Senior Citizens Center offers 55 Alive' training

By By Barbara Wells / guest columnist
June 20, 2004
At last! Here is my opportunity to shake my fist, wag a finger and shout about why intelligent people have not figured out how to use that little stick attached to their steering column to indicate which way they are going THE TURN SIGNAL!
Something dreadful happens to some people when they get behind a wheel; it's a wonder we don't have more incidents of road rage in this "peaceful village" of Meridian. Rather than behave like a big city taxi driver, I simply roll my eyes or mouth a phrase at the driver who has kept me waiting at the stop sign for his signal. They probably aren't even aware of my antics … or worse, do not even know why I am mouthing off at them. "Mom, why is that lady talking to herself?"
On Wednesday and Thursday, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. each day, the AARP will host a 55 Alive Driver's Training at the Senior Citizen Center. This is a refresher course in the rules of driving.
There is a $10 fee for the class, no registration is required. Come to the Center by 12:30 p.m. on the first day. Some insurance companies give a small discount if you have attended this training. (If you don't have insurance I can't believe you are reading the paper! You can go to jail you know!)
Ongoing classes
Senior Citizen Center summer eight week classes began June 7.
There is still room in some of these classes: smocking (Thursday), hand quilting (Monday and Tuesday), floral arranging (Monday night), stained glass (Monday night and Tuesday afternoon), watercolor (Tuesday), basic sewing techniques (Thursday morning) and cake decorating (Tuesday morning).
Bingo is being offered once a week during the summer months. Every first and third Monday and Thursday on the weeks in between. Try to figure that out! We play 10 games, serve popcorn and soft drink refreshment.
On the second Saturday of each month, Marvin Weir and The Good Timers will play at the center from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Come join the crowd for some good ol' hand-clapping, foot-stomping music. No charge.
Workshops
The July 26 mosaic birdhouse workshop has only two spots left. We did one class in June that was a terrific success. It does take the entire day, however. Be prepared. Carole Ewing, the ceramic instructor, hosts this class they even had lunch ready for class members. You can call her directly in the ceramics building at 485-1810 to register.
We are offering half-day workshops in July and August in machine embroidery, mosaic on glass, stepping stone design, one-stroke painting techniques. Call 485-1812 for information.
Computer classes continue
The telephone company will be out this week to install a phone line so our computer class can have Internet access. However our basic beginning classes will continue being taught on a four-week monthly basis. Come by to sign up now for July and August classes being taught on Monday night, three classes each day on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
The Senior Citizen Center is off 29th Avenue and 36th Street. There is a sign posted at this four way stop, where upon arriving simultaneously, the vehicle to the right goes first. Head west two blocks and turn left on 32nd Avenue. The center is at the end of that street. Drive safely out there.
Barbara Wells is the director of Meridian's Senior Citizen Center.
Did You Know?
The Meridian Senior Citizens Center will host a meeting at 10 a.m. presented by Mississippi Health Advocacy regarding Medicaid losses and how it will affect residents. Speakers will be state Rep. Steve Holland, D-Plantersville; Sen. Terry Burton, R-Newton; and Teri Brister of the National Alliance of the Mentally Ill. The public is invited to attend and ask questions. Call Barbara Wells at 485-1812.