March – April 2024
Bennington Senior Center
Hours of Operation
Our regular hours of operation are Mon – Fri from 8am – 4pm.
To our Senior Community…
It is the mission of the Bennington Senior Center to engage persons 50+ in the lifelong learning process; promoting their physical, emotional and spiritual well-being by providing social, recreational, creative and cultural programs and enabling active participation in the center and community. Program costs are founded on a not-for-profit basis.
From the Director’s Desk:
Spring!!
Soon we will be going outside to clean up yards after the winter, planting in gardens, and enjoying some sorely needed sunshine. Breathe deeply and enjoy the smells of earth and new growth.
If you are 50+ and make things that you would like to display and/or sell at our Senior Art & Craft Show & Sale in June, please contact me. Just like the flowers that show off their colors, it’s time to show you off to the world!
We will soon be updating our contact /emergency contact forms. At the same time, we will be implementing a Senior Center Code of Conduct. Please remember to sign in upon your arrival, and we can update your information then.
Town Meeting Day is Monday, March 4th. This is a time-honored tradition in Vermont, and a great way to be part of civic engagement. The Bennington meeting is set for 7pm at the River Street Firehouse, 3rd floor. Of course, that means…. March 5th is voting day.
DON’T FORGET TO VOTE!!
CONTACT INFO:
Sponsored by:
Cheers,
Carrie Fabricius - Program Director
Bennington Senior Center, 124 Pleasant St., Suite 3
Bennington, VT 05201
Phone 442-1052 or 802-447-9714
cfabricius@benningtonvt.org
MONDAYS
Painting Group: This informal group meets on Mondays & Fridays, but painters are welcome to work on their own at any time. The group works from photographs, calendar art, and old masters. Bring your own painting materials; group size limited to 8-10 participants. Come when you can, receive hints from each other, and enjoy some good conversation! 9am – Noon No Fee
Leslie Sansone Walking: These walking exercises are fun and easy! 1 - 3 mile aerobic walking video. The class is great for those in need of light to moderate movement and great fun with friends. The class is tailored to the needs/ wants of the group each day. 9:00 am. No Fee
Beginner Ukulele: Learn the basics! Call the instructor for more information. 10:15 am Instructor: Henry Simpatico (802)379-6043 No Fee
Ukulele: Strum along with others at this gathering of musically minded folks. Beginners to seasoned players, this group also plays at community functions. Call the instructor for more information. 11:00 am Instructor: Henry Simpatico (802)379-6043 No Fee
Cards & Games: Group decides the game, or multiple groups can play different games. Games available here include the following: Board games: Parcheesi, Trivial Pursuit, Backgammon, Mancala, Clue, Payday, Ticket to Ride, Go, Chess, Checkers, Battleship Word games: Balderdash, Pictionary, Taboo, Scattergories, Scrabble, Smart Mouth,
WEEKLY PROGRAMS
Upwords, Whatchamacallit Card, Dice, and Tile games: Yahtzee, Farkle, Cribbage, Mille Bornes, Dominos, Mahjong, Rummikub, Uno, Bohnanza, all manner of traditional card games… or bring your own game to share. The possibilities are nearly endless! 1:00 pm No Fee
TUESDAYS
Bone Builders: This low impact exercise, run through RSVP, promotes strength through weight training, plus helps with both balance and bone density. Class may include open discussion about nutrition, disease prevention, and alternate exercises. Class leader varies. 8:30 am OR 10:00 am No Fee
Fall Prevention Tai Chi – LEVEL 1: Falls become an increasing concern as we age. In this class we strive to fend off the stresses of modern life; maintain our agility, balance, and overall health; practice mindfulness; and enjoy the mood-lifting experience of practicing these engaging movement forms with others. This level one class is for new participants, or those feeling the need for more instruction before moving on to level two. 16 weeks; begins Jan. 2. Instructor: Carrie Fabricius 1:00 pm No Fee
WEDNESDAYS
Fall Prevention Tai Chi –LEVEL 2 Just what it says! A continuation from Level 1, this class is for people who have learned and feel comfortable and confident with the first 6 forms. Instructor: Carrie Fabricius 10:00am No Fee
Wednesday Movie: Once a month, come in and enjoy a movie. 1:00 pm No Fee
March 6 Calendar Girls Hel-
en Mirren / Julie Walters April 3 Seabiscuit Tobey Maguire /Jeff Bridges
May 8 Interstellar Matthew McConaughey / Anne Hathaway Trivia!: Enjoy some good-hearted competition as you (or your team) vie for the title of Trivia Champion! We will have a few laughs as we learn new facts. Come join the fun! 1:00 pm , March 20, April 24, May 22. No Fee
THURSDAYS
Bone Builders: See class description on Tuesday list. Craft Corner: Bring whatever craft project you are working on. Quilting, crocheting, knitting, weaving, decoupage, coloring, the options abound!
We have sewing machines available to use. You bring the materials, we supply the space, coffee, tea, and socialization. 1:00 pm No Fee
Crochet with Deb: Twice a month, come and learn basics of crochet, and try your hand at an easy project. 1:00pm March 7 & 21, April 11 & 25. Instructor: Deb Matte
FRIDAYS
Painting Group: See group description on Monday list.
BINGO: Come play low stakes, high energy BINGO! 2 cards for $2, additional cards 50 cents each, 6 card maximum. Beverages provided; feel free to bring snacks to share! 1 - 3 pm
INCLUDED IN YOUR Y MEMBERSHIP!
HEALTH & WELLNESS
INDOOR WALKING
Sponsored by the Bennington Senior Center at the Bennington Firehouse, 3rd Floor
MON/WED/FRI 8:15—9:15 AM
Sponsored by Saint Francis Parish Hall on West Main Street.
MON-FRI 8:30—11:30 AM & 1—4 PM.
Call 442-3141 first to check availability.
**Please note: the parish hall is NOT air conditioned**
To keep floors/rugs clean, please bring a change of shoes.
FOOT CARE and BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC
Sponsored by VNA & HOSPICE of the Southwest Region.
1:00 pm Tuesdays, Jan. 2nd, Mar. 5th, Apr. 2nd, May 7th upstairs at the Bennington Senior Center
You must schedule an appointment by calling 802-442-5502.
Please bring a towel. If you can soak your feet beforehand, it is helpful.
Suggested donation fees: $10.00 for foot care and $3.00 for blood pressure clinic.
PARTICIPANT POLICIES
PAYMENT & REFUND POLICY
Checks are payable to the Bennington Senior Center, unless otherwise specified. If we have not received your payment by the due date, we must cancel your reservation. As a courtesy, we will remind you when payment is due. However, we cannot assume responsibility if we are unable to reach you.
WE CANNOT REFUND AFTER TICKETS HAVE BEEN PURCHASED.
If you have purchased a ticket and must cancel, we will try to sell your ticket to a party on the waiting list. If you miss the bus, we cannot refund. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
TRIP POLICY
Trips are open to all adults, regardless of place of residence. Intergenerational trips for younger children are available where indicated. In the interest of passenger safety, we reserve the right to cancel any trip due to inclement weather. We are not able to refund for weather related cancellations.
OUT TO EAT!
Tue., Mar. 19th Bubbles Restaurant Mechanicville, NY
Wed., Apr. 24th Falls Diner Hoosick Falls, NY
All Green Mountain Express trips depart from the senior center at 124 Pleasant Street. Please pay your van transportation in correct cash to senior center staff on the day of the trip as we are not able to refund if you pay ahead and the trip is cancelled.
Coach trips depart from the Bennington Station parking lot at the corner of Depot & River Street. We do not assign seating unless you have medical
documentation that special seating is required.
We reserve the right to cancel trips with less than 10 passengers and coach trips with less than 30, as they are not cost effective. Transportation to airports is not always provided by the center. NOTE: Tipping for the coach driver is not included in the cost of trips. We recommend $2 per day unless otherwise stated in trip itinerary.
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE POLICY
An escort companion and/or personal assistant is required for all travelers having a disability (a physical or mental impairment which limits one or more of the major life abilities). The companion travels at full fare cost and is responsible for all special needs of the individual. To the extent possible, we will accommodate with proper transportation, lodging and access to facilities. To assist us in meeting any special needs, please notify us at the time of reservation. Medical documentation, including permission to travel from your physician, may be required and is strictly confidential. We reserve the right to refuse passage to any person who does not adhere to this policy.
CHANGE IN TRIP POLICY
Due to ongoing confusion with current reservation policies, anyone who wants a reservation must sign up themselves and must provide their own phone number
SENIOR CENTER POT LUCKS
Wednesday, Mar. 13th 11:30am - ??? Senior Center
Wednesday, Apr. 17th 11:30am - ??? Senior Center
Wednesday, May 15th 11:30am - ??? Senior Center
Bring a dish and socialize! We aim to start serving at noon.
POTLUCK TIP: If you don’t know what to bring, ask us! There is always something you can bring, even if you don’t cook or are low on funds.
Please sign up no later than Friday prior for any or all these events - 802-442-1052
Greater Bennington Interfaith Community Services, Inc.
serves people through:
Kitchen Cupboard - The Kitchen Cupboard provides free food to individuals and families in need and teaches them how to eat better on a budget.
Emergency Needs Fund - The Emergency Needs Fund helps families pay for shelter, utilities and other basic needs to low-income families experiencing a financial crisis due to unexpected events like layoffs and injuries.
You First - The You First Bennington program provides eligible individuals in Bennington County personalized support to pay for breast, cervical and heart screenings, diagnostic tests and heart healthy lifestyle programs.
The Dr. G. Richard Dundas Free Clinic - Primary medical care, care coordination, and referrals for uninsured or underinsured adults living in the Bennington County area. More information can be obtained by calling (802) 447-3700. More information can be obtained by calling (802) 447-3700.
SHOPPING
These shopping trips are sponsored by the Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging, which provides funding to cover 80% of the transportation cost.
Transportation by Green Mountain Express. 9:30am - 4:00pm.
Cost $4
Sign up at the Senior Center for these shopping trips and pay the fee at the Senior Center front desk on the day of the trip.
Thursday, March 7th
Colonie Center Albany, NY
Wednesday, March 27th Pittsfield Stores Pittsfield, MA
Wednesday, April 3rd
Tuesday, April 30th
Tuesday, May 7th
Colonie Center Albany, NY
Crossgates Mall Albany, NY
Colonie Center Albany, NY
– COMMUNITY RESOURCES –
Bennington Town Clerk/ Town Offices (802) 442-1037
Bennington Recreation Center/YMCA (802) 442-1053
Meals on Wheels of Bennington County (802) 442-8012
VNA & Hospice (Bennington Home Health) (802) 442-5502
Bennington Project Independence (802) 442-8136
Bennington Rutland Opportunity Council (BROC) (802) 447-7515
Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (802) 442-5436
Retired Senior Volunteer Project (RSVP) (802) 447-1546
Social Security Administration (Rutland office) (866) 690-1944
Green Mountain Community Network (802) 447-0477
Support And Services at Home (SASH) (802) 442-9920 – HOUSING –
Bennington Housing Authority (802) 442-8000 Shires Housing (802) 442-8139
THM (office in Manchester) (802) 362-4663
BECOME A LIFE SAVER
BABYSITTING BASICS
BECOME A LIFE SAVER
February 20, 2024 | 1pm - 5pm
Member: $50 | Non-Member: $75
CPR, AED, FIRST AID
BABYSITTING BASICS
February 20, 2024 | 1pm - 5pm
February 24, 2024 | 8am - 12pm
Member: $50 | Non-Member: $75
Member: $60 | Non-Member: $75
CPR, AED, FIRST AID
BLENDED LIFEGUARD LEARNING CLASS
February 24, 2024 | 8am - 12pm
March 23, 2024 | 8am - 5pm
Member: $60 | Non-Member: $75
Member: $100 | Non-Member: $150
BLENDED LIFEGUARD LEARNING CLASS
March 23, 2024 | 8am - 5pm
Member: $100 | Non-Member: $150
IN-HOUSE PROGRAMS
COFFEE With…
Back by popular demand! These meetings give you the opportunity to learn about different local places, programs, activities, and businesses you may not know about, and give you the opportunity to ask questions and give direct input.
Friday, March 1st 10-11am
Wendy Lyons, Executive Director
VT Centers for Independent Living (VCIL)
VCIL is a nonprofit organization directed and staffed by people with disabilities. We work to promote the dignity, independence, and civil rights of disabled Vermonters through promotion of active citizenship and working with others to create services that support free-choice and full participation in community life.
Friday, April 5th 10-11am
Jeanne Mintrone, Executive Director
Better Bennington Corporation (BBC)
Ever wonder what the BBC is or what it does? The mission of the Better Bennington Corporation is to lead and support public and private efforts that enhance downtown as the vital commercial and cultural heart of the community. Come and voice your ideas on ways to make it happen!
Plant Swap & Repotting
Friday, March 15th 9 – 11am
Have a plant that has multiplied? How about one that has outgrown its home? Bring them in to repot, share, or maybe bring a cutting home. We can start some veggies/flowers/herbs if you like, or bring ideas for future plant projects.
UNTIL HELP ARRIVES
Friday, April 12th 9 – 11 am
Have you ever been with someone when they have a sudden health emergency? Stroke, heart attack, hypothermia… Wouldn’t it be great to know what to do until first responders get there?
Join Ron Sampath, former Red Cross instructor, to learn how to react and what to do for different emergencies. Increase the probability of a positive outcome!
Senior Art & Craft Show & Sale
Saturday, June 22 10am-3pm
We have so many gifted, talented seniors! Painting, quilting, knitting and crocheting, jewelry making… SO MANY THINGS!! If you are interested in renting a table ($5 or $10) to sell your items, please contact Carrie (contact info on the cover). If you have items to donate, that’s another option. Money raised will go to our activities fund. We hope to make this an annual event!
TRIPS & TRAVEL
PROCTOR’S: For those going to see “Les Miserables” on March 21st, please remember that the bus departs from the old Bennington Station parking lot. Departure time is 11:30am; please be there at least 10 minutes prior to departure.
Via Aquarium
Tues, April 9th 10:00am-4pm $20 + lunch
Bus picks up at the Bennington Senior Center Located in the Viaport Rotterdam Mall, this indoor aquarium celebrates aquatic biodiversity with exhibits, experiences, and public programs designed to connect people of all ages with our planet’s aquatic ecosystems. Not only will you see beautiful tank enclosures, but you will also have time to eat and shop in the mall. This trip has limited openings; please call early to sign up! (802) 442-1052
COACH TRIPS
Be on the lookout for trip information! We are planning a September trip to Montreal and Quebec, and a December trip to Lancaster, PA. PA trip will include Sight & Sound Theater, American Music Theater, and Koziar’s Christmas Village.
NOW HIRING
The Bennington Recreation Center is now hiring a MORNING SHIFT LIFEGUARD
The Certified Lifeguard plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our members and guests. In this position, you will be responsible for maintaining a safe and clean pool area, actively surveying the pool, enforcing safety rules, and responding to emergencies with professionalism and care.
PAY RATE: $16.50 per hour
POSITION START TIME: 6:00am
QUALIFICATIONS:
Minimum age of 16.
Preferably with prior lifeguarding experience.
Current Lifeguard, CPR/AED, and First-Aid certifications.
Excellent communication skills and ability to work with diverse backgrounds.
OUR CULTURE:
At the Y, we are committed to nurturing the potential of every individual, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility.
We are looking for individuals who are:
Welcoming and respectful
Genuine in their interactions
Hopeful and supportive of others' potential
Determined to make a positive impact
Berkshire Family YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Scan the QR code or visit bfymca.org/careers to apply today!
Painting Group 9
Sansone Walking 9 Beginner Ukelele 10:15 Ukelele 11 Games 1 Town Meeting at the River St. Firehouse 7:00pm
Painting Group 9
Sansone Walking 9 Beginner Ukelele 10:15 Ukelele 11
Games 1
Painting Group 9
Sansone Walking 9 Beginner Ukelele 10:15 Ukelele 11
Games 1
Painting Group 9
Sansone Walking 9 Beginner Ukelele 10:15 Ukelele 11 Games 1
MARCH 2024 APRIL 2024
Painting Group 9
Sansone Walking 9 Beginner Ukelele 10:15
Ukelele 11 Games 1
Painting Group 9
Sansone Walking 9 Beginner Ukelele 10:15 Ukelele 11 Games 1
Painting Group 9
Sansone Walking 9 Beginner Ukelele 10:15
Ukelele 11 Games 1
Painting Group 9
Sansone Walking 9 Beginner Ukelele 10:15 Ukelele 11 Games 1
Painting Group 9
Sansone Walking 9 Beginner Ukelele 10:15 Ukelele 11 Games 1
Builders 8:30 Bone Builders 10
Chi Level 1 1
Foot Clinic 1
Tai Chi - Level 2 9 Movie 1 Calendar Girls
Tai Chi - Level 2 9
St. Patrick’s Potluck 11:30 am - ?
Tai Chi - Level 2 10 Trivia 1
Bone Builders 8:30
Bone Builders 10 Craft Corner 1 Crochet with Deb 1 Colonie Center 9:30 - 4
Bone Builders 8:30
Bone Builders 10 Craft Corner 1
Bone Builders 8:30
Bone Builders 10 Craft Corner 1
Crochet with Deb 1 Les Miserables @ Proctor’s Theater 11:30am - 7:30pm
Tai Chi - Level 2 10 Pittsfield Stores 9:30-4
Bone Builders 8:30
Bone Builders 10 Craft Corner 1
1
Bone Builders 8:30 Bone Builders 10
Tai Chi Level 1 1
Tai Chi - Level 2 10 Movie 1 Seabiscuit Colonie Center 9:30 - 4
Tai Chi - Level 2 10
Tai Chi - Level 2 9 Potluck 11:30 am - ?
Tai Chi - Level 2 10 Trivia 1
Bubbles Restaurant 10:30 - 2:30
Bone Builders 8:30
Bone Builders 10 Craft Corner 1
Bone Builders 8:30
Bone Builders 10 Craft Corner 1 Crochet with Deb 1
Bone Builders 8:30
Bone Builders 10 Craft Corner 1
Bone Builders 8:30
Bone Builders 10 Craft Corner 1 Crochet with Deb 1
MARCH 2024
ADULT EVENTS
Registrations required! Check Facebook page for pop-up programs |Register at BFYMCA.org/programs | (802)442-1053 Coffee with Wendy
Wednesday at the Bennington Sports Center from 9-11am
Drop in Hours
APRIL 2024
ADULT EVENTS
Drop in Hours
BASKETBALL
Who can play?
There will be 3 di erent age groups. Grades 5/6, 7/8 and High School age players are welcome. Sign up with friends and come and play! Our Y sta Kyle will be there to assist with skills, rules and break groups into teams.
How late should I stay?
We will play until 930pm at the Bennington Sports Center. Play AND eat with pizza from Bennington Pizza House. 3 on 3 rules
• All games will be played to 11 points or the time of 7 minutes, whatever comes first.
• All games are straight up. There is NO win by 2.
• Overtime will be sudden death. The first team to score wins.
• Loosers out. After every basket the defensive team will be now on o ense.
• Every change of possession other than scoring must be cleared past the 3pt line, with either the pass or by the dribble. This means on a rebound or a steal from the defensive team they must clear it past the 3pt line to score.
• Games are 1’s and 2’s. Every basket below the 3pt line is 1 point and every basketball above the 3pt line is 2 points.
• After every basket the ball needs to be checked up at the top of the 3pt line.
POOL SCHEDULE
BENNINGTON RECREATION CENTER
Typical March-April Pool Schedule
Please note that the pool schedule is subject to change and should be checked before arriving. Check online schedules for accurate pool schedule, group exercise, and more: www.bfymca.org/schedules
Sign up for classes, learn about special events, and more on our website! Below are general schedules for each day of the week.
Sunday
8am-12pm: Lap/Open Swim
12-1pm: Pool Rental
Monday
6-9 am: Lap/Open Swim
9-10 am: SVSU School Group
10-11 am: Lap/Open Swim
11-12 pm: DanceFit Class
12-1 pm: Lap/Open Swim
1-2 pm: SVSU School Group
2-430pm: Lap/Open Swim
5:30-7 pm: Marauders
7-8 pm: Lap/Open Swim
Tuesday
8-10am Lap/Open Swim
10-11 am: Water Exercise
11-11:30 am: Lap Swim
11:30-1:30 pm: BRSU Swim/Lap/Open
1:30-4 pm: Lap/Open Swim
4-6 pm: Swim Lessons
6-7 pm: Marauders
7-8 pm: Masters
Wednesday
6-8am Lap Swim
8-9 am: Deep Water Class/Lap
9-10 am: Lap/Open
10-10:30 am: Head Start Group
10:30-11:30 am: Playgroup/Lap
11:30am-515 pm: Lap/Open Swim
5:15-6 pm: Water Aerobics Class
6-7:30 pm: Marauders
7:30-8 pm: Lap/Open
Thursday
8-10am Lap/Open Swim
10-11 am: Water Exercise
11-1 pm: Lap/Open Swim
1-2 pm: VPI Group
2-6 pm: Swim Lessons
6-7pm: Marauders
7-8 pm: Masters
Friday
6-9am Lap/Open Swim
9-10 am: SVSU School Group
10-11 am: Lap/Open Swim
11-12 pm: DanceFit Class
12-2:30 pm: Lap Swim
11:30am-515 pm: Lap/Open Swim
5:15-6 pm: Water Aerobics Class
6-7:30 pm: Marauders
7:30-8 pm: Lap/Open
Saturday
8-10:30 am: Lap/Open Swim
10:30-12 pm: Masters
12-1 pm: Swim Lessons
1-3 pm: Family Swim
3-4 pm: Lap Swim
4-5 pm: Pool Rentals