2008 Senior News Guide - September by Hersam Acorn

FREE • Edition 1 • September 2008

SENIOR

Fitness, Fun and Friends

IN THIS ISSUE: Words from the Editor.............2 Thoughts from Susan..............4 Nutrition Menu........................9 Horoscope............................. 10 News from Mary White..........12 Sudoku...................................12 Ongoing Calendar of Events..14 Crossword..............................17 A Story by Felix Carroll..........22

Read about this quilt on page 12.

Each and every Friday morning, Harriet Ebitz and her “girls” enjoy an hour of fitness, fun and friendship at the Claire Teague Senior Center in Great Barrington.

Berkshire area Senior Citizens are some of the busiest people around! Every week sees dozens of fitness programs, activities, clubs and special events that are planned, attended and supported by this fascinating part of the region’s population. For a comprehensive schedule of ongoing events and activities please turn to

page 14. We know that there are dozens of weekly and regular events that did not get printed in this edition, and we need our readers to let us know all about the many “happenings” throughout the county. One ongoing weekly event is the exercise class shown above. “Exercise with Harriet”

takes place every Friday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Claire Teague Senior Center in Great Barrington. To read about Harriet’s incredible and inspiring story, and to get the “scoop” on her class full of giggling “girls”, turn to page 22. To find out how to contribute story information, ideas and news events please turn the page....

109 South Street Bennington, Vermont 05201 802.447.3381 800.234.1432 Fax 802.447.3270 editorial email psnews@hersamacornvt.com advertising email ads@hersamacornvt.com Editorial Deadline: Thursday at noon the week before publication. Classiﬁed Deadline: Thursday at 5 p.m. Display Deadline: Thursday at 5 p.m.

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A Word From the Editor...

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Bennington, Vermont 05201 802.447.338

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99 Bonnet Street Manchester Center, Vermont 802.362.3535

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20 Cleveland Road Dalton, Massachusetts 01226 413.684.1373

Welcome to our first edition of the “Senior Pages”. With this new publication we hope to offer residents of Berkshire County, and our neighbors in Vermont, a reliable resource for community information, events and ongoing activities. We encourage our readers to submit their thoughts, share stories and ideas and to make suggestions whenever they would like. We can be reached by email at berkshire@hersamacornma.com, or by mail at our Lee offices: Attn: Editor, Berkshire Pennysaver, 154 West Park St., Lee, MA 01238. We hope you enjoy reading “Senior Pages” as much as we have enjoyed putting it together, and we hope to hear from you! Toby Raymond, Editor

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�� 154 West Park Street Lee, Massachusetts 01238 413.243.2341 ■

editorial email psnews@hersamacornvt.com yankee@hersamacornma.com advertising email ads@hersamacornvt.com ■

Renee Tassone, General Manager Linda Devlin, Circulation Manager Susan Coons, VT editor Toby Raymond, MA Editor C. Wayne Brown, Advertising Sales Brian Bushee, Advertising Sales Peter Czaja, Advertising Sales Carrie Devlin, Advertising Sales Jim Raymond, Advertising Sales Debra Johnson, Advertising Sales Lyn Thompson, Advertising Sales Melissa Miller, Art Director Tracy Salmon, Production Director Mary Garcia, Artist Jen Hathaway, Artist Chris Sobolowski, Artist ■

Notice: The Senior News Guide will not knowingly accept or publish advertising which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. The publisher reserves the sole right to edit, revise, or reject any and all advertising, with or without cause being assigned, which in the publisher’s judgement is contrary to the interests of this publication. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. ©2008, Hersam Acorn Newspapers. All contents of the Senior News Guide are copyrighted, and any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

Martin Hersam, Chief Operating Ofﬁcer Thomas B. Nash, Publisher

Senior News Guide

September 2008

Berkshire South Maintenance Shut Down Berkshire South Regional Community Center (BSRCC) announces their annual facility maintenance shut-down schedule. The Center at 15 Crissey Road in Great Barrington will be closed in observance of the Labor Day Holiday on Monday September 1, and will also be closed on Tuesday September 2 for regularly scheduled maintenance. The Out of School and Sunshine programs will continue to run on that day. The Aquatics Center will be closed Tuesday September 2 through Saturday September 6 and will reopen Sunday September 7. Once-yearly comprehensive building and facility maintenance is necessary in order to ensure that everything is in proper working order. The entire Community Center staff appreciates the cooperation and patience of their patrons during this brief but important time period. For information about BSRCC visit www.berkshiresouth.org or call 413-528-2810.

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Senior News Guide

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...companionship... by Susan J. Coons

I just hung about 20 family photos on one wall of my newly painted den. My daughter was studying them. Some go back a long way: My husband’s first grade class (1926); his high school graduation class (1939); a snapshot of him in his uniform during WWII; a great photo of him when he worked for GE in Key West; a shot of him and the children camping in the mountains behind Los Angeles (he was then in his early 50s); and one of the last photos of him that I took when we went to Lake Placid. We rode the tram up White Face Mountain. His photos span 77 years of living. Of course, there are many pictures of the children through the years and me as well. One is a picture of me at age of three with my grandma on the way to church in Chicago. That picture was taken 63 years ago. When we were young, older people were “always” old, right? We couldn’t imagine them ever having been young! I and a group of friends met for drinks after work in a popular local bar. Two of us arrived before the rest of the crowd, and it was still early and relatively quiet. A somewhat small, very elderly man came in. His gray hair was combed

back, and he was wearing a light tan outdoor jacket. He approached one of the tall bar tables; threw a light blue lunch bag over the back of the chair/stool, turned, greeted the bar tender, and slowly walked back out the door. The bartender responded to the little man in a routine fashion. He went over to the small table and cleared it of menus, salt and pepper, etc., and laid down napkins and silverware. The daily newspapers were laid out, as well. About five minutes later the elderly man returned, followed by a woman, his companion of many, many years, who was assisted with a walker. Slowly, ever so slowly, she progressed down the aisle between the bar and tables until she came upon their table. With her frizzed white hair held back with a small comb, she was wearing a simple light blue skirt, white blouse, and a slightly tan sweater. Herheavy legs were covered with surgical stockings. I wondered how she was going to lift herself up on the high stool. I could tell she has done thismany times as she met the challenge by leaning on her walker and the table top to lift her up. Continued on next page...

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Senior News Guide

September 2008

Continued from previous page.

The two of them read their papers; looked up once in a while and commented on something to one another; she worked the crossword; he had a beer (and a second one going at the bar — I figured he didn’t want her to know he had two beers!). I couldn’t help but wonder what their life is like. Have they been doing this since they were in their 20s? Do they have children? Grandchildren?What do they do the rest of the day? Do they take vacations? Eat at SeniorMeals? What is their home like? Tiny and immaculate? Lots of flowers in pots and boxes? Do they have a cat or dog? Watching them reminded me of the songs, “You and me against the world”, “Through thick and through thin”, “I got you, Babe”, “Silver threads among the gold”. Companionship; it’s such a beautiful blessing!

AMVETS Membership Drive Otis AMVETS Post 77 is holding a membership drive for all veterans and honorably discharged service men. All surrounding town veterans are welcome to join on Tuesday, September 9 at the Otis Town Hall at 6:30 p.m. Please bring your DD-214 discharge papers and a $20 filing fee. A “HUGE RAFFLE” will also be held to help raise the funds needed for a new building. Call Tom at 413-2696014 or Phil at 413-269-4725 for information.

If you have a story, suggestion or thought you would like to share, we would love to hear from our readers! Please email us at berkshire@hersamacornma.com.

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Senior News Guide

MassMedLine

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The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, under contract with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs operates the Pharmacy Outreach program known as MassMedLine. Any Massachusetts resident may utilize the MassMedLine toll-free number at 1-866-633-1617 and website at www.massmedline.com to inqure about programs that provide acces to prescription medications. Referrals from MassMedLine includes information on state and federal sponsored pharmacy programs. Examples include the Medicare drug benefit, Prescription Advantage and MassHealth, manufacturer and private discount programs, manufacturer patient assistance programs, and local assistance plans. Pharmacists are available and clients are encouraged to call with questions regarding their medication needs and concerns. MassMedLine works closely with local and statewide healthcare resources and physicians in an effort to help relieve the burden of medication expenses. Health care providers and social service professionals are encouraged to refer clients directly. MassMedLine is a free service and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 1-866-633-1617 for more information.

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The morning glory is the ﬂower for the month of September

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Senior News Guide

September 2008

30th Annual Greylock Golf Tournament The Bees Prendergast Memorial 30th Annual Greylock Golf Tournament will be held on September 8, at the Country Club of Pittsfield, 639 South Street. Proceeds benefit The Brien Center for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Bees Prendergast Services in Pittsfield. The tournament attracts 120 golfers who contribute to the financial success of the tournament by purchasing raffle tickets for prizes that are donated by more than 150 local merchants.

The annual Greylock golf tournament is named in honor of Robert W. ‘Bees’ Prendergast, a Credit Union director of 27 years who passed away in 1997. According to Greylock President Angelo C. Stracuzzi, “Bees was tremendously active on Greylock’s board and as a volunteer in the community. He would be thrilled to know the tournament raises money in his name to assist the Brien Center. This is a great opportunity for area businesses to act as sponsors of the event and affiliate themselves with this worthy cause.” Registration is from 11 am to 12:30 p.m. with a shotgun start to follow. The roster is filling up quickly, though there are playing spots available. The fee is $95.00 per player which includes greens fees, cart, lunch and dinner. Participants may call 413-236-4105 for more information.

Grand Opening of the New

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Stockbridge Senior Center

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Thursday, September 4 4 to 6 p.m. 50 Main St. - Stockbridge All are welcome! Phone: 413-298-4170x263 for details

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September 2008

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Senior News Guide

Senior Beneﬁts Expo Many seniors across the country are struggling to meet their daily needs. With the rising cost of food, gasoline, prescription medications, home heating and utilities, many people’s budgets are being stretched to the limit. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Executive Office of Health and Human Services invite you to attend a Senior Benefit Expo on Friday, September 5, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the Ralph J. Froio Senior Center at 330 North St. in Pittsfield. The Expo will provide an opportunity for representatives from various state and local agencies to speak with concerned seniors about resources that may assist them during this financially challenging time. Information will be available about fuel assistance, food pantries and Food Stamps, transportation, nutrition, health

and fitness, stroke and heart disease, personal safety, housing, and programs for people with disabilities. There will be speakers and tables full of information staffed by people who know about the options available to those facing the question of how to both “heat and eat” throughout the coming months. Information will also be available about the many programs and services available through Elder Services and the county’s Councils on Aging. All are welcome to attend, especially seniors, people with disabilities, caregivers, family, and friends. This event is wheelchair-accessible. To register, call the Pittsfield Council on Aging at the Froio center, 413-499-9346.Courtesy of Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. - esbc@esbci.org

Do you know About Elderhostel? Berkshire Community College participates in the national educational travel program, Elderhostel, offering 8 – 10 program weeks each year, from June to October. These are

held at the Crowne Plaza Pittsfield. Almost 300 people from around the country, as well as area residents, come to attend a week of courses at very reasonable rates, with top-notch faculty. BCC Elderhostel course topics include theatre, music foreign policy, Berkshire cultural venues, and one intergenerational circus camp week. Local residents over 55 years of age are invited to attend at reduced commuter rates. More information is available at www.elderhostel. org. entering Pittsfield as the key word or by contacting Elderhostel directly at 413-499-4660 ext. 379.

September 22 is the First Day of Autumn...already! 8

Senior News Guide

September 2008

Elder Services’ Nutrition Program - September 2008 Menu

Monday

Tuesday

Closed Labor Day

Wednesday

Breaded Pork Patty Roasted Potatoes Sweet/Sour Red Cabbage Sour Dough Bread Applesauce 15

Baked Ham** Glazed Sweet Potatoes Broccoli Rye Bread Apple 22

Chicken Salad Tossed Salad Three Bean Salad Hamburg Roll Pineapple 24

Hot Dog ** Baked Beans Sauerkraut Hot Dog Roll Watermelon

Roast Turkey w/ Gravy Mashed Potatoes Summer Squash Dinner Roll Pineapple 12

Meatloaf w/ Mushroom Gravy Scalloped Potatoes Italian Green Beans Multi Grain Bread Pudding w/ Topping* 18

Creamed Chipped Beef Mashed Potatoes Peas w/ Mushrooms Dinner Roll Fruit Smoothie*

Veal w/ Pepper Ziti w/ Sauce Italian Vegetables Grinder Roll Pineapple

Goulash Cauliﬂower au Gratin Green Beans Multi Grain Bread Cookie*

Baked Fish Brown Rice Pilaf Mixed Vegetables 100% Whole Wheat Bread Pineapple 17

Chef Salad Potato Salad Carrot Raisin Salad Rye Bread Fruit Smoothie* 10

Chicken Parmesan Shells w/ Sauce Broccoli Cuts Potato Bread Peaches

Friday

Macaroni & Cheese Stewed Tomatoes Mixed Greens 100% Whole Wheat Bread Pears

Thursday

Roast Pork w/ Gravy Herb Roasted Potatoes Zucchini Squash Multi Grain Bread Applesauce 25

Roast Turkey w/ Gravy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Green Beans Almandine 100% Whole Wheat Bread Banana

Lasagna Spinach Carrots Italian Bread Pears

Salmon Boat w/ Sauce Wild Rice Blend Mixed Greens 100% Whole Wheat Bread Fruited Gelatin w/ Topping * 26

Chicken a la Orange Roasted Potatoes Broccoli Cuts w/ Cheese Sauce Rye Bread Pudding w/ Topping*

Lentil Soup Roast Pork w/Gravy Succotash Multi Grain Bread Orange

Swedish Meatballs Buttered Noodles Mixed Vegetables 100% Whole Wheat Bread Pineapple

Barbecued Pork Black Beans & Rice Stewed Tomatoes Potato Bread Mixed Fruit

The Dash Diet developed by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute emphasizes fruit, vegtables and low-fat dairy food while reducing sodium, saturated fat, total fat and cholesterol. This diet has been shown to reduce blood pressure as well as signiﬁcantly decrease heart disease and stroke. A booklet describing the diet can be obtained for $3.50 by calling (301) 592-8573.

**Modifications for restricted sugar available, ** High sodium meal, *Menu subject to change without notice All contributions are returned to the community by helping cover the cost of nutrition programs and services. SUGGESTED VOLUNTARY DONATION $2.00 PER MEAL to help defray costs.

Information provided by: Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc in Pittsfield. Phone: 413-499-0524 To make reservations to eat at a Meal Site, call at least a day in advance, by 11:30 a.m.:

Meal Sites Adams: 743-8333 Cheshire: 743-9719 Great Barrington: 528-4118 Jewish Federation: 442-2200 Lee: 243-5545 North Adams: 662-3125 Stockbridge: 298-3118 September 2008

Senior News Guide

Becket: 623-8934 Dalton: 684-2000 Hinsdale: 655-2310 Lanesboro: 442-4761 Lenox: 637-5535 Pittsfield: 499-9346 Williamstown: 458-8350 9

Walking the Walk: Join Hundreds in this Year’s Memory Walk By Karen Gold

The Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk, now in its 16th year, draws almost 400 people to a beautiful location along the shores of Cheshire Lake. This annual nationwide event sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association raises awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. This year’s walk will be Saturday, September 13 at 9 a.m. Some walkers are family members who form teams. Many wear t-shirts or buttons with the name or picture of the family member they wish to honor. Other teams are made up of caring professionals who work in places such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, elder and healthcare agencies. These are people who understand the challenges faced by families dealing with dementia. Co-workers, school children, college classmates - teams and individuals from all facets of life - come together to raise funds and awareness. This year’s goal: to surpass the $45,000 raised in 2007.

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Paul Colombari, owner of Papa Joe’s Restaurant in Pittsfield has been participating in the Memory Walk for the past 10 years. He and his family walk as a team - “Toffy’s Tuffies”- in memory of his mother Pauline, known affectionately as Toffy, who died at age 77 after struggling with Alzheimer’s for many years. With wife Sherry, Paul helped care for his mom during those rough times. But it wasn’t the only time they watched a family member slip away into the fog of Alzheimer’s, with the agonizing memory loss, confusion, and personality changes that earmark this always-fatal disease. Colombari’s mother had seven siblings - and all of those aunts and uncles eventually succumbed to Alzheimer’s. It’s a family legacy that Colombari does not want to see passed along to future generations. “I do it for my kids,” explains Colombari. “They should never have to deal with this.” Colombari’s team spends the summer months raising money for the services and research that the Alzheimer’s Association provides to the more than 120,000 facing this disease. His restaurant is decorated with paper forget-me-nots, inscribed with the names of loved ones, for which customers make a small donation. Team Toffy’s Tuffies also sponsors an annual spaghetti dinner fund raiser at Papa Joe’s, scheduled for this month. Elder Services has long been at the heart of supporting Alzheimer’s families. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a community to meet the numerous and challenging needs of its neighbors struggling with Alzheimer’s. Elder Services, through its extensive Information & Referral system and programs like caregiver support and Meals on Wheels, as well as its wide-spread affiliations with other Berkshire providers, gives families the means to live with dignity and self-determination. The Gallagher Alzheimer’s Resource Center at Elder Services is an excellent first step for those seeking information on dementia. Before hitting the trail with the hundreds of other walkers this year, Colombari will first make sure his staff at Papa Joe’s is doing what they do best - preparing pizzas, which he generously donates and delivers to feed the ever-growing number of children who take part in the Walk, many to honor a grandparent. He does it with the hope that those

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September 2008

Continued from previous page. youngsters, joyously and boisterously walking the trail, will inherit a world without Alzheimer’s. The Berkshire Memory Walk is an easy, non-competitive event for all ages. Most walkers raise money for Alzheimer’s care and research by asking for donations from family, friends and co-workers. Other teams hold fund-raisers prior to the Walk. However, anyone who would like to participate in the Memory Walk is welcome - the more walkers, the bigger and more newsworthy the event, the more public awareness is raised about Alzheimer’s. Participants can walk as much or as little of the course as they wish. The Walk will kick off at Farnams Causeway, along the Ashuwillticook Trail in Cheshire, on Saturday, September 13, at 9:00 a.m. A lunchtime concert by Bernice Lewis will follow the Walk, with pizza provided by Papa Joe’s and boxed lunches donated by Applebee’s for all registered Walkers. Bowey the Clown will be on hand to entertain. To form a team, or to register as an individual, call 499-0691 or sign up online at www.alz.org/ma. Karen Gold is on the Boards of the Alzheimer’s Association’s MA/NH Chapter and of Elder Services, is a member of the Berkshire Alzheimer’s Partnership, and serves on the Berkshire Memory Walk committee. Courtesy of Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. esbc@esbci.org

Alzheimer’s Facts

• This year, more than 200,000 people across the nation will participate in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk. • Every 71 seconds, someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. • Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S. Courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association September 2008

Senior News Guide

Dalton Council on Aging By Mary Ann White

The Mission Statement of the Dalton Council on Aging says it all. The Council is there to promote the physical, emotional, social, and economic well being of older adults, and to promote their participation in all aspects of community life. COA director Sue Jacobs said that the Council was formed in May of 1977 at the Annual Town Meeting where 9 people were appointed to the board. There are now 15 members of the Board of Directors who are appointed by the Select Board, and set the policies of the COA. Sue said the main focus of the COA is to support folks in town who are age 60 and older, to identify their needs, to educate the community on these needs, and to create programs that will

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COA Director Sue Jacobs stands in front of project completed through the “Bridges” Program with seniors and students at Craneville School.

address these needs. Sue Jacobs has been on board for 24 years this month, starting out part-time. She said that every year they would have to file an annual report with the state. This showed that there were only 10% of the seniors in town using the services. “We wondered what the other 90% were doing,” Sue said. At this time the COA received a grant from the state to hire on an outreach worker who could get out to homes and let people know about the services offered and who to call. Patsy Pero is the town’s Outreach worker and SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) counselor. She is very knowledgeable in Medicare and supplements, billing issues, and can answer questions about benefit programs. “She works two days a week and is doing an amazing job,” Sue complimented. There are also four Osteoporosis Prevention Exercise classes held each week in the CRA, weekly Bridge, and the Lunch Bunch on Mondays and Thursdays at Grace Church and Monthly blood pressure & foot clinics. Other programs and services include the Travel Club, Preschool Reading Program, Wellness Programs, Arts & Crafts, Door-to-Door van service (Monday-Thursday), a quarterly newsletter, educational programs, “Serve” Host, a weekly TV show on Warner Cable Channel 16, volunteer

Senior News Guide

Continued on next page... September 2008

Continued from previous page. opportunities, Dalton Senior Club, BRTA Tickets, Food Cooperative, Triad, LIFE Group, and Fuel Assistance (Sept./ Oct.). The volunteer program has between 90 and 100 active members who are grocery shoppers, private drivers, visitors, preschool readers, craft instructors, office/clinic helpers, among a few of the services. The Triad educational program was begun on a national level includes AARP, the Chiefs of Police and Sheriff ’s Department along with local law enforcement, and the DA and the COA. This is run by and for seniors and includes guest speakers, a safety fair and picnics. Sue told about the Veteran’s History Project that has been running for three years this October. The COA is a national partner with the Library of Congress to collect stories from veterans. Dick Nicholas Sr. coordinates this and Dalton Community Cable allows use of their studio. Veterans are interviewed 2 or 3 times, then it is taped. 55 seniors are now on the Library of Congress website which is www.loc. gov/vets. The intergenerational program call “Bridges” is very popular with both the seniors and the 4th and 5th graders involved. It is a 7-week program where seniors share school life, holiday, ethnicity, and traditions with the kids and also do a project with them. The next quarterly newsletter will be out the beginning of September and includes Dalton, Hinsdale, Peru and Becket. The newsletter is done under the Hilltown Association of Councils on Aging group. The Council’s biggest concern is the upcoming winter and heating problems that seniors will face. Sue said their priority is to bring all the movers and shakers together from town to plan a response. This will include police, fire, ambulance, clergy, Red Cross, etc. to share information, be on the same page in case a medical call comes in and someone doesn’t have heat, we can respond as a community. Sue stated, “We are already getting calls from seniors who don’t know what they are going to do this winter. It is really frightening!” For more information on the Council on Aging and all the services that they offer, call 413-684-2000, fax: 413-6846107 or email: dcoa@bcn.net. The COA is located at 400 Main Street in the Dalton Community House building. September 2008

RSVP to Host Table at 3rd Thursdays The RSVP Volunteer Program of the Berkshires will be hosting an informational table in front of Saint Joseph’s Church for the remaining 3rd Thursdays events in downtown Pittsfield. They will have a free raffle, free popcorn, free giveaways, and of course their trademark RSVP Great Pyrenees puppy - Remy! RSVP representative will be available to provide details on signature projects like Junior Achievement, Friends Read and RSVP Pals - all beginning in September! If you are interested in volunteering with there projects, or you would like to learn more about other exciting volunteer opportunities with RSVP, visit our friendly staff on Thursday, September 18 between 5 and 8 p.m. Or feel free to call the RSVP office at 413-395-0107 for complete information on becoming a volunteer! The RSVP Volunteer Program of the Berkshires is located at 16 Bartlett Avenue in Pittsfield, MA.

Senior News Guide

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Ongoing Calendar Events Mondays

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Activities • • • • • • •

9 a.m. - Painting Class - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsfield Phone: 413499-9346 10 a.m. - Poetry Classes - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsfield Phone: 413499-9346 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Line Dancing - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535. 12:30 p.m. - Bridge - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 12:30 p.m. - Scrabble play - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 12:30 p.m. - Movies - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsfield Phone: 413499-9346 1 p.m. - Sewing and Needlwork group - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsfield Phone: 413-499-9346

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Fitness •

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100 Dan Fox Drive • Pittsfield, MA 01202

Returning This Fall:

1 p.m. - Line Dancing - Williamstown Council on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-458-8250 1:30 p.m. - Literature Classes - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld Phone: 413-499-9346

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8:15-9 a.m. - Walking Indoors for Seniors - Bennington Fire House, Enter at back. For information call Stanley Pike at (802) 442-6886. No pre-registration. Free. 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. - Yoga (Bring a mat and water bottle) - Van Transportation - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535. 9 a.m. - Tai Chi - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 9 a.m. - Osteoporosis Exercise - Lee Council on Aging, Railroad St., Lee Phone: 413-243-5545 10 a.m. - Exercise Class - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 10-11 a.m. - Bone Builders - Equinox Village, 3567 Main Street Route 7A, Manchester Village. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 11 a.m. - Bone Builders - Wilmington Senior Center. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 11 a.m. - Bone Builders - Manchester Masonic Temple. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 11 a.m. - Bone Builders - Bailey Hall, Arlington. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545.

Senior Classes

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499-4600

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Feel Young -

Stay fit!

Discounted Senior Memberships! 14

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Senior News Guide

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Free. 11:30 a.m. - Bone Builders - Woodford Town Hall. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 1 p.m. - Sit and Be Fit Chair Exercises - Adams Council on Aging, Community Center, 20 East St., Adams Phone: 413-743-8333

First Mondays Activities •

Health •

10 a.m. - Williamstown Council on Aging Book Discussion Group - 1095 Main Street. Williamstown Foot Clinic - North Adams Council on Aging, 150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-6623125

Health

TRIAD •

10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association Berkshire Atheneum, 1 Wendall Ave., Pittsﬁeld 9 a.m. - TRIAD Meeting - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-6375535.

Third Mondays Health •

Hearing Clinic - Lee Council on Aging, Railroad St., Lee Phone: 413-243-5545

Fourth Mondays Health •

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7 p.m. - Prostate Cancer Support Group Hillcrest Hospital, First Floor Conference Room, 165 Tor Court, Pittsﬁeld Blood Pressure Clinic - Williamstown Council

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Online Prescription Renewals www.thorpespharmacy.com

Jim Monahan, Proprietor September 2008

Mondays and Fridays Congregate Lunches •

11:30 a.m. - Lunch and BINGO - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535.

Mondays and Wednesdays Activities

Second Mondays •

on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-458-8250

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9 a.m. - Line Dancing - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld Phone: 413499-9346

Fitness •

10:30 a.m. - Exercise Class - Williamstown Council on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-4588250

Monday through Friday Congregate Lunches •

11:30 a.m. - Group Luncheon - North Adams Council on Aging, 150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-662-3125

Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays ��

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Corner of Church & John Streets Hoosick Falls, New York

518-686-5711

Senior News Guide

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Fitness •

11 a.m. - Egremont Council on Aging Aquatics class - Kilpatrick Athletic Center, Simon’s Rock College of Bard, 84 Alford Rd., Great Barrington

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9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Grocery Shopping - Lee Council on Aging, Railroad St., Lee Phone: 413-243-5545

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Activities •

Tuesdays

Arts

Activities •

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9 a.m. - Painting Class - Williamstown Council on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-458-8250 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Pool Playing - Van Transportation - Lenox Community Center, 65

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10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Coﬀee and Social Hour Tyringham Council on Aging Phone: 413-2430907 12 p.m. - Pot Luck Luncheon - Tyringham Council on Aging Phone: 413-243-0907

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11 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Art Class - Cheshire Council on Aging, Senior Center, 119 School St., Cheshire Phone: 413-743-1172

Congregate Lunches

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Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Craft Workshops - Windsor Council on Aging Phone: 413-684-3882 1 p.m. - Bridge Club - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld Phone: 413499-9346 1:15 p.m. - Friendship Group - Williamstown Council on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-4588250

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Health •

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Senior News Guide

9:30 a.m. - Tai Chi - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535. 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. - Osteoporosis Exercise Class - Dalton Community Center, 400 Main St., Dalton Phone: 413-684-2000 10 a.m. - Bone Builders - Manchester Town Hall. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 10-11 a.m. - Osteo Exercise Class - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535. 10:30 a.m. - Bone Builders - St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 11 a.m. - Bone Builders - Bennington Senior Center. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 12:30 p.m. - Bone Builders - Pownal Firehouse. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - SHINE Counseling - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535. 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Big September 2008

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Y, 200 West St., Pittsﬁeld 1 to 2:30 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Stop & Shop, 1 Dan Fox Drive, Pittsﬁeld 1:30-3:30 p.m. - Diabetes Self-Management - For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-5315. Free. 5-7 p.m. - Grandparents Raising Grandchildren - North Adams Council on Aging, 150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-662-3125 5-6:30 p.m. - Ready, Set...STOP! - Presented by SVHC and Vermont Quit Network. Phone: 802-447-5508.

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Second Tuesdays Health •

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11 a.m. tp 12:30 p.m. - Blood Pressure Clinic - Dalton Community Center, 400 Main St., Dalton Phone: 413-684-2000 Foot Clinic - Lee Council on Aging, Railroad St., Lee Phone: 413-243-5545

Second and Fourth Tuesdays Health •

Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Third Tuesdays Health •

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10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association Christian Center, 155 Linden St., Pittsﬁeld Foot Clinic - Williamstown Council on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-458-8250

Fourth Tuesdays Health •

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9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Lanesboro Town Hall, 83 North Main St., Lanesboro 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Foot Clinic - Every other month at the COA and alternates with Pine Grove Manor - Dalton Community Center, 400 Main St., Dalton Phone: 413-684-2000

Tuesdays and Thursdays Congregate Lunches •

10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Group Luncheon and BINGO afterward - Becket Council on Aging, Becket Town Hall, 557 Main St., Becket

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Fitness

September 2008

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Senior News Guide

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1 p.m. - Aerobics - North Adams Council on Aging, 150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-662-3125

Wednesdays

BINGO

Activities •

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1 p.m. - Line Dancing - Adams Council on Aging, Community Center, 20 East St., Adams Phone: 413-743-8333 1 p.m. - Berkshire Crossing and Berkshire Mall Shopping - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535. 1 to 2:30 p.m. - Play Reading - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-6375535. 10-11 a.m. - Dalton Community Council Intergenerational Program - Preschool Reading Program. Phone: 413-684-2000 - Dalton United Methodist Church, 755 Main St., Dalton 12 p.m. - Craft Workshops - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld Phone: 413-499-9346 1-4 p.m. - Bridge - Lee Council on Aging,

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11 a.m. - Group Luncheon and BINGO afterward - Cheshire Council on Aging, Senior Center, 119 School St., Cheshire Phone: 413-743-1172 11:30 a.m. - Hinsdale Council on Aging Community Lunch - Hinsdale Town Hall, 39 South St., Hinsdale

Fitness

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11 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Brown Bag grocery pickup. - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535.

Congregate Lunches

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12:30 p.m. - BINGO - Sandisﬁeld Council on Aging, Rt. 57, Sandisﬁeld Phone: 413-258-4407

Brown Bag

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Railroad St., Lee Phone: 413-243-5545 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. - Local Grocery Shopping Trip - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535.

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Senior News Guide

8:15-9 a.m. - Walking Indoors for Seniors - Bennington Fire House, Enter at back. For information call Stanley Pike at (802) 442-6886. No pre-registration. Free. 9:30 a.m. - Tai Chi - North Adams Council on Aging, 150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-662-3125 9:30 a.m. - Egremont Council on Aging Low Impact Aerobics - First Congregational Church, South Egremont Phone: 413-528-3488 10 a.m. - 1-Mile Precision Walkers - For information call Manchester Parks and Rec. Dept. at 802-362-1439. 10-11 a.m. - Bone Builders - Equinox Village, 3567 Main Street Route 7A, Manchester Village. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 10-11 a.m. - Osteoporosis Exercise - Windsor Council on Aging Phone: 413-684-3882 10:30-11:30 a.m. - Senior Walking - Hinsdale COA, Hinsdale Town Hall, 39 South St., Hinsdale 11 a.m. - Bone Builders - Manchester Masonic Temple. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 11 a.m. - Bone Builders - Bailey Hall, Arlington. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. September 2008

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Health •

11:30 a.m. - Bone Builders - Woodford Town Hall. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 1 p.m. - Osteoporosis Exercise - North Adams Council on Aging, 150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-662-3125 1-4 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Stop & Shop, 660 Merrill Rd., Pittsﬁeld

Health

9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535.

Third Wednesdays

TRIAD •

Arts

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1 p.m. - Dalton Council on Aging - TRIAD Meeting. Phone: 413-684-2000 - Dalton VFW, 366 Housatonic St., Dalton 10:30 a.m. - BINGO - Adams Council on Aging, Community Center, 20 East St., Adams Phone: 413-743-8333 12 p.m. - Hinsdale Council of Aging - BINGO - Hinsdale Town Hall, 39 South St., Hinsdale

Thursdays

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10-11 a.m. - Intergeneration Program - Story Time - Windsor Council on Aging Phone: 413684-3882 12:30 p.m. - Knit and Crochet group - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld Phone: 413-499-9346 1-3 p.m. - Bridge – all are welcome! No van transportation. - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535. 1 p.m. - Quilting Club - Williamstown Council on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-458-8250

September 2008

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Activities •

10 a.m. - Osteoporosis Exercise Class - Dalton Community Center, 400 Main St., Dalton Phone: 413-684-2000 10 a.m. - Tai Chi - Williamstown Council on

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BINGO

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11 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Painting Class - Cheshire Council on Aging, Senior Center, 119 School St., Cheshire Phone: 413-743-1172 7 p.m. - Nimble Fingers Quilting Club - Adams Council on Aging, Community Center, 20 East St., Adams Phone: 413-743-8333

10:30-12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Hinsdale Town Hall, 39 South St., Hinsdale

Wednesdays and Fridays •

1:30 -2:30 p.m. - Line Dancing - Lee Council on Aging, Railroad St., Lee Phone: 413-243-5545 1:30 p.m. - Social Dances - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld Phone: 413499-9346

Fitness

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Health •

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Second Wednesdays •

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Senior News Guide

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Health •

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Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-458-8250 10:30 a.m. - Bone Builders - St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 11 a.m. - Bone Builders - Bennington Senior Center. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 12:30 p.m. - Bone Builders - Pownal Firehouse. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 12:30 p.m. - Bone Builders - Manchester Town Hall. For more information call RSVP at (802) 4471545. Free. 1 p.m. - Exercise Class - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 1-3 p.m. - SHINE Counseling - North Adams Council on Aging, 150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-662-3125 2-4 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Hillcrest Campus, 165 Tor Court, Pittsﬁeld

Health •

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Second Thursdays Health •

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9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association Dewey Hall, Sheﬃeld 10:30-11:30 a.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association Dalton Town Hall, 462 Main St., Dalton 12:30-1:30 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - New Marlboro Town Hall, Mill River 2-3 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Monterey Town Hall, 435 Main Rd., Monterey

Third Thursdays Health •

10:30-12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Grace Episcopal Church, 791 Main St., Dalton

Congregate Lunches

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Health •

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8:45-12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington

Fitness

10 a.m. - Senior Walk - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington

Fridays Activities •

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12 p.m. - Pot Luck Luncheon - Becket Council on Aging, Becket Town Hall, 557 Main St., Becket

Thursdays and Saturdays •

8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association Berkshire Mall, Old State Rd., Lanesboro

Fourth Thursdays

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First Thursdays

• Senior News Guide

8:15-9 a.m. - Walking Indoors for Seniors - Bennington Fire House, Enter at back. For information call Stanley Pike at (802) 442-6886. No pre-registration. Free. 9 a.m. - Macrame - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld Phone: 413-499-9346 September 2008

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10 a.m. - Bone Builders - Manchester Town Hall. For more information call RSVP at (802) 447-1545. Free. 1 p.m. - Bridge - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 1 p.m. - Line Dancing - North Adams Council on Aging, 150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-662-3125 12:30 p.m. - Quilting Club - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld Phone: 413-499-9346 12:30 p.m. - Wood Carving - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld Phone: 413-499-9346 Movies and Games - Windsor Council on Aging Phone: 413-684-3882

BINGO • •

9 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. - BINGO - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 1 p.m. - BINGO - Williamstown Council on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-458-8250

Fitness • •

Health •

10 a.m. - Senior Swim - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 9:30 a.m. - Yoga - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 12-2 p.m. - VNA Blood Pressure and Health Clinic - Cheshire Council on Aging, Senior Center, 119 School St., Cheshire Phone: 413743-1172

Sundays Activities •

Arts •

1 p.m. - Poker - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington 9:30 a.m. - Art Class - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington

BINGO •

9 a.m. - BINGO - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington

Fitness •

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7:30 a.m. - Exercise Class - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-6375535. 10:30 a.m. - Osteoporosis Exercise Williamstown Council on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-458-8250 4 p.m. - Osteo Exercise Class - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington

Fourth Fridays Brown Bag •

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15 Crissey Road, Great Barrington, MA 413.528.2810 www.berkshiresouth.org

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Brown Bag grocery pick-up. - North Adams Council on Aging, 150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-662-3125

Third Fridays Brown Bag •

10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Brown Bag grocery pickup. - Becket Council on Aging, Becket Town Hall, 557 Main St., Becket

Saturdays Activities •

12:30 p.m. - Card playing - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington

September 2008

Senior News Guide

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The American Heart Association recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise most days of the week, in addition to resistance exercise (weight lifting, water aerobics).

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*The Center is OPEN 95 HOURS per week!

Harriet Ebitz’s Big Stretch By Felix Caroll

Mae Brown’s bones are creaking. You can hear them from across the room. She knows it, and it makes her giggle. Her giggles make the other women giggle, too. The women are all lined up, facing front and center, stretching grouchy joints that would otherwise prefer to be ignored, forgotten and left unprovoked. Two of the women are recovering from cancer. One recently had an aneurysm. Nearly all have had some form of surgery in recent years. And most of them, like Mae, have arthritis such that pops and creaks serve as the only soundtrack for this weekly exercise class. But of all the physical trials the women face, none of the women have been through anything quite like what the leader of the class has been through. Harriet Ebitz was crossing the crosswalk on Main Street in Great Barrington in 2002 when she was struck by a motorcycle and thrown 30 feet. “He hit her all right,” says Alice Dumont, nodding. She was expected to survive. “When people hear I was in a motorcycle accident, they say, ‘Oh, you were riding on a motorcycle?’ I say, ‘Only on the front end,’” says Harriet. She can laugh about it now -- sort

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of -- at least when she’s with whom she calls “my girls.” Her girls are the up to 16 women who show each Friday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Claire Teague Senior Center in Great Barrington for her class, “Exercise with Harriet.” The class is free and open to all. In the class, Harriet shares some of the joint- and muscle-aiding movements she learned through many months of physical therapy.

Harriet leads her “girls” in their weekly exercise class at the Claire Teague Senior Center in Great Barrington

“I’m not a therapist,” says Harriet, 85, the mother of two. “I just share what I’ve learned through experience.” She sets her walker aside under a ticking clock in the senior center’s lounge, as the women form into two seated rows in front of her. The women come for the physical benefits. They come for the friendship. Most have outlived their husbands by many years. They come to get out of the house, and they come because Harriet inspires them. “When I broke my ankle I thought this was the end,” says Wilma Darada. “But I remembered what Harriet did.” At the stroke of 10 a.m. last Friday, the women assemble. Two of them, Anne Calkins and Betty McTurner, have come straight from the Tai Chi class that just got out down the hall. “How have you been, Mae,” Anne asks, as the 93-year-old Mae, a retired school teacher, takes cautious steps into the class, reaching for solid objects to support her along the way. “Resting up,” says Mae, pleasantly. “Nice sleeping weather, huh?” Anne says. “Would you believe I had my electric blanket on last night?” Mae says, incredulously. Five minutes passed the hour, the exercising begins. “OK, let’s stretch up there, way up there,” says Harriet. “Up, and down.”

Senior News Guide

September 2008

Mae’s giggling begins. It’s a chain reaction. “It’s one of the highlights of our hour together: hearing Mae giggling,” says Priscilla Moulthrop. “One hand up, one hand down to the floor,” says Harriet. “Just don’t fall out of your chair. ...” Harriet’s classroom deportment is far from drill-instructor quality. She’s a quiet woman by nature, uncomfortable as a center of attention. When she says things like “Leg lift, toe to heel,” it’s more a suggestion than a command. But back in 2002, on a cold, hard January morning, she became very much a center of attention. She was heading to her job at the time, at the Berkshire Record, where once a week she would put labels onto newspapers. It was 7 a.m. She neither saw nor heard the motorcycle. By the time she was knocked onto the hard pavement, she was unconscious. She had to be rushed by helicopter to Bay State Medical Center in Springfield, where she spent a month. Then she was transferred to Noble Hospital for three months of rehabilitation. Then she spent 14 months at Laurel Lake Center for Health & Rehabilitation. Her doctors didn’t expect her to live. Her family was called in twice. Her 126-pound frame was so swollen, her daughter thought she looked like she weighed 300 pounds. She had 11 broken bones. A steel rod now supports her pelvis. A metal plate helps support her right leg. Not a day goes by in which she isn’t in pain. But the worst thing about it all wasn’t the accident itself, she says, or the fact she received no insurance payment through the driver of the motorcycle. The worst thing, she says, is that neither the 16-year-old boy who hit her, nor his parents, ever contacted her to inquire about her condition. “That was the thing that hurt the worst,” she says. “That’s sad, you know? But I’ve learned how so many people are really so great. During my recovery, I received 150 letters, many from people I didn’t even know.” The other thing she learned was this: “You can do things if you want to do them. But you have to want to do them.”

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She wanted to get better, to walk again, to be active. Her drive has been contagious for the seniors who have been coming to her class, which she’s led for the past three years. “I was getting to the point where I wouldn’t do anything,” says Priscilla. “I had had some surgery, and I didn’t feel like moving. Harriet has helped get me moving again.” “This class helps me to keep my bones moving,” says Wilma. “At this age, you can’t just sit around and do nothing or you’ll deteriorate. So this is good, physically, but it’s also a chance for us all to get together.” “We all love each other,” says Mae. “We help each other.” At 10:50 a.m. Harriet – her leg lifted -- asks the others, “Have you had enough?” It’s unanimous. They have had enough. The women put the room back in order. They linger a little while and chat. Then they go their separate ways – some to the hairdresser, some to the market. Mae, a seamstress, says she has three dresses to tend to. Harriet heads home, which happens to be across the street. Her husband died years ago. She likes to knit and crochet. She donates what she makes to the senior center to sell. She also keeps an eye on her beloved Red Sox. “I think it was good they traded Manny Ramirez, don’t you?” she says of the moody left fielder whom the Red Sox traded recently to the Dodgers. “And Jason Bay is fitting in real well, I think.” Harriet grabs onto her walker and lifts herself up onto two feet again. It’s a indeed a big stretch for her to lead an exercise class. She knows that. “But my motto is: ‘Be kind, and do what you can do to help others. And try. You’ve got to try.”

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Senior News Guide

September 2008