Berkshire Senior April 2021

Spring Home Improvements Area Health Leaders Encourage All Seniors To Get Vaccinated Berkshire Botanical Garden Offers Live and Online Class Options

Your Care, Your Home, Your Neighbors

“I’m just not ready to say goodbye.”

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a life limiting illness, HospiceCare in The Berkshires is here for the whole family. From understanding your options to offering home health aides, spiritual guidance, and grief counseling, our team will create a personalized plan for you. We’ll take care of the stressful tasks, allowing you to spend quality time with your loved ones, on your own terms.

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Call 413-443-2994 and make every moment matter.

877 South Street, Suite 1W • Pittsfield, MA 01201 413-443-2994 • www.hcib.org

The difference is in our care

The mission of Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. is to provide Berkshire elders, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and self-determination, and to achieve the highest possible quality of life.

Statement of Inclusivity Elder Services practices non-discrimination in employment practices and service delivery. Embracing diversity, our in-home and community-based services are available to all without regard to race, ethnicity, language, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or lifestyle.

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Berkshire Senior Editorial Board: Deb Aldrich, Bonny DiTomasso, Laura Feakes, Christopher McLaughlin, Kathleen Cleary, Kathleen Phillips and John Arthur Miller Advertising: To place an advertisement in Berkshire Senior, please contact Kate Teutsch at (413) 496-6324 or e-mail advertising@berkshireeagle.com.

Berkshire Senior is published bi-monthly by Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc., 877 South Street, Suite 4E, Pittsfield, MA 01201, 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242, e-mail: esbc@esbci.org or on the internet at www.esbci.org.

NOTICE Berkshire Senior advertising helps to the defray the costs of producing the newspaper. Inclusion of advertisers in no way implies that Elder Services endorses any product or service.

Elder Services and its programs are funded, in part, by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs.

State and federal funds provided to Elder Services are limited. Elder Services welcomes charitable donations to help meet the growing needs of Berkshire seniors, and gratefully acknowledges all donations.

By Christopher McLaughlin, Executive Director of Elder Services Hoping all is well with you.

In mid-March, we received a bit of a reprieve, as spring appears to have arrived a little earlier than usual. After an old-fashioned Berkshire Winter and a significant increase in the number of COVID infections, the longer days, bursts of sunshine and warmer temperatures are a welcome relief. We continue finding our way through the tunnel I alluded to in the last issue.

The good news is that we are now closer to the “light” than we were when I wrote to you in late January.

There are now far more Berkshire County residents vaccinated than there were in February. It is natural to believe that more vaccinations and the opportunity to spend more time outdoors means we are in a better place and can let our guard down. Increasing numbers of vaccinations clearly put us in a better place with each passing week. However, we are not out of the woods yet. Recent news articles about COVID infections increasing locally and several students at MCLA contracting COVID after a large social gathering suggest we must still be vigilant.

If you are still undecided if the vaccine is right for you, please read the article from the Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative on Page 8. If you need help securing an appointment for your vaccination, please call Elder Services at (413) 499-0524.

Our Information & Referral Specialists and other staff continue to assist seniors who are unable to access the internet or find calling the Vaccination Resource Line (211) challenging. We access the same vaccination scheduling system everyone else does but our staff have done it often enough that they seem to know the shortcuts. Our State Home Care staff and other staff have also been active in calling the residents of local housing sites to schedule vaccines and have assisted during the clinics held at those sites. They describe the experience of helping people secure the vaccines as incredibly rewarding.

The Commonwealth has announced plans to vaccinate people who are homebound. People who meet the State’s criteria for being homebound are incapable of leaving home for a routine medical appointment or require an ambulance or the assistance of at least two people to attend a medical appointment. Individuals who meet these criteria are eligible to receive a visit from a representative of the State Vaccinator Program. Again, this option is for people that meet a strict definition of “homebound” and we are told it may be quite some time before the vaccination teams get into people’s homes. As the goal is to receive the vaccination as quickly as possible, if you can be vaccinated at a community vaccination site you should do so.

It is hard to believe but by our next issue, it will almost be summer.

No doubt with more vaccinations we will be in an even better place by then!

Until next time be good, be kind and be careful.

Contents Spring Home Improvements �������������������������������������� 4 Most Anticipated Spring ���������������������������������������������� 9 Senior Employment Program ������������������������������������� 5 Thanks to Our Volunteers ������������������������������������������10 Berkshire Botanical Garden ���������������������������������������� 6 Zoom Tips ���������������������������������������������������������������������11 Meals On Wheels ����������������������������������������������������������� 7 Donations ���������������������������������������������������������������������12 COVID-19 ������������������������������������������������������������������������ 8 Councils On Aging ������������������������������������������������14-15

Volume 39, Number 2 April 2021 The bi-monthly newspaper for Berkshire County seniors

FREE

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of Elder Services. For medical, financial or other advice, seek a qualified professional in the appropriate field.

Elder Services Assists with Scheduling Vaccinations

ELDER SERVICES UPDATE

Mission Statement

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

Be consumer savvy about spring home improvements!

by Laura Feakes, Information & Referral Specialist Now that winter is finally becoming a memory, many of us will be turning our attention to seasonal property damage and cleanup. Before you begin your clean-up, be cautious and plan ahead. Make a complete assessment of what needs to be done and then prioritize projects.

While some clean up may seem easy and a “do-it-yourself ” project, be aware of potential risks. Broken tree limbs may be near power lines. Position ladders cautiously to look at gutters and roofs. Don’t use gutters as a handhold and avoid reaching farther than the end of your arm.

If you need to hire someone to help you with storm repairs or various other home improvement projects, the best protection against problems is being actively involved in every step of your project. Every year, hundreds of Massachusetts residents file consumer complaints about home improvement contractors who take money and don’t do any of the work or perform unsatisfactory construction or repairs. If you plan to hire a contractor there are important things to keep in mind:

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

Protect yourself against the unscrupulous contractor: • Don’t enter into a repair or improvement project without a written contract.

• Don’t hire a contractor who does not have a business card or local phone number and address. The

Sign the right contract before work is performed on your home: • Don’t sign a blank contract, or one that does not include all the costs and supplies. Get a written contract that includes the type, quality and warranty of materials to be used and outlines all the financial terms and payment schedules. Include a penalty clause in the contract for failure to complete work on time.

• Have a complete description of the work to be done and a guarantee that old materials and debris will be removed. Insist that

the workplace remains clean and safe for the duration of the project.

• Make sure that all necessary permits are secured by the contractor and that they have proper liability and workers’ compensation insurance. If you apply for the permit, you may not be eligible for workers’ compensation from the state Guaranty Fund.

• Shop around and get at least two or three written estimates for the same work before selecting a contractor. A small amount of research can eliminate big problems later.

• Make sure the contract contains a 3-day cancellation notice, informing you of your right to cancel your contract if you signed the agreement in your home, or at a place other than at the contractor’s office or business.

Red Flags of a home improvement scam: • U n s o l i c i t e d , t r a v e l i n g contractors who come to your home and point out specific problems you haven’t noticed yourself.

• Contractors who arrive in an unmarked truck or van and who refuse to provide proof of insurance and references when requested.

• Contractors claiming “I’ve just done a job nearby and have some left over material (like driveway asphalt), so I can give you a great deal on the job.”

• High pressure sales tactics.

For additional information on how to select a home

improvement contractor or to report a fraudulent contractor: Better Business Bureau: www. bbb.org, BBB helps people find businesses and charities they can trust. Whether you’re looking for a plumber or a roofer, BBB can steer you in the right direction.

The local office is the BBB Serving Central and Western MA and Northeastern CT. Email: info@ cne.bbb.org. Phone: 508-755-3340.

Attorney General’s Office: www.mass.gov for information, and Attorney General’s Consumer Guide to Home Improvement at www.mass.gov/ago/docs/ consumer/home-improvementguide.pdf ); Consumer Hotline 617-727-8400; Elder Hotline: 888243-5337.

Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation: www. mass.gov for information.

To check contractor registration: (www.mass.gov/how-to/check-ahome-improvement-contractorregistration).

To file a complaint (www.mass. gov/how-to/file-a-complaintagainst-a-home-improvementcontractor), & Homeowner’s Guide to Hiring a Home Improvement Cont ractor (www.mass.gov/ info-details/homeowners-guideto-hiring-a-home-improvementcontractor), (888) 283-3757 Berkshire Consumer Services Program, 1 Fenn St 4th Floor, Pittsfield, 413-344-4861, https:// bcrha.com/consumer-counselingmediation-program.

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business should have an actual physical address, not just a P.O. Box. • Check the contractor’s state re gistration. By law, most contractors and subcontractors performing residential home improvements on owner-occupied homes must be registered with the state. The few exceptions to this requirement include: licensed professionals, such as plumbers and electricians; part-time or small job contractors; and other contractors who specialize in certain kinds of work, including landscaping, central heating and air conditioning installations, and interior painters.

• Don’t hire a contractor who refuses to give you names and phone numbers of references.

• Do not pay for the entire job up front and don’t make final payment until you are completely satisfied with the work.

• D o n ’ t f e e l p re s s u re d by contractors who make special or limited price offers.

Au.D., FAAA

s Diagnosis and treatment of vertigo and dizziness s Fall Prevention and vestibular rehabilitation s Orthopedic physical therapy services s CBD products from Muscle MX s Lightforce Laser Therapy available

510 North Street, Suite 9, Pittsfield, MA 01201 • P (413) 443-4800 • F (413) 442-9701 greylock@fyzical.com

Dr. Trevor Marcotte, PT DPT

Clinical Director/Physical Therapist

Unemployed? Looking For Work? Consider The SCSEP Program

Elder Services of Berkshire County is proud to serve as the regional sponsor for the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) – a federally funded, state administered program that assists seniors in job training, job matching and job placement. SCSEP’s mission is to provide job training and placement to individuals age 55 or older with limited financial resources and to provide employers with trained, motivated workers. The program provides persons who have met the required eligibility guidelines, and have a sincere desire to work, the opportunity to overcome two of the biggest barriers to employment - lack of experience and training.

Potential SCSEP participants are assessed for eligibility, current job skills, interests and individual experience. If qualified, applicants will likely be offered the opportunity to interview with a participating community nonprofit organization referred to as a Host Agency. If the interview goes well and a match occurs, the participant will be assigned to the agency and receive onthe-job training for twenty (20) hours per week, at the current minimum wage, for up to a year. In addition to on-the-job training, formal trainings are provided to participants enrolled in the SCSEP program. These trainings include, but are not limited to, computer training,

resume writing, and interviewing techniques.

The placement of a SCSEP participant at a Host Agency gives

EMPLOYMENT

Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) the agency a dedicated worker and provides the participant with on-the-job experience and an opportunity to re-enter the work force. The participant’s salary is paid by the SCSEP program.

It is never too late to seek a new challenge, learn new skills or to gain meaningful employment.

For more infor mation on becoming a SCSEP participant contact Elder Services of Berkshire County at (413) 499-0524 or (800) 544-5242 and ask to speak with the SCSEP Program Manager. If your agency is interested in becoming a Host Agency for the program contact Bonny DiTomasso, SCSEP Program Manager, at the same number.

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Call to learn more about our pre-construction incentives: 413.499.1992 ResidencesAtMelbournePlace.com • 140 Melbourne Road, Pittsfield, MA 01201

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

Independent Living I Assisted Living I Memory Care

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OUTDOORS

Berkshire Botanical Garden Offers Live and Online Class Options for Spring Kathleen Cleary The Berkshire Botanical Garden will officially open on Saturday, May 1. They are celebrating the start of their 87th season with Roy Boutard Day and offering free admission for all on Sunday, May 2.

If you are itching to get into the garden and learn new things, Berkshire Botanical Gardens has you covered with a host of offerings for both online and live in-person learning, including:

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

What: How to Use Tools the Right Way

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When: Friday, April 9, 2021 - 2:00pm to 4:00pm Where: In-person class at BBG Expand beyond the spade. A wide variety of tools exist on the market for modern gardeners.

But what is really essential and how can you feel confident and competent using the tools you have on hand? Learn about the different tools used for planting, garden maintenance and invasive species removal, considering the pros and cons to different tools for particular tasks. Proper tool use and maintenance will be addressed. Students will receive hands-on experience with the tools presented. Led by Bridghe M c C r a c ke n a n d C a l i s h a Croney of Helia Nursery.

Members: $20/ Nonmembers: $25

What: Spring/Summer Hive Management

the spring and summer. Weather permitting, he will do a hive inspection in the BBG apiary.

Bring protective equipment.

Members: $15/ Nonmembers: $20

What: Seed Starting for the New Cutting Garden When: Sunday, April 11, 2021 - 11:00am to 12:30pm Where: Online Seed starting can be intimidating stuff, with calendar complications and lots of equipment. Streamline your process in this course from Colie Collen of Flower Scout, who will review the optimal start dates and conditions for a wide range of cut flowers, herbs and veggies, and guide you through the best ways to start your own seeds at home.

Colie Collen, founder, farmer and designer at Flower Scout, brings her love of all things wild and seasonal to her work. After many years of farming on the west and east coasts, her interest turned to flower production in 2012, and subsequently, to design.

Colie seeks to create individual experiences for clients based on the colors, textures and shapes the land/g arden/season is creating at a particular moment, with customers’ aesthetic preferences continually in mind.

Members: $12/ Nonmembers: 18

What: Container Garden Design

When: Saturday, April 10, 2021 - 11:00am to 1:00pm Where: In-person class at BBG

When: Wednesday, April 14, 2021 - 5:30pm to Wednesday, April 28, 2021 - 8:30pm Where: In-person class at BBG

Join 6th-generation beekeeper Ken Warchol for an in-depth program on spring honeybee hive management.

This lecture and demonstration will focus on how to open up your hives from the winter, including feeding and pest control. Ken will provide beekeepers with critical information and, most especially, timing of important management techniques to prepare hives for

Acquire the skills required for beautiful and successful container gardens with Jenna O’Brien, owner of Viridissima H o r t i c u l t u re a n d D e s i g n .

Star t with techniques for overwintering tropicals, tender perennials, bulbs, annuals and more without a greenhouse, through storage of dormant plants, seed collection, cuttings, divisions and other simple

techniques. Get to know the plants that thrive in containers and how to care for them. This three-part class will cover practical aspects of gardening with plants that do double duty as housescape plants in the winter and container plants in summer.

Consider container selection, siting, planting, g rowing, controlling pests and maintaining moveable gardens.

Members: $140/ nonmembers: $150

What: Home Orchard Care When: Saturday, April 17, 2021 - 9:00am to 5:00pm Where: In-person class at BBG Learn from expert instructor Michael Phillips how to manage your own orchard.

Successfully g rowing fruit fo r yo u r f a m i ly b e c o m e s straightforward when you narrow the big picture down to getting the basics right. Fungal and bacterial disease can be successfully managed with deep nutrition and competitive colonization. Major insect challenges can be resolved safely when you perceive who, what and when. This overview of complementary sprays backed by biodiversity and soil health

will set the stage for successfully g rowing tree fruit in New England.

Members: $80/ Nonmembers: $100

What: Transplanting Shrubs and Small Ornamental Trees When: Saturday, April 17, 2021 - 10:00am to 1:00pm Where: In-person class at BBG Learn by doing in this handson shrub and tree planting/ transplanting workshop led by arborist Ken Gooch. All aspects of successful planting will be demonstrated, and participants will assist in transplanting a multi-stem shrub and planting a small tree. Learn how to successfully transplant shrubs through correct timing, placement and techniques designed to create minimal disturbance and ensure a smooth transition to a new site. Consider the differences between bare-root, container-grown and balled-andburlapped trees, and understand the impor tance of siting.

Participants should dress for the weather and bring pruners and work gloves.

Members: $25/ Nonmembers: $35 For more information, visit www. berkshirebotanical.org

VALENTINES FOR SENIORS! Meals on Wheels recipient Larry Dean was one of the 925 Meals on Wheels consumers who received a card for Valentine’s Day. Community volunteer Desire’ Lane initiated the Valentine’s Day card project in collaboration with Elder Services. The initial goal was to make enough cards to be delivered by Meals on Wheels drivers. The response to the appeal which was made on Facebook was fantastic. The outpouring of support by individuals, schools, houses of worship and community groups was so great that cards were not only delivered to the Meals on Wheels recipients but also to the residents of 13 nursing homes in the County.

BERKSHIRE COUNTY

NUTRITION PROGRAM SENIOR COMMUNITY DINING CENTERS

sponsored in part by

ADDRESS

DAYS MEALS SERVED

SERVING TIME

NO. ADAMS 662-3125

SPITZER CENTER 116 Ashland St.

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

WILLIAMSTOWN 458-8250

HARPER CENTER 118 Church St.

VARIES – Call ahead

11:30 am

ADAMS 743-8333

COMMUNITY CENTER M-T-W-TH-F 3 Hoosac St.

11:00 am

CHESHIRE 743-9719

SENIOR CENTER 119 School St.

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

LANESBORO 448-2682

TOWN HALL 83 North Main St.

T & TH

11:30 am

DALTON 684-2000

SENIOR CENTER 40 Field St. Ext.

M & TH

11:30 am

T & TH

11:00 am

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

LENOX 637-5535

COMMUNITY CENTER M-T-W-TH-F 65 Walker St.

12:00 pm

LEE 243-5545

TEMP CLOSED GT. BARRINGTON 528-4118 PITTSFIELD 442-2200 KOSHER STOCKBRIDGE TEMP 298-3222 CLOSED PROVIDENCE CT. 443-1841

SENIOR CENTER 21 Crossway Village

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

SENIOR CENTER 917 South Main St.

M-T-W-TH-F

10:30 am

JEWISH COMM. CTR 16 Colt Road

M-T-TH

11:45 am

HEATON COURT 5 Pine St.

T-TH

11:30 am

PROVIDENCE COURT 379 East St.

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

STOCKBRIDGE TEMP 298-4170 CLOSED SHEFFIELD 229-7037

SENIOR CENTER 50 Main St.

WED

12:00 pm

SENIOR CENTER 25 Cook Road

W-TH-F

12:00 pm

BECKET 623-8934 PITTSFIELD 499-9346

TEMP TOWN HALL CLOSED Route 8 P.O. Box 60 SENIOR CENTER 330 North St.

Eligible seniors 60 years or older are welcome to attend any Senior Community Dining Center. Reservations are requested 24 hours in advance. A suggested donation is $2.00 per meal. All contributions are returned to the community toward the cost of the Nutrition Program and Services. Those 59 or under are welcome at a required fee of $7.00 per meal.

234 Wahconah Street Pittsfield MA 01201

MONUMENTS • MARKERS • LETTERING

Now, staying home isn’t just staying in the place they love.

It’s staying safe.

It’s essential.

If your loved one is vulnerable and needs in-home care, we’re here to help. Call us today.

Learn More:

HomeInstead.com/369 413.442.0907 PERSONAL CARE | MEMORY CARE | MEALS | HOUSEHOLD DUTIES Each Home Instead Senior Care Franchise is independently owned and operated @ 2020 Home Instead. Inc.

Become a Brown Bag: Food for Elders Member The Food Bank’s Brown Bag: Food for Elders membership program provides a free bag of groceries to qualified seniors ages 55 and up as well as other adults who qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This monthly bag of mostly non-perishable foods helps ensure that seniors have additional staples in their pantries when they need them most.

Distribution sites are located in Berkshire County. Learn more and find out if you or your loved one qualify for this free program today. Application assistance is available five days a week.

Visit foodbankwma.org/brown-bag-food-for-elders, or call our Brown Bag team at (800) 247-9632, ext. #110

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

CITY/TOWN PHONE

413-499-1750

MEALS ON WHEELS

Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc.

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HEALTH

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021 8

Area Health Leaders Collaborate and Encourage All Seniors to Get Vaccinated The complex operation to vaccinate the Berkshire community as quickly as possible is being led by the Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative, a partnership between The Berkshire County Boards of Health Association, Berkshire Health Systems, Community Health Programs, and local public health nurses.

“We recognized early-on that working together would be the most effective way to vaccinate our community here in the Berkshires,” said Laura Kittross, Director of the Berkshire County Boards of Health Association.

“Even before the vaccine arrived in the Berkshires, we were concerned that residents would be able to access information from reputable sources, and that information would be scientifically sound” said Laura Kittross.

To address the information challenge, the Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative established a website, getvaccinatedberkshires.org, to provide a central, up-to-date place to provide credible information as well as notices about upcoming clinics at the three sites in Pittsfield, North Adams, and Great Barrington.

To date, the website has had over 170,000 unique visitors.

Dr. James Lederer, Jr., the Chief Medical Officer/Chief Quality Officer of Berkshire Health Systems who has led the medical response to COVID-19 in Berkshire County, is eager to dispel misinformation and promote vaccination in Berkshire County.

Dr. Lederer spoke of his own decision to get vaccinated. “I know the science. I took the

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COVID-19 vaccine because I felt it was an important way to safeguard my health, the health of my family, and the colleagues and patients I deal with every day.”

Dr. Lederer urges seniors to “trust the science and trust the CDC and learn as much as you can. In the end, by taking the vaccine you will protect your health, your loved ones’ health and those in the community that you interact with.”

On the getvaccinatedberkshires.org website, there is a section on Frequently Asked Questions, which includes the following important facts: • None of the vaccines being administered contain a live COVID-19 virus, so the vaccine cannot give you COVID-19 • T he vaccines have been developed safely and approved under a rigorous review process and are based on methods that have been in development for over a decade. In addition to Federal oversight by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Federal Food & Drug Administration (FDA) an independent review panel in Massachusetts reviewed all scientific evidence before the vaccine was delivered in the Commonwealth.

• Information about when you are eligible and where/when the next clinics will be • Common side effects of the vaccine According to Laura Kittross, “We can see the end, but we are not there yet. Until we can vaccinate everyone, we ask that residents continue to protect those who are not yet vaccinated by continuing to wear masks and socially distancing.”

One woman in her 70s, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared her experience with COVID-19. “I could not get out of bed. It was so hard, and my body hurt everywhere. I had had the first shot which I believe kept me from getting it much worse.

I was fortunate to get the monoclonal antibodies.”

Two months later, still feeling the effects, she admits, “I initially had concerns about getting the vaccine, but having lived through COVID-19 and thankfully surviving, I would advise anybody, ‘Get the vaccine!’ You don’t want to get or give COVID-19.”

The Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative is urging people who have questions and concerns about the vaccine to go to https://www.mass.gov/info-details/trust-the-facts-get-the-vax or speak to a trusted medical professional who can help you understand the facts.

Contact us so you and/or loved ones can stay living at home!

Non-medical living assistance services from Angels!

Visiting Angels of the Berkshires

RICHARD J. MESSER, DIRECTOR/OWNER SUE CARPENTER, CLIENT CARE COORDINATOR 197 South Street, Bldg. A, Pittsfield, MA 01201 rmesser@VisitingAngels.com www.VisitingAngels.com/Pittsfield Office: 413-344-9281 • Cell: 413-822-0123

by Kathleen Phillips Spring is here! Finally! We turned our clocks forward and now it’s actually light out after 6:00PM. The official first day of spring was March 20th. Spring is the vernal equinox when days and nights are approximately 12 hours long and daytime begins to increase in length. We are coming out of the harsh winter and we embrace the warmer, long awaited spring of 2021. We are rising from the coldness and stillness of winter and entering the season of rebirth. Birds are migrating north. There is nothing sweeter to a Berkshireite than birds chirping in the morning. Baby bunnies and ducklings and chipmunks abound in the spring. Trees begin to bud and unfurl their leaves. Robins are back in our yards looking for worms and building their nests.

Animals and their babies that have been hibernating wake up.

April showers bring May flowers.

We can now go outside and enjoy the weather much like those hibernating animals coming out of their dens. We can start tending gardens and go for walks.

Just like the earth’s axis begins to

turn toward the sun we can look upwards and feel the warmth of the sun on our faces.

The extra hours of the day boost our mood. Flowers begin to bloom once they sense that the days have grown longer and the weather has turned warmer. We welcome the sight and colors of crocuses, daffodils and tulips. As plants grow their photosynthesis process releases oxygen into the atmosphere. Temperate weather means that we get fresh air. We can throw open the windows and doors to let the fresh air and sweet scents of spring in.

Spring 2021 is moving us out of the past year. A reawakening.

We still must be vigilant—wear masks, wash our hands and observe precautions. But we will once again be able to be together with family and friends in the months to come. We will go the movies, attend concerts and the theatre, and cheer at stadiums…. travel. With spring we are moving away from this past year.

We can open our arms out to welcome this new season of hope and renewal and we can finally take a deep long breath.

More Clarity. More hearing.

More life.

SPRING

The Most Anticipated Spring Season

Hear the sounds that shouldn’t be missed

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Science shows that we hear with our brains and not our ears.

Oticon More helps your brain decipher intricate details of relevant sounds for better speech understanding with less effort and the ability to remember more. All in a rechargeable hearing aid that delivers direct streaming from iPhone® and Android™*.

FREE TWO WEEK TRIAL! • Better sound quality • 15% increase in speech understanding** • Available in rechargeable • 3 year warranty & 3 year loss coverage

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Please visit oticon.com/support/compatibility for more information. ** Compared to industry leading Oticon Opn S™

Berkshire Physical Therapy & Wellness

BERKSHIRE COUNTY LEGISLATORS UNITED STATES CONGRESS

Congressman Richard Neal

Senator Adam Hinds

24 Beacon Street, Room 109E Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-1625 District Office: (413) 344-4561 Adam.hinds@masenate.gov

Rep. Smitty Pignatelli

24 Beacon Street, Room 473F Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2210 District Office: (413) 637-0631 Rep.smitty@mahouse.gov

24 Beacon Street, Room 237 Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2305 District Office: (413) 743-8300 John.barrett@mahouse.gov

Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier

Elder services for outpatient physical therapy needs following surgery. From total joint replacements, balance and other muscle, bone, and joint injuries.

24 Beacon Street, Room 156 Boston, MA 02133 (627) 722-2240 District Office: (413) 442-4300 Tricia.farley-bouvier@mahouse.gov

Rep. Paul Mark

24 Beacon Street, Room 160 Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2304 District Office: (413) 464-5635 Paul.mark@mahouse.gov

3 convenient locations - Pittsfield, Dalton and Lenox Pittsfield Office 740 Williams Street Pittsfield, MA 01201 413-447-8070

Dalton Office 400 Main Street Dalton, MA 01226 413-684-9783

Lenox Office 90 Pittsfield Road Lenox, MA 01240 413-637-2810

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

50 Independence Ave. SW Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-5610 Senior aide: William.tranghese@mail. house.gov 300 State Street Springfield, MA 01105-1711 (413) 785-0325 Aide: Matthew.russett@mail.house.gov

Rep. John Barrett, III

9

VOLUNTEERS

Special Thanks to Our Volunteers!

We couldn’t provide essential services without our volunteers.

By Christopher McLaughlin, Executive Director

We at Elder Services of Berkshire County are incredibly proud that since the COVID-19 state of emergency began more than a year ago, our Agency has continued to provide all the services we previously offered in support of Berkshire seniors, disabled individuals and caregivers.

We provided some of our case management, counseling and other services by telephone as opposed to in person due to social distancing mandates but all our programs, including Meals on Wheels, have continued to operate without interruption.

Simply put, this would not have been possible without the support

and assistance of our volunteers, whose dedication to supporting and enriching the lives of those we serve is second to none.

As April is National Volunteer Month, we wish to profile the unsung heroes who have assisted our consumers and our Agency during the past year. It goes without saying that the past year was unlike any other. The realities of stay at home orders, social distancing and the inability to travel or have visitors exacerbated our consumers’ feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Our consumers REALLY needed us this past year and our volunteers were a godsend in enabling us to continue providing services and making our consumers feel safe and

Volunteers

continued on page 11

Active April 1, 2020 - February 28, 2021

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

Board of Directors

10

Since 1983 MOLARI HealthCare has enjoyed providing our neighbors in Berkshire County with trusted, quality homecare.

Working as your partner, our staff will create a flexible care plan to fit your needs. With MOLARI you are assured that you and your care is our number one priority.

MOLARI is committed to providing the best possible solution for your home healthcare needs.

Services offered by MOLARI • Assistance with Personal Care • Medication Reminders • Meal Preparation • Light Housekeeping • Companionship

• Laundry Services • Assistance with Transportation • Shopping and Errands • Respite Care

166 East Street • Pittsfield, MA 01201 413-499-4562 or 1-800-649-4562 Visit us on the web: www.MOLARIinc.com

Randy Burdick Teresa Caldwell Jacob Dabrowski, Treasurer Sandy Driscoll Frank Engels Diana (Toni) Fontana Roberta Gale John Graziano Christopher King, Finance Committee Georgette Kinney Kimberly Mathews, Clerk Mary K. O’Brien David O’Neill Walter Orenstein John Philpott, President Stephen Radin Mary Shogry-Hayer, Vice President Paula Walczyk

AAA Advisory Council

Robert Allard Quentin Chin James Clark Maria Craft Frank Engels Lisa Fletcher-Udel, Chair June Green, Vice Chair Sandra Lussier

Vincent Marinaro Sharon Bartels Meri-Ellen Morgans Joyce Boivin Mary Shogry-Hayer Carol Boucher Beverly Clarke Berkshire Judith Douville Senior Tanya Haas Newspaper Susan Holland Kathleen Cleary Kristina (Tina) Kelly Deborah Golden Heather King Alecson Paula Morey Berkshire Karen Oak Senior TV John Philpott Diane Chicoine Victor Roy Jeff Turner Ronald Terry Home and Joseph Tirrell Community Gini Titterton Based Donald Usher Programs Nancy Belouin Nutrition Deena Berman Program Carolyn Coco Sandra Aasen Carol Couture Rose Alessio Alexandra Huber Bonnie Andrews Elaine Hunter Anna Beining Jean Ketchum Ellen Bernardo Julia Lenney Richard Bosche Mary Ellen Levin Amy Butler Karen Oak Franke Clarke Colleen Powers Kathleen Cleary Vicki Robare Carol Couture Laurie Schwartz Dennis DeVergilio Mary Spina Robin Dewkett Diane Weinstein Judith Douville Michael Ende Money Management Donald Freedman Jasmine Gage Program Elizabeth (Bet) Azar Kathleen Garofalo

Andrea Gaylord Eric Paul Greenberg Sally Haver Carole Hilderbrand Rosemary Houghtlin Charles Joch Jean Ketchum William Kormanik Erna Lampman Julia Lenney Alan Metzger William Moreau Susan Morris Katara Mullett George Oleen Susan Pitman Theodore Pitman Donald Pulver Georgina Riley Pierce Roberts Warren Robertson Susan Rothschild James Schantz Dennis Sears Dan Skorcz Robert St. Peter Kathy Staropoli Joanne Stegner Samantha Tangney Peter Traub Diane Weinstein Rena Zurofsky

Ombudsman Program Virginia Bosco Cristine Byrne

Michael Evans Virginia Lafond Eileen Gabriel Georgette Kinney Carolyn Palmucci Deb Wehry

Partnership Volunteers

Riverbrook Residence Jewish Federation of the Berkshires

SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone)

Janice Brindisi Patricia Carlino Peggy Clary Phyllis DeMartino Karen DeOrdio Terrill Douglas Frank Engels Michele Gilligan Judith Hyde Nancy Leren Pattie Pero Steven Rosenthal Larry Shea Catherine Spinney William Tarmey Gini Titteron Winnie Veretto

continued from page 10

well supported.

During a year in which often the safest bet was to stay safe at home, our volunteers answered the call to serve on our Board of Directors and Advisory Council, help prepare and deliver meals, write articles for the Berkshire Newspaper, help produce the Berkshire Senior TV Show, provide SHINE counseling and money management services, a dvo c at e fo r re s i d e n t s o f Berkshire County’s nursing homes, shop for groceries for consumers and much, much more.

We have some new volunteers and some who have been with us for a very long time…a few are approaching 18 years of service. One of our more prolific

volunteers has provided 6,659 lifetime hours of volunteer service to our consumers. During the past year, our volunteers on the accompanying list provided 6,240 hours of service. This is the equivalent of three individuals working full time and another working a day a week. Keep in mind…..all of this occurred during a pandemic.

You, our volunteers, have stuck with us through thick and thin and continue to share your time, talent and compassion with our consumers. You are extraordinary people and we are incredibly proud of you and how special you are to our consumers.

On behalf of the Agency and our consumers, we extend our warmest wishes of gratitude and thanks to our volunteers for helping us live our mission every day!

“I’m proud to be an RSVP volunteer”

ZOOM TIPS

Thanks to Volunteers!

-Roger ( volunteering at the Berkshire Museum since 2013 )

Zoom Tips for Success By: Christian Tenczar These days sometimes the best way for us to see the people we care about is through the use of technology. Zoom is perhaps the most common technology for this as it’s easy to use, doesn’t require you to register or create an account, and typically just works. Zoom has even become a verb these days as folks might ask, “do you Zoom?” or maybe even suggesting, “we can Zoom with you whenever you want!” Here are some tips to help make your next Zoom a success.

Choose a Device

Joining a Zoom Meeting As explained above, Zoom

Zoom Tips There are two main buttons to be aware of in Zoom, the camera on/off button and the mute button. If you can hear others in the meeting but they cannot hear you, then you are probably muted. Look for the mute button, it’s always in the lower left corner of the Zoom window and looks like a radio-style microphone. If you are muted it will have a big red slash on it, just click it to unmute yourself.

The camera on/of f button works the same way, just click it to toggle your camera on and off. If you are on a smartphone or a device with more than one camera you can switch cameras by clicking on the little arrow on the camera on/off button.

Roger and nearly 300 volunteers from the Retired Senior Volunteer Program are helping operate over 50 amazing non-profit agencies around Berkshire County.

Why not join us today? If you are 55 years old, reside in Berkshire County, and desire to give back to the community, RSVP is for you.

Call 413-499-9345, or visit our website.

RSVP Benefits • Mileage reimbursement or van transport to job • Annual recognition luncheon • CIMA insurance coverage • Annual Big E bus trip • Quarterly newsletter, monthly new job listings • Networking and social contacts • Bi-monthly birthday celebrations Get Active—Have Fun—Give Back !

16 Bartlett Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201 • 413-499-9345

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

You can use Zoom from just about any type of device including a computer, a tablet like an iPad, or most smartphones.

Installing Zoom is pretty straight forward, the first time you join a meeting you will see popup messages asking you to install Zoom. Installing Zoom on a tablet or smart phone is just like installing any other app, it will bring you to your device’s store and you tap the button to download Zoom. Zoom is free, so there won’t be any charges or credit cards required to download and use Zoom if you just want to join a meeting.

is pretty easy to use. To join a meeting all you need to do is click or tap on the link which will be sent to you by the person organizing the meeting. This link might come to you in an email, a text message, or perhaps even through Facebook. If you can’t find the link to join then just ask the meeting organizer to resend it and make sure you know how they are sending it to you. If you have a preferred way to receive the join link, email for example, make sure you let them know!

11

DONATIONS

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021 12

Thank You To Our Donors: The following donations were received between January 1, 2021 and February 28, 2021. Donations received on or after March 1, 2021 will appear in the next issue of the Berkshire Senior.

Donald Goudey In Memory of Passed Solari Memorial Donations Donald Hagberg Family Members: In Memory of Greno and Norma Donald Hanson Frederick A. Solari Buratto: Donna Chenail In Memory of Phyllis Watroba: Marc and Wendy Buratto Donna Cwalinski Robert Watroba In Memory of Thomas Cadorette: Dr. Alan and Dr. Roselle Chartock Wendy A Marshall In Honor of Donations Dr. Daniel Patel In Memory of Edwin Cooke: In Honor of E. Galliford: Dr. Fred and Andrea Mensch Christine M. McGinniss Cynthia Armstrong E. Bonnie Silvers In Memory of John DiTomasso: In Honor of John and Helen Edward and Emily Zoladz Remo, Dino and Janice Fitzpatrick: Edward and Kathleen Denault DiTomasso Sheila Fitzpatrick Edward and Linda Van Dyke In Memory of Dorothy Gentile: Edward and Pamela Bourdon In Honor of Cindy Armstrong: Teresa Gentile Edward King Patricia Galliford In Memory of Clarence Green: Elizabeth Dillman In Honor of James Parkington: Glenn Duffy Elizabeth Shogry Amanda Parkington Matthew and Kristin Steiner Elliott and Grace Snyder Elder Independence Enid Shields In Memory of Jane Hanlon: Donations Ernest and Carole LeBarron Paul Guillotte Adriana Brown Ernest and Sharyn Godbout In Memory of Marilyn Harte: Albert & Lorraine Mancuso Eugene and Patricia Gebarowski Brooke Hubley Alex and Judith Nardacci Fern Lavelle Ellen Krupka Allan and Susan Pike Flora Fressola Friends of Pittsfield Ballina Irish Allen and Alice Bassen Florence Reis Sister City Ann Piekos-Barber Frances Buckley Heath and Linda Thomson Anna Murphy Francis and Patricia Malnati Joan Bailey Anne Fix Francis Laundry John and Cheryl Blaisdell Anthony and Amy Anderton Frank and Edna Aulisio Peter and Stephen Nykorchuk Anthony Parise Frank and Jeanette Lagowski Robert and Carolyn LeBlanc Barbara Benham Frank and Virginia Dubis In Memory of Janet Kerwood: Barbara Favreau Frank Consolati Insurance William D Kerwood Bea DaSilva Agency Inc. In Memory of Stephanie Benjamin Schawinsky Franklin McLaren Jr. Pasternak: Bernice Alcombright Gary and Sandra Tatro Donna Pasternak Bernice Shainman Gene and Justyna Carlson In Memory of Margaret Polidoro: Bill and Pam Lundergan George and Carole Manarchik Alan and Judith White Bob Veit George and Judith Szecsei C. Nancy and Raymond C. Robert Librizzi George Bissell Woitkowski Carol Agnew George Smith, Sr. Carol Pomeroy Carol Christopher Geraine Benham David and Theresa Allen Carol Kirby Gerard and Christine Hurley Diana Mancivalano Carole Holliday Gina Vinciguerra Edward and Debra Albuquerque Carole Kalisz Harold and Gretchen Hastings Elizabeth Palucci Carole Siegel Harold Rudin Frances Ricci Carolyn Whitney Harold Sherman Joseph and Elizabeth Gingras Cheryl Ann Chalmers Harry and Marjorie Horn Joseph and Lavina Perri Christine Richards Harry Morey Joseph Williams and Laura Cia Elkin and Larry Gedd Helaine Rose Touponce Clifford and Lynne Nilan Jacqueline Cobb Judith Bernardo Cynthia Sault James and Jeanne Bill Margaret Callahan Daniel and Jean Murphy James and Maryellen Tremblay Marilyn Manning Daniel Barnini James Cross Mary Ann Archey Daniel Pupo James Furcinti Michael J. Nichols David and Rosemary Morton James Shippee Patrick and Barbara Mooney David Ariazi Jean Davis Patrick and Lois Ricci David Grady Jean Shade Ronald J. Ricci David Olds Jean Veazie In Memory of Della and George David Vacheron Jeanne Bresnehan Shogry: Dery Funeral Home Jim and Bunny Whitman Cindy Shogry-Raimer Diana Fontana Jo Ann Lancaster Diane Lavalle In Memory of Mary Simeone: Joan and Jean Boyle Donald Alderman, Jr. Charles Nichols, Jr. Joan Hayford Donald and Marie Cripps Dawn Fahey Joan Kearney Donald and Sharon Briggs Dery Funeral Home Joan Zegras

John and Geraldine Crane John and Jane Allen John and Jeanne Davidson John Masiero, Jr. Joseph and Janet Rogge Joseph Domenichini Joyce Orell Judi Drozd Judith Weber Judy Whitbeck Julia Wolfrum Kathleen Duquette-Penna Kathleen McMullen Keith and Reanne Palmer Keith Blanchard Kent and Catherine Salvini K-M Motor Sales Kurt Syer Kyunghwa and Doo Kyung Choi Laborer’s Local 473 Larry and Faith Newmark Laurence Cohen Laurie Mitchell Laurie Spar Leda Melideo Lee Audio & Security Lee McClelland Linda Greenhouse Linda Lamke Linda Thomas Lois Nangle Lynn Barbieri MacCaro Real Estate Marilyn Barnes Marilyn DeRosa Marjorie Bissaillon Mark and Karen Daigle Martin and Kathy Brown Marty and Pat Salvadore Mary Ann Wojtaszek Mary Hayes Mary Mercuri Mary Miner Mary Shogry-Hayer Maureen O’Brien Maureen Strype Michael Ancora Michael and Justina Norton Michael Cheesbro Michael Oullette Michelle Cutler Michelle Smith Mike and Carol Boucher MyCom Federal Credit Union Nancy Begbie Nancy Bonvillain Nancy Borges Nancy Cook Nancy Rodovick Nancy Torrico Neal Langlois Norma Tomkowicz Northeast Fabricators and Mechanical Services Olivia Zegarowski Patricia Colvin Patricia Elser Patricia Galliford

Patrick Litano Patti Annechiarico Paul and Sandra Merlino Paul Lennon Paula Farrell Paula Wells Pern VanCamp Peter & Susan LePrevost Peter and Jane Smith Peter Dudek Peter Karpenski Philip Damon Jr. Raymond and Jeanne Moulthrop Rhoda Kaminstein Richard and Anne Powers Richard and Kathleen Luczynski Richard and Rosanne Beauchamp Richard and Ruth Moon Richard and Sandra Cobb Richard and Wendy Clothier Richard Kurek Richard Nichols Richard Phillips Robert and Barbara Eccher Robert and Carla Skidmore Robert and Lynda O’Neil Robert and Margaret O’Clair Robert Garvey Rose Rondeau Russell Kenyon Sam and Maggie Bittman Sandra Kearns Sara Burke Scott Ketcham Sheila Keator Sophie Buck Spencer Fraker Stedman Stephens Stephen and Elinor Long, Jr. Steven and Sally Pullen Sully and Mary Garofano Susan Horsford Susan Ricci Susan Rothschild Sylvia Jamros Teresa Bragdon Terrence and Mary Jane Hanlon Therese Taft Thomas and Jane Bernard Thomas and Nioma Coen Thomas Berkel Thomas Maynard Tom and Kimberly Jones Tom and Marcia Partenope Uldis and Maija Surmanis Ursula Ehretdichter Vicki Torrico Victoria Williams Virginia Cariddi Virginia Miner Vito and Maria Vitrano Walter and Elaine LaPierre Walter Asdikian Walter Ritter and Dianna Deacon Wayne and Lisa Tenney Wayne Klug Wendy Linscott

William and Janine Reid William and Jeanne Bourdon William Briggs William Herrick Wohrle’s Foods, Inc. Woody Printz

Meals On Wheels Donations

Bernice Alcombright Jodi St Peter Richard J Alcombright

SHINE Donations

Jeanne and Bruce Zdanis

General Donations

Andrew and Marcia Powdermaker-Potler Arthur and Louise Hillman Betsey McKearnan Bo and Katherine Peabody Caron Hobin Danielle Christ David & Margaret Markham Donna Pignatelli Dr. Bruce and Barbara Shickmanter Edwin Neumuth Jr Ellen Mazzer Frank Battista Frank Lipinski Gail Roger Gregory Jones Howard Rosenberg Jane LePrevost Jeffrey Bradway King Francis Knights of Columbus Berkshire Hills Council #314 Lauren Svenson Lee Audio & Security Linda Watson Montone Lt. John N. Truden VFW Post 448 Lydia Lake M Patricia Fasce Margot Towl Mary and James Nicoll Cooper Mary Ann Kirby Paul and Karen Johnson Peter Caron Robert and Bonnie Connors Robert and Lucy Bellville Ronald & Martha Stewart Sandra J. Kleiner Sheila Irvin St. Ann’s Church Susan Coles Tony Pagliarulo Tony Pagliarulo Tony Pagliarulo Vera Lecocq

THE BERKSHIRES’ LARGEST ESTATE JEWELRY OUTLET SENIOR OWNED, SENIOR FRIENDLY Thank you for Voting us Best in the Berkshires for Coin/Collectable Dealer

Let Us Welcome You Home Berkshiretown Apartments Appleton Managed Properties

Providing Quality, Affordable “Smoke Free” Senior Living in Western and Central Massachusetts for over 40 years!

Great Buys on Native American Jewelry, Semi Precious Stones, Diamonds, and Gold & Silver Jewelry.

We have over 2,000 Pieces of Sterling Jewelry

We buy gold and silver SCRAP, collector coins, gold and silver bullion, and Paper Money.

Berkshire Hills Coins & Estate Jewelry 222 Elm Street, Pittsfield (413) 499-1400

www.berkshirehillscoins.com HOURS Mon. - Fri. 9:30am - 5:30pm • Sat. 9:30am - 4pm After hours please call & leave message

Our Apartments ALWAYS Include

Heat & Hot Water

We have always believed that everyone deserves to have their story told and their life acknowledged.

Let us help design the best way to honor your cherished family member.

• • • •

Resident Services Convenient Location Controlled Entry Private Balconies

(for most apartments)

• We are Pet Friendly • 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance Services

176 Columbus Ave. Pittsfield, MA 413-443-9125

aberkshiretown@oconnells.com oconnellseniorliving.com Fri e nds he l p i ng f r i e n d s sinc e 1 9 1 5 40 MA PLE WOOD AVEN UE • PI TTS F I E L D, M A 0 1 2 0 1

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Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

• Rent is Income Based • All Utilities Included • Appliances & Window Coverings • On-Site Laundry • Elevator • Planned Activities • Professional Staff

13

HEALTH

Egremont Council on Aging

Berkshire Senior

Television

Shaunaon Post , PCTV SHINE Program Currently airing Coordinator, provides information on the SHINE Program Channel 1301 Access Pittsfield

Chris McLaughlin, Executive Director of Elder Services, provides an Agency Update

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

Broadcast schedule: Currently airing on PCTV channel 1301 ChannelPCTV 1301 Access Pittsfield

14

Mondays schedule: at 5 p.m., Tuesdays 3 p.m.,▪Thursdays a.m.

Broadcast Mondays atat5:00pm Wednesdayatat11 8:30am & Saturday 11:30 a.m.

Thursdays at 11:30am ▪ Saturdays at Noon Or watch online, ON DEMAND on pittsfieldtv.org.

Thank you to our friends at PCTV for all their help in making Berkshire Senior TV accessible to our community.

Egremont COA continues to provide “Grab ‘N Go” lunches on the first Wednesday of each month. Pick up time is 12:00 – 12:30 at The Barn at the Egremont Village Inn. Drive up, we will bring your lunch to your car and off you go to enjoy a delicious treat. Menus for each month are posted online 10 days before the event. We suggest a $5.00 donation to help with costs and reservations must be made. You can do so by calling 528-0182 x 16 It feels like spring is in the air.

The warmer weather encourages us all to get out and start walking and getting some exercise. We have “Be Seen, Be Safe” vests which will help protect you as you walk Egremont’s scenic roads. The vests are free and are available from the Police Department, at the Town Hall or by calling 528-0182 x 16.

In addition to wearing your

Pittsfield COA

Since the vaccination clinics have opened up, The Senior Center has booked and assisted in securing over 2,000 appointments for our seniors. We realize this has been a difficult and trying time for seniors, caregivers and family members all so anxious to get an appointment.

During these last few months we have still provided transportation, running two vans five days a week between 9am-3pm to medical appointments, grocery shopping, and transportation for our Supportive Day program that has since reopened operating five days a week also. Our grab and go meals have been a big hit still providing a hot meal to our seniors on a daily basis as a takeout meal to take home provided by Elder Services. We have been able to provide our yearly tax service here also by appointment as well as our foot clinic. Our Council has kept in touch with our over 500 seniors daily “checking in” via phone calls provided by our staff and local volunteers from RSVP as well as sending out our monthly newsletter while continuing with our monthly brown bag .

Our senior center is in the process of migrating over to a

vest it is necessary to practice safe walking: always walk facing traffic, walk single file, move as far to the edge of the road as possible when a vehicle approaches, and be aware of your surroundings. If you walk with your dog be sure they are leashed and out of traffic lanes.

Remember, unless you are in a pedestrian zone, cars have the right of way.

T he Town of Eg remont and Eg remont COA are in receipt of a Taxi Grant from the state. This grant provides rides for our seniors to medical ap p o i n t m e n t s, g ro c e r y o r other essential shopping trips, delivery of prescription drugs and transportation for essential workers. Call 528-0182 x 16 for more information.

Your COA is here to assist you.

Be sure and call us with your questions or concerns. 528-0182 x 16

new look Facebook page , with informative information ,links, articles, programs and up to date happenings here at the center and around the city. https://www.facebook.com/ pittsfieldseniorcenter With the state slowly reopening we will be opening our doors back up to the public, doing a soft limited activities opening beginning no later than May 1.

We will be starting with activities such as our ceramics group that meets on Thursday mornings, scrapbooking and socially distance exercise group. We will be opening our congregate meal site where you can come in and sit down along with continuing our grab and go meals from 10:30 -12. Our café will be opening for breakfast (only) from 8am-10.We will be hosting a volunteer informational meeting, if you would like to join our team of volunteers or have a suggestion for a class or activity please call us Monday - Friday from 8:30-4 @ 413-499-9346 with any questions and more information.

Let our Senior Center become your Senior Center, a place to meet new friends, connect with old ones, exercise and socialize.

Like most of the world, we, too, find it difficult to believe that it has been more than a year since the Mary Spitzer Center was closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with efforts being made to immunize against the virus, we are eagerly anticipating the day that we can begin scheduling some small group activities.

We remain hopeful that we can start hosting some pandemiccompliant events in the near future.

It is important to note that The Council on Aging staff has continued to work and be available throughout this past year. Below is a list of essential programs that we have maintained despite the many challenges we all faced.

• Monthly foot care clinics • Socially-distanced Tai Chi classes • Distribution of “brown bags”

• Income tax assistance appointments • Grab and Go lunches • Van transportation (operates 5 days per week) We also work with the North Adams Library to distribute and retrieve books twice per week as well as distributing care packages from Berkshire Helping Hands.

More recently, we are pleased to share that we have been able to add van transportation to Pittsfield for those who have medical appointments. This includes door-to-door service, enabling the people of our community to access the care they need at a time that health is more important than ever. For more information on this service, please call (413) 662-3125.

Perhaps most importantly, we are proud to be playing a major role in getting our seniors appointments for COVID-19 vaccinations. As one of the

state’s regional centers, our staff of three has been fielding calls, facilitating appointments, and answering questions for the last several weeks. On an average day, we receive 80-90 calls and voice mail messages from inquiring seniors and their families/advocates. Thus far, we have advised or scheduled several hundred vaccine appointments and this important work will continue as new appointments are made available.

As we look forward to the summer and restrictions easing, please keep in touch with us to see what events you might be interested in. We are also pleased to hear from you with any suggestions or recommendations for activities that would provide value to our much-appreciated seniors. We look forward to continuing our work throughout the year, one that we hope will bring a sense of peace and hope to all.

Savino

Empire Monuments, Inc. Est. 1931 Complete Service of Monuments & Markers

MEALS ON WHEELS

News From North Adams Council on Aging

100 Wahconah St. Pittsfield, MA 01201 (413) 442-4149 Donna Brewer, Owner Steven J Brewer, Director

All-inclusive Assisted Living, Where Extras Come Standard “The great thing about new friends is that they bring new energy to your soul.”

– Shanna Rodriguez

235 Walker Street Lenox, MA 01240 413-637-7000 kimballfarms.org

We’re Perfecting the Art of Superior Care.

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

• Three Healthy Meals Daily • Assistance When You Need It • Transportation and Housekeeping

• Meet New Friends • Have Peace of Mind • Feel Secure • Group Activities • 24-hour Nursing Staff & Security

15

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, April-May 2021

Designing Your Funeral

16

Taking the time to design your service is a loving act, and not a difficult one. We invite you to explore the seemingly infinite number of ways to celebrate and honor a life.

776 North St, 220 East St, 525 Main St, Pittsfield, MA Pittsfield, MA Dalton, MA WWW.DWYERFUNERAL.COM

Proudly serving the Berkshires for over 116 years.