Lifestyles over 50 April Schuylkill

Encouraging vibrant and healthy living in Schuylkill, Carbon, Luzerne and Berks Counties

FREE – Volume 2 – Issue 9 – Spring 2013

Get In The Game - Golf Things To Do With The Grandkids!

Local Events!

w w w.lifest ylesover 50.com

FROM THE EDITOR Ah, the sights and smells of spring! Isn’t it just a beautiful time of year? We’ve made some big changes here at Spectrum. We have relocated our offices to the Masonic Building on 2nd Street in Pottsville. We’re really happy to be there! We recently celebrated our five year anniversary for care management. We are grateful to offer our services to seniors in need for the past five years. And we are looking to continue to improve our magazine to benefit our readers.

Please make plans to get outdoors and enjoy the nice weather! There are many opportunities throughout our region to golf, don’t forget miniature golf with the family or friends, walk, fish, camp, hike, enjoy gardening, oh the list is endless! Enjoy our feature article on golfing!

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PUBLISHER Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc. 91 Pebble Lane, Tamaqua, PA 18252 www.Lifestylesover50.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Kimberly S. Noel, 570-624-9674, knoel@lifestylesover50.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Kimberly Medalis EDITOR AT LARGE Cheryl Feeser

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Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

The political debate over the future of Social Security and Medicare is warming up IS

Your Number Your Card the future of Medicare and by Pat Nemetch Social Security. of income and health documentation (originals or certified copies security only). in retirement arrival means the signs District of springManager They’re calling it You’ve Earned A Say for most Americans. More than 1.8 million

By April’s Greg Senich, Social Security in Hazleton In almost all cases, though, an application for your newborn’s are all around us, the decide days arethey longer, theto applybecause you’ve earned benefits by paying seniors statewide depend on Social Security Often times, people need for a new Social Social Security card and number is taken in the hospital at the sun is brighter and trees and plants are into Social Security and Medicare for benefits to help paybirth the bills every month, Security card because they can’t find their old one. As long as same time that you apply for your baby’s certificate. beginning to show colors once again. years, and you deserve to know how any and 1.9 million count on Medicare to help you have all of the required information and documentation, There are a number of them reasons a baby or child same time, the political debate Socialproposed afford health care. may need a Social it’s At notthe difficult to obtain a replacement Security changes card. Butwill affect you and your Security number, but the main one is so that you can claim your over theeven future of Social and don’t need family.

The fact is we all have an interest in here’s better news:Security you probably the card. child as a dependent on your tax return. Your child also will need Medicare is warming up as well.

For more If you are wondering why you should keeping Social and Medicareand When you think about it, your Social Security number is your a Social Security number to apply for Security certain government than a year, the President and Congress join this conversation, it is because your strong for our children and grandchildren.

Social Security card. That is, knowing your number is usually all social service benefits. have about changes retirement By working together, getting involved you’llbeen evertalking need. Memorize yourtonumber, andhealth you’ll and never leave security are at stake.

Whether you need Securityour card for yourself orcan yourkeep Medicare and Social Medicare is facing financial challenges.

The a Social and making voices heard, we home without it. Security as part of a child, it’s easy to apply for one. But remember: if you already budget deal without discussion Medicare hospital bills will Social Security and Medicare strong for In the event that youany really do wantabout or need to get a fund that payshave one and just can’t find it, in most cases all you really need how any changes would affect you and face a shortfall in 2024.

Social Security can today and foryour future generations. replacement card, either for yourself or for a child, you can find is to know your number.

Memorize Social SecurityVisit number, your family.

AARP wants to bring the pay all promised benefits until about 2036, www.earnedasay.org for straightforward all the details at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. The “Get Or and you’ll never leave home without it. debate from behind closed doors after that,onit can still pay 75%. information and to share your ideas about Replaceout a Social Securitythe Card” page providesand information Learn more about yourhow Social card and number at www. in Washington holding a national Yourdocuments voice matters, because Social to Security strengthen Medicare and Social how to obtain abyreplacement card and what specific socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. you need to provide. situation but in most conversation to ensureEach you have a sayisinunique,Security and Medicare are the foundation Security. bring the application to Social Security with the appropriate

cases you simply need to print, complete, and either mail or

French Toast Casserole 8 slices bread, cubed 2 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, cubed 1 doz. eggs

1 t cinnamon 2 t vanilla 2 c. milk

1. Put 1/2 of bread cubes in casserole.

2. Put cubed cheese on top of bread. Put on rest of bread cubes.

Attorney Danielcream Miscavige, shown here, 3. Whip eggs.

Add cinnamon and vanilla and milk. Mix well. along with other professionals from 4. Pour over bread and cheese. the community, E. Franklin Franklin 5. Cover Griffiths lll and , andrefrigerate Pam Hessovernight. of Genworth 6. Next morning, bake 375 degrees Financial were recently at at Heritage Hill for 45 minutes. Serve with syrup or fruit.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Senior Community to discuss planning for your future. Those in attendance said they received important information that they were not previously aware of.

Residents and guests enjoyed the Italian cuisine and danced to the music of Tony Angelo at the That’s Amore event held here at Heritage Hill Senior Community.

1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen broccoli 2 c. cooked, cubed chicken (can use left over chicken) 2 c. cooked rice 1 c. Velveeta cheese, grated 1 (10 oz.) can cream of mushroom or chicken or celery soup 1 (3 oz.) can French fried onions (optional) 1 soup can milk 1. Cook broccoli according to package directions.

2. Combine chicken, rice, cheese, broccoli, and soup.

3. Add 1 soup can of milk; mix well. Pour in buttered 1 1/2 quart casserole.

4. Top with onions, if you are not using onions you may use bread crumbs or cheese.

5. Bake in 350 degree oven for 30 minutes or until top is brown and crisp.

Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

3

Game Change How To Be a Better Golfer as You Age

by Jeff Tintle, Jr.

Nobody is getting younger, and if you are a reader of this publication you probably aren’t getting stronger. Our bodies change and consequently our approach and preparation must change to participate in the hobbies that we love.

One of the favorite hobbies for those over 50 is golf. I sat down with an expert to get the best advice for improving your golf game. Mark Csencsits, PGA, is a charismatic ambassador for golf and the head golf pro at the Bethlehem Golf Club.

“Everyone wants to have great drives off the tees. When we are young we look to add yardage to our drives, but when you hit age 50, your goal becomes trying to maintain your driving distance,” says Csencsits. “The first thing that people need to do is get fit for golf. In the Northeast golfers take winter off and tend to get out of shape.”

Mark recommends that golfers maintain fitness through winter time with activities like yoga or tai chi. Weight training,

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swimming and other activities are also valuable but he acknowledges that not everyone enjoys them.

“If you look at the mechanics of a golf swing, people need to be able to make the motion. This includes flexibility in the legs, torso and arms to maintain good swing speed. Hindrances like belly fat, muscle tightness, and fatigue will effect swing speed and range of motion. “Activities that target general fitness, conditioning, and stretching help golfers remain strong and flexible for the game they love,” notes Csencsits.

The second piece of advice is to take advantage of all the technology available. “There are so many equipment options.

People typically are not playing with an ideal set of clubs.”

Csencsits recommends getting properly fitted for clubs. This not only includes the proper length and types of clubs, but also flexibility in the shafts and weight in the heads.

Csencsits also says that many golfers should add new clubs to their sets, like hybrids in lieu of their 3, 4 and 5 irons to give them additional distance. “Belly putters” say Csencsits, “are also becoming popular and are ideal for older golfers. The putting stroke is actually one of the first things that golfers loose as they age and belly putters make putting easier. Jumbo hand grips for the clubs are also a good idea due to overall decreased hand strength and sometimes arthritis.” Csencsits also explains that technology has also improved the options for balls that are available, so golfers should be playing the best ball for them.

Other advice from the golf pro includes playing the proper tees.

Csencsits notes that “No one accustomed to playing the standard tees their whole life wants to step down to the senior or women tees.

The reality is that there are times when people need to do it, its within the rules of golf and they shouldn’t feel bad about it. I find that when golfers get over the psychological effect of changing tees, their game improves, they become more competitive with their group and they have more fun. Golf is supposed to be fun.”

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Lastly, Csencsits says, “Golfers that are serious about their game should have lessons with a professional to receive the obvious benefits of coaching, things like swing mechanics, breaking bad habits and even course management (knowing which club to use in varying situations). Csencsits recommends finding a good golf pro with whom they get along well.

Csencsits, for example, is insistent that the traditional mentality of golf is unlike any other sport. He rhetorically asks if we can imagine basketball, football or baseball practice without a coach.

He says that this is the reality of golf. “Golf,” according to Csencsits, “is the only sport where golfers practice on their

Continued on Page 5

Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

Caregiving Stress

by Kate Resh, Director of Assessment and Referral, Haven Behavioral Hospital

While the job of a caregiver can be rewarding and important, it can often feel overwhelming, stressful, and isolating. Having helped care for a grandparent at home whose life was stolen early by vascular dementia, I connect often with families and caregivers who are struggling with caregiver stress. Feelings of stress, desperation and sadness that come from serving as a caregiver are common. Caregivers tend to have a greater risk of becoming depressed, having trouble sleeping, and with less time for themselves to enjoy personal, reflective time.

The first step for caregivers is to recognize when burnout is approaching. Caregiving comes with a host of conflicting emotions. Am I making the right decision? Am I following the doctor’s instructions correctly? You may feel frustrated or overwhelmed. You may grieve for the life you used to know. You may feel guilt, on the heels of anger and resentment. Caregivers must be able to be honest with themselves, as well as other family members and friends, who may place stress or guilt upon the caregiver to excel in their role. Caregivers often face the stress of also holding down full or part time jobs, raising their own families, and running errands for more than one household.

Caregivers must seek out help from their families, friends, and support networks for their sake, as well as for the sake of their loved one. Resources that can often provide help include Agencies on Aging, Alzheimer’s Association chapters and support groups, as well as physicians and social workers who specialize in working with older adults and their families. Support groups are one way to seek time for yourself and connect with others who share a similar experience with you and can provide you support and suggestions.

The staff at Haven Behavioral Hospital understands how you feel and wants to help you be the best “you” you can be. Caregiver burnout can lead to more serious mental health problems.

We want to help you return to your role as a caregiver with an improved mood, mental stability, coping skills, and ability to handle stresses. For information about options for inpatient or partial hospital treatment, call (610) 406-4346 and an Intake Coordinator will be happy to explain treatment options.

Ways to Reduce Caregiver Burden: •

If you are having trouble finding family or friends to help shoulder the care giving duties, you can look into personal care assistants, home health services, adult day programs, companionship, and volunteer programs through your local United Way. To search for resources in your area, use an online directory, search engine, or your local Agency on Aging to help you.

•

Find small ways to take time for yourself, such as having another caregiver make breakfast for your loved one while you have a cup of coffee with a friend. Make an appointment for time with yourself and schedule this in your planner. If able to do so, arrange for someone to cover your care giving during your time for yourself.

If you are not able to leave your loved one, make time for yourself in the early moments of the day, when your loved one is napping, or in a relatively calm state.

•

When you need extended time of your own, investigate respite care as a resource. Respite care provides breaks for caregivers intended to be short-term, such as going away over the weekend or for a few days during the week. Many skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities now offer this service. Check with your local nursing home to see if this is a service they can provide. Short breaks will help to sustain your health and mental well being and come with the added benefit of increasing your socialization, improving your mood, and allowing you to return to care for your loved one refreshed and feeling whole.

Continued from Page 4 own and occasionally have lessons with professionals on the driving range.

Csencsits is implementing a new program to be with his golfers and clients while they practice.

In the golf business since 1992, P.G.A. Golf Professional Mark Csencsits is the Head Teaching Professional at the Bethlehem Golf Club. Mark can be reached at (610) 428-3434 and http://lehighvalleygolfpro.com/.

According to Norma Fritz, from Villas Crossing, they offer forward tees. She said these tees are typically forty feet closer to the hole than other tees.

They are used primarily by seniors and women.

Villas Crossing golf course is one of our many local golf courses. They are at 521 Golf Road in South Tamaqua, West Penn Township, just 1.5 miles from 309. They are planning a lot of events and parties. They’ll feature bands with a variety of music from good old rock and roll to country and western and so much more! They have a golf pro to help you improve your skill. They have women’s wine and cheese and men and cigars leagues as well. For more information stop in, visit villascrossing.com, or call (570) 386-4515.

Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue 5

Things to Do with Your Grandkids in the Spring!!!

by Lesa Rumbalski

Lesa Rumbalski is the owner of Bear Haven Boutique which has a website at www.bearhavenboutique.com as well as a local display at the Lewis General Store in downtown Schuylkill Haven.

When she is not planning parties or chasing children, you can also find her writing her blog Bear Haven Mama’s Tales at www. bearhavenmama.com While Spring is a little shy this year, it is coming! With spring comes warmer weather and lots to do with little ones! Here are a few suggestions to get you started.

For a rainy day, you can visit the Reading Museum between now and May 5th for the Lego Castle Exhibit. Along with the Lego exhibit, there is also a fun Jelly Bean art exhibit too. You can finish the day down there with a trip to Cold Stone Creamery, which is a must for my children when we are in Reading.

If you are going to be in the Reading area, you might also want to consider visiting Grings Mill for some outdoor fun. There are some wonderful places to walk and have a picnic, but they also have a great playground too.

Speaking of playgrounds, Schuylkill County has a lot of fun playgrounds for kids. One of my family’s favorites is the Buck Run playground. The playground is surrounded by a fence and has an area for big kids as well as little kids. For my family, it is a little bit of a trek, but it is definitely worth it!

One other thing to look forward to in the Spring is the Bear Creek Festival at the Schuylkill County Fairgrounds on May 19th from 12 to 4. Children get to learn about the environment while participating in fun activities.

how things grow. It also gives the children a sense of pride in knowing they helped. You can take pictures of it and create a spring time scrapbook with them as well.

Another fun thing to do is art projects. If you are stumped for ideas, you can always hop onto my website for some craft ideas or stop by the Lewis General Store for some fun craft kits as well.

I hope this has given you some good ideas for things to do with your grandchildren this spring.

Please feel free to stop by the Bear Haven Boutique Facebook page and give me your feedback on what activities you have enjoyed with your grandchildren.

Remember These??

However, you don’t have to take the children anywhere to have a good time in the spring. If you are planting flowers or a vegetable garden, include them. It is a great learning experience to see

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Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

Working Smart When Bringing Care Home

by Janine Reppert, RN, SPHR, Aaron Healthcare, Inc. Sometimes starting the conversation is all it takes to prepare the plan....

If you had a stroke and were told you needed to find a place to recoup and rehabilitate, where would you like to go?

If you had a heart attack, what hospital do you want to go to?

If you could not live alone, where would you like to live?

If you broke your hip and could only go home with a home care agency, is there an agency you prefer?

If you had cancer, would you want to try alternative treatment and/or receive radiation or chemotherapy?

If you needed end of life care, would you want hospice care and to remain at home?

Sharing your wishes or learning the wishes of loved ones will help in implementing care and ease the worries of wondering if you’re doing the right thing.

If you’re already caring for a loved one it’s a good idea to answer the care questions for yourself. Additionally, ask yourself, how will my loved one be cared for if I am unable to provide the care I do today.

Yikes! Scary thought, right?

Well fear not! Thinking these things through along with some planning, communication and documentation is all it takes to rest easy!

Several legal documents can accomplish much of the above for you or your loved one. A will, advance directive, POA, living will and durable health care power of attorney keep YOU in control; not the children or the government. There are many attorneys who specialize in elder law, as well as provide options for low income needs for legal advise. Make sure your parents know that questions that may seem to be intrusive and perhaps even bad manners to ask, is sincerely for their own protection and quality of life.

Emphasize they should use their assets to enjoy quality of life; they earned it and you acknowledge their money is theirs.

If they express the intent to leave you an inheritance, certainly be thankful but reiterate their careful saving led to their ability to care for themselves and that, too is a gift.

loved one, completing an assessment of tasks being done and managing those tasks to maximize all available options will help you or your loved one remain safe in their home.

By utilizing the care assessment worksheet you can determine which tasks require help outside the family or those that incur a cost and how much. You can also research the many options available to assist you in maximizing time.

A free task worksheet is available at www. lindarhodescaregiving.com. Tasks are broken down by two categories: activities of daily living (i.e. personal care such as bathing/dressing, meals and meds), and instrumental activities of daily living (i.e. shopping, laundry, money management).

After you determine how much help is needed in each area, each task requiring “some” or “a lot” of assistance is broken down. Who completes each task, how much time per week does it take and what is the cost. For example, let’s say you are organizing your mom’s medications. It takes you two hours per month to “pour” them. You also call mom every day to ensure they’ve been taken, refill and retrieve them from the pharmacy as needed. These three tasks count for an additional two more hours per week. After completing this type of determination for all tasks, you can strategize alternatives that may be available and cost effective to maintain the same results and save you time.

Based on the previous example, a possible

solution to save you time may be an automatic pill dispenser. For a fee, you can rent a dispenser that either you or a nurse can fill with the prescribed medications for a month, the machine will alert your mother to take the pills at the prescribed time. If a dose is missed, you will be called and alerted that she missed her dose.

You can then follow up to determine why the dose was missed. This can potentially save you hours each week and month!

Utilize this type of strategy including tapping other family member resources to make sure you or your loved ones care is covered and you maintain a life balance for yourself.

This is just one example of many creative options that are available to you to maintain the safe environment you’ve already created. It will also afford you peace of mind and the ability to add “quality” to the time spent with loved ones and not just “quantity” of care giving tasks.

The preceding information is brought to you through a recent publication the Pennsylvania Homecare Association has put together to assist caregivers and planners navigate the waters when it comes to care for yourself or a loved one. The information is available to you directly from the PA Homecare Association at www.pahomecare.org or 1-800-382-1211. If a group presentation is preferred, contact Janine Reppert, RN, SPHR from Aaron Healthcare who will provide the complete version and copy of Bringing Care Home on behalf of the PA Homecare Association. You can reach Janine at 610-691-1000 or 570-501-8500.

If care is already needed for you or a Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

7

How to Pay for Medicare Supplement? SPIA May be the Answer Debra Weber, Mutual of Omaha

With health care costs on the rise, many Medicare participants now depend on Medicare supplement insurance to help cover expenses that Medicare does not. However, many of these retirees find that money is tight while living on a fixed income and may by unsure whether they have enough money to pay the premiums for their Medicare Supplement insurance.

coverage. Here’s how it works: 1. Purchase a Medicare supplement policy that is right for your individual situation. A licensed insurance agent can be of great assistance as you shop around.

2. Your agent can help you purchase a SPIA with a payout that will be enough to cover your Medicare supplement premium and any Surprisingly, another insurance product – one that can guarantee other expenses you might incur. Some companies offering both a monthly income stream – might be the solution. A single immediate annuities and Medicare supplement insurance will premium immediate annuity – or a SPIA – can guarantee a source even give you the option of having your premiums automatically of income for life in exchange for a lump sum premium payment. paid.

SPIAs are the only product that can guarantee that you won’t Since the cost of your Medicare Supplement premiums may outlive your savings. increase over time, there’s no guarantee that you can completely While life insurance offers financial protection for your family fund the premiums throughout the duration of your SPIA policy. if you die too soon, SPIAs offer you and your family financial But using a SPIA in this manner can definitely help keep your security for living a long life. If you suffer from certain health Medicare supplement policy in force by providing a guaranteed conditions and qualify at the time of application, you also can income. increase the amount of your monthly payout.

Dolly’s Second Chance

SPIAs work best for individuals who: • Want a regular and guaranteed source of income • Expect to live a long time based on family longevity • Want to eliminate market uncertainty • Want to fund specific future financial obligations As the number of people with Medicare supplement policies increase more and more retirees are using immediate annuities to fund other insurance needs such as Medicare Supplement

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Normally shitshus are energetic, friendly dogs. However, Dolly’s energy and friendliness were compromised through neglect and suspected abandonment.

Last December she was found wandering blind and deaf on a farm road by a young couple. This young couple, compassionately, brought her to Companion Animal Hospital in Tamaqua where Dr. Kropp, a veterinarian and her technician, Erin, quickly took action to save Dolly from the brink of death. Dolly came within hours if not minutes from being necessarily euthanized.

Expertly Dolly was saved! Under Dr. Kropp’s and Erin’s care Dolly’s matted hair had to be shaved and her dehydration cared for. Some of her teeth needed to be extracted because of prior neglect.

Today, Dolly, now three pounds heavier than back in December, lives happily with Erin and her other pets. Dolly rides to and from work with her daily. Dolly even had a special Easter dress this year!!

Editors note: Kathryn Elizabeth Kropp, VMD, founded Companion Animal Hospital in Tamaqua in 2002. I had the opportunity to meet Dolly when she first came to the clinic. I’m so happy for her!

Dolly before Dr. Kropp and Erin’s loving care.

Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

How an Asset Protection Trust can Protect Your Home and Savings Written By: Attorney Matthew J, Parker, Marshall, Parker & Weber

from the home will be used to pay for the cost of care in a nursing home. However, if the home is transferred to an Asset Protection Trust, the proceeds from the sale of the home are paid to the trust and cannot be used to pay for care in a nursing home.

If the trust settlor needs to buy a smaller home, the trust can sell the existing home and buy a smaller house – also owned by the trust. The persons living in the home continue to be responsible for the taxes, insurance and utilities. These Asset Protection Trusts typically give the trust settlor the right to live in the home for the rest of their lives.

Protection from Estate Recovery - Once an individual receives Medicaid, the government has the right to place a lien on the estate of the deceased person who received the Medicaid benefits. This process is called Medicaid Estate Recovery.

With few exceptions, this lien is limited (in Pennsylvania) to the probate estate of the individual who received the benefits. Essentially, that means any money or property that was solely owned by the person who received the Medicaid. Currently, anything that is owned by an Asset Protection Trust at the death of the applicant is not subject to the Estate Recovery Program.

Protecting Investments - Any investments that are transferred to the trust do not leave the financial institution where the money or investments are located.

There is simply a change of name on the account. Instead of “Mr. and Mrs. Jones”, In Pennsylvania, the Medicaid (Medical Assistance) program helps a person pay for the account will read, “Mr. and Mrs. Jones Family Trust”. Any income earned on the the cost of their care in a nursing home. trust investments is taxed to the parents – However, an applicant for Medicaid must the trust settlors, not the children. meet strict financial criteria. If they have savings in excess of the resource limits, Trusts are More Protective Than Outright the applicant will not qualify for benefits Gifts to Children - One of the great benuntil the savings are spent down to the efits of using a trust is that the children do resource limits. not own what is transferred to the trust.

Families have been using Asset Protection Therefore, the risks associated with gifting assets directly to children, such as a child’s Trusts for over twenty years to protect divorce and creditor problems, are not their home and savings from being conpresent when assets are transferred to the sumed by the cost of nursing home care. trust. The children only acquire ownership In the early 1990s, the Federal governof the trust assets when the trust settlors ment approved the use of these trusts. are deceased.

Since they are unique trusts, only the

Family Trusts - These are family trusts; therefore no bank or financial institution is involved in managing the trust.

With the average cost of nursing home care exceeding $8000 per month, families are concerned about how they will pay for that care. No one wants to be placed in a nursing facility, but the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can leave a family with no choice but to admit an aging spouse or parent to a nursing home.

The average family does not have the resources to pay the monthly cost of nursing home care. Retirees’ typical monthly income does not even cover half of the $8000 monthly charge. If a person with average retirement savings was to pay privately for their care; most of that savings would be consumed very quickly. In addition, the expense of nursing home costs would affect the money available to pay for household living expenses, such as heating oil and real estate taxes.

Keep in mind that the transfers to the Asset Protection Trust must be done well in advance of needing Medicaid. Currently, that time period is five years. Once the five years has passed, the assets in the Trust are no longer considered available to an applicant for Medicaid. With fewer assets available to the applicant, it is easier to qualify for benefits and more of the family savings can be protected from nursing home costs. * Attorney Parker is a Certified Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation. He is a partner with the law firm of Marshall, Parker & Weber where they specialize in helping families across Pennsylvania plan and pay for long-term care.

He can be contacted in Wilkes-Barre or Scranton at 822-6919 or at www.paelderlaw.com.

more experienced elder law attorneys properly prepare them for their clients.

A family trust is a legal arrangement between family members (typically parents and children) to manage the savings or home in a trust until the trust settlor’s death. The Asset Protection Trusts discussed below are family trusts specifically designed to shelter real estate or savings from availability when applying for Medicaid. They are irrevocable trusts. They are not revocable, “living trusts”. Here are some characteristics of the typical Asset Protection Trust: Protecting the Home - Homes are very common assets to transfer to an Asset Protection Trust. As people age, they frequently want to downsize and sell their home. The risk is that the sale proceeds Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

9

Earned Benefits For Seniors and Veterans May Be Cut

by Pat Nemetch

If you’re like me, you’ve already started a countdown to spring’s official arrival on March 20 when snow and ice will be just a memory and our thoughts can turn to flowers and warmer temperatures. Unfortunately, the coming spring thaw isn’t brightening prospects for those who depend on Social Security as the bedrock of financial well-being. Right now a plan is circulating in Washington that would substantially reduce benefits.

It goes by the innocent-sounding name of “chained CPI” and it is described by proponents as simply a technical adjustment to better calculate the cost of living. Unfortunately, that’s simply not true for older Americans, including many veterans and people with disabilities, whose hard-earned benefits would no longer keep up with inflation if this proposal takes effect.

In fact, a chained CPI represents a significant benefit cut.

Over the course of a lifetime, it would cost the average senior thousands of dollars. The cut would get deeper each year as we grow older. A 92-year-old woman or man receiving Social Security would lose a full month’s worth of benefits. Is there anyone who thinks the typical 92-year-old has that kind of money to spare?

According to the latest figures, 1.8 million Pennsylvania residents age 65 and over currently receive Social Security benefits. For many, it is an economic lifeline. While the average annual benefit of $14,400 is less than many people think, the fact is Social Security keeps almost 40 percent of Pennsylvania seniors who receive it out of poverty.

Supporters of the chained CPI portray it as a more accurate reading of the cost-of-living. That assessment reflects a profound misunderstanding of the real-life choices most seniors confront to make ends meet. First of all, the current CPI does not even recognize that seniors spend more on health care, which grows faster than overall inflation. And second, the chained CPI assumes that when the cost of something you normally buy rises, you can simply switch to a lower-cost substitute. If only life for most seniors were that easy. For most older adults, it is not simply a matter of comparative shopping at the supermarket. We already choose lower cost options, and we also spend much of our money on basic goods such as health care and utilities that don’t have lower-cost substitutes.

Embracing and Empowering Seniors – Schuylkill Elder Abuse Prevention Alliance Elder abuse has been a problem plaguing area seniors for years. One in five seniors will experience elder abuse at least once in their lifetime. Elder abuse is not just limited to physical abuse. Other forms of abuse can include emotional abuse, selfneglect, neglect and financial or material exploitation. With more than 25% of Schuylkill County’s population over the age of 60, many have suffered the abuse in silence. In 2004, the County decided they were going to form a group that would be the voice of area seniors. That is when the Schuylkill Elder Abuse Prevention Alliance or SEAPA was born.

For more than nine years SEAPA, which is comprised of a group of multi-disciplinary professionals representing the Area Agency on Aging, healthcare facilities and services, attorneys, law enforcement, the coroner’s office, the district attorney’s office and local and state legislatures meet monthly to discuss ways to identify and respond to abuse reports for the seniors of Schuylkill County.

The Silver Ribbon Campaign, held during the month of May, was designed to raise awareness to elder abuse as well as serve as a fundraiser for the group. Local business, churches and organizations are invited to join with their community to paint the towns silver. Lapel ribbons are provided free of charge and large outdoor ribbons can be purchased for a minimal fee of $10.00 each. Orders can be placed by calling or emailing Eileen Barlow at ebarlow@midpenn.org, (570) 628-3931 or calling or e-mailing Kathy Moser at KMoserSEAPA@hotmail.com, (570) 622-7920, extension 16.

Elder abuse hurts everyone. If you suspect elder abuse, report your suspicions immediately to the Schuylkill County Office of Senior Services at (800) 832-3313. Your report will be kept confidential and will be assessed immediately to determine a future plan of action. For more information or to learn how you can get involved in SEAPA visit www.schuylkillelderabuse.com.

I’m asking you to make your voice heard on this important issue. Please go to AARP website, AARP.org, and click on Protect Social Security and Veteran’s Benefits and AARP will help you send a message to President Obama and your Members of Congress asking them to leave your hard-earned Social Security and veterans’ benefits out of any budget deal.

The Law Office of Hank J. Clarke provides quality services in the following areas: DUI DRUG CRIMES - PROPERTY CRIMES For all my fellow veterans, SIMPLE & AGGRAVATED ASSAULT I recently received my JUVENILE CRIMES - WHITE COLLAR CRIMES certification from the PROBATION/PAROLE VIOLATIONS - PFAs Department of Veterans’ Affairs. DIVORCE - CHILD CUSTODY - CHILD SUPPORT SPOUSAL SUPPORT - PATERNITY ISSUES So, if anyone needs help CHILDREN & YOUTH SERVICES in dealing with the VA, LANDLORD - TENANT DISPUTES - FORECLOSURE give me a call.

REPOSSESSION DEFENSE

In the meantime, take advantage of the changing seasons by getting out and staying active this spring.

One Norwegian Plaza Suite 102 Pottsville, PA 17901 Phone: 570-622-2288 ~ Fax: 570-622-2298

The bottom line is Social Security is a self-financed program that provides earned benefits. It didn’t cause the deficit and it shouldn’t be cut to fix Washington’s budget problem.

10

Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

roots! Yoga Studio

Heidi teaches Vinyasa yoga. Heidi started practicing yoga in 2011 and she holds her 200 hour Yoga Alliance approved certification. She also holds a 20 hour Prenatal certification. She is currently pursuing her 300 hour yoga training. Her personal goal is to inspire students to make little changes in their personal lives so that they can become better, healthier, happier version of themselves, while having fun.

When you come to Heidi’s class, you can expect creative flows, alignment cues, modifications to suit beginners and fun, challenging sequences.

Her teaching style is a modern, yet down-to-earth mix of Drop In: $9.00 Intro to Yoga 8 Week Series beginning April 2 5 Class Pass:range $40.00 (valid 120 days) Eastern and Western approaches. Her classes in intensity level from slow and meditative, to 10 Class Pass: $80.00 (valid 120 days) Monthly Unlimited: $50.00 playful, fiery, vigorous Vinyasa flows. They are inspirational, challenging, graceful and always playful. *Visit Satori Yoga Hut on Facebook or go to www.satoriyogahut.com for more information. Or call 570-573-5683* Private: $50.00 Heidi provides detailed verbal cues of how to align, gives hands-on adjustments, and demonstrates poses with explanations. It goes beyond the physical practice bringing spirituality, breath awareness and some chanting. On our yoga mat we artistically offer our individual light and our unique music with the heartfelt prayer of adding more beauty, love, and goodness to the world.

We’re in our new, larger location starting May 1st in the old elementary school next to the Schuylkill Hose Company. Call 570573-5683 or visit us on the web at www.satoriyogahut.com.

6:00-7:00

Sunday

7:00-8:00 8:00-9:00

9:00-10:00 10:00-11:00 11:00-12:00 12:00-1:00

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Heidi

Heidi

Elle

Heidi

Elle

10:00-10:45 Meditation Elle Gentle Yoga (Prenatal Available) Elle

6:30-7:30 Elle

12:00-12:45 Express Class Elle

1:00-2:00 2:00-3:00

4:00-5:00 5:00-6:00

5:30-6:30 Elle

6:00-7:00

Heidi

7:00-8:00

8 Week Intro Series

Heidi

www.oceansawayspa.com

roots!

YOGA STUDIO

Elle

5:30-6:30 Elle

Heidi

25 West Main Street Schuylkill Haven, PA

570-385-1217

Heidi

Elle

3:15-4:15 Elle

3:00-4:00

Saturday

Best Deep Tissue Massage Around!!

Heart Opening Hatha/Vinyasa for All Levels

Oceans Away Salon and Spa

Meditation and Women Groups

Massage • Facials Pedicures • Manicures Cut & Colors • Hi-lites • Waxing

Vegan/Vegetarian cook shows Call for details and times

VISIT US ON THE WEB FOR MORE INFORMATION! Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

11

SUDUKO

Top Ten Movies of 1965 The Sound of Music Doctor Zhivago Thunderball Those Magnificent Men...

A Thousand Clowns The Great Race Cat Ballou What’s New, Pussycat Shenandoah Von Ryan’s Express

Interesting Facts of 1965

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Pope Paul VI visits the United States and holds a Mass at Yankee Stadium.

•

Sir Winston Churchill is laid in state at St Paul’s Cathedral, his funeral has the largest assembly of statesmen in the world.

•

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In Houston, Texas, the Harris County Domed Stadium is opened (later renamed the Astrodome).

The Pillsbury Doughboy, is created, it later becomes an American icon

•

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President Johnson signs a law penalizing the burning of draft cards with up to 5 years in prison and a $1,000 fine.

Two U.S. scientists discover cosmic background radiation which confirms the “Big Bang” theory

•

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Hurricane Betsy roars ashore near New Orleans, LA causing $1.42 billion in damage and killing 76.

The U.S. Mint switches to “clad” or sandwich coins to conserve silver by eliminating its use in dollars, half-dollars, quarters, and dimes

•

The Tom & Jerry cartoon series debuts on CBS television.

12

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The New York blackout affects 30 million people in seven states and Ontario and lasts for 13 hours Lifestyles over 50 Spring Issue

LOCAL HAPPENINGS Country Dance Friday, May 10, 7 - 10 pm DJ Music by Barryations Location: Tremont Community Building, 139 Clay Street Admission: $6 For information call Susan at 570-6243018 Helping friends of Diakon spread the word: The following dances are not Diakon Events Brad Crum, AKA Elvis will be performing at Lakeside Ballroom on Saturday, April 6 from 8 to 11 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $15 in advance. Call 570-4672630.

Golf Clinic / Luncheon Thursday, May 16, 10:30 am Whether a beginner or experienced golfer, this is a perfect opportunity with Walter Tobash, PGA Golf Pro. Mountain Valley Golf Course, Barnesville Register by May 3 Spring into Summer Picnic Friday, June 21, 11 am - 3 pm Fishing - Hiking - Entertainment Location: Sweet Arrow Lake Clubhouse, Pine Grove Cost: $12, register by June 7 Price includes: Lunch - Drinks - Snacks For information call Susan at 570-6243018 Midsummer Night Dance Friday, July 12, 7 - 10 pm Sweet Arrow Lake County Park Clubhouse.

For tickets or information call Susan at 570-624-3018 Clam Bake & Night Float Saturday, July 20 – 6:30 Enjoy a clambake, take a guided moonlight walk in the park and canoe/kayak under the moon.

Location: Sweet Arrow Lake County Park Clam Bake Cost: to be announced, register

by July 8 Call for more information Block of Art -- A chip off the art block’ to be feature at the Pottsville Center. · Living & Learning Gallery of Art for anyone age 50+ and all Living & Learning students and instructors to display their artwork in our gallery. Submissions will be accepted

email: knoel@lifestylesover50.com to submit your calendar of events through April 12.

April Classes - check their web site at www. diakon.org for more details.

May Classes African Weaving $15/one session Joanne Doyle, Instructor Diakon - 118 South Centre Street, Pottsville #1007 Tuesday, May 7 6 - 8 pm Register

by April 23 The Art of Stippling $15/one session Thalo Kersey, Instructor Learn the art of using small dots to shade your drawings.

Pottsville Center - 201 North Centre St., Pottsville #1001 Thursday, May 9 6 - 9 pm Register

by April 25 Calling All Angels $25/one session Prudence Griffin, Holistic Health Therapist In this Mother’s Day angel themed workshop, allow angels to mother your inner child. #1035 Saturday, May 11 9 am - noon Register April 27 Digital Photo Editing $15/one session Barry Long, Instructor You’ve taken your pictures...now what?

Pottsville Center - 201 North Centre St., Pottsville #1021 Tuesday, May 14 6 - 8 pm Register

by April 30 Herbs- Growing & Using Them $20/one session Judith Lewis, Instructor Pottsville Center - 201 North Centre St., Pottsville #1009 Wednesday, May 15 6:30 - 8:30 pm Register by May 1 Jewelry Make-over/Make-up $30/one session Kelly Gauker & Kelly Heffner, Instructors Do you have an old piece of jewelry that you would like to up-date or turn into something new? Interested in learning how to make a new piece of jewelry or repair some broken ones?

Pottsville Center - 201 North Centre St., Pottsville Thursday, May 16 6 - 8:30 pm Register by May 2

June Classes Calling All Seekers $25/one session Prudence Griffin, Holistic Health Therapist #1036 Saturday, June 1 9 am - noon Register by May 18

Hillcrest Hall, Minersville Mondays, 6:30 – 9 pm –no class April 15 Beginner Lesson 6:30 – 7:30 pm -- Dancing 7:30 – 9 pm “Drop-in” rate $6

Portraiture $100/eight session Kim Ciarvella, Instructor This class will cater to adults with developmental disabilities. However, everyone is welcome. #993 Mondays, June 3, 10, 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22 5:30 - 7 pm Register by May 20

Tuesdays: Hula-Hooping Dani Marie, Instructor Trinity Episcopal Church - 201 Howard Ave., Pottsville, use Second Street entrance Tuesdays, 7 - 8 pm, no class March 26 “Drop-in” rate $6

Feng Shui $20/one session Cheryl Moser, Instructor This workshop is for beginners.

Pottsville Center - 201 North Centre St., Pottsville Wednesday, June 5 6 - 9 pm Register by May 22 Paper Making- and Using It $40/two sessions Judith Lewis, Instructor In this workshop you will make sheets of paper using recycled materials, and use already made paper in decorative ways. In our second session you will use the paper you made to create a journal, and as a background for mounting photos, etc.

Pottsville Center - 201 North Centre St., Pottsville #984 Thursdays, June 6 & 13 6:30 - 8:30 pm Register by May 23 Oil Painting $50/one session Phillip Krivenko, Instructor Lori’s Angels - 25 West Main Street, Sch. Haven #988 Thursday, June 20 10 am - 3 pm Register by June 6 Take advantage of our Drop-in Fitness Classes to help you get healthy and fit by summer.

Mondays: Zumba 50+ style Ronda A. Imschweiler, Licensed Zumba Instructor Hillcrest Hall, 631 Minersville/Llewellyn Highway Mondays, 10:30 - 11:30 am “Drop-in” rate $6 Line Dancing Barry Long, Instructor

Zumba Gold Sarah McDonough, Licensed Zumba Gold Instructor Trinity Episcopal Church - 201 Howard Ave., Pottsville, use Second Street entrance Tuesdays, 6 - 6:45 pm, “Drop-in” rate $6 Tai Chi George Graham, Grandmaster Lori’s Angels - 25 West Main Street, Sch. Haven Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 23, 30, May 7, 14 10 - 10:45 am #973 $30/six sessions “Drop-in” rate $6, please call ahead, Dropin rate is available only if space allows Creative Dance Expression Bonnie Lazusky, Instructor Trinity Episcopal Church - 201 Howard Ave., Pottsville, use Second Street entrance #1028 Tuesdays, 7 - 8 pm April 23, 30, May 7, 14, 21, 28 $30/six sessions, register by April 9 “Drop-in” rate $6, please call ahead, Dropin rate is available only if space allows Wednesdays: Zumba 50+ style Ronda A. Imschweiler, Licensed Zumba Instructor Hillcrest Hall, 631 Minersville/Llewellyn Highway Trinity Episcopal Church - 201 Howard Ave., Pottsville, use Second Street entrance Wednesdays, 10:30 - 11:30 am “Drop-in” rate $6 Thursdays: Gentle Yoga Prudence Griffin, Holistic Health Therapist Luther Ridge - 160 Red Horse Road, Pottsville

tamaquaarea.com • schuylkill.org • www.readingberkspa.com • carboncountychamber.net • hazletonchamber.org

LOCAL HAPPENINGS Thursdays, 6 - 7 pm “Drop-in” rate $6 Schuylkill County Visitors’ Bureau, check their web site for details on the following events; www.schuylkill.org/events.php Anthracite Philharmonic Concert: An Evening with Beethoven Trout Derby Quilt Show at Fairlane Village Mall Dementia & Alzheimers Support Group Hometown Farmers Market Gabriel Chamber Ensemble Concert Schuylkill Ballet Theater presents “The Little Mermaid” Spring Migration Watch Master Gardeners Hot Line Zumba 50+ style Country Line Dancing Friends of the Ringtown Library Annual Used Book Sale SHENANDOAH: A Film by David Turnley Adult Pottery Intro Classes (3 weeks) Calendar Of Events For Tamaqua And Surrounding Areas, www.tamaquaarea.com South Ward Bingo, (Doors Open: 4 PM, Bingo Starts: 6:30 PM), Penn & Oak Sts, Tamaqua Every Monday night. This is a 50/50 bingo. Cost: 50 cents a board Phone: (570) 668-2813 Tamaqua Salvation Army Men’s and Women’s Club meet and enjoy activities or trips. Cost is $1. Anyone can attend. Stop by the Tamaqua Salvation Army or Call (570) 668-0410 for more info and to confirm.

The Tamaqua Salvation Army Older & Bolder Group meets at the Tamaqua Salvation Army building. Various activities include socialization, music, games, crafts, health & well-being, guest speakers, movies, day trips, lunch, and much more... Many events, activities, and informative sessions for seniors 55 and older. For more information, please contact Dina or Mel at (570) 6680410. Call to confirm. Handicap accessible.

QUILTING CLASS – Every Wednesday 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. or every Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Carolyn’s Quilt Shop, 109-2 East Broad Street, Tamaqua. Call Carolyn at (570) 668-3090.

email: knoel@lifestylesover50.com to submit your calendar of events Senior Citizens Group, Mohn/Community Center Building, Tamaqua Meet every Thursday at 1 pm. Anyone 55 or older is welcome to join the group. The meeting room is handicapped accessible.

Knitting Classes everything Thursday evening 6:00- 8:00 and Saturday morning 9:0011:00 at M&S Hardware on the 2nd floor, $6.00 per class.

Saturday Night Bingo, (Doors Open: 5 PM), (Bingo: 6:30 PM), Coaldale Ambulance Building, Coaldale Sat, April 6, 5pm – 6pm Doors & Kitchen Opens: 5 PM, Bingo: 6:30 PM, Many games...For information call (570) 645-2050.

Free Computer Learning Lab at the Tamaqua Salvation Army. Call (570) 668-0410 or contact volunteer instructor Andrew Leibenguth at (570) 668-1234.

Summit Hill Heritage Center Events: Fearless Fogies Yogis at the Summit Hill Heritage Center, Panther Valley’s Premier Entertainment Complex. 1 West Hazard Street Summit Hill Have you always wanted to do yoga to relieve tension, stretch your muscles and generally feel better? BUT you can’t get up from the floor then this is the class for you. Our resident Yoga instructor, JoLynn is offering chair yoga classes.

Interested? Call for further information 570.645.9133 leave name & phone.

Interested in performing comedy? Want to learn how to be a comedian? Watch for the announcement of our Comedy Workshop with Mike Solomon and Friends at the Summit Hill Heritage Center 1 West Hazard Street Summit Hill. Learn from the Best in the greater Allentown area. Watch our website for the announcement. Sponsored in part by the Lehigh Valley Council on the Arts and PA Arts Council.

Always available at the Summit Hill Heritage Center: Hand quilting by our own on site Quilter’s Circle. Your whole or pieced top can be quilted by the experienced quilters of the Heritage Center. Prices vary by size.

Marking available at reasonable prices. See your heirloom or pieced top in beautiful quilted form. Call Elnora at 570.645.3381 or email elclay@windstream.net.

Every Sunday 6 pm Church on the Rock at the Heritage Center 1 West Hazard Street Summit Hill PA. website: www.summithillheritagecenter.com Every Thursday evening 6:00 pm Boy Scouts. Always prepared for new members.

For information please contact Ann at goviscookie@yahoo.com / website: www. summithillheritagecenter.com Thursdays 6pm to 7 pm, Yoga with JoLynn at the Summit Hill Heritage Center 1 West Hazard Street Summit Hill. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned professional this class is for you. Learn the best way to strengthen your muscles and limber up at the same time relax the spirit. JoLynn encourages those who need to do yoga while sitting to join the class. Cost is $7.00 per session.

The Heritage Center, Panther Valley’s Premier Entertainment Complex, at 1 West Hazard Street Summit Hill is available for weddings, showers and private parties. Our Sanctuary is a beautiful chapel to marry your special someone, seats 150. The Center can seat 125 for your reception. Priced so that all can truly afford to have a “local destination wedding” at a reasonable price.

Call Deb at 570.645.9133 or Cathy at 570.645.5888 for a tour please leave a message with phone number.

May 4, 2013, 8 am to 2 pm Cinco De Mayo Flea Market at the Summit Hill Heritage Center at 1 West Hazard Street in Summit Hill, Panther Valley’s Premier Entertainment Complex. This Flea Market will feature Tex-mex menu items as well as our new $1.00 menu. Get ready for the upcoming summer season by selling those winter & early spring items. Tables are just $10.00.

For information or to rent tables call Cathy at 570.645.5888 May 11 & 12, 2013 Summit Hill Heritage Center Host HTO’s Mother’s Day Dinner & Show Life, Love, Lyrics $10.00 in advance till May 7, $12.50 at the door. Saturday May 11 at 3 pm, Saturday May 11 at 7pm and Sunday May 12 at Noon. Call 570.805.4711 for ticket information and reservations. SHHC is located at 1 West Hazard Street Summit Hill. Heritage Center programs are sponsored by the Lehigh Valley

Council on the Arts and the PA Arts Council.

May 14, 2013, Open Mic with Lyle at the Summit Hill Heritage Center, 1 West Hazard Street Summit Hill, Panther Valley’s Premier Entertainment Complex. Want to show off your musical talent or just listen to the Valley’s best performers. Free, donations appreciated. Kitchen is open with a limited menu.

For info see our Facebook page “Like” us to keep posted or email Lyle at lyle2@ptd.net.

Sponsored by the Lehigh Valley Council on the Arts and PA Arts Council.

May 25 & 26, 2013 5pm to 11 pm See you at the Summit Hill Stay at Home Festival.

June 1, 2013 8 am to 2 pm” Summer Solstice” Flea Market at the Summit Hill Heritage Center at 1 West Hazard Street in Summit Hill, Panther Valley’s Premier Entertainment Complex. Yes, schools out in just a few days. We will be featuring some menu items from our Summer Food Service Cookbook. Summer items for sale too. Tables are just $10.00. Call Cathy for table rental at 570.645.5888. Like us on Facebook.

June 10, 2013, 11 am to 12 pm Summer Food Service for Children of Panther Valley Schools. Bring the kids to have lunch at one of three sites in the Panther Valley. Summit Hill Heritage Center, Lansford outside of the Panther Valley Library and Christ Redeemer Church in Coaldale. All school age children welcome, no questions asked. USDA and PA Department of Education sponsor this program. Locally many churches and businesses sponsor food purchases, prepared foods and/or volunteers. Want to be a part of this important program? Call Deb at 570.645.9133. Program runs through August 16, 2013.

June 25, 2013, 11:30 to 12:30 Brick Oven Pizza Day for Summit Hill Summer Food Service program by Switchback Pizza company.

Switchback Pizza will be showing the kids just how brick oven pizza is made.

June 30, 2013, Summit Hill “Hootenanny” in Historic Ludlow Park. Come see and listen to the best musicians in Carbon County.

Bring your folding chair and favorite buddy.

Enjoy the best in regional cuisine. Tour the

tamaquaarea.com • schuylkill.org • www.readingberkspa.com • carboncountychamber.net • hazletonchamber.org

LOCAL HAPPENINGS Historical Society. Vendors welcome, for space message Sara on Hootenanny page on Facebook. Sponsored by the Carbon County Commissioners, SHCIO, SHHC and SHHS. Heritage Center programs are sponsored by the Lehigh Valley Council on the Arts and the PA Arts Council. Come see the crew from the Center we will be serving regional fare featuring Pierogies, Halushki, Andrea’s Sausage with pepper sauce sandwiches and Cathy P’s Kielbasa Soup.

For more events and info visit www. summithillheritagecenter.com. Be sure to like them on facebook!

St. Luke’s Miners Memorial Hospital - Community Talks Hospice 101 Everyone should hear the value and benefits about hospice. Everything you ever wanted to know and didn’t understand about about hospice care is now explained.

Presented by: Dr. Joanne Calabrese Tuesday, June 25, 6 – 7 pm ED Room at St. Luke’s Miners Campus Providence Place Retirement Community of Drums April 25, 2013 at 6:30pm, - Learn about Veteran Benefits. This benefit is something that is offered to wartime veterans who need to reside in a Personal Care Home.

Our speaker will be coming in to go over the application process and to answer any questions or concerns. Light refreshments will be served.

May 19 from 11am-3pm - Open House, stop by to see some of our rooms and different services we have to offer!

Blue Mountain Health System Upcoming Community Programs AARP Driver Safety Renewal 4-hour Course The 4-hour renewal class is only open to people who have taken the 8-hour course within the last 36 months or have an active discount on their insurance policy. Complete the course and receive a certificate which entitles you to a rate reduction on auto insurance. Certificate valid for three years.

AARP members, $12; Non-members, $14.

Class size is limited and registration is required at 610-377-7070.

email: knoel@lifestylesover50.com to submit your calendar of events Stroke Screening Wed., May 1, 2013 from 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m., Next Step Acute Rehab Unit, Blue Mountain Health System, Gnaden Huetten Campus, 211 N. 12th St. , Lehighton . Registration is required at 610-377-7070.

Frankly Speaking About Lung Cancer Thurs., May 23, 2013 from 5 to 7 p.m., Bowmanstown Medical Plaza , 204 Bank St. , Bowmanstown Speakers: Herbert Hoover, MD, Surgeon and Jen Sinclair, LPC Co-sponsored with the Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley.

This program is offered free of charge and dinner is provided. Registration is required at 610-377-7070.

Community Health Fair ( Blue Mountain Health System co-hosted with the Palmerton Lions Club) Sat., June 8, 2013, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Palmerton Hospital Campus Cafeteria, 135 Lafayette Ave. , Palmerton.

Free health screenings, including cholesterol, BP and EKG (by appointment only). Meet and ask questions of various health and social services representatives. A light lunch, beverages and homemade baked goods, courtesy of the Palmerton Lions Club, will be available at no charge. Registration is not required for the fair, but please register for an EKG at 610-377-7070.

Orwigsburg Borough Official Dedication Ceremony, Saturday, April 13, 2013, 9:30 am M&T Bank Lot Please join the Orwigsburg Business and Professional Association following the ceremony for a community wide Open House.

Local businesses are open to the public,

and a “Taste of Orwigsburg” is featured at the Orwigsburg Historical Society on Mifflin Street. Don’t miss Yappee Hour May 16th from 5:30 to 8pm!

Mount Carmel Borough Police Community Day 2013 Saturday, May 18, 2013, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

(Raindate – May 25th) at the Mount Carmel Town Park, Market & E 3rd Sts. Police dem-

display,Safety information & seminars, Community Shred-A-Thon (residential shredding available 11AM to 1PM), Military Displays & Rock Climbing Wall, Special Give-aways for Kids (while supplies last), Police Memorial Service, Food and Much More! Watch for our Schedule of Events! For more information or to register a vehicle contact 610-842-7348 or email MCPDFans@gmail.com.

Compassionate Care Hospice Committed to Quality of Life 616 North Street, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 Phone 610-770-6500 or 610-295-9531

CHANGE YOUR LIFE FOR 2013 Publishers wanted! The baby boomer generation is the largest and wealthiest generation in history.

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700 Schuylkill Manor Road, Suite 4

POTTSVILLE