To sign up for any Council on Aging event or program, to reserve a seat on the COA van, or for more information, call 978-456-4120.
Unless otherwise noted, all COA programs will be virtual, via Zoom. Call 978-456-4120 to get the links.
Returning to normal
Life at the COA is starting to return to a semblance of normal. The front porch will be open for some small groups starting in May, but Director Debbie Thompson warns that the pandemic is not over, so COVID-19 regulations will still be in effect. Masks must be worn when not eating or drinking and seats must remain 6 feet apart. Coffee will be available, but each person must bring their own snacks. The bathrooms in the building will also be available.
Weekly trips to the grocery store in the COA van are starting again, but only two people will be allowed in the van at one time. The podiatry clinic is also back. The first clinic will be held Monday, May 24, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Call the COA to schedule an appointment.
Walking and workout class
This new class will be held Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m. to noon at the McCurdy Track, 35 Lancaster County Road, with instructor Nancy Webber. The class will include stretching, strengthening, and a gentle cardio walking workout, all socially distanced, allowing participants to enjoy the fresh air. Sign up early as space is limited.
Card-making class
On Tuesday, May 4, at 1 p.m., Heidi Siegrist will lead a class in making handmade cards. Supplies may be picked up on the front porch of Hildreth House on Tuesday, May 4, from 9:30 a.m. until noon. To join the class, contact Jen (jschoenberg@harvard.ma.us) or call the COA by Friday, April 30. All supplies except scissors are provided.
Bonsai basics workshop with Fivesparks
Join Harvard resident Miki Fitzgibbons of Countryside Bonsai on Wednesday, May 19, at 7 p.m. for an introduction to the art of bonsai design. This two-hour workshop will allow participants to create their very own bonsai plant, and to learn how to maintain and care for it. All plant materials will be provided in advance of the class. Registration required at www.fivesparks.org/event/bonsai
basics-workshop. Cost for the workshop is $75, which includes all materials.
Tax assistance for elderly and disabled people
The Elderly & Disabled Taxation Aid fund is set up to assist elderly and disabled residents defray the cost of their property taxes. The fund consists of private donations, and aid is distributed to those who are unable to pay their taxes without hardship. Funds are disbursed based on need and vary from year to year.
Applications are due by Monday, May 24, and are available through the Harvard town website, the COA, or the town treasurer’s office. Donations to the fund are accepted at any time and are tax-deductible. Questions? Call Director Debbie Thompson at the COA, or call the town treasurer’s office at 978-456-4100, ext. 318, and ask to speak with Lindsay.
Online fitness classes
All fitness classes are still being offered online, with the exception of the walking and workout class. Call for a Zoom invitation or to learn more. Stay tuned for when classes can meet in person.
- Weight strengthening/aerobics: Monday and Wednesday, 9 a.m.
- Line dancing: Monday, 10:15 a.m.
- Stretch and tone yoga: Tuesday and Friday, 9:30 a.m.
- Walking and workout: Tuesday, 11:15 a.m. at the McCurdy Track
- Zumba Gold: Wednesday, 10 a.m.
- Pilates: Wednesdays, 2 p.m.
- Stress reduction/meditation in movement yoga: May 12, 4 p.m.
- Hip hop dance chair class: May 26, 4 p.m.
Other regular programs
The coffee groups, fiber art and knitting group, and the vet cafe will be held on the porch if the weather is warm enough. Call the COA to check. The following programs are also offered online; call for a Zoom invitation.
- Women’s coffee: Friday, 10 a.m.
- Men’s coffee: Wednesday, 9 a.m.
- Fiber art and knitting: Thursday, 1 p.m.
- Vet Cafe: Second Tuesday of the month, 9 a.m. Join fellow veterans for coffee and conversation.
- Computer classes with Doug and Adam:
- Organizing files (for Windows): Friday, May 7, 11:30 a.m.
- Organizing files (for Mac): Friday, May 14, 11:30 a.m.
- Doug and Adam are also available for one-on-one sessions via Zoom. Contact the COA.
—Joan Eliyesil
