February 7, 2024
Brenda Johnson, Program Coordinator, Buckham West
Occasionally a very random memory will come to me. Recently that random memory was about this probably little-known fact about our organization. In 2002, the Faribault Area Senior Center hosted radio broadcaster Paul Moss as he interviewed local seniors from a “typical” town in MN. What was the radio station? Keep reading and the answer will be revealed.
Later this month there are two opportunities to enjoy live music in the Buckham West Coffee Shop. On Thursday, February 22nd at 10a Jim Lenway and Caryl Jorgensen will perform. Then on
Wednesday, February 28th at 10a Frank Daly and Bill McGrath will entertain. Both of these duos provide acoustic guitar and vocals with a variety of folk, pop, and inspirational music. Free of charge; open to the public, no pre-registration. Be sure to join us.
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 2nd 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 appointment.
Great Courses began a new 6-week series on Thursday, February 1st at 1:00 p.m. and held weekly through March 7th. The topic is The Wonders of America’s State Parks. Pre-register, free for Buckham West members.
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 7th 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.
The Aging Eyes Support Group meets February 13th at 10:00am. Vision loss due to conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma can be a frustrating and difficult part of aging. This support group aims to help people feel less alone as they navigate the changes they’re experiencing. Free; open to the public; please pre-register.
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 meets monthly at Buckham West. 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.
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.
Trips are available to Buckham West members through Owatonna Social Commons. Treasure Island with Bingo Option happens on March 6th. 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.
Lion’s Club plastic bag recycling Wednesday, February 21st 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. Two reminders, please don’t leave bags outside of our building, no black bags even to bring your other bags.
What was that radio station? Paul Moss did a telephone interview with local seniors on behalf of the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) in 2002. Anne Pleskonko was the Executive Director of the Senior Center at the time. If you ask her, she might be able to tell you more.