Join us in Celebrating National Cherry Pie Day With Entertainment by: Duncan Babcock

On Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at 1:00pm, as you enjoy your pie, local entertainer, Duncan Babcock, will perform the classics and play the piano. You will hear songs from artists like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, & many, many more! Free Event. Please call to register.

Out & About At the Vernon Senior Center

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 8 February Highlights: Out to Lunch Bunch: Vernon Diner Heart Health Strategies Health Cooking: 101 Smorgasbord of Sweetheart Snacks What is Glaucoma? National Cherry Pie Day Crazy Whist & Pizza Party Make it & Take it Paint Class: ”Love One Another” Tour Trip: The Horse Knows the Way to

Carry the Sleigh Project Linus

HOURS: Monday-Friday 9:00am-3:00pm

Seniors Wanted for Project Linus On Christmas Eve, 1995, an article titled “Joy to the World” touched the heart of Karen Loucks, who decided to provide homemade security blankets to Denver’s Rocky Mountain Children’s Cancer Center….After this, Project Linus was born.

Now, with chapters in all 50 states, Project Linus continues to grow.

Please join us on Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at 1:00pm to help make handmade blankets for children in need. These “no-sew” fleece blankets will be distributed to local children in hospitals, shelters, social service agencies, or anywhere a child may need a warm hug.

Smorgasbord of Sweetheart Snacks Stop in for some sweet treats throughout the day on Wednesday, February 14, 2018. You are welcome to invite your favorite Valentine.

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What’s Happening!

Out To Lunch Bunch: Vernon Diner

The “Out to Lunch Bunch” for February will meet on the first Tuesday. Each month a new restaurant is chosen. The “bunch” will be going to Vernon Diner in Vernon, CT on Tuesday, February 6 at 1:00pm.

There are pickups available at the Senior Housing complexes: Franklin Park, Court Towers, Grove Court, Florence Mill, Pitkat Congregate Center, Windermere Court, & Welles Village as well as the Vernon Senior Center. Come to the Center to sign up for this fun day out with your peers.

Healthy Cooking 101 Come & join Debbie Orth from Fox Hill Center in learning how to cook healthy!

The Vernon Senior Center will now offer “Healthy Cooking 101”, the second Thursday of each month. The next class will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2018 from 12:00pm-1:00pm. Each month, Debbie will prepare a quick and healthy meal and when she is finished, you will be able to taste them! The recipes will also be given out FREE OF CHARGE!

**Minimum of 10-15 people required** Please call to register.

Heart Health Strategies Show yourself some love during American Heart Month

Join us in welcoming Erin Ballou, from St. Francis Hospital & Medical Center, on Wednesday, February 7, 2018 at 10:00a.m, to discuss the daily strategies that you can use to stay “heart healthy”. Learn how to reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease and improve your overall health. This presentation is free Please call to register

What is Glaucoma? Dr. Brad Wainwright will be at the Center on Friday, February 16, 2018 at 1:30pm to give a presentation on glaucoma. Presentation includes: What glaucoma is How prevalent it is & the chances of going blind Why early detection is important & what the risk factors are What the different types of glaucoma are How glaucoma is treated This presentation is free. Please call to register.

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The Horse Knows the Way To Carry the Sleigh The Salem Cross Inn is a restored 18th Century farmhouse nestled on 600 acres of countryside in

West Brookfield, MA. Enjoy winter at its best, with a full day of New England activities such as:

Welcome cider reception with cheese & crackers Apple pie demonstration

Sleigh ride over the beautiful Salem Cross property Full course luncheon

The luncheon will include: Homemade Soup du Jour, with choice of broiled scrod with cracker crumb topping OR rustic chicken with herb breaded stuffing, vegetables, and potatoes. Followed by a deep-dish apple pie with whipped cream for desert and coffee. When: Friday, February 23, 2018 Cost: $99.00/per person (payment & meal choice is due at sign-up) Departure time: 9:30am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 3:45pm

Here’s What You’ve Been Waiting For…..

Upcoming Tour Trips & Cruises for 2018 *Flyers for all trips are available at the Vernon Senior Center*

Westchester Broadway Theatre Westchester Dinner Theatre located in Elmsford, NY is an elegant, year round equity theater,

featuring fine dining and full scale musical productions. Once you’re seated at your reserved table, you'll select from an excellent menu and enjoy a pre-show lunch. Following lunch, a matinee performance of seventeen dancers, all vying for a spot in the “Chorus Line” in this Broadway hit! This musical features music by Marvin Hamlisch. When: Thursday, March 29, 2018 Cost: $110.00/per person (payment is due at sign-up) Departure time: 7:30am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 6:30pm

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Libraries of Manhattan New York Public Library and Morgan Library & Museum

Begin your day in New York City for lunch (on own) at the Grand Central Terminal food court.

Enjoy the afternoon at the New York Library for a guided tour of the history and architecture of the building flanked by the 2 lions—Patience & Fortitude. There will be many beautiful spaces within the landmark building, but the most spectacular is the Rose Main Reading Room. After a year-long renovation that spiffed up the enormous research room, which is about as long as two city blocks, its plaster rosettes, celestial mural, and ornate chandeliers are more glorious than ever! Next will be a self-guided visit of The Morgan Library, which began as the private library of financier Pierpont Morgan—one of the preeminent collectors and cultural benefactors in the US. The building consists of J.P. Morgan’s exquisite library, refurbished in 2010, along with the splendid marble-covered rotunda, a red-paneled study, and other glorious rooms.

***This trip will include a Friendship Tours Tour Director to assist in maneuvering your way through

NYC! This trip also requires a moderate level of walking. The libraries and Grand Central are large buildings***

When: Thursday, April 26, 2018 Cost: $87.00/per person (payment is due at sign-up) Departure time: 6:45am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 8:00pm

Best of Boston Boston Duck Tours & The New England Aquarium

Come & ride the Duck, an amphibious vehicle that rides on land and becomes a boat in water.

First, enjoy a narrated tour of Boston, then its SPALSHDOWN right into the Charles River, and enjoy the breathtaking waterside view of Boston. Passengers can then take turns driving the Duck vehicle. EVERYONE loves riding the Duck! Next, you will be able to enjoy The New England Aquarium; a premier visitor attraction in Boston. You will stand in awe in front of the Giant Ocean Tank with more than 2,000 aquatic animals. When: Wednesday, May 30, 2018 Cost: $103.00/per person (payment is due at sign-up) Departure time: 7:30am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 7:00pm

Luncheon Show at the Elegant Saint Clément's Castle Starring Vincent Talarico, a dynamic entertainer

Vincent Talarico, is a multi-talented musician that sings in three languages and wows the audience with his drum solos, jokes, outgoing personality, & audience participation!

Saint Clements Castle is set amidst 82 scenic acres alongside a beautiful, one mile stretch of the Connecticut River in Portland, CT. This castle is designed like a French Chateau with two Norman Towers and French Tudor ambience. You’ll enjoy a beautifully prepared and presented lunch in the Prince Edward ballroom. You will dine on salad and choice of: Chicken Francaise with Lemon and Capers OR Broiled Scrod with Crumb Topping. Both of these will be served with vegetables, potatoes and delicious dessert and coffee.

When: Tuesday, June 12, 2018 Cost: $85.00/per person (payment & meal choice is due at sign-up) Departure time: 10:00am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 4:30pm

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The Fabulous Finger Lakes in Canandaigua, NY Erie Canal Cruise: New York Wine & Culinary Center and Corning Museum of Glass

Day 1: 2 nights at the CANANDAIGUA INN ON THE LAKE, the finest waterfront resort in the heart of the Finger Lakes. A Welcome dinner will be found in the historic Belhurst Castle, with a phenomenal view of Seneca Lake. Day 2: In the morning, you will see glass in a whole new light at the world-renowned CORNING MUSEUM OF GLASS. You will then tour PLEASANT VALLEY WINERY, popularly known as the Great Western Winery. The tour will give you a glimpse of the rich history of the oldest winery in the Finger lakes. Once the wine tour is completed, dinner will be served at the NEW YORK WINE & CULINARY CENTER. Enjoy a 3 course meal in a demonstration theatre setting where you will watch your chef prepare a dessert. Day 3: Getting ready to head home, you will enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mohawk Valley along the way. You will begin with a BUFFET LUNCH at WATERFRONT GRILLE before you hop aboard the CRUISE on the historic ERIE CANAL. Trip Includes: Deluxe motorcoach, 2 nights at a hotel, 5 MEALS: 2 breakfast, 1 lunch, & 2 dinners, Sightseeing & admissions as per itinerary, & Friendship Tours escort.

When: Monday, June 18-Wednesday, June 20, 2018 Cost: $547.00/per person (Double/Triple) or $707.00/per person (Single)

*Deposit: $200.00 is due by March 26, 2018 * Final Payment: April 30, 2018

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Escorted Montreal & Canada New England Cruise *Montreal, Scenic Cruising of the St. Lawrence & the gulf of St. Lawrence, Quebec, Prince

Edward Island, Sydney, Halifax, Bar Harbor, & Boston*

One of Friendship Tours most popular cruises is back for 2018! If you are looking for a great experience on a small ship without flying, this is the cruise for you! July is the perfect time of year to sail the St. Lawrence and visit some of the most beautiful ports in Canada and New England. Cruise Includes: Overnight Accommodation at the deluxe LeWestin Montreal, Welcome Dinner in Montreal, 3 hour Montreal City tour including the Basilica, 7 night cruise aboard the Maasdam, ALL meals aboard, daily activities, Nightly entertainment, Casino, & deluxe motorcoach back to CT from Boston. When: Friday, July 6-Saturday, July 14, 2018 (9 Days & 8 Nights) Cost: Starting from $1899.00/per person (Twin-Inside)

The Newport Playhouse & Cabaret Restaurant Romantic Comedy by Michael G. Wilmot—No Tell Motel

Brandon & Sarah plan a quick, rendezvous at the Bird of Paradise Motel and discover “getting what

you want isn't always what you want”!

A great buffet featuring Boiled Lobster (1 per person), Shrimp Cocktail, Clam Chowder, a wide variety of salads, Hot & Cold Entrees, Desserts, & Beverages. ALL FOOD IS PREPARED ON THE PREMISES & ENJOYED IN THE MAIN DINING ROOM! After dining, take your reserved seat in the theater and once the play is finished, return to the dining room for a Cabaret Show. When: Sunday, July 22, 2018 Cost: $97.00/per person (payment is due at sign-up) Departure time: 7:30am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 7:30pm

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Sight & Sound Theatres Present: JESUS

Live on Stage Landis Valley Village & Museum and Longwood Gardens

Day 1: 2 nights at the COMFORT SUITES LANCASTER. A Welcome dinner will be found at the Bird-In-Hand Family Restaurant. Day 2: In the morning, you will visit LANDIS VALLEY MUSEUM. You will enjoy a horse drawn wagon ride around the village, tour through the Victorian village grounds and buildings with a guide. You will then enjoy a tasting of sticky buns, snitz, and cider in the 1856 original Landis Valley House Hotel & Tavern. After your stroll through the village, Sight & Sound Theatre will present their BRAND NEW SHOW “JESUS”! After the show, enjoy a nice dinner at the HERSHEY FARM RESTAURANT. Day 3: Getting ready to head home , you will enjoy the world's premier display gardens at LONGWOOD GARDENS; leaving you with memories of your time at the Amish Country. Trip Includes: Deluxe motorcoach, 2 nights at a hotel, 2 breakfast & 2 dinners, Sightseeing & admissions as per itinerary, & Friendship Tours escort.

When: Monday, August 6-Wednesday, August 8, 2018 Cost: $451.00/per person (Double/Triple) or $561.00/per person (Single)

*Deposit: $150.00 is due by May 14, 2018* Final Payment: June 18, 2018

Riverboat Cruise aboard the Indian Princess on Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg

(Webster Lake)

You might not be able to pronounce the 45-letter name, but you wont be able to forget the scenic 90 minute cruise of this historical lake!

Enjoy a nice lunch at the Point Breeze Restaurant founded in 1881. This historic eatery, with its picturesque views of the lake, is the perfect place to fill your belly! Menu: Salad, Choice of: Champagne Chicken Breast OR Baked Haddock, Vegetables, Potatoes, Dessert & Coffee. After the cruise, you will head to Foppema’s Farm! You will be able to browse the produce and products of this family owned and operated farm. When: Tuesday, August 21, 2018 Cost: $93.00/per person (payment & meal choice is due at sign-up) Departure time: 10:15am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 8:00pm

Northern National Parks Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful, Grand Teton National

Park, & Park City, UT.

Come and experience America’s most spectacular natural treasures during a week long visit to the great states of Utah and Wyoming!

Trip Includes: Round trip flights from Hartford to Salt Lake City, Utah– visit the city with a 2 night stay Stay 4 nights in the “Crown Jewel” of the Northern Jockies—Jackson Hole Visit Yellowstone National Park (the FIRST & OLDEST park in the world) See Old Faithful geyser send a fountain of steam more than 60 feet in the air! Enjoy an authentic chuck wagon dinner with cowboy entertainment Visit Grand Teton National park with some of the nations oldest rock formation that rise over 12,000 ft. and support a dozen mountain glaciers Also, visit Utah Olympic Park in Park City and see some of the memorabilia of those inspiring Olympic Games When: Friday, September 14-Friday, September 21, 2018 (8 Days & 7 Nights) Cost: Starting from $2999.00/per person (Double—including air)

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Covered Bridges of New Hampshire

The Covered Bridges (“kissing bridges”) are a trademark of New England. They can reflect the town they reside in, the artist or architect that designed them, or the period in which they were built.

Begin with lunch at the Fitzwilliam Inn in Fitzwilliam, NH located near Mt Monadnock. The present innkeepers are pleased to welcome you for a lovely sit down luncheon. Menu: Salad, Choice of: Chicken Picatta OR Maple Salmon, vegetables, potatoes, dessert, & beverage. Grab your camera and explore the bridges with a guided tour in Southern New Hampshire with a local guide. Then complete your day at Cameron’s Winery in Northfield, MA for a tasting of 5 wines as well as shopping for great jams & jellies. When: Wednesday, September 26, 2018 Cost: $91/per person (payment & meal choice is due at sign-up) Departure time: 9:00am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 7:15pm

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Toast to the Armed Forces & Veterans Featuring: John Banker & his live band

Patriotic Songs: Medley Tribute to all the Armed Force Services! Sing, toast, & HAVE A GREAT TIME!

Join us for a very special day as we HONOR our Armed Forces and Veterans at the Grand Oak Villa in Oakville, CT, with a sparkling show that will bring back a flood of memories! Cheese & crackers, pepperoni upon arrival. Family Style Meal: Garden Salad, Pasta with homemade house sauce, roast turkey with gravy & Yankee pot roast, roasted potatoes, vegetables, dessert, soda, & coffee.

Carafes of Red & White Wine on every table When: Tuesday, November 13, 2018 Cost: $85/per person (payment is due at sign-up) Departure time: 9:45am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 5:00pm

Trapp Family Lodge Guided Tour of Stowe, Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour, and Trapp Family Lodge History Tour

Day 1: 2 nights at the TRAPP FAMILY LODGE. You will begin with a HISTORY TOUR to learn of the von Trapp family’s journey from Austria to Stowe. A Welcome dinner will be found in the main dining room. Day 2: Following a buffest breakfast, you'll meet “Mr. Vermont” for a GUIDED TOUR viewing the pristine mountains and historic Stowe. Explore Stowe Village for lunch on your own before returning to the lodge to relax and enjoy an afternoon of tea & cookies. Followed by an AUSTRIAN THEMED FARWELL DINNER. Day 3: After your buffet breakfast, you'll say Auf Wiedersehen (Good-bye) to friends at the lodge and stop at BEN & JERRY’S ICE CREAM FACTORY for a nice, cool treat. You’ll also learn about the ice cream making process while viewing their production room. You will depart with memories of your holiday getaway in Vermont! Trip Includes: Deluxe motorcoach, 2 nights at a hotel, 2 breakfast & 2 dinners, Sightseeing & admissions as per itinerary.

When: Monday, December 3- Wednesday, December 5, 2018 Cost: $601.00/per person (Double/Triple) or $781.00/per person (Single)

*Deposit: $250.00 is due by September 10, 2018* Final Payment: October 15, 2018

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White Christmas Featuring: Rob Zappulla & his 13 piece big band

Come & join the Vernon Senior Center in celebrating the season with dining & dancing!

Aqua Turf will be hosing a Holiday lunch featuring Rob Zappulla and his 13 piece big band! They will perform an array of nostalgic songs such as:

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas It’s Beginning to Look A lot like Christmas

Silent Night & Many More!

Enjoy the exquisite Holiday Decorations! Coffee & donuts upon arrival. Family Style Meal: Garden Salad, Pasta, Chicken Parmesan, Scrod with cracker crumb topping, vegetables, potatoes, rolls, holiday dessert, & beverages! When: Monday, December 10, 2018 Cost: $89/per person (payment is due at sign-up) Departure time: 10:30am, Vernon Green Circle Estimated Return: 4:30pm

Stretch & Strengthening: This class offers a full-body strengthening workout using weights, followed by various stretching exercises. Classes are held on Mondays at 9:30am. First class is FREE! It is $5.00 per class or $40.00 for a ten-class punch card.

Health Programs & Awareness Zumba Gold:

Classes are on Wednesdays at 1:30pm. Payment is made to the instructor at the beginning of each class. First class is FREE! It is $5.00 per class or $40.00 for a ten-class punch card.

Silver Sneakers Balance & Stability Classes: This class focuses on specific exercises to improve strength and power around your ankles, knees, and hip joints, while Improving reaction time. Classes are held on Mondays from 11am-12pm. If you have Silver Sneakers, the classes will be FREE! The cost for these classes are $2 for Residents and $3 for Non-Residents. If you have Straight Medicare, every 3rd class is FREE!

Please provide us with the medical advantage card and policy number.

Foot Care: The Senior Center offers Foot Care appointments on the second Thursday of the month. Specially trained Registered Nurses will provide a general assessment and then offer any necessary procedures for better foot health! Please contact the Center at 860-870-3680 to schedule an appointment. Cost $29.

Walking Club meets on Mondays & Thursdays at 10:00am) at The Sacred Heart Church to walk the Rails to Trails. PLEASE NOTE: Walking Club will NOT meet for the winter season. It will begin again in March

2018.

If you have further questions, please feel free

to call Carol Benoit (860) 454-7449.

Tai Chi: Tai Chi has slow, gentle movements, coordinated with breath, and is practiced in China by millions of people. The class is open to seniors of any athletic ability and is done standing up, but chairs will be available for anyone who would rather not stay on their feet for an hour. Tai Chi’s new 8 week session will begin on Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 9:30am. Drop-ins are still available for current session. Participants should wear loose-fitting clothes & non-skid shoes

8 week sessions cost: $25.00 for Residents

$30.00 for Non-Residents or $5.00 for drop-ins

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Chair Yoga began its 10 week session on Monday, January 22, 2018 at

1:00pm and will continue through Monday, April 2, 2018.

Residents: $37 Non-Residents: 42

Line Dancing will begin its 10 week session on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 at

9:30am and will continue through Tuesday, May 8, 2018.

Residents: $25.00 Non-Residents: $30.00

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Join In on the Fun!

Bingo: Mondays 1:00pm

Bridge: Fridays 12:45pm

Canasta: Wednesdays 12:00pm

Chess: Tuesdays 9:30am

Cribbage: Wednesdays 9:45am

Cards and Games

Dominos: Tuesdays 1:00pm &

Thursdays 10:00am

Mah Jongg: Mondays 9:30am &

Thursdays 12:30pm

New to Dominos: Tuesday 9:30am

Pinochle: Tuesday & Thursdays

Scrabble: Tuesdays

1:00pm

Set Back: Friday 9:45am

Wii Bowling: Fridays

12:45pm

Crochet & Knitting: Do you like to crochet or knit? We have a very enjoyable group that meets weekly. Come and join our knitting and crochet group on Wednesdays at 10:00 am. All seniors are welcome.

Wii Bowling: Do you like to bowl, but want to enjoy the company of your friends in a relaxed setting? We have a very active and fun group that meets every Friday. Come and join our group Fridays at 12:45 PM.

Crazy Whist Pizza & Card Party: Do you like to play Bridge or Hearts with a twist?

Then come and join our group to play this exciting game.

Pizza will also be served. When: Wednesday, February 21st at 12:30pm

Cost: $7.00 (please pay at sign up) All seniors are welcome.

Book Club The Senior Book Club will be meeting on Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 10:00am. February’s pick is “Before The Rain Falls: A Novel” by Camille DiMaio. The book club meets on the third Thursday of every month. Each person in the group gets to select a book to read.

You are responsible for picking up your own

copy.

“Make It & Take It” Paint Class— “Love One Another”

Make a beautiful painting in one session! (No artistic talent needed). The instructor, Sandra Poirier, will take you step-by-step in creating your masterpiece! The picture to be painted will be on display at the Senior Center! When: Thursday, February 22nd at 1:00pm Cost: $10.00 per class (payment is due at sign-up)

*All supplies will be included!*

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Pool Time!

Movie: Wednesday, February 14th at 1:00pm The feature film is: That Funny Feeling Joan grudgingly works as a maid and is embarrassed by the low station of her job. When she falls in love with rich businessman Tom, she decides to take him to one of her clients’ beautiful apartments— not realizing the apartment belongs to him.

Starring: Sandra Dee, Bobby Darin, Donald O’Connor, & more…

Rated: NR 1965 Runs: 1hr 33 m

Movie: Wednesday, February 28th at 1:00pm The feature film is: The Man in the Brown Suit Adventurous American tourist Anne Beddingfield is drawn into a world of diamond thieves that leads her aboard a luxury liner and puts her in a killer’s crosshairs.

Starring: Rue McClanahan, Tony Randall, Edward Woodward, & more…

Rated: NR 1988 Runs: 1hr 35m

Movie Matinee

Drop In Pool—Men’s drop in pool games are on Wednesday & Friday afternoons at 1:00pm. It doesn’t matter if you are an avid player or a little rusty, all players are welcome. Come and join us for an afternoon of fun.

Ladies Pool The ladies play pool on Tuesday mornings at 10:00am. Any senior lady who would like to join the group is welcome!

Feel free to stop in and practice or play a game

anytime. All Seniors welcome.

Trips?

Literature?

Sports?

Games?

Parties?

Speakers?

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Advisory Committee The Senior Center Advisory Committee meets on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 9:30am. The following are the present members: Carole Slattery, Ed Slattery, Pat Iamonaco, Ron Kane, Maryann Hopowiec, Sally Geer, Wes Shorts, John Mytych, Roxann Lannan, Bill Tyler, & Bill Campbell.

Their role is to bring suggestions to the Director regarding activities, programs and senior issues that the members would like to see happen at the Center or see addressed. The next meeting is Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at 9:30am. PLEASE NOTE: Seniors may attend these meetings and provide comments during the Public Forum section of the meeting.

Veterans Community Access Point The Hartford Veterans Center has a Community Access Point at the Vernon Senior Center. This service is available every Tuesday from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm. The purpose of the Community Access Point is to offer free counseling for all veterans who proudly served our country in combat zones. If you are or know of a veteran that might need these services please call the Hartford Vet Center at (860) 563-8800.

Computer Room The Computer room, located on the second floor, is open for personal use on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:00am-3:00pm through April 13, 2018. Regular days will resume after tax season. All Seniors are welcome to use the computers.

Senior Center Library Library books, movies and puzzles are available for Seniors. The Library is located on the second floor of the Center in a quiet, cozy corner. We have a wide variety of books on hand for your reading pleasure. Please feel free to come in and check out whatever may be of interest to you. You may take out and return the items at your leisure.

All items have been donated. We would like to thank all library volunteers for helping reorganize the books and puzzles.

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Membership Information

Signing in at the Senior Center: It is very important that you remember to sign in with both first & last names and please sign in clearly. The Center uses the sign in sheets to determine activities and programs that we sponsor. By not signing in, we do not have an accurate number of participants. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.

ATTENTION ALL SENIORS: Please take the time to update your membership information sheet. Please stop by the front desk or call the Center to see if your information is up to date. You can pick up a membership sheet at the front desk. A new form needs to be filled out ONLY IF there has been a change of address, phone number, or emergency contact information. ALL membership information needs to be updated before we make the exciting move to the NEW Senior Center.

Age Requirements: Trips: 55 and older All other activities: 60 or older.

Parking At the Senior Center: We, at the Senior Center, understand that parking can be difficult as we are offering more activities. Therefore, we ask, if possible, that you car pool.

Newcomers: Join us for the next Newcomers gathering on Wednesday, February 28th at 11:00am. Come in and learn about the programs and activities that are available. Our goal is to offer a wide variety of programs and activities that would be of interest to all seniors. The Center is always open to suggestions and is willing to try new endeavors to meet the needs of our seniors.

*Please call or stop by the Center for more information regarding membership*

Signing up for Trips and Events: We have to advertise our trips and programs well in advance, so it’s important to watch the newsletter for upcoming events, trips, special luncheons, and events that are often posted a few months in advance. On occasion, there are limited spaces available, so if you see a tour, trip, luncheon, or special event you are interested in attending, don’t wait to sign-up.

We don’t want you to miss out!

Information Page Trip Cancellation Policy If a person cancels a trip for any reason, NO refunds will be given unless we are able to fill your spot on the trip. We will call our wait list, if any, and make every effort to fill your spot in order to issue a refund. Sign ups For Luncheons, Classes or Trips When you see a class, luncheon or trip that you are interested in, please don’t hesitate to sign up. Luncheons and classes fill quickly and usually have a limit. Trips need a total count the month before. If there aren’t enough signed up we may have to cancel. For any activity that requires a fee, payment is due at time of sign-up.

Transportation Senior Car: The Vernon Senior Center offers rides to seniors for out of town medical and dental appointments. Requirements: Vernon resident 60 & older (Must be ambulatory) Call the Center to schedule a ride. Rides are available Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays. between 9:00 am & 1:30 pm. There are no rides on Wednesdays.

Senior Bus: Weekly trips on Thursdays. The bus travels to Stop & Shop, Kmart & Price Chopper. Pickups: Grove Court, Sacred Heart , Court Towers, Senior Center, Florence Mill, Windermere Court, Franklin Park, Pitkat Congregate Housing, & Welles Village. Walmart in East Windsor First Friday of the Month, February 2, 2018. Need a ride to any activity or program at the Center? Contact Hockanum Valley Community Council 860 -870-7940 Dial A Ride Services

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AARP Tax Preparation Beginning Friday, February 2, 2018, the AARP volunteers will be at the Senior Center to prepare income tax returns. Appointments are available on Wednesdays and Fridays only. You must have an appointment. There will be NO walk-ins. You can call between 9:00am and 3:00pm to schedule an appointment. Please bring the following to your appointment: Photo ID Social Security Card or other document showing confirmation of your

Social Security Card All tax forms received from Social Security, employers, banks, brokerages, etc. A copy of last year’s tax return (if available)

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WINTER WEATHER POLICY Just a Reminder: Now that winter is near, it is important to listen to WTIC 1080 radio or watch WFSB Channel 3, in case of snow in the forecast. PLEASE NOTE: If Vernon schools are closed, due to bad weather, the Vernon Senior Center is also closed and there will be no transportation available with the Senior bus or the Senior car. If there is a delay, the Center will open at 9:00am, as usual. *Storm closing information is posted as early as 7:00am in the morning so you can plan your day accordingly*

Thank you and please be safe.

JUST A REMINDER:

The Senior Center will be closed on

Monday, February 19, 2018

February’s Birthday’s

Happy Birthday:

Feb. 5 Paul Iacobucci

Feb. 23 Connie Unterstein

Feb. 26 Barbara Palmberg

Feb. 27 Margaret Ginolfi

Feb. 28 Pat Iamonaco

Feb. 28 Claude Maillet

Note: If you would like your

birthday/anniversary in the

Newsletter, please inform the

Senior Center Staff.

Thank You.

February’s Birthstone:

Amethysts: A type of quartz found in geodes amidst cooled lava.

Color: Reddish Purple to a Bluish Lilac

FUN FACT & FOLKLORE: Leonard da Vinci believed that wearing an amethyst could

increase intelligence.

At one time, only royalty could wear this gem.

Wearing an amethyst will give you courage, strengthen relationships, & help prevent insomnia.

Receiving an Amethyst: Brings Good Luck Giving an Amethyst as a gift: Forgiveness

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O U T & A B O U T

Vernon Senior Center

26 Park Place

Vernon, CT 06066

To:

Town of Vernon Senior Center

26 Park Place

Vernon, CT 06066

Main Line: 860-870-3680

Fax: 860-870-3588

Email: mgabriele@vernon-ct.gov

Website: Vernon-ct.gov/senior-center

The Vernon Senior Center is committed to assisting Vernon

seniors by providing programs that meet their needs

and address their concerns.

Meet our staff:

Director: Maureen Gabriele

Program Coordinator:

Susan Ward

Administrative Assistant: Lorien Velasquez

Facilities Assistant:

Laurie Goodhue