The Senior Skinny

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Please visit granby-ct.gov/senior-services or check your Center Life Newsletter for a complete listing of health services, support groups, clubs and ongoing activities. All programs are currently being held on Zoom. If you need instructions on how to connect, please let us know.

Enjoy Free Programming

The Granby Senior Center offers all special events and Lifetime Learning programs for free to all current members during the month of April; exercise classes excluded. You STILL need to register for all programs. To register visit SchedulesPlus.com/granby

If you are not a member of the Granby Senior Center or you do not have access to a computer, please call 860-844-5352.

All Programs will be held online via Zoom.

Special Events 

Coffee and Conversation: Thursday, April 1, 10 a.m. Special guest Barry Avery, master gardener, will answer your spring gardening questions. Register by March 24.

Capitol Update with Representative Mark Anderson: Wednesday, April 21 at 10 a.m. Anderson represents Granby at the State level. He will be sharing details of the latest legislative session including what bills were proposed, what bills were passed and what the future looks like for the state. Register by April 14.

Afternoon Treats, Goodie Bag Drive-Thru: Wednesday, April 28, 1–2 p.m. Sponsored by HarborChase of Evergreen Walk and Dispatch Health. What’s better than a nice sweet treat in the afternoon? We will be passing out bags with fabulous goodies to make your afternoon coffee or tea a special event. Register by April 21.


Lifetime Learning 

An Armchair Tour Through the Solar System: Wednesday, April 7, 1 p.m. Presented by the Astronomical Society of Greater Hartford. Sit back and enjoy a tour through the Solar System as you see it in your own backyard. It’s so much more than just eight (or is it nine?) planets. We will uncover some of its strange and little-known facts as we discuss our Solar System from the Sun out to its farthest reaches. Register by March 31.

Mary Cassatt, Her Life and Paintings: Thursday, April 8, 1 p.m. Presented by Hill-Stead Museum. Known for her perceptive depictions of women and children, Mary Cassatt was one of the few American artists active in the 19th century French avant-garde. Join us for a look at her work in the collection, and her friendship with Hill-Stead Museum’s architect and founder, Theodate Pope Riddle. Register by April 2.

History of the Museum of Fire History: Wednesday, April 14, 1 p.m. Presented by the Museum of Fire History. You will see a fascinating array of fire-fighting and fire house signaling equipment and memorabilia dating from the late 18th to the mid-20th century. Register by April 7.

Frank Lloyd Wright: Fridays, April 16 and 23, 1 p.m. Produced by Ken Burns. Frank Lloyd Wright was the greatest of all American architects. He believed he was destined to redesign the world. Some hated him, some loved him, but in the end, few could deny that he was truly the most important architect in America. With exquisite cinematography, fascinating interviews and rare archival footage, this riveting film brings Wright’s unforgettable story to life. Register by April 9.

Japan, A Cultural Exploration: Tuesday, April 20 and Thursday, April 22 at 10 a.m. Presented by Jared Day, Ph.D. Carnegie Mellon University. This set of lectures will examine the emergence of modern Japan beginning in the mid-19th century and up to the 1970s. We will look at the profound cultural and economic changes that occurred as Japan went from a largely closed, tradition-bound society to one driven by industrialization and western values, culminating in the creation of the Japanese Empire of the 1930s and eventually the cutting-edge economic powerhouse of the late 20th century. Register by April 13.

Men’s and Women’s Groups

Men’s Breakfast Group: Friday, April 9, 9 a.m. Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities, with Dale Picard, co-founder, who will discuss why and how this 25-year-old non-profit trains service dogs for those with physical and mental challenges, including veterans with PTSD. Email gmensbkfst@gmail to register.

Women’s Breakfast Group: Wednesday, April 21, 1 p.m. Jason Scappaticci, associate dean of student affairs, Manchester Community College, will speak about the U.S.S. United States, the Fastest Ship in the World. The use of the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary in WWII to ferry troops around the globe is thought to have shortened the length of the war. After the war, the United States decided they needed a fleet of big liners in case there should be another major conflict. The U.S.S. United States was the only one built. She was the pride of America in the 1950s and 1960s. Today she sits rusting in Philadelphia. The story of her creation and career is a fascinating piece of 20th century history. Email gwomensbkfst@gmail to register by April 15.

Hiking Club

Canton Land Trust: Tuesday, April 20, 10:30 a.m. Sun, Wind and Woodland Trails; from Route 44 turn onto Indian Hill Road and follow to the end. Turn right onto Breezy Hill Road and follow for 1/2 mile to the parking lot on the left. Pre-registration required.

Ongoing Programs/Services

Knitting Group: Every Monday at 11 a.m. Open group for anyone who likes to knit. Please register to obtain Zoom invite.

Alzheimer’s Support: Caring for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming. Contact the Alzheimer’s Association for assistance at 800-272-3900.

Ask the Attorney: The first Wednesday of the month by appointment. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call 860-844-5352 to set up an appointment for a free consultation.

CHOICES Counseling: CHOICES provides information and assistance about Medicare and its drug coverage plans. Call 800-994-9422 to speak with a counselor.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Thursdays at noon. A group for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Join others to share friendships, tips, and ideas on being a parent again. 

Senior Van Service

The Senior Vans operate Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Out-of-town medical appointments may be made no earlier than 9:30 a.m. and no later than 2 p.m. Call at least one week in advance when requesting rides for appointments. Annual van fee is $10. Call 860-844-5353 to schedule a ride or to get more information.

Exercise Classes

Classes are held via Zoom so everyone must register to obtain link; no drop-ins. New sessions starting in May. Check our Facebook Page (facebook.com/GranbyCTSeniorCenter) and our website (granby-ct.gov/senior-services) for updates on exercise classes.