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THE WEEKLY GEM - October 16, 2023
Published on Oct 16, 2023 08:54
THE WEEKLY GEM
Foxborough Senior Center
October 16, 2023
100 YEARS YOUNG
What can we learn from the centenarians who inspire us? Join author (and retired New England editor for the Associated Press) William J. Kole on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 4 p.m., as he explores the looming era of super-aging, living longer lifespans overall. Who gets to live past 100 and who doesn’t? What happens to all of us when 65 is merely a life half-lived. Kole grew up in Foxborough and will be reading passages from his new book “The Big 100 – the New World of Super Aging.” Sign up in advance to reserve your seat.
LUCK, COINCIDENCE, SYNCHRONICITY & SERENDIPITY
Join Jay M. Elias Esq. at the senior center on Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 4:30 p.m. for a fun and humorous look at luck, coincidences, something called “synchronicity” and serendipity – one of the most interesting kinds of coincidences there is! Does Luck really exist? Or is it in the mind of the beholder? It’s been said that “coincidence” is what happens when you were younger and your two girlfriends or boyfriends unexpectedly headed to your house at the same time. “Luck” on the other hand, is what happened when one of their cars wouldn’t start. Don’t miss out on the fun. Sign up in advance and we’ll save you a seat.
JOURNEY OF THE PILGRIMS
On Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 4 p.m., Historian Rich Nichols will be visiting the senior center to host an engaging, interactive, discussion on many topics of the Pilgrims’ journey to America. He will speak about their lives in England, the story of the Mayflower, the true story of Thanksgiving, and the Pilgrims’ lives in Plymouth. Sign up in advance and don’t miss this story of the Pilgrims’ journey to the “New World.”
HOLIDAY PARTY AT LAKEVIEW PAVILION
Holiday season is just around the corner. Join us for our annual Holiday Celebration at the Lakeview Pavilion in Foxborough on Thursday, Dec. 7 from 12:30 to 4 p.m. The menu includes your choice of Honey Crumb Chicken with Mustard Veloutte Sauce or Herb Crusted Cod. The doors will be open at 12:30 p.m. and lunch will be served at 1 p.m. There will be a cash bar. The cost for Foxborough residents is $34 per person and the cost is $39 for non-residents. The tickets are now on sale at the senior center and must be paid for at the time you sign up and get your ticket to reserve your seat.
SHREDDING EVENT
It’s time to clean your basement or attic. Do you have any personal or sensitive documents that you need to dispose of? We will have a paper shredding event at the senior center on Friday, Oct. 20 from 9 a.m. to noon. This event is sponsored by Norfolk County District Attorney, Michael Morrissey.
VETERANS’ CLUB
The mission of the Veterans’ Club is to create a listening session around veterans and their stories to ensure that this living history will never be forgotten. The Veterans Club meets at the senior center on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month at 2:30 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Monday, Oct. 16. Sign up in advance if you’d like to join us.
PUMPKIN CARVING
Fall is here! Even if you aren’t the best pumpkin carver, come on and have fun with friends on Wednesday, Oct. 25 at 3 p.m. as we carve pumpkins to adorn the Foxborough Common’s “Uncommon Pumpkin Patch.” Sign up to let us know that you’ll be joining us.
LINE DANCING
It’s time to get moving once again, so let’s do some line dancing. Our line dancing instructor, Jeanne Bonneau, will be on hand to lead the group through uncomplicated steps. The classes are free and will be held on the following Monday afternoons at 2:30 p.m.: Oct. 16, 23 & 30. The classes are fun and beginners are always welcome. Sign up in advance if you’d like to join us.
SENIOR WOMEN’S DISCUSSION GROUP
Ladies, join us on the 2nd Monday of each month at 11 a.m. for our Senior Women’s Discussion Group. It’s time to gather and discuss the joys and challenges of aging, both physically and emotionally, our experiences as we evolve into this chapter of our lives, what our “happy place” is and many other topics of interest. Collectively, we share our wisdom and the perspective we have gained over the course of our lives in a safe non-judgmental place. Due to the Columbus Day holiday, the next meeting of the Senior Women’s Discussion Group will be held on the 3rd Monday, Oct. 16 at 11 a.m. This group is facilitated by former Taylor School teacher, Marilyn Goldman. Sign up if you’d like to join us.
HAPPINESS FOR SENIORS
Author Henry Quinlan will be presenting his “Happiness for Seniors” program at the senior center on Wednesday, Oct. 18 at 2 p.m. He will examine the effects of aging on happiness and how you can shift your priorities and change how your brain views aging, while bringing new meaning to your life. Sign up in advance if you’d like to join us.
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
The Town of Foxborough will host a Special Town Meeting on Monday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. at the Foxborough High School All Foxborough residents are highly encouraged to attend. There will be 3 articles, with one pertaining to the Senior Center. Article 2 – To see if the Town will vote to amend Chapter 20, Section 33 (Authorize Revolving Funds) of the Town of Foxborough By-Laws relative to the Council on Aging Senior Trips and Programs… This Article will remove the restriction from using the funds generated from our trips and programs to pay for part-time staff. Purpose - if passed, the funds generated from programs would allow for the Senior Center to consider expanding operating hours by paying for part-time staff to open and close the building. Expanding operating hours would in turn generate additional funds from the programs to continue to pay for more part-time staff.
FOXBOROUGH MEMORY CAFÉ
The Foxborough Memory Café is a welcoming place for individuals, families and friends of those living with memory changes. Join us on Tuesday, Oct. 17, and the third Tuesday of each month, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. for our Memory Café at the Foxborough Senior Center. In September, our entertainment will be sponsored by “Right At Home” and The Residence at Five Corners, so join us for Live Music with Alexandria Connolly. Come listen, sing along and tap your shoes. We respectfully ask caregivers to remain with their loved ones during this program. Please sign up in advance and we’ll save you a seat. If you have any questions, call us at 508-543-1234.
LUNCHEON OUTING
Our next luncheon outing will be on Wednesday, Oct. 18 at 1 p.m. at The Olive Garden Restaurant. Call us to sign up by Monday, Oct. 16 and meet us at the restaurant on the 20th. For those who require van transportation, arrangements must be made by Monday the 16th.
OCTOBER SENIOR SUPPER
Our Monthly Senior Supper program focuses on a unique high quality catered mean. Join us for an evening out with friends on Wednesday, Oct. 18 when we will be serving Pasta Alfredo with Caesar Salad and rolls. The program will start at 4 p.m. and food will be served around 4:30. The cost is $8 per person and must be paid in advance when you sign up.
SHINE PRESENTATION
Medicare’s Open Enrollment is about to begin. Join HESSCO, SHINE Representative Stewart Broder at the senior center on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 3:45 p.m. as he answers Open Enrollment questions in a group setting. Don’t miss this informative program. Please sign up in advance to reserve your seat.
WHICH COVERAGE IS BEST FOR ME
Medicare Supplement plans or Medicare Advantage, which coverage is best for me? Join us on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 3:45 p.m. for a presentation that will discuss the differences between plans, show real life case studies and provide resources to help in the decision process. This presentation by Blue Cross Blue Shield is great for people new to Medicare and also for existing Medicare members that will have the option to make changes this year. Sign up in advance.
3RD GRADE PEN PAL INFO SESSION
Join Foxborough Regional Charter School teacher Justin Haffermehl as he discusses the upcoming 3rd Grade Pen Pal Program on Wednesday, Oct. 25 at 4 p.m. This intergenerational opportunity will allow for you to create a lasting impression on a child while also imparting your knowledge on the next generation. Sign up to reserve your spot.
Q& A WITH THE TOWN MANAGER
Join us in a conversation with Paige Duncan, Foxborough’s Acting Town Manager on Wednesday, Oct. 25 at 12:30 p.m. Paige will provide updates on town proceedings and, if time allows, a Question and Answer session. Sign up in advance and we’ll save you a seat.
MEN’S BREAKFAST
We are transitioning our Men’s BBQ to a Men’s Breakfast for the winter. Come enjoy a great breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon and potatoes with friends on Thursday, Oct. 26 at 8:45 a.m. The cost is $3 per person. Please sign up in advance with your payment.
BOOK CLUB
Our senior center Book Club will be meeting on Monday, Nov. 6 at 11 a.m. This program, led by Library Director Libby O’Neill, is designed for seniors who love to read and discuss books. If you are interested in taking part in the Book Club, please sign up in advance.
FRIENDS’ BINGO – BRING A FRIEND – ALL ARE WELCOME
Come and join us for Bingo at the senior center on Tuesday, Nov. 7 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. and every 1st Tuesday of the month. Win cash prizes in varying amounts. There is a nominal fee of $1 per card. Bring a friend! Call to sign up. This program is hosted by the Friends of Foxboro Seniors.
1 ON 1 NUTRITION COUNSULTATION
Registered Dietitian, Kelsey McEntee, is at the Foxborough Senior Center on the first Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon, and she is available for a 30 minute 1 on 1 nutrition consultation. Kelsey’s next visit to the senior center will be on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Call us to schedule an appointment, and come prepared with your questions about your health concerns.
LEFT, RIGHT, CENTER
Left, Right, Center, or LRC, is a simple, yet very fun game. There is no skill needed to enjoy playing and it’s an opportunity to meet new friends. If you have never heard of this game, it is VERY easy to play. Join us starting Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 1:15 p.m., and continuing monthly every 2nd Wednesday at 1:15. Please sign up in advance.
CARD MAKING CLASS
Are you a crafty person? Are you interested in learning a new skill? Helen Rice is hosting her famous card making class at the senior center on Thursday, Nov. 9 at 2 p.m. and every 2nd Thursday of the month. All supplies are included, and at the end of the class, you will have a beautiful handmade card for a future event! Please sign up to let us know you’ll be joining us.
UNDERSTANDING AND AVOIDING SCAMS AND FRAUD
Seniors are the most frequent population targeted by scammers and hackers. This two-part series on “Understanding and Avoiding Scams and Frauds” will be held at 2 p.m. on the following dates: Tuesday, October 10 and Monday, November 13. The series will cover email and texting scams, followed by internet and phone scams. Please sign up in advance if you’d like to join us.
HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR
The Foxborough Senior Center’s Holiday Craft Fair will be held at the senior center on Saturday, Nov. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, so come check out the crafts, food, jewelry, home décor, vintage clothes and so much more for sale! Also, if you would like to be a vendor at our fair this year, please give us a call at 508-543-1234, or stop by the senior center at 75 Central Street to pick up an application. To participate in the Holiday Fair as a vendor, the cost is $10 per table.
CRAFT WITH TRACY
Join Tracy Rozak at the senior center on Monday, Nov. 20 at 11 a.m.as she leads the group in making a fun seasonal craft. This program is free and all supplies are included. Please sign up in advance to save your seat.
FASCIA TRAINING FOR SENIORS
Steve Avellino’s next Thursday morning program will be “Fascia Training for Seniors” and will run on the following six Thursdays at 9 a.m.: Oct. 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16 & 30. This 6-week program is designed for us to learn about fascia (connective tissue in our body) and how to make it healthier, It is an integral factor in how we move. Healthy fascia slides and glides over our muscles, bones and internal organs. Unhealthy fascia gets sticky and makes movement difficult. This program is facilitated by Steve EFT, CES, SSF, SSN and the cost is $42 per person. Sign up in advance with your payment.
HAIR STYLING
Would you like to get your hair cut and styled in the comfort of the Foxborough Senior Center? On Friday, Oct. 27, Hair Stylist Laurie Nicklas will be at the senior center, and on every 4th Friday of each month, from 10 a.m. to noon. The cost per person is $15 for women and men. Due to the Thanksgiving holiday in November, Laurie will be having her hair styling appointments on Monday, Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon. Sign up with your payment in advance to schedule an appointment.
SENIOR SANDWICHES
On Thursdays, we offer Grab and Go Senior Sandwiches at the senior center. You can pick up your sandwich at the front desk on Thursdays at any time between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Quantities are limited, so you MUST sign up in advance to get your Senior Sandwich meal. There is a suggested donation of $3 to HESSCO.
HEARING HEALTH
On Wednesdays, Oct. 18 & 25, Nov. 1, 8 & 15 there are Hearing Clinics offered at the senior center from 1 to 4 p.m. This program is free and provides a hearing screening, ear wax removal, hearing aid cleaning and service by appointment. Call in advance to schedule a 20 minute appointment.
OCTOBER MOVIE DAYS
The following movie will be shown on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 1:30 p.m.: “Spencer” (2021 Rated R) The marriage between Princess Diana (Kristen Stewart) and Prince Charles has long grown cold. Through rumors of affairs, divorce abound, peace is ordained for the Christmas festivities at the Queen’s estate. Please sign up in advance for one or both of our Movie Days.
NOVEMBER MOVIE DAYS
The theme for November’s Movie Days is Agatha Christie’s Adapted Films. The following movies will be shown on Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. at the senior center:
November 14 – “Murder on the Orient Express” (2017) – A lavish trip through Europe quickly unfolds in a race against time to solve a murder aboard a train. When an avalanche stops the Orient Express dead in its tracks, the world’s greatest detective, Hercule Poirot (Kenneth Branagh), arrives to interrogate all passengers and search for clues before the killer can strike again.
November 28 – “Death on the Nile” (2022) – Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot’s (Kenneth Branagh) Egyptian vacation aboard a glamorous river steamer turns into a terrifying search for a murderer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short.
Please sign up in advance if you’d like to join us for one or both of the movies.
1 ON 1 TECH SUPPORT
Join us on Monday mornings from 10:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for our 1 On 1 Tech Support Program. During your 1 on 1 individualized tech support appointment, you will be able to get answers relating to phones, tablets or computers. Examples include troubleshooting, setting up a device, and other “how to” questions. Call us to set up an appointment.
REPRESENTATIVE JAY BARROWS OFFICE HOUR
Join Representative Jay Barrows at the senior center on Tuesday, Oct. 24 from 9 to 10 a.m. for a group discussion as well as question and answer session. Representative Barrows will be at the senior center on the 4th Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. Sign up in advance.
KRIPALU YOGA
Yoga is the union between body, mind and spirit. Join us for an 8-week Kripalu Yoga class led by Lisa Cohen on Thursdays at 12:15 p.m. Everyone is welcome just as they are on their own personal journey towards greater non-judgmental self-awareness. There are no fitness pre-requisites to be able to develop a very meaningful and effective yoga practice, however, participants should be comfortable on the ground for an extended period of time with a yoga mat. The cost is $53 per person and the classes will meet at 12:15 p.m. on the following Thursdays: Aug. 31, Sept. 7, 21 Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 & Nov. 2. Please sign up in advance with your payment.
INCREASE BLOOD FLOW IN THE BODY
The Monday morning 6-week program with Steve Avellino focuses on Increasing Blood Flow in the Body. This program is designed to increase blood and possibly lymph flow in the body. We should have regular fluid flow in all parts of the body. Some of Steve’s students have been able to create warmth in their lower legs and feet that had previously felt cold for years. This program is facilitated by Steve Avellino CFT, CES, SSF, SSN, CSCS. The classes meeting on the following Monday mornings at 11:45 a.m.: Sept 25, Oct. 2, 16, 23, 30 & Nov. 6. The cost is $42 and must be paid at the time you register for the class.
MEN’S FITNESS
The 6-week Men’s Fitness program is designed to help senior males move and feel better. We combine fitness with corrective exercise to alleviate joint pain and promote better mobility. This program is facilitated by Steve Avellino CFT, CES, SSF, SSN and the next session of classes with be held on the following Thursdays at 10:35 a.m.: Oct. 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, & 30. The cost is $42 per person and must be paid at the time you sign up.
TRIP TO THE BOSTON POPS HOLIDAY CONCERT
In a few short months you’ll be thinking about getting into the holiday spirit, so plan on joining us on Thursday, December 14 for a trip into Boston for an afternoon performance of the Holiday Pops at Symphony Hall. Enjoy a program filled with holiday music favorites, the traditional Pops sing-a-long, and even a visit from jolly old Santa Claus. Before the show, we will go to the Cheesecake Factory for a delicious lunch. We’ll be traveling by motorcoach and leaving Foxborough at 11 a.m. The cost is $175 for Foxborough residents and $180 for non-residents. We have started a waiting list for this program.
THEATER WORKSHOPS
Every Wednesday from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., our Theater Workshop meets at the senior center. Learn character portrayal by reading scripts (mostly comedy). This fun workshop is led by Evie Rayburg and Jeanne Bonneau, and does NOT require memorization, costumes or production. Please sign up in advance.
SERENADING SENIORS CHORUS
The “Serenading Seniors” is a friendly, fun group of singers who meet weekly at the senior center for rehearsals and occasional performances at local venues. This group meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. and is accepting new members. You don’t have to be a singing expert to be a part of the group, so if you’re interested in joining, please call Serenading Senior Director Jeanne Bonneau at 508-543-1234.
REFLEXOLOGY
On Friday, Oct. 20, and on the 3rd Friday of each month, the senior center is offering reflexology appointments from 9 a.m. to noon. Reflexology is based on stimulating specific points on the feet that correspond to other areas and organs of the body. Reflexology is used to restore the body’s natural equilibrium by improving circulation and reducing tension. This relaxing and rejuvenating experience will involve aromatherapy infused reflexology. The cost is $45 per half hour appointment. Sign up with your payment to schedule an appointment.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
The Low Vision Support Group will be meeting on Thursday, Oct. 19 1 to 2 p.m. This adult group provides peer support and information for anyone with vision loss or those who have concerns about their vision. If you are interested in participating, please check with Pam McGuire by calling
TRIP TO IRELAND IN 2024
On June 22 to July 1, 2024, we will be traveling on a 10 day/9 night trip to Ireland. We’ll be starting off in Dublin and traveling on to Kilkenny, Waterford, Killarney, Limerick and Galway. Along the way we’ll be visiting the Blarney Stone, Ring of Kerry and the Cliffs of Moher, ending the trip with an overnight stay on the stately grounds of Cabra Castle. The cost is $4,129 per person/double, $4,729 per single, and $4,099 per person/triple. Registration for this trip has begun. Trip flyers with all the travel details are available at the senior center or can be emailed to you upon request. We have started a “wait list” for this trip, so please let us know if you are interested and would like to be added to that list.
ORGANIZED PICKLEBALL TIME FOR SENIORS
Foxborough’s new Pickleball courts on Payson Road have been reserved for use by seniors on Friday mornings between 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. If seniors would like to play Pickleball at the new courts, please call the senior center at 508-543-1234 to sign up in advance.
CHESS
Calling all Chess players! On Friday mornings, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., come to the senior center and have fun playing chess with new friends while competing in this strategic board game while enjoying a cup of coffee and a donut. Please sign up in advance to let us know you’ll be joining us.
TABLE TOP GARDEN CLUB
Our Table Top Garden Club, under the direction of Marsha Lewicke, is meeting once again on Tuesday mornings at 11 a.m. Everyone is welcome, no previous gardening experience is necessary. Sign up to let us know you’ll be joining us.
1 ON 1 TECH SUPPORT
Join us on Monday mornings from 10:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for our 1 On 1 Tech Support Program. During your 1 on 1 individualized tech support appointment, you will be able to get answers relating to phones, tablets or computers. Examples include troubleshooting, setting up a device, and other “how to” questions. Call us to set up an appointment.
SENIOR SANDWICHES
On Thursdays, we offer Grab and Go Senior Sandwiches at the senior center. You can pick up your sandwich at the front desk on Thursdays at any time between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and you can take the sandwich with you, or you are welcome to eat in the Coffee Room or on the outside benches. Quantities are limited, so you MUST sign up in advance to get your Senior Sandwich meal. There is a suggested donation of $3 to HESSCO.
CRAFT GROUP
It’s time to work on your crafts in a group setting with friends. Join us at the senior center on Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. If you’d like to participate, bring your craft to work on, such as knitting, embroidering, cross stitching, beading, diamonding, hand quilting or whatever small craft you may choose. This group will meet every Thursday at 1 p.m., except for the 3rd Thursday of each month. Sign up in advance.
SELF DEFENSE CLASSES
Every Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m., our Tai Chi Instructor Elijah Swain will be providing a weekly self-defense class for seniors who are looking for the basics to protect themselves against potential threats. The cost is $3 per class and is punch card eligible.
EARLY BEGINNER MAH JONGG
The Early Beginner Mah Jongg program meets at the senior center every Tuesday afternoon at 1 p.m., except for the 1st Tuesday of each month. This early beginner Mah Jongg free play group is for players who have only just recently started learning and may want to take each game a little slower than those who have played Mah Jongg for many years. Sign up and let us know you’ll be joining us.
BRIDGE LESSONS
Bridge is a card game that is played all over the world, in person and online. Bridge lessons at the senior center, with instructor Sunil Trivedi, will now be held on Tuesdays at the NEW time of 11:30 a.m. This program will introduce new players to this international card game. Please sign up if you’d like to join us.
MAH JONGG FREE PLAY
Mah Jongg Free Play meets every Wednesday from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Sign up in advance if you’d like to join us.
TAI CHI
Start your day with the peaceful meditation and movement of Tai Chi led by instructor Elijah Swain on Tuesday mornings from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Elijah is a 9th Degree black belt and owns the Tai Jing Academy. The cost is $3 per class and is punch card eligible. Thank you to the Friends of Foxboro Seniors for helping to fund this program.
CHAIR YOGA
Chair Yoga classes are held at the senior center every Monday morning at 9:15 a.m. under the direction of Lisa Cohen. Yoga is a gentle form of yoga that can be done while sitting in a chair or while standing and using the chair for support. The cost for this class is $3 and is punch card eligible. Due to limited space, you must call in advance to register for the class.
ZUMBA GOLD
Zumba is a fitness program inspired by Latin Dance. Zumba combines Latin rhythms with cardiovascular exercise to create an aerobic tine that is fun and easy to follow. Join us on Tuesday mornings at 9:45 a.m. The cost is $3 per class and is punch card eligible. Space is limited, so please call in advance to sign up for each class.
SCRABBLE GROUP
Do you enjoy playing a game of Scrabble or would you like to learn how to play? We have a Scrabble group that meets on Monday afternoons at 12:30 p.m. at the senior center. Challenge your mind, enjoy some time with friends and have lots of fun. If you’re interested in playing, call us to sign up.
STRENGTH TRAINING
Our Strength Training classes are held every Wednesday morning at 8:45 a.m. Each week this program features stretching routines and exercises that focus on the core, legs, arms and shoulders. The cost is $3 per class and is punch card eligible.
SENIOR FITNESS
Join is for our Senior Fitness classes on Friday mornings at 8:45 a.m. This class uses stretching, aerobics and hand-held weights, to focus on exercising the body from the neck to the ankles. Senior Fitness is designed for all levels of fitness. The cost is $3 per class and is punch card eligible.
KNITTING
Our knitting group meets at 1 p.m. at the senior center every Monday afternoon. This group loves to gather and chat, knit, and even do some crocheting, if you so choose. Everyone is welcome to attend, just bring your knitting project to work on. Please sign up in advance.
For more information on Council on Aging and Human Services programs and services, check our website at www.foxboroughma.gov or call us at 508-543-1234.
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