Lifestyles over 50
Encouraging vibrant and healthy living in the greater Lehigh Valley! FREE - Volume 11 - Issue 5 - August 2016
Local Car Shows
Live outdoor music & festivals What is Hyberbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Medications & Heat Related Illnesses
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Things To Do With Grandkids Shakespeare 4 Kids! A high energy, one-hour production designed for children ages 4 to 10 to actively experience Shakespeare’s vibrant language and characters. 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, pashakespeare.org. Every day from Jul 27 – Aug 6, 2016 (10:00 am – 11:00 am)
Quakertown Fire Dept Carnival Aug. 2nd through Aug. 6th, Tues through Fri, 6 to 10 p.m. Sat., 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Rides, games, food, bingo, Live Music, Free Parking, tinyurl.com/jesgudr, 9th & Mill St. Quakertown, Aug 2 6:00 p.m. – Aug 6 10:00 p.m. Das Awkscht Fescht 3 fun-packed days. Go cruisin’ through 42 acres of fun at the Fescht – and enjoy the great things classic summers are made of. Admission Includes all events, shows, and entertainment. Macungie Memorial Park awkscht.com/index.html Aug 5 – Aug 7 (All Day)
Thaumatropes: FREE Children’s Art Activity Free and easily attended sidewalk art programs for children and their adults. Art Educator - Holly Houser, FREE 342 Northampton St. Easton, PA Thaumatropes: it’s Sigal Museum’s 6th birthday, children who make flameless candles (yes, that’s what thaumatropes are) get in free. sigalmuseum.org Aug 6 11-1. Wheels of Time Rod & Custom Jamboree More than 2,200 street rods and customs complete with bands, games, special features, and fun for the entire family. Macungie Memorial Park, 50 N. Popular St., Macungie, wheelsoftime.org/jamboree/ Dutch Springs
Picnics & Birthday Parties at Dutch Springs. Dutch Springs is a recreational facility with adventure fun for the entire family. Dutch Springs expanded to include the Aqua Park and the Sky Challenge dutchsprings.com.
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From the Editor I hope you are enjoying this great summer weather. Although it has been rather hot, it does give us the opportunity to get out to the beach or enjoy other summer activities with friends and family. This month we have Musikfest here is our own backyard. Every year they have a great lineup of music and other entertainment. Check out our article and take some time to enjoy some of the music at this year’s festival. Speaking of local, we have an article on the advantages of buying and eating locally grown food. It is not only healthy it also helps the local economy. Please consider taking advantage of the booklet of local suppliers that we refer to in the article. In this issue we present the third and last installment in our story of Tracy - easily one of the most remarkable people we have ever met. Overcoming her own physical disabilities she dedicated herself to adopting and helping infants and children who have likewise suffered serious handicaps and disabilities. If you are a veteran or know a veteran, you will find the article on the VA Home Loan Program extremely informative. The program provides a way for eligible veterans to get financing for a home with no down payment. Our veterans deserve our help and this program can be of enormous benefit to them. St. Luke’s Hospital has an article this month on hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment therapy - a painless, highly effective method to heal wounds that are not responding to other treatments. We hope you take advantage of the weather and enjoy the summer months.
Art
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Tracy’s Inspiring Story - Love Conquers All - Part 3 By Vcki Bezems, Lifestyles over 50 Editor’s Note: We have told the amazing story of Tracy and how she overcame personal hardships to successfully adopt special needs children. Herein is the third and last installment.
to adopt Zion, and he and Luke quickly developed a strong bond. Zion had a tracheotomy when he came into Tracy’s life. Sadly, he passed away when he was just 10 months old.
After Tracy adopted Hannah she adopted Noah, who was three and half years old with severe cerebral palsy. Tracy drove to Baton Rouge, Louisiana with Caleb and Hannah in tow to pick up Noah. On the way home, Tracy discovered that Noah also had Pica, a disorder which causes the patient to eat non-nutritive substances, such as dirt or articles of clothing. Noah had to be watched constantly. The five and a half years that he lived in Tracy’s home, she calls the most challenging of her life.
A year after Zion died, Tracy learned of a baby girl in Boston who was reportedly blind and addicted to heroin at birth. Tracy drove to Boston to bring Rachel Lilliana, named after Tracy’s grandmother, home. “She was such a cute baby, with her bright red hair and blue eyes. I took her home, and when I moved around, her eyes followed me. She was tracking! She wasn’t blind,� Tracy recalls the joy she felt. Tracy then took Tate, with spina bifida, her only child from a foster home. While waiting for his adoption to be processed, she also agreed to take Seth, with a cardiac condition.
With Tracy on the journey to Louisiana were two reporters from a local newspaper, who were assigned to follow Her greatest sources of support, she says, have been her faith, her church and a network of her for a year in order adoptive parents of handicapped children. to do an in depth feature story on her life. Unfortunately, that article was never Tate’s physical condition and his published due to budget cuts by the temperament were more than Tracy newspaper. could manage alone, and Seth needed constant medical care. Tracy felt she After Noah came Luke, who could not cope with the risk of losing still lives with Tracy today. Luke has another child. “I can’t even describe arthrogryposis, a disorder which causes the limbs to freeze in utero and remain stiff after birth. Luke uses a motorized wheelchair when he’s not at home. In the house he scoots about with speed and agility. He’s a computer whiz, Tracy, and To you it’s about making the Luke helps with the sound system 8S ]SY MX´W EFSYX QEOMRK XLI right choice...To us, VMKLX GLSMGI To us,it’s it’spersonal. personal. in the church. Then came Zion, who was born without the femur in both legs and without the humerus bone in both arms. Like Luke, Zion had a quick mind. Thinking that he and Luke would be good for each other influenced Tracy’s decision
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what it’s like to have a child die,� she explained. First Tate was placed with another family, and then Seth was adopted by the same family. Within a year, both passed away. Tracy believes that something told her not to try to sustain these two children, protecting her emotionally. Time went on, and Tracy received a call about a baby boy in Georgia. She prayed for a sign from God to tell her whether she should take this child. As she was having coffee one morning in her regular coffee shop, she noticed that the flavor of the day was “Southern Pecan.� She knew at once that
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Lifestyles over 50 August 2016
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Benjamin Zion, as she later named him, was meant for her. He was bright but very ill. Because he was dependent on a tracheotomy and ventilator, Tracy felt a strong bond with this boy. However, Tracy had to make the terrible decision to take him off life after he suffered severe brain damage from seizures. Benjamin died in her arms in May 2013. Today, Tracy lives with Luke Jean (spelled like her mother’s name and pronounced john) to sound like her father’s, and mother’s), Rachel and their lively mixed terrier, Leah. Rachel is a lively second-grader, and Luke is getting ready to enter middle school. Tracy is open with her children about their birth parents and vows to support their desire to know them. Although Caleb, Hannah and Noah are loving, affectionate children, and Luke and Rachel miss them, their physical needs make it necessary for them to live in care homes, where Tracy visits them regularly. Tracy has used her gift of style to update and decorate her beautiful craftsman style home. In her spare time, she has installed wainscoting, ceiling tiles and a built-in curiosity cabinet. Asked if she will adopt again, she’s not sure. She has accomplished almost everything without help. Her greatest sources of support, she says, have been her faith, her church (Bethany United Methodist) and a network of adoptive parents of handicapped children. Although her greatest physical discomfort is arthritis, she realizes that age may make it difficult to keep up the same pace. Healed after her seven years with a tracheotomy, she recently started pursuing a new art, singing. She loves to travel and wants to expose Luke and Rachel to different places and cultures around the world. Whatever her next pursuit, Tracy will undoubtedly use it for the benefit of others and the glory of God -- with passion, determination, gratitude and the belief that all things work for good.
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Angels and Numbers By Mary Ann Villanti, Patient Care Coordinator, CareGivers America
Have you ever seen a sequence of numbers, especially over and over again? It could be that you noticed the clock said 5:55, then you looked at your odometer and it read 32,555, and yet again, you see a billboard that says 555. Did you ever wonder why you are seeing numerical sequences? Especially the same ones over a short period of time? This could very well be angels trying to tell you something by catching your attention! So I thought I would share with you some of the numerical sequences, and what those who study angels (Angelology) claim they mean: • • • • • • • • • • •
111: The angels are telling you that your thoughts are being manifested very rapidly right now. Be Careful! Think thoughts of what you want. 222: Keep holding your positive thoughts - they are like seeds growing and growing! 333: The Ascended Masters are near you and want you to be aware of their everlasting love and support. Call upon them! 444: The angels are presently around you. 555: Get ready ! A huge life change is coming your way. Change is a natural part of life, so keep an open mind. 666: Get your thoughts back in balance. You’re thinking too much of material things; get back to thinking about service. 777: This is a positive sign. Look for miracles to occur. 888: This could mean a particular phase of your life is about to end, or it could be a sign of “There is light at the end of the tunnel.” 999: Mother Earth needs you right now, so get to work! Or it is known to be a sign of Completion. 1010: You are one with God. Or, you have come full circle.
So, readers, think about the number sequences you see, and understand what the angels are telling you! The angels are trying to get your attention and communicate with you. Next time you see number sequences before you think about ‘ “Is this just a coincidence?”, “Is this my imagination working overtime?”, or, “Is this a message from the angels?” With Blessings, Mary Ann Villanti CareGivers America is a non medical agency. We assist people in their homes or where home may be. We do personal care, light housekeeping, companionship, medication reminders, transportation, and so much more. Our clients are elderly or disabled and are treated with dignity and respect that they so richly deserve. Please call us at 610-821-4357 for more information.
Lifestyles over 50 August 2016
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Musikfest - Lehigh Valley’s Musical Event of the Year By Art Villafane Lifestyles over 50 Since 1984 Musikfest has drawn people from all over the world to enjoy music, acts, dancing, eating and friendship. To find out everything about Musikfest go to musikfest.org. Use the website or download their free app to stay up to date on everything. 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, PA Aug 5 Aug 14, 2016 On this page we list some of the FREE acts coming this year. Check for updated times and venues. Many acts perform on multiple days. O’Grady Quinlan Academy of Irish Dance The O’Grady Quinlan Academy of Irish Dance is proud to be the only certified school in the Lehigh Valley registered with An Comisuin Rince Gaelcha. It is the largest and most recognized Irish Dance organization headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. The Good to Go Girls Since their debut in 2011, the G2GGs have tickled audiences at numerous venues including Joe’s Pub, The Box NYC, and The Park Avenue Armory. According to the New York Times: “a bubbly trio of classically trained dancers whose skits toy with physical comedy and burlesque. Their bright spirits [are] engaging.” The Large Flowerheads Named Best Lehigh Valley Cover band for 5 years running, bring you faithful recreations of your favorite 60’s hits. See the band that keeps packing venues with happy, peaceful flower children. Experience a
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little bit of the ‘60s and the songs that bring back memories and will have you singing along. One World Tribe Considered by many critics to be North America’s premier world music group, Little Fish recording artist One World Tribe is a musical feast whose flavors delight even the most exotic tastes. The band’s musicianship often draws comparisons to artists such as Santana and Soullive. All the King’s Men: A Jolly Joe Timmer Tribute Jolly Joe Timmer was a polka band leader, member of the Polka Hall of Fame, owner of WGPA SUNNY 1100 AM and Jolly Joe Timmer’s Polka Fun Center. He passed away in July of 2015, but his band continues to entertain audiences from near and far! The Tequila Rose Band Tequila Rose is a professional, talented group of musicians
HOLY FAMILY MANOR
performing the hottest “New Country” hits along with some Country Classics and Classic Rock. Three part harmonies and two blazing lead guitars will keep your feet tapping and the dance floor hopping as the band covers everything from Zac Brown and Kenny Chesney to The Beatles and Lynyrd Skynyrd. The Main Street Cruisers The Main Street Cruisers perform a high energy show featuring true to the original versions of many Rock and Roll hits of the 50’s and 60’s. The group’s two poodle skirted and CarHop outfitted female vocalists keep the action flowing with dance routines that have the crowd moving and harmonies that make you believe you are listening to the original artists. Black Tie Brass
From Singers to Horns to Percussion has it all! The band draws from their deep knowledge of all styles of music and are influenced by everyone from Bach to Timberlake. The group has now crafted a sound all its own but draws heavily from jazz, funk, R&B, soul, and rock.
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Lifestyles over 50 August 2016
Behavioral Contagion By Alan Alegra
Picture yourself in a roomful of people, many of whom you like or at least respect. One of them yawns. Two more yawn. Another few yawn. Do you feel the urge yet? You are sitting with some friends, watching a comedy. They start to laugh at something you didn’t think was so funny. They laugh uncontrollably, and soon you’re laughing too, but you don’t know why. I’m not trying to hypnotize you — I’m introducing you to what social scientists call “behavioral contagion.” This means people will “catch” certain behaviors from others. You may have seen the same effect in a theater, when one or two audience members start clapping, and soon the room is filled with applause. In more extreme cases, someone stands and whistles, bringing the entire audience to a standing ovation. We won’t even mention “the wave”! On these occasions, you may be a reluctant participant. You’re not tired; the joke wasn’t that funny; the performance was mediocre at best. Yet — perhaps so you wouldn’t appear or feel left out — you caught the “contagious behavior.” What mother hasn’t warned, “If everyone jumped off a bridge, does that mean you should do it, too?” Scientists have documented “contagious risk-taking behavior” as particularly worrisome. “Come on! Everybody’s
doing it!” is a teenage mantra that has led to many a heartache. God, the ever-present, ever-loving, ever-wise parent, has his own advice about contagious behavior: “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals’” (1 Corinthians 15:33). Hanging around with the wrong people will influence you in a negative way. Of course, it can work both ways: “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” (Proverbs 13:20). There are consequences to be reaped according to who we allow to influence us. Whether it’s the desire to fit in with the crowd or the fear of being left out or being conspicuous, something makes us vulnerable to contagious behavior, especially bad behavior. It takes a power, will, and wisdom greater than ours to resist evil and choose the good. That power is the Holy Spirit given to those who belong to Christ, “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). It is not necessary to be a reluctant participant in bad behavior: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the
devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you doubleminded” (James 4:7–8). We can have victory in the power of the Spirit: “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). If we read and obey God’s Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit instead of the seductions of the world and questionable friends, we will avoid the heartaches of sin and the pull of peer pressure. Listen to the wisdom of Solomon: “My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent . . . Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice . . . but whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster” (Proverbs 1:10, 20, 33). It has been wisely said, “If you lie down with dogs, you wake up with fleas.” We need to choose our friends and companions wisely, because we will catch whatever causes them to act the way they do. Our best advice? Flee from the fleas!
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How…
…do you want to be remembered?
August is What Will Be Your Legacy? Month What part of yourself will be left in the hearts and minds of others? Everything matters! Everyone has something to offer. You can choose to make a difference! Senior Corps RSVP can help you lay the groundwork for a positive personal legacy. We’ll help match your skills and interests to make a lasting impact in someone’s life.
Call: 610-625-2290 Email: RSVPLNC@hotmail.com Visit: www.RSVPofLNC.org
Hyberbaric Oxygen Therapy Effectively Cures Hard-to-Heal Wounds By Mary DeHaven, St. Luke’s University Hospital and Health Network An estimated 8 million Americans suffer from chronic wounds and the number is growing due to an aging population and the rising incidence of diabetes. Fortunately, hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment therapy is a painless, highly effective method to heal wounds that are not responding to other treatments.
Everyone knows that oxygen is essential for breathing, but you might not be aware that skin tissue needs an adequate supply of oxygen to function. When tissue is injured, it requires even more oxygen to survive and heal. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases the amount of oxygen the blood can carry by using a pressurized tube to deliver 100 percent oxygen – as compared with 21 percent in the air we breathe. “Essentially, HBO therapy helps to heal the wound from the inside out,” says Judi Saxe, program manager, St. Luke’s Wound Care Center at St. Luke’s University Hospital – Bethlehem. “HBO therapy helps to fight bacteria, reduce swelling and stimulate the release of substances called growth factors and stem cells, which promote healing and build new blood vessels. Typically, it is used in combination with other wound treatments and is performed as an outpatient procedure.” During HBO sessions, patients lie in clear acrylic chambers filled with pressurized oxygen while they nap, watch television or listen to music. The pressure combined with pure oxygen increases the concentration of oxygen in the blood stream, enhancing the body’s ability to heal itself. “When seeking this type of treatment, look for professionals with specialized training in HBO therapy,” Saxe says. “At St. Luke’s, only physicians, nurses and technicians, who are trained and credentialed in hyperbaric therapy, oversee HBO treatment. This results in better outcomes and improved quality of life.”
many, many people and everyone just praised them. I cannot thank the wound care center enough.” In addition, HBO therapy is effective in treating: • Diabetic ulcers wounds of the lower extremities and feet with vascular complications • Head and neck cancer patients who need oral surgery or extractions that have had radiation treatments (ORN) • Bladder and bowel problems related to radiation treatments (STRN) • Non-healing skin grafts of failing flaps • Crush injuries • Chronic bone infections (CRO) To confer with a wound care specialist about HBO therapy or to make a referral, call one of the following St. Luke’s Wound Care Centers: St. Luke’s University Hospital – Bethlehem Campus, 484-5262440 St. Luke’s Hospital – Allentown Campus, 610-628-8610 St. Luke’s Hospital – Warren Campus, 908-213-6653 For Kathy’s story, visit http://www.slhn.org/ConditionsServices/Wound-Management/Hyperbaric-Medicine.
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Kathy Mikolon, 73, of Phillipsburg, is just one example of a patient who benefited from HBO therapy. About five years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer and subsequently received a lumpectomy and radiation therapy. Unfortunately, she later developed radionecrosis, a complication of cancer radiation therapy. Her breast became hard and swollen and the wound would not heal. “I was in excruciating pain,” she says. “I saw a vascular surgeon. He took one look at it and said, ‘Oh my gosh, you can’t go on like this.’ He connected me with the Wound Care Center right away.” A subsequent surgery and about 40 HBO treatments over a couple of months and the pain went away, never to return, she says. She adds that she was delighted by how well she was treated and credits the therapy for saving her life. “They really cared,” Kathy said. “I watched them treat
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Lifestyles over 50 August 2016
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Medications May Cause Heat Related Illness By Lori Samer, RPh. Medication Matters, LLC
Our body needs to maintain a core body temperature around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. In order to accomplish this, it must generate heat or rid itself of excess heat, depending on our environment and activity level. In order to cool ourselves, our blood vessels will dilate and we may begin to sweat. When we need to generate heat, our blood vessels will constrict and we may begin to shiver. There are three heat related illnesses that may develop when we struggle to maintain our optimal body temperature as the outdoor temperature begins to rise. Heat cramps may be one of the first signs that our body is having trouble cooling down. Without proper care, the body may then begin experiencing heat exhaustion. If this is left in untreated, heat stroke may develop, which is a life threatening condition. Ideally our body will regulate its temperature to keep us in a safe range. However, there are several factors that make it more difficult for our body to do this. Age (the young and the old), alcohol use, cognitive impairment, dehydration, heart and lung disease, high heat index, obesity and overexertion are just a few. Medications may also play a role in making it difficult for our body to maintain its optimal temperature. Medications are known to affect our body’s natural cooling processes by: • Reducing blood flow to the skin • Decreasing the body’s ability to sweat • Increasing urine output, leading to dehydration • Increasing internal heat production • Clouding one’s judgment in recognizing the need for seeking relief from overheating.
The list of drugs that may affect our body temperature is extensive. The following is a sample of medications that are of concern: • Antihistamines/Decongestants (certain allergy medications like Benadryl) • Anti-Parkinsonian medications • High blood pressure medications (Beta-blockers, diuretics) • Tricyclic antidepressants • Certain antipsychotics • Certain recreational drugs • Alcohol. The early symptoms of a heat related illness, such as headache, weakness, or dizziness can be treated by hydrating the person and moving them to a cooler place. If there is little or no improvement, medical personnel should be contacted. Here are five tips to help prevent a heat related illness: 1. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any medications that may put you at higher risk 2. Drink plenty of fluids 3. Spend time in air conditioning whenever possible 4. Avoid strenuous activity during hottest part of day 5. Shower frequently. Lori Samer, RPh. is a consultant pharmacist and owner of Medication Matters, LLC. We specialize in reviewing your medication list, answering questions about your medications, and addressing medication related problems all in an effort to improve the effectiveness of your medications. Please contact us at medicationmattersllc@gmail.com or 484-268-8237 for more information.
The Law Office of Gail Weiner Shearer Representing the Senior in Crisis
Learn your rights, and make your own decisions before the crisis. Hospitalizations, Nursing Home Care, Medical Assistance Applications, Estate Taxes.
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Lifestyles over 50 August 2016
610-867-2538 gws-legal.com
Tips For a Better Sleep
Realtor for Veterans
Avoid Caffeine, Alcohol, and Nicotine Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate, cola) for four to six hours before bedtime. Alcohol acts as a stimulant, and will decrease your sleep quality. If you still smoke you should avoid smoking as you near you bedtime.
I am honored to work with veterans and to help them obtain financing for their homes. Of particular importance is the VA Home Loan program - a mortgage option that provides the opportunity for qualifying veterans to purchase a primary residence without putting any money down towards the sale price of the home.
By Art Villafane, Lifestyles over 50
Make Your Bedroom Comfortable Keep the bedroom quiet and dark to get a better sleep. Block light, keep the temperature comfortably cool -between 60 and 75°F- and the room well ventilated. Make sure you have a comfortable mattress and pillows. Keep computers, TVs, and work materials out of the room. Go to Sleep When You Are Tired If you’re not asleep after 20 minutes, get out of bed, go to another room, and do something relaxing, like reading or listening to music until you are tired enough to sleep. Keep a Consistent Sleep Schedule A regular sleep schedule helps ensure better quality and consistent sleep. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day sets the body’s “internal clock”. Stick as closely as possible to your routine on weekends.. Nap Early—Or Not at All If you have some trouble falling asleep, afternoon napping may be a cause. If you must nap, it’s better to keep it short and before 5 p.m. Have Light Evening Meals Eating a pizza at 10 p.m. may be a recipe for insomnia. Finish dinner several hours before bedtime and avoid foods that cause indigestion. If you get hungry after dinner have very light snacks and eat foods that do not affect your sleep. Manage Your Fluid Intake Drink enough fluid at night to keep from waking up thirsty—but not so much and so close to bedtime that you will be awakened by the need for a trip to the bathroom. Avoid Exercising Late in Evening Exercise can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly, but it is better if not too close to bedtime. Try to finish exercising at least three hours before bed or work out earlier in the day.
By Elissa Clausnitzer, SRS, CMRS
While the VA Loan is designed specifically for those who served, there are a handful of requirements. In order to qualify for a VA Loan there are specific service conditions each borrower must meet. You may be eligible for a VA Home Loan if you meet one or more of the following conditions: • You have served 90 consecutive days of active service during wartime, OR • You have served 181 days of active service during peacetime, OR • You have more than 6 years of service in the National Guard or Reserves, OR • You are the spouse of a service member who has died in the line of duty or as a result of a servicerelated disability. Obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility If you are a veteran I can assist you assist in obtaining your VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This certificate is a very important part of your loan application. Your COE verifies that your length and character of service make you eligible to use the VA home loan benefit. I will be happy to assist you with any questions you might have. I can be reached at 610-573-0386 or elissasclaus@gmail. com.
Specializing in working with Seniors Elissa Clausnitzer, SRS, CMRS 610-573-0386 elissaclaus@gmail.com
Lifestyles over 50 August 2016
Allentown 4124 West Tilghman Street ALLENTOWN, PA 18104 610-395-4500 x5435
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Sudoku
The objective of Sudoku is to enter a digit from 1 through 9 in each cell, so each horizontal row contains each digit once, and each column contains each digit exactly once.
Easy
Medium Easy Answer
Do you have old classic records that you want to sell?
Medium Answer
Call Julius Vitali of VINYLALLY HEAR at
Crossword puzzle answer on page 15
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Lifestyles over 50 August 2016
610-217-1629 (cell) 610-966-6202 (phone)
Buying classical records and collections
Benefits Of Eating Local Foods By Art Villafane, Lifestyles over 50
As we see more and more farmers and growers markets in our area, we would do well to take advantage of our locally grown foods. While it is obvious that it helps to eat well and to help our local economy, there are other reasons for eating local foods. Some of those reasons are listed below: Locally grown food is more flavorful. When grown locally crops are picked at their peak of ripeness rather than harvested early so that they can be shipped and distributed to retail outlets. Often the produce at local markets has been picked within 24 hours of purchase. • Local food can be more nutritious. When local foods are consumed they have lost little, if any, of their nutrients. Food that has traveled for a long time can lose some or most of its nutritional value. • Local food is kinder to the environment. Purchasing locally grown foods helps maintain farmland and green and/or open space in our community. • You can talk to your local grower. You can ask what practices they use to raise and harvest the crops. When you know where your food comes from and who grew it, you know a lot more about that food. • When you buy locally you are eating when the food is in season – when they are their ripest and most flavorful. Compare that to food made available year round. That food may have traveled hundreds or thousands of miles and picked before they were ripe. • Local food supports our local economy. The money that is spent with local farmers and growers all stays close to home and is reinvested with businesses and services in our community. • Local foods promote a safer food supply. The more steps there are between you and your food’s source the more chances there are for contamination. Food grown in distant locations has the potential for food safety issues at harvesting, washing, shipping and distribution. Local growers generally use less pesticides and chemicals,
Interesting Trivia •
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Why is an expensive, yet sometimes unproductive, gift called a “white elephant” gift? This allegedly originates with one of the Kings of Siam, who supposedly gave white elephants to members of his court he wished to ruin. At that time, white elephants were considered sacred and were not allowed to work, yet they still had to be fed and taken care of. As a result, a possession/gift that must be maintained at high cost but offers no productive output is called a “white elephant.” According to an old English system of time units, a moment is one and a half minutes. Sugar was first added to chewing gum in 1869 by a dentist named William Semple In 1855, dentist Robert Arthur was the first to use gold to fill cavities. Lee Harvey Oswald’s cadaver tag sold at an auction for $6,600 in 1992. In 1980, a Las Vegas hospital suspended workers for betting on when patients would die. You’re more likely to get stung by a bee on a windy day than in any other weather. Mars has a volcano, Olympus Mons, which is 310-370 miles in diameter and 16 miles high. The statue “The Thinker” by Rodin is actually a portrait of the Italian poet Dante. X-ray technology has shown that there are 3 different versions of the “Mona Lisa” under the visible one. A pig’s snout is called a gruntle. Brandy is from the Dutch brandewijn, meaning burnt or distilled wine. The largest wave ever recorded was near the Japanese Island of Ishigaki in 1971 at 85 meters high. Fulgurite is formed when lightning strikes sand. Wilt Chamberlain, was 7 feet, one inch tall – his parents were only five feet, eight inches tall. Right-handed people tend to scratch themselves with their left-hand. Vice-versa for lefties.
For the most comprehensive guide for local foods you can go to Buy Fresh Buy Local - Lehigh Valley guide at buylocalglv.org/resources/local-foods-guide/. This 45 page booklet can be dowloaded and has scores of local growers - what they grow, when available, addresses and the like. You can also get it at our site at: lifestylesover50.com/health/101-benefits-of-eating-localfoods
Lifestyles over 50 August 2016
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Classified - Please Call First: Summer Schedules Fluctuate Listings free for not-for-profits. Others $15 per listing (under 75 words)
Send to : Thrive Media, Attn: Editor. 4847 Hamilton Blvd. Allentown, Pa 18106 or Editor@lifestylesover50.com
Volunteers Needed
610-398-2563 or dstillwagen@ mealsonwheelslc.org. Lutheran Home - Topton Phoebe Allentown seeks invites volunteers to share individuals to assist musical talent, voice or with memory support instrument with residents. Flex neighborhoods. You train in Montessori principles to create hours, days, eves, weekends. Lou Wentz at 610-682-1542 or meaningful experiences by practicing person-centered care. wentzl@diakon.org. For a rewarding experience 610-794-5362 jwickel@phoebe. Compeer of LV- volunteer 4 hrs. a month with Compeer org. friend, a person who lives with Meals on Wheels Northampton mental illness. Do what friends do together: listen, go for a Cty and Calvary United walk, watch a movie, enjoy a Methodist partner to provide cup of coffee, etc. Main duty – meals to seniors in Easton Have Fun! 610.435.9651. area. Volunteers needed. Contact Janet Soos janets@ Heartland Hospice seeks mealsonwheelspa.org volunteers to offer bedside support and presence to those Meals on Wheels of Lehigh facing terminal illness. Training, County -Discover how easy flex hours. Robin Trexler, 610and rewarding it is to deliver 266-0134 meals to homebound clients. Teams of 2 deliver on 33 routes Are you a “people person”? in Lehigh County. Drive a route or ride along as a visitor. Have skills and talents to use to “give back”? Compassionate
Care has a variety of volunteer opportunities with a training and support programs. Call Carolyn at 610-770-6500. Center for Vision Loss seeks volunteers to assist blind and visually impaired people as companions, transportation drivers and Mall Walk helpers. Office assistants and vision screeners are needed. Training provided. Daytime hours only. 610.433.6018, x.231rita. lang@centerforvisionloss. org. Drivers: ITNLehighValley provides rides for seniors 60 and over and visually impaired adults. Drive riders to appointments in LV, 90% are medical. Requires vehicle, good driving record, some free time. Training provided,
we work with your schedule. 610-419-1645. Lehigh Valley Hospice provides volunteer opportunities for individuals who believe that life is a journey. Join us and discover how enriching it is to spend meaningful time with our patients. Call Janet Barber, 610-969-0127. Dances LV Active Life (Lehigh County Senior Ctr) $7 refreshments. lehighseniors. org. Sat. Dance 7:30-11pm. 610-437-3700. “Dancing on the Odds” on odd numbered Fridays at 3rd Third Street Alliance, 41 N. 3rd St. Easton. Lessons 7-8pm, Dancing 8-10pm. $10 at door. Instructor Con Gallagher (610) 433-7804. .
Summer Band Schedule Most concerts are free but fees and schedules change.
Please check the website of each band for accuracy in scheduling and pricing. Allentown Band www.allentownband.com Jul 31 7:30PM West Park Aug 2 7:30PM West Park “Sousa” Aug 7 3:00PM Kutztown Community Park, Kutztown, PA Aug 9 7:00PM Waldheim Park Aug 12 7:30PM West Park Aug 14 7:30PM West Park Aug 20 6:30PM West Park Aug 23 7:30PM West Park Aug 28 3:00PM Christ Lutheran Church Macungie Band www.macungieband.com Aug 6 10:30AM Macungie Memorial Park Das Awkscht Aug 12 11:30AM Macungie Memorial Park Marine Band www.allentownmarinebandinc.com Aug 13 7:30pm Praeter Park (4509 N Hedgerow Dr)
Allentown Municipal Band www.municipalband.org Aug 21 7:30PM ) West Park Royalaires www.royalairesbigband.com Aug 10 7:00PM Phoebe 1925 W Turner St Aug 12 8:00PM Cedar Beach Dancing under the Stars Aug 26 8:00PM Cedar Beach Dancing under the Stars Pioneer Band www.pioneerband.com Aug 6 7:30PM Gross Towers Allentown Aug 10 6:30PM Sacred Heart Northampton Aug 12 3:00PM Gosenhopen Aug 13 10:30PM Gosenhopen Aug 13 7:300PM West Park Allentown Aug 18 7:00PM Jerusalem Western Salisbury Church Allentown Aug 26 7:30PM Rose Garden Bethlehem Aug 27 7:30PM Union Terrace Allentown
Allentown Area Swing Dance. Fearless Fire Co. 1221 S Front St. 610390-7550. $10 includes lesson 7pm - 8:30, no partner needed. www. allentownswingdance.org for schedule Social Ballroom/Latin Swing Dance Saturday, 2nd Sat. @ 7pm TC Dance Club 6623 Sullivan Trail Wind Gap, PA 610-881-1000 learnballroomlatin.com Refreshments & BYOB. Lesson at 8:00pm $12, no reservations, all welcome – with or without partner
Respite time, support for caregivers. Free, Wed - 1-5 PM 484-619-0330 bowerdav@gmail.com.
1st Thurs 11:00 am Arden Courts 5151 Hamilton Blvd. Allentown 3rd Sat 1pm 410 Krocks Rd. Country Meadows, Bldg 1 Allentown 3rd Wed 3pm Phoebe Terrace 1925 Turner St. Allentown, 2nd Wed 5:30 pm Sarah Care Adult Day Care 7010 Snow Drift Rd. Allentown, 1st Thurs 1:00pm St. Andrew’s Church 1900 Bingo Pennsylvania Ave. Allentown 3rd Thurs 4:30 Westminster Village 2156 Hanover St. Wed 5PM game at 6:30PM Volunteer Fire Co Fogelsville Allentown, Ladies Auxiliary Cash Prizes 3rd Tues 5:00 pm Kirkland Village 1 Kirkland Village 484-350-1388 Circle Bethlehem, HTCC hosts monthly Bingo- 4th Mon 2:30pm Moravian Village 526 Wood St. 1st Thurs of month at 6:30 pm! Prizes range from $40 to Bethlehem, Last Monday 6:30 pm Traditions of $125. 610-317-8701. Hanover 5300 Northgate Dr. Wed 6:30 LV Active Bethlehem, Life (Lehigh County 3rd Wed 1:00 pm Third Senior Ctr.) Free coffee, Street Alliance 41 North snacks. $15 includes 4 Third St Easton, double cards & 1 pack of 1st Wed 9:30am Moravian specials.610-437-3700 Hall Square 175 W. North St. Nazareth. Alz. Support Groups 1st Thurs (except Dec.) Whitehall Manor 6-7:30pm. Alzheimer’s Respite 1177 6th Street, Whitehall Program Hope Community 3rd Thurs (except Dec.) Church 7974 Clausville Rd. Saucon Valley Manor Fogelsville, For those in 6-7:30pm. 1050 Main St. early stages of Alzheimer’s. Hellertown
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Phoebe’s Alzheimer’s Support Grp 3-4:30 PM 3rd Wed. Phoebe Terrace, 1940 Turner St, Allentown. For those with loved ones with Alz. or other dementias. 610794-5273. Phoebe’s Connecting Hearts Geriatric Care, at-home personalized coaching to make dementia-related caregiving more manageable.
LV Active Life LV Active Life Dance Socials Wed. 1-4PM $7pp May 4, 18, 25 Sat. 7:30-10:30 $10 pp, May 7, 21 We have Line Dancing and Tap Dancing for all levels Singles Group 2nd Fri. 1-2:30pm, just drop in.
Lehigh Valley Activity Professionals Association www.lvapa.com. Achieving success through professional education and shared knowledge. Provide recreational, enrichment programs, and education to profession. An organization for those in the activity field from directors to assistants, LTC to adult day services. Meet throughout year Members receive free CEUs at each meeting, network with many, exchange ideas and receive support. lvapa@ live.com or Carrie Shafer 610-381-1009 St. John’s Friendly Fifties Next meeting is September 12th.
Solution to puzzle on page 12
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Arden Courts, a 100% dedicated memory care community, recognizes the importance of customizing a well-rounded care plan for residents with Alzheimer’s or related dementias to help them thrive physically and emotionally. For more information or to schedule a personal tour, call the location nearest you. Allentown 5151 Hamilton Boulevard Allentown, PA 18106 610.366.9010
Old Orchard 4098 Freemansburg Avenue Easton, PA 18045 484.373.5170
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