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THE WEEKLY GEM - October 21, 2024
Published on Oct 21, 2024 08:49
THE WEEKLY GEM
Foxborough Senior Center
October 21, 2024
2025 TRIP TO ALASKA
If you’ve always wanted to visit Alaska, or if you’ve been to Alaska and have always wanted to go back for a re-visit, this is your chance! The Foxborough Senior Center’s “Big” trip for 2025 will be to Alaska from August 12 through 23. This trip will be a 12-day, 11-night land and cruise tour. We’ll start off our trip with an overnight stay in Anchorage, followed by 2 nights at the Denali Princess Lodge and 1 night at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. Then we’re off on a 7-night cruise onboard the Sapphire Princess Cruise ship visiting Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Inside Passage and Vancouver. Don’t miss this trip of a lifetime! Registration for Foxborough residents begins at noon on November 7 and non-resident registration will begin at noon on November 14. A current passport is required. For more information, trip flyers are available at the senior center, or you can contact us at 508-543-1234 and we will email you a flyer to look over.
THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS IN BOSTON
Join us at the senior center on Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 3:45 p.m. when historian Anthony Sammarco will be here to give valuable insight into all the Thanksgiving traditions in Boston over the generations. Noah Webster described Thanksgiving as “The act of rendering thanks or expressing gratitude for favors or mercies,” and it has been celebrated nationally on and off since 1789. Governors of Massachusetts would proclaim a local holiday of Thanksgiving, but it was Sarah J. Hale, the editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book, who promoted a national day of Thanksgiving. It was during the Civil War under the presidency of Abraham Lincoln that Thanksgiving became a federal holiday in 1863. Please sign up in advance if you’d like to join us.
WARRIOR WITHIN YOGA
On Tuesdays, Nov. 12 – Dec. 17 at 5 p.m., Warrior Within Yoga for Verterans, First Responders and their families will be held at the senior center. This beginner friendly free yoga program is coordinated through Foxborough Veteran Services and is facilitated by the Warrior Within Yoga Project. This program is accessible to all ages for those who served and their families. Please sign up in advance at the senior center or call at 508-543-1234.
WHICH COVERAGE IS BEST FOR ME?
For those new to Medicare, this is the #1 question most people have when seeking additional insurance. However, even if you are already on a plan, it’s always a good idea to reevaluate your choices each year. Circumstances change, and so can your health plan. Join us On Wednesday, Oct. 30 at 2 p.m. for the program “Which coverage is Best for Me?” While we won’t delve into Blue Cross plan details, you will leave with a clear understanding of which type of plan best fits your needs. We will cover the following: What’s Original Medicare; Differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage Plans; Do I need Prescription Drug Coverage?; Real-life case studies , and; Resources to help you in the decision process. Sign up to join us and we’ll save you a seat.
SCAM AND ID THEFT BINGO
The elder population is increasingly vulnerable to financial exploitation. As scammers have become more innovative with their schemes, we must get more creative about how to empower seniors with the tools and knowledge to avoid them. Join us on Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 2 p.m. for Fraud Bingo. Fraud Bingo helps us teach seniors how to recognize scams that could have a devastating impact on their financial wellbeing and encourages them to report potential scams to the Federal Trade Commission and law enforcement. District Attorney Morrissey gives scam terms and helpful tips as he calls Bingo to teach seniors how to recognize and deal with scams. The game is played just like regular Bingo but with an added twist. Each time DA Morrissey calls a square, he follows it with definitions, tips, and resources. Each square has a message about fraud, identity theft, or scams. Winners of the Scam and ID Theft Bingo games win prizes. Sign up in advance and we’ll save you a seat.
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING INFO SESSION
Join Town Manager Paige Duncan on Monday, Nov. 4 at 11 a.m., as she and Town of Foxborough Department Heads walk through the articles of the Fall Special Town Meeting (which will take place on Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. at the Foxborough High School. Please sign up in advance.
HISTORY OF SPIRITS: Beer, Wine and Whiskey
Join five-time Emmy Award-winning host of the acclaimed TV series, “The Folklorist”, John Horrigan, at the senior center on Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 4 p.m., as he entertains us with an intoxicating chronology of adult beverages from the earliest alcoholic drink ever consumed to the modern-day breweries. Called “one of New England’s greatest storytellers,” and a former colonial reenactor with the Lincoln Minutemen, Horrigan will also discuss New England’s role in the production of rum and cider. You’ll also be able to enjoy a nice cup of (non-alcoholic) apple cider. Don’t miss out. Sign up in advance.
PAOLO DIGREGORIO PROGRAM – “PRESIDENTIAL LOSERS: UNSUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES FOR THE LAND’S HIGHEST OFFICE”
Forty-six men have been President of the United States. Most of them have been elected to that office in hard fought, often rancorous, bitter, campaigns. But what about those candidates who lost? Does anyone remember them? Join us on Tuesday, Oct. 22 at 3:45 p.m. when history professor Paolo DiGregorio will take a look at the lives of some of those who sought and failed to win the White House. Please sign up in advance for this program and we will save you a seat.
UP, UP AND AWAY
How did the Wright brothers, two bicycle mechanics from the Midwest, out-think and out-engineer the best scientific minds in the world and invent the airplane? Join us on Wednesday, Oct. 23 at 4 p.m. to learn how the story of careful work and inspiration gave us the greatest advance in modern travel! This presentation by retired Northeastern professor, Stanley Forman, will delight all that attend. Sign up in advance to reserve your seat.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION AT THE AQUATURF CLUB
Join us on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, when we begin our celebration of St. Patrick’s Day at the Aquaturf Club in Plantsville, CT. We will be leaving Foxborough at 8:30 a.m. from the side parking lot of St. Mary’s Church at 58 Carpenter St., and we’ll traveling by motorcoach to the Aquaturf Club. We will be enjoying the music and entertainment of Padraig Allen and the McLean Avenue Band, watch some Irish Step Dancers and have a luncheon featuring Corned Beef and Cabbage, as well as Baked Scrod, served family style. Also included is coffee and donuts, and a glass of wine or beer. You’ll even have a chance at a door prize before we leave. The cost is $140 per person for Foxborough residents and $150 for non-residents. Registration for residents has begun, and non-resident registration with payment will begin at noon on Oct. 31. Don’t miss out on the fun!
HOLIDAY PARTY AT LAKEVIEW PAVILION
The holiday season is just around the corner! Join us for our annual Holiday Celebration at the Lakeview Pavilion in Foxborough on Thursday, Dec. 5 from 12:30 to 3:30p.m. The menu includes your choice of Honey Crumb Chicken or Herb Crusted Cod. The doors will 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 $35 per person and the cost is $40 for non-residents. Tickets are on sale at the senior center and must be paid for at the time you sign up to get your ticket and reserve your seat.
“SUNRISE” CARDIO WOOKOUT
On Mondays at 8:15 a.m., you can start your week off right with the “Sunrise” Cardio Workout video series program. Lauren, with Senior Shape Fitness, offers a 30-minute workout that is perfect for seniors and beginners. This program is perfect for those who want an easy workout first thing in the morning. Sign up in advance to let us know if you’ll be joining us.
FRIENDS OF FOXBOROUGH SENIORS MEETING
For the month of November, the Friends of Foxborough Seniors will be meeting on Saturday, Nov. 23 in the McGinty Room at 9:30 a.m. for coffee followed by the meeting at 10 a.m. Friends meetings are usually held on the 3rd Saturday of the month, so this change to the 4th Saturday is only for the month of November.
TRIP TO THE BOSTON POPS HOLIDAY CONCERT
It won’t be long until you start thinking about getting into the holiday spirit, so plan on joining us on Thursday, Dec. 12 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 10:45 a.m. The cost is $200 for Foxborough residents and $205 for non-residents. Don’t miss out on this great holiday tradition! We have started a “waiting list” for this program.
AXTREME JUMPSTART GUITAR LESSONS
Have you ever wanted to learn how to play the guitar? Join us on Friday mornings at the senior center at 10 a.m. for workshops that will offer a beginner-friendly introduction to playing guitar, focusing on fundamental techniques, rhythm, some Beatles songs and more. Participants will embark on a musical journey exploring chords, strumming patterns, and song structures, in a supportive and engaging environment. Guitars can be provided during the workshop upon request. The cost is $36 per month and you must sign up in advance.
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. The next meeting will be held on Oct. 21 (due to the Monday holiday on Oct. 14). 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. This group is facilitated by former Taylor School teacher, Marilyn Goldman. Sign up if you’d like to join us. There will be no Senior Women’s Discussion Group in November.
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. 13 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. 14 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.
TRACY’S CRAFT CLASS
Join Tracy on Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 11:45 a.m. as she leads the craft class in making a fall-themed craft. All supplies are included. Space is limited, so you must sign up in advance.
BOOK CLUB
Our senior center Book Club will be meeting on Monday, Nov. 4 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. 5 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Bingo is held 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.
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 Monday meetings will be on Oct. 21, Nov. 4 & 18. Sign up in advance if you’d like to join us.
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. 30 when we will be serving Meat Lasagna and salad. 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. There will be no Senior Supper in November.
LUNCHEON OUTING
Our next luncheon outing will be on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. at the La Familia restaurant. Call us to sign up by Tuesday, Nov. 19 and meet us at the restaurant on the 20th. For those who require van transportation, arrangements must be made by Tuesday the 19h.
MEN’S BBQ
It’s time for the men to enjoy our great Men’s BBQ at the senior center. Our last Men’s BBQ of 2024 will be held on Thursday, Oct. 31 at 12 noon. The cost is $3 per person. You must sign up in advance with your payment.
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.
OCTOBER MOVIE DAYS
The theme for our October Movie Days is “Planet of the Apes.” The following movies will be shown at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays in October:
Oct 22 – “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” – Ten years after simian flu wiped out much of the world’s homosapiens, genetically enhanced chimpanzee Caesar (Andy Serkis) and his ever-growing band of followers have established a thriving colony just outside San Francisco in Muir Woods. Meanwhile, a small band of human survivors emerges, which forces Caesar – as leader - to grapple with the dual challenge of protecting his people and re-establishing a relationship with the remaining human population – the latter being Caesar’s secret wish.
Oct. 29 – “War for the Planet of the Apes” – Caesar (Andy Serkis) and his apes are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless colonel (Woody Harrelson).
Please sign up in advance for any or all of our movies.
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC
Blood Pressure Clinics are available at the senior center on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. by appointment. The next clinics will be held on Oct. 22, Nov. 12 &26. Please call the senior center at 508-543-1234 to set up an appointment.
HEARING HEALTH
On Wednesdays, Oct. 23, Nov. 6, 13 & 20 there are Hearing Clinics offered at the senior center from 1 to 3 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.
FOOT CARE FOR SENIORS
Keeping feet in good condition is essential for effective functioning, promoting leg strength, and reducing falls. Foot Care Nurse Ami, is at our senior center on the 2nd Friday of every month to hold 20-minute footcare appointments. This service includes assessment, nail clipping and filing, corn and callous reduction and a light foot massage. The next clinic date will be held on Nov. 8 starting at 8:30 a.m. The cost is $36 and must be paid in advance when you schedule your appointment.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
The Low Vision Support Group will be meeting on Thursday, Nov. 21 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 508-543-1234.
REFLEXOLOGY
On Friday, Nov. 15, 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.
HAIR STYLING
Would you like to get your hair cut and styled in the comfort of the Foxborough Senior Center? Hair Stylist Laurie Nicklas is at the senior center every 4th Friday of each month, from 10 a.m. to noon. The cost per person is $15 for women and men. For the month of October ONLY, Laurie will be at the senior center on Monday, Oct. 21. Sign up with your payment in advance to schedule an appointment.
FOOT STABILITY AND ANKLE MOBILITY WITH STEVE AVELLINO
Steve Avellino’s next Thursday class, “Foot Stability and Ankle Mobility for Better Balance and Pain Relief,” is a six-week program and is designed to make our musculoskeletal system function the way it used to. Once we improve our foot stability and ankle mobility, the knees, hips, and spine work and feel better. The muscles of the core become organized which results in better balance. These classes will be held on the following Thursdays at 9 a.m.: Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, Dec. 5 & 12. The cost is $42. Sign up in advance with your payment.
STEVE AVELLINO’S “MENTAL PROGRAMMING FOR AGILITY” PROGRAM
Starting on Monday, Sept. 9 at 11:45 a.m., Steve Avellino’s next 6-week program will be “Mental Programming for Agility.” This 6-week program is designed to prepare the brain for advanced footwork programs. The focus is on agility by increasing our mind/muscle connection time. The class will meet at 11:45 a.m. on the following Mondays: Sept. 9, 16, 30, Oct. 21, 28, Nov. 4. The cost is $42 per person. Please sign up in advance with your payment.
MEN’S FITNESS CLASSES
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: Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, Dec. 5 & 12. Due to the popularity of this program, there are 2 Men’s Fitness Classes offered on Thursdays. The first class runs from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and the 2nd class runs from 11 a.m. to noon. The cost is $42 per person and must be paid at the time you sign up for one of the classes.
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, Nov. 19, and the third Tuesday of each month, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. for our Memory Café at the Foxborough Senior Center. Join us for live music, come listen, sing along, tap your feet and enjoy. 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.
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.
Q/A WITH THE TOWN MANAGER
Town Manager Paige Duncan is at the senior center for some coffee and conversation each month. She will be joining us on Monday, Oct. 28 at 11 a.m. Paige will be with us at the senior center on the 4th Monday of every month at 11 a.m. and she will keep us up to date on what’s going on in Foxborough. This is a great opportunity for you to join in the conversation and get your questions answered. Sign up in advance to reserve your seat.
REPRESENTATIVE JAY BARROWS OFFICE HOUR
Join Representative Jay Barrows at the senior center on Tuesday, Oct. 22 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.
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. Currently, membership is at capacity, but if you are interested in joining us, please call the senior center to get on a waiting list. For more information, the senior center can put you in touch with the Choral Director.
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.
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, meets at the senior center on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. The last meeting of the Table Top Garden in 2024 will be on October 22. Meetings will resume at a future date in 2025. Everyone is welcome to join us and no previous gardening experience is necessary.
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 meets 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 $4 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 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 $4 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. 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 $4 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 $4 per class and is punch card eligible. Space is limited, so please call in advance to sign up for each class.
SCRABBLE
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 $4 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 $4 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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