Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette February 15 by Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc.

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VOLUME 38, NO. 10

FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Coloring Page........................ Pg. 8 Word Search....................... Pg. 22 Sudoku................................ Pg. 23 Pets..................................... Pg. 33 Home Improvement........... Pg. 47 Classifieds........................... Pg. 49

Options and Challenges When Aging By John Hall for Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette

As we age, life takes on new meaning. There are joys, there can be sadness and there are also challenges and options. In this issue we’re going to spend much of our time on some options, but also, some of the challenges. In this country, we have Medicare and it’s 255E South Best Ave. Walnutport, PA 18088

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Paul and Lisa Prass - Publishers Kathy Marsh - Associate Publisher Sara Reitz - Account Executive Donna Bachman - Accounting Manager Tony Pisco - Art Director The Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette is published the first and third Thursday of the month. The Gazette does not assume responsibility for an ad beyond the cost of the ad itself; we cannot be responsible for typographic errors. We reserve the right to reject any article or advertisement thought to be offensive or not contributing to the needs of the community. Signed letters will be printed at the discretion of the editor. News items and ads should be submitted by 4 p.m. on the deadline date, located on the bottom of the front cover. Business Hours: Call for an appointment Content, including text, images, ads, and online material may not be reproduced, copied, or published either in whole or in part, without the consent of the publishers.

February 15, 2024 || townandcountrygazette.com

provided in two parts, Parts A and B. Both Parts are available to us when we turn 65. From the standpoint of most of us 65ers and over, Medicare is a major component of our “senior” lives. We’re not going to get into the nuts and bolts of Medicare in this issue, but we are going to take a brief look at what Medicare doesn’t cover and the relationship that has with long-term care. Read “Medicare and Long-Term Care” for the details. One more thing on Medicare: Before I hit my personal Medicare enrollment date, I spent two very well-spent hours in a one-time evening class on “what to know” about Medicare. I took it at Northampton Community College, although I suspect similar courses are available elsewhere. If Medicare is on the horizon for you, consider taking such a class. When you leave it, you will probably have a much better understanding of how Medicare works and the options surrounding how to make it work in your personal life. We also take a look at working after age 65. Did Continued on page 4

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Options and Challenges When Aging Continued from page 3

you know the percentage of workers over age 65 has doubled since the 1980s? Not only that, but according to a report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics the projection is that older Americans

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will account for 57 percent of the country’s laborforce growth in the coming decade. See “Working after Age 65” to learn more about this change in the workforce. In a second, related article, “Retired but Want to Work?” we highlight some options: Eight jobs that are very well-suited for workers 65 and over. We also look at how staying active this way past 65 can benefit your health. Of course fitness is very important for our health and mental wellbeing as we age. We have done articles in the Gazette on senior fitness before and will do so again. In this issue our suggestion is to google “Senior Fitness” to access a great deal of senior fitness information online. Among other things, you will immediately get links to YouTube exercise videos specifically for seniors. You’ll find many options. Now here’s a disturbing statistic: Older adults with cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or glaucoma are more likely to fall and break bones than other older adults. Could that apply to you or someone you know? If so, be sure and read “Seniors, Eye Disease and Falling.” By the way, we are still tracking through February, American Heart Month. So in this issue be sure and read “Heart Failure and Diabetes” to understand the relationship between those two conditions. And please understand that “heart failure” refers to problems with the heart muscle’s ability to pump blood. So that’s our issue. We hope the information provided is of interest and value. Please join us next time when we shift our general focus to life in our communities. News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || February 15, 2024

Working after Age 65 SOURCE: washingtonpost.com (edited)

The percentage of Americans over 65 who are still working – either because they want to or have to – has nearly doubled since the late 1980s. As a result, Americans 65 and over are playing a larger role in the labor force, shifting the composition of U.S. workers and reflecting a new reality where retirement has become a more gradual process for many. Some seniors find that working after age 65 gives them purpose and financial stability. They are working longer hours and making more money than they were in the past. In addition, not only can seniors make more than they would on Social Security, they also have a reason to get out of the house. Reasons for the Change There are several reasons people are staying

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longer in the workforce. Older Americans are healthier than in the past and less likely to have disabilities, so they are able to work longer. The nature of work has changed, too, with flexible office jobs replacing more physically grueling positions in factories and fields. Government policy changes have also played a role. Americans now have to wait until age 67, instead of 65, to access full Social Security benefits. Continued on page 6

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Working after age 65 Continued from page 5

And many companies have scrapped pension funds that offered regular payments after a certain age, having switched to more flexible contribution plans, such as 401(k)s. Bridging to Retirement More workers are taking on “bridge jobs” to help them transition from career to retirement. Those can include part-time work or even positions in completely different fields. The old style of retirement – where you work somewhere 40 years, they throw you a party and give you a gold watch, and you never work again – just isn’t the case for most people anymore. Today’s workers are retiring gradually, in stages. Increasing Net Worth The average net worth of seniors between 65 and 74 jumped 27 percent between 2019 and 2022, while people 75 and over notched a 43 percent increase. That’s compared to a 23 percent increase in average wealth for all families, according to the Fed’s Survey of Consumer Finances. As a result,

adults in their 60s, 70s and 80s have more money to spend and are buying homes at higher rates than ever before and spending more on cruises, travel and dining out, even as younger Americans pull back. While economists say it’s good for the U.S. economy to have more older people in the labor force, workers’ reasons for taking on continued employment can vary widely. Those at the bottom of the income scale and those at the top are most likely to work after retirement, but for different reasons. The lower-income Americans have to, and wealthier ones want to. There are also signs that the growing share of older workers, particularly in well-paying managerial positions, is making it harder for younger workers to break into careers and move up. In a recent twist, new college graduates are more likely to be unemployed in today’s job market than other workers, including older people with college degrees. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projection is that older Americans will account for 57 percent of the country’s labor-force growth in the coming decade. 12 Neww 12 New Ne l 9Model Model e Homes Mod es Homes

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Slatington Library News submitted by Louise Bechtel

In case of bad weather, library closings will be listed on the library’s website, and WFMZ’s website. Pre-school Story hour returns on Tuesday, March 19th at 11:00am. The program will run through April 23rd. There will be stories, crafts and snacks. The Donald D. Owens Reading Challenge of 2024 begins on February 18th. It is open to readers of all ages. Read 10 books write down the titles and receive a raffle ticket. At the end of the challenge, four prizes of $25.00 will be given away. The more tickets you have the greater your chance of winning. The challenge will end on May 31st. The library is planning to celebrate Dr. Seuss on Saturday, March 2nd at 11:00am. There will be stories, snacks and a give-away. Mrs. Marshelle George will be our guest reader. The 2024 Woman’s Club of Slatington Arts Contest will be April 15th. It will include coloring contests for pre-school children through 2nd grade, and adults. Students can enter projects of 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional art, fiber art, photography or poetry. Adults can do the same. Cash prizes are given to students winning 1st, 2nd or 3rd place in their division. All artwork is

due to the Slatington Library by Monday, April 1st. Contact the library for more information. The Book Club is now reading “The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman. They will meet in person or by Zoom at the library on Monday, March 4th at 1:00pm. If you are interested in joining the book club, please contact the library. The Genealogy Club meets the second Saturday of each month. They will next meet on March 9th at 11:00am. The library provides many services to the community. For a fee, we provide copies and faxes. A free library card gets you access to books, e-books, magazines, e-magazines and audio books from 12 libraries as well as links to 12 online databases. There are also public access computers from which you can print for a fee. Library hours are Mon. & Wed. 9am to 7pm, Tues. 9am to 3pm, Fri. 9am to 5pm, Sat. 8am to 2:00pm. The library is closed Thursday and Sunday. Any questions please contact Louise Bechtel at the Library at (610) 767-6461. Thank you.

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Retired But Want To Work? SOURCE: finance.yahoo.com (edited)

Multiple studies show that staying active later in life can improve your longevity and even quality-of-life. One study, as reported by Harvard University, found that people who worked past the age of 65, even in a post-retirement job or second career, were three times more likely to report being in good health. They were also half as likely to have serious health problems. Whether you are working to earn money to increase your retirement income, or simply to keep busy and stay healthy, today’s job market offers plenty of opportunities for seniors. The eight jobs listed here make great part-time jobs, with little to no experience and even opportunities to work from home. Keep in mind, “no experience” doesn’t mean you don’t bring anything to the table. It means you may not be familiar with a given field, but

have the soft skills and willingness to learn. Seniors with decades of job experience behind them – including time management, communications and leadership skills – might just be a perfect fit. Administrative Assistant / Virtual Assistant (roughly $34/hour) If organizational skills have always been your strength, consider working as an executive administrative assistant (office setting) or virtual assistant (from home), handling tasks such as Continued on page 10

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Retired But Want To Work? Continued from page 9

scheduling meetings and calls, writing, booking travel, etc. The average wage is $34.16/hour, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Customer Service Representative ($18.16/ hour) If you have great people skills being a customer service representative could be a good choice. You can work from an office or at home, fielding customer inquiries about order status and complaints about orders.

Data Entry Clerk ($18.26/hour) If you’re looking for a job you can do from home, with minimal involvement from other people, data entry might fit the bill. In addition to entering data, you might verify information or prepare materials for printing, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Sales Representative (roughly $28/hour) A new position in sales offers virtually limitless profit potential. Insurance and advertising sales representatives regularly make close to $30 per hour. Or think about companies and products you enjoy and see if they use a network of sales representatives. Online Teaching (up to $40/hour or more) Retired teachers and other professionals can bolster their savings through online teaching gigs.

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You can teach English as a second language to adults, tutor school-age children online or even provide and sell courses related to your prior professional experience on a site like Udemy.com. You can also work for companies like Tutor.com or Kaplan. Certified teachers may command higher pay, but plenty of tutoring jobs are always available for those without a teaching degree. Rideshare Driver ($20 — $30/hour) It might make sense to work a few shifts a week as a rideshare driver for a company like Uber or Lyft. You’ll need a reliable vehicle and a valid driver’s license, of course.

Pet Sitter / Pet Walker / House Sitter (up to $27.07/hour) Active seniors who love animals can make extra cash walking dogs or caring for animals while the owners are on vacation or at work. You can combine this with house sitting, where you stay in someone’s home, care for their pets, and watch over their belongings and property while they are away. Get started at websites like Rover.com. Real Estate Agent ($25+/hour) Once you pass the licensing exam, you can work full- or part-time as a Realtor. The more you work, the more you can earn.

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Seniors, Eye Disease and Falling SOURCE: washingtonpost.com (edited)

Older adults with certain eye diseases – cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or glaucoma – are more likely to fall and break bones than other older adults, according to a study conducted in England. The researchers analyzed data from more than a decade of medical records from 3.4 million people (average age 74). That total included more than 576,000 people who had one of those three eye diseases. Risks with Glaucoma The researchers wrote that “all 3 eye diseases are important risk factors for falls and fractures.” They noted, however, that data from the health records did not confirm that each recorded fracture was the result of the recorded falls. The study found that risk for both falls and fractures was highest among people with glaucoma. That group was 38 percent more likely to have fallen than those who did not have glaucoma and

31 percent more likely to have sustained a fracture. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause vision loss and blindness by damaging the optic nerve at the back of the eye. Symptoms can start so slowly that you may not notice them. The only way to find out if you have glaucoma is to get a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Glaucoma has no cure, but early treatment can often stop the damage and protect your vision. Cataract Risks A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of your eye (the clear part of the eye that helps to focus light). Cataracts are very common as you get older. More than half of all Americans age 80 or older either have cataracts or have had surgery to remove them. At first, you may not notice that you have a cataract. But over time, they can make your vision blurry, hazy, or less colorful. You may have trouble reading or doing other everyday activities. Over time, cataracts can lead to vision loss. The good news is that surgery can get rid of cataracts and correct the vision problems they cause. According the English research study,

News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || February 15, 2024

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people with cataracts were 36 percent more likely to fall and 28 percent more likely to sustain a fracture. AMD-related Falls and Fractures Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects a person’s central vision and the ability to see fine details. AMD can result in severe loss of central vision, but people rarely go blind from it. According to the research study, those suffering with AMD were 25 percent more likely to fall and 18 percent more likely to sustain a fracture. Risk factors for AMD include being 50 and older, smoking, having high blood pressure and eating a diet high in saturated fat. Although there is no cure for AMD, there are treatment options that may prevent or slow the progression of the disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year more than 3 million U.S. residents 65 or older are treated in an emergency department for injuries from a fall. Although falls can have many causes, common ones include balance problems, which can be the result of impaired vision. The three eye diseases tracked by the English study are among the most common affecting older people.

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Medicare and Long-Term Care

SOURCE: Various

When you are approaching the age of 65, one of the things you need to become familiar with is the federal health insurance program for people age 65 and over (and a few others) called Medicare. Medicare will pay for a hospital stay and perhaps a few weeks of rehab in a skilled nursing facility if an older person becomes injured or seriously ill. That coverage is excellent, but there are things that Medicare simply does not cover. For instance it does not cover day-to-day help for people who can no longer take care of themselves.

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Long-Term Care What Medicare doesn’t cover can put families in a situation where a member needs long-term care (LTC). LTC insurance exists, but few have it and it has problems and limitations that make it unattainable for many and insufficient for others. According to reporting in the New York Times, “the private insurance market has proved wildly inadequate in providing financial security for most of the millions of older Americans who might need home health aides, assisted living or other types of assistance with daily living.” If you don’t have private long-term care insurance, meaning you didn’t buy a policy, you’re going to have to pay the expenses out-of-pocket. If your money runs out, and you have spent down your assets, you will have Medicaid. This whole process leads to what some call “dying broke.” What Isn’t Covered? Medicare with its Part A and Part B doesn't cover everything. If you need services they don't cover, you'll have to pay for them yourself, unless: • You have other coverage (including Medicaid) to cover the costs, or, • You're in a Medicare Advantage Plan or

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Medicare Cost Plan that does cover those services. Some of the items and services Medicare doesn't cover include: • Long-term care (also called custodial care) • Most dental care • Eye exams (for prescription glasses) • Dentures • Cosmetic surgery • Massage therapy • Routine physical exams • Hearing aids and exams for fitting them • Concierge care (also called concierge medicine, retainer-based medicine, boutique medicine, platinum practice, or direct care) • Covered items or services you get from an

opt-out doctor or other provider (except in the case of an emergency or urgent need) Long-term Care at Home According to federal data, about 80 percent of long-term care at home is provided by unpaid caregivers – often friends and family members who may end up cobbling together the best care possible with limited resources. A 2020 study found that slightly more than 1 in 10 U.S. adults provide some type of care for another adult. The careproviding adult is often an adult child caring for their parents. When an adult child takes on that role, they often have to give something else up – up to and including their job. The bottom line is there are costs to long-term care that have to be paid one way or another. There are also resources available to help. Where to Find Help? If this situation applies to you or someone you know, go to the “eldercare locator” – https:// eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx – operated by the federal Administration for Community Living. There you will find contact information for programs and agencies that can help you in your area.

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Heart Failure and Diabetes SOURCE: time.com (excerpt)

A June 2022 report from the American Diabetes Association highlighted heart failure as “an underappreciated complication of diabetes.” When you look at all people with diabetes, either Type 1 or Type 2, the incidence of heart failure is four times higher than it is in the general population. The term “heart failure” refers to problems with the heart muscle’s ability to pump blood, which can deprive other parts of the body of sufficient blood and oxygen. It can also cause fluid buildup in the lungs, abdomen, and limbs. Heart failure can produce a wide range of symptoms, and it can also lead to organ damage or sudden death. The Connections Among people with diabetes, glucose (blood sugar) does not move out of the blood and into the cells the way it should. This leads to elevations of both blood glucose and insulin, which can cause damage at a molecular level to cells of the heart, according to experts.

But that’s far from the only connection between the two conditions. Besides increasing risk for coronary artery disease, diabetes can cause direct injury to the heart muscle, resulting in stiffening and weakening that can culminate in heart failure. It is also known that individuals with diabetes are at higher risk for chronic kidney disease, which is an independent risk factor for heart failure. For all of these reasons, the mere presence of diabetes is now considered a primary risk factor for heart failure. Heart Failure Signs and Symptoms The symptoms of heart failure tend to be the same whether or not a person has diabetes. Fatigue

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lands at or near the top of the list, although at first this symptom may be subtle. Shortness of breath is another cardinal symptom of heart failure, but this may be difficult to spot if a person’s fatigue has caused them to cut down on exercise and physical activity. Another classic sign is not just shortness of breath when you exercise, but shortness of breath when you’re lying down, or shortness of breath that wakes you from sleep. This has to do with fluid overload in the lungs as a result of the heart not pumping the way it should. Fluid overload can also lead to swelling (or edema) in the legs or abdomen of people with heart failure. While those are the most common symptoms, others include wheezing, weakness, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, nausea, weight gain, problems thinking or concentrating, and a persistent unexplained cough (that may or may not bring up white or pink mucous). As heart failure becomes more advanced, all these symptoms tend to be less subtle with the fatigue becoming so great that someone can’t complete their daily activities. Treatments The drugs used to treat heart failure in people with diabetes are often the same drugs prescribed

for those without diabetes. That said there is evidence that the treatments may work even better in people with both conditions. While everyone should prioritize heart health, taking steps to lower your risks for heart failure is especially important if you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes. With the right plan, you and your care team can take steps to effectively prevent or treat the condition.

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Im Schpotyaahr bascht er's Welschkann als Un schebbt's uff mit der Schibb. Es Laab dutt er uff lange Schtaeck, Die Kolwe in die Gribb. Er sammelt alles fer der Winder, Die Riewe un die Greider, Un dutt die Ebbel in der Keller Un macht sich paar Baerl Seider. Sei letschde Arewet in dem Yaahr (Nooch sell'm hot aer Weil Ruh) Iss Weeze, Kann un Hawwer dresche Un in die Kammer duh. Nau kummt sei beschdi Zeit im Yaahr. Die Scheier un es Haus Voll Lewesmiddel aller Satt, Un wennich Arewet draus. Yuscht denk mol draa: vier Munet lang Die Arewet uffzuhenke, Eksept die Hinkel, Kieh un Sei Zu fiedre un zu drenke. Der Disch gans voll vun gude Sache Vun Kuche, Pei un Weck, Un frische Wascht un Schunkefleesch Un Sauergraut un Schpeck. Un Welschhaahne, beim Dutzentweis, Um die Gebeier laafe; Wann ich vor Grischtdaag eener will, Continued on page 20

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Touch of Dutch Continued from page 18

Muss ich ihn alsfatt kaafe. Un wann's viel schneet, dann hot er ball Der Schlidde vum Hoibarre, Un schpannt sei schwiffde Geil gschwind ei, Un fangt aa Schliddefaahre. Nau ich muss schaffe alle Daag Un hab kee Schlidde un Gaul, Un wann ich yuscht en Woch net schaff, Dann mangelt's schunn im Maul. Ich muss mei Lewesmiddel kaafe Un's iss so oft der Fall, As yuscht enwennich iww'rich iss Un manchmol iss's ganz all. O, wann ich yuscht en Bauer waer, Wann's aa yuscht dauere deet Bis as's gut Sach all gesse iss Un's an die Arewet geht! -David B. Brunner (1835-1903)

If I would just be as farmer Oh, if I would just be as farmer, And would have a good piece of land, Then I would have my pocket full of money And also some [extra] in my hand. The farmer is his own boss, He is a free man, He ordinarily does what he wants to do, And I do, as I can. In spring he sows the oat field, And plants, beginning in May. Potatoes, corn and like things; In June he makes hay. The farmer works hard in summer, In making hay, harvesting and sowing. And works himself very hard in the sun, He must sweat much during mowing. In fall he always husks the corn And scoops it up with the shovel. The husk he piles in a long stack The ears of corn in the crib. He gathers everything for the winder, The turnips and the cabbage, And puts the apples in the cellar And makes himself a few barrels of cider.

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His last work for this year (After that he had a time of rest) Is threshing wheat, rye and oats, And getting them in the bins. Now comes the best time of the year. The barn and the house [are] Full of provisions of all types, And little work [to do] outside. News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || February 15, 2024

Just think on this once: four months long To take off from work, Except the chickens, cows and pigs To feed and give water.

I must buy my food provisions And it is often the case That just a little is left over And many times it is completely gone.

The table completely full of good things Like cakes, pies and assorted bakes goods, And fresh sausage and hams And sauerkraut and bacon.

If I would just be a farmer, If it would only continue Until all the good things are eaten And it [is time to] go back to work!

And turkeys by the dozens Walking around the buildings; When I want one for Christmas, I must always buy one. And if it snows much, then he soon has The sled from the haymow, And quickly hitches his fastest horse to it, And begins sleigh riding. Now I have to work every day And don’t have a sled and horse, And if I don’t work for just a week, Then I start to go hungry. [It is already lacking in my mouth.]

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[If David Brunner grew up on a farm, he must have forgotten much of what actually happened during that four months when the farmer could “take off from work.” For example, the farmer did not ‘grow’ sausages or hams, they are the result of butchering process during those colder months. He also mended fences if the weather permitted and did maintenance on his equipment. When I was young, I knew of farmers who even rebuilt tractor engines during that time period. But he is honest; he only wants to be a farmer as long as he can enjoy the fruits of the labor from the previous growing season and before one has to ‘go back to work’!]

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Nominate Northampton High School Distinguished Alumni submitted by Claudia Shulman

The Northampton Area Konkrete Kids Educational Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award. A Distinguished Alumni Award nominee must have graduated at least 15 years ago and should reflect the District’s proud tradition of producing outstanding graduates and role models who have demonstrated leadership and excellence in both their professional and personal lives. A nominee does not need to be a current resident of the Northampton Area School District, but the nominee should reflect some of the following criteria: • a person who has achieved outstanding success in his/her chosen profession/field of employment • a person who has performed substantial community service or volunteer work • a person who has made a positive impact on others • person who has received special recognition or awards for professional accomplishments/ community service *Posthumous nominations will be accepted.

The selected 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients(s) will have a permanent recognition plaque placed on the Distinguished Alumni Wall of Honor located in the main lobby of Northampton Area High School. Established in 2018, the Wall displays a plaque for each honoree, recognizing his/her personal and professional post high school graduation achievements and features a current photo, as well as the honoree’s senior photo. The Wall now contains plaques honoring thirty-six distinguished NAHS graduates, including Mr. Edward Pany (Class of 1954), Reverend Clark Kuntz (Class of 1963), Mrs. Paulette Fritz (Class of 1968), Mr. Troy Thrash (Class of 1988), Dr. Christopher Raab (Class of 1989), Ms. Joan Snyder Kuhl (Class of 1997), Dr. Rodger Berg (Class of 1964), Mr. Bruce Lack (Class of 1969), Dr. Stephen Ressler (Class of 1975), Mr. Charles Hangen (Class of 1990), Ms. Tina Pagotto (Class of 1993), Mr. Travis Mohr (Class of 1999), Mr. Dale Newhart (Class of 1943), Mr. Daryl Amey (Class of 1962), Dr. Edgar Balliet (Class of 1968), Dr. Linda Koch (Class of 1965), Mr. Leo Livengood (Class of 1957),

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Mr. John Mauser (Class of 1965), Mr. Larry Oberly (Class of 1963), Ms. Grace Lois Bauer (Class of 1970), Mr. Daniel P. Heist (Class of 1979), Mrs. Fiorella Reginelli Mirabito (Class of 1980), Dr. Thomas Becker (Class of 1981), Mr. Larry Kemmerer (Class of 1965), Mr. Stephen Kerbacher (Class of 1983), Mr. Edward Novogratz (Class of 1949), Mr. Thomas Reenock (Class of 1958), Mr. Peter Schneider, Jr. (Class of 1966), Mr. Tim Tepes (Class of 1986), Mr. LeRoy Brobst (Class of 1965), Mr. Martin Fella (Class of 1965), Mr. Joseph Kovalchik (Class of 1986),Dr. Roseanna Neupauer (Class of 1985), Mr. Ronald Newhart (Class of 1973), Mr. Arthur Schisler (Class of 1958), and Mrs. Monica Jurasits Weninger (Class of 1988). The Distinguished Alumni Award Inductees honored on the Wall serve as an inspiration to all students and as a reminder to the entire community of Northampton Area School District’s proud education tradition and commitment to serve others. In addition to the recognition on the Wall of Honor, the 2024 Award recipients will be recognized by friends, family, community members, and local businesses at the Distinguished Alumni Award Celebration Dinner, September 22, 2024, at Woodstone County Club and Lodge in Danielsville. The event is a major fundraiser of the Konkrete Kids Educational Foundation, and all proceeds from the event are used to support the Foundation’s

mission to provide funding for programs, speakers, equipment, and various “extended learning opportunities and experiences” that “promote, enhance, and supplement the educational and co-curricular programs” for K-12 students throughout the Northampton Area School District. Tickets for the event will be available July 1, 2024, and all are welcome. Distinguished Alumni Award Nomination Forms, as well as additional details for all people interested in nominating a Northampton Area High School graduate for the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award, are available at www. konkretefoundation.org or by calling 610-767-7824. All Nomination Forms should be completed and submitted as soon as possible, but no later than the deadline of Monday, March 22, 2024.

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6 Foods to Skip After 50

They may look tempting, but they are packed with unhealthy levels of sugars, fats and salt. Try these alternatives instead By Alison Gwinn

We’re not going to lie. Eating healthily after 50 requires effort on two fronts: boosting your intake of good-for-you foods, such as berries, leafy greens, whole grains and lean proteins, while cutting out the foods that clog your arteries and oh-so-easily expand your waistline. When it comes to the latter, focus less on making certain foods verboten (who doesn’t suddenly want chocolate when told never to eat it?) and more on how your health is more important than the sugar spike or instant gratification they offer. When possible, just say no — or at least “Whoa!” — to the following. 1. Fried foods that triple the calories If it helps, pause to imagine the vat of oil that basket of fries or onion rings has been submerged in, and consider how its saturated fat “may have a negative impact on blood cholesterol,” says Amy Gorin, CEO of Plant Based With Amy in Stamford, Connecticut.

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The American Heart Association recommends a diet in which only 5 to 6 percent of calories come from saturated fat, meaning that if your daily calorie intake is 2,000 calories, no more than 120 of those calories should come from saturated fat. Bottom line: Get the side salad instead of restaurant fries. When you look at labels, consider that “a 200-calorie serving of food should have no more than 2 grams of saturated fat,” says Nancy Farrell Allen, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Do this instead: “Break out the air fryer!” advises Christine Rosenbloom, a registered dietitian and nutritionist, coauthor of Food & Fitness After 50 and author of the blog A to Z ... Simple, Practical, Science-Based Tips for a Long Healthy Life. She swears by her fryer: “Air-fried fish (cod, tilapia, even salmon) is great in the air fryer, as are ‘fried’ veggies, like new potatoes, green beans, broccoli and brussels sprouts. Spritz with olive oil and add some herbs.” Kate Zeratsky, registered dietitian and nutritionist at the Mayo Clinic, recommends playing around with other cooking methods. Look at roasting vegetables in the oven with a tablespoon of oil, “playing with the temperature to get the texture — soft or crispy — that’s appealing to you.” 2. Sugary drinks, including most bottled teas S oft drinks aren’t your only enemy. Bottled teas, fancy coffee drinks and “fresh” lemonades can all be loaded with the sweet stuff. “For example, the 16-ounce chai latte at Starbucks, one of its most popular drinks, has 42 grams of sugar,” Rosenbloom says. Beware of misleading labels on bottled drinks. “Just because a drink says ‘pure’ or ‘green tea’ or ‘honey’ doesn’t mean it has less sugar,” Rosenbloom says. What about products touting their organic cane sugar, coconut sugar or raw sugar? “Sugar is sugar,” she says. A 2022 study led by the University of South Carolina of more than 90,000 women found that those who drank at least one sugary beverage a day had a 78 percent higher risk of developing liver cancer than those who consumed less than three servings per month. News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || February 15, 2024

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Bottom line: “Aim to keep added sugar intake to 10 percent or less of total daily calories,” Gorin says. “For a 2,000-calorie daily diet, that would be no more than 200 calories, or 50 grams, of added sugar per day.” Do this instead: Sip a cup of prune juice — yes, prune juice. “I love to recommend Amaz!n Prune Juice 7.5-ounce cans, which are perfectly portioned,” Gorin says. Each serving offers 4 grams of fiber — a good amount — which aids your digestive health and helps you feel good. And it contains no added sugar.” Or infuse water with fresh fruit in flavors such as orange, blueberry lemon, and kiwi watermelon, suggests Jordan Hill, lead dietitian with Top Nutrition Coaching (topnutritioncoaching.com). “It will add both flavor and some micronutrients from the fruit.” Allen’s recommendation: Try herbal teas or reduced-sodium bouillon or bone broths if you crave a savory beverage. Zeratsky suggests either flavored carbonated water or one of the new prebiotic or probiotic, low-sugar sodas. 3. Packaged foods with sneaky sugars “Hidden sugars can be found in pasta sauces, yogurt, granola bars, instant oatmeal packets and breakfast cereals,” Allen says. Why’s that so harmful for older adults? “Excess sugar can put stress on organs such as the pancreas and liver,” Allen says, “which can increase blood sugar and Charles J Breidinger Broker Benjamin Real Estate 2254 Skyline Dr. Slatington, PA 18080 Office 610-767-1293 Cell 484-951-2468 Fax 610-767-9488 cjbreidinger@gmail.com www.bhhsbre.com Text: bhhscjb to: 87778

blood triglyceride levels and raise the risk of fatty liver disease.”“Sugars increase one’s risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, the incidence and prevalence of which increase as we age,” says Thomas Loepfe, a geriatrician at the Mayo Clinic. At a time in life when every calorie should be nutrient-dense, “added sugar really contributes to calories we don’t need.” Added sugars are inflammatory to the body and can lead to unfavorable health problems, Hill says. “The American Heart Association recommends women limit added sugar to 25 grams a day and men to 36 grams a day.” Studies back up the harmful effects of sugar. A 2023 study out of the University of Missouri found a link between Western diets high in fat and sugar and the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which can lead to chronic liver disease. Another 2023 study, this one out of the University of Pittsburgh, found that excess sugar can exacerbate the symptoms of inflammatory disease. Bottom line: Check labels for added sugars — but don’t fret over natural sugars in fruits or milk. Continued on page 28

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6 Foods to Skip After 50 Continued from page 27

Do this instead: “If you’re looking for something sweet, I recommend upping your fruit intake. Fruit is naturally sweet, offers a great source of fiber and will keep you more satiated than the sugary packaged items,” Hill says. Allen suggests making your own quick bread mini-muffins — blueberry, zucchini, banana, pumpkin or cranberry orange — using whole-wheat flour. Gorin advises using frozen fruit to make a healthy smoothie. “One of my favorite things in the freezer section: frozen wild blueberries. Not only do they offer two times the health-helping antioxidants of conventional berries, they’re proven to benefit your memory and brain health. Blend them with unsweetened almond milk, peanut butter, Greek yogurt and banana for a delicious, fueling smoothie.” 4. Foods loaded with stealth salt “Seventy-five percent of people over age 60 have high blood pressure. And even if you’re on medication, you want to lower your sodium intake,” Rosenbloom says. If you think you’re eating a low-salt diet because you don’t salt your

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grilled corn or soup, think about that frozen pizza or canned soup you just heated up. Those items are loaded with stealth salt, too. And the largest randomized clinical trial ever to look at the effects of reducing salt intake, published this year in The Lancet, found that lowering sodium led to improved symptoms like swelling, fatigue and coughing—and an overall better quality of life. “Seventy-five percent of the salt in our diet comes from processed foods, not the salt shaker,” Rosenbloom says. So what can you do? An easy way to spot low-sodium foods, she notes, is to look for those in which sodium is 5 percent or less of the daily value; anything in the 20 percent range is high-sodium. Bottom line: Aim for 1,500 to 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day. Do this instead: Get back into the kitchen and cook, Allen advises, keeping the recipes simple, using whole ingredients and using seasonings that have no added sodium. “For example, have the fixin’s for a make-your-own-pizza using whole-wheat naan bread, pizza sauce, reducedfat cheese, an assortment of veggies and lean meats,” she says. Rosenbloom recommends

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checking out the frozen “healthy” product lines that keep sodium down. “I’ve tried some of the newer product lines from Lean Cuisine,” she says, “and they are flavorful without as much sodium.” 5. Ultra-processed snacks Unless you’re picking an apple from a tree or getting your milk straight out of a cow, most of the food you eat is processed. It’s the ultraprocessed foods that make the list to strike from your diet. “Minimally processed foods like bagged greens, diced vegetables and nuts offer convenience,” Allen says. “And canned tomatoes and frozen fruit and vegetables are an excellent way to enjoy produce processed at peak quality and freshness.”But many ready-to-eat, processed foods, including cake mixes, snack chips, ketchup, sweetened yogurt and “meat lovers” frozen pizzas, add food coloring, sodium, preservatives and other hard-to-pronounce additives to make consumers happy. And that’s not good for you. Many processed foods are void of fiber and nutrients such as potassium or magnesium, and they tend to be calorically dense, with a lot of fat and salt, says Joseph Gonzales, a registered dietitian at the Mayo Clinic.“And some of the preservatives, like nitrates, may be harmful in high amounts, perhaps leading to premature aging of cells in the body,” Loepfe says. Bottom line: Make label-reading a habit. Do this instead: “You can’t go wrong with whole nuts, like pistachios in the shell or shelled almonds or peanuts,” Rosenbloom says. “And healthy cereal is a good snack for older adults because 93 percent of those over age 60 eat cereal with milk and fruit, so it’s a good way to boost nutrients.” Just watch for added sugars in cereals, even the “healthy” ones. Or reach for a hardboiled egg. “When it comes to wholesome snacks, they are a naturally nutrient-rich choice,” Gorin

says. “And the American Heart Association says healthy older adults can have up to two eggs per day as part of a heart-healthy diet.” Zeratsky suggests “the most wonderfully packaged to-go food: an apple, banana or orange.” Finally, Allen recommends making a charcuterie board with sliced lean turkey or chicken, whole wheat crackers, reduced-fat cheese, pumpkin seeds, almonds, dried apricots and cherries. 6. Alcohol The days of triple-margarita Mexican dinners should be behind you. Why? “Alcohol metabolism Continued on page 30

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changes when we age, and we become more susceptible to its negative aspects,” Loepfe says. “Alcohol can impact fall risk, interact with the medications we take as we age and lead to an increased risk of dehydration. Alcohol contributes to many health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, kidney disease, our immune system function and neurological diseases like dementia.” A recent University of Pennsylvania study of 36,000 adults found that even moderate levels of alcohol consumption — a few beers or a glass of wine per week — are linked to harm to the brain, no matter what your age. And if you think alcohol helps you get more or better sleep, think again. “While it may make it easier for us to fall asleep, it doesn’t usually help us stay asleep,” Allen says. “Frequently, it wakes us up in the middle of the night to visit the bathroom.” Bottom line: Government guidelines recommend no more than two drinks a day for males and no more than one drink a day for females. Do this instead: “There are so many low- or no-calorie alcohol options, and bartenders are

643 Main Street Slatington Pa 18080 610-224-9311 www.nulton.com Therapeutic Services for Adults, You Children & Older Adults. Nulton Diagnostic & treatment Center is a Are Licensed Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic with a skilled team of Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychiatric Not Social Workers Alone Nurses, and Therapists. Nulton Diagnostic and Treatment Center, PC. does not discriminate against staff, consumers, or family members based on age, race, sex, religion, ethnic origin, economic status, or disability and observes all applicable state & federal statues and limitations.

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News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || February 15, 2024

creative with mocktails!” Rosenbloom says. “If you do consume alcohol, think about diluting it with sparkling water, club soda or low-calorie cranberry juice.” Hill’s suggestion: Try low- to no-sugar kombucha. “Kombucha has live bacteria to help support gut health, and it’s a healthier carbonated beverage than your typical soda.” For Zeratsky, one of the best alternatives is a flavored carbonated water or spritzer with a splash of fruit juice or muddled fruits such as raspberries, limes or oranges. Editor’s note: This story was updated Jan. 12, 2024, with additional information.

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Potato Filling & Hot Bacon Dressing Sale 1 quart of Filling is $8.00 • 1 pint of Bacon Dressing is $4.00 Orders Due by: March 1 • Pick up on: March 16 9am-4pm

Payment will ONLY be accepted at time of Pick-up at the Slatedale Fire Company on March 16

Citizen’s Fire Co. #1, 3922 Main Street, Slatedale

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Saturday, March 30 • 7am to 11am

Easter Bunny will arrive at 10am. Menu: ALL YOU CAN EAT Sausage, Bacon, Cream Chip Beef, Eggs, Pancakes, Home Fries, Toast, Milk, Coffee, Juice and Tea Adults: $10.00 • Kids (4 to 9) $7.00 • 3 & under FREE WE DO TO-GO ORDERS!

Annual Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, March 30 • 1pm

Any Questions, Please Call Michelle 610-248-7217 February 15, 2024 || townandcountrygazette.com

Furry Feet Rescue

Walnutport furryfeetrescue@yahoo.com 610-767-7096 We need your help to raise money for a new building and 9 high quality kennels, due to a new Pa. Law. We are committed to provide shelter and care for stray dogs and dogs needing home from other states, but we can’t do this alone. We need your support to keep our mission alive and to continue to provide a safe environment for these animals. Your contribution of any size will make a significant difference. Together we can make a positive impact and continue to provide the care and shelter these animals desperately need. We take PayPal, Venmo, Cash and Checks. FMI call Michelle at 610-767-7096

Jingles Wheaten Terrier & Poodle Mix • Young Male Medium Vaccinations up to date, spayed / neutered. • ADOPTION FEE: $400.00 Jingles is a sweet dog that wants a forever home. You must live within an hour of the rescue in order to adopt. Apply at www.furryfeetrescue.com. Kennel license #05890

News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || February 15, 2024

Rescue a Friend

Lady Marmalade Pit Bull Terrier Mix Catasauqua Adult Female Medium House-Trained: Yes Health: Vaccinations up to date, spayed / neutered. Good in a home with Children. Prefers a home without Other dogs, cats. Meet Lady Marmalade Meet Lady Marmalade! Approx 5 years old. Needs To Be The Only Animal In The Home! Crate trained and housebroken. Enjoys her people - toys - couch time. She is a love bug with all humans. If you are looking to only have 1 this is your girl. Easy as pie - past the puppy stage which is a huge bonus! Visit our website to apply www.outcastrescue.com. You must be over 21 and live within 2 hours of the Lehigh Valley, PA area within NJ or PA (N exceptions!)

Cody

Outcast Rescue Cody hasCatasauqua, been patiently waiting for a home. PA Because he is so used to living at the shelter, PO will Box 12 so he multiple visits be required can love you as much as us & easily outcastrescue@gmail.com adjust to your home.

Carbon County Animal Shelter Kennelyour Lic #1580 Support Nesquehoning, PA 325-4828 local (570) shelter! Gift Card & Cash

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33 23

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E ed business offering prompt and courteous services. A meet roducts to highand consumer standards. sproducts offeringRtoprompt courteous services. Gutters Roof Snow Guards C Patriot Seamless meet high consumer standards. o meet high consumer standards. Veteran Owned and Operated, & Warranty K Style & Half Round is a full-service gutter company. PA#062072, We are a family owne Kevin Garris - Owner Spouting Fa a family owned and operated business offering prompt and courteous services. We use the hi OurWe areWork” We use the highest quality products to meet high consumer standards. •Aluminum •Copper R Veteran Owned & Operated PA062072 PRODUCTS AND SERVICES: Champian Gutter Guard “We Take Pride In Our Work” Kevin Garris -AND Owner PRODUCTS SERVICES: 36 36Colors Colors Gutter Repair PRODUCTS AND SERVICES: 36 Colors Gutter Repair Gutter Repair

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INSURED 36 ColorsFULLY Gutter Repair Heavy Gauge (.032) Gutter Cleaning Heavy Gauge (.032) Gutter Cleaning Heavy Gauge (.032) Gutter Cleaning Heavy Gauge (.032) Gutter Cleaning w w w. pa t ri o t sDropoff e am l eGutters ssg utter s.c Gutter GuardGuard Gutter Dropoff Gutter Guard DropoffGutters Gutters Snow Gutter GuardGuards Dropoff Gutters Roof Snow Guards Commercial Roof Guards Commercial Roof Snow Commercial & Residential K Style & Half Round & Commercial Residential Roof Snow Guards & Residential K Style Half K&Style &Round Half Round Spouting Fascia & Soffit Spouting Fascia & Soffit & Residential •Aluminum •Copper Spouting Fascia & &Soffit Roofing Siding Veteran Owned& & Operated K Style Half Round •Aluminum •Copper Champian Gutter Guard Roofing & Siding •Aluminum •Copper Roofing & Siding Spouting Fascia & Soffit Champian Gutter Guard •Aluminum Champian Gutter FULLYGuard INSURED •Copper Roofing & Siding w w w. pa t ri o t s ea m l e s s g u t t er s . c om PA062072 Kevin Garris - Owner

LY INSURED Champian Gutter Guard Veteran Owned & O FULLY INSURED ea r s . c o m || February 15, 2024 34 m l e s s g u t t eNews@TownAndCountryGazette.com o tsea mle ssgutter s.c om

PA062072 Kevin Garris - Ow

Shapiro Administration Announces New Student Teacher Stipend Grants to Reduce Teacher Shortage in Pennsylvania Student teachers who meet program requirements can receive up to $15,000 in financial aid; teacher mentors eligible to receive up to a $2,500 stipend

The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) is partnering with the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) to announce a groundbreaking student teacher stipend program aimed at addressing the alarming shortage of teachers in Pennsylvania. Ten years ago, Pennsylvania certified approximately 20,000 new teachers every year; now, the Commonwealth certifies approximately 5,000-6,000 new teachers each year. Last month, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed into law Act 33 of 2023, establishing the $10 million Educator Pipeline Support Grant Program (PA Student Teacher Support Program), which provides grants of up to $15,000 to student teachers in Pennsylvania. PHEAA was selected as the administrator of the program. “Teachers devote their careers to supporting and educating our kids – and it’s up to us to make sure they have the resources and support they need to

be successful,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “By making sure student teachers get paid for their hard work, we will encourage more young people from all backgrounds to choose this path of public service and put more teachers in our classrooms. Continued on page 36

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Contact Michelle at 610-760-9652 or Tami 610-767-0130 February 15, 2024 || townandcountrygazette.com

Student Teacher Grants Continued from page 35

That’s good for our kids, good for our schools, and good for our communities – and it’s another example of how we get stuff done for the people of Pennsylvania.” “PHEAA is honored to play a pivotal role in administering this groundbreaking teacher stipend program,” said Senator Wayne D. Fontana, PHEAA Board Chairman. “By providing financial support to support teachers, we are not only investing in the future of education but also addressing the critical teacher shortage in our Commonwealth.” Traditionally, student teachers face the challenge

of undertaking unpaid work as they complete their education, creating a financial barrier to entry into the teaching profession. This program aims to alleviate this burden by awarding eligible student teachers in Pennsylvania with a minimum stipend of $10,000. To further incentivize teaching at a school entity with a high rate of open teaching positions or an area that attracts few student teachers, an additional $5,000 may be granted. Additionally, teachers who take the time to mentor these student teachers may be eligible for a stipend of $2,500 under the program. Continued on page 38

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News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || February 15, 2024

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Student Teacher Grants Continued from page 36

“This teacher stipend program is an important step to address the challenges faced by educators in our state,” said Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “It not only recognizes the invaluable contributions of student teachers but also cultivates a stronger, more vibrant education system in Pennsylvania by lowering financial barriers for those who want to serve as teachers. This is an important addition to PDE’s work to support teachers and reduce the shortage of qualified teachers in our classrooms.”

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PDE is working hard to deliver additional resources for teachers and build a robust teacher pipeline. Two years ago, PDE unveiled the Pennsylvania Educator Workforce Strategy. The Shapiro Administration is actively taking steps to recruit and retain teachers by: • Creating a new CTE pathway for high school students who want to be teachers. • Distributing grants to help teachers get certified in Special Education more efficiently. • Lowering certification time to less than one week for most in-state educators (a more than three-month improvement); and • Building the Teach in PA website to provide

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To order tickets- website: bhchorale.org or email: jsbgfh@ptd.net Tickets available at Sound Check Records, Jim Thorpe and Beacon Diner Restaurant, Tamaqua. 38

News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || February 15, 2024

resources for individuals interested in becoming teachers in PA. To qualify for the stipend, students must commit to working as teachers in Pennsylvania for a minimum of three years after completing their education. Additional requirements include: • Be enrolled in an approved PDE Educator Preparation Program at an institution of higher education in the Commonwealth • Meet the required academic performance standards (GPA) • Be placed in a student teacher position (students should work with your institution of higher education to ensure the position meets graduation and certification requirements) • Obtained all required clearances Pursuing a career in education often includes additional financial challenges for prospective teachers in Pennsylvania who must grapple with the economic strain of forgoing income during student teaching along with additional expenses such as commuting or purchasing professional attire. The stipend aims to mitigate these challenges, Continued on page 42

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February 15, 2024 || townandcountrygazette.com

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Student Teacher Grants Continued from page 39

making the teaching profession more accessible and financially viable for aspiring educators. “The stipend program is a beacon of hope for prospective teachers, breaking down financial barriers that often deter individuals from entering the teaching profession,” said Senator Vincent Hughes, PHEAA Board Member and sponsor of the Senate version of the bill. “I’m proud for PHEAA to lead this impactful initiative.” “I sponsored this bill with my colleague to address the teacher shortage impacting our kids with crowded classrooms and limited options,” said Senator Ryan Aument, PHEAA Board Member and co-sponsor of the bill. “This initiative offers financial aid to aspiring educators, breaking down barriers, making it easier for them to reach their dream. I am thrilled to see this program come to fruition for our Commonwealth.” For more information regarding the PA Student Teacher Support Program, please visit www.pheaa. org. Students and families are encouraged to visit

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News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || February 15, 2024

PHEAA on Facebook, X (@PHEAAaid), and LinkedIn where they can learn more about the college financial aid process, register for reminders of financial aid deadlines, and get information pertaining to planning for college. Additionally, video tutorials explaining the student aid process and types of aid available can be found at YouTube. com/PHEAAstudentAid. About PHEAA The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) was created by the Pennsylvania General Assembly in 1963 to provide affordable access to higher education for PA students and families.

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