We try for space and capacity of the meeting places to keep each class at a certain
and reasonable size, please call early to
ensure you get the meeting place that
works best for you.
Any questions, please contact Sarah
McClung at the Commission on Aging at
989-875-5286.
Rummage &
Bake Sale at
Senior Center
Come in and shop at the
annual Senior Center Rummage & Bake Sale. It will
be June 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. & June 10
from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1329 Michigan
Ave, St Louis.
There will be delicious baked goods to
tantalize your taste buds. Lots of house
wares, knick knacks, books, etc. to pick
from. Thank you for your support
of our sale.
NON-PROFIT
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
PERMIT NO. 4
ITHACA MI
Wednesday, June 8 at 9:30 am or 1:30
pm
Commission on Aging
515 S Pine River, Ithaca
June 2016
Volume XL
Number 6
Monday, June 6 at 9:30 am or 1:30 pm
Senior Center
1329 Michigan Ave, St. Louis
A non-profit organization, in cooperation with Gratiot Commission on Aging
The class times and dates are as follows:
▄
booklet. Due to the limited number of
coupon booklets, if you show up at one of
the following classes without signing up
first, you will not receive a coupon booklet. Again please call to sign up for the
Project Fresh Program.
SENIOR GRATIOT, INC
515 S. Pine River
Ithaca MI 48847
989-875-5246
Change Service Requested
Project Fresh 2016 Information
The Michigan Senior Project Fresh/Market Fresh Program is
here. Later in the article is a list of dates and times for the classes.
Again this program is a first come first serve, so call early to
reserve your spot. To sign up for the Senior Project Fresh please
contact Sarah McClung at the Commission on Aging at 989-8755286. This is my direct phone number, where one is able to leave
a message anytime. Due to the number of clients calling in during
this time, you will most likely get my voicemail; I ask that if you
get the voicemail, it is necessary to only leave one message. I will
return calls in the order that they come in. Also, due to the volume
of calls coming in, I may not be able to return your call on the
same day. Thank you for your patience.
To be eligible to receive the Senior Project Fresh coupons you
must be at least 60 years of age, meet income guidelines and live
in Gratiot County. The income guidelines are based on 185% of
the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. The maximum income for
one is $1,815 per month and for two it is $2,456 per month.
Another requirement of the Senior Project Fresh, is attending the
Senior Project Fresh Class. If you have attended this class in the
past, it is required to attend this class each year you receive the
project fresh coupons. If you are unable to attend the Project Fresh
class, you also have the option to designate a proxy who can attend
the class and pick up your coupon booklet for you. If you require a
proxy, I need to know in advance so I can get the needed paperwork out to you to give to your proxy to bring with them. These
classes take about an hour.
We are asking that you call in to sign up for one of the following
classes. You MUST sign up for the classes to receive a coupon
SENIOR GRATIOT
Published by Senior Gratiot, Inc.
JUNE 2016
AARP “Smart Driver” Course
Commission on Aging
515 S. Pine River Street, Ithaca
Wednesday, July 13, 2016
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Smart Driver course through AARP
will be held at Gratiot County Commission
on Aging in Ithaca. Registration begins at
8:15 a.m. The cost for the class is $15 for
an AARP member or $20 for nonmembers. Payment for the class is by
personal check made out to AARP or
may be paid in cash. Payment is due the
day of the class. The course takes place
within the classroom, not behind the wheel
of an automobile.
Why take the AARP Smart Driver
course?
* You may be eligible for an auto insurance discount
* You will learn new traffic laws, rules of
the road and driving skills
* You will learn how to adjust your driving
to age-related changes such as changes in
vision, hearing and reaction time
* You will become more confident in your
own driving abilities.
Lunch break is one-half hour. For your
convenience you may purchase a hot lunch
through the COA kitchen for a donation of
$2.50, or you are welcome to bring your own
lunch. Microwave and refrigerator are
available. Beverages will be provided by
Commission on Aging.
Pre-registration is mandatory. Class size
is limited. Please call Commission on Aging
at 989-875-5246 to pre-register.
Caring for Someone
with Dementia
The Gratiot County Commission on
Aging will be offering two classes on
dementia in July. The first class, What is
Dementia, covers the most common forms
of dementia and how they affect the person
who has the disease. This class lasts about
two hours and will be offered on Wednesday, July 6th from 1 pm to 3 pm and
Thursday, July 7th from 10 am to 12 noon.
The second class is Effective Caregiving
which will give you knowledge to help
negotiate the numerous issues that develop
when caring for someone with dementia.
This class will be held on Wednesday, July
20th from 1 pm to 3 pm and Thursday, July
21 from 10 am to 12 noon.
All classes will be in the Gratiot County
Commission on Aging conference room at
515 S. Pine River Street, Ithaca, MI 48847.
If you would like more information on the
classes or would like to register for one of
the classes, contact Scott Hicks, LPN,
Caregiver Trainer at (989) 875-5269 or
email at [email protected].
Senior Gratiot
June
Spring
Window
Washing
Underway
With warmer weather just around the
corner, it is time to be thinking about
putting your screens back on.
This is an extremely busy time of year for
Steve Lowery and his crew, so if you need
your windows washed, please remember it
could be a while from the time you call
until the job is completed. Therefore, you
may want to get your request in now.
When you call, please list all the jobs you
want done as this assists the planning of
our work schedule.
Call Commission on Aging at 989-8755246 for a request or for more information.
Vacations, gardening, company coming
and going…. No school--and so no student
blood drives. Donations suffer a dramatic
decline in the summer months. The need
for blood does not. Every single donation
helps the American Red Cross meet the
daily needs of hospitals. Please try to
make time in June to help save lives.
Wednesday, June 1 from 12 to 6 p.m. at
the Alma V.F.W. Hall on Wright Avenue
Tuesday, June 7 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
at Pine River Health Care, 1149 W.
Monroe, St. Louis
Friday, June 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at
Ashley Community Center
Friday, June 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at
Central MI Correctional Facility
This drive is ONLY open to prison staff.
Tuesday, June 21 from 1 to 7 p.m. at
Alma’s 1st Presbyterian Church
55 pints were collected in April! Can we
make it 60 this month? The Midstatesmen
Barbershop Chorus is sponsoring this drive
and will be performing for the donors.
Call 1 800 redcross or visit www.redcross
blood.org to schedule your appointment.
Call the Gratiot County Service Center of
the American Red Cross for more information: 989 463-3209.
Page 2
Food Preservation
Workshop
Are you up to date with preserving foods
at home? MSU Extension’s Food Safety
Educator, Joyce McGarry, will be offering
two opportunities to learn about the latest
research regarding canning and preserving
foods at home.
The workshops will take place at the
Gratiot County Fair for Youth Office in
Alma on Wednesday June 29th at 6:00 pm
OR Wednesday July 20th at 10:30 am. There
is a $10 registration fee to cover the cost of
materials you will be receiving to take
home.
To register please call the Gratiot County
MSU Extension Office at 989-449-4234 or
email [email protected].
MID-MICHIGAN
DISTRICT HEALTH
DEPARTMENT
SEEKING
VOLUNTEERS
By Sue Koch, Coordinator of Volunteers
Gratiot County Commission on Aging
volunteers and other community persons are
invited to participate in an emergency
preparedness exercise with Mid-Michigan
District Health Department. The volunteer
participants will “play the roles” of community members who find themselves without
their medications during a natural disaster
or other emergency impacting our area of
Michigan.
No experience is required. The event is
handicap accessible. Family and friends are
welcome to participate. Lunch will be
provided. Please register to volunteer by
July 13, 2016.
Date of Event: Wednesday July 20, 2016
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Location of Event: Central Montcalm
High School
1480 S. Sheridan Rd SW
Stanton, MI 48888
Please register to volunteer online at https://
www.123contactform.com/form-1896556/
or by calling (989) 875-1024.
SERVICE TO OTHERS
Train to be a Home Delivered Meal
Volunteer.
Your volunteer activity serves homebound seniors who have difficulty preparing a balanced meal on a regular basis.
Your volunteer activity may help a senior
remain in his/her own home. You are the
weekday eyes and ears who checks that
the client is home and able to accept a
meal. You may be the only contact the
individual has for the day or several days.
Your wellness check will identify any
noticeable changes in the individual or
the home.
Please contact Sue Koch, at 989-8755346 for specific information.
GAIN Low Cost Spay/
Neuter Clinics Schedule
Overpopulation is the primary reason
that cats and kittens are brought to
shelters.
There are more cats and
kittens than adopters. PLEASE BE A
PART OF THE SOLUTION AND END
THE NEEDLESS KILLING OF
ADOPTIBLE ANIMALS BY SPAYING
AND NEUTERING. THIS IS THE
ONLY SOLUTION THAT CONTROLS
PET OVERPOPULATION.
The Gain Program of Gratiot County
has set up dates for low cost spay/neuter
clinics for low income seniors and the
general public.
Cost for one cat is $35.00, $25.00 each
for 2 or more, free roaming and feral
cats price includes rabies vaccine and
ear tip. All clinics are on Mondays at
the Gratiot Animal Shelter.
Clinic Dates are:
June 20
July 18
August 15
September 19
October 17
November date if needed.
Appointments are required, contact
Marie Green at 989-875-2286 to
schedule your animal’s appointment
today.
Senior Gratiot
June
Air Conditioner
Loan Program
The warmer weather is
hopefully around the corner.
The Commission on Aging is again able to
provide air conditioners to individuals who
are not able to purchase a unit with their
own funds.
We would like to make you aware of the
fact that if the air conditioner you receive
from us quits working, we will not be able
to replace it. We will make every attempt
to fix the broken machine, but if we can’t,
we will not be able to provide another unit
for you this Summer.
Due to our limitations, we encourage
residents to purchase your own air
conditioner, if at all possible, and, therefore, you would own it outright. Our Home
Chore staff would still be able to install
your personal air conditioner if needed.
The eligibility guidelines are based on
the categories listed below:
1. Must be age 60 or older 2. Income
3. Assets 4. Health needs 5. Homebound
To request an air conditioner from the
Commission on Aging, call 875-5246.
Your application will be reviewed by the
Commission on Aging staff, and you will
be contacted once your application has
been approved or denied. If approved, our
Home Chore staff will contact you to set up
an appointment.
Nutrition & Cooking
Classes
Cooking Matters for Adults is a nutrition
program where participants will learn how
to eat healthy, cook and grocery shop while
on a limited budget.
The program consists of six lessons
lasting approximately two hours each. With
the help of an experienced chef and MSU
Extension nutrition educator, participants
will gain the skills and confidence to make
healthy, budget friendly meals for their
family.
Each week, the participants will receive
take-home food, which they can use at
home to practice the recipe they learned in
class. They will also receive a cookbook,
certificate of
completion, and a $10
grocery store tour
once the class is
completed.
Classes are on
Wednesday
6/1,
6/15, 6/22, 6/29,
7/6, and 7/13 from
12 pm to 2 pm at
the Alma Fairgrounds.
To sign up please
contact: Lindsay
Padgett, MSU Extension Nutrition
Instructor at (989) 449-4234 or padget
[email protected].
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
To Enhance the Lives of Individuals With Alzheimers
Disease and Other Dementias
The Caregiver Support Group is designed to
provide emotional, educational, and social
support for caregivers through regularly
scheduled meetings. They help participants
develop methods and skills to solve problems.
The group encourages caregivers to maintain
their own personal, physical and emotional
health, as well as optimally care for the
person with dementia.
Page 3
Commodity Food
Distribution Date
Commodities distribution will be on
Monday, June 27, 2016 .
Anyone 60 years and older and meet the
income guidelines is eligible to receive the
food commodities. The income guidelines
are 1 person no more than $1,287 per
month and a couple no more than $1,736
per month. Anyone interest in the program
can contact at Eight Cap - 989-463-5693.
Clients may pick up commodities at the
Alma Elks, 610 W Warwick Dr., Alma
from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. or at the
Commission on Aging, 515 S Pine River
St., Ithaca from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Medicare/Medicaid
Publications Available
online
The Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) website has
publications available on their webpage.
The web address is www.mmapinc.org.
Publications are available in pdf format.
Publications on website include: “Medicare
and You” handbook, “Beware of Medicare
Scams”, “Long Term Care Comparison
Guide”, “When your Spouse in is a
Nursing Home”, and more information
related to Medicare and Medicaid. Also
from this webpage you will find links to
useful websites and learn about MMAP.
MMAP is a free counseling service for
Medicare beneficiaries and their families or
caregivers. MMAP can help you identify
resources for prescription drug assistance,
explore Medicare health plan options,
understand explain the Medicare Summary
Notice and identify and report Medicare
fraud and abuse. The MMAP counselor for
Gratiot County is Sarah McClung, if you
have any questions please contact 989-8755286. There is a MMAP counselor in
every county; one can reach their local
MMAP counselor by visiting the website
www.mmapinc.org calling toll free hotline
at 1-800-803-717. This toll free number
will direct you to the MMAP counselor in
your area.
As A Reminder
Where: First Presbyterian Church
495 Charles Ave, Alma MI 48801
When: 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Contact: Scott Hicks 989-875-5269
[email protected]
Bring family members with you, along with a friend, who
would like to learn more about Alzheimers Disease
Medicare and the Social Security Administration do not make house calls, nor are
they making telephone calls.
If you
receive a call from someone giving the
impression that they are from one of these
agencies, BEWARE! The caller is trying
to trick you.
Also beware of the telemarketers calling
over and over. If you have caller I.D. and
don’t know the number, don’t pick it up.
There are so many people/organizations
calling for some fundraiser. Only donate
to the local or national companies that you
want to on your own. Don’t commit to
anything over the phone. Have them
mail the paperwork to you to make your
donation.
Senior Gratiot
Gratiot Community
Senior Center
By Jamie Bolsby
Dear Friends,
On behalf of the Board of Directors and
myself, I would like to personally thank all
the folks who have responded so quickly
to our Spring Fund Drive letter. We work
throughout the year raising funds to cover
expenses at our Center, but the Spring
Fund Drive is our most important
campaign. Donations in memory of a
loved one or those to honor important
people in our lives help sustain us year
long. Thank you again for your support.
We are having Rummage and Bake Sale
on Thursday the 9 from 9:00-4:00 and
Friday the 10 from 9:00-4:00. We will
be featuring a large variety of delicious
baked items that will tantalize your taste
buds. While you are checking out the
homemade baked goods you will want to
check out our many miscellaneous items
and perhaps some treasures?
I hope many of you have taken
advantage and signed up at the COA for
the Project Fresh program. It’s a good
opportunity to enjoy Michigan’s local
harvest. Informational training will be
given here on Monday the 6, so be sure to
check your schedule for the appropriate
time.
Summertime is the perfect time to get out
and experience new adventures. Our DAY
TRIPS ar e a lot of fun and a gr eat way
to meet new people and travel safely.
Many times I am asked if you have to live
in Gratiot County or be a senior citizen.
Continued
June
The answer is no. We are not restricted to
any county and we accept all adult travelers. So bring your friends and family and
start creating memories. Call me anytime
if you have questions.
Remember, we offer a hot home cooked
lunch five days a week! J ust call one day
in advance for your reservation. We
always have room around the table for you!
Be sure to check out my other June
activities in this listing and see the
calendar for the correct times.
1 Bingo is every Wednesday right after
lunch. We accept stable shelf items &
white elephants prizes.
2 Celebrate the Nickel’s 150th year.
6 Project Fresh informational class
7 Senior Center Board Meeting
9 & 10 Rummage & Bake Sale Fundraiser.
Yum!
13 Nutrition Program “Food Choices &
Chronic Illness”
14 Celebrate Flag Day
15 Birthday Party & bingo
20 Mackinaw Island bus trip - All aboard!
23 Root Beer Floats – sign up for lunch
today!
27, 28, & 30 Word games, good workout
for the brain.
REMEMBER
Wednesday’s are Bingo
Line Dancing is taking the summer off &
will be back in September.
Friday’s are Euchre
Lunches are daily at noon. Let us do the
cooking for you!
If it’s hot outside, it’s cool in here! Stop in.
Be good to yourself.
“All life is an experiment.”
---Ralph Waldo Emerson
Page 4
Gratiot Community Senior
Center Donations
May you find comfort in knowing your
thoughtful gift has made a difference in the
lives of others. We would like to thank the
following individuals, who have generously donated to the Gratiot Community
Senior Center at 1329 Michigan Ave., St.
Louis from April 13, 2016 thru May 12,
2016.
General Donations . . .
Euchre card players
James & Florence Ann Farrough
Wes & Vicki Litwiller
Tom & Netta Thiell
James & Mary Mikek
Gary & Lou Irwin
Don & Joan Godfrey
Ruth Spencer
Joan Cook
LF Sandel
Robert & Katherine Bachan
Jean Ann Cline
Powel Fabrication & Manufacturing, Inc.
Jack & Carol Tennant
James & Ruth Mackie
Virginia Zwierzynski
Ruth Towar
Margaret McCormick
Bernie & Janet Winn
Fred E. Richards St. Louis VFW Post 3055
Dean & Phyllis Clark
Mercantile Bank 2016
Avalon & Tahoe Mfg., Inc.
In Loving Memory of . . .
Elton Moyes
Alma Moyes
My Loved Ones
Irene Reed
Continued on Page 5
Senior Gratiot
Continued from Page 4
Leola Jackson
Howard & Dolores Comstock
Chris Fisher
Josephine Shepard
Dick & Norma Searle
Lois & John Johnston
Laura Furtaw
Doris LaPaugh
Shirley Young
Jamie Bolsby
Madge Owen
Yvonne Muneio
Bob & Kate Bachan
Cathie Nelson
Shirley Wallace
Alice Patterson
Margaret Goshorn
Gerald Goshorn
Leo & Vida Ludwick
Garr Tool Company
Urban Dickman
Marietta Dickman
Omar J. Garberson
Majel M. Garberson
Our Parents
Don & Sherida Burch
Nelson & Anna Stevens
Clarence & Helen Wolfgang
Ronnie Wolfgang
Ramon & Berniece Wolfgang
Jim English
Bob Tedhams
Rich Tedhams
Bernard & Fran Bessert
Lee Jackson
June Christianson
Doc & Helen Knowles
Marge Hoffman
John & Julie Shimunek
Virginia Disbrow on her June 15
birthday
Shirley Wallace
Al Rademacher
Harry & Beverly Tripp
Yvonne Jarrett
Robert Jarrett
Ellis & Eileen Terrell
Henry & Josephine Naessens
John & Nancy Naessens
Nolan Drain
Lux Funeral Home
Noel Wilson
Sally Wilson
Grover Hall
Joyce Hall
Raymond Higley
Dean & Catherine Howd
Mary Higley
John & Mamie Skaryd
Gearold & Lena Skaryd
Grover Hall
Emil Neitzke, Jr.
Richard & Judith Hall
Donald Fisher
Dale & Charlotte Bushre
Bruce H. Moeggenborg
Wilfred & Mary Kolhoff
August & Mary Moeggenborg
Norma A. Moeggenborg
Harry & Mildred Tripp
Harry & Beverly Tripp
Bill Stuckey
Barbara Stuckey
James E. Bader
Valma G. Bader
Continued
June
Betty Crispin
Katherine Wight
Russ & Joneen Wight
Our Fallen Members 2016
American Legion Post 256 Auxiliary
In Honor of . . .
Keith & Sharon Wise
Richard & Joyce Colbry
While on our bus trip north to Petosky
we enjoyed learning local history from
our guide, Mary Jane.
Margaret Metcalf, Marylyn and Alvaro
Nicolls enjoy a river view.
Right Place at The
Right Time
By Sue Koch, Volunteer Coordinator
One of our workers in Commission on
Aging’s Home Chore/Home Repair
program was in The Right Place at the
Right Time recently.
He received a call from a senior asking if
he could take a look at an electrical
socket in an upstairs bedroom that
wasn’t working properly. When he
arrived at the senior’s home, he moved
the bed away from the wall holding the
electrical socket the senior was concerned about. He removed the socket’s
faceplate to find the wiring frayed and
the back of the socket’s faceplate blackened. Clearly evidence of heat and
smoke damage.
Next, he removed the ‘sister’ faceplate a
few feet further along the wall, and
found a very loose socket and electrical
wiring badly frayed. The worker made
the needed repairs; accepted the gratitude
of the senior; and was on his way to his
next Home Chore/Home Repair job.
Our Home Chore/Home Repair team of
workers are making a difference for
many Gratiot County seniors. This
program is funded by Grants and by
donations from those the program serves.
Please call Commission on Aging (989)
875-5246 for help with minor chores/
repairs in your home.
Page 5
Good News from
Good Company
By Michelle Lucchesi, Psychologist
and Program Coordinator of
Good Company Adult Day Program
More About Depression
Last month I discussed depression in the
senior population. While reading on this
topic I came across some statistics that may
surprise you. I had mentioned that depression rates increase with age. Here are the
specifics on that; According to the Center
for Disease Control (in “Key Indicators of
Well Being. Older Americans 2012”
CDC.gov) the general rate of depression
among Americans ages 12 and up is about
7.6%. The depression rate for men over age
65 is 11% and for women over age 65 it is
16%. This is obviously significantly higher
than the general population. And is continues to increase with age. Those between 65
and 69 the rate is 12%, but for those over
85 it is 18%.
These are astonishing numbers. Ones we
cannot ignore. Some of the contributing
factors, which I pointed to in my last
article, also have consistent statistics.
While leisure time understandably increases between the ages of 55 and over 75,
some of the important uses of leisure time
actually decrease. Leisure time spent socializing decreases from 11 % to 8%. Leisure time spent in sport, exercise and physical recreation decreases from 5% to 3%.
While leisure time spent watching television remains the same at 58%.
In separate research, completed in a
county in upstate New York, it was found
that 19% of older adults interviewed had
no contact with anyone in the past week,
and 22% had only one contact. (quoted in
Stumbo et al, “Community Integration;
Showcasing the Evidence for Therapeutic
Recreation Services.” Therapeutic Recreation Journal. 2015). That is 41% of older
adults who are isolated, talking to only one,
or no other person. We know that social
contact is vital for mental wellbeing, as is
physical movement.
Making sure you or your senior loved
one gets adequate socialization and movement can help prevent or treat depression.
Social programs like the Senior Center or
Good Company are an important piece in
this wellness plan.
Michelle Lucchesi is a Limited Licensed
Psychologist and Coordinator of Good
Company Adult Day Respite Program.
Good Company Adult Day Program is
offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at a
cost of $5 an hour at First Presbyterian
Church in Alma. Call 989-463-2940 or
check
www.goodcompany.firstpres.net
for more information. Good Company is
partially funded by Gratiot County
Community Foundation & Garr Tool Corporation.
NOTE: Walk with a friend and always
have a cell phone available in case of an
accident or a fall. Be prepared for the
weather & don’t overdo your exercise
routine at first. Take it slow & enjoy.
Senior Gratiot
VOLUNTEER CORNER
Sue Koch, Coordinator of Volunteers
Please welcome and thank Bonnie
Plants of Ithaca for joining the Commission
on Aging Home Delivered Meals Program
as volunteer drivers ensuring that homebound seniors in Gratiot County receive
hot nutritious meals.
Bonnie Plants is owned and operated by
Mark and Miranda Daniels. They are part of
a nationwide company (http://bonnieplants
.com/) that sells vegetable and herb plants
for gardens. Eleven years ago Mark and
Miranda built their 141,000 square foot
greenhouse on Wisner Road. They grow
about 250,000 flats of vegetable and herb
transplants for distribution to retailers
across Michigan.
Bonnie Plants is a wholesale only greenhouse; but it is good to know that their fine
plants can be purchased in Ithaca at Fowlers
and the Apple Barrel Cider Mill. In St.
Louis, Twin City Landscape features
Bonnie Plants. Mark and Miranda’s plants
are also sold at Meijer’s, Walmart and
Family Farm and Home in Alma. The
couple are Michigan State University
graduates. Go Green!!
Please welcome and thank Tr inity
Church of Alma for joining the Commission on Aging Home Delivered Meals
Program as volunteer drivers ensuring that
homebound seniors in Gratiot County
receive hot nutritious meals.
Senior Gratiot Newspaper readers will
recognize the Trinity Church of Alma for
the help they give Commission on Aging
during October each year when seniors seek
help with Fall yard clean-up. Pastor Jeff
England’s church fosters and lives the
principles of community outreach. Each
Fall, eight Alma senior citizens have their
yards readied for Fall by Trinity Church of
Alma members.
June
Church Team.
Volunteer driver Larry is a resident of
Ashley and a member of Trinity Church of
Alma. He delivers meals for the Ithaca
Area Food with Friends Senior Center.
Thank you, Larry.
If your business, church, school, organization or group would like to form a Home
Delivered Meals Volunteer Driver Team
please contact Sue Koch, Coordinator of
Volunteers at (989) 875-5346.
Dental Services
Available for Low
Income Seniors
The community dental clinics in Mt.
Pleasant (2020 E. Preston Street) and St.
Johns (1307 E. Townsend Road) focus on
serving residents on Medicaid and those
who are low-income without dental
insurance. Both clinics are taking new
patients. Services include:
• Oral Exam/Cleaning
• Fluoride Treatments
• Fillings and Crowns
• Partials and Dentures
• Other Dental Procedures
The clinics provide dental services at a
reduced fee for non-Medicaid low-income
adults and seniors. A one-time membership
fee of $50.00 includes your initial appointment with exam, x-ray and treatment plan.
To qualify total household income must be
below $1861 per month for one person and
$2521 for a couple. Seniors without dental
insurance, in need of dental care are
encouraged to call 877-313-6232 to register as a patient and get scheduled for an
appointment.
PLACES TO DONATE
UNWANTED ITEMS
Office of Human Services 989-681-4289
232 N Mill St
St Louis MI 48880
Accepts donations Monday—Friday from
9:00 am to 12:00 noon
Maple Rapids Mission
Downtown Maple Rapids
Cora Goldman 989-682-4564
Accepts donations on Tuesdays from
10 am—2 pm
Seventh Day Adventist Community
Services
939 N Pine River St, Ithaca
Accepts donations on Tuesdays 8-12 only
989-875-2149
Goodwill in Mt Pleasant on Br oomfield
COUPON
SENIOR GRATIOT, INC.
515 S PINE RIVER ST.
ITHACA MI 48847
SUGGESTED YEARLY DONATION
$10.00 - $25.00
Starting this past April, the church is continuing its community outreach by forming
a Home Delivered Meals Volunteer Driver
Team. We appreciate each member of the
Trinity Church Team. Thank you to Deborah, Shelby, Beverly, Ray, Stacey and Pastor Jeff. We got a bonus with the Trinity
Continued
NAME_______________________________
ADDRESS____________________________
_____________________________________
PLEASE INDICATE: IN MEMORY OF
OR IN HONOR OF:
_____________________________________
Page 6
Older Michiganians
Day
Decisions made in Lansing have a direct
and far-reaching impact on the quality
of life for seniors in Michigan. Each year,
the Area Agency on Aging 1-B participates
in the Older Michiganian’s Day Rally
held on the lawn of the Capitol Building.
This very important annual advocacy
helps give seniors a voice and help
legislators understand both the needs and
the voting power of seniors. This trip will
be on your own—we will not be taking any
transportation from Gratiot County this
year.
Older Michiganians Day – Wednesday,
May 11, 2016
Older Michiganians Day gives seniors
and advocates a chance to:
•
Participate in a rally on the East Lawn
•
Hear from important keynote speakers
•
Meet with state legislators
•
See the presentation of Michigan
Community Service Awards
See the presentation of the Senior
Citizen of the Year Awards
Important platforms for legislative
action:
•
•
Eliminating wait lists
•
Preventing elder abuse
•
Improving accessibility for seniors
within their homes and communities
• Supporting caregivers
For more information on the 2016 Older
Michiganian’s Day visit the event website
at www.oldermichiganiansday.com
How Can You Attend?
Free tickets are available, which include a
complimentary box lunch. To attend, call
Katie Cahill at (248) 262-1282.
Emergency
Address Signs
In an emergency, can your
home be found? Having a
green reflective emergency
address sign enable emergency
personnel to find houses more
quickly.
Commission on Aging has been awarded
the Senior Homebound Endowment Fund,
through the Gratiot County Community
Foundation. This grant will allow Commission on Aging to purchase and install
Emergency Address Signs to Gratiot
County Seniors who are homebound and
have limited income.
So if your home does not have an
address sign or the address sign is worn
out or hard to see, call Sarah McClung
at the Gratiot County Commission on
Aging at 875-5286 to find out if you
qualify for a free emergency address
sign.
Senior Gratiot
COMMISSION ON
AGING DONATIONS
Thank you to the following individuals
who made donations for older adults of
Gratiot County.
Alma Church of God Teamagers
Lincoln Road United Methodist Church
Maple Valley Lions Club
St Louis First United Methodist Church
Tom Schmitz
St Louis Correction Facility Employees
Nancy Carol Vernon
IN MEMORY OF….
ROBERT BECKER
By Mary Becker
JAMES “JIM” BRIGGS
By Joleen Lewis
Esther Bryant
John & Sherry Boucher
Theresa Vance
Garnet & Lillie Hoard
KATHRYN BROWNE
JIMMY BROWNE
NANCY SMEJKAL
NEOLA CRAWFORD
By Marvel McCormick
DENNIS “DEN” COOPER
By Wendy & Scott Cary
Dave Godley
Jim & Vicki Wideman
Pete & Sandy Gross
Andy & Vicki Root
Paul Showers
Bob & Gail Paradise
Jayne Beard
Pat & Linda Brennan
Melvyn & Sharon Kapral
Chuck & Carmen Fisher
Craig & Peggy McClintic
Oscar & Paula Plank
Carl & Carol Rummer
Dave & Jean Best
John & Lori Misenhelder
Andy Zelinski
Goldie Kanine
Frances McClintic
Rick, Kathy, & Heidi Vanderbeek
Jerry & Judy Bovee
Wanda & Ralph Them
Jim & Veronica Norris
Debbie McDaid
Steve & Deanna Zuker
Dee & Bonnie Cooper & Family
Marvin & Phyllis Rhynard
Ronald & Cheryl Krautstrunk
Chris & Jacqueline Loomis
Ken & Nola Owen
Linda Weburg
Steward Ingram & Cooper, PLLC
Carol Reeves & Bill Hirschman
David & Kathy Hundt
DALE CUMBERWORTH
By Family & Friends
FRANCELIA HAWKES
By Betty Hicks
BARB JEROME
By Christine Henies Zerbe
PEG MARCUS
DEN COOPER
By Tamey & Dave Skinner
DAVID NORRIS
By Jim & Veronica Norris
DUANE PENDELL
By Bertha Pendell
Continued
June
KEITH SCHAUB
JOHN HODGES
ZELLA HOWES
DALE CUMBERWORTH
By Pat & Gene Pitcher
KEITH VERNON
HARRIET SHERMAN
ARTHUR NICEWANDER
ZELLA HOWES
PHYLLIS THOMAS
DAN FREED
By Janice Nicewander
SENIOR GRATIOT
NEWSPAPER
DONATIONS
These people generously donated $360.00
to the “Senior Gratiot” Newspaper contribution fund from April 16, 2016 to May
18, 2016. Donations and checks can be
made payable to: SENIOR GRATIOT and
mailed to 515 South Pine River St. Ithaca
MI 48847.
Clare & Jean Bare
Bernard & Frances Bessert
John & Beatrice Cremin
Joan Fisher
Joann Hayward
Reva Kristin
Betty Richardson
Lewis Sandel MD
IN MEMORY OF…
DENNIS “DEN” COOPER
By Mike & Brenda Siefka
DENNIS “DEN”COOPER
LEOLA “LEE” JACKSON
ELAINE DVORAK
LYLE INBODY
By Margaret Parks
ZELLA HOWES
By Carol Husted
DAWN MCDONALD
CORNELIA HOXIE
KAY COBURN
RUBY STARRY
By Joy Flegel
MARLENE MILLER
ELIZABETH LANGLOIS
By Purple Ingalls
ROGER SMITH
By Gerry Courtney
DOUGLAS STEWARD
By The St Louis Class of 1955
HUBERT VIOLET
LINDA CHURCH
By Kathleen Hutchins
LAKESHORE LEGAL
AID OFFERS FREE
LEGAL ADVICE TO
SENIORS 60 AND
OVER.
CALL TOLL FREE
TO 1-866-552-2889
TO SCHEDULE AN
APPOINTMENT IN
GRATIOT COUNTY.
Page 7
SERVICE TO OTHERS
Train to be a Commission on
Aging Mini-Van Transportation
Volunteer Driver.
Your volunteer activity will promote and
safeguard the independence, well-being,
and dignity of citizens of Gratiot County
who are sixty years of age and older.
Seniors utilize the Mini-Van Transportation service primarily for medical
appointments; but local shopping, hair
appointments and other needs which
contribute to the senior’s well-being may
also be scheduled if the vans are otherwise not in use.
Please contact Sue Koch, at 989-8755346 for specific information.
2016 Extended Trips
Please call Jamie at 989-681-4341 for
more details and to sign up for these
trips. These trips are tours through
Maryanke Tour and Travel Inc.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Niagara on the Lake/Niagara Falls
& Alice in Wonderland
June 1 - 3
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Shipshewana Indiana Quilts Gardens
Along the Heritage Trail
July 27 - 29
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
Alaska & the Yukon, Fairbanks,
& Deanli
August 14 - 26
))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
Stratford Theatre - “ A Chorus Line”,
“A Little Night Music” &
the Hypochondriac
August 16 - 18
?????????????????????????????????
Branson Entertainment Getaway
September 18 - 23
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
Exploring Britain & Ireland—England,
Ireland , Scotland & Wales
September 25—October 9
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard
October 9 - 14
**********************************
Hawaiian Adventure on Oahu,
Kauai, & Maui
February 9 - 18, 2017
MMAP
Medicare Medicaid
Assistance Program
At Commission on Aging
For appointment call 989-8755286
Help is Available for:
Medicare Questions
Medicare Billing Questions
Medicare D and Medicare
Advantage
Medicare Supplemental Insurance
Medicaid Applications
Long Term Care Insurance
Senior Gratiot
June
Senior Activity
Building & Food with
Friends News
By Jo Jones
April birtdays celebrated by Zeda Bish,
Bonnie Smith, Janet Coulter, Dale Bish,
and Milene Nemeth.
Please look at the last week of the
month on the calendar above. Monday,
the 27th will be the last day that we will
be at the Senior Activity Building until
July 5th. The Building will be closed to
make it possible to have the new carpeting installed. The Food With Friends
and Senior Activity Building programs
will be meeting in the COA Building on
South Pine River. Please use the main
front door to find us from 8:00 until 2:30
on the 28th, 29th, 30th, and July 1st.
On June 6th, Bob Crist will help us to
sing while we enjoy Bob’s piano music at
12:30. Bob’s Sunshine Gang will tr avel
to Schnepp’s Health Care Center at 1:00.
Ice cream sundaes will be a welcome treat
when we return from St. Louis.
Bingo will be on the second and
fourth Mondays (13th and 27th.) mornings
from 10:05 until 11:30. Bingo Prizes are
Continued
provided by McDonalds, Bee Clean Car
Wash, and The Laurels of Fulton.
Just For Fun Dulcimer Club pr ovides
a very pleasant evening of music on
June13th from 7 to 9. Fred Hoard, Building
Volunteer, will welcome you. There is no
charge for this activity, and you are
welcome to come for awhile or for the entire
time.
The topic for our monthly nutrition time
on the 20th is “Link of Food Choices &
Chronic Illness”. Later in the day, our
Senior Activity Building Board meeting
will be at 1:15 P.M. The Board appreciates
the response from several individuals who
regularly donate to the “Gifts in Gratitude”
program. (See listing under Gifts received.)
You certainly are encouraged to add your
support to the Building and its mission
through Gratitude gifts. Do plan to show
your appreciation and place your name on
the list of supporters.
EZ Motion is not on the schedule for the
summer months, but Walking Wanda’s
Walk is! Enjoy a walk through the Atkinson
Park anytime, but especially on Tuesday
and Friday.
The June Birthday and Anniversary
celebration will be on Friday, June 17th. If
your special day is in this month, we want to
share with you at your party. Call in your
reservation.
Cribbage is being played on Tuesdays,
the 7th and 21st. If you want to learn, come
at 1:00 on these Tuesdays.
Progressive Euchre will be on Tuesday,
June 14th and 28th.
The Blue ribbon
winners were Amber Hill, Pat Owen, and
Kathy Peters. Dennis Sierakowski, Bruce
McConnell,and Phyllis Johnson, Sandra
Reeves, and Joe Shelest (3 way tie) took the
Continued
Page 8
Red ribbons..
Young Senior Day is any day that
YOUNG SENIORS join us this month. If
you can only find one day each month to
enjoy a Food With Friends meal, make it
happen! NOW please find a date that works
with your schedule, and reserve your place
at the Senior dining table. Do call 8752135. THANKS!!
Each Wednesday at 10:30, we plan to
play outdoor shuffleboard. Horseshoe
games will be at 1:00, followed by an
Afterglow. You are welcome to try these
games with us. No experience is needed!
Also at 1:00, the game of Dominoes
continues to be enjoyed. Again, you are
most WELCOME to join in on this activity
or any activity or program.
A very popular card game, Golf, is
scheduled each Thursday morning at 10:00.
This is a game that is quickly learned.
Joyce Raycraft’s enjoyable piano
music on Thur sday mor nings pr ovides
an informal sing a long time. Joyce brings a
variety of music with her each week.
On the first Friday of June, you’ll find
Volunteer, Joyce Raycraft, ready to check
your blood pressure at 11:30 until noon.
Friday Cards (which includes br idge)
will be on the 10th and the 24th from 1:00
until 3:30. Volunteers Jack and Avis
Ginther will help you to join one of the
games. The suggested donation for the afternoon of enjoyment is $0.25, the same as
it is for Progressive Euchre, Horseshoes,
and blood pressure screening. You will find
these donations listed under the Crystal Jar
donations each month.
We will honor our DADS on Friday,
the 17th. (The same day as our monthly
Birthday celebration). Please bring in a
Continued on Page 9
Senior Gratiot
Continued from Page 8
photo of your Dad today! Only a few
persons remembered to bring in pictures of
“Mom” for Mother’s Day, so let’s try to do
better this month!
You are encouraged to bring some of
your family members with you to our
monthly potluck on June 4th. You may
bring a dish to pass, or make a donation to
the Potluck fund. The suggested donation
would be “what you would have had to
spend to purchase all of the ingredients
needed to prepare a potluck dish or
dessert”. As most of us know from our
grocery shopping, it takes several dollars to
make just one dish. Our cooks always
prepare delicious dishes. The food is
excellent, as is the fellowship.
Our air conditioned Building is open
each weekday morning at 8:00, with a
warm welcome from Linda St. Charles, a
cup of coffee and a donut or a slice of
toast. Remember to go to the COA to find
Linda and to participate in the Food With
Friends program on the 28th, 29th, 30th, and
July 1st.
Hoping you’ll come to see us soon!
THANK YOU for your gifts received
by the Senior Activity Building from April
9, 2016 through May 6, 2016:
Volunteers (named and unnamed) who
completely care for the Building and its
programs and activities.
Musicians: Bob Crist, Joyce Raycraft
Crystal
Jar donations (unnamed
donations, Progressive Euchre,
Friday
Cards, and Blood Pressure checks)
Just For Fun Dulcimer Club
May Raffle Supporters
Prizes donated to the Raffle
GIFTS in GRATITUDE to SAB
By Jim & Peggy McVeigh
George & Kathy Vojtas
Dolores Lombard
Sally Martin
Jo Jones
In MEMORY of ….
HELEN BRANDAL (MOM)
By Barb Kench
BOB EVANS
By Doulas & Linda Eader
Sam & Mary Andres
DEVERE LANE
By Betty Lane
JANET ABBOTT
By Hollis Dee & Bonnie Cooper
Lucille Paine & Family
NEOLA CRAWFORD
By Joyce Beard
Bakker Family
Judy Roslund
DALE CUMBERWORTH
By Gary & Marilyn Shaw
DENNIS COOPER
By Joyce Beard
Bakker Family
Ginther Family
Lorraine Merchant
In HONOR of…
BETTY LANE on her 90th Birthday
(5/3/16)
By Ron Lane and Cindy Whitford
Continued
June
Page 9
A slightly different phone scam
An alternative ploy is for the scammer to
tell you that the IRS discovered it owes you
a large refund and wants to pay you
immediately. The scammer will then ask
for your Social Security number and bank
information so the IRS can transfer the
money directly to your account.
Celebrating Linda St. Charles’s 13th
Anniversary with SAB and Cinco De
Mayo on May 5th were: Marlene
McClary, Marty Wieferich (who presented Linda with a beautiful Thank
You bouquet), Patty Macha and
Marilyn Green.
Beware of IRS
Phone Scams
Updated for Tax Year 2015
OVERVIEW
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is seeing a growing number of tax-related phone
scams. They can happen to anyone, at any
time of the year —but it's especially prevalent around the end of the year and tax
time. Scammers are typically after your
money and possibly your identity as well.
By staying alert and knowing the warning
signs, you can keep your family safe.
Scammers prepare to defraud
Scammers often gather a lot of personal
information about you even before they
call, such as your:
• Full name
• Address
• Family member names
• Employer
• Education
Last 4 digits of your Social Security
number
They use this information to make themselves seem knowledgeable and official.
The scammers also alter the name and
phone number that appears on your Caller
ID to make it look like they are calling
from the IRS. Their goal is to scare you
into acting immediately, before you have
time to think.
The phone scam
A scammer will call you and identify
himself as an IRS agent, complete with a
fake name and a bogus badge number.
• He'll say you owe delinquent taxes and
demand immediate payment.
The scammer will convincingly try to force
you to give your bank account or credit
card information, or he might instruct you
to get a prepaid debit card to make your
IRS payment.
If the call goes to an answering machine,
the scammer will leave a message with a
dire warning, demanding that you call back
as soon as possible or risk arrest.
Continued
How to spot an IRS phone scam
Scammers frequently say things the IRS
would never say over the phone. Knowing
what the IRS won’t say can help you
quickly spot an IRS phone scam. The IRS
will never:
• Call about money owed without first
mailing you a bill
• Demand immediate payment by phone
• Demand payment without allowing you
to question or appeal the amount
• Ask for your bank account or credit
card information
• Require that you pay taxes in a certain
manner, like with a prepaid debit card
Threaten to send the police to arrest you
What if I get one of these calls?
If you get a phone call by someone
claiming to be from the IRS:
• Don't talk to the caller or give out any
information
• Hang up immediately
Report the call to the Treasury Inspector
General for Tax Administration, either
online at IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting or by phone at 800-366-4484
Report the call to the Federal Trade
Commission using the FTC Complaint Assistant.
What if I do owe the IRS money?
Even if you owe money to the IRS:
• Hang up and do not talk to the caller
• Do not give out any information
Call the IRS at 800-829-1040 to sort out
what you owe
Save Box Tops For
Education & Campbell
Soup Labels
Help our Area Schools Earn Cash
The Commission on Aging is working
with Gratiot County Schools (grades K-8)
to assist in the collection of Box Tops for
Education (box tops) & Campbell’s Soup
labels.
The schools convert these labels into
cash or materials that can be used to
enhance programs and activities for the
students. Please mail or drop off your Box
Tops or Campbell’s labels to the COA
office or to any nutrition site and we will
deliver them to the schools. You can find
the labels on Kleenex boxes, cereal boxes,
soup cans, juice bottles, etc. Thank you for
your support and participation in this
program. If you have any questions, please
contact Sue Koch at 875-5346.
Senior Gratiot
DAY TRIPS
By Trip Coordinator
DAY TRIPS: Notify the Senior Center
office (989-681-4341 or leave a message
at 989-875-5346) immediately if you
must cancel a reservation. If you found
your own replacement, please provide
their name to the Senior Center office.
Refund checks may be issued when the
trip does not include prepaid expenses
and you cancel more than 30 days prior
to the trip date. Otherwise, a refund will
be issued only if we can find a replacement from the reserve list.
Making Memories with Each Trip!
WALKING LEVELS
Level 1: Minimal walking - for
example: theatre trips. Usually involves
getting on and off the bus three times.
• Level 2: Sightseeing—getting off the
bus multiple times, might involve easy
walking from one place to another
(shops to restaurants and other points of
interest) museums, ball games.
• Level 3: Lots of walking—for example: shopping trips, outdoor destinations, walking tours in cities. There
may be stairs to climb and might involve walking on uneven surfaces such
as gravel, grass, cobblestones, etc.
Participants need to be able to keep up
with the group.
If you are in doubt about your level of
ability, please ask for more information
about specific trips before you sign up.
•
ALL PAYMENTS ar e made out to:
Gratiot Community Senior Center
and mailed to the address below:
Gratiot Community Senior Center
P O Box 205, St. Louis, MI 48880
Rules to follow for Day Trip:
1. Please call right away to 989-681-4341
if you are interested in a trip. Check your
calendar & check it again after you make
the reservation. Make your payment by the
due date so you may be assured of a seat.
Otherwise, those names on the waiting list
will be contacted and your seat may be
filled if you do not make your payment as
scheduled.
2. When we set a date for a performance,
the theater needs to know many weeks in
advance how many people will be coming.
Tickets are expensive and we don’t want to
buy tickets that do not get used.
3. If you have to cancel because of illness,
you must call before the day of the trip. If
you forget to attend or just do not show up,
we will not give a refund or credit because
we have reserved a ticket for you and
someone else may have wanted to go but
was unable due to a full coach.
June
MACKINAW ISLAND
Monday, June 20, 2016
$125.00
Bus Leaves at 7:00 a.m. SHARP
Back at 8:30 p.m.
Money Due May 20, 2016
Walking Level 1
Kick off the Summer season with a day
on Mackinaw Island! Upon arrival in
Mackinaw City, our day begins with a boat
ride across the Straits on Star Line Ferry
with a pass under the Mackinaw Bridge.
Once on the island we will dine at Goodfellows Italian Chop House directly across
from the ferry dock. Here we will enjoy a
buffet luncheon which includes: Assorted
Cheese Platter, Salad Bar, Parmesan Encrusted Whitefish served with a Citrus
Sauce, Grilled Chicken topped with Pineapple Glaze, Whipped Red Skin Potatoes,
Green Beans, Mini Assorted Dessert Platter and beverage.
Next, horse drawn carriages will pick us
up for a 90 minute narrated tour of the island. On the ride we will experience the
history, legends, and behind the scenes
beauty of the island.
Following our carriage ride, we will have
some time to enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes
and smells on the main street before boarding the ferry for our return.
This trip includes transportation, round
trip ferry, lunch and carriage ride. (We are
also hoping for perfect weather, Lilacs, and
lots of fresh air!)
Call Jamie at 681-4341 to make your
reservations. We hope you will choose to
spend your first day of Summer with us!
Crossroads Village,
Huckleberry Railroad &
the Genesse Belle
Thursday, July 28, 2016
$69.00
Bus Leaves at 8:00 a.m.
Back Home at 7:30 p.m.
Money due Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Walking Level 2
Step back into a time when things were a
whole lot simpler. Crossroads Village is an
authentic Great Lakes town from the turn of
the last century, with more than 34 historic structures and a thriving community to
welcome you. While there, we will explore
the village, enjoy a scenic ride aboard the
Continued
Page 10
Huckleberry Railroad, take an excursion
around Mott Lake on the beautiful Genesee
Belle paddlewheel riverboat, enjoy a
performance at the Colwell Opera House,
and much more!
Lunch will be catered by Sullivan’s
of Frankenmuth and will include: Baked
chicken, baked ham, mashed potatoes &
gravy, AuGratin potatoes, green bean
almandine, corn O’Brien, tossed salad,
vegetable tray & dip, fruit salad, macaroni
salad, pasta salad, pudding, dinner rolls and
butter, coffee/lemonade/iced tea, and
chocolate fudge brownies.
This trip includes transportation,
village, train and boat tickets and lunch.
Reserve your spot today with Jamie at 989681-4341. You won’t want to miss this
fantastic day.
Riverboat Lunch Cruise
& MSU Gardens
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Cost $76.00
Bus Leaves at 9:30 a.m.
Back at 5:30 p.m.
Money due by Friday, July 22, 2016
Walking Level 1
Join us for a lazy, Summer day cruising
on the Michigan Princess Riverboat.
While relaxing on the Grand River, we will
enjoy a buffet lunch and live entertainment
of Dixieland Jazz or Piano music.
Our luncheon will include: Roast Turkey, Vegetarian Lasagna, Mashed Potatoes
with Gravy,
Sweet Potato Casserole,
Stuffing, Assorted Salads, Hot Vegetables,
Dinner Roll, Chef’s Choice of Desserts and
Ice Tea or Coffee. (A cash bar will also be
available).
Next we will visit the MSU Horticultural
Gardens. We will enjoy a guided tour
through the Children’s Perennial, and Rose
Gardens as well as the Weird and Wonderful Plant Exhibit.
We hope you will join us for this fabulous adventure including the sights, sounds,
and beauty of an August day in Michigan.
Call Jamie, 681-4341 with your reservation
today.
Save the Date for These
Upcoming Trips!
What’s Buzzin’ Around
Beulah?
Sleeping Bear Farms
St Ambrose Cellars
Monday, September 26, 2016
We’ll get the buzz on the Benzie County’s bee biz at Sleeping Bear Farms. From
making raw honey and pollinating area
orchards, to providing hone for the mead at
St Ambrose Cellars, these bees do it all. St
Ambrose Cellars are makers of not only
wine made out of grapes, but also of Mead
wine, mead being fermentation of honey
and water.
Lunch will be at the Cherry Hut Restaurant in Beulah, a Northern Michigan
Tradition since 1922.
Senior Gratiot
Continued from Page 10
Gratiot County Quilt
Trail Grand Opening
Saturday, October 15, 2016
The Gratiot County Quilt Trail consists
of a series of unique squares hung at local
farms, homes and businesses around the
county. This tourist attraction celebrates
both the art of quilting and the history of
local farms and businesses.
Lunch will be served at Saravilla Bed and
Breakfast with guest speaker David
McMacken providing a historical luncheon
lecture.
A Croswell Christmas
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Come celebrate Christmas Croswell-style
with this fun-filled musical review. From
classic carols to songs from some of your
favorite Christmas musicals, this show has
something for everyone.
West Gratiot
By Cindy Simmons
From the West Gratiot Food with Friends
site, Happy Birthday wishes for May went
out to Bernie Burch, Bob Divelbiss, Pat
Elliott, Anna Fishburn, Lily Johnson and
Shirley Sheets. May all of you have a
wonderful new year with many special
memories.
We have welcomed in some new
attendees due to regular congregate
attendees inviting guests to meet for lunch.
Thank you for making spring crafts for
residents of local care facilities. Those
types of projects will be a part of our
program every few months so we can
contribute to making days brighter for this
special group of friends. The program at
our site is diverse to offer activities that hit
on the interests of various attendees.
The May program also included “wearin’
of the plaid” in honor of the Alma
Highland Festival. Whether participants
have a little bit of Scottish heritage in their
background, or just enjoy the festival, we
had fun shining some of that Celtic spirit at
our site, if only for a short time.
To start out our monthly activities, bring
in your yo-yo and join in the throwing
contest on June 6th. Birthdays and anniversaries will be honored on the second
Wednesday and Friday with special cake.
In June, we will also take time to show our
patriotism toward our flag and enjoy the
official beginning of summer. Please wear
red, white & blue on Monday and Wednesday, June 13 and 15, in honor of Flag Day.
Finally, we can look forward to the first
day of summer! Join our excitement by
arriving in bright colors and beach wear all
week. The theme
will be carried out
each day during
the week of June
20. Feel the warm
breeze and hear
the waves rolling
onto the beach…
“Ah Summer!”
June
Please join us on Monday, Wednesday, and
Friday at the Sumner Senior Center as we
reestablish and develop friendships and
share in good times with others from
around the area.
To get started with the Food with Friends
program: Call the Gratiot FWF Kitchen
(989.875.5332) from 7:30-1:00 M-F to
reserve a lunch 24 hours before the day
you would like to begin attending. After
that, just sign up ahead of time while you
are in attendance at the site or call the
kitchen 24 hours in advance of your next
visit. Contact Cindy at 989.833.7624 from
10:00-2:00 MWF at the West Gratiot site
for more information.
West Gratiot Highlights
1
Wellness Topic
6
Crafts & Yo-Yo contest
8 & 10 Birthday Celebrations
13 & 15 Honor Flag Day: Wear red,
white & blue
20
Summer Celebration Week –
Wear bright colors & beach prints
22
Laurels of Fulton: BINGO
27
Game Day
Weekly Activities
Walking in the Gym M F
9:30-12:00
Adv. Line Dance
M F 9:30-12:00
Euchre
M
10:00-2:00
Euchre Tournament
F
12:30-1:30
Bingo
W
12:30-1:30
Page 11
Fulton
By Deborah Moomey
Come meet new people, don’t sit at home
alone—share a meal with friends. If you
like to play Euchre or other cards, come
join the fun at Fulton Township Hall on
Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays from 10
a.m. to 2 p.m. We also have a lot of other
activities scheduled each month to try.
For reservations, please call a few days
ahead to reserve your lunch at 989-2365019 or 989-875-5332. Suggested donation
is $2.50 per meal.
June Activities
6 Bingo with the Laurels
8 Puzzle Day
10 Euchre
13 UNO Games
17 Euchre
20 What’s In Your Garden? Tell Garden
Stories
24 Euchre
27 Skip Bo & Games
29 Wii Games
Weekly Activities
10:00-12:00 Walking the Gym
12:00-12:30 Lunch
12:30-2:00
Activities, Games, Speakers
Breckenridge FWF
By Pat Schultz
Everyone enjoys the Friday Euchre
Games.
Burdell, Rick and Bernie helped make
decorations for local care facilities.
Can hardly believe it’s June already!
Some days are a bit cool yet, but Summer
is almost here. Everyone needs to get out
and enjoy the Summer weather. We have
been doing some fun Bingo games on the
2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month—
come join us. We play after lunch about
12:30 p.m. We are working on starting
some craft days also. Here are a few of our
activities for June.
June Activities
3 Word Puzzles
7 Celebrate National Candy Month
(Samples of some & tell us about your
Favorite as a child)
9 Show & Tell (Bring something to share)
14 Snack Bingo (Prizes are snacks)
17 Word Puzzles
20 First Day of Summer (Come dressed for
it)
22 Game Day (We will work on learning
Pedro)
24 Nutrition Program
27 National Sunglasses Day (Come decked
Out in your favorite pair
28 Surprize Bingo (Prizes will be anyone’s
guess)
June Birthdays
8 Beverly Bott
23 Jeanne Bolton
HAPPY
BIRTHDAY!
Cute door knob decorations for local
care facilities.
Senior Gratiot
FOOD WITH FRIENDS
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR
FOOD WITH FRIENDS AT LEAST 1 TO 3
DAYS IN ADVANCE. SEE PHONE NUMBER TO CALL LISTED BELOW:
ALMA/ST. LOUIS AREA FOOD W/FRIENDS
GRATIOT COMMUNITY SENIOR CENTER
1329 MICHIGAN AVE, ST. LOUIS
MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 9 AM TO 3 PM
PHONE: 681-4341
JAMIE BOLSBY, SITE MANAGER
BRECKENRIDGE FOOD WITH FRIENDS
BRECKENRIDGE MASONIC TEMPLE
122 E SAGINAW ST., BRECKENRIDGE
MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 10 AM TO 2 PM
PHONE: 842-3338
PAT SCHULTZ, SITE MANAGER
FULTON AREA FOOD WITH FRIENDS
FULTON TOWNSHIP HALL
3425 W CLEVELAND RD (M-57),
PERRINTON
MON, WED, FRI. 10:00 AM TO 2 PM
PHONE: 236-5019
DEBORAH MOOMEY, SITE MANAGER
ITHACA AREA FOOD WITH FRIENDS
SENIOR ACTIVITY BUILDING
1011 E NORTH ST., ITHACA
MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 10 AM TO 2 PM
PHONE: 875-2135
JO JONES, SITE MANAGER
WEST GRATIOT FOOD WITH FRIENDS
SUMNER COMMUNITY CENTER
10820 PINE ST., SUMNER
MON, WED, FRI. 10:00 AM TO 2 PM
PHONE: 833-7624
June
POTLUCKS
EDGEWOOD
EDGEWOOD AREA SENIORS
EDGEWOOD CHURCH OF GOD
160 S. BARRY ROAD
4TH THURSDAY EACH MONTH AT NOON
CONTACT: BONNIE WHITAKER
989-875-3607
SENIOR ACTIVITY BUILDING
1011 E. NORTH STREET, ITHACA
1ST SATURDAY AT 12:15 PM
DIAL-A-RIDE
ALMA/ST. LOUIS
989-463-6016
Social Security
Administration
1-800-772-1213
Medicare
1-800-633-4227
Alzheimer’s Support Group
1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month 1:00 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church
495 Charles Ave Alma
Contact: Scott Hicks 875-5269
Parkinson’s Support Group
4TH Wednesday of month
2:00 p.m.
Masonic Pathways
1200 Wright Ave Alma
Contact: Scott Hicks
875-5269
Page 12
Thanks To All The
Volunteers for
Labeling the
Senior Gratiot
Newspaper
Our special “THANK YOU” goes out to
the following individuals who helped label
the Senior Gratiot newspaper for May
2016. They include: Lois Reinsmith, Nina
Olney, Netta Thiell, Thomas Thiell, Lisa
Skaryd, Sue Riedel, Doris Moon, Dorothy
Stellow, Sue Chaffin, Evelyn White,
Martha Seiler, Susan Munro, Ruth Malek,
Lu Ryan, Sue Koch, and Denise Wright.
SENIOR GRATIOT, INC.
JENNIFER COOK, EDITOR
CRAIG ZEESE
VICKIE THUM
RICHARD ABBOTT
HOWARD POINDEXTER
Senior Gratiot is published monthly
for Gratiot County senior citizens 60
years and older by Senior Gratiot.
Inc., 515 S. Pine River St. Ithaca MI
48847. It is supported by donations
and the paper is printed at Stafford
Media Solutions of Greenville.