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Category: Seniors

  • What’s Happening in August at the Callahan Senior Center

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – Happenings in August at the Callahan Senior Center on Union Ave:

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center – Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, August 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 10:00 am. Diabetic Support Group: Please call Center for date and time. Grandparent Support Group: Please call Center for date and time Low Vision Group: Friday, August 18th at 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Massage Therapy: Thursday, August 3rd by appt. only. Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, August 15th at 1:30 pm. Podiatry: Monday, August 14th from 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm, by appt. only. Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: No support group meeting in August. Next meeting will be on Tuesday, September 5th at 1:00 pm.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR AUGUST – Wednesdays, August 2, 9 and 16 only
    from 9:30—11am & 12—1 pm. No blood pressure clinic on August 23rd and 30th.

    CARDIOVASCULAR CLINIC IN SEPTEMBER – The Cardiovascular Clinic will be on Tuesday, September 5th at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A doctor from the MetroWest Medical Center and nurse Kitty Mahoney from the Framingham Board of Health will be at the Senior Center to check your blood pressure, answer any questions and address individual concerns. For further information, please contact Kitty Mahoney at 508-532-5472.

    PROPERTY TAX RELIEF PROGRAM – The Property Tax Relief Program will open registration in the month of August. If you qualify for this program, you may work 74.4 hours and get a credit of $500.00 off your property taxes. Please call Kay Leeland at 508-532-5980, extension 4106 for an appointment. No applications will be accepted without an appointment.

    Thursday, August 24th, 2006 at 10:00 am at the Callahan Center -“History of the Office of the Sheriff and What They Do Today – Senior Safety Issues” – Captain Dan Moore, Deputy Superintendent of the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office, will be here to talk to you about the history of the Sheriff’s Office and what they do today. He will also discuss senior safety issues. Come and join us for this interesting and informative presentation with refreshments. Please call the Callahan Center at 508-532-5980 or stop by the reception desk if you are at the Center to let us know you are planning to attend.

    Tai Chi Program at Callahan – We are looking into having Tai Chi Classes at the Center, however we need to know how many seniors are interested. Classes would be on Monday afternoons at Callahan Center from 1:00—2:00 pm. Cost is $3.00 per class. Classes will start on Monday, September 11th.
    If you are interested in Tai Chi, please call the Center at 508-532-5980 and leave your name and phone number. If you are unfamiliar with Tai Chi and would like to see a demonstration, please come to the Center on Monday, August 28th at 1:00 pm.

    Interested in playing Scrabble??? – A couple of seniors are looking for some scrabble partners. If you are interested in playing on Monday or Thursday mornings at 10:00 am at the Callahan Center, please call the Center at 508-532-5980 and leave your name and telephone number. Doris Hervey or Karolyne White will call you to set up a start date.

    Fall Programs offered by Framingham State College, Center for Lifelong Learners in Partnership with the Callahan Center

    Course: World Religions Part II – “Islam” Instructor: Professor Jason Giannetti, J.D.
    Dates: Tuesday, September 26th and Tuesdays, October 3rd & 10th at 6:30 pm – Fee: $18.00 pp

    This course will focus on the principles underlying the Muslim faith. We will examine the historical and cultural precursors of Islam, the vision of its prophet Muhammad, the rise of Islam to its Golden Age, and its place in the world today. We will also discuss comparative philosophical and theological approaches between Abrahamic religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, as well as the social and political interactions these three great world religions have had in the past and the way history has shaped the current geopolitical situation.

    Course: “The Trilogy of Love: Three Operas”
    Instructor: Mark Evans, Administrator of the Arts and Humanities Program Series
    Date: Thursdays, October 12th, 19th & 26th at 10:00 am – Fee: $18.00 pp

    Composer W.A. Mozart and librettist Lorenzo da Ponte put before the world three operas that challenged and changed everything operatic from form to content. Often referred to as the “Triology of Love”, join Mark Evans as he begs the question: What’s love got to do with it? Mr. Evans plans to discuss the three operas: Le Nozze di Figro, Cosi fan tutte, and Don Giovanni.
    Course: “Give Your Heart a Gift this Holiday Season: Ways to Enhance Your Heart Health”
    Instructor: Jessica Hodge, Ph. D.
    Date: Wednesday, November 8, 2006 at 6:30 pm – Fee: $6.00 pp

    Professor Jessica Hodge will discuss the ways to put a plan in place to reduce the stress of the holidays. Often we spend too much time, we do too much, and we eat and drink too much during the holiday season. We’ll examine how our holiday food and drink can be heart-healthy and discuss ways to handle potential indulgences. Be prepared to sample holiday treats!

    Art Instruction at Callahan – Kathleen Wirtanen, Art Instructor, is interested in coming to the Callahan Center for an 8-week art course. Classes are geared for beginners, but all are welcome. You will learn the basics of pencil drawing and instruction will also be given for the use of Micron pens for Pen & Ink drawings. Classes will take place at Callahan Center on Thursday mornings from 10:00 am—11:30 am in the Multi-purpose Room and will run for 8 weeks starting Thursday, September 14th. The cost per class will be $3.00 per person.

    Items you will need for class are: a kneaded eraser, Ebony drawing pencil by Sanford, or an #HB or #2 pencil, 11 x 14 or larger pad of white drawing paper, 11 x 14 pad of BRISTOL paper (Strathmore or Canson brands are good) and Micron pens in color black, sizes 01, 03 and/or size 05. These supplies are available at A.C. Moore, Staples, Office Max or any Art Supply store. Online stores you could try are www.DickBlick.com or www.cheapjoes.com. If interested, please call the Center at 508-532-5980 to register, and leave your name and phone number.

    NOTICE: MBTA Senior ID Cards – The MBTA (Mass Bay Transportation Auth.) will replace all valid existing cards and issue new cards to customers 65+ (with proof of age) on: Thursday, August 17th between the hours of 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Callahan Center 535 Union Avenue, Framingham MA. Please call Ann Steacie at 508-532-5980, ext. 4113 with any questions.

    Save the Date!! Do you want to save $ on Prescription Drugs? Monday, September 11th at 10:00 am
    Come to the Callahan Center and learn about our state’s Prescription Drug Program: Prescription Advantage

    Heritage Gallery would like to take this opportunity to thank all the Seniors for their generosity in providing merchandise to be sold for the benefit of the Friends of Callahan Building Fund.

    Heritage Gallery will re-open Wednesday, September 6th with hours from 10:00 am – 2:15 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. There will be many new things to see – jewelry displays, collectibles, beautiful lace doilies and many lovely items for the home. Come in with your holiday shopping list to find suitable gifts for all at very reasonable prices. Looking forward to serving the Community in the coming season!

  • Callahan Senior Center June Happenings

    FRAMINGHAM,MA — JUNE HAPPENINGS AT CALLAHAN CENTER
    535 Union Avenue, Framingham:

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center – Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, June 5, 12, 19 & 26 at 10:00 am. Diabetic Support Group: The Diabetic Support Group will not meet in June. The group will resume on Tuesday, July 11, 2006. Grandparent Support Group: Tuesday, June 13 at 1:00 pm and Tuesday, June 27 at 6:45 pm. Low Vision Group: Friday, June 16 at 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Massage Therapy: Thursday, June 1 by appt. only. Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, June 20 at 1:30 pm. Podiatry: Monday, June 12 from 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm, by appt. only. Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Monday, June 5 at 1:00 pm.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR JUNE – Wednesdays, June 7, 14, 21 & 28 from 9:30—11am & 12—1 pm. Note: Clinic hours may be limited for the summer—please speak with nurse regarding dates and hours of this clinic.

    CARDIOVASCULAR CLINIC IN JUNE – The Cardiovascular Clinic will be on Tuesday, June 6th at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A doctor from the MetroWest Medical Center and nurse Kitty Mahoney from the Framingham Board of Health will be at the Senior Center to check your blood pressure, answer any questions and address individual concerns. For further information, please contact Kitty Mahoney at 508-532-5472. No Cardiovascular Clinic in July and August.

    We are hoping to have a ‘Chair Exercise’ presentation in the month of June. However, the speakers for the ‘Cancer Prevention & Awareness’ presentation in April and the ‘Angioplasty’ presentation in May did not show up and did not call to cancel, leaving a number of people very disappointed. Check the lobby reader board at the Center for up-to-date information on presentations. We are working on securing wellness speakers from another organization.

    Brophy/ Callahan Bingo – On Thursday, June 15th, we will again celebrate our friendship with the Brophy Elementary School. Twenty-one students will arrive at 10:45 am for a morning of “Bingo with the Seniors” and a pizza lunch. We welcome seniors who are interested in participating in this inter-generational program—a morning of fun and laughter. Please sign up with the front desk or call Ann Steacie at 508-532-5980, extension 4113 to ensure your reservation for pizza and bingo.

    Veterans’ Benefits Presentation – Thursday, June 8th 10:00 am at Callahan Center – The primary focus of this presentation will be on direct financial and medical reimbursement benefits. There are many more benefits that you may not be aware of, so come and listen to this speaker from the Commonwealth of MA, Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Department of Veterans’ Services.

    The Framingham Board of Health Presents – ‘KEEP MOVING” (A Healthy Habits for Life Program) Special Registration at the Callahan Senior Center from June 5th through June 9th, each day from 10:00 – 11:00 AM – The Board of Health Nurses will be at the Callahan to help you register and take your blood pressure, weight, health history and give you the program information. You will be provided with a pedometer, sunscreen and other goodies! Registration will also be available through the Board of Health office during clinic hours Monday-Friday from 8:30—9:30 AM and 4:00-4:45 PM and Monday evenings from 6:00—8:00 PM. Participants: During the months of June, July and August you will be offered guidance in developing your own “Get Moving” plan. In September, the Public Health Nurses will meet with each participant again to evaluate how the Get Moving Program has improved your health.

    PROPERTY TAX RELIEF PROGRAM – The Property Tax Relief Program will open registration in the month of August. If you qualify for this program, you may work 74.4 hours and get a credit of $500.00 off your property taxes. Check the August Courier for the dates to come to the Center to see if you qualify for this worthwhile tax relief program for seniors. No appointments will be made until August.

    Friday, June 16th at 10:00 am – ARTHRITIS PRESENTATION: “Non-Prescription Remedies for Pain – What works and what is safe”

    Wednesday, June 28th at 10:00 am – FREE Slide Show of newly announced overnight trips presented by Collette Travel.

    Thursday, June 29th at 10:00 am – MUSICAL CONCERT with Professor Marc Widershien and Ms. Ilse Agte

    Attention all Senior Golfers! Join us for a round golf on Wednesday mornings (weather permitting)
    Time: 10:00 am Where: Stoneybrook Golf Course, Southboro, MA Cost: $11.00 Please call
    Rosalie Cotton at 508-877-0681 for more details or any questions you may have.

    Bocce Starts on May 26th! Bocce will start on Monday, May 26th. If you are interested in playing, please sign your name on the list you will find on the large bulletin board in the Recreation Room of the Callahan Center. You may call Dick Bonvini at 508-877-2824 for more details.

    Lawn Chair Drill Team – If you are interested in being on the Callahan Center Lawn Chair Drill Team and participate in some local parades, please sign your name to the list on the bulletin board in the Recreation Room at the Callahan Center. Please call Dick Bonvini at 508-877-2824 for more information.

    Do you have a key tag for the Callahan Center….you need one! The Callahan Center has finally come onboard with the technology of the 21st Century! This new system will make checking in easier for you, as well as collect data, sort it out and give us the reports we need to get our state funding! However, we need your help to make all of this happen. If you already have your key tag and are checking in with ease—that’s great! For those of you who do not have a key tag, you will be issued one the next time you come into the Center. We suggest you put it on your key chain or somewhere that will make it easy to locate it, when you arrive at the Center. A volunteer will be at a table in the Center lobby and will assist you with checking in. It is a very simple process and will only take seconds, once you have your card. Once you know how to use the system, you may bi-pass the volunteer and check yourself in. You are required to check in every day you come to the Center, and you may register for multiple activities or events that are taking place on that day – so you only have to check in once when you arrive and you are done for that day.

    The way you check in is simple: show your key tag (bar code side) to the small beacon, when it beeps, a screen will come up on the computer monitor, with “Hello Mrs. Smith” (example), a list of boxes with all the days activities and events will be under that and you will tap the boxes of choice with your finger, they will be highlighted in yellow, then you touch the “I’m done” box in the bottom right corner and go off to your activity or event. There will be boxes for services such as Computer Center, SHINE, Social Services, Travel, etc. There is also a “friendly visitor” box, in the event that you are only coming in for a cup of coffee and conversation or to read the newspaper. We hope these instructions are helpful and that you will see the greatness in this new way of checking in, so that we can give a more accurate account of the increased attendance, activities, programs and services we are able to offer seniors in this area. Thank you, in advance, for your patience and cooperation with this new opportunity!

    HERITAGE GALLERY Closes for the Summer – Heritage Gallery will close on Friday, June 30th.
    Don’t forget Father’s Day – Sunday, June 18th! Wishing all a happy and safe summer! See you when Heritage Gallery re-opens on Wednesday, September 6th.

    The next issue of the Callahan Happenings will be August 2006. You’ll want to check out our fall line-up of programs and events!

  • Callahan Senior Center Happenings – May 2006

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – Here’s what’s happening in May at the Callahan Senior Center;

    Callahan Center’s Senior Week Festivities – May 8th -12th, 2006

    Monday, May 8th – New Members Open House at Callahan Center from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. Come and join us for a tour of the Center followed by Coffee and Danish which will be available in the Friends Café. Wednesday, May 10th – Cameron Middle School Jazz Band at Callahan Center from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. If you plan to attend the jazz concert, a pizza lunch will be available. A $2.00 donation is requested. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 to reserve a seat. We must receive your reservation no later than Monday, May 8th. Limited to the first 75 people.

    Thursday, May 11th – Haircuts and Manicures compliments of Keefe Technical Cosmetology Students from 9:00 am to 11:30 am. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 to make an appt.

    Friday, May 12th – Volunteer Luncheon at Keefe Technical High School Dining Room at 11:30 am followed by inspirational speakers at 12:45 in the Keefe Auditorium. (This luncheon is by invitation only).

    STROKE SUPPORT SERVICES – Monday, May 8th from 1:00 – 2:15 pm at Callahan Center

    The Stroke Support Services would like to invite you to attend our meeting on May 8th. We will show a video, and several of our Stroke Survivors will be speaking about their experiences dealing with their illness and their healing. Volunteer nurses, Irene Jones and Jody Mahan, will be available for your questions.

    ANGIOPLASTY PRESENTATION – Wednesday, May 17, 2006 at 10:00 am at the Callahan Center. Angioplasty is a medical procedure in which a balloon is used to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels of the heart, the so called, coronary arteries. It is not considered to be a type of surgery. Blockages or narrowed arteries are caused by fat and cholesterol that can accumulate on the inside of the artery to form deposits called plaque. Since these arteries supply circulation to the heart muscle itself, this narrowing or blockage can be quite serious. In many cases, if the blockage is not too severe, a balloon catheter may be used to open theses arteries. This procedure would be done as an alternative to open heart surgery which is a serious operation. (Source: MEDLINEPLUS 2006). Come and learn more about this valuable, lifesaving procedure. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 to reserve a seat!

    ARTHRITIS PRESENTATION – Thursday, May 18th at 10:00 am at Callahan Center – Please join us for this informative presentation on arthritis. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 to reserve a seat.

    SENIORS’ SPRING DANCE on Friday, May 19th, from 5:00—8:00 pm for all you seniors who want to kick up your heels! Bob Fisher of ‘Music, Music, Music Memories’ will be here to play all your favorites. Dance the night away and enjoy some soft drinks and light refreshments. Don’t stay away if you are single, Bob plays a great variety of music to include line dancing, the stroll, the twist and many more! A donation of $5.00 per person is requested to cover the DJ’s expenses and the refreshments. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 and let us know if you plan to attend. Attire is casual.

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center: Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, May 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 at 10:00 am. Diabetic Support Group: The Diabetic Support Group will not meet during the months of May and June. The group will resume in July. Grandparent Support Group: Tuesday, May 9 at 1:00 pm and Tuesday, May 23 at 6:45 pm. Low Vision Group: Friday, May 19 at 1:00 – 3:00 pm, the Low Vision Group will meet jointly with the MetroWest Radio Reading Service, who will hold their annual Radio Reading Appreciation Day. Massage Therapy: Thursday, May 4 by appt. only. Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, May 16 at 1:30 pm. Podiatry: Monday, May 8 from 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm, by appt. only. Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Monday, May 8 at 1:00 pm.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR MAY – Wednesdays, May 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 – 9:30—11am & 12—1 pm

    CARDIOVASCULAR CLINIC IN APRIL: The Cardiovascular Clinic will be on Tuesday, May 2nd at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A doctor from the MetroWest Medical Center and nurse Kitty Mahoney from the Framingham Board of Health will be at the Senior Center to check your blood pressure, answer any questions and address individual concerns. For further information, please contact Kitty Mahoney at 508-532-5472.

    Basic Sign Language Course Offered at Callahan Center – If you are interested in learning the basics of Sign Language, we are hoping to start a 6-week course in June of this year. A $12.00 donation is required to cover the instructor’s fee. It’s a fun and an educational activity to know. You might know someone who signs or you might just want to be able to say hello to someone who you see signing on the bus, in a restaurant or wherever you might be. Please call Lorraine Fournier at 508-532-5980 to sign up for this exciting new offering at the Center.

    Please remember to register for all events to be guaranteed of a seat. Some events have limited seating, so don’t wait! Call the Center today at 508-532-5980. Thank you!

    Mother’s Day Gifts At Heritage Gallery – You will find fabulous, unique and beautiful gifts for Mother! We are located at 535 Union Avenue, Framingham. We are open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am to 2:15 pm.

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  • Callahan Senior Center Happenings for April

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – CALLAHAN CENTER HAPPENINGS FOR APRIL:

    Cancer Prevention & Awareness – Wednesday, April 12, 2006 at 10:00 am Callahan Center, Union Ave. The big “C” is probably the most dreaded word that any of us could ever hear. These are some steps you could take to make yourself more aware of the causes of cancer, and possible methods of prevention. Screening tools are very helpful in the discovery of cancer. Screening tools currently available are: Mammogram for breast cancer, PSA for prostate cancer, Stool for guaiac and Colonoscopy for colon cancer, CA126, a blood test, just to name a few. Please come and join us and become more educated about your risk, and new treatments for this dreaded disease.

    Framingham State College (FSC), the Center for Lifelong Learners, in partnership with and at the Callahan Center Presents: Avocados to Walking: Ways to Enhance Your Heart Health, Instructor: Jessica Hodge, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Food and Nutrition, FSC,Date: Monday, April 3, 2006,Time: 6:30 – 7:45 pm, Cost: $6.00 (In order to pay the presenter’s fee, we require a donation of $6.00), To register: Please call the Callahan Center at 508-532-5980.

    We will explore the benefits of chocolate, wine, yogurt and yoga as components to reduce cholesterol and enjoy a long, healthy life. Recent government guidelines highlight diet and lifestyle changes as the first line of defense against heart disease and cholesterol. Be prepared to sample some delicious foods that can be a part of your “plaque attack”.

    Dr. Jessica Hodge, a nutritional biochemist, received her bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Home Economics from Ohio Wesleyan University and her Ph.D. from Tufts University in Nutritional Biochemistry. She is an Assistant Professor of Food and Nutrition at Framingham State College where she teaches courses in Human Nutrition Science, Food, Culture and Society, Sports Nutrition and Current Issues in Nutrition and Health.

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    The Irish Music Guy – Instructor: Kevin Farley, Date: April 5, 2006 Time: 10:00 am, Cost: $6.00 (In order to pay the presenter’s fee, we require a donation of $6.00), To register: Please call the Callahan Center at 508-532-5980.

    Mr. Kevin Farley remembers that his grandmother told him, “When God makes you , he puts an invisible thread in your hands and all that you have to do is follow it”. Mr. Farley’s invisible thread runs through his rich and varied fabric of Irish music and lore. He explains “there are threads in story and song; threads of history, culture and family. These threads weave us together into one nation, one world.” As part of his repertoire, he plays ten different instruments including the fiddle, accordion, Celtic harp, penny whistle, guitar, banjo, bodhran, harmonica, bouzouki and the piano. Mr. Farley received his bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing from St. Frances College in Biddeford, ME. He studied classical guitar with Rey dela Torre in California. For the past 25 years, Mr. Farley has been connecting with people through his music.

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    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center: Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, April 3, 10, 17 & 24 at 10:00 am. Diabetic Support Group: Tuesday, April 11 at 1:30 pm. Grandparent Support Group: Tuesday, April 11 at 1:00 pm and Tuesday, April 25 at 6:45 pm. Low Vision Group: Friday, April 21 at 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Massage Therapy: Thursday, April 6. Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, April 18 at 1:30 pm. Podiatry: Monday, April10 from 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm, by appt. only. Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Monday, April 3 at 1:00 pm.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR APRIL – Wednesdays, April 5, 12, 19 and 26 From 9:30 am—11:00 and 12:00 pm—1:00 pm

    CARDIOVASCULAR CLINIC IN APRIL – The Cardiovascular Clinic will be on Tuesday, April 4th at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A doctor from the MetroWest Medical Center and nurse Kitty Mahoney from the Framingham Board of Health will be at the Senior Center to check your blood pressure, answer any questions and address individual concerns. For further information, please contact Kitty Mahoney at 508-532-5472.

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    Make Choices NOW! – Not sure if you should be taking a Medicare Part D Prescription Plan? Are you wondering if Prescription Advantage is right for you? Don’t wonder too long! Deadlines are coming up soon for both programs.

    Not sure what to do? Help is available from a number of sources. Remember, though, that phone lines can get jammed and appointments will book quickly. Wait too long, and you may not get the help you need.

    Prescription Advantage is holding an open enrollment period now. Your completed application is due no later than April 28. Medicare Part D drug plan open enrollment ends May 15th. For more information, or to request an application, call 1-800-243-4636 (1-800-AGE-INFO) and press or say 1.

    Applications are also available at the Council on Aging. The best place to get information on the different Part D plans is on the web at www.medicare.gov. For information by phone, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). Please have at hand a list of your drugs and their dosages. You will also need information about any health insurance you have. MassMedline, a service of the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy is also available to help. Call 1-866-633-1617.

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    SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) offers free, health insurance counseling. Call the Senior Center for a SHINE appointment. To reach a SHINE counselor by telephone, call 1-800-243-4636 and press or say 2. Leave a message with your name, telephone number, and a brief description of your questions. A counselor will call you back.

    Do you want to save money on your prescription drugs? Is your annual income less than $29,400 (single) or $39,600 (couple)? Assets do not count. Prescription Advantage will pay all or part of your Medicare Part D premium, your total annual deductible and give you coverage in the gap (donut hole). It will also limit your total out of pocket spending significantly. What a great deal!! This is available to everyone, including those with Medicare Advantage plans, the VA, and Retiree plans. All you have to do is enroll by April 28. There is no cost to joining. Drop in to the Callahan Center on Thursday, April 6, between 9:30AM and 3PM and get help with filling out the application. Remember to bring documents to verify your income. No cost to join! Savings to be had! What have you got to lose?

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    Callahan Center Policy for Durable Medical Equipment Loan Program – The Callahan Center will accept donations of durable medical equipment to be used to loan to other seniors in need. All equipment must be in good working order with parts and directions (where applicable).

    The following is a list of equipment that is acceptable. *Arrangements will be made for large items such as an electric bed, electric scooter, etc. to go directly to interested parties. We do not accept crutches of any kind. If you have any questions about donated items, please direct inquiries to Ann Steacie at 508-532-5980.

    Acceptable items are as follows:

    – Bed protector pads

    – Incontinence products (new)

    – Bed board with handle

    – Over the bed table

    – Blood glucose machine

    – Over the bed trapeze

    – Blood pressure machine

    – Ramps

    – Canes and quad canes

    – Raised toilet seats

    – Commodes (we do not take the potty, you must dispose of that item)

    – Elastic stockings (new)

    – Reachers and grabbers

    – Electric bed or scooter *

    – Extended shoehorn

    – Geriatric chair

    – Tub seats, tub bars

    – Gauze materials (unopened)

    – Walkers

    – Hoyer lift

    – Wheelchairs

    Please bring your donated items to Ann Steacie in the Outreach Department at the Callahan Center. In her absence, the receptionist at the front desk will help you. Thank you, in advance, for your generous donation that will assist someone else during their time of need.

    The Callahan Center reserves the right to not accept items that are not on this list above, are not in proper working order or are not clean.

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    The MetroWest Radio Reading Service – On Friday, May 19, 2006, The MetroWest Radio Reading Service, an affiliate of the Talking Information Center Massachusetts Reading Network under the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, and a community Outreach program of the Disability Service Office at Framingham State College will hold its annual Radio Reading Appreciation Day at the Callahan Senior Center as part of the May Meeting of the Framingham Low Vision Group.

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    Some thirty volunteers will be honored, including special honors to Barry Bograd, author of the book, “Get Off Your Rocker Before You Go Off Your Rocker” and Doctor Daniel Levy, author of the book, “A Change of Heart: How the Framingham Heart Study helped Unravel the Mysteries of Cardiovascular Disease.” Both books have been broadcast as part of our service, with Barry Bograd recording his book and Doctor Levy donating the book for our recording of it.

    Light Refreshments will be provided through Lunch Express. The program will be from 1-00 p.m. until 3-00 p.m. It promises to be s very special day to honor our volunteers. Awards will be presented by officials at F.S.C. and the Talking Information Center. Dennis Polselli Disability Services Coordinator/director Metro-West Radio Reading Service at Framingham State College.

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    WANTED – We are in need of yarn for lap robes for Veterans and Baby Afghans for the H.I.V. Babies. Please call Evelyn Langley, Project Coordinator at 508-532-4105. Thank you, in advance, for your generosity and support of this valuable project!

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    Friends’ General Meeting – The next Friends’ meeting will be on Monday, April 10th at 1:30 pm. The entertainment will be with Billy Bruso. Refreshments will be served. Come and bring a friend!

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    Just in time for all the upcoming spring and summer weddings! – Win a beautiful Lladro Bride & Groom figurine. It would make an excellent gift! Donation $2.00 or – chances for a $5.00 donation. Chances may be purchased at Heritage Gallery at Callahan Center. Drawing will be on Monday, May 8th. You need not be present to win. Proceeds will go to the Friends of Callahan Building Fund.

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    Notice from Heritage Gallery – Heritage Gallery is a quality, consignment shop for home furnishings, collectibles, crafts and antiques. Bring us your unwanted articles and turn them into cash! If you have items to donate or be sold in the Gallery, please call Evelyn Langley for an appointment at 508-532-4105. Please do not drop off your items at the front desk or in any other area of the Center.

    We cannot accept broken items, chipped china or glassware or used electrical appliances, since we can offer NO safety guarantees. All articles are subject to approval by the examining committee. All merchandise must be received and returned at the consignor’s expense. The consignment fee is 25% to Heritage Gallery and 75% to the consignor. Non-seniors pay a $5.00 entry fee. We do not guarantee the sale of any article. Gallery Hours are Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:00 am to 2:15 pm.

    Heritage Gallery reserves the right to regulate the displays, advertising, etc. We do assure you of fair treatment. All reasonable care will be accorded your merchandise, but we cannot be responsible for reasonable wear and tear. Thank you for your interest in Heritage Gallery!

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    COMING UP THE MONTH OF MAY! Callahan Center’s Senior Week Festivities – May 8 – 12, 2006

    Monday, May 8th – New Members Open House at Callahan Center from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. Coffee and Danish will be available. Wednesday, May 10th – Cameron Middle School Jazz Band at Callahan Center from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. If you plan to attend the jazz concert, a pizza lunch will be available. $1.00 donation is requested. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 to reserve a seat. Limited to the first 75 people. Thursday, May 11th – Haircuts and Manicures compliments of Keefe Technical Cosmetology Students from 9:00 am to 11:30 am. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 to make an appt. Friday, May 12th – Volunteer Luncheon at Keefe Technical High School Dining Room at 11:30 am. (By invitation only)

    STROKE SUPPORT SERVICES – May 8th from 1:00-2:15 pm – The Stroke Support Services would like to invite you to attend our meeting on May 8th. We will show a video, and several of our Stroke Survivors will be speaking about their experiences dealing with their illness and their healing. Volunteer nurses, Irene Jones and Jody Mahan, will be available for your questions.

    ARTHRITIS PRESENTATION – May 18th at 10:00 am – Please join us for this informative presentation.

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  • Retirement Book Broadcast by Radio Reading Service

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – The MetroWest Radio Reading Service will be broadcasting the following book in its entirety, Barry M. Bograd “Get Off Your Rocker Before You Go Off Your Rocker: A Guide to Retirement”.

    The book was recorded by the author himself and will be broadcast as part of “Reading at F.S.C.”, a program that features best selling book recorded by our volunteers.

    “Reading F.S.C.” airs Mondays and Thursdays from 2-30 until 4-00 P.M. The following are the days, dates and times that this book will air:

    • Episode 1: Thursday, March 9, 2006, 2-30 until 4-00;
    • Episode 2: Monday, March 13th;
    • Episode 3: Thursday, March 16th.

    The MetroWest Radio Reading Service can be heard on radio station WDJM, 91.3, Framingham State College on the main frequency, 24 hours a day seven days a week when students are not broadcasting, or you can obtain a special radio to receive uninterrupted radio reading service by contacting the Disability Services Office at Framingham State College at 508-626-4627.

    For a complete schedule of all radio reading programming state and local, you go on line to the website of the Talking Information Center, T.I.C. at www.ticnetwork.com or the Disability Services Website at Framingham State College at www.framingham.edu/disabilityservices

    The MetroWest Radio Reading Service is an affiliate of the Talking Information Center Massachusetts Reading Network under the Mass. Commission For the Blind and a Community Outreach program of the Disability Services Office at Framingham State College.

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  • March Programs and Services at Callahan Senior Center

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – CALLAHAN CENTER PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR MARCH 2006

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center:

    Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, March 6, 13, 20 & 27 at 10:00 am.
    Diabetic Support Group: Tuesday, March 14 at 1:30 pm.
    Grandparent Support Group: Tuesday, March 14 at 1:00 pm and Tuesday, March 28 at 6:45 pm.
    Low Vision Group: Friday, March 17 at 1:00 – 3:00 pm.
    Massage Therapy: Thursday, March 2 and Thursday, March 16, by appt. only.
    Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, March 21 at 1:30 pm.
    Podiatry: Monday, March 13 from 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm, by appt. only.
    Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Monday, March 6 at 1:00 pm.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR MARCH

    Wednesdays, March 1, 8, 15 & 22
    From 9:30 am—11:00 and 12:00 pm—1:00 pm

    CARDIOVASCULAR CLINIC IN MARCH

    The Cardiovascular Clinic will be on Tuesday, March 7 at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A doctor from the MetroWest Medical Center and nurse Kitty Mahoney from the Framingham Board of Health will be at the Senior Center to check your blood pressure, answer any questions and address individual concerns. For further information, please contact Kitty Mahoney at 508-620-4827.

    Thursday, March 23, 2006 10:00 am at Callahan Center – “Osteoporosis Presentation”
    presented by Joan Metcalfe, R.N., MetroWest Wellness Center
    Thursday, March 30, 2006 From 10:00 am – 12:00 noon – Osteoporosis Screening

    For this screening, you will need to wear shoes and socks that are easily removed. Please bring a list of your current medications and supplements, as well as your doctor’s address’ so a final report can be mailed to him/her. Each screening takes 10 minutes. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 for an appointment.

    Social Service Department – Personal Response Systems

    You have probably asked—what is a personal response system, or a medical alarm, and do I need one? There are several companies that provide emergency response systems with modern, state-of-the-art technology. The installation fee and member benefits vary, but they all ensure your safety with a reliable and immediate link to assistance. We have pamphlets describing the individual plans and a self-assessment questionnaire that helps you determine your level of need. Most services cost little more than a dollar a day, plus an activation fee. One company has given us free activation coupons, and if you are interested or need further information, please contact this office at 508-532-5980.

    AARP Tax Assistance Program at Callahan Center

    AARP will provide a qualified volunteer to assist with preparing income taxes, free of charge for seniors who need this service. You must schedule an appointment in order to see a Tax Counselor. You are required by the IRS to bring the following:
    income tax returns from last year 1099’s and other relevant tax documents
    income and asset documents
    Social Security Card (a must)
    2 forms of identification (one photo ID and another form of identification)
    Appointments: Please call Julie Chouman for an appointment at 508-620-4819. Appointments may be limited this year and are on a first-come, first-serve basis.
    Prescription Advantage
    Medicare Wrap Program
    Open Enrollment – March 15 through April 28, 2006

    Prescription Advantage is a state sponsored prescription drug insurance plan that helps Medicare beneficiaries pay for the cost of their Medicare Part D plans. Prescription Advantage is for Massachusetts residents, age 65 and older with incomes under $47,851 (single) or $64,151 (married) and who are not enrolled in MassHealth. Younger individuals with disabilities, who meet certain income and employment guidelines, can also join. Prescription Advantage is now a secondary payer to Medicare Part D plans and can assist with some of the costs associated with Part D. The amount of assistance members receive is based on their gross annual household income.

    Prescription Advantage will hold an Open Enrollment period from March 15 through April 28. Applications must be received at Prescription Advantage no later than April 28.

    The SHINE program will be doing a presentation at the Framingham Council on Aging, the Callahan Center, 535 Union Avenue, on Thursday, March 9th at 9:30 AM to explain the Prescription Advantage program and how it coordinates with Medicare Part D plans. To reserve a spot, please call (508) 532-5980, as space is limited.

    New applications for Prescription Advantage will be available at your local Council on Aging. For more information on Prescription Advantage and the Open Enrollment period, call 1-800-246-4636 (1-800-AGE-INFO) and press 1. For additional help, including assistance with filling out your application, call your local senior center for an appointment with a SHINE counselor.

    SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) offers free, confidential, health insurance counseling at your local Senior Center. Call the Senior Center for a SHINE appointment. You can reach SHINE regional staff by calling 1-800-AGE-INFO and pressing 2.
    *************************************************************

    The MetroWest SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) Program is holding a spring volunteer counselor training. It is an intensive 10-day course, over a five-week period. It is scheduled to begin the last week in April and run through the entire month of May. It meets on Mondays and Thursdays, from 10AM 3PM, in Whitney Place at Natick. To find out more about becoming a SHINE volunteer counselor, call Dorene Nemeth, Associate Regional SHINE Director at (508) 532-5980 ext. 4109.

    FREE – “Find a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan: The Online Search Tool”

    This step-by-step booklet gives you everything you need to know about going online to find a Medicare Part D plan that’s right for you, based on your medications. You (or your computer-savvy relative, friend, etc.) can use this booklet as a guide to self-help. We have copies at the Callahan Center to give away free. Come in and pick up a copy at the front lobby of the Callahan Center!!

    “Shifting Gears” – A program on elder driver safety.
    Presented by Michelle Ellicks of the MA Registry of Motor Vehicles on Thursday, March 2, 2006 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at the Callahan Center. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 to reserve a seat!

    Friends’ General Meeting – The next Friends’ meeting will be joint with AARP Chapter #3557 on Monday, March 13th at 1:30 pm. The entertainment will be with Gary Landgren. Refreshments will be served. Come and bring a friend!

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  • Callahan Senior Center News – February 2006

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – Callahan Center News for February, 2006.

    Town of Framingham & Callahan Center Snowstorm Policy Notice: If the schools close due to snowstorms or other inclement weather days, there will be no activities at the Center. On these days, the Town of Framingham Staff will be available to you at the Center, unless the Town of Framingham declares an emergency closing.

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center – Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, February 6, 13 & 27 at 10:00 am. No meeting on February 20—Center closed. Diabetic Support Group: Tuesday, February 14 at 1:30 pm. Grandparent Support Group: Tuesday, February 14 at 1:00 pm and Tuesday, February 28 at 6:45 pm. Low Vision Group: No meeting in February. Massage Therapy: Thursday, February 2 and Thursday, February 16, by appt. only. Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, February 21 at 1:30 pm. Podiatry: Monday, February 13 from 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm, by appt. only. Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Monday, February 6 at 1:00 pm.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR FEBRUARY – Wednesdays, February 1, 8, 15 & 22, from 9:30 am—11:00 and 12:00 pm—1:00 pm.

    CARDIOVASCULAR CLINIC IN FEBRUARY – The Cardiovascular Clinic will be on Tuesday, February 7 at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A doctor from the MetroWest Medical Center and nurse Kitty Mahoney from the Framingham Board of Health will be at the Senior Center to check your blood pressure, answer any questions and address individual concerns. For further information, please contact Kitty Mahoney at 508-620-4827.

    “What To Do When Your Family Member Has Memory Loss” – Thursday, February 16, 2006 from 4:30 pm—7:00 pm at Callahan Center, 535 Union Avenue, Framingham – Designed especially for family caregivers, this program provides information about:

    – how to receive a diagnosis

    – how to understand and manage difficult behaviors and communication problems

    – how to find and what to expect from local resources

    This program is presented by trained Alzheimers’ staff and is free-of-charge. Since the group size may be limited, it is necessary to register with Ann Steacie at 508-532-5980, ext. 4113. Refreshments will be provided by Whitney Place. Please call if you have any questions.

    NOT TOO LATE TO SIGN UP!! February 9th at 10:00 am at Callahan: Hawthorne’s Life and His Works: Hawthorne’s Mystery Stories – Instructor: Mary Murphy, Ed.D.

    Cost: $6.00 per person. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980, extension 4977 to reserve a seat. Please make your check payable to the Friends of Callahan . Advance payment is recommended. This program is provided by Framingham State’s Center for Lifelong Learners in Partnership with the Callahan Center.

    Coming next month! “Shifting Gears” Presented by Michelle Ellicks of the MA Registry of Motor Vehicles. A program for elders on driving safety. Thursday, March 2, 2006 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at the Callahan Center. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980 to reserve a seat!

    “Debt Management” – Presented by Betsy Soule, Supervising Attorney of South Middlesex Legal Services on Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at 10:00 am at the Callahan Center. This talk on debt management will cover two basic topics: Judgment Proof – the concept that certain types of income are exempt fro being collected by creditors to satisfy debts and include most incomes that elders have (SSI, SSDI, SS, PN, VA, etc.) and Bankruptcy – how it works, the requirements under the new law and how it can be helpful to those in serious debt.

    AARP Tax Assistance Program at Callahan Center – AARP will provide a qualified volunteer to assist with preparing income taxes, free of charge for seniors who need this service. You must schedule an appointment in order to see a Tax Counselor. You are required by the IRS to bring the following:

    • income tax returns from last year 1099’s and other relevant tax documents
    • income and asset documents
    • Social Security Card (a must)
    • 2 forms of identification (one photo ID and another form of identification)

    Appointments: Please call Julie Chouman for an appointment at 508-620-4819. Appointments may be limited this year and are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

    Book Club: Come and join our new book club at the Callahan Center led by Karolyne White! This book club will meet the 1st Thursday of the month and all Framingham seniors are invited to participate.

    NEW!!! “BOOKS ON REVIEW” – Karolyne is a volunteer at the Center, a former teacher, and a long-time Framingham resident, who enjoys good reading material and would like to enjoy reviewing it with others. The group will meet on Thursday, February 2nd at 10:00 am to discuss “A Taste of Reality” by African-American author, Kimberla Lawson Roby. Her novels have frequented numerous bestseller lists, including those listed in Essence Magazine and Emerge Magazine. Kimberla received the 1998 First-Time Author Award from Chicago’s Black History Month Book Fair and Conference. The Framingham Library has copies or you may purchase this book at most bookstores or on-line at www.Amazon.com. Please call 508-532-5980 and let us know if you plan to attend.

    February Friends’ General Meeting – The next Friends’ meeting will be on Monday, February 13th at 1:30 pm. This will be a Valentine’s Day party in conjunction with the Callahan Center. Please bring an anonymous Valentine card for the party and you will receive one. The entertainment will be with John Root. Refreshments will be served. Come and bring a friend!

    Medicare Prescription Drug Program Begins – Filling Prescriptions – MassHealth or Prescription Advantage Member – If you have MassHealth or Prescription Advantage, your drugs are now covered by Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Medicare Part D). If you did not select a plan by December 31, 2005, you were randomly auto enrolled in a one on January 1, 2006. Some of you have experienced difficulty using your new plans. If you went to your pharmacy, without an identification card or an acknowledgment letter from your drug plan, your pharmacist may not have been able to verify your enrollment in the plan. Even for those with proof of enrollment there have been problems. The program is complicated and brand new. The good news is that our state officials on Monday, January 9th took steps to make certain that nobody on MassHealth or Prescription Advantage will have to leave the pharmacy without their necessary drugs or pay more than the required co-payments. The pharmacies have been told that if they cannot process your prescription through a Part D plan, they can bill the state, which will temporarily provide coverage for your drugs until the Part D program is successfully up and running. Filling Prescriptions – Not MassHealth or Prescription Advantage Member – If you are having problems getting your drugs using your Part D plan, contact your local COA to make an appointment with a SHINE counselor, who will attempt to resolve the matter for you. You can also reach a SHINE counselor by telephone. Call 1-800-AGE-INFO. Once you get the SHINE answering machine, leave your name and number. A SHINE volunteer will call you back, as soon as possible. Open Enrollment Continues – If you have not signed up for a Part D plan, you can sign up until May 15th. You will still be within the Open Enrollment Period and coverage will begin the month after you enroll. If you are not satisfied with the plan you selected or the plan you were auto enrolled in (Prescription Advantage members), you can change to another plan once between now and May 15th. MassHealth members can change plans any time during the year. Also, there is an Annual Open Enrollment Period each year (November 15 to December 31), during which anyone can enroll in a Part D Plan.

    The next SHINE Volunteer Training is scheduled to begin soon. If you are interested in becoming a SHINE Counselor, please call Dorene Nemeth, Assistant Regional Director, at 508-532-5980, ext. 4109.

    HERITAGE GALLERY, 535 Union Avenue, Framingham – Where you will find fabulous, unique and beautiful gifts for Valentine’s Day! Open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10:00am to 2:30pm.

    TRAVEL WITH MARTY GRIFFIN – DAY TRIPS

    FEBRUARY:

    • 9 – Valentine’s Party at Ken’s – “Bobby Darling Show” $35.00 Thursday 11:30 am 3:00 pm

    MARCH:

    • 8 Foxwoods – Optional Indian Museum visit $23.00 Wednesday 7:45 am 5:45 pm
    • 16 Dan Clark, the Singing Trooper at Danversport Yacht Club $56.00 Thursday 10:30 am 5:00 pm
    • 23 Travel Presentation Part 2 – July-December Trips FREE Thursday 10:00 am Wrights Chicken Farm – with Cash Bingo $32.00 Thursday 10:45 am 5:00 pm

    APRIL:

    • 5 Newport Playhouse & Cabaret “Squabbles”, Buffet $65.00 Wednesday 9:30 am 5:30 pm
    • 20 Capt. Jack’s Lobsterbake—A Visit to Bristol, RI $57.00 Thursday 9:00 am 5:00 pm Julius LaRosa sings at White’s in Westport $60.00 Tuesday 10:15 am 5:00 pm

    MAY:

    • 9 A Day at Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Tours & Lunch $58.00 Tuesday 8:30 am 5:30 pm Saturday Pops with John Williams, Pacific Buffet Lunch $55.00 Saturday 11:15 am 5:15 pm, “Damn Yankees” at North Shore Music, Lunch $73.00 Wednesday 10:30 am 6:00 pm

    JUNE:

    • 8 “A Tasteful of Fun” – Stoney Field Yogurt, Anheuser Bush Brewery, Common Man Lunch $55.00 Thursday 8:00 am 5:30 pm, Rodgers, Hart & Hammerstein program at Chez Joseph $66.00 Wednesday 9:30 am 5:00 pm
    • 27 Odyssey Boat Cruise & Lunch – Boston Bus Tour $55.00 Tuesday 9:30 am 4:00 pm

    OVERNIGHT TRIPS:

    • FEB 18 – MAR 5, 2006 DAYTONA BEACH SUNSHINE (16 days, 15 nights) $ 1,299.00 pp (double rm)
    • MAR 10, 2006 HAWAIIAN ISLANDS CRUISE (14 days – 32 meals) $ 2,399.00 pp (inside, double rm)
    • APR 17 – 22, 2006 BRANSON MUSICAL GETAWAY (6 days, 5 nights) $ 1,199.00 pp (double rm)
    • MAY 1-2, 2006 IRISH CATSKILLS (2 days, 1 night) $ 229.00 pp (double rm —includes bus & guide trips)
    • MAY 25 – JUNE 4, 2006 NORWAY’S DRAMATIC FJORDS (10 days, 9 nights) $ 2,699.00 pp (double room)
    • AUG 7-9, 2006 A TASTE OF VERMONT (3 days, 2 nights) $ 380.00 pp (double room-includes ALL tips)
    • SEP 15-21, 2006 DISCOVER SEDONA (Arizona) (7 days, 6 nights) $1,599.00 pp (double room)

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  • December Happenings at the Callahan Senior Center

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – What’s Happening at Framingham’s Senior Center:

    Last Year’s Holiday Cookie Swap was a huge success! So let’s do it again on Thursday, December 22nd at 10:00 am at the Callahan Center. If you would like to participate in the Holiday Cookie Swap, please bring one dozen of your favorite cookies, bars, fudge or candy recipe and all participants will do the same. You will then leave with a tray full of delicious surprises. If interested, please call Pat Paganella at 508-872-5895. Come and have some hot cider or coffee and enjoy some holiday conversation!

    People with Arthritis Can Exercise – For many years, it was thought that persons with arthritis should not exercise because it would damage their joints. Today, doctors and therapists know that exercise can improve your health without hurting your joints. With this in mind, the Arthritis Foundations offers People with Arthritis Can Exercise (PACE®). PACE® is an exercise-based program designed specifically for individuals with arthritis that uses gentle activities to help increase joint flexibility and range of motion, and help maintain muscle strength. The program also helps increase overall stamina. Basic and advanced levels of PACE® are available. Who Should I Contact? Nancy Coville-Wallace will teach an 8-week session of (Pace®) starting on Monday, December 5th. The session will consist of 2 days a week, Mondays at 10:30-11:30 am and Fridays at 1:00-2:00 pm, for 8 weeks through the month of January 2006. Nancy is an educator, trained in wellness and fitness with a dedicated interest in lifetime fitness and health. The cost of this program is $2.00 per class. To register for this 8-week session, please call the Callahan Center at 508-532-5890, extension 4977.

    Get help selecting the “Part D” plan that meets your needs – Sign up for a help session in the Computer Learning Center at Callahan Center. Please call 508-532-5980, ext. 4977. To the session, you will need to bring the following: a list of your prescription drugs from your pharmacy, your Medicare card, any letter (s) from your current insurer, Prescription Advantage or Social Security.

    Do you like fun and fellowship? A Red Hat Society is starting and the only requirements are a RED HAT, PURPLE TOP and LOTS OF FUN! This group will meet on the last Wednesday of the month. For more information, please call Lorraine at 508-877-6622.

    WANTED: AARP TAX COUNSELOR – AARP is seeking tax counselors to provide free preparation of tax forms and answer tax questions. AARP Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest, free, volunteer-run tax service. New volunteers must be familiar with computers. Tax training is in early January. After training, all volunteers must pass an IRS test to become certified. For more information, please call the District Coordinator, Phil Bond, at 617-244-1087. For further information about the program, check online at www.aarp.org/taxaide.

    STAMPS FOR KIDS – Used U.S. and Foreign stamps are an aid in teaching children history, geography, famous people and places, nature….and more. Having stamps encourages children to collect stamps for children’s programs such as those at the Spellman Museum of Stamps and Postal History, located on the campus of Regis College in Weston, MA. Framingham seniors can help. Simply save personal or business mail having stamps, or, if you prefer, clip the stamps leaving 1/8 inch of paper around them. Then, place them in the “Stamps for Kids” box in the Friends’ Café at the Callahan Center. A good time to start….the holiday cards are coming!

    Heritage Gallery is One-Stop-Shopping – with a group of dedicated volunteers to help with your holiday needs. We have all prices to satisfy your budget. It is truly an unusual Boutique—come, visit and bring a friend! Hours are: Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays from 10:00 am until 2:15 pm.

    NOT TOO LATE TO CLAIM CIRCUIT BREAKER CREDITS – Since 2001, Massachusetts has offered eligible senior citizens a credit on their state taxes for the property taxes they pay for their home. Eligible taxpayers may claim a credit equal to the amount by which their property taxes and fifty percent of water and sewer payments exceed 10% of their total income. Renters may claim a credit in the amount by which 25% 0f their annual rent payment exceeds 100f their income. For tax year 2004, the maximum credit allowed was $820.00. To be eligible for the credit in 2004, the senior or spouse must be 65 or over and have total income less than $44,000 for a single filer, $55,000 for a head of household or $66,000 for taxpayers filing jointly. Some seniors do not normally file a state income tax return and therefore may not have claimed the credit for past years even though they were eligible for the credit. Massachusetts allows an individual to claim a credit for up to three years from the date the tax return was due. There fore, a senior may still claim a circuit breaker credit for tax year 2002 if they file the return and schedule by no later than April 15, 2006. An eligible taxpayer may obtain a refund by filing a return that includes Schedule CB, Circuit Breaker Credit. Tax return forms and schedules can be accessed from the internet under www.mass.gov/dor or by calling 1-800-392-6089.

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  • NOVEMBER HAPPENINGS AT CALLAHAN CENTER

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – What’s happening at the new Callahan Senior Center on Union Avenue in November:

    FLU SHOT CLINIC: For Framingham residents who are 65 years and older or are at medical high risk Wednesday, November 2nd and Wednesday, November 9th From 10:00 am until 2:00 pm Callahan Senior Center, 535 Union Avenue, Framingham. Proof of Framingham residence is required. (If you are 65 years of age or over, please have your Medicare B / HMO insurance information).

    Asian South Pacific Islanders Program – Coordinated by Maya, The Callahan Center is offering Medical Health Insurance Information on Friday, November 4th 2005 at 10:00 am for all Asian and Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese) Seniors. Counselor Wendy Wong, of SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) will present this information.

    HARVEST MOON SENIORS’ DANCE – Come with a partner or come alone! Something for everyone! Even at the old center when participants were polled, D.J. Bob Fisher, got exceptional reviews for his music and his variety of tunes for both couples and singles. Friday, November 4th from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Callahan Center, 535 Union Avenue,Light beverages & snacks – Coffee & Dessert – Door Prizes, $4.00 pp donation requested to cover expenses. Please call and let us know if you plan to attend – donation taken at the door. Participants thought they should pay a larger fee to cover our expenses for food and entertainment, and we appreciate your generosity, however we hope to continue to keep the dances affordable for all. Looking forward to our first dance at our new location – hope you are, too! Come and enjoy!

    The Framingham Garden Club and the Callahan Botannical Group – will meet on Monday, November 14th at 9:30 am at the Callahan Center 535 Union Avenue, Framingham. Please call to reserve your floral materials at 508-532-5980, extension 4977. A $3.00 donation is requested to cover the expenses. Come and join the Garden Club and make something festive for your Thanksgiving table!

    FRIENDS OF CALLAHAN, Ernie Hayes, President, The Friends general meeting will be on Monday, November 14th at 1:30 with entertainment by Dina Rancourt. Refreshments will be served. Come join us and bring a friend!

    ANNUAL HEALTH FAIR – Thursday, November 17th, 2005 from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm, Callahan Center, 535 Union Avenue, Framingham, It’s that time of year again. The Callahan Center in partnership with the MetroWest Medical Center is pleased to sponsor our annual Health Fair. In the past, we have offered the following screenings: Blood Pressure, Total Cholesterol, Blood Glucose (blood sugar), Hearing and Bone Density. In addition to these, we will also offer Body Mass Index (BMI) and massage therapy. Remember that the results from a screening may mean that you need to see your Health Care Provider for further testing. Screenings do not diagnose disease.

    All the above screenings with the exception of BP will require an appointment, so please call the Center at 508-532-5980, extension 4977. If you sign up for the Bone Density (Osteoporosis) Screening, please remember to wear shoes and socks that are easily removed. You also will need to bring your list of prescription drugs and supplements. Bring your name and address of your physician, as your results will be mailed to him/her. Although the screenings are free, however a small donation to the Center is most appreciated.

    Saturday, November 19th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm – Senator Karen E. Spilka will be presenting the First Annual 2nd Middlesex & Norfolk SENIOR HEALTH FAIR! The Senior Health Fair will take place at the Joseph P. Keefe Technical School, located at 750 Winter Street in Framingham. This event will feature an in-depth discussion of the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Benefit with information provided to help you navigate the system. Lunch will be provided; more details to come. Questions? Please contact Pat Vinter at 617-722-1640.

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center:

    Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, November 7, 14, 21 & 28 at 10:00 am. Diabetic Support Group: Tuesday, November 8 at 1:30 pm. Low Vision Group: Friday, November 18 at 1:00 pm. Massage Therapy: Thursday, November 3 by appt. only. Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, November 15 at 1:30 pm. Podiatry: Monday, November 14 from 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm, by appt. only. Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Monday, November 7 at 1:00 pm.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR NOVEMBER – WEDNESDAYS –November 16, 23 & 30From 9:30 – 11:00 am & 12:00 – 1:00 pm (No blood pressure clinic on November 2 & 9 due to the flu shot clinic at the Center on these two days.)

    CARDIOVASCULAR CLINIC IN NOVEMBER – The Cardiovascular Clinic will be on Tuesday, November 1 at 10:00 am. A doctor from the MetroWest Medical Center and the public health nurses from the Framingham Board of Health will be at the Callahan Senior Center to check your blood pressure as well as to address your individual concerns. For further information, please call Charlotte, at the Board of Health, at 508-620-4828.

    SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) – Get help selecting the “Part D” plan that meets your needs – Sign up for a help session in the Computer Learning Center at Callahan Center. Please call 508-532-5983 to reserve a space. Please bring:

    -a list of your prescription drugs from your pharmacy

    – your Medicare card

    – any letter (s) from your current insurer, Prescription Advantage or Social Security.

    FREE Bridge Lessons – Weekly contract bridge lessons starting Friday, November 18th from 1:00-3:00 pm. Beginner and refresher instructions by Ed Carr. Please call the Callahan Center and leave our name and telephone number, and someone will get back to you.

    A New Learning Opportunity with Framingham State College, The Center for Lifelong Learners, and The Callahan Center at 535 Union Avenue in Framingham

    Attend one or all sessions at The Callahan Center

    Principles of World Religions: Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism – Tuesdays, November 1, 8, 15, 2005 from 6:30-7:45pm – Instructor: Jason Giannetti, Professor of Philosophy. In this 3-part seminar, we will examine the foundations and major tenets of some of the world’s predominant religious faiths. Through lecture, examination of passages from religious texts, and discussion, we will deepen our understanding of some of the similarities and differences in the faith traditions of Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Buddhism.

    Franklin D. Roosevelt and The Social Security Act – Tuesdays, November 29, December 6, and 13, 2005 from 10:00am- 11:15am – Instructor: Dr. Gloria Barron, Professor of History Emerita, Cost: $18.00 per person for each mini-series. Please call the Center at 508-532-5980, extension 4977 to reserve a seat. Please make your check payable to the Friends of Callahan. Advance payment is recommended. Come participate in this learning opportunity!

    HERITAGE GALLERY OPENS ITS DOORS ! Heritage Gallery is a unique consignment shop and an ongoing Friends of Callahan fundraising project for the Callahan Center. The Gallery has served the senior citizens and others as a market place for articles that they wish to sell or purchase. All monies accrued are used to benefit the Callahan Center. The Gallery has been serving the community for thirty years. It’s a great place to visit – bring your Birthday, Wedding and any special occasion gift list and find beautiful gifts and make someone happy. It is manned solely by a volunteer staff. The Gallery is open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am – 2:15 pm.

    When you stop by the Gallery take a chance on our raffle of two original Cabbage Patch Dolls, a boy and girl, dressed in red velvet, ready for the coming holiday! Donation is $1.00 or 6 chances for $5.00. Profit will be given to the Friends of Callahan Building Fund. Drawing will be held at the Friends Holiday Party—December 12th, 2005. All are welcome-bring a friend and browse!

    Ongoing Community Service Projects – Items Needed!!!

    – Pennies for the homeless and less fortunate, provided with the help of the students of McCarthy School.

    – Baby Afghans for the H.I.V. Babies.

    – Lap robes for the veterans. To date, we have about 40.

    – Small articles for the bags for the Foster Childrens’ Program. Some examples are small packages of toothpaste, toothbrushes, small pads of paper, combs and brushes, etc.

    – Knitted or crocheted squares for afghans for the Foster Childrens’ Program.

    – Knitted or crocheted hats for our Framingham School students.

    – Calendars for the Resident Care Home, as well as button-down sweaters and jackets, etc., and birthday, valentines and holiday greeting cards.

    – Canned foods, etc. for the various Food Pantries. Items collected during October and November will be for the McCarthy School holiday baskets.

    Please contact Evelyn Langley for any of the above items at 508-532-4105. Thanks for your help!

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  • Senior Center Ribbon Cutting

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – The eagerly anticipated new Callahan Senior Center on 535 Union Ave. will be officially open with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 10th.

    An Open House is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 17th with tours of phase one of the new facility. Heritage Gallery, the popular consignment shop, is busy unpacking and will soon be open in time for fall gift giving. Look for a grand opening.

    Volunteers are needed to help as tour guides, waiting room attendant, hostessing, and afternoon phone coverage. Call 508-620-4819 or stop by and see Barbara Marsh or Kay Leeland.

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