CENTER ACTIVITIES:

Pasta Festa Supper and Living Treasure Awards

Get your tickets now if you have not already purchased them for the fourth annual Pasta Festa Supper which will take place in the Holy Infant gym on Friday, May 16 from 5 to 8 pm. The evening will include a catered pasta dinner, entertainment and the presentation of Living Treasure Awards to three persons who have been nominated by persons in the community and chosen by a committee because of the contributions they have made as volunteers to the community, their neighborhood, or to the town. Tickets are $20 per person and tables for 8 persons are available. This is the annual fundraiser for the senior center which raises money for entertainment and programs for the center. The evening includes a balloon raffle for beautiful baskets which are donated by civic groups and businesses in the community. Come join us for this wonderful event!

Ladies Lunch and Learn

Jean Cherni will be the speaker at this month’s Ladies Lunch & Learn on Thursday, May 1 at 11:30. Jean will talk about “Finding Your Passion in Your Later Years.” Jean has many personal examples of how she has found her passion in her later years by traveling to some unusual and exotic places and by writing her weekly column Senior Moments, which appears in the Sunday edition of the New Haven Register. Bring your brown bag lunch. Dessert and coffee will be provided. Reservations suggested.

Men’s Club

David Miller, a consultant, coach, mediator, and workshop leader, will be the speaker for the May 8 Men’s Club meeting at 10:30. Dave will talk about “Life Balance – What is Most Important to You?” Mr. Miller is interested in helping individuals create alignment, satisfaction and success in their personal lives and in their relationships with their spouses, friends, partners, and families. Come hear what he has to share. Coffee and pastries served. Reservations suggested.

Friendly Visitor Program – Training for new volunteers – May 14

Orange Community Services sponsors a Friendly Visitor/Telephone Reassurance Program which was initiated by the Outreach to the Elderly Team of the Senior Leadership Class of 2007. We have a superb group of trained volunteers who work with us to make regular visits or calls to those who are homebound. Talking, walking, doing paperwork, sharing a hobby, or just enjoying a good conversation are some of the activities that are provided through this program. If you or someone you know is a little lonely, not getting out as much anymore, or in need of some companionship, we would love to meet you and see if we could match you up with one of our trained volunteers. Likewise, if you are interested in becoming a volunteer, the next training session will take place on Wednesday, May 14 from 1 to 3 pm in Room 2. This training session is open to volunteers from other towns who want to be Friendly Visitors. The training will be conducted by Barbara Barlock of Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers. If you are interested in becoming a Friendly Visitor, please call Dennis Marsh, Outreach Worker and Municipal Agent at 891-2154. Friendly Visitors bring a cheerful visit to homebound seniors. You will get more out of the program than you give.

Cabaret Night – May 6

Yale University’s Redhot and Blue will perform at the next Cabaret Night on May 6 from 5:30 to 7 pm. Redhot and Blue is an award winning, co-ed a cappella singing group which has entertained audiences for over 30 years. They have sung all over the world and are noted for their distinctive musical style. Don’t miss this great opportunity to hear this fabulous group right in our own senior center. Tickets are $5 and include coffee/tea and dessert along with the entertainment.

ACTIVITIES (CONT):

Nature Walks

There will be only one walk in May because of the Memorial Day Holiday. On May 12, walkers will travel to Derby to explore trails in Osbornedale State Park. Hikers will make a loop through open fields and woods including ponds and scenic brooks and rock areas. Meet at High Plains Pavilion at 9 am to car pool to the start of the walk. Please call the senior center to register. Hikes are lead by Richard Wright.

Health Chat with Joanne Davis

Joanne Davis, RN, MPH, and Director of the Orange VNA gives a health talk on the

First Tuesday of each month at 10:30 in the senior center’s TV Lounge. The topic for May 6 is “It only hurts when I laugh – Managing those aches and pains.” Come for a lively discussion. Please call to register.

New Duplicate Bridge Group Meets on Wednesdays Afternoons

Duplicate Bridge players meet in the senior lounge on Wednesdays from 1 to 3. This is a new activity of the Orange Senior Center. Players must either be residents of Orange or non-resident members of the center. Non-residents may become members of the center for $10 a year ($15 for two people living at the same address). It is necessary to have a playing partner. Come join the group. New players are welcome.

Thank you to the AARP Income Tax Volunteers

Income Tax season is over! We want to give a huge “thank you” to the AARP volunteers who helped approximately 146 persons prepare their tax returns. Thanks to Sarah Noyes, Gary Sawyer, Ray Johnson, Carla Birmingham and Tony Delvisco. A special thanks to George Kuchinsky who organizes these volunteers.

Workshop on How to Prepare for an Emergency or a Disaster

A staff person from the Connecticut Department of Emergency Management & Homeland Security will be at the senior center on May 13 from 1-3 to help attendees prepare their own personal Emergency Disaster Guide. If a disaster should occur, it is always important to know how to contact family members and locate relatives. A 60 minute Power Point presentation will be shown and participants will have the opportunity to complete documents for their personal records. Registration is suggested for this free workshop.

New Haven Senior Expo

The Agency of Aging of South Central Connecticut will hold a Senior Expo on Friday, May 16 from 10 am to 2 pm at the New Haven Athletic Center on 480 Sherman Parkway in New Haven. Lunch will be served free of charge to the first 500 seniors. Vinnie Carr, Elm City Band and the Blossom Tappers will provide entertainment. This event, in honor of Older Americans Month, is an occasion for seniors to come together, socialize, gather information on topics pertinent to them, and just enjoy the day. Transportation can be arranged if we have enough people interested in attending. Please call our office and sign up by May 7 if you want to go and need transportation. It is not necessary to sign up if you are driving on your own.

ACTIVITIES (CONT):

A 4-part Course for Caregivers

Caring for a loved one who is suffering from dementia and memory loss can be very demanding. Understanding the disease, learning new communication techniques, and being aware of all the resources can help relieve some of the stress caregivers often feel. The Orange Senior Center is collaborating with the Alzheimer’s Association to offer a 4-part course at the senior center from 5:30 to 7 pm on May 27, June 3, June 17, and June 24. The course will cover such topics as: Overview of Dementia; Positive Approaches to Dementia Care, Impacts on Family and Care Partners, Legal and Financial Planning. There is no charge for the course and light snacks will be served. Registration is necessary for the 4-part course and is not limited to residents of Orange. Space is limited.

CLASSES

Opera Appreciation

Current Opera Appreciation class is offered on Wednesdays from 1 to 3:30 through May 14. Classes are held at the library, but you must sign up at the senior center. There is a $5 duplication fee.

Tai Chi

The current Tai Chi Class taught by Aiping Cheng is offered through June 6. Keep posted for the next class in the fall.

Yoga Classes

A new session of Wednesday Yoga started in April and will run through July 9. A new Monday session started in April and will run through July 14.

Fitness Class

A new session of the Fitness Class started in April and runs through June 19. The class meets on Tuesday and Thursdays from 9 to 10 am.

Tap Dance Lessons

New session starting in the fall. Beginner class available for those who are interested.

Mah Jong Lessons

Regina Johnson teaches Mah Jong lessons on Fridays from 1 to 3 through May 9 in the senior café. The classes are for beginners and those who are just learning how to play. No fee.

Drawing Class - Current session will continue on Wednesday afternoon until May 21. Keep posted for the fall session for this fun class where, you too, can learn to draw under the guidance of an experienced teacher, Maury Libson.

Watercolor Painting – Current session continues on Wednesday through the end of May. Stay tuned for when the next session will begin.

Bridge Lessons – Current session continues on Thursday afternoons through May 22. Keep posted for another class in the summer or fall.

Chair Exercise – Continues on Mondays and Fridays at 11:00 in the senior lounge. Come join in for some fun and good exercise. No fee.

Computer Classes

A new 6-week session of computer classes starts the week of May 12. Classes are taught by qualified instructors and offered for all levels of experience, from those who have never used a computer to those who are more experienced. Class fee is $30 and classes are limited to 6-8 students. The fee for repeating a course is half-price. Register now to assure a place in the class you want. A brochure is available from the senior center describing all the classes. The following classes are offered:

Introduction to Computers Level I – Learn the basics and practice new skills, like using a mouse and the keyboard, surfing, word processing and more. Tuesdays or Thursdays at 1:30 pm.

CLASSES (CONT):

Computers are Fun Level II – Learn more computer basics and review and expand upon what is taught in Level I. This class is for beginners who have some experience using the computer. Students must have taken Level I or have equivalent knowledge. Thursdays at 9:30 am.

Computers are Fun Level III – This class is a continuation of Level II. Practice and refine your skills on the computer. Must have taken Level I and II. Fridays at 9:30.

Introduction to Word Processing – Learn the techniques of letter writing and document handling. Become familiar with the use of different fonts, type sizes, and colors, you can use on your computer. Learn to cut, copy, and paste text from one place to another. Learn to use bullets, tables and clip art. This class is for persons who have modest experience using the computer. Wednesdays at 9:30 am.

Introduction to Excel – This course is intended for persons who have modest experience using the computer and introduces the student to spreadsheets as a productivity tool for financial applications. Wednesdays at 1 pm.

Introduction to Digital Photography – This hands-on course introduces the student to the world of digital photography and how to transfer, find, organize, edit, print and share photos using a “free” downloadable program from Google’s web-site. This class is for persons who have modest experience using the computer. Tuesdays at 9 am.

Internet Basics – This is an introductory course starting with the basics on how to set up an email account, forward messages without superfluous junk, and send attachments. Learning how to search, surf, shop, and save using the Internet will also be covered. Mondays at 10 am.

Computer Lab - .A free computer lab, limited to 8 persons, is offered on Mondays from 1 to 3 while computer classes are in session. Free labs are scheduled for May 19, June 2, and June 16. The labs are for students who are currently in or have taken computer classes at the senior center or at the library. A lab is also scheduled for May 5, but there is a $10 charge for this lab since it is not during a computer class session. We need at least 5 people to register and pay in advance. Students must sign up for all labs and must call the office 24 hours in advance if they must cancel.

Contacting the Senior Center

Here is a guide to help you contact the right person in our office:

Senior Services Coordinator Joanne Byrne 891-2155

Transportation scheduling: Kim Callahan 891-2156

Signing up for classes, trips, Jennifer Antalik (AM) 891-2154 x 102

And activities Stephanie Cerillo (PM) 891-2154 x 102

Youth Services Coordinator John Ulatowski 891-2154 x 103

Community Services Director Carol Nardini 891-2154 x 104

Outreach Worker Dennis Marsh 891-2154 x 105

TRIPS

BERMUDA CRUISE on the NORWEGIAN DAWN – May 18 -25, 2008. Filled

DARREN WILLIAMS at AQUA TURF – Thursday, May 29, 2008. Darren Williams captivates audiences with his Aussie charm and amazing vocal range. Enjoy a family-style menu at Aqua Turf followed by the show. Cost: $70 pp includes transportation, lunch, show, and driver’s gratuity.

PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ at the GRAND OAK VILLA in OAKVILLE, CT.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008. This performance will whisk you back to the days of Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers, the most classic screen dancing team in history. Cost: $69 pp includes transportation, lunch, show, and gratuities. Reservations and full payment due by May 15. Waiting list.

BROADWAY SHOWS: “WICKED” or “CURTAINS” – Matinee Performance, Wednesday, June 25, 2008. Cost: $199 pp includes transportation, lunch, and orchestra seats to the show of your choice. Price does not include driver’s gratuity. Final payment due by May 18. Waiting list.

LUNCH CRUISE, NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND – Wednesday, July 16, 2008.

Board the award winning yacht, MAJESTIC for an extraordinary narrated luncheon cruise. After the cruise, have time to browse the BOWEN’S WHARF AREA and its quaint shopping area. Last stop before returning home will be the NEWPORT VINEYARD where you receive a tour and a free bottle of wine. Cost: $85 pp includes transportation, lunch and cruise, tour of the vineyard, and driver’s gratuity. Registration and full payment due by June 25. Waiting list.

NEWPORT PLAYHOUSE AND CABARET THEATER – Tuesday, August 5, 2008

See a brand new production at the Newport Playhouse and enjoy a lobster lunch and buffet with a second Cabaret Show after lunch. Cost: $81 pp. includes both shows, lunch, transportation and gratuities. Final payment due by July 1. Waiting list.

BOBBY VINTON AT AQUA TURF – Thursday, August 14, 2008. Hear this electrifying entertainer with a full 10-piece orchestra. Enjoy a delicious Aqua Turf lunch before the show. Cost: $87 pp. Final payment due by July 14.

TANGLEWOOD – Sunday, August 2, 2008. Lunch first at the Cork N’ Hearth in Lee, Mass. Before traveling to Tangelwood to hear the Boston Symphony perform Beethoven’s Symphony 9 in the music shed. Cost: $87 pp includes transportation, lunch, concert tickets and driver’s gratuity. $30 pp deposit is required to hold you seat. Full payment due by July 1.

“JERSEY BOYS” on BROADWAY – Wednesday, September 24, 2008. Cost: $184 pp includes transportation on a motorcoach, lunch, orchestra seats and gratuities. Final payment is due by September 3. Waiting list.

TRIPS (CONT):

VICTORIAN CAPE MAY – September 23-26, 2008. Enjoy this beautiful Victorian seaside village, brimming with history and charm. Upon arrival, visit the 1879 Physick Estate and enjoy a trolley tour of the Historic District before arriving at our ocean front hotel, the Grand Hotel. Trip includes 3 night’s accommodations, 3 breakfasts, l lunch and 3 dinners (including on dinner theater), a Victorian Fashion show, several tours and a Dolphin Watch Sightseeing Cruise. Have time for shopping at the Washington Street Mall. Cost: $595 pp double occupancy, $705 Single, and $565 pp triple. A $50 deposit is required at registration and balance is due August 10.

ITALIAN FEST “A Tribute to Sinatra” – Thursday, October 9, 2008. This Italian Festival will take place at the elegant Lake Pearl Lucianos, a luxurious facility offering panoramic views of the lake and spectacular gardens in Wrentham, MA. After lunch and the show, we will spend a few hours shopping at the nearby Wrentham Premium Outlets before returning home. Cost: $65 pp includes transportation, lunch, show, stop at the Wrentham outlets, and driver’s gratuity. Reservations and final payment due by Sept. 10. Waiting list.

OKTOBERFEST at the EASTSIDE RESTAURANT in New Britain, CT - Tuesday, October 21, 2008. Visit the MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART before having lunch at this famous German Restaurant in New Britain, CT. After lunch, stop at LYMAN ORCHARDS on the way home to bring some delicious harvest treats. Cost: $73 pp includes transportation, admission to the Museum, lunch, and gratuities. Reservation and full payment due by Sept. 21.

CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN and the VANDERBILT MANSION – Wednesday, October 29, 2008 This is a repeat trip to the CIA and its fabulous Italian restaurant, Caterina De Medici. After an exquisitely prepared and served lunch by the students at the Culinary Institute, we will visit the famous Vanderbilt Mansion for an afternoon tour. Cost: $73 pp includes transportation, lunch, tour and driver’s gratuity.

“THE PRODUCERS” AT WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATER – Wednesday, November 5, 2008. “The Producers”, a Mel Brooks Musical, is a critically acclaimed comedy-musical adapted by Mel Brooks. Enjoy the show after a wonderful lunch which you can order off the menu at the Westchester Broadway Theater. Cost: $78 pp includes transportation, lunch, show and gratuities. Reservation and full payment due by October 1.

BRANSON CHRISTMAS with a Night in St. Louis at Harrah’s Casino– November 17 – 22, 2008. Fly to St. Louis and stay at Harrah’s Hotel and Casino. Next day, travel by motorcoach to Branson and check into our deluxe hotel for the next four nights. Shows include Shoji Tabuchi, Yakov Smirnoff, the Spirit of Christmas Show with the Osmonds, the legendary Andy Williams, and “Noah” at the new Sight and Sound Theater, along with a cruise aboard the Showboat Branson Belle, and tour the spectacular Titanic Museum. Price includes airport transfers, roundtrip airfare, five nights accommodations, 10 meals, St. Louis city tour, all shows and attraction admissions, all taxes and gratuities, motorcoach transportation, luggage handling (1 bag per person), and trip cancellation and interruption insurance. Cost: $1335 pp double, $1595 single, and $1275 pp triple. $100 deposit due with reservation. Balance due by Sept. 12. Only a few seats left.

TRIPS (CONT):

“A WONDERFUL LIFE – THE MUSICAL” AT WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATER – Wednesday, December 17, 2008. This very familiar holiday story has been set to music. Come to enjoy the performance following another delicious lunch at the Westchester Broadway Theater where you have your choice of entrée off the menu. Cost: $78 pp includes transportation, lunch, show and gratuities. Reservation and full payment due by November 1.

Fliers with complete information on each trip are available from the Community Services office and in the senior café trip rack. Reserve far enough in advance to assure that the trips will not be cancelled. All trips must be paid in full by the deadline noted on the fliers or at least one month before the trip when not noted. Deposits are specified on longer trips. We ask that you make a $25 deposit on day trips when you make the reservation. Separate checks are needed for separate trips. Checks for day trips are made out to Treasurer, Town of Orange. We rely on our members to make final payments on trips without reminder phone calls. Cancellation waiver fees are due at the time of deposit for overnight trips. All trips depart from the Orange Senior Center, unless otherwise noted. Park in the rear of the parking lot on the side of the senior café as far past the building as possible. Do not hesitate to put your name on a waiting list, as we use this list for replacements when needed. The first two seats on each side of the bus are reserved for persons with special disabilities and for the group leaders. We are now able to accept payment on Visa or MasterCard. Driver’s gratuity is usually included in the cost of the trip.