COA Announces July Activities and Events for Bellingham Seniors
Jun 26, 2014 02:38PM ● By Pamela Johnson
The Bellingham Senior Center is centrally located, at 40 Blackstone Street. Tel: 508-966-0398.
CHORE Services
Sadly, we say farewell to Blair Belcher, our CHORE repair person. He has retired to New Hampshire. We all wish him the very best in his future endeavors.
Happily, Eric Milot, a resident of Bellingham with many years of experience with construction and repairs, has agreed to help our seniors by taking over as our new CHORE Service handyman. Eric is a family man and homeowner right here in town. He has already started on a list of people who’ve requested assistance.
This service is provided to both seniors (60+), and younger disabled individuals. The program provides for minor repairs to be done for an affordable cost, depending on a sliding scale. You are asked to pay for the materials, if needed, as well as a small stipend that supplements the state grant that pays for Eric’s time.
Work that the program may cover includes replacement of washer hoses; replace/repair outlets, switches, plugs, doorbells, light bulbs, light fixtures, or phone jacks; change window storms and screens; install window plastic; change some furnace filters; hang pictures, curtain rods and mirrors; replace door-handles, springs, and closers; install carbon monoxide alarms or smoke detectors or replace batteries; install grab bars in bath area; install or repair internal railings or steps, install or remove a window air conditioner unit; and more.
Highest priority is given to low-income households and repairs that address safety and health concerns. Once the work has been completed you will be asked to fill out a short evaluation form to rate the service you received.
If you need help with minor repairs, call Sheila or Lisa at the center (508-966-0398) to arrange for him to come and assess the job. He will also set a date to do the work.
Monthly Birthday Party—Join us on Thursday, July 31, at 12 pm. A BBQ Chicken buffet for $7pp by Bossy’s Catering is planned. The party includes birthday cake and ice cream, and everyone with a July birthday will receive a gift. Reservations must be accompanied by your payment, and there is no refund if you cancel after July 29. All residents 90+ are invited free with a reservation during their birthday month.
Trips & Travel
Mohegan Sun Casino—Depart on Thursday, July 17, and enjoy one of our favorite day trips. The package includes a $15 free food coupon, a $15 free bet, and a chance for a free trip. Depart at 7:45 am and return aroud 5 pm.The cost is $22pp including the driver’s tip. (No refund if cancelled after July 15.)
Independence Day Dinner Dance—Enjoy an afternoon of dancing, great music, delicious food, and fun people at the Medway VFW on July 21, at 11:30 am. A sit-down roast beef dinner is planned, starting at noon, including fruit cup, salad, pasta & sauce, rolls & butter, potato, vegetable, and dessert; cost is $17/pp. All area residents are welcome to sign up at the senior center or by calling 508-966-0398. (No refund if cancelled after July 18.) The VFW is located at 123 Holliston St, Medway. Music is provided by DJ Dave Valerio with couples dancing and line-dancing with Mary Lennon, prize drawings, and cash bar. Winners from the last Dinner Dance include Jane LeVie, Kay Detore and Dorothy Boulay.
Mosquitoes, Ticks and Lyme Disease with Nurse Sarah—On Wednesday, July 16, 10:30 am, we will talk about mosquitoes, and ticks and Lyme Disease. It’s the season and they are out in Massachusetts. Learn how to protect yourself from some of the diseases they carry. And learn the signs of Lyme Disease that might require a doctor’s visit. Sign-up requested, but not mandatory.
Mass Audiology Hearing Screening—You are invited to the senior center, 40 Blackstone Street, on Wednesday, July 9, 2–4 pm, for a free hearing screening, compliments of Mass Audiology. Please call 508-966-0398 to make your appointment.
Calling All Crafters
Believe it or not, we are busy planning our annual craft fair to be held at the senior center on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014, 9 am—3 pm. Last year’s event was a wonderful success and we’re hoping to have an even greater event this year.
Many vendors have already reserved a table—in fact, there are only a few left. We try very hard not to have too many duplicate crafts (we’ve already filled our quota for jewelry, embroidery and knitted items); however, if you have another specific or unusual craft and would like to participate, please call Joan at 508-966-0398 for more information.
Legal Consultations
Attorney Daniel T. Doyle is available on Wednesday, July 16, 2–4 pm, to meet with you, answer your questions by appointment and provide a free consultation. Please call 508-966-0398.
Bellingham Council on Aging News—Over the summer please consider contacting our Outreach staff, Lisa Mottola or Sheila Ronkin, who offer free confidential counseling, caregiver support, information and referral services on aging-related issues, as well as screening and paperwork assistance for many programs that may be available to you through Benefits CheckUp (a free confidential service that determines eligibility for benefits to help pay everyday expenses). Home visits are also available by calling 508-966-0398.
Volunteers Sought
Volunteers with office experience are sought to help out at the senior center to act as greeter-receptionists. If you like to meet new people and help others feel comfortable and welcome, stop by or call. We look forward to updating our guest and attendance process with your help. Training and a regular schedule will be provided. Call and put your name on the list, and you will be contacted before the end of July.
Computer Tutor
Want to learn something new? Are you a beginner looking for a patient teacher that encourages you to work at your own pace? Call the senior center and your instructor, Patricia Llewellyn, will contact you to arrange your schedule and answer your questions. Five classes cost only $15.
Programs for Night Owls
Energy, Vitality, and Immunity—This month, Mingming will be offering a four-week series of classes for individuals who want to better manage stress, improve balance, and increase resistance to minor illnesses. She is willing to share the techniques that she has learned with those who would like to improve the quality of their lives and live more fully. There is no charge for this program, only your commitment to attend all of the sessions. Learning these techniques requires practice between classes in order to make them a part of your life routine. The sessions are scheduled for Tuesday July 8, 15, 22, 29, 7—8 pm. Please sign up at the front desk for this exciting new program. It is unlike anything you may have attended or participated in before.
On Tuesday, July 15, Cooking for One will meet from 5—6:30 pm. This free class is limited to 10 people; please register by calling 508-966-0398. The foods and the instructor are provided by Whole Foods Market Bellingham. Dawn Berthelette teaches participants how to use seasonal vegetables and fruits in unique combinations. The combinations may not be what you are accustomed to, but they are seasonal, interesting, and easy to put together.
On Tuesday, July 8 and 15, starting at 6 pm, Banking Guidance is offered by Dawn Marie Giardino, Assistant Manager of Rockland Trust. She will meet with seniors who are having difficulty with either balancing checkbooks or budgeting money. Dawn Marie has over 30 years’, experience in banking, so she is well-versed in many areas. To establish the assistance needed, your first appointment is a 15- to 20-minute consultation. Seniors wishing to use this free service must call the center for an appointment.
On Tuesday, July 15 and 22, Genealogy Workshops with Toni Picariello will run 6:30—8 pm. Why not start a new hobby, and research your family history at your own pace. These classes are free.
On Thursday July 17, 6—8 pm, Nancy Bland will once again offer her class Learning to Use Your Digital Camera Most Effectively. Nancy, who works in the photo department of a local pharmacy, has many years’ experience as a photographer and volunteers to share what she has learned without a fee.
Join Susan Winters on Tuesdays in July, 5:30—7 pm, for Yoga. The class is perfect for those who can’t get here during the day but could stop by on their way home from work. Wear or bring comfortable clothing to change into. Mats are available for beginners. The cost is $5 per class. (Susan also teaches chair yoga and basic mat yoga Tuesday mornings for $3 per one-hour class.)
Jeanne Donnelly teaches Tai Chi on Tuesdays, in July, 7:15—8:15 pm. This gentle exercise class offers many benefits; everyone is encouraged to attend. The classes always have a warm-up and introduction to what tai chi is all about. Each form is also adaptable to people who are chair bound. Jeanne also teaches a Friday class at 1 pm. The cost is $5 for seniors per class, $10 for younger participants.
On Thursday, July 17, 7—8 pm, Wing and a Prayer will perform a combination of country and classic rock. Some of the performers whose music they play are Johnny Cash, John Denver, Patsy Cline and Fleetwood Mack. This three-piece group, consisting of guitar, percussion and fiddle, has been playing together since high school. They have been performing around New England since entering Dean College, where they are entering their senior year in September.
Sadly, we say farewell to Blair Belcher, our CHORE repair person. He has retired to New Hampshire. We all wish him the very best in his future endeavors.
Happily, Eric Milot, a resident of Bellingham with many years of experience with construction and repairs, has agreed to help our seniors by taking over as our new CHORE Service handyman. Eric is a family man and homeowner right here in town. He has already started on a list of people who’ve requested assistance.
This service is provided to both seniors (60+), and younger disabled individuals. The program provides for minor repairs to be done for an affordable cost, depending on a sliding scale. You are asked to pay for the materials, if needed, as well as a small stipend that supplements the state grant that pays for Eric’s time.
Work that the program may cover includes replacement of washer hoses; replace/repair outlets, switches, plugs, doorbells, light bulbs, light fixtures, or phone jacks; change window storms and screens; install window plastic; change some furnace filters; hang pictures, curtain rods and mirrors; replace door-handles, springs, and closers; install carbon monoxide alarms or smoke detectors or replace batteries; install grab bars in bath area; install or repair internal railings or steps, install or remove a window air conditioner unit; and more.
Highest priority is given to low-income households and repairs that address safety and health concerns. Once the work has been completed you will be asked to fill out a short evaluation form to rate the service you received.
If you need help with minor repairs, call Sheila or Lisa at the center (508-966-0398) to arrange for him to come and assess the job. He will also set a date to do the work.
Monthly Birthday Party—Join us on Thursday, July 31, at 12 pm. A BBQ Chicken buffet for $7pp by Bossy’s Catering is planned. The party includes birthday cake and ice cream, and everyone with a July birthday will receive a gift. Reservations must be accompanied by your payment, and there is no refund if you cancel after July 29. All residents 90+ are invited free with a reservation during their birthday month.
Trips & Travel
Mohegan Sun Casino—Depart on Thursday, July 17, and enjoy one of our favorite day trips. The package includes a $15 free food coupon, a $15 free bet, and a chance for a free trip. Depart at 7:45 am and return aroud 5 pm.The cost is $22pp including the driver’s tip. (No refund if cancelled after July 15.)
Independence Day Dinner Dance—Enjoy an afternoon of dancing, great music, delicious food, and fun people at the Medway VFW on July 21, at 11:30 am. A sit-down roast beef dinner is planned, starting at noon, including fruit cup, salad, pasta & sauce, rolls & butter, potato, vegetable, and dessert; cost is $17/pp. All area residents are welcome to sign up at the senior center or by calling 508-966-0398. (No refund if cancelled after July 18.) The VFW is located at 123 Holliston St, Medway. Music is provided by DJ Dave Valerio with couples dancing and line-dancing with Mary Lennon, prize drawings, and cash bar. Winners from the last Dinner Dance include Jane LeVie, Kay Detore and Dorothy Boulay.
Mosquitoes, Ticks and Lyme Disease with Nurse Sarah—On Wednesday, July 16, 10:30 am, we will talk about mosquitoes, and ticks and Lyme Disease. It’s the season and they are out in Massachusetts. Learn how to protect yourself from some of the diseases they carry. And learn the signs of Lyme Disease that might require a doctor’s visit. Sign-up requested, but not mandatory.
Mass Audiology Hearing Screening—You are invited to the senior center, 40 Blackstone Street, on Wednesday, July 9, 2–4 pm, for a free hearing screening, compliments of Mass Audiology. Please call 508-966-0398 to make your appointment.
Calling All Crafters
Believe it or not, we are busy planning our annual craft fair to be held at the senior center on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014, 9 am—3 pm. Last year’s event was a wonderful success and we’re hoping to have an even greater event this year.
Many vendors have already reserved a table—in fact, there are only a few left. We try very hard not to have too many duplicate crafts (we’ve already filled our quota for jewelry, embroidery and knitted items); however, if you have another specific or unusual craft and would like to participate, please call Joan at 508-966-0398 for more information.
Legal Consultations
Attorney Daniel T. Doyle is available on Wednesday, July 16, 2–4 pm, to meet with you, answer your questions by appointment and provide a free consultation. Please call 508-966-0398.
Bellingham Council on Aging News—Over the summer please consider contacting our Outreach staff, Lisa Mottola or Sheila Ronkin, who offer free confidential counseling, caregiver support, information and referral services on aging-related issues, as well as screening and paperwork assistance for many programs that may be available to you through Benefits CheckUp (a free confidential service that determines eligibility for benefits to help pay everyday expenses). Home visits are also available by calling 508-966-0398.
Volunteers Sought
Volunteers with office experience are sought to help out at the senior center to act as greeter-receptionists. If you like to meet new people and help others feel comfortable and welcome, stop by or call. We look forward to updating our guest and attendance process with your help. Training and a regular schedule will be provided. Call and put your name on the list, and you will be contacted before the end of July.
Computer Tutor
Want to learn something new? Are you a beginner looking for a patient teacher that encourages you to work at your own pace? Call the senior center and your instructor, Patricia Llewellyn, will contact you to arrange your schedule and answer your questions. Five classes cost only $15.
Programs for Night Owls
Energy, Vitality, and Immunity—This month, Mingming will be offering a four-week series of classes for individuals who want to better manage stress, improve balance, and increase resistance to minor illnesses. She is willing to share the techniques that she has learned with those who would like to improve the quality of their lives and live more fully. There is no charge for this program, only your commitment to attend all of the sessions. Learning these techniques requires practice between classes in order to make them a part of your life routine. The sessions are scheduled for Tuesday July 8, 15, 22, 29, 7—8 pm. Please sign up at the front desk for this exciting new program. It is unlike anything you may have attended or participated in before.
On Tuesday, July 15, Cooking for One will meet from 5—6:30 pm. This free class is limited to 10 people; please register by calling 508-966-0398. The foods and the instructor are provided by Whole Foods Market Bellingham. Dawn Berthelette teaches participants how to use seasonal vegetables and fruits in unique combinations. The combinations may not be what you are accustomed to, but they are seasonal, interesting, and easy to put together.
On Tuesday, July 8 and 15, starting at 6 pm, Banking Guidance is offered by Dawn Marie Giardino, Assistant Manager of Rockland Trust. She will meet with seniors who are having difficulty with either balancing checkbooks or budgeting money. Dawn Marie has over 30 years’, experience in banking, so she is well-versed in many areas. To establish the assistance needed, your first appointment is a 15- to 20-minute consultation. Seniors wishing to use this free service must call the center for an appointment.
On Tuesday, July 15 and 22, Genealogy Workshops with Toni Picariello will run 6:30—8 pm. Why not start a new hobby, and research your family history at your own pace. These classes are free.
On Thursday July 17, 6—8 pm, Nancy Bland will once again offer her class Learning to Use Your Digital Camera Most Effectively. Nancy, who works in the photo department of a local pharmacy, has many years’ experience as a photographer and volunteers to share what she has learned without a fee.
Join Susan Winters on Tuesdays in July, 5:30—7 pm, for Yoga. The class is perfect for those who can’t get here during the day but could stop by on their way home from work. Wear or bring comfortable clothing to change into. Mats are available for beginners. The cost is $5 per class. (Susan also teaches chair yoga and basic mat yoga Tuesday mornings for $3 per one-hour class.)
Jeanne Donnelly teaches Tai Chi on Tuesdays, in July, 7:15—8:15 pm. This gentle exercise class offers many benefits; everyone is encouraged to attend. The classes always have a warm-up and introduction to what tai chi is all about. Each form is also adaptable to people who are chair bound. Jeanne also teaches a Friday class at 1 pm. The cost is $5 for seniors per class, $10 for younger participants.
On Thursday, July 17, 7—8 pm, Wing and a Prayer will perform a combination of country and classic rock. Some of the performers whose music they play are Johnny Cash, John Denver, Patsy Cline and Fleetwood Mack. This three-piece group, consisting of guitar, percussion and fiddle, has been playing together since high school. They have been performing around New England since entering Dean College, where they are entering their senior year in September.
