March 5

By BRENDA BURNS
NEWPORT — Have you ever had a distant memory of past events spontaneously trigger your memory of today? Although Valentine’s is over, I was quickly reminded that I forgot to mention one of our sponsors for the Valentines Day “Basket of Burning Love” raffle recently held.

Ken and Mary Hall, from Santa’s Workshop, graciously donated a bag of coffee and a jar of honey to the basket. Their donation was mistakenly omitted from the last article thanking all of the sponsors. I can assure you this was not intentional and merely an oversight but, it did bring back a memory.

Years ago, there was a board member by the name of Elanor Shadis who always told us not to mention specific sponsors because someone always unintentionally gets left out. Instead, make a general thank you thanking all of the sponsors. Thinking about Elanor made me start to think about other past members like Tom Maley who hated carrots and made sure we all knew it when we had them for lunch or Kay Otis, like Bob Burby, dressed up for every holiday.

We have a bookshelf full of photo albums with pictures galore of the many activities that were held at the center and the people who came into our lives. Feel free to pull out an album or two and let laughter fill your day.

While reviewing all of these great pictures, if you come across a picture of someone you know, please write the name on the back of the picture. This will help us keep the memory of our members alive for years to come.

As we remember those from the past, we are also creating new memories. One memory that may stand out in years to come will be the upcoming Cardio Drumming class that began on March 2. If you are like me, you are asking yourself what is cardio drumming. After doing some research, I learned cardio drumming is the combination of an exercise ball, yes, it is exercise, an exercise ball stand and drumming sticks used to create a fun workout you will want to do every Monday.

Cardio Drumming has many unexpected benefits like raising your heartbeat, burns calories, improves coordination and the ability to focus and strengthen muscles. Studies have shown that when one adds fun to their workout, they are more likely to continue the exercise program.

With all of your past friends and/or new friends here at the Newport Senior Center, you know there will be plenty of fun and laughter to go around. After all, laughter is the best medicine they say. Make sure you cross off all the excuses on your list and plan to join us for this new exciting event, on Monday, at 10 am. Donations for the class will be appreciated.

The new painting classes will also provide an opportunity to create new memories. Jackie Spaulding will be teaching individuals how to paint an Easter Candy Dish made out of a terra-cotta plant pot. This class will be held on March 23 at 1 pm. The cost will be $10 and will include instructions and all of your supplies. Class size is limited to 12 students. There are only four seats remaining for this class. Don’t wait to register or it will be too late.