2008 senior news guide - september

Fitness, Fun and Friends

109 South StreetBennington, Vermont 05201

802.447.3381800.234.1432

Fax 802.447.3270

editorial [email protected]

advertising [email protected]

Editorial Deadline:Thursday at noon

the week before publication.

Classified Deadline:Thursday at 5 p.m.

Display Deadline:Thursday at 5 p.m.

FREE • Edition 1 • September 2008

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

SENIOR

SENIOR

Berkshire area Senior Citizens are some of the busiest people around!

Every week sees dozens of fitness programs, activi-ties, clubs and special events that are planned, attended and supported by this fas-cinating 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 regu-lar 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 con-tribute story information, ideas and news events please turn the page....

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.

Read about this quilt on

page 12.

2 Senior News Guide September 2008

A Word From the Editor...

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 [email protected], 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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editorial [email protected]@hersamacornma.com

advertising [email protected]

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Renee Tassone, General ManagerLinda Devlin, Circulation Manager

Susan Coons, VT editorToby Raymond, MA Editor

C. Wayne Brown, Advertising SalesBrian Bushee, Advertising SalesPeter Czaja, Advertising Sales

Carrie Devlin, Advertising SalesJim Raymond, Advertising Sales

Debra Johnson, Advertising SalesLyn Thompson, Advertising Sales

Melissa Miller, Art DirectorTracy Salmon, Production Director

Mary Garcia, ArtistJen Hathaway, Artist

Chris Sobolowski, Artist■

Notice: The Senior News Guide will not knowingly accept or pub-lish advertising which is fraudu-lent 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 OfficerThomas B. Nash, Publisher

20 Cleveland RoadDalton, Massachusetts 01226

413.684.1373

109 South Street,Bennington, Vermont 05201

802.447.338

99 Bonnet StreetManchester Center, Vermont

802.362.3535

154 West Park StreetLee, Massachusetts 01238

413.243.2341

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September 2008 Senior News Guide 3

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 main-tenance is necessary in order to ensure that everything is in proper working order.

The entire Community Center staff appreciates the coop-eration 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.

Berkshire South MaintenanceShut Down

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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 surgi-cal 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.

...companionship...

Continued on next page...

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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 413-269-6014 or Phil at 413-269-4725 for information.

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!

Continued from previous page.

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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MassMedLine

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 pro-grams 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 pro-grams, 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 informa-tion.

The morning glory is the flower for

the month of September��

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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 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 com-munity. 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 shot-gun 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.

30th Annual Greylock Golf Tournament

Bees Prendergast

Grand Opening of the New

Stockbridge Senior Center

Thursday, September 44 to 6 p.m.

50 Main St. - StockbridgeAll are welcome!

Phone: 413-298-4170x263 for details

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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 con-cerned 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, hous-ing, 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 avail-able 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. - [email protected]

Senior Benefits Expo

Berkshire Community College participates in the nation-al 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 the-atre, 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 avail-able at www.elderhostel.org. entering Pittsfield as the key word or by contact-ing Elderhostel directly at 413-499-4660 ext. 379.

Do you know About Elderhostel?

September 22 is the

First Day of Autumn...already!


Elder Services’ Nutrition Program - September 2008 MenuMonday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

1 2 3 4

ClosedLabor Day

Macaroni & CheeseStewed Tomatoes

Mixed Greens100% Whole Wheat Bread

Pears

Chef SaladPotato Salad

Carrot Raisin SaladRye Bread

Fruit Smoothie*

GoulashCauliflower au Gratin

Green BeansMulti Grain Bread

Cookie*

Roast Turkey w/ GravyMashed PotatoesSummer Squash

Dinner RollPineapple

8 9 10 11 12

Breaded Pork PattyRoasted Potatoes

Sweet/Sour Red CabbageSour Dough Bread

Applesauce

Chicken ParmesanShells w/ SauceBroccoli CutsPotato Bread

Peaches

Baked FishBrown Rice PilafMixed Vegetables

100% Whole Wheat BreadPineapple

Meatloaf w/Mushroom GravyScalloped PotatoesItalian Green BeansMulti Grain Bread

Pudding w/ Topping*

LasagnaSpinachCarrots

Italian BreadPears

15 16 17 18 19

Baked Ham**Glazed Sweet Potatoes

BroccoliRye Bread

Apple

Creamed Chipped BeefMashed Potatoes

Peas w/ MushroomsDinner Roll

Fruit Smoothie*

Chicken SaladTossed Salad

Three Bean SaladHamburg Roll

Pineapple

Roast Pork w/ GravyHerb Roasted Potatoes

Zucchini SquashMulti Grain Bread

Applesauce

Salmon Boat w/ SauceWild Rice Blend

Mixed Greens100% Whole Wheat Bread

Fruited Gelatin w/ Topping *

22 23 24 25 26

Veal w/ Pepper Ziti w/ Sauce

Italian VegetablesGrinder Roll

Pineapple

Hot Dog **Baked BeansSauerkraut

Hot Dog RollWatermelon

Roast Turkey w/ GravyGarlic Mashed PotatoesGreen Beans Almandine

100% Whole Wheat BreadBanana

Chicken a la OrangeRoasted Potatoes

Broccoli Cuts w/ Cheese Sauce

Rye BreadPudding w/ Topping*

Lentil Soup Roast Pork w/Gravy

SuccotashMulti Grain Bread

Orange

29 30

Swedish MeatballsButtered NoodlesMixed Vegetables

100% Whole Wheat BreadPineapple

Barbecued PorkBlack Beans & RiceStewed Tomatoes

Potato BreadMixed Fruit

The Dash Diet developed by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute emphasizes fruit, veg-tables 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 noticeAll 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.:

Adams: 743-8333 Becket: 623-8934Cheshire: 743-9719 Dalton: 684-2000

Great Barrington: 528-4118 Hinsdale: 655-2310Jewish Federation: 442-2200 Lanesboro: 442-4761

Lee: 243-5545 Lenox: 637-5535North Adams: 662-3125 Pittsfield: 499-9346Stockbridge: 298-3118 Williamstown: 458-8350

Meal Sites


By Karen GoldThe 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 nation-wide 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 health-care agencies. These are people who understand the chal-lenges 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.

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 affec-tionately 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 challeng-ing 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 walk-ers 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

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

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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 fam-ily, friends and co-workers. Other teams hold fund-raisers prior to the Walk. However, anyone who would like to par-ticipate 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. - [email protected]


Alzheimer’s Facts• This year, more than 200,000 peo-ple across the nation will participate in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk.

• Every 71 seconds, someone is di-agnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

• Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S.

Courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association


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 com-munity 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

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

Dalton Council on Aging

Continued on next page...

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

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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 pop-ular 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 priori-ty 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: 413-684-6107 or email: [email protected]. The COA is located at 400 Main Street in the Dalton Community House building.


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 down-town 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 volun-teer 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.

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MondaysActivities

• 9 a.m. - Painting Class - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsfield Phone: 413-499-9346

• 10 a.m. - Poetry Classes - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsfield Phone: 413-499-9346

• 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: 413-499-9346

• 1 p.m. - Sewing and Needlwork group - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsfield Phone: 413-499-9346

• 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

Fitness• 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.

Ongoing Calendar Events

100 Dan Fox Drive • Pittsfield, MA 01202

ReturningThis Fall:

SeniorClasses

413

499-4600Feel Young -

Stay fit!Discounted Senior Memberships!

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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 MondaysActivities

• 10 a.m. - Williamstown Council on Aging - Book Discussion Group - 1095 Main Street. Williamstown

Health• Foot Clinic - North Adams Council on Aging,

150 Ashland St., North Adams Phone: 413-662-3125

Second MondaysHealth

• 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Berkshire Atheneum, 1 Wendall Ave., Pittsfield

TRIAD• 9 a.m. - TRIAD Meeting - Lenox Community

Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535.

Third MondaysHealth

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

Fourth MondaysHealth

• 7 p.m. - Prostate Cancer Support Group - Hillcrest Hospital, First Floor Conference Room, 165 Tor Court, Pittsfield

• Blood Pressure Clinic - Williamstown Council

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

Mondays and FridaysCongregate Lunches

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

Mondays and WednesdaysActivities

• 9 a.m. - Line Dancing - Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsfield Phone: 413-499-9346

Fitness• 10:30 a.m. - Exercise Class - Williamstown

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

Monday through FridayCongregate 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

Jim Monahan, Proprietor

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Online Prescription Renewalswww.thorpespharmacy.com

Corner of Church & John Streets Hoosick Falls, New York

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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

Activities• 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Grocery Shopping - Lee

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

TuesdaysActivities

• 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

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: 413-499-9346

• 1:15 p.m. - Friendship Group - Williamstown Council on Aging, The Harper Center, 118 Church St., Williamstown Phone: 413-458-8250

Arts • 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• 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Coffee and Social Hour -

Tyringham Council on Aging Phone: 413-243-0907

• 12 p.m. - Pot Luck Luncheon - Tyringham Council on Aging Phone: 413-243-0907

Fitness• 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.

Health• 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

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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.

Second Tuesdays Health

• 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

• 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

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

WednesdaysActivities

• 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: 413-637-5535.

• 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,

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.

BINGO• 12:30 p.m. - BINGO - Sandisfield Council on

Aging, Rt. 57, Sandisfield Phone: 413-258-4407Brown Bag

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

Congregate Lunches• 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• 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.

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• 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

Health• 1-4 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with

Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Stop & Shop, 660 Merrill Rd., Pittsfield

Second Wednesdays 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 Health

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

TRIAD• 1 p.m. - Dalton Council on Aging - TRIAD

Meeting. Phone: 413-684-2000 - Dalton VFW, 366 Housatonic St., Dalton

Wednesdays and FridaysBINGO

• 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

ThursdaysActivities

• 10-11 a.m. - Intergeneration Program - Story Time - Windsor Council on Aging Phone: 413-684-3882

• 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

• 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: 413-499-9346

Arts • 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

Fitness• 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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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) 447-1545. Free.

• 1 p.m. - Exercise Class - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington

Health• 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

First Thursdays Health

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

Second Thursdays Health

• 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

Fourth Thursdays Congregate Lunches

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

Health• 8:45-12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening with

Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington

Thursdays and SaturdaysFitness

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

FridaysActivities

• 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

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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• 7:30 a.m. - Exercise Class - Lenox Community

Center, 65 Walker St., Lenox. Phone: 413-637-5535.

• 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 FridaysBrown Bag

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

Third FridaysBrown Bag

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

SaturdaysActivities

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

Fitness• 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 BarringtonHealth

• 12-2 p.m. - VNA Blood Pressure and Health Clinic - Cheshire Council on Aging, Senior Center, 119 School St., Cheshire Phone: 413-743-1172

SundaysActivities

• 1 p.m. - Poker - Claire Teague Senior Center, 334 Main St., Great Barrington

Arts • 9:30 a.m. - Art Class - Claire Teague Senior

Center, 334 Main St., Great BarringtonBINGO

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

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

*The Center is OPEN 95

HOURSper week!

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15 Crissey Road, Great Barrington, MA413.528.2810 www.berkshiresouth.org

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By Felix CarollMae 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

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.

“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 ben-efits. 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.”

Harriet Ebitz’s Big Stretch

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

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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-instruc-

tor 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 reha-bilitation. 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 pel-vis. 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.”

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 lit-

tle 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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2008 senior news guide - september

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