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THE WEEKLY GEM - November 18, 2024
Published on Nov 18, 2024 08:59
THE WEEKLY GEM
Foxborough Senior Center
November 18, 2024
REMEMBER RABBIT EARS?
On Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 4 p.m., retired Northeastern professor Stanley Forman will present his program on how television was invented and the skullduggery between television entrepreneurs! Rival inventions and a possible theft of a key idea all lead to the development and growth of television through the 20th century. Sign up in advance for this program on the beginning of television.
CHRISTMAS TREE SHOP PRESENTATION
Historian and author Anthony Sammarco will be at the senior center on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 4 p.m. for his presentation on The Christmas Tree Shop. The Christmas Tree Shop was not just an icon of New England, it was a destination with stores that boasted a diverse assortment of merchandise from seasonal decorations, home décor, housewares, food, giftware and just about everything else that the public just had to have. These were items you never thought you needed before stepping through the door, but who could resist a bargain? Founded in 1970 in Yarmouth Port, it was “like walking into a closet full of surprise treasures.” One never knew what he might find, but the public, always on the hunt for bargains, began to find goods that not only pleased but stretched one’s budget. The word-of-mouth advertising attracted customers to Cape Cod, who returned time and again, never sure what they might find. This was what made the shop popular and was to create a sensation on Cape Cod. This presentation by Anthony will surely delight everyone who can remember the catchphrase “Don’t you just love a bargain?” Sign up in advance and we’ll save you a seat for this great presentation.
A PERSONAL CONVERSATION IN MRS. WASHINGTON’S BEDCHAMBER
On Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 3:45 p.m. spend time with Mrs. Washington as she completes dressing for her day in this interactive and informative program. During your time together, Mrs. Washington will share news of her family and how the current events that her husband is so deeply involved in impacts her family and her developing nation. Sandy Spector IS Martha Washington! This 75-minute presentation includes time for a Q & A. Sign up if you’d like to join us for this event.
“THELMA”
Join District Attorney Michael Morrissey for the movie “Thelma,” popcorn and a soft drink on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 3:45 p.m. To bring awareness to scams, DA Morrissey is inviting seniors to watch the critically acclaimed feature film Thelma. In Thelma, 94-year-old Hollywood box office star June Squibb plays the victim of the grandparent scam. Thelma receives a call from a scammer claiming to be her grandson and, after falling victim to it, she takes matters into her own hands. A comedy-action movie based on the real-life experience of director Josh Margolin’s own grandmother, the film uses humor to address the global epidemic of scams. Online reviews give this film a new perfect score of 99%. Sign up in advance and we’ll save you a seat.
DECEMBER MOVIE DAYS
The theme for our December Movie Days is “Home Alone.” December’s movies will be shown at 1:30 p.m. on the following Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m.:
December 10 – “Home Alone” When bratty 8-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macauley Culkin) acts out the night before a family trip to Paris, his mother (Catherine O’Hara) makes him sleep in the attic. After the McCallisters mistakenly leave for the airport without Kevin, he awakens to an empty house and assumes his wish to have no family has come true. But his excitement sours when he realizes that two con men (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) plant to robe the McCallister residence and that he alone must protect the family home.
December 31 – “Home Alone 2” After snarky youth Kevin McCallister (Macauley Culkin) loses track of his father at the airport, he mistakenly gets on a plane headed for New York City – while the rest of the McCallisters fly to Florida. Now alone in the Big Apple, Kevin cons his way into a room at the Plaza Hotel and begins his usual antics. But when Kevin discovers that the Sticky Bandits (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) are on the loose, he struggles to stop them from robbing an elderly man’s toy store just before Christmas.
Please sign up in advance for one or both of the December movies.
SEE CLICK FIX PRESENTATION plus PIZZA
“See Click Fix” is a new tool the Foxborough DPW is using for residents to report concerns to be addressed by the DPW staff. Join us on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. and learn how to use this tool and enjoy some great pizza afterwards. Please sign up in advance.
SINGLE TRAVELER MEET-UP
2025 will be our busiest travel year ever! Sometimes, travelers want to split the cost by rooming with a friend. Come to this event to meet your potential new room buddy. This will be a no pressure meet-up session and if you make a new friend, you can arrange to sign up together for a trip in the future. Join us on Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. Please sign up in advance.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR HEATING ASSISTANCE?
The LIHEAP or Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is a free program that helps Massachusetts residents pay a portion of their winter heating bills. Eligibility is based on household size and the combined gross annual income of all household members. The program is available to homeowners and renters, even if heat is included in the rent. The heating season runs from Nov. 1, 2024 to April 30, 2025 and applications are accepted through April 30, 2025. Income limits for the 2024-25 heating season are: Household size of 1 with a maximum income level of $49,196; Household size of 2 with a maximum income level of $64,333; Household size of 3 with a maximum income level of $79,470, and; Household size of 4 with a maximum income level of $94, 608. If you are a Foxborough resident and would like to apply, please contact the Foxborough Council on Aging and Human Services at 508-543-1234.
EARN UP TO @2000 OFF OF YOUR TOWN TAX BILL
Did you know that if you are 60 years old or older, or a Veteran of any age, you could work and earn credit that would go toward reducing your town real estate tax bill? This year, the maximum you can earn has been increased to $2,000!!
To apply: 1) You must be at least 60 years old, or a Veteran of any age, and 2) You must own and live in a home in Foxborough and be able to produce a copy of your current real estate tax bill in your name. Please call the Foxborough Council on Aging and Human Services at 508-543-1234 to find out more.
PROCEDURE CHANGE AT THE SENIOR CENTER
When you check-in at the senior center, you may notice a “Please update you photo” message in our system. Starting January 1, 2025 you will not be permitted to enter the Senior Center without having your picture on file. Photos can be taken at the front desk. Don’t delay – add your photo now if this message appears. Thank you
MAH JONGG TOURNAMENT
Join us on Friday, Nov. 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for our Mah Jongg Tournament at the Foxborough Senior Center. The cost is $10 if you pre-register and $15 at the door on the 22nd. One year of playing experience is recommended, but not required. We will be using the 2024 NMJL Card., so please bring yours. Points based on NMJL Scoring. Some additional penalty points may apply. Rules will be available for consulting at the Director’s table. Simple table rotation will be indicated on your score sheet. Register by emailing [email protected] or by talking with David Lescoe at the Tuesday Mah Jongg Group at the senior center. Lunch is included. Five winner prizes plus Door Prizes will be awarded.
COMMUNITY CENTER “HARD HAT” TOURS
Would you like to go on a tour of our new Community Center? This activity, open to all residents, will be scheduled in small groups when it is safe to tour through the new (to us) building during construction. To be added to the list, please register at the senior center. Groups will be scheduled on a first come/first served basis.
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 this trip has begun. 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.
WARRIOR WITHIN YOGA
On Tuesdays, Nov. 12 – Dec. 17 at 5 p.m., Warrior Within Yoga for Veterans, 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.
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 with payment 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. The party is only a couple of weeks away. Purchase your tickets now at the senior center to reserve your seat. Don’t miss out!
“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. 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 Nov. 25 (due to the Monday holiday on Nov. 11). 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.
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, Dec. 11 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, Dec. 12 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, Dec. 10 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, Dec. 2 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, Dec. 3 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 meeting will be on Nov. 18. Sign up in advance if you’d like to join us.
SENIOR SUPPER
There will be no Senior Supper in the months of November and December.
LUNCHEON OUTING
Our next luncheon outing will be on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 1 p.m. at Conrad’s restaurant. Call us to sign up by Tuesday, Dec. 10 and meet us at the restaurant on the 11th. For those who require van transportation, arrangements must be made by Tuesday the 10h.
MEN’S BREAKFAST
It’s time for the men to enjoy our great Men’s Breakfast at the senior center every month during the upcoming fall and winter months. Our next Men’s Breakfast will be held on Thursday, Nov. 21 at 8:45 a.m. 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.
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 clinic will be held on Nov. 26. Please call the senior center at 508-543-1234 to set up an appointment.
HEARING HEALTH
On Wednesdays, Nov. 20, Dec. 4, 11 & 18 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 returning to our senior center on the 2nd Friday of every month to hold 20 minute footcare appointments. This service will include assessment, nail clipping and filing, corn and callous reduction and a light foot massage. The next clinic date will be held on Dec. 13 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, Dec. 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.
HAIR STYLING
Would you like to get your hair cut and styled in the comfort of the Foxborough Senior Center? Hair Stylist Laurie Nicklas will be at the senior center on Friday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. to noon., and every 4th Friday of the month. The cost is $15 for women and men. 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.
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, Dec. 16 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.
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. Meetings will resume at a future date in early 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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