Here are some of our upcoming programs

Wednesday, May 13
Noon to 1 p.m.
$10 per person
Presenter: Keith Wunderluch, author of Vernor’s Ginger Ale
It all began in a small pharmacy on Woodward
Avenue in Detroit. By 1940, it had grown to a huge
factory called the most modern bottling facility in
the world. How did James Vernor make his ginger
ale so successful? Go back in history with presenter
Keith Wunderlich and hear the story of how Vernors
developed from 1866 to now. You will see photos of
the pharmacy, the factories and of the 160-year history
of America’s longest continuously produced soda
pop.
Keith Wunderlich has been a collector of Vernor’s
Ginger Ale history, advertising and products for more
than 30 years. In addition to authoring Vernor’s
Ginger Ale, he is the founder of the Vernor’s Ginger
Ale Collector’s Club and writes a newsletter about
Vernors.

Tuesdays, April 14 – June 2
Instructor: Dr. Randi Lou Franklin
Spanish for Beginners: 4 – 5:30 p.m.
Continuing Spanish: 6 – 7:30 p.m. 
$40 for the session
If you’ve never taken Spanish or need a refresh from high school or college days, join Spanish for Beginners. You’ll start from the beginning with learning the alphabet, proper pronunciation, numbers, greetings and responses. If you’ve taken prior Spanish sessions at The Helm or need to hone Spanish speaking skills, join us for Continuing Spanish where you’ll build new vocabulary and confidence to have Spanish conversations in real-world situations. No matter which class you take, you’ll enjoy the camaraderie as everyone works to “perfect” their Spanish-speaking skills!

DETROIT PRINCESS CRUISE
Friday, June 12, 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
COST: $80 for roundtrip transportation, cruise, luncheon buffet and entertainmen
Take a midday break and cruise along the Detroit River! Have lunch and enjoy scenic views of downtown Detroit and Windsor. The lunch menu features tender beef tips with gravy, baked chicken, mashed potatoes, marinated portabella mushrooms, cheese tortellini, fresh steamed vegetables, salad and chef’s choice of dessert. A tribute to Detroit’s own great Motown music will be performed live by The Prolifics. 

Tuesdays, April 28 – June 2
6 – 7:30 p.m.
Instructor: Andreas Browne
No charge for Wayne County residents
Come join this high energy dance class for seniors and
adults with special needs. This inclusive class focuses on
joyful movement, easy-to-follow steps and upbeat music
that keeps everyone smiling. You’ll learn a new dance each week. No experience needed – just a desire to move, laugh connect and have fun!

SHOWTIME: NOON
$4 PER MOVIE

Friday, May 22
Lilly (2024)
(PG-13  1 hour, 33 minutes)
Lilly is the story of an ordinary woman who galvanizes social change at great personal cost through her extraordinary desire for justice. This powerful film is based on the true story of working-class hero Lilly Ledbetter, an Alabama tire factory supervisor whose goal is to life her family into the middle class. After learning she’s being paid significantly less than her male peers, Lilly fights bullies and bureaucrats through courts and Congress in a successful landmark battle for equal pay.

Friday, June 12
The Starling (2021)
(PG-13  1 hour, 43 minutes)

After Lilly (Melissa McCarthy) suffers a loss, a combative Starling takes nest beside her quiet home. The feisty bird taunts and attacks the grief-stricken Lilly. On her journey to expel the Starling, she rediscovers her will to live and capacity for love.

Tuesday, June 30, Noon to 12:00  to 2:00 p.m.
Haney’s Family Restaurant, Centerline
Haney’s Family Restaurant in Center Line, MI serves up hearty breakfasts, burgers & comfort food—with purpose. Now powered by Rising Stars Academy, we’re creating job opportunities for young adults with disabilities.

Attendees are responsible for the cost of their own lunch and purchases. Meet at The Helm at noon if you plan to ride the bus. The cost for the bus ride is $8. If you are driving on your own, meet at the restaurant at 12:30 p.m. All attendees must register to ensure proper accommodations at the restaurant. Please bring cash as restaurants do not always provide individual bills.

SELFRIDGE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE
Tuesday, June 16
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $30 per person
Our first stop will be Bob Evans in Chesterfield for brunch after which we head to Selfridge Air National Guard Base for a two-hour private tour of the Aviation Museum and the Air Park, including hangars.

Registration is required. Register at helmlife.org or call 313.882.9600.

Attendees must ride the bus to attend these trips. Guests are responsible for the cost of their own meal. Please bring cash as restaurants do not always provide
individual bills. Arrival time back to The Helm is
approximate.