Senior comings and goings

Director: Mary Ellen Gomes Tel: (508) 636-1026 Fax: (508) 636-1034
E-mail: councilonaging@westport-ma.gov Westport Senior Center C.O.A.
8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday - Friday 75 Reed Road Westport, MA 02790-1135

Senior Comings and Goings!

Events sponsored by the Westport Council of Aging Last updated: Saturday, April 15, 2008

| Announcements | On-Going Activities | Upcoming Activities |

Transportation for Westport elders and handicapped persons of all ages is available Monday to Friday from10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to area appointments. Advance notice is required.

Announcements

NEW C.O.A. DIRECTOR

“They say that to everything there is a time and to everything there is a season. This is the perfect time for me to come back home to Westport and again serve as Director of the Council on Aging. To all of my old and dear friends, please stop by the Senior Center for a visit. If we have never met, this is the perfect season to get to know each other. The future looks exciting; and keep watching the “Evergreen” for details about new programs and activities. I hope to see your all soon.” Mary Ellen Gomes

Economic Stimulus Payment Workshops

AARP tax-aide, Jean Clapin, will conduct two 2 workshops at the Westport Senior Center to assist people in filling out the IRS Form 1040A. If you only want to file for the economic stimulus payment, call the WCOA, (508) 636-1026, for a seat at one of the workshops:

Monday, Thursday,

May 12, 2008, May 29, 2008,

9:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m.

You should file as soon as possible, but no later than October 15, 2008 to take advantage of the stimulus payment for 2008.

AARP Tax-Aide volunteers ready to help approximately 10,000 people file their tax returns through April 15. AARP Tax-Aide is a program of free tax counseling and preparation for tax payers with low to middle income, with special attention given to those ages 60 and over. AARP member-ship is not a requirement.

In Westport, help is available by appointment only from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays at the Westport Senior Center, 75 Reed Road. Call (508) 636-1026. Volunteers, trained in cooperation with the IRS, offer help with state and federal income tax returns.

www.aarp.org/taxaide

ATTENTION MEDICARE BENEFICIARIES!

With every New Year come more health insurance choices for Medicare beneficiaries.

Read more about your choices.

Council on Aging needs volunteers! Read more…

Westport Town Nurse to hold flu clinics for residents.

The Westport Town Nurse will hold flu clinics for residents 50 years or older, or those younger with chronic medical conditions. The cost is covered by Medicare Part B. Without insurance the cost is $10. For an appointment call (508) 636-1030.

Drawing Classes

Thursdays

9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Westport Senior Center

Under the expert direction of Barbara Farnell, drawing classes will be offered to help you show your creative side.

Westport Council on Aging, 75 Reed Road, Westport, MA

(508) 636-1026

Fuel Assistance

Applications will be available after November 1st for Westport households who are eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) (Fuel Assistance). If you would like to apply, please call the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026, for an appointment—proof of identity, proof of address, as well as, income and utility bills are required. Special provisions are made for those households whose heat is included in their rent and those living in subsidized housing.

Households with incomes up to 200% of the Federal Poverty level are eligible for the Fuel Assistance Program. Homeowners and renters are both eligible. For a household of one, the income limit is $20,424/yr., and for a household of two, the income limit is $27,384/yr.

Watercolor Painting Classes

Are you a 60-year young Westport resident? Do you like a challenge? Do you enjoy demonstrating your creativity? Welcome! For all of you with creative talents, local artist Ruth Edwards will instruct a watercolor painting class beginning on Wednesday, January 23, 2008. The class, which is scheduled from 9 to 11:30 a.m. for six weeks, is limited to 12 Westport residents. To be equitable to our residents, the sign-up will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

The cost of the class is $25 for the six lessons. Students need to provide own materials—a list is available in the COA office. Please call the Westport Council on Aging or drop by the Senior Center to register—75 Reed Road, Westport,

(508) 636-1026.

On-Going Activities

T’ai Chi

Niklos Ukleja is our very experienced T’ai Chi instructor. This style of exercise is designed to help with flexibility, balance and inner peace. You will improve your health and well-being at a reasonable fee of $25 for 10 weeks.

Westport Senior Center

Thursdays – Advanced 9 – 10 a.m.

Friday – Beginners 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Friday – Basics 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Knitters Group

Do you knit, crochet, or do other needlework? The knitters’ group would like you to join us for fun and handwork. We meet every Tuesday afternoon. There are needles and yarn available if you would like to participate in our projects, or just do your own thing. Come on down and join the fun!

Tuesdays

1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Westport Senior Center

Balance and Movement

“Balance and Movement” is geared especially for seniors to help develop strength, flexibility, balance, and body awareness. A minimum of 10 participants is required before a class can begin. Suggested start date is Thursday, September 6, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. Pre-register by contacting the Westport COA, (508) 636-1026, as soon as possible. One-Hour Class for Westport residents, 60 years of age and over. Loose, comfortable clothing, flat shoes, sneakers, and socks are suggested.

Thursdays

10:30 a.m.

Westport Senior Center

Photo Essays of Previous Activities

Candidates present their case at a COA coffee hour. - Wednesday, March 19.

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The four candidates vying for two seats on the Board of Selectmen, and others running for Westport offices were guests of the Westport Senior Center on Wednesday, and faced an array of prepared questions from interim COA Director Ted Lang, who moderated the event. Candidates had an opportunity to present opening remarks, and then faced poignant questions about their views on Westport’s future direction. Issues ranged from public safety to wind power and alternate energy sources, to the Board of Selectmen’s handling of volunteer committee members, taxes, 40B developments, and senior issues. Unopposed candidates Marlene Samson -, Town Clerk, Carol Borden - Tax Collector; and David Emilita - Planning Board were present and spoke briefly to the senior attendees. One audience member spoke of intergenerational activities, and encouraged the town’s use of qualified, retired seniors in the educational system. Highway Supervisor candidates Jack Sisson and Quentin Lord briefly squared off over the issue of the retention pond at the Head of Westport, but for the most part the candidates’ coffee hour was very cordial and informative, and gave seniors a chance to meet the political contenders.

St. Patty’s Day rocks at the COA! – March 17, 2008

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Musician Marc Deschenes whipped up a capacity crowd of 38 attendees at the St. Patrick’s Day GALA at the Westport Senior Center on Monday afternoon. Seniors from afar as the Fairhaven Senior Center got out their “green” and visited the Westport Senior Center for lunch, Irish song and dance, and good ol’ rock and roll!

Marc Deschenes is a vocalist/guitarist/MIDI musician who utilizes the latest in computerized instrumental back up, wireless and sound reinforcement. His musical selection ranges from the '50s to the '90s. He brought his A game to the Senior Center!

Gloria Santos, the Center’s Director of Supportive Day Programs said, ”The corn beef and cabbage luncheon for just $2 always brings them in. And we especially reserve the best in entertainment, much more lively, for special occasions such as this.”

Job well done guys! The Westport COA is a rocking group itself, with marquis programs for our seniors, and a well maintained and equipped community senior center. All of Westport should vigorously support this important town asset.

C.O.A. Annual Picnic Photo Results

Westport Council of Aging Annual Picnic – Wednesday, August 22, 2007

View photo album now 41 Photos

The Westport Council on Aging invited all Westport residents, 60 years of age and over, to attend this year’s “under the big top” picnic. Everyone enjoyed the outdoor entertainment with a scrumptious hot dog and hamburger entrée. This annual event is hosted by the boards of the C.O.A., FWCOA, local merchants, and devoted helpers. Entertainment: George Cataldo and Abigail Smith Sponsors: Westport COA, FWCOA, Lees Supermarket, The Kozy Nook, etc.

Celebrate Poetry in Westport Photo Results

Celebrate Poetry in Westport – Friday, August 24, 2007

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A group of area poets has published a 72-page book, "Visions in Verse," . . . more

Local poets read their original work at a community poetry reading on Friday night, August 24^th from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Macomber Community House. The free event was sponsored by the Westport COA Poetry Workshop, and was held at the Macomber Community House at 930 Main Road. Admission was free and refreshments were served. Local poets were invited to sign up from 7 to 7:30 p.m. to read an original poem at an open mike that kicked off the evening.

Music for the Ages Photo Results

Music for the Ages with Mr. Tebbetts -Thursday, September 13, 2007

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Old standards, pop tunes, and sing-a-longs for seniors. Mr. Tebbetts, a singer/songwriter, entertained Westporters at the Music for the Ages activity at the Council on Aging’s Senior Center on Reed Road. Mr. Tebbetts has been entertaining full time at senior centers, fairs, and festivals, performing a large repertoire of Celtic music, love ballads, and humorous songs. A great lunch was enjoyed by all. If you are 60 years of age and interested in COA performances, please contact the Westport Senior Center at (508) 636-1026.

Carl Bissonnette Photo Results

Carl Bissonnette and friends serenading the ladies at the Westport Senior Center - Wednesday, October 17, 2007

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Left – Carl, Bob, and Brad singing to (from left to right) Violet King, Barbara Santos, Phyllis Bissaro, and Barbara Alex. Center – (from left to right) Bob, Carl and Brad. Right – Enjoying the performance were (from left to right) Henry Plante, eldest COA statesman, Judy Turner, volunteer, and Faye Philla, COA Assistant Director of Social Day Programs.

Carl Bissonnette and friends Bob Ferreira and Brad Lyons were entertaining the crowd at the COA’s recent sing and sandwich event. Performing for over 50 years, Carl played a mixture of Country, Bluegrass and Pop. A great lunch and even greater performance had all those in attendance smiling! These popular events put on by the Westport Senior Center are wonderful activities and should not be missed by anyone. Hats off to the COA!

Celebrate the Generations Day Photo Results

The Westport Fire Department is raising the roof at the COA! - Saturday, October 20

View photo album now 36 Photos

Visitors to the Senior Center certainly had their choice of activities during Celebrate the Generations Day. Many came by with their extended family and toured the Senior Center, the “Remembrance Garden”, and enjoyed . . . read more

This program was supported by the Westport Cultural Council through a grant from the Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust administered by Bank of America.

“Silver and Gold’s” Photo Results

Ray and Susan perform at the Westport Senor Center - Thursday, October 25

These two experienced performers entertained guests over lunch at the COA’s Senior Center on Reed Road. These popular ‘sandwich and a song’ dance events always draw a beautiful crowd of Westport’s finest! This program is supported by the Westport Cultural council through a grant from the Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust administered by Bank of America.

Click on the images to enlarge

Veterans Breakfast Photo Results

Veterans Breakfast at Westport Senior Center – Friday, November 9

Calling all Westport veterans! On Friday, the Westport Council on Aging held a Veteran’s SOS breakfast at the Senior Center. Westport’s State Representative Michael J. Rodrigues was in attendance as was Westport’s Veteran’s Officer Ron Costa, who presided at the breakfast. The Veterans Day breakfast highlighted a week-long Holiday Fair sponsored by the Friends of the Westport COA where knitted goods, quilted items, specialty table, and holiday baskets were on sale. A special Bake Sale was on Wednesday. (Below far right) Thelma Sullivan, Treasurer of the Friends of COA, stands beside a table chock full of holiday gift items.

(Below, far left) State Representative Michael J. Rodrigues talking with Marie Rita Medeiros and Leo Cadoret, a World War II Navy veteran who served in the Pacific from 1942-45, and participated in the invasion of Japan.

Shifting gears at the COA! - Thursday, December 6

Paul Leary of the RMV Worcester office gave an hour-long presentation on Thursday highlighting issues facing elder drivers and their families. Specific topics included: Recognizing the warning signs of unsafe driving, tips on how to be the best driver possible, and how to obtain a disability placard. “Driving is a full time job.” Roberta Chaves said. “You need to avoid distractions and pay attention.” Roberta is a part-time transportation clerk for the Westport Council of Aging. Ways to preserve one’s independence without a driver’s license were also discussed. “Avoid nighttime driving; seek the assistance from a friend or relative,” Paul said. “Also, after-work traffic with people rushing about and kids driving at unnecessarily highs speeds can cause confusion with seniors,” Paul said. “It’s a good time to be off the road.”

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Top row: Senior attendees at the COA presentation – Shifting Gears showed great interest in the safe driving seminar. Paul Leary (above left and center) emphasized many vital safe driving tips. Above left: From left to right - Gloria Santos – COA assistant, John Medeiros, and Roberta Chaves.

Westport Council of Aging brings Christmas concerts to the center! - December 11 and 18, 2007

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On Dec 11^th Tuesday “KEYNOTES”, the sensational singing group from Dartmouth, performed at the Senior Center at 12 noon. Lunch was served. The COA does a terrific job with these “song and a sandwich” activities and events.

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Then on Dec 18^th Tuesday the “MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF ANGELS” in Westport performed a Christmas Program at 12:00 noon. Refreshments were served. These little angels brought a lot of Christmas cheer to our area’s seniors! Thanks to Lorraine for the photos!

Health Insurance Options for Medicare Beneficiaries. - Thursday, December, 13

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Health Insurance Options for Medicare Beneficiaries - Lisa Sarkis, Regional Director, S.H.I.N.E. (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders), spoke about health insurance options currently available to Massachusetts Medicare recipients, including Medicare Part D for prescriptions and Prescription Advantage, at the Westport Senior Center. Despite the on-going snow storm, which dumped between 6 to 8” of snow, 18 seniors showed up for this informative seminar. Lunch preceded the talk. Top photo: Lisa, right, explains to Nancy and Art Tavares of Westport the application process which is a most important part of participating in these vital insurance programs.

COA helps seniors plan ahead. - January 3, 2008

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Upper left: Kim Smith, Director of Advance Planning, gave an insightful PowerPoint presentation on planning funeral arrangement ahead-of-time for deceased loved ones. Upper middle: From the left – Ann Marie Booth, Andrea Lemos, and Phyllis Sandman, friends and volunteers for the Council of Aging. Upper Right: Aime Delaney and Kimberly Smith, both Directors of Advance Planning for Waring-Sullivan.

Members, volunteers, guests and friends of the Council of Aging invited representatives from Waring-Sullivan to host a seminar on the importance of planning ahead for funeral arrangements. Too often, monetary and arrangement decisions are based on guilt or emotions at a time when people are least able to handle them. Costs can skyrocket, and options may not be fully understood while under the emotional distress of loosing a loved one.

Aime Delaney and Kimberly Smith, both Directors of Advance Planning for Waring-Sullivan, gave an enlightening PowerPoint presentation, educating COA attendees how to prompt seniors and their family members to start making these important decisions as a family. They pointed out how prepaid funerals protected by reputable insurance and financial institutions could hold cost increases to a minimum, while protecting the prepaid investment. “Proper planning,” Kim said, “can help set expectations before, during and after funeral services.”

Read about the Eight Reasons to Plan Ahead.

The “Silver Fox” wows them again at the Westport Senior Center! – January 9, 2008

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Local singer George Cataldo gave another sparkling vocal performance for our area elders at the Westport Senior Center, 75 Reed Road. These ‘song and a sandwich’ events showcase the fine efforts made by the Westport Council of Aging to provide our senior community with frequent, high quality entertainment.

Upcoming Activities

April 30^th Wednesday

“Carl Bissonnette” -- Country, Bluegrass, Pop - Appearing at the Westport Senior Center, 75 Reed Road at 12 noon. If you are 60 years of age or over and interested in having lunch prior to any of the Center’s programs, please reserve your meal with the kitchen 48-hours in advance, call (508) 636-1026.

May 2^nd, Friday

The historical character of William Shakespeare will be brought to life in a performance by Richard Clark at 12:30 p.m. at the Westport Senior Center. If you are 60 years of age or over and interested in having lunch prior to any of the Center’s programs, please reserve your meal with the kitchen 48-hours in advance, call (508) 636-1026.

For a number of years, Mr. Clark has focused on presenting a series of one-person shows for community audiences throughout New England.

“Come and share some of the most memorable moments in dramatic literature. Laugh with the fools, cry with the afflicted, dream with the poets. Don’t miss the essence of the world’s greatest wordsmith.”

Call the COA in advance for seating reservations at (508) 636-1026.

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Look for more senior comings and goings every week!