Surrey at Havertown Center

Havertown Center's Info Has Moved!

2012-01-16T15:38:00.002-05:00

Now that Havertown Center is part of Surrey Services for Seniors, you'll find all our information on the Surrey website.

Go to www.surreyservices.org and click on the Surrey Newsletter link on the right-hand side.

Havertown Center (now Surrey at Havertown) has a full page with our calendar of activities. And now you can also see what's happening at Hometown Center in Media, Surrey at Broomall and Surrey at Berwyn.

Stop by and join us for an activity! See you soon!

Patch.com Time Capsules with Havertown Center Members

2011-05-31T13:15:00.002-04:00

Haverford-HavertownPatch

Time Capsules: Games

Havertown Center member Gloria Curcio speaks about activities she would do for fun when she was young. Curcio speaks about rollarskating in South Philadelphia as well as playing baseball in the street with her friends.

By John Blackwood, May 10, 2011

Have you signed up to get your daily Haverford-Havertown Patch.com news? Sign up here and keep up on what's happening around town.

Can't see the video in your email? Go here and watch!

Patch.com Time Capsules with Havertown Center Members

2011-05-31T06:00:00.002-04:00

Haverford-HavertownPatch

Time Capsules: Remembering Southwest Philadelphia Trolley

Havertown Center member Audrey Powell talks about growing up in Southwest Philadelphia, mentioning two movie theaters as good spots to hang out with friends and the convienience of the trolley.

By John Blackwood, April 26, 2011

Have you signed up to get your daily Haverford-Havertown Patch.com news? Sign up here and keep up on what's happening around town.

Can't see the video in your email? Go here and watch!

URGENT: Go behind closed doors to protect Medicaid

2011-05-26T12:14:00.001-04:00

In Washington, deficit reduction talks are going on behind closed doors. And Medicaid is a prime target.

The House of Representatives has already approved a budget that would block grant and cut Medicaid by almost $1.4 trillion over the next 10 years.

This would be devastating to the millions of vulnerable seniors who rely on the program for long-term care and Medicare low-income protections.

Now the conversation has moved behind closed doors. Social Security appears to be off the table, and the recent backlash against Medicare cuts have led many to believe that the focus of entitlement cuts is shifting to Medicaid.

Email your Senators by June 3 to oppose Medicaid cuts.

Tell your Senators that we cannot balance the budget on the backs of our most vulnerable citizens. Urge them to oppose block granting and drastically cutting Medicaid. We also need to oppose backdoor mechanisms—like caps and triggers—that can be just as harmful unless Medicaid is exempted from automatic cuts.

Senators are back home next week for the Memorial Day recess—this is a great time to talk with them in the state.

Thanks for your support!

The National Council on Aging is a nonprofit service and advocacy organization headquartered in Washington, DC. NCOA is a national voice for older Americans--especially those who are vulnerable and disadvantaged--and the community organizations that serve them. It brings together nonprofit organizations, businesses, and government to develop creative solutions that improve the lives of all older adults. NCOA works with thousands of organizations across the country to help seniors find jobs and benefits, improve their health, live independently, and remain active in their communities. For more information, visit http://www.ncoa.org/.

Patch.com Time Capsules with Havertown Center Members

2011-05-24T06:00:00.005-04:00

Haverford-HavertownPatch

Time Capsules: Best Donuts Ever

Havertown Center member Joan Sullivan was born and raised in Prospect Park, located in Norwood. Sullivan reflects on her years in high school, as well as the shopping area of Chester and a great donut shop that used to be there.

By John Blackwood, May 3, 2011

Have you signed up to get your daily Haverford-Havertown Patch.com news? Sign up here and keep up on what's happening around town.

Can't see the video in your email? Go here and watch!

Patch.com Time Capsules with Havertown Center Members

2011-05-16T10:32:00.000-04:00

Haverford-HavertownPatch

Time Capsules: Games

By John Blackwood, May 10, 2011

Have you signed up to get your daily Haverford-Havertown Patch.com news? Sign up here and keep up on what's happening around town.

Can't see the video in your email? Go here and watch!

Patch.com Time Capsules with Havertown Center Members

2011-05-10T06:00:00.024-04:00

Haverford-HavertownPatch

Time Capsules: Havertown in 1970

Havertown Center member Bridie Gallagher, a resident of Havertown for 41 years, tells what it was like when she first moved to Havertown in 1970. Interviewed at the Havertown Center, Gallagher also talks about a local restaurant where many people would go to hang out and have a good time.

By John Blackwood, April 12, 2011

Have you signed up to get your daily Haverford-Havertown Patch.com news? Sign up here and keep up on what's happening around town.

Can't see the video in your email? Go here and watch!

Patch.com Time Capsules with Havertown Center Members

2011-04-21T06:00:00.062-04:00

Haverford-HavertownPatch

Time Capsules: Remembering Lit Brothers, Gimbels and Havertown

Havertown Center member Mary Guida talks about what Havertown and 69th Street were like in the 1950s.

By John Blackwood, April 19, 2011

Have you signed up to get your daily Haverford-Havertown Patch.com news? Sign up here and keep up on what's happening around town.

Yes, you ARE a Caregiver!

2011-01-18T06:00:00.001-05:00

Yes, YOU!

If you are someone "who helps an aging, ill, or disabled family member or friend manage their day-to-day lives," you ARE a Caregiver. Read this short little piece, "Caregiver? Who Me?" from The Stanley M. Isaac's Neighborhood Center's blog eStanley for some great tips on taking care of yourself.

From AARP's downloadable guide, "Prepare to Care: A Planning Guide for Adult Care":

"Today, 30 million households are providing care for an adult over the age of 50—and that number is expected to double over the next 25 years. For many Americans, life at 40, 50 or even 60 years old will include care for an aging parent or relative. As the nation grows older, the need for caregiving will be as common as the need for child care."

Where to begin? The AARP article "8 Rules for New Caregivers" gives you a checklist to help you make sure you are not doing this alone. AARP has lots of good information in their online Caregiving Resource Center, such as Caregiving Tips from others who are also Caregivers--just like you.

Yes, you are a Caregiver, but remember--you are not alone. You don't have to figure everything out all by yourself. Havertown Center has resources to share with you.

We are here for YOU!

Push For Help

Photo by The Joy Of The Mundane

Where to go when your "Blackberry" is not working!

2011-01-14T06:00:00.002-05:00

You think you have problems with your "smart" phone? Enjoy this video about "technology"!

HappyFriday!
(Can't see the video? Go to Embracing Positive Aging and enjoy!)

A fresh coat of paint to start the fall!

2010-09-24T17:37:00.003-04:00

Just in time for "Fall Cleaning," United Way's Day of Caring brought Vanguard employees to Havertown Center for some sprucing up. Tim Larkin, Manger of Upper Darby's MAB Paint provided a generous donation of paint. Thanks to a stipend from the United Way SEPA, we were able to purchase everything we needed to make this project happen.

Our Pool Room and our TV Lounge (Wii Room, Card Room...) each got a fresh coat of paint. All the cobwebs and dust bunnies were shooed away and walls, doors, and window frames were brightened up with new paint. Now the rooms sparkle!

Our Lunch Room (Exercise Room, Line Dancing Room...) also got a makeover with a new, more sophisticated beige. Curtains are being washed and our Havertown Center Banner is getting freshened up. Inspirational quotes and art will decorate the walls--all in time for Frank Sinatra Night!

Thank you, United Way, MAB Paints and Vanguard!

County Senior Centers Serve up Delicious, Nutritious Meals

2010-07-13T11:37:00.000-04:00

Havertown Center members Virginia and Ralph DeCaro with Delaware County Councilman Tom McGarrigle

Hungry seniors can eat-in or take out!

Delaware County seniors looking for a delicious, nutritious meal can head over to one of the county’s eight senior centers for a hot, “café-style,” home-cooked lunch. It’s really a treat to have someone else do the cooking this month, when it’s been way too hot to stand over a stove.

All eight senior centers in Delaware County offer new, café-style dining opportunities. The menu options were enhanced with the help of a state nutrition grant. Seniors can enjoy dining options that range from deli fare to southern cooking. They can dine at the center, or order take-out. All of the menus are designed to be healthy and nutritious. Seniors who pair lunch with one of the senior center exercise programs are, indeed, fostering a healthy lifestyle. How about vegetable lasagna and a Yoga class, or lemon flounder after a class in Tai Chi?

Nutritious lunches are served Monday through Friday at every center and menus are updated monthly. Reservation requirements vary, however most reservations can be made one day in advance by calling the senior center.

For residents on the move, the centers also offer a “meals-on-the-go” option that provides a takeout meal for $6. For regular congregate (dine-in) meals, a $2 per person donation is suggested for individuals over age 60. $3 is suggested for persons under age 60 who might accompany the senior. Southern style, deli and café breakfast fare ranges from $3 to $5.

A state grant also facilitated the purchase of china and dishwashers for the centers, which reduced paper and plastic waste and contributes to a more home-style experience.
Delaware County Councilman Tom McGarrigle recently joined seniors at the Havertown Senior Center for a meal of potato-crusted cod with three-bean medley, fiesta corn, white roll and angel food cake. The other option was mandarin orange chicken salad, mixed greens and Oriental noodles with a whole-wheat roll.

“County Council is pleased that our senior centers can provide not only nutritious meals but a place for friendship, education, exercise and other support,” said Councilman McGarrigle. “ The grant helps us ensure that the meals follow nutrition guidelines and contribute to a healthy lifestyle.”

Havertown Senior Center Director Mary Catherine Dabrowski said about 30 senior citizens enjoy lunch at the center on a daily basis. The other Senior Centers are also offering tempting meals for seniors. Wayne Senior Center offers free Starbucks coffee and breakfast on Monday through Thursday. Sharon Hill’s Good Neighbor Senior Center offer “Southern Cooking” on alternating Tuesdays and Thursdays when ribs, fried chicken, meatloaf and cornbread are on the menu for $5. Folsom’s Schoolhouse Senior Center offers a deli program that provides a selection of homemade soups and deli sandwiches for $3. At Upper Darby Senior Center, residents will soon be able to enjoy the atmosphere of a greenhouse with café style dining. Yeadon’s Friendship Circle Senior Center recently installed new café-style lights and awnings and will sell muffins, bagels and coffee during the morning hours.

In addition to meals, Delaware County senior centers offer life-long learning courses, exercise classes and trips. Residents can enjoy programs on Tai Chi, Yoga, wine tasting, Internet skills, creative writing seminars, antiquing and more. Courses are held during the weekdays and evenings to accommodate busy schedules.

Seniors can also participate in day trips to museums, theater shows, historic sites and sporting arenas. For the adventurous, each center offers extended trips, which range from tropical cruises on the Queen Mary II to Broadway excursions and Las Vegas vacations.

The County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) sponsors the senior center meals. COSA has been providing free and low-cost programs and services to seniors in Delaware County since 1975. COSA provides legal services, crime victim services, health education, long-term care insurance and health insurance counseling to county seniors. COSA also offers information on employment opportunities, the foster grandparent program, transportation services and more.

For more information on Delaware County Senior Centers or COSA services for the elderly, call (610) 490-1300 or visit http://www.delcosa.org/.

Office of Public Relations

County of Delaware

Ask Your Senators to Extend Medicaid, Physician Payment Funding

2010-06-21T16:32:00.000-04:00

Dear Members and Friends,

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is asking for your help. Right now, states are in danger of losing critical extra federal assistance for Medicaid—putting millions of low-income seniors and children at risk. The Senate is about to vote on extending increased Medicaid funding to the states. But 60 more votes are needed for this to pass.

Millions of low-income seniors and children are at risk of losing Medicaid coverage.

Last year, Congress provided an extra $87 million in Medicaid funding to states. This critical aid meant states didn't have to cut Medicaid at a time when the economic downturn was making even more individuals eligible for help.

This extra Medicaid funding is set to expire on Dec. 31—leaving state budgets in even more dire circumstances. Congress must act now to extend it, so states can plan their 2011 budgets.

You can help.

Email your Senators now and urge them to vote YES to extend extra federal Medicaid funding to the states.

The "extenders bill" will:
Extend extra federal Medicaid payments to states for another six months.
Postpone payment cuts to Medicare doctors.
Extend unemployment benefits.

Go here to email your Senator or use the following message* to write a letter to your Senator:

Please Vote YES for the Extenders Bill

Dear Senator,

* (Please personalize your message)

I am writing to urge you to pass the extenders bill, which provides much-needed Medicaid assistance to states, delays potentially devastating cuts to physician payments, and extends unemployment insurance.

Allowing the Medicaid increase to expire will put millions of Americans at risk, many of them low-income seniors and children. Extending the extra funding another six months will save states from closing budget gaps with brutal cuts in Medicaid.

Delaying the scheduled 21% cut to physician payments will help avoid serious access problems that seniors would face in attempting to see their doctor.

I'm asking you to help ensure that Congress passes the extenders bill.

Thank you for your consideration on this important issue.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]

YOU can make a difference. Do it today.

Havertown Center Members Make Dinner for Freedom Playground Volunteers

2010-05-06T14:09:00.003-04:00

Havetown Center members joined 30 neighborhood families as part of the Paddock Farms Civic Association Potluck. The Potluck supplied dinner for Freedom Playground build volunteers on April 22nd. Lena McWilliams led our members in making lasagnas and salads which were delivered to the build site to help feed hungry, hardworking volunteers.

Freedom Playground is being built by Haverford Township using Universal Design, so that adults and children alike will be able to use the playground regardless of their abilities. It will be a play place for children with varied disabilities, including physical, mental and sensory issues. Similar playgrounds in other communities have made huge, positive impacts on many families.

Architectural fees and installation of the special ground cover are the only paid labor. The actual build is being done by volunteers. Havertown Center was happy to join in the effort by helping to feed the volunteers who are making Freedom Playground happen.

Thank you,

June Aff,

Mary Cellomi,

Eileen Konin,

Pauline Kuhwald,

Anetta Martini,

Sandy Renick,

Joann Robinson

and

Peggy Walsh.

And Thank you to Center staff member

Lena McWilliams

for leading the Havertown Center group.

Teens Walking the Walk at Havertown Center

2010-04-16T07:00:00.025-04:00

You must have noticed how nice and clean our grounds look. It has been a snowy, messy winter and a windy beginning of spring, leaving lots of dead leaves, sticks and bits of trash and papers strewn all over our grass and around our entrances. Just a few weeks ago, on Sunday, March 21, teens from Walking the Walk were outside our Center with rakes, brooms and trash bags cleaning up. And they even planted tulips in our planters!

The Interfaith Center of Greater Philadelphia declares that Walking the Walk puts their mission into action:

“Walking the Walk is an initiative that provides teenagers with experiences, skills and resources necessary to live in a diverse world, deepen their own identities, and break through walls that distance and divide them from people of other religious, cultural and economic backgrounds.”

In collaboration with the Haverford Township Clergy Association, Rev. Nicole D. Diroff of the Interfaith Center has brought its program to Delaware County. The Suburban Jewish Community Center-Bnai Aaron, Hope United Methodist, and Grace Trinity United Church of Christ are the Partner Communities and Havertown Center is the Community Service Partner.

Teens from these faith communities met five times from November to March for interfaith learning and dialogue, reflection and community building, focusing on the shared values of “Honoring My Self and My Heritage” and “Helping Those In Need." The teens finish this weekend, April 18, with Day of Environmental Action for Teenagers at the Cobbs Creek Community Environmental Center

Open to members of all faith expressions and aspiring to unity of collaboration and fellowship, the Haverford Township Clergy Association represents the faith communities of Haverford Township, professing a common belief in God and love of neighbor. With the goals of mutual support and respect, the Clergy Association encourages participation of congregants in interfaith activities in response to both civic and religious needs.

Havertown Center
says

Thank You

to the
Haverford Township Clergy Association
and to the teens of
Walking the Walk!

YOU Can Make the Older American's Act Better!

2010-03-16T15:41:00.000-04:00

The Older Americans Act (OAA) is due for reauthorization in 2011. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) asks the question, "How can we make it better?" The NCOA wants YOUR voice at the table—and they’ve made it easy for you. The Exchange is their exciting new Web site where you can have your say.

Go to The Exchange and register by clicking on the Login or Register link in the upper right hand corner.
Type in an email address, set a password and then click on the New User? link.
Fill out the registration information.
Display Name is the name that will show up when you make any comments on ideas. NCOA recommends that you use your real First Name and Last Name. They also recommend that you include your Organization Name as well if that's applicable. So mine is Mary Catherine Dabrowski, Havertown Ctr. (I had to abbreviate Center because my name is so long!)
Then click on the Create an Account button and you're all set.

Now that you have an Account, you can vote on ideas! Click on the Ideas Tab. There you can read all the various ideas. If you find an idea that you like, click on Green Arrow button that says Promote (to the left of the Idea Title). For example, I voted for this idea:

Test Community Resource Centers
Pilot test, evaluate, and disseminate “one-stop shop” resource centers where older adults and their families can gain access to all available public and private benefits and services.

Or you can find Ideas by topics. Just go to the left hand sidebar and click on a topic. For example, I clicked on Senior Centers and then voted for this idea:

Create a Senior Center Modernization Fund
Create a senior center modernization fund to foster senior center innovation, leadership, and capacity-building.

Vote for ideas that You would like to see made possible. Vote on what You think are the best ideas for OAA reauthorization. And, if You have an idea—post it. Click on Post and "describe your idea in detail."

Penn Memory Center offers a 6-week Class for Caregivers of Loved Ones with Dementia

2010-03-09T13:45:00.001-05:00

Starting March 10 the Penn Memory Center will again offer a six-week psychoeducational class for caregivers of a family member or other loved one with dementia. Unlike an ongoing support group, this course runs for just six weeks: Wednesdays in March and April from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.

Participants will learn specific techniques to better care for loved ones and ways of coping with the personal and emotional challenges. Each session includes a relaxation exercise for stress management, and other techniques geared to help deal with thoughts and feelings as a caregiver.

A variety of topics will be covered, including improving communication with the person for whom you care and their professional care providers. You will also learn ways to evaluate and modify both your own and your loved one’s behaviors which will can help manage distressing and difficult behaviors.

Previous participants have said they found the tips and tools shared in this course to be very helpful. They also shared that having the opportunity to interact with others going through similar experiences was very valuable.

The group is open to any person caring for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease of any stage. Much of the content of the program is geared toward individuals caring for someone who, while still living in the community, has had dementia for a few years and needs support managing money, medicines, cooking, or driving, and who may be showing changes in their personality and behavior. Cost for participation in this six-week course is $120.

The Penn Memory Center is where individuals and families can come for evaluation and treatment of symptoms of age related memory loss. The goal of the Penn Memory Center is to provide a thorough evaluation for individuals who have memory loss, confusion, personality change, or other signs of a dementing illness.

The class will meet on six Wednesdays

March 10, March 17, and March 24

April 7, April 14, and April 21

There will be no class on Wednesday, March 31

Classes will be held

10 a.m.-12 noon

at the Ralston House

3615 Chestnut Street

Philadelphia, PA 19104

Free parking is available.

Cost for participation is $120.

To register for the class, or if you have any questions,

please call 215-662-7810

or email Melissa Gartenberg Livney, Psy.D.
at Melissa.Livney@uphs.upenn.edu.

Read more about memory issues in Penn Memory Center's newsletter InSight, filled with human interest and features on people and efforts at the Penn Memory Center and beyond, that bring the knowledge we need about Alzheimer’s disease and healthy brain aging ever closer in sight. Read it online or subscribe to it and find articles such as An Interview With the Man Who Brought Alzheimer’s Disease to the Comic—Rex Morgan, M.D., Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia—What’s the Difference, and Why Alzheimer's Research Needs Cognitively Normal People.

Want even more information on Alzheimer's Disease? Go here to find a segment of Dr. Dan Gottlieb's WHYY Radio show Voices in the Family. Click on red arrow and you can listen to this segment on Alzheimer's Disease. WHYY also provides a link to Resources: Alzheimer's and Related Demenita.

TOM BROKAW REPORTS: BOOMER$!" WILL PREMIERE ON MARCH 4TH ON CNBC

2010-03-03T11:44:00.000-05:00

CNBC will premiere a 2-hour documentary, TOM BROKAW REPORTS: BOOMER$! on Thursday, March 4th at 9pm. Tom Brokaw tells the story of history’s wealthiest and most influential generation. From hula hoops to civil rights, in war and politics, Brokaw chronicles the extraordinary impact 78 million baby boomers have had on American society over the past six decades, and explores the challenges they face as they begin to approach the age of retirement.

Tune in and watch! Read more about the show here.

engAGE! Celebrate Arts and Aging: Call for Artists

2010-02-25T22:34:00.000-05:00

Mark your calendars for engAGE! Celebrate Arts & Aging, the month-long festival presented by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) and the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance for Older Americans Month.

Throughout May 2010, engAGE: Celebrate Arta & Aging will showcase the achievements and creativity of older artists. Artists age 55-plus are invited to submit works to be considered for exhibition during the month of May. This year's celebration of older adults and art includes Delaware County as well as Philadelphia and events will be promoted on the Philly Fun Guide.

Interested? Go here for more information and click here for an application. Hurry--because submission deadline is March 25, 2010!

Enjoy a Spaghetti Dinner This Weekend!

2010-02-17T15:21:00.001-05:00

Experience an Evening in Italy Spaghetti Dinner!

Saturday, February 25, 2010
from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Eat In or Take Out

All You Can Eat Spaghetti!

$8 for Adults
$5 for Children under 12

Bring and enjoy your favorite wine.

Temple Lutheran Church

Earlington Road & Brookline Boulevard
Havertown

Leaning Tower of Pisa - again
Photo by neilalderney123

Spaghetti
Photo by chooyutshing

An Evening of Music This Weekend!

2010-02-17T15:13:00.001-05:00

Enjoy an evening celebrating the talents of the Haverford High School Award Winning Choral Cabaret

Saturday, February 27, 2010
Doors Open at 5:15 p.m.

Go HERE for ticket information.

spotlight
Photo by powazny

I Cannot Be Silent . . .

2010-02-17T15:07:00.002-05:00

"I Cannot Be Silent: Testimonies of Peacemaking" is a timely and thought provoking grass roots documentary film by Vic Compher. Compher's film celebrates the lives of several elder activists from the Philadelphia area who have spent their lives advocating for peace, and seeks to introduce their vital legacy to a new generation.

Documenting that the peace movement is alive and the torch is being passed to the next generation of peace makers "I Cannot Be Silent" is an important film. If you feel the same way or would like to be kept up to date on screening and events related to the film check out I Cannot Be Silent Blog or follow @Icannotbesilent on twitter or on Facebook or just send an email.

The broadcast premier of "I Cannot Be SIlent" as part of Philadelphia Stories 7:

MIND TV (35.1)

Thursday 2/18/10 9 p.m., Saturday 2/20/10 9 p.m., Sunday 2/21/10 1 p.m.

GlobalMIND (35.2)

Friday 2/19/10 8 p.m., Saturday 2/20/10 11 p.m.

You can also view "I Cannot Be Silent" online. For the purposes of internet broadcast, the 45 minute film has been broken into six sections, according to the chapters in the film. Though not available at full resolution or with the accompanying montages that link the sections together, these six interviews make up the bulk of the film.

"I Cannot Be Silent" is available for screening in your home, school, church or community center. The Film maker and members of the cast are also available to moderate a lively discussion and lead an after film Q and A. Contact us at icannotbesilent@gmail.com if you are interested.

Golden Years and Furry Ears . . .

2010-02-12T23:18:00.000-05:00

GenPhilly will be hosting a panel of experts in the fields of aging, animal welfare, & social services and together we will:

Learn how adopting an animal can benefit the physical & mental health of older adults, and identify the challenges that older pet owners face
Discuss how animal shelters & rescue groups could increase adoptions, improve “save rates,” & expand their volunteer base by engaging with older adults
Consider how pet ownership, especially among older adults, can contribute to healthier, stronger neighborhoods for Philadelphians of all ages
Hear best practices from “Pets and Elder Team Support (PETS),” a project of the Jewish Association for Services for the Aged (JASA) in New York City

PANELISTS:

Alexandra Collier, MPA, Director of Special Projects, Jewish Association for Services for the Aged
Allen Glicksman, PhD, Director of Research and Evaluation, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging
Kim Wolf, Board Member, Philadoptables (Friends of the Philadelphia Animal Control Shelter)

Thursday, February 18, from 6:00pm to 8:00 pm
*Informal networking begins at 5:00 pm (feel free to bring dinner at that time, as there is no eating in the theater)

Philadelphia Senior Center, 509 S. Broad Street

(Near South Street; Broad & Lombard stop on the Broad Street/Orange Line)

RSVP Deadline: February 12, 2009

To RSVP or for more info, contact Kate Clark

at kclark@pcaphl.org or (215) 765-9000 ext 5072

or go to GenPhilly's Facebook Event Page to RSVP online
PS--It's not too late to RSVP. Just do it today!

About Generation Appreciation Philadelphia (GenPhilly)

Generation Appreciation Philadelphia (GenPhilly) is committed to promoting an age-friendly city by inspiring emerging leaders to make connections with older adults in their professional and personal lives. We aim to bring a new perspective to Philadelphians in a variety of disciplines through creative programming and networking opportunities. Check out our events and subscribe to our event listserv at genphilly.org.

Inspiring Opportunities!

2010-02-12T21:31:00.026-05:00

Have you visited the Coming of Age website? Jump in! and check it out. It may say "Coming of Age: Philadelphia," but it's also for you here in Delaware County!

Coming of Age: Philadelphia is a website for people 50+ eager to explore “what’s next.” Whether you’re looking at retirement, employment, exploring a passion, or making a difference, Coming of Age can help you get there.

Sign up for their weekly newsletter Inspiring Opportunities and read articles such as:

Age is Just a Number about a new website focusing on women's health, Just A Number, may soon become a "favorite." The site's slogan, age is Just a number... health is timeless, underscores the focus on articles that help women 50+ maintain their health and explore ways to make this time of life rich and satisfying.

Caregivers...Who Are They? The most recent survey of the nation's family caregivers produced by the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP describes who is doing the caregiving and what it entails. No surprises...caregivers are still mostly women who are likely to be employed, usually full-time. Their "second job" takes an average of 19 hours a week.

Ask the D octor: No Charge Cooper University Hospital is hosting an e-Talk on February 18th, 12 p.m., that will give you the opportunity to ask a family medicine specialist any question about any health topic. You may have aches or pains that you don’t think warrant an appointment with your doctor. Or something that bothers you that could be answered before your next doctor's visit.

And each week you'll learn about lots of interesting volunteer opportunities in the area, such as Franklin Insitute Program Support If you are a bit of a Ms./Mr. Fix-It, The Franklin Institute Program Support Department wants you! This volunteer position entails checking exhibits to review what’s in working order and what needs repair. You will document, track and share information with staff.

Sign up today and get great information every week.

Grab Your Camera... Grab Your Pen... or Grab Both!

2010-01-06T14:34:00.000-05:00

As part of the 2009-2010 Pennsylvania Association of Senior Centers (PASC) Conference, to be held in State College, March 4-5, 2010. PASC is sponsoring a competition for photographers and poets to showcase their work. Professional and amateur photographers and poets, aged 50 and older, are invited to submit works related to aging.

The theme of this year's PASC Conference is: “The Winds of Change – A Vision of the Future.” In the photography category, contestants may submit up to three, previously unpublished, original photographs, printed from slides,negatives or original digital file format, in color or black and white, related to aging, highlighting this year’s theme. Poetry contestants may submit up to three, previously unpublished, original poems, also based on this year's theme.

Prizes will be awarded for each category: 1st—$100, 2nd—$75, 3rd—$50.

No entry fee is required, but entries must be postmarked by January 31, 2010and will not be returned. The winning photos and poems, as well as other selected photos and poems, will be displayed at the PASC Conference, March 4-5.

Note: Do not send the only existing copy of any work of art. All entries become the property of PASC and will not be returned. (The artist retains copyright, although PASC retains the right to one-time publication.)

More more complete details of the Photography and Poetry Competition, go here and read the Submission Criteria.

RFF Pass the Camera Project
Originally uploaded by StarbuckGuy

September at Havetown Center

2009-09-03T14:07:00.006-04:00

We've found a new, great way to share our monthly Newsletters here on our blog. Click on the link and you'll be taken to box.net. Click on "download" or "preview" and enjoy reading our September Newsletter!

Frank Sinatra Night

2009-07-22T21:32:00.021-04:00

Tribute singer Mike Farina will entertain everyone with the music of the great Frank Sinatra.

Come and hear Ol' Blue Eyes at Havertown Center.

September 11, 2009

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

$12.50 - Per Person

$10.00 - MCSS Cardholders

Refreshment and Hors D'oeuvres

will be served.

For more information call 610-446-2070

DeClutter, Organize & Sell Your STUFF!

2009-05-19T16:29:00.009-04:00

Jean Back of Survival Essentials will present two FREE* workshops, at the Haverford Township Free Library. Are you overwhelmed by clutter? Has your garage or basement become a dumping ground? Are you are in the process of down-sizing? Have you just cleaned out a relative’s house and are wondering what in the world to keep or give away?

Jean Back has been in the “getting organized” business for 30 years, helping people unclutter a closet, improve a filing system for a home based business, and even move to a new location.

Come to one or both of Jean’s workshops and learn great tips on how you can declutter and organize your house.

Wednesday evening, May 27, 6:30-8:00 pm, Library Community Room
Wednesday evening, June 3, 6:30-8:00 pm, Library Community Room

These workshops are FREE! However . . .
*We ask YOU to reach into your closet and make a difference to the needy of Delaware County Bring something to donate to the Life Center in Upper Darby—a toiletry item, a roll of paper towels, toilet paper or soap. Go to the list on their website for a more complete list.

88 Years Young!

2009-05-18T16:13:00.004-04:00

Mike's Exercise Class sings "Happy Birthday" to him!

Congressman Joe Sestak

2009-03-18T09:12:00.005-04:00

Congressman Joe Sestak with Havertown Center Member Bill Boyle.

Monday, March 16, Congressman Joe Sestak stopped by to chat with Havertown Center members during lunch. Serving his second term as the Representative from Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District, Sestak spoke in detail about funding the current financial crunch we all feel. Members shared their concerns and asked great questions and Congressman Sestak responded with thoughtful and informative answers.

Here are some facts provided by the Pennsylvania Association of Senior Centers (PASC):

15.3% of PA’s population is 65+ ranking the State 3rd, behind only Florida and West Virginia, in the number of older adult residents (2000 US Census).
People are living and working longer. In 2011, only 2 years from now, the older “Boomers” turn 65 and on average can be expected to live to age 83 or beyond.
Senior centers contribute to cost savings in long term living and health care by promoting healthy lifestyles, providing access to social services and combating isolation through keeping older adults actively engaged in their communities.
Pennsylvania provides base support for senior center programs, but not for the full operating expenses, new initiatives or capital expenses.
Collaborations, grants and fundraising activities alone are unable to support the growing need for community-based older adult programs and services.

Thanks, Congressman Sestak, for listening to the concerns of Havertown Center's older adults!

Please Do One Thing...

2009-03-17T18:26:00.010-04:00

Roll up the Rug!

Annual Campaign 2009

You’ve seen the Center looking better and brighter over the past year. Comm unity volunteers painted most of our rooms and all of our doors and trim. Donations brought us 6 new computers in the Tech Lab. Funds from the Department of Aging paid for our bright new signs. We squeezed money out of the MCSS budget for new tables in the lab and the new, lightweight lunchroom tables. All of which helped make us sparkle for our on-site Accreditation visit.

But now, when you look around at the center today, the old carpeting really stands out. And not in a good way!! As much as we’ve cleaned it, stains left by years of use won’t come out. There are safety problems too, as the carpet unravels at the seams and has to be taped down. And with your help, that carpeting can be replaced!

This year’s Havertown Center Annual Campaign is raising money to Roll up the Rug and begin putting new, safe and beautiful carpeting in the center. Your Annual Campaign donation of $25, or whatever is comfortable for you, will make it possible to Roll up the Rug and put down some beautiful new carpeting.

Like most of us, you are probably feeling that this is a time to spend and invest carefully. Havertown Center is a great long term investment in your future! You find so much here at the Center, from health and wellness programs to art to computers and more. But, it’s the friendship and fellowship that make the Center special. And that is what will help us get through these hard economic times. If we all pitch in, contribute what we can, and work together, we will keep the center strong – and have safe, beautiful new carpets.

Re-carpeting the Center will happen in phases. As a community of members, family and local friends, we can raise the money that we need to get started now.

Please do one thing...help the Center put its best foot forward and please make your Annual Campaign donation of $25, or whatever amount works for you, today. Your donation to the campaign will combine with others to reach the goal, and then we’ll Roll Up the Rug!!

Make your gift by Friday, March 27 and you’ll be eligible for the Annual Campaign raffle to be drawn on March 31st.

We Are Accredited!

2009-03-17T18:17:00.010-04:00

Havertown Center
is now a Nationally Accredited Senior Center!

It’s official—we have been awarded accreditation from the National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC), a unit of the National Council on Aging (NCOA). Accreditation is the official recognition that a senior center is meeting its mission in a nationally accepted professional fashion and in compliance with the nine standards of senior center operations. Accreditation is the official mark of excellence.

It was wonderful hearing all that Havertown Center means to everyone. As staff, we all feel such pride in Havertown Center, recognizing how the Center is truly you, the members. Now it’s official and we need to find just the right place of honor for our NISC Senior Center Accreditation plaque.

P.S. - Congratulations to Hometown Center in Media (our sister MCSS senior center) for being awarded National Accrreditation too!

How Old Are You?

2009-03-12T17:35:00.003-04:00

. . . Not too old to do the Cupid Shuffle!

To the right, to the right, to the right, to the right, to the left, to the left, to the left, to the left . . .now walk it out, walk it out . . .

Arthritis Foundation Exercise Class

2009-03-12T17:30:00.003-04:00

Watch as Karen Anthony leads our Thursday Exercise Class.

Here at Havertown Center you can take the Arthritis Foundation Excercise Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-11 a.m.

Let's Paint the Town Red!

2009-01-29T20:33:00.019-05:00

I mean...Let's Paint Our Doors Burgundy!

What an incredible Martin Luther King Day of Service we had last week! Havertown Center had about 70 volunteers from both Main Line Health and Vanguard here painting up a storm and transformed four of our rooms and all of our doors. Tim at MAB Paint Clearance Center in Upper Darby donated the paint. Who knew mis-tinted paint could look so gorgeous! Kevin Nolan of Nolan Painting volunteered the use of his supplies as well as three of his guys--Jim, Collin and Ed--who set us up, mixed our paint, supervised us and repaired our Ladies Room wall.

And--we were on NBC 10 news too! WOW! We look beautiful!

Thank you, All,for giving your time and painting talents to Havertown Center!

Tracy Davidson and NBC 10!

2009-01-05T13:28:00.002-05:00

Tracy Davidson and NBC 10 are coming to Havertown Center!
Wed. January 21, 2009
10:00-11:30 a.m.

Get ready for the Digital Revolution as NBC 10 News Anchor Tracy Davidson hosts her Digital Television Transition Tour here at Havertown Center. On February 17, 2009, all television stations will stop sending out program signals on their analog channels and begin broadcasting only in digital. If you already have a digital TV or if you have cable or satellite service, you may not need to do anything. Check with your cable or satellite provider to determine if and when you will need a set-top box.

But, if you are like many of us and you have an older set that uses rabbit ears or an outside antenna, your TV won’t work after Feb. 17 unless you:
· Get a special converter box that will make your analog set work
· Subscribe to a cable, satellite or other pay service for all the sets in your home
· Or buy a new TV that receives digital signals

Tracy Davidson’s Digital Transition Tour has helped hundreds of viewers make the digital transition as smoothly as possible. She will explain everything you need to know about the Digital Switch. During the presentation, Tracy will introduce an expert from Best Buy who will actually demonstrate how to hook up a converter box.

Up until March 31, 2009, all U.S. households may be able to receiveup to two coupons, worth $40 each, toward the purchase of digital converter boxes. At the end of the presentation, The Digital Transition Team from NBS 10 will set up an area to help people sign up for these money-saving converter box coupons. Plus, the NBC 10 Team will also provide an area where their experts will set up some TVs and a few converter boxes and answer your questions.

Movin' & Groovin'

2008-11-19T13:27:00.008-05:00

Check out the group at Havertown Center's Health Event learning the moves and de-stressing with Tai Chi led by Ida Ladner of Ageless Exercise.

Tai Chi classes are on Wednesdays, 10:00-10:45 and are $2.50 a class. Join and get in the groove!

And check out the group getting into a different groove after the Thanksgiving Luncheon. They enjoyed learning to Soul Line Dance with Gloria Kingcade!

Haverford Township Day

2008-10-08T13:31:00.002-04:00

Live Well with Arthritis! ~ Annual Health Event

2008-10-03T17:12:00.006-04:00

Wednesday, November 5, 2008
9:00 a.m.—1:30 p.m.
$4 Registration includes a Box Lunch and an Arthritis Information Packet.

Health Event Schedule:8:00-8:45 Registration & Screenings
9:00-10:00 Keynote Speaker
10:15-11:15 Morning Session ~ Living With Arthritis
11:30-12:30 Box LunchVendors & Screenings
12:30-1:30 Breakout Session #1
Breakout Session #2
Breakout Session #3

Keynote Speaker: Kafi Chism,
Senior Director of Health Improvement & Development,Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation

The Arthritis Foundation helps people take control of arthritis and improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. The Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter is your resource for the latest in disease specific information, research and physician referrals, offering a variety of health, wellness, life-skills and support programs in our local area and throughout Eastern Pennsylvania.

Morning Session:
Living With Arthritis ~ Becky Ledva. LSW, Crozer Keystone Health System Senior Health Services

Becky Ledva is a geriatric social worker who facilitates a support group for caregivers on the first Thursday of each month from 6-7 p.m. in Crozer-Chester Medical Center’s ACE Unit. Becky also facilitates an arthritis support group at the Healthplex® Sports Club on the first Thursday of the month from 2-3 p.m.

Afternoon Breakout Sessions: (Select 1 of 3 workshops to attend)
#1 ~ I Don’t Need Home Care! ~ Diane & Connie from Visiting Angels, Living Assistance Services

Find out what home care really is, how it can benefit those suffering from severe arthritis and what benefits are available for veterans in particular.

#2 ~ Arthritis Health & Wellness ~ Community Services at Bryn Mawr Hospital of Main Line Health.

In 2005, Bryn Mawr Hospital received the Orthopedics Care Excellence Award from HealthGrades and was ranked #1 in Pennsylvania for Overall Orthopedic Services.

#3 ~ Introduction to Tai Chi ~ Ageless Exercise

Ageless Exercise will lead a class to introduce you to the benefits of Tai Chi. Flowing movements focus the mind, while conditioning the body, helping to increase range of motion and make joints more resilient and less prone to injury.

Health Event Vendors
Arthritis Foundation
Bayada Nurses
Independence Blue Cross
Natural Healing Arts
Parvin’s Pharmacy/Katz Pharmacy
Premier Physical Therapy
Rothman Institute
Visiting Angels

Screenings
Widener University Nursing Students

Send Registration Form in early.
Space is limited.

Call: 610-446-2070 or

Email: mcdabrowski@senrs.org

Exercise ~ Some Things Stay the Same & Some Things Change...

2008-10-01T17:43:00.009-04:00

Our Exercise Classes are undergoing some changes next month. Jan Fisher’s The Fitness Business has been taken over by Ida Ladner of Ageless Exercise. October’s schedule will remain the same as usual, but with classes being taught by Ageless Exercise. Starting in November, our Exercise Class schedule will be a little different. We will offer an Exercise Class every day of the week from 10-11 a.m.

Monday and Friday Classes, 10-11, will be conducted by an Ageless Exercise Instructor. “Strength & Core” exercises will be added to strengthen and condition muscles to aid in balance. Ageless Exercise will continue to use The Fitness Business instructors.

In November, Karen Anthony will bring the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program to Havertown Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-11. This exercise program is designed to “increase functional endurance and stamina to develop cardiovascular fitness while increasing mobility, balance and coordination.” Karen is an Arthritis Foundation certified instruction. She also teaches at the local YMCA.

Wednesday’s class will be something new. Actually, new again! Ageless Exercise will teach Tai Chi on Wednesdays, 10-11. Tai Chi is relaxed movement which helps to maintain good health and harmony between mind and body. Tai Chi releases stress and improves flexibility and balance, and calms the mind.

What is NOT changing? The cost for Exercise Class and Tai Chi will remain the same—$2.50 per class. Come once a week, attend 2 or 3 classes, or come to them all. You design the schedule that works for you.

October’s Exercise Schedule:Mondays, 10-11 a.m; Tuesdays, 11:15 -12:00 Thursdays, 1-2 p.m.; Fridays, 10-11.Cost: $2.50 per class

Photos by Diana bella