January 31, 2024

Brenda Johnson, Program Coordinator, Buckham West

I wonder if, instead of enjoying a typical January thaw, we’ve just experienced what we might call a brief January freeze.  It appears the strong El Nino will continue to bring warmer than usual temperatures.  Maybe it’s just my childhood mindset but I seem to recall winter weather that began in November and piles of snow that lasted into April.  That snow created a whole new kind of playground for us. Then, as I grew older and began driving across country to get to work every day, that snow became not so much fun. What are some winter weather-related stories that you could tell?

Thanks to Bethlehem Academy students, we’re offering technology tutoring assistance by appointment.  The students will answer your questions about your cell phone, I-pad, etc.  Bring your device with you and be prepared to have a specific question in mind when you call for an appointment.  Contact Buckham West for appointment, 507-332-7357.

Three Rivers Community Action offers in-person visits at Buckham West by appointment on the 2^nd Wednesday of the month. Sarah Kuball, Older Adult Services Specialist, can assist in applying for programs, help with phone calls to agencies, and offer information about programs and services available to older adults and their family caregivers.  Open to the public; no charge; call Buckham West for an appointment.

Great Courses begins a new 6-week series starting on Thursday, February 1^st at 1:00 p.m. and held weekly through March 7^th.  The topic is The Wonders of America’s State Parks. During the first session of this new series, plan to visit Niagara Falls.  Pre-register, free for Buckham West members.

There’s a “Make and Take” opportunity on February 2^nd at 1:00pm with Paula Wadekamper.  Paula is known for bringing craft ideas that make use of recycled materials.  This project is a decorated 6-inch wreath.  Cost $8.00; open to public; pre-register.  Bring your own glue gun if you have one.

If you’re in the mood for fun and socialization we offer several options to play a game at Buckham West.  Mahjongg is a tile-based game of skill, strategy, and luck meeting on Mondays at 1pm. Cribbage meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:30pm, Bridge on Mondays and Fridays at 12:45pm, and 500 on Wednesdays at 1:00pm.  Call for information. While membership is required, we invite you to come and visit the group a time or two before joining.

AARP Smart Driver Course™

4-hour Refresher Course February 7^th 12:30pm

By taking the course, designed for drivers age 50 and older, you could be eligible for a discount on your auto insurance.  Fees based on AARP membership.  Pre-registration required.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors offers assistance designed to support the independence of older adults in our community.  If you, or a loved one, are in need of help to live independently at home, Neighbors Helping Neighbors is available by calling Anne Pleskonko at her office at Buckham West.  Services include housekeeping, errands, friendly visits, and more.

A Family Caregiver Support Group began this week and will meet monthly.  Spend time in a caring and confidential environment with other caregivers and friends to share experiences, vent about challenges, or just listen to thoughts and ideas with others who might be walking a similar path.   Please call before attending.  Contact Anne Pleskonko, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, 507-332-7357.

Buckham West Book Club Monday, February 26^th 9:30 a.m. The book is “”The Lincoln Highway” by Amor Towles.  This book of historical fiction tells the story of four boys as they set out from Nebraska in 1954, in an old Studebaker in pursuit of a better future. Buckham West members only but new participants are always welcomed.

Support Buckham West by shopping at Fashions on Central, our volunteer-run, gently-used women’s clothing store in downtown Faribault. Check out weekly sales on select items to get even deeper discounts on already affordably-priced clothing. We also accept donations of gently-used women’s clothing, shoes and accessories. Store hours are 11a-5p Tues-Fri.  507-334-9242.

The Anderson Conference Room at Buckham West seats 45 people at tables and is equipped with a laptop, projector/screen, and a great sound system. Perfect to rent for trainings, speakers, and meetings!   Speak with our Director for booking information.

Trips are available to Buckham West members through Owatonna Social Commons.  Treasure Island with Bingo Option happens on March 6^th.  Cost $35; you must contact Owatonna Social Commons to make a reservation, 507-444-4321.  Watch for upcoming trips or call or stop in at Buckham West for information.