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  • JUNE 2008 HAPPENINGS AT CALLAHAN SENIOR CENTER

    FRAMINGHAM, MA — CALLAHAN CENTER HAPPENINGS – JUNE 2008

    Event Coordinator Needed at Callahan Center

    The Center is looking for an Event Coordinator to arrange and travel on all the day trips that the senior population requests and enjoys, both local and out-of-town.

    The Event Coordinator will work with travel consultants to make the arrangements and to review their itinerary as presented. Negotiates both cost of trip and cost of bus transportation with transportation company for each senior event.

    The Event Coordinator works directly with restaurants and facilities to provide a safe environment and safe travel for our seniors. This is a part-time position with varied days/hours, and it is a grant-funded position for one year. Travel experience necessary, must have car and MA license.

    Employee must be capable of operating miscellaneous tools and office equipment relative to this position which shall include, but may not be limited to: computers, copiers, fax machines, and calculators. Time spent standing, walking, and sitting. Lifting, pushing/pulling, or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds with occasionally a maximum of 40 pounds. Climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, twisting, and bending. Repetitive movements of the hands. Communicate effectively with others, orally and in writing.

    For more information or an interview, please call Mary Parcher at 508-532-5980 and press 0.

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center:

    • Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, June 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 at 10:00 am.
    • Caregivers’ Support Group: Tuesday, June 10 at 10:30 am.
    • Diabetes Support Group: Tuesday, June 24 at 10:00 am.
    • Grandparent Support Group: Please call Center for date and time.
    • Low Vision Group: Friday, June 20 at 1:00 pm.
    • Massage Therapy: Thursday, June 5, by appt. only.
    • Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, June 17 at 1:30 pm.
    • Podiatry: Wed., June 11 with Dr. John 1:00 – 4:15 pm and Wed., June 25 with Dr. Lukoff from 1:00 – 4:15 pm, by appt. only.
    • Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Monday, June 2 at 1:00 pm. Group will now meet in the Mary C. Parcher Room, in reception area.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR JUNE – Wednesdays, June 4, 11, 18 & 25. On the 4th and 18th from 9:30 am – 1 pm. Please note: The 2nd and last Wednesdays of every month, blood pressure clinic hours are from 9:30 am—12:30 pm.

    Attention Seniors! Have you suffered a stroke? Have you been diagnosed with Parkinson’s? Is your balance compromised so that you and/or your loved ones fear you walking alone? We are offering a special program just for you! A small group of 4 or 5 people that want to learn about balance, about connecting your brain to your body parts, about how to reduce your risk of falling. The program will consist of education, breathing exercises, and the use of some Tai Chi movements to increase your balance in a slow easy way. Knowing that this will be a journey, not a lightening fast solution, but a solution you can achieve with slow comfortable movements. How could you go wrong? If you are interested please call the Callahan Center at 508-532-5980 and be one of the few, 4 or 5 participants to hop on board and begin the journey.

    Medicare: Where can you go for help and information? The SHINE Program (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) provides free, confidential health care information, assistance and counseling to elders and other Medicare beneficiaries. Call your local Senior Center for a SHINE appointment.

    Prescription Drugs:

    The SHINE Program can provide information and assistance to help you access your prescription benefits. Call your local Senior Center for a SHINE appointment.

    At MassMedLine, a trained staff of pharmacy professionals will answer your questions about your prescription medicines over the phone (866-633-1617 toll free). They have information about prescription drug programs. For online information, visit the website at www.massmedline.com.

    Quality of Care Complaints:

    MassPRO (Massachusetts Peer Review Organization) is an organization of doctors and nurses who contract with Medicare to review hospital discharge decisions. If a Medicare beneficiary feels that he/she is not ready for discharge, he/she should call MassPRO at 800-252-5533.

    Medicare Rights:

    MAP (Medicare Advocacy Project) provides advice and free legal representation to Massachusetts elders and persons with disabilities, whether they are enrolled in traditional Medicare or in a Medicare Advantage Plan. Call MAP at 800-323-3205 for help in protecting your Medicare rights.

    If you need help with any aspect of your Medicare, call your local Senior Center and ask for a SHINE appointment. You can reach a SHINE Counselor at 781-453-8076. If you get the SHINE answering machine, leave your name and number. A counselor will return your call as soon as possible.

    Dry Eyes and Treatment Options: On June 23rd at 10am, Dr. Jody Judge of the Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston will be at the Callahan Center conducting a presentation on making the diagnosis of dry eyes and the treatment options. Please call the Callahan Center at 508-532-5980 to sign up for this presentation.

    Thursday, June 5th at 10 am at Callahan Center Professor Marc Widershien presents “New England in Words and Music” – In 2001 he created a program called “New England in Words and Music” – from the Victrola era to the present. Professor Marc Widershien loves to tell stories and give background to the music he performs. His work is participatory, often inviting his audiences to tell their stories and request favorite music. This performance will consist of Marc playing the violin and internationally renowned composer, conductor and pianist, Herman Weiss, playing piano. Please call the Callahan Center to sign up for this program at (508) 532-5980.

    On Thursday, June 12th, 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 intergenerational program—a morning of fun and laughter. Please sign up with the receptionist or call Ann Steacie at 508-532-5980, ext. 4113 to ensure your reservation for bingo and pizza.

    Diabetes and Cholesterol Risks & Management presented by Kathleen Daniel Healthcare – Please join us on June 12th at 10am when Dietician Erica Sintron of Kathleen Daniel Healthcare will conduct a presentation on the risks and management of Diabetes. Following the presentation will be a question and answer session. Refreshments will be served.

    Coming in July! Please join us on July 10th at 10am when Dietician Erica Sintron of Kathleen Daniel Healthcare will conduct a presentation on the risks and management of Cholesterol. Following the presentation will be a question and answer session. Refreshments will be served. Please call the Callahan Center to sign up for either of these presentations at 508-532-5980.

    At Heritage Gallery – To all our Fathers and Grandfathers…… Thank you for your kindness and all the things you have done. The world is a better place because of Fathers like you. The Heritage Gallery has unique gifts for Father’s Day, which is Sunday, June 15th, 2008. We are open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am to 2:15 pm. Summer closing: Friday, June 20, 2008 – Re-open on Wednesday, September 3, 2008.

    Interested in Joining a Bocce League? The expected dates of the league formation is mid-June. Please call the Callahan Center at 508-532-5980 if you are interested in participating. The bocce coordinator will call you with information and a start date.

    Lawn Chair Drill Team – Dick Bonvini is looking for volunteers for his lawn chair drill team for the Flag Day and Fourth of July parades. It has been very successful in the past and is also a fun thing to do. It involves being able to walk one mile. If anyone has the old aluminum light-weight lawn chairs and would like to donate them to be used in the parades, we could use them. Call Dick Bonvini at 508-877-2824.

    Are you ready to get outdoors and have fun ?? Dust off those golf clubs and join the Callahan Golf Group on Wednesdays at 9:30 am at Stoneybrook Golf Course, 70 Valley Road, Southborough, MA. For more information, please call Rosalie Cotton at 508-877-0681.

    Support Callahan Center at the Eagles American Grille! Every first Thursday of the month from 4:00 – 8:00 pm, you can order dinner at the Eagles American Grille at 55 Park St. in Framingham, and if you mention the Callahan Center, Mark Curtis will donate 100f your meal cost to the Callahan Center Building Fund. Enjoy!

    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 for a town department to get a discount on 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. Please do not call now. No appointments will be made until August.

    Framingham Water & Sewer Commission FY09 Senior Discount Program – The Callahan Center now has applications for the Fiscal 2009 Water/Sewer Senior Discount. Eligibility requirements are as follows: Must be Framingham resident 65 years of age or over, Must be owner occupied for one, two and three family home, Gross income may not exceed: $45,000 for an individual, 2) $56,000 for head of household, 3) $67,000 for married filing jointly. A proof of ownership of property, such as a copy of the real estate tax bill with the owner (s) name must be provided. Also, new applicants must supply one of the following: a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate, photocopy of their driver’s license or passport.

    NOTARY SERVICE – For your convenience, there will be a Notary available at the Callahan Center Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Please call the Callahan Center to schedule an appointment with Janice at 508-532-5980.

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  • Callahan Senior Center Happenings – April 2008

    FRAMINGHAM,MA — Callahan Center Happenings – April 2008

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center: Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, April 7, 14 & 28 at 10:00 am. Caregivers’ Support Group: Tuesday, April 8 at 10:30 am. Diabetes Support Group: Tuesday, April 29 at 10:00 am. Grandparent Support Group: Please call Center for date and time.

    Low Vision Group: Friday, April 18 at 1:00 pm. Massage Therapy: Thursday, April 3, by appt. only.
    Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, April 15 at 1:30 pm. Podiatry: Thu., April 10 with Dr. John 12:30 – 4:30 pm and Wed., April 30 with Dr. Lukoff from 1:00 – 4:30 pm, by appt. only. Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Monday, April 7 at 1:00 pm.

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  • October Happenings at Callahan Center

    FRAMINGHAM, MA – What’s happening at the Callahan Senior Center in October:

    SENIOR’S AUTUMN DANCE – Friday, October 20th, 6:00 – 8:00 pm Callahan Center. Come and join us for a few hours of dancing to the tunes of Bob Fisher of “Music, Music, Music Memories”. Bob has over 800 CD’s so he most likely has your favorites and he is happy to take requests. Couples and singles welcome. If you don’t have a partner, there are plenty of line dances including the Margarena and the Electric Slide, jitterbugs, strolls and more! Light Snacks * Soft Drinks * Door Prizes * Come enjoy and bring your friends! (Bob keeps playin’ if you keep dancin’!) Donation: $5.00 pp.

    Framingham State College’s Lifelong Learners Program in Partnership with Callahan Center Presents: Concert: Classic Songs from Many Traditions: The Rhoda Bernard Klezmer Trio Date: Sunday, October 22, 2006 Time: 2:00—4:00 pm Location: Callahan Center, Cost: No charge – Call the Center at 508-532-5980 to reserve a seat!

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

    RAFFLE!!! Stop by the Heritage Gallery at Callahan Center and take a chance on winning a beautiful, Fisherman knit-look, Cardigan Sweater. Handmade by Bianca Saporetti. The sweater is made with Acrylic yarn and brown, leather buttons. Looks like the real thing only it’s washable! The sweater is on display at the Heritage Gallery. Donation of $2.00 for 1 ticket or $5.00 for 3 tickets. All proceeds go to the Friends of Callahan Building Fund.

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center:

    Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, October 16th, 23rd and 30th at 10:00 am. No group meeting on Yom Kippur and Columbus Day.

    Diabetic Support Group: Please call Center for date and time.

    Grandparent Support Group: Please call Center for date and time.

    Low Vision Group: Friday, October 20th at 1:00 – 3:00 pm.

    Massage Therapy: Thursday, October 5th (by appt. only).

    Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, October 17th at 1:30 pm.

    Podiatry: Thursday, October 12th from 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm, by appt. only.

    Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Tuesday, October 3rd at 1:00 pm.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR SEPTEMBER – Wednesdays, September 6, 13, 20 & 27 from 9:30—11am & 12—1 pm.

    CARDIOVASCULAR CLINIC IN OCTOBER – The Cardiovascular Clinic will be on Tuesday, October 3rd 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.

    MASSAGE THERAPY AT CALLAHAN CENTER – Deborah Tompkins, Licensed Massage Therapist, is at the Center every first Thursday morning of the month, by appointment only at 508-532-5980. Deborah administers a chair massage, concentrating on the upper body, however she also can focus on specific areas of concern. The cost is $15.00 for a 15-minute massage, payable directly to Deborah, cash or check only.

    COMPUTER ROOM NEWS (New Course): “Diagnosing Computer Ills” (Intermediate level experience required.) First come, first served. Class is limited to 10 people. Start Date: Monday, November 13, 2006 (one-day only) from 1:00—3:00 PM, Subjects to be covered: Trouble-shooting printers, Spyware, Anti-Virus Software and cleaning the hard drive. Please call to register at 508-532-5983.

    Heritage Gallery – You will find a treasure trove of beautiful and useful objects. The Gallery is a hidden gem with its unique collection of antiques, original artwork, prints, china, crystal, jewelry, handbags, dolls, crafts and small miscellaneous items – all at low prices! We’re open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:00 am until 2:15 pm. We are located at the Callahan Center, 535 Union Avenue in Framingham. For further information , please call Evelyn Langley at 508-532-5980, extension 4105.

  • September Happenings at Callahan Senior Center

    FRAMINGHAM, MA– Here’s what’s happening at the Callahan in September:

    Support Groups at Callahan Senior Center:

    • Bereavement Support Group: Mondays, September 11, 18 and 25 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, September 15th at 1:00 – 3:00 pm.
    • Massage Therapy: Thursday, September 7th by appt. only.
    • Parkinson’s Support Group: Tuesday, September 19th at 1:30 pm.
    • Podiatry: Thursday, September 14th from 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm, by appt. only.
    • Stroke Survivors’ Support Group: Tuesday, September 5th at 1:00 pm.

    BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC FOR SEPTEMBER – Wednesdays, September 6, 13, 20 & 27 from 9:30—11am & 12—1 pm

    ATTENTION!!!! Due to the overwhelming response to the TAI CHI Demo, the instructor will be here for classes on both Mondays from 1:00-2:00 pm and Thursdays from 2:00-300 pm.

    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.

    “Coffee & Conversation with State Rep. Tom Sannicandro” – Wednesday, September 6th, 2006 from 9:00 am – 10:00 am at Callahan Center – State Representative Tom Sannicandro will be here on Wednesday, September 6th and every 1st Wednesday of the month for informal discussions with seniors who would like to discuss any issues they may have. Please come meet with Rep. Sannicandro and have a cup of coffee!

    “Office Hour with Pat Vinter of State Representative Karen Spilka’s office” – Wednesday, September 20th from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm. Pat will be here to hear your issues every 3rd Wednesday of the month. Rep. Spilka will be here every 3rd or 4th month for an office hour.

    PRESCRIPTION ADVANTAGE Presentation – Monday, September 11, 2006 at 10:00 am at Callahan Center – If you plan to come to the presentation, please call 508-532-5980 or stop by the Center and register with the front desk.

    Emergencies and disasters can strike quickly and without warning, and can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services – water, gas, electricity or telephones were cut off? Come and listen to a presentation by the American Red Cross on Thursday, September 14th at 10:00 am at the Callahan Center. Bring a friend or a neighbor and learn what you need to know to be prepared and safe.

    “Understanding Autism” with Nannette Ohman, Executive Director, Autism Alliance of Metrowest, Inc. – Monday, September 25th at 10:00 AM at the Callahan Center – Nannette will address the ‘Why’s’ and ‘How’s’ of Autism. She will help us recognize and understand these children. This information will be helpful for all parents, friends and grandparents of children with autism. If you would like to join us for this valuable presentation and refreshments, please call the Callahan Center to register at 508-532-5980.

    Wednesday, September 27th, 2006 at 10:00 AM at Callahan Center – BankNorth Presents
    “Senior Citizens Banking and Concerns” with Judy Spiewock – Judy will talk about banking concerns such as fraud, how to handle money, etc. Please join us for this informative presentation. Call the Center to reserve a seat at 508-532-5980. Refreshments will be served.

    The Friends of Callahan Monthly Update – The next Friends’ General Meeting will be on Monday, September 18, 2006 at 1:30 pm. The Friends of Callahan would like to celebrate our first year in the new Center by having a flag-raising and dedication ceremony at this meeting. The American flag and pole were donated by Betty Matterazzo, Framingham Council on Aging Chair and her husband, Gene. A bronze plaque will be placed at the base of the pole to show it is dedicated to and in honor of our Service Men & Women. Entertainment by Gary Landgren. Refreshments will be served. Come and bring a friend!

    Fall Program 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
    Fee: $18.00 per person Time: 6:30 pm

    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.

    Jason Giannetti received his B.A. degree Binghamton University, a Master’s of Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School and a Master’s of Near Eastern and Judaic Studies from Brandeis University. He has a Juris Doctor degree from Boston College Law School.

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  • 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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  • 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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