December 28, 2022

• On Jan. 5, 1914, Henry Ford introduced a revolutionary pay deal of $5 per day wages for all of his employees. When asked about it, he told reporters that he wanted his workers to earn enough to be able to afford to buy a Ford motor car.

• On Jan. 3, 1938, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who contracted polio at age 39, founded the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, later renamed the March of Dimes Foundation. The moniker came courtesy of comedian Eddie Cantor, who said in a donations appeal: “Nearly everyone can send in a dime, or several dimes. However, it takes only 10 dimes to make a dollar, and if a million people send only one dime, the total will be $100,000.”

• On Jan. 2, 1941, The Andrews Sisters recorded “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” for Decca Records, about a Chicago trumpeter drafted into the Army in World War II who shakes up “Reveille” with his masterful licks. Originally intended for Lou Costello to perform in the comedy “Buck Privates,” it was reworked for The Andrews Sisters, who introduced it in the film.

• On Jan. 6, 1973, the 1939 Mercedes-Benz 770k sedan that Hitler was said to have used in a parade march was sold to Earl Clark at an auction for $153,000. Clark planned to exhibit the vehicle at his Dutch Wonderland Amusement Park in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

• On Jan. 7, 1981, truck driver Peter Sutcliffe admitted to being the “Yorkshire Ripper,” who killed 13 women in northern England over five years.

Sutcliffe was caught on Jan. 2 after being stopped by the police with Olivia Reivers, a prostitute, and was arrested for having fitted his car with fake license plates.

• On Jan. 4, 2012, Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah decreed that men could no longer sell female underwear in lingerie shops. The country previously allowed only men to work as shop keepers, but after female customers complained that they made the women uncomfortable, a new law allowed women to take their place.

• On Jan. 8, 2014, Mexican officials found two gray whale calves in a lagoon. The case was even more unusual because they were conjoined. Though found alive, the whales died soon after, and samples were taken for scientists to study their rarity.

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TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH #12345_20221219

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Ten-Year Fracture Risk Determines Need for Osteoporosis Meds

DEAR DR. ROACH: I’m 77 and have been diagnosed with osteoporosis. I’m taking Fosamax and following all the steps recommended for strengthening bones. But I have two questions: First, is it possible to avoid a fracture without taking medication? Second, is it necessary to avoid coffee completely? I am confused about both questions, having read a lot of conflicting information online. I recently finished reading a book that strongly condemned osteoporosis medication, and I have also read that coffee is OK, even good, for bones; though, other sources say it leeches calcium from bones. I would appreciate some clarity on these issues. — J.M.

ANSWER: I have also read dire warnings about osteoporosis drugs, particularly the bisphosphonate class that includes alendronate (Fosamax), but the truth is more complex than it first appears.

The most important thing to realize is that every person has their own individual risk of developing an osteoporotic-type fracture. For young, healthy people with strong bones, the risk is very small, but as we age, the risk of fracture increases. Many medical conditions, as well as diet, exercise and some medications, affect the risk of fracture. Whether we are men or women, and even what our ethnicity is, affects fracture risk. The bone mineral density measured by a DEXA

scan provides much information, but an accurate fracture risk prediction needs to take a person’s whole history into account. Only people at high risk for fracture should be taking a medication like Fosamax.

A standard guideline is that people should be recommended medication therapy if their 10-year risk of a hip fracture is greater than 3%, or their 10-year risk of any kind of major osteoporotic fracture is 20% or higher. If a person’s risk is less than these numbers, they may be unnecessarily subjecting themselves to the risk of medication. The FRAX score is a standardized, country-specific way of estimating risk (www.sheffield.ac.uk/ FRAX/tool.aspx).

If a group of people has a risk of fracture of 20% in the next 10 years, then 80% of them will not have a fracture if they don’t take medication. Like treatment for high blood pressure or high cholesterol, medication treatment only helps a small proportion of those who receive it. We don’t have the ability to predict with certainty who will have a bad outcome from these conditions, so we recommend treating people when they reach a certain degree of risk.

Treating only higher-risk patients leads to the drug helping a higher proportion of the group, but some people who were not offered medication will develop the bad outcome we’re trying to avoid. A person who gets a hip fracture that could have been prevented with medication treatment is a tragedy. In my opinion, a person should know the risks of treatment and the risk of withholding treatment before making a decision.

The calcium question is also controversial, but while it is true that caffeine causes the body to lose calcium, if you take in enough calcium through diet, coffee does not seem to increase your risk of a fracture.

Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual questions, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@ med.cornell.edu.

© 2022 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

By Lucie Winborne

• When Ivan the Terrible’s young son Dmitry died, a bell was rung to mark the occasion. The bell was later lashed, tried for treason, found guilty and exiled to Siberia. Why? Local legend had it that the bell rang of its own accord, which was considered an evil omen.

• Each team must provide the referee with 24 footballs for each NFL game.

• A neuroscientist suffered a series of strokes that left him with an irresistible urge to rhyme and rap. He made the most of this unusual side effect by going on to pursue freestyle rap and improvisation as a hobby.

• Almost every New York City alley scene in the movies is shot at the same location.

• Nigel Richards won a French Scrabble World Championship without actually knowing how to speak the language. He just memorized words from a French dictionary.

• We hate to disillusion you, but pumpkin spice and pumpkin pie spice contain no pumpkin whatsoever.

• There is an asteroid named after Kurt Vonnegut.

• The world’s oldest known rose bush, which grows up the side of Hildesheim Cathedral in Germany, was planted more than 1,000 years ago and even survived a World War II bombing.

• In some cities, road crews use pickle juice or beet juice to combat winter’s icy streets.

• Got a mouse problem at your house? Your grocery store might provide a quick and easy answer in the form of bananas. Male mice are scared of their scent — especially virgin male mice.

• American radio broadcaster Art Bell stayed on air for a world-record-setting 116 hours and 15 minutes as part of a fundraiser to bring 130 Vietnamese orphans to the U.S. for adoption. ***

Thought for the Day: “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” — Shirley Chisholm

© 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

e Miracle Prayer

Dear Heart of Jesus: In the past, I have asked many favors. is time, I ask you this very special one. Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your father sees it. en, in your merciful eyes, it will become your favor, not mine.

you also to the Divine Mercy.

BUSINESSSpotlight

and legal work also include Personal Injury, criminal matters, landlord-tenant matters and evictions.

R C OY OOK

& Attorneys at Law

Edward C. Roy, Jr., Esquire edward_roy@hotmail.com

Geralyn M. Cook, Esquire geri_cook@hotmail.com 577 Tiogue Avenue, 2nd Floor, Coventry, RI 02816 Phone: 401-823-0488 Fax: 401-823-0486

Edward C. Roy, Jr., Esquire

edward_roy@hotmail.com

Geralyn M. Cook, Esquire

geri_cook@hotmail.com

Phone:

577 Tiogue Avenue, 2nd Floor Coventry, RI 02816

BY JENNIFER COATES

Attorney Geralyn Cook has been practicing law in Rhode Island for over thirty years as a partner in the law firm Roy & Cook, Attorney’sat-Law. As an experienced attorney, Attorney Cook has been a firsthand witness to legal battles of every kind. She has stood by her clients through hardship, disappointment, struggle, and that feeling of helplessness that comes from feeling alone and overwhelmed. Conversely, she has also been instrumental in changing people’s lives, granting them security, answers, resolution, and guidance in troubled times ~ and in preparing them for the inevitabilities of life. Attorney Cook has gained a reputation of compassion, diligence, dependability, and accessibility.

Roy & Cook is a general practice law firm that has been representing clients from every walk of life since it first opened its doors in 1991.

Attorney Cook is a seasoned professional whose longevity can be attributed to years of fighting hard for her clients and advocating for them as they navigate the legal system.

Attorney Geralyn M. Cook has been a member of the Rhode Island Bar since 1986 and the New York Bar since 1987. She is admitted in the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island and the United States District Court for the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York, as well as the Supreme Court. She is a qualified Guardian Ad Litem, a member of the Family Court bench bar, Family Court Inns of Court, the Rhode Island Bar Association, and the Kent County Bar Association.

Ms. Cook specializes in a comprehensive and inclusive list of services, ranging from Family and Divorce law to Mediation, Probate, Estates, Wills, Trusts and Guardianships. Her expertise

If you find yourself in need of legal representation in any of these matters, you need a trusted and knowledgeable team behind you. If you are new parents, it is never too early to arrange for a will and establish guardianship to plan for an uncertain future ~ Attorney Cook can help. If you have lost a loved one and need a Will probated, Attorney Cook can help. If you are going through a divorce, being evicted, facing bankruptcy, caught in a custody battle, fighting a DWI, other traffic infraction or criminal case, struggling with DCYF, needing a restraining order, or seeking support in a personal injury case ~ Attorney Cook is ready to take your call.

Attorney Cook explains that she is still available via phone call or in person or Zoom meetings may be set up to consult virtually. As your life goes on, she will be here for you, reliably and steadfastly.

Roy & Cook, Attorneysat-Law, can be reached at 401-823-0488. Attorney Cook can be reached at her personal email, Geri_ Cook@hotmail.com. Her office is located at 577 Tiogue Avenue in Coventry.

Attorney Geralyn Cook of the firm Roy & Cook has been practicing law in Rhode Island for over three decades. She is a reliable and trustworthy advocate and legal representative. Based in Coventry, she stands ready to take your call.

Estate

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(NAPSA)—Smart thermostats have become a hot item in many American homes. Smart thermostats are Wi-Fienabled devices that can automatically adjust heating and cooling temperature settings for optimal climate control in your home. What makes them a smart investment is that you can get energy savings along with optimal performance. With the average American household spending almost $900 a year on heating and cooling costs, investing in the right smart thermostat can pay dividends for years to come.

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by Kara Lawton

American-made SUVs dominate in a study of vehicles proven to last at least 200,000 miles, according to the automotive research company iSeeCars.com.

“ e research shows that certain cars actually exceed 200,000 miles far more o en than others do,” said Phong Ly, the company’s co-founder and CEO.

Car Longevity Findings

e automotive research rm’s analysis of 13 million pre-owned car sales revealed some interesting information about the longest-lasting cars on the road:

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1. e ability to learn the temperature that you like and establish a schedule that automatically adjusts to energy-saving temperatures when you’re asleep or away

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2. Providing home energy use data that you can track and manage

3. Allowing you to control home heating and cooling remotely through your smartphone.

While using a smart thermostat is a great way to manage air temperature in your home, only those that have earned the Energy Star label have been independently certi ed, based on actual eld data, to save energy. rough the third-party certi cation process, smart themostats demonstrate their ability to:

•Accurately measure temperature

• Quickly enter a low-power standby mode when inactive

• Track and report equipment use and temperature data to the homeowner

• Provide tailored functionality and service that deliver energy savings for a range of di erent homeowners.

Smart Way To Save Energy

Smart thermostats that are Energy Star certi ed provide enhanced comfort in your home by letting you control

A smart thermostat can increase your comfort and decrease your costs.

Star certi ed smart thermostat, savings would grow to 56 trillion BTUs of energy and $740 million per year, o setting 13 billion pounds of annual

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• Large SUVs from GM, Toyota and Ford earned the top 7 out of 14 spots, with the SUVs logging 14,407 annual miles (14 percent higher than average).

• Domestics beat imports 8 to 6 in the list of longest-lasting cars.

• e only passenger cars and sole minivan that ranked are Japanese models from Toyota and Honda.

• In addition to seven SUVs, four pickup trucks made the list: the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150 and GMC Sierra 1500.

e Top 14 Longest-Lasting Vehicles

(Ranked by percent of cars over 200k miles)

1.Ford Expedition, 5.7%

2.Toyota Sequoia, 5.6%

3.Chevrolet Suburban, 4.8%

4.Toyota 4Runner, 4.7%

5.GMC Yukon XL, 4.2%

6.Chevrolet Tahoe, 3.5%

7.GMC Yukon, 3.0%

8.Toyota Avalon, 2.6%

9.Toyota Tacoma, 2.5%

10.Honda Accord, 2.3%

11.Honda Odyssey, 2.3%

12.Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2.2%

13.Ford F-150, 2.1%

14.GMC Sierra 1500, 2.0%

(Average for all models: 1.3%)

“For consumers who want a car that will log high miles and have more reliability a er the manufacturer’s warranty

expires, one of these 14 longest-lasting cars is likely to deliver,” Ly said.

With trucks and SUVs excluded from the list, Japanese automakers represent 12 of the 16 models with higher percentages than average.

e results include some of the country’s most popular cars: the Honda Accord, Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, Nissan Maxima, Subaru Forester, Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Impala.

Also of interest, one hybrid (Toyota Prius) and one luxury car (Mercedes-Benz S-Class) ranked on this list, along with four minivans, which include the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. Learn More

To see the full study, use an award-winning car search engine or get a free VIN report, visit iSeeCars.com.

About iSeeCars.com

iSeeCars.com is an automotive data and research company that’s saved car shoppers more than $133 million so far. It helps consumers nd the best deals by providing key insights and guidance, using big data analytics to objectively analyze, score and rank millions of cars and thousands of dealers. Based in the Boston area, iSeeCars.com was founded by a former TripAdvisor developer and SAP executive determined to improve the car shopping experience with free tools like its online car search engine and mobile apps.

A Smart Thermostat Can Be A Smart Investment

Research reveals cars most likely to still be on the road after 200,000 miles.

Chelsea Porcelain

A tin sign picturing an attractive girl sold for $12,390, which is an impressive price for a portrait of a young woman from the 1910s! But if you look closer, you’ll see that the woman is holding a glass marked “CocaCola,” and the Coca-Cola logo is visible on the bottom of the frame. It’s not really a framed painting; it’s a selfframed tin lithographed sign. Collectors of Coca-Cola around the world may recognize her as Elaine, the girl on the company’s 1916 calendar.

* * *

Q:I hope you can identify the maker of my great-grandmother’s three-piece set of teapot, sugar and creamer. She brought it from Europe when she moved to this country about 1899. It is handpainted with pink roses and green leaves and has gilt trim. The pieces are marked “Mentone.” Some are also marked “Th u E, Mr.” and “Sevres, Bavaria” and others are marked “Thomas” and “Bavaria.” I don’t know anything about the marks or if this tea set is worth anything. Can you help?

A:Thomas and Paul Ens founded

Thomas & Ens Porcelain Factory in Marktredwitz, Bavaria, in 1903. They used “Th u E, Mr.” (German abbreviation for “Thomas and Ens, Marktredwitz”) as a mark until about 1908. Ens left the company in 1907.

Thomas became an independent subsidiary of Rosenthal AG in 1908. The name “Thomas” was used in marks beginning in 1908. The word “Bavaria” without the word “Germany” indicates the mark was used no later than 1939. “Mentone” is the pattern name of a line of dinnerware made by the company, and “Sevres” is the series name. Porcelain production was moved from Marktredwitz to Speichersdorf in 1960. Thomas is still listed as one of Rosenthal’s brands. Tea sets like this are inexpensive, worth about $50-$100.

Paying $12,390 would be awfully expensive for a Coke, but apparently not for this Coca-Cola sign sold by Morford Antique Advertising Auctions.

TIP: Store fragile Christmas tree ornaments in plastic zip-close bags. Be sure there is some air in the bag when you zip it. This air bubble protects like bubble wrap. * * *

CURRENT PRICES

Toy, trolley car, wood, tin, bench seats, old paint, front and back panels painted with “Belt Line 1492,” castiron spoke wheels, c. 1900, 12 x 28 inches, $750.

Furniture, cupboard, American Country Empire, cherry, poplar, two sections, cove-molded top, two threepane glass doors, base with two dovetailed drawers over two paneled doors, paneled ends, turned legs, 80 x 50 x 20 inches, $995.

Doll, Bild Lilli, plastic, synthetic blond ponytail, black cloth pants, green shirt, black shoes, O. & M. Hausser, Neustadt, Germany, 1955, 12 inches, $1,275.

For more collecting news, tips and resources, visit www.Kovels.com © 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

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1. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (PG-13) Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o 2. Violent Night (R) David Harbour, John Leguizamo 3. Strange World (PG) Jake Gyllenhaal, Gabrielle Union 4. The Menu

(R) Ralph Fiennes, Anya Taylor-Joy 5. Devotion

(PG-13) Jonathan Majors, Glen Powell 6. Black Adam

(PG-13) Dwayne Johnson, Aldis Hodge 7. The Fabelmans

(PG-13) Michelle Williams, Gabriel LaBelle

8. Met Opera: The Hours

(NR) Alison Clancy, Joyce DiDonato 9. I Heard the Bells

(NR) Stephen Atherholt, Jonathan Blair 10. Spoiler Alert (PG-13) Jim Parsons, Ben Aldridge © 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Your work on a recent job assignment is impressive and sure to be noticed. Meanwhile, expect to receive news about an upcoming holiday event you won’t want to miss.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Saving the world one person at a time is what you were born to do. So accept it when people ask you for help, especially during the holiday season.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Now that you’ve resolved all doubts about an important decision, you can surprise a lot of people by defending your stand with strong and well-reasoned arguments.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) The holiday mood stirs your need to nurture everyone, from the family cat to great-grandma. But don’t overdo it, especially with teens, who like to feel grown up.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Enjoy basking in the warm love of family and close friends this holiday season. But don’t fall into a prolonged catnap yet. There’s still much to do before you can fully put up your paws and relax.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Avoid pushing others to work as hard as you do on a common project. Instead, encourage them to do their best, and they might well reward you with a pleasant surprise.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Like the sensible Libra you are, you no doubt already started your holiday shopping. But be careful to keep within your budget. Shop around for the best buys.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Love and friendship remain strong in your aspect over the next several days. This is a good time to develop new relationships and strengthen old ones.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A beloved family member has news that will brighten your holidays. Also expect to hear from friends who had long since moved out of your life.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Family and friends are in for a surprise when you accept the need to make a change without being talked into it. (Bet it surprised you, too, didn’t it?)

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Restoring an old friendship might not be as easy as you had hoped. You might want to explore the reasons for your former buddy’s reluctance to cooperate.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your party-going activities pick up as the holiday season takes off. Enjoy your plunge into the social swim as you make new friends and renew old friendships.

BORN THIS WEEK: You are caring and considerate — two wonderful attributes that endear you to people of all ages.

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MEALSITE

All meals include milk, coffee or tea, bread/margarine

Wed. 12/28

Thurs. 12/29

Fri. 12/30

Mon. 1/2

Tues. 1/3

Venus de Milo soup, Italian sausage, seasoned ziti, ratatouille, wheat bread, fruit cocktail. Sandwich: Tuna on wheat.

Broccoli and cheese soup, beef Wellington with ketchup, garlic spinach, oatmeal bread, sliced peaches. Sandwich: Pastrami and Swiss on oatmeal.

Red chowder, Florentine fish with tartar sauce, baked potato, mixed vegetables, marble bread, Hoodsie cup. Sandwich: Ham and cheese on marble.

Closed for New Years!

Vegetable soup, tossed salad, chicken and gravy, mixed vegetables, biscuit, fresh fruit. Sandwich: Seafood salad on wheat roll.

DONATION $3.00

Wed. 12/28

Thurs. 12/29

Fri. 12/30

Mon. 1/2

Tues. 1/3

Chicken and rice soup, sausage and pepper sandwich on roll, 3 bean salad, dessert. Option: Caesar salad with chicken.

Mushroom barley soup, pot roast with gravy, mashed potatoes, peas and onions, dessert. Option: Chef salad.

Orange juice, scrambled eggs, home fries, bacon, muffin, dessert. Option: Ham and cheese on wheat.

Closed for New Years!

Vegetable soup, tossed salad, chicken and gravy, mixed vegetables, dessert. Sandwich: Option: Seafood salad on wheat.

of Walt Whitman’s poem “O Captain! My Captain!”?

LANGUAGE: What is the third letter of the Greek alphabet?

HISTORY: When was the last time the Liberty Bell rang in Philadelphia?

MOVIES: What was Henry Fonda’s jury number in “12 Angry Men”?

MATH: What is a heptahedron?

BUSINESS: In what year did McDonald’s introduce the Big Mac to all of its customers?

U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which president tried to ban Christmas trees from the White House? 10. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What do bees collect from flowers and use to make honey?

Answers 1. London, England. 2. Indian Ocean. 3. The death of President Abraham Lincoln. 4. Gamma. 5. 1846. 6. Juror No. 8. 7. A polyhedron with seven faces. 8. 1968. 9. Theodore Roosevelt. 10. Nectar. © 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

(NAPSI)— ey say old habits die hard, but for a lot of people the last two years have proven otherwise. e COVID-19 pandemic fueled a seismic shi in the way people view physical and mental health—and lately, many have had a chance to reect on old habits and routines.

If you’re looking to improve your physical or mental health, there may be no better tool than exercise. It o ers numerous bene ts including lower blood pressure, improved bone health and reduced risk of diseases. Moving your body stimulates di erent parts of your brain to release feel-good chemicals including serotonin, endorphins and dopamine, leading to a cascade e ect of better sleep, sharper thinking, reduced stress and enhanced mood.

With the mass adoption of hybrid work models that let you swap your morning commutes with a sweat session or moment of mindfulness, the reopening of gyms and tness centers and spring right around the corner, now’s a good time to replace your old, tired routines.

Tom Holland, exercise physiologist and Bow ex tness advisor, says it’s an exciting moment in tness and a great time for people to begin thinking about what their exercise routine might look like, with so many options available including working out at home, outside or at the gym.

Here are a few ideas to help you get started:

• Take up a new at-home routine: At-home workouts are the new normal for many and can be just as e ective as a workout done at a gym—not to mention easier to t into a busy routine. Fitness apps such as the JRNY

digital tness platform (https:// www.bowflex.com/jrny. html)—which o ers a range of classes including strength, stretching, yoga and Pilates— can be great tools to take the guesswork out of trying a new exercise.

“At-home tness equipment is better than ever before and you no longer need a gym membership to get in a great workout,” says Holland. “With new digital technologies such as wearables and connected machines, you can get the kind of customized, comprehensive tness plans that were once reserved for professional athletes.”

Versatile home equipment such as the Bow ex VeloCore Bike 22” (https://www.bow ex. com/bikes/velocore/100914. html) are great for getting in a cardio session without the need to go to a gym. With the JRNY app on the VeloCore bike, you can tour new cities, participate in trainer-led rides or catch up on your favorite shows on Netix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and Disney+.

• Sweat the small stu : Even small amounts of exercise can be bene cial. If you’re at a desk or sitting still most of the day, try standing up at frequent intervals throughout the day, going for walks or doing short workouts such as jumping jacks or squats. is can help counter

the negative e ects of a sedentary lifestyle, which is especially important in the work-fromhome era.

• Get outside: ere’s a strong link between time spent outdoors and physiological bene ts, including reduced stress and mental fatigue and improved mood.

“Consider taking a daily walk or picking up an outdoor hobby to ensure you’re getting enough time outside,” suggests Holland. “Pets can be a great reason to get outside more frequently, so if you’ve ever thought about getting a dog, maybe now is the time!”

• Take up a family or group activity: Exercise doesn’t have to be a solo activity. In fact, it can be a great opportunity to spend some quality time with friends and family. Recreational sports such as pickleball are easy to learn and can be accessible fun for the whole family, no matter the age or ability level.

“Pickleball is a new activity I’ve discovered and one my whole family has been enjoying,” Holland adds. “If you’re thinking about giving it a try but are concerned about your tness level, I recommend exercises like bodyweight squats, skaters and jumping jacks as a warm-up to get your body in pickleball-playing shape.”

Winter arrives with fanfare as Christmas, Chanukah and New Year’s Eve all take place within days of the rst day of the season. Parties and shopping may distract people from the weather around them, but a er resolutions are made and the decorations are packed away, it’s not long before it’s time to confront winter’s wrath.

Storms are commonplace in January and February in many parts of the world, and even March storms are not unheard of. Knowing how to prepare for storms can keep people safer and prevent home damage. If a storm is forecasted, follow these guidelines.

• Charge a mobile phone and other electronic devices to full battery in advance of the storm in case power goes out.

• Stock the home with extra batteries for ashlights and battery-powered devices, such as a portable radio.

• Invest in a car charger to charge devices if the power is out for some time.

• Keep a supply of canned or boxed nonperishable items, as well as convenience foods that do not need to be cooked, like granola bars.

• Periodically check to ensure that the rst aid kit is stocked with items that have not expired.

• Re ll medications so that they are on hand in the event weather makes it challenging to get to the store.

• Keep emergency supplies of bottled water. If you forget this, ll the bathtub

up with fresh water. Extra water will be needed for toilet ushing if yours is a septic system.

• Have warm blankets on hand and sleeping bags for each person in the home.

• Unplug all electronic devices if the power goes out to protect against a surge and damage when the power is restored.

• Exercise caution when burning candles, opting for ashlights and lanterns instead.

• If it’s very cold outside, move refrigerated and frozen items outdoors so they do not spoil in an unpowered refrigerator.

• Do not use gas stoves, charcoal grills or other open- ame heat sources for warmth indoors. Carbon monoxide gas can build up inside and prove deadly.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a backup generator for power.

• Stock up on gasoline for vehicles and to power gas-driven generators.

• Use power company websites and apps to report outages and stay apprised of restoration status.

• Be cautious of downed power lines in the area when driving or walking.

Winter storms can be beautiful but dangerous without ample preparation.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

It’s a new year and New Year’s resolutions are top of mind. Whether they are resolutions to be healthier, achieve a better work/life balance, or to save more money and spend less, it might seem daunting. New Year’s resolutions can be difficult to implement and stick with especially if they are radical, life-changing goals. However, by setting smaller goals it can be easier to attain them throughout the year. Many seniors enjoy their set routines and can benefit immensely from these three easy resolutions that will allow them to take small steps towards a better self in the New Year.

Volunteer

Volunteering is an easy and achievable New Year’s resolution. There are many different ways to give back and it doesn’t have to be monetarily. According to a report by Corporation for National Community Service, “research demonstrates that volunteering leads to better health… those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer.” From volunteering at the local humane society, gardening in the local community garden or serving meals at your local soup kitchen, there are many ways to give back to the local community.

Exercise Your Brain

While it is important to get in the recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week, don’t forget that keeping the brain active is equally essential. According to HelpGuide.Org, the more that you exercise your mind, the better it will work. Try picking up the daily crossword puzzle or the latest Sudoku. Senior learning classes are also a great way to keep minds active and alert and most community colleges offer free classes for seniors.

Learn a New Skill or Find a New Hobby

It’s never too late to learn a new skill or hobby. Whether it’s knitting, playing bocce ball or mahjongg, there’s an activity for everyone. Exercises such as tai chi, water aerobics, yoga or Pilates can help control weight, build muscle and improve posture, balance and mood.

I’m Grateful for Being Grateful

This is the time of year when we read a lot about gratitude. Friends often hear me talk about the importance of having “an attitude of gratitude.” Not everyone shares my opinion. A recent Washington Post article cited research that suggested the benefits of showing gratitude to others. It wondered why we don’t give thanks more often. Another article offered 20 ways to “spark gratitude.”

I’m not a religious person, but I consider myself to be spiritual. I practice daily meditations, what most of you would probably call prayers. Some are prayers of gratitude for things in my life and in the lives of family and friends. Some are prayers of supplication, usually health related, for family and friends but rarely, if ever, for myself. These meditations keep me centered and focused. Plus, they help keep my blood pressure down, reason enough to practice them daily.

I can pinpoint exactly when I began doing this. My niece delivered her daughter at 23 weeks 3 days into her pregnancy. This micropreemie weighed just one pound seven ounces and was not expected to survive. Today she is a thriving eighteen year old, working on her college applications. When she was born, I began praying for her; I still do. Her survival is one of the first things on my daily list of what I’m

grateful for.

RETIREMENT SPARKS

by ELAINE M. DECKER

Another is that I’m a 32 year breast cancer survivor. The past two years have been spent battling lung cancer. While I’m thankful for all of my good test results, I don’t ask for them. I was originally told I was stage 4, with a 2 to 5 year usual survival expectation. That was 2 years ago, but my tumor hasn’t grown during that time. I’m not receiving any more treatments and am now in what is considered a maintenance phase. I get regular CT scans to make sure there’s nothing new going on in my lungs.

Early into my treatment, I remember thinking about my grandniece, the micropreemie, who faced many health challenges early on in her life. When she was born, if I had been told that, in exchange for her survival, I had to agree to get terminal lung cancer in 20 years, I would have taken the deal. After all, at age 59, living until at least age 79 seemed reasonable if it meant this tiny treasure would live. Of course, looking back is easy when you know

you’re already 75 and you’ll be beating the odds if you pass 80.

Her survival and continued development set me on the path to my daily meditations. The list of those for whom I request health interventions keeps growing. Sadly, some people fall off that list because they’ve lost their battle, usually with some type of cancer. They’re quickly replaced with others who have an equally challenging health issue. When I learn that someone’s cancer is now in remission, I’m filled with gratitude on their behalf. It lifts my spirits to celebrate their success.

When I share my philosophy about having an attitude of gratitude, I’m occasionally met with a pessimistic:

“I have nothing to be grateful for.” I counter that everyone has something worth giving thanks for. You just have to think about what happens in your daily life. If there is one person with whom you would not want to trade places, you should have no complaints. Be thankful you’re not in their shoes. Everyone knows at least some-

one who is dealing with major problems that they would not want to face. If it’s not health, it might be financial or relationship issues.

I feel sorry for anyone who cannot get past feeling that they have nothing to be grateful for. Meditating on all the good things in my life, all the blessings I and my family and my friends have, lifts me up every day as I mentally go through that list. How very sad for those who are missing out on this opportunity.

Being grateful for the good things in other folks’ lives can benefit you, too. But being grateful for the good things in your own life… Well, that’s a blessing that can’t easily be quantified but most certainly should not be ignored or forgotten. In this season of giving thanks, and on every day, I’m so grateful for being grateful!

Copyright 2022 Business Theatre Unlimited

Elaine M. Decker’s books include Retirement Downsizing—A Humorous Guide, Retirement Sparks, Retirement Sparks Again, Retirement Sparks Redux and CANCER: A Coping Guide. Her essays appear in the anthologies: 80 Things To Do When You Turn 80 and 70 Things To Do When You Turn 70. All are available on Amazon.com. Contact her at: emdecker@ix.netcom.com

SOCIAL SECURITY

by CHERYL TUDINO SOCIAL SECURITY PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST

Social Security Bene ts Increase in 2023

Approximately 70 million Americans will see an 8.7% increase in their Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments in 2023. On average, Social Security benefits will increase by more than $140 per month starting in January. Federal benefit rates increase when the cost-of-living rises, as measured by the Department of Labor’s Consumer Price Index (CPI-W). The CPI-W rises when inflation increases, leading to a higher cost-of-living. This change means prices for goods and services, on average, are higher. The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) helps to offset these costs. We will mail COLA notices throughout the month of December to retirement, survivors, and disability beneficiaries, SSI recipients, and representative payees. But if you want to know your new benefit amount sooner, you can securely obtain your Social Security COLA notice online using the Message Center in your personal my Social Security account.

You can access this information in early December, prior to receiving the mailed notice. Benefit amounts will not be available before December. Since you will receive the COLA notice online or in the mail, you don’t need to contact us to get your new benefit amount.

If you prefer to access your COLA notice online and not receive the mailed notice, you can log in to your personal my Social Security account to opt out by changing your Preferences in the Message Center. You can update your preferences to opt out of the mailed COLA notice, and any other notices that are available online.

“Medicare premiums are going down and Social Security benefits are going up in 2023, which will give seniors more peace of mind and breathing room. This year’s substantial Social Security cost-of-living adjustment is the first time in over a decade that Medicare premiums are not rising and shows that we can provide more support to older Americans who count on the benefits they have earned,” Acting Commissioner Kilolo Kijakazi said.

January 2023 marks when other changes will happen based on the increase in the national average wage index. For example, the maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security payroll tax in 2023 will be higher. The retirement earnings test exempt amount will also change in 2023. Be among the first to know! Sign up for or log in to your personal my Social Security account today. Choose email or text under “Message Center Preferences” to receive courtesy notifications.

My Memories Ride the American Flyer Rails

My love of trains began when I was a young boy. Every winter we would open the living room doors, which had been closed to conserve heat, and put up the Christmas tree. At the bottom of the tree, I would set up my American Flyer model trains on rails affixed to a sheet of plywood, plug the power unit into the wall, and become a conductor guiding the trains around the oval track. I can still smell the incense burning from the smokestack of the small, log cabin replica as the train approached the iron bridge and railroad caution sign.

MY SIDE OF THINGS

by LARRY GRIMALDI

I have no doubt that this Yuletide tradition was repeated by countless children with toy railroad collections much more elaborate than mine. The Grimaldi Railroad Company (ironically there is a Grimaldi European shipping line) included a locomotive, coal car, box car and a caboose. The model inspired my childhood imagination, transported my dreams to faraway places, and nourished my appetite to travel when I became older.

In 1960, I rode the Silver Star from Miami, Florida to our home in Providence after a family vacation. The excitement of my first train trip made it very difficult to fall asleep on the overnight jaunt. Arriving in New York City the next day, we hopped the New Haven line for the final leg of our journey. It was my first glimpse of New York City and the canyons framed by skyscrapers; its wide, noisy, chaotic streets clogged with the traffic of honking cars and cabs; and more people in one place than I had ever seen in my lifetime! I half expected King Kong to swoop down from one of the buildings that seemed to touch the clouds. I was intimidated by the city’s vastness and its cacophony and was relieved when we pulled out of the station.

In 1964, I rode the train with two of my high school buddies for a day trip to the World’s Fair in Queens, New York. Although I enjoyed the wonders of the Fair, the train trip only whetted my appetite for more rail travel and fueled my aspirations to absorb the sights, sounds, and smells of places far beyond my South Providence tenement. During

Old Photos

ACCORDING TO DON

by DON FOWLER

The dog-eared photo albums are gathering dust on our bookshelves as we plod along with our downsizing efforts.

Photos of children, grandchildren, travels, weddings, parties, Chiristmases past, birthdays, anniversaries, and any excuse we could think of were captured induplicate and triplicate with brownie cameras with flash bulbs, box cameras, fuzzy Polaroids, throwaway cameras, and in later life, after the kids had grown, more professional equipment.

A camera in a phone that also carries hundreds of pictures of your grandchildren and your cat?

Who ever heard of such a thing!

With the latest invention, sales of photo albums plummeted.

One rainy day when I was totally bored, I picked up one of the photo albums.

Nine out of ten of the “pictures” were either blurred, out of focus, faded, or of poor quality.

But every so often a gem appeared.

My son in his birthday suit.

My daughter playing the ukulele.

The two of them looking up the fireplace chimney for Santa Clause.

A photo of my favorite aunt smiling in the background at our wedding.

My gang from grammar school.

Joyce helping the Massa Mari tribe put cow dung on their straw huts.

And on and on, enjoying wonderful memories, including travel photos to China, Russia, Eygypt and other places that aren’t very safe these days.

Altogether, there were over two dozen albums plus more boxes of miscellaneous photos.

To avoid exhaustion, I decided to

my years as a URI student, I took the train back to Kingston from home many nights. I looked forward to the short, rhythmic trek over the clacking tracks back to the campus. Years later, I hopped on a train from Richmond, Virginia back home to North Providence after a visit with my son, who was living in in the Virginia at the time.

The most breathtaking train ride I took was from the small town of Woodsville, New Hampshire, my wife’s hometown, to White River Junction, Vermont on a perfect summer evening. Most of the route ran parallel to the Connecticut River separating the two states. I rode with my father-in-law, Dale LaVoice, who was a conductor on the Boston and Maine Line. Even after more than 50 years, I can still smell the fragrance of the pine trees and visualize the muted colors of the woods along the river banks.

These days, the 60-year-old Grimaldi Crary Street Railroad Company is mothballed. Its cloth-encased electrical cords are frayed, the detached wheels dangle from the undercarriage of the heavy black locomotive, and the tracks have long since rusted and or have been lost to time. But I still set up the locomotive, cars, bridge, and caution signpost under the Christmas tree every year.

I’ve started to pass the model train tradition to my grandchildren. Three years ago, I purchased a starter set for my oldest grandson Nicholas at a local hobby shop. I plan to the same for four-year old grandson, Benjamin, Jr. when he gets a little older. I hope they love the model trains as much as I still do. Every Christmas, my memories return to my mind’s station to catch the train and ride the American Flyer rails. All aboard!

Larry Grimaldi is a freelance writer from North Providence. Many of his previous PrimeTime columns have been re-issued in his anthology, “50 Shades of Life, Love, and Laughter.” Columns published in this book are used with the permission of Beacon Communications. For more information about “50 Shades of Life, Love, and Laughter;” or any of his other books, e-mail lvgrimaldi49@gmail.com

look at one a day, throwing out duplicates and those of poor quality.

Then it hit me: I’ll bet Alex would love a photo of his winning hockey goal. And Bonnie a funny shot of her husband, who passed away years ago.

So I’ve started the selection process and writing little notes to send off to all corners of the world, including my immediate family, writing a brief note and including them in Christmas cards to people I see often and those I haven’t seen in decades.

I am sure the phones will still get passed around at this year’s family Christmas celebration and we will look at photos taken of the dog only hours earlier, but I hope we will get a laugh and a remembrance of children and grandparents taken with an old Polaroid fifty years ago.

Achieve New Year’s Resolution Success With Helpful Planning

is often a time to

new goals. However, statistics show that very few people are successful in keeping their resolutions. Why? Likely, because they don’t have a realistic, long-term plan. And, as Ben Franklin said, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” This year, create “SMART” goals—as in Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely. Here are a few ideas on how to set yourself up for success with some of the most common New Year’s resolutions.

1. Focus on Fitness According to a survey of adults who made a New Year’s resolution, the most popular goal (48%) was to exercise more. The best way to stick to it is to do something you enjoy. So whether it’s running, biking or yoga, find a way to make it fun. That might mean purchasing new workout clothes or equipment or finding a friend to join in to socialize with and to keep you going. Just remember to start slow, track your progress and you’ll soon be getting fit in your favorite way.

2. Connect with Family and Friends With busy schedules, staying connected with friends and family can be difficult. Resolving to keep in touch can be easy though, thanks to new digital tools. Luckily, a subscription service like AmericanGreetings.com allows you to send a variety of digital greetings for any holiday or occasion. To ensure you keep in touch, the

personalized greeting cards can be pre-scheduled for delivery by email up to one year in advance or can be sent via text or social media. Plus, you can even include a gift card. Best of all, one subscription unlocks access to the entire American Greetings’ online library, including SmashUps video greetings, Creatacard digital cards, and Pics & Wishes multi-media messages. Subscriptions are $6.99 per month or $29.99 per year.

3. Improve Finances If improving your finances is one of your goals, the best place to start is to track your previous year’s expenses and categorize them. You might be shocked how those daily lattes or online impulse buys add up! Then, find a financial system that works for you. This could be as simple as a spreadsheet outlining and recording your set expenses and discretionary funds; or syncing your data to your online accounts utilizing a budget-tracking app. Once your system is in place, you’ll be able to find areas for improvement and set new financial goals for the future.

4. Get Organized Getting organized is always a top resolution for the new year—and managing your schedule is a simple way to relieve stress and improve productivity. Start by outlining your daily, weekly or monthly commitments with a planner or online calendar. Google Calendar, for example, is a free option that allows you to view and color code appointments by category. Plus, by recording and prioritizing your responsibilities, you’ll also be able to see your free time, so you can make time for things you enjoy.

5. Make Time for Mental Health In addition to improving physical fitness, managing mental wellness should be at the top of the resolution list. According to Mental Health First Aid, Americans cited enhanced self-confidence (64%), increased productivity (67%), and increased happiness (71%) as the top benefits of mental self-care. So, start your year by adding “mental break” moments to your daily and weekly schedule (maybe on your new calendar). Self-care can be anything from meditation and sleep, to cooking or reading, as long as it helps you decompress, unwind and find your mental zen.

New Year’s resolutions can feel overwhelming; but by using available tools to plan ahead and keep you on track, you’ll have realistic ways to achieve your goals. (StatePoint)

The Carol Sing

Christmas was always an exciting time of year. My mother would begin the decorating as December dawned, but she would do it gradually. So that every day when we came home from school, there would be another decoration added. A Christmas candy dish on the living room coffee table. Or our wax figure candles - choir boys for my brothers, an angel for me - never lit, but displayed every year - sitting on the mantel. A wreath with a big red bow would appear on the front door. And the house would slowly, but steadily assume its holiday appearance.

There were many traditions associated with Christmas, but there was one in particular that I especially looked forward to every year that happened even before the big day. The night before Christmas Eve was the night of the Carol Sing. Since Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were spent with my mother’s family, the Carol Sing was our holiday celebration spent with my father’s family.

My father had four sisters and two brothers. One of his sisters and one of his brothers were musicians. Aunt Rosalie was a school music teacher. I actually had her for music during my elementary school years in Warwick for fourth, fifth, and sixth grades. Uncle Ernest was a music teacher in the Providence school system.

I remember feeling excited the day before Christmas Eve and couldn’t wait for the school day to end as it was often a school day, depending on when the holidays landed each year. We’d change into our holiday best, my mother would pack up the casserole or dessert she was bringing, and we’d pile into the car - long before seat belts in those early years.

Uncle Ernest and his wife, Aunt Elisa, rotated with Aunt Lil and her husband, Uncle Anthony - each hosting every other year. Aunt Lil was another of my

MEMOIRS

by SUSAN DEAN

father’s sisters. It was always a dark, cold night - sometimes with a bright moon and a million stars shimmering above, sometimes it was icy or snowy. But no matter the weather, the annual Carol Sing went on.

The festivities were always already in full swing when we arrived. Making our way up the walkway, the brightly lit windows revealed aunts, uncles, and cousins in a swirl of red and green - laughing and already making merry. We’d tumble through the front door as the nearest person would answer our ring and someone would take our coats. Then hugs and kisses all around.

I remember the savory smells of the many dishes making up the buffet and the variety of tasty sweets for dessert. The night always began with dinner, the adults clustered together in conversation groups, and the cousins huddled in corners balancing our plates on our laps and knees, happily chatting and catching up with each other.

Once the table was cleared, it was time for the music to begin. Uncle Ernest would sit at the piano and someone would hand out Christmas carol handbooks. We’d sing every carol, including all the verses of each, and there was always impromptu harmony coming from the crowd. Uncle Tom usually pulled out his trombone to accompany, and all together we made beautiful music.

The highlight of the evening was when Aunt Rosalie called the cousins together - there were thirteen of usand lined us up in a row by age and height. She’d give each of us a shiny gold handbell, sometimes giving the older cousins two bells to hold. She’d stand in front of us as our conductor and whoever she pointed to would ring

his or her bell. It amazed me that she always remembered who had which bell as I watched her arms waving in all directions, and how we were somehow able to seamlessly produce harmonious resounding Christmas music, just by ringing our bells following her cues and direction. She magically turned us into a beautiful handbell choir once a year. Our parents, aunts, and uncles were our audience, and I remember their smiling faces full of love and pride. I loved the ringing sound of the bells, the harmonic mingling of their tones, and I loved knowing that each time Aunt Rosalie pointed at me and I rang my bell, I was an integral part of the beautiful music we created together.

The night would come to an end too soon, although it was always close to midnight when we said our goodbyes and headed out into the icy, cold air and made the drive home.

The years passed and eventually my cousin Steve and his wife, Michelle, took over hosting the annual Carol Sing. I have a picture of my daughters and Steve and Michelle’s daughter, Leah - when the girls were littlestanding together in their green and red velvet dresses singing with Uncle Ernest at the piano.

Leah is now hosting the Carol Sing as another generation - my grandchildren and the grandchildren of my cousins are now the little ones. Aunt Rosalie and Uncle Ernest are long gone, but their music and traditions have lived on.

The Carol Sing holds a special place in my childhood memories, where I learned the beauty and magic of making music together. And whenever I hear the chiming of Christmas bells, I’m reminded of those long ago nights every December 23rd, when the ringing of the handbells and the beautiful music we created together seared itself into my heart and made my soul sing.

The burden on health care costs in retirement could be a significant hurdle for retirees without a sizable nest egg or effective strategy to cover such expenses. According to the Fidelity Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate, an average retired couple aged 65 in 2022 could need around $315,000 after taxes to cover their health care expenses in retirement. Thought traditional retirement goals like financing travel or relocating to a warmer climate are worthy pursuits, it’s vital that individuals of all ages, including those on the cusp of retirement, recognize the importance of saving for health care expenses as well. Such expenses, which include medication costs, are easy to take for granted when individuals are still working. However, Fidelity notes that generics, branded drugs and specialty drugs account for roughly 17 percent of retirement health care expenses. That equates to around $53,500 that might be needed to pay for medication alone. TF232672

Low Cost Retirement Savings Program

AARP - RHODE ISLAND

by CATHERINE TAYLOR

AARP’s mission is to empower people to choose how we live as we age. Financial security is essential to that empowerment.

That is why AARP fights so hard to keep Medicare costs down and to preserve Social Security, and to ensure that people have opportunities to save and prepare for their future.

These days many feel their retirement is under pressure. Social Security was designed only to supplement retirement savings. Pensions, both in the private and public sector, have eroded dramatically.

Inflation is putting the squeeze on the ability to save. And thousands of Rhode Island employees have no ability to save for retirement through their work at all.

It’s important to put in place a savings plan that can work for both employees and their employers. This plan has a name: RISavers.

It will be a top AARP Rhode Island advocacy priority to pass legislation in the General Assembly to provide employees of small businesses with a choice to save for retirement savings through their employers.

A recent AARP Rhode Island survey found that small business owners in Rhode Island support RISavers as a lowcost, low-risk retirement savings option managed in a public–private partnership by the State of Rhode Island.

Support from small business owners is

critical. For many reasons, the smaller the employer, the less likely its workers are to have access to a retirement plan.

• About 40 percent of Rhode Island private sector workers ages 18 to 64 in 2020 were employed by businesses that do not offer any type of retirement plan.

• Over 70 percent of workers at Rhode Island firms with under 10 employees, and about 59 percent at companies with between 10 and 24 employees lack a plan.

• In businesses with under 100 employees, 91,000 workers do not have access to a retirement plan, compared with about 81,000 workers in businesses with 100 or more employees.

You may be surprised to learn that 42 percent of Rhode Island workers with some college and 26 percent with a bachelor’s degree or higher work without the benefit of an employer-provided savings plan. And almost 30,000 employees earning more than $50,000 do not have access to a workplace plan. The need, you can see, crosses many lines.

• Close to three-quarters (72%) of Rhode Island small business owners support a privately managed, readyto-go retirement savings option that would help small businesses offer employees a way to save for retirement.

• Most (81%) agree that state lawmakers should support a bill to make it easier for small business owners to access a retirement savings option for their employees and themselves.

• Most (76%) small business owners in Rhode Island agree that being able to offer a voluntary, portable, retirement savings program helps local small businesses attract and retain quality employees and stay competitive.

• Among the nearly half (46%) of all small business owners who do not offer a retirement savings plan to their employees, most (71%) cite cost as a reason, followed by plan complexity (39%) or being too time consuming to operate (37%).

• Still, among those who currently do not offer a way to save for retirement to their employees, most (72%) would be likely to offer them access to a state retirement savings option if one were available.

would have the option to enroll in an IRA retirement program overseen by the state and managed by a private financial institution.

Employee participation would be completely voluntary, and any eligible employee may opt out of the program, or to increase or decrease their contribution rate at any time. Employees would have a range of choices for how to invest their savings, with a lineup of investment options overseen by the State Investment Commission.

RISavers would not expose employers to any cost, or to any legal or fiduciary liability. The benefit would be portable and stay with employees if they change employers.

It’s time we address Rhode Island’s retirement savings crisis head-on. The benefits of RISavers are clear. Let’s give our state’s workers an important new tool to set the course for their own financial future.

Here’s how small business owners responded to our survey.

Shirley Bishop Harris of North Providence is the recipient of the 2022 AARP Rhode Island Andrus Award for Community Service -- the organization’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service. We are delighted to provide this recognition to Shirley. She has been a shining star in our corps of volunteers, as a skillful volunteer leader of our Zoom Tech Team and a passionate legislative advocate on state and federal issues important to 50-plus Rhode Islanders.

Shirley’s service embodies the words of our founder, Ethel Percy Andrus, whose motto was, “To serve, not to be served.”

Under the RISavers legislation, all private employees (who work for employers with 5 or more employees)

Pair Soup and Sandwich for a Warming Winter Meal

Cool winter days and their cold, crisp air call for a quick warmup in the form of a classic combo: soup and sandwich. Next time you need warmed up from the inside out, go for a homemade pairing that brings together a cheesy handheld and hearty minestrone. When you sit down for a wintertime meal with the family, Gourmet Grilled Cheese with Aunt Nellie’s

Gourmet Grilled Cheese with Pickled Beets

Recipe courtesy of “Carlsbad Cravings”

Prep time: 60 minutes

Caramelized Onions:

3 tablespoons butter

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 large yellow onions, halved, sliced 1/4-inch thick

1-2tablespoons water (optional)

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

1/8 teaspoonredpepperflakes

Sandwiches:

8 large sourdough slices, 1/2-inch thick

1/3 cup mayonnaise

4 ounces fresh goat cheese, at room temperature

8 ounces shredded gruyere cheese, at room temperature

1 jar Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Pickled Beets (about 32 beets)

2 cups baby arugula

2 tablespoons butter, divided

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Pickled Beets provides the comfort you crave with caramelized onions, gooey melted cheese and toasted sourdough. Slowly simmered to savory perfection, 3-Bean Tortellini Minestrone – powered by READ 3-Bean Salad – plays the ideal complement to the griddled sandwiches as a filling soup without the hassle.

To find more comforting meal ideas made for combatting the cold, visit AuntNellies.com and READSalads.com.

To make caramelized onions: In Dutch oven over medium-high heat, melt butter and olive oil. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes then reduce heat to medium.

Cook until onions are caramelized and rich, deep golden brown, about 25 minutes, stirring often. Turn heat to medium-low or add water if onions are dry or start to scorch before caramelizing.

Add sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes; cook 1 minute. Onions should be jammy and darkly caramelized when done. Remove to plate to cool.

To make sandwiches: Spread out bread slices on flat surface. Spread thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each bread slice.

Turn four bread slices over and spread goat cheese on plain side. Top goat cheese with gruyere, even layer of beets, caramelized onions and arugula. Top with remaining bread, mayo side out. Secure with toothpicks, if desired.

In large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add two sandwiches, cover and grill until bottom of bread is toasted, about 5-7 minutes, and cheese starts melting, checking often. Flip and cook, uncovered, until cheese is melted and bottom of bread is toasted.

Repeat with remaining sandwiches.

3-Bean Tortellini Minestrone

Recipe courtesy of “Joy of Eating”

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

1 can (15 ounces) READ 3-Bean Salad

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced 3 peeled garlic cloves, minced 2 pinches salt, plus additional to taste, divided 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus additional to taste, divided 3 small carrots, trimmed, peeled and diced 2 celery stalks, trimmed and diced 1 medium zucchini, diced 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained 1 Parmesan rind (optional) 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

9-10 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini 2 cups baby spinach jarred pesto, for serving (optional)

Drain and rinse bean salad; set aside.

In large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onions, garlic and 1 pinch salt; saute until translucent, 3-4 minutes. Stir in Italian seasoning and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add carrots, celery and zucchini with remaining pinch salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are crisp tender, 5-7 minutes.

Stir in tomatoes. Add Parmesan rind, if desired. Cook about 10 minutes until most tomato juice evaporates. Pour in vegetable broth. Bring to boil. Add tortellini; cook 2 minutes, or just until tender. Stir in bean salad and spinach. Cook 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Season with additional salt and black pepper, to taste. Serve garnished with pesto, if desired.

HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (HEAP)

Have trouble paying your heating bill? The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps income eligible families pay their heating bills. The HEAP is a Primary Grant that is sent directly to your utility company or fuel provider, and it will be credited on your bill. You don’t need to have an unpaid bill, you can either rent or own your home, and must meet current gross income guidelines. Please call 732-4660, Ext. 175 for more information.

CHURCH OF CHRIST GIVING CLOSET

The Giving Closet of the church of Christ, 42 Nooseneck Hill Road (Lower Level Coventry-West Greenwich Elks Lodge), West Greenwich, will be open every Wednesday from 12-3PM. Everything is FREE! Please bring a mask. Donations now being accepted. 397-9700.

COVENTRY SENIOR CENTER WEDNESDAY BINGO

The Coventry Senior Center, 50 Wood Street, Coventry, will once again hold Bingo on Wednesdays from 1:30-4PM. The cost is $6 for 8 games. Please note that prizes have gone up as well as adding an additional Special & Quickie. You must be 18 years or older to play.

SATURDAY GRAB & GO WEEKLY MEALS

Are you or is someone you know an elder in Coventry or West Warwick? St. Vincent de Paul Society is offering a warm meal from their Saturday Grab & Go weekly meals. To schedule a delivery or pick up of a warm meal, please call 828-3090 before 3PM on Wednesdays. If picking up your meal, please go to the OLC School Gym, 445 Washington Street in Coventry, between 11AM-12PM on Saturday

BINGO AT KNOTTY OAK VILLAGE

Knotty Oak Village Community Hall Bingo is back!! Bingo to be held at 14 Manchester Circle, Coventry on Saturdays at 4PM - doors open at 3PM. Snacks & beverages will be available for purchase.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT GEN. NATHANAEL GREENE HOMESTEAD

The Gen. Nathanael Greene Homestead in Coventry is looking for individuals interested in becoming Tour Guides for the season. The Homestead, also known as “Spell Hall”, was built by Nathanael Greene in 1770 and has been authentically restored as a Museum dedicated to his memory. Tour Guides will learn about Gen. Greene, his family, and life in the 18th Century. Experience is not necessary. All information will be provided and scheduling is flexible. For more information, please email nathanaelgreenehmst@ gmail.com Visit us at nathanaelgreenehomestead.org

PROJECT HAND UP

Project Hand Up is a supplemental program provided for working people and elderly in the community to be able to affordably shop for groceries for a suggested donation. They are located at 15 Factory Street in West Warwick. Suggested donation is $6 for 3 bags of groceries. HOURS: If you are 60 & older or a Veteran (Veteran Card required), you can shop on any day regardless of your last name. Tuesdays 3-5PM for anyone with the last name that begins with A-K, Thursdays 3-5PM for last names beginning with L-Z & Fridays 3-4:30PM for anyone who missed their shopping day. Picture ID’s required, one purchase per family, trunks must be cleaned out to allow for groceries. Please visit projecthandup.net or find them on Facebook for more information.

COVENTRY PUBLIC LIBRARY HOURS

Coventry Public Library resumes their regular hours: MondayWednesday 9AM-8PM, Thursday-Saturday 9AM-5PM, Sunday 12-4PM.

HOPE LIBRARY HOURS

Hope Library, 374 North Road, Hope, is open on Mondays & Fridays from 10AM-5PM, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays from 10AM-8PM & Saturdays from 10AM-2PM. The Library is closed on Sundays. For more information, call 821-7910.

JOIN CUB SCOUT PACK 13, CENTREVILLE Adventure is waiting! Build Yours. Join Cub Scout Pack 13, Centreville. We meet every Wednesday at 130 Legris Avenue, West Warwick. Please contact James Mclellan at 401-5235723 or jimmac54@cox.net Find us on Facebook, Pack 13 Centreville.

CRIBBAGE PLAYERS WANTED

The Coventry Resource & Senior Center, 50 Wood Street, Coventry, is seeking Cribbage Players for Thursdays at 1PM. If you want to learn, there is someone who can teach you on Fridays at 1PM. Call 822-9175 for more information.

SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM

The Senior Companion Program trains volunteers to serve isolated older adults in their own homes, Adult Day Centers & other community sites. Senior Companions are matched with a resident in need of socialization and companionship and will serve for 4 hours, 1 day/week at no cost to the participant. For more information, call Lynn at 822-9125.

COVENTRY LIBRARY NEW YEAR’S CHILDREN’S DROP-IN CRAFT

We will be counting down to 2023 at the library! On December 29 & 30, families can drop-in the Childrenís Room to make a New Yearís countdown craft. Please call Youth Services at 822-9102 with any questions.

AtYourService

CESSPOOL SERVICE________________________

CHEVALIER CESSPOOL CLEANERS: Cesspools and septic tanks pumped. New systems installed. Sewer connections. 736-8313.

ELECTRICAL_________________________________

JADE ELECTRIC: Wiring, emergencies. Prompt and courteous. 828-5908, 738-7835. Lic.# A1538. Insured.

RICHARD J. PIZZI Electrical Contractor: 550 Providence Street, West Warwick. Residential Wiring (home repairs). No job too small. A145, insured. 580-8803.

FACSIMILE SERVICE ________________________

THE REMINDER’S FAX SERVICE. Now you can send or receive letters, statements, invoices, etc. in seconds by using The Reminder Fax Service. Want more details? Call The Reminder and ask about our fax: 821-2216. Fax Number: 821-0397. To Send: $3.00 (+tax) for the first page, $1.00 for every additional page. To receive: 75¢ ea. page (+tax).

FENCE INSTALLATION & REPAIR___________

VENTURA FENCE CO., INC.: Serving Rhode Island since 1975 for all your fencing needs. Insured. RI Reg #7260. Call anytime 821-7200.

FINANCIAL SERVICES______________________

MOFFITT & ASSOCIATES, LLC.: Financial Services and Investments, Retirement Planning and 401K rollovers. www.victormoffittandco.com 1260 Main St. (Rte. 117), Coventry (401)828-0097.

FIREWOOD __________________________________

VERRIER TREE SERVICE, INC.: Kiln Dried Firewood, Cut & Split. Pick-up or Delivered. Insect Free Guaranteed. The Driest Wood You Can Buy. Bulk or Bundled Indoor Hardwood or Outdoor Softwood for Campfires. 397-3942.

GARAGE DOORS ____________________________

CARR’S OVERHEAD DOOR, INC.: Residential and commercial garage doors & openers. Best prices, quality materials, factory authorized Lift Master and Wayne Dalton Dealers. Reg. #13612. 332 Nooseneck Hill Road, Exeter, RI (401) 397-6015.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS_____________________

LEWIS & CLARKE ENTERPRISES, INC.: New homes, additions, garages, kitchens, bathrooms, family rooms, roofs, and repairs. 345-3227. RI Reg. #5646.

BILL’S REMODELING: Additions, Formica, finish work, custom built vanities, siding. No job too small. Bill Langlais 397-9256 after 5pm. RI Registration #648.

LAUNDRY SERVICE_________________________

Let us wash, dry and fold your laundry. Pick up and delivery available. THORPE’S LAUNDROMAT AND DRY CLEANING. 401-826-7158. 560 Providence Street, West Warwick.

MASONRY___________________________________

B. TRAUTMAN MASONRY: Brick/block, stone, fireplaces, and masonry landscaping. Residential and commercial. RI Reg. #7933. Visa and Mastercard accepted. 447-4645.

PEST CONTROL _____________________________

WINFIELD TERMITE & PEST CONTROL: All your pest needs. 821-7800.

KENT COUNTY PEST CONTROL, LLC: Residential and Commercial. Certified in Industrial, Structural and Health Related Pest Control. 100% Guaranteed. 401-569-0212.

PLUMBING & HEATING _____________________

JOHN P. KEOGH PLUMBING & DRAIN CLEANING: Electric sewer rooter service. Master Plumber Lic. #1881. 401-862-8810.

A GOOD PLUMBER: Plumbing, heating, drain cleaning. 808-2284. RI Lic. #MP002399. MA Lic. #30436.

POWER WASHING __________________________

THOR’S PRESSURE & SOFT WASH: Commercial & Residential. Roof & Exterior Cleaning. Fully licensed and insured.RI Registration GC-46062. Free Estimates. Call Thor, 401-441-8672. facebook.com/ ThorsHouseWash

COVENTRY PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICE

SPOTLIGHT:

CAKE PANS

The Coventry Public Library has a collection of cake and cookie pans that are available to borrow! Bake cakes in fun shapes and borrow our decorating tools to make them look extra special!

Cake pans check out for three weeks with no holds and 2 renewals. Cake pans are fine free!†For more information, visit the Circulation Desk or call 822-9100 and press 1.

VOLUNTEER TOUR GUIDES NEEDED

The Paine House, 7 Station Street in Coventry is looking for volunteer Tour Guides to share this unique historical site with the general public. Can you spare a few hours once or twice a month? All training and materials will be provided, no special skills required. This opportunity is suitable for High School students to adults. Training classes for the 2022 season will begin soon. If interested, call Bob at 439-7513 or email info@ westernrihistory.org

PAWTUXET VALLEY ROTARY CLUB

The Pawtuxet Valley Rotary Club is looking for individuals or businesses who are interested in helping the local communities of West Warwick, Coventry & West Greenwich! For more information please email pvrotaryevents@gmail.com or call 401-589-1321.

ONGOING FOOD DRIVE TO BENEFIT VETERANS

The High 5 Pantry at Flat River Tavern, 2260 Flat River Road in Coventry will have an ongoing Food Drive to benefit local Veterans. Please drop off your non-perishable donations anytime during their normal business hours. Call 407-2121 with any questions.

PASTA MAKING WORKSHOP AT COVENTRY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Coventry Public Library, 1672 Flat River Road, Coventry will host a Pasta Making Workshop on January 11 at 6PM. Join us as Alex Reppe of Newport Pasta Co. teaches us how to make pasta! In this free, semi-hands-on class, Alex will show us how to make pasta dough and shape it into ten different styles of pasta. Registration is required as space is limited. To register, contact Lauren at lwalker@coventrylibrary.org or 822-9104.

SEPTIC SYSTEMS___________________________

TAX SERVICES

TREE SERVICE______________________________

VERRIER

INC.: Total Tree Care - Removals, Pruning, Stump Grinding, Spraying, Land Clearing, Brush Mowing, Spring Clean-Ups, Licensed. Insured. 39 Years of Satisfied Customers. 24 Hour Every Day Service. Free Estimates. 397-3942.

Adv tise y r business in

Prayer to St. Jude Most holy Apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron of hopeless cases, of things almost despaired of. Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone. Make use, I implore you, of that particular privilege given to you, to bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings, particularly (your request) and that I may praise God with you and all the elect forever. I promise, O blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor, to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen. R.R.

Gregory S. Inman, Esq.

Mark D. Tourgee, Esq.

John T. Kaveny, Esq.

Charles C. Calenda, Esq.

Lauren V. Iannelli, Esq.

Christian W. Tracy, Esq.

Julia A. Chretien, Esq.

Alfred G. Georgio III, Esq.

Timothy P. Gallogly, Esq. of Counsel

April M.Picozzi, Independent Adjuster