More than 60 AARP Chapter 4401 members and their guests attended the chapter’s Summerfest at the West Point Senior Center in June.
Thirteen new members joined the group for the Fun and Fitness-themed event. Most guests came early to enjoy a lunch of barbecued chicken, bratwurst, baked beans, cole slaw and cobbler for a $5 donation.
Information and brochures were offered at tables set up for Sam B. Cook Healthplex, The LINC Wellness and Recreation Center, YMCA, Jefferson City Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, and representatives of the dance community. Prior to the meeting, attendees were encouraged to visit with the organization representatives to learn about their programs and schedules. During the meeting, spokespersons highlighted activities at their venues.
Kay Benward of the Healthplex, 1432 Southwest Blvd., said those new to the facility meet with a staff member for a health assessment to develop a program specific to their needs. The Healthplex hosts a variety of programs including cardio rehab, functional fitness classes, and Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson’s patients. Wednesday Wellness classes are held on the first and third Wednesday with a different topic each month.
Haylee Backues encouraged attendees to discover Jefferson City at the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, 100 E. High St., where brochures and information about things to see and do in Jefferson City are located. Many attractions are free. There is a dining guide. She encouraged those who have not experienced a concert at the new amphitheater to watch for events this summer. Salute to America will return as a one-day event this year. Information is also available on the website visitjeffersoncity.com.
The Greenway Trail system is a multi-use trail designed to provide a safe place to walk, jog, bike, or skate in Jefferson City. “There are currently about 15 miles of fully ADA accessible trails,” said Ben Hinz of Jefferson City Parks and Recreation. There are 3 miles of newly renovated trails in the Frog Hollow area alone. You can see so much of Jefferson City and enjoy the outdoors on the ever-expanding Greenway Trail system.
Luke Shelangoski, spokesperson for The LINC Recreation and Wellness Center, 1299 Lafayette St., talked about the Active Living Group which meets every other week on Thursdays. Activities include Bingo, a Capitol tour, planting succulents and a fall hay ride. The LINC is an indoor and outdoor fitness facility where you can play pickleball. A large indoor track (seven laps equals one mile) is available in any weather. Join the Twalkers, the talking and walking group, to get your steps in while you socialize.
The YMCA has three locations: Firley, 525 Ellis Blvd.; Knowles, 424 Stadium Blvd.; and Hartsfield, 3507 Amazonas Drive, each has its own distinct flavor. Representing the YMCA, Karli Fecteau shared her positive energy while encouraging attendees to try Silver Sneakers, Chair Yoga, or water aerobics at their nearest Y. “Each instructor brings his or her own personal touch to the classes, so you’re sure to find a class you like,” Fecteau said.
Opportunities to dance in Central Missouri are numerous as Ann DeRosier and Becky Fredrickson pointed out. Along with being a social activity, dance is exercise for the body and the mind and it is fun. Three great venues in Jefferson City to learn to dance and to try your skills at monthly dances are the Capital Ritz, 2716 Plaza Drive, Steppin’ Out, 2304 E. McCarty St., and Windstone Entertainment, 2425 Industrial Drive. Whether you want to line dance, learn country, pattern partner, ballroom or swing you can find great instructors at these dance venues.
About halfway through the presentations, Marge Van Horn led the audience members through a short Tai chi demonstration. Tai chi promotes relaxation, flexibility and improved balance. The Senior Center hosts free Tai chi at 12:45 p.m. every Wednesday and Friday.
Each year, local AARP chapters have the opportunity to honor a member or a couple who has made an outstanding contribution to the community with the National AARP Chapter Community Service Award. The 2023 award was presented to Tony Wening and Charlotte Wening “in appreciation of your outstanding service to AARP and your efforts to improve your community.”
In listing their contributions, Pat Biggerstaff noted Tony and Charlotte deliver Meals on Wheels every second week to home-bound individuals in Callaway County “and bring a warm greeting and friendship along with the food.” Tony is secretary of AARP Chapter 4401 and Charlotte previously served six years as president. They are actively involved in organizing successful meetings and events.
Tony serves as secretary on the boards of Cole County Senior Nutrition Council and Aging Best. He is a certified instructor for the AARP Smart Driver course and teaches classes throughout Mid-Missouri.
Charlotte writes the monthly AARP Active Life article with information of interest to seniors, and Tony proofreads them.
Charlotte planned a Bunco Night Fundraiser to benefit the Senior Nutrition Council which has become an annual affair. She also leads a weekly Bible/book study group at her church.
They each received a certificate, AARP Real Possibilities pin, and letter of appreciation signed by Jo Ann Jenkins, the National AARP CEO.
The meeting ended with the distribution of door prizes. AARP would like to thank the following businesses for door prize donations: Rusty Drewing Chevrolet Buick GMC, The Curry ‘N’ Grill, Bandana’s Bar-B-Q, Pancho’s Mexican Food, Buffalo Wild Wings, Panera Bread, Colton’s Steak House & Grill, Kwik Car Wash & Detail, Pita Pit, PaPPo’s, Domenico’s Italian Restaurant and Catering, High Rise Bakery, Mel’s Country Cafe, Jefferson’s Deli, Culver’s, YoYums, and Jersey Mike’s Subs. The 50/50 Raffle prize was $37.
From Loss to New Life
There is still time to register for the free grief and loss program sponsored by AARP, Freeman Mortuary, and the First Baptist Church which occurs 6-8 p.m., Wednesday through Aug. 23. From Loss to New Life is specifically designed for those suffering from grief or loss of a loved one through death or divorce.
The eight-week program will be held at First Baptist Church, 301 E. Capitol Ave. Topics covered by facilitator, Linda Sullivan, include the normality of grief, identifying the source of grief and loss, understanding grief, and coping with grief and loss.
Registration for the From Loss to New Life program is required to participate. You don’t have to belong to the AARP or be affiliated with the church to participate, but you do need to register to ensure there are enough participants to hold the class. To register call 573-634-3603 or email [email protected]
In addition, an open enrollment, AARP Grief and Loss Support Group meets at 12:30 p.m., the Third Thursday of every month in Room 101 at First Baptist Church. This is a carry-in lunch for those who would like the continued support of others who, like themselves, have experienced the loss of a loved one. Participants bring a dish to share or if you are on a special diet, bring your own lunch. Individuals who wish to participate in this informal AARP Grief and Loss Support Group may contact facilitator, EthelMae Champ, at 573-821-4810 for more information.
Bunco party
The Community is invited to a fun evening of Bunco on Aug. 8 sponsored by AARP Chapter 4401 as a Fund Raiser to benefit the Cole County Senior Nutrition Council. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and play begins at 6 p.m. at the West Point Senior Center, 2701 W. Main St.
Light snacks and drinks will be provided or you can bring your own. The charge for the evening is $10. There will be prizes for most wins, most losses, most buncos, and a 50/50 raffle.
For those who don’t know, Bunco is a very social, fast-paced dice game that’s easy to learn and lots of fun. All you really need to know is how to roll dice and yell “Bunco!” We’ll review the simple rules. Anyone who loves to play Bunco or wants to learn is invited. Mark your calendar; tell your friends; bring a friend.
Membership information
If you are not a member of the Jefferson City AARP Chapter 4401, dues are $8 per year. To join or renew your membership, you may send a check to AARP Chapter 4401, P.O. Box 105965, Jefferson City, MO 65110.
As a member of the local chapter of the AARP, you will receive by email the AARP Volunteer Update which features news of AARP happenings and legislative news about current bills concerning older adults and information on how to let your voice be heard. You will also receive information on Chapter 4401 meetings, speakers and events either by mail or email.
Submitted photo: AARP members enjoy lunch and speakers at Fun and Fitness Summerfest.
Submitted photo: Kay Benward representing the Healthplex speaks about activities at the Healthplex.
Submitted photo: AARP members browse the information provided by fitness instructors at Summerfest.
Submitted photo: AARP members browse the information provided by fitness instructors at Summerfest.
Submitted photo: Ann DeRosier and Becky Fredrickson speak about the benefits of dance and opportunities to learn in Jefferson City.