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
Hudson Church Hosts Guest Speaker
The Unitarian Church of Marlborough and Hudson will host the Reverand Laurie J. Auffant for the Sun., Worship Service on April 13th. She will speak on "Being Called to Respond." Rev. Auffant, the first out transgender minister to be ordained in the Unitarian Universalist Association, is the minister of the Unitarian Universalists of Lowell, an Emerging Urban Ministry in the Unitarian Universalist Association. The Unitarian Universalists of Lowell was founded in June 2006 as an intentionally welcoming community of faith committed to justice and the full inclusion of all people. Before coming to Lowell, Rev. Auffant served UU congregations in Storrs, CT and Arlington and Lexington, MA. In addition she is a certified Trainer for Our Whole Lives, a comprehensive sexuality educational program for young adults and adults and has led many Gay-Bisexual-Lesbian-Transgender educational trainings for colleges, high schools, and congregations.
The Unitarian Church of Marlborough and Hudson is one of many area UU churches that have given a helping hand to the new Lowell congregation. Says Rev. Alice Anacheka-Nasemann, Director of Religious Education, “Several months ago our church raised money to buy 50 hymnals to donate to Lowell. The children in our Religious Education Program decorated bookplates, and we presented the hymnals to Rev. Auffant and two members of the Lowell congregation during our worship service.”
Visitors are warmly welcome to Sunday church services and Religious Exploration classes every week at 10:30 a.m at 80 Main Street, corner of Main and Church, in downtown Hudson. The Unitarian Church of Marlborough and Hudson has been a part of these two communities for over 150 years. We are intentional about welcoming the presence and participation of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons in all aspects of congregational life. The congregation is a member of the Unitarian Universalist Association, a liberal denomination that encourages spiritual growth and embraces diversity. For more information, call the church office at 978-562-9180.
Got Goods? Got Merchandise? Got House wares?
The Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School Student Council will be hosting a community “Spring Fair” family event on Sat., May 10, 2008, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. in the school parking lot at 215 Fitchburg Street, Marlborough. This is an excellent opportunity to sell wares, advertise a business, or buy unexpected treasures. Clean out that garage or attic and give someone else the opportunity to enjoy your gently used merchandise! 10 by 10 booths are available for $20. For those who would like to promote a local business, but can’t make it, the Display Booth will feature business cards and pamphlets for a mere $5. General admission is free and non-perishable food goods will be accepted and donated to the Hudson and Marlborough Food Pantries.
To secure a booth, or for general information, email Frank Ferreer at Assabet Valley at fferreer@assabet.org, or call and leave a message at 508-485-9430, ext. 310. Booth reservations are on a first come, first served, basis. No phone reservations will be taken. Please mail check or money order, payable to Assabet Valley RTHS, to reach the school by May 2. Business cards or brochures for the Display Booth may be dropped off at the school or mailed to Ferreer by May 8.
Neil Simon's Rumors Transforms Hudson Town Hall Stage
The Neil Simon hit play Rumors will be presented by The River's Edge Players
on April 12 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the beautifully restored Hudson Town Hall. The auditorium is on the second level. The building is accessible and there is an elevator. Lynne Johnson directs this talented cast of ten
actors who will keep you laughing throughout the progress of this contemporary farce.
Due to explicit language, parental guidance is recommended. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors/students. Tickets purchased in advance are $2 less. Tickets are available by contacting the Arts Alliance call 978-562-1646 or visit the website upwitharts.org
Neil Simon is one of America's greatest living playwrights and screenwriters and also one of the most performed authors in the world. He has been
nominated for 17 Tony Awards and has won three times for The Odd Couple (1965), Biloxi Blues (1985) and Lost in Yonkers (1991). Lost in Yonkers also garnered Mr. Simon the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in that same year.
Lynne Johnson, Associate Director for Education at the Huntington Theater in Boston has been educating theater goers in Hudson for over 20 years including appearing in Hudson Spotlighters' productions, teaching drama at the Hudson Public Schools, being a founding director with the Arts Alliance Summer Drama Workshop (now celebrating its 20th year), and now directing for River's Edge Players.
The cast for Rumors is composed of Jen Fin of Framingham, Steve Pinner, Lara Simpson and Kevin Santos of Hudson, Jim Ethier of Leominster, Juliane Santos of Lowell, Justine Craven-Goetz and Steve Finn of Marlborough, Nicole Hatlevig of Stow and Victor Shakespeare of Sudbury.
A relatively new community theater company the River's Edge Players first presented the musical Godspell in the summer of 2006 followed by The Servant
of Two Masters by Carlo Goldini. In 2007 the Players presented the
hysterically funny But Why Bump Off Barnaby in April, the musical Fame in August and followed that with a comedy of errors It's Murder in the Wings in November.
Upcoming plans for the community theater group include auditions for the musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Director Sarah Worrest and Music Director Dennis Wrenn will see prospective cast members on June 12 and 14 for this very funny show that will be presented August 1, 2, 8, 9 at Hudson High School.
Photo Caption: Director Lynne Johnson looks on as cast and crew transform the Hudson Town Hall auditorium by putting up the set for Neil Simon's Rumors. Rumors can be seen April 11, 12, and 18th at 7:30 pm. at Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main Street. Tickets available at the door or call 978-562-1646 to
reserve.
Photo Caption: Actors rehearse for production of Rumors written by Tony Award winning author Neil Simon. Jim Ethier of Leominster, Steve Finn of Marlborough, Steve Pinner of Hudson and Nicole Hatlevig of Stow react to yet another situation. Come see it April 11, 12, and 18th at 7:30 pm. at Hudson
Town Hall, 78 Main Street. Tickets available at the door or call 978-562-1646 to reserve.
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.
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.
April 15, 9-7 Garden In The Woods Opening Day
\Get first choice of 550 nursery plant species for sale, many rare, including wildflowers, woody plants and ferns. Members receive discounts and all purchases support plant conservation. The trails and nursery are open 9-7 from April 15 through August 31, and 9-5 September 2 - October 31, 2008. WEEKDAY tours daily at 10:00 a.m.; WEEKEND tours at 2:00 p.m, no reservations needed. Tours are FREE with admission. Admission: $8 adults; $6 senior (65+); $4 youths 3-18; Children under three and members FREE. Informal tours included with admission, no reservations required. Reserve group and cart tours with Bonnie Drexler at bdrexler@newenglandwild.org. New England Wild Flower Society, Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham, MA 01701, www.newenglandWILD.org, 508-877-7630.
April 26, 9-7 EARTH DAY Bring the family to celebrate Earth Day with a stroll in the gardens,family-friendly workshops. Visit the Green Way to learn about conservation. Kids will enjoy activities and surprises throughout the day.FREE. Live animal shows include Jungle Encounters at 11, Animal Adventures at 1, and Rain Forest Reptile Show at 3. Plant a sunflower to take home. “Signs of Spring” scavenger hunt and the new “Green Way” environmental fair. Costumed creatures such as Ant Mini and Dottie the Ladybug welcome you and tell their stories about the upcoming BIG BUGS exhibit. THIS IS A FREE EVENT. New England Wild Flower Society, Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham, MA 01701, www.newenglandWILD.org, 508-877-7630.
Pruning Shrubs with the Pros: April 5, Sat. 1:30 to 4:30. $33M/40NM. Join us in this hands-on workshop while working in small groups for guided practice on shrubs. Discover ways to enhance plant’s vigor, health, and appearance and how the plant responds. Bring hand-pruners and dress for working outdoors, rain, snow, or shine. New England Wild Flower Society, Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham, MA 01701, www.newenglandWILD.org, 508-877-7630.
Lyme Disease: Prevention, Treatment, and Management for Landscape Professionals and Gardeners, Saturday, April 12, 1 – 4:30. $25. includes refreshments and handouts. This forum provides the latest information on Lyme Disease: transmission, range of symptoms, accurate and timely diagnosis, acute vs. chronic phases, and medical treatment options. We review methods of preventing infection through landscape practices and personal protection. Speakers will also address public health issues, educational efforts, research studies, and community resources. Attendees will come away understanding the importance of preventive measures and early detections. Cosponsored with The Underground. New England Wild Flower Society, Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham, MA 01701, www.newenglandWILD.org, 508-877-7630.
Relaunch your Career after Being a Stay-at-Home Parent
Join the Stow Area Parents Network and First Connections for a presentation by Carol Fishman Cohen, Co-founder, iRelaunch.com, and co-author of Back on the Career Track: A Guide for Stay-at-Home Moms Who Want to Return to Work. This informative talk will be held on Mon., April 28th at 7:30 p.m. at the StowTown Hall at the corner of Great Rd./Rt. 117 and Crescent Street. There will be a $5 fee to attend and Carol Fishman Cohen’s popular book will be available for purchase for a nominal fee. Men who are interested in getting back into the workforce after a career break are also invited to attend. Visit iRelaunch.com and take advantage of the many resources offered for people restarting their careers. There is no fee to join and use their services. You can also contact Theresa O'Riorden from SAPN if you have any questions(theresaoriorden@comcast.net, 978-562-5643).
The Nashoba school district SPED PAC
(Special Education Parent Advisory Council) will meet Wed., April 16th at 7:15 p.m. at Nashoba Regional HS. Please come view the documentary film "Including Samuel" by photojournalist Dan Habib and join the discussion following the movie. This film examines the educational and social inclusion of youth with disabilities. For more information on the film please visit www.includingsamuel.com . This is a great opportunity to find out more about program options and share your insights.
Meeting topics for next year are being solicited and needs assessment surveys will be distributed at the meeting. Let us know what you’d like to see for future meetings.
The SpED PAC meets monthly through May. Meetings include presentations on a variety of subjects and provide a forum for interaction with other parents, professionals and community members who have experience with children with special needs. Additional events of which may be of interest are posted on the group’s NEW website along with meeting information. Please visit: http://nashobaspedpac.googlepages.com/home.
Meetings are also listed on the NRSD website on the SPED PAC page. For more information or to be added to the monthly email distribution, please contact Joan Finger at zootergroup@rcn.com or (978) 337 5132. or ( 978) 779-6046.
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
Hudson Youth Baseball And Softball Apparel
You still have time to get Baseball or Softball jackets, pullovers, track pants. just fill out the form that you get from your coach or download a form from our web site and mail it to:Maria Davis 43 Woodrow St. Hudson, MA 01749. orders will be taken April 21st through may 3rd or order on line any time through our web site www.eteamz.com/hybs.
Don’t Miss Out!
Remember Picture Day is May 3rd at Hudson High School.
About the Assabet Valley Area Family Network
The Assabet Valley Area Family Network is a nonprofit organization that provides free family education and support to all families with children aged pre-birth through 3 years who live in the towns of Hudson, Marlborough, northborough, Southborough, and West
broough. The Family Network is funded by a grant from the state of Massachusetts’ Department of early Education and Care.
Open House
Hudson Historical Society invites the public to attend Open House on Sun., May 4, 2008 from 12 to 3 p.m. at their new Museum quarters, on the fourth floor of the Hudson Business Mill Center( former Hudson Worsted Co. Mill), 43 Broad St., Hudson. The public may view many of the Society’s valuable collections of antique furnishings and clothing, decorative and useful housewares, photographs, books ect. from Hudson’s past. Refreshments will be served. There is elevator access.
Assabet River Trail Run
Get off the pavement and into the woods during the Assabet River Trail Run. Run, jog, or walk along the Assabet River and through Stow’s Town Forest at 8:30 a.m. on Sat., June 7, 2008. Proceeds from the run will go to support the Stow Boy Scouts Troop 1 in their high adventure trip to the Wind River Range, Wyoming. The scenic course is approximately 3.1 miles and includes wide and single track trails. Awards will be given to the top finishers and t-shirts to the first 100 registered entrants. No pets, strollers, or baby joggers, please.
The registration form and a description of the course are available at www.troop1stow
.net/artrun or you can email ARTRun@airtaxi.net for more information. Forms must be postmarked no later than May 31, 2008 for the pre-registration fee of $20. Race day registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. and will cost $25.
The Stow Town Forest is located at the end of Bradley Lane off Route 117 in Stow, Massachusetts.
April 5, 2008
Crafters/ Artists Wanted
MetroWest Humane Society is seeking craftpersons and artists to participate in our Second Annual Arts and Crafts Fair. We welcome all who do original work in any medium. The fair will be held on the Framminham Common, Edgell Rd near the intersection of Rte 9. The date is Sat., Sept. 13,2008, from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., rain or shine. A single space, approximately 12’ x 12’ is $60.00.
MetroWest Humane Society is a no- kill shelter that seeks permanent loving homes for abandoned, abused, neglected and semi- feral cats and kittens. We also operate a trap- neuter-return(TNR) program to aid in feline population control and to ease the suffering of unadoptable cats living in the wild.
All space fees will directly benefit our programs.
Application forms and information are available on our web site at http://www.webpaws.com/mwhs/events.html or by contracting our coordinator, Jeanne Ridolfi, at 508-787-0069. jeanne44@comcast.net
Mothers and More
Meeting of the Assabet Valley Chapter of Mothers and More on "Finding a Hobby" - After having children, finding time for ourselves can be a challenge. No matter how much we may want to have a hobby, being able to dedicate the time required to explore potential hobbies can be difficult. A Mothers and More member will lead this meeting on finding a hobby that is right for you and learning more about an existing hobby. Visitors welcome for information, refreshments, and an evening out. Tues., April 8 at 7:00 p.m. at Whitney Place, 5 Lyman Street in Westborough. Mothers and More is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of mothers through support, education, and advocacy. We address mothers' needs as individuals and members of society and promote the value of all the work mothers do. The Assabet Valley Chapter of Mothers and More has over 80 members including but not limited to the Berlin, Grafton, Hudson, Marlborough, Northborough, Shrewsbury, Southborough, and Worcester areas. The local chapter offers topical discussions, mom's nights out, playgroups, family activities, guest speakers, on-line discussions, book club, movie club, couples nights, and more. For more information, please call (508) 936-6882 or visit www.mothersandmoreassabetvalley.org
Voter Registration for Stow’s 2008 Annual Town Meeting and Annual Election
April 15th is the last day to register to vote for Stow’s 2008 annual town meeting and election to be held in May. On April 15th, the town clerk’s office will be open extended hours, until 8 p.m., for a special voter registration session.
Voter registration may also be done by mail in Massachusetts. The mail-in form must be received by the Stow Board of Registrars of Voters or postmarked on or before April 15th to be registered for the town meeting and election. In Stow, the mail-in voter registration forms are available in the Town Building, Randall Library and the post office. Stow voters are to mail their voter registration form to: Stow Town Clerk, 380 Great Rd. Stow, MA 01775-2127.
Stow voter registration may be done year-round, at the Stow town clerk’s office,
Mon., – Thurs.,, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. The office is closed daily for lunch 12:30 p.m.– 1 p.m.
Check the town website at www.stow-ma.gov for additional information or contact the Stow town clerk, 978-897-4514 ext 1.
Free Family Emergency Planning Seminar
Prepare your family in case of a disaster
The Hudson Health Department will sponsor a FREE seminar on emergency preparedness on Sat., April 12, 2008, 11 a.m. until noon. The seminar will take place in the main auditorium of Grace Baptist Church at 353 River Road, Hudson.
The seminar will teach you how to prepare a family emergency plan, including a 72-hour kit to sustain your family during a disaster. Doris Moore, who serves as Massachusetts Emergency Preparedness Planning Region 4A Assistant MRC Coordinator, will present how to put together family emergency plans and emergency kits. She is a Hopkinton resident.
Additionally, the local Medical Reserve Corps will present volunteer opportunities to those interested in assisting the public in the event of a disaster. You do not need to be a medical professional to join.
Hudson is one of 34 cities and towns in the Commonwealth’s Emergency Preparedness Region 4A, which also includes Marlborough, Southborough, Framingham, Stow, and 29 other neighboring towns.
The seminar is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Sam Wong of the Hudson Health Department at (978) 562-2020, swong@townof
hudson.org.
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.
English As a Seconds Language By Dial
The Dial( Directions in Adult Learning) Program specializes in english as a second language classes for adults at all levels of English language learning.
Level 1: is for adults with little or no English skills. It stresses basic English useful for everyday needs. Acquiring confidence in using newly learned English is of prime importance here.
Level 2: Helps those with some basic English skills to practice structuring sentences using simple verb tenses, basic, grammar, and new vocabulary. Listening skills, pronunciation, and question formation are some other topics addressed
Level 3: Aims for higher levels of speaking. Using previously learned grammar and verble structures, and vocabulary, pronunciation and phasing when speaking take on added importance here.
Level 4: works to integrate all aspects of English in order to achieve a more sophisticated level of speaking. Those in a business setting will benefit from practicing to speak on spontaneously on a variety of topics to provide the opportunity to isolate pronunciation and accent reduction needs. also addressed at this level will be complex grammar, verb structures, and new vocabulary used in both speaking and writing.
Classes begin Tues., April1 and will meet at the Acton/Boxboro High School every Tues., and Thurs., 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. for 12 weeks. Evaluation for class placement will take place on the first night of class in room #154W. You MUst Be Registered To Be Evaluated..
For more information about the DIAL Program and registration visit our web site at www.dialesl.com or call (978) 263-6538. To register by phone, call (978) 266-2525
Coldwell Banker Residential Blood Drive
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Acton office hosted a Blood Drive on March 13, taking in 11 units of blood in the 5 hour period. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage opened several conference rooms for the Blood Drive, and offered both a bagel breakfast and a light lunch, which made for a relaxing, comfortable experience for the donors. Everyone who donated was entered into a drawing to win a massage certificate from Karen Wright, of Wrightouch Massage for health in Stow. Regina Buckley of Scheier & Katin Law Office won the massage. MetroWest Medical Center’s blood technicians ( phlebotomists) are engaging, talented, gentle and kind, making the blood donation experience easy.
The process of giving blood is easy and only takes an hour. Most people can donate blood,although few people do, which is why the Blood Drives are so important. A person can donate blood every 56 days, must be over 17, and must weight over 110 pounds. With restrictions on blood donation raising all the time, the more willing and able donors who do give is crucial especially the universal types 0 and 0 negative.
Coldwell Banker will be hosting another Blood Drive on Oct., 23, 2008. Please watch and plan on donating then. Or call Nancy Claire Evens of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 978-697-1391 for more details on blood donation
19th Annual Meeting of the Members
The Middlesex West Chamber of Commerce (serving the towns of Acton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Littleton, Maynard, Stow and Westford) will hold its 19th Annual Meeting of the Members on Fri., April 18, 2008 from 11:30-1:30 at Concord’s Colonial Inn, 48 Monument Square, Concord. Keynote speaker for the event is Ken Lizotte, Chief Imaginative Officer of Emerson Consulting Group of Concord, who transforms companies, consultants, attorneys, executives and other specialists into “experts with an edge” also known as “thoughtleaders.” Ken is a popular professional speaker at national conferences, including seminars for Harvard University, author of four books, co-founder of the National Writers Union and has been interviewed by BusinessWeek, Fortune, Newsweek, Writer’s Digest, CBS News, and National Public Radio. His latest book, The Expert’s Edge: Become the Go-To Authority People Turn To Every Time, published by McGraw-Hill, explains exactly how to become the leader in your field and industry, bar none.
The Board of Directors will thank its current president, Kenneth Sundberg of Realty Executives of Eastern Massachusetts, and welcome new President, Shawn Linehan of Workers’ Credit Union; as well as say good-bye to retiring Board members. The Middlesex West Chamber of Commerce’s corporate sponsors are: Emerson Hospital, Concord Health Care Center and Middlesex Savings Bank. The Nominating Committee will present the nominees for the 2008-2009 Board of Directors: Lou Genovese of Smudged Graphics, Paul Hutchinson of Hutchinson Consulting, John Lawlor of Practical Decisions, and Christopher Anderton of Real-E Marketing. The members will vote for approval of the nominations.
Members who are celebrating their 5, 10 and 15 year anniversaries with the Chamber will also be recognized. Tickets are $32; or $225 for a table of 8. For more information, please call the Chamber office at 978-263-0010 or visit our website at: www.mwcoc.com to reserve your seat today! Reservations must be made by April 11, 2008.
Tidbit 19th Annual Meeting of the Members
The Middlesex West Chamber of Commerce’s 19th Annual Meeting of the Members will be held on Fri, April 18, 2008 from 11:30-1:30 at Concord’s Colonial Inn, 48 Monument Square, Concord. Keynote speaker for the event is Ken Lizotte, Chief Imaginative Officer of Emerson Consulting Group of Concord. Ken is a Certified Management Consultant, popular national speaker, including seminars for Harvard, author of four books, and co-founder of the National Writers Union. His latest book, The Expert’s Edge: Become the Go-To Authority People Turn To Every Time, explains exactly how to achieve an “expert’s edge” to become the leader in your field and industry, bar none.
The Members will thank its current Board president, Kenneth Sundberg, welcome new President, Shawn Linehan, and say good-bye to retiring Board members. The MWCoC’s corporate sponsors are: Emerson Hospital, Concord Health Care Center and Middlesex Savings Bank. The Nominating Committee will present the nominees for the 2008-2009 Board of Directors: Lou Genovese, Paul Hutchinson, John Lawlor, and Christopher Anderton; members will vote for approval of the nominations.
Chamber members who are celebrating their 5, 10 and 15 year anniversaries will also be recognized. Tickets are $32; or $225 for a table of 8. For more information, please call the Chamber office at 978-263-0010 or visit our website at: www.mwcoc.com to reserve your seat! Reservations must be made by April 11, 2008.
Middlesex West Chamber of Commerce
77 Great Road, Suite 214
Acton, MA 01720
978-263-0010
www.mwcoc.com
Premier Sponsor:
Emerson Hospital
www.emersonhospital.org
Diamond Sponsor
Concord Health Care Center
Platinum Sponsor
Middlesex Savings Bank
Hudson High School Lists Class of 2008 End of Year Events
In order to ensure a successful and meaningful graduation for our students and to prevent misunderstanding and disappointment regarding participation in the many activities planned, a senior/parent/guardian meeting is scheduled for Mon., April 14, 2008, at 6:30 p.m. in F101. The high school senior class advisors, Mr. Champigny, and Mr. Stapelfeld will be in attendance. All senior plans will be discussed and clarified. A list of financial obligations owed by members of the Class of 2008 will be available, and payment can be made that evening.
Auditions for the Baccalaureate Ceremony will be held in the auditorium on Wed., April 16, 2008 at 10:00 a.m.
The deadline to submit a childhood picture and senior portrait to Mr. Macedo for inclusion in the Baccalaureate Photo DVD is Friday, May 2. Please note that this DVD is not of the actual Baccalaureate Ceremony and is a separate activity from the yearbook baby ads.
Senior exams are scheduled for Fri., May 16, and Mon., May 19. The last day of classes for Hudson High School seniors is Mon., May 19, 2008. Seniors will be dismissed at 10:33 a.m. following their exams. Seniors need to submit their Class of 2008 Graduation Statistics Survey to Mrs. Ahearn in guidance by Mon., May 19. Caps and Gowns will be distributed to seniors on Tues., May 20, beginning at 8:00 a.m. in G101. All academic and financial obligations must be met before seniors can receive their Cap and Gown.
The Senior Class Spirit of Boston Cruise is scheduled for Fri., May 23. The bus will leave school grounds at 10:00 a.m. Permission slips must be turned in to Mrs. Ferns by Fri., May 2.
On Tues., May 27, beginning at 6:45 p.m., the senior reception will be held at the Doubletree Inn in Westborough. Seniors must sign up with Mrs. Ferns by Fri., May 2. Hilton Photography will be available for informal pictures at the reception beginning at 6:45 p.m. Payment will be due that evening.
The Baccalaureate Ceremony will be held in the auditorium on Wed., May 28, 2008 beginning at 7:00 p.m. Rehearsals for Baccalaureate are scheduled for Wed., May 21, Thurs., May 22 at 8:30 a.m. and Fri., May 23, Tues., May 27, and Wed., May 28, at 8:00 a.m.
Members of HHS’s Class of 2008, HHS staff members, family and friends are invited to participate in a Softball Tournament beginning at 2:45 p.m. on Thurs., May 29, at the Elk’s Pavilion, Park Street. A Senior/Parent
/Staff Barbecue will follow the softball tournament on Thurs., May 29, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Please sign-up with Mrs. Ferns by Fri., May 2. A canned food drive to benefit the Hudson Food Pantry will be held.
The graduation ceremony will be held on Sun., June 1, 2008, beginning at 1:00 p.m. in the High School gymnasium. Graduation practices are scheduled for Tues., May 27, Wed., May 28, and Fri., May 30 at 8:00 a.m.
The Town Of Hudson, Department Of Public Works
Will be flushing hydrant
sthrough out the town beginning Fri., April 4th through Fri., May 2nd Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00a.m.
work will begin in the eastern portion and proceed west until completed. residents may notice some discoloration of the water. Please contact the D.P.W. at 562-9333 if you have any questions.
Please come join us at the Hudson Public Library
April 22nd at 7p.m. for a workshop on How To Balance Your Hormones Naturally. There is no gimmick and no catch. The only thing we ask is that you be over 18 years old and have a health problem that concerns you. If you are looking to find a natural solution to PMS and menopause you will not want to miss this how to program!!! Seating is limited to the first 15 callers. You must RSVP to attend. Please call The Wellness Center (508) 357-8940
FREE workshop on HOW TO BALANCE HORMONES NATURALLY. There is no gimmick and no catch. The only thing we ask is that you be over 18 years old and have a health problem that concerns you. If you are looking to find a natural solution to PMS and menopause you will not want to miss this how to program!!! Please come join us at the Marlborough Public Library on April 29nd at 7pm. Seating is limited to the first 10 callers. You must RSVP to attend. Please call The Wellness Center (508) 357-8940
Please join us at The Harvest Cafe in Hudson,
on April 9th at 6p.m. for a free dinner workshop on How to Manage Stress and Fatigue Naturally. Dinner will be served at no cost to you. There is no gimmick and no catch. The only thing we ask is that you be over 18 years old and have a health problem that concerns you. If you are looking to find a natural solution to decreasing stress and fatigue you will not want to miss this how to program!!! Seating is limited to the first 15 callers. You must RSVP to attend. Please call The Wellness Center (508) 357-8940
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