology to Relax, Rejuvenate, & Reboot Your Body

October 26 & November 9 & 23, 9-noon, Please call for availability

Certified Reflexologist Deborah Neuhof is offering appointments at The Thompson. Please call Shari to confirm a morning appointment beginning at 9:00 am on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. $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. Face coverings are required during your treatment.

Bingo

Friday mornings, 10:00 am

Join us at the Center or dial 1-802-448-5745 to connect and play by phone. Bingo players are also welcome to return to The Thompson to play on weekday mornings. Please call Shari for room availability.

Foot Clinic at The Thompson with Beverly Sinclair, RN

November 18, 9:00 am – 2:30 pm

Cost: $30 payable by cash or check. Towels are supplied.

Call for your appointment, Face masks required during treatment

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.

Individual Benefits Assistance—

Medicare, Medicaid, Food & Fuel Assistance

One on One Meetings are available at the Thompson Center

November 4, 12, 18, & December Dec 2, starting at 9am. Call for appointment

The Windsor Community Health Clinic (WCHC) is available for 1:1 appointments at The Thompson Center. A staff member can answer your individual questions about Medicaid, Medicare parts A, B, and D, food and fuel assistance, and dental and medication help. Although now they are offering in person appointments, WCHC staff continue to offer assistance over the phone or via Zoom.

To schedule a one on one, in person appointment, please call the Thompson at 802-457-3277 or WCHC directly if you have any questions about Medicaid, Medicare, food or fuel assistance, dental or medication help at 802-674-7213.

Note: WCHC cannot answer questions about supplemental insurance; Medigap insurance or Advantage plans but other resources are available by calling Shari at The Thompson.

Technical Assistance Available at The Thompson or in Your Home

If you have questions about a device that you are using, help is available on a fee for service basis by a qualified local individual. Please call Shari to learn more.