THE AOA SOCIAL CIRCLE - JANUARY
Dear AOA Members,
Happy New Year! As I sit down with my planner open to January, I can’t help but feel a spark of excitement. 2026 is going to be filled with health, happiness, and so much community here at the Wyckoff YMCA.
Looking back over the past few months, I’m still smiling. Fall at the Y was nothing short of fantastic—AOA Fall Camp and our AOA Gratefulness Gathering were both such heartwarming successes. Then came our AOA Holiday Lunch at the Indian Trail Club, and what a celebration it was! Great food, lively dancing, entertainment that had us all laughing, and a photo booth that captured our joy perfectly.
As I reflect on all of it, I realize once again that it’s your involvement that turns these events into something truly meaningful. You bring the energy, the warmth, and the spirit that makes the AOA community so special.
Now, as I look ahead to the pages of February, I’m already excited for our AOA Pre-Theater Happy Hour on February 6, 2026 before the Dueling Piano’s performance. It’s wonderful to start the year with things to look forward to.
Wishing you and your loved ones health, happiness, and many bright moments in 2026.
Visit Us in The Commons!
The Commons is the go-to spot for AOA Members (Age 62+)—a warm and welcoming space where acquaintances become friends, and friends become family. Come by the lower level of the Y, grab a cup of coffee, tea, or water, pick up a good book, meet a friend, or join one of the many fun and engaging activities we have planned. We’d love to see you!
With Gratitude,
MaryJoan and the AOA Team
CARDIO DRUMMING VOICE LESSONS READY FOR PERSONAL TRAINING! FITNESS BINGO
AOA GRATEFULNESS HAPPY HOUR
AOA HOLIDAY PARTY
Spotlight: MaryAnn & Peter M.
For more than 20 years, MaryAnn and Peter M. have been a cherished part of the Wyckoff Family YMCA community. Their longstanding commitment to health, wellness, and connection embodies the true spirit of the Y. Whether participating in programs, attending events, or simply sharing a friendly smile with staff and fellow members, MaryAnn & Peter bring positivity and warmth everywhere they go.
MaryAnn brings an extra spark of energy to the Commons, where she is currently learning to play Asian Mahjongg with a wonderful member–instructor and a lively group of fellow members. The friendly chatter, the excitement of learning something new, and the joyful atmosphere around the table make this weekly gathering a highlight for everyone involved.
MaryAnn and Peter have watched the Y grow and evolve over two decades, and their continued involvement has made them familiar and valued faces within our halls. Their dedication to maintaining an active lifestyle—and their genuine care for the people around them—make them wonderful ambassadors for the Y’s mission.
We are grateful to have MaryAnn and Peter as such loyal, enthusiastic members. Their presence enriches our community, and we look forward to celebrating many more years together at the Wyckoff Family YMCA.
Peggy Dressel at the Wyckoff Family YMCA
Peggy Dressel is a joyful creative spirit—both an illustrator and a fine artist—who brings beauty to life through watercolor and pastel. We are proud to have Peggy Dressel as the instructor for Exploring Watercolor Art in our Adult Programs at the Wyckoff Family YMCA.
Her award-winning work has been showcased in galleries, museums, and juried exhibitions, including her most recent solo show at the Pine Gallery in the Maurice M. Pine Public Library in Fair Lawn in September 2024.
Peggy’s wonderful sense of color was highlighted in Watercolor Magazine’s 2007 spring issue, The Basics of Watercolor Paints I & II. She is proudly an elected member of several esteemed art organizations, including the Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club, the New Jersey Watercolor Society, the Degas Pastel Society, the American Artist Professional League, and the Art Center of Northern NJ Watercolor Affiliates.
Her illustration work is just as impressive and full of heart. Peggy has created artwork for picture books, posters, book covers, chapter books, ads, and magazine stories. Her clients include Marshall Cavendish, Dial Soap, Macy’s, and Vogue. Her most recent published project, Lullaby Wisdom: The Stories, Songs and the Science of Soothing by Licia Clair Seaman, features 30 of her charming illustrations. She is currently illustrating a children’s chapter book, Sandy the Wonder Dog by Fred Groos.
With over 30 years of teaching experience, Peggy loves sharing her passion for art with students of all levels. Before becoming an instructor, she honed her skills in illustration and design studios. Peggy studied at Pratt Institute in NYC (AOS), the National Academy of Design in NYC, and Moore College of Art in Pennsylvania.
In Peggy’s Exploring Watercolor Art program class at the Wyckoff YMCA, beginners feel welcomed and supported as they learn the essentials—color theory, value, and mixing colors—while more experienced students enjoy fresh lessons each week. Peggy offers demonstrations, step-by-step guides, and even provides line drawings to trace for those who feel unsure about drawing. Each session explores a new subject, whether it’s a still life, flowers, or a landscape, and students are always welcome to work on personal projects as well.
January 13: AOA Knowledge to Nourish Lecture
January 22: Patriot Club Lecture
January 26: Wellness Screening: Adult Health & Wellness
January 26: Adult Cooking Workshop: Superbowl Bites
February 2: AOA Classical Music Mini-Session
February 3: Adult Pottery Workshop: Chip & Dip Set
February 6: AOA Pre-Theatre Happy Hour & Dueling Pianos Show
February 6: Cabaret Night: Dueling Pianos
February 9: AOA Classical Music Mini-Session
February 23: AOA Classical Music Mini-Session
February 23: Adult Cooking Workshop: Dumplings & Dim Sum
February 25: Patriot Club Lecture
March 2: AOA Classical Music Mini-Session
The Rose Fernandez Commons:
Open Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm
THE COMMONS is a warm and welcoming place where acquaintances become friends and friends become family.
Included in your AOA Membership: Weekly “Commons” Activities:
Book Club, The Bull & The Bear - Stock Market Club, This Week in History - Information & Discussion, Mahjong, Intro. to Pinochle, Pinochle, Canasta, Bridge, Intro. to Bridge, Scrabble, Mexican Train, Rummikub, Ted Talks & Discussion, Chess, Million Dollar Movie, Brain Fitness.
WINTER/SPRING SCHEDULE: Effective January 7
CONNECTION EXCHANGE
We want to hear from you!
This is a NEW! avenue for you to provide feedback, compliments, concerns, thoughts, etc. to the Upper Management Team so we can provide the very best care.
No thought or suggestion is too great or too small! Upper Management will respond to your suggestions and/or comments within 48 hours.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the Wyckoff Family YMCA!
