APRIL 2023

Upcoming Programs

Welcome to OCDOA Upcoming Programs, our monthly e-news blast featuring select events and classes for the coming month. Programs are listed chronologically by event date from earliest to latest. To avoid missing registration deadlines, be sure to note the "register by" dates. We can't wait to see you!

To Register:

Call the center of your choice (unless otherwise indicated in the program description)

Passmore Center, 103 Meadowlands Dr., Hillsborough; (919) 245-2015
Seymour Center, 2551 Homestead Rd., Chapel Hill; (919) 968-2070

Apr 3

American Sign Language I

During this class, you will be introduced to the language of the Deaf Community, Deaf culture and communicating in a visual-gestural modality. Instructor: Vicki Robertson.

Date: Mon, Apr 3 – May 8; Time: 10 am – 12 noon

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 244044-04; Register by: Mon, Mar 27; Fee: $15.00

American Sign Language II

For participants who have completed American Sign Language I. Participants will expand their expressive and receptive visual language skills as they learn basic ASL sentence structures.

Date: Mon, Apr 3 – May 8; Time: 12:15 – 2:15 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 214027-04 Mon, Mar 27 $15.00

Dementia Basics: What Can We Expect?

This four-part is designed to provide basic information about dementia to individuals with memory concerns, caregivers, family members, friends, and interested community members. Each week will focus on a different topic related to dementia. The series is designed to be taken all together, but you are welcome to register for individual sessions.

Location: Orange County Public Library, 137 W Margaret Ln, Hillsborough

Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm; Fee: FREE

Dates: Mondays, Apr 3 - Session 1: Brain Health; Apr 10 - Session 2: Types & Stages of Dementia; Apr 17 - Session 3: Communication; Apr 24 - Session 4: Preparing for the Journey Ahead. Register by: Fri, Mar 31 at agingtransitions@orangecountync.gov or 919-968-2087

American Sign Language III

During this class you will build your conversational skills within a variety of topics and mini-lessons. To participate in this class, American Sign Language II is a prerequisite.

Date: Mon, Apr 3 – May 8; Time: 2:30 – 3:30 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 254049-04; Register by: Mon, Mar 27; Fee: $10.00

Apr 4

Tap Dance – Beginners

Did you tap dance as a child? Even if you’ve never danced, have you always had a desire to learn? Now is your chance to learn the fine art of tap dancing for free. Instructor: CJ Regnerus.

Date: Tue, Apr 4 – 25; Time: 9 – 10 am

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 254007 04; Register by: Tue, Mar 28; Fee: FREE

Ukulele Lessons – Beginning

The Ukulele is easy to learn and fun to play. Mickey Reed is the self-proclaimed Ukulele Lady of NC and has launched over 500 people up and down the East Coast in the ukulele playing. You will learn simple chords and well known sing-a-long songs. If you need a Ukulele please contact the instructor at mickeyreed@icloud.com. No music reading skills are required. Min: 3/Max: 7.

Date: Apr 4 – 25; Time: 9:30 – 10:30 am

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 214035 04; Register by: Tue, Mar 28; Fee: $50.00

Ukulele Lessons – Advanced Beginner

This class is a continuation of what was learned in the Beginning lessons. Mickey Reed is the self-proclaimed Ukulele Lady of NC and has launched over 500 people up and down the East Coast in the ukulele playing. Ukulele Lessons - Beginning class is a pre-requisite. Must bring your own instrument. Weekly open band time before class at 10:30 am.

Date: Tue, Apr 4 – 25; Time: 11 am – 12 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 214047 04; Register by: Tue, Mar 28; Fee: $50.00

Support Groups
Support groups are a space to meet with other caregivers to share experiences, learn new skills, and get answers to questions about dementia and other long-term disabilities. We have resumed in-person meetings and have added a new Zoom only group.

Zoom Only Support Group
Contact Lydia Arnold to join - larnold@orangecountync.gov or 919-245-4276.
1st & 3rd Tuesdays: April 4 & 18 12:30 pm via Zoom

Hillsborough Support Group
Contact Keisha Andrew to join - kandrews@orangecountync.gov or 919-245-2022.
2nd Thursdays: April 13 at 1 pm at Passmore

Hybrid Support Group for Mandarin Speakers
Contact Hong Zhou to join - hzhou@orangecountync.gov or 919-245-4275.
2nd Thursdays: April 13 at 1pm at Seymour and via Zoom

Chapel Hill Support Group
Contact Kendall Kopchick to join - kkopchick@orangecountync.gov or 919-245-4278.
2nd & 4th Fridays: April 14 & 28 at 10:30 am at Seymour

Acrylic Painting – Beginners

Join artist Dan Eubanks and learn the basics of painting with acrylics. Instruction will include color application and blending, as well as working with the back, middle, and foreground of your painting. You don’t need to be able to draw to learn how to paint and create beautiful artwork. Contact the front desk at 919-245-2015 for a list of supplies. Min: 4/Max: 8.

Date: Tue, Apr 4 – 25; Time: 2 – 3:30 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 254008 04; Register by: Tue, Mar 28; Fee: $40.00

Salsa Line Dance Party Part 2

Let's Salsa! This is the perfect opportunity to learn salsa in a line dance form! This energetic activity with Bruce Gillooly is sure to be blast! Put on your comfy shoes and come enjoy a combination of Cuban line dances, such as mambo, pachanga, rumba and more. No partner needed, only you! Min: 10/Max: 30.

Date: Tue, Apr 4; Time: 2 – 3:30 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 354033-01; Register by: Tue, Mar 28; Fee: FREE

Drawing Class

Learn basic drawing techniques and skills to build the foundation of drawing. The instructor will help each student according to their level and needs. Both beginners and experienced artists are welcome. Supplies needed: Drawing pencils, drawing pad, eraser and sharpener. Instructor: Jinxiu Zhao (Alice). Min: 4/Max: 10.

Date: Tue, Apr 4 – May 9; Time: 3:10 – 4:40 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 344095-02; Register by: Tue, Mar 28; Fee: $120.00

Downsizing and Decluttering

Preparing to age in place can be done in many different ways. One of those ways is simplifying your space! Join The Downsizers as we navigate downsizing and decluttering your home after decades of memories and accumulation. Hosted by Project EngAGE Mental Wellness Senior Resource Team.

Date: Tue, Apr 4; Time: 4 – 5:30 pm

Fee: FREE; Location: Seymour; To Register: Call 919-968-2070

Apr 5

The 55+ Brain is More Creative!

Recent neuroscience research has discovered a handful of biological changes that occur around the age 55 that naturally bring our brains to a more creative state. This 90-minute workshop will share the research and offer useful tips and practices to help you get the most out of these changes. Workshop will be fast-paced, with creative exercises and offered twice. Instructor: Carl Nordgren. Min: 10/Max: 24.

Date: Wed, Apr 5, 19; Time: 2 – 4 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 343092-04; Register by: Wed, Mar 29; Apr 5; Fee: FREE

Origami with Theo

New and upgraded! Each class you will learn to create origami figures using origami notation. The instructor will be a resource and offer helpful directives as each person proceeds at her/his own pace. Instructor will provide origami paper and a book that you may purchase on the first day of class for $10. Instructor: Theo Cokkinos. Min: 3/Max: 5.

Date: Wed, Apr 5, 12, 19, 26; Time: 4 – 5:30 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 324230-03; Register by: Wed, Mar 29; Fee: FREE

Apr 6

Handbuilding Clay Workshop

Back by popular demand! All levels welcome. Work with a professional who developed her own creative techniques. Make your own miniature, one-of-kind conversation piece from air-dry clay – a mask, a lace dry flower holder or your own masterpiece. Bring a small box to transport your art. Instructor: Susan George. Min: 5/Max: 12.

Date: Thu, Apr 6; Time: 10 – 11:30 am

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 344207-01; Register by: Thu, Mar 30; Fee: FREE

Apr 8

Spring Piano Concert

Special quest performer, Helal El-Zaatari, a PhD student at UNC, will be performing a Prelude & Fugue in C minor, leading up to the sonorous “Pathetique” Sonata in C minor by Beethoven, and finishing with a the very beautiful and haunting nocturne. You won’t want to miss this unique musical performance!

Date: Sat, Apr 8; Time: 1 – 3 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 343016-05; Register by: Mon, Apr 3; Fee: FREE

Apr 10

Pottery – Beginning/Intermediate

This class is for both the beginner and the more experienced potter. Each class begins with a 40-minute demonstration. This includes surface decorating techniques, slab and coil building, and wheel throwing. The remaining class time is focused on student's projects. Open studio time and firing are included in the class fee. Instructor: Pip Merrick. Min: 4/Max: 8.

Date: Mon, Apr 10 – May 1; Time: 12:30 – 2:30 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 254018 04; Register by: Mon, Apr 3; Fee: $75.00

Apr 11

Pantry to Pantry

Pantry to Pantry is a food share program designed to help your peers. At the first of the month, look through your cabinets and pantries for food that has not expired. Drop the items off to the Center the 1st Friday of the month to be ready for the food share on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. To assist you with food items needed a list will be available at the front desk. In April food will be collected on Thu, Apr 6, due to the holiday on April 7.

Date: Tue, Apr 11; May 9; Time: 10 am – 6 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 323124-03; Register by: Not required; Fee: FREE

Stand Guard: Protect What You've Worked For

Come hear Cynda Beauchamp with Edward Jones Financial present about strategies designed to help you guard your most valuable assets and protect your retirement income. Min: 3/Max: 15.

Date: Tue, Apr 11; Time: 10 – 11 am

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 254064-04; Register by: Tue, Apr 4; Fee: FREE

Give Me My Flowers Now

It's springtime! Seymour Center Program Team and generous partner, Trader Joe's, would like to give you your flowers now. This special outreach program was created for those of you who are unable to come to the Center. We look forward to visiting with you and brightening your day! Call our main number at 919-968-2070 to register. This event is not onsite. It is a program to target social isolation in a special way.

Date: Tue, Apr 11, 25; May 9, 23; Time: 3 – 5 pm

Location: Offsite; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 323785-02; Register by: Tue, Mar 7; Fee: FREE

Apr 12

Plastic Canvas Art

Do you ever have extra yarn you just don't know what to do with? Join Jessie as she shows how to create beautiful crafts using plastic canvas sheets. Instructor: Jessie Carroll.

Date: Wed, Apr 12; Time: 10 – 11 am

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 223073-04; Register by: Wed, Apr 5; Fee: FREE

Here's the Dirt: Plants Come with Benefits

Did you know that some plants offer great benefits? For this class we will work with a plant called the “snake plant”. It is easy to maintain and one of the best air purifiers! It is also one of the most oxygen-producing houseplants, making it excellent for mature adults. Space is limited, register now! Instructor: Latoya Wilson. Min: 6/Max: 12.

Date: Wed, Apr 12; Time: 1 – 2 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 314002-03; Register by: Wed, Apr 5; Fee: $5.00

The Climate Crisis Z to A

A presentation by a local senior, Steve Laning, discussing the origins, concerns and latest developments related to climate change. The goal of this talk is not simply to provide a crisis update but instead to also deliver a hopeful, positive message related to ways seniors can take action to drive the institutional changes needed to create meaningful change.

Date: Wed, Apr 12; Time: 2 – 3 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 354010-03; Register by: Wed, Apr 5; Fee: FREE

Apr 13

Aquamation What You Need to Know

As we continue to make advancements and talk about what we want at the end of our life, new after-death options are emerging. One new, innovative, and eco-friendly option is aquamation. Join Hunter Beattie, founder of Endswell Water Cremation, as he presents the benefits and methods of aquamation. Dinner Served at 5pm Min: 14/Max: 84. Hosted by Project EngAGE End of Life Choices Senior Resource Team.

Date: Thu, Apr 13; Time: 5:30 – 7 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Register by Mon, Apr 10; Fee: FREE;

Observational Sketching

This class will introduce you to observational sketching. The Class will be a combination of drawing by observation and journaling. Instructor: Tom Dunne.

Date: Apr 14 – May 5; Time: 1 – 2 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 224060 04; Register by: Fri, Mar 31; Fee: $40.00

Apr 15

Cell Phone Photography

Cell Phone photography! Bring your cell phone and learn tips and tricks on your Android or iPhone. You will learn how to compose and take better photographs in no time. We will also show you where and how to store them. Min: 10/Max: 25.

Date: Sat, Apr 15; Time: 10 am – 11 am

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 333078-09; Register by: Sat, Apr 8; Fee: FREE

Earth Day Park Clean Up

Give back to Mother Nature at this Earth Day celebration for all ages! We'll gather at one of the local parks for a brief orientation, followed by a light clean up session where we will gather debris and trash. We'll end the morning with a celebration of all things Nature! Hosted by Project EngAGE Intergenerational Senior Resource Team.

Date: Sat, Apr 15; Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location: Cedar Grove Park (5800 Highway 86 N Hillsborough, NC 27278)

Phone: 919-968-2070; Register by: Sat, Apr 8; Fee: FREE

Apr 18

Dementia - Let's Talk About It (Virtual via Zoom)
Join OCDoA’s dementia care specialists for a conversation around topics related to dementia education, living with cognitive change, and being a dementia caregiver. We will provide 15-30 minutes of education at the start of the hour, and the remaining time will be spent in conversation, Q&A, and resource-sharing around the day’s topic. For information or registration, contact (agingtransitions@orangecountync.gov or 919-968-2087).

Topic: Travel & Dementia; Fee: FREE

Date: Tue, Apr 18; Time: 10 am

TED Talks at Passmore

Join us to watch and discuss- “An NFL quarterback on overcoming setbacks and self-doubt”. Alex Smith almost died after a rough tackle snapped his leg in 2018, yet he was back on the field just two years later. In this inspiring talk, he shares his insights on overcoming fear, self-doubt and anxiety that could help anyone endure life's challenges. (This talk contains graphic images.) TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design and is owned by a non-profit, non-partisan foundation.

Min: 5/Max: 8

Date: Tue, Apr 18; Time: 2 – 3 pm

Location: Passmore Hybrid; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 254038-04; Register by: Tue, Apr 11; Fee: FREE

Apr 19

The Sound of Music with Karlie

Reliving the popular musical "The Sound of Music!" Step back in time and enjoy selections from this 1965 heartwarming true story of the Von Trapp family singers with musician and music teacher, Karlie Kemper. Min: 20/Max: 40.

Date: Wed, Apr 19; Time: 10 – 11 am

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 343209-02; Register by: Wed, Apr 12; Fee: FREE

Apr 20

Pelvic Floor and More: Mystery Solved

This presentation discusses common pelvic floor conditions. You will better understand your body, and what conditions you might have after this presentation. The book, “The Musculoskeletal Mystery: How to solve your pelvic floor symptoms'' answers all your questions. We will be discussing how it can help you improve these conditions. The book will be available for signing and purchase.

Date: Thu, Apr 20; Time: 10 – 11 am

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 252255-01; Register by: Thu, Apr 13; Fee: FREE

Decorative Pots

Enjoy decorating white pots with colorful accents to hold pens and clips. Instructor: Helen Frederick.

Date: Thu, Apr 20; Time: 1 – 3 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 254034-43; Register by: Thu, Apr 13; Fee: $5.00

Apr 21

Earth Day Bingo

Join us for a fun game of bingo with some great prizes in honor of Earth Day. Min: 15/Max: 50.

Date: Fri, Apr 21; Time: 10 am

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 213043-03; Register by: Fri, Apr 14; Fee: FREE

Apr 24

Benefits of Reflexology

Reflexology is a type of therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet (and possibly on your hands or ears as well) to help you feel better. Come learn how reflexology can benefit you.

Date: Mon, Apr 24; Time: 10:30 – 11:30 am

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 352541-13; Register by: Mon, Apr 17; Fee: FREE

Journal Decorating

Please join this class for a creative journaling experience that will bring some fun to your reflections, organizing, and planning. This event is guaranteed to brighten your mood and lift your spirit! Instructor: Ceresa Clarke. Min: 4/Max: 10.

Date: Mon, Apr 24; Time: 2 – 4 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 354034-5; Register by: Mon, Apr 17; Fee: FREE

Watercolor – Beginning

Course introduces students to watercolor painting. Basic brush strokes, background washes and techniques will be taught. The use of a sponge and brushes for spattering to create a textual effect will be taught and used. Students will supply all tools and materials. Tools and material list will be given at first class along with a demonstration of their uses. Instructor: Joan Cecil.

Date: Mon, Apr 24 – May 15; Time: 2 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 254052 04; Register by: Apr 17; Fee: $50.00

Apr 25

Orange County Sheriff's Drone Presentation

Did you know that the Orange County Sheriff's Office has a drone to use for searches? Come and learn more about how the drone is utilized and a demonstration.

Date: Tue, Apr 25; Time: 3 – 4 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 223074-04; Register by: Tue, Apr 18; Fee: FREE

LGBTQ+ Game Night

Bring on the friendly competition when the Project EngAGE LGBTQ+ Senior Resource Team hosts its first ever GAME NIGHT! We'll fill the room with laughs as we play our selected game of the evening: SCATTERGORIES! With the potential to win big (both prizes and bragging rights) you won't want to miss out.

Date: Tue, Apr 25; Time: 5:30 - 6:30 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Register by: Tue, Apr 18; Fee: FREE

Apr 27

A Tribute to Carol King!

Join Paula C. Snyder for an afternoon performance of Carole King music. Carol King started out as a staff songwriter/co-writer with husband, Gerry Goffin. She later became a solo singer-songwriter who's music is cherished by many and covered by other artists. Enjoy favorites and unexpected selections that cause you to exclaim, “I didn’t know Carole King wrote that song!” Min: 25/Max: 80.

Date: Thu, Apr 27; Time: 1 – 2 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070

Activity Code: 343069-03; Register by: Thu, Apr 20; Fee: FREE

Memory Café
Join us for a fun, low stress social engagement opportunity for people living with dementia and their care partners. For information or registration, contact Alison Smith (919-245-4251 or AlSmith@orangecountync.gov).

Date: Tue, Apr 27; Time: 1:30 pm

Location: Seymour Center; Fee: FREE

Apr 28

Abstract Art vs. Realism

Mike Stanley will talk about the differences between abstract art and realism. This is a lecture based class.

Date: Fri, Apr 28; Time: 10 – 11 am

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 224059-01; Register by: Fri, Apr 21; Fee: FREE

Apr 29

NC Regional Lacemaker's – Lace Day

An unknown writer said “Lace is thread surrounded by air.” A very simple, but appropriate description of the beautiful, handmade lace artifacts created by lacemakers. Come and meet lacemakers from the Carolinas and Virginia, see some of their lovely work, and learn about the different types of lace and how they are made. If you like, you can try out doing the simple movements of thread-filled bobbins that create these works of art on a demonstration lace pillow.

Date: Sat, Apr 29; Time: 9 am – 4 pm

Location: Seymour; Phone: 919-968-2070; Fee: FREE

Activity Code: 353100-10; Contace: mary.alexion@gmail.com

Family Fun Day and Open House

Visit us and see what the Passmore Center has to offer. There will be demonstrations, information, and tours. You will also have the chance to visit the Sportsplex during their Open House to see what they have to offer and learn about our partnership.

Date: Sat, Apr 29; Time: 11 am – 3 pm

Location: Passmore; Phone: 919-245-2015

Activity Code: 233025-01; Registration: Not required; Fee: FREE

Register for programs ONLINE or call the center of your choice.