Your Virtual Senior Center
Virtual programs are offered through the Senior Learning Network and other partners.
SLN Virtual Programs can be viewed at home or in The Thompson’s new Media Room.
Please register in advance to receive your Zoom link by calling 802-457-3277 ext 2
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.
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.
“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!
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!
Gettysburg National Military Park
Tuesday, December 2, 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.
New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park
Thursday, December 4, 2:00 pm
In 1987, the 100th U.S. Congress resolved that “Jazz is hereby designated as a rare and valuable national American treasure to which we should devote our attention, support, and resources to make sure it is preserved, understood and promulgated.”
The park’s mission is to serve the nation as a global leader in the promulgation of New Orleans jazz by enhancing and instilling a public appreciation and understanding of the origins, early history, development and progression of this uniquely American music art form – jazz. To preserve
unimpaired this cultural resource and it’s core values for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. Join us for this fun and unique virtual trip to New Orleans!
Christmas With the Roosevelts!
Tuesday, December 9, 2:00 pm
It’s that time of year again- for a very special visit at the Roosevelt White House, with our favorite Santa, Jeff Urbin. We will explore the customs and traditions followed by the Roosevelt family as they celebrated Christmas, one of their favorite holidays of the year. But how did they celebrate during the dark days of the Depression, and World War II? Why did they celebrate at the White House, rather than at Hyde Park,and how did these things impact the rest of America during the holidays? Join us for these topics and more as we celebrate the holidays with the FDR and family .
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Thursday, December 11, 2:00 pm
Discover the untold stories of some of our brave servicemembers aboard ships during a captivating Ranger-led talk! Connecting virtually from Pearl
Harbor National Memorial in Honolulu, HI this event promises to be an enlightening experience as we delve into the history, memorials, challenges, and triumphs of those who served at sea.
What to expect: Engaging stories from experienced rangers, Insights into the daily lives of service members, A chance to ask questions and share your thoughts Whether you’re a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply curious about the sacrifices made by our Service members, this talk is for you. Don’t miss this opportunity to honor their legacy and learn more about their vital contributions. We look forward to seeing you there!