Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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Page 2

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

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Page 3

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

What’s inside 4 More than just cards 6 New president at the COA 8 Volunteering after 50 10 Parents with Alzheimer’s

4

6 8 14

12 COA September events 13 Niles Senior Center weekly activities 14 Start stamp collecting

13

Page 4

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

More than

just cards Weekly games provide companionship, entertainment for Niles seniors

By CRAIG HAUPERT • craig.haupert@leaderpub.com

T

he eight people playing cards on a Tuesday morning in August at the Greater Niles Senior Center all had different reasons for being there.

Don Kirkendall said he enjoys the competition.

“It’s a man thing,” said the 77-year-old Niles man.

His wife, Betty, enjoys the company.

“It’s fun to play and I love the people,” she said.

Judy Goddard just likes getting away from the house.

“If we weren’t playing cards we would be doing housework and we don’t like that,” said the 78-year-old Niles resident.

“It is a great excuse to go out and do something.”

Whatever the reason, those attending the senior center’s weekly card games are having a good time.

According to the senior center’s website — nilesseniorcenter.org — card games like pinochle and euchre are offered at 2 p.m. Tuesdays and at 10 a.m. Thursdays at the center, 1109 Bell Rd., Niles.

That does not mean members stick to the schedule.

Barbara Gammill, who was playing euchre with Jacqueline Gibson, Goddard and Madalyn Crocker-Alford said she’s been playing cards there most Tuesday mornings for a dozen years.

She got involved with the senior center many years ago when she would drive her mother there.

“I love these goofy people,” she said, while looking at the three people at her table. “We have fun.”

At the table beside them, the Kirkendalls were playing bridge with Alice Kass and Judy Bauer.

At age 96, Kass said the weekly bridge games help keep her young.

“It keeps the mind sharp,” she said.

Kass will be moving to Grand Rapids next month to be closer to one of her daughters. She said she would miss playing cards at the senior center.

“They say they play bridge up there, but we will see how it goes,” she said.

While the bridge group is losing Kass, the euchre table recently acquired a new player in Jacqueline Gibson, who recently moved to Niles from Detroit.

She said finding a card game with friendly people has helped her feel right at home.

“It is a fun and friendly atmosphere and we care about each other,” Gibson said.

Goddard agreed.

“We look out for each other,” Goddard said. “If someone doesn’t show up we wonder where they are.”

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

Page 5

Get in on the fun Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m.

Niles Senior Center 1234 Bell Road Niles, Michigan

PREVIOUS PAGE: Top: Alice Kass, of Niles, enjoys one of her last games of bridge with the regulars at the Greater Niles Senior Center on a Tuesday morning in August. Kass will be moving to Grand Rapids this month.

BOTTOM: Madalyn Crocker-Alford, left, Barbara Gammill, middle, Jacqueline Gibson, right, and Judy Goddard, off camera, play in a weekly euchre game on a Tuesday morning in August at the Greater Niles Senior Center.

ABOVE: Barbara Gammill, of Niles, has been playing cards at the senior center for about a dozen years. LEFT: From left to right Don Kirkendall, Alice Kass, Betty Kirkendall and Judy Bauer play a hand of bridge.

Photos by CRAIG HAUPERT

Page 6

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

Keeping the wheels spinnin’ Longtime COA volunteer takes over as board president

By TED YOAKUM • ted.yoakum@leaderpub.com

W

hen Tom Celie first began volunteering with the Cass County COA’s Meals On Wheels seven years ago, it was at the suggestion of one of his neighbors, who figured it would be a fruitful way for him to spend some time after his retirement from Tyler Refrigeration.

What keeps him going on that weekly route across the county has been the bonds he’s made with the people he serves.

“It’s a very rewarding experience,” Celie said. “You can see the direct impact on the people you’re helping. A lot of the people on my route can’t leave the house. Sometimes, I’m the only person they see that day.”

The Cassopolis man has taken this dedication to the next level, as the head of the organization’s board of directors.

In April, Celie was elected the president of the 13-member board, succeeding longtime leader Eleanore Flowers, who stepped down after nine years due to term limitations. As board president, Celie is responsible for presiding over their bimonthly meetings, where they decide on

the COA’s expenditures and other pivotal items.

“There’s always a lot of discussion going on during the meetings,” Celie said. “Everyone gets involved.”

The retired business executive has been a part of the board for several years, including two years as vice-president.

While the prospects of replacing a longstanding member such as Flowers were quite daunting, Celie said that task has been made quite easy due to the direction that the board and the staff have set the council down over the last several years. “[Flowers] did a wonderful job, she really did,” he said. “She’ll certainly be missed. But I think we’ll do just fine.”

One of the things that the council is improving on is their lifelong learning program, with their new program director, Nicole Romo, creating 14 new daylong courses this fall. These classes are aimed at the county’s population of baby boomers to help develop new skills and hobbies after retirement, such as in writing, art and computers, said COA Community Relations Director Patty Patano.

“Once you’re retired, you can really out your passion,” she said.

The organization remains dedicated to the various activities and facilities offered at its Cassopolis and Dowagiac locations, which continue to grow every year, Patano said.

“A lot of friendships have been made here,” she said. “This is a place where people can meet one another, and find new friends.”

Page 7

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

COA, Pokagon Band host harvest gathering SUBMITTED CASSOPOLIS — The Cass County COA will hold its annual fundraiser for Meals on Wheels on Saturday, Sept. 27 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Lowe Center in Cassopolis.

The evening, called “Harvest Gathering,” will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the signing of the law giving Federal recognition to the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi.

The evening will feature a display of Pokagon cultural items as well as a traditional Invocation and a presentation by dancers and drummers.

Centerpieces will be unique and present aspects of the Pokagon Band traditions.

“We wanted to take the opportunity to celebrate the wonderful contributions the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi make in our community. Members of the Band have been part of our dinner committee and we have thoroughly enjoyed the friendships we have made,” stated Bob Cochrane, CEO of the Cass County COA.

“The evening, we believe, will give members of the community a chance to learn more about our neighboring Tribal Nation. In addition, we will be raising funds for Meals on Wheels one of our most important programs for seniors in our county.”

Tickets and tables for the event are selling quickly, but there are still a few remaining tables. Tickets are $40 per person or tables of 8 at $320. The evening will also include a delicious gourmet dinner, live music and a wonderful silent auction.

For those interested in attending the event, please contact Patty Patano, COA Community Development Team Leader at (269) 445-8110. She will email a sign-up form or credit card information can be taken over the phone.

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The Cass County COA is a community organization offering programs and services for adults in all life stages.

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Page 8

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

Volunteering

after 50

west Michigan, Higgins said she has found that the majority of volunteers are parents with school-aged children.

“People are very involved in volunteering as their kids are growhen you ask any volunteer what compels them to do- ing up, but as you get older, you have so much more flexibility nate their time, most will give you a simple answer: It and more choice. You can really follow your passion,” she said. “It keeps you young, and research shows it makes you live longer!” makes a difference.

Higgins, who recently turned 50, said she For the last few years, dozens of Bufinds volunteering more enriching now than chanan residents have taken time out of ever. their busy schedules to give back to their “It keeps you young, and “How I view work and home and this comcommunity during a national day of ac- research shows it makes munity is changing as I get older, and I’m looktion entitled “Make a Difference Day.” ing for new opportunities. You can try new Doris Higgins, a member of First Unit- you live longer!” things. A lot of people over 50 have new jobs ed Methodist Church, has contributed to or are looking to find new interests, and volthe event since Buchanan implemented it — Doris Higgins, unteering is a great entrée into that,” she said. in 2012.

First United Methodist Church “Volunteering also helps offer that connection “A group of people at First United to people that we crave once the kids move out Methodist Church has sponsored this volunteer day in conjunction with Make a Difference Day, with or once we retire.”

Organizers of Make a Difference Buchanan have not yet nailed the help of the City of Buchanan and Buchanan Community down all of the agencies they will be helping with their volunteer Schools,” Higgins said.

Higgins said the majority of the volunteers who participate in efforts this year.

“This year the projects include cleaning a part of the gym at this volunteer event are older adults looking to give back to their Ottawa Elementary School. We’re looking at either a park project, beloved hometown.

“I think definitely as you get older, where you are at in your life or there’s a field in Buchanan that needs some heavy-duty work,” changes,” Higgins. “As your responsibilities at home lessen and Higgins said.

Previous projects have included courtyard cleanups at Buchanan children grow up, move out and all of that, there are new opportunities to do things in the community and give back in a different area schools, helping out on a local farm and other park cleanups.

Updates on this year’s Make a Difference Day event can be found kind of way.”

A former volunteer coordinator for Volunteer South- on the group’s Facebook page, Make a Difference Buchanan.

By AMBROSIA NELDON ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com

W

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Living 50 Plus • September 2014

A New Chapter In Caring

For the past few years, dozens of residents from the Buchanan area have taken time out of their busy schedules to help out various local entities in need of assistance as part of the national Make a Difference Day. Submitted photos

ACOUSTIC AUDIO hEARInG SERVICE

To my dearest friends at the Timbers of Cass County: I will never be able to express my gratitude enough to you when my mom was at her lowest, so I hope this tells you how I feel.

To just say “thank you” for all you have done for my mom and my family would not even come close to what I feel when I think of you guys/gals. From giving her a bath, combing her hair, clipping her nails, feeding her, and the countless other things that you have and/or continue to do to keep her comfortable, happy, clean, and dignified, I will forever be grateful. For over the last several months, you guys/gals have taken care of her and are kind and compassionate to her. I know that if I can’t make it in to see her, she will still get the best of care. Your patience and love to her and the rest of the residents are evident in everything you say and do. I have witnessed it all, and I am thankful.

From the nurses to the kitchen personnel, to the staff who clean everything, the administrative, maintenance, and laundry workers, and the rest of the workers, I salute you all. You keep the Home a clean, safe, friendly, and healthy place to live, a true “home,” a place to call their own, a place to find refuge and friendship and warmth. I know your jobs aren’t easy, but you make it seem that way. Your sense of humor is tested daily. The ability to laugh at yourself and joke with others is one of the most endearing qualities.

Without Timbers and all you guys/gals to take care of my mother, I truly believe that my mother would not have made it through this. I could go on and on, but this should give you an idea of how I feel. It’s all you and you’re all great, and you have one of the most important jobs in the world. You are all friends.

This note is too short to express my true gratitude for you guys/gals for treating my mom like one of your own. Hugs to all of you.

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Page 10

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

Parents with Alzheimer’s: What I’ve learned

I

am sure that all the signs were there, but when you are dealing with your own parents, it is hard to admit that you are seeing them.

Such was the case with my father, who has officially been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

If there is one lesson to learn from this experience that I would like to pass along, it is do not wait. Do not rationalize the warning signs and put off getting your parent the right treatment as quickly as possible.

You see, the trouble with waiting, is that you are going to lose precious time with your father or your mother that could have been saved.

The first and easiest sign to overlook is memory loss.

How many times have you heard or said to yourself “it is only hold age?” Of course it is old age, but it is also a sign that should get you

SCOTT NOVAK

Community Editor

thinking that perhaps something is wrong.

Don’t panic. Just because a parent forgets to do something does not mean they have Alzheimer’s.

What you need to be on the lookout for is when they begin to forget important dates or even the names of loved ones and longtime friends.

The biggest warning sign here should be when they begin to ask you the same thing over and over.

Another warning sign that I began to notice was his inability to complete simple tasks that he had done for

years.

But the one that we all noticed and got us thinking about getting him treatment was when he became confused about where he was and what he had done with things like his keys and his wallet.

It is tough admitting to yourself there is something wrong.

It is even tougher watching him go through this transformation to the point where he begins to ask who you are.

My parents have been married for more than 70 years and lived in the same house, the only home they have ever

owned, for longer than I can remember.

It is not easy to start thinking about moving them out of that home or having to break them apart in order to get them the treatment and care they deserve.

But you must make those tough choices because it truly is in their best interest. Getting everyone on the same page is key. You cannot have one sibling dragging their feet because internal strife only makes things worse.

In my case, I think we probably waited too long to begin the process, which has now left us scrambling to get a lot of things accomplished in a short matter of time.

On the other hand, it has given me and my brothers some insight as to what we need to start doing to prepare for the time when our children have to make similar decisions about

our care.

I know I for one have begun thinking about getting a living will done. I would have never thought about a will at this point in my life, but it is important to know who will be entrusted with your care and your possessions when and if it comes to that.

My parents have done a lot for me over the years and now it is time I repay them by trying to get them the care they need to live the rest of their lives as comfortably as possible.

I would encourage you to begin doing the same for your mother and father.

Scott Novak is the community editor for the Edwardsburg Argus and the Cassopolis Vigilant. He can be reached at scott.novak@ leaderpub.com or (269) 6877702.

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Celebrate National Assisted Living Week SUBMITTED

MISHAWAKA, Ind. — Established by the National Center for Assisted Living in 1995, National Assisted Living Week provides a unique opportunity for health care centers to bring together residents, families, staff, volunteers and the surrounding community and provide exciting events.

The Center’s 2014 theme, The Magic of Music, showcases the integral role music plays in our lives every day.

To celebrate and honor National Assisted Living Week, Heritage Point is inviting the community to join in a musical celebration on Sept. 12, 2 p.m. to enjoy Elkhart’s own smooth vocalist Patty Bowers and jazz trumpeter, John Schultz.

They will perform a musical tribute to the memorable music of the 1930s and 1940s as we sing along.

John Schultz, jazz trumpeter, has performed in the Michiana area for more than 60 years. For the past 15 years he - has played with the Jazz Assemblage, performing at the Elkhart Jazz Festival and Rhapsody in Green. Patty Bowers, John’s daughter, joined the Jazz Assemblage six years ago as the vocal soloist. Patty brings singing experience from church choral music and barbershop chorus, as well as from the stages of Elkhart Civic Theater and South Bend Civic Theater.

Kim Allen, Administrator for Heritage Point Alzheimer’s Special Care Center stated, “All of us have the ability to touch someone’s life in one way or another. Music brings pleasure to all generations and

fills our hearts with love, comfort and joy. Whether through a special song, smile, or warm hug, music can EVENT DETAILS: bridge the Location: Heritage Point gap of be- Alzheimer’s Special Care ing able to Center, 1215 Trinity Place, effectively Mishawaka. communicate with Registration is required: o t h e r s .” heritagepoint-bom@jeaseAllen con- niorliving or call (574) 247tinued, “I 7400 weekdays between 9 hope resi- a.m. and 5 p.m. dents of the entire Michiana community will consider joining us on the 12.”

Heritage Point Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, a unit of JEA Senior Living based in Vancouver, Washington, provides residential and assisted living care for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia when their families or caregivers require a rest or must entrust their loved one to dementia care experts. Heritage Point is located at 1215 Trinity Place, Mishawaka. For more information about The Magic of Music event, email heritagepoint-bom@jeaseniorliving.com or call 574 247 7400. For more information on National Assisted Living Week go to: www.NALW.ORG. For more information on Heritage Point Alzheimer’s Special Care Center or JEA Senior Living go to www.jeaseniorliving. com

AARP seeks volunteer tax preparers across Michigan SUBMITTED LANSING — AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax preparation and assistance service, is seeking volunteer tax-preparers in 36 counties across Michigan to help residents who are seeking assistance preparing and filing their 2014 returns.

The time commitment is about 10 hours for training and several hours each week from Febr. 1 to April 15 doing counseling and tax return preparation. The volunteer prepares tax forms, answers questions and explains the return to the taxpayer, who is responsible for its accuracy.

AARP Foundation TaxAide volunteers receive

Page 11

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

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Riverboat Rendezvous-Louisville Pacific Northwest and California Kitchenaid, Chocolate & Wine Shop Till You Drop & Refuel at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse-Indy Christmas at Opryland, The Rockettes & Grand Ole Opry Red, White & Blue Musical Christmas A Christmas Memory – Theatre At The Center Redneck Christmas Carol – Cornwell’s Dinner Theater Hawaii by Land & Sea (reservation deadline Oct. 16th) youramericandreamtours@gmail.com www.americandreamtours.biz

For more information, check off the trips you are interested in and return or call 574-936-5677

Name: Address: free tax training and are reimbursed on a limited basis for qualified program-related expenses.

They help taxpayers at sites around the state, learning new skills while giving back to their communities.

“Last year, we assisted more than 70,000 people prepare and file their tax returns,” said Bob Crews, Tax Aide State Coordinator for Michigan. “We could not do it without

our more than 1,000 volunteers, who make an indelible mark on the communities they help.

“The best part of our job is being able to help somebody who needs help, and the gratitude they show,” Crews said.

For more information, contact Crews at (734) 455-8381.

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Neighborly News It can be found every Monday in The Daily Star.

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Drop it off, email it, call it in!

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Page 12

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

COA September Events Sept. 5

Great Decisions 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. — This self-led group will discuss a variety of topics on world affairs.

The group is always looking for new members. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 10

A Ride with Henry Ford 1 to 2:30 p.m. — An instructor from the Gilmore Car Museum will share the fascinating history and life of Henry Ford. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 11

Sept. 8

Grief Support Group 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. — Grief Support Group: The group developed for anyone dealing with grief and loss will discuss the many definitions of “loneliness.” (Lowe Center)

Walk the Michigan Lighthouses A new and different class combining history and fitness. Students will learn the history of lighthouses on the Lower Peninsula and walk a scaled down distance to each one. The seven-week class is taught by Nicole Romo, a Lifelong Learning manager. Classes beging Sept. 8. (Lowe Center)

Annual Health Fair 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. —A fair designed to benefit all by offering attendees information that can make visits to doctors and dentists more productive and specific. Advance reservation is required for blood tests, cholesterol, glucose and PSA testing. Brunch will also be served.

(Lowe Center)

Look Good...Feel Better 5:30 p.m. — Lakeland HealthCare will offer a free two-hour class for women who are currently undergoing chemotherapy, at the Marie Yeager Cancer Center at the Health Park, 3900 Hollywood Road, St. Joseph.

Postcard from the Edge of Time 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. — Tom Jerdon, a longtime Cassopolis resident, will bring his vast collection of historical postcards from the downs and depots in the surrounding area. (Lowe Center)

Hollywood Treasures 1 to 3 p.m. — “The African Queen,” a timeless classic featuring Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn. Mark Love, the COA’s resident movie buff will introduce the romantic and harrowing trip in Africa. Free popcorn will be served. (Lowe Center)

Eating Right for the Heart Lakeland Hospital, Niles, will host Eating Right for the Heart from 6 to 7 p.m. Sept. 8 at the Buchanan Area Health Resource Library.

Learn how better food habits can reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke. A registered dietitian will provide tips on following the American Heart Association’s eating plan. Participants must register for this class at least 24 hours in advance. A minimum of six participants are required for class to be held. Contact (269) 566-2808 or (866) 2607544.

Sept. 19

Great Decisions 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. — This self-led group will discuss a variety of topics on world affairs.

The group is always looking for new members. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 22

Balance Challenge 1 to 2:30 p.m. — A one-day program designed to help assess balance and offer tips for balance improvement. A home safety assessment will also be presented by a Borgess-Lee rehabilitation therapist. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 12

Sept. 17

Planting Bulbs 1 to 2 p.m. — A master gardener from Michigan State University will provide a hands on demonstration on the correct way to plant bulbs. (Lowe Center)

Multiple Sclerosis Group 1 to 3 p.m. — This session will feature a pharmacist who has an excellent knowledge of the wide variety of MS medications. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 23

Balance Challenge 1 to 2:30 p.m. — A one-day program designed to help assess balance and offer tips for balance improvement. A home safety assessment will also be presented by a Borgess-Lee rehabilitation therapist. Front Street Crossing)

Sept. 24

Fly Away Clutter 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. —A class to help downsize belongings or free up space in life.

Visitors will gain great tips on how to prepare a home for relocation. Rose Hathaway, an instructor from the Fly Away Center, will be available. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 24

Glass on the GO! 1 to 3 p.m. —An art class about glass-making. Students will learn the basics of kilnfused glass. Advance registration is required.

(Lowe Center)

About the COA

Sept. 9

Wood Carving 101 10 to 11:30 a.m. — Master carvers from the Fruitbelt Wood Carvers will teach the basics of the craft. Necessary tools will be provided.

Four-week class begins Sept. 9. (Lowe Center) Parkinson’s Support Group 1 to 3 p.m. — Attendees will learn how Tai Chi can benefit those dealing with the disease from teacher Glenda Gibson.

Estate Planning Basics 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. — Attorney William Westerbeke will provide useful information to ensure financial planning is sufficient. (Front Street Crossing)

Sept. 18

Scrapbook Class 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. — Scrapbook Class: Students will learn to safely and creatively preserve photos and memories. $5 is required for materials. (Lowe Center)

Postcards from the Edge of Time 1 to 3 p.m. —Tom Jerdon, a longtime Cassopolis resident, will bring his vast collection of historical postcards from the downs and depots in the surrounding area. (Front Street Crossing)

The Cass County COA is a community organization offering programs and services for adults in all life stages.

The Lowe Center is located at 60525 Decatur Road, in Cassopolis.

The Front Street Crossing location is located at 227 S. Front St., in Dowagiac.

Page 13

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

Niles Senior Center weekly activities Mondays

9 a.m. — Chair exercise 12:30 p.m. — Wii Bowling 1:00 p.m. — Scrapbooking 2:30 p.m. — Yoga

Thursdays 10 a.m. —Pastels 10:30 a.m. — Drumming 1 p.m. — Cash bingo

Tuesdays

Wednesdays

9 a.m. — Oil painting 10 a.m. — Bridge 1 p.m. — Euchre/Pinochle

9 a.m. — Chair exercise 10 a.m. — Line dancing 2 p.m. — Tai chi exercise

Fridays

9 a.m. — Chair exercise 10 a.m. — Volunteers 10:30 a.m. — Zumba Gold 12:15 p.m. — Hawaiian dancing 2 p.m. — Tai chi exercise

Peaceful Wooded Country Swimming Pool Central Air Garages & Carports Dishwashers Family Owned & Operated

1 Fort St. • Niles, MI 49120

269-684-4500 www.pawatingvillage.com

Page 14

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

offers Start stamp Appraiser new hobby

collecting suggestion

T

he process of stamp collecting is nearly as old as the stamp itself. There have been documented cases of meetings of stamp collectors taking place as early as 1841 and advertisements placed by like-minded individuals who enjoyed stamp collecting in the mid-1800s. The first government issued stamp was introduced in 1840 in Great Britain. Sir Rowland Hill, the post master general at the time, designed the first stamp and changed the way we collect those little pieces of valuable paper.

Today, the American Philatelic Society and other groups of stamp collectors promote stamp collecting and highlight the study of stamps.

Some of the most interesting stamp collectors that I have met are young people who have taken up the hobby with their parents or grandparents. Like coin collecting, stamp collecting is a great way to introduce children to the fun of collecting a piece of Americana.

Available at your local post office, the publication USA Philatelic is a source for current stamp and stamp products available from the United States postal service.

It is known as the official source magazine for stamp enthusiasts.

The current issue of the magazine features new items for collectors such as newly issued stamps like those featuring Jimi Hendrix, gay rights activist Harvey Milk, and actor Charleston Heston, souvenir booklets of 20-stamps focusing on the J.K. Rowling’s character Harry Potter, stamped cards and envelopes picturing a folk art eagle and bank swallow bird, and thematic

Dr. Lori

Antique Appraiser

stamps like those appropriate for wedding invitations, graduations, and holidays.

The magazine provides historical information about the history of stamp collecting by providing fast facts about some of the best known stamps like the misprinted inverted jenny airplane stamp which was first printed on September 22, 1913 at Washington, DC and the last chance to buy the collectible Ronald Reagan Centennial stamp which was first issued on February 10, 2011 at Simi Valley, CA. These special commemorative stamps introduced more collectors to the hobby. Today collectors gather stamps that relate to military history, sports heroes, special events, and the list goes on.

The first commemorative stamp printed in America marked the 400th anniversary of Columbus discovering the New World. It was introduced in 1893, the same year as the World’s Columbian Exposition also known as the Chicago’s World’s Fair.

Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel. Bring an antique for a free appraisal by Dr. Lori in your area. Check out www.

DrLoriV.com/Events or call (888) 431-1010.

Subscribe

to your local paper and save 10% when you mention this ad! *New subscribers only

Call Leader Publications to get started today! 269.687.7710

Page 15

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

Let Us Assist You in Making Those Important Healthcare Decisions

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STONE LAKE MANOR

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Spacious, two bedroom located on beautiful Stone Lake, Intercom entry building, elevator, emergency pull cords. Seniors 62 years or older or disabled of any age. Rent starts at $541.00 (based on income). Please call Toni at 269-445-3333 or stop by today at 145 Stone Lake St. for more information. EHO. TDD 1-800-649-3777 American Preferred 1-800-968-1792

Mill Pond Apartments 1 Bedroom Apartments For Seniors and Disabled Persons Located within walking distance of shopping, banking and medical offices. Laundry in each building.

Community Room available for residents to gather and relax. Adjacent to Buchanan Area Senior Center.

Phone: 269-695-0475

Office Hours: Mon-Fri 12:30pm - 5:00pm 800 E. Smith Street • Buchanan, MI 49107 TDD: (800) 649-3777 • Fax: 269-695-1057

Rent Based on Income This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Independent Living • Assisted Living • Specialized Care Our communities are thoughtfully designed to cater to the unique needs and demands of today’s seniors.

Our care programs are designed specifically for each individual, providing the highest level of service when it’s most needed.

As your needs change, we change with you. It is our privilege and honor to share in life’s journey.

Call us today for your personal tour!

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leisure-living.com

We’re your neighbors and your friends For over one hundred years, you have turned to us for honest advice, sincere compassion, and caring support. You can count on us to help you plan a personal, lasting tribute, and guide you through the many decisions that must be made during this challenging time.

Connelly Chapel

Wagner Family

• Funerals • Cremations • • Gatherings • 202 North Broadway Street Cassopolis 269.445.2435 • wagnercares.com

Eugene F. Wagner: Owner/Manager

Page 16

Living 50 Plus • September 2014

The Silverbook dif ference.

If your loved ones needs cannot be met at home, Silverbrook Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Center provides care that you can count on.

Silverbrook is a 100 bed Medicare/Medicaid Certified, Joint Comission Accredited facility where residents and their loved ones are not only cared for, they are cared about.

Facility Features • 24-Hour Nursing Care • IV Therapy • Short term rehabilitation • Long term care • Air-Conditioned Therapy Room • Therapy Offered 5 Days Per Week • Private Rooms • FREE TV with Cable Provided

• Central Air Throughout Facility • Speech Therapy • Hospice Care • Wound Care • Physical Therapy REHABILITATION • Occupational Therapy • FREE Transportation to Appointments

SI L V E R B R O O K

Accepted Pay Sources: Medicare, Medicaid, Private Pay, Humana, Medicaid Pending & Out-Of-State Medicaid.

Not sure if you qualify? Give us a call.

& NURSING CARE CENTER

911 S. 3rd Street • Niles 269-684-4320

Trust the care of your eyes to us

From left to right: Duane A. Tolsma, O.D., John W. Marohn, O.D., Andrew M. Wang, M.D., Michael S. Seward, M.D., David L. Cooke, M.D., David N. Brown, M.D., Stanley W. Pletcher, M.D. and Ronald L. McKey, M.D.

Let us help you see better: • Retinal Disorders & Treatments • Contact Lenses • Laser Vision Correction • Cataract and Advanced Lens Implants Including Toric for astigmatism • Treatment of Glaucoma & Laser Surgery • Diabetic Retinopathy • Cosmetic Reconstructive Surgery • Eye Muscle Imbalances

Sarah M. Cho, OD Research Director

Contact us to schedule a convenient appointment

120 Longmeadow Village Dr., Niles • (269) 684-6400 2848 Niles Road, St. Joseph • (269) 428-3300 Clinical Research Site

FREE WiFi • 1-800-424-2393 www.greateyecare.com