May 2012 News

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It’s time for those May flowers! Check out our programs to see how we’ll be bringing Spring into our homes and honoring the flowers of the Seniors Program: all our lovely ladies!
 
The Lighthouse will be closed on Monday, May 28th due to Memorial Day.
 
Older Adult of the Month:
Gertrude Boose was born and raised in Chicago. She grew up with seven brothers and six sisters!  She attended Olive Harvey College for several years and went to a business school where she learned to be a keypunch operator. For many years she worked on the early computers! Later, she was an accounting clerk for twenty three years. She has one daughter and one grandchild, who is twelve. She helps to care for him when he is not in school.
 
Gertrude was affected by glaucoma and first lost vision in her left eye. She went through several surgeries and eventually lost all vision in her left eye and is impaired in her right. She went through the program at ICRE Wood first and they helped her learn how to be blind. She attended the group therapy session and stated it was the best decision she made because it allowed her to accept her condition and gave her confidence. She said that being blind can be very shameful and that people often leave you out of conversation. She relies on prayer, her faith in God, and encouragement from others to maintain a positive outlook in life. She has also found more kindness in others since she lost her vision than she had before.
 
Lighthouse North: In February, the Chicago Lighthouse opened a satellite location in Glenview, Illinois. We are in the process of creating new and exciting programs for this location. This facility contains a Low Vision Clinic, Tools for Living Store, Adaptive Technology department, Legal Counseling as well as services for Children, Youth and for Seniors. The Seniors Program will have classes and events at the Glenview location, some of them will be free of charge and some may have a cost attached. If you would like more information about the specific programs, please call Alix or Pam Stern, the Manager of Seniors Programs in Glenview (847.510.2054).
 
Computer Class: In April, we were able to integrate some clients from the waiting list into structured lessons. At this time, we are unable to admit more clients. As spots become available, we will contact those on the waitlist. We greatly appreciate the patience of all those who are waiting! If you are interested in computer classes and would like to be placed on the waitlist, please contact Alix at 312.997.3670.
 
 
Seniors Program Information
Please RSVP to Alix at 312.997.3670 if you plan on attending any event. Unless otherwise listed, all events will be held in the Multipurpose Room.

May Luncheon: This month, our luncheon is on May 25th and is for ladies only!  We will be having our nails done and talking about things which empower us as women. Please take some time to think about what empowers you, so that we can share our stories and our strengths. And don’t worry, Gentlemen, your time will come next month! You MUST call 312.997.3670 to RSVP no later than Wednesday, May 16th.
 
Upcoming Events
Senior Advisory Council: The Seniors Program is still looking for dedicated clients who would like to react to ideas, make suggestions, and plan programs. Everyone is welcome to attend, regardless of previous experience. In May, two meetings will be held from 12 to 1 pm in the Multipurpose Room. These meetings will be held on Monday, May 7th and Tuesday, May 8th.
 
Harold Washington Library Trip: On Wednesday, May 9th, we will be visiting the Talking Book Center at the Harold Washington Library. We will have a tour of the talking book center and learn how to use it. We will sign computer class clients up for this program in class. For those who are able to attend, you will be responsible for transportation to and from the library, which is located at 400 S. State St.
 
Chair Exercise: Chair exercise class will be held on Friday, May 11th from 10 to 11 am.
 
Crafts with Christina: The Lighthouse’s own Christina Tran will lead a craft activity using silk flowers and small mugs, cups, or bowls to create beautiful centerpieces. We will provide the supplies, but if you have a container you would like to use, please feel free to bring one with you on Friday, May 11th, from 11 to 12 pm.
 
Travelogue: The Lighthouse’s own Dick Carlson will present on his fascinating travels and give tips for traveling with visual impairment on Friday, May 11th, from 1 to 2 pm.
                                                                                                
Monthly Events at a Glance
 
May 7      Senior Advisory Council, 12 – 1
May 8      Senior Advisory Council, 12 – 1
May 9      Harold Washington Library Trip
May 11    Chair Exercise, 10 - 11
May 11    Crafts with Christine 11-12
May 11     Dick Carlson’s Travelogue 1-2
May 25     Ladies Luncheon 10:30-2:30
May 28     CLOSED for Memorial Day