New Pedestrian Oasis for Coolidge Corner Neighborhood
This summer Brookline’s Park and Open Space Division has completed work on a pedestrian oasis at the corner of Green Street and John Street near Coolidge Corner. Several years ago, the area was little more than an extension of a Town parking lot with a few neglected benches, overgrown vegetation, and numerous cigarette butts. The “seating area” has been transformed into a mini park with 10 cherry trees and an abundance of azaleas and rhododendrons. Handsome and comfortable benches have been installed on the basis of generous donations by Brookline residents. BrooklineCAN played a key role by advocating for the project and participating in the design process. At one of its first meetings, our Livable Community Advocacy Committee called Park and Open Space Director Erin Gallentine’s attention to the need to upgrade the property. At the time, the property was not even on the Town’s open space inventory. Erin committed herself to an upgrade with the intention that the space be particularly senior friendly.

TRIPPS — Transportation Support
Since TRIPPS first began last October, we have accomplished so much. Staff and volunteers have handled calls and visits from 80 seniors seeking help; researched and documented 40 transportation options; produced final profiles for 20 options, with more being added to the resource guide each day; and facilitated dozens of outreach and educational events, including 2 panel discussions on driving retirement this spring. If you are looking for a great volunteer opportunity, we would love to talk with you. And please spread the word about our program to help seniors get the support they need! For more information call 617-730-2644 or email info@trippsmass.org

Service Referral
One of the favorite attractions on the BrooklineCAN website is the Service Referral List of vetted, reliable service providers including electricians, plumbers, contractors, and handypersons. The Service Referral Committee keeps the list up to date by identifying and investigating recommended first-rate providers. The committee is re-organizing, thanks to great interest, and a few more members are needed. Volunteers will enlarge the list by contacting and vetting additional service providers who have been recommended. Meetings will be quarterly or as needed. Volunteers will work from home and stay in touch by e-mail. Interested??? Contact coordinator Jamie Donchin at 617-730-2753 or by e-mail at JDonchin@brooklinema.gov.

The Reunion Project
Photographer Lora Brody would like you to consider being part of her exciting project, being co-sponsored by BrooklineCAN, that uses portrait photographs and writing to allow women to travel back in time to have a conversation with their teenage selves. It’s easy and fun and it gives senior women a chance to remind others that we still have a lot to share. Join Lora at the Senior Center on Thursday, September 8 at 1:00 pm to hear her describe the projcect and answer questions. A short video about the project can be seen at www.thereunionproject.org. To register call 617-730-2770

Computer One on One
Are you computer phobic or just need some tech assistance? Have you tried a computer class but are still frustrated with using technology? Do you have questions about setting up email, using your laptop, tablet or SmartPhone, or navigating the internet? Computer volunteers are available on Tuesday afternoons at the Senior Center. They can assist with basic and more complicated issues with smart phones, laptops and tablets including Apple, Windows or Android operating systems. Sessions are 30 minutes and 60 minutes long. Appointments are necessary. Please call Olga Sliwa, 617-730-2768, for more information or to book an appointment.

Senior Center Gala
Mark your calendar for the Annual Senior Center Benefit—Wednesday, October 26, 6:00 pm at the Senior Center. Enjoy socializing with friends, old and new. A light buffet meal is followed by a program that honors Dr. Alan Balsam, Director of Public Health and Human Services in Brookline. This event often sells out, so be sure to buy your tickets early! Call the Senior Center for more information at 617-730-2770.

Upcoming Events

Wednesday, September 14, 2016, 1:00 pm
Brookline Senior Center
Jewish Community Housing For Elders @ Kehillath Israel
The meeting of the Brookline Council on Aging will feature a presentation by Amy Schectman, Executive Director of Jewish Community Housing for Elders on JCHE project on the Kehillath Israel site. All are welcome to attend.

Sunday, September 18, 2016, 11:00 am–3:00 pm
Brookline Day
5th Annual Brookline Day will be held at Larz Anderson Park. For up-to-the-minute information about transportation and events see http://www.brooklineday.org/.

Sunday, September 25, 2016, 10:00 am
Walk for Alzheimers
Put your walking shoes on, get some donations and join the Brookline Senior Center’s team. Transportation from the Senior Center to the walk and back will be provided. Walk either 1 ½ or 3 ½ miles. ALL funds raised go directly to the Alzheimer’s Association for research. For additional information call: Patricia 617-730-2743.

Fridays, September 23 and 30, 2016, 10:30 am
Putterham Library, West Roxbury Parkway
South Brookline Senior Social
Enjoy some pastries and coffee with your neighbors. Past speakers and activities have included local politicians, cookouts, and Chair Yoga.

Thursday, September 29, 2016 1:00 pm
Pocket Park at Green and John Streets
Celebration of Renovated Pocket Park
A chance to thank the family that provided the new benches and to thank the Brookline Parks Department.