Programs - 2017
Initial Meeting of Aging in Place Group July 13, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
On July 13, 2017 twelve of us met together to share our thoughts about forming a group focusing on Aging in Place. We don’t now what our name will be, but for now I am using Aging in Place in Nyack.
Present were Don Monaco, Ann Morgan, Vin Morgan, Debbie Bell, Dorothy Whitton, Robert Whiteley, Sandy Davis-Pohl, Mary Loughran, Midge Maier, Pat Santos, Pearl Natter, and Rosemarie Bone.
We recognized that as a very new group, it will take us a few meetings for us to know who we want to be as an organization, and how we see our group. As we introduced ourselves, we realized that the people present bring life and work experiences (former educators, holistic nurses, a social worker, college professors and administrators, a business owner, a former village planner and trustee, etc.) to the group that will serve us well as we begin to work together.
We will eventually need a mission statement or statement of purpose, but we need to learn more about ourselves as a group first.Together we did some brainstorming about what we might want the group to be:
A resource for the community
Some people were thinking of direct services we might provide for others, while other people were focused on a less direct model of information and resources that we could share with each other and with other older people in the community. Some of the ideas offered included:
Gaining knowledge about positive steps
As a group we might want to focus on those preventative steps we can take to remain as healthy and engaged as we can.
An aging-in-place village
We also spoke about the idea of becoming a community such as those that are in the village-to-village network. These are communities of people who hope to remain in their own homes that help support people as they age so that they can remain in their homes as they age. They are wonderful communities, but they take serious effort and great organization.
We realize that we need time to think about the direction(s) in which we want to go, but we are excited by the journey ahead. This is the time for us to be open to ideas, so please bring yours to our next meeting, and bring friends who might like to join us.
Our next meeting will be Friday July at the Nyack Library
Present were Don Monaco, Ann Morgan, Vin Morgan, Debbie Bell, Dorothy Whitton, Robert Whiteley, Sandy Davis-Pohl, Mary Loughran, Midge Maier, Pat Santos, Pearl Natter, and Rosemarie Bone.
We recognized that as a very new group, it will take us a few meetings for us to know who we want to be as an organization, and how we see our group. As we introduced ourselves, we realized that the people present bring life and work experiences (former educators, holistic nurses, a social worker, college professors and administrators, a business owner, a former village planner and trustee, etc.) to the group that will serve us well as we begin to work together.
We will eventually need a mission statement or statement of purpose, but we need to learn more about ourselves as a group first.Together we did some brainstorming about what we might want the group to be:
A resource for the community
Some people were thinking of direct services we might provide for others, while other people were focused on a less direct model of information and resources that we could share with each other and with other older people in the community. Some of the ideas offered included:
- Creating a calling system for people living along who want someone to contact them and those who would like to provide that service.
- Letting people know about services already in place for helping elders, such as CHORE, a volunteer group that will help with tasks such as installing bathroom grab bars, or changing light bulbs. Other people know of many other resources, so we will gather that information together.
Gaining knowledge about positive steps
As a group we might want to focus on those preventative steps we can take to remain as healthy and engaged as we can.
An aging-in-place village
We also spoke about the idea of becoming a community such as those that are in the village-to-village network. These are communities of people who hope to remain in their own homes that help support people as they age so that they can remain in their homes as they age. They are wonderful communities, but they take serious effort and great organization.
We realize that we need time to think about the direction(s) in which we want to go, but we are excited by the journey ahead. This is the time for us to be open to ideas, so please bring yours to our next meeting, and bring friends who might like to join us.
Our next meeting will be Friday July at the Nyack Library
2nd Meeting of Aging in Place of the Nyacks July 28, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
On July 28, 2017 twenty-one of us met together to continue developing our ideas about what we would like our group to become. Note that at Sandy’s suggestion, I am for now calling our group Aging in Place in the Nyacks.
Present were Don Monaco, Ann Morgan, Vin Morgan, Judy Gorman, Susan Travis, Debbie Bell, Sandy Davis-Pohl, Jane Barch, Susan Beckwith, Rosemarie Bone, Glenna Marra, Jan Cohen, Jimmie Calvin, Bebb Stone, Mayra Bloom, Robert Gundersen, Sheila Foster, Leontine Temsky, Phyllis Eisenberg, Kathy Schwarz, and Vivian Yaker.
Susan Travis reported on the training on listening skills that she had provided for members of our group and members of the Rockland County Village Community who are interested in CAST (Call a Senior Today) a service started by Jim Evers of RCVC. I will send her one-page sheet on calling and listening later.
We decided that we would like to form subgroups around particular areas of interest. We will continue to meet as a whole group, but subgroups will allow us to get to know each other better in smaller groups. The subgroups will be sharing their information with the large group as they proceed. It does not all need to get done at once. No one is under any obligation to join a subgroup.
Subgroup process:
We recognize that many of us will be interested in more than one of these topics. Please choose one for now as your main focus, or you are fee to decide you do not want to be in any of these small groups.
The groups will be researching the topic, and then reporting back to the larger group. We are not in a rush; the groups will continue to work together for as long as they feel interested and productive. New opportunities will develop as we move along.
Subgroup Topics:
1. Book Discussion: Read and discuss Atul Gawande’s book on aging well, Being Mortal.
2. Resources available in our area: Develop a list of resources and services currently available to seniors in Rockland and in Nyack.
3. People in our community: Research what can we learn about the people in our community. What are the needs and interests of seniors? SUGGESTION: Research what data is available about aging people in our community, and bring that information forward for reaction and discussion.
4. Volunteer opportunities: What are the needs of people in our community? What services can we provide for people in the group (for now) and perhaps to others in the Nyacks later? Eventually we might want to think about how to create an effective volunteer system.
5. Village concept: Learn about aging-in-place groups in the village-to-village network. This is the concept of organizing seniors who live in proximity to each other so that they can remain in their homes as they age. There are several of these “villages” in Westchester. Debbie Bell put together some very helpful information introducing us to those villages that I will send to this group.
6. Better Aging: Ideas for enhancing our health, well-being, and enjoyment of life as we age.
Important: Please let me know which group you want to join by emailing me at [email protected] with your preference. I will then send each group the names and emails of those interested in that topic so that members can share information and ideas. Feel free to contact each other, and meet together if you wish. This is not obligatory. Join a group or don’t join. Other opportunities will arise as we move along, but this is a wonderful way to get started – and to get to know each other.
Finally, feel free to send me your thoughts on anything having to do with Aging in Place in the Nyacks.
Present were Don Monaco, Ann Morgan, Vin Morgan, Judy Gorman, Susan Travis, Debbie Bell, Sandy Davis-Pohl, Jane Barch, Susan Beckwith, Rosemarie Bone, Glenna Marra, Jan Cohen, Jimmie Calvin, Bebb Stone, Mayra Bloom, Robert Gundersen, Sheila Foster, Leontine Temsky, Phyllis Eisenberg, Kathy Schwarz, and Vivian Yaker.
Susan Travis reported on the training on listening skills that she had provided for members of our group and members of the Rockland County Village Community who are interested in CAST (Call a Senior Today) a service started by Jim Evers of RCVC. I will send her one-page sheet on calling and listening later.
We decided that we would like to form subgroups around particular areas of interest. We will continue to meet as a whole group, but subgroups will allow us to get to know each other better in smaller groups. The subgroups will be sharing their information with the large group as they proceed. It does not all need to get done at once. No one is under any obligation to join a subgroup.
Subgroup process:
We recognize that many of us will be interested in more than one of these topics. Please choose one for now as your main focus, or you are fee to decide you do not want to be in any of these small groups.
The groups will be researching the topic, and then reporting back to the larger group. We are not in a rush; the groups will continue to work together for as long as they feel interested and productive. New opportunities will develop as we move along.
Subgroup Topics:
1. Book Discussion: Read and discuss Atul Gawande’s book on aging well, Being Mortal.
2. Resources available in our area: Develop a list of resources and services currently available to seniors in Rockland and in Nyack.
3. People in our community: Research what can we learn about the people in our community. What are the needs and interests of seniors? SUGGESTION: Research what data is available about aging people in our community, and bring that information forward for reaction and discussion.
4. Volunteer opportunities: What are the needs of people in our community? What services can we provide for people in the group (for now) and perhaps to others in the Nyacks later? Eventually we might want to think about how to create an effective volunteer system.
5. Village concept: Learn about aging-in-place groups in the village-to-village network. This is the concept of organizing seniors who live in proximity to each other so that they can remain in their homes as they age. There are several of these “villages” in Westchester. Debbie Bell put together some very helpful information introducing us to those villages that I will send to this group.
6. Better Aging: Ideas for enhancing our health, well-being, and enjoyment of life as we age.
Important: Please let me know which group you want to join by emailing me at [email protected] with your preference. I will then send each group the names and emails of those interested in that topic so that members can share information and ideas. Feel free to contact each other, and meet together if you wish. This is not obligatory. Join a group or don’t join. Other opportunities will arise as we move along, but this is a wonderful way to get started – and to get to know each other.
Finally, feel free to send me your thoughts on anything having to do with Aging in Place in the Nyacks.
Aging in Place in the Nyacks August 11, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
Present were: Anita Kline, Ann Morgan, Bob Gundersen, Caren Lobel, Carol Baretz, David Dickson, Debbie Bell, Don Monaco, Dorothy Whitton, Glenna Marra, Jim Ramsay, Judy Gorman, Leontine Temsky, Mary Loughran, Mary Alice Barna, Mei Hunkins, Pearl Natter, Rosemarie Bone, Sally Borgman, Sally Savage, Sally Witte, Sandy Davis-Pohl, Sheila Foster, Susan Travis, Susan Beckwith, Robert Whiteley, Susanna Willingham, Vin Morgan and Vivian Yaker.
Our next meeting will be on Friday August 25 at 2:00
in the Community Room at Nyack Library
These notes are not formal meeting minutes, but are intended to give you a sense of what was discussed, and of the energy in the room.
Despite the fact that several people were away on vacation, we had 28 people at the meeting, full of energy and ideas. Although most of us have retired from work, we are far from retired from life. We are focused on living well and actively learning, on engaging, volunteering, solving problems and enjoying our days. Yes, we have concerns about how we can remain in this community and in our homes for the rest of our lives, and we want to know we have the supports we will need as we age together, but we want our lives to be full. Thank you, all, for being there and being who you are. (Maybe it is time to start thinking about a new name for this group!)
Announcements
Don Monaco had gone to the Nyack Senior Center on Depew to learn more about what they do. They are a drop-in center. Don also heard that Nyack Village has someone who focuses on seniors’ concerns. He will look into that for us.
Don also told us about a new feature that may be very interesting to other people who are living on their own. Don has felt he needed a device he could use to notify help if he fell. He now has a Jitterbug phone made by Samsung (they make a Jitterbug flip phone and a Jitterbug smart phone) which is light-weight, designed for seniors, and has an emergency feature. If you are interested, here is a link to a review of the product: http://www.toptenreviews.com/mobile/phones/best-emergency-cell-phones/jitterbug5-review/
A Senior Fair will be held on August 24th from 10:00 to 2:00 at the Rockland Community College House in Suffern (149 College Road). Many organizations providing services to seniors will be represented there. Anyone interested may go. If you do go, pick up materials and report back to us at the next meeting. At least one person from the Services and Resources group will be going.
Jim Ramsay told us about a group for people who are interested in writing about – and thereby preserving – their personal stories, and was wondering if others would be interested. The group is called OWLS – Old Writers’ Lab. This was a great example of the kinds of ideas people are bringing to the group about activities that will expand and enrich our days. Bob Whiteley is interested in sports activities at various levels for better aging – hikes, pickleball, golf, tennis, etc.
Judy Gorman extended an invitation to anyone interested in joining the singing group she directs. The group will begin its new season in September. If you are interested, please contact Judy at [email protected]
Group discussions
We then broke for discussion within the groups we had chosen. This was the first time for the groups to meet face to face, and everyone looked very engaged. The groups then came back together to share with the rest of us what they had discussed:
The Being Mortal book group will continue with their reading and come back together for a discussion at our next meeting.
Local people, services, resources and volunteers: Groups 2, 3, and 4 have combined into one group. They have asked me to send a couple of questions to all of you. I will send those to you separately so you can respond.
The Village Concept group will be learning about the village-to-village network, and will explore the websites of aging-in-place communities both in Westchester and elsewhere.
The Better Aging group is looking at the idea of “Blue Zones” to understand the characteristics of clusters of people who age especially well. They are also putting together ideas of projects they want to work on, things such as socialization, safe sidewalks, bike safety, educational groups, and improvements to Memorial Park that would benefit seniors. Some of their items might be issues that we will later bring to the attention of our village governments.
At the next meeting on August 25 there will be time for the groups to gather again, but some of you may wish to meet elsewhere in the interim. That is up to the groups.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Morgan
Our next meeting will be on Friday August 25 at 2:00
in the Community Room at Nyack Library
These notes are not formal meeting minutes, but are intended to give you a sense of what was discussed, and of the energy in the room.
Despite the fact that several people were away on vacation, we had 28 people at the meeting, full of energy and ideas. Although most of us have retired from work, we are far from retired from life. We are focused on living well and actively learning, on engaging, volunteering, solving problems and enjoying our days. Yes, we have concerns about how we can remain in this community and in our homes for the rest of our lives, and we want to know we have the supports we will need as we age together, but we want our lives to be full. Thank you, all, for being there and being who you are. (Maybe it is time to start thinking about a new name for this group!)
Announcements
Don Monaco had gone to the Nyack Senior Center on Depew to learn more about what they do. They are a drop-in center. Don also heard that Nyack Village has someone who focuses on seniors’ concerns. He will look into that for us.
Don also told us about a new feature that may be very interesting to other people who are living on their own. Don has felt he needed a device he could use to notify help if he fell. He now has a Jitterbug phone made by Samsung (they make a Jitterbug flip phone and a Jitterbug smart phone) which is light-weight, designed for seniors, and has an emergency feature. If you are interested, here is a link to a review of the product: http://www.toptenreviews.com/mobile/phones/best-emergency-cell-phones/jitterbug5-review/
A Senior Fair will be held on August 24th from 10:00 to 2:00 at the Rockland Community College House in Suffern (149 College Road). Many organizations providing services to seniors will be represented there. Anyone interested may go. If you do go, pick up materials and report back to us at the next meeting. At least one person from the Services and Resources group will be going.
Jim Ramsay told us about a group for people who are interested in writing about – and thereby preserving – their personal stories, and was wondering if others would be interested. The group is called OWLS – Old Writers’ Lab. This was a great example of the kinds of ideas people are bringing to the group about activities that will expand and enrich our days. Bob Whiteley is interested in sports activities at various levels for better aging – hikes, pickleball, golf, tennis, etc.
Judy Gorman extended an invitation to anyone interested in joining the singing group she directs. The group will begin its new season in September. If you are interested, please contact Judy at [email protected]
Group discussions
We then broke for discussion within the groups we had chosen. This was the first time for the groups to meet face to face, and everyone looked very engaged. The groups then came back together to share with the rest of us what they had discussed:
The Being Mortal book group will continue with their reading and come back together for a discussion at our next meeting.
Local people, services, resources and volunteers: Groups 2, 3, and 4 have combined into one group. They have asked me to send a couple of questions to all of you. I will send those to you separately so you can respond.
The Village Concept group will be learning about the village-to-village network, and will explore the websites of aging-in-place communities both in Westchester and elsewhere.
The Better Aging group is looking at the idea of “Blue Zones” to understand the characteristics of clusters of people who age especially well. They are also putting together ideas of projects they want to work on, things such as socialization, safe sidewalks, bike safety, educational groups, and improvements to Memorial Park that would benefit seniors. Some of their items might be issues that we will later bring to the attention of our village governments.
At the next meeting on August 25 there will be time for the groups to gather again, but some of you may wish to meet elsewhere in the interim. That is up to the groups.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Morgan
Aging in Place in the Nyacks August 25, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
Present: Ann Morgan, Bebb Stone, Bob Gundersen, Bob Whiteley, David Dickson, Don Monaco, Dorothy Whitton, Glenna Marra, Jim Ramsay, Leotine Temsky, Lori Thomas, Mary Loughran, Mei Hunkins, Mimi Hoffman, Pearl Natter, Sally Savage, Sally Witte, Susanna Willingham, Vin Morgan
Our next meeting is September 8.
Please note that our meetings will now begin at 2:30.
Subgroups will meet at 1:45 or 2:00 before the full meeting.
Announcements
On October 11 from 2 to 4 pm, Anne Wennhold will be presenting a discussion session at the Nyack Library called “Beliefs about Aging and How Can We Change Them.” This is the third discussion session Anne has held, and those who have been at her prior sessions found them to be interesting and stimulating.
Dr. Atul Gawande will be speaking at the Bronxville Library on September 25th from 5:00 – 6:00. Call 914-337-1338 to reserve your spot. This event will fill up very quickly.
Don Monaco recommends reading The Big Shift by Marc Freedman. If others are interested in creating a discussion group around this book, please contact Don.
Dorothy Whitton noted that her subgroup, Better Aging, is reading The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner. This book focuses on anecdotal evidence about the characteristic life style choices of people who live long, healthy lives.
On September 12 the Rockland County Office for the Aging will hold a picnic for seniors at the Haverstraw Bay County Park. For information call 845-364-2110.
The subgroup on Resources, Services and Volunteering would still appreciate receiving responses about 3 needs you have or might have later, or 3 ways you might be able to volunteer your services. Email Susan Travis.
Tips and Perks
A few members were able to go to Senator Carlucci’s Senior Fair and brought back information about some perks and services for seniors. These include:
Calling 211 for help and support. For more information see http://www.211us.org/
Senior Metro Card: Anyone 65 or older is eligible. With this card, fares on MetroNorth, buses and subway are half price.
Citizens over 60 who need transportation can use TRIPS, but must apply and get a senior ID card.
Golden Park Program: Any New York State resident 62 or older on any non-holiday weekday can park for free at state parks and pay a reduced fee at state historic sites or golf courses. Just show you driver’s license! For exceptions, see https://parks.ny.gov/admission/golden-park-program.aspx
We had several discussions about how we are going to proceed as a body:
Seeking a new name
Don Monaco is leading our effort to find a new name that better encapsulates our interests and energy than does Aging in Place in the Nyacks. At our next meeting September 8 we will vote on what that new name will be.
Structure of the meetings
We decided that starting with our next meeting on September 8, our main meeting will be at 2:30 instead of 2:00. The sub-groups or committees will meet at 1:45 or 2:00 before the full meeting. We will continue to meet every other week.
What is the relationship between the subgroups and the main group?
We noted that the subgroups will often generate ideas, such as the ideas for making our towns more senior citizen friendly such as modifications to Memorial Park that the Better Aging group are thinking about.
When a subgroup is ready with something that would interest the whole group, or that the whole group needs to weigh in on, it will ask me (for now) to have time on the next agenda to present their idea to the whole group, followed by discussion and possible recommendations from the whole group before taking the next steps.
More discussions of how we want to proceed will follow as we evolve, but I promise that we will be focusing more on content that is engaging than on procedure.
Don suggested that after we have a better sense of our identity, we should create cards something like business cards that we can use to show the organization we represent.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Morgan
Our next meeting is September 8.
Please note that our meetings will now begin at 2:30.
Subgroups will meet at 1:45 or 2:00 before the full meeting.
Announcements
On October 11 from 2 to 4 pm, Anne Wennhold will be presenting a discussion session at the Nyack Library called “Beliefs about Aging and How Can We Change Them.” This is the third discussion session Anne has held, and those who have been at her prior sessions found them to be interesting and stimulating.
Dr. Atul Gawande will be speaking at the Bronxville Library on September 25th from 5:00 – 6:00. Call 914-337-1338 to reserve your spot. This event will fill up very quickly.
Don Monaco recommends reading The Big Shift by Marc Freedman. If others are interested in creating a discussion group around this book, please contact Don.
Dorothy Whitton noted that her subgroup, Better Aging, is reading The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner. This book focuses on anecdotal evidence about the characteristic life style choices of people who live long, healthy lives.
On September 12 the Rockland County Office for the Aging will hold a picnic for seniors at the Haverstraw Bay County Park. For information call 845-364-2110.
The subgroup on Resources, Services and Volunteering would still appreciate receiving responses about 3 needs you have or might have later, or 3 ways you might be able to volunteer your services. Email Susan Travis.
Tips and Perks
A few members were able to go to Senator Carlucci’s Senior Fair and brought back information about some perks and services for seniors. These include:
Calling 211 for help and support. For more information see http://www.211us.org/
Senior Metro Card: Anyone 65 or older is eligible. With this card, fares on MetroNorth, buses and subway are half price.
Citizens over 60 who need transportation can use TRIPS, but must apply and get a senior ID card.
Golden Park Program: Any New York State resident 62 or older on any non-holiday weekday can park for free at state parks and pay a reduced fee at state historic sites or golf courses. Just show you driver’s license! For exceptions, see https://parks.ny.gov/admission/golden-park-program.aspx
We had several discussions about how we are going to proceed as a body:
Seeking a new name
Don Monaco is leading our effort to find a new name that better encapsulates our interests and energy than does Aging in Place in the Nyacks. At our next meeting September 8 we will vote on what that new name will be.
Structure of the meetings
We decided that starting with our next meeting on September 8, our main meeting will be at 2:30 instead of 2:00. The sub-groups or committees will meet at 1:45 or 2:00 before the full meeting. We will continue to meet every other week.
What is the relationship between the subgroups and the main group?
We noted that the subgroups will often generate ideas, such as the ideas for making our towns more senior citizen friendly such as modifications to Memorial Park that the Better Aging group are thinking about.
When a subgroup is ready with something that would interest the whole group, or that the whole group needs to weigh in on, it will ask me (for now) to have time on the next agenda to present their idea to the whole group, followed by discussion and possible recommendations from the whole group before taking the next steps.
More discussions of how we want to proceed will follow as we evolve, but I promise that we will be focusing more on content that is engaging than on procedure.
Don suggested that after we have a better sense of our identity, we should create cards something like business cards that we can use to show the organization we represent.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Morgan
Aging in Place in the Nyacks Sept 8, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
Present: Ann Morgan, Bebb Stone, Don Monaco, Don Wilen, Gabri’El Stollman, Jim Ramsay, Jody Richards, Laura Shapiro, Leontine Temsky, Lori Thomas, Mary Alice Barna, Mayra Bloom, Mei Hunkins, Midge Maier, Pearl Natter, Rosemarie Bone, Sally Savage, Susan Beckwith, Susanna Willingham, Vin Morgan
Announcements:
The Historical Society of the Nyacks is presenting Nyack and World War 1 at the Depew House every Saturday from 1 – 4pm now through November.
David Pearlmutter, author of The Grain Brain will be speaking at A Matter of Health on October 4th at 7pm. Seating is limited, so you need to sign up at Matter of Health if you hope to go.
Mark Alice Barna told us about an article in the October issue of Consumer Reports called, “Who Will Care for You?” Although our goal is to remain in our homes as long as possible, this article has lots of information about senior living and care options.
Don Monaco recommends reading The Big Shift: Navigating the New State Beyond Midlife by Marc Freedman.
Tips and Perks
Going into New York City? Take the Tappan Zee Express bus from Nyack to the Tarrytown train station for $3. The Metro-North train to Grand Central off-peak M-F costs only $7 for those 65 and older. See more at www.tzbus.com.
Meeting Day Discussion
A few members had asked that we consider having our meetings on a day other than Friday afternoon. We agreed to consider Tuesday or Thursday afternoons. The members voted by email to continue to meet on Friday afternoons, with only 2 members unable to attend Fridays.
A New Name for Aging in Place in the Nyacks?
A New Name for Aging in Place in the Nyacks?
Don Monaco handed out the list of possible names for our group that members had submitted. Everyone chose three of those names that they felt best described who we are. We then tallied the results so that we could narrow the choice down to the eight most popular choices:
Action Elders of the Nyacks
Aging in Place in the Nyacks
Creative Aging in Nyack
Elder Action in the Nyacks
Encore in the Nyacks
Nyack Elders in Action
Second Wind in the Nyacks
Tomorrows Together
I sent out an email on September 11 that listed those choices asking members to vote for the name that they liked best. Forty-five people voted.
RESULT: 17 people voted for Creative Aging in Nyack; 13 people voted for Aging in Place in the Nyacks. None of the other choices received more than 4 votes. This result indicated that people want to be able to age in their own homes, but also want to live vital, meaningful, interesting lives – to live creatively and fully.
Opportunities for Connection
Several people have mentioned that they have made a connection with other people at the meetings, or that they would like more time to connect. To that end, everyone at the meeting was given the attached sheet about opportunities for connection. I have attached it here, but we will have more copies at the meeting. This is ONLY A DRAFT. Consider these activities, but also write down some things that you might want to do with one other person or more. We would also like to have you write down some things that you could teach to another person.
Announcements:
The Historical Society of the Nyacks is presenting Nyack and World War 1 at the Depew House every Saturday from 1 – 4pm now through November.
David Pearlmutter, author of The Grain Brain will be speaking at A Matter of Health on October 4th at 7pm. Seating is limited, so you need to sign up at Matter of Health if you hope to go.
Mark Alice Barna told us about an article in the October issue of Consumer Reports called, “Who Will Care for You?” Although our goal is to remain in our homes as long as possible, this article has lots of information about senior living and care options.
Don Monaco recommends reading The Big Shift: Navigating the New State Beyond Midlife by Marc Freedman.
Tips and Perks
Going into New York City? Take the Tappan Zee Express bus from Nyack to the Tarrytown train station for $3. The Metro-North train to Grand Central off-peak M-F costs only $7 for those 65 and older. See more at www.tzbus.com.
Meeting Day Discussion
A few members had asked that we consider having our meetings on a day other than Friday afternoon. We agreed to consider Tuesday or Thursday afternoons. The members voted by email to continue to meet on Friday afternoons, with only 2 members unable to attend Fridays.
A New Name for Aging in Place in the Nyacks?
A New Name for Aging in Place in the Nyacks?
Don Monaco handed out the list of possible names for our group that members had submitted. Everyone chose three of those names that they felt best described who we are. We then tallied the results so that we could narrow the choice down to the eight most popular choices:
Action Elders of the Nyacks
Aging in Place in the Nyacks
Creative Aging in Nyack
Elder Action in the Nyacks
Encore in the Nyacks
Nyack Elders in Action
Second Wind in the Nyacks
Tomorrows Together
I sent out an email on September 11 that listed those choices asking members to vote for the name that they liked best. Forty-five people voted.
RESULT: 17 people voted for Creative Aging in Nyack; 13 people voted for Aging in Place in the Nyacks. None of the other choices received more than 4 votes. This result indicated that people want to be able to age in their own homes, but also want to live vital, meaningful, interesting lives – to live creatively and fully.
Opportunities for Connection
Several people have mentioned that they have made a connection with other people at the meetings, or that they would like more time to connect. To that end, everyone at the meeting was given the attached sheet about opportunities for connection. I have attached it here, but we will have more copies at the meeting. This is ONLY A DRAFT. Consider these activities, but also write down some things that you might want to do with one other person or more. We would also like to have you write down some things that you could teach to another person.
Creative Aging in Nyack Sept 22, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
Present: Ann Morgan, Bebb Stone, Bob Gundersen, Denise Hogan, Don Monaco, Dorothy Whitton, Glenna Marra, Jan Cohen, Judy Gorman, Leontine Temsky, Mary Loughran, Mayra Bloom, Midge Maier, Mimi Hoffman, Pearl Natter, Rosemarie Bone, Sally Savage, Sheila Foster, Vin Morgan
We are now Creative Aging in Nyack, but as a group we are also deeply interested in all that we need to do and to know about how to age in place as well as we can. We want to live vital, meaningful, interesting lives – to live creatively and fully and wisely.
As a group we are in the process of becoming. Let’s allow that process to continue before we solidify into a particular shape. We need to grow in developing and in understanding who we want to be as a group. We have work to do before we can write a mission statement, create a website, contact other institutions in the community that we might partner with, or go to local governments to talk with them. We are going to be learning from and with each other.
Palis-Agers
At our meeting on September 22, Sally Savage introduced Alice Gerard who leads the aging-in-place group in Palisades called the Palis-Agers. This group has been in existence for many years, meeting once a month to learn together, socialize together, and support one another as they age.
Brief group reports:
In general the small groups are doing work that will benefit the whole group. Some of our current sub-groups made brief reports. Don Monaco, whose group had been reading Atul Gawande’s Being Mortal, again urged us to read The Big Shift by Marc Freedman. Bob Gundersen reported that the Village Concept group is beginning to explore who and what the local villages are in the national Village to Village Network. The Better Aging group is exploring aspects of nutrition, recreation, socialization, arts and culture, quality of life. The Services, Resources and Volunteers group has also been doing significant work, but were not able to give a full report because several key people were absent. When groups are ready to bring some of their ideas to the whole group, we will put their presentation on the meeting agenda and in the notes that go out so that we can all benefit from what they are learning.
Opportunities for Connection
About three-quarters of the members at the meeting filled out the Opportunities for Connection questionnaire about activities they would like to do with a few other people, and added their own ideas for other activities. I will send that questionnaire to those of you who could not be at the meeting so that I let people know of others who share their interests. I will also let all of you know about the additional activities people are suggesting so that you all can select those, too, if you choose.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Morgan
We are now Creative Aging in Nyack, but as a group we are also deeply interested in all that we need to do and to know about how to age in place as well as we can. We want to live vital, meaningful, interesting lives – to live creatively and fully and wisely.
As a group we are in the process of becoming. Let’s allow that process to continue before we solidify into a particular shape. We need to grow in developing and in understanding who we want to be as a group. We have work to do before we can write a mission statement, create a website, contact other institutions in the community that we might partner with, or go to local governments to talk with them. We are going to be learning from and with each other.
Palis-Agers
At our meeting on September 22, Sally Savage introduced Alice Gerard who leads the aging-in-place group in Palisades called the Palis-Agers. This group has been in existence for many years, meeting once a month to learn together, socialize together, and support one another as they age.
Brief group reports:
In general the small groups are doing work that will benefit the whole group. Some of our current sub-groups made brief reports. Don Monaco, whose group had been reading Atul Gawande’s Being Mortal, again urged us to read The Big Shift by Marc Freedman. Bob Gundersen reported that the Village Concept group is beginning to explore who and what the local villages are in the national Village to Village Network. The Better Aging group is exploring aspects of nutrition, recreation, socialization, arts and culture, quality of life. The Services, Resources and Volunteers group has also been doing significant work, but were not able to give a full report because several key people were absent. When groups are ready to bring some of their ideas to the whole group, we will put their presentation on the meeting agenda and in the notes that go out so that we can all benefit from what they are learning.
Opportunities for Connection
About three-quarters of the members at the meeting filled out the Opportunities for Connection questionnaire about activities they would like to do with a few other people, and added their own ideas for other activities. I will send that questionnaire to those of you who could not be at the meeting so that I let people know of others who share their interests. I will also let all of you know about the additional activities people are suggesting so that you all can select those, too, if you choose.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Morgan
Creative Aging in Nyack Oct 20, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
OWLS
Jim Ramsay has been part of an Older Writers Group (OWLS) where the emphasis has been on poetry. He is offering to facilitate a group for Creative Aging in Nyack that would focus on memoirs and life stories. Sessions will include writing and voluntary sharing. If you are interested, contact Jim.
CHORE
CHORE is a volunteer service in Rockland County that serves older citizens and is associated with the Office for the Aging. The purpose of CHORE is to have a few very capable people offer assistance with tasks such as minor repairs, installing grab bars in the bathroom, etc. There is no charge for service, you just need to pay for materials plus a $20 donation.
Sub-Group/Committee Reports:
The Healthy Aging Group
Dorothy Whitton’s group, “Healthy Aging” or “Aging Well in Nyack,” reported they have done research based on Daniel Buettner’s book, National Geographic “Blue Zones.” Working for National Geographic, Buettner has travelled to places around the world where people are aging well. Qualities include being active, nutrition, nature, getting involved, having a passion/ purpose, sports, activities. After January, the group will offer pot lucks suppers with healthy food and discussion.
This sub-group is also offering a Walking Group to meet at 9 am Tuesday, 10/31, at the southeast corner of Main and Franklin. They will follow the Esposito Trail to Piermont, end with coffee at Bumberry’s. Participants can take the bus back with a senior pass for $1.10 or walk back. Those who do not wish to walk that far can turn around whenever they wish.
This group would love to find a meeting place/ community house for socializing. Other planned activities include a Women’s Wisdom Group; Men’s Group; Parks and Nature – the Gedney Street project will be a destination.
The Combo Group
Susan Travis reported on Combo Group 2-3-4, formerly known as Resources, Services and Volunteers.
They are currently gathering data on resources in our area, services currently available to Nyack seniors, and people in our community. Susan handed out a survey for everyone present to complete. Through this, Combo Group 2-3-4 will begin to asses what people in the group need in order to age in the place of their choice, see what resources are already available, and what services Creative Aging can provide now and in the future. They will have the results at the 1st meeting in November. They seek to identify current resources and gaps.
This group is looking for volunteers beyond their own group to consider current and future needs, and match needs with volunteers.
211 Service
Mimi Hoffman reported that 211 is a valuable United Way project that compiles government and nonprofit resources in the Hudson Valley. It’s a comprehensive go-to for addresses, phone numbers, etc. The website is very informative and enables people to gain access to all kinds of information for seniors. Elizabeth Hobson, from Nyack Library, will do a walk through of their website; she would also like to have a librarian available to do 1-1 training with interested folks.
Jim Ramsay has been part of an Older Writers Group (OWLS) where the emphasis has been on poetry. He is offering to facilitate a group for Creative Aging in Nyack that would focus on memoirs and life stories. Sessions will include writing and voluntary sharing. If you are interested, contact Jim.
CHORE
CHORE is a volunteer service in Rockland County that serves older citizens and is associated with the Office for the Aging. The purpose of CHORE is to have a few very capable people offer assistance with tasks such as minor repairs, installing grab bars in the bathroom, etc. There is no charge for service, you just need to pay for materials plus a $20 donation.
Sub-Group/Committee Reports:
The Healthy Aging Group
Dorothy Whitton’s group, “Healthy Aging” or “Aging Well in Nyack,” reported they have done research based on Daniel Buettner’s book, National Geographic “Blue Zones.” Working for National Geographic, Buettner has travelled to places around the world where people are aging well. Qualities include being active, nutrition, nature, getting involved, having a passion/ purpose, sports, activities. After January, the group will offer pot lucks suppers with healthy food and discussion.
This sub-group is also offering a Walking Group to meet at 9 am Tuesday, 10/31, at the southeast corner of Main and Franklin. They will follow the Esposito Trail to Piermont, end with coffee at Bumberry’s. Participants can take the bus back with a senior pass for $1.10 or walk back. Those who do not wish to walk that far can turn around whenever they wish.
This group would love to find a meeting place/ community house for socializing. Other planned activities include a Women’s Wisdom Group; Men’s Group; Parks and Nature – the Gedney Street project will be a destination.
The Combo Group
Susan Travis reported on Combo Group 2-3-4, formerly known as Resources, Services and Volunteers.
They are currently gathering data on resources in our area, services currently available to Nyack seniors, and people in our community. Susan handed out a survey for everyone present to complete. Through this, Combo Group 2-3-4 will begin to asses what people in the group need in order to age in the place of their choice, see what resources are already available, and what services Creative Aging can provide now and in the future. They will have the results at the 1st meeting in November. They seek to identify current resources and gaps.
This group is looking for volunteers beyond their own group to consider current and future needs, and match needs with volunteers.
211 Service
Mimi Hoffman reported that 211 is a valuable United Way project that compiles government and nonprofit resources in the Hudson Valley. It’s a comprehensive go-to for addresses, phone numbers, etc. The website is very informative and enables people to gain access to all kinds of information for seniors. Elizabeth Hobson, from Nyack Library, will do a walk through of their website; she would also like to have a librarian available to do 1-1 training with interested folks.
The Aging-in-Place Village Concept Nov 17, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
Present were Ann Morgan, Anthony Fasano, Bebb Stone, Bob Gundersen, Brenda Ross, Carol Baretz, David Dickson, Debbie Bell, Denise Hogan, Don Monaco, Donna Yannazzone, Dorothy Whitton, Gabri’El Stollman, Glenna Marra, Jane Berkowicz, Jan Cohen, Jimmy Calvin, Jim Ramsay, Joan Whitacre, Jody Richards, Leontine Temsky, Lynne Mellersten, Lynwa Kreimann, Marie Thorpe, Marilyn Stimac, Mary Loughran, Mary Alice Barna, Mei Hunkins, Midge Maier, Mimi Hoffman, Nora Olson, Pearl Natter, Rosemarie Bone, Sally Savage, Sami Aronson-Unger, Sandra Countee, Sandy Davis-Pohl, Sheila Foster, Sherry Jackson, Susan Travis, Susanna Willingham, Vin Morgan
Many, many thanks to Debbie Bell for taking note during the meeting and writing them up for us.
Reports
Jim Ramsey reported that the OWL (Older Writers Laboratory) met on November 14 at the Nyack Library with 9 participants. The group will continue to meet each Tuesday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. with a break starting after the December 5th meeting until early January. Participants are asked to complete writing assignments before the meetings, and then bring in short samples which will be shared with the other members of the group. Group participants then provide feedback within guidelines – the feedback should be effective and positive.
Dorothy Whitton reported on several projects that are taking place through the Better Aging Group:
Susan Travis reported on 2-3-4 (the Resources, Services and Volunteers Group). Members have visited senior centers and clubs in Nyack and Central Nyack. Susan has compiled the results of surveys to date regarding what services participants would like to have now and/or in the future, and areas in which they would volunteer. She provided additional survey forms to individuals who had not yet completed them.
Ann Morgan introduced the members of the Village Concept Group. They are Bebb Stone, Bob Gundersen, Debbie Bell, Don Monaco, Glenna Marra, Marie Thorpe, Midge Maier, Sami Aronson-Unger, Sheila Foster, Susanna Willingham, and Vin Morgan. Out of his own kindness (and funds), last summer Bob Gundersen purchased a 6-month membership in the Village-to-Village Network so that the Village Concept group could explore the experiences and policies of other villages. Some members of the group have been visiting established aging-in-place programs to obtain information useful to our efforts in Nyack.
Since there were new members at the meeting who were not familiar with aging-in-place, Ann explained that the first aging-in-place community developed in 1999 in Beacon Hill in Boston. The Beacon Hill village was founded so that neighborhood residents could maintain their independence, as well as give and receive support from each other and from local services so they could remain in the home of their own choosing for as long as possible. From that developed many other aging-in-place communities, now linked together by the national Village-to-Village Network. There are currently 370 groups in the U.S., in various stages of development.
According to the Village-to-Village Network website (see vtvnetwork.org), all of these villages share some characteristics:
Reports on two aging-in-place village communities:
Debbie Bell reported on the meeting that she and Susanna Willingham had with the president and treasurer of It Takes A Village (ITAV) 10591, the Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow zip code. ITAV is an example of a village run entirely by volunteers, in contrast to other aging-in-place villages in Westchester. It started in 2014 with biweekly meetings, and incorporated in NYS and obtained 501(c)(3) status in 2015. Early priorities were surveying needs, publicizing the group, and sponsoring monthly meetings with speakers on topics of interest to seniors. These meetings are held at a church in Tarrytown and are open to the public. After obtaining liability insurance, ITAV began offering drives in 2016. It is preparing to launch in-home services. ITAV currently has 160 members. The advantages of being all-volunteer are lower dues (often about $100 per individual) and a smaller budget which does not require constant fund-raising (to support professional staff, office space, etc.). The disadvantages are that it requires significantly more commitment from its volunteer officers.
Susanna Willingham reported on the meeting that she, Ann Morgan, and Sami Aronson-Unger had with the executive director of At Home on the Sound that serves Mamaroneck and Larchmont. At Home on the Sound is an example of a village with a paid executive director working 32-hour/week. Their communication manager and their administrative manager are volunteers working in an office space with five workstations and space for some of their activities. They also have three consultants: an attorney, a photographer, and a graphic designer. Like other aging-in-place villages, At Home on the Sound provides services and social engagement opportunities for its members, such as yoga, brown bag lunches, workshops, and a twice-monthly current events breakfast at a local diner. The village and depends on volunteers to provide services from data entry to driving, as well as on professionals who offer their services at a 10% discount. There are currently 227 members who pay $190 to $370 a year for individuals, depending on their level of membership, (and up to $425 a year for a household), and 100 volunteers (some of whom are members), including 35-55 volunteer drivers. Even with those dues, the staff must do a great deal of fundraising each year to meet expenses, including an annual gala and a donation drive, since dues cover only 1/3 to ¼ of their annual costs. After Hurricane Sandy, At Home on the Sound organized 15 neighborhood clusters for storm safety with volunteer teams to checks on their neighborhood members before and after major storms.
Our Village Concept group will be visiting two additional aging-in-place villages to learn more about what practices seem best to us, and what we hope to avoid, if we should decide to become an official village in the Village to Village Network.
Other
Several members asked for name tags that would facilitate interactions at future meetings. An envelope was passed around the room for voluntary contributions towards this and other expenses that have already been incurred.
Ann Morgan asked each participant to fill out a card with basic contact information (address, phone, email), profession, and interests. Ann will be requesting this information by email from those who could not attend this meeting.
The next meeting of Creative Aging in Nyack will be held at the Nyack Library on Friday, December 1, at 2 p.m.
Many, many thanks to Debbie Bell for taking note during the meeting and writing them up for us.
Reports
Jim Ramsey reported that the OWL (Older Writers Laboratory) met on November 14 at the Nyack Library with 9 participants. The group will continue to meet each Tuesday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. with a break starting after the December 5th meeting until early January. Participants are asked to complete writing assignments before the meetings, and then bring in short samples which will be shared with the other members of the group. Group participants then provide feedback within guidelines – the feedback should be effective and positive.
Dorothy Whitton reported on several projects that are taking place through the Better Aging Group:
- A weekly walking group which meets every Tuesday at 9 a.m. for a walk of approximately three miles. To date, the group has walked on the Esposito (rail) trail and in Tallman State Park. On Tuesday, November 21, they will meet in the parking lot at Nyack Beach State Park to walk along the river. Everyone is welcome to join them.
- Leontine Temsky will host a pot-luck lunch for eight people on January 8 at 12:30.
- Many participants would be interested in trips to New York City to visit museums. Since the fees for commercial drivers are very high, the group is now considering whether car-pooling might be feasible.
Susan Travis reported on 2-3-4 (the Resources, Services and Volunteers Group). Members have visited senior centers and clubs in Nyack and Central Nyack. Susan has compiled the results of surveys to date regarding what services participants would like to have now and/or in the future, and areas in which they would volunteer. She provided additional survey forms to individuals who had not yet completed them.
Ann Morgan introduced the members of the Village Concept Group. They are Bebb Stone, Bob Gundersen, Debbie Bell, Don Monaco, Glenna Marra, Marie Thorpe, Midge Maier, Sami Aronson-Unger, Sheila Foster, Susanna Willingham, and Vin Morgan. Out of his own kindness (and funds), last summer Bob Gundersen purchased a 6-month membership in the Village-to-Village Network so that the Village Concept group could explore the experiences and policies of other villages. Some members of the group have been visiting established aging-in-place programs to obtain information useful to our efforts in Nyack.
Since there were new members at the meeting who were not familiar with aging-in-place, Ann explained that the first aging-in-place community developed in 1999 in Beacon Hill in Boston. The Beacon Hill village was founded so that neighborhood residents could maintain their independence, as well as give and receive support from each other and from local services so they could remain in the home of their own choosing for as long as possible. From that developed many other aging-in-place communities, now linked together by the national Village-to-Village Network. There are currently 370 groups in the U.S., in various stages of development.
According to the Village-to-Village Network website (see vtvnetwork.org), all of these villages share some characteristics:
- Reflect the needs of their members and communities and share many common characteristics
- Provide a strong community that offers members new opportunities to age successfully
- Nonprofit, grassroots initiatives
- Membership-based, member-driven and self-governing
- Designed to be inclusive and to reflect their communities
- Community partners helping to address the challenges of aging
Reports on two aging-in-place village communities:
Debbie Bell reported on the meeting that she and Susanna Willingham had with the president and treasurer of It Takes A Village (ITAV) 10591, the Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow zip code. ITAV is an example of a village run entirely by volunteers, in contrast to other aging-in-place villages in Westchester. It started in 2014 with biweekly meetings, and incorporated in NYS and obtained 501(c)(3) status in 2015. Early priorities were surveying needs, publicizing the group, and sponsoring monthly meetings with speakers on topics of interest to seniors. These meetings are held at a church in Tarrytown and are open to the public. After obtaining liability insurance, ITAV began offering drives in 2016. It is preparing to launch in-home services. ITAV currently has 160 members. The advantages of being all-volunteer are lower dues (often about $100 per individual) and a smaller budget which does not require constant fund-raising (to support professional staff, office space, etc.). The disadvantages are that it requires significantly more commitment from its volunteer officers.
Susanna Willingham reported on the meeting that she, Ann Morgan, and Sami Aronson-Unger had with the executive director of At Home on the Sound that serves Mamaroneck and Larchmont. At Home on the Sound is an example of a village with a paid executive director working 32-hour/week. Their communication manager and their administrative manager are volunteers working in an office space with five workstations and space for some of their activities. They also have three consultants: an attorney, a photographer, and a graphic designer. Like other aging-in-place villages, At Home on the Sound provides services and social engagement opportunities for its members, such as yoga, brown bag lunches, workshops, and a twice-monthly current events breakfast at a local diner. The village and depends on volunteers to provide services from data entry to driving, as well as on professionals who offer their services at a 10% discount. There are currently 227 members who pay $190 to $370 a year for individuals, depending on their level of membership, (and up to $425 a year for a household), and 100 volunteers (some of whom are members), including 35-55 volunteer drivers. Even with those dues, the staff must do a great deal of fundraising each year to meet expenses, including an annual gala and a donation drive, since dues cover only 1/3 to ¼ of their annual costs. After Hurricane Sandy, At Home on the Sound organized 15 neighborhood clusters for storm safety with volunteer teams to checks on their neighborhood members before and after major storms.
Our Village Concept group will be visiting two additional aging-in-place villages to learn more about what practices seem best to us, and what we hope to avoid, if we should decide to become an official village in the Village to Village Network.
Other
Several members asked for name tags that would facilitate interactions at future meetings. An envelope was passed around the room for voluntary contributions towards this and other expenses that have already been incurred.
Ann Morgan asked each participant to fill out a card with basic contact information (address, phone, email), profession, and interests. Ann will be requesting this information by email from those who could not attend this meeting.
The next meeting of Creative Aging in Nyack will be held at the Nyack Library on Friday, December 1, at 2 p.m.
Who Are We? - and Nyack's Special Places, part 1 Dec 1, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
Financial report
Because of the donations members made at our meeting two weeks ago, we had a balance of $231. I then bought blank name tags and printed them for you. The tags cost $86.69, leaving a balance of $144.31.
Who Are We?
Based on the 60 responses I received to the information cards and email requests I sent out, we range in age from 61 to 91, with an average age of 72.7. Ten members are 80 or older, 30 are in their 70s, and 16 are in their 60s. Some people did not submit their ages, but I will ask again so we have that demographic information.
Of the people who responded, 26 people live on their own – almost a third of the people who responded – 23 households have two people in them, and 3 households have 3 people or more.
Our backgrounds and interests are varied, but at least three members have advanced degrees in theology, twelve have been teachers, six have taught at the college or graduate school level. Eight people have been administrators, managers, directors or executives, plus many others have strong organizational skills. We have six psychotherapists and counselors, five nurses, five artists, four professional musicians, three professional writers, at least three people who have served in local village government, two secretaries, and at least one person in sales. We have one art historian, one archeologist, one physicist, one jewelry designer, one marketing professional, one theatrical producer, two photographers, and one dream analyst. And that does not begin to touch on people’s interests and talents: cooking, writing, home repair, yoga, walking, gardening, traveling, museum-going, mosaics, and dancing.
Nyack Places
Thank you to all who responded by my request for the names of places in or near Nyack that are special to you. At the meeting people gathered in small clusters focused on one particular place to talk about that place, its character, about its place in the community. We then had a wonderful time as a whole group sharing our thoughts about these places.
Birchwood Center 85 S. Broadway 2nd floor 845-358-6409 http://birchwoodcenter.com/
Birchwood is a yoga and massage studio run by Betsy Ceva and Charlene Bradin. Their yoga classes, from gentle yoga to more invigorating styles, focus on discipline, breath, meditation and relaxation. Betsy and Charlene have a very good sense of people and are responsive to individuals. They offer a variety of workshops, massages, and yoga classes. Right now they are offering a $40 special of one-month of unlimited yoga.
Bow Tie Cinema in New City 202 S. Main St, New City 845-634-5100 http://www.bowtiecinemas.com/locations/ new-city-cinemas/
Although Bow Tie Cinema is in New City, it is frequented by many people from Nyack and offers the least expensive movie tickets. People 62 and older pay only $7 a ticket for first run films. The seats are comfortable, and the theaters are never crowded.
Didier Dumas Patisserie 163 Main St 845-353-2031 http://www.didierdumas.com/
Didier was recently renovated to make way for more tables and chairs. Stop in for coffee or pick up a box of the best treats in town. Parking is available across the street.
Elmwood Playhouse 10 Park St 845-353-1313 http://elmwoodplayhouse.com/
For over 50 years, the Elmwood has presented live plays at reasonable prices. If you are interested in volunteering, you will find a full range of opportunities to work closely with the professionals there. Opening nights always feature a party for the crew, cast, volunteers and audience. Their membership meetings are on Monday evenings at 7:30, followed by a workshop at about 8:30.
Herb Lack Paints and Hardware 124 Main St 845-358-0293
We are fortunate to have a wonderful family-run hardware store right in Nyack. Joe and his crew are very knowledgeable, helpful, community-minded and welcoming. They carry Benjamin Moore paint, and know great workmen who can take care of home repair jobs for you. If you have a small job - a lamp that needs to be repaired or a window with broken glass or a torn screen – Joe and his crew can do the job for you themselves.
The Hudson House 134 Main St 845-353-1355
http://hudsonhousenyack.com/
Matt Hudson, the owner of The Hudson House, has made his restaurant a true treasure. If you have not been to this restaurant in a while, you will find not only wonderful food, including the desserts Matt himself creates, but you will also have an outstanding visual experience. On all the walls of the bar, the room you enter you will find beautifully carved wooden art deco friezes sculpted by Matt Hudson, each more special than the last. In the dining room take a good look at Matt’s photographs of the Hudson River. Then if you walk along the hall to the back of the building, you will see his portrait photographs. But with all this, Matt focuses on you, and treats diners as though they are the most welcomed guests of the evening.
The Hudson House was once Nyack Village Hall. You can still see where the jail had been: it’s now the wine cellar.
P.S. If you walk along the river path at the Hook and see someone rowing a single scull, it is sure to be Matt Hudson
Historical Society of the Nyacks http://nyackhistory.org/
The Historical Society, located in the lower level of the Depew House, 50 Piermont Avenue (directly east of the Nyack Library), is open from 1pm to 4pm on Saturdays. The Historical Society is committed to researching, preserving and encouraging the appreciation of the history of the Nyack community. Their new exhibit tells the story of Marydell’s ninety year history. Their programs include historic walking tours, the John Scott Armchair illustrated lectures, and, every two years, their wonderful house tours of some of the most unique and special homes in our community.
If you are interested in becoming a member, a volunteer, or a trustee, contact the historical society. You will find a description of volunteer opportunities under About on their website.
Maria Luisa’s 77 So. Broadway 845-353-4122 https://www.marialuisaboutique.com/In her two side-by-side shops, Maria Luisa offers clothing, shoes and accessories for all ages, including many Fair Trade items. Always welcoming and helpful, Maria Luisa has been known to be especially “user friendly” in helping men choose gifts for their special women. She is also known for being particularly supportive of the community and for advocating for the community.
Maureen’s Jazz Cellar 2 N. Broadway For reservations in inquiries: 845-535-3143
http://www.maureensjazzcellar.com
This acoustically excellent, intimate space offers a range of jazz and comedy performances. As noted on their website, Maureen's Jazz Cellar, launched by Nyack artists and residents Brianne Higgins, and David Budway, commemorates the great live jazz performances of Maureen Budway [David’s sister] by honoring those jazz greats among us today who continue to dedicate their lives to music and the arts, thereby enriching the lives of their listeners. We hope you enjoy the intimate ambiance where good vibes, musical mastery and an appreciation for the arts lives on.
There is a varied cover charge from $0 to a rare $25, and a moderate, limited menu (including Turiello’s pizza). People in our group said they feel comfortable going there on their own. You do need to make reservations, but the atmosphere is casual and welcoming. Tuesday is open mike.
The Nyack Garden Club https://thenyackgardenclub.wordpress.com/ If you are interested in joining, email Ruth at oofie88@optonline.net
The 40 to 50 members coming from all over Rockland and pay $40 a year to belong. The members maintain the gardens at the Hopper House, the YMCA, the Old Stone Church, and the Butterfly Garden by the river in Memorial Park (near the vista point for the new bridge). They also have an annual garden tour and a plant sale. In addition, their monthly membership meetings include a range of speakers and events.
At the next meeting on December 15, we will continue exploring the Nyacks by talking together about other places members have suggested are special to our area.
Because of the donations members made at our meeting two weeks ago, we had a balance of $231. I then bought blank name tags and printed them for you. The tags cost $86.69, leaving a balance of $144.31.
Who Are We?
Based on the 60 responses I received to the information cards and email requests I sent out, we range in age from 61 to 91, with an average age of 72.7. Ten members are 80 or older, 30 are in their 70s, and 16 are in their 60s. Some people did not submit their ages, but I will ask again so we have that demographic information.
Of the people who responded, 26 people live on their own – almost a third of the people who responded – 23 households have two people in them, and 3 households have 3 people or more.
Our backgrounds and interests are varied, but at least three members have advanced degrees in theology, twelve have been teachers, six have taught at the college or graduate school level. Eight people have been administrators, managers, directors or executives, plus many others have strong organizational skills. We have six psychotherapists and counselors, five nurses, five artists, four professional musicians, three professional writers, at least three people who have served in local village government, two secretaries, and at least one person in sales. We have one art historian, one archeologist, one physicist, one jewelry designer, one marketing professional, one theatrical producer, two photographers, and one dream analyst. And that does not begin to touch on people’s interests and talents: cooking, writing, home repair, yoga, walking, gardening, traveling, museum-going, mosaics, and dancing.
Nyack Places
Thank you to all who responded by my request for the names of places in or near Nyack that are special to you. At the meeting people gathered in small clusters focused on one particular place to talk about that place, its character, about its place in the community. We then had a wonderful time as a whole group sharing our thoughts about these places.
Birchwood Center 85 S. Broadway 2nd floor 845-358-6409 http://birchwoodcenter.com/
Birchwood is a yoga and massage studio run by Betsy Ceva and Charlene Bradin. Their yoga classes, from gentle yoga to more invigorating styles, focus on discipline, breath, meditation and relaxation. Betsy and Charlene have a very good sense of people and are responsive to individuals. They offer a variety of workshops, massages, and yoga classes. Right now they are offering a $40 special of one-month of unlimited yoga.
Bow Tie Cinema in New City 202 S. Main St, New City 845-634-5100 http://www.bowtiecinemas.com/locations/ new-city-cinemas/
Although Bow Tie Cinema is in New City, it is frequented by many people from Nyack and offers the least expensive movie tickets. People 62 and older pay only $7 a ticket for first run films. The seats are comfortable, and the theaters are never crowded.
Didier Dumas Patisserie 163 Main St 845-353-2031 http://www.didierdumas.com/
Didier was recently renovated to make way for more tables and chairs. Stop in for coffee or pick up a box of the best treats in town. Parking is available across the street.
Elmwood Playhouse 10 Park St 845-353-1313 http://elmwoodplayhouse.com/
For over 50 years, the Elmwood has presented live plays at reasonable prices. If you are interested in volunteering, you will find a full range of opportunities to work closely with the professionals there. Opening nights always feature a party for the crew, cast, volunteers and audience. Their membership meetings are on Monday evenings at 7:30, followed by a workshop at about 8:30.
Herb Lack Paints and Hardware 124 Main St 845-358-0293
We are fortunate to have a wonderful family-run hardware store right in Nyack. Joe and his crew are very knowledgeable, helpful, community-minded and welcoming. They carry Benjamin Moore paint, and know great workmen who can take care of home repair jobs for you. If you have a small job - a lamp that needs to be repaired or a window with broken glass or a torn screen – Joe and his crew can do the job for you themselves.
The Hudson House 134 Main St 845-353-1355
http://hudsonhousenyack.com/
Matt Hudson, the owner of The Hudson House, has made his restaurant a true treasure. If you have not been to this restaurant in a while, you will find not only wonderful food, including the desserts Matt himself creates, but you will also have an outstanding visual experience. On all the walls of the bar, the room you enter you will find beautifully carved wooden art deco friezes sculpted by Matt Hudson, each more special than the last. In the dining room take a good look at Matt’s photographs of the Hudson River. Then if you walk along the hall to the back of the building, you will see his portrait photographs. But with all this, Matt focuses on you, and treats diners as though they are the most welcomed guests of the evening.
The Hudson House was once Nyack Village Hall. You can still see where the jail had been: it’s now the wine cellar.
P.S. If you walk along the river path at the Hook and see someone rowing a single scull, it is sure to be Matt Hudson
Historical Society of the Nyacks http://nyackhistory.org/
The Historical Society, located in the lower level of the Depew House, 50 Piermont Avenue (directly east of the Nyack Library), is open from 1pm to 4pm on Saturdays. The Historical Society is committed to researching, preserving and encouraging the appreciation of the history of the Nyack community. Their new exhibit tells the story of Marydell’s ninety year history. Their programs include historic walking tours, the John Scott Armchair illustrated lectures, and, every two years, their wonderful house tours of some of the most unique and special homes in our community.
If you are interested in becoming a member, a volunteer, or a trustee, contact the historical society. You will find a description of volunteer opportunities under About on their website.
Maria Luisa’s 77 So. Broadway 845-353-4122 https://www.marialuisaboutique.com/In her two side-by-side shops, Maria Luisa offers clothing, shoes and accessories for all ages, including many Fair Trade items. Always welcoming and helpful, Maria Luisa has been known to be especially “user friendly” in helping men choose gifts for their special women. She is also known for being particularly supportive of the community and for advocating for the community.
Maureen’s Jazz Cellar 2 N. Broadway For reservations in inquiries: 845-535-3143
http://www.maureensjazzcellar.com
This acoustically excellent, intimate space offers a range of jazz and comedy performances. As noted on their website, Maureen's Jazz Cellar, launched by Nyack artists and residents Brianne Higgins, and David Budway, commemorates the great live jazz performances of Maureen Budway [David’s sister] by honoring those jazz greats among us today who continue to dedicate their lives to music and the arts, thereby enriching the lives of their listeners. We hope you enjoy the intimate ambiance where good vibes, musical mastery and an appreciation for the arts lives on.
There is a varied cover charge from $0 to a rare $25, and a moderate, limited menu (including Turiello’s pizza). People in our group said they feel comfortable going there on their own. You do need to make reservations, but the atmosphere is casual and welcoming. Tuesday is open mike.
The Nyack Garden Club https://thenyackgardenclub.wordpress.com/ If you are interested in joining, email Ruth at oofie88@optonline.net
The 40 to 50 members coming from all over Rockland and pay $40 a year to belong. The members maintain the gardens at the Hopper House, the YMCA, the Old Stone Church, and the Butterfly Garden by the river in Memorial Park (near the vista point for the new bridge). They also have an annual garden tour and a plant sale. In addition, their monthly membership meetings include a range of speakers and events.
At the next meeting on December 15, we will continue exploring the Nyacks by talking together about other places members have suggested are special to our area.
Who We Are – and Nyack's Special Places, part 2 Dec 15, 2017 Click to open, Click to close
Neighbor to neighbor
In the new year we will begin to gather information about contractors who do all kinds of home repair, and other kinds of vendors you have experience with. Do you have a plumber you trust? A painter who is really good and reliable? A snow plow guy who comes and helps you out just when you need him? We are going to be making some lists for our mutual benefit, so please jot down information about those contractors who are excellent. Who are they, what do they do, how do you contact them, and what makes them so great?
Speakers and stuff
In the coming year we would like to have some programs and speakers. Many of you have lots of experience and expertise about all sorts of things that would be of interest to the rest of us. If you would like to present something that you feel would be of interest to the group, please send me an email about it. This could be a 10 or 15 minute talk on a topic, a longer interactive presentation about something, or a demonstration of something we could do together such as trying out Chi Gong.
If you know someone you think would be a good speaker who would be glad to address us for no pay (at this point), let us know that, also. Send me an email with information about what you want to do and how long it would take. I may have additional questions for you. We will prioritize these so we don’t have five presentations on one topic, and to be sure the topics are relevant to us. No political topics, please.
More Special Places in Nyack
At our meeting Friday we talked about more of the special places and activities in Nyack:
The Hopper House http://www.edwardhopperhouse.org/ 845-358-0774
One of our members, Purna Desai, is a new docent at the Hopper House. According to Purna, this is an exciting time for the Hopper House, both physically and in terms of the recognition it has been getting. She urges everyone to sign up for a tour.
Bebb Stone talked about the benefits of being a member of the Hopper House. Membership is $30 a year for those 65 and older, and gives members special access to the First Friday wine and cheese events which feature guest speakers, as well as special access to exhibitions, films, Jazz, programs
Nyack Library http://www.nyacklibrary.org/ 845-358-3370
Look at the library’s website for information about its many book clubs, speakers, Shakespeare group, the Carnegie Concert Series, and much more. The library also is a wonderful resource for Nyack history. Among the perks available to library members are free tickets to several museums in New York City. Ask at the Circulation Desk.
Nyack YMCA http://www.rocklandymca.org/ 845-358-0245
The Nyack YMCA provides a full range of programs for people of all ages, from swim classes to dance and aerobic programs. The classes are geared for those who want gentle classes, or rigorous classes, and many that are in between. The downstairs weight workout rooms are not nearly as intimidating as they sound. Come and work out at your own pace.
Senior membership costs $50 a month, and entitles you to unlimited access to courses, the pool, and weight room. Dual memberships are less per person. Many health insurance programs offer a wonderful fitness benefit called Silver Sneakers. If your health insurance program offers the Silver Sneakers benefit and you are 65 and older, you can have free membership to the Y. You can quickly find out if you qualify, by contacting Silver Sneakers at https://tools.silversneakers.com/Eligibility/CheckEligibility and filling out their short, simple questionnaire.
O’Donoghue’s
Long a fixture of Nyack community restaurant life, O’D’s – located on Main Street east of Broadway – started out as a stable, and has been through several iterations since then. Recently renovated, O’D’s is now a Farm to Table restaurant serving organic, locally sourced, sustainable foods. They also offer vegan, and gluten free options.
Rivertown Films https://rivertownfilm.org/
Located in The Nyack Center at Depew Avenue and Broadway just north of the Post Office, Rivertown Films brings documentaries, as well as independent and foreign films to Nyack. According to their website, Rivertown Films exists to “enhance audience appreciation of the motion picture, encourage support for filmmakers and the local film community, provide educational programs related to the art and craft of motion pictures and to help build the cinematic arts audience of the future.” See their website for their schedule of films. Membership is $60 a year, but anyone can order individual tickets.
Great Places to Walk
Debbie Bell noted many of the wonderful places to walk that surround our area. State Line Lookout near exit 3 of the Palisades has several easy trails. There are easy trails at Tallman Park, Piermont Pier, the Esposito Trail between South Nyack and Piermont, Tackamac Park off Clausland Mountain Road, the Nike Base also off Clausland, and Buttermilk Falls off Greenbush Road. One of the best loved walks is along the shore trail at the Hook that runs from Upper Nyack seven miles to Haverstaw (if you follow the lower trail) or Rockland Lake, if you turn left up the hill when the trail splits. Many people also enjoy the walk around Rockland Lake, while others venture north to the wonderful trails near Bear Mountain Inn or throughout Harriman State Park. For more adventure, head north to Black Rock Forest or walk The Storm King Art Center, or spend a day hiking at Mohonk.
Empire State Passes giving you unlimited vehicle access to all New York State parks. The 2018 pass is available now for $65. Note also that New York State residents 62 or older have free vehicle entry and parking in state parks on non-holiday weekdays.
Rockland Symphony Orchestra www.rocklandsymphony.org/
Jane Berkowitz, one of our members, plays the violin with the Symphony, founded by Ed Simons in 1952. The orchestra is composed of both professional musicians and community members. Upcoming concerts will be posted on their website.
True Food
This organic restaurant/café is located on Main Street west of Franklin, across the street from Didier Dumas’s Patissarie. Meet a friend for coffee, stop in for a cozy home-cooked meal, or take home a container of something yummy. Their website states, “We believe that preparing food is a labor of love and that health, beauty and art can be served on a plate.” The restaurant is open seven days a week.
They have also opened an organic grocery next door that is open Wednesday through Sunday.
Happy Solstice, Joyous Holidays, and Warmest Wishes to you all. See you in 2018. Thank you all for helping make Creative Aging in Nyack such a positive part of our days! See you on Friday, January 5 at 2:00.
In the new year we will begin to gather information about contractors who do all kinds of home repair, and other kinds of vendors you have experience with. Do you have a plumber you trust? A painter who is really good and reliable? A snow plow guy who comes and helps you out just when you need him? We are going to be making some lists for our mutual benefit, so please jot down information about those contractors who are excellent. Who are they, what do they do, how do you contact them, and what makes them so great?
Speakers and stuff
In the coming year we would like to have some programs and speakers. Many of you have lots of experience and expertise about all sorts of things that would be of interest to the rest of us. If you would like to present something that you feel would be of interest to the group, please send me an email about it. This could be a 10 or 15 minute talk on a topic, a longer interactive presentation about something, or a demonstration of something we could do together such as trying out Chi Gong.
If you know someone you think would be a good speaker who would be glad to address us for no pay (at this point), let us know that, also. Send me an email with information about what you want to do and how long it would take. I may have additional questions for you. We will prioritize these so we don’t have five presentations on one topic, and to be sure the topics are relevant to us. No political topics, please.
More Special Places in Nyack
At our meeting Friday we talked about more of the special places and activities in Nyack:
The Hopper House http://www.edwardhopperhouse.org/ 845-358-0774
One of our members, Purna Desai, is a new docent at the Hopper House. According to Purna, this is an exciting time for the Hopper House, both physically and in terms of the recognition it has been getting. She urges everyone to sign up for a tour.
Bebb Stone talked about the benefits of being a member of the Hopper House. Membership is $30 a year for those 65 and older, and gives members special access to the First Friday wine and cheese events which feature guest speakers, as well as special access to exhibitions, films, Jazz, programs
Nyack Library http://www.nyacklibrary.org/ 845-358-3370
Look at the library’s website for information about its many book clubs, speakers, Shakespeare group, the Carnegie Concert Series, and much more. The library also is a wonderful resource for Nyack history. Among the perks available to library members are free tickets to several museums in New York City. Ask at the Circulation Desk.
Nyack YMCA http://www.rocklandymca.org/ 845-358-0245
The Nyack YMCA provides a full range of programs for people of all ages, from swim classes to dance and aerobic programs. The classes are geared for those who want gentle classes, or rigorous classes, and many that are in between. The downstairs weight workout rooms are not nearly as intimidating as they sound. Come and work out at your own pace.
Senior membership costs $50 a month, and entitles you to unlimited access to courses, the pool, and weight room. Dual memberships are less per person. Many health insurance programs offer a wonderful fitness benefit called Silver Sneakers. If your health insurance program offers the Silver Sneakers benefit and you are 65 and older, you can have free membership to the Y. You can quickly find out if you qualify, by contacting Silver Sneakers at https://tools.silversneakers.com/Eligibility/CheckEligibility and filling out their short, simple questionnaire.
O’Donoghue’s
Long a fixture of Nyack community restaurant life, O’D’s – located on Main Street east of Broadway – started out as a stable, and has been through several iterations since then. Recently renovated, O’D’s is now a Farm to Table restaurant serving organic, locally sourced, sustainable foods. They also offer vegan, and gluten free options.
Rivertown Films https://rivertownfilm.org/
Located in The Nyack Center at Depew Avenue and Broadway just north of the Post Office, Rivertown Films brings documentaries, as well as independent and foreign films to Nyack. According to their website, Rivertown Films exists to “enhance audience appreciation of the motion picture, encourage support for filmmakers and the local film community, provide educational programs related to the art and craft of motion pictures and to help build the cinematic arts audience of the future.” See their website for their schedule of films. Membership is $60 a year, but anyone can order individual tickets.
Great Places to Walk
Debbie Bell noted many of the wonderful places to walk that surround our area. State Line Lookout near exit 3 of the Palisades has several easy trails. There are easy trails at Tallman Park, Piermont Pier, the Esposito Trail between South Nyack and Piermont, Tackamac Park off Clausland Mountain Road, the Nike Base also off Clausland, and Buttermilk Falls off Greenbush Road. One of the best loved walks is along the shore trail at the Hook that runs from Upper Nyack seven miles to Haverstaw (if you follow the lower trail) or Rockland Lake, if you turn left up the hill when the trail splits. Many people also enjoy the walk around Rockland Lake, while others venture north to the wonderful trails near Bear Mountain Inn or throughout Harriman State Park. For more adventure, head north to Black Rock Forest or walk The Storm King Art Center, or spend a day hiking at Mohonk.
Empire State Passes giving you unlimited vehicle access to all New York State parks. The 2018 pass is available now for $65. Note also that New York State residents 62 or older have free vehicle entry and parking in state parks on non-holiday weekdays.
Rockland Symphony Orchestra www.rocklandsymphony.org/
Jane Berkowitz, one of our members, plays the violin with the Symphony, founded by Ed Simons in 1952. The orchestra is composed of both professional musicians and community members. Upcoming concerts will be posted on their website.
True Food
This organic restaurant/café is located on Main Street west of Franklin, across the street from Didier Dumas’s Patissarie. Meet a friend for coffee, stop in for a cozy home-cooked meal, or take home a container of something yummy. Their website states, “We believe that preparing food is a labor of love and that health, beauty and art can be served on a plate.” The restaurant is open seven days a week.
They have also opened an organic grocery next door that is open Wednesday through Sunday.
Happy Solstice, Joyous Holidays, and Warmest Wishes to you all. See you in 2018. Thank you all for helping make Creative Aging in Nyack such a positive part of our days! See you on Friday, January 5 at 2:00.