Key To Treating Autism
Autism occurs in approximately one in every 150 individuals. The member of diagnosed cases has increased dramatically in the past decade. Although there is no cure, early diagnosis and treatment have a significant impact on future progress.
“Studies at May Intitiute and other organizations show that children who start treatment at the earliest possible age require less intensive and restrictive services later,” explains Dennis Russo, Ph. D., ABPP, Chief Clinical Officer at May Institute. “It’s important for parents, pediatricians, preschool teachers, and other caretakers to understand the symptoms of developmental disabilities and to move quickly on diagnosis and treatment.”
The symptoms of autism include:
no babbling , pointing, or meaningful gestures by 1 year of age.
no one- word communications by 16 months.
no two word phrases by 2 years.
loss of language or social skills.
poor eye contact
inability to play appropriately with toys.
unusual attachment to one particular toy or object.
no smiling
apparent lack of response to sounds or voices and name being called.
Although the cause of autism has not been identified, current research links autism to biological or neurological differences in the brain.regardless of cause, autism is best treated by programs based on applied behavior analysis (ABA). As doctors make programs in diagnosis autism at an earlier age, more and more children are receiving this treatment at a young age when they are most receptive.
About May Institute
May Institute, a national organization, provides educational, rehabilitative, and behavioral health care services to individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, brain injury, mental illness, and behavioral health care needs. The Institute also provides training and consultation services to professionals, organizations, and public school systems.
Over the past 50 years, May Institute has evolved into an award winning national network that serves over 25,000 individuals and their families annually at more than 200 service locations in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Midwest, and on the West Coast.
May Institute shares its corporate headquarters with the National Autism Center and the May Center for Child Development. Together, the staff members from these organizations more than 60 doctoral and master’s level professionals- represent one of the country’s largest concentrations of onsite clinicians with expertise in autism, developmental disabilities, and applied behavior analysis.
For more information on autism, visit our web site at www.mayinstitute.org or call 800-778-7601
R/EMM: "Leaves be Greene" Theme for Recorder Workshop in Concord
Recorders/Early Music MetroWest turns to the arrival of Spring for the theme of its Sat. April 12, 2008 program beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 81 Elm Street in Concord. MetroWest area early music enthusiasts are invited to celebrate birds, bees, nature and all things in coached ensembles led by Sarah Mead, Sarah Cantor, Eric Haas and R/EMM founder Sheila Beardslee. These consort leaders, all well-known performers and teachers throughout the Northeast, will share tips on technique, interpretation and performance practice for novice to semi-professional players. Renaissance reed, brass and string players are always welcome at R/EMM meetings.
Our topic this month, "Leaves be Greene," is taken from a beautiful 5-part fantasia written by Elizabethan era composer William Byrd on a short popular ballad song of his day. Through artful and creative use of this short theme, Byrd has turned a little ditty into a virtuosic masterpiece. Recorder players will enjoy the opportunity to play this piece by Byrd -- as well as other Byrd works, and music about birds on April 12. Registration for instrumentalists is just $12, FREE for R/EMM members; please register by April 10.
Begun in 1999, Recorders
Early Music Metro
West actively supports programs for recorder enthusiasts of all abilities through classes, workshops, concerts, and networking with other Early Music organizations. The REMM program is open to all interested in the recorder and its repertoire. For further information, please call (978) 264-0584 or visit us on-line at www.recordersearlymusic.org.
Cleaning For a Reason Partners With The Maids
The Maids Home Services’ New England Marketing COOP Offers Cleaning Services to Help Cancer Patients Rest, Relax and Recuperate
The Cleaning For A Reason Foundation a Texas based, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing complimentary cleaning services to women undergoing cancer treatment – announces The Maids New England Marketing COOP (NEMC) has volunteered to donate cleaning services to cancer patients in eastern Massachusetts. The Maids NEMC will provide each patient with a rigorous housecleaning, once a month, inclusive of scrubbing, vacuuming, dusting and more. Each patient may receive up to four months of complimentary cleaning services.
“The Maids NEMC continually looks for ways to give back to the communities we serve and Cleaning For A Reason is a wonderful opportunity to directly impact the lives of so many community members in a positive way. Cancer treatment can dramatically alter a person’s quality of life. The Maids NEMC’s work with The Cleaning For A Reason Foundation allows people to convalesce in the comfort of their own home in a clean, familiar environment, restoring a bit of normalcy during an otherwise hectic time,” says Matt Donnelly, President of The Maids NEMC and Newton, MA.?based franchise owner.
The Maids NEMC understands that the immense physical and emotional impact of cancer treatment can be overwhelming to a person, making tasks such as cleaning one’s home an added stress. Many of The Maids NEMC members and staff have seen how cancer treatment has affected the quality of life of family members, community members and in some cases, themselves.
“It's inspiring to know that there are companies like The Maids NEMC who truly care about the communities they serve. You don’t need a medical background to brighten someone’s day and positively impact their life. The Maids NEMC prove this every time they leave the professionally cleaned home of a woman receiving treatment for cancer,” explains Debbie Sardone, Founder of The Cleaning For A Reason Foundation.
To apply for, or recommend someone for, The Maids NEMC’s free professional cleaning services for women undergoing cancer treatment please contact The Cleaning For A Reason Foundation at 877.337.3348 or visiting www.cleaningforareason.com.
The Maids NEMC was founded in 2002 by franchise owners of The Maids Home Services operating in the greater Boston area. The Maids NEMC was originally founded as a way to identify appropriate advertising opportunities, but has grown to serve as a peer group in which members share new ideas and best practices enabling the group’s entire membership to move their businesses to the next level. In addition, the Maids NEMC continually seeks new ways to make a positive impact on the communities they serve.
Founded in 2006, Cleaning For A Reason is the only foundation in the United States currently offering complimentary cleaning services to women undergoing treatment for cancer. The foundation recruits professional, residential housecleaning businesses such as The Maids NEMC, to deliver cleaning services on a local level in an attempt to improve the quality of life for the people they serve. The Cleaning For A Reason Foundation currently consists of 260 partners in 38 states and Canada.
Time is Growing Short to Send in Reservation
for the April 25th Annual Meeting/Luncheon of the West Concord Woman's Club. Your check of $25 must be received by Asst. Treasurer, Edna Wagner (82 Cottage Street, Concord) no later than April 21st. The luncheon will start at 12 noon at Harvey Wheeler Community Center and be catered by Robert of LaProvence. Luncheon choices will be Chicken aux Morilles (mushrooms) or Salmon au Champagne. No tickets will be issued. Reservations will be held at the door the day of the luncheon. Your hostesses will be the Club Directors, Isabel Rush, Fran Mitchell, Edna Wagner, Mary Aldrich, Marilyn Demers and Barbara Sayward.
A reminder from President, Marge Stetson to bring in new or slightly used, kitchen, toiletry and boutique items for the Scholarship Fair raffles. Another reminder from Assistant Treasure, Edna Wagner that dues of $20 for the coming year are due and will be collected at the luncheon. Please make your check payable to the West Concord Woman's Club.
Joyful Movement: A Dance Fusion Series
Learn how to move your body in ways you didn’t know possible from a safe body awareness and intuitive knowing. Experience Ballet, Jazz, 60’s, Pop, Funk, Latin, African, and Belly Dance. Each 3 hour workshop includes two multi-cultural dance segments with discussion circles, deep relaxation and meditation at the end. Wear layered clothes that allow you to move comfortably and bring water and a yoga mat.
Sat. April 12 11-2 p.m, Sat. April 19, 1-4 p.m., Sunday, May 4, 1-4 p.m.
$60 per class
At the Women’s Well, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, West Concord
Reclaiming Your Personality: Shifting the Energy of a Saboteur
We all have parts of ourselves that seem to work against us. With a combination of guided meditations and sharing, we will explore what makes these aspects of ourselves tick. We’ll also look at a 3 step approach that resolves the underlying issue once and for all.
Led by Carolyn Sprague
Sat., March 22, 2:30-4:30
Sat., April 19, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Suggested donation: $10-$15 per class.
At the Women’s Well, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, West Concord
Women’s Drum Lodge: Elemental Rhythms Healing Circle
Join Laney Goodman and other sisters as we call in each direction with a guided meditation on its healing qualities and element. Bring singing bowls, chimes, shakers, rainsticks, wooden flutes, pottery drums like the Udu or wooden tongue drums, frame drums and djembes. We will be chanting, sounding and toning. If weather permits, we will be bringing the Mother Drum to aid us in going deeper into Mother Earth with the heartbeat. These circles will teach us the power of deep listening and help take us deeper into our journey together as we heal ourselves and the Mother Earth. A-HO!
Sun., April 20, 6-9 p.m. $15 early/$20 regular
At the Women’s Well, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, West Concord
Celebrate the Temple: Spring Dance Workshops
Do you love to dance? Do you wish you could dance but fear you can’t Come join like-minded women in a safe, loving environment and let loose! During this 2 hour workshop, we will celebrate our body temple. Using dance and following our own kinesthetic knowledge of how to move—what feels right—we will connect to the unique and sacred voice in each of us that guides and protects us.
Led by Janet Farnsworth
Sun., April 13th and/or May 18th, 2-4 p.m.
$15 early/$20 regular per class
At the Women’s Well, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, West Concord
Spring Into Song
The Colonial Spirit Show Chorus invites women of all ages to come and sing with us to get rid of the winter blahs! We are learning new repertoire and would love to meet you! Rehearsals are Thurs., (7:15) at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Newtown Rd. in Acton off rt. 27. We sing a variety of music in four part a cappella harmony and are accepting new members. No singing experience is required and learning cd’s are provided! Call Noreen at 978-263-0562 or Norma at 978-692-2270 or check out our website www.colonialspirit.org . Colonial spirit is part of Sweet Adelines International , devoted to furthering the American art form of barbershop style. Funded in part by the Acton-Boxborough Cultural Council and Quantech.
New England Rose Society
Please come and join the members of the New England Rose Society on Sat., April 19. We are located at 241 Beaver Street in Waltham at the Umass Field Station. For all of you who are afraid to grow roses, this will be an excellent way to allay your fears! We’ll have members available with information on pruning, feeding and watering; weed, pest and disease control; how to plant a rose bush; compost and soil amendment; choosing the right rose; and garden planning and design. We may even come up with some other tidbits to help you out by the time the 19th rolls around.
So, throw away your fears of growing roses and drop by to see us. We’ll be happy to have you with us.
For further information, please call Cynthia Fraser at 978-369-3310, or e-mail saabsister91@yahoo.com.
Art and Lunch
Are you an artist living or working close to ArtSpace Maynard? Several artists at ArtSpace meet for lunch regularly and would like to invite you to join in for brown-bag lunches. Come talk about the creative process, art making, the business of art, and any other of a number of topics. Bring yourself, your lunch, and your ideas to ArtSpace Maynard on Wed. Thurs., or Fri., from March 12th–April 17th. Lunch is from 12:30–1:30. Enter the building through the columned main entrance or via the handicapped entrance at the back of the building. We look forward to lunching with you.
New England Stone Walls
Sun., April 13, 2 - 4 p.m., First Church of Christ, Congreg
ational, 25 The Great Road, Bedford. Free and open to all. Lecture by Prof. Robert Thorson of the University of CT. Prof. Thorson, a leading expert on this fascinating aspect of New England history, is the author of Stone by Stone: The Magnificent History of Stone Walls in New England, and Exploring Stone Walls: A Field Guide to New England Stone Walls. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Bedford Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. For information call 781-275-7276 or visit www.bedfordmahistory.org
Open House
Sat., April 13, 12-4 p.m., after the Pole Capping parade and ceremony, the Bedford Historical Society holds Open House at 2 Mudge Way (in the same building as the police station). Free and open to the public. The treasures in the Society’s collections tell many stories about the people of Bedford. Some of the items on view:
The cloak of the Witch of the Shawsheen. This hooded cloak, still a brilliant scarlet after nearly three centuries, is reputed to have belonged to Miriam Gray of Andover who married Bedford miller Benjamin Fitch in 1732. On Miriam’s arrival in Bedford the townspeople shunned her as a suspected witch. Was it because her entire wedding outfit was red? Or was it because her mother, who had testified in the Salem witchcraft trials, was herself suspected of practicing the dark arts?
Vintage photographs. Each of the 3,000+ photographs in the Society’s collection tells a story of its own. A large selection form a rotating slide show of images from the early days of photography into the present.
Receipt for sale for a young boy. Massachusetts outlawed slavery before most other states did but slavery was practiced even here in Bedford, as this receipt shows. Learn about this boy who gained his freedom and served as a Civil War soldier.
Video, “The History of Bedford.” Our town’s story in a nutshell, expertly presented by Society members Bob Slechta and Don Corey. How Bedford began, its ups and downs, its farms and factories, and some of the people and institutions that helped make Bedford such a delightful place to live.
Vintage clothing. A green, braided jacket that Scarlett O’Hara might have worn; a shoulder cape encrusted with jet beads; corsets and a bustle; fingerless gloves; beruffled baby clothes; a little girl’s pink silk dress, and a horse bonnet are just a few items from the Society’s exceptional clothing collection.
Made in Bedford. While never a mill town, Bedford did produce an array of manufactured goods in the 1800s. Some on display include bandboxes, elegant handmade shoes, Bacon’s Patent Lever Blind Fastener, the Bedford Razor, Red Feather candy boxes, the Farrington radio, medicine bottles for Dr. Hayden’s patent Viburnum Compound, and milk bottles from the J. B. Prescott and Blue Ribbon dairies.
Architecture in Bedford. Bedford people are justly proud of its many historic houses. Is that old house Federal or Greek Revival? A photographic display by Mary Hafer and Jan van Steenwijk highlights the distinguishing features of the styles exemplified by Bedford houses.
Experts on Bedford’s history will be on hand to answer questions and accept research requests. Free Bedford Flag postcards and maps to Two Brothers Rocks while supplies last. For information please call the Society’s office at 781-275-7276.
Bedford Arts and Crafts Society Meeting
A Presentation and Demonstration in Polymer Clay
Presenters: Camilla Frager and Dena Dubin
Camilla Frager’s early influence in the arts & crafts began with painting floor cloths, decorating wooden boxes, sewing, knitting, quilting and beading. Over time, Ms.Frager has become a multi-media artist with a focus on polymer clay to customize wearable art, purses and jewelry. Her work has been influenced by Asian art, floral inspirations, art deco and current trends and colors in fashion.
Ms.Frager is a member of the following Polymer Clay Guilds: Lexington Arts & Crafts Society, Central MA Polymer Guild and the National Polymer Clay Guild. She is the Second Vice-President of the Beadesigner International Society of New England and teaches beginner workshops for adults and juniors at the Lexington Arts & Crafts Society.
Deena Dubin works full-time as a software engineer at MIT’s Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington. Ms. Dubin took classes in polymer clay several years ago from some of the pioneers in the medium. A favorite reference book is Nan Roche’s book “The New Clay”. Ms. Dubin also experimented with other artistic media, namely charcoal drawing, pen & ink, etching, enameling, photography and jewelry making.
Ms. Dubin is a member of the National Polymer Clay Guild and is Program Co-Chair of Beadesigner International of New England. She also teaches classes at the Lexington Arts & Crafts Society.
Date: April 15, 2008
Place: Bedford Public Library Meeting Room.
Time: 7:30p.m.
The meeting is open to the general public and is handicapped accessible.
The Gleason Public Library in Carlisle Offers Free Workshop for Adults
On May 14, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Gleason Public Library, Miranda Heibel of Minuteman Senior Services will present "Having a Senior Moment", an informative program on memory loss.
This Caring Conversation is designed to help people understand the difference between the normal memory loss that occurs with aging and memory loss that is due to dementia or an illness such as Alzheimer's disease. Participants will also become familiar with the ten warning signs of dementia.
Miranda Heibel is the Program Manager for the Family Caregiver Support Program at Minuteman Senior Services. As the Caregiver Program Manager, Miranda is responsible for program oversight and direction, staff management, and all program initiatives. Miranda also provides: consultations, educational resources, and referrals to both caregivers and seniors in the community. In addition, Miranda is a certified trainer through the Alzheimer’s Association to provide training for both healthcare professionals and families, maximizing their skills in caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease.
This program is presented by the Friends of the Carlisle Council on Aging and the Friends of the Gleason Public Library. The program is free and open to the public. To register or learn more about this program, contact the Carlisle Council on Aging at 978-371-2895.
To learn more about other library events, please visit www.gleasonlibrary.org or call 978-369-4898.
The Maynard Rod and Gun Club
will once again host its annual Children's Trout Derby on Sat., and Sun., May 3rd and 4th 7:00a.m. – 4:00p.m. Children under the age of 7 are free, children ages 7-12: $5.00, children ages 13-18: $7.00 and adults are only $10.00. Limited fish per ticket, re-entry is allowed. Great prizes awarded each day. Bait and tackle will be available. Call the Club at 978-897-9873 or Peter Early at 978-793-0004 for further details.
During the Trout Derby, first year club membership is reduced from 235.00 to $150.00. The Maynard Rod and Gun Club, Inc. is located at 45Old Mill Road, Maynard, Massachusetts.
Free overnight camping available.
The 2nd Annual Thoreau Road Race
will take place on May 18th 2008 at the Thoreau School in Concord. This community event begins with a 1 mile Fun Run for the kids at 12 noon and a 5K race that will start at 12:30 p.m. A FamilyBBQ with entertainment will take place immediately following the race.
So don’t delay, start training with your kids and come join the Thoreau School in a community wide fun- filled afternoon.
Both kids and adults must register for the races by April 28th to receive a t-shirt. Get your registration form at : http://www.thoreauptg.org/thoreauroadrace08.pdf.
Huge Book Sale
at the Bedford Library runs April 11-13! Fri.'s hours are 1-4:30. Sat., 9:00-4:00 and Sun.,noon-3:00. Bargain prices always, and there is something for everyone. Come on Sunday for half price and a Bag Sale.
The sale is held rain or shine at the Bedford Library, 7 Mudge Way. Phone781-275-9440.
Kaye Spofford
781-275-7756
Are You Caring For An Elderly Family Member?
Cooperative Elder Services, Inc, an Adult Day Health and Alzheimer’s Day Program located at 7 Chamberlin Drive Concord provides respite care and a safe, structured environment for elders. The program serves elders from Acton, Boxborough, Concord, Hudson, Maynard, Carlisle, Sudbury, Wayland, Weston, Littleton, Bedford, Bolton, Lincoln, and Stow. The Program is open Mon., through Fri., 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. and door to door transportation can be arranged. Elders attend one to five days per week depending upon their needs. The program includes a light breakfast, full hot lunch and afternoon snack, daily nursing care, socialization and a full range of activities, and social service support. As one of our clients said “ The program has been a life saver. i get to spend the day with my friends and enjoy all sorts of activities”. Our goal is to help frail elders remain in their homes and the community. If you would like to visit the center or find out more information contact Pat Oliphant at 978-318-0046 or visit our web site at www.elderdayservices.com
April 5, 2008
Restoration Project Seeks Upholstery Work
Is your favorite chair looking tired? Restoration Project, a vocational program for adults with mental illness, has moved to West Concord and has openings for additional upholstery work. In addition to our excellent upholstery work we offer a fine line of designer fabrics. Call (978) 263-0416 for pricing or to schedule an appointment for consultation. Retortion Project is now located at 40 Beharrell Street, Suite6, West Concord.
Marines and Corpsmen
when did you celebrate your birthday last? we do every year Law Enforcement Marine Corps Assoc. p.o. Box 284- Acton , 01720 978-263-5450
Help for Those Middle School Years
The middle schools years are a time when many changes are occurring. Pre- teens may look older but their behavior can be erratic, emotional and hard to predict. How is your pre teen doing and how is your family adjusting to the new dynamics in your household? Come find out with Dr. Kathryn Yamartino and Tues., April 29th 2008 in the Flint Room at Bedford Town Center.
H.E.L.P is on the way! H.E.L.P or “ how to enjoy living with a Pre- Adolescent” bye Dr. Kathryn Yamartinio will help parents see the world through the eyes of their budding adolescents. moving from theory to practical application and always with a great sense of humor, Dr. Yamartino will address the range and motivation of many early adolescents behaviors offering strategies for constructive parental response. the event begins at 7:00 p.m. and will run until 9:00
the focus of the presentation is to get parents grounded in understanding what cognitive, emotional, and social changes are stirring in their early adolescent, and how those changes interact with the demands of school and home life. the goal is for parents to be relieved and pleased with what they learn.the sixth speaker in the Bedford Parent Education Series, Dr, Yamartino is a licensed psychologist and works with teens and their families at North Bridge Psychological Associates in Acton. she has been running well-relieved parent education programs in the area for many years. she is a favorite of Bedford parents so be sure to save the date. questions about the series may be directed to 781-275-7727
Music is in the Air at Trinity Episcopal Church!
Mark your calendars for April 6, 2008 at 4:00 p.m. when the Seraphim Singers will perform their first full concert at our church! Since its debut performance in 1997, the Seraphim Singers have created a special niche among Boston's performing elite, with sensitive and probing performances of sacred choral music. Founded and directed by Jennifer Lester, the ensemble consists mostly of organists, composers, and other professional musicians whose vast knowledge and experience nourishes a passion for arresting and demanding repertoire.
The program will feature a Motet by Johannes Brahms and selections honoring Mary, the mother of Jesus, with settings of Ave Maria, Magnificat, and other texts, and will include composers Heinrich Schütz, Anton Bruckner, Franz Beibl and James Woodman among others. The program will also include Chorale Preludes for organ by Brahms and selections of Sonata for flute by César Franck, played by members of the Choral Ensemble. Invite your friends and neighbors to this musical, spiritual treat. Donation at the door: $15/adults and $10/seniors/students.
Trinity Episcopal Church is located at 81 Elm Street, Concord. Our church is handicapped accessible. If you have any questions, contact Anne at 978-369-3715.
Emerson Umbrella Open Studios: Then and Now
The Emerson Umbrella Center for the Arts will hold its annual Open Studios on April 5 and 6. Each spring, the resident artists of the Umbrella throw open their studio doors and invite the public in to witness the creative process from the inside. Open Studio hours are Sat., the 5th from 12-5 pm, and Sun.,the 6th from 1-5 pm, at the Emerson Umbrella building at 40 Stow Street in Concord.
This year, in honor of the Emerson Umbrella's 25th Anniversary, the group exhibition in conjunction with Open Studios is titled "Then and Now," and features works by Umbrella artists from (approximately) 25 years ago, alongside current works. Resident artists asked the EUCA staff to also contribute to this show; the result is a lively and fascinating collection that highlights the varied backgrounds and interesting journeys of the individuals who comprise the current EUCA community.
In addition to the studios, the gallery, and the snacks available at the EUCA Café, the Open Studio weekend will also feature musical performances. On Sat., afternoon until 2:00, the Spencer Brook Youth Orchestra will hold an open rehearsal on the stage of the Emerson Umbrella Theater. And on Sun., evening at 7:30, Music for Robin will present Le Vent du Nord on the Theater stage. For information and tickets to Le Vent du Nord, see www.music-for-robin.org or call 781-862-7837.
For a list of artists participating in the Emerson Umbrella’s Open Studios, please see the EUCA web site at www.emersonumbrella.org. For more information call the Umbrella at 978-371-0820.
Concord Music Club
The Concord Music Club will meet in Concord on April 10 at 7:30p.m. The purpose of the club is to stimulate the study of music by providing the opportunity to perform with and for others. We have both performing and non-performing membership and we meet once a month during the fall and spring seasons, for a total of six meetings annually. We welcome guests and new members. The program will include music of J.S. Bach, Chopin and Hindemith. Please call Marjorie Franko if you are interested in joining and would like to come as a guest, or for more information. Tel. 978-369-8192
MCC Hosts Health Programs Info Session
Thinking about a career in health? Middlesex can help make it happen.
MCC offers 12 Health Careers degree and certificate programs. Learn more about these exciting career programs at Health Programs Information Session to be held at 3 p.m., Wed., April 9, in MCC's Federal Building Assembly Room, 50 Kearney Square.
Middlesex Health Careers degree programs include Dental Assisting, Dental Hygiene, Dental Laboratory Technology, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Assisting and Radiologic Technology. MCC's associate degree in Nursing program is offered as a full-time Day Option or as a part-time Evening/Weekend Option.
MCC also offers Health Careers certificate programs in Breast Sonography, Dental Assisting, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Assisting and Vascular Technology.
To learn more about Middlesex Health Careers Programs, call 1-800-818-3434 or visit our website: www.middlesex.mass.edu.
Beekeeping in Carlisle
Join local Carlisle beekeepers Ernie Huber, Katherine Endicott, and Leslie Thomas at the Heald House barn, 698 Concord Street, from 2 to 3 p.m. on Sun., April 13, for a discussion of the craft and science of beekeeping. Historical beekeeping artifacts from the Historical Society’s collection will be on display. Bring your questions for the experts and find out the challenges and rewards of local beekeeping.
Heald House will be open for general tours from 2 to 4 p.m.
The Annual Meeting/Luncheon of the West Concord Woman's Club
to be held starting 12 noon at Harvey Wheeler Community Center. The luncheon of either Chicken aux Morilles (mushrooms) with potatoes and carrots or Salmon au Champagne with rice and carrots, will be catered by Robert of LaProvence. No tickets will be issued. Reservations will be held at the door the day of the luncheon. Checks of $25 should be sent to Edna Wagner, 82 Cottage Street, Concord, indicating choice of entree on check please. Luncheon Committee are the Directors, Mary Aldrich, Marilyn Demers, Fran Mitchell, Isabel Rush, Barbara Sayward and Edna Wagner. All members of the Concord Woman's Club are cordially invited and urged to come.
President, Marge Stetson once again would like each member to bring any new item for the raffle baskets for the November Fair (toilet articles, kitchen items, assorted new gifts you may have received and cannot use). A reminder also that on May 17th the West Concord Woman's Club will be joining with the Concord Woman's Club in selling its jewelry in the Crosby's parking lot on Sudbury Road. (more about that at a later date).
HMS Pinafore Lands in Concord
Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic operetta HMS Pinafore will be performed by the Friends of the Performing Arts (FOPAC) at their 51 Walden St. home in Concord, on April 5 at 8 p.m. and April 6 at 2 p.m. The Concord Players, the Concord Orchestra, and the Concord Band, the primary members of FOPAC, will collaborate on this semi-staged production and contribute the proceeds to the maintenance of this important town Arts center. Tickets at $20, $15 for seniors and students, are going fast, as they did for last spring’s resounding success The Pirates of Penzance. To order by phone, call 978-369-7911, or order on line at www.51walden.org.
As in all G & S operettas, HMS Pinafore offers memorable melodies and witty lyrics, all served up in a mixture of parody, burlesque and satire. The general hilarity makes us laugh at the ridiculous plot and characters, and maybe a little at ourselves. A stellar cast of eight principals and a chorus of 40 “sisters and brothers and cousins by the dozens,” as well as sailors, whose captain is “hardly ever sick at sea,” are led by conductor Alan Yost. He is assisted by chorus director Sarah Telford, producers Sally Bull, David Atwood, and Carole Wayland, and costumer Dolores Carabello. Audiences are promised an evening of rollicking fun and glorious music.
VNA Care Network & Hospice part of inaugural National Healthcare Decisions
Goal to ensure adults have opportunity to communicate and document their future healthcare decisions
VNA Care Network & Hospice, a nonprofit home health care, hospice and wellness agency serving Eastern and Central Massachusetts, is part of a national, grassroots effort to ensure all adults with decision-making capacity have the information and opportunity to communicate and document their future health care decisions. National Healthcare Decisions Day will be celebrated on April 16.
With the Patient Self-Determination Act of 1990, Congress affirmed the right of every citizen to set forth his or her future healthcare wishes in writing with an "advance directive." In Massachusetts, a free legal form known as a health care proxy allows you to designate a person to speak on your behalf should you be unable to make health care decisions for yourself.
Just complete the proxy, sign it in front of two witnesses, and give copies to your designee (the person you ask to make health care decisions) and health care providers. The form is only put into use if your doctor determines you are unable to make health care decisions. You can cancel the form anytime you wish. The form is available at no cost by calling VNA Care Network & Hospice at 800-728-1862.
Choosing an Agent
The person you choose to speak for you is called the agent. Although not necessary, you can also appoint an alternate agent who would be called upon if your agent were unable or unwilling at the time. VNA Care Network & Hospice's home health care and hospice staff advises choosing someone you trust to make decisions based on your personal preferences and values. Your agent and alternate should agree to take on this role and be able to make decisions under stressful situations.
Completing the Proxy
When completing the health care proxy, it is important that you and the two required witnesses properly sign the form. Your agent and alternate agent can be anyone of your choosing, except an employee or administrator of a health care facility where you receive care unless that person is a relative by blood, marriage, or adoption. The witnesses cannot be the agent or the alternate agent. There is an optional place on the form to have the agent and alternate agent sign statements. Although it is not required, the health care professionals of VNA Care Network & Hospice recommend having them sign to assure they understand their role in your future health care.
Making Your Wishes Known
A key step in this process is having a conversation with your agent and alternate agent about your personal preferences for health care should you not be able to communicate them for yourself. Tell them you do not want them to feel the burden of making decisions without knowing what you wish.
VNA Care Network & Hospice's health care professionals recommend starting this process by reflecting on what is important to you about care at the end of your life. Do you have certain cultural or religious beliefs which might influence your wishes? How do you feel about life-prolonging treatments, such as resuscitation or mechanical ventilation, if the expectation was that you would never be able to interact meaningfully with your family and friends again? How important do you view pain and symptom control in the management of your illness even if the medications make you drowsy?
You might want to discuss your thoughts with others who might help you sort through your values and options. Your physician or clergy member may be especially helpful.
Then talk with your chosen agent and others who are close to you. VNA Care Network & Hospice's home health care and hospice providers recommend including family members in the conversation so everyone is clear about your choices. Don't assume they know your wishes.
Be clear about your wishes, giving examples of when you would want life-prolonging treatments started, when you would not want them started, and when you would want them withdrawn.
Personal Wishes Statement
Consider putting your wishes and choices into writing. Currently, there is no legally binding form for this in Massachusetts, but written statements can be used as a guide by your agent and your health care providers in making decisions for you if you are unable.
VNA Care Network & Hospice offers their own patients and the community a form called a personal wishes statement. It includes a list of various life sustaining treatments that you may or may not want your health care agent to pursue on your behalf as well as space to write additional considerations.
In all cases, be sure to communicate with everyone who might be involved in decisions for you, especially your agent(s) listed in the health care proxy and your physician.
Resources
VNA Care Network & Hospice provides free health care proxies and personal wishes statements by mail. Information and health care proxy forms are also available in Spanish and Vietnamese. Call VNA Care Network & Hospice at 800-728-1862.
VNA Care Network & Hospice has provided health care in patients' homes for more than 100 years. Services include nursing, rehabilitation therapy, home care aide support, social work, nutrition, disease management, and private duty care. Hospice for the terminally ill is available in patients homes and at three hospice residences, Chilton House in Cambridge, the Rose Monahan Hospice Home in Worcester, and the Tippett Home in Needham. For information about services, call 800-728-1862 or visit www.vnacarenetwork.org.
MARCH launches 50th Anniversary of Minute Man Arc!
On Sat., May 3rd, Minute Man Arc will hold its 4th Annual MARCH, launching a year of festivities and events to commemorate 50 years of providing programs and services to the community. The MARCH will be held at 130 Baker Ave Extension in West Concord between 9:00a.m. and noon. Participants can walk one, two or three miles through West Concord. Following the walk, there will be a special celebration with food, games and entertainment for all ages.
This year, more than 1,000 children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families in Concord and surrounding towns will access one or more programs that include early intervention, family services, vocational and residential services, a day habilitation program, recreation services for children and adults, and Special Olympics.
The Minute Man March is a wonderful family event as well as an important fundraiser for the agency, and we hope you will come and join in the fun and celebration. To register or sponsor on line, please go to www.minutemanarc.org.
Unique Collection of Handmade Dolls
For the month of April, the Concord Council on Aging is pleased to present the handmade dolls of Myrtle Kennedy. Mrs. Kennedy has been kind enough to share her collection with us – dolls that range in size and style, each lovingly handcrafted by Mrs. Kennedy. Following the display, the dolls are scheduled to be sold on our gift shop, Harvey’s Treasure Chest. The Concord Council on Aging is located within the Harvey Wheeler Community Center, 1276 Main Street in West Concord. Call the COA for additional information – 978-318-3020.
Music is in the Air at Trinity Episcopal Church!
Mark your calendars for April 6, 2008 at 4:00 p.m. when the Seraphim Singers will perform their first full concert at our church! Since its debut performance in 1997, the Seraphim Singers have created a special niche among Boston's performing elite, with sensitive and probing performances of sacred choral music. Founded and directed by Jennifer Lester, the ensemble consists mostly of organists, composers, and other professional musicians whose vast knowledge and experience nourishes a passion for arresting and demanding repertoire.
The program will feature a Motet by Johannes Brahms and selections honoring Mary, the mother of Jesus, with settings of Ave Maria, Magnificat, and other texts, and will include composers Heinrich Schütz, Anton Bruckner, Franz Beibl and James Woodman among others. The program will also include Chorale Preludes for organ by Brahms and selections of Sonata for flute by César Franck, played by members of the Choral Ensemble. Invite your friends and neighbors to this musical, spiritual treat. Donation at the door: $15/adults and $10/seniors/students.
Trinity Episcopal Church is located at 81 Elm Street, Concord. Our church is handicapped accessible. If you have any questions, contact Anne at 978-369-3715.
Art Space Presents – “Art Is For Any Age”
Don’t miss this evocative show by Concord’s own Elsie Petty. Elsie says “Art has been an important aspect of all ages and cultures, from prehistoric times to the present, and it can be an equally important aspect of an individual’s experience, from early childhood through all later stages of life. It is never too early or too late to appreciate and participate in artistic endeavors.” Come see this show of New England scenes through May 2, at the Concord Council on Aging’s Art Space Gallery. Art Space is located within the Harvey Wheeler Community Center, at 1276 Main Street in Concord. Please call 978-318-3020 for additional information.
Harvey’s Treasure Chest Donations Needed
Spring Cleaning? Reduce clutter and drop off new or gently used household items, jewelry or giftware at Harvey’s Treasure Chest, the gift shop at the Concord Council on Aging! Proceeds benefit the Friends of the Concord Council on Aging and donations are tax deductible (receipts are available upon request.) We welcome: jewelry, collectibles, pottery and fine china, candles, candlesticks, silver, etc. We do not accept clothes, shoes, books, electronics, household appliances, furniture or children’s games or toys. Call the COA at 978-318-3020 for additional information.
In addition, don’t miss the Pottery and Vase Sale, going on now at Harvey’s Treasure Chest! The flowers are just about to bloom – come in and pick out a vase to put them in! Harvey’s Treasure Chest has a unique and changing collection of one of a kind gift items. Whether the gift is for you or someone else, you’re sure to find just what you need at Harvey’s Treasure Chest!
344th Military Police Send-Off at Holiday Inn Boxborough
Soldiers give emotional good-bye to friends and family at Farewell Ceremony.
The 344 Military personnel met at the Holiday Inn Boxborough for a Farewell Ceremony on Saturday, March 29, 2008. With a standing ovation and tear-filled eyes they prepared to bid farewell, 90 members of the 344th Military Police company deploying to Iraq for one year, to train Iraqi police.
But the soldiers also have another task...keeping watch over loved ones from a distance.
Among the troops, too there was acknowledgement of the personal toll. Many of those going have already been deployed over the last several years. First Sergeant Brian Jackson served in Iraq from 2004 to 2005. Staff Sergeant Marc Gagnon completed a tour of duty in Guantanamo Bay Cuba. Lorie Collishaw has the unusual reality that her husband and daughter are deploying together. Approximately 500 people attended the farewell ceremony on Saturday afternoon that was held in the Holiday Inn Parade Room.
The Holiday Inn donated meeting space, audio visual equipment and various food & beverage items to help support the local military community. Dunkin’ Donuts and the local VFW also donated time and items to support the troops.
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