Upcoming Holiday

The Cooper Center will be closed 
on Monday, January 19,

in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

The City's 58th Annual Community Celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. will take place at 9 a.m. on January 19 at the First Unitarian Society in Newton,1326 Washington Street. You can find more details here. 

OAS Director Honored for Her Work

The Newton Beacon has named our Director, Mignonne Murray, one of Newton’s Unsung Heroes for 2025. We are thrilled (but not surprised) about her inclusion!

See why the Beacon chose Mignonne for this well-deserved recognition and who else made the list: www.newtonbeacon.org/newtons-unsung-heroes-of-2025/

Volunteers Needed

Are you looking to volunteer in the new year? The Cooper Center needs volunteers to support our drop-in fitness classes. Volunteers stamp Fitness Class Passes for people entering class. We are seeking volunteers at the following times:

• Monday mornings, 8:30 a.m. to 10:40 a.m.
• Monday mid-day, 10:30 a.m. to 12:40 p.m.
• Wednesday mid-day, 10:30 a.m. to 12:10 p.m.
• Thursday morning, 8:30 a.m. to 9:40 a.m.
• Thursday afternoon, 1:30 p.m. to 2:10 p.m.
• Thursday night, 6:30 p.m. to 7:10 p.m.
• Friday morning, 8:30 a.m. to 9:10 a.m.

Please contact Hannah Perry at hperry@newtonma.gov or 617-796-1669 if you are interested in a fun and important volunteer commitment at the Cooper Center!

Visit Us at the Cooper Center

If you haven't visited the Cooper Center yet, you can view a floor plan of the building by clicking here.

You can find Cooper Center parking information here.

We look forward to seeing you for an upcoming class, program, or event! Before you arrive, please check our website, OASNewtonMA.org, for the Older Adult Services (OAS) daily programs schedule.

You may also call our main line, 617-796-1660 and press "1" to hear our daily programs, 24/7. We hope to see you soon!

Upcoming Special Programs

Adapting and Transitioning as we Age

Tuesday, January 6, 10:30 a.m. in the Multipurpose Room

Led by Theresa Chaklos from AARP MA Volunteer Speakers Bureau

This presentation is about how we can best navigate constant change so that we can continue to enjoy our lives and our loved ones. We will discuss the importance of developing a personal management system that may make you feel more secure and comfortable and, therefore, have more time and energy to deal with the numerous aspects of rapid change in your life.



RSVP with our Front Desk (617-796-1675 or OASPrograms@newtonma.gov)


Beatles and Beyond Concert



Thursday, January 8, 1:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room

Led by singer, yodeler, and multi-instrumentalist, Roger Tincknell

Enjoy an upbeat musical program that includes pop, rock, and folk-rock songs primarily from the 1960s and early 70s. Featuring many Beatle songs, the program begins with She Loves You and the other early Beatle classics from their debut American performance on the Ed Sullivan show in 1964. (Do you remember the other five songs?!)

In addition, the program also includes hits from other "British Invasion" groups such as: The Rolling Stones, Jerry and the Pacemakers (Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying) and more.

Songs by popular American groups and singer-songwriters such as Skeeter Davis (End of the World), The Beach Boys, Mamas and the Papas, The Byrds, The Animals (House of the Rising Sun), and many others are also included. Requests welcome!

RSVP with our Front Desk (617-796-1675 or OASPrograms@newtonma.gov)


New England Barn Dance!

Monday, January 12, 6:00 p.m.

in the Multipurpose Room

Led by Caller Sue Rosen

Join us for easy, energetic, and joyous traditional American dances done in squares, circles, and long sets, all to wonderful live music. No experience or partner necessary, we will learn as we go with teaching and calling by Sue Rosen. Wear casual clothes and don’t forget a pair of comfortable shoes! View the flyer here.

RSVP with our Front Desk

(617-796-1675 or OASPrograms@newtonma.gov)

Technology Tutoring Program

Is one of your goals for the coming year to improve your technology skills? The Cooper Center can help!

We provide basic technology tutoring with a team of Tech Tutor volunteers. Appointments are 30 minutes long and take place in Activity Room #1, on the second floor. Participants must sign up at the Concierge Desk, by calling 
617-796-1675 or emailing oasprograms@newtonma.gov. Same-day appointments are available as space allows.

Volunteer Technology Tutors are available to teach any of the following basic skills:

• turning on and off your device
• making telephone calls
• creating an email address and reading/sending email
• watching movies, podcasts, books, and news
• basic online shopping
• accessing Newton Free Library resources
• creating documents
• using social media
• organizing photos

When you request your appointment, please tell the Concierge Desk what type of device you’ll be bringing in. Acceptable devices are:

• Mac laptop — iPad, iPhone, or Apple watch
• Windows laptop
• Android tablet or phone
• Jitterbug phone

We are also pleased to introduce a new technology program:

Low Vision Technology Tutoring with MABVI

2nd and 4th Mondays, 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Appointment times: 11:00, 12:00, 1:30, and 2:30

Facilitators from MABVI (Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired) will be on-site, providing technology tutoring for individuals with blindness or low vision, of any age. Appointments are 1 hour long and will take place in Activity Room #1.

Participants must sign up at the Concierge Desk, by telephone, email, or in-person. You must sign up for an appointment at least 48 hours in advance.

Same-day appointments are not possible. Please tell the Concierge Desk what skills you’d like to learn. Facilitators can provide instruction in using:

· iPhone and iPad with VoiceOver

Includes instruction on commonly used apps such as Safari, Mail, Phone, Uber/Lyft, banking apps, Podcasts, Audible, BARD, and more.

· Meta AI Glasses

· Windows computers using JAWS or Narrator- Ideally, clients should bring their own laptop. If a client does not have a computer, we can add them to our waitlist for a laptop grant program for visually impaired individuals. Training can include File Explorer, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Edge, Chrome, Adobe Reader, and other applications.



• Braille devices (requires 1 week notice)
• Mac computers (requires 1 week notice)
• Android phones (required 1 week notice)
• EnVision or Echo smart glasses (requires 1 week notice)

For either tutoring program, contact the Concierge Desk for an appointment at 617-796-1675 or OASPrograms@newtonma.gov.

Registration for January Special OAS Winter Programs

Registration for these special programs opened in early December. Registration is first-come, first-served by date and time of payment. Pay in-person at the Cooper Center with a credit card, check, or cash. You can also mail us a check, payable to City of Newton.

Chair Massage

2nd and 4th Mondays of every month (excluding holidays) 

Mondays: January 12, January 26, February 9, and February 23

5 appointment times: 2:00, 2:25, 2:50, 3:15, and 3:40 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Led by Aaron Crawford 

Enjoy a fully clothed back, neck, and shoulder 20-minute massage on a massage chair. Fee: $40 per massage.



Introduction to Fabric Collage

5-week mini-session

Thursdays: January 8, January 15, January 22, January 29, and February 5

12:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the Art Room

Instructor: Cate Stabile

Participants will learn how to piece together different fabrics to create a fabric collage landscape. We will use hand embroidery stitches and a hoop to secure the fabric and then embellish our work with decorative stitches.

Class fee: $80 (includes fabric)

Minimum: 10 students. Maximum: 16 students.

OAS Class Pass Fitness Classes: $5 per class

Buy Your Fitness Class Pass!

Starting Monday, January 5, an OAS Fitness Class Pass will be required to attend classes. 


The OAS Fitness Class Pass costs $50 and entitles you to attend 10 fitness classes. Every time you attend a class, a volunteer will stamp one of the boxes on your pass. When all of your boxes have been stamped, you will need to purchase a new card.

This system allows flexibility. You can attend fitness classes as your schedule allows. There is no need to register for fitness classes.

You may also pay with $5 cash (exact change only).

Passes can be purchased at the Cooper Center. If you need financial assistance to pay for fitness classes, contact our Resource Navigators at 617-796-1672.

The following fitness programs are drop-in. Before you arrive, please check our website, OASNewtonMA.org, for any day-of updates.

You can also find our fitness calendar here.

You can view a floor plan of the Cooper Center building by clicking here.

Ballet 

Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Fitness Room

Instructor: Kathy Hassinger  

In this ballet class for older adults, we will enjoy learning and dancing in a classical form. We will start with a ballet bar and proceed to combinations in the center and across the floor. The objectives are to develop strong and elastic muscles, good posture, and balance. Join us to integrate mind and body, and feel the joy of moving to music. Please wear ballet shoes or dance sneakers. $5 a class.

Chair One Seated Dance

Tuesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Fitness Room

Instructor: Karen Karten

Chair One Fitness is a fully seated, music-driven workout that incorporates fun dance and fitness moves. This class is a great way to maintain fitness and function for all, including those with mobility or balance challenges. Take a seat and let’s dance! $5 a class.

Chair Pilates

Fridays,12:00-1:00 p.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Maddie Irwin 

This is a modified version of the Mat Pilates class, designed for people with more mobility challenges or those who prefer seated exercise. $5 a class.

No Chair Pilates class on January 30, February 6, or February 13.

Dance Aerobics

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Instructor: Louise Carbone

Dance through your workout. In this low-impact, full-body workout for all ages, we’ll use weights when performing functional movements. We’ll also focus on strength and cardio intervals. $5 a class.

Evening Yoga with Ed

Thursdays, 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Instructor: Ed Stern

We’ll use various breathing techniques, slow movements, and balancing postures. The style and tone of this class will promote mindfulness, stress reduction, and foster social engagement. $5 a class.

LaBlast Dance Fitness

Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Gymnasium

Fridays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Karen Karten

LaBlast is a dance fitness class inspired by “Dancing with the Stars,” incorporating easy-to-follow patterns from ballroom and social dances like Disco, Waltz, Foxtrot, Swing, Salsa, and more. Light weights are used, and music from various eras and genres will take you on an emotional journey. $5 a class.

No LaBlast on January 2.

Line Dancing 

Mondays,1:30-2:30 p.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Paul Hughes

Dance for fun, exercise, balance, coordination, and to learn a new skill. Each dance is broken down first, demonstrated, and then danced to contemporary music that you will enjoy! No experience necessary! $5 a class.

Mat Pilates

Fridays, 3:00-4:00 p.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Maddie Irwin 

This is a full-body exercise class focused on strength, movement control, and mobility for improved posture and better everyday movement. Suitable for all levels, with modifications and progressions provided. $5 a class.

No Mat Pilates class on January 30, February 6, or February 13.

Mat Yoga with Barbara

Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays

11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Instructor: Barbara Perlo

Find time for YOU on your mat as we stretch, strengthen, lengthen our muscles, and smile inside and out together. Whether you are brand new to yoga or have a regular practice, join us to meditate, learn, explore, breathe, play, relax, rejoice, and renew. $5 a class.

Mindful Meditation 

Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in Activity Room #3

Instructor: Betsy Simmons 

Practice paying compassionate attention to all that moves through and around us. As we witness and accept our thoughts, emotions, and conditions, we can find a peaceful place inside. The group is a supportive space to begin or continue a meditative practice. $5 a class.

Muscle, Movement, & Balance

Mondays, 9:00-10:00 a.m. in the Gymnasium

Tuesdays, 9:00-10:00 a.m. in the Gymnasium

Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Nicole von Rekowsky

This is a complete exercise class that develops all the essentials for safe and healthy movement in everyday life. The class improves strength, stability, coordination, functionality, and overall mobility. All fitness levels are welcome, and modifications are offered for both seated and standing positions. $5 a class.

No Muscle, Movement, & Balance class on March 25.

Nia Dance

Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 am. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Ana Ayvazian 

Nia stands for non-impact aerobics. This fun class, for all levels, combines dance, gentle movements and yoga stretches. $5 a class.

Seated Strength & Balance

Mondays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Wednesdays,12:00-1:00 p.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Pearl Pressman

This seated class is designed for people of various fitness levels and abilities and can be adapted to meet the needs of participants. The class begins with a thorough warm-up for the joints and muscles, followed by strength-training exercises for all the major muscle groups. The class concludes with gentle stretching exercises to increase flexibility and reduce muscle tension, lowering the risk of falls. $5 a class.

No Seated Strength & Balance class on March 16.

Seated Zumba

Thursdays, 2:00-3:00 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Instructor: Carole Rodenstein

This is a low-to-medium intensity class that 

adapts the traditional energetic Zumba 

dance party for participants who are seated. 

Latin-inspired choreography and core movements provide a full-body workout while improving cardio health, muscular conditioning, and flexibility. $5 a class.

Tai Chi — Beginner

Mondays, 12:00-1:00 p.m. in the Gymnasium

Fridays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Aaron Crawford 

This healing art helps with flexibility and balance. Tai Chi strengthens the body and works on both your digestive and respiratory systems, as well as improving circulation in the mind and the body. $5 a class.

Tai Chi — Intermediate

Tuesdays, 2:00-3:00 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Instructor: Aaron Crawford 

This class is for those with some experience. $5 a class.

Tai Chi — Advanced

Tuesdays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Fridays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Fitness Room

Instructor: Aaron Crawford 

While all are welcome to this Tai Chi class, be mindful that it’s designed for advanced students. $5 a class.

Tai Chi — Practice (free)

Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Fitness Room

Facilitator: Joan Belle Isle

This practice provides an opportunity for people to work on the form, whether they’re intermediates or pros who would like a refresher.

Yoga (Chair)

Tuesdays, 12:00-1:00 p.m. in the Gymnasium

Thursdays, 9:00-10:00 a.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Diane Shufro

Chair yoga classes offer the benefits of yoga to those who choose not to participate in a more traditional practice on a mat on the floor. The practice offers a multitude of benefits including greater fitness and relaxation. $5 a class.

No Yoga (Chair) class on February 5 or March 3.

Zumba Gold

Mondays,10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Gymnasium

Fridays, 9:00-10:00 a.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Cecilia Plotkin

No Zumba Gold class with Cecilia on January 2, January 5, or January 9.

Thursdays, 12:00-1:00 p.m. in the Gymnasium

Instructor: Carole Rodenstein

Zumba Gold is a lower-intensity Zumba class designed for all levels and experiences. The class features easy-to-follow Latin and international dance rhythms, focusing on low-impact moves that improve balance, range of motion, coordination, and cardiovascular health. $5 a class. 

Free OAS Ongoing Programs: Just Show Up!

The following programs are drop-in and began on December 15. Before you arrive, please check our website, OASNewtonMA.org, for any day-of updates.

You can view a floor plan of the Cooper Center building by clicking here.

Bereavement Support Group

3rd Thursdays, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #3

If you are struggling with the death of a loved one, please join us for a healing support group. Come and connect, give, and receive support. We'll reflect, read poetry, share, and grow through our grief together.

Billiards Organized Play

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 

9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the Game Room

Come for a friendly game of pool! All are welcome. View games flyer here.

Book Club

3rd Fridays,11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #1

Members take turns picking a book title for each month. We read fiction as well as biographies, memoirs, poetry, and other genres. We look forward to having you join us. The book for January is We All Want Impossible Things, by Catherine Newman.

Bridge Organized Play

Tuesdays, 2:00-4:00 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Come and play bridge with other like-minded players, whether you are just beginning or advanced. SAYC rules apply. This is not a class; this is just for people to come and play. All levels welcome. View games flyer here.

Caregiver Support Group

4th Tuesdays, 2:00-3:00 p.m. in Activity Room #1

For caregivers of a parent or spouse, but open to all caregivers. The group helps people come together and get through the hardships of being a caregiver.

Chess Organized Play

Mondays, 2:00-4:00 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Welcomes chess players at all levels. We will try to match you with opponents at your level.  View games flyer here.

Coffee & Conversation

2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in Activity Room #1

Coffee and Conversation provides an opportunity to chat with new friends in a relaxed setting. Topics range from serious to silly and everyone has a chance to be involved.

Drawing Open Studio

Wednesdays, 9:00-11:30 a.m. in the Art Room

Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. (includes painting) in the Art Room

You'll need something to draw with – a pencil – something to draw on – paper – and something to hold the paper – a sketchbook or drawing board. What to draw? Your choice: people (portrait), places (landscape), things (still life). Bring your own favorite artist kit. Some limited supplies will be available. Optional instruction.

Fiber Arts

1st and 3rd Fridays,1:30-4:00 p.m. in the Art Room

The Fiber Arts Club offers endless possibilities for you to tap into your creativity, producing works of art including embroidered pieces, hand-knitted or crocheted items, and more! Needlepoint, macramé, whatever suits you. We make charity projects as well as gifts, all handmade. All levels are welcome!

Folk Sing-Along

4th Wednesdays, 2:00-3:00 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Join us for a casual, friendly song swap featuring folk classics and some old favorites. Feel free to sing, play along on your own instrument, or just listen and tap your foot. All music fans are welcome! Just show up!

French Conversation

Thursdays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Activity Room #1

This group welcomes all level of French speakers who want to practice or improve their French social conversation skills. We speak only in French.

German Conversation

Tuesdays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Come join a German conversation club! Bring a Spiegel magazine or newsletter, or any conversation starter. You don't have to be a fluent speaker, just open to making new friends and maybe speaking some “De-English” along the way!  

Greek Conversation Group (Intergenerational)

1st Tuesdays, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #1

This intergenerational group is for anyone who enjoys Hellenic culture and wants an opportunity to converse in modern Greek. Participants should have some basic facility with the language. Whether you are a native speaker, a student enrolled in a modern Greek language class, or you have come to the language some other way, join us as we continue to evolve our cultural and language-knowledge together.

Health Maintenance and Blood Pressure Clinics

3rd Thursdays, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #1

This clinic, sponsored by Newton's Health & Human Services Department, gives participants a chance to have their blood pressure checked and to ask about associated medications and health concerns with our Public Health Nurse. Attendees are welcome to bring in their home blood pressure machine for assistance or calibration checks. Appointments available (617-796-1660); walk-ins welcome as space allows.

Hearing Screenings

1st Tuesdays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Activity Room #1

Participants can have a standard hearing test as well as a hearing-aid check and cleaning. By appointment. Call 617-796-1660.

Intergenerational Music Group with All Newton Music School

3rd Tuesdays, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in the Fitness Room

This intergenerational music group invites older adults, young children, and families to connect through singing, movement, and instrument play.

Intergenerational Music & Movement

Mondays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Multipurpose Room

Join Little Beats for music and movement in the Multi-Purpose Room! This event is designed for children ages 0-5 and their grandparents or other caregivers. $5 per child. Caregivers may use their Fitness Class Pass to pay. View the flyer here.

Legal Clinic

2nd Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #1

An attorney from Metrowest Legal Services Metrowest Legal Services provides free legal consultation to older adults on housing, public benefits and Social Security matters; durable power of attorney, health care proxy and simple probate matters; Medicaid, nursing home issues, limited domestic relations; consumer and bankruptcy matters. By appointment only. Call 617-796-1660.

LGBTQIA+ Social Group

2nd Mondays, 6:00-7:30 p.m. in Activity Room #3

3rd Wednesdays, 1:00-2:30 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Let's meet and socialize together! At each meeting, we will discuss a different theme or have a different activity: games, travel, poetry reading, crafts, etc. Bring your lunch/dinner, invite a friend. We welcome 18+, intergenerational, plus allies.

January 12 topic: Book Swap Pop-Up

Do you have specific books that are ready to be passed along? Bring them to this evening's book swap, they do not have to be LGBTQIA+ specific, but extra points if they are!

January 21 topic: A Poetry Share

Are you a writer, dreamer, or lover of the written word? We invite you to a casual afternoon of sharing poetry. It isn't about professional performance; simply a chance to come together to read, listen and discuss favorite poems (either your own work or by poets that move you). Check out Out Magazine's best queer wordsmiths here.

Loneliness & Isolation Group

2nd Wednesdays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Each meeting will begin with a brief talk on an aspect of social isolation or loneliness. We’ll then open the floor for participants to share their own experiences and challenges. Together, we’ll explore the barriers that contribute to isolation and consider practical steps we can take to strengthen connection and reduce loneliness.

Mahjong Organized Play

Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Fridays, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Join our friendly Mahjong group to learn and enjoy this classic Chinese tile game that combines strategy, skill, and a touch of luck. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, this class offers a welcoming environment to sharpen your mind, connect with others, and have fun together. Both Chinese and American play welcome. View the games flyer here.

Mandarin Conversation

2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #1

Enjoy casual conversations about topics of interest. The group is conducted entirely in Mandarin.

Men’s Club

4th Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in Activity Room #1

We will touch on many subjects, such as issues of the day and the frustrations of life, in addition to lighthearted subjects like sports, books, and movies. As we learn about each other’s histories, careers, and interests, we will invite guest speakers to further our conversations. Join us for topical conversations and open discussion.

Movie Screening

Wednesdays, 1:30-4:00 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room

The movies for January will be: 

Wednesday, January 7: F1: The Movie (2025, PG-13)

Wednesday, January 14: After the Hunt (2025, R)

Wednesday, January 21: Past Lives (2023, PG-13)
Wednesday, January 28: Elton John: Never Too Late (2024, PG-13)

View the flyer here.

Music Makers

Tuesdays, 1:30-3:00 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room

The band, formerly known as the Newton Swing Band, has been in existence for about 35 years. We play music from the Great American Songbook 

and give several concerts a year at senior-living establishments in the area.

Musical Memory Cafe

2nd Tuesdays every other month,

1:30 to 3:00 p.m. at the All Newton Music School (off-site)

Upcoming Cafes: February 10, April 14, and June 9

Location: All Newton Music School, 321 Chestnut Street, West Newton

Memory Cafe is an informal social gathering for people with cognitive changes and their care partners. Hosted by a board certified music therapist.

Older Adult Non-Fiction Book Group

2nd Mondays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. in Activity Room #3

We will explore how culture, history, and society shape our shared world and us. Together, we will broaden our collective insight and connect with the larger human story that unites us all. The book for January is Eichmann in Jerusalem: A Report on the Banality of Evil, by Hannah Ardendt.

Parlor Games Organized Play

1st Wednesdays, 2:00-3:00 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Using only pencils and paper, or our voices and words, we'll play a variety of games and remind ourselves that we don't need electronic toys to amuse ourselves and enjoy friendships. View the games flyer here.

Poker Organized Play

2nd Thursdays, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Come and play poker for fun! All levels welcome. Opportunity to learn or review strategies for Texas Hold ’Em, Omaha, and 7 Card Stud. No money will 

be involved. View the games flyer here.

Rummikub & Canasta Organized Play

Thursdays,12:30-3:30 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Drop in to play Rummikub or Canasta. Further along, we may add other games to our list, depending upon what everybody wants to play. So come on in and light up your synapses! We play, we laugh, we have a great deal of fun. Come and join us! View the games flyer here.

Russian Conversation

1st Tuesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in Activity Room #1

This group invites Russian-speaking people to communicate and make friendships. We will discuss the history of our families and important issues of our lives. We will also explore places of interest in other countries and travel experiences. People from all countries welcome.

Saturday Scrabble Organized Play

Saturdays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Activity Room #1

Come for a friendly game of Scrabble. View the games flyer here.

No Saturday Scrabble on February 7 or March 21.

Solo Agers

4th Tuesdays ,12:30-1:30 p.m. in Activity Room #1

For people who are living on their own, whether they never had children, are widowed, or whose family lives far away. Our goal is to make new connections, feel supported, and learn a bit from each other.

January's topic: Living Arrangements- what's your situation and what can you do to make it more livable and safer as you age?

Spanish Conversation

Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #3

This a casual conversational group. We have a mixture of Spanish speakers at varying levels, so all levels of speakers are welcome. Come join us as we learn and practice the language in various ways!  

Sunday Streaming

Sundays, 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. in Activity Room #3

Enjoy watching the latest streaming TV shows, starting with The Gilded Age.

No Sunday Streaming on January 4.

Table Tennis Organized Play

Fridays, 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the Fitness Room

Whether you are an experienced player or want to learn to play, you are welcome. Come on your own or with a friend. View the games flyer here.

Welcome to Retirement Discussion Group

4th Thursdays,11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. in Activity Room #1

Together we will explore options and help plan for what we are moved to do in Retirement. That may be traveling, exercising, learning, finding new friends, volunteering, mentoring, or any combination of interests. Come join us!

Widows and Widowers Support Group

1st and 3rd Mondays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. in Activity Room #3

A support group for anyone who's been widowed, all ages are welcomed. In this group anybody can talk about how difficult their loss has been and their feelings about the holidays and beyond. Meet others who have been widowed. Learn from each other how to get through life and next steps.

Parks, Recreation, & Culture 55+ Fitness Classes

at the Cooper Center: Register On-Line at MyRec

Parks & Recreation 55+ at the Cooper Center

The following adult programs from Parks, Recreation, & Culture will begin January 5. Please visit newtonma.myrec.com for the specific class dates and prices.

Parks & Recreation 55+ offer classes such as Body Rolling, Boxing Fitness, Corn Hole, Soccer, Basketball, Pickleball Play & Lessons.

To register for any of these programs or other Park, Recreation, & Culture (PRC) offerings, call Nancy Scammon at 617-796-1506. You can 

also register online at https://newtonma.myrec.com/info/default.aspx

PRC is pleased to now offer scholarships. Call Nancy Scammon at 617-796-1506 for information.

Other Cooper CenterPrograms and Services

SHINE Appointments at the Cooper Center

The SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) Program provides free health insurance information and counseling to all Massachusetts residents with Medicare and their caregivers.

Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period has ended, but you may still be able to change plans during 2026. Here are some opportunities to change plans at this time of year:


Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: If you are in a Medicare Advantage (HMO or PPO) plan, a change can be made from January 1 through the end of March.


For Prescription Advantage members or those on the Medicare Savings Program: You may be able to change your Medicare or Advantage plan or drug plan during the year. 


Call 617-796-1662 to make an appointment with a trained SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Everyone…on Medicare) volunteer counselor. SHINE counselors are available all year, to help with all aspects of Medicare.

Events and Information from Other City Departments

It’s Back! The Friends of the Newton Free Library
 Annual Book Sale Returns 

Get ready, book lovers—our most anticipated event of the year is officially back! On Saturday January 24th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., the book sale is back and better than ever, featuring a hand-picked selection of only the best books. From newly published titles hot off the press to beautiful, high-quality reads perfect for gifting (or re-gifting!), you’ll find something special on every table.

Whether you’re hunting for your next great read, searching for a thoughtful present, or simply love the thrill of discovering literary treasures, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Join us, celebrate the joy of reading, and take home books you’ll be excited to share and read.

Mark your calendar for January 24th - great stories await!

For more information, please visit the Friends website: www.friendsofthenewtonfreelibrary.org

Scam Notice from the Newton Police Department

Please remain vigilant about ongoing phone scams. Scammers can “spoof” phone numbers to make it appear as if calls are coming from legitimate agencies, including the Newton Police Department, in an attempt to scam residents into providing personal information or money.

These individuals may even pretend to be police officers.

If you ever receive a suspicious call:

• Do not give out personal or financial information.

• Ask for the officer’s name and ID number. Remember: If you are not sure, terminate the call and verify the information by calling dispatch directly 617-796-2123 or 911

• You can verify any Newton Police officer by calling our Dispatch Center directly at 617-796-2123, where they can verify that police officer by their ID number. Call NPD directly, do not use the callback number provided by the caller.

• You can always come in person to the Newton Police Department for assistance - the lobby is open 24/.7

If you are in fear, or in fear of a person showing up at your residence, call 911. 

If you know other 55+ adults who might like to receive this e-newsletter, please ask them to send their email address to OASprograms@newtonma.gov , or you can direct them here:

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