MAYNARD COUNCIL ON AGING & SENIOR CENTER50 BROWN ST., MAYNARD, MA 01754 • 978-897-1009

GENERATIONNEW

MARCH 2017

From left to right - In front: Anita Dolan (Chair) & Angelina Flannery (Treasurer) Back row: Shelly Greenaway, Paula Copley (Vice-Chair), Diane Wasiuk (Secretary)

2 MARCH 2017

The Council on Aging Board meetings are held thefi rst Thursday of the month at the Maynard Council

on Aging & Senior Center.

APRIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ONTHURSDAY, APRIL 6 AT 10:30 A.M.

This meeting is an open meeting – come one and come all!It’s a great opportunity to hear what’s currently happening

at the Senior Center and what’s on the horizon. The purposeof the COA Board is to support the services of the

Council on Aging through various means by determiningthe needs of the seniors in the community at large.

Economic DevelopmentLocal government is always concerned with the economic development of the community. It is sometimes diffi cult to measure economic success as regional, national, and even global events and trends can impact individual communities. It is also nebulous-being part housing, schools, culture, businesses, and a bit of ‘je ne sais quoi.’ Still, we focus our efforts and try to take the long view in doing so.

Last week, as I sipped my coffee and read the Boston Sunday Globe, I was happy to read several articles that reinforce taking the long view. One article, on parking, suggests local zoning requires more than is needed for development. Maynard, anecdotally, has a signifi cant parking challenge to manage in its downtown. Using that one article as ‘research’ would provide limited input to potential solutions. Instead, later this month, we are undertaking a comprehensive parking study that will measure parking supply and the demand for parking before creating potential solutions. A second article chronicled the advent of multiple co-work offi ce spaces in the Boston area. A third article focused on ‘maker-spaces’ – places where inventors and craftspeople can create their products with a more modest investment because some costs are shared. In Maynard, in the 1940s, the Mill became one of the fi rst offi ce parks in the country, dividing up former factory space for smaller start-ups. In 1957 a tech start-up leased a few thousand square feet on its way to changing the history of Maynard. Today, we have returned to the then innovative idea of the 1940s with a 21st century spin. Mill & Main is now home to more than 60 companies some of which are benefi tting from these shared models. In March, The Revolution Factory will be opening at the Mill. This company will be a maker space, a business incubator, and a co-work space bringing each of these creative and innovative environments together to build synergies that might not fi nd each other otherwise. Perhaps the next Digital Equipment Corporation will be the result. In the meantime, fi rms such as Stratus, Acacia, Yieldbot,and Kuebix, continue to grow and to foster innovation in Maynard.

The Town of Maynard cannot take credit for the innovative ideas of these company’s founders. We can and will continue to work with them to provide the infrastructure and support they require and the fundamental backdrop of cultural activities, restaurants and services that have made this town a wonderful place to live and work for almost 150 years.

Andrew Scribner-MacLeanMaynard Asst. Town Administratorascribner@townofmaynard.net • 978 897-1375

The View from HereOne of the most important parts of a successful Council on Aging is its COA Board. I’m pleased to introduce my Board members (see cover!) and wish to thank them publicly for their support. We share goals of increasing Maynard seniors’ engagement with current and expanded programs, raising community awareness of the functions of the COA and developing strategies for addressing unmet needs throughout Maynard. Anita Dolan, Angie Flannery, Shelly Greenaway, Paula Copley and Diane Wasiuk all share experience of volunteerism, public service and a commitment to one’s community evidenced by how often they go above and beyond whatever is expected with great success. Diane brings an insightful perspective with her when stopping by the COA, always asking “is it all right if I come in” and then sharing an important detail which solves a puzzle or answers the question I was just about to ask. Anita carries a no-holds-barred approach to her advice which comes from quick and accurate analysis. Angie has a wonderful ability to not just see the larger picture but paint a more exciting one. Shelly and Paula share an inspired enthusiasm that’s not just “outside the box” but too big for a box. I’m very excited to be working with each one of them!

I’d like for seniors to note the COA will be providing transportation to the Succeeding in Retirement Series on Tuesday, March 21 (see page 7) as well as Rep. Hogan’s 7th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on March 10 (see page 8). Call the Council on Aging to sign up – pick up times will be assigned closer to the events.

~ Amy Loveless Director, Maynard Council on Aging & Senior Center

MARCH 2017 3

Highlights of Upcoming Events

Wednesday, March 15 • 11:00 a.m.Please call to sign up and bring more prizes!

CareOne PresentsAttention Lonely Hearts!

Thursday, March 16, 12:30 p.m.Would you like to meet someone to have coffee,

go to the movies or even travel? Times have changed and the #1 way that people are dating is by on-line websites. Come and learn what are

the good sites, how to set up your profi le, get your profi le picture taken and learn about safety awareness. Come even if you’re not sold and just curious! A light luncheon will be provided

and space is limited so please sign up!

April LuncheonThursday, April 13 • Noon

Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage,French toast, etc.

Deadline to sign up is Monday, April 10!$7.00 Pay at the door

Please sign up with the COA – making a reservation with CrossTown Connect does not automatically sign you up for the luncheon.

March LuncheonThursday, March 9 • Noon

Chicken Parmesan, Rigatoni & SauceSalad, Garlic Bread, Brownie Sundae

Deadline to sign up is Monday, March 6!$7.00 Pay at the door

Please sign up with the COA – making a reservation with CrossTown Connect does not automatically sign you up for the luncheon.

Inclement Weather PolicyThe COA will be closed when the Maynard

Public Schools close. If there is a school delay COA will have a delay in opening as well. Please contact the COA as morning classes

may be cancelled. Check WBZ (Channel 4) for notifi cations. Please see page 7 for weather

related concerns affecting access to the COA.

Keep Well ClinicWednesday, March 15 • 12:30 p.m.

Stop by and check in with Judy Manning, RN, from VNA CareNetwork. Have a bloodpressure reading as well as discussing

medications, effects & concerns about cold weather on your health, changes in sleep

patterns and individual issues.

Maynard Senior Citizens ClubThe Maynard Senior Citizens Club meets the fi rst Wednesday of the month at 1:00 at the Maynard

Lodge of Elks.

Spring Art ExhibitionMaynard Council on Aging’s Watercolor Class will be displaying their exceptional

talent at the Maynard Library for themonth of March – please don’t miss

this very special event!

4 MARCH 2017

63 Summer Street, Maynard, MA 01754 • 978-897-9828Email: artspacemaynard@gmail.com • www.artspacemaynard.com

“Left Behind”Wednesdays through Saturdays, March 1st to April 14th from 11 am to 3 pm

“Mini” ArtSpace Artists’ Open Studios: Saturday, March 11th from 4 – 6 p.m.

Opening Reception: Saturday, March 11th from 5 – 7 p.m.

The ArtSpace Gallery is pleased to present "Left Behind" an exhibition of photography and paintings by Joanne Tarlin and Carol Gander. “Left Behind” contemplates the troubles of people whose lives exist in a state of fl ux. They live itinerant lives, by choice or because of circumstances beyond their control. Often they are momentarily in the news then, promptly forgotten. The work of both artists borders on abstraction, leaving the mind of the observer to construct the details of the individual journeys. The people themselves are absent.

Come join the art scene in Maynard!

The ArtSpace Gallery located at 63 Summer Street in Maynard and is free to the public and is

wheelchair accessible.

For more information, please call (978) 897-9828 or go towww.artspacemaynard.com

and like us on Facebook.

MARCH 2017 5

In March, we will explore the cuisines of India and the neighboring countries of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka with the cookbook At Home with Madhur Jaffrey.

Borrow a cookbook at the Circulation Desk, select a recipe and prepare it for the potluck lunch on the 13th.

Drinks and place settings provided.Sponsored by the Friends of the Maynard Library.

Lunchtime Jazz Concert Friday, March 31 at 12:30 pm • Maynard Public Library

Featuring Mary Crowe and Evelyn Harris • Tell Me the Truth About LoveMary Crowe (vocals) and Evelyn Harris (piano) are classically trained professional musicians from Lincoln, MA. The show will feature cabaret songs ranging from the 1930's through contemporary times. Composers include Rogers and Hammerstein, Rogers and Hart, Billie Holiday, Benjamin Britten, Stephen Sondheim and Mary Crowe.Mary and Evelyn currently perform throughout the Boston area as a duo and with The Lincoln Hill Trio. Mary is on the voice faculty of Indian Music School and Evelyn teaches Suzuki piano in her Lincoln, MA studio.

Brought to you by the Friends of the Maynard Library • 77 Nason St, Maynard www.maynardpubliclibrary.org

Sounds Of Stow Chorus And OrchestraPerform Mozart, Gjeilo And Lauridsen

Join us on Sunday, March 19 at 3pm in Hale School Auditorium, 55 Hartley Rd., Stow, for a performance of Mozart's brilliant Sinfonia Concertante for Violin & Viola and two lovely contemporary choral works, Morten Lauridsen's Lux Aeterna, and Ola Gleilo's Sunrise Mass, performed with full orchestral accompaniment under the direction of Barbara Jones.

Both Lauridsen's Lux Aeterna and Gjeilo's Sunrise Mass are rooted in medieval plainchant, conveying a sense of the eternal as well as spriritual growth and renewal. Mozart's Sinfonia Concertante will feature longtime Sounds of Stow members Tim Arnold (violin) and Joe Simcox (viola).

The concert is at 3pm in Hale School Auditorium, 55 Hartley Rd., Stow, MA. Tickets are $25 general admission, $20 for seniors and adult students, and $10 for students 18 and under. You may also attend our open rehearsal at 1:30 pm on March 18, for a requested donation of $5. Hale School is fully handicapped accessible and a shuttle bus will be provided from parking areas near Rts. 117 and 62.

Sounds of Stow is supported in part by grants from the Massachusetts Cultural Council as administered by the local Cultural councils of Acton-Boxborough, Bolton, Hudson and Stow.

March Cookbook ClubMonday, March 13 at noon - Maynard Library

6 MARCH 2017

Maynard Library Spring Film SeriesThis spring the Friends of the Maynard Public Library invite you to join us for a four-part fi lm series

of Recent Favorites. The movies will be shown in the Roosevelt Room of the library, and are free an open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

Wednesday, March 22 at 3:30 pm

A Man Called Ove (2016)Based on the popular novel of the same name by Fredrik Backman, it has been nominated for an Oscar in the category Best Foreign Language Film of the Year. Ove is an aging curmudgeon who spends his time visiting his wife's grave and enforcing block association rules. Encounters with his new neighbors provide unexpected transformation in this darkly humorous and moving fi lm.

Tuesday, April 11 at 6:30 pm

Florence Foster Jenkins (2016)Based on the true story of a New York heiress, Florence pursues her dream of becoming an opera singer despite her awful voice. Meryl Streep plays the indomitable and endearing heiress, for which she received her twentieth Oscar nomination as Best Actress.

Thursday, April 6 • 5:00 -7:00 pmArtSpace Made in Maynard Exhibit Reception

Friday, April 7 • 7:00 pmBluegrass Concert with Southern Rail

Saturday, April 8 • Events all day!Writing WorkshopChildren’s Author PresentationAuthor Panel DiscussionSpecial StorytimeStoryCorps Oral History Station

Book Mill Book ClubThe Book Mill, Maynard Library’s book discussion group for adults, invites any reader who enjoys reading with a questioning mind, entertaining diverse perspectives, and sharing their thoughts. Only books that are available through the Minuteman Library Network or in paperback are included in each year’s reading schedule. Meetings occur the last Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. lasting under an hour and a half. To contact our facilitator, Jan, email janrosenberg708@gmail.com

March 28, 7:00 p.m.The Submission, by Amy Waldman

6th Annual Maynard Book Festival

Brought to you by the Friendsof the Maynard Library.

Free and open to all

All events at the Maynard Public Library

MARCH 2017 7

Retirement Series ResourcesThe Maynard Library has been developing a new collection of books aimed at people in or approaching retirement. Book topics include maximizing Social Security and Medicare benefi ts, investing after retirement, creating a retirement plan, working in retirement, and other fi nancial advice. The collection will also cover the social aspects of retirement, avoiding scams and identity theft, and legal planning. The collection is housed in a dedicated bookcase on the second fl oor of the library and will continue to grow over the next year.

To supplement the print collection, the library has curated a set of web resources for seniors including volunteering opportunities, information about assisted living, local senior agencies and services, and life-long learning sites. A link to the resource guide and announcements about the year-long seminar series can be found at http://www.maynardpubliclibrary.org/retirement.

Starting Your Genealogy With Ancestry Library EditionTuesday, March 28th @ 7pm | Roosevelt Room, Maynard Public Library

Learn search tips and techniques to view the incredible collection of content available on the web’sbest resource for genealogy. This e-resource is always available free at the library!

(While not mandatory, feel free to bring a laptop to follow along with)

Please register at the library’s Reference Desk or call 978-897-1010 x103.

Succeeding In Retirement Seminar Series Learning to Fund Your Future Financial Freedom

at the Maynard Public LibraryDo you get nervous when you think about your fi nancial future? Do you wonder if you have enough money? This informative workshop will show you how to assess your own fi nancial situation so you will be secure, confi dent, and happy when you think about your money. You will receive step by step instructions to determine your net worth, a worksheet to make the process seamless, and practical tips for increasing your net worth.

Julie Morgenlender is a Financial Freedom Coach who helps women and their partners achieve their fi nancial dreams by regaining control of their money while still enjoying life.

Tuesday, March 21 @ 7 pm

MAYNARD PUBLIC LIBRARY, 77 Nason Street Please sign up at the Reference Desk or call 978-897-1010 x103Brought to you with federal funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services

and administered by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.

Please call the COA if you would like a ride at (978) 897-1009

8 MARCH 2017

Pizza And A MovieWednesday, March 22, 2017 • 11:00 a.m.

Join the fun! Come hang out with old friends, or make some new ones, and have some laughs as we watch a movie together. We’ll have several movies to choose from and the group will decide which to watch. Pizza will be available to purchase for lunch, and drinks will be provided. Camaraderie and laughter are sure to ensue!

The World’s Greatest PaintingsTuesday, March 21, 2017 • 1:00 p.m.

Unlocking the secrets to understanding and appreciating great art is the purpose of this gathering. Our ongoing series providing an opportunity to learn about some of the world’s greatest art continues with a look at paintings that are marked by intensity. We will study Giovanni Bellini, Geertgen tot Sint Jans, and Albrecht Durer and learn about the intensity of natural light, radiance and spiritual identifi cation in their works. Some of our seniors have already used what they have learned in this class on our museum trips! Snacks will be provided.

March Highlights

Aging Backwards For The Spine, Brain, And Body!Presented by Dr. Deborah Diamond D.C.

Tuesday, March 28, 1:30 p.m. • Light lunch at 12:30This exciting and valuable presentation will describe how the spine can be restored to a more youthful state of fl exibility and upright posture and the positive impact this can have on your brain and overall health.Dr. Deborah has been in practice for 20 years and specializes in a non-forceful, Light-Touch technique that is deeply relaxing, stress reducing and 100% safe for people of all ages, including seniors. She is also a TEDx speaker and wellness educator and loves sharing her passion for natural healing with others!

SPACE IS LIMITED – YOU MUST SIGN UP!

Please call the Council on Aging if you need a ride at 978-897-1009

You Are Invited To Kate Hogan’s 7th AnnualSt. Patrick’s Day Celebration

Join us for a fun evening with friends and local & state offi cials to supportthe work of the Boys & Girls Club of Assabet Valley

Tom O'Carroll, Irish Balladeer will performFriday, March 10th 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Maynard Golf Course 50 Brown Street, Maynard

Light fare & cash barAdmission is free, however donations are much appreciated RSVP: rephoganevents@gmail.com

Great FuturesStart Here

MARCH 2017 9

Z-GOLD TONING WITH RITA V. - MONDAYS - 9:30 a.m. Rita’s classes contain exercise with balls, weights and bands, standing or sitting for total body conditioning. Increase strength, range of movement, fl exibility, balance and coordination. Format for this class allows you to participate at your own pace & ability.

KNITTING & CROCHETING CLUB - MONDAYS - 9:30 a.m. Join us to learn, teach and hear a good “yarn!”

TAI CHI - MONDAYS - 12:30 p.m.

DROP-IN CENTER - TUESDAYS - 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Now at the COA! Enjoy coffee, donuts, card games, chair exercise and great company!

YOGA WITH TERRY - TUESDAYS - 11:30 a.m. Yoga provides an opportunity to decrease stress and can lessen chronic pain while improving your overall health and wellbeing with increased strength, fl exibility, balance and body awareness. Breathe your way into a positive outlook on life.

ZUMBA GOLD - WEDNESDAYS - 9:30 a.m. Zumba makes exercise fun! Strengthen your heart, improve your balance, posture and range of motion while moving to the steps of the cha-cha, salsa and merengue.

YOGA WITH LISA - THURSDAYS - 10:00 a.m. This yoga class teaches yoga postures as a way to develop “mindfulness in motion”. Learn how using your Breath brings calmness to your everyday life. Experience how improving balance and increasing strength unifi es Body, Mind and Spirit.

ART/WATERCOLOR PAINTING - FRIDAYS - 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Openings available – call Amy at the Council on Aging. $7.00 per class.

ZUMBA GOLD - FRIDAYS - 11:30 a.m.

KINGS IN THE CORNER SOCIAL CLUB - FRIDAYS - 9:00 a.m.

CALENDAR

10 MARCH 2017

Monday and Wednesday

Stop & Shop in Acton

Monday Trader Joe's in Acton

ThursdayStop & Shop in Acton

& Shaw’s in StowOne hour is allowed for shopping. Shoppers should call at least 2 days in advance to schedule their shopping times.

Maynard Council on Aging Trips

COA OUTINGS

March 16TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC

AND DANCECelebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us at a special performance at Indian Hill Music. Irish dancing will be accompanied by wonderful musicians on Irish fl ute, banjo, and fi ddle. Bring your own lunch and enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and cookies. The concert is free. Van cost $5.00. Pick-ups start at 9:30 a.m.

Council On Aging VanTo schedule the van call CrossTown Connect: (978) 844-6809

The Council on Aging van runs from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and provides low cost transportation to local hospitals, doctors, dentists, health care providers, pharmacies, as well as banks, the post offi ce and to the Senior Center on 50 Brown Street in Maynard.

Arrangements must be made one day in advance before 1:30 p.m. (it is best to call several days in advance). Call well in advance regarding the monthly trips. A donation of $1 is requested each time you get on the van. Transportation to the COA is free! Anyone with weekly appointments (same time, same day) must arrange for a standing pickup. If you decide not to go you MUST notify the dispatch offi ce.

Residents of Maynard, 60 years of age or older and handicapped persons of any age, may use the van. If the rider is handicapped in any way, please mention this when scheduling the pickup so any accommodations may be made in advance. Pickups may begin 15 minutes before the scheduled time to accommodate more than one passenger. The van will wait no longer than 5 minutes for a passenger to emerge at which time the driver will call the offi ce to report the “no show” and leave for the next pickup. On very busy days the van can get behind schedule.

March 23WORCESTER ART MUSEUM

Our visit starts with a private, docent-led tour highlighting the current museum exhibits. Some of these include Mary Cassat, the Medieval Galleries, Renoir’s Jewish Wedding, Facing the World: Modernization and Splendor in Meiji Japan, A New Look at Old Masters, and Highest Heaven: Spanish and Portuguese Colonial Art. Following the tour we will have time to browse the museum on our own before heading to lunch at Barber’s Crossing in Sterling. Cost of admission, tour and transportation is $15.00 Cost of lunch is on your own. Pick-ups start at 9:30 a.m.

CrossTown Connect will begin taking reservations for March trips at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 6.

No reservations will be accepted before 11:00 a.m. or by voicemail. Thank you.

CrossTown Connect & the COA must take a waitlist for trips in order to fi rst determine van availability(8 seats or 12 seats). Any questions regarding this please contact the Council on Aging.

March 31LUNCHTIME JAZZ CONCERT

Listen to the music of Rogers and Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, Rogers and Hart, and Billie Holiday at this special jazz concert at the Maynard Public Library. We will start with lunch at China Ruby before heading to the concert. Pick-ups start at 10:30 a.m. The concert and transportation are free. Cost of lunch is on your own.

March 7SHOPPING TRIP

Walmart and Market Basket. Pick-ups start at 9:30 a.m. Van cost $2.00.

(March 13 Snowday makeup)

SCHEDULEDSHOPPING TRIPS

MARCH 2017 11

Need Help & Don't Know Where To Turn?Every day, someone somewhere in Massachusetts needs to fi nd essential community services, an after school program, a food bank, or where to secure care for an aging parent. Many face these challenges, but don't always know where to turn for help. The Solution is to Dial 2-1-1. Mass 211 is an easy to remember telephone number that connects callers to information about critical health and human services available in their community. It serves as a resource for fi nding government benefi ts and services, nonprofi t organizations, support groups, volunteer opportunities, donation programs, and other local resources. Always a confi dential call, Mass 211 maintains the integrity of the 9-1-1 system saving that vital community resource for life and death emergencies. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Mass 211 is an easy way to fi nd or give help in your community. Mass 211 responds immediately during times of crisis, to fi eld calls regarding the crisis and to direct callers to services most appropriate for their needs. If you are unable to reach 2-1-1 due to your telephone or cell phone carrier, a toll-free number is available 1-877-211-MASS (6277); Hearing impaired callers can reach us using 508-370-4890 TTY

Welcome to Neighbor Brigade!Neighbor Brigade establishes community-specifi c networks of volunteers that can be mobilized to help residents facing sudden crisis manage day-to-day tasks such as meal preparation, rides, and basic household chores. Using web-based coordination tools, we manage recipient requests and the recruitment of volunteers to fulfi ll those requests sensitively, quickly and free of charge. Email: MaynardMA@neighborbrigade.org

MASSACHUSETTS SENIOR LEGAL HELPLINE 1-866-778-0939DO YOU NEED HELP APPLYING FOR LEGAL SERVICES?

The Helpline provides assistance to Massachusetts senior citizens (60 years or older) applying for free legal help. Call to complete an intake if you need legal help in one of the following areas:

Our staff will screen you, the elder caller, for eligibility. If you are not eligible for free direct representation, we may be able to give you advice or reduced fee referrals. If you get our voicemail, please leave your name, telephone number and the town where you reside for a call back. We provide interpretation services in many languages.The Massachusetts Senior Legal Helpline is a collaboration between the Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging, the Legal Advocacy & Resource Center and Community Legal Aid with funding from the Massachusetts Executive Offi ce of Elder Affairs.

• Social Security/SSI• Veterans Benefi ts• Mass Health• Medicare• Consumer issues• Public Benefi ts

• Unemployment• Foreclosures• Bankruptcy• Evictions• Landlord/Tenant• Utilities

• Executing advance directives & simple wills• Family law• Nursing Homes

12 MARCH 2017

COMMUNITY AND GOOD HEALTHY FOOD

Maynard Open Table PantryCoolidge School at 12 Bancroft Street - Mondays from 5 - 7 pm

Special session for Maynard seniors at 4:00 p.m.You must take the COA van to enter at this time.Please call the COA to sign up for transportation.

Maynard Food PantryOffering free food aid to local individuals and families in need since 1992

The Maynard Food PantryP.O. Box 55 • Maynard, MA 01754

978-764-5279

maynardfoodpantry.com

Open every Monday (Tuesdays when Monday is a holiday)

10 am to noon12 Bancroft St., Maynard (off Parker Street, behind Coolidge Park)

Open Table Sudbury Dinners To ResumeWe are thrilled to announce that the renovations to the Sudbury United Methodist Church arecomplete and Open Table will resume serving dinners there on Tuesday evenings starting on

Tuesday, March 14, 2017 - Dinner is at 6:00 p.m. We hope to see you there!(Maynard seniors – please call the Council on Aging at (978) 897-1009 to sign up for van transportation)

The Open Table dinners & pantry in Concord continue onThursdays – pantry opens at 4:30 p.m.; dinner is served at 5:30 p.m.

MARCH 2017 13

The MA “Circuit Breaker” Income Tax Credit ForHomeowners and Renters Age 65 and Older

YOU MAY GET A CASH REFUND ON YOUR STATE INCOME TAXES

The Massachusetts “Circuit Breaker” tax credit program is a program for adults age 65 + whose property taxes and half of the water and sewer bills are more than 10% of their annual gross income (or for renters, if their rent is greater than 25% of their income) and who meet a few other rules. Adults can get this income tax credit even if they owe no income taxes. Also, you can get this refundable tax credit if you also receive a property tax exemption from their town Assessor.

The value of the refundable credit can be as high as $1,070 for 2016 tax fi lers.To obtain the credit, you must fi le a MA Income Tax “Form 1” and the “Schedule CB Form” for the 2016 tax year. You may fi le to get a refundable credit for the last 3 years* tax returns, if you have not yet done so. In addition to this year’s credit, the maximum credit you may receive for the past 3 tax years is: $1,070 in 2015; $1,050 in 2014; and $1,030 in 2013.

You must meet the following guidelines to qualify for this refundable tax credit:1. Be 65 or older by the end of the tax year for which you are fi ling.

2. Have income bBelow the maximum level: (including Social Security and other income not ordinarily taxed in Massachusetts)

Income for tax year 2013 2014 2015 2016Single 55,000 56,000 57,000 $57,000Head of household 69,000 70,000 71,000 $71,000Married, fi ling jointly 82,000 84,000 85,000 $86,000Married, fi ling separately, not eligible

3. The property that you own or rent must be residential property in Massachusetts that is your primary residence. (Renters of public housing or with subsidized rental agreements are not eligible.)

4. The assessed valuation of your home cannot be greater than $720,000 for tax year 2016. Maximum home values for prior tax years are: 2013 - $700,000; 2014 - $691,000; 2015 - $693,000. (There are no other assets limits for defi ning who may be eligible to get the tax credit.)

5. 10% rule for Owners: The credit will equal the amount your property tax bill (plus 50% of your water and sewer fees if not part of your property tax bill) exceeds 10% of your income, up to the maximum credit of $1,070 in 2016. If you also receive a local property tax exemption for seniors or earn a senior tax work off reduction that is okay. This credit will be applied to your reduced property tax bill amount.

6. 25% Rule for Renters: The credit will equal the amount by which 25% of your rental payments exceed 10% of your income, up to the maximum credit of $1,070 in 2016. The law assumes that 25% of rent goes toward property taxes.

7. Even if you don’t normally fi le with the state, if you meet the above criteria you are most likely due a “refund” check/tax credit from the Dept. of Revenue. If you have an accountant, ask him/her for help with this year and /or previous years.

8. The deadline for fi ling retroactive or amended tax returns (going back 3+ years) is April 15, 2017. For more information and to get the proper forms, call the Mass. Department of Revenue Customer Service at (617) 887-6367 for information and/or tax forms for this year and the past three years.

For help fi ling a tax return or amended returns for prior years, call your local Council on Aging at ___________________ for information about where to meet with a volunteer tax aide. Or, hire an accountant to fi le your state income taxes for all the years you may be eligible. To download the tax forms -- Form 1 and the Schedule CB Form - go to the offi cial Department of Revenue site at: http://www.mass.gov/dor/individuals/seniors-students-and-military-personnel/seniors-and-retirees/.

14 MARCH 2017

Living MemorialThis form allows you to make a donation that will support and enhance the senior services in our

Maynard community. The individual or families you have chosen to honor will be notifi ed of your contribution.Your support is needed and greatly appreciated.

Make checks payable to: Maynard Council on Aging. Mail to: 195 Main St., Maynard, MA 01754

I am enclosing $ In honor/memory of:Send acknowledgement to: Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code:

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)LIHEAP helps low-income individuals and seniors pay their heating bills during the winter. Eligible recipients can either own or rent their home and cannot have an income greater than $34,001 for a single person or $44,463 for two. For more information, please call the Massachusetts Heat Line toll-free at 1-800-286-6776.

Citizens Energy Heat Assistance Programs – Citizens Energy Heat Assistance has two programs for home heat assistance. The Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program offers free heating oil to people in need. Each eligible household is allowed a one-time delivery per heating season of 100 gallons of home heating oil. The Citizens Energy / Distrigas Heat Assistance Program gives a $150 utility bill credit to eligible households who heat with natural gas. Eligible recipients are facing a fi nancial hardship and are not eligible for LIHEAP, or have used up their LIHEAP benefi ts. To apply, please visit www.citizensenergy.com or call 1-877-JOE-4-OIL.

Weatherization – The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a government-funded program to help low-income homeowners and renters lower their energy costs by making their homes more energy effi cient. The program saves households an average of $350 per year in energy costs. Energy inspector’s visit eligible households to see what work needs to be done to save energy. The inspectors also do a health and safety check to make sure that all energy-related systems are working properly. Weatherization workers then make energy-saving improvements as needed. You can get free WAP services if you are eligible for the LIHEAP Fuel Assistance program or if someone in your household gets SSI or TAFDC. For more information, please call the Massachusetts Heat Line toll-free at 1-866-397-8478.

MassSave – MassSave is an energy savings program for Massachusetts homeowners and renters. MassSave offers energy tips and information about free home energy assessments, energy-saving products, and loans, rebates, and other incentives for energy-saving home improvements. MassSave is for Massachusetts residents who want to save money by making their homes more energy effi cient. Anyone can use the MassSave web site or telephone line to see which rebates, loans, home energy assessments, or other energy programs are available to them. Most programs are for homeowners or tenants who live in 1-to-4 unit dwellings and pay their own heat or electricity. Low-income residents may qualify for free services. For more information, please visit www.MassSave.com or call 1-866-527-7283.

Discount on Monthly Electric Billwww.nationalgridus.com

1-800-322-3223

Eversource Discount Ratewww.eversource.com/nstar/DiscountRate

1-800-566-2080

Past Energy Debt IssuesNational Grid Arrears Management Program

1-800-233-5325

NSTAR Arrearage Forgiveness Program1-866-315-2496

ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

MARCH 2017 15

REP. KATE HOGAN'S SENIOR NEWSMARCH 2017Dear Friends,

Every March I like to highlight legal services available to seniors in our region. MetroWest Legal Services offers legal assistance specifi cally for individuals 60 years and older who meet income requirements.

MetroWest Legal Services (MWLS) serves the town of Maynard. MWLS’ Senior Citizen's Legal Project offers a variety of senior legal services which include: • Housing matters, primarily eviction cases involving public or subsidized housing;

application denials for subsidized housing; and foreclosure defense • Durable Powers of Attorney, Health Care Proxies & Defense of Guardianships and Conservatorships • Nursing Home Issues, including transfer and discharge, conditions & evictions • Benefi ts, including Social Security, SSI, Unemployment, MassHealth & the Department of Transitional Assistance benefi ts • Domestic Relations, including restraining orders, divorces for seniors who cannot afford private counsel, modifi cation of divorce agreements & contempt actions • Bankruptcies & consumer rights issues • Community Legal Education, where attorneys provide presentations to senior groups on legal topics of particular interest to eldersMWLS can be reached at mwlegal.org or (508) 620-1830.

Disabled Placards & PlatesBeginning April 1, 2017, drivers applying for a NEW Disabled Placard or Plate must use the new Registry of Motor Vehicles application “T20060-0117.” This Placard or Plate is for individuals who are severely restricted in their ability to walk. The application requires your healthcare provider to certify your need and determine your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Acceptable healthcare providers are your medical doctor, chiropractor, registered nurse, physician assistant, osteopath, optometrist (legal blindness only), or podiatrist. You can fi nd the application online at MassRMV.com. If you are applying and have any questions, contact my district coordinator Karen for assistance at (617) 722-2130. Note: If you have a permanent placard, you need not reapply.

Kate’s 7th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration You are invited to my 7th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration to benefi t the Boys & Girls Club of Assabet Valley. This fundraiser will be Friday, March 10th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Maynard Country Club, 50 Brown Street, Maynard, MA. There will be appetizers and a cash bar. Tom O’Carroll, Irish Balladeer, will be back providing music entertainment. Hope to see you there!

Proudly represents Bolton, Hudson, Maynard, and StowState House, Room 130, Boston, MA, 02133 / Phone 617-722-2130District Offi ce: Maynard Town Hall, 195 Main Street, Maynard, MADistrict Offi ce Hours: Mondays and Thursdays, 10AM-3PM

By appointment: Call 617-722-2130 or email Kate.Hogan@mahouse.gov

Hogan’s Offi ce HoursHudson Offi ce Hours will be held on Thursday, March 16th from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Hudson Public Library, 3 Washington St.Bolton Offi ce Hours will be held on Tuesday, March 28th from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Bolton Public Library, 738 Main St.

Please bring any questions, ideas, or concerns you may have. If you are unable to attend offi ce hours and have an issue or concern, please call the State House at (617) 722-2130 to schedule an appointment with me. In addition to Rep. Hogan’s offi ce hours, her staff is available in the District Offi ce at Maynard Town Hall, 195 Main Street, on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Closed Holiday Mondays)

What Happened, Miss Simone COMING MARCH 7TH Starring James Baldwin & Stokely Carmichael

A documentary about the life and leg-end Nina Simone, an American singer, pianist, and civil rights ac vist labeled the "High Priestess of Soul."

Beauty And The Beast COMING MARCH 16TH

Starring Emma Watson & Luke Evans An adapta on of the Disney fairy tale about a monstrous-looking prince and a young woman who fall in love.

THE HAL MCINTYRE ORCHESTRA COMES BACK TO FINE ARTS THEATRE!

FINE ARTS THEATRE PLACE 19 SUMMER STREET, MAYNARD MA 01754 www. neartstheatreplace.com (978) 298-5626

Email us at info@ neartstheatreplace.com to join our mailing list, or visit us online or Facebook for weekly

show mes and special screenings!

COMING SOON TO FFINE ARTS THEATRE PLACE

Kong: Skull Island COMING MARCH 9TH Starring Tom Hiddleston & Corey Hawkins A team of explorers and soldiers travel to an uncharted island in the Paci c, unaware that they are crossing into the domain of monsters, including the mythic Kong.

The Boss Baby COMING MARCH 31ST Starring Alec Baldwin & Eric Bell A suit-wearing briefcase-carrying baby pairs up with his seven-year old brother to stop the dastardly plot of the CEO of Puppy Co.

Bring this ad in for a free cket with the purchase of any combo!*

Baby Friendly Screenings Starting February 7th

Lights on, Sound down, and Judgement Free. Contact info@fineartstheatreplace.com for more info