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The Spirit of Bellingham
40 Blackstone Street ● Bellingham, MA 02019 ● Phone: 508-966-0398 ● Fax: 508-966-5843
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 8am-4pm ● Friday 8am-3pm
Beth Cornell-Smith, Interim Director ● This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ● www.bellinghamma.org
Three for Free
Free Wi-Fi
A familiar and friendly presence at the Bellingham Senior Center, Eva Gamache isthe kind of volunteer everybody loves.
"I’m a doer, not a sitter," observes Eva. Her husband of 46 years, Ron, calls her a "professional volunteer." They live happily together in Bellingham.
She gives 10 to 15 hours every week to the Senior Center. Among many other things, she’s in charge of three outside sheds and their contents and also one temporary pod. Inside them, you’ll find Christmas decorations, material for the annual Craft Fair and the Yard Sale, plus medical equipment including walkers and wheelchairs to loan to those in need.
Eva is the go-to person for the Bellingham Elder Services Group (BESG) monthly birthday luncheon. "We shop for presents for the men and women who are celebrating their birthdays, and then they get to pick one," explains Eva. This past month, more than 60 people attended. (continued on page two)
1.Remembering the 1960s… Friday, May 18, 10:30am
2.The Joy of Learning… Tuesdays in May, beginningthe 1st at 1:30pm
3.Financial consultations… Thursday, 10am—noon,May 17
Council on Aging Newsletter
May 2018
MAY SPOTLIGHT: Eva Gamache
"Take one day at a time. Develop a healthy attitude."
WANTED:
The Council on Aging is looking for a few good board members. Find out more about this outstanding opportunity to serve by contacting Kay Page, COA chair
at (508) 966-1804.
May 2018 Page 2
Celebrate!
Eva’s Story, continued from page one
Eva is also at St. Blaise Catholic Church and St. Joseph in Woonsocket at least once a week for Bingo. "I’m a worker, not a player," she adds with a smile. Eva grew up in Woonsocket; she is a practicing catholic and a Eucharistic Minister. Every Sunday, she brings communion to four elderly ladies who can’t make it to Mass. "It makes them happy."
"You really need to learn to appreciate what you have," says Eva when asked about life lessons. "Take one day at a time. Develop a healthy attitude. I don’t like negativity," she continues, "it gets you nowhere. Sometimes things need to be said, but it’s how you say it. You have to learn how to talk to people. Show respect. We’re not rich people. We are happy with what we have."
She has two grown children… four grand children… and a new puppy named Belle (a smooth fox terrier). She also has many, many folks at the Senior Center who say the place wouldn’t be the same without her.
"She is very valuable," noted Bill Eltzroth, president of the BESG. Her great work ethic, cheerful atti-tude, extreme helpfulness? "Yes, all that!" says Eltzroth.
Eva also volunteers her time serving as a board member for BESG -- the senior center’s non-profit friends’ group (the fundraising organization working to provide the services and things needed over and above the Town’s municipal budget.)
According to a recent Road Scholar report, volunteering is one of the ten favorite retirement activi-ties in the US. Bellingham has a long, proud tradition of volunteerism and the Senior Center would not be the great place it is without Eva and all of its volunteers.
BESG MONTHLY BIRTHDAY PARTY
60 party-goers showed up on March 29 to cele-brate birthdays at the Bellingham Senior Cen-ter. Here are five of them:
From left: Lois Knott, Joann Conklin, Estelle Ours, Lisa Bradgon and Linda Lavallee.
DUCKIES AND BUNNIES at the Senior Cen-ter. Multi-generational program led by Garine Arakelion (left). Grand parents and grand chil-dren learning how to make their soap. Pro-gram in collaboration with the Bellingham Li-brary will be back again next spring.
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VA News
MEMORIAL DAY
Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official holiday in 1971.
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
Veterans marching together again to honor our departed brothers and sisters who died while serving in the military. When: Sunday, May 20th. Where: Bellingham Memorial Middle School. Line up: 12PM, step off 1PM.
FLY THE FLAG
Mothers Day, 2nd Sunday in May. Peace Officers Day, 3rd Saturday in May (half staff). Memorial Day, last Monday in May (half staff until noon). Flag Day, Army Day June 14.Independence Day July 4th
Veterans' Service Officer
Bob Greenhalgh
1-774-292-2437
Council on Aging
Our mission is to provide support and leadership to our senior community through advocacy and by implementing educational, nutritional, recreational and wellness programs to meet their needs.
508-966-0398 ● Our next public COA Board Meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 8, at 1pm.
COA Officers and Board Members
Chair: Kay Page, Vice-Chair: Betty Willey, Treasurer: Tina Tyler, Board Member: Tsune Roberts
Hello Everyone,
Well I think (hope) spring has finally arrived and we are so deserving! Can't wait to get flowers planted, deck furniture out and be outside!
I want to thank the Selectmen & Town Administrator for the Selectmen’s breakfast meeting held at the senior center Friday, April 6. The breakfast was delicious and the residents attending found the meeting very informative. Allen Lieb, the architect selected to draw the plans for the Senior Center addition was introduced to the residents and all were pleased to meet him.
We are organizing a women's golf league so if you are interested in having some fun, many laughs and of course a little exercise please sign up at the front desk.
REMEMBER: The COA is the eyes and ears of the Senior community so if you have any suggestions or comments please call the center, leave a message and we will return your call.
Thank you. Kay Page, Chair
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The 1960’s, Learning Joy, Wire Wrap and Art...
DO YOU REMEMBER THE 1960s?
Friday, May 18 at 10:30am, FREE
If you remember the ‘60s, then you probably weren’t into drugs – as they say, "If you remember the 60s, then you didn’t participate in them." Gary Hylander, who may or may not have participated, will be at the Center to help us all catch up on that decade from long ago. In the second of four appearances, Gary will explore the impact on America of the murders of King and Kennedy. Bring your memories, comments and questions… and sign up at the front desk or call before May 6.
WIRE WRAP JEWELRY
Wednesdays, May 9 and 23, at 10am
This twice-a-month class is designed specifically to aid people with tremors, arthritis and post-stroke, but it’s open to anyone who’d like to create unique jewelry for family and friends. The cost is $5.00 per class to pay for materials including silver and semiprecious gems. Please sign up at the front desk or call by May 4.
JOY OF LEARNING: THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE
Tuesdays, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 at 1:30pm
This FREE educational and informational program explores the fascinating history of
the Ottoman Empire plus additional topics. A 30-minute DVD presentation followed by a group discussion. Open to all; please call to reserve your spot.
WOMEN’S WISDOM GROUP
Thursdays, May 10 and 24, at 1pm, FREE
The group will discuss life issues as well as other issues pertinent to your well-being. We want to establish a core of friends who can share experiences and become less reticent to talk to new people. It is hoped that this group will be the core of new seniors who have moved to town and could use a helping hand in adjusting to life Bellingham style.
ART ANYONE CAN PAINT
Wednesdays, May 2 and 9; 1-3:30pm
Join international art instructor Darrell Crow at the Senior Center to
paint an easy seascape, The Granduer of Summer. Class fee is $25
(for both classes ) and all supplies are provided.
If you have previously started a painting with Darrell, but were unable to complete it, bring it on May 16 and/or May 23. Supplies provided. Please sign up in advance for any/all of Darrell’s classes.
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FREE PROGRAMS
BILLARD ROOM HOURS
Mon., Tues., & Thurs. 8am-4pm
Wed. 1pm- 4pm & Fri. 8am-12pm
PAID PROGRAMS
CHAIR
VOLLEYBALL
Mondays at 9:30am
POKER
Mondays at 1pm
GUITAR LESSONS
Tuesdays at 8am
PITCH
Tuesdays at 1pm
BRIDGE
Wednesdays at 9am
CHORUS
Wednesdays at 10:30am
MOTION TO MUSIC
Wednesdays at 11:30 am
BINGO
Wednesdays at 1pm
MAHJONG
Thursdays at 1pm
CRIBBAGE
Fridays at 9am
CANASTA
Fridays at 12pm
VOTE
Election day is 5/1. Call the Center for a ride to the polls.
Program Highlights
TAI CHI
Fridays at 1pm
$5 for seniors (65+) and $10 for non-seniors.
WIRE WRAP JEWELRY
Wednesdays at 10am
$5 per class
ANYONE CAN PAINT
Wednesdays 1-3:30pm
$25 includes supplies
CHAIR EXERCISE
Mondays at 10:30am
$3 per class
BASIC YOGA
Tuesdays at 10:00am
$3 per class
YOGALATES
Thursdays at 10am
$5 per class
ZUMBA/CORE
Fridays at 9:30am
$3 per class
Activities
SENIOR MEN’S GOLF LEAGUE
Starting this month — Sign up today
Call President Ray Webb: (508) 966-0857
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
Sunday, May 20
Parade starts at 11am at Bellingham Middle School. Seniors who want to be in the parade should please contact the Center. Closing ceremonies at Town Common.
MEN’S GROUP
Wednesdays at 10am ● Free
Join us for coffee and conversation.
Senior Center: (508) 966-0398
LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, May 17, 11:30am
Join our friendly group each month at a local restaurant to share conversation. Don’t sit home alone! Join us. Call the Center to sign up before May 10.
ANGELA WEST CONCERT
Tuesday, May 29 ● 7PM ● $5
Famed country and western singer Angela West comes to the Senior Center for a concert. More than just C&W, she offers a full range of styles and likes to include audience members in the singing. Reserve your spot today.
On Saturday, May 19 at 5:00pm, the Corriveau’s are again sponsoring a Veteran’s Tribute dinner in honor of their father and husband, and in honor of all Veterans. Veterans attend free. For all others it’s $10; you can purchase at the front desk. The catered dinner will be followed by a concert by TRIO OF SONG, this husband and wife and a father have performed for us before. They are fabulous. Anyone attending will have a pleasant evening with good friends, good food, and good music.
SALUTE!
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Bill Eltzroth, President ● John Hogan, Vice President ● Susan Wilkins, Secretary ●
Ray Conklin, Treasurer ● Jeanne LeBlanc, Assistant Treasurer ● Gail Milgram, Sunshine Lady ●
Board Members: Bill Barrette, Louis LeBlanc, Jim Fitzpatrick, Barbara Eltzroth, Tom Donnelly,
Eva Gamache & Rita Tetrault
The BESG office is located at the Municipal Center. Please call either the Senior Center at 508-966-0398 or the Town Hall at 508-657-2715 for specific dates and times.
BESG News & Events
MEETING DAY LUNCHEON
Tuesday, May 1 ● 12pm ● $7 for BESG members, $10 for non-members & late sign ups
Chicken Pot Pie, by Mickey G
(June’s luncheon will be on the 5th, you might want to sign up now.)
MONTHLY BIRTHDAY PARTY
Thursday, May 31 ● 12-2pm ● $9 per person, sign up by 5/17
Roast pork, by Mickey G. Many thanks to our new birthday cake provider:
FOXWOODS TRIP
Thursday, May 17 ● 7:45am - 5pm ● $22 per person
Package includes free food, free bet, and a chance for a free trip
Greetings!
I have some great news to start with! The Town has hired an architect for expanding our senior center.
Jim Fitzpatrick, Kay Page, Betty Willey and I will start to meet with Allen Lieb Architects & Associates to see how we can expand and what will be best for us. As we progress, we will need the support of all the seniors in Town and I will try to keep you all updated. We are on the move!
Our May meals are listed below… hope to see you all soon!
I keep reminding everyone that we are in dire need of hospital equipment, shower chairs, wheel chairs, and transport chairs. If you have any of these items, then please consider donating them. We have people in need and it is nice that we can help them.
Thank you for your donations for our upcoming Yard Sale on June 9 and for our White Elephant Table. Please keep ‘em coming! Eva and Browny work hard keeping it all organized. Kindly drop off all your donations at the front desk.
Lastly, if you are not already a member of BESG, I hope you’ll consider becoming one. It would be nice if every senior in Bellingham became a member. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Bill Eltzroth, President BESG
P.S. 2018 Donations and Memorials start on page 10. THANK YOU!
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SHINE… This month we welcome Jean Roy to the Senior Center. She will offer SHINE services to members on Wednesdays — May 9 and May 23 — between 9am and Noon. SHINE news will return to this space next month.
LOBSTER AND CLAM BAKE… Join us on Thursday, June 14, for a day-trip to southern Maine. We’ll be visiting: Yummies Candy Store, When Pigs Fly Company Store, Foster’s Downeast Clambake, The Kittery Outlets, and Big Daddies Ice Cream. $79. Motorcoach included.
Please reserve by calling (508) 657-2715.
SENIOR DISCOUNTS… If you live in Bellingham and are 65 years of age or older, then you can take advantage of these discounts:
Trash Service reduced from $95 to $46.50 | Capital Improvement Fee reduced from $52.50 to $7.50
You can save $93.50 per quarter!
Contact the DPW at (508) 966-5816
Announcements
Outreach by Sheila
Did you notice that even though the weather in April began with snow, not April showers, that the irises and daffodils still stuck their heads out of the ground? Do you think that they are determined to keep to their schedule regardless of outside temperature and moisture?
And did you notice that we worked with the Eagle Scouts last year to build and plant a raised bed garden? Did you realize that the garden is four feet off the ground to accommodate seniors who miss gardening because they can no longer reach down without fear of falling or other limitations? Well, this year, despite the lateness of the season, we are looking for seniors who miss working in the soil and raising their own vegetables. If you would like to commit to this season’s garden please call me by May 7 (508-657-2710) and we can set up a rotating work schedule. Of the produce you raise, you would be asked to share with the other volunteers and possibly, if there is enough, with other seniors in the community. This project was implemented for you. Please think about how much you have missed growing your own tomatoes and how great they tasted right off the vine.
I’d like to talk to you about some of the programming we have coming up in the next few weeks. Like last year, the Senior Council at the High School is going to put on a Senior Prom for us in June. Look for more details to come. Those of us who went last year had a ball and are still talking about all that they did. The date is June 22 from 4:00-7:00.They will provide everything. Walgreens has volunteered to do the make-up for the ladies attending. They will be here in the morning and do eight appointments per hour from 10:00-2:.00. Sign up will close on June 12.
June 19 at 7:00 p.m. SOUTHERN RAIL will provide us with their annual concert, which is partially funded by the BESG. This year we were unable to obtain a grant so there will be a $10.00 donation to attend. We will provide you with refreshments. They are wonderful and if you haven’t treated yourself, this is the year to do it.
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Services
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC
Mon., May 7 at 10am-12pm ● Free
Bellingham’s Public Health Nurse will be taking free blood pressure readings at the Senior Center. Sign up at the front desk or call the Senior Center at 508-966-0398.
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP
Thurs., May 3 & 17 at 11:15am ● Free
Join with others who have experienced a similar loss. Funded by a state grant Administered by Massachusetts Association for Councils on Aging and Senior Center Directors. Please call 508-966-0398 to sign up.
FINANCIAL CONSULTATIONS
Thurs., May 17 at 10am-12pm
Gerald Loftin is available by appointment for free financial consultations. To schedule your consultation, sign up at the front desk or call the Senior Center at 508-966-0398.
LEGAL CONSULTATIONS
Wed., May 23 at 2-4pm ● Free
Attorney Daniel T. Doyle is available by appointment for free legal consultations. To schedule your free 15-minute consultation, sign up at the front desk or call the Senior Center at 508-966-0398.
SAFE NEEDLE DISPOSAL OPTIONS
You may use the large collection container stationed inside near the front door of the Senior Center. Needles, syringes and sharps MUST BE IN A STURDY CONTAINER that is water and puncture proof (such as a coffee can or smaller bleach or detergent bottle) and marked with the universal biohazard warning symbol. Please, No Plastic Bags or Loose Needles! See the front desk if you require a container.
BELLINGHAM PROPERTY
TAX WORK OFF PROGRAM
Earn up to $1,000 off your property tax bill while helping the Town of Bellingham! For more information, please call Nancy Champney at
508-657-2707.
GATRA TRANSPORTATION
If you are at least 60 years of age, or a younger disabled resident, we provide rides in town and the surrounding area up to 10 miles. For more information or to schedule a ride, call the Senior Center at 508-657-2709.
SUPPORTIVE DAY PROGRAM
Mon.-Wed. from 9am - 3pm ● $35/day
Members can spend as little as one, or up to three days per week, in this program. Healthy snacks and lunch are included. Enjoyment, conversation and gentle exercise are part of each day. Transportation is available at no additional cost for residents. Please call the Program Coordinator, Olivia Mathieu, at 508-657-2711, with any questions.
Thank you!
Please remember to sign up at the front desk, or call 508-966-0398. The Senior Center makes decisions regarding the scheduling of programs and services based on the number of attendees who have signed up.
Our thanks to the Bellingham Police Association for sponsoring the 2018 St. Patrick’s Day luncheon. Sen-iors enjoyed a traditional corned beef meal with all the trimmings hosted at the Coachmen’s Lodge. BPA sup-ports several local charitable organizations and sports team. The event was coordinated by Sgt. Ed Guzowski.
Your Senior Center gratefully re-ceives donations. Your contributions support programming and services. This month, we acknowledge Emily and Kenneth Cahill, Mary Burr, and an anonymous donor for their generosity.
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Monday |
Tuesday |
Wednesday |
Thursday |
Friday |
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1 ELECTION DAY* 8am - 4pm: Billiards 8am: Guitar 9:30am Bowling at Ryan Center 10am: Basic Yoga 12pm: BESG Lunch/Meeting 1pm: Pitch 1:30 pm: Ottoman Empire |
2 9am: Bridge 10am: Men’s Group 10:30am Chorus 11:30am: Motion to Music 1-3:30pm Art Anyone Can Paint 1pm-4pm: Billiards 1pm: Bingo |
3 8am-4pm: Billiards 10am: Yogalates 11am: TRIAD 11:15am: Bereavement Support 1pm: Mahjong |
4 8am - 12pm: Billiards 9am: Cribbage 9:30am: Zumba/Core 12pm: Canasta 1pm: Tai Chi |
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7 8am-4pm: Billiards 9:00am: Knitters/Quilters 9:30am: Chair Volleyball 10am-12pm: Blood Pressure Clinic 10:30am: Chair Exercise 1pm: Poker 1pm: Conv. Italian |
8 8am - 4pm: Billiards 8am: Guitar 9:30am Bowling at Ryan Center 10am: Basic Yoga 1pm: Pitch 1pm: COA Meeting 1:30pm: Ottoman Empire |
9 9am: Bridge 9am-noon: SHINE (new with Jean Roy) 10am: Men’s Group 10am: Wire Wrap Jewelery 10:30am Chorus 11:30am: Motion to Music 1pm-4pm: Billiards 1pm: Bingo 1-3:30pm Art Anyone Can Paint |
10 8am-4pm: Billiards 10am: Yogalates 1pm: Mahjong 1pm: Women’s Wisdom Group |
11 8am - 12pm: Billiards 9am: Cribbage 9:30am: Zumba/Core 12pm: Canasta 1pm: Tai Chi |
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14 8am-4pm: Billiards 9:00am: Knitters/Quilters 9:30am Chair Volleyball 10:30am: Chair Exercise 1pm: Poker 1pm: Conv. Italian |
15 8am - 4pm: Billiards 8am: Guitar 9:30am Bowling at Ryan Center 11:30am—1:30pm Lunch Bunch 1pm: COA Board Mtg. 1pm: Pitch 1:30 pm: Ottoman Empire |
16 9am: Bridge 10am: Men’s Group 10:30am Chorus 11:30am: Motion to Music 1pm-4pm: Billiards 1pm: Bingo |
17 7:45am—5pm Foxwoods Trip 8am-4pm: Billiards 10am: Yogalates 10am—noon: Financial Consult 11:15am: Bereavement Support 11:30am Lunch Bunch 1pm: How to Make a Fleece Blanket 1pm: Mahjong |
18 8am - 12pm: Billiards 9am: Cribbage 9:30am: Zumba/Core 10:30am: Highlights of the 1960s (Politics) 12pm: Canasta 1pm: Tai Chi 19 5pm: Vet Tribute Dinner and concert |
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21 8am-4pm: Billiards 9:00am: Knitters/Quilters 9:30am: Chair Volleyball 10:30am: Chair Exercise 1pm: Poker 1pm: Conv. Italian |
22 8am - 4pm: Billiards 8am: Guitar 9:30am Bowling at Ryan Center 10am: Basic Yoga 1pm: Pitch 1:30pm: Ottoman Empire |
23 9am: Bridge 9am-noon: SHINE (new with Jean Roy) 10am: Men’s Group 10am: Wire Wrap Jewelery 10:30am Chorus 11:30am: Motion to Music 1pm-4pm: Billiards 1pm: Bingo 2pm-4pm Legal Consultations |
24 8am-4pm: Billiards 10am: Yogalates 1pm: Mahjong 1pm: Women’s Wisdom Group |
25 8am - 12pm: Billiards 9am: Cribbage 9:30am: Zumba/Core 12pm: Canasta 1pm: Tai Chi |
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28 SENIOR CENTER IS CLOSED FOR MEMORIAL DAY. |
29 8am - 4pm: Billiards 8am: Guitar 9:30am Bowling 10am: Basic Yoga 1pm: Pitch 1:30pm: Ottoman Em. 7pm Angela West Concert |
30 9am: Bridge 10am: Men’s Group 10:30am Chorus 11:30am: Motion to Music 1pm-4pm: Billiards 1pm: Bingo |
31 8am-4pm: Billiards 10am: Yogalates 12pm: BESG Birthday Party 1pm: Mahjong |
NEW PROGRAMS ARE IN BOLD. *If you need a rideto the polls, contact the Center at (508) 966-0398. |
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