July/August 2022

Director’s Comments

Generally, I keep my office door open so I can hear what’s happening at the Center. In one day, all of these encounters happened, demonstrating the myriad ways this place serves the community AND builds the community. These moments inspire me to keep working to make the connections grow and thrive. 

• Kind greetings and admiration for the jigsaw puzzle crew
• A member dropped off greeting cards to add to our selection 
• Teresa loaning medical equipment to someone coming home after surgery
• Kristyn helped orient a woman to the tablet computer we are loaning her
• Two friends catching up, relieved to see each other without a mask
• A passerby stopped in and bought art from the current show
• Qi Gong participants gliding more gracefully after a soothing session together 
• Rummikub players chatting after two hours of game time
• Our newest volunteer front desk person learning the ropes
• A new village resident getting a tour of the building from Corinne
• A client arriving for their appointment with Stephanie to learn about long term care options
• Lin typing letters to thank donors while Jeanna prepares outgoing payments
• Volunteer driver returning from a trip thanked Robert for the opportunity to help
• Pam sharing a proof of the newsletter for editing by our front desk volunteer 
• German class in the Fireplace Room learning culture, language, and history from Dr. Conard
• Earthworks tour participants returning from a hot day of travel, delighted with the outing

Were you aware that we are such an active, vital link for the community? The Center team of staff and volunteers is always seeking new ways to support, entertain, and inform members and villagers. Please stop in to see what’s happening. We’ll be delighted to see you. 

 – Caroline Mullin, Executive Director

937-767-5751 x 101, [email protected]

Ethical Wills

Monday, July 11 & August 8, noon–1:30 pm

Artie Isaac will present information on Ethical Wills. Ethical wills are not a legal document or about material items, they are a way to convey your values, stories, and important information to loved ones. Artie’s presentation will help you start crafting your own way to express your ideas. Registration is required, call 937-767-5751 or send an email to [email protected], limited to 8 participants.

Ice Cream Social

Friday, July 15, 2:30 pm

Please come for ice cream and refreshments in the Great Room. All are welcome but please register at 937-767-5751 or [email protected].

“If Only There Were a Patio” Fundraising Event

Sunday, August 7, 3–5 pm

Join us for an afternoon of music, snacks, socializing, and wine tasting. As we gather in the building perhaps you will be inspired to help fund needed repairs and build a patio to enhance future gatherings. 

Shall We Play a Game?

Friday, August 12, 6:30 pm

Please join us at the Center for an evening playing board games. We will have the classics (like Sorry and Monopoly) as well as some newer games (Catan, Dominion, Code Names). You are welcome to bring a game you might like to share, and so long as health requirements allow, you are welcome to bring snacks and drinks. All ages are welcome. 

The Community Colloquy is taking a summer break and will return in September.

New Weekly Activities

Fireplace Room Social Time

Mondays 10–11:45 am

The Fireplace Room has been reserved for people to gather, sip coffee, chat, and relax. There is no need to register. Max 12 people. (Starts July 11)

Stretch & Strength with Daphne

Wednesdays 12:15–1 pm

Led by YSHS senior Daphne, this will be a stretch and beginners dance class. Stretching for continued flexibility, and dancing to have fun. No equipment or dancewear required. Exercises can be modified for any levels. Currently only scheduled for July.

Shakespeare Reading Group

Sundays 1:30 pm

Those attending participate round-robin, with each person reading the next lines of dialogue. New members and drop-ins always welcome. In the Fireplace Room.

Future Fundraising Events

Fundraising request – We are asking the community to support the projects to repair, restore and upgrade the building. Please see our website to learn more about the projects including a plan to “Let the Bricks Breathe,” build a patio and repair water damage inside the building. 

“Everything But The House” requests – This fall we will have an online auction to support the Senior Center. We are asking for donations of art, antiques, jewelry, or other items – Airbnb stays, chef events, unique experiences. Please contact the fundraising committee at [email protected] to discuss what you might be able to contribute. All items will be sold via www.ebth.com with proceeds benefitting YSSC services, building, and programs. 

Thank you to the Local Fare Program cooperating businesses and the YS Community Foundation for helping the Center provide nutritious local meals for 32 villagers. A total of 426 meals were served during 14 weeks. Local restaurants created the meals and YSSC volunteer drivers delivered them. (Left to right) Marianne Moseman and Hedgie Neal receive lunch from volunteer delivery driver Luan Heit. 

If Not Us

If not us, not them, If not now, then when?

If not here, nor there, If not this world then where?

–John Gorka, singer-songwriter (2003)

There is nothing new under the sun, the Book of Ecclesiastes tells us. In our youth we think the task of gaining knowledge is finite and, therefore, achievable. It isn’t, of course – at least, not in one lifetime. We all know that. What takes years to understand is that we learn best through our interactions with others – in partnerships, in families, at work and in our community. Arguably, it is in relationship with others that we learn most of life’s important lessons.

The epigraph above, Gorka’s chorus line, implores us to act in community with what we already know. This refrain echoes down through the ages from the teachings of Hillel the Elder (110 BCE-10 CE). Hillel chose to help “repair the world” (Tikkun olan, a Judaic concept). Recent events in our nation, around the world, remind us that the world is still in much need of repair.

In those daily interactions we, too, can help repair the world. More than just random acts of kindness, we can choose to be deliberate in our behaviors, knowing that they resonate and are amplified through those we meet. Now, still in the shadows of Covid, concerned by war in Ukraine and saddened by the number of lives lost to gun violence, our actions take on greater significance. 

Perhaps you can promote greater “repair” work by striking up new conversations with friends, family members and neighbors. Or, by listening carefully to discover shared concerns with those with whom you might otherwise be in disagreement. If you have the opportunity, you might even contribute time to a community project. Bill Clinton, our 42nd President, said “There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America.” 

It is “us,” all in this together. The time is “now.”

– Robert Libecap, Transportation Manager

937-767-5751 x104, [email protected]

Helpful Homemakers

Our homemaking program means so much to so many. The mission is to make it easier for our clients to remain in their own homes using our staff to clean, cook, run errands, and to provide companionship. There is also an employment opportunity for those seniors who want to serve as homemakers and provide help for their fellow seniors, while supplementing their income at the same time. Please contact me or the Center for help within your home or if you are interested in working part time in the homes of local seniors.

–Teresa Bondurant, Homemaker & Outreach Manager

937-767-5751 x107, [email protected]

Volunteer Medical Escorts

We are excited to announce that the Volunteer Medical Escort Program is back! This program connects those who need someone to accompany them to a medical appointment with a screened volunteer who will go with them. If you have need of this service, or would like to volunteer, please contact me. 

Hot, summer weather is now here and there are programs available to help with utility costs for those who qualify. The Village of Yellow Springs offers assistance to residents who are at risk of disconnection of utility services. Information and an application may be found at The Village of Yellow Springs website or by calling 937-767-7202 ext. 2. Other programs from the Ohio Department of Development are also available. Please contact me if you have questions about these programs or you need assistance with Medicare, Medicaid, Food or Housing Assistance. 

– Stephanie Lawson, Support Services Manager,

(937) 767-5751, ext. 108, [email protected]

Pet Partnership Program

We are hoping to help match pet owners who have occasional challenges or need for help (such as transport to the vet, pet care during medical absences) with people who would be prepared to be the “extra family” for the pet when needs arise. This is purely volunteer participation. The Center will help make connections and provide some suggested guidance for a cooperative connection. If you are interested as either a pet owner or volunteer, call 937-767-5751 or email [email protected] to share your contact information.

Fourth of July Parade

We expect that YS will have its traditional Fourth of July parade. If so, the Senior Center will have a float and drive some of the Senior Center vehicles. If you would like to participate, call the 937-767-5751 or email [email protected] to be kept informed of the plans. 

Arts Shuttle Proposal

The Senior Center is exploring a more active role in providing transportation to various art venues on weekends. 

We might consider, for example, Saturday afternoon rides to watch the Metropolitan Opera live broadcasts, attend the Springfield Symphony, or local stage productions. Perhaps, locally, we could help seniors attend the Yellow Springs Chamber Music or the the Little Art.

What are your thoughts? Would you be interested in a “carpool” for art performances? We would like to hear from you. For now, call or leave a message with Robert or Kristyn in Transportation at 937-767-5751 ext. 104. We’ll add up the numbers, consider any suggestions and, with your help, come up with a “next step.” 

Garden Dinner Party Recap

Thank you to all the Garden Dinner Party hosts, and also to the committee members who helped organize the event: Ann Adrian, Anna Bellisari, Linda Scutt, Pam Geisel, and Kristyn Andrews.

eNewsletter

PDF files of the bimonthly Newsletter, going back to 2019, are available on ysseniors.org/enewsletter. An eNewsletter is also sent to everyone who gets the weekly email blasts. If you would like to get these emails, email [email protected] or go to the website to sign up using the link on the home page.

Grocery Delivery

The Senior Center continues to shop for groceries weekly from Tom’s Market for anyone who is homebound due to transportation, mobility, or health issues. Deliveries are on Fridays and orders are due by 11 am on Thursdays. Orders are accepted one of three ways:

• e-mail to [email protected]
• by using the form at: ysseniors.org/grocery-delivery-program
• calling 937-767-5751 Mon.–Fri. 9:30 am–4 pm 

Credit Card/Debit Card/EBT cards are accepted. This is a free service. Donations are gratefully accepted.

Potter Bruce Grimes and his great granddaughter painter Myah Petri (shown above in a old photo) are the featured artists in the Fireplace Room for July–September. Bruce is the Resident Artist at the John Bryan Community Pottery and has exhibited in more than 300 area, regional, and national shows and currently continues to produce pottery daily. Bruce and his wife, Joyce, will celebrate their 64th wedding anniversary in August. They have three daughters, 11 grandchildren, and 23 great grandchildren, including Myah, who has created art along with Bruce for most of her life. She lives in Wisconsin but she spent five summers in Yellow Springs. Myah will have some paintings in the show. The show will be hung July 1 and can be seen during the Center’s open hours of M–F 9:30 am-4 pm, except during class time. Please check the calendar or call before you come. For information, visit ysseniors.org/art.

Senior Summer Camp

The Greene County Council on Aging’s Senior Summer Camp runs Tuesdays from noon–1 pm through August 30, at the Xenia Community Center Gym, 1265 W. Second St., next to the Council’s office. Focus will be on physical and brain fitness while enjoying terrific music.

Movement of any kind keeps us young and fit. Exercise has been shown to prevent disease, lower the risks of falls, improve mental health & well-being, strengthen social ties, and improve cognitive function. Each week there will be several activities to get you moving and dancing. Sessions will also include opportunities to improve brain fitness, expand memory, and reduce stress.

There is no cost to participate, but space is limited, and registration is required by the Friday before each event at 937-376-5486 ext. 112 or [email protected].

JamFest

This year’s JamFest is Wednesday, August 17 from 4–6:30 pm at the Xenia Community Center Gym, 1265 W. Second St., next to the Council’s office and costs $10 per person.

JamFest is an afternoon of family fun, games, food, and bluegrass music to benefit GCCOA senior and caregiver services and programs. JamFest also features the Olde Country Store with homemade treats and gifts, the Cloud Race Tournament with Announcer Paul Newman, Jr. and some special competitors, a Silent Auction (which will also be online before the event), a 50/50 Raffle, and the Action-Packed Homemade Treats & Jam Auction with Auctioneer Roy Hatfield with Real Roots Radio. 

Other GCCOA Events

• Grief & Loss Group: Mondays, July 11 and August 8 (second Mondays) from 10 am–noon at Peace Lutheran Church in Beavercreek.
• Memory Loss, Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease: Wednesday, July 13 from 2:30–4:30 pm at the Xenia Community Center (XCC) next door to the GCCOA Office.
• Legal Chat: Thursday, July 21 and August 18 (third Thursdays) at 2:30 pm at Peace Lutheran Church, 3530 Dayton-Xenia Road, Beavercreek. Enter at lower level door with awning. 
• Medicare 101: Wednesday, August 10, 2:30–4 pm at the Xenia Community Center (XCC) next door to the GCCOA Office.

Contact GCCOA with questions or to register for these events at 937-376-5486 or send an email to [email protected]. Information is also available on their website at gccoa.org.

Thanks to everyone who came out and participated in May’s Flash Mob Event, and thanks to Lynn Hardman and Kristyn Andrews for creating the choreography and coordinating the event.

July

7/00 - Andy Holyoke

7/02 - Thomas Macaulay

7/04 - Jane Boucher

7/05* Mary Bushrui

7/05 - Susan Freeman

7/06 - Patricia Wright

7/08 - Richard Bullock 

7/08 - Helen Filler

7/08* Martie Jensen

7/08 - Mitzie Miller

7/10* Lenore Doctor 

7/10* Maria Donat

7/10 - Kathryn Van der Heiden

7/12* Robert Darrow

7/14* Dorothy Drake

7/14 - Keith Gunderkline

7/14 - Sonia Kiser

7/14 - Marcia Sutherland

7/15* Donna Denman

7/16 - Kristen Andreae

7/17 - Roger Beal

7/17* George Coder 

7/18 - Pat Robinow

7/19 - Margaret Veenstra

7/21* Joyce Robinson

7/22 - Karen Rasey

7/23 - Steve Piatt

7/25* Joan Champie

7/25 - Deborah Dillon-Bloch

7/25 - Mary Beth Burkholder

7/26* Polly Miller

7/26 - Ardis Macaulay 

7/26 - Lidia Stone 

7/27* Harriet Blackman

7/29 - Denise Robinow 

7/30 - James Tetz

7/31 - Kathy Carr

August

8/01 - John Atkins

8/01 - Phyllis J. Davis

8/02 - Susan Bothwell

8/02 - Deborah Dixon

8/03* Mary E. Prince

8/04* Geneva Brisbane

8/04 - Amy Crawford

8/04 - Patricia Dewees

8/04 - Niki Foor

8/05 - Susan Doubt 

8/07 - Brian Gaughan

8/08* Bernice Kirk

8/08 - Doug Klappich

8/10* Perry M. Stewart

8/10 - Chris Zurbuchen

8/12 - Diana Quirk

8/14 - Judy James

8/16 - Donna Coleman

8/16 - Nancy Hirsch

8/16 - Heather Neill

8/19 - Joy Fishbain 

8/21 - Pete Wehner

8/22 - Beth Knepper

8/23* Joan Chappelle

8/23 - Allan Ryder

8/24* Ned Oldham

8/24* Sue Parker

8/24 - David Anderson

8/25 - Tom Malcolm

8/26* Maria Varandani

8/27 - Larry Gerthoffer Jr.

8/27 - Peggy Shank

8/29 - Joe Ayres

8/30 - Isidro Fernandez, Jr.

8/30 - Marie Hertzler  

8/31* Michael Kraus

8/31 - Melanie Evans

Welcome NEW Members!

Susan Neff

Larry McKever

Keith Doubt

Susan Doubt

Montserrat CS Lau

Jerry Holt

Lucrecia Guerrero

Ralita Hildebrand

Mike Chambers

Shirley Lambert

Gary Uremovich 

Final Prehistoric Mound Tour

The participants who went on the Ohio Prehistory Tour earlier in May had a great time and are shown here near the top of the Miamisburg Mound.

The final leg of the YSSC Ohio Prehistory Tour is Thursday, July 14 (with reservations and payment due by July 7) which takes visitors to the Fort Ancient Hilltop Enclosure, the largest Hopewell hilltop enclosure in all North America, and to the Serpent Mound, the largest effigy mound in America.

      Participants should be able to walk about half a mile. The cost of the tour is $50, which includes admission and parking fees, and a box lunch. To make a reservation, send a check to the Senior Center. To pay with a credit card or for more info visit ysseniors.org/tours.

Thanks to Anna Bellisari and Macy Reynolds for their organizing and putting the fun in fundraising.