~ February 2006 ~

and 

~ March 2006 ~

Calendar

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE DAVINCI CENTER SENIOR CITIZENS PROGRAM

The mission of the Senior Citizens Program follows the general theme of the overall mission of the DaVinci Center which is to improve the quality of the life of the residents of the North End of Providence and vicinity by taking an holistic approach in providing a broad array of quality services and neighborhood improvement projects that respond to the needs of the community, its families and individuals.  The Senior Citizens Program will offer programs and services that enhance the individual self-concept and maintain quality of life, dignity and self-respect of each and every senior citizen.  

In Loving Memory of

Gloria Harrison Borek 

On January 17, 2006 our dedicated retired Senior Citizen Program Director and  Caseworker, Gloria Harrison Borek, peacefully passed from this earth to her eternal reward.  Gloria, whom all remember as a cheerful fun loving creative and professional advocate for the senior citizens population served the elderly of our area for over 25 years.  She will be remembered not only for her sincere care for the disadvantaged, but for the numerous programs and activities she initiated, many of which are still in place a the DaVinci Center.  We will miss her physical presence, but her spirit will live on through all of us whose lives she touched and for the continuing services she initiated.

May God Bless her.  Please remember her in your prayers and thank God for giving her to us for all those years.

Start 2006 the Right Way

Come Join our New Exercise Program

Nia 

Fridays at 10:30 a.m.

A technique that involves dance movement, martial arts and healing.  This exercise program will get you moving in an enjoyable way.  You will walk away invigorated and ready to take on the rest of your day! 

 SENIOR CITIZENS:

DAVINCI CENTER MEMBERSHIP DRAWING

The next free membership Raffle drawing will be held on Wednesday, February, 8th during lunch.  All seniors who have paid membership dues for 2006 will be eligible for this raffle drawing.  Be sure to sign up for lunch on this day! 

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Dr. Greenberg, Podiatrist Schedule 

Dr. Greenberg, Podiatrist, will be at the Center on Thursday, March 9, 2006 at 2:00 p.m.  Please sign up with the receptionist if you would like an appointment for foot care.  272-7474

Heating Assistance

The Heating Assistance season has started and applications are being filled by appointments.  Seniors can call the DaVinci Center at 272-7474 and ask for Helen, Community Information Specialist.

 Income guidelines for 2005/2006

 $22,183 for    1 person household              $29,008 for    2 person household

 $35,834 for    3 person household              $42,659 for    4 person household

Additional assistance for seniors who have had their heat shut off.  For more information call DEA at 462-4000.

Information about energy assistance is also available from the Salvation Army (421-5270) and the Governor’s Office of Energy Assistance at 222-3003.

Property Tax Relief

February, 01 - April 15, 2006 

Once again it’s time for Property Tax Relief.  Appointments and applications will start on February 1st and will continue until Wednesday, April 12th.  Deadline for all application is April 15, 2006 

*If you own your home, are current on your property tax, or if you rent a dwelling that is subject to property taxes and your income is below $30,000 you may be eligible to receive up to $250.00 

*Documentation needed:  Proof of all household income for 2005 such as:  

SS Award letter 

Pensions

Interest income

Annuities

Wages Salaries

Any other income, plus rent receipt and property tax statement 2005. 

*Applications:  Please call Helen Grumbach (CIS) to schedule an appointment at 272-7474.

REMINDER!

January is Membership Renewal  Month for ALL Seniors! 

Renew your membership anytime during the month of January 2006.  As a member, you will be eligible for a $3.00 discount on each trip and you will also be eligible for a FREE Raffle drawing which is held four times during the year!  An emergency medical form is required to be filled out along with payment to receive your membership card.  Seniors will not be allowed to go on trips without filling out a medical form.  Thank you for your cooperation!

Facts about the Flu and Pneumonia Vaccines

 The flu and pneumonia are the fifth leading cause of death in the senior population.  So getting the flu and pneumonia vaccine could save your life!  Some facts you should know.  Doctors recommend that everyone 65 and over get these vaccines. 

 You cannot get the flu or pneumonia from the shot!.

 These vaccines are available at most doctor’s offices and clinics, and are fully reimbursed by Medicare.  We do not give the vaccines at the DaVinci Center .

Memorial Plaques

 In the main hallway of the DaVinci Center there is an attractive display of various size plaques engraved with persons names who are being memorialized by family and friends.  There are 3 sizes of plaques that still have space available.  They are as follows:  4^1/2 x 2 -$250.  6 x 2 - $500.  6 x 4 - $1,000.  If you would like to purchase this lasting memorial for a loved one or if you need more information, please contact John at the Center at 272-7474.

Medicare Part D 

Many of you are still wrestling with your decision on which plan to pick to fit your situation under Medicare Part D.  Each person has a unique situation depending on the medications you currently use or anticipate using.  While some of you have already made your decision most persons have not.  You have until May 15th to do so after which there will be a penalty for late entry.  Our staff is here to assist you and your family with the facts and procedures.  The final decision is yours.  Please call to make an appointment.  Do not just drop in because we want to give you the attention you deserve.  We are now taking appointments for mid February.  There are 173,000 persons in Rhode Island who are trying to make the decision and our caseworkers are doing their best to service everyone in a timely manner. 

Appointments continue to be booked with Helen (SHIP Counselor) and Denise for help with computer selection of the Part D Medicare.  Please allow at least 1 hour for each appointment.  Deadline without penalty is May 15, 2006.  Call 272-7474.

 *Because of the increased volume of telephone calls, we ask for your patience.*

Visiting Nurse

Schedule

 The Visiting Nurse will be available every other Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for blood pressure checks, health reviews, information and referrals on medical issues, etc. 

                   Friday, February 10, 2006                                     Friday, March 10, 2006

                   Friday, February 24, 2006                                     Friday, March 24, 2006

Services are Free. All Ages Welcome

Courtesy of Visiting Nurses of Greater Rhode Island

Home Cooked Meals

Every weekday at noon, the DaVinci Center offers you a home cooked meal prepared on premises by Chef Paul Pallotto.  These delicious, healthy meals for persons 60 years and older are $3.50.  Paul's delicious menus are available on line.  Taste his scrumptious desserts which alone are worth the price of the meal.  Make reservations 24 hours in advance.

Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Assistance

RIPAE 

The deadline for applying for or renewing RIPAE was January 15, 2006, however it has been a flexible deadline since so many are now still pondering over what Medicare Part D program to enroll in before they focus on RIPAE.  Therefore our word to you is to keep applying/renewing your RIPAE until further notice.  Call Denise at The DaVinci Center to schedule an appointment or to ask for information regarding RIPAE 272-7474.

Problems with RIPAE or Medicare Part D?

When you go to the pharmacy to purchase medication after you have enrolled in pharmaceutical assistance program -  if you are not in the computer at the pharmacy, if the amount of co-pay is incorrect, if your RIPAE card has expired, etc., there is help - Call The Point, which is an information Center at 401-462-4444.  They are troubleshooting specialists.

 Florette

Chocolate and the Heart

Wednesday, February 1, 2005

11:30 a.m.

 Florette Ruggiero, Registered Dietician, will be with us again on Wednesday, February 1st at 11:30 a.m. to speak about chocolate and the heart.   Just in time for Valentine’s Day.  Please try to attend and stay for Bingo!

CITIZENSHIP CLASSES 

The DaVinci Center will offer citizenship classes for legal residents who need help applying for citizenship.  Classes will be held on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. beginning February 7, 2006, and ending June 29, 2006.  If interested, call Cindy Roe at (401) 272-7474 .

Wednesday, February 8, 2006

11:30 a.m. 

Sandra Rosa from URI Pharmaceuticals will give a presentation on Wednesday, February 8th at 11:00 a.m. regarding Cholesterol.  This important health issue will look at causes, effect and treatment.

Lunch & Movie

Tuesday, February 21, 2006

12:00 noon

On Tuesday, February 22, join us for a delectable lunch prepared by our Chef, Paul Pallotto before we go to the movie.  The meal will include a choice of:

            Choice 1                                                      Choice 2

           Cream of Mushroom Soup                             Cream of Mushroom Soup

           Fresh Roast Turkey w/Gravy                          Sausage & Pepper Sandwich

           Mashed Potatoes                                          Green Bean Salad

           Peas & Mushrooms                                       Tapioca Pudding

           Cranberry Sauce

            Dinner Roll

            Tapioca Pudding

 After lunch we will board a bus to Cinema World at the new Lincoln Mall to view a movie of your choice.

 The cost for this trip will be $10.00 members, $13.00 nonmembers

(includes meal, transportation & movie)

Please contact Helen or Gail at 272-7474 to make your reservation.

LOOK WHAT’S HAPPENING!

New Food Service

At DaVinci Center

 We are happy to announce the hiring of Chef Paul Pallotto, a local gentleman with more than 25 years experience to prepare fresh homemade meals for you each weekday at noon.  A variety of new and familiar dishes are nutritionally balanced for your health.  Cost is $3.50 per meal.  You have a choice of one of two offerings each day—check the enclosed menu.  Please call 24 hours in advance to make your reservation.  Also plan to join us for before or after meal activities if you wish.

A Candle Lite Valentine Lunch

Tuesday, February 14, 2006

12:00 noon

 Let the DaVinci Center make Valentine’s Day a unique experience for you and your special someone.  Come to the Center and enjoy a delectable candlelite meal prepared by Chef Paul Pollatto.  We will have entertainment and raffle prizes will follow the meal.   Please call no later than Tuesday, February 7, 2006 for your reservations - 272-7474.  Donation: $3.50 per person.

Blue Chip Benefits Presentation

Wednesday, March 1, 2006

11:00 a.m. 

Susan Saccoccia will be here on Wednesday March 1st to discuss Blue Chip Benefits.

Through the Eyes of the Artist

Wednesday, March 8, 2006

11:00 a.m. 

This presentation will explore art history with all our senses.  It will include a biography various artists including interesting facts, stories, pictures and quotes.  This is sure to be an interesting presentation.  Please call the Center and let us know if you would like to attend this free mind expanding experience.

Lunch at the Center

And

Phantom of the Opera At Providence Performing Arts

Thursday, March 16, 2006

11:00 a.m.

Join us on Thursday, March 16th for a special lunch here at the Center.  After lunch we will head to the Providence Performing Arts Center to see Phantom of the Opera. 

The cost for this trip will be $40 for members and $43 for nonmembers. 

 We have reserved 20 super seats at PPAC for 1:00 p.m.  Don’t miss out!  Sign up soon!  Call 272-7474 and speak to Helen or Gail.

FEDERAL & STATE INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE FOR SENIORS (60 +) 

In March, Mr. Heston of AARP will be at the DaVinci Center to help seniors prepare their federal and state income tax forms on March 6th and 13th between 9:30 and 11:30.  Scheduling will be by appointment only!  Please call 272-7474 and speak with Helen or Gail.

“Assistant Chef”

Of the Week

Our Chef, Paul Pallotto has graciously offered to take suggestions for a menu one day per week.  As we plan out April and May menu we welcome your suggestions and Paul will apply his skills and recipes in preparing your menu for everyone to enjoy.  Make your suggestions in the Suggestions Box provided at the Center.

DaVinci Center Membership

 Please remember to renew your membership in January.  All memberships must be renewed this month.  As a member you will receive a $3.00 discount on each trip and be eligible for a free raffle drawing 4 times per year.  The enclosed form must be filled out and returned with your payment.  Thank you for your cooperation!  The information is needed in the event of an emergency situation.

 Membership Fee:  $10.00

2006 Senior Citizens Membership Sheet

Member Name: ___________________________________________

Member Address: __________________________________________

Member Phone Number: ____________________________________

Emergency Contact Name: __________________________________

Emergency Contact Phone Number: ___________________________

Health Problems: __________________________________________

Medications: ______________________________________________

________________________________________________________

Allergies: ________________________________________________

Streetscape of North End 

The DaVinci Center commissioned an artist to paint a picture of a landmark which was representative of the North End.  The artist, Shiyun Lee chose the Hopkins Square site at Charles Street and Branch Avenue with beautiful St. Ann Church in the background.  From the original, 1000 prints were numbered and signed by the artist.  We have them for sale here at the DaVinci Center for $50 each which includes a Certificate of Authenticity.  These make a wonderful gift or you can display them in almost any room in your home or in your professional office.   Call John at 272-7474 for more information or to order one or more.

 TRIP POLICY

Payment is due at the time you sign up for a trip.  Also, be sure to save your receipt as it has the bus schedule as well as your menu selection.  Refunds due to cancellations are only made if we can fill your seat!

FEBRUARY 2006 MENU