50 Plus - November 2012 by Gannett Wisconsin Media

50 November 2012 | The magazine for active, mature lifestyles

plus!

health screenings : Screening Spectacular Dr. Steven Driggers

SAVVY SENIOR

ADRC: Transport program assessments planned

Proper Nutrition Key for Elderly

Holiday Dining Gets Fresh Flavor

Financial column: Medicare Open Enrollment

Leon Burzynski and Doug HilL 12

Social Security: New Electronic Payment Rule Will Protect Against Financial Crimes

How Older Drivers Can Cut Vehicle Costs

FEATURE STORY:

The Christmas Tree Ship Passing on the story

50 plus!

On the Cover:

Screening Spectacular health screenings Dr. Steven Driggers is head of emergency at Holy Family Memorial.

The Christmas Tree Ship: Passing on the story Margaret “Maggie” Becker-Koeppe poses at the historic Rogers Street Fishing Village in Two Rivers. She is president of the French Canadian & Friends organization, chairman of events for the Rouse Simmons “Christmas Tree” Ship, chairman of the Christmas Tree Ship centennial and a Rogers Street Fishing Village board member. Matthew Apgar/50 Plus

Staff

Pat Pankratz, 50 Plus! Editor 920-686-2138 ppankratz@htrnews.com Tami Gasch, Advertising Manager 920-684-4433 tgasch@htrnews.com 50 Plus! is published monthly by the Herald Times Reporter. It also is distributed to select businesses in Manitowoc County.

By Steve Driggers, MD Holy Family Memorial Holy Family Memorial recently held a Screening Spectacular, and we were pleased to provide over 200 free screenings to our community. Health screenings remain the most effective way to detect and treat disease in early stages. If, however, you are already living with a health condition, routine health checkups can prevent conditions from worsening. Simply put: Screenings catch conditions early and help prevent them from getting worse, resulting in a better quality of life. As an example, increasingly, diabetes is one of the most common conditions for which patients may be screened. The American Diabetes Association’s website estimates that 11.3 percent of adults over 20 years old have diabetes, and 26.9 percent of persons over the age of 65 have diabetes. Those with diabetes must be vigilant to keep it in check to avoid common complicating conditions. In the spirit of caring for our community, the HFM Screening Spectacular in September provided a number of screenings at no cost. HFM

remains dedicated to the people of Manitowoc County. We realize that in these tough economic times, some people may be putting off necessary preventive screenings until the economy improves. Don’t take your good health for granted, though; it can go away. Make an appointment with your primary care physician, whether you suspect something is wrong or not. Remember, the earlier we can catch conditions, the better your health will be in the long term.

From 8 to 11 a.m. on Nov. 3, HFM will be holding the Lakeshore Orthopaedics – Head to Toe Ortho Screening Event. Use this opportunity to ask questions about joint pain, chiropractic treatments, and to speak with a dietitian. Assessments will be provided to the community at no cost. So, don’t put off a pain, such as shoulder or knee pain. Come have an expert examine you at HFM.

NICE GOING! Tom Becker of Two Rivers bowled a 300 game at Meadow Lanes West on Oct. 8. He had 12 strikes in a row in his first game of three. Tom is 68 years old and has been bowling since he was 16 years old. This is his first 300 and it is believed to be the first in the senior league, according to league member Joe Wilson. Becker ended up with a 697 series.

rt and Vil u o C e la Th

Quality,nate ssio Compaa C re

Felician Village

All residents at The Court and Villa, assisted living options, beneﬁt from: � Meals, Housekeeping, Laundry Services � Daily activities

� Safety and Security � 24 hour care w/ R.N. supervision

Space is limited! Call now for more information!

WI-5001552455

Sponsored by the Felician Sisters

2 . November 2012 . 50 plus!

WI-5001559067

1600 S. 18th Street Manitowoc, WI 54220 (920) 684-7171 ext. 411 www.FelicianVillage.org

How to Write Your Own Will Dear Savvy Senior: Can you recommend some good do — it — yourself resources to help me write my will? At age 62, I want to get my affairs organized, but I hate paying a high — priced attorney fee if I can do it myself.

Don’t Have Much

Dear Don’t: If you have a simple, straightforward estate and an uncomplicated family situation, writing your own will - with the help of a good do-it-yourself guide - is a viable alternative to hiring an attorney and a whole lot cheaper. Here are some good resources to help you get started. There are a number of computer software products and online resources available today that can help you create your own will very easily, and they

usually take less than an hour from start to finish. Like tax software, these tools will guide you through a series of questions and will insert your answers into a will for you. But, you’ll need a computer to use them. Some good options to check out include: Quicken WillMaker Plus 2013: This is a comprehensive estate planning software product that’s very userfriendly. It lets you create customized wills for an unlimited number of people, along with other important documents like financial powers of attorney, health care directives, executor documents, final arrangements and more. And once you’re finished, you can store your documents on your computer and update them as needed, and you can print them out on paper. Available in downloadable or CD format at nolo. com for $43 or $52, this software works only with Windows operating systems and is valid in every state except Louisiana. Rocket Lawyer: This is an online

Jim Miller resource - available at rocketlawyer. com - that helps you create a will, trust, power of attorney and dozens of other legal documents in every state. They start by offering a free seven-day trial period so you can actually make one document for free. Or, you can become a member for $20 a month, or $120 for their annual “Basic Legal Plan,” and get unlimited access so you can make, store, share and update any documents you want. They even provide annual members free legal reviews of their document and free phone assistance with an attorney.

Hire a Lawyer: It’s also important to know that if you have a complicated financial situation, blended family or if you have considerable assets, you need to hire a lawyer to write your will. An experienced lawyer can make sure you cover all your bases which can help avoid family confusion and squabbles after you’re gone.

LegalZoom: Available online at legalzoom.com, this site makes wills, trusts, powers of attorney, petprotection agreements and many other documents. After you create your will, or other documents, they double-check them for spelling and grammar mistakes (but not for legal issues) and mail you a printed copy in about a week to 10 days. Wills run $69, other documents range between $35 and $249.

Costs will vary depending on your situation and location, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $200 and $1,000 to get your will made.

No Computer Necessary If you don’t have a home computer or Internet access, a good resource to turn to is the “Quick & Legal Will Book” sold by Nolo for $21. This guide provides forms and step-by-step instructions that can help you make a basic will that

meets your needs. To order a copy, call (800) 728-3555.

The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (naela.org) and the National Association of Estate Planners and Councils (naepc.org) websites are good resources that have directories to help you find someone in your area.

If money is tight, check with your state’s bar association (see findlegalhelp.org) to find low — cost legal help in your area. Or call the Eldercare Locater at (800) 677-1116 for a referral. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

Regency House

Carefree Senior Living

Comfortable 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments Include: • Security Features • Hot Water Heat • Water & Sewer • Appliances

• Garages Available • Safety Features • Laundry Facilities • Community Room

929 S. 31st Street Seniors 55+ Residence Across the street from Senior Center Shopping, Banking Grocery Store, City Busline

• Soundprooﬁng • Elevator • Cable/Dish Ready • Monthly Socials *Income limits apply to 1 Bdrms.

WI-5001557570

For A Showing: (920) 684-1531 or info@parkregencymanagement.com

WI-5001552447

50 plus! . November 2012 . 3

ADRC: Transport program assessments planned Every three years the county is required to do an assessment of its transportation programs within the county to be able to continue public funding of its programs. Bay-Lake Regional Planning Commission will be conducting this assessment for Manitowoc County from 1 to 3 p.m. Oct. 31 at the Aging & Disability Resource Center office, 4319 Expo Drive. Kewaunee County’s assessment will be done from 9 to 11 a.m. Nov. 1 at its Human Service building, 810 Lincoln St. The public is invited to share thoughts and ideas on how providers can work together, look at the current resources and what is lacking, the ease in which consumers can access public transportation; and assist in identifying how to make the programs cost effective while still maintaining a system that can meet each county’s needs. No prior registration is necessary. Please contact the ADRC at (877) 416-7083 if specialized transportation is needed. Comments can also be made by contacting the ADRC.

insurance coverage and enroll in a different plan. It is important to review your plan annually as formularies, co-payments and deductibles change, along with the cost of the plans. Reviewing your current plan and changing to the most cost effective plan could result in a savings in 2013.

2014. This is a rumor and not true. There has been no mention of an increase in the Part B premium, which is currently at $99.90 per month. It has always been the policy that no recipient receive less in net payment from one year to the next because of an increase in the Part B premium.

Appointments are accepted at the Manitowoc and Two Rivers Senior Centers and also at the ADRC. When making an appointment, please indicate whether you are interested in reviewing your current Part D prescription drug plan or an Advantage Plan, which is the privatization of Medicare and includes your Part A, B, and D in one single plan.

This should serve as a reminder that a lot of the mail being delivered to doorsteps, and also telephone calls made to homes, are often scams. Many documents and TV and magazine ads look very official. Remember to read the fine print on the bottom that says, not associated with or endorsed by the federal government. A good rule of thumb is never to give your bank account number or Social Security number over the phone or on any correspondence unless you initiated the transaction.

Staff are trained in understanding different programs, so please help the receptionist book the appointment with the appropriate staff. You will be asked to bring a copy of your current prescriptions and your Medicare card to the appointment.

Thanksgiving Meals

Medicare Enrollment

Medicare Rumor

If you are going to be alone on Thanksgiving Day, several opportunities are available in the community to have someone else cook the dinner.

Open enrollment in Medicare Part D prescription plans and Advantage Plans began Oct. 15 and will run through Dec. 7. This is the time during which participants can review their current drug and

The Social Security office has notified the ADRC that they have received numerous calls from individuals stating they have heard that the Affordable Care Act will result in Medicare Part B costing $247 a month in

The Two Rivers Senior Center will be providing a meal open to individuals and families of all ages. Reservations can be made by calling (920) 793-5596. Meals can be delivered to those who are homebound.

We’re Proud to Show You AMERICA!®

Motor Coach Tours Throughout the US & Canada Branson Christmas 2012 featuring Daniel O’Donnell 5 Days November 5-9 $849 per person DBL

Panama City Beach Condo Stay 32 Days January 30-March 2 $2,459 per person DBL One Bdrm

Texas Passport: Dallas & Fort Worth 8 Days March 18-25 $1,499 per person DBL

Shadows of the South 9 Days April 1-9 $1,389 per person DBL Washington DC 8 Days April 13-20 $1,459 per person DBL

Visit us today and learn more about these special services:

Marv Moore, PharmD Brian Jensen, R.Ph., FACA Karl Schroeder, R.Ph. Joylyn Moore, PharmD WI-5001568035

• Personal Medication Counseling • Daily Delivery • Prescription Compounding • Online Reﬁlls • Bubble Packaging • Automatic Reﬁlls with our SmartFill Program • One Price Plan–Get a Large Supply of Your Medication and Save

16 Days May 9-24 $4,995 per person DBL Includes AIR!

Many other popular destinations available including: Nashville, Canadian Rockies, Yellowstone & Grand Tetons, Utah Parks, New York City & Much More!

Virginia Military Tattoo 8 Days April 24 – May 1 $1,489 per person DBL

Hours: M-F 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

��

4 . November 2012 . 50 plus!

WWII European Memorials

Convenient Departure Points near YOU! FREE 2013 TRAVEL PLANNER Available NOW!

For Reservations Call: (800) 236-8687

Visitit our Vi ur web website: www.lamerstour.com WI-5001568094

Holy Family Memorial will be opening its dining room to the public from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Thanksgiving day. Individuals who are receiving home delivered meals in the city of Manitowoc may have a meal delivered from the hospital. To allow volunteers and staff to spend time with their families on this day, please only request a meal if you have no other dinner opportunities. To order a meal call the ADRC at (920) 683-4180. The Chilton Eagles Club will be doing its Thanksgiving Express and delivering meals to homebound elderly in the Kiel, St. Nazianz, Valders, Reedsville and Whitelaw areas. For those living in the Kiel area, please call (920) 894-7861 to order a meal. All other areas can contact the ADRC at (920) 683-4180.

Proper Nutrition

Key for Elderly Proper nutrition, including hydration and reduction in salt intake, is important for the elderly or soon-to-be elderly.

Remember to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 6.

Americans are now living longer than ever before. In fact, one of the fastest growing segments is people over the age of 85 who will represent 20 percent of the population by the year 2040. Because we are living longer, certain conditions specific to senior citizens are also on a steady rise. Dehydration, falls, fractures, cognitive loss and attention deficits are now becoming more commonplace.

medical conference in Switzerland, Israeli researchers from the University of Haifa confirmed that in older people, a reduced sense of thirst results in a greatly increased risk of serious dehydration. They also noted that the appetite for salt does not diminish with age and suggested that this be used to help sustain hydration and prevent the dangerous symptoms that result from dehydration.

of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, published in the American Journal of Hypertension, identified significant risks to cardiovascular health and longevity from consuming any less than one or more than three teaspoons salt per day. Fortunately, most Americans – including the elderly – when left to their own choice consume right in the middle of this range.

Judy Rank is executive director of the Aging and Disability Resource Center of the Lakeshore.

In a recent paper titled “Salt Appetite Across Generations,” presented at a

Another study by Dr. Michael H. Alderman and Dr. Hillel W. Cohen

Proper Nutrition continued on page 7

Warrens Restaurant in Manitowoc will provide a meal to those who have no other options for Thanksgiving. Please call them at (920) 682-2533 for a reservation.

Skilled Nursing &

Hamilton Care Center offers:

Rehabilitation Redeﬁned

Private and Semi-private rooms Inpatient and Outpatient Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy. Our therapists are trained in Lymphedema Therapy, Continence Treatment, Orthopedics and Neurological Treatment, including neuropathy. Licensed qualiﬁed social service professionals. Activities geared toward all levels of function. Caring, compassionate staff eager to meet your needs.

Hamilton Care Center

Come see the care provide. we can provide

We are located in a beautiful serene wooded setting near downtown Two Rivers

WI-5001568501

Schedule your tour today!

1-920-793-2261

Your hometown choice for Nursing and Rehabilitation Services!

1 Hamilton Drive | Two Rivers Wisconsin 54241 50 plus! . November 2012 . 5

FOOD

www.doneff.com

This upscale, yet affordable, independent senior apartment community features underground parking, a well-appointed community room & balconies/patios. Conveniently located near shopping and restaurants. Call DEBBIE for a private tour: 901-RENT

WI-5001536930

NO entrance or endowment fees: Appliances, heat, water, sewer all included.

Thinking Cremation? Holiday Dining Please call to arrange a tour of our award winning cremation center, Manitowoc County’s newest and largest facility. All-Care offers a wide range of cremation options as well as a reception center for family gatherings.

All-Care Cremation Center 928 South 14th Street Manitowoc www.allcarecremationcenter.com

Manitowoc

684-4642

Two Rivers

793-1396

Valders

775-4433

Advanced Planning Makes Sense

Justin Hudock

Your locally owned Funeral Homes and All-Care Cremation Center

Licensed Pre-Need Counselor

Meaningful

John Bodwin Licensed Pre-Need Counselor

Appropriate

WI-5001528104

6 . November 2012 . 50 plus!

Affordable

Gets Fresh Flavor New Uses for Seasonal Ingredients When the weather cools, do your cravings turn toward peppermint? Or, perhaps the approaching holidays are priming your palate for pumpkin and gingerbread. Some flavors and ingredients just seem to go naturally with the season. While time-honored culinary traditions will always have a place in our seasonal celebrations, mix things up this year by using familiar ingredients in non-traditional ways. From snack foods to main dishes, a variety of ingredients can lend themselves to culinary exploration this holiday season. Here are a few ideas to help you get creative with well-loved traditional ingredients:

Not Just For Snacking Sure, you’ve heard of replacing bread crumbs with crumbled crackers in holiday recipes, but did you know pretzels can punch up a variety of seasonal dishes? From pumpkin muffins that get a savory spike from Snyder’s of Hanover Sourdough Pretzels to savory turkey stuffing, pretzels can add flavor and interest far beyond the snack bowl. Pretzels make a great ingredient not only for their familiar, appealing flavor, but also because they’re naturally low in fat and calories. Snyder’s offers more than three dozen shapes and flavors, convenient 100-calorie packs, lower sodium content, and even gluten-

Proper Nutrition

Pretzel Stuffing

continued from page 5

Ingredients:

Given this new evidence, assisted living caregivers should be very cautious before recommending a low-salt diet for the elderly. In older people, mild hyponatremia is the most common form of electrolyte imbalance in the blood. Indeed, several recent medical papers found a direct relationship between hyponatremia and unsteadiness, falls, bone fractures and attention deficits.

1 6-ounce package of long grain or wild rice, prepared according to package directions 8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms, sauteed 1 medium onion, chopped and sauteed 1 12-ounce package link sausage, browned and cut into ¼-inch pieces 2 cups Snyder’s of Hanover Hard Sourdough Pretzels, broken into ½-inch pieces, crumbs removed

Falls

4 cups stuffing croutons, seasoned or unseasoned

Falls are one of the most serious problems for the elderly and about a third of people older than 65 fall at least once every year. Fall-related injuries in the elderly are associated with numerous psychological and physical consequences and are a leading cause of bone breakage and hip fractures, which can lead to complications and permanent disability or death. More than 5 percent of all hospitalizations in people older than 65 years are due to fall-related injuries. Sadly, the research shows that in assisted living

1 cup chicken broth, added to out-of-bird stuffing only Salt, pepper and sage to taste Directions: Combine all ingredients in a very large bowl and fill chicken or turkey cavity. Place remaining stuffing in a casserole dish, add chicken broth and baste with pan drippings or chicken broth. Cover with foil and place in oven for one hour. Remove cover 10 to 15 minutes before end of cooking time to create crispy texture. Savory Recipe from Snyder’s of Hanover

Sprouting Creativity Few foods shout “fall” and “holidays” as clearly as pumpkin. Whether perched on your front step as a jack o’ lantern or gracing your holiday buffet in pies and muffins, pumpkin is a quintessential ingredient of the season. But when it comes time to incorporate pumpkin in your holiday meal-planning, it pays to look beyond the pie plate. Pumpkin can serve as a basis for appetizers, sides and main dishes. From soups to pasta, casseroles to omelets, pumpkin is a nutrient-rich, flavorful ingredient.

Cavorting With Candy Candy corn to candy canes, candy treats make the final months of the year that much sweeter. Peppermint is, of course, to the holidays as elves are to Santa, but don’t imagine that this versatile mint flavoring is only appropriate in candies and pricey coffee shop mochas. Paired with garlic, fresh peppermint leaves add

zing to pastas. Mystified as to what to do with leftover Halloween candy corn or candy pumpkins? Try adding them to your s’mores. What would holiday baking be without chocolate? But Americans’ second-favorite flavor can also pop up in main dishes, like chili, sloppy joes, chicken and salmon.

The evidence contradicting a low-salt regimen for the elderly is impressive and up to date. Those responsible for looking after the elderly should very carefully consider any broad, sweeping recommendations to administer a lowsalt diet, for both medical and liability reasons. A well-balanced diet, complete with salads, vegetables and fruit is the best approach to ensuring a healthy and active retirement. BPT

The on-site clinic will be located in Manitowoc Health and Rehabilitation Center at 2021 South Alverno Road-Manitowoc, WI. Dr. Lorraine Jackson and her staff will be available to see patients Monday through Friday starting September 1, 2012. The clinic services will offer preventive and acute care services, treatment of minor medical problems, lab services and more.

Sweet Harvest Time Apples are a favorite fall harvest fruit, and what better way to make them the start of fall celebrations than by putting some on a stick and dipping them in caramel? Yet neither ingredient – apples or caramel – need be limited to the realm of sticky treats. In addition to apple pie, popovers and cake, you may have experienced apple in stuffing. Yet apples play well with a host of other flavors, including main dish staples of the holidays, like turkey, pork, chicken and even beef. Caramelization as a cooking process turns veggies like carrots and sweet potatoes into yummy side dishes. But caramel can also enhance main dishes, like pork chops, cod or chicken BPT

The implications of this research for liability claims incorporating legal damages are considerable. Mild hyponatremia in the elderly can no longer be considered as a simple non-threatening condition. Evidence clearly points to significantly increased attention deficits, loss of cognitive function, increased falls and fractures a cascade of conditions resulting in a highly diminished quality of life and a reduced life span. It is a major threat that can be treated by simply adding salt back to the diet.

Dr. Lorraine H. Jackson launches an on-site clinic at Manitowoc Health and Rehabilitation Center

Dr. Jackson obtained her medical degree from Universidad Tecnologica De Santiago, Santo Domingo Campus in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. She then completed her residency at Tucson Medical Center in Arizona. Dr. Jackson accomplished her fellowship at Medical College of Wisconsin. Dr. Jackson is a HealthGrades Recognized Physician. This awards identifies leading physicians who are board certified that have never had their license restricted or revoked, no malpractice claims and are free of state or federal discipling action. Dr. Jackson is highly qualified in Internal Medicine and current with skills and knowledge about how to treat your condition. Manitowoc Health and Rehabilitation Center is delighted to have a clinic on-site to better serve Manitowoc County along with providing a continuum of care for the patients and staff of the center.

WI-5001568487

free options. You can find a plethora of ideas and recipes online at www. snydersofhanover.com.

facilities where almost all residents are given low-salt diets, the rate of falls and fractures are three times as great as in the normal home environment.

Dr. Lorraine Jackson is a board certified Internal Medicine Physician. With over 25 years of experience, she offers a full spectrum of care from teens to seniors. Dr. Jackson focuses on the internal organs, however also provides routine and preventive health examinations and performs nonsurgical treatment of diseases.

Winner

Focused Rehab - Get Better, Get Home 920-683-4100 • 2021 South Alverno Road • Manitowoc, WI • www.manitowochrc.com

50 plus! . November 2012 . 7

The Christmas Tree Ship Passing on the story By Emilie B. Lindemann TWO RIVERS — Margaret “Maggie” Becker-Koeppe of Two Rivers grew up hearing stories of shipwrecks and valiant fishermen on the French East Side of Two Rivers. The niece of fishermen uncles, she remembers aunties who repaired fishing nets and gathered to tell stories at the home where her mother Tressie raised her siblings and her own six children. One of the stories Becker-Koeppe remembers was of the Rouse Simmons, the Christmas Tree Schooner that sank in 1912 near Two Rivers enroute to deliver Christmas trees to the Clark Street Bridge in Chicago. Her mother told stories of Captain Santa — or Capt. Herman Schuenemann — who was

8 . November 2012 . 50 plus!

known for giving away Christmas trees to the needy. As children, Becker-Koeppe and her sisters would often find skeletons of Christmas trees from the Rouse Simmons that washed to the shore. The trees appeared on the beach among driftwood, shells, and other treasures. She, her sisters, and their friends would play at Neshotah Park and Beach, which was their playground. They would bring potatoes and salt along to cook over a grill or in the sand of the beach. “They were black as charcoal, but we loved them,” Becker-Koeppe says with a faraway look in her eyes. She pauses and adds, “I can still taste them now.” Now, at the age of 81, she is still

enamored with the story of the Rouse Simmons, which she calls “sad and romantic.” After raising five children and owning and operating three businesses, BeckerKoeppe has returned to those stories of shipwrecks and the legacy of her fishermen relatives. A volunteer at Rogers Street Fishing Village, she is at the helm of the Rouse Simmons Project, a group planning events to commemorate the centennial of the Christmas Tree Ship’s foundering on Nov. 23, 1912. The Rouse Simmons Project has organized a centennial commemoration for Nov. 23 and 24 that will feature matinee and evening performances of The Christmas Schooner Musical.

Margaret “Maggie” BeckerKoeppe poses inside the Rogers Street Fishing Village. At 81, she volunteers time to the village and is a member of its board of directors. Matthew Apgar/50 Plus The weekend’s festivities also will include the unveiling of a statue of a fisherman at Rogers Street Fishing Village, the Coast Guard’s re-enactment of delivering trees to the village, and a seafaring lunch at the Hamilton Community House. The city’s newly planted Christmas tree in Central Park will be lit in honor of the Christmas Tree Ship’s captain and crew. Residents and visitors can also enjoy the Two Rivers holiday parade and a visit with Santa.

Recovery Isn’t Simply a Goal, It’s Our Mission. When people leave the hospital, they often need continued care in order to recover completely. That’s where we come in. Our nursing and rehabilitation center provides intensive, short-term rehabilitation and compassionate long-term care with specialties in the areas of wound care, diabetes management, and cardio rehab. We invite you to pay us a visit and see for yourself what outstanding healthcare is all about. Learn more about our award-winning care at www.nrmrc.com

Margaret “Maggie” Becker-Koeppe is chairperson of events for the Rouse Simmons Christmas Tree Ship celebration. Matthew Apgar/50 Plus Becker-Koeppe is quick to point out that her passion does not stem from merely a desire to preserve her own family’s legacy. “It’s about all of us,” she insists. “Not just the descendants of fishermen or French Canadians. It’s the legacy of everyone in the community. We must preserve the past for future

1445 North 7th Street, Manitowoc, WI 54220 920.682.0314 • 920.682.0553 fax • www.nrmrc.com

generations.” Those who meet Becker-Koeppe would never suspect that she is 81. She’s constantly moving — she greets me and one of her good friends with exuberant The Christmas Tree Ship continued on page 11

WI-5001566795

50 plus! . November 2012 . 9

Crossword: MOVIE VILLAINS

sudoku 50. Opposed to 52. U Rah ___! 53. * ____ the Butcher 55. Piece of evidence 57. *Girl’s possessor, 1973 60. *Seven deadly sins avenger 64. Lubricate again 65. Life energy in Chinese philosophy 67. Hill or Baker, e.g. 68. Reddish brown hair dye 69. England’s airforce 70. Denim brand 71. Oil group 72. Will Ferrell’s Christmas character 73. Precise

DOWN

ACROSS 1. Still no cure for these 6. Grandmother in Britain 9. Soothing plant gel 13. Copycat’s behavior 14. Yoko ___ 15. Fill with high spirits 16. Edible seaweed 17. Stir or fuss 18. Rock bottom

19. *Unstoppable hitman in “No Country for Old Men” 21. *Wilkes and Ratched, e.g. 23. Beauty treatment site 24. ___ Verde National Park 25. *Simian planet ruler 28. The Destroyer in Hinduism 30. Composure under strain

35. Plumbing problem 37. Inside scoop 39. Relating to tone 40. Liars break this in court 41. Official language of Lesotho 43. Hindu princess 44. “Caribbean Queen” singer 46. “Place” in French 47. ____ dong 48. Anise-flavored herb

1. Branch of math, abbr. 2. Moonfish 3. Given name of founder of #70 Across 4. The _____ of society 5. Maple or corn ______, pl. 6. Famous flood survivor 7. A conjunction 8. Not a soul 9. Unfortunately, exclamation 10. Place a load on 11. “Sittin On the Dock of the Bay” singer 12. Poetic “ever” 15. Fascinated or enthralled

Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box includes all digits 1 through 9. Crossword and Sudoku solutions on page 15. 20. They catch perpetrators off guard 22. Heard throughout the Olympics 24. _______ arts 25. Remote in manner 26. Symbolized by olive branch 27. *Like Hannibal Lecter’s victims? 29. Bowed, fretted and stringed instrument 31. * ____ Voldemort 32. Currently broadcasting 33. Old Testament miracle food 34. *Allegedly cruel captain

36. *Kirk’s antagonist 38. That time 42. One up 45. Interstellar cloud 49. “30 Rock’s” ___ Lemon 51. Clinton claimed he didn’t do this 54. Moolah or dough 56. Building extension 57. Peeping Tom’s glance 58. First-rate 59. Zn 60. One moment 61. Cher, e.g. 62. Relating to ear 63. Sunrise side 64. Greek R 66. *___ 9000

WI-5001570458

RN’s • Therapists • Bath Service • Companions Hospice • Housekeepers • Money Minders

1004 Washington Street • Manitowoc • 684-7155 • www.homecarehealth.org 10 . November 2012 . 50 plus!

continued from page 9

hugs when we arrive at the Rogers Street Fishing Village for a tour. During our tour, she pauses at an exhibit to gesture at a painting of a fisherman who happens to be a relative. “This is all part of me!” she exclaims. “This is all of us!”

French Heritage Like Becker-Koeppe, the director of the village, Greg Goodchild and board member Bill Glandt (Becker-Koeppe’s nephew) are descendents of Pierre Pepin de LaFound and Francois Prier LaFond of St. Laurent of Barriere, St. Onge, France. Though she is sure to acknowledge her father’s German roots, Becker-Koeppe calls herself a French woman and is quick to offer friends new and old a heart-felt hug in lieu of a handshake. When asked what draws her to the Christmas Tree Ship story, she pauses for a moment, almost as if unable to decide on one particular quality of the Rouse Simmons’ legacy. “It’s about the hard work,” BeckerKoeppe says, “the hard work of the Schuenemann family and of our ancestors.” Her eyes light up and she takes a sip from her water and looks out at the East Twin River to add, “It’s about perseverance.” She’s referring to the difficult trip Capt. Schuenemann took each November from Upper Michigan to deliver Christmas trees to Chicago and to the perseverance of the Two Rivers members of the crew, who attempted to save the Rouse Simmons that fateful November. “It’s about love of the poor and giving to the needy,” Becker-Koeppe says. While she is referring to the Schuenemann family and their tradition of giving Christmas trees away for free to families who could not afford one, she could also be speaking to her own service and the service of the all-volunteer team at the Rogers Street Fishing Village.

Helping The Needy But love of one’s neighbor has also been

part of Two Rivers’ legacy. BeckerKoeppe remembers her mother sharing that during the Depression fishermen would help local families by giving them fish for a meal. “It wasn’t for their own gain,” Becker-Koeppe says. “They did it only so that these families could have a meal, so they wouldn’t go hungry.” Several of the other volunteers and community members who stop by during our tour urge Becker-Koeppe to take a break, to get some rest.

��

“My mother lived to be 101,” she tells me, partly by way of explaining her own energetic approach to life after retirement. “I want others to know that it’s not necessary to quit just because one is older. We still have much to give.”

��

She notes how grateful she is to organizations like the Two Rivers Historical Society, Pinecrest Historical Village, Wisconsin Maritime Museum, RSFV, and the French Canadians and Friends Organization that have kept her involved with the community over the years.

��

Come November, all of the volunteers’ efforts will pay off in what BeckerKoeppe describes as “an experience that will engage all the senses.”

��

She can already hear the audience singing along to the musical’s encore song, Blessings of the Branch. She can already see the forest of Christmas trees decorated by local schoolchildren framing the auditorium. She can already smell the fir tree sprigs handed to each audience member as they go out into the night humming the song’s refrain — “Take it, and pass it on” — and remembering Capt. Schuenemann and all the other brave families who came before us.

��

Tickets for the “Christmas Schooner Musical,” on Nov. 23, are available at the Two Rivers Recreation Department by calling (920) 793-5592.

��

A complete schedule of events for the Rouse Simmons Centennial is available at www.rogersstreet.com. Emilie B. Lindemann is assistant professor of English at Silver Lake College, Manitowoc.

WI-5001559308 ��

The Christmas Tree Ship

E&H�� Advisors, LLC �� 920-783-6501 & 1-877-647-1075 ��

815 S. Taylor Dr, Sheboygan WI 53081 ��

50 plus! . November 2012 . 11

Finance column Leon Burzynski is president of the WI Alliance for Retired Americans. For more, visit www.wisconsinara.org.

Doug Hill is director of Know Your Care Wisconsin, a non-partisan education group focused on informing citizens about the Affordable Care Act. For more, visit www.knowyourcare.org.

Medicare Open Enrollment Began Oct. 15 And Ends Dec. 7.

If you’re like most people, fall can be an extremely busy time of year, the kids are getting settled into a new school year, the yard and the house need to be made ready for winter and of course we need to keep up with the Packers on Sundays. With everything we have going on, it’s so easy to forget another activity that should be on all our fall checklists: helping our parents prepare for Medicare Open Enrollment. Each year, you have a chance to make changes to your Medicare Advantage or Medicare prescription drug coverage for the following year. The Medicare Open Enrollment Period has been expanded to last seven weeks and will end on Dec. 7. This will give seniors and people with disabilities more time to compare and find the best plan that meets their unique needs. Open enrollment is seniors’ chance to

12 . November 2012 . 50 plus!

‘Donut Hole’ Additionally, as a result of the Affordable Care Act, coverage for both

to be rushed.

IIt just makes sense to prepare for the inevitable while emotions are at rest and heads are clear.

Pre-planning Specialist Mike Jarzin is available to answer your questions and provide the

• Tenant and staff-led activities • Pet-friendly • Large rec room with Wi-Fi, pool table, games and puzzles

guidance you need to make educated decisions.

Mike Jarzin Pre-planning Specialist

Call Mike today to set up an appointment.

WI-5001196215

WI-5001568484

The second resource is an Elder Benefits Specialist. Each county in Wisconsin has at least one of these specialists. These individuals can help Medicare beneficiaries learn what plans and what options are available to them. They cannot advise you on what plan to choose, but they will help you gather information to make a more informed decision about which plan is best for you. To make an appointment with your county’s elder benefits specialist you can contact your county’s Commission on Aging and Disability Resource Center.

important

Let us welcome you home! We take pride in our apartments and it shows! You will be captivated by the beauty you will ﬁnd in the apartments, common areas, and grounds. For those 50 & up or adults with disabilities we offer rent that is 30% of adjusted gross income & includes utilities. We also offer a low-cost DirecTV package, are located on the bus line, and have a county nutrition site.

1433 No. 6th Street Manitowoc • 684-5865 http://manitoumanor.weebly.com

If Medicare beneficiaries and their families need assistance in helping to choose a plan or deciding to stay on a plan they can utilize two great resources. The first is the Medicare Plan Finder, available at www.medicare.gov/find-aplan

Some decisions are too

When you are looking for more than just an apartment...

Manitou Manor Apartments

review their Medicare choices and pick the plan that works for them, but if they decide that they’re happy sticking with the coverage they have now, they don’t need to do anything else.

818 State Street Manitowoc, WI 54220 920.682.0118

1122 South 8th Street Manitowoc, WI 54220 920.682.1568

1124 Main Street Kellnersville, WI 54215 920.732.3535

Medicare Open Enrollment

Make Sure Medicare Open Enrollment Is On Your Checklist

brand name and generic drugs in the Part D “donut hole” coverage gap will continue to increase until 2020, when the donut hole will be closed. This year, people with Medicare received a 50 percent discount on covered brand name drugs and 14 percent coverage of generic drugs in the donut hole. In 2013, Medicare Part D’s coverage of brand name drugs will begin to increase, so people with Medicare will receive approximately 53 percent off the cost of brand name drugs, and coverage for 21 percent of the cost of generic drugs, in the donut hole.

Since the law was enacted, 5.4 million people with Medicare have saved over $4.1 billion on prescription drugs in the donut hole. And an estimated 37 million people with Medicare received a preventive benefit free of charge in 2011.

SOCIAL SECURITY

New Electronic Payment Rule Will Protect Against Financial Crimes Last year alone, more than 440,000 Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) checks were reported lost or stolen. Despite the risks, millions of senior citizens, people with disabilities and other federal benefit recipients still receive their payments by paper check.

With more benefits, better choices and lower costs, the Wisconsin Alliance for Retired Americans and Know Your Care encourages people with Medicare and their families to begin reviewing drug and health plan coverage options for 2013.

PARK LANE APARTMENTS • 416 PARK LANE • MISHICOT, WI

• • • •

One and two bedroom with full kitchen and appliances • Patios and decks • Coin-operated laundry in all buildings • Off-street blacktop parking with heater plug ins •

Across the street from Village Park Seniors 62 and over Handicapped or disabled 18 years of age and over One block from a grocery store

Rent based on 30% of income, less medical Professionally Managed By: Bob Gregurich •

683-3042

WI-5001349609

I M M E D I AT E O P E N I N G S • L O W- R E N T H O U S I N G FOR SENIORS OR • HANDICAPPED, DISABLED

Beneficiaries’ increased exposure to financial crime is one reason why the U.S. Department of the Treasury is phasing out paper checks for federal benefits by March 1, 2013. The new rule requires that all federal beneficiaries choose an electronic payment option, either direct deposit or the Treasury-recommended Direct Express Debit MasterCard card. Criminals can steal checks out of mailboxes, leaving people who rely on that money for essentials, such as medicine, rent or groceries, in a difficult situation, says David Lebryk, commissioner of the Treasury Department’s Financial

Management Service. Switching to an electronic payment method is one simple step people can take to protect themselves, and it must be done soon to comply with the new law. The U.S. Department of the Treasury is urging paper check recipients to switch to an electronic payment method as soon as possible. “Switching now, instead of waiting until the last minute, will help ensure a smooth transition to electronic payments,” Lebryk says. “Waiting to switch also could put your money at risk, especially during the approaching holiday season, which is the peak time of year for financial crimes. As you gather with family, it may be a good time to remind aging relatives about the new requirement.” Social Security continued on page 15

2 Great Locations Now For Comfortable Senior Living “We Care About Our Residents” • Spacious one-bedroom apartments

TAKING Age 50 & Up

• Utilities included • On-site Resident Managers for your convenience & security

Subsidized apartments for the elderly

Village Green West WI-5001568479

2602 Forest Ave., Two Rivers • 794.8713

Village Green East

2401 Polk St., Two Rivers • 794.7961

Apartments available both locations

WI-5001545862

50 plus! . November 2012 . 13

For most of us, driving is a necessity, and so is doing it as cost – effectively as possible – even in retirement when most of us stay in our homes. Saving money on automobile-related expenses like gas and insurance can help free up cash for other important things.

Lighten the load. The heavier your vehicle and contents, the more gas it will consume moving down the road. Remove excess weight from the trunk and avoid traveling with luggage or bike racks that create drag, add weight and decrease fuel economy.

Fortunately, many tactics can help you minimize vehicle costs, from doing basic maintenance tasks yourself to taking a driver safety course that could qualify you for insurance discounts. The driving experts at AARP recommend drivers 50 and older focus on three key areas of opportunity for cost-reduction:

Watch your speed. While it’s important to safely keep pace with the flow of traffic around you, keep in mind most cars are at the optimum fuel efficiency around 50 mph.

Insurance

How Older Drivers Can Cut Vehicle Costs

MEDICARE ADVANTAGE ENROLLMENT/ PART D PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLANS OPEN ENROLLMENT IS: OCTOBER 15TH, 2012 TO DECEMBER 7TH 2012

Older drivers have lower rates of police – reported crashes per capita, limit their driving to familiar routes and better weather, and drive fewer miles than other age groups, but accident rates per mile start increasing when drivers reach 70, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Even if your personal driving record is clean, your age may put you in a demographic that insurance companies view as higher risk - and you’ll pay higher auto insurance premiums because of it. Shopping around for auto insurance may help you secure a better rate, but if you’re facing very high premiums, it may make sense to take an extra step. Many insurers offer discounts to drivers who complete driver safety courses. Check with your insurance company to see if such a discount is available to you, then look for a program, like AARP Driver Safety’s course, that is specifically designed to help people 50 and older refresh their driving skills and adapt to age-related changes. There are no tests to take for the course. To find an in-person course near you, visit www. aarp.org/findacourse, or sign up for an online course.

Fuel Efficiency

Gloria Dietrich

Michael Peterson

CALL US NOW FOR AN APPT.

Peterson Beneﬁts Group, Inc. 920.682.8830 WI-5001552469

814 South 8th St | Manitowoc

14 . November 2012 . 50 plus!

After insurance, fuel can be one of the highest costs of operating a vehicle, especially for those who travel far, such as older drivers commuting from winter to summer residences. Car makers have improved overall fuel efficiency for many newer vehicles, but you can take steps to cut your gas costs more – even if you have an older car. AARP offers these tips for improving fuel efficiency:

Drive smoothly. Abrupt stops and starts, and fast, erratic movements in traffic all decrease fuel economy. Try to consolidate trips. Rather than making one trip to the grocery store today, then the doctor’s office tomorrow and your book club the next day, try to group errands together. Starting a cold engine consumes more gas than keeping it running longer.

Maintenance With the average age of cars on the road approaching 11 years, according to R.L. Polk & Co., an automotive market research firm, routine maintenance is more important than ever. Doing simple tasks like oil changes, windshield wiper replacement and air filter changes yourself can help save you money. Tasks that you can easily perform yourself include: Changing the oil and oil filter. Changing the air filter. Monitoring tire inflation and adding air if needed. Checking and cleaning battery connections. Replacing worn windshield wipers. Replacing headlight or brake light bulbs. Other DIY tasks, like replacing brake pads or sparkplugs, or flushing the radiator, require a bit more know-how. Fortunately, plenty of online resources offer step-by-step guides for doing more complex vehicle maintenance tasks. And, you can always check with your local community college to see if they offer a basic auto maintenance course. BPT

Social Security continued from page 13

There are many other benefits to electronic payments, such as eliminating the need to visit a bank or credit union to cash or deposit a check. Federal benefit recipients know their money is available to access on payment day every month. The switch to electronic payments will also save taxpayers $1 billion over 10 years.

Options Since May 1, 2011, all people newly applying for federal benefits, including Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Veterans Affairs, Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Personnel Management benefits and other non-tax payments, have had to choose direct depositor, a Direct Express card when they sign up for the benefit. March 1, 2013, is the final deadline when all remaining federal benefit check recipients must start receiving their money electronically. For federal benefit recipients who do not have a bank or credit union account, or prefer a prepaid card, the U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends the Direct Express card. With the Direct Express card, money will be posted to the card account on payment day each month. There are no sign-up fees, overdraft fees or monthly fees. Some fees for optional services may apply. For information on card fees and features, visit http:// www.godirect.org. Federal benefit recipients can switch to electronic payments online at http://www.godirect.org or through the U.S. Treasury Electronic Payment Solution Center toll-free at (800) 333-1795.

Jointhe Club

River’s Bend Health and Rehabilitation Center

...helping people live better

Welcome to the club! Joan Mary Cusack

born Oct. 11, 1962, is an American film, stage and television actress. Cusack has appeared in films, television and stage productions, receiving Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress for her roles in the movies “Working Girl” and “In & Out,” as well as one Golden Globe nomination. Other notable films she has appeared in include “Stars and Bars,” “Married to the Mob,” “Say Anything...,” “Runaway Bride,” “Toy Story 2” and “Toy Story 3.” One of her most notable television roles is as a cast member of the sketch comedy TV show Saturday Night Live in 1985–86.

Nia Vardalos ,

born Sept. 24, 1962, is a Canadian-American actress, screenwriter, director, singer and producer. Her most notable work is the 2002 Academy Award–nominated film “My Big Fat Greek Wedding.” Courtesy: Wikipedia

“The staff at River’s Bend Health and Rehabilitation Center will never know how much they mean to me.” “In February of 2011, I slipped on a patch of ice and broke both bones in my left leg, which resulted in severe nerve damage from my waist down, leading my doctors to believe I might not ever walk again. After weeks in the hospital, I needed to go into a nursing home for continued therapy. With the help of my friends and family, I chose to go to River’s Bend Health and Rehabilitation Center. When I arrived I was made to feel very welcomed. My road to recovery was difficult but the staff treated me with the utmost respect. They spent time with me so that I could reach my goals. I wasn’t even sure I could achieve these goals. They all rejoiced and celebrated my progress every step of the way. It has been a year and a half since my fall and I have gone from depending on a “hoyer lift”, to actually walking independently once again. This has been an experience I will never forget, and I owe so much to River’s Bend Health and Rehabilitation Center. The staff will never know how much they mean to me. I will never forget anyone at River’s Bend Health and Rehabilitation!” – Tom Schmidt, Rehab Graduate

Please call us at 920.684.1144 to find out how we can help you achieve your rehabilitation goals. Schedule a personal consultation and tour of our center today!

960 South Rapids Road ■ Manitowoc, WI 54220 ■ 920.684.1144 www.riversbendskillednursing.com WI-5001568518

50 plus! . November 2012 . 15

CommunityDedication This year, as Shady Lane, Inc. celebrates sixty one years of quality care, we reflect on the dedication of our board, our staff, our donors, our residents and our community – all those we have served through quality, affordable care.

Find out why people...

Think of Us First for comfort of skilled care Designed for living with beautifully decorated and lovely gardens, Shady Lane offers skilled nursing care for short or long-term care, therapy services, social services and hospice care. Medicare and Medicaid Certified.

for planning to get better . . . Recovering after an illness, joint replacement or surgery is a team effort. In fact, it could be called "Team You"! We offer physical, occupational and speech therapy, respiratory services, pain management and neurological, orthopedic and cardiac rehabilitation. Medicare and Medicaid Certified and some private insurances. In-patient or Out-patient Services.

for the joys of home without the work From two bedroom apartments to single bedrooms with private bathrooms, Laurel Grove offers a variety of assisted living options to meet your needs. Enjoy the gardens, optional activities and care-free living. Starting at just $1450 a month including meals!

Now Open! HFM Clinic at Shady Lane Manitowoc’s only not-for-profit citizen directed care facility. 1235 South 24th Street • Manitowoc, WI • www.shadylaneinc.com • 920-682-8254 WI-5001552444

16 . November 2012 . 50 plus!