News from Newberry

Seniors had another opportunity to socialize and play some spirited rounds of Bingo at the Chippewa-Luce-Mackinac Community Action Agency in Newberry. The sprightly group also had a delicious meal prepared by agency personnel.

With the Olympics as this month’s theme, Bingo players yelled out such alternatives as a sport – i.e. swimming, fencing, rowing, etc.; a country other than the United States – i.e. Kazakhstan, Britain, Canada, etc.; and finally – U.S.A. Those who forgot and shouted Bingo had to pass their prize on to a tablemate.

Participants were rewarded with food prizes that included everything from Golden Oreos to burpless cucumbers donated by a local grower especially for the senior luncheon. Two 50-25-25 drawing winners got a whopping $40 each.

Seniors also heard about the U.P. Area on Aging 2012 44^th Annual U.P. Senior Citizen’s Convention & Expo, set for Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the U.P State Fairgrounds exhibition building in Escanaba. Seniors can play bingo from 9 a.m. 11:30 a.m. According to a flyer available at the luncheon, for a $7 donation, seniors can enjoy a Wild, Wild West themed day that includes entertainment, health screenings, Wild West costume contest, with a $100 first place prize, and more. Seniors interested in participating can get more information by dialing 2-1-1.

Local organizer Marie Nicholson also talked about Project Fresh coupons. This program provides coupons good for purchasing locally grown produce at area farmers markets. To qualify for Project Fresh a recipient must be 60 years of age or older, have a total household income of 185% of poverty or less and live in the county where the coupons are issued. Income requirements are no more than $1,679 per month for a one-person household and $2,268 per month for a two-person household. If you qualify, contact the C-L-M CCA at 293-5621 to find out how to get coupons.

Community Care Connections will be at the American Legion Hall, 7964 Newberry Ave. in Newberry on Aug. 23 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The group offers free help and services that includes information on housing; health care and social benefits; resume writing and job assistance; adult education services; health screenings and information; immunizations information; nutrition and budgeting; hair cuts; school clothing, a free mini store; and a gift bag. Attendees can get a free meal from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.

The local agency also has money to purchase wood, propane or fuel oil. A list of documents that are needed to get the assistance was provided at the luncheon/Bingo event. Funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Again, those who may qualify should get their paperwork together and call Nicholson at 293-5621 to set up an appointment.

Another opportunity was mentioned at the luncheon. UPCAP (Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress) is actively seeking volunteer coaches to help those with balance problems. Participants learn to view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce fall risks at home and how to exercise to increase strength and balance. The class is set for Sept. 5-6, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. in Sault Sainte Marie. Those interested should call Tonya LaFave or Sherry Whitman toll free at 1-800-338-7227 by Aug. 29 to register form the two-day affair.

These monthly get-togethers never fail to entertain and are extremely popular with area seniors, as the accompanying photographs attest. The next luncheon/Bingo is set for Sept. 7. The fun begins at 10:30 a.m., with lunch served at noon. Suggested donation is $5 for seniors 60 and older and $7 for those under the age of 60. Those wishing to purchase tickets for the 50-25-25 can do so by forking over only $2 for three chances to win. And, if you do not win the cash prize, you can still get other booty when other tickets are drawn.

Community Action’s Villemure Dining Room only holds 98 people. When last week’s luncheon ended, the sign-up sheet for the Sept. 7 luncheon already contained almost 50 names! Call 293-5621 today to reserve your spot at this fun event.