Please visit granby-ct.gov/senior-services or check Center Life Newsletter for a complete listing of health services, support groups, clubs and ongoing activities.
If you are a Granby Senior Center member, please register for programs through 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.
Special Programs
Aging Mastery Program: Thursdays, Sept. 15–Nov. 17, 10-11:30 a.m. Aging Mastery is a comprehensive and fun approach to living that celebrates the gift of longevity. Central to the Aging Mastery philosophy is the belief that modest lifestyle changes can produce big results and that people can be empowered to cultivate health and longevity.
Equally important, the program encourages mastery—developing sustainable behaviors across many dimensions that will lead to improved health. All materials and resources align with the goal of helping people enjoy self-sufficient lives. The path to mastery is entirely individual. Individuals set their own goals and create their own pathways to these goals, opening the door to autonomy and purpose in the process. Curriculum includes Navigating Longer Lives: The Basics of Aging Mastery; Exercise and You; Sleep; Healthy Eating and Hydration; Financial Fitness; Advance Planning; Healthy Relationships;
Medication Management; Community Engagement; and Falls Prevention. $65pp.
Fall Painting Party: Wednesday, Sept. 21, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Join in the fun as we paint a beautiful fall painting. No drawing experience necessary—you will transfer the design right on your canvas to paint. Come and join the fun. Instructor Sandra Poirier. Register by Sept. 14. $25pp.
The Secret Life of Owls by Horizon Wings: Wednesday, Oct. 5, 1–2:30 p.m. Horizon Wings was formed in 2001 by Mary-Beth Kaeser as a 501c3 non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center specializing in Birds of Prey located in Ashford. Horizon Wings has several raptors that cannot be released back into the wild due to their injuries, but are kept at the rehab center and used for educational programs.
It seems that owls have always been surrounded by an air of mystery, probably because most are nocturnal and not easily spotted in the wild. This is your chance to be only a few feet away from a Northern saw-whet owl, an Eastern screech owl, a barred owl, a barn owl and a great-horned owl. Discover the extraordinary features of owls, including exceptional eyesight, hearing and ability to fly silently. Register by Sept. 30. $5pp.
DIY Decoupage Pumpkin: Thursday, Oct. 6, 1–3 p.m. Spruce up your mantle or table decor with this fun artificial pumpkin project. Participants will be guided in creating a set of matching pumpkins that vary in size, shape and personal taste. Instructed by local artist Katherine Tolve. Register by Sept. 30. $15pp.
Magic and Mind Show: Thursday, Oct. 20, 2–4 p.m. Jim Sisti, Mystery Performer, will amaze the audience with his unique brand of comedy magic and mentalism. He has performed for numerous Fortune 500 companies and celebrities, performs at Mohegan Sun, etc. Register by Oct. 13. $8pp.
Special Events
Italian Dinner: Wednesday, Oct. 26, 5–6:30 p.m. Join us for homemade lasagna, salad, garlic bread and dessert with entertainment by Jack Sings Dino! Learn about Collette Travel and Granby Senior Center’s partnership to bring you Italian Vistas traveling in 2023. Register by Oct. 19. $10pp.
Lifetime Learning Academy
Armchair Expeditions–Latin America: Thursdays, Sept. 1 to 29, 2–3 p.m. Through live presentations on Zoom, this set of lectures examines the fascinating history, culture and places of Latin America with special focus on Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Peru. Taught by world historian Jared Day, PhD, we will explore the color, the contrasts, wonderful features as well as the serious challenges facing these unique cultures of the world. $10pp.
Legends of the Old West: Wednesday, Sept. 14, 1–2 p.m. It all started in 1915 when William S. Hart starred in a film called The Great Train Robbery, frequently referred to as a western film, even though it was filmed in New Jersey. The film isn’t very long and it’s perfect for our introduction to Legends of the Old West—it began a long line up of cowboy film stars that have lived in our memories since John Wayne, Chuck Connors and Roy Rogers strapped on gun belts and took acting lessons. Who were these heroes? Where did they come from? What were their real names? Let’s have some fun. Popcorn anyone?! Presenter Joseph Ouellette. $5pp.
Let’s Get Technical: Tuesdays, Oct. 4 to 25, 1-2 p.m. Presenter Gail Altschwager. Oct. 4: Basic Functions: What’s an operating system and why you need to know which operating system your devices use, calling, texting, voice mail, managing contacts, E-mail, and being security savvy online. Oct. 11: Finding Stuff: What search engines are, how to use them and how to learn how to use your device. Oct. 18: Pictures: Taking, storing and sending them. Oct. 25: Apps: What they are, passwords, how to find apps, how to install apps, how to use apps and how to delete them. Free.
The Messiah of the Old Testament: Wednesdays, Oct. 5 to Nov. 16, 10-11:30 a.m. This class will review and discuss messianic passages in the Old Testament from Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, Isaiah and other prophets and more. Instructor Skip Mission. Free.
Trips
Hebron Harvest Fair: Friday, Sept. 9, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Crafts, food vendors, animals, special events, entertainment—it’s all here at the Hebron Harvest Festival. You will pay your admission ticket on your own at the gate. $10pp.
Yankee Candle Village and Richardson’s Candy Kitchen: Wednesday, Sept. 14, 9:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Far more than just a candle store, Yankee Candle® Village in South Deerfield, Mass. is one of New England’s favorite day trip destinations. Find over 200 new, classic and limited-edition fragrances and candle accessories, personalize candles to capture cherished memories in scents and wax, catch snowflakes indoors at the Bavarian Village, satisfy your sweet tooth, shop for toys, gifts, home décor, and kitchen and garden items, and celebrate Christmas every day. Lunch on your own on the premises at Hillside Pizza. The last stop will be Richardson’s Candy Kitchen. $10pp.
Dine and Drive: Parkville Market: Monday, Sept. 19, 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Parkville Market brings together over 25 vendors that offer a variety of different types of foods, from Italian, to Tex-Mex, Asian, Brazilian, New England Classics and so much more. You will have the opportunity to eat from whichever restaurant you would like. or sample a few. Seating is available indoors or outdoors. Shop the specialty grocer vendors and pop-up shops. $5pp.
Shopping: Clinton Premium Outlets: Monday, Sept. 26, 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Includes: Armani, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Chico’s, Coach, Talbots, Vera Bradley, Saks off Fifth and much more. Lunch on your own on the premises. $10pp.
Lyman Orchards: Monday, Oct. 3, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Lyman is the perfect trip for fall apple and pumpkin picking, then on to the Apple Barrel Farm Market. The enticing aroma of fresh baked products fills the market. Every day, all day long, fresh pies, apple cider donuts, muffins, cookies, breads, pastries, and many other desserts are made in the Farm Kitchen Bakery. Lunch will be on your own at the deli serving up amazing sandwiches and salads. $5pp.
Road Trip to Great Barrington: Wednesday, Oct. 12, 9:15 a.m.-4 p.m. Great Barrington is a great town nestled in the Berkshires. Main Street offers shopping and restaurants and you will have time to explore and have lunch. Next stop is Freund’s Farm Market which offers a bakery, prepared meals, gourmet preserves, pickles, gifts, seasonal produce, pumpkins and flowers. If the fall foliage cooperates you will be treated to an eye festival of color. $10pp.
Cathedral of the Pines, Rindge, NH: Wednesday, Oct. 19, 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Stand among the tall pines overlooking the valley, listen to the wind whisper through the branches in this place of beauty, inspiration and peace. On your guided tour, explore the sanctuary, sacred spaces, monuments, and burial grounds built as a memorial to those fallen in service. Lunch will be at the nearby Woodbound Inn with its rustic and cozy atmosphere. The sit-down lunch menu is either stuffed chicken or baked haddock, salad, vegetable, potato, dessert and beverage. Grab your camera and explore several covered bridges on a guided driving tour in Southern New Hampshire. $104pp.
Dine and Drive: The Tavern: Friday, Oct. 21, 10:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The Tavern Restaurant in Westfield is in a former post office built in 1910. The interior 20-foot ceilings along with several arched windows add to the ambience of this century old building. The building was decommissioned as a post office in 1974 and sat vacant until it was purchased and renovated into a full-service restaurant in 2004. The structure might be what brings you in but the quality of food and service will surely bring you back. The menu offers something for everyone with a full assortment of dinner and lunch entrees plus a large variety of offerings on our sandwich and salad. $5pp.
Olde Mystic Village: Monday, Oct. 24, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. There are so many quaint shops to visit featuring jewelry, specialty foods, eyeglasses, general store, gardening, kitchen, Irish gifts, Scandinavian gifts, chocolates, Christmas decor, teas, toys and more. Lunch on your own at one of the several restaurants onsite. $10pp.
Ongoing Programs
CRT Hot Lunch: Every Tuesday and Thursday, 12–1 p.m. Let someone else do the cooking. Community Café offers a healthy, low-cost lunch for seniors 60+ and the opportunity to join with others. Monthly menus are available at the Senior Center. All participants are required to complete a one-time informational survey. A donation of $3 per meal is suggested to help cover costs, however no one is denied a meal if unable to pay. Reservations are accepted until noon on Friday for the following week by calling 860-844-5350.
Ask the Attorney: First Wednesday of the month, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call to set up an appointment for a free half-hour consultation.
Cribbage: Fridays at 1-3:30 p.m. and Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Free.
Set Back: Tuesdays, 1-3:30 p.m. Free.
Music Jam: Every other Wednesday, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Bring your instrument and join in. Music from 60s-80s. Free.
Stamping: Third Thursday of every month, 9:30-11 a.m. Make beautiful cards for all occasions. All materials provided. $5 per class.
Makers Club: Mondays at 10 a.m. Bring your latest project to work on and enjoy some great conversation. Free.
Camera Club: First Monday of the month at 7 p.m. The club is for photography enthusiasts. Each month a different topic of interest is discussed. Annual membership is $10.
Crafting for the Center with Jennifer: Second Thursday every month until Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Join Jennifer, our program coordinator, to create centerpieces, decor and more for our themed events throughout the year. Take pride in your work, share your creation with your friends and take it home after the event. Free.
Center Council with Jennifer: Fourth Monday every month until Dec. 26, 1-2 p.m.
Do you have ideas you want to share? Do you have feedback for the center? Is there something you would like to see added to the calendar? Center Council is your time to discuss the happenings of the center and share different ideas. This upbeat group will be led by program coordinator Jennifer Kielbasa, all are welcome to attend. Free.
Health and Wellness
Hearing Screenings: First Friday of the month, 9-11 a.m. Hearing Care Centers will conduct hearing screenings that include hearing aid cleaning and evaluation. Free.
Pedicare Footcare: Third Monday and fourth Friday monthly, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. by appointment only. $35 not covered by insurance.
Chair Massage: First, third and fifth Tuesday every month, 10 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Bev offers 15-minute chair massages for $10. Must have a current Senior Center membership to participate.
Blood Pressure/Blood Sugar Clinic: Thursdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Courtesy of the Farmington Valley Visiting Nurses Association. Held in the Senior Center Community Room.
Healthy Minds: Situations such as the death of a loved one, failing health or strained family relationships can be daunting to face alone. Working with our Marriage and Family Therapist, may help you move forward with the better part of life. To schedule a confidential appointment, call 860-844-5350.
Fall Risk Assessment: Thursday, Sept. 22, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free 15-minute appointment with Farmington Valley Health Department to assess your fall risk so you can prevent injury.
Matter of Balance: Wednesdays, Oct. 5–Nov. 23, 2-3:30 p.m. Provided free by Farmington Valley Health District. This award-winning program is designed to manage falls and increase activity levels.
Outdoor Activities
Urban Hike: Tuesday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Meet at 20 Leibert Road in Hartford at 10 a.m.
Hike from Riverside Park to Hartford, over the Connecticut River to East Hartford. Enjoy some of the 16 sculptures that make up the Lincoln Financial Sculpture Walk. Level terrain but there are many stairs getting up and down from bridge. Led by Judy Cooper. Free.
Exercise Programs
Chi Gong via Zoom: Wednesdays, Oct. 12–Nov. 30, 9-9:45 a.m. The practice of Chi Gong helps us to feel grounded, nurtured and relaxed so that the body’s energy can be naturally directed to help our organs function optimally, create flexibility in the muscles, suppleness in the joins and bring balance to our emotions. Accessible and beneficial to all skill levels. Instructor Mary Ellen Mullins. Cost per 8-week session: $54 residents; $63 non-residents.
Gentle Movement for Strength and Balance: Mondays, Oct. 3–Nov. 28 (no Oct. 10), at 11:15 a.m. This class will gently increase your strength, help your ability to balance, and provide stretching to maintain and increase mobility. Instructor Paula Pirog Cost per 8-week session: $48 residents; $56 non-residents.
Chair Yoga: Tuesdays, Oct. 4–Nov. 29, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Enhanced breathing, seated and standing classic Yoga poses, plus balance training and core strengthening. Guided meditation finishes the class in a calm and relaxing manner. Instructor Paula Pirog. Cost per 9-week session: $48 residents; $56 non-residents.
Tai Chi/Qi Gong: Thursdays, Oct. 13–Nov. 17, 9-10 a.m. In this new, beginner course we will learn some of the fundamentals of Tai Chi and eight of the many forms. The first half of class will consist of Qi Gong warmups that are suitable for all abilities. Although this class will focus on standing exercises, it is possible to do this class seated. Instructor Maryellen Mullins. Cost per 6-week session: $48 residents; $56 non-residents
Yoga: Tuesdays, Oct. 4–Nov. 29, 4-5 p.m. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat. Includes balance and Pilates floor work. Instructor Paula Pirog. Cost per 9-week session: $48 residents; $56 non-residents.
Line Dancing: Thursdays, Sept. 8–Oct. 27, 1:30- 2:30 p.m. A line dance is a choreographed dance in which a group of people dance along to a repeating sequence of steps while arranged in one or more line or rows. No experience needed, learn as you go. Instructor Mary Root. Cost per 8-week session: $48 residents; $56 non-residents.