The HILLTOPPE R Hopkinton’s Hub for Boomers and Beyond

March 2020 Hopkinton Senior Center

Musical Lecture on Nat King Cole NEW LUNCH DEAL! Just when you think things couldn’t get any and Dinah Shore Wednesday, March 11, 12:30 better after 2 months of free exercise, here’s Nat King Cole and Dinah Shore were our new deal: two of the most popular singers in Have you ever said, where can you get a complete America during the mid-20th century. lunch from “soup-ta-nuts” for only $5.00? Well After Dinah established herself as a beginning March 2, 2020 we will offer a buy 4 get 1 top radio and recording artist in the free lunch or buy 8 and get 2 free lunches. Thanks to 1940s, she shot to superstardom the funding of the Friends of the Seniors, (you all so with her phenomenally successful Dinah Shore TV generously support) they will be supplementing our Show in the 1950s. Meanwhile, Nat Cole was lunch program when you pre-purchase a 5 lunch card recording hit record after hit record, such as for $20 or a 10 lunch card for $40. These cards held Unforgettable, Sweet Lorraine, Route 66, The at the hostess table do NOT expire. They make a Christmas Song and dozens more. This audio-visual program documents the careers of these two beloved nice gift and will be available at the Hostess Table or entertainers, using archival photo and film footage. Front Desk. Additionally, the audience is encouraged to sing along to the hit melodies of these two wonderful vocalists. The Myth of Robert E. Lee and The Lost Bruce Hambro, presenter, is a cultural historian. Cause by Professor Jeff Skillings of Dean College Thursday, March 26, 12:30 Saint Patrick’s Day Perhaps no other American general has been so Thursday, March 12, 12 noon lionized into the romance and mythology of American It’s time for “wearing of the green” warfare than Robert E. Lee. Where George and a traditional Saint Patrick’s Day Washington led the First Continental Army to create celebration. The menu will feature a America, and Ulysses S. Grant was commander of all boiled dinner with corned beef or ham, cabbage, potato, carrots and the Federal armies to preserve America, Robert E. Irish soda bread. We are thrilled to welcome back the Lee led the Army of Northern Virginia with the aim of Black Velvet Band, a premier Irish dance show and the Confederacy seceding from the United States. band with their lively mix of Irish and American music. And for this rebellious action, Lee and the Be prepared to join in a line dance, sing-along or just Confederacy have been preserved in our national sit back and enjoy the entertainment. Reservations memory under the emblem of “The Lost Cause.” must be made by Monday, March 9. No regular lunch Associate Professor Jeff Skillings will give a program. Cost $10.00. presentation of this ongoing national discussion concerning “The Myth of Robert E. Lee and The Justice of Superior Court, Lost Cause.”

Hon. Valerie Yarasus, French is “fun” for beginners Friday March 13, 12:00 noon Fridays, March 6,13, 20 and 27, 9:00 - 10:00 March is National Judicial Outreach Month in Are you thinking of taking a trip to Quebec or France Massachusetts, the Trial Court’s annual community in the near future and would like some basic French? outreach effort when our judges engage with Or would you like a little refresher of those middle communities across the Commonwealth about the and high school years of French? Whatever the importance of an impartial and independent judiciary reason, studies have shown learning a foreign governed by the Rule of Law. We are thrilled to language is very beneficial to your memory. Come welcome Hon. Valerie Yarasus for an insightful and join native French speaker Nathalie Scott, COA discussion. Pre-registration required. Chef, for a fun time learning the French language and culture. Pre-registration required. Min: 4. Max:10.

March 2020 HOPKINTON SENIOR CENTER 2

8:30-4:00 Mon., Tues. & Thursday A letter from the Director

8:30-7:00 Wednesday pring is in the air?! Maybe that is wishful thinking 8:30-2:00 Friday S as I write this in early February but since the 28 Mayhew Street groundhog did not see his shadow it must be Hopkinton, MA 01748 true! Planning ahead is one of the things we do at the (508) 497-9730 Senior Center. Whether it is preparing our newsletter a www.hopkintonseniorcenter.com month in advance, scheduling programs and creating “Like” us on Facebook: Hopkinton Senior Center the lunch menu, or helping you find medical rides or assistance; planning for the future is ongoing.

STAFF Ext. As we go forward here at the Senior Center we need Amy Beck, Director ...... 1613 your help and feedback. This month we will be Ashley Shaheen, Assistant Director ...... 1617 evaluating the Senior Center and its programs, and we need your assistance to help us accomplish this Judi Allessio, Administrative Assistant ... 1614 goal. In this newsletter and at the front desk you will Marlene Troupes, Outreach Coordinator .. 1616 find a survey that will let us know if we are on the right Kim Carson, Outreach Coordinator ...... 1615 track. You can also complete the survey online Susan Stewart, Volunteer Coordinator ..... 1618 through our website at www.hopkintonseniorcenter.com. One survey per person please, extra surveys will be Lisa Deneen, Receptionist ...... 1619 mailed by request. Surveys will be collected at the George Robinson, Bus Driver Senior Center through the month of March. The Louis Mongiat, Bus Driver Senior Center is for you - so we are interested in what Pat Lynch, Custodian you want to see and do!

Alice Rotfort, S.H.I.N.E Counselor If you haven’t had the opportunity to take advantage of

FOOD SERVICE STAFF what we have to offer, there is no better time than the present to come in. Everyday we have a wide variety Nathalie Scott, Chef of fun and engaging activities and programs to Zahra Ali, Chef challenge and motivate you. Maureen Aylward Take a chance, drop in and see what we have to Cate De Carolis offer. With your feedback and comments we can Richard Munroe continue to bring you the high quality programs you

and numerous Volunteers who make it all want. happen! Amy Beck, Director

March Senior View “Planning Ahead”

Guest: Elder Law Attorney Kathleen Nealon

Host: Mary McLeod

Senior View is shown on local cable HCAM TV Mondays: 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays: 5:30 p.m. and Thursdays: 11:00 a.m.

COUNCIL ON AGING BOARD Don Wolf, Chairman Donna Deneen Eunice Inman, Vice Chairman Megan Carvalho Jack Palitsch, Treasurer Nancy Drawe Marilyn Palmer, Secretary Carole Slaman John Gardner

Open Board meetings held 1st Wed. of month at 1:00

28 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748 - 508 497-9730

3 HOPKINTON SENIOR CENTER March 2020

Upcoming EVENTS Friends and Volunteers Hopkinton Senior Center’s Enrichment Series: The Enrichment Series is supported in part by a The Hopkinton Senior Center grant from the Hopkinton Cultural Council, a local would like to thank and agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural acknowledge the financial Council, a state agency. contribution from the Hopkinton To My Dearest: The Civil War Letters of Cultural Council and Friends of George and Emily Ward the Seniors for a nearly new Thursday, April 9, 12:30 p.m. pottery kiln to replace an older When the Civil War broke out in 1861, George Ward th model. This kiln is more energy was asked to raise the 15 Massachusetts Regiment. efficient with state of the art In August 1861, he left his wife, Emily, and their two controls. small children to go to war. They wrote to each other frequently. In all, 116 letters survive in the collection of the Worcester Historical Museum. They detail the pain Greenhouse News! of prolonged separation, the challenges of single The Senior Center would like to welcome Paul Steen parenting and the horrors of the battle front. Join as our new Volunteer Greenhouse Coordinator. Paul Lynne McKenney Lydick and Thomas R. Lydick as recently moved to Hopkinton and is a Master they share the personal and poignant letters of this Gardener for the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. Worcester couple. His love is indoor/outdoor flowering plants . Paul’s Organic Gardening for Everyone expertise will be a wonderful addition to Ben Bingel Date: John Root, Presenter who cultivates our vegetable garden. It will be great to Thursday, June 4, 10:30 have both Greenhouses in full swing with seedlings this month for our annual Plant Sale in May. If you Mabel and Jerry: Obstacles to the Altar love to get your hands in the soil Paul and Ben need Thursday, October 22, 10:30 a.m. your help in the Greenhouses. If you are interested contact Sue Stewart, Volunteer Coordinator at 508- Friends of the Hopkinton Seniors 497-9730 ext. 1618 or [email protected] From Dolores Ivester, Treasurer

The Hopkinton Senior Center once again received two Volunteers Save The Date! time-waiver entries for the 2020 Boston Marathon for The Annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner Thursday, April 30th at 5:00 pm. fundraising. We have found two enthusiastic runners: Sam Wheeler and Jon Kalus. Donations can be made Look for your invitation in early April. We rely on our online at: https://www.mightycause.com/ volunteer list from the MySeniorCenter (sign-in) team/2020marathon using a credit card. If preferred, system when we send out invitations to those who checks made out to Friends of the Hopkinton Seniors have donated and clocked in their time in the past 12 or cash can be given to the front desk. months. If you are a volunteer and have not received an invitation, please contact Sue Stewart, Volunteer Sam Wheeler is originally from Coordinator at extension 1618. Please R.S.V.P. by Southborough and ran frequently at Friday April 24th. Hopkinton State Park in high school. Following college, he now works DRIVERS NEEDED! for Fidelity Investments in Boston with family still living in Southborough. He has been running as long as he The Senior Center is in need of volunteer drivers can remember; was captain of Cross Country in HS; to help seniors get to local medical appointments. and continues running daily up to 12 miles! This will If interested please contact Sue Stewart, be his first marathon and his first Boston Marathon, so Volunteer Coordinator, 508-497-9730, Ext. 1618 he is very excited. or email, [email protected]

Jon Kalus was our runner for the 2018 Marathon, but injured his foot and could not run on race day. Despite the setback, he continued to raise $5k in donations for The Friends. Jon has since recovered and run numerous races including half marathons, marathons and ultra-marathons. This will be Jon’s first Boston Marathon and he, too, is excited for this opportunity.

28 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748 - 508 497-9730 4 HOPKINTON SENIOR CENTER March 2020 Arts & Crafts Tick Talk Thursday, March 19, 10:30

Art Talk Shaun McAuliffe, Director of the Hopkinton Health Department, will “The Waterloo Bridge” by Claude Monet discuss the biology of ticks, the The Impressionist Revolution diseases they carry and what preventative action Wednesday, March 4, 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. residents can take. He will also discuss the current A Docent at the Worcester Art Museum and an Artist, projects the Health Department, the Massachusetts Marion Buricatu shares her love Depart. of Environmental Protection and the of art history, art making and her Massachusetts Depart. of Public Health have knowledge of French culture to underway in Hopkinton to reduce the risk of tick-borne offer these unique Art talks. illness to our residents. Everyone is welcome. Pre- registration required. Light Digital Photography 1 refreshments provided Wednesdays, March 18 - April 15, 2:30 - 4:00 Instructor: Steve McGrath Cost: $40.00 Glass Paint Introduction Art Class: Are you still getting to know your digital camera and its Wednesday, March 18, 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. features? Here’s an opportunity to learn from an expert Price: $10.00 with materials. Min: 10 students in this seminar for beginners! Bring your camera and In this 1.5 hours workshop, learn learn when and how to use its special features, such with art teacher Marion Buricatu as program mode, manual mode, aperture priority and how to create a beautiful and shutter priority. Also covered will be basic composition simple floral design on a wine and best use of light for different situations, such as glass or glass mug. From plant, people, macro and landscape photography. Min: beginners to more advanced, this 4/Max: 15 is a perfect class to get introduced Chess for Fun - Learn and Play to painting or enjoy a new project. Pre-registration Thursdays, March 12, 19 and 26, 2:00 - 3:00 required.

Wood Block Bunnies Cribbage Tuesday, March 24, 1:00 - 3:00 Mondays, March 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 2:30 - 4:00

Cost: $5.00 MahJong Spruce up your home decor for March 4, 11, 18, and 25, 3:00 - 5:00 Easter with this adorable wood block bunny. The bunny will be on Planning for Medicare display in the main lobby. Max: 10. ednesday, March 11, 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Pre-registration required. W (Details on MEDICARE PAGE 10)

Silk Scarf Marbling (NEW SESSION) Wednesday, March 25, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. 50+ Job Seekers Networking Group Cost: $25.00 Monday, March 2, 1:30 - 3:30 Have you ever painted water? This art Using LinkedIn as a Powerful Job Search Tool form is incredibly inclusive and an interactive experience for all ages. Monday, March 16, 1:30 - 3:30 Join us to create a one-of-a-kind silk Networking 2.0 piece through the magic of “floating Join this exciting program if you are 50+ unemployed, ink”. The magic of marbling can be underemployed, returning to the workforce or seeking mesmerizing and keeps people employment. Learn the skills needed to obtain engaged with each other throughout employment in the current job market ,including the experience, bringing groups resume writing that works, creating an elevator pitch, together. Therein lies the confronting ageism, managing stress and locating magic! Refreshments served. Minimum: 10 senior friendly employers. Ed Lawrence, Career Coach will facilitate each meeting. There will be time for How to Create A Knitted Hat networking as well. For more information or to register Wednesdays, 1:00 - 2:00 Max: 4 please contact Ashley Shaheen, co-facilitator, at 508- Materials Fee: $5.00 497-9730 or visit the website at Instructor: Jenny O’Neil, COA Volunteer www.mcoaonline.com/50plusregistration This program is free thanks to a grant from MCOA. 28 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748 - 508 497-9730

5 Hopkinton Senior Center March 2020

Hopkinton is on its way to becoming an Age and Dementia Fitness Fitness class fee policy Friendly community! If you would like to become a Dementia Classes are paid monthly in advance, Friend please contact the Senior Center. Once additional based on number of classes for the Dementia Friends training dates are scheduled you will be month. If the class is cancelled for any notified. reason we will make adjustments as necessary. Fees: $3. We will now accept a $5 “drop in” fee. Memory Training Program MONDAYS Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18 and 25, 9:30 - 11:30 YOGA for Seniors 9:00 - $3 Cost: $10.00 for materials Instructor: Crystal Lee This class, based on the UCLA Longevity Center’s program, is an innovative, 4-week educational program for improving your memory. We meet for 4 Exercise with Linda 10:30 - $3 consecutive weeks and teach you everyday memory techniques to help you Instructor: Linda Bellefueille

remember names and faces, avoid misplacing objects, recall appointments Zumba Gold® 1:30 $3 and more! The class will be taught by certified trainers who demonstrate Instructor: Rebecca Tredeau strategies and techniques in an interactive setting. Pre-registration required;

call Ashley Shaheen at 508-497-9730. TUESDAYS Caregiver Support Group Stretch Class 9:00-9:30 - No fee The 3rd Thursday of each month at 10:30-12 Instructor: Dr. Binh Nguyen, CCSP  Are you caring for parent spouse/partner or close friend?

W.O.W. (Weight Off Wisely)10:00  Are you feeling overwhelmed and isolated? Facilitator: Marlene Troupes No fee Our Caregiver Support Group provides an opportunity for learning and a space for sharing your concerns with others who face similar challenges. Exercise with Joni 12:30 - $3 You are welcome to join the group at the Hopkinton Senior Center. If you Instructor: Joni Lebov need care for your loved one while you are here, contact the Outreach Mall Walking/Solomon Pond Department at 508 497-9730 Ex.t 1616 and they will provide someone to Tuesday, bus departs :100 returns t 3:30. entertain your loved one here at the Center.

Tap Dancing 2:00 $3 Aging Mastery Program Instructor: Rebecca Tredeau Wednesdays, April 1 - June 3, 10:00 - 11:30 WEDNESDAYS 10 Weeks - Max: 20 (Free) Tai Chi 9:30 - $3 Build your own personal playbook for aging well. This fun, innovative Instructor: Jean O’Connor program empowers you to take key steps to improve your well-being, add stability to your life, and strengthen ties to your community. Meet new friends Tai Chi Fundamentals and provide encouragement to one another as you take the Aging Mastery 10:45 - $3 journey together. Every week a new topic will be covered by an expert in the Instructor: Jean O’Connor field. Topics include Sleep, Exercise, Community Engagement, Medication Management and so much more! Participating in this program, you TAPFit 4:00 $3 Instructor: Rebecca Tredeau will make and maintain small but impactful changes in your health behaviors, financial well-being and enrichment in later life. Get REAL Pound® 5:00 pm incentives and rewards, such as free Senior Center lunch passes and fitness Instructor Rebecca Tredeau $3 class tokens for taking small steps that can improve your well-being. Meet

new friends, provide support and encouragement to your peers, and become YOGA—Slow Flow 6:00 pm $3 more involved in your community. Thanks to Massachusetts Council on Instructor: Crystal Lee Aging for funding this program. Pre-registration is required. FRIDAYS Chi Gong 10:30 - $3 Our Time Memory Café Instructor: Linda Bellefueille Location: Hopkinton Public Library Meditation 12:00 check Friday Monthly every 2nd Tuesday from 1:00 to 3:00 calendar Our Time Memory Café is a welcoming gathering for those Instructor: Jeanne Friswell $3 experiencing forgetfulness, mild cognitive impairment or living with Many more programs dementia, and their care partner, family and friends. The café is a place to socialize, share experiences with others going through similar changes and are listed on the form friendships A care partner must accompany anyone who requires calendar page as well assistance. This program is a joint venture between the Hopkinton Senior Center and Library. For more information or to register call (508) 497-0108 as the articles of or email [email protected] special events. 28 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748 - 508 497-9730

6 HOPKINTON SENIOR CENTER March 2020 Day Trips Bus Schedule

Out-of-town and non-senior residents (-60) as Monday - NO Bus Transportation space available.

Tuesday Worcester Art Museum 9:00 -12:30 Local errands and Center activities lunch at 99 Restaurant, Bus & Museum $20 1 - 3:30 Mall Walking –Solomon Pond, bus departs Friday, March 13 at 10:30 a.m. Center at 1:00 returning 3:30 - rides home Wednesday Putnam Conn. Antique Center 9:00 - 12:30 Local errands and Center activities Lunch at Courthouse Restaurant 12:45 - 3:00 Shopping (various discount stores) Bus $10 buy lunch Approx. 3:30 rides home from Center

Friday March 27th at 9:30 a.m. Thursday Newport Playhouse 9:00 - 12:30 Local errands and Center activities Presents “Sex Please We’re Sixty” 12:30-3:00 Market Basket - Bellingham

Bus, Buffet, Play & Cabaret $64. Friday Thursday April 9 at 9:30 a.m. Back by 6:00 pm. 9:00 -12:30 Open for your requests when available.

Remember you must have your emergency contact Early reservations requested information available when making your reservation. 1 - 2 Bread/Milk Run to Price Chopper

Suggested ride donation (unless otherwise stated) Let’s Eat Out at: $1 Round trip within Hopkinton $3 Round trip outside of Hopkinton Lowell's in Mendon Thursday, March 26 (3:30 Departure)

Bus cost $1 in town, $3 outside of Hopkinton. Regularly Scheduled Events

Please let us now if you are not taking the bus so we TED Talks can make reservations. Mondays at 12:30 in the Library Interesting topics and stimulating conversation follows.

Charlie Card Event (MWRTA) WOW (Weight Off Wisely) Tuesdays at 10:00 Library. All are welcome. Thursday April 23, 2020 at 12:30

nd th Ieshia Price, Director of Travel Training and Senior *2 & *4 Thursday, Chair Massage 9:30 Relations from the MetroWest Regional Transit Au- -12:30. Sign up required; $1 per minute (5 min. thority (MWRTA) is coming to the Hopkinton COA to minimum) Subject to change - check calendar share information on MWRTA transportation options nd 2 Thursday – Birthday lunch on us for Hopkinton available through the Fixed Route. She will share in- Seniors and volunteers whose birthday falls in formation on how to catch the bus through the Travel this month. Please call to reserve your free lunch.

Training program.She will provide schedules, maps, brochures, and treats, too! After the presentation she Thursdays 12:30-3:30 & Fridays 9:00-1:30 will issue Senior Charlie Cards. Please pick-up a Hairdresser by appoint; $10 cut, $15 wash/cut/ dry Charlie Card application at the Senior Center and re- 1st Friday at 9:00 – Hopkinton Veterans Breakfast turn it by April 16, 2020. Pre-registration required as we need a minimum number of 12 people in order to Legal Clinic at the Center March 20 10-12 make this event happen. Elder Law Attorney, Arthur Bergeron of Mirick O’Connell, provides individual free 15 minute clinics. Carfit (Stayed Tuned!) Appointment at the front desk required.

Thursday, May 14, 2020 2nd Saturday - Hopkinton Recycling Center – ...fits seniors to cars redeemable bottles and cans.

Computer Assistance Daily 10-12 and student volunteer assistance in the afternoons Are you on Facebook? Make sure you give the senior (time varies).

center a “like” and share our page with friends! 28 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748 - 508 497-9730

March 2020 HOPKINTON SENIOR CENTER 7

Health Services Outreach Services

Podiatry Clinic – April 27 at 9:00 with Dr. Cooper; Home Heating Cost

Appointment needed; $30. June 15 will be next. If you would like to apply to SMOC (South Middlesex Opportunity Council) for Fuel Assistance this coming Blood Pressure Clinic – Thursdays, 10:30 – 11:30 No heating season, please contact our Outreach charge - Drop in! Department. The program runs November through

Durable Medical Equipment for Hopkinton April; the income guidelines are set by the State. If you’re a household of one and have income of $37,360 , as available, to be loaned out residents use only or under; two: $48,855 or under, etc., you should free of charge (walkers, bath seats, canes, crutches). consider applying. All household members are (We no longer issue used commodes) counted in the totals. SMOC assists whether you heat Wheelchairs, both standard and transport, require with oil, natural gas, propane, electricity or wood.

a $25 refundable deposit and are limited to 2 months. The paperwork necessary is: social security cards or proof of citizenship for all in the home, income Hearing Aid Cleaning verification, a recent copy of your heating bill, your Thursday March 12, 12:30 electric bill, a photo I.D. (usually a driver's license), and a lease or mortgage. It is a simple procedure once you Nutrition Counseling have gathered the necessary papers. Our Outreach Thursday Macrh 19 at 1:00 and 2:00 Department will meet with you to fill out the SMOC You must sign-up in advance for a 1 hour application. Outreach can also assist those applying appointment, which is FREE. for 'recertification,' if you received assistance last year.

Public Health Nurse Kasey Murano Open Office Hours Medical Transportation Every Wednesday from 9:00 - 12:00 noon Rides for most local medical appointments are provided by volunteer drivers. This is a She can assist with medication review, blood pres- curb to curb service; no assistance can be sure screening, health and fall risk assessment. offered. Due to the limited number of Feel free to contact her directly: volunteer drivers the service is only offered Office: (508) 497-9725 to seniors not residing in congregate senior ext. 1156 living facilities. We need 3 business days notice. Cell (339) 223-7968 [email protected] A companion may accompany the individual needing this service. Contact Outreach Coordinators at ext. 1615 or 1616 for assistance.

Hopkinton Senior Center (HSC) Apparel On Sale - Don’t miss out! Consider purchasing HSC t-shirts, long sleeve shirts and sweatshirts available in a variety of The Hopkinton Senior Center Book Club meets colors. Show off your HSC pride at the Senior the first Monday of every month at 10:30. Center or in town. The online store is accessible All are welcome to participate. through accessing the link

hscapparel.itemorder.com Call The Senior March 2 - The Silent Patient Center to find out when the new on-line store by Alex Michaelides opens. 508-497-9730. "An unforgettable―and Hollywood-bound―new thriller... A mix of Hitchcockian suspense, Agatha Christie plotting, and Greek tragedy." ―Entertainment Weekly

Tuesday, March 24, 2:00 April 6 - The Only Woman in the Room (Southwest Tortilla Soup) by Beate Gordon A powerful, illuminating novel about Hedy Lamarr. Save the date: Wednesday, April 22, 3:00

28 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748 - 508 497-9730 ELDER LAW WITH FRANK AND MARY by Arthur P. Bergeron

Arthur P. Bergeron is an elder law attorney in the Trusts and Estates Group at Mirick O’Connell. THE CIRCUIT BREAKER TAX CREDIT: A REASON TO POSSIBLY LOOK FORWARD TO FILING YOUR TAX RETURN THOMAS F. CRONIN, Director It is tax season again. You may be dreading it, or figuring you can ignore it because your income is low enough, especially if most of 34 Church Street, Hopkinton your income comes from Social Security. But, here is a reason to look forward to filing, at least for your Massachusetts return – the Circuit Breaker tax credit. No, the Circuit Breaker has nothing to 508-435-3951 do with electricity (and most people can’t remember how it got the name). It is a tax credit based on the actual real estate taxes www.callanancronin.com paid on residential property you own or rent and occupy as your principal residence. It is designed to help seniors reduce their tax or rent bill. GetCompassionate Back &In Quality The Care to ConversationHelp You Hear Better Here is how it works. First, determine what your income is for 2019. For purposes of this tax credit, you have to add in Social Darcy Repucci, MS,CCC-A Security and some other income that you could normally exclude. (508) 936-3277 Once you have that figure, take 10% of it. Now add together the 1 Lumber Street Hopkinton real estate taxes and 50% of the water and sewer bills you paid Tues and Wed: 12:30 - 5:30 | Sat: 10 - 3 for your home in 2019. If that total exceeds 10% of your income, Or By Appointment the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will reimburse you for the www.baystateaudiology.com overage dollar for dollar up to $1,130. This is not a deduction or a credit against tax money you may have paid to the Common- wealth in 2019. You can get up to $1,130 back even if you paid or otherwise owe nothing in state income tax in 2019. And if you are just learning about this benefit, you may be happy to know that you can also amend your earlier returns (or file new ones) for 2018 and 2017 to get payments back for those years too. If you don’t own a home, you may still be entitled to reimburse- ment from the Commonwealth. Just figure out what you paid in rent for 2019. Take 25% of that. If that amount exceeds 10% of your income as calculated above, the Commonwealth will pay you the difference dollar for dollar up to $1,130 for 2019 and slightly smaller amounts for 2018 and 2017. There are a few limits to consider. You must be a Massachusetts resident. You must be 65 or older. You must file a Massachusetts income tax return. If you are single, your income as calculated above cannot exceed $60,000 for 2019. If you are a “head of household”, it is $75,000. If you are married, your joint income cannot exceed $90,000. The assessed value of your home in 2019 cannot exceed $808,000. If you can pass those hurdles, though, you should look into this. It may change the way you think about April 15th every year. If you need more information on this, you can contact me at (508) 860-1470 or [email protected]. You may also find Frank and Mary’s YouTube channel to be a helpful resource, as I address many common issues facing seniors and their loved one. All of my cable TV shows, educational seminars and 10-minute elder law Q&A Fireside Chats are available at www.youtube.com/ elderlawfrankandmary. *Paid for by Mirick O’Connell

Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.4lpi.com • Hopkinton Council on Aging, Hopkinton, MA 06-5108 MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

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2 9:00 Stretch 3 9 - 12 Public Health Nurse 4 5 9:00 Veterans Break. 6 9:00 Yoga for Seniors 9:00 AARP Tax Prep 9:30 Tai Chi 9:30 Quilting & Knitting 9:00 Hairdresser 10:30 Book Club 9-12 SHINE Appoint. 9:30 Memory Training Pro. 10:30-11:30 Blood Pres. 9:00 Beginner’s French 10:30 Exercise/Linda 9:30 Pottery 10:45 Tai Chi Fundamental 12:30 Hairdresser 10-11 French II 12:30 TED Talks 10:00 WOW 12:30 Chorus 1:00 Pitch 10:30 Chi Gong 1:30 Zumba 12:30 Exercise w/Joni 1:00 COA Board Meet. 12:00 Meditation 1:30 Regional Networking 1:30 Beginner Pottery 1:00 Knitted Hat Saturday the 7th 2:30-4 Cribbage 1:00 Mall Walking 3:00 Mah Jong 9:00 Redeemable cans & 2:00 Tap Dancing 4:00 TAP Fit bottles @ Hop Recycle 4:30 Art Talk Center 5:00 Pound 6:00 Yoga 9 9:00 Stretch 10 9-12 Publ.Health Nurse 11 12 13 9:00 Yoga for Seniors 9:00 AARP Tax Prep 9:30 Tai Chi 9:30 Chair Massage 9:00 Hairdresser 10:30 Exercise/Linda 9-12 SHINE Appoint. 9:30 Memory Training Pro. 9:30 Quilting & Knitting 9:00 Beginner’s French 12:30 TED Talks 9:30 Pottery 10:45 Tai Chi Fundamentals 10:30-11:30 Blood Pres. 10-11 French II 1:30 Zumba 10:00 WOW 12:30 Nat King Cole 12:00 St. Pat’s Luncheon 10:30 Chi Gong 2:30-4 Cribbage 10:30 Plan B Widows 1:00 Knitted Hat party (Birthday Lunch) 10:30 Day Trip Worcester 12:30 Exercise w/Joni 3-5 Mah Jong 12:30 Hearing Aid Art Museum & 99 Rest. 1-30 Beginner Pottery 4:00 TAP Fit Cleaning 12:00 Justice Superior 1:00 Memory Café 5:00 Pound 12:30 Hairdresser Court 1:00 Mall Walking 5-6 Medicare Planning 1:00 Pitch 2:00 Tap Dancing 2:00 Chess Group 16 9:00 Stretch 17 9-12 Public Health Nurse 18 19 20 9:00 Yoga for Seniors 9:00 AARP Tax Prep 9:30 Tai Chi 9:30 Quilting & Knitting 9:00 Hairdresser 10:30 Exercise/Linda 9-12 SHINE Appoint. 9:30 Memory Training Pro. 10:30 Care Giver Group 9:00 Beginner’s French 12:30 TED Talks 9:30 Pottery 10:45 Tai Chi Fundamentals 10:30-11:30 Blood Pres. 10-11 French II 1:30 Zumba 10:00 WOW 12:30 Chorus 10:30 Tick Talk 10:30 Chi Gong 1:30 Regional Networking 12:30 Exercise w/Joni 1:00 Knitted Hat 12:30 Hairdresser 10-12 Legal Advice 2:30-4 Cribbage 1:30 Beginner Pottery 2:30 Digital Photography 1 1–-2 Nutrition Counseling 12:00 Meditation 1:00 Mall Walking 3-5 Mah Jong 1:00 Pitch

2:00 Tap Dancing 4:00 TAP Fit 2:00 Chess Group 5:00 Pound 4:00 Glass Paint Class

23 9:00 Stretch 24 9 - 12 Pub. Health Nurse 25 26 27 9:00 Yoga for Seniors 9:00 AARP Tax 9:30 Tai Chi 9:30 Chair Massage 10:00 Friends Meeting 9-12 SHINE Appoint. 9:30 Memory Training Pro. 9:30 Quilting & Knitting 9:00 Hairdresser 10:30 Exercise/Linda 9:30 Pottery 10:45 Tai Chi Fundamentals 10:30-11:30 Blood Pres. 9:30 Putnam Antique Day 12:30 TED Talks 10:00 WOW 12:30 Chorus 12:30 Robert E. Lee/Myth Trip 1:30 Zumba 12:30 Exercise w/Joni 1:00 Knitted Hat 12:30 Hairdresser 9:00 Beginner’s French 2:30-4 Cribbage 1:30 Beginner Pottery 2:30 Digital Photography 1 1:00 Pitch 10-11 French II 1-3 Block Bunny 3-5 Mah Jong 2:00 Chess Group 10:30 Chi Gong 1:00 Mall Walking 4:00 TAP Fit 3:30 Dine/Lowell’s 2:00 Tap Dancing 4:00 Silk Scarf Marbling 2:00 Cooking w/Zahra 5:00 Pound 30 9:00 Stretch 31 9:00 Yoga for Seniors 9:00 AARP Tax 10:30 Exercise/Linda 9-12 SHINE Appoint. Reflection: By Mary McLeod 12:30 TED Talks 9:30 Pottery 1:30 Zumba 10:00 WOW “The winds of March 2:30-4 Cribbage 12:30 Exercise w/Joni 1:30 Beginner Pottery open my heart 1:00 Mall Walking to receive Spring” 2:00 Tap Dancing

“POST ACUTE REHABILITATION & SKILLED NURSING” 854 Washington Street • Holliston, MA 01746 • 508-429-2391 57 Hayden Rowe Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748 • 508-435-6444 Family Owned • Cremation Services • Pre-need Arrangements 84 Elm Street, Holliston, MA On-property Parking • Handicap Accessible www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com ~ Keefe M. Chesmore 508-429-4566 Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.4lpi.com • Hopkinton Council on Aging, Hopkinton, MA 06-5108

10 HOPKINTON SENIOR CENTER March 2020

FRIENDS OF THE HOPKINTON SENIORS, Inc. (a 501c3 organization) Monthly Meeting on the 4th Monday at 10:00 am. Friends of Hopkinton Seniors

Button Battery Collection (new 2020 collection has begun)

Hopkinton Senior Center (28 Mayhew Street) is collecting your used Button Cell batteries to be recycled. All proceeds will be used to benefit Health programs at the Senior Center. Button cell batteries can be found in hearing aids, watches, and cameras and should not be thrown into a landfill.

Bottle & Can Drive ongoing. A receptacle is available by the staff entrance near the garage. Or bring Friends of the Hopkinton Senior Citizens, Inc. (501c3) redeemables to the Hopkinton Recycling Center, 2nd Barbara Beale, President Mindy VanSchaick Saturday of the month. Sally Almy, Vice President Juliet Smith Marion Intinarelli, Secretary Gail Tonelli Thrift Shop Hours: Wed. till 6:00pm Dolores Ivester, Treasurer Patricia Srodawa M-Th 9:00-3:00 and Fri. 10:00-1:00 Directors: Elizabeth Swenson Sheila Frackleton All donations support the daily activities and needs of the Senior Center that are not covered by Town Budget. Betsy Dionne

Medicare Updates

Want to lower your Medicare costs?

On January 1, 2020 the income and asset limits for the Medicare Savings Programs* increased. If you qualify, these programs will pay your Part B premium and in some cases your Part A and B deductibles, co-pays and Part A premium (if you have one). In addition, you will automatically receive Extra Help, a program that will lower your Medicare Part D premium and co-pays.

Income and asset limits effective 1-1-20

Income/month Assets Individual $1,738 $15,720 Married Couples $2,346 $23,600

Prescription drug co-payments with Extra Help effective 1-1-20

Per 30-Day Supply Generic $3.60 Brand Name $8.95

To learn more and to request an application, contact MassHealth at: 1-800-841-2900 or TTY at: 1-800-497-4648. SHINE can also assist you with the application process. Call us to make an appointment at [Insert COA phone number].

Applications are also available on-line at: https://tinyurl.com/MassMSP * Medicare Savings Programs are also called “MassHealth Buy-In” and are administered by MassHealth.

Planning for Medicare Wednesday, March 11, 5:00 - 6:00

If you’re getting close to Medicare eligibility, this seminar is for you. Whether you are planning to retire or will continue to work, it’s important to know your Medicare options. Did you know that missing your Medi- care enrollment deadlines could cost you money? This seminar is a presentation and discussion led by a knowledgeable Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts representative. A representative will answer your specific questions, in addition to covering these topics: Explanation of Medicare Parts A, B, and C; Medi- care enrollment timeline; Medigap plans that help supplement Medicare coverage; Medicare Advantage plans, such as HMOs and PPOs; Medicare Part D prescription drug plans and Plans and programs availa- ble to early retirees, such as COBRA. Refreshments served. Call to register!

28 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748 - 508 497-9730 Customized Care from the People You Trust Thank you for giving us an overall 99% on our Resident Satisfaction Survey! Voted #1 Assisted living and memory care community in Milford, MA and one of the best senior communities in Central MA by reader of the Milford Daily News for the past FOUR years. Call or visit us online today for more information! WHITCOMB HOUSE An Assisted Living and 245 West Street, Milford, MA 01757 Memory Care Community 508-634-2440 whitcombhouse.com

Solutions for Health and Home 508-473-0862 www.SalmonHealth.com

CROWNS Creating| IMPLANTS beautiful | DENTURES smiles! & MORE 508-625-1814 | www.HopkintonSquareDental.com 22 SOUTH ST, HOPKINTON

Visit www.DSullivan.com to find our Discovery Workshops, books and educational resources or call 800-964-4295 to register for an upcoming event.

What to Do About Your Single Biggest Investment? For most people, their largest investment is purchasing a house. What if it no longer meets your needs? Children have moved out. You and your spouse are perhaps considering a time when one of you has become ill or passed on. Cleaning all those rooms, walking up and down stairs, and doing yard work is troublesome. Perhaps health concerns are a factor. Is it time to downsize? Because its so important and the potential expensive problems so significant, many people request help from experienced elder law attorneys for their tax saving, estate, asset protection and life planning concerns. Are you concerned that financial gains from the sale of your home may be tax free, however the proceeds will remain attachable by the State in event of a future nursing home stay? Many seniors and those who love them learn, plan and act to protect their home, spouse, family and life savings. Homes, automobiles, antique collections, above nominal amounts must be sold to pay these bills. An Elder Law attorney can help you with the right strategy to protect you, your spouse, home, family Estate Planning & Asset Protection Law Center of and life savings. Did you realize studies show that 86% of trust and estate plans are outdated? DENNIS SULLIVAN CALL 800-964-4295 OR VISIT: & ASSOCIATES WWW.DSULLIVAN.COM Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.4lpi.com • Hopkinton Council on Aging, Hopkinton, MA 06-5108 12 HOPKINTON SENIOR CENTER April 2019 March Lunch Menu Home Style Cooking prepared here with our own Chefs

Menu Daily: In addition to the main meal, a variety of sandwiches, subject to change salad plates, soup and desserts are available.

March WEEK 3 WEEK 5 WEEK 1 3/16 Quiche Lorraine 3/30Haddock or Lentil Stew on 3/2 Vegetable Ragu Pasta 3/17 Fish of the Day Rice 3/3 Meatloaf (Celebrity Server) 3/18 Belgium Ham & Cheese 3/31 Chili 3/4 Turkey Roast Macaroni 4/1 Pork Roast 3/5 Salmon 3/19Tarragon Chicken 4/2 Pasta and Sausage 3/6 Chef’s Special 3/20 Chef’s Special 4/3 Chef's Special

WEEK 2 WEEK 4 Reservations ae suggested (508 497-9730) two seatings: 3/9 Veggie Stew on Rice 3/23 Crepes Florentine 11:30 & 12 ish $5.00 3/10 Shrimp Scampi 3/24 Fish Biryani 3/11Chicken Pot Pie 3/25 Lasagna 3/12 3/26 Marsala Chicken BREAKFAST – CONTINENTAL 3/27 Chef’s Special $1.00 MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 3/13 Chef’s Special – 10:00

First Tuesday of the month is st Celebrity Server Day. 1 FRIDAY VETERANS BREAKFAST 0900 hours

Photography Consent In recent months, the senior center has more regularly published COA programs and activities. Unless participants informs us of their desire not to be photographed, the COA will use photographs/videotapes for promotional purposes.

VETERANS BREAKFAST

Friday, March 6, at 9:00

All Hopkinton veterans are invited to a breakfast in their honor on the first Friday of every month. If you or your organization would like to financially sponsor and honor veterans in this way, please contact Amy Beck for information, at extension 1613.

The March breakfast will be in memory of Charles Francis Lowell. The veterans and staff greatly appreciate all our generous contributors.

Paperless Hilltopper anyone? email [email protected] or call 508 497-9730

Friends of the Hopkinton Senior Citizens, Inc. CHECKS MAY BE MADE PAYABLE AND MAILED TO: 501c3 Friends of the Hopkinton Senior Citizens, Inc. MEMBERSHIP & DONATION FORM 28 MAYHEW ST., HOPKINTON, MA 01748 2020 DUES - $5 PER YEAR MEMBERSHIP $ ______NAME______DONATION $ ______

ADDRESS______TOTAL $ ______

PHONE:______PAPERLESS EMAILED HILLTOPPER ? Y N

EMAIL:______Membership does not include mailing outside Hopkinton