The mission of Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. is to provide Berkshire elders, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and self-determination, and to achieve the highest possible quality of life.
Statement of Inclusivity
Elder Services practices non-discrimination in employment practices and service delivery. Embracing diversity, our in-home and community-based services are available to all without regard to race, ethnicity, language, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or lifestyle.
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Berkshire Senior
Editorial Board: Deb Aldrich, Bonny DiTomasso, Laura Feakes, Christopher McLaughlin, Kathleen Cleary, Kathleen Phillips and John Arthur Miller
Advertising: To place an advertisement in Berkshire Senior, please contact Kate Teutsch at (413) 496-6324 or e-mail advertising@berkshireeagle.com.
Berkshire Senior is published bi-monthly by Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc., 877 South Street, Suite 4E, Pittsfield, MA 01201, 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242, e-mail: esbc@esbci.org or on the internet at www.esbci.org.
NOTICE
Berkshire Senior advertising helps to the defray the costs of producing the newspaper. Inclusion of advertisers in no way implies that Elder Services endorses any product or service.
Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of Elder Services. For medical, financial or other advice, seek a qualified professional in the appropriate field.
Elder Services and its programs are funded, in part, by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
State and federal funds provided to Elder Services are limited. Elder Services welcomes charitable donations to help meet the growing needs of Berkshire seniors, and gratefully acknowledges all donations.
Elder Services Assists with Scheduling Vaccinations
By Christopher McLaughlin, Executive Director of Elder Services
Hoping all is well with you.
In mid-March, we received a bit of a reprieve, as spring appears to have arrived a little earlier than usual. After an old-fashioned Berkshire Winter and a significant increase in the number of COVID infections, the longer days, bursts of sunshine and warmer temperatures are a welcome relief. We continue finding our way through the tunnel I alluded to in the last issue. The good news is that we are now closer to the “light” than we were when I wrote to you in late January.
There are now far more Berkshire County residents vaccinated than there were in February. It is natural to believe that more vaccinations and the opportunity to spend more time outdoors means we are in a better place and can let our guard down. Increasing numbers of vaccinations clearly put us in a better place with each passing week. However, we are not out of the woods yet. Recent news articles about COVID infections increasing locally and several students at MCLA contracting COVID after a large social gathering suggest we must still be vigilant.
If you are still undecided if the vaccine is right for you, please read the article from the Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative on Page 8. If you need help securing an appointment for your vaccination, please call Elder Services at (413) 499-0524.
Our Information & Referral Specialists and other staff continue to assist seniors who are unable to access the internet or find calling the Vaccination Resource Line (211) challenging. We access the same vaccination scheduling system everyone else does but our staff have done it often enough that they seem to know the shortcuts. Our State Home Care staff and other staff have also been active in calling the residents of local housing sites to schedule vaccines and have assisted during the clinics held at those sites. They describe the experience of helping people secure the vaccines as incredibly rewarding.
The Commonwealth has announced plans to vaccinate people who are homebound. People who meet the State’s criteria for being homebound are incapable of leaving home for a routine medical appointment or require an ambulance or the assistance of at least two people to attend a medical appointment. Individuals who meet these criteria are eligible to receive a visit from a representative of the State Vaccinator Program. Again, this option is for people that meet a strict definition of “homebound” and we are told it may be quite some time before the vaccination teams get into people’s homes. As the goal is to receive the vaccination as quickly as possible, if you can be vaccinated at a community vaccination site you should do so.
It is hard to believe but by our next issue, it will almost be summer. No doubt with more vaccinations we will be in an even better place by then!
Until next time be good, be kind and be careful.
Be consumer savvy about spring home improvements!
by Laura Feakes, Information & Referral Specialist
Now that winter is finally becoming a memory, many of us will be turning our attention to seasonal property damage and cleanup. Before you begin your clean-up, be cautious and plan ahead. Make a complete assessment of what needs to be done and then prioritize projects. While some clean up may seem easy and a “do-it-yourself” project, be aware of potential risks. Broken tree limbs may be near power lines. Position ladders cautiously to look at gutters and roofs. Don’t use gutters as a handhold and avoid reaching farther than the end of your arm. If you need to hire someone to help you with storm repairs or various other home improvement projects, the best protection against problems is being actively involved in every step of your project. Every year, hundreds of Massachusetts residents file consumer complaints about home improvement contractors who take money and don’t do any of the work or perform unsatisfactory construction or repairs. If you plan to hire a contractor there are important things to keep in mind:
Protect yourself against the unscrupulous contractor:
• Don’t enter into a repair or improvement project without a written contract.
• Don’t hire a contractor who does not have a business card or local phone number and address. The
business should have an actual physical address, not just a P.O. Box.
• Check the contractor’s state registration. By law, most contractors and subcontractors performing residential home improvements on owner-occupied homes must be registered with the state. The few exceptions to this requirement include: licensed professionals, such as plumbers and electricians; part-time or small job contractors; and other contractors who specialize in certain kinds of work, including landscaping, central heating and air conditioning installations, and interior painters.
• Don’t hire a contractor who refuses to give you names and phone numbers of references.
• Do not pay for the entire job up front and don’t make final payment until you are completely satisfied with the work.
• Don’t feel pressured by contractors who make special or limited price offers.
Sign the right contract before work is performed on your home:
• Don’t sign a blank contract, or one that does not include all the costs and supplies. Get a written contract that includes the type, quality and warranty of materials to be used and outlines all the financial terms and payment schedules. Include a penalty clause in the contract for failure to complete work on time.
• Have a complete description of the work to be done and a guarantee that old materials and debris will be removed. Insist that
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the workplace remains clean and safe for the duration of the project.
• Make sure that all necessary permits are secured by the contractor and that they have proper liability and workers’ compensation insurance. If you apply for the permit, you may not be eligible for workers’ compensation from the state Guaranty Fund.
• Shop around and get at least two or three written estimates for the same work before selecting a contractor. A small amount of research can eliminate big problems later.
• Make sure the contract contains a 3-day cancellation notice, informing you of your right to cancel your contract if you signed the agreement in your home, or at a place other than at the contractor’s office or business.
Red Flags of a home improvement scam:
• Unsolicited, traveling contractors who come to your home and point out specific problems you haven’t noticed yourself.
• Contractors who arrive in an unmarked truck or van and who refuse to provide proof of insurance and references when requested.
• Contractors claiming “I’ve just done a job nearby and have some left over material (like driveway asphalt), so I can give you a great deal on the job.”
• High pressure sales tactics.
For additional information on how to select a home
improvement contractor or to report a fraudulent contractor: Better Business Bureau: www. bbb.org , BBB helps people find businesses and charities they can trust. Whether you’re looking for a plumber or a roofer, BBB can steer you in the right direction. The local office is the BBB Serving Central and Western MA and Northeastern CT. Email: info@ cne.bbb.org. Phone: 508-755-3340.
Attorney General’s Office: www.mass.gov for information, and Attorney General’s Consumer Guide to Home Improvement at www.mass.gov/ago/docs/ consumer/home-improvementguide.pdf) ; Consumer Hotline 617-727-8400; Elder Hotline: 888243-5337.
Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation: www. mass.gov for information.
To check contractor registration: (www.mass.gov/how-to/check-ahome-improvement-contractorregistration).
To file a complaint (www.mass. gov/how-to/file-a-complaintagainst-a-home-improvementcontractor), & Homeowner’s Guide to Hiring a Home Improvement Contractor (www.mass.gov/ info-details/homeowners-guideto-hiring-a-home-improvementcontractor), (888) 283-3757
Berkshire Consumer Services Program , 1 Fenn St 4th Floor, Pittsfield, 413-344-4861, https:// bcrha.com/consumer-counselingmediation-program.
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Senior Community Service Employment Program ( SCSEP )
Unemployed? Looking For Work? Consider The SCSEP Program
Elder Services of Berkshire County is proud to serve as the regional sponsor for the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) – a federally funded, state administered program that assists seniors in job training, job matching and job placement. SCSEP’s mission is to provide job training and placement to individuals age 55 or older with limited financial resources and to provide employers with trained, motivated workers. The program provides persons who have met the required eligibility guidelines, and have a sincere desire to work, the opportunity to overcome two of the biggest barriers to employment - lack of experience and training.
Potential SCSEP participants are assessed for eligibility, current job skills, interests and individual experience. If qualified, applicants will likely be offered the opportunity to interview with a participating community nonprofit organization referred to as a Host Agency. If the interview goes well and a match occurs, the participant will be assigned to the agency and receive onthe-job training for twenty (20) hours per week, at the current minimum wage, for up to a year. In addition to on-the-job training, formal trainings are provided to participants enrolled in the SCSEP program. These trainings include, but are not limited to, computer training,
resume writing, and interviewing techniques.
The placement of a SCSEP participant at a Host Agency gives
the agency a dedicated worker and provides the participant with on-the-job experience and an opportunity to re-enter the work force. The participant’s salary is paid by the SCSEP program.
It is never too late to seek a new challenge, learn new skills or to gain meaningful employment. For more information on becoming a SCSEP participant contact Elder Services of Berkshire County at (413) 499-0524 or (800) 544-5242 and ask to speak with the SCSEP Program Manager . If your agency is interested in becoming a Host Agency for the program contact Bonny DiTomasso, SCSEP Program Manager, at the same number.
Berkshire Botanical Garden Offers Live and Online Class Options for Spring
Kathleen Cleary
The Berkshire Botanical Garden will officially open on Saturday, May 1. They are celebrating the start of their 87th season with Roy Boutard Day and offering free admission for all on Sunday, May 2.
If you are itching to get into the garden and learn new things, Berkshire Botanical Gardens has you covered with a host of offerings for both online and live in-person learning, including:
What: How to Use Tools the Right Way
When: Friday, April 9, 2021 - 2:00pm to 4:00pm Where: In-person class at BBG
Expand beyond the spade. A wide variety of tools exist on the market for modern gardeners. But what is really essential and how can you feel confident and competent using the tools you have on hand? Learn about the different tools used for planting, garden maintenance and invasive species removal, considering the pros and cons to different tools for particular tasks. Proper tool use and maintenance will be addressed. Students will receive hands-on experience with the tools presented. Led by Bridghe McCracken and Calisha Croney of Helia Nursery.
Members: $20/ Nonmembers: $25
What: Spring/Summer Hive Management
When: Saturday, April 10, 2021 - 11:00am to 1:00pm Where: In-person class at BBG
Join 6th-generation beekeeper Ken Warchol for an in-depth program on spring honeybee hive management. This lecture and demonstration will focus on how to open up your hives from the winter, including feeding and pest control. Ken will provide beekeepers with critical information and, most especially, timing of important management techniques to prepare hives for
the spring and summer. Weather permitting, he will do a hive inspection in the BBG apiary. Bring protective equipment.
Members: $15/ Nonmembers: $20
What: Seed Starting for the New Cutting Garden
When: Sunday, April 11, 2021 - 11:00am to 12:30pm Where: Online
Seed starting can be intimidating stuff, with calendar complications and lots of equipment. Streamline your process in this course from Colie Collen of Flower Scout, who will review the optimal start dates and conditions for a wide range of cut flowers, herbs and veggies, and guide you through the best ways to start your own seeds at home. Colie Collen, founder, farmer and designer at Flower Scout, brings her love of all things wild and seasonal to her work. After many years of farming on the west and east coasts, her interest turned to flower production in 2012, and subsequently, to design. Colie seeks to create individual experiences for clients based on the colors, textures and shapes the land/garden/season is creating at a particular moment, with customers’ aesthetic preferences continually in mind.
Members: $12/ Nonmembers: 18
What: Container Garden Design
When: Wednesday, April 14, 2021 - 5:30pm to Wednesday, April 28, 2021 - 8:30pm Where: In-person class at BBG
Acquire the skills required for beautiful and successful container gardens with Jenna O’Brien , owner of Viridissima Horticulture and Design. Start with techniques for overwintering tropicals, tender perennials, bulbs, annuals and more without a greenhouse, through storage of dormant plants, seed collection, cuttings, divisions and other simple
techniques. Get to know the plants that thrive in containers and how to care for them. This three-part class will cover practical aspects of gardening with plants that do double duty as housescape plants in the winter and container plants in summer. Consider container selection, siting, planting, growing, controlling pests and maintaining moveable gardens.
Members: $140/ nonmembers: $150
What: Home Orchard Care
When: Saturday, April 17, 2021 - 9:00am to 5:00pm Where: In-person class at BBG
Learn from expert instructor Michael Phillips how to manage your own orchard. Successfully growing fruit for your family becomes straightforward when you narrow the big picture down to getting the basics right. Fungal and bacterial disease can be successfully managed with deep nutrition and competitive colonization. Major insect challenges can be resolved safely when you perceive who, what and when. This overview of complementary sprays backed by biodiversity and soil health
will set the stage for successfully growing tree fruit in New England.
Members: $80/ Nonmembers: $100
What: Transplanting Shrubs and Small Ornamental Trees
When: Saturday, April 17, 2021 - 10:00am to 1:00pm Where: In-person class at BBG
Learn by doing in this handson shrub and tree planting/ transplanting workshop led by arborist Ken Gooch. All aspects of successful planting will be demonstrated, and participants will assist in transplanting a multi-stem shrub and planting a small tree. Learn how to successfully transplant shrubs through correct timing, placement and techniques designed to create minimal disturbance and ensure a smooth transition to a new site. Consider the differences between bare-root, container-grown and balled-andburlapped trees, and understand the importance of siting. Participants should dress for the weather and bring pruners and work gloves.
Members: $25/ Nonmembers: $35 For more information, visit www. berkshirebotanical.org
VALENTINES FOR SENIORS!
Meals on Wheels recipient Larry Dean was one of the 925 Meals on Wheels consumers who received a card for Valentine’s Day. Community volunteer Desire’ Lane initiated the Valentine’s Day card project in collaboration with Elder Services. The initial goal was to make enough cards to be delivered by Meals on Wheels drivers. The response to the appeal which was made on Facebook was fantastic. The outpouring of support by individuals, schools, houses of worship and community groups was so great that cards were not only delivered to the Meals on Wheels recipients but also to the residents of 13 nursing homes in the County.
Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. NUTRITION PROGRAM SENIOR COMMUNITY DINING CENTERS
21 Crossway
Eligible seniors 60 years or older are welcome to attend any Senior Community Dining Center. Reservations are requested 24 hours in advance. A suggested donation is $2.00 per meal. All contributions are returned to the community toward the cost of the Nutrition Program and Services. Those 59 or under are welcome at a required fee of $7.00 per meal.
Area Health Leaders Collaborate and Encourage All Seniors to Get Vaccinated
The complex operation to vaccinate the Berkshire community as quickly as possible is being led by the Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative, a partnership between The Berkshire County Boards of Health Association, Berkshire Health Systems, Community Health Programs, and local public health nurses.
“We recognized early-on that working together would be the most effective way to vaccinate our community here in the Berkshires,” said Laura Kittross, Director of the Berkshire County Boards of Health Association.
“Even before the vaccine arrived in the Berkshires, we were concerned that residents would be able to access information from reputable sources, and that information would be scientifically sound” said Laura Kittross.
To address the information challenge, the Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative established a website, getvaccinatedberkshires.org, to provide a central, up-to-date place to provide credible information as well as notices about upcoming clinics at the three sites in Pittsfield, North Adams, and Great Barrington.
To date, the website has had over 170,000 unique visitors.
Dr. James Lederer, Jr., the Chief Medical Officer/Chief Quality Officer of Berkshire Health Systems who has led the medical response to COVID-19 in Berkshire County, is eager to dispel misinformation and promote vaccination in Berkshire County.
Dr. Lederer spoke of his own decision to get vaccinated. “I know the science. I took the
COVID-19 vaccine because I felt it was an important way to safeguard my health, the health of my family, and the colleagues and patients I deal with every day.”
Dr. Lederer urges seniors to “trust the science and trust the CDC and learn as much as you can. In the end, by taking the vaccine you will protect your health, your loved ones’ health and those in the community that you interact with.”
On the getvaccinatedberkshires.org website, there is a section on Frequently Asked Questions, which includes the following important facts:
• None of the vaccines being administered contain a live COVID-19 virus, so the vaccine cannot give you COVID-19
• The vaccines have been developed safely and approved under a rigorous review process and are based on methods that have been in development for over a decade. In addition to Federal oversight by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Federal Food & Drug Administration (FDA) an independent review panel in Massachusetts reviewed all scientific evidence before the vaccine was delivered in the Commonwealth.
• Information about when you are eligible and where/when the next clinics will be
• Common side effects of the vaccine
According to Laura Kittross, “We can see the end, but we are not there yet. Until we can vaccinate everyone, we ask that residents continue to protect those who are not yet vaccinated by continuing to wear masks and socially distancing.”
One woman in her 70s, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared her experience with COVID-19. “I could not get out of bed. It was so hard, and my body hurt everywhere. I had had the first shot which I believe kept me from getting it much worse. I was fortunate to get the monoclonal antibodies.”
Two months later, still feeling the effects, she admits, “I initially had concerns about getting the vaccine, but having lived through COVID-19 and thankfully surviving, I would advise anybody, ‘Get the vaccine!’ You don’t want to get or give COVID-19.”
The Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative is urging people who have questions and concerns about the vaccine to go to https://www.mass.gov/info-details/trust-the-facts-get-the-vax or speak to a trusted medical professional who can help you understand the facts.
The Most Anticipated Spring Season
by Kathleen Phillips
Spring is here! Finally! We turned our clocks forward and now it’s actually light out after 6:00PM. The official first day of spring was March 20th. Spring is the vernal equinox when days and nights are approximately 12 hours long and daytime begins to increase in length. We are coming out of the harsh winter and we embrace the warmer, long awaited spring of 2021. We are rising from the coldness and stillness of winter and entering the season of rebirth. Birds are migrating north. There is nothing sweeter to a Berkshireite than birds chirping in the morning. Baby bunnies and ducklings and chipmunks abound in the spring. Trees begin to bud and unfurl their leaves. Robins are back in our yards looking for worms and building their nests. Animals and their babies that have been hibernating wake up. April showers bring May flowers. We can now go outside and enjoy the weather much like those hibernating animals coming out of their dens. We can start tending gardens and go for walks. Just like the earth’s axis begins to
turn toward the sun we can look upwards and feel the warmth of the sun on our faces.
The extra hours of the day boost our mood. Flowers begin to bloom once they sense that the days have grown longer and the weather has turned warmer. We welcome the sight and colors of crocuses, daffodils and tulips. As plants grow their photosynthesis process releases oxygen into the atmosphere. Temperate weather means that we get fresh air. We can throw open the windows and doors to let the fresh air and sweet scents of spring in.
Spring 2021 is moving us out of the past year. A reawakening. We still must be vigilant—wear masks, wash our hands and observe precautions. But we will once again be able to be together with family and friends in the months to come. We will go the movies, attend concerts and the theatre, and cheer at stadiums…. travel. With spring we are moving away from this past year. We can open our arms out to welcome this new season of hope and renewal and we can finally take a deep long breath.
300 State Street Springfield, MA 01105-1711 (413) 785-0325
Aide: Matthew.russett@mail.house.gov
Senator Adam Hinds
24 Beacon Street, Room 109E Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-1625
District Office: (413) 344-4561 Adam.hinds@masenate.gov
Rep. Smitty Pignatelli
24 Beacon Street, Room 473F Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2210
District Office: (413) 637-0631 Rep.smitty@mahouse.gov
Rep. John Barrett, III
24 Beacon Street, Room 237 Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2305
District Office: (413) 743-8300
John.barrett@mahouse.gov
Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier
24 Beacon Street, Room 156 Boston, MA 02133 (627) 722-2240
District Office: (413) 442-4300
Tricia.farley-bouvier@mahouse.gov
Rep. Paul Mark
24 Beacon Street, Room 160 Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2304
District Office: (413) 464-5635
Paul.mark@mahouse.gov
Introducing
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Special Thanks to Our Volunteers!
We couldn’t provide essential services without our volunteers.
By Christopher McLaughlin, Executive Director
We at Elder Services of Berkshire County are incredibly proud that since the COVID-19 state of emergency began more than a year ago, our Agency has continued to provide all the services we previously offered in support of Berkshire seniors, disabled individuals and caregivers.
We provided some of our case management, counseling and other services by telephone as opposed to in person due to social distancing mandates but all our programs, including Meals on Wheels, have continued to operate without interruption.
Simply put, this would not have been possible without the support
and assistance of our volunteers, whose dedication to supporting and enriching the lives of those we serve is second to none.
As April is National Volunteer Month, we wish to profile the unsung heroes who have assisted our consumers and our Agency during the past year. It goes without saying that the past year was unlike any other. The realities of stay at home orders, social distancing and the inability to travel or have visitors exacerbated our consumers’ feelings of isolation and loneliness. Our consumers REALLY needed us this past year and our volunteers were a godsend in enabling us to continue providing services and making our consumers feel safe and
continued on page 11
Volunteers
Active April 1, 2020 - February 28, 2021
Board of Directors
Randy Burdick
Teresa Caldwell
Jacob Dabrowski, Treasurer
Sandy Driscoll
Frank Engels
Diana (Toni) Fontana
Roberta Gale
John Graziano
Christopher King, Finance Committee Georgette Kinney
Kimberly Mathews, Clerk
Mary K. O’Brien
David O’Neill
Walter Orenstein
John Philpott, President
Stephen Radin
Mary Shogry-Hayer, Vice President
Paula Walczyk
AAA CouncilAdvisory
Robert Allard
Quentin Chin
James Clark
Maria Craft
Frank Engels
Lisa Fletcher-Udel, Chair
June Green, Vice Chair
Sandra Lussier
Vincent Marinaro
Meri-Ellen Morgans
Mary Shogry-Hayer
Berkshire
Senior Newspaper
Kathleen Cleary
Deborah Golden Alecson
Berkshire
Senior TV
Diane Chicoine
Jeff Turner
Home and Community Based Programs
Nancy Belouin
Deena Berman
Carolyn Coco
Carol Couture
Alexandra Huber
Elaine Hunter
Jean Ketchum
Julia Lenney
Mary Ellen Levin
Karen Oak
Colleen Powers
Vicki Robare
Laurie Schwartz
Mary Spina
Diane Weinstein
Money Management Program
Elizabeth (Bet) Azar
Sharon Bartels
Joyce Boivin
Carol Boucher
Beverly Clarke
Judith Douville
Tanya Haas
Susan Holland
Kristina (Tina) Kelly
Heather King
Paula Morey
Karen Oak
John Philpott
Victor Roy
Ronald Terry
Joseph Tirrell
Gini Titterton
Donald Usher
Nutrition Program
Sandra Aasen
Rose Alessio
Bonnie Andrews
Anna Beining
Ellen Bernardo
Richard Bosche
Amy Butler
Franke Clarke
Kathleen Cleary
Carol Couture
Dennis DeVergilio
Robin Dewkett
Judith Douville
Michael Ende
Donald Freedman
Jasmine Gage
Kathleen Garofalo
Andrea Gaylord
Eric Paul Greenberg
Sally Haver
Carole Hilderbrand
Rosemary Houghtlin
Charles Joch
Jean Ketchum
William Kormanik
Erna Lampman
Julia Lenney
Alan Metzger
William Moreau
Susan Morris
Katara Mullett
George Oleen
Susan Pitman
Theodore Pitman
Donald Pulver
Georgina Riley
Pierce Roberts
Warren Robertson
Susan Rothschild
James Schantz
Dennis Sears
Dan Skorcz
Robert St. Peter
Kathy Staropoli
Joanne Stegner
Samantha Tangney
Peter Traub
Diane Weinstein
Rena Zurofsky
Ombudsman Program
Virginia Bosco
Cristine Byrne
Michael Evans
Virginia Lafond
Eileen Gabriel
Georgette Kinney
Carolyn Palmucci
Deb Wehry
Partnership Volunteers
Riverbrook Residence
Jewish Federation of the Berkshires
SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone)
Janice Brindisi
Patricia Carlino
Peggy Clary
Phyllis DeMartino
Karen DeOrdio
Terrill Douglas
Frank Engels
Michele Gilligan
Judith Hyde
Nancy Leren
Pattie Pero
Steven Rosenthal
Larry Shea
Catherine Spinney
William Tarmey
Gini Titteron
Winnie Veretto
Thanks to Volunteers!
continued from page 10
well supported.
During a year in which often the safest bet was to stay safe at home, our volunteers answered the call to serve on our Board of Directors and Advisory Council, help prepare and deliver meals, write articles for the Berkshire Newspaper, help produce the Berkshire Senior TV Show, provide SHINE counseling and money management services, advocate for residents of Berkshire County’s nursing homes, shop for groceries for consumers and much, much more. We have some new volunteers and some who have been with us for a very long time…a few are approaching 18 years of service. One of our more prolific
volunteers has provided 6,659 lifetime hours of volunteer service to our consumers. During the past year, our volunteers on the accompanying list provided 6,240 hours of service. This is the equivalent of three individuals working full time and another working a day a week. Keep in mind…..all of this occurred during a pandemic.
You, our volunteers, have stuck with us through thick and thin and continue to share your time, talent and compassion with our consumers. You are extraordinary people and we are incredibly proud of you and how special you are to our consumers. On behalf of the Agency and our consumers, we extend our warmest wishes of gratitude and thanks to our volunteers for helping us live our mission every day!
Zoom Tips for Success
By: Christian Tenczar
These days sometimes the best way for us to see the people we care about is through the use of technology. Zoom is perhaps the most common technology for this as it’s easy to use, doesn’t require you to register or create an account, and typically just works. Zoom has even become a verb these days as folks might ask, “do you Zoom?” or maybe even suggesting, “we can Zoom with you whenever you want!” Here are some tips to help make your next Zoom a success.
Choose a Device
You can use Zoom from just about any type of device including a computer, a tablet like an iPad, or most smartphones. Installing Zoom is pretty straight forward, the first time you join a meeting you will see popup messages asking you to install Zoom. Installing Zoom on a tablet or smart phone is just like installing any other app, it will bring you to your device’s store and you tap the button to download Zoom. Zoom is free, so there won’t be any charges or credit cards required to download and use Zoom if you just want to join a meeting.
Joining a Zoom Meeting
As explained above, Zoom
“I’m proud to be an RSVP volunteer”
-Roger ( volunteering at the Berkshire Museum since 2013 )
is pretty easy to use. To join a meeting all you need to do is click or tap on the link which will be sent to you by the person organizing the meeting. This link might come to you in an email, a text message, or perhaps even through Facebook. If you can’t find the link to join then just ask the meeting organizer to resend it and make sure you know how they are sending it to you. If you have a preferred way to receive the join link, email for example, make sure you let them know!
Zoom Tips
There are two main buttons to be aware of in Zoom, the camera on/off button and the mute button. If you can hear others in the meeting but they cannot hear you, then you are probably muted. Look for the mute button, it’s always in the lower left corner of the Zoom window and looks like a radio-style microphone. If you are muted it will have a big red slash on it, just click it to unmute yourself. The camera on/off button works the same way, just click it to toggle your camera on and off. If you are on a smartphone or a device with more than one camera you can switch cameras by clicking on the little arrow on the camera on/off button.
Roger and nearly 300 volunteers from the Retired Senior Volunteer Program are helping operate over 50 amazing non-profit agencies around Berkshire County. Why not join us today? If you are 55 years old, reside in Berkshire County, and desire to give back to the community, RSVP is for you. Call 413-499-9345, or visit our website.
RSVP Benefits
• Mileage reimbursement or van transport to job
• Annual recognition luncheon
• CIMA insurance coverage
• Annual Big E bus trip
• Quarterly newsletter, monthly new job listings
• Networking and social contacts
• Bi-monthly birthday celebrations Get Active—Have Fun—Give Back !
Thank You To Our Donors:
The following donations were received between January 1, 2021 and February 28, 2021. Donations received on or after March 1, 2021 will appear in the next issue of the Berkshire Senior.
Memorial Donations
In Memory of Greno and Norma Buratto:
Marc and Wendy Buratto
In Memory of Thomas Cadorette: Wendy A Marshall
In Memory of Edwin Cooke: Christine M. McGinniss
In Memory of John DiTomasso: Remo, Dino and Janice DiTomasso
In Memory of Dorothy Gentile: Teresa Gentile
In Memory of Clarence Green:
Glenn Duffy
Matthew and Kristin Steiner
In Memory of Jane Hanlon: Paul Guillotte
In Memory of Marilyn Harte: Brooke Hubley
Ellen Krupka
Friends of Pittsfield Ballina Irish
Sister City
Heath and Linda Thomson
Joan Bailey
John and Cheryl Blaisdell
Peter and Stephen Nykorchuk
Robert and Carolyn LeBlanc
In Memory of Janet Kerwood:
William D Kerwood
In Memory of Stephanie Pasternak:
Donna Pasternak
In Memory of Margaret Polidoro:
Alan and Judith White
C. Nancy and Raymond Woitkowski
Carol Pomeroy
David and Theresa Allen
Diana Mancivalano
Edward and Debra Albuquerque
Elizabeth Palucci
Frances Ricci
Joseph and Elizabeth Gingras
Joseph and Lavina Perri
Joseph Williams and Laura Touponce
Judith Bernardo
Margaret Callahan
Marilyn Manning
Mary Ann Archey
Michael J. Nichols
Patrick and Barbara Mooney
Patrick and Lois Ricci
Ronald J. Ricci
In Memory of Della and George Shogry:
Cindy Shogry-Raimer
In Memory of Mary Simeone: Charles Nichols, Jr.
Dawn Fahey
Dery Funeral Home
In Memory of Passed Solari
Family Members:
Frederick A. Solari
In Memory of Phyllis Watroba:
Robert Watroba
In Honor of Donations
In Honor of E. Galliford:
Cynthia Armstrong
In Honor of John and Helen Fitzpatrick:
Sheila Fitzpatrick
In Honor of Cindy Armstrong:
Patricia Galliford
In Honor of James Parkington:
Amanda Parkington
Elder Independence
Donations
Adriana Brown
Albert & Lorraine Mancuso
Alex and Judith Nardacci
Allan and Susan Pike
Allen and Alice Bassen
Ann Piekos-Barber
Anna Murphy
Anne Fix
Anthony and Amy Anderton
Anthony Parise
Barbara Benham
Barbara Favreau
Bea DaSilva
Benjamin Schawinsky
Bernice Alcombright
Bernice Shainman
Bill and Pam Lundergan
Bob Veit
C. Robert Librizzi
Carol Agnew
Carol Christopher
Carol Kirby
Carole Holliday
Carole Kalisz
Carole Siegel
Carolyn Whitney
Cheryl Ann Chalmers
Christine Richards
Cia Elkin and Larry Gedd
Clifford and Lynne Nilan
Cynthia Sault
Daniel and Jean Murphy
Daniel Barnini
Daniel Pupo
David and Rosemary Morton
David Ariazi
David Grady
David Olds
David Vacheron
Dery Funeral Home
Diana Fontana
Diane Lavalle
Donald Alderman, Jr.
Donald and Marie Cripps
Donald and Sharon Briggs
Donald Goudey
Donald Hagberg
Donald Hanson
Donna Chenail
Donna Cwalinski
Dr. Alan and Dr. Roselle Chartock
Dr. Daniel Patel
Dr. Fred and Andrea Mensch
E. Bonnie Silvers
Edward and Emily Zoladz
Edward and Kathleen Denault
Edward and Linda Van Dyke
Edward and Pamela Bourdon
Edward King
Elizabeth Dillman
Elizabeth Shogry
Elliott and Grace Snyder
Enid Shields
Ernest and Carole LeBarron
Ernest and Sharyn Godbout
Eugene and Patricia Gebarowski
Fern Lavelle
Flora Fressola
Florence Reis
Frances Buckley
Francis and Patricia Malnati
Francis Laundry
Frank and Edna Aulisio
Frank and Jeanette Lagowski
Frank and Virginia Dubis
Frank Consolati Insurance
Agency Inc.
Franklin McLaren Jr.
Gary and Sandra Tatro
Gene and Justyna Carlson
George and Carole Manarchik
George and Judith Szecsei
George Bissell
George Smith, Sr.
Geraine Benham
Gerard and Christine Hurley
Gina Vinciguerra
Harold and Gretchen Hastings
Harold Rudin
Harold Sherman
Harry and Marjorie Horn
Harry Morey
Helaine Rose
Jacqueline Cobb
James and Jeanne Bill
James and Maryellen Tremblay
James Cross
James Furcinti
James Shippee
Jean Davis
Jean Shade
Jean Veazie
Jeanne Bresnehan
Jim and Bunny Whitman
Jo Ann Lancaster
Joan and Jean Boyle
Joan Hayford
Joan Kearney
Joan Zegras
John and Geraldine Crane
John and Jane Allen
John and Jeanne Davidson
John Masiero, Jr.
Joseph and Janet Rogge
Joseph Domenichini
Joyce Orell
Judi Drozd
Judith Weber
Judy Whitbeck
Julia Wolfrum
Kathleen Duquette-Penna
Kathleen McMullen
Keith and Reanne Palmer
Keith Blanchard
Kent and Catherine Salvini
K-M Motor Sales
Kurt Syer
Kyunghwa and Doo Kyung Choi
Laborer’s Local 473
Larry and Faith Newmark
Laurence Cohen
Laurie Mitchell
Laurie Spar
Leda Melideo
Lee Audio & Security
Lee McClelland
Linda Greenhouse
Linda Lamke
Linda Thomas
Lois Nangle
Lynn Barbieri
MacCaro Real Estate
Marilyn Barnes
Marilyn DeRosa
Marjorie Bissaillon
Mark and Karen Daigle
Martin and Kathy Brown
Marty and Pat Salvadore
Mary Ann Wojtaszek
Mary Hayes
Mary Mercuri
Mary Miner
Mary Shogry-Hayer
Maureen O’Brien
Maureen Strype
Michael Ancora
Michael and Justina Norton
Michael Cheesbro
Michael Oullette
Michelle Cutler
Michelle Smith
Mike and Carol Boucher
MyCom Federal Credit Union
Nancy Begbie
Nancy Bonvillain
Nancy Borges
Nancy Cook
Nancy Rodovick
Nancy Torrico
Neal Langlois
Norma Tomkowicz
Northeast Fabricators and Mechanical Services
Olivia Zegarowski
Patricia Colvin
Patricia Elser
Patricia Galliford
Patrick Litano
Patti Annechiarico
Paul and Sandra Merlino
Paul Lennon
Paula Farrell
Paula Wells
Pern VanCamp
Peter & Susan LePrevost
Peter and Jane Smith
Peter Dudek
Peter Karpenski
Philip Damon Jr.
Raymond and Jeanne Moulthrop
Rhoda Kaminstein
Richard and Anne Powers
Richard and Kathleen Luczynski
Richard and Rosanne
Beauchamp
Richard and Ruth Moon
Richard and Sandra Cobb
Richard and Wendy Clothier
Richard Kurek
Richard Nichols
Richard Phillips
Robert and Barbara Eccher
Robert and Carla Skidmore
Robert and Lynda O’Neil
Robert and Margaret O’Clair
Robert Garvey
Rose Rondeau
Russell Kenyon
Sam and Maggie Bittman
Sandra Kearns
Sara Burke
Scott Ketcham
Sheila Keator
Sophie Buck
Spencer Fraker
Stedman Stephens
Stephen and Elinor Long, Jr.
Steven and Sally Pullen
Sully and Mary Garofano
Susan Horsford
Susan Ricci
Susan Rothschild
Sylvia Jamros
Teresa Bragdon
Terrence and Mary Jane Hanlon
Therese Taft
Thomas and Jane Bernard
Thomas and Nioma Coen
Thomas Berkel
Thomas Maynard
Tom and Kimberly Jones
Tom and Marcia Partenope
Uldis and Maija Surmanis
Ursula Ehretdichter
Vicki Torrico
Victoria Williams
Virginia Cariddi
Virginia Miner
Vito and Maria Vitrano
Walter and Elaine LaPierre
Walter Asdikian
Walter Ritter and Dianna Deacon
Wayne and Lisa Tenney
Wayne Klug
Wendy Linscott
William and Janine Reid
William and Jeanne Bourdon
William Briggs
William Herrick
Wohrle’s Foods, Inc.
Woody Printz
Meals On Wheels
Donations
Bernice Alcombright
Jodi St Peter
Richard J Alcombright
SHINE Donations
Jeanne and Bruce Zdanis
General Donations
Andrew and Marcia
Powdermaker-Potler
Arthur and Louise Hillman
Betsey McKearnan
Bo and Katherine Peabody
Caron Hobin
Danielle Christ
David & Margaret Markham
Donna Pignatelli
Dr. Bruce and Barbara Shickmanter
Edwin Neumuth Jr
Ellen Mazzer
Frank Battista
Frank Lipinski
Gail Roger
Gregory Jones
Howard Rosenberg
Jane LePrevost
Jeffrey Bradway
King Francis
Knights of Columbus Berkshire
Hills Council #314
Lauren Svenson
Lee Audio & Security
Linda Watson Montone
Lt. John N. Truden VFW Post 448
Lydia Lake
M Patricia Fasce
Margot Towl
Mary and James Nicoll Cooper
Mary Ann Kirby
Paul and Karen Johnson
Peter Caron
Robert and Bonnie Connors
Robert and Lucy Bellville
Ronald & Martha Stewart
Sandra J. Kleiner
Sheila Irvin
St. Ann’s Church
Susan Coles
Tony Pagliarulo
Tony Pagliarulo
Tony Pagliarulo
Vera Lecocq
Egremont Council on Aging
Berkshire Senior Television
Currently airing on PCTV
Channel 1301 Access Pittsfield
Currently airing on PCTV
Broadcast schedule:
Channel 1301 Access Pittsfield
PCTV channel 1301
Broadcast schedule: Mondays at 5:00pm ▪ Wednesday at 8:30am Thursdays at 11:30am ▪ Saturdays at Noon
Mondays at 5 p.m., Tuesdays at 3 p.m., Thursdays at 11 a.m. & Saturday 11:30 a.m.
Or watch online, ON DEMAND on pittsfieldtv.org.
Thank you to our friends at PCTV for all their help in making Berkshire Senior TV accessible to our community.
Egremont COA continues to provide “Grab ‘N Go” lunches on the first Wednesday of each month. Pick up time is 12:00 –12:30 at The Barn at the Egremont Village Inn. Drive up, we will bring your lunch to your car and off you go to enjoy a delicious treat. Menus for each month are posted online 10 days before the event. We suggest a $5.00 donation to help with costs and reservations must be made. You can do so by calling 528-0182 x 16 It feels like spring is in the air. The warmer weather encourages us all to get out and start walking and getting some exercise. We have “Be Seen, Be Safe” vests which will help protect you as you walk Egremont’s scenic roads. The vests are free and are available from the Police Department, at the Town Hall or by calling 528-0182 x 16.
In addition to wearing your
Pittsfield COA
Since the vaccination clinics have opened up, The Senior Center has booked and assisted in securing over 2,000 appointments for our seniors. We realize this has been a difficult and trying time for seniors, caregivers and family members all so anxious to get an appointment. During these last few months we have still provided transportation, running two vans five days a week between 9am-3pm to medical appointments, grocery shopping, and transportation for our Supportive Day program that has since reopened operating five days a week also. Our grab and go meals have been a big hit still providing a hot meal to our seniors on a daily basis as a takeout meal to take home provided by Elder Services. We have been able to provide our yearly tax service here also by appointment as well as our foot clinic. Our Council has kept in touch with our over 500 seniors daily “checking in” via phone calls provided by our staff and local volunteers from RSVP as well as sending out our monthly newsletter while continuing with our monthly brown bag .
Our senior center is in the process of migrating over to a
vest it is necessary to practice safe walking: always walk facing traffic, walk single file, move as far to the edge of the road as possible when a vehicle approaches, and be aware of your surroundings. If you walk with your dog be sure they are leashed and out of traffic lanes. Remember, unless you are in a pedestrian zone, cars have the right of way.
The Town of Egremont and Egremont COA are in receipt of a Taxi Grant from the state. This grant provides rides for our seniors to medical appointments, grocery or other essential shopping trips, delivery of prescription drugs and transportation for essential workers. Call 528-0182 x 16 for more information.
Your COA is here to assist you. Be sure and call us with your questions or concerns. 528-0182 x 16
new look Facebook page , with informative information ,links, articles, programs and up to date happenings here at the center and around the city.
https://www.facebook.com/ pittsfieldseniorcenter
With the state slowly reopening we will be opening our doors back up to the public, doing a soft limited activities opening beginning no later than May 1. We will be starting with activities such as our ceramics group that meets on Thursday mornings, scrapbooking and socially distance exercise group. We will be opening our congregate meal site where you can come in and sit down along with continuing our grab and go meals from 10:30 -12. Our café will be opening for breakfast (only) from 8am-10.We will be hosting a volunteer informational meeting, if you would like to join our team of volunteers or have a suggestion for a class or activity please call us Monday - Friday from 8:30-4 @ 413-499-9346 with any questions and more information. Let our Senior Center become your Senior Center, a place to meet new friends, connect with old ones, exercise and socialize.
Chris McLaughlin, Executive Director of Elder Services, provides an Agency Update Shauna Post , SHINE Program Coordinator, provides information on the SHINE Program
News From North Adams Council on Aging
Like most of the world, we, too, find it difficult to believe that it has been more than a year since the Mary Spitzer Center was closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with efforts being made to immunize against the virus, we are eagerly anticipating the day that we can begin scheduling some small group activities. We remain hopeful that we can start hosting some pandemiccompliant events in the near future.
It is important to note that The Council on Aging staff has continued to work and be available throughout this past year. Below is a list of essential programs that we have maintained despite the many challenges we all faced.
• Monthly foot care clinics
• Socially-distanced Tai Chi classes
• Distribution of “brown bags”
• Income tax assistance appointments
• Grab and Go lunches
• Van transportation (operates 5 days per week)
We also work with the North Adams Library to distribute and retrieve books twice per week as well as distributing care packages from Berkshire Helping Hands. More recently, we are pleased to share that we have been able to add van transportation to Pittsfield for those who have medical appointments. This includes door-to-door service, enabling the people of our community to access the care they need at a time that health is more important than ever. For more information on this service, please call (413) 662-3125.
Perhaps most importantly, we are proud to be playing a major role in getting our seniors appointments for COVID-19 vaccinations. As one of the
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state’s regional centers, our staff of three has been fielding calls, facilitating appointments, and answering questions for the last several weeks. On an average day, we receive 80-90 calls and voice mail messages from inquiring seniors and their families/advocates. Thus far, we have advised or scheduled several hundred vaccine appointments and this important work will continue as new appointments are made available.
As we look forward to the summer and restrictions easing, please keep in touch with us to see what events you might be interested in. We are also pleased to hear from you with any suggestions or recommendations for activities that would provide value to our much-appreciated seniors. We look forward to continuing our work throughout the year, one that we hope will bring a sense of peace and hope to all.
Ser vice of
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0 Wa hcona h St. Pit t sfield, M A 01201 (413) 4 42- 4149 Donna Bre wer, O w ner Ste ven J Bre wer, Director
