SENIOR SPIRIT NEWSLETTER OF THE CONCORD COUNCIL ON AGING April 2021
Pushing the Envelope – A History of the US Post Office Through Stamps Wednesday, April 7th at 1:00 PM By viewing images of vintage US postage stamps, you will learn about the history of the US Post Office from the first letters carried on the Boston Post Road to the current postal controversies. Hear about the expansion of the Post Office after the Revolution, the involvement with slavery, the introduction of home delivery, the use of V-Mail during World War II, the start of zip codes, the introduction of Forever Stamps, and the impact of email on the Post Office’s financial situation. Join Henry Lukas, Education Director at the Spellman Museum of Stamps at Regis College on Wednesday April 7th at 1:00 PM. This program is offered free of charge thanks to Harvey’s Treasure Chest Gift Shop funds. Please call to register and we will send you a Zoom invitation.
“Everything We Know About Covid” Presented by Dr. Schoenthaler on Zoom Thursday, April 8th at 1:00 PM Join a community conversation featuring Dr. Robin Schoenthaler, “The-Boston-cancer-doctor-who-writes- about-Covid” on Thursday April 8th at 1:00 PM on Zoom. Dr Schoenthaler will giving an update on “Everything We Know About Covid,” reviewing the science about staying safe and protecting each other. We will discuss the most up-to-date information on the pandemic, ways to stay healthy and sane in the meantime including historical perspectives, some new info on vaccines and variants, and how we may well be on our way to a brighter future. Dr Schoenthaler worked as a cancer doctor at Emerson and MGH for almost three decades. She has also been involved with helping patients with second opinions about their cancers and with physician medical education. For the last year she has been writing a popular blog on Covid with a world- wide readership. She will be available to answer any questions you have at the end of her presentation. Please call the COA to register and receive your Zoom invitation.
Virtual Tour of the Wang Center – On Zoom Wednesday, April 28th at 1:00 PM Experience the beauty and wonder of the historic Wang Theater live from your home through Zoom, on Wednesday April 28th at 1:00 PM. The Boch Center has opened its doors digitally to the Wang Theater. Guests will go behind the scenes and see hallways walked by entertainers like Ella Fitzgerald, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Queen, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Liza Minnelli and more! This is not a prerecorded video; it is led by a trained guide that will take viewers through the building and backstage, and answer questions about its unique history; from its glamorous days as a movie “cathedral” to today’s role as a venue for performances and events. This tour is funded by Harvey’s Treasure Chest Gift Shop, and is free of charge. Please call the COA office to reserve and you will receive a Zoom invitation.
Concord COA Grab & Go Tea Party with Harp Concert Thursday, April 29th - Pick up Tea Party Treats at the COA from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM Harp Concert on Zoom at 2:00 PM The COA presents this year’s annual Tea Party as a “Tea Party to Go” followed by a harp serenade on Zoom. A box of treats including tea, delicious scones generously donated by Concord Teacakes, and other treats will be available for pickup at the COA main entrance from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM. Drink your tea and enjoy your treats at home while you watch a live harp concert by Rebecca Swett on Zoom at 2:00 PM. The tea party take-out boxes are limited to 60. Please call to make your reservation and get a Zoom invitation.
The Council on Aging will be closed on Monday, April 19th for the holiday. There will be no programs or van service that day. CONCORD COUNCIL ON AGING - TELEPHONE: 978-318-3020 page 2 Senior Spirit April 2021 April 2021 Senior Spirit page 7
The COA Van – Additional Route! The COA van continues to operate at a reduced capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions. We currently are allowing two riders at a time. In addition to providing rides to medical appointments in Concord, we are adding to our route the Acton Medical offices in Acton, just off route 2. If your doctors are at Acton Medical and you need transportation to an appointment, please call the COA to schedule a ride. We look forward to when the van can increase ridership and return to our regular busy schedule.
Petit Bouquet Giveaway with Greeting Card Thursday, April 8th from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM Please drop by and pick up some colorful flowers! The Power of Flowers Project out of Tewksbury is recognizing Concord’s seniors with a lovely petit bouquet. Is there a nicer way to feel cheerier than from a happy bouquet of flowers? The bouquets will come in a paper cup. Included with your posies will be a Mother’s Day card photographed by Jim Leahy, a Concord resident. This beautiful card is for you to keep or send. Please sign up to drive though the HWCC parking lot on Thursday, April 8th, from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM for your bouquet and card. Quantities are limited so please call the COA at 978-318-3020 to let us know you are coming.
Disposable Face Masks Giveaway Tuesday, April 13th from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM Facemasks donated by the Concord Rotary Club are available for distribution to Concord seniors. You may pick up a package of five masks at the main entrance of the Harvey Wheeler Community Center on Tuesday, April 13th between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM. Please wear a mask and stay in your car. COA staff will bring the masks to you. Please call the COA office to reserve your package.
Book Discussion Group on Zoom Tuesday, April 20th at 9:30 AM Join the COA book discussion group, led by Phyllis DiMarzio, on Tuesday, April 20th at 9:30 AM. This month the book of choice will be Never Have I Ever by Joshilyn Jackson. A diabolically entertaining tale of betrayal, deception, temptation, and love filled with dark twists leavened by Jackson's trademark humor, Never Have I Ever explores what happens when the transgressions of our past come back with a vengeance. The choice for May is Eat Cake by Jeanne Ray, and on a lighter note, the June read will be Redhead by the Side of the Road by Anne Tyler. New members are always welcome. Please call the COA to sign up and receive your Zoom invitation.
Fidget Pillows Fidget pillows can be a soothing solution to the restlessness, fidgeting and anxiety that often comes with Alzheimer’s and dementia. A team of talented volunteers have created a few of these especially designed fidget pillows for anyone who is soothed by having something to do with their restless hands. Multiple benefits include exercising hands and fingers, while stimulating the brain with colors & various gadgets and textures. Help a loved one alleviate boredom and keep fidgety hands busy. If someone you know might use one, call the COA at 978-318-3020 to arrange to collect your free pillow.
Our Residents are a lot of things We are a community of seniors living with vibrancy, dignity, engagement and fun. • Involved • Vibrant Tour The Commons in Lincoln and discover our activities, volunteer opportunities and available • Interested programs. • Educated Retired isn’t one of them. CoTmhe mons I N L I N C O L N A Benchmark Signature Living Community 781-728-3043 • TheCommonsInLincoln.com page 6 Senior Spirit April 2021 April3 2021 Senior Spirit page 3
Support Groups The COA currently offers a support group for caregivers of loved ones with memory loss and dementia. We are also taking names for a chronic illness support group starting in May. Would you like to see us offer a grief support group or perhaps a group to address those experiencing significant life changes, or support to help maintain healthy habits? Let us know if you have suggestions for future groups by calling the COA.
Healthy Helpings Has your doctor told you that you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol and that eating differently might help? Are you struggling to meet your basic food needs, let alone follow a new diet? If so, the COA in partnership with Open Table has a new program to help! We are offering food insecure seniors twice-monthly Healthy Helpings kits. This program follows the American Heart Association’s recommended eating plan to lower or control blood pressure and heart disease. You will receive frozen meals ready-to-reheat-and-eat, select easy-to- prepare pantry items, plus recipes, health tips, and incentives to eat “heart healthy.” If you are interested in signing up or have questions, call the COA at 978-318- 3020. Participation is free and confidential, space is limited.
Harvey’s Treasure Chest Gift Shop New treasures are added to our online shop regularly, so check back often. We have a little bit of everything, from pottery to jewelry. Just type into your internet search engine (Google for example) via your computer, laptop or smart phone Harvey’s Treasure Chest Gift Shop Concord and away you go!
Beware of this “Tax Time” Scam! TRAIN WITH SHAIN The IRS never calls demanding payment and it does not IN HOME BALANCE THERAPY AND leave messages informing you that you will be arrested. FITNESS TRAINING FOR SENIORS This is a scam – if you receive one of these phone calls hang up! The IRS does not send emails demanding Steven R. Shain payment; do not go to any websites that appear in emails (508) 231-6378 of that nature. If in doubt, feel free to call the Concord www.trainwithshain.net Police Department at 978-318-340. [email protected] ACSM certified cpt/hfi CPR/AED certified Fully Insured Dee Funeral & Cremation Service 142Caring Years Service of Caring to Families Service Sinceto Families 1868 Charles W. Dee Susan M. Dee www.deefuneralhome.com 978.369.2030 800.942.1868
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For Patriots’ Day - Concord’s Centennial Celebration of the Old North Bridge – On Zoom Tuesday, April 20th at 1:00 PM Anke Voss, Curator, William Munroe Special Collections, at the Concord Free Public Library, will present an overview of Special Collections. Through photos and documents, she will highlight events in Concord in 1875 to mark the centennial of the fight at the North Bridge. This was a high point in Concord's ceremonial life. Unveiled for the Centennial celebration on April 19, 1875, The Minute Man statue, by sculptor Daniel Chester French, has stood guard over the site ever since. The celebration included a dinner under a tent for over 4,000. Concord was unprepared for the influx of over 50,000 people turning out for the celebration despite considerable planning! Join us Tuesday, April 20th at 1:00 PM. Please call the COA to reserve and we will send you the Zoom invitation. ______
Making Decisions When it Matters Most – on Zoom Tuesday, April 13th at 1:00 PM April is National Healthcare Decision month. Healthcare decisions can often be complex and challenging. They often require much discussion with medical professionals, family, care partners and friends. Please join Mary Crowe, LICSW, Director of Professional & Community Education at Care Dimensions, on Tuesday, April 13th at 1:00 PM. Making Decisions When It Matters Most: is a conversation about what it means to have or to be someone’s health care proxy, the Five Wishes program, advance directives and more. This program is designed to empower people to advocate for their health wishes with family, friends, and medical professionals. Please call the COA at 978-318-3020 to sign up and receive your Zoom invitation. Asthma Awareness on Zoom Thursday, April 22nd at 1:00 PM Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell, and you may also produce extra mucus which can make breathing difficult. There are many factors that can trigger asthma. Please join Geriatric Health Nurse Valerie Boggia on Thursday, April 22nd at 1:00 PM on Zoom for a Listen & Learn session on asthma. Valerie will discuss what asthma is, symptoms, causes, triggers, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, medications, lifestyle changes and measures to prevent asthma attacks. Valerie will also discuss some important questions to prepare and discuss with your doctor regarding. Please call the COA at 978-318-3020 to sign up and receive your Zoom invitation.
Caregivers’ Support Group on Zoom Tuesday, April 27th from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM This month the Caregivers’ Support Group will meet Tuesday, April 27th at 9:30 AM on Zoom. This group is designed for those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or related dementias. Join a group of peers to share experiences and gain support. This group is facilitated by COA Social Service Supervisor Nicole Saia. If you have not participated in this group before, please contact Nicole by emailing
[email protected]. Low Vision Support Group – By Conference Call Wednesday, April 28th at 1:00 PM The low vision support group meets by phone the last Wednesday of each month. This month the group will be joined by Karen Hatcher, Director of Elder Independent Services at the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, to discuss falls prevention. Join us via conference call on Wednesday, April 28th at 1:00 PM. If you have not participated in the low vision group before, please call the COA to register.
Helping you through your next home transition, every step of the way.
Carrie Hines Nancy Allam M 978.505.1678 M 978.505.8865
[email protected] page 4 Senior Spirit April 2021 April 2021 Senior Spirit page 5
Coffee, Pastry and Spring Surprise Drive-Through Giveaway Tuesday, April 6th from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM Concord COA staff will be pouring the coffee and handing out bags of sweets with a little spring/Easter surprise on Tuesday, April 6th from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM. Please drive up to the COA main entrance to pick up your coffee, and remember to wear a mask! Reservations are required. Please call the Concord COA to reserve yours.
Grab & Go Lunches in March Mondays and Wednesdays between 11:30 AM and Noon Hot Grab & Go lunches are available for pick-up at the COA on Mondays and Wednesdays between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM. Meals are provided by Minuteman Senior Services and cost $2. The pick-up area is located by the main entrance of the Harvey Wheeler Community Center. Please wear a mask and stay in your car. Staff will assist you. Lunch reservations need to be made at least two business days in advance. Please call the COA office to reserve. Monday, April 5th – Chicken and Rice Bake Monday, April 19th – No Lunch Patriot’s Day Wednesday, April 7th - Chicken Breast Piccata Wednesday, April 21st – Chicken Parmesan Monday, April 12th – Mac & Cheese Monday, April 26th – Lasagna Roll Wednesday, April 14th – Sloppy Joe Wednesday, April 28th – Turkey Corn Stew
Mark your calendar - February’s Grab & Go Soup Lunch, sponsored by Concord Park has been rescheduled to Thursday, April 22nd. Pick-up is between 11:30 AM and 12:00 noon. There are 50 lunches available. Priority will be given to those who signed up when it was offered in February. Please call the COA office to inquire about availability.
Ongoing Programs on Zoom If you are interested in joining one of our ongoing groups, please call the COA for a Zoom invitation!
Men’s Meeting - Mondays from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM This is a free, informal group of men that chat, drink coffee together and enjoy each other’s company. New members welcome. Coffee and Conversation - Tuesdays from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM This is a free, friendly group of men and women that get together weekly to have lively conversation about “anything and everything.” New members welcome! Hearing Loss Support Group – Second and Fourth Tuesday of the month from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM This group facilitated by Bob Andrews, provides support and an opportunity to discuss the impact of hearing loss. Exercise with Julie - Mondays & Thursdays Join Julie at 9:30 AM for Aerobics and 11:00 AM for Strength and Flex. Each class is $5, paid to the instructor at the end of each month. Yoga with Annie - Mondays & Tuesdays Join Annie for Mat Yoga Mondays from 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM ($35/ month) and Tuesdays for Chair Yoga from 9:15 AM to 10:15 AM ($30/month) Yoga with Cathy - Wednesdays from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM Join Cathy for gentle chair and floor yoga. Each class $5 paid directly to the instructor at the end of the month. Quilting Group – Thursdays from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM Join a group of quilting enthusiast to share ideas and interests. Public Policy Discussion Group - Fridays from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM A group to talk about everything from healthcare, the environment and nuclear power to the criminal justice system. page 6 Senior Spirit April 2021 April 2021 Senior Spirit page 3
The Institutions of US Government – Presented by John Gardella on Zoom! Four Part Series – April 15th, May 20th, June 17th and July 15th from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Join John Gardella to discuss the substance and specifics of the national government of the United States of America. The first lecture will discuss the development of the nation including the Continental Congress, the Articles of Confederation, the Constitutional Convention and federalism. The second lecture will focus on Congress and its powers. The third lecture will cover the Executive Branch and the presidency. The fourth lecture will cover the Judiciary including the lower federal courts and the Supreme Court of the United States. Please call the COA office to make your reservation and we will send you a Zoom invitation.
Nature Travel Series with Joy Marzolf on Zoom Wednesday, April 21st at 1:00 PM – Wales: Castles, Butterflies and More Although it is part of the present day United Kingdom, Wales is a country of ancient origins and wild lands. Stone monuments from its pre-historic past still can be found across parts of the country today, along with ancient castles, remains of magnificent abbeys and even Roman ruins. The wild nature of this land can also be found in abundance, from the beautiful and colorful moors and butterflies of the Isle of Angelsea to the numerous birds and other wildlife of the coastal wetlands. Join Joy Marzolf on Wednesday, April 21st at 1:00 PM for this fascinating journey across Wales. Please call the COA office to reserve, and we will send you a Zoom invitation.
Meditation Class on Zoom with Ed LeClair New 8-Class Session - Thursdays, April 22nd through June 10th at 4:00 PM Mindfulness is proven to have a positive impact on stress and anxiety. The purpose of the course is to develop a personal practice that will result in your staying in the present moment, and help you to be calmer and more relaxed. Ed LeClair, a Concord resident, has been a meditator and teacher for 30 years. He interned at UMass Medical Center for Mindful Based Stress Reduction, taught meditation at the Concord Adult Education program and founded a Meditation Sangha 25 years ago that is still active. Join Ed on Zoom on Thursdays from April 22nd through June 10th from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM to learn to practice mindful meditation. Please call to register and you will receive a Zoom invitation.
Friday Sock Hop Radio Show with DJ OldSkool Friday, April 23rd at from 1:00 to 2:00 PM DJ Oldskool, Concord’s own Tom Dawkins, returns to his “gym” to host his monthly Sock Hop with music from the 40s, 50s, 60s, and your requests on Friday, April 23rd from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. Join us for another afternoon of classic and fond hits of yesteryear in the ease of your home. This is a groovy way to wind down the week! Please call the COA office if you plan to attend, and we will send you a Zoom invitation. ______
Take a Hike! On the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail Spring is here and it is the perfect time to put those walking shoes on and get back outside! Why not try the two and a half mile Concord section of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail that is open from Commonwealth Avenue through West Concord to Powder Mill Road? Trail parking is located on Commonwealth Avenue near the Rotary and in West Concord near Nashoba Brook. Construction of a bridge over Route 2 is now underway to connect Concord to the 12-mile section of the trail that goes from Acton to Lowell. The trail has a 10-foot wide pavement with packed shoulder on each side, and is easily walked. It is open to non-motorized uses such as cycling, jogging and walking. Trail users should respect social distancing rules and wear a mask on the trail. For more information about the Freeman Rail Trail, see www.brucefreemanrailtrail.org
G.G. MITCHELL Mitchell Eckel, ECKEL, III, J.D., III, J.D.,LL.M. LL.M. (RET.) MARGARETChristine M. A. Morgan, HOAG, J.D., J.D. LL.M. Kathleen M. O’Connor, J.D., LL.M. KATHLEENMargaret A. M. Hoag, O'CONNOR, J.D. J.D., LL.M. KATHRYNBeth E. Warach, E. KOCHENOUR, J.D., M.S.S.A., J.D. LL.M. Estate Planning · Elder Law · Long Term Care · Medicaid Estate Planning · Elder Law · Long Term Care · Medicaid Guardianship · Conservatorship · Estate, Probate, and Guardianship · Conservato r ship · Real Estate Trust Administration · Corporate · Business Succession Estate, Probate, and Trust Administration Non-Profits · Tax Law · Real Estate
ACTON, MA www.eckel-law.comwww.eckel-law.com 978-266-0101 page 2 Senior Spirit April 2021 April 2021 Senior Spirit page 7
The Musical Quiz Show with Jerry Hurley on Zoom Mondays from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM Calling all Music Makers!! Jerry Hurley is back at his piano with The Musical Quiz Show, and it comes to you every Monday at 1:00 PM via Zoom! Participants will answer musical questions and build up points. Each of the top three weekly point winners will receive special recognition by all participants. If this sounds like fun, call the COA and sign up for this weekly group, and we will send you the Zoom invitation.
Movies on Zoom! Fridays, April 9th and 30th from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Great News! We have now received permission to start showing movies on Zoom! We cannot tell you the names of the movies due to film licensing rules, but we can tell you that they are two well-known classic movies. You can call the COA office to find out what they are and we will send you the Zoom invitation.
Spring Chicken – Take and Make Thursday, April 15th from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM Celebrate spring with this simple but effective sewing project from the Fowler Branch of the Concord Free Public Library! These chickens are great for juggling, bean toss games, or as decorations -- we'll let you decide. Our Take and Makes are made possible through the generosity of the Friends of CFPL. This months Take and Make kits is suitable for sewers at all levels and will distributed as a drive-though event at the COA parking lot on Thursday, April 15th from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM. Please call the COA to reserve our kit.
Friday Afternoon Trivia on Zoom Friday, April 16th at 2:00 PM Do you love playing Trivia? Is your head brimming with trivial and unusual facts? Join us for an hour of Trivia on Friday, April 16th, starting at 2:00 PM. The game will be played on Zoom, and you can connect by computer, iPad, or smart phone. If you do not have a smart device, you can call in by phone to play. All trivia questions will be shown on the screen, then read and repeated. Registration is required. Please call to receive your Zoom invitation.
Relax and Reminisce – On Zoom and by Telephone Wednesdays through May 5th from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM “Relax and Reminisce” gives us the opportunity to remember, share and listen to stories. We will use photos, pictures, and our own memories of events to prompt discussion and relate with one another. We will get to know each other through storytelling, and share good times, accomplishments, family traditions, and anything else that comes to mind. No Zoom? No problem. You can phone in and just talk. The group will be facilitated by COA volunteer Jane Randall. There is no charge. Please call the COA to inquire if there are still openings, or to get more information. Once registered, you will get a Zoom/Phone invitation.
MCOA Cooking Class – Diversity Eats - on Zoom Friday, April 23rd at 11:00 AM Diversity Eats is the fourth installment of the Massachusetts Council on Aging’s 12 month “Cooking as Self Care” series that focuses on improving the health of older adults. Simple cooking techniques and safe food handling are emphasized. The Concord COA will air this class on Zoom on Friday, April 23rd at 11:00 AM. Please call the COA to sign up and you will receive a recipe card and Zoom invitation. ______
Movies & More! Minuteman Media Network – Local Access Cable Television Tune in to Concord’s local access Cable TV, Minuteman Media Network (MMN), on Comcast Channel 8. You can also view of some of the COA’s favorite programs, including the MCOA cooking series. Look at https://concordma.gov/2339/TV-Schedule for a complete schedule.
iPad Loan Program The COA is has two iPads that we can loan out to seniors to help them access our virtual programing. We intend to loan each iPad out for a 24hr period to anyone that would like to participate in one of our Zoom programs that might not have the internet or usable device at home. Please call the COA at 978-318-3020 to inquire about borrowing one of our devices.
Town of Concord PRSRT STD Council on Aging U.S. Postage Paid 1276 Main Street Permit No. 51 Concord, MA 01742
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SPRING has SPRUNG at the COA Gift Shop online! Check out the latest items by searching online for “Harvey’s Treasure Chest Gift Shop”
Concord Council on Aging Staff 1276 Main Street, Concord MA 01742 Telephone (978) 318-3020
Ginger Quarles, Director Nicole Saia, Social Service Supervisor Lauren Barretta, Assistant Director Vikki Jacobson, Volunteer & PR Coordinator Valerie Bertsch, Outreach Coordinator Hilary Norris, Outreach Coordinator Valerie Boggia, Geriatric Health Nurse Dave Barry, Van Driver Tina Close, Activity Coordinator John Goshdigian, Van Driver Claudia Curran, Administrative Assistant David Siskind, Van Driver Laurie Austin Santry, Administrative Assistant Don McKinney, Van Driver Chris Choate, Custodian John Zonfrelli, Van Driver