August Newsletter and

New Weekly Email Format

Our August newsletter is now available here.

You will learn about how to register for our fall series, in topics such as art, personal finance, theatre, writing, and much more!

The Cooper Center will soon be introducing a new weekly e-mail format. Each issue will include a link to our current print newsletter, which lists all of our special programs for the month, as well as upcoming series and services.

The new format, will which debut at the end of July, will also highlight several upcoming special programs, making it easier to see what's coming in the next week -- and to RSVP with just a few clicks.

We hope to see at the Cooper Center you soon!

Parking Change on Highland Avenue

Older Adult (OA) parking stickers are only valid on the same side of the street as the Cooper Center.

They are no longer valid on the opposite side of the street, which is now reserved for Newtonville Permit Parking only.

Cafe Menu for July

The Cooper Cafe is open every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (except for holidays) from 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Chef Jocelina offers a variety of thoughtfully prepared brunch items, including scones and muffins, a variety of crepes, coconut curry, and lasagna. Different items are offered every day.

See the July menu here. The first price listed is for people age 55+; the second is the general community price. All food and beverages are subject to meal tax.

Note: The Cafe will be closed on Wednesday, July 15.

Online Registration Is Available

You may now register for many activities online at myactivecenter.com

Sign-up instructions specific to the Cooper Center are available by clicking here. You must have a Cooper Card to sign up.

You may also view a general orientation video here.


If you need assistance, please book a Technology Tutoring appointment by calling 617-796-1660.

You may still register for paid programs in-person at the Cooper Center. We cannot accept credit card information over the phone. You can also register for free programs by calling 617-796-1660.

Upcoming Special Programs (by date)

Dine-In Indian Lunch

Mondays,

12:00 to 1:30 p.m.

In partnership with FISCO (Friends of Indian Senior Citizens Organization)

Enjoy a vegetarian Indian lunch from a local restaurant. The pre-set menu includes items such as samosa, nav ratan korma, garlic nan, dal tadka, rice, ras malai, salad. Prior to the meal, we will participate in a group meditation. Socialize and meet others while enjoying delicious Indian food. Please arrive by 12:00 p.m. $5 per person. Pre-registration required.

Piano Quartet Performance:

Romantic Music by Schumann and Dvorak

Tuesday, July 14, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Led by Elaine Leisinger, Kathy Larsen, Duke Roth, and Clara Chan

Violinist Elaine Leisinger is a chamber musician and orchestral player who performs in venues from living rooms to concert halls throughout New England.

Violist Kathy Larsen has performed in orchestras in Santa Fe and Southern California, and has performed with the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra

for 15 years.

Cellist Duke Roth has performed with the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, the Brookline Symphony Orchestra, and is in demand as a chamber musician.

Pianist Clara Chan is an avid chamber musician who performs in duos, trios, quartets, and quintets.

Panama Canal – Connection between the Oceans that Changed the World

Tuesday, July 21, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Led by Barry Pell

The Panama Canal is one of the great feats of the modern world. More than an engineering marvel, the Canal united the world, fostering global trade

and prosperity, as well as a fusion of races, history, and cultures. Started by the French in the 19th century, its completion relied on the United States,

under the leadership of Teddy Roosevelt, to open in 1914. Barry Pell traveled through the Canal on a four-masted sail ship. In this program, accompanied by

his photos, he will discuss the history, controversies, and ingenious design of the Canal. He will also take you along the Pacific coastal jungle to visit some of

the wildlife and plants of Panama and Costa Rica.

Trial Class: Total Body Muscle Conditioning

Wednesday, July 22, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Led by Rosella Carrelli

A low-impact fitness class for all levels that features resistance training with small weights and your own body to improve strength and balance, to

enhance mobility, and support daily activities. There will be a focus on stretching throughout the class. Rosella Carrelli has been a fitness professional for many years for the Newton Church Street YMCA and

Newton Community Education. She stresses safety and fun in her workouts.

Rock and Roll Memories with Hal Slifer

Thursday, July 23, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Led by Hal Slifer

Join Hal Slifer, popular WERS radio host, for Rock and Roll Memories!—a lively multimedia journey through the music, TV shows and commercials of the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s. With rare video clips, fun backstories, and plenty of audience participation, Hal brings back the songs and moments that defined a generation in a heartwarming trip down memory lane.

RSVP for all of these special programs 
at 617-796-1660,
 or myactivecenter.com

Summer Semester Classes

Registration is first-come, first-served, by date and time of payment.

Please come to the Cooper Center, or register on-line at myactivecenter.com. We cannot accept credit card payments over the phone.

Arts and Crafts Session: Not Your Average Flowerpot!

Friday, July 24, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Instructor: Karen Kelley from GetCre8tive

Give a classic flowerpot a fresh, decorative look. Using paint and decoupage, you’ll create a personalized design with your choice of elegant patterns, resulting in a piece that’s both stylish and functional. This class is designed to be enjoyable and approachable, with guided instruction throughout—no artistic ability is needed. Your finished piece will be something you’ll be proud to display or gift.

Class fee: $25.

Maximum 20 students. View the flyer.

Ongoing Programs: Just Show Up!

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

Acoustic Music Jam & Sing

2nd Saturday of every month, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Next meeting: Saturday, July 11

A curated, casual acoustic music jam, focusing on folk music.

Author Talk

1st Wednesdays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Next meeting: Wednesday, August 5

Local writers will offer background for and read excerpts from their books. They will also take questions and comments from the moderator and audience members. This program is offered in partnership with the Newton Free Library. The book for August is The Washashore, by Christopher Mirabile.

Basketball Organized Play for 55+ NEW! 
Wednesdays, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Lace ’em up and come get your game on. Men and women open-play basketball. All older adults are welcome, whether you’ve never played before, you play every week, or you want to get back hoopin’ after time away. Come join us for fun and great aerobic, calorie-burning exercise. 



Bereavement Support Group

3rd Thursdays, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Thursday, July 16

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 Skills and Drills

Wednesdays, 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.

For people with no to some pool experience. Not for advanced players. Focus will be very drill oriented. Just drop-in. Maximum eight people at the billiards tables at a time, and others can watch.

Bridge Organized Play

Tuesdays, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

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. 


Caregiver Support Group

4th Tuesdays, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Tuesday, July 28

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.

Chair Massage

2nd and 4th Mondays (excluding holidays) 

Next meeting: Monday, July 13

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. View flyer here.

Chess Organized Play

Mondays, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

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


Coffee & Conversation

2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. 

Next meeting: Tuesday, July 14

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. 


Cooper Center Music Makers

Tuesdays, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m.

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. View flyer here.

Divorce Support Group NEW!

1^st and 3^rd Monday of every month, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Navigating a divorce or separation can feel overwhelming, isolating, and uncertain. This support group offers a warm and welcoming space to connect with others going through or have gone through similar life changes.

Drawing Open Studio

Wednesdays, 9:00 to 11:30 a.m.

Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

You'll need something to draw with – a pencil – something to draw on – paper – and something to hold the paper – a drawing board. What to draw? Your choice: people (portrait), places (landscape), things (still life). Bring your own materials. 

Fiber Arts

1st and 3rd Fridays,1:30 to 4:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Friday, July 17

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 projects for not-for-profit organizations as well as gifts, all handmade. All levels are welcome! 


Folk Sing-Along

4th Wednesdays, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Wednesday, July 22

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 to 1:30 p.m.

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

French Literature and Culture Conversation Group

1st and 3rd Thursdays 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Thursday, July 16

This course is meant for those who have a working knowledge of French and wish to improve their mastery of the language through the exploration of the written word. Using short stories, poems, songs, historical accounts and magazine articles, participants will have the opportunity to review and discuss the multiple aspects of French life and culture.

German Conversation

Tuesdays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

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. to 12:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Tuesday, August 4

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.

Hearing Screenings

1st Tuesdays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Next meeting: Tuesday, August 4

Participants can have a complimentary hearing screening or a cleaning and check of hearing aids. By appointment. Call 617-796-1660. 


Home Energy Help NEW!

3rd Tuesdays,11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Tuesday, July 21

Join the City of Newton’s Climate Action Coordinator and Green Newton’s Energy Advocate for drop-in energy office hours. If you have questions about your energy bills, heating and cooling options, available assistance programs, or electrification, they can provide one-on-one help in a friendly setting. You can bring your energy bill for an optional review to learn about ways to reduce energy costs. By appointment. Call 617-796-1660. View flyer here

Legal Clinic

9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Thursday, July 16

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.

Low Vision Support Group

1st Mondays, 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.

Next meeting: Monday, August 3

This support group is for adults over 55 who are experiencing low vision or blindness and seeking encouragement, coping skills, and a chance to

learn about resources available to support your journey. This group is facilitated by Shirley Dorris, Massachusetts Commission for the Blind.

This group is sponsored by the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI) and supported by the MA Commission for the Blind.



LGBTQIA+ Social Group

2nd Mondays, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.

3rd Wednesdays, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.

Next meeting: Monday, July 13

Let's meet and socialize! At each gathering, 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+, plus allies.


LGBTQIA+ Special Series: POSE Streaming and Discussion
8 Wednesdays, beginning June 3, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
Next meeting: July 15

Step into the vibrant, fierce world of 1987 NYC ballroom culture and witness a powerful story of chosen family, love, and resilience. POSE Season 1 follows Blanca as she starts her own "house" to support LGBTQIA+ youth rejected by their birth families, all while navigating the glamorous dance competitions of the underground ball scene. Get ready for an emotional journey featuring incredible fashion, moving storylines, and a groundbreaking cast that you absolutely cannot miss. View flyer here.



Mahjong Organized Play

Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Fridays, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Join our friendly Mahjong group to enjoy this classic Chinese tile game that combines strategy, skill, and a touch of luck. Players are expected to already know the rules and have some experience playing the game. No instruction is offered, so please take a beginners' class first to learn the rules. This activity offers a welcoming environment to sharpen your mind, connect with others, and have fun together. Both Chinese and American play welcome.

Mandarin Conversation
2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Wednesday, July 22

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

Men’s Club

4th Thursdays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Next meeting: Thursday, July 23

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. Our guest speaker for July is Jim Bright discussing "Our Failing Electrical Grid." Everyone is welcome.

Monday Musicals

Mondays, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The upcoming musicals will be:

Monday, July 13: Wicked (2024, PG, 2 hours 40 minutes)

Monday, July 20: Wicked for Good (2025, PG, 2 hours 17 minutes)
Monday, July 27: Suffs (2026, TV-14, 2 hours, 15 minutes)

Movie Screening

Wednesdays, 4:30 p.m. (note new time)

The upcoming movies will be: 

Wednesday, July 15: A Real Pain (2024, R, 1 hour 30 minutes)

Wednesday, July 22: Widow Clicquot (2023, R, 1 hour 30 minutes)
Wednesday, July 29: The Space Race (2023, 1 hour, 31 minutes)

Music & Movement for Ages 0-5 with a Caregiver

Mondays, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

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.

Navigating Divorce Social Group NEW!

1st and 3rd Mondays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

First meeting: Monday, July 20

Navigating a divorce or separation can feel overwhelming, isolating, and uncertain. This support group offers a warm and welcoming space to connect with others who are going through or have gone through similar life changes. Together, we will reflect, share experiences, offer encouragement, and support one another through the challenges of rebuilding and moving forward. We will also explore helpful resources, coping tools, and ways to find strength, clarity, and connection during this transition. Open to individuals at any stage of the divorce process. Come as you are.

Non-Fiction Book Group

2nd Mondays, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Next meeting: Monday, July 13

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 July is An Unfinished Love Story, by Doris Kearns Goodwin

Parkinson's Support Group
2nd Tuesdays, 2:00 to 3:30 p.m.

Next meeting: Tuesday, July 14

This support group meets in-person. Open to individuals with Parkinson’s and a family partner, the group offers a welcoming space to connect, share experiences, ask questions, and support each other. Facilitated by Shayla McDermott, MSW, MT-BC. Sponsored by the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), Massachusetts Chapter. 


Parlor Games Organized Play

1st Wednesdays, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Wednesday, August 5

Parlor Games are ice-breaker activities that do not use boards, cards, or tiles. Using just our voices, words, and memories, or pencil and paper, we'll play a variety of games each month. Parlor Games remind us that we don't need electronic toys to amuse ourselves and enjoy being with others. Bring old friends, make new ones, and have fun! 

Poker Organized Play

2nd Thursdays, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Thursday, August 13

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.

Rummikub & Canasta Organized Play

Thursdays,12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

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!

Saturday Scrabble Organized Play

Saturdays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Come for a friendly game of Scrabble. 

Solo Agers

4th Tuesdays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Next meeting: Tuesday, July 28

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.

Spanish Conversation

Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

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!  


Table Tennis Organized Play

Wednesays, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.

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


Welcome to Retirement Discussion Group

4th Thursdays,11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Next meeting: Thursday, July 23

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 to 5:30 p.m.

Next meeting: Monday, July 20

A support group for anyone who's been widowed; all ages are welcome. 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.

Women's Group NEW!

2nd and 4th Saturday of every month, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

First meeting: July 11

We'll talk about travel, art, music, hobbies, and where we are from originally. As a group, we will brainstorm other topics of discussion. We'll discuss everything but politics! We'll briefly discuss some guidelines for our group to follow, ensuring that each participant has a chance to share her thoughts in a safe space. Everyone is welcome.

What Women Know NEW!

4^th Thursday of every month, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Begins July 23

There are so many heroines whose stories deserve to be told. In each session of this group, we will use the story of one remarkable woman as a springboard into a discussion of how this woman’s wisdom brought her to the fore - what challenges she faced, and how she overcame them. Our first heroine will be Wangari Maathai, Nobel Peace Prize recipient for her work in reforesting. 

OAS Class Pass Fitness Classes: $5 per class

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

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

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. Don't forget to check in at our Kiosk when you arrive, please.

You can find our Class Pass fitness calendar here.

Ballet 

Mondays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. 

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. Ballet is cancelled on July 13, July 20, and July 27.

Barre

Thursdays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Instructor: Annie Melanson 

Barre is a body weight-based fitness class that focuses on strength, flexibility, balance, and core strength. Cardio bursts and various props may be incorporated during this low-impact class. No prior ballet or dance experience is required. $5 a class.

Chair One Seated Dance

Tuesdays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

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 to 1:00 p.m.

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.

Dance Aerobics

Wednesdays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

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 Hasya (Ed)

Thursdays, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

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 to 11:30 a.m.

Fridays, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

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.

Line Dancing 

Mondays,1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

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 to 4:00 p.m.

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.

Mat Yoga with Barbara

Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays

11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

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. Mat Yoga is cancelled on August 27, August 28, August 31, September 3, and September 4.

Mindful Meditation 

Thursdays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

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 to 10:00 a.m.

Tuesdays, 9:00 to 10:00 a.m.

Thursdays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

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. Muscle, Movement, & Balance is cancelled on August 31.


Nia Dance

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

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 to 1:30 p.m.

Wednesdays,12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

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.

Seated Zumba

Thursdays, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. (note new time)

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 to 1:00 p.m.

Fridays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

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 to 3:00 p.m.

Fridays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Instructor: Aaron Crawford 

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

Tai Chi — Advanced

Tuesdays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Fridays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

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 to 10:30 a.m.

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.

Tong Ren

Tuesdays, 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Facilitator: Aaron Crawford

Tong Ren is energy healing without touch, by restoring the flow of chi energy.

Yoga (Chair)

Tuesdays, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

Thursdays, 9:00 to 10:00 a.m.

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. Chair Yoga is cancelled on July 16, July 21, and July 23.

Zumba Gold

Mondays,10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Fridays, 9:00 to 10:00 a.m.

Instructor: Cecilia Plotkin

Thursdays, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

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.  Zumba Gold is cancelled on July 13.

Basic Technology Tutoring

Is one of your goals 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. Same-day appointments are available as space allows. View flyer here.

Low Vision Technology Tutoring with MABVI

2nd, 3rd, and 4th Mondays,

11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

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

Upcoming dates: July 13, 20, and 27

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.

Participants must sign up at the Concierge Desk at least 48 hours in advance. Same-day appointments are not possible. Please tell the Concierge Desk what skills you’d like to learn. View flyer here.



To register for either of these tech tutoring programs, contact the Concierge Desk at 617-796-1660 or OASprograms@newtonma.gov

Fire Safety Home Inspections


Offered by the Newton Fire Department

Staff from the Newton Fire Department will check battery-operated smoke alarms, identify common household hazards, and provide simple safety recommendations to help prevent fires and keep you prepared.

A limited number of appointments are available. First come, first served for Newton residents 65+ only.To request an inspection, call Kathy Rizza at 617-796-3546 (please leave a message) or email: Seniorsafe@newtonma.gov

Please allow 3-5 business days for a return call/email. Not available for homes with hardwired smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. First come, first served.

Additional Adult Programming at the Cooper Center

Parks & Recreation 55+ offer classes such as Body Rolling, Boxing Fitness, Corn Hole, Soccer, Basketball, Pickleball Play & Lessons at the Cooper Center. Please visit newtonma.myrec.com for the specific class dates and prices.

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.

Events and Information from Community Partners
 (newest info first)

The City Seeks Feedback on ADUs

The City of Newton’s Planning & Development Department is excited to share that it is a grant recipient for the 2026 AARP Community Challenge. Grant money to do meaningful, productive work to advance the goals of the City, who wouldn’t be excited! This community grant seeks to assist municipalities, just like ours in Newton, to undertake projects that make communities more livable for people of all ages by supporting tangible, quick-action improvements that jump-start long-term change.

So what kind of project is Newton undertaking with this grant? The City is launching a Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Design Competition🏠. ADUs, often called in-law suites, garden apartments, or carriage houses, are smaller independent homes located on the same property as a primary home. They are increasingly seen as a housing tool that can support aging in place, multigenerational living, caregiver housing, and more attainable rental options. The competition will showcase creative designs, increase public awareness of ADUs, and help identify ways to make them easier and more affordable to build in Newton.


As part of this initiative, the Planning Department looks forward to collaborating with the Cooper Center to engage older adults, learn from their experiences and housing needs, and help ensure the designs support residents who wish to remain in their homes and communities as they age.


Have thoughts on ADUs? We’d like to hear from you. Take a moment to fill out this brief anonymous survey: https://forms.gle/7ZjEw6kBrvjKbT8U6

Stay tuned for more!

Summer Recycling Campaign Launch

You have likely seen headlines in recent years suggesting recycling doesn’t work, but recycling in Massachusetts is highly successful—and what we put in our recycling carts matters. For items that belong in the recycling cart, more than 90% of what is collected is sold to reclaimers and made into new products.


Accepted curbside recycling items include cardboard, paper, and empty bottles, cans, jugs, and tubs made of plastic, metal, and glass. While this seems easy and straightforward, we know it can get hard to figure out the right thing to do. But, when you err on the side of putting something you’re unsure about into the recycling bin, a behavior called wish-cycling, it leads to problems.


Two recent recycling audits revealed a contamination rate of 22% in Newton's recycling carts, with recyclables placed inside plastic or paper bags being the most common problem. All recyclables must be placed loose in the cart.


To improve recycling quality, Newton is launching a community-wide education campaign and curbside recycling inspections starting June 12. Residents will be notified if unacceptable items are found, and carts with repeated contamination may not be collected. When we previously focused on reducing recycling contamination in 2018, using a similar campaign, our community was able to reduce contamination by 50% in less than one year. 


When in doubt, use the Recycle Right Newton app or put the item in the trash. For more information, visit www.newtonma.gov/recycling.

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