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 or email sborz@thompsonseniorcenter.org.
Seasonal Flu Clinic Update:
The VNH has informed us that they are unable to provide our seasonal flu clinic this fall. We are using our best efforts to provide a clinic at The Thompson but have not been successful to date. While we continue to explore other alternatives, we suggest you check with your local provider to obtain your vaccine or check this online resource for clinics in the Upper Valley.
www. uvpublichealth.org/2023-community-flu-vaccine-clinics Flu Hotline 603-653-3731
Locally Yours coming to an end on 9/21/23
Thank you to our Locally Yours partner, Neil and Alice Lamson’s Fox Crossing Farm in Pomfret who have been delivering locally grown produce to The Thompson these past few months. This has been a very popular and beneficial service for our community made possible through congressionally delegated grant funds.
Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less
Next session begins Sept. 6, 10:45-11:45am or Sept. 10, 7-8pm
Sign up today! First come, first serve basis
Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less is a 15-week ONLINE weight-management program based upon evidence-based strategies for weight loss and weight maintenance.
Call the Thompson for more information and to sign up for a free access code. Spaces fill up fast!
Age Well Series:
Green Burials – Making a Clean (Energy) Getaway:
Eco-friendly Funeral Practices and Products
Thursday, September 21, 1:00 PM at The Thompson Center
Presented by Funeral Reform Advocate and Author, Lee Webster
How we care for our dead has a tangible impact on the earth. We’ll take a look at the increased environmental and cultural awareness around funeral practices in the US, including the age-old practice of burying naturally in biodegradable caskets or shrouds instead of cement vaults and toxic chemicals. We will also take a closer look at processes and products such as alkaline hydrolysis, natural organic reduction, mushroom suits and other trending concepts to see where they fit into the climate resiliency picture. Join us to learn more about the principles of sustainable funeral options and what we can each do to plan for a more affordable, meaningful, and planet-friendly exit. If you’re looking for home funeral and green burial how-tos and why-fors, join us!
Free Balance Screenings at The Thompson- FULL
Monday, September 25, 1:00 pm
Schedule your free balance screening at The Thompson Center with Mt. Ascutney Hospital Licensed Physical Therapists. Your individual screening will include recommendations by a Physical Therapist.
Let’s Get Moving!
Join our Free, 6-week, Walk with Ease Program Facilitated by Linda Harvey, Ottauquechee Health Center Physical Therapist
Mondays beginning Sept. 18 , 11am-12pm and Fridays beginning Sept. 22, 1-2pm
- Our first meeting will be at The Thompson Center
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water
- Walking sticks or canes are encouraged if needed
- Pre-register with The Thompson and pick up your free program guide book
- Contact Linda Harvey with any program questions at 802-355-0376 or llharvey56@gmail.com
The Arthritis Foundation’s Walk With Ease program is a multi-component program that also includes health education, stretching and strengthening exercises, and motivational strategies. Comprehensive studies demonstrate that Walk With Ease reduces pain, increases balance and strength and improves your overall health.
A Senior Learning Network Virtual Program
Art Collection at The Longfellow House Washington’s Headquarters: National Historic Site
Tuesday, September 26, 2:00 pm
The Longfellow House is well known for the depth of its history and literary connections, but did you know that there’s also an incredible art collection? The fine art collection numbers about 2,000 works on exhibit and in storage. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, and sculpture that range in date from the seventeenth to the early twentieth century. Ranging from marble sculptures to drawings by the Longfellow children, the collection spans multiple continents and centuries. Join Ranger Kate for a virtual tour of what’s on display in the house and a conversation about what makes art worth preserving.
Register in advance and indicate if you would like to view at home or at the Thompson.
Let’s Go Fishing Card Class
Thursday, September 28, 1-3:30 pm
Register by Sept 24, Cost: $20, payable to Karen McNall
- Create handmade cards from the heart
- No experience necessary
- All supplies included
- Card making is a great way to mane new friends, socialize, learn a new hobby and, most of all, have fun!
- Bring a new stamper to class and you both will receive a gift of thanks.
Age Well Series:
Introduction to Death Journaling: Planning, Preparing, and Processing
Thursday, September 28 at Norman Williams Public Library, 5:30 PM
Join community doula, Francesca Lynn Arnoldy, for an introduction to “Death Journaling,” the inspiration behind her new book, The Death Doula’s Guide to Living Fully and Dying Prepared. During this workshop, participants will feel gently invited to reflect back, turn inward, and plan ahead with intention and insight, focusing on introspection as well as extending care to others.
Topics include:
- The Practice of Death Journaling
- Planning, Preparing, & Processing
- Cultivating a Compassionate Presence
- Core Connections
- Storying the Past
- Exploring Beliefs and Values
- Tools for Times of Stress and Suffering
- Prompts for Internal Reflection
Who is this event for? Curious mortals interested in exploring death wellness.
Please join us in welcoming this up and coming Musician
Thursday, September 28, 1:00 pm
As the daughter of a pastor, Kirsten Becker had many opportunities to play the piano and coordinate music at her local church. She performed her first classical piano concert for friends and family at the age of twelve, and continued to perform in statewide venues and competitions throughout high school. In 2020, Kirsten completed her Bachelors of Music degree in piano performance at Keene State College. During her time at Keene State, she was the recipient of the Music Talent Scholarship, the Dr. Bartlett C. Swett’ Visual and Performing Arts Scholarship, the Presser Scholar Award, and the Keene State College Instrumentalist of the Year Award.
She has since recorded two albums and written over fifty pieces for an assortment of ensembles, including solo piano, soprano and piano, choir, instrumental duets and concert band. In 2020, she formed The Becker Sisters duo with her sister, Alyssa (KSC alumni, class of ’22) and together they tour New England performing originals from their debut album, “Love and Thought”
Holistic Reflexology Presentation with Focus on Hand Reflexology and Self-Help
Presented by Deborah Neuhof, Certified Reflexologist
Friday, September 29, 10:30 am
Deborah is continuing her practice at The Thompson and invites you to this introductory presentation to learn more about reflexology pressure points and techniques and how to give yourself self-help for overall well-being.
National Coffee Day
September 29, 9:30 am
Join us on National Coffee Day for coffee tastings, scones and muffins. All are welcome!
Senior Learning Network Virtual Program
Fort Frederica: History Comes Alive on Beautiful St Simons Island!
Tuesday, October 3, 2:00 pm
Three years after founding Georgia in 1733, Gen. James Edward Oglethorpe established Fort Frederica to defend the fledgling colony against Spanish attack from Florida. The first settlers in Georgia arrived in 1733. Sailing up the
Savannah River, they established a settlement on a defensible bluff that General Oglethorpe selected for that reason. He would spend the next ten years working to make the colony succeed. Georgia’s fate was decided in 1742 when Spanish and British forces clashed on St. Simons Island. Fort Frederica’s troops defeated the Spanish, ensuring Georgia’s future as a British colony. Today, the archeological remnants of
Frederica are protected by the National Park Service. Join us as we learn about this beautiful island that is both a popular vacation spot as well as an important time and place in US History.
Register in advance by calling The Thompson and indicate if you are viewing at home or at the Center.
Community Connections with Hali Robinson
Wednesday, October 4, 1:00 pm
Come join us for a chat after lunch with Hali Robinson, the new Executive Director of Ottauquechee Health Foundation.
Supper Club at White Cottage
Thursday, October 5, 5:00 pm
Join Deanna and friends for our last Supper Club of the season at White Cottage on Thursday, October 5 at 5:00pm This will be a dine and pay on your own event where orders are placed individually. We ask that you register with The Thompson in advance. Call a friend, offer a ride if you can, and enjoy a fall evening with your Thompson friends.
Jacks are Wild
Friday, October 6, 1:00 pm
Join us to welcome Marian, Mario, Bella, and Reggie as they present “Jacks are Wild”. Mario and Bella are a spirited pair of Jack Russell Terriers that love to perform tricks and amaze their audience! They can do a variety of tricks from jumping rope to skate boarding, rolling on a barrel to a walking handstand and many others. It’s a unique show and shouldn’t be missed! Please register with Morgan in advance.
Age Well Series:
Your Options, Your Autonomy—Virtual Program at The Thompson
End-of-Life Options including Medical Aid in Dying under Vermont’s Act 39
Presented by Audrey Winograd, JD, MSW, Program Manager, Patient Choices Vermont, Medical Social Worker and Psychotherapist
October 6, 10:30 am – 11:45 am
Audrey Winograd will lead an open discussion about end-of-life decision making including medical aid in dying under Vermont’s Act 39. This is an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and share stories. These conversations are life affirming and empowering. People often discuss their experiences with the dying process of loved ones and express their desires for what they would or would not like when they consider their end-of-life choices. Topics will include medical aid in dying, who qualifies, and how it works, as well as the role of hospice and palliative care. Audrey will discuss how to talk with your doctor and recent legislative updates to Act 39. A guest speaker, whose mom used medical aid in dying will hopefully join us to share her family’s story.
Senior Learning Network Virtual Program
Music of the Sea at The Mystic!
Tuesday, October 10, 2:00 pm
“What shall we do with a drunken sailor?” Join us with one of our favorite partners, The Mystic Seaport Museum as we listen and learn! We will hear all about the history of sea chanteys and their use, as we listen along in interactive songs with a live musician!
Sing along with one of the museum’s renowned musician educators, as the chantey staff can make sailors’ work come alive with stories told through music. We will join with crew members as they sing a chorus, picture the events in a ballad or use a chantey as a tool to help accomplish hard work like raising the sail or swabbing the deck!
Register in advance and indicate if you will be watching from home or at The Thompson.
Art Class with Finnie from ArtistTree
Apple Study
Thursday, October 12 , 1:30 pm
Lets play with shape and color as will observe and paint falls favorite fruit, the apple? Inspired by Cesanne’s still lifes and our own creative expression participants will practice with composition, light and color using pencil and paint on paper to make a fun little painting. Register in advance.
Oktoberfest Celebration
Friday, October 13, 12:00 pm
Join us as we partake in this celebration with a traditional meal of: Grilled Bratwurst, Braised Cabbage, Potato Salad, Fresh Fruit, German Nut Roll Pastry
Pre-register by calling The Thompson. We look forward to celebrating with you!
Senior Learning Network Virtual Program
American History, Alive in Stone: Mt Rushmore!
Tuesday, October 17, 2:00 pm
Majestic figures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln, surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota, tell the story of the birth, growth, development and preservation of The United States. From the history of the first inhabitants to the diversity of America today, Mount Rushmore brings visitors face to face with the rich heritage we all share. Join us as we discover the carving history and current conditions of Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Register in advance and indicate if you will be viewing from home or at The Thompson.
Age Well Series:
Arthritis Talk with Dr. Moschetti
Thursday, October 19, 1:00 pm
Over 70% of North Americans over the age of 65 are affected by osteoarthritis, a condition representing inflammation of one or more joints. It is the most common form of arthritis that affects joints in the hand, spine, shoulders, knees and hips. There are many treatment options available ranging from non-operative modalities, over the
counter medications, physical therapy, injections and surgery. A panel of providers from Dartmouth Hitchcock will review arthritis, it’s causes, the symptoms associated with it, and options for treating it. Providers who focus on non-operative and operative treatment options will be available to present information and answer questions. Pre-register.
Last Chance to visit Warren’s Lobster House!
Friday, October 20th, Cost: $115 includes all inclusive Lunch, Transportation & Gratuities
Depart Thompson on Premier Coach Bus at 8:30 am and return to Woodstock around 6:00 pm
Join us for possibly the last chance to dine at a pastime favorite waterfront restaurant, Warren’s Lobster House (recently sold & planning to close in 2024). Immediately following lunch we will have the chance to visit the Kittery Premium Outlets for some light shopping.
Payment is due at time of reservation. Please see Morgan at The Thompson with your payment to reserve your spot.
All staff will be participating in this fun trip so The Thompson will be closed for the day. We hope that you’ll join us.
Senior Learning Network Virtual Program
Wind Cave National Park: Discover Two Parks in One!”
Tuesday, October 24, 2:00 pm
Wind Cave National Park protects two very different worlds – one deep within the earth, the other a sunlit world of many resources. Bison, elk, and other wildlife roam the rolling prairie grasslands and forested hillsides of one of America’s oldest national parks. Below the remnant island of intact prairie sits Wind Cave, one of the longest and most complex caves in the world. Join us as we learn more about this beautiful national park!
Register in advance and indicate if you will be watching from home or at The Thompson.
Thompson Annual Meeting
Wednesday, October 25 at 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! The Thompson services are growing and we continue to serve more older adults each month. Over 200 new participants join us each year, as well as, many guests and family members. We have kicked off the first year of our new strategic plan and move steadily towards an exciting future.
Our Lunch Menu Includes: Beef Stew with Parsnips and Potato, Caesar Salad, Dinner Roll, Fresh Fruit, Cookie, Suggested Donation: $7.00
Call 457-3277 or email sborz@thompsonseniorcenter.org to order lunch and RSVP for the annual meeting. In person and virtual options.
Little Shop of Horrors
Special matinee for The Thompson Center
Wednesday, October 25th at 2pm. Special Ticket price $25!
A deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical, Little Shop Of Horrors has devoured the hearts of theatre goers for over 30 years. Howard Ashman and Alan Menken (Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Beauty And The Beast, and Aladdin) are the creative geniuses behind what has become one of the most popular shows in the world
Register directly through ArtisTree at www.artistree.org/performances to pay and pick your seat or pay by check through The Thompson. Transportation or carpool on your own. Please contact Morgan for help with registration and any transportation needs.
Birthday Music with Ali T
Thursday, October 26, 1:00 pm
Alison Turner, better known as Ali T, is a singer-songwriter and producer based in Vermont. Once described as “a less-neurotic Alanis Morissette”, the songstress performs original favorites and puts her own spin on popular tunes. Having started writing songs at the age of seven, and picking up the guitar when she was 11, Ali has developed into an introspective songwriter and versatile performer. Vermont’s Seven Days named Ali T the winner for Best Pop Artist in 2023. She has also been a finalist for Best Vocalist and Best Pop Artist 2018-2023. In 2022, Ali was a nominee in the New England Music Awards for “Rising Star – Vermont”.
National Chocolate Day
Chocolate tasting with Mel’s Distinctive Treats
Friday, October 27, 10:30 am
Join us on National Chocolate Day for chocolate tastings with Mel’s Distinctive Treats. All are welcome!
HOLIDAY BAZAAR CRAFT WORKSHOP
Wednesdays at 1:00 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 on Wednesdays, 1:00-2:30 pm. We will have projects set up and 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.
Ongoing Programs in Order by Date
Advance Directive Assistance is Available
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 is available by appointment. These volunteers will take the time to explain this simple process. Call The Thompson at 802-457-3277.
Bingo
Monday & Friday mornings, 10:00 am
Join us at the Center or dial 855-223-9106 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.
Senior Solutions Offers Benefits Assistance Hours At The Thompson
Individual assistance is available at The Thompson by appointment every other Monday.
Programs include:
- VPharm (prescription drug applications)
- 3Sqs (money for food program)
- Fuel Assistance
- Green Mt Power discount
Caregiver Support Group with Complimentary Lunch
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 (with complimentary lunch) on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, and share ideas, concerns, and constructive feedback with others facing similar challenges. Pre-register for lunch.
Reflexology at The Thompson
Enjoy Reflexology to Relax, Rejuvenate, & Reboot Your Body
Tuesday, September 26
Certified Reflexologist Deborah Neuhof is offering appointments at The Thompson. Please call Shari to confirm 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.
HANDWORK CIRCLE
Wednesdays, 10:30 am
The Handwork Circle group invites anyone to join them on Wednesdays at 10:30 in the living room. You do not need to be a knitter, all projects welcome. Enjoy some coffee and companionship. Contact Jane Soule at 457-2442 with any questions.
Free Foot Clinic at The Thompson Center with Beverly Sinclair, RN
September 21, 9:00 – 2:30 pm. Towels are supplied.
Free foot clinics for one year are made possible by a congressionally directed grant to The Thompson. Please call to schedule your appointment in advance.
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.
In-person Tech Support at The Thompson
Appointments on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of the month, 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
In collaboration with the Norman Williams Public Library, you can now get 1:1 tech support at The Thompson. Bring in your mobile phones, laptops, iPads and any other type of tablet device you need help with. Multiple devices can be brought to one appointment. Call Shari to book your 1 hour appointment, and don’t forget your passwords!