Fall 2023
LoveLivingHere
TM
e-magazine for all things coastal Delaware
www.delawareretiree.com
LoveLivingHere
TM
from the Delaware Retiree Advisor
Len Hayduchok
Fiduciary, CFP ®, Certified Life Coach
Len Hayduchok Delaware Retiree Advisor Nanine Gallo Marketing Director Makopano Mutloatse Editor Bridget Fitzpatrick Resident Journalist
What a pleasure to do life TOGETHER, and do it WELL! Connecting in a meaningful way is one of the most fulfilling components to a rich life. We are committed to help you engage more in our coastal communities as we LOVE LIVING HERE™ together.
Mary Jo Tarallo Resident Journalist Nina Hall Graphic Designer
The Delaware Retiree Connection™ www.DelawareRetiree.com www.facebook/DelawareRetiree This email is published quarterly. Please feel free to email us with questions and thoughts, connect@delawareretiree.com To advertise, please email us at marketing@delawareretiree.com Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission from The Delaware Retiree Connection™.
2 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
Love Living in Southern DE
Welcome Home! The Delaware Retiree ConnectionTM is here to inform, inspire, and infuse your journey with life. As you enjoy your retirement in our coastal communities, we are here to help you to do more, enjoy more, and LOVE LIVING HERE TM! We get to partner with amazing 55 and better’s, helping YOU make the most of this opportune time, learning to flourish as individuals, as well as family and community members. Our goal is to give you fun tips and expert guidance to maximize exploring the many avenues of life you’ve waited years to traverse.
In This Issue Retirement Issues
4 ............Sandwich Generation 18 .................Fraud Protection Seasonal
8 ............................Gift of Giving 10......................November Fun
Health & Fitness
24 ...................Seniors Stay Fit Local Spots
12.............Twin Branch Winery 14 ...............Mill Pond Gardens Arts & Community
16.............Village Volunteering 22 ............Making a Difference
Read our e-magazine in a traditional way, flipping through each page to see what’s next OR click on the article title you like to go straight there (with clickable links in many of our articles). Enjoy! LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 3
Retirement Issues
Sandwich Generation By Len Hayduchok, Fiduciary, Certified Financial Planner ®
If you’re finding yourself toggling between caring for the needs of an aging parent and a child, you’re not alone. The Pew Research Center recently reported that more than half of U.S. adults are part of the “sandwich generation,” a group with at least one living parent aged 65 or older and actively raising minor children or financially supporting adult children.¹ Individuals in their late 40s and early 50s make up the bulk of the sandwich generation, although people in their 30s and late 50s, early 60s may also be included. Their time, attention and finances are often divided between parents’ and children’s needs, leaving it difficult to save and plan for their own retirement.
4 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
Older Parents By 2030, the baby boomer generation — the cohort of individuals born between 1946 and 1964 — will all be over age 65.² As they grow older, they may become more reliant on their adult children to provide care, especially if they experience a decline in physical or cognitive health. That care may come with a financial commitment. A 2021 AARP study found that family caregivers spent an average of $7,242 annually on out-of-pocket caregiving costs — and that doesn’t include lost income related to reduced working hours or stepping out of the workforce to provide care.³ Younger Children On the other side of the equation, the sandwich generation may also be caring for minor children, young adults (either in college or starting a career), or even children who have come back home to live, sometimes with their own minor children in tow. The pandemic created a spike in these so-called “boomerang kids,” and 67% of young adults who moved home in early 2020 were still there two years later.⁴ Even if their grown children aren’t living at home, an increasing number of Americans are helping their young adults pay their bills. A recent survey showed 45% of American parents provide an average of $1,400 in monthly support for at least one grown child, paying for staples such as groceries, rent and utilities.⁵ Parents who are financially supporting both children and parents may find themselves juggling an eclectic set of expenses, from braces and ballet lessons
to health care costs for both children and parents (plus themselves). Financial Juggling Act With these financial responsibilities, members of the sandwich generation are saving less for their own retirements. In fact, the typical Generation X household — whose oldest members are rapidly approaching retirement age — has only $40,000 saved for retirement.⁶ How can individuals who are “stuck in the middle” get back on track with their financial planning? n Start the conversation about money with
parents as early as possible. It’s a good idea to become familiar with senior parent finances earlier rather than later, although they may resist having the discussion or talking about the potential need for help. Hold a family meeting (including other siblings) with them while they are still vibrant and healthy. Ask them to tell you about their finances and discuss things like where they want to live, caregiving preferences and who they work with to manage their money. n Ask your parents to include you (and/or
other siblings) on their bank accounts. This will ensure that you’ll be able to pay their bills for them if the need arises. Also, ask them to appoint a durable power of attorney (POA) and meet with an estate planning attorney to smooth out the process of transferring accounts later. n Find out if your parents have purchased
long-term care insurance or any other type of policy to offset the cost of elderly care. (continued to page 6) LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 5
Retirement Issues
Sandwich Generation (continued)
(continued from page 5) Their existing assets — including annuities and life insurance — may offer withdrawal options to help cover long-term care costs. If your parents don’t have many assets, look into available resources through Medicaid. n Ask to be included in meetings with your parent and their financial advisor. This can help you get a feel for how much they have invested and where they are held, particularly if they have substantial assets. You’ll also be able to develop your own relationship with their advisor and get an impartial opinion when financial decisions need to be made.
n Explore options to pay for college. If you plan to help children with highereducation costs, savings vehicles such as a 529 can let you grow your money while potentially offering tax benefits. While you don’t want to sacrifice your own retirement, any amount you save could lessen your children’s potential studentloan burden later. n Make sure you have enough life insurance. With three generations relying on your income, adequate life insurance coverage is a must-have. Even fulltime, unpaid caregivers should have life insurance since paid care will be required if something happens to the current caregiver. n Speak with a qualified fiduciary and financial advisor. They can help you find potential ways to save on taxes, such
6 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
as dependent care credits for parents or qualified college-saving plans. They can also help ensure you’re saving enough for yourself in retirement and covering your own future care expenses. Final Thoughts
Caregiving demands can take a high toll on members of the sandwich generation — physically, emotionally and financially. And for many caregivers, it’s easy to fall into “I have to do it all myself” thinking. But this isn’t true — especially when it comes to making financial decisions. Work with a financial advisor to develop a financial plan for your own
retirement savings and financial confidence early on. Even if you can’t put away a lot of money due to multiple priorities, saving and investing over a long period of time can help provide a financial footing in your later years. See full article with sources. Len Hayduchok is the founder of The Delaware Retiree Connection, and the CEO and owner of Dedicated Financial Services. As a Fiduciary and Certified Financial Planner®, he offers his wealth of experience to guide others through the mire of financial and retirement planning. As a Certified Life Coach, he pairs his financial expertise with a heart to help others who want to make the most of their retirement plan. Investment Advisory services offered through SGL Financial LLC. This content is provided for informational purposes only not to be construed as individual financial advice.
LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 7
Seasonal
The Gift of Giving, for You and Others
T
By Stacey Himler
he holiday season represents so many things; a time for giving, for entertaining and spending time with family and friends. For some, the holidays may even be a time to address household clutter. It’s true! Right now, you may be trying to figure out where to stash all the “stuff” that has slowly filled the guest bedroom over the course of the year; or maybe you need to clear piles of paperwork off the dining room table in order to add the extra leaf. Perhaps you have even decided this is the year to buy new lights and a fresh Christmas tree because your artificial tree and old light sets are stored in the far recesses of your basement or attic and your holiday schedule just doesn’t include the time it takes to remove all the boxes from storage, locate the items you need and then replace everything once again. Most of us hold onto the possessions that fill our homes because we don’t regularly take the time to evaluate the functionality or personal meaning of each item and discard those that are no longer useful. Instead, as we buy new items, we just set the old aside to be dealt with someday. Most of us never find that time and eventually, clutter accumulates. Houses that suffer symptoms of “over-accumulation” can cause stress as is evidenced by the recent TV shows about hoarding. Yet, even on a smaller scale, too many things in one place may just make us uncomfortable or become another source 8 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
of day- to- day anxiety as we let the growing piles of outdated electronics, broken cooking gadgets and worn-out shoes and handbags go unresolved and unaddressed. If you or anyone you know is suffering from a bout of holiday household stress due to an over-abundance of household possessions, this may be the perfect time to give yourself the gift of giving this season. We are not suggesting you choose December as the month to do all of your spring cleaning. It is perfectly okay to make larger household projects part of your 2024 resolutions. However, as you encounter small projects while preparing for the holidays, why not use this opportunity to give some things to those who will need and appreciate them? At the same time, you can accomplish some of your decluttering goals. For example:
Gifting Holiday Décor In most counties, there are a number of organizations who provide shelter, housing and group homes for individuals and families in need. Early December is the perfect time to donate excess holiday themed décor. Please only donate items in good condition. Keep in mind that many of these organizations also need cash donations, furniture, small appliances, linens and other household goods. Decorations and accessories that are no longer in good condition could be gifted to a craft club or hobbyists who may use the
items as raw materials. Holiday items that have sentimental value, but no longer suit your home, might make meaningful gifts to family members.
Gifting Heirlooms The holiday season is the perfect time to add to your family legacy by passing on heirlooms to next generations. And you don’t have to be in your eighties or nineties to begin this kind of gifting. Make it part of your annual tradition. Give at least one meaningful or sentimental item to another family member. If you have concerns the other party may not understand or appreciate the item, include a card or note that explains why it has special meaning or value. Describe how or why it is part of family history. It is not always easy to choose the right recipient for family heirlooms and certainly no one wants to start an argument between jealous siblings as gifts are unwrapped. Consider who will most appreciate or use an items and look for family members or friends who have at some point, expressed an interest in the item. As you consider your many sentimental possessions, it may also be the time to ask yourself if anyone in the family will ever appreciate Aunt Rose’s spoon collection. It may fare better if sold or donated to a dedicated collector.
Give and Get As you stop by your favorite retailer this season to replace your old office supplies and electronics with new ones, bring the old ones along. The following is a short list of national retailers who provide recycle services. Please visit retailer websites for more information, applicable fees and restrictions. Also, in the spirit of “giving” don’t forget to ask a housebound or elderly neighbor if you can drop off some of their stuff too! Best Buy: everything from TVs to refrigerators, games, stands, cell phones, rechargeable batteries and printer cartridges Staples: ink and toner cartridges, desktops, laptops, printers and peripherals like keyboards, mice and speakers Apple Store: cell phones, Apple products, computers, displays, and peripherals. Cables, mice, keyboards, speakers, printers, scanners and hard drives Verizon: wireless phones, batteries and accessories Giving to others has always been the best gift we give ourselves and we wish you many “giving moments” this season! LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 9
Seasonal
Plan Your November Fun
B
efore you put away the sandals and shorts and pull out fuzzy sweaters, consider a hybrid. There are plenty of warm days left, and chilly nights without mosquitoes. And Delaware has plenty to offer. Before you roast your turkey to a safe temperature, consider these attractions and distractions. We all know about Halloween and SeaWitch, etc., but did you know that November, the stepsister of glorious October and glamorous December is a month in which so much happens. Underrated like a comma between holidays, she actually gleams with colors and events and ideas. Here’s a good lineup Start the festive season off with the Holiday Craft Fair at the Vines of Sandhill on Saturday,
10 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
November 4, 2023 at 24040 Harvest Circle, Milton, DE 19968! Get ready to immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere filled with creativity and holiday cheer. Discover unique and handcrafted treasures made by local artisans, from stunning artwork to cozy crocheted items, fused glass, paper crafts and delicious homemade treats. On November 4th, the 55+ Expo at Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes will be packed with vendors of all kinds. Check out Delaware Resorts Expo for a complete list of exhibitors. Start the season with an autumn wagon ride at Lums Pond State Park. They wrap up their fall rides the first weekend of November. Last rides: Friday (November 3) 4pm, 5:15pm,
Saturday (November 4) 3pm, 4pm, 5:15pm, Sunday (November 5) 3pm, 4pm From November 8th through the 11th, the Rehoboth Independent Film Festival, celebrates independent films as its name indicates. For those who prefer brews, in Milton, Dogfish Head Brewery also as the name implies hosts several special events to explore throughout the harvest season. Before Mother Winter asserts her winds, on November 11th, come for great finds and to support the Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park between 9am – 3pm at their “Christmas Boutique and Books and Crafts” sale. For those happy people who feel adrift between Halloween and Christmas, you can also celebrate by enjoying Enchanted Winter Celebration, hosted by Schell for a generous six weeks with free admission. Bring on those grandkids so they can see a very magical display of lights, music, and even an ice rink. And the Winter Wonderfest (November 18 December 31) is another way to start up the festivities with a beautiful drive-through light display. Still another opportunity for purchasing holiday gifts takes place Black Friday Weekend. The Dewey Sip and Shop will feature 50 local artists who will be selling a wide array of handmade goods ranging from ceramics, woodwork, photography and body/bath products. Attendees will have an opportunity to make their own art or just relax with a beverage from the Sip and
Shop Bar while listening to live music. Hours are 11–4 Friday, Saturday and Sunday (November 25–27). A bit further south, the jam-packed Black Friday weekend includes the Ocean View Old Town Holiday Market and Tree Lighting from 1–5:30 p.m. in John West Park on November 25. While you’re down south, Ocean City Maryland displays its Winterfest of Lights running through at Northside Park on 125th Street (Nov. 17-Dec. 31) with a halfmile walking tour of the lights. So, before November flies by, enjoy all that our beautiful state of Delaware has to offer. Bundle a bit, but enjoy our mild winters we all saved AND there’s more fun in December!!! A list of holiday goodies to kickstart your festive calendar is located on page 21.
LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 11
Local Spots
Twin Branch Winery By Bridget Fitzpatrick
T
win Branch may be the new kid on the block as far as wineries go but the property has an interesting history dating back to the late 60s when Blue Laws prevailed. According to Shauna Thompson, the current owner of Twin Branch and of Totum Farms, “During the blue law years, Bernice Harmon (the then occupant) would buy beer and alcohol, so locals could come to her house and purchase.” Harmon’s basement was lowered, the roof raised, and now serves as the basement for Twin Branch’s wine cellar. The current basement serves as storage for the wine. This tucked away parcel of land near the Shamrock golf course is six feet above sea level making it an ideal location for
12 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
growing grapes. The two branches of streams that border the property were the inspiration for the name – Twin Branch Winery. The first grapes were planted in 2013. The entrance to the tasting room feels like a traverse down the Yellow Brick Road, especially in the summer when tall corn stalks line the very long crushed shell driveway. One almost expects the Tin Man to pop out in front of the car. The speed limit is 10 miles per hour, and an
amusing sign toward the end of the drive greets visitors, “Quit Wining! You’re Almost There,” (with little wine bottles as the ‘i’s’). The interior of the tasting room is crisp, clean, and modern with a cozy living room feel and an inviting fireplace, perfect for chilly-day tastings. The staff is personable
and welcoming, almost reminiscent of Bernice welcoming her guests back in the 60s. The tasting menu lists six selections: 2019 Whitney Chardonnay, 2019 TBW Chardonnay, 2017 Gratitude Rose, 2018 Blaize Pinot Noir, 2017 Peace Out Merlot
and 2017 Envy Chambourcin. A limited menu of food is available as well. The patio right outside the Twin Branch tasting room is a good option when the weather cooperates. Entire families can gather. Twin Branch is dog friendly, too. Adding to the vibe, the winery amps it up with live music on weekends. The owners have big plans, according to general manager Katie Hart. The current cornhole game and lawn bowling will be enhanced with a stage for musicians and fire pits for cooking. According to Thompson, the property itself constitutes about 27 acres that have been in the family for a long time. The winery also was a long time coming – about 20 years, she says. Its addition makes Twin Branch the fifth winery in Delaware.
LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 13
Local Spots
Mill Pond-Year Round Surprises By Bridget Fitzpatrick
bees and other essential pollinators. Through careful landscaping choices, several native plants and trees are there to be discovered.
T
ucked away adjacent to the 150-acre Red Mill Pond and its tributaries, Mill Pond Garden is a sight to behold throughout every season. It is more than just an organized display of year-round beauty. Mill Pond Garden is also home and a sanctuary for butterflies, dragonflies,
14 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
Mill Pond boasts wildlife of all sorts, including a Koi pond, turtle-filled ponds, a bat colony and more. There’s also an abundance of birds and small mammals: eagles, osprey, herons, several species of ducks and geese and turtles. Their amphibian ponds are loaded with frogs, salamanders and more. It is truly a gem to behold, and director, Michael Zajic wants visitors to share in its scenery, although it is not open on a daily basis. The hours vary from month to month during which visitors can choose to take a self-tour or when scheduled in advance, go on a “Director’s Tour” personalized by Zajic.
Open Days as they are called take place every month (in warm weather, there are often more than one). Registration is not announced until ten days beforehand so that the weather outlook is considered (although tours are rain or shine). Tickets are $15 per car of six passengers, and $60 per car for a private tour with the director. Just remember that it’s a walking tour – not a driving tour. Mill Pond Garden emphasizes the environmental importance of using native plants and trees in our own gardens. It also has a winter tour that emphasizes that beautiful colors can be found even then. There’s a presentation about the intriguing colors of Fall as well. MPG is a member of the National Wildlife Federation, and a Certified Wildlife Habitat. Zajic shares, “We are staffed by a Horticulturist, a Plant Scientist, four Gardeners, and blessed with volunteer help and thoughtful donors.”
ber and January, there is a holiday light display (usually starting on the fourth Saturday of November). Mill Pond has education as part of its mission. They provide educational material, classroom and garden club presentations and other public speaking events by appointment. To learn more about what’s coming up, visit the website https://millpondgarden.com. There you can learn more about upcoming events by subscribing to their email list for a better chance to purchase tickets. Why not make the very easy trip to the gardens that await you and five friends for the mere cost of $15? Keep an eye out for what’s next!
During the months of November, Decem-
LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 15
Arts & Community
Village Volunteers
V
illage Volunteers (The Greater Lewes Community Village Volunteers) is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping older adults live independently for as long as possible: sharing our time and skills so that our older neighbors in Eastern Sussex County, Delaware, can continue to live on their own. Approximately 180 volunteers provide services to “members” across Lewes, Milton and Rehoboth Beach. Services include transportation to various locations, Friendly Visits that provide companionship
By Mary Jo Tarallo
and conversation, household necessities and “handyman jobs”, telephone check-ins, pet care assistance, technical assistance with electronics and more. Volunteers are not medical professionals but are trained in assisting people with services provided. Village Volunteers partnered with a group to open another branch to serve communities south of the Indian River Bridge. South Coastal Village Volunteers serves Bethany Beach, Millville, Ocean View and surrounding neighborhoods. Jackie Sullivan, Exec. Director, recently spoke at a Rehoboth Beach Writers Guild “Lunch for a Purpose.” “A Village is a community-based organization that helps you to live independently. A Village is a group of volunteers who do the types of things most of us were raised to do…helping our neighbors.” She advises groups on planning ahead. “Older Adults are retiring to places they love which are not always near their family,” she noted. “Our children may still be
16 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
working or live far enough away where they cannot help us very easily. We do not want to feel like a burden to our children, to our neighbors, to our friends.” According to Sullivan, planning means knowing the available resources to help you age in place, having trust in those resources before you need them, starting the planning process before something goes wrong, and accepting that we may all need an extra hand at times. Village Volunteers is very affordable. The “individual membership” is $500 annually for 25 hours of help per month. A household membership costs $750. Volunteer hours start as early as 7 am until 5 pm. Time shifts for volunteers are a maximum of two hours. The group asks for 48 hours’ notice. Louise Huntly of Milton settled on tapping Village Volunteers after doing some research on other, more expensive, services. Due to eyesight issues, she needs rides to medical appointments that are beyond a safe drivable distance from her house. Coastal Highway and road construction
are her biggest concerns. “I particularly like that the volunteer who brings you to the appointment will also pick you up to come home,” she says. She learned about the group from two neighbors who had positive experiences with the organization. When she speaks to groups, Sullivan tells a funny story about their very first volunteer service to a member. The member needed help to find out why the printer wasn’t working. “The volunteer arrives at the home and sees quite a mess on the floor,” she says. “He identifies the problem, plugs in the printer and it works! Sometimes we get a bit overwhelmed, and it helps to have another person’s perspective.” Those interested in becoming members or volunteers receive an information packet that contains a membership enrollment form and an extensive booklet that explains services and parameters in detail. Click to learn more. LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 17
Retirement Issues
Fraud Protection By Bridget Fitzpatrick
T
he statistics are alarming in fact, may be underreported According to experts on fraudulent scams targeting seniors, more than one in ten older Americans will be victims of financial theft each year to the tune of more than $2.9 billion. Yet shockingly, it is estimated by the Senate Special Commission on Aging that only one in 24 cases is reported. Why so?
THE #1 RULE: Never provide a stranger with personal information such as your address – and especially your Social Security number or bank passwords or account information. It’s obvious advice, but if you suspect your financial or medical records have been compromised, contact Medicare and your bank as well as the IRS.
Many seniors either realize they’ve been misled too late, and most unsuspecting victims do not know where to turn for help. Knowledge is prevention in this case; the more organized and vigilant you are to potential fraud, the safer you will be.
Senior Protection Initiative, which includes Adult Protection Services and Senior Legal Services.
Delaware’s Department of Justice now has a
Medicare fraud is a booming, illicit business. And creeping up quickly on the top ten list of abuse are numerous illegal internet scams: identity theft, sale of bogus medications and healthcare services, investment schemes and more. • Funeral scams – imposters preying on
mourning spouses to collect fake debt or “upsell” unnecessary funeral costs. • COVID scams using scare tactics to
convince people that a family member is sick and needs financial support. • Fake charities: a scammer calls to play
off your good intentions and ask for gifts 18 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
to help those in need (especially following natural disasters). • Homeowner scams: you’ll get a call
for bogus home improvements requiring a large deposit. • Utility scams: imposters call, posing
as employees and asking for sensitive information. • Investment scams, including selling
reverse mortgages. • Pigeon Drop scams: “You won! You can
get this large lump sum, all you need to do is pay a smaller sum now to secure it…” Knowing how to protect yourself is essential. Here are suggestions from trusted sources. • The number of passwords we all need
to remember can be overwhelming, so it’s worth it to use a password manager such as Keeper or Lifelock. • Block unknown callers with suspicious
numbers. You can also screen them. When
they come in on a smartphone, instead of answering, you can press “SCREEN CALL”. Consider adding your number to the National Do Not Call Registry. • Consider if any hearing impairments
are making it harder for you to identify scams. In this case (for you, or even for your parents) you may want to consider getting assistance, such a Captioned Phone. (Federal funding under Title IV of the ADA means Clear Captions is able to provide their equipment and services at no expense to qualified users.) (Learn more) • Don’t open emails from senders you
don’t know (don’t be caught with their “phishing”). If you didn’t inquire, then don’t respond. They are click-baiting you. • The typical person has an average of
130 accounts requiring a passcode. Only share your phone password with your spouse or trusted relative/friend in case of emergency. (Read more) (continued to page 20) LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 19
Retirement Issues
Fraud Protection (continued) (continued from page 19) • Make sure you regularly have updated and adequate
firewall security on all of your devices. • Monitor your account activity and annual credit reports. • Shred any paper documents that include credit card
info, and secure essential documents (birth certificates, copies of driver’s license, etc.). • AARP invites you to call their toll-free fraud helpline at
877-908-3360 if you or a loved one suspect you’ve been a victim. They also offer several articles on safeguarding on their website. Read more on this subject by clicking on a box below.
Resources Caregiverstress.com, a video series for seniors and caregivers on fraud protection Scams and Safety Page from the FBI with tips and contact information National Council on Aging, articles and a long list of resources Delaware’s Fraud and Consumer Protection Division, legal information and reporting Medicare.gov page link on how to identify, report or protect yourself from fraud Elder Care Locator, a government resource for local senior services, elder law, etc.
20 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
Festival Calendar The holidays are a bustling time around our coastal communities. Here are a few special events to kickstart your festive calendar: g Second Street Players presents “A Christmas Carol”, The Musical, Nov. 24 – Dec. 3 g Possum Point Players presents “The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus”, Dec. 1–10 g Southern Delaware Chorale will present “A Candlelight Concert”, Dec. 1 at 7:30pm g Lewes Merchants Hospitality Night Dec. 1 at 5–8pm g 91st Annual Lewes Christmas Parade, Dec. 2 at 5–7 PM g Lewes Historical Society, First Friday, Holiday Village Market & Village Tour, Dec. 1–2 g Milford Holiday Stroll and Christmas Market, Dec. 2 g 50th Anniversary of A Holiday House Tour of Lewes and Holiday Village & Market, Dec. 2 at 9am g Rehoboth Christmas parade, Dec. 4 at 6pm g Milton Christmas Parade Festivities at Quayside, Dec. 6 at 6pm g Clear Space Theatre presents “Estella Scrooge”, Dec. 7–8 at 7pm, Dec. 9 at 2pm and 7pm, Dec 10 at 2pm g Coastal Concerts-Kaleidoscope Chamber Collective, Dec. 9 at 2pm at Cape Henlopen High School g The Women’s Club of Milton Holiday House Tour, Dec. 9 at 2:30–6:30pm, Dec. 9, rain, snow or shine. g Mistletoe & Mimosas, Mistletoe & Mimosas, Dec. 9 at 11am – 4pm at Rehoboth Beach Convention Center g RBFS’s National Theatre Live presents “Hamlet”, Dec. 13 at 1pm and Dec 16 at 4 pm at Cinema Art Theater g Screening It’s A Wonderful Life at Milton Theatre, Dec. 18 at 2pm
LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 21
Arts & Community
Making a Difference a Paint Stroke at a Time
R
By Mary Jo Tarallo
etirees who like to support the arts, listen up. You have plenty of wide-ranging opportunities to do so for artists of all ages. A community development internship in Coastal Kenya inspired a Dewey Beach resident named Leah Beach (no joke) to launch the Developing Artist Collaboration (DAC) when she returned home in 2014. Empowered by the idea that artists can change the world, she discovered that there were other young artists who shared her vision. Beach and friends officially formed DAC as a 501(c)(3) non-profit in 2017. It is dedicated to helping launch the careers of individual young adult artists just starting their creative journey. This organization’s website clearly differentiates it from other arts groups. It’s a bit sassy! You might call it “entrepreneurs with a conscience”. Helping young artists was crucial but fundraising was paramount. Covid threw the group a curveball, but this resilient and dedicated bunch found a way to survive and now thrive. DAC depends on grants and other fundraising efforts to 22 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
provide services so that members don’t have to pay. DAC has nestled in West Rehoboth, a predominantly residential neighborhood with roots dating back in history to “free blacks” searching for new homes. A Quaker, Charles Mills, turned part of his farm into the West Rehoboth subdivision in 1945 so that they might own “lots of their own”. For the most part, the area has maintained its identity, but locals and tourists might think of it as home for Revelation Brewery, Tomato Sunshine and Ocean Boulevard Furniture.
Fundraisers include Tacomania on October 12th, the Dewey Sip & Shop holiday gift purchasing event on Black Friday weekend. as well as the summer-time Creative Market where budding artists, musicians and art lovers can come together for an evening of art appreciation and entertainment on Monday and Friday evenings.
Artists Gallery provides a showcase for local artists and is set up in a similar fashion to Gallery One. It is located on West 3rd Street in Lewes, a block from the Zwaanendael Museum. Twenty-two artists share the first- floor gallery space of a brown shingle building that may have been someone’s home once.
In 2005, an established Maryland/ Delaware shore area group formed Gallery One. Now located in Ocean View, Gallery One is a converted warehouse on Atlantic Ave, about a mile west of Bethany Beach. It is spacious enough to attractively display art from the +/- 15 artists who currently belong to this coop, plus a special room dedicated to crafts artisans. Themed displays are featured each month. Coop “owners” take turns staffing the gallery and managing business.
Two commercial galleries in Lewes are worth investigating. Peninsula Gallery on Savannah Road (East side of the Canal) hosts numerous exhibits and ongoing collections for a wide array of local artists. It also does custom framing.
Dale Sheldon is one of them. Her passion is typical of the coop devotees. “Before I begin a painting, I put something on the canvas or paper, the first of my own marks,” she said. “I also think of what story each painting will tell, and how I will engage the viewer. I can happily go where the painting leads me.” While there is no organized art league or guild in Lewes, the Cape
Abraxas is a small gallery right on Lewes’ main shopping street. It is owned by the luminist artist named Abraxas who also offers art lessons. If you’re like many of us “others”, the artistic talents of those around us who let their gifts flourish are truly inspiring. Here’s to making our communities near and far, places of beauty and growth.
LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 23
Health & Fitness
Seniors Stay Fit in Coastal DE
T
By Mary Jo Tarallo
he health and fitness benefits of regular physical activity are well documented regardless of one’s age. Depending on what you do (and how much of it), here are a few: improved cardiovascular health and circulation, reduced arthritis, joint and knee pain, increased bone density, stronger muscles, better balance, decrease in feelings of depression and isolation, increased cognitive function, better scores on memory tests, improved reaction time and weight maintenance. Definitely sounds like it might be worth looking into (if not starting immediately)! Recreational groups and businesses throughout Delaware’s coastal towns serve up a dizzying array of choices for staying fit all year long – especially helpful after the upcoming “indulgence period” between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. We are talking pickleball, walking, hiking, biking, yoga, swimming, and even skiing – both Alpine and cross country. So our
24 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
normal excuses of boring, limited options, and no access are blown away in the coastal wind! To help get you started in the right direction, we will break down the health benefits of various activities and provide local resources that can help you find outlets to get involved.
PICKLEBALL: a hybrid of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. Senior Lewes pickleball players De Raynes and Robbin Murray, sum up why pickleball is so popular. They
say it is very social. It can be competitive or recreational - one that can be enjoyed by all ages (8–80) making it ideal for grandparents, parents and grandchildren to enjoy together. “Success on a recreational level can be reached very quickly,”De Raynes said. The Sports Imports website claims that playing pickleball allows you to work on your balance, agility, reflexes, and handeye coordination without putting excessive strains on your body. Read More: Let’s Pickleball, a Crash Course, How to Find a Pickleball Game Near You. According to The Economist, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America and its origins may surprise you. Rules are simple, making it a great introductory sport. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) noted that, in 2018, more than three million Americans played pickleball and that number has increased each year. The First State Pickleball Club website provides a treasure-trove of information. HIKING: Another very attractive option, requires less skill and it is the focus of Delaware Easy Striders. founded by partial retiree Peter Gisler. According to the group’s Facebook page, these likeminded individuals “joined together to hike and enjoy the beauty and outdoors of southern Delaware.” The hikes are more like brisk walks and it is easy to find
out how many calories one can burn via the Healthline website. Gisler plans two hikes per month on Sundays from October through April since he still works part time for the Delaware State Parks. Gisler knows the value of regular exercise and recreation having run a New Jersey sporting goods store in a “former life”. He strongly urges those 50 and over to join the group so they have the option of participating in the Senior Olympics. Information about the group is available on the group’s Facebook page. Hiking/brisk walking can lower your risk of heart disease, improve your blood (continued to page 26)
LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 25
Health & Fitness
Seniors Stay Fit (continued) (continued from page 25) pressure and blood sugar levels, boost bone density (walking is a weight-bearing exercise), build strength in your glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and the muscles in your hips and lower legs and strengthen your core. Hiking is the group’s main event, but participants also indulge in biking, tennis, kayaking, pickleball and disk golf — activities that offer other opportunities for fresh air and exercise. Oh, and they are known to gather after a hike for a little socializing at a local restaurant. So if you need a group to inspire your fitness, they just might be a great group to join!
Y-O-G-A: a short word with incredible benefit. Although relaxation and reflection are two of the biggies that come to mine, an hour-long yoga session leaves the body with a full-range workout. According to the American Osteopathic Association, yoga regularly leads to “increased flexibility, muscle strength and tone, improved respiration, energy and vitality, balanced metabolism, weight reduction, cardio and circulatory health, and improved athletic performance”. In addition, yoga helps a person manage stress, which is known to have devastating effects on the body and mind. “Yoga offers so many benefits to those of all ages”, says Erin Shivone, yoga instructor at Lanikai Wellness Studio. “For seniors it helps build strength and flexibility. On a mental and emotional level, yoga brings a sense of peace and
26 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
calm,” she says. “A daily practice of even 10 minutes of mindful breathing and movement can change our lives for the better”. (Want to learn more, start with Yoga: Why It’s Not Just for Women Who Want to Stretch and checkout another article Beach Yoga). BIKING: A low-impact, high energy alternative which also boasts numerous health benefits. Low impact means it causes less strain and injuries than other forms of exercise, while still providing a good muscle workout. Cycling uses all major muscle groups as you pedal. Biking increases stamina, strength and aerobic fitness. (And since once you learn, you don’t forget—most of us can pick it back
up quickly. BONUS: it doubles as a mode of transport.) Bill Gorodetzer, ride coordinator for Sussex Cyclists, says that physical fitness is a big motivator for joining the group before. Members in their 50s and 60s want to get stronger while those in their later years just want to hold on to what we’ve got”, he says. Most already are bikers, but members represent all levels of experience. Sussex Cyclists offers members a way to maintain cardio-vascular fitness while also providing a social outlet. Rides start at multiple locations from Milton to Bethany and some include a “beer gathering” at the end. (continued to page 28)
LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 27
Health & Fitness
Seniors Stay Fit (continued) (continued from page 27) ALPINE SKIING: providing some of the same health benefits as biking, skiing adds value you may not have considered. Cross country skiing is known as one of the best aerobic exercises available, especially as we gear up for winter. It may sound a bit far-fetched but there is an organized ski club nearby, and many members are retired--so a chance to connect as well! The Salisbury Ski Club (MD) has been in existence since 1964. It meets once a month usually at a local restaurant. “ Over the years, the Club has introduced hundreds of Delmarva residents to this increasingly popular sport which helps to ease the cold sting of Winter.
28 Fall 2023 LOVE LIVING HERETM
SWIMMING: A great way, all year long, to burn calories and de-stress at the same time, swimming uses all the muscles in the body so you will get a full body workout. Exercising in water makes your body work harder so 30 minutes in a pool is worth 45 minutes of the same activity on land. Even as the temperatures start to drop, we’ve got plenty of indoor pools in Sussex County to choose from (heated!) And, of course, there is always the bay and the ocean that calls even as fall moves into winter. Need the motivation of a good cause,
plan ahead for this February’s upcoming Polar Bear Plunge. Like many of the other activities mentioned, swimming increases energy levels, helps contribute to a positive mental outlook and it also provides exercise without the sweat. Getting active and staying fit is just plain GOOD FOR US. It’s possible benefits include improved cardiovascular health and
circulation, reduced arthritis, joint and knee pain, increase in bone density, stronger muscles, better balance, decrease in feelings of depression and isolation, increased cognitive function, better scores on memory tests, improved reaction time and weight maintenance. On a mental health note, the Alzheimer’s Association advocates regular physical activity as a way to combat dementia. Here’s to getting these great benefits and making the most of each new day!
LOVE LIVING HERETM Fall 2023 29
Come Back Soon!
Love Living Here
TM
Visit us at www.DelawareRetiree.com
