West Ouachita Senior Center`s Informative Newsletter Get Ready for

West Ouachita Senior Center’s Informative Newsletter
September/October 2015
Get Ready for WOSC’s Exciting Socialization Events for Fall!
All Aboard for WOSC’s “Passport to Paradise!”
Sponsored by our Community Business Partner, Vantage Health Plan
What: “WOSC’s Passport to Paradise”
Where: West Ouachita Senior Center’s Multi-Purpose Annex
When: Tuesday, October 13, 2015
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Cost:
$2.00 tickets (available now at WOSC’s front counters)
Registration and meal ticket are required to attend.
Live Entertainment includes:
~ Miss Louisiana 2015, April Nelson
~ WOSC’s Broadway Wannabes
~ In Slow Motion Dancers, led by Mike Sullivan
(pictured right) Miss Louisiana 2015,
April Nelson, will be performing her
favorite musical selections at WOSC’s
“Passport to Paradise” event.
Save the Date!
Highlights from
WOSC’s 2014
“Passport to
Paradise” event.
November 10, 2015
Annual Veterans’Breakfast
Location: West Monroe Convention Center
901 Ridge Avenue
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Hosted by: West Ouachita Senior Center
Breakfast Sponsor: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes
Last October, hundreds of Ouachita Parish seniors
enjoyed a spectacular socialization event at WOSC.
Miss Louisiana 2014, Lacey Sanchez, performed
her favorite musical selections and posed for photos
with guests in attendance.
This breakfast is free to all Veterans,
their spouses, and surviving spouses of
all branches of the military. To assist
in meal planning, you must RSVP
your breakfast by calling 324-1280,
by noon on Monday, November 9th.
~For the information you want ~ For the support you need~
From the Director’s Desk:
September/October 2015
Rumor ‘tis is a bimonthly publication
of the West Ouachita Senior Center,
1800 North 7th Street, West Monroe,
LA 71291. It is distributed free of
charge to its readers. Postage is
paid at the Monroe Post Office, 501
Sterlington Road, Monroe, LA 71203
Main Office: 324-1280
Transit Office: 397-3299
Fax Number: 324-8750
Issue Date: Sept/Oct 2015
Issue Number: Vol. 2015, Issue 5
Executive Director:
Jeanette Ellington
Program Manager:
Cynthia Holland
Transportation Coordinator:
Teresa Hattaway
Supportive Services/
Quality Control
Kim Payne
Aging Advocate:
Terry Bratton
Transit Dispatcher:
Mable Dulaney
Newsletter Co-Editors:
Jeanette Ellington
Cynthia Holland
www.woscpt.com
[email protected]
Page 2
Notice of Early Voting Site Designation
The West Ouachita Senior Center has received notice of designation as an early/absentee voting site. Absentee and
early voting will be held at WOSC, beginning Thursday, October 10. The Senior Center’s address is 1800 North 7th
Street, West Monroe. For more information, please call (318) 324-1280. Signage with directions will be placed in
strategic locations throughout the area.
Medicare and Advantage Plans Updates for 2015
I wanted to remind all of you that soon there is an annual enrollment period for Medicare Part D for 2016. New
applications can be submitted beginning October 15, 2015, through December 7, 2015. After this period, there will
be an enrollment withdrawal for Medicare Advantage plan members. Members wanting to withdraw enrollment
from their plan can do so beginning January 1, 2016, through February 14, 2016. These members will have an
opportunity to return to original Medicare and purchase a stand-alone Part D insurance plan, which will stay in effect
until December 31, 2016.
Flu Shots for Seniors Medicare Part D Updates
Flu season is rapidly approaching! Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a serious respiratory illness that causes
thousands of hospitalizations and deaths every year. Flu is a serious disease, especially for adults ages 65 and older.
According the National Council on Aging (NCOA), as we age, our body’s ability to fight disease declines due to a
weakening of the immune system, which results in the body producing fewer antibodies to help fight infection from
the flu virus. Recent studies have shown that the traditional flu vaccine might not work as well for people 65 years
of age and older as it does for younger people. The age-related decline in the immune system affects the body’s
response to vaccination. The vaccine is covered under Medicare Part B or a $10 administrative fee.
No-cost flu shots for seniors with Medicare Part B will begin in October at both the West
Ouachita Senior Center and the Ouachita Council on Aging as a cooperative endeavor
with the Ouachita Parish Health Unit. Watch for announcements in the News-Star and
Ouachita Citizen for exact location, date, and time, for both east and west senior centers.
Public announcements about this Ouachita Parish Health Unit community partnership
“West Ouachita Senior Flu Shot Day” will also be announced through local media
outlets this fall.
(pictured right) Nurses from
the Ouachita Parish Health
Unit provide no-cost flu shots to
seniors at WOSC’s Senior Flu
Shot Day, coming this fall.
WOSC’s Executive Director, Jeanette Ellington (far right), joins
WOSC member, Clara Coleman (far left) and Vice-President of
Communities Benefitting Louisiana’s Elderly (CABLE), Jennifer
Bass (center), as WOSC receives a 2015-2016 Community Business
Partnership Grant from CABLE for WOSC’s Supportive Services
Programs for Ouachita Parish Seniors.
Enjoy “BINGO Fridays”
at WOSC!
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
First Friday BINGO:
Friday, September 4, sponsored by
Glenwood Behavioral Care
Friday, October 2, sponsored by
Stoneybrook
Hundreds of Ouachita
Parish seniors enjoy
“Bingo Fridays” at
WOSC! Join them
at 10:00 a.m. for funfilled Bingo games with Second Friday Bingo: sponsored
by the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s
wonderful sponsors!
Department
Friday, September 11
Friday, October 9
WOSC Program Manager, Cynthia Holland, commended over 50 amazing volunteers
who perform v
Griffin Funeral Home, LLC.
“Always the Affordable Choice”
7427 Cypress Street
West Monroe, Louisiana 71291
318-396-3191
www.griffinfuneralhome.net
Locally Owned Crematory
Simply Cremations, LLC.
Direct Cremation
$1,895.00
Price Includes: Basic Services of Funeral Director &
Staff, Transfer of Remains to Funeral Home within
100 miles, Coroners Authorization Fees and
Crematory Fees, and Temporary Urn.
With Memorial Service $2,595.00
Price Includes: Basic Services of Funeral Director &
Staff, Transfer of Remains to Funeral Home within
100 miles, Use of Facilities and Staff for Memorial
Service (Monday-Friday), Coroners Authorization
Fees and Crematory Fees, Temporary Urn, Register
Book, Candle, DVD Tribute, Service Programs,
Laminated Obituaries, and Thank You Cards.
Above Prices do not include Cash Advance Items
Same Day Service
$4,575.00
7 colors to choose from:
Blue (Monarch or Spruce), Silver, Black,
Coppertone, Pink, or White
This Price includes:
Basic Services of Funeral Director & Staff, Use of Facilities and Staff for
Visitation and Funeral Services (3 hours on same day), Transfer of
Remains to Funeral Home within 100 miles, Use of Hearse within 100
miles, Flower Van / Utility Vehicle, Embalming, Other Preparation of
Decedent, Register Book, DVD Tribute, Service Programs, Laminated
Obituaries, Thank You Cards, Temporary Grave Marker, and 20 Gauge
Non-Gasketed Casket.
Above Price does not include Cash Advance Items
FACT: “Using Our Competitors WILL Cost You More Money!”
We accept ANY & ALL Life Insurance Policies, Pre-Paid or Pre-Need Funeral
Plans from ALL other funeral homes.
Third Friday Bingo:
Friday, September 18, sponsored by
Savannah Grand Assisted Living
Friday, October 16, sponsored by
Glenwood Home Health
Fourth Friday Bingo
(October only):
Friday, October 23, sponsored by
Caring Hearts Hospice
WOSC’s Last Friday Bingo Bash:
Join Terry Bratton, WOSC’s Aging
Advocate, for our monthly Bingo
Bash on Friday, September 25,
and Friday, October 30, at 10:00
a.m. Prizes and refreshments will be
provided by Richland State Bank,
Hilton Garden Inn, Captain D's,
United Home Care, West Monroe
Rotary Club, and Senior Insurance
Advisory Services.
Page 15
Special Monthly Events (See a full listing of all WOSC daily activities on page 14)
Monday
7
WOSC/PT will be closed in
observance of Labor Day.
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
September 2015
Friday
Saturday
1
2
8:30 “Food for Seniors” Food
Distribution at the Ike Expo
3
4
5
2:00 Monthly Birthday
10:00 BINGO
Party for September
sponsored by Glenwood
with Senior Ins.
Behavioral Health
Advisory Services
8
10
10:00 Home Safety
Class with WMFD
Fire Extinguisher
Demonstration
9
First Day for
Early/Absentee Voting
11
8:00 AARP Drivers’ Safety
Class
12
9:00 Purple Hearts
10:00 BINGO
sponsored by
Ouachita Parish
Sheriff’s Dept
14
10:00 Manicures with
Denise Smith from
First Choice Hospice
15
10:00 Jewelry Making Class
with Misty Patterson
16
17
9:30 Blood Pressure
Screening with
Louisiana Hospice
18
10:00 BINGO
sponsored by
Savannah Grand
Assisted Living Center
19
10:00 NELA
Quilters’ Guild
Meeting
21/28
22/29
23/30
24
10:00 Fall Prevention
Seminar,
sponsored
by Melanie
Massey Physical
Therapy
11:00 Blood Pressure
Screening with
Legacy Hospice
25
10:00 BINGO BASH sponsored by West Monroe
Rotary Club, Hilton
Garden Inn, Captain D’s,
United Home Care, and
Richland State Bank
26
October 2015
Special Monthly Events
Monday
5
Tuesday
6
Wednesday
7
10:00 AARP Seminar
Prepare to Care
10:30 AARP Seminar
Fraud Watch
Thursday
1
2:00 Monthly Birthday
Party for October
with Senior Ins.
Advisory Services
8
9:30 Amplified
Telephones for
Hearing Impaired,
sponsored by New
Horizons
12
10:00 Manicures with
Denise Smith from
First Choice Hospice
13
11:00 Passport to Paradise”
event, sponsored by
Vantage Health Plan
15
14
8:30 USDA Commodities
Distribution at WOSC
19/26
20/27
21/28
27th
8:00 Foot Care Clinic
with Dr. Brian Krier
Page 4
22/29
Friday
Saturday
2
10:00 BINGO
sponsored by
Stoneybrook
3
9
8:00 AARP Drivers’ Safety
Class
10:00 BINGO
sponsored by
Ouachita Parish
Sheriff’s Dept
16
10:00 BINGO
sponsored by
Glenwood Home
Health
10
23/30
23rd 10:00 BINGO with
Caring Hearts Hospice
24/31
30th BINGO BASH sponsored by Senior
Insurance Advisory Services,
Hilton Garden Inn, Captain
D’s, United Home Care, and
Richland State Bank
9:00 Purple Hearts
10:00 Legal Aid for
Seniors
17
WOSC Closed for Labor Day
Legal Aid for Seniors
West Ouachita Senior Center/Public Transit
will be closed on Monday, September 7, in
observance of Labor Day. We wish all of our
seniors a fun and safe holiday!
The Legal Aid Program provides free, courteous, high-quality
legal services to Ouachita Parish seniors (ages 60+). This program
provides legal advice on a wide variety of issues: government
benefits, health care, housing, consumer problems and elderly
abuse. Legal Aid representatives will be on-site at the West
Ouachita Senior Center, Saturday, October 10, from 10:00
a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Walk-ins are welcomed or you can pre-register
by calling the Senior Center at 324-1280.
Start a New Activity Group at WOSC
Would your senior adult table game group, book club, etc. like to
reserve a room in the Senior Center? Please let us know! Starting
a new group with your friends is a great way to enjoy the rest of
the fall season! Call Cynthia Holland, Program Manager, at 3241280 to inquire about room space.
Canasta ~ Scrabble
Bridge ~ Dominoes
Rook ~ Mexican Train
Pokeno ~ Spades
Informative AARP Seminars for Seniors
Led by AARP Volunteer, Deanne Groves
Prepare to Care: Wednesday, October 7, at 10:00 a.m.
If you are caring for an older parent or loved one, you
may be feeling the weight of the time, money and stress
involved in this labor of love. Join Deanne, as she discusses
the challenges you face, and learn about resources available
to you. AARP recognizes that thanks to caregivers, older
parents, spouses and other loved ones can remain in their
homes. This presentation is also helpful to those who think
they may become caregivers in the future.
Fraud Watch: Wednesday, October 7, at 10:30 a.m.
Con artists don’t care how hard you work. They steal billions
from Americans like you every year. We’re fighting back
with the AARP Fraud Watch Network. Join an informative
discussion to learn how to spot and avoid identity theft
and fraud so you can protect yourself and your family. For
over fifty years AARP has been committed to safeguarding
Americans’ financial futures.
Pre-register for these informative seminars by calling 324-1280 or
stop by either of WOSC’s information counters.
Page 13
Food Distribution Programs
for Qualified Ouachita Parish Seniors
WOSC’s food distribution programs
scheduled for the following dates:
are
Food for Seniors Distribution
When: Tuesday, September 1, 2015, 8:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.
Where: Ike Hamilton Expo Center at 501 Mane Street, in West Monroe
Remember to bring your pink card to pick up your food!
West Ouachita parish seniors ages 60+, with less than $1,276
per month (family of one) or $1,726 per month (married), are
eligible to receive food. The West Ouachita Senior Center,
Catholic Charities, and the Department of Agriculture sponsor
the Food for Seniors food program.
USDA Commodities Distribution
When: Wednesday, October 14, 2015, 8:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.
Where: West Ouachita Senior Center Annex, 1800 North 7th Street
Remember to bring your yellow card to pick up your commodities!
Fall Prevention Seminar
Brian Russell, Physical Therapist with
Melanie Massey Physical Therapy will
be hosting a “Fall Prevention Seminar,”
Thursday, September 24, at 10:00 a.m.
Learn valuable information on keeping
yourself or your loved ones safe at home.
Registration is available at WOSC’s front
counter.
WOSC Flu Shot Update for
Ouachita Parish Seniors
No-cost flu shots for seniors with Medicare Part B will begin
in October. Watch for announcements in the News-Star and
Ouachita Citizen for exact location, date, and time for “West
Ouachita Senior Flu Shot Day,” a community partnership
with the Ouachita Parish Health Unit. You may also contact
WOSC’s staff by calling 324-1280 to schedule an appointment.
AARP Drivers’ Safety Course for Seniors Drivers
By taking an AARP driver safety course, seniors (ages 55+) will learn the current
rules of the road, defensive driving techniques and how to operate your vehicle more
safely in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. You will also learn
how to manage and accommodate common age-related changes in vision, hearing,
and reaction time. In addition, you’ll learn safety essentials, such as, but not limited to:
•
•
•
•
how to minimize the effects of dangerous blind spots;
how to maintain the proper following distance behind another car;
how to safely change lanes and make turns at busy intersections;
how to properly use safety belts, air bags, antilock brakes, and new technology
found in cars today;
• how to monitor your own and others’ driving skills and capabilities;
• how to realize the effects of medications while driving;
• how to eliminate distractions, such as eating, smoking and using a cellphone.
AARP Instructor, John Tannehill, teaches the the AARP
Defensive Driving Class on the second Friday of each month.
After completing the safety course, you will have a greater appreciation of driving challenges and a better understanding of how to avoid
potential collisions and injuring yourself or others. Ouachita Parish drivers (ages 55+) are encouraged to attend an AARP Defensive Driving
Class. During the summer, the West Ouachita Senior Center offers these classes on Friday, September 11, and October 9, from 8:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m., led by a Certified AARP instructor. The cost of the program is $15.00 for AARP members and $20.00 for non-AARP members.
Payments must be paid by check to AARP at the time of the class. Many drivers ages 55+ may be eligible for an automobile insurance reduction
after attending this informative class. Class enrollment is limited. Seniors may register at WOSC’s front counter or call us at 324-1280.
Page 6
Amplified Telephones for
Hearing Impaired Seniors
Sandy Wall,
with New Horizons Independent
Living Center will be at the West Ouachita Senior
Center on Thursday, October 8, from 9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m., to provide amplified telephones for hearing
impaired seniors, at no charge. If you are a hearing
impaired senior in need of an amplified telephone,
you may pre-register by calling 324-1820 or speaking
“Pearls of Wisdom”
to a knowledgeable WOSC staff member at either
I’m having the time of my life and the fact that I’m still working
- how lucky can you get? I’m in my 90’s and still able to work as
much as I do. That’s a privilege!
~ Betty White ~
front entry. In order to qualify for a free telephone,
you must bring the following: documentation
of hearing loss from your doctor, a Louisiana
photo I.D. card, and your Social Security Card.
West Ouachita Public Transit
West Ouachita Public Transit is a safe, dependable, and courteous curb-to-curb service available to the general
public residing in western Ouachita Parish. Public transit provides West Ouachita Parish residents access to goods,
services, employment, and other vital destinations necessary for independent living.
Transit requests are booked on a first come, first serve basis. All passengers must have a ticket. Daily or monthly fares
are available. Tickets can be purchased from the van drivers or from the Senior Center's front desk. To schedule your
transportation, you are encouraged to call 397-3299 at least 48 hours in advance. Vans are equipped with wheelchair
lifts. WOSC Public Transit is a Demand Responsive/Subscription-Deviated Service.
WOSC Rural Public Transit Service promotes independence and
enhanced quality of life by providing seniors with access to vital
destinations within Ouachita Parish. LA Relay-Hearing Impaired
Service - Toll Free Captioned Telehone 1-877-243-2823 (or 7-1-1).
The West Ouachita Public Transit office and bus garage is located directly
behind the Senior Center. The two-lane covered drop-off makes it convenient for
passengers to enter and exit the facility in safely and easily.
Page 11
Highlights from WOSC’s “South of the Border Fiesta”
Sponsored by Landmark Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Hundreds of Ouachita Parish seniors enjoyed WOSC’s “South of the Border Fiesta” luncheon, held on Wednesday, August 19,
in our Multi-Purpose Annex. Guests enjoyed a delicious catered meal, including authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious cheesecake,
fabulous door prizes, and live entertainment by local vocalist, Joey Duhamel, the Southern Sass Dancers, and outstanding musical
performances by the Broadway Wannabes! We appreciate Landmark Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for sponsoring this
spectacular socialization event for our seniors!
(pictured left) Members of
WOSC’s BroadwayWannabes
performed an entertaining
musical skit at WOSC’s
“South of the Border Fiesta.”
(
A special “Thank You” to Wanda Hall, Becky
Lewis, Beth Coplin, and their helpful staff
from Landmark Nursing and Rehabilitation
Center, for hosting this wonderful “South of
the Border Fiesta”socialization event for our
seniors! The catered meal was delicious!
Page 8
(pictured right)
Local vocalist, Joey Duhamel,
enjoyed performing a variety
of classic songs for hundreds
of Ouachita Parish seniors at
WOSC’s “South of the Border
Fiesta.”
©2013 MKJ Marketing
The very best
doesn’t have to cost
you more... In fact, it
will cost you less
Sen
WOSC’s
Monthly Birthday Party
Enjoy celebrating your September or
October birthday at the West Ouachita
Senior Center!
There is a misconception that you cannot purchase
a full-service funeral at an affordable price. And
that even the most basic services are financially out
of reach. Not so. We offer a variety of full-service
funeral plans to fit any budget, any need. Through
a careful selection of options, we can custom tailor
an affordable funeral to be as special and unique as
the person you are honoring.
Join us on Thursday, September 3, and
Thursday, October 1, at 2:00 p.m., in
WOSC’s Multi-Purpose Annex.
Delicious cake and punch are provided
by our Community Partners, Dee Dee
Whitlock and Ashley Tolar, with Senior
Insurance Advisory Services.
So, why settle for less?
Laura Kilpatrick Marchelos, President
Serving all of Northeast Louisiana
www.KilpatrickFuneralHomes.com
Monroe
323-9611
West Monroe
323-9614
Ruston
255-2832
Farmerville
368-3025
~ Senior Moment Humor ~
A very upset senior contacted the local newspaper office, loudly demanding to know where
was her weekly Sunday paper. “Ma’am,” said the customer service representative, “Today is
Saturday. Your Sunday edition will not be delivered until tomorrow morning.” There was a long
pause on the other end of the phone, then suddenly the seniors replied, “Ohhhhh, then that’s
probably why no one showed up for church this morning either!”
Silver Contributors
Audibel ~ Cardinal Health Care ~ Mulhearn Funeral
Home Radio People ~ Ridgecrest Community Care Center
Senior Insurance Advisory Services
Bronze Contributors
Page 9
Enjoy Great Fitness Classes and Educational
Seminars
for Ouachita
Parish
Seniors
~Monthly
Bingo
Bash~
Sponsored by
Senior Chair Aerobics Class
Vantage Wellness “Forever Young”
Aerobics Class meets every Tuesday for
chair-assisted aerobics, at 1:00 p.m., led
by Samantha DeBona, Vantage Health
Plan Fitness Instructor.
Samantha DeBona
Vantage Wellness Fitness Instructor
The Art of Sleeping Well
Wednesday, September 9th
with Father Job Scaria,
Marriage and Family Ther apist
A discussion of sleep disturbance patterns encountered by seniors.
Carolyn Rose Strauss Senior Center • 2407 Ferrand Street • Monroe, LA
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. • Registration will take place at 1:30 p.m.
Lt Gen Claire Lee Chennault:
NELA Military & Aviation Legacy
Wednesday, September 23rd
with Nell Calloway,
Director of Chennault Aviation & Military Museum
A presentation of the rich military and aviation history of Northeast Louisiana.
Chennault Aviation & Military Museum • 701 Kansas Lane • Monroe, LA
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. • Registration will take place at 1:30 p.m.
Senior Yoga Class
Enjoy the physical and mental benefits of
participating in WOSC’s weekly “Yoga
with Vantage Wellness” classes, every
Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., with Terrieha
Romer, Corporate Wellness Program
Coordinator at Vantage Health Plan.
Poverty Point: Native American Pre-history
of NELA’s UNESCO World Heritage Site
Terrieha Romer
Vantage Wellness
Program Coordinator
Wednesday, October 14th
with Diana Greenlee, PhD, ULM Archeology/Author
A presentation of Native American pre-history of UNESCO World Heritage
site Poverty Point.
Vantage Tower - Banquet Room • 130 DeSiard Street • Monroe, LA
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. • Registration will take place at 1:30 p.m.
Nice Guy Finishes First:
The Clarke Williams Story
Wednesday, October 28th
with Leo Honeycutt,
Award-winning TV Journalist & Author
A discussion of Leo’s newest biography of CenturyLink’s founder,
Clarke Williams.
Vantage Tower - Banquet Room • 130 DeSiard Street • Monroe, LA
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. • Registration will take place at 1:30 p.m.
For reservations or more information, please call toll-free
(855) 301-5198 Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Ouachita Parish seniors enjoy the “Forever
Young” Chair-assisted Aerobics Class, led by
Vantage Fitness Instructor, Samantha DeBona
(pictured left), on Tuesdays, at 1:00 p.m.
Page 10
These events are for educational purposes and no plan-specific benefits or details will be shared.
Farewell, Summer 2015!
)
(pictured above) Ouachita Parish seniors
enjoy a cool summer treat at WOSC’s
“July 4th Coke Float Party”, sponsored
by Centric Federal Credit Union.
(pictured above) Through a Community Business Partnership
Grant with LSU Ag Center, Nutritional Instructor, Pam Sapp,
offers quarterly food safety education to WOSC’s senior members.
(pictured above) WOSC member, Martina
Yee, proudly displays her hand-crafted
crocheted afghan.
(pictured right) WOSC
member, Debbie Lehman,
enjoys the handmade
jewelry class, taught
monthly at WOSC. Class
participants enjoy making
their own earrings,
necklaces, and bracelets.
(pictured right) ULM Older Worker Program
Clerical Assistant, Gloria Rivers, and WOSC’s
Aging Advocate, Terry Bratton, assist
Ouachita Parish senior, Charles Roberson,
with independent living needs.
“Manicure Party”
by Denise Smith, First Choice Hospice
Denise Smith, with First Choice Hospice, will be at the
West Ouachita Senior Center, on Monday, September 14,
and October 12, from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., to offer light
manicures and hand massages for seniors.
Ouachita
Grand Plaza
This pampering time is for both men and women! See WOSC
staff at either of our Front Counters, or call 324-1280 to make
your manicure appointment!
Retirement Community
Now Accepting Applications!
Studio & One Bedroom Apartment Homes
• Within walking distance to River Market
• Within walking distance to the medical
community
• Private New Orleans style courtyard and
outdoor gazebo
• Activity room with free internet access
• Convenience services available including
scheduled transportation, weekday hot
lunches, and housekeeping.
Ouachita Grand Plaza
501 South Grand St, Monroe, LA
318-329-1381
[email protected]
TDD/TTY 1-800-545-1833 Ext. 872
Must be 62 or older to apply.
(pictured right) Denise
Smith, enjoys providing
monthly manicures to
seniors at WOSC. Call
324-1280 to schedule your
pampering time with her in
September and October.
Bronze Contributors
Page 7
Continuing Adult Education Classes for Seniors
Lifelong learning has great benefits for senior adults. Continuing
education keeps your mind sharp, improves memory, increases selfconfidence, offers an inexpensive way to try something new, provides a
way to save money as you learn to “do it yourself,” gives you a feeling
of accomplishment, helps you meet people who share your interests,
and gives you a new interest that you can share with family and friends
WOSC Spanish Classes: *New Time*
It’s never too late to learn a foreign language. Let the West Ouachita
Senior Center assist you in removing doubt and get you started
with your learning experience.
WOSC Basic Computer/Internet Instruction Classes:
Basic Computer and
Internet
Instruction
Classes are offered at the
West Ouachita Senior
Center every Friday,
during September and
October, from 12:00
p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
These informative sessions are taught by
ULM Student, Tara Ebarb (pictured
A Beginning Spanish Class, led by WOSC Volunteer, Margaret
above), and focus on navigating your way
Martin, is available every Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
around the basic functions of a iPhone,
iPad, computer, browsing the Internet
WOSC Instructor, Valerie Matejosky, teaches an Intermediate safely, and sending and receiving e-mail.
Spanish Class, every Tuesday, from 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Let Tara teach you some basic computer
instruction. Please note that “one-onWOSC Non-Denominational Bible Study:
one” time is limited, based on the number
WOSC Volunteer, Matecki Nelson, leads an inspirational Nonof students in class.
Denominational Bible Study Class every Thursday from
A donation is appreciated for computer classes to cover supplies, printer ink,
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
and paper. There is no charge for daily computer personal use.
Fire Extinguisher Usage Demonstration
Sponsored by the West Monroe Fire Dept.
Schedule Your Annual Medicare
Update Enrollment Appointment
The West Monroe Fire Department will be hosting a
Fire Extinguisher Usage Class, at the West Ouachita
Senior Center, on Thursday, September 10, at 10:00
a.m. Ouachita Parish seniors are encouraged to attend
this informative home safety demonstration.
Terry Bratton, WOSC’s Aging Advocate, is now
scheduling appointments to meet with seniors regarding
Annual Medicare Updates. Appointments can be
scheduled between 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and 1:30
p.m. - 4:30 p.m., beginning October 15th and ending
December 6th. Contact Terry, at 324-1280 to discuss
your Medicare options. Due to limited time frames,
appointments are required. All appointments must be
made by December 6th.
West Monroe Fireman, Charles Hugghins,
will be leading this class and providing a
detailed demonstration on how seniors can use
an extinguisher in the event of an emergency.
To pre-register for this informative class, call
324-1280, or see a staff member at either of
WOSC’s Front Information Counters.
Page 12
For your appointment with Terry,
please bring your current medications
and Medicare card.
Health and Fitness Opportunities for Ouachita Parish Seniors
WOSC’s Weekly Fitness and Dance Classes
~ Beginners’ Line Dance Class: every Thursday at 9:00 a.m. with WOSC
volunteer instructor, Darlene Tippen
~ Intermediate Line Dance Class: every Thursday at 10 a.m. with WOSC
volunteer instructor, Darlene Tippen
~ “Pep In Your Step” Advanced Line Dance Class: every Thursday, at
(Pictured above) Ouachita Parish seniors enjoy Oxycise
Class, every Monday and Wednesday, at 2:00 p.m., with
WOSC Fitness Instructor, Teddy Varino. Oxycise is an aerobic
workout that utilizes a deep-breathing technique focused on
using the diaphragm and flexing and contracting muscles to
help you lose weight and tone muscle.
2:15 p.m. with WOSC volunteer instructors, Linda Ricks and Ray Jones
~ Dancin’ With Jo: every Tuesday 10:00 a.m. (except on 2nd Tuesday) with
WOSC volunteer instructor, Jo Lasyone
~ In Slow Motion Dance Class: every Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
with Dance Instructor, Mike Sullivan
~ Ballroom Dance Class: every Tuesday from 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. with
Dance Instructor, Mike Sullivan
Floyd and Paulette
Allen enjoy a regular ~ Zumba Class: every Monday at 3:15 p.m., and Wednesday at 9:00 a.m.,
cardio workout on
with Fitness Instructor, Teddy Varino
WOSC’s
treadmills.
~ Oxycise Class: every Monday and Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. with Fitness
They usually bring a
Instructor, Teddy Varino
good book to read or
watch TV while they ~ Yoga Class: every Monday at 11:00, with Fitness Instructor/WOSC
walk!
Volunteer, Dawn Eakin
WOSC’s Fitness Room
The WOSC Fitness Room is open Monday Friday, from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Initially, a
WOSC Participant Form and an Activity Release
Form will be required for all seniors before using
the fitness equipment. For your safety, proper
footwear, closed-toe and closed-heel shoes with
socks, must be worn when exercising. For more
information about our Fitness Room, contact
Cynthia Holland, Program Manager, at 324-1280.
Please note: Before starting a fitness program,
consult your doctor for exercise recommendations.
Page 5
WOSC Daily Activities
Monday
Ceramics Class
9:00 - 2:00
Beginner’s Yoga Class
11:00 - 12:15
Crochet Club
8:00 - 12:00
Southern Sass Dance Group Practice
10:00 - 11:00
Oxycize
2:00 - 3:00
Zumba
3:15 PM
Tuesday
Art Class
9:00 - 2:00
Beginner's Step Class (not on second Tues)
9:00 - 10:00
Intermediate Spanish Class
9:30 - 10:30
Beginner’s Spanish Class
10:30 - 11:30
Forever Young Chair Aerobics
1:00 - 2:00
In Slow Motion (age 80+)
2:00 - 2:30
Ballroom Dance Class
2:30 - 3:30
Wednesday
Zumba
Quilting Group
Crochet Club
Yoga
Mexican Train Dominoes
Oxycize
9:00 - 10:00
9:00 - 12:00
8:00 - 12:00
11:30 - 12:30
12:00 - 4:30
2:00 - 3:00
Thursday
Bridge Group
Ceramics Class
Quilting Group
Cards/Dominoes
Beginner’s Line Dance
Bible Study
Intermediate Line Dance
Gospel Singing
Broadway Wannabes Drama Practice
“Pep In Your Step” Line Dance
8:30 - 12:30
9:00 - 2:00
9:00 - 12:00
9:00 - 12:00
9:00 - 10:00
10:00 - 11:00
10:00 - 11:00
12:30 - 2:00
1:00 - 2:00
2:15 - 3:30
Friday
Crochet Group
Art Class
Mexican Train Dominoes
Computer and Technology Class
Page 14
8:00 - 12:00
8:30 - 12:30
12:00 - 4:30
12:00 - 4:00
Additional Monthly Club Meetings
WOSC Daily Activities (Continued)
and "After Hours" Activities
10:00
Happy Wheels Card Club
1st Monday
11:30
Ponytail Ladies Club
1st & 3rd Monday
10:00
Friends Canasta Club
2nd & 4th Monday
Second Monday Pokeno Club 10:00
2nd Monday
Friends Forever Pokeno Club 11:00
3rd Monday
9:00
Morning Star Quilters
1st Tuesday
6:00
American Legion
1st Tuesday
6:30
Disabled Veterans
1st Tuesday
1:00
Scrabble
2nd Tuesday
Additional
Monthly
9:00 Club
Quilters
Playday
3rdMeetings
Tuesday
9:00 Activities
Bears for Kids
3rd Tuesday
andClub
"After Hours"
11:00
Red Hat Senioritas
4th Tuesday
Listening Ears/Hurting Hearts 10:00
2nd Wednesday
1:00
LA Appligators
1st Wednesday
11:00
Bell South Retirees
2nd Tuesday
9:00
Ladies Canasta Club
4th Wednesday
2:00
Monthly Birthday Party
1st Thursday
10:30
Good Times Pokeno Club
2nd Thursday
10:00
Congregate Meal Site Bingo
3rd Thursday
10:30
Claiborne Pokeno Club
3rd Thursday
10:00
First Friday Bingo
1st Friday
8:30
AARP Driver Safety
2nd Friday
Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Bingo 10:00
2nd Friday
10:00
Third Friday Bingo
3rd Friday
10:00
Bingo Bash
Last Friday
9:00
Purple Heart Veterans
2nd Saturday
12:30
Gospel Singing
Every Thurs.
3:00
AARP - Calhoun Chapter
3rd Thursday
Every Other Odd
5:30
Twin City Mayors' Disability
Month
Council
WOSC’s Medical Loan Closet
Foot Care Clinic with Dr. Brian Krier
WOSC’s “Medical Loan Closet” provides previously owned
medical equipment to families in need. There is no charge to
borrow this equipment. If you are in need of medical equipment
for a friend or family member, please call the WOSC at 324-1280.
Dr. Brian Krier, Board Certified Family Physician,
has been providing foot care to patients for over 30
years.
He
provides
diabetic
foot
screening,
including:
* visual inspection for sores and deformities
* evaluation of circulation
* evaluation of sensation
* general foot care (corns, calluses, and thick nails)
WOSC also welcomes your donations! We
are always in need of items, such as canes,
wheelchairs, walkers, bath benches, etc. Your
donation can greatly assist other families in
Ouachita Parish. Call 324-1280 or stop by
WOSC, at 1800 North 7th Street, in West
Monroe.
WOSC’s Creative Arts Classes
Art Class: (acrylic, oil, watercolor, ink, pastel, sketching, etc)
Tuesday, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., with instructor, Debra Heard
Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., with instructor, Patti Guerriero
Ceramics Class:
Monday and Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., with instructor,
Virginia Terry. There is a minimal charge for painting
supplies for this class.
Crochet Class: (knitting, sewing, needlepoint, etc.)
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 8:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m., with
volunteer instructors Ruth Naslund and Carolyn Boatright.
Quilting Class:
Wednesday and Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., with
volunteer instructors, Bobbie Bohannon and Lahonda
Littleton
Jewelry Making Class:
Due to limited space and detailed, individualized instruction
for participants, please pre-register prior to class. Misty’s
Jewelry Class meets on Tuesday, September 15, at 10:00
a.m.,All interested particpants must call 324-1280 or stop
by either of our Front Information Counters in advance to
be placed in a group. WOSC volunteer instructor, Misty
Patterson, will be teaching participants how to make colorful
bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. Each participant should
be prepared to pay $2.00 each to cover the cost of supplies.
Dr. Krier will be offering a Foot Care Clinic to Ouachita Parish seniors
at the West Ouachita Senior Center, on Tuesday, October 27, from 8:00
a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Dr. Krier accepts all major medical insurance plans,
including Medicaid.
For questions regarding
insurance, call Dr. Krier’s office, at 884-0362.
Please, inform them if your primary insurance is
Medicaid. A short authorization form will need to
be completed prior to your appointment.
If you are a Ouachita Parish senior interested in the
Foot Care Clinic at WOSC, call 324-1280 or preregister at either of WOSC’s Front Information
Counters. Dr. Krier sees clients on a “first come,
first serve” basis.
Monthly Blood Pressure
Screenings for Seniors
On-Site “Vita-Stat” Blood Pressure Machine
The West Ouachita Senior Center offers no-charge, on-site, blood
pressure screenings for our seniors. Qualified representatives from
local health care agencies also provide scheduled screenings at
no charge to our seniors. A Vita-Stat machine (electronic blood
pressure machine) is conveniently located inside the Health and
Wellness Room in the Multi-Purpose Annex. This machine is
available at no charge to seniors. Stop by WOSC and use the new
machine to check your blood pressure!
Blood pressure screenings for September and October:
Thursday, September 17, and October 15, at
9:30 a.m., sponsored by Louisiana Hospice and
Palliative Care.
Thursday, September 24, and October 22, at
11:00 a.m., sponsored by Legacy Hospice.
Page 3
"Rumor 'tis" Newsletter
West Ouachita Senior Center
1800 North 7th Street
West Monroe, LA 71291
Masur Museum Field Trip
In August, several WOSC members enjoyed a cultural field trip to
the historic Masur Museum, in Monroe. Special exhibits, during
this informative tour, included “Emily Caldwell, Naturally,”
“Makers’ Marks,” and recent acquisitions and favorites from
Masur’s permanent collection. Participants on this tour also
enjoyed a visit with local artist, Emily Caldwell, and were able to
see her creativity in action.
Pictured left to right Cheryl Klopping, June Baker, Ken Foster, Sandy Deblose, Ruth
Ragsdale, Jum Ragsdale, Jerry Crockett, Misty Patterson,
Neomia Rogers, and Debra Heard
Page 16
Non-Profit
U.S. Postage
PAI D
Permit #50
Monroe, La. 71203