Spirit of Bellingham March 2008 Newsletter

 

Zumba Gold Sweeps Bellingham

The newest fitness craze to sweep the area, Zumba Gold is at the Center on Thursdays at 10:30 am. This class is a fusion of Latin and International music and dance themes that create a dynamic, exciting and effective workout.  The steps are safe and easy to follow and provide body sculpting and toning benefits.  This is a forty-five minute workout that is FUN and EASY to DO.  Our instructor is from the YMCA. If you are a Y member the class is free, others pay only $3 per class. Call 508-966-0398 or stop by to sign up.

 

TRIAD Meeting

Thursday, March 6 at 11:00 am

Niel Orlando, Director of Senior Crime & Abuse Prevention (Office of the District Attorney) will visit us and work with the group to plan a program to inform residents about this subject. All welcome. Receive your free File of Life.

 

BESG Chinese Luncheon and Auction Fun

March 4 at noon

The menu includes Chicken Chow Mein, Beef Low Mein, Pork Fried Rice, and Chicken Fingers, Chicken Wings, Egg Rolls and Fortune Cookies. The cost is $5per member $7.50 Others.  Reservations and payment in advance.  Sign up at the Senior Center or call 508-966-0398.  After the lunch attendees may participate in a Chinese Auction with auctioneers Ken Bogan and Cutt Fournier.  Consider contributing an item in a brown lunch bag with a minimum value of $5.  Everyone interested will bid on the mystery items with hints from our auctioneers to entice the audience. High bidders will be awarded their prize and all proceeds will go to the Elder Service Group.

 

Other news: The Group purchased a fire extinguisher for the Senior Center’s furnace room (Advised by our insurance company). Thank you for your help.  Also, Save this date: April 1 Regular meeting – 1pm.

 

Want to Change Your Medicare Health Plan?

During the month of March, you have one chance to change your Medicare Health Plan.  Your new coverage would start the first of April.  However, during this time you cannot add nor drop Medicare drug coverage (Part D).  Special rules apply to members of Prescription Advantage, MassHealth, and anyone qualifying for “extra help” (LIS) with the costs of Medicare Part D. After March 31, your next chance to change your Medicare Health Plan in 2008 will be from November 15 through December 31, the Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period, and your new coverage will start January 1, 2009.  There are Special Enrollment Periods for persons first becoming eligible for Medicare, and persons who involuntarily lose health insurance.  If you have special circumstances, you need to speak with a SHINE counselor.

 

Many Insurance Companies send out solicitations to our seniors promising reduced Medicare costs and lower co-payments.  These solicitations usually include a post card for you to mail back or ask you to call a phone number to schedule an appointment.

You need to remember that once you return a post card or a phone call, your name goes on a list that allows that company to call you and schedule an appointment at your home to discuss important issues that could affect your Medicare coverage.  Be careful when returning any post card or phone call.  If you are called to schedule an appointment at your home, give your SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) office at 508-966-0398 call to discuss your current coverage before you sign any papers.  Sponsored by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs in partnership with the Friends of the Milford Senior Center, Massachusetts Councils on Aging and other local agencies.

FRANKS, HAM & BEAN SUPPER - Sat, April 12 5:00-7:30 pm.

COST: $6 Adults, Children (5-13) $3, Under 5 Free. Also included: coleslaw, rolls & butter, beverages, and homemade desserts & 50/50. Call 508-966-0398 for reservations. For tickets call Ken at 508-966-0918. The Elder Service Group sponsors this fundraiser. Proceeds support the Senior Center and elderly residents in need.

Red Sox Gear Giveaway

Package includes Red Sox jacket, Shirt, 2 Hats, and signed picture of Fenway Park. Value over $300 donated by Ray Roberge & the VFW Post 7272. Tickets are $1 donation and available at the Senior Center and from Elder Service Group officers. Prize drawing to be held May 6.

 

Managing Your Medications Safely

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

11:00am - 12:00pm

 

This program will cover topics such as:

·        Medication basics: What you need to know about you meds

·        Common misuses of medications and drug interactions

·        Warning signs of medication-related problems

·        Tips for safe medication management

 

The Bellingham COA invites all senior attendees (with reservations by March 11) to enjoy a free luncheon after the presentation. Call 508-966-0398, or stop by 40 Blackstone Street, Bellingham to sign up. Also, Sue Merali, Bellingham CVS Pharmacist, will be here to assist seniors who wish to bring their medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, along with your doctor’s name and phone number, in for a free consultation.  This program is for those age 60 years and over and is made available with funding provided by a grant from the Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs with funds from Title III of the Older American’s Act to VNA Care Network. Confidential voluntary donations are accepted and are used to increase services provided under this program.

 

Travel

(Make checks payable to: Town of Bellingham. Trips must be paid in full by the deadline one month before each trip, unless otherwise noted.  In all cases patrons may sell or give their place away, including to those on the waiting list, if any; and, ask us about a cancellation waiver (Trip Insurance).  Also, please carry your medical and emergency information with you on all trips. We are happy to provide you with a free File of Life (Info holder). One is available for you here at the Center, donated by the Norfolk Co. Sheriff’s Office through our TRIAD program.  Stop by and pick one up. We also carry the size that attaches to you refrigerator! Ask for one today.

 

Mohegan Sun Casino - March 20, 2008 - $18.00 pp.

Your package includes a $10.00 buffet coupon, a $10.00 Free Bet, and a chance for a free trip. The Coach leaves from the Center at 8:00 am – returns about 5:00 pm Call 508-966-0398.  (No refund if cancelled after deadline of March 18th.)

 

Springfield International Tattoo – Monday, May 19, 2008 Depart at 10am for lunch in West Springfield at the Country Buffet. Then off for the 2pm Black Watch Tattoo (A troop of more than 60 Pipers, Drummers, Highland Dancers, and Period Guards who perform the music and precision marching drills of Scotland, England Ireland and Wales).  Arrive back at the Center about 5pm. Deadline 4/19/08 $69pp.

 

St. Pat’s Dinner Dance March 17, 2008 Corned Beef & Cabbage - $14.00.

Everyone is welcome. At 11:30 join in Social time with cash bar, and dinner is served at noon, Music by DJ Dave Valerio, Line Dancing with Mary Lennon,–VFW, 123 Holliston Street, Medway. COA winners from January: Dulcie Dadmun, Clare Shea, Joe Murzycki, Rose DeFillipo, Ken Bogan and Bertha Kogut. ELDER SERVICE GROUP winners: John Arthur, Clare Shea, Dolly Kearns, Dulcie Dadmun, Virginia Barrett and Polly Bortolussi.

 

Have A Laugh . . . .

Working people frequently ask retired people what they do to make their days interesting.  Well for example, the other day I went into town and went into a shop.  I was only in there for about 5 minutes and when I came out there was a cop writing out a parking ticket.  I went up to him and said, “Come on man, how about giving a senior citizen a break?”  He ignored me and continued writing the ticket.  I called him a nasty name.  He glared at me and started writing another ticket for having worn tires.  So I called him another nasty name.  He finished the second ticket and put it on the windshield with the first.  Then he started writing a third ticket.  This went on for about 20 minutes.  The more I abused him, the more tickets he wrote.  Personally, I didn’t care.  I came into town by bus.  I try to have a little fun each day now that I’m retired.  It’s important at my age . . . . Anonymous

 

Bellingham Council on Aging News

The next monthly meeting is set for Tuesday, March 11 at 1:00pm. This past month our vans provided 263 riders 450 trips to medical appointments, errands, employment, shopping, fitness activities, and to the Center for meals and recreation. Gas and van maintenance cost $891 in January and donations received for our service totaled $236.

At the February meeting

• The first request in our new suggestion box asks that exercise equipment be installed at the Center (Stationary bike or treadmill). This will be discussed at the next meeting.
• It was announced that a new Bereavement Support Group is starting on Monday, February 25 from 4 to 5 pm at the Blackstone Senior Center 15 St. Paul St, in Blackstone which is open to all area seniors including Bellingham. There is no fee.  The introductory speaker is Jeffrey Thomas of the Visiting Nurse Service. Refreshments will be provided. Call Jean at 876-5134 to register.
• The four COA Board members whose terms are ending were asked to let the Director know if they are willing to be appointed for another three-year term.
• A basket of hand-made valentines and gift bags donated to the Center by Brownie Troop 368 were displayed at the meeting. Some of the cards and gifts will be delivered to seniors at home by Friendly Visitor, Connie Peter.
• Author, Helen Hills donated two books she has written, Aging Well and Making the Dawn Welcome for our COA library.

The COA Board thanks the following for their kind donations: Leo Gagnier, John Fasick, Margaret Foley, Marylee Bradley, Bill Barrette, Mary & Joe Henderson, Amy Cook, Ed Braley, Whole Foods Market, John Molloy, Mary Healy, M.C.O.A., Marie Roy, Panera Bread, Nancy Fraser, Gladys Ustinowich, Lou Forestal, Geraldine Golden, Helen Hills, Brownie Troop 368, and Anonymous.

 

Barbara & William Eltzroth

in memory of

Virginia Eldredge

Clam Cakes and Chowder Friday, March 7, 2008 at Noon                                                                                                                                                                  

Meal by Ann’s Lakeview - Includes Red or White Chowder, two Clam Cakes, dessert and coffee $5pp Reservations Req.  508-966-0398

Large Print Books Wanted

The Senior Center Lending Library is accepting donations of Large Print Books, Audiotapes, DVDs and VHS tapes. All materials must be in excellent condition.  Call 508-966-0398 for more information or to make arrangements.

 

Everyone in the Pool

A great Water Aerobics program is available for all Bellingham residents (not Y members) 60 and up at the Y in Franklin. For example, there is a great class on Tuesdays and Thursdays (8:30 to 9:15am). The annual program fee is $5 plus $4 for each class you attend.  For more information call Shauna at or stop by the Y to sign up.

 

Watercolor Painting Classes

The new eight week session of  “Painting for Beginners” will start Thursday, March 6 from 1-3pm. The cost is $5 per class. Come and learn the basics. Pre-registration required by calling 508-966-0398 or stopping by the Center.

 

Don’t forget our free Open Art Studio classes on Tuesdays from 1-3 for those who have transitioned from the beginners class. This is a great group of painters with varied backgrounds and abilities.

 

SENIOR TRAVELERS

A travel agent looked up from his desk to see an old lady and an old gentleman peering in the shop window at the posters showing the glamorous destinations around the world.

 

The agent had had a good week and the dejected couple looking in the window gave him a rare feeling of generosity.  He called them into his shop:  “I know that on your pension you could never hope to have a holiday, so I am sending you off to a fabulous resort at my expense, and I won’t take no for an answer.”

 

He took them inside and asked his secretary to write two flight tickets and book a room in a five star hotel.  They, as can be expected, gladly accepted, and were off!

 

About a month later the little old lady came in to his shop.  “And how did you like your holiday?” he asked eagerly. 

 

“The flight was exciting and the room was lovely,” she said.  “I’ve come to thank you but, one thing puzzled me.  Who was that old guy I had to share the room with?”

 

PODIATRY CLINIC

Friday, March 28, 2008

From 12:30 to 2:45 pm by appointment. Call 508-966-0398. Provided by Franklin Footcare.

 

Prosciutto Tortellini

1 package (19 ounces) frozen cheese tortellini

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 cup half-and-half cream

½ cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

10 thin slices Prosciutto, chopped

1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas

¼ teaspoon white pepper

 

Cook tortellini according to package directions.  Meanwhile, in a large skillet, combine flour and cream until smooth; stir in the cheeses.  Bring to a boil, cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.  Reduce heat. Drain tortellini, add to the cheese sauce.  Stir in the prosciutto, peas and pepper.  Cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.  Yield:  4 servings.

 

Heating Your Home Costs A Lot?

Do you need help with your fuel bills this heating season?  Eligibility is based on total gross household income and the number of people in the house. Call 508-966-0398 for an appointment. Applications will be accepted until the end of April. See the following guidelines:

Family Size for	Max. Gross Income  or Less
1	$20,420
2	$27,380
3	$34,340
4	$41,300
5	$48,260
6	$55,220

 

Financial & Legal Advice

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

(By appointment only – please call Senior Center)

Mr. Jay DiLibero

10:00-12:00 Noon

Attorney Daniel T. Doyle

2:00-4:00 pm

 

Monthly Birthday Party

Thursday, March 27, 2008 Noon - Roast Turkey Dinner with Birthday Cake & Ice Cream.  (Ann’s) - $7.00

All are welcome at these luncheons; and those with a March birthday receive a gift. Crazy Cards in the Afternoon (optional). No refund if cancelled after Tue., March 25.

 

Supportive Social Day Program

If you are finding yourself in need of some support and pleasant company, check out our day program which runs Monday - Friday 9am to 3pm. You can join in a variety of activities including conversation groups, games, gentle fitness, sing-a-longs, movies, creative projects, Bingo, and field trips. It is suitable for the memory or physically impaired, and also provides much needed respite for caregivers. Healthy snacks and lunch are included each day. Transportation is available at no additional cost for Bellingham residents. Financial aid may be available for those who are eligible. We offer a free trial day. Please call Dariel at 508-966-0398.

 

Bellingham-GATRA Senior & Handicapped Transportation

If you are at least 60 years of age or a younger disabled resident we provide rides in Town and the surrounding area. Both of our vans can accommodate wheelchairs or riders that use canes or walkers. If you are requesting a ride for the first time you will be screened for eligibility. While no fare is charged, donations are gratefully accepted and used for transportation related needs over and above the Town’s budget. Call the Center 24 hours a day with your requests.  One of our staff will call you back to confirm your information and ride arrangements.

 

We ask that you make your local MEDICAL appointments between 9:30 am and 1 pm for best availability and give us at least 48 hours notice. There is also limited long distance medical transportation available, funded by our Town and rider donations ($25 requested per trip in an envelope with your name on it).  Give us at least 5 days notice for out of the area medical appointments, more if possible. Someone may accompany you if needed.

 

We can take you to the market, bank or to do other errands, and even bring you to the Senior Center. This service is provided to residents who do not drive or have another way to get where they need to go and is funded by our Town and the donations of riders. We are looking for volunteers or Tax Work Off participants to escort frail riders to medical appointments and errands.   If interested, please call Laura at 508-966-0398.

 

Free Tax Help from AARP Volunteers

Again this year the Center is hosting AARP's Tax Aide Program, and counselors will answer your questions and prepare federal and state forms at no cost by appointment on Thursdays between 9am and 1pm until April 10, and Mon, Wed, and Friday February 18-22. Counselors will also fill out forms for residents, 65 and up, filing for the Circuit Breaker. Call the Senior Center at 508-966-0398, if you are not sure what to bring. 

 

Volunteers are trained and certified by the IRS to assist people with low and moderate incomes by completing basic forms including the Federal 1040, schedules A, (itemized deductions) B (interest and dividends), CE (self employment) and simple schedule D(capital gains) or Schedule E (rental income). Clients are asked to bring 2007 tax forms, if available, all income forms including W-2’s, 1099 INT (interest), 1099 (retirement), 1099G (gambling and lottery winnings) and property taxes, mortgage interest, medical expenses, charitable contributions and gambling losses if itemizing deductions.

 

Reminder…Polish Conversation Group

The Polish Conversation Group is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, March 4th and 18th, at 10:00 am at the Bellingham Public Library. New members welcome.

ARE YOU O.K?                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Reliable, daily telephone contact makes you more comfortable and helps in maintaining your independence. It reassures family and friends who care about you, and this program is flexible! Participate on an on-going basis, or for a short period of time, like after a hospital stay. You can also make arrangements for vacations and holidays. No equipment to purchase, no special codes, NO COST to you.

For more information about (RUOK) CALL 1-866-900-7865 (Toll-Free).  You may also use this number to leave a message if you are already on the program and won’t be home for your daily call.  Call 508-966-0398 for the sign-up form, we can even help you fill it out. Peace of mind is as close as your telephone. This Program is sponsored by the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office and highly recommended by your Council on Aging.

The Center of it All

Come enjoy the Center. We have a large selection of books, newspapers and magazines, and the coffee is good, hot and free.  The pool table and main lounge are here for you to use.

 

Lunch is offered in the dining room during the week most of the year, and is available to seniors by reservation (must be ordered before 10 am) for a donation. Lunch is provided through the cooperation and support of the COA, TVES, Inc and the Bellingham School Department, and is available from 11:15 to 12:30 pm.  Menu items include sandwiches, salads, hamburgers, pasta with sauce, pizza, and often favorites like macaroni and cheese, baked chicken, turkey, or roast pork.  Meals include milk or juice, bread, a vegetable and dessert. For reservations or to check the meal selections or pick up the monthly menu, stop by or call 508-966-0398.

 

Are you eligible to use our van service, but not taking advantage of this great assistance? If you need a modification or accommodation to participate, please call Senior Center Director, Laura DeMattia at 508-966-0398. Currently, no oranges (or by-products) are allowed at the Center. This is in response to a request by a participant who experiences an extreme allergic reaction when exposed to this fruit.

American Red Cross Blood Drive

March 1 from 9am to 2pm

Senior Center 40 Blackstone Street - Everyone is encouraged to give

 

MARCH 2008

 

Monday, March 3, 2008

8:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

9:15 Tai Chi

10:00 Quilters/Knitters

11:00 Chair Exercises

1:00 Card Players

1:00 SHINE

 

Monday, March 10, 2008

8:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

9:15 Tai Chi

10:00 Quilters/Knitters

11:00 Chair Exercises

1:00 Card Players

1:00 SHINE

 

Monday, March 17, 2008

8:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

9:15 Tai Chi

10:00 Quilters/Knitters

11:00 Chair Exercises

12:00 VFW Dinner-Dance

1:00 Card Players

1:00 SHINE

 

Monday, March 24, 2008

8:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

9:15 Tai Chi

10:00 Quilters/Knitters

11:00 Chair Exercises

1:00 Card Players

1:00 SHINE

 

Monday, March 31, 2008

8:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

9:15 Tai Chi

10:00 Quilters/Knitters

11:00 Chair Exercises

1:00 Card Players

1:00 SHINE

 

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

8:00 Walking Club at FR YMCA

9:00-12:00 Pool League

9:15 Bowling-Ryan Center

10:00 Polish Group at Library

10:00 Line Dancing

1:00 Elder Service Mtg./Chinese Auction

1:00 Open Art

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

8:00 Walking Club at FR YMCA

9:00-12:00 Pool League

9:15 Bowling-Ryan Center

10:00 Line Dancing

1:00 COA Meeting

1:00 Open Art

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

8:00 Walking Club at FR YMCA

9:00-12:00 Pool League

9:15 Bowling-Ryan Center

10:00 Polish Group at Library

10:00 Line Dancing

1:00 Open Art

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

8:00 Walking Cub at FR YMCA

9:00-12:00 Pool League

9:15 Bowling-Ryan Center

10:00 Line Dancing

1:00 Open Art

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

9:00 Bridge

9:15 Tai Chi

9:30 Chorus

11:00 Motion to Music

1:00 Bingo

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

9:00 Bridge

9:15 Tai Chi

9:30 Chorus

11:00 Health Talk

11:00 Motion to Music

1:00 Bingo

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

9:00 Bridge

9:15 Tai Chi

9:30 Chorus

10:00 Financial Assistance

11:00 Motion to Music

1:00 Bingo

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

2:00-4:00 Legal Assistance

 

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

9:00 Bridge

9:15 Tai Chi

9:30 Chorus

11:00 Motion to Music

1:00 Bingo

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Thursday, March 6, 2008

8:00 Walking Club at FR YMCA

9:00-12:00 Pool League

9:00-1:00 AARP Tax Assistance

10:30 Yogilates Class

11:00 TRIAD

12:30 Young at Heart Cards

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Thursday, March 13, 2008

8:00 Log Cabin Trip

8:00 Walking Club at FR YMCA

9:00-12:00 Pool League

9:00-1:00 AARP Tax Assistance

10:30 Yogilates Class

12.30 Young at Heart Cards

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Thursday, March 20, 2008

8:00 Walking Club at FR YMCA

8:00 Mohegan Sun

9:00-12:00 Pool League

9:00-1:00 AARP Tax Assistance

10:30 Yogilates Class

12:30 Young at Heart Cards

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Thursday, March 27, 2008

8:00 Walking Club at FR YMCA

9:00-12:00 Pool League

9:00-1:00 AARP Tax Assistance

10:30 Yogilates Class

12:00 Birthday Party

12:30 Young at Heart Cards

1:00-4:00 Billiard Room Open

 

Friday, March 7, 2008

8:00-12:00 Billiard Room Open

9:15 Cribbage

10:00 Chair Exercises

12:30 Canasta

12:30 Scrabble

 

Friday, March 14, 2008

8:00-12:00 Billiard Room Open

9:15 Cribbage

10:00 Chair Exercises

1230 Canasta

12:30 Scrabble

 

Friday, March 21, 2008

8:00-12:00 Billiard Room Open

9:15 Cribbage

10:00 Chair Exercises

12:30 Canasta

12:30 Scrabble

 

Friday, March 28, 2008

8:00-12:00 Billiard Room Open

9:15 Cribbage

10:00 Chair Exercises

12:30 Podiatry Clinic

12:30 Canasta

12:30 Scrabble

 

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