All you winter lovers out there are probably discouraged by our temperatures’ huge ups and downs. Alpine skiing? Probably good for the long term. Cross-country? Not so much. Ice skating? Seems to be good on area lakes. The new ice-skating rink, last year’s popular initiative from the Bethel Recreation Board, is eager for users – but not yet! The rink has been filled and improved, but is still in liquid form until the temps fall. Watch for news on this (or go visit the rink at the Ethel Bisbee property on Philbrook St. in Bethel). And you’ll see the three benches provided by the AFCI grant from AARP and – all volunteers – constructed by the Congo Craftsmen and decorated by Kate Webb (BAAM coordinator), John Reilly, and the students at the Eddy School.

But if the weather doesn’t cooperate for your favorite winter outdoor recreation, the Walk the Gym program (a project of the Age-Friendly Community Initiative and the Rec Board) attracts many indoor walkers at the Gould Academy Field House (note: NOT the Bingham Gym). Just show up Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00-2:00 – no fee.

Community
Remember that the AFCI (Neighbor to Neighbor) N2N Rides Program can drive you to any of the community events noted in this column. Just call 824-4444 at least 3 days in advance of the event.

If you’re stuck inside, remember the great offerings at The Gem Theater (thegemtheater.com).

Have you heard about the new book club sponsored by the Bethel Library and the GraceNote Inn? The first session was held in December, and the next one will be at the Inn on Tuesday, January 17, at 2 p.m. Sessions are free, and you may call the library (824-2520) to reserve the book, “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus.

The next Soup’s On is from 11-1 on Wednesday, January 18 at the Bethel Methodist Church.

Bethel Food Pantry, first and third Wednesday of each month, 9-2.

Community Suppers (free, open to all) – last Wednesday of the month, 4:30-6 p.m., Bethel Alliance Church. Eat-in or take-out.

Conversation, coffee, and a bagel or doughnut, every Thursday, 9-noon, Bethel Alliance Church; come for one hour or all three.

All AFCI services are free. To request an N2N ride or a Handy Neighbors chore: 207-824-4444. For information, inquiries, and suggestions – email: [email protected], visit our Facebook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org. We love to hear from you!