Boom Magazine July 2014

JULY 2014

All Aboard: A New Boater’s Guide to Enjoy the Open Water

Saucy Get A Little

{a special boom promotion}

Move It or Lose It Dealing With Joint Pain

Add Value

To Your Home:

Remodeling Tips And Tricks

boom

What's inside

EVERY MONTH 4

7 Things We Learned Making This Issue

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Contributors & Testimonials

6

BOOM Timeline

boom BOOK REVIEW 8

Revolutionary Summer: The Birth Of American Independence Reviewed By: Kalie Steele

boom HEALTHY LIVING 10

Move It Or Lose It

12

Adults At Play

14

Pretty But Poisonous

By: Todd A. Graham, M.D. By: Daniel Abel, M.D. By: Margo Bell

boom TRAVELER 16 Day Trip: Make Kokomo Your First

By: Phyllis Rose

18

Never Letting Go Of Prague

By: Phyllis Rose

boom COVER STORY 21

Special Section: On The Move

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All Aboard: A New Boater’s Guide To Enjoy The Open Water

By: David Palmetr

boom HOBBIES 7

Places, Please!

28

It’s Not Your Grandmother’s 4-H

By: Margo & Jim Bell By: Evie Kirkwood

boom HEART-HEALTHY RECIPE 25

Blue Cheese, Lettuce And Tomato Pizza

boom HOME 30

Add Value To Your Home: Remodeling Tips And Tricks

32

Prepare Your Home And Yourself For Downsizing

36

Get A Little Saucy

By: Kristine Smith By: Kristine Smith By: Lara West

boom LIFE 34

Choosing The Right Senior Housing By: Phyllis Rose

boom BUSINESS

“

The most important aspect of boating as a hobby is the pleasure you receive from spending time on the open water.

”

37

BS-It’s Not What You’re Thinking By: Rita Miller

THE PLANNER 38

Boom Events to Put in Your Planner

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Letter from the publisher

Things We Learned Making the July Issue

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER: Betsy Tavernier Betsy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Managing Editor:

Jessica Haviland Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Marketing Coordinator: Jill Ludwick Jill@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Photography: Classic Image photography Makeup: CamellIa Cosmetics, Granger

GRAPHIC DESIGN Manager: Zuzanna Zmud Zuzanna@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Betsy Tavernier Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

MEDICAL EDITOR: Dr. Jesse Hsieh

1. The local 4H Fairs continue to expand. Visit page 28 to see how they have changed from the past.

2. Not all plants are safe for you or your pets. Find out what plants you should stay away from on page 14.

4. Not all BBQ sauces are created equal.

Try one of these BBQ recipes at your next cookout on page 37.

Distribution Managers: Mike Trentacosti Kevin Reynolds

3. Remodeling your home doesn’t have to break the bank.

Make these five easy remodeling ideas on page 30 to spruce up your home in no time.

5. Don’t purchase a brand new boat this summer. Find out how you can make your boating investment last the longest on page 26.

BOOM Magazine is a division of Michiana Family Magazines, LLC established in 2006. All rights reserved.

We would love to hear from you!

Please submit press releases, event information and inquiries to: Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com The FAMILY Magazines PO BOX 577 Granger, IN 46530 PH: 574.387.5420 • FX: 574.217.4700 www.MichianaMom.com Permission from the publisher is required for any reproduction or reprint of this publication.

Read BOOM Magazine online each month!

Go to www.MichianaMom.com and flip the pages, cover-to-cover the organic and green way!

July 2014 Volume 3: Number 7

LOOK WHO’s TALKING

6. A box office movie hit may have been filmed near you.

Take our movie trivia quiz on page 7 to test your knowledge on film locations.

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follow us on Twitter, and become our fan on Facebook.

7. New events have been added to our Calendar of Events.

See what is happening this week in Michiana on page 38.

@MichianaBoom www.facebook.com/pages/BOOM-Magazine/ www.pinterest.com/boommagazine/ MichianaBoom

july / contributors

Phyllis Rose With a love for the English language and travel, Phyllis Rose became an English teacher, freelance writer and traveler. She taught high school English for 29 years while also working as a freelance writer and editor. Retiring from teaching, she turned her part-time writing career into full-time, writing for newspapers and magazines. Phyllis loves international travel, especially to Europe. When not writing or traveling, she loves to read, do counted cross-stitch projects and plan her next travel adventure.

Evelyn Kirkwood

Evelyn Kirkwood is Director of St. Joseph County Parks in Indiana and the host of Outdoor Elements, which is broadcast Sundays at 9 AM and Wednesdays at 5:30 PM on WNIT Public Television.

Margo Bell Margo Bell, a first-wave Boomer, has a B.S. degree in Biology from Arkansas State University and worked in medical and marine biology research before making a midlife career change to writing for adults and children. Margo is a former magazine editor and has published over 50 articles and features in newspapers and magazines.

She and her husband Jim live in South Bend and have two grandchildren.

Photo Credit: Classic Image Photography

Rita Miller Rita Miller is a CPA in public practice, a mom of four, an avid reader and serves on two boards in the community. She has worked with a variety of industries, including medical professional services, real estate development and rental and retail establishments.

boom / testimonials

The travel section of BOOM Magazine is always interesting along with the photos that accompany the article.”

– Brenda K.

I’m so happy that there is finally a magazine specifically for the baby boomers. It’s great to read articles that relate to my friends and me.”

– Lois M.

I am friends with BOOM Magazine on Facebook and they always post inspiring quotes and throwback pictures that keeps my memory fresh.”

– Glenda R.

VIP JULY

advertisers

Special THANKS to the following VIP July advertisers that helped us provide Boom Magazine to the Michiana community for Free: Afdent Dental

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St. Joseph County Parks

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Chocolate Day St. Joseph County 4H Fair, 8:00 A.M.

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Wednesday Wine Walks, 5:00 P.M., Downtown South Bend A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 11:00 A.M., The Lerner Theatre

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Yoga In The Gardens, 3:00 P.M., Wellfield Botanic Gardens

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Ingredients:  5 Lemons  1 ¼ Cups White Sugar  1 ¼ Quarts Water Directions: Peel the lemons and cut them into ½ inch slices. Place the rinds in a bowl and sprinkle with sugar. Let this stand for an hour.

Bring water to a boil and pour the hot water over the sugared lemon rinds. Allow to cool for 20 minutes and remove the rinds. Squeeze the lemons into another bowl and pour the juice through a strainer into the sugar mixture. Mix together and chill.

Floppy Hat

(www.classygirlswearpearls.com) Red Table Plaza Lunchtime Concert Series 11:45 a.m., Studebaker Plaza, South Bend

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4th Of July Food

(www.thoughtfullysimple.com)

Fridays By The Fountain, 11:45 P.M., Jon R. Hunt Plaz

Festival of Art and Auction, 10:00 A.M., Eddy Street Commons East Race Concert Series, 5:00 P.M., Seitz Park

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National Cheesecake Day

Amish Acres Arts & Crafts Show, 9:00 A.M., Amish Acres Historical Farmstead & Heritage Resort

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Classic Lemonade

Hairspray, 3:00 P.M., The Lerner Theatre

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Pinning

Happy 4th Of July

Plain & Fancy, 2:00 P.M., The Round Barn Theatre At Amish Acres

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What We Are

St. Joseph County 4H Fair, 8:00 A.M. Footloose The Musical, 8:00 P.M., The Round Barn Theatre At Amish Acres

Best Movies To Watch This Summer 1. Beach Blanket Bingo 2. Blue Lagoon 3. Gidget 4. Grease 5. The Thrill Of It All

Wine Bottle Candles (www.recyclart.com)

Destination Dining

Movie Trivia

PLACES, PLEASE!

By: Margo & Jim Bell

A movie usually is filmed in several places, whether in a studio back lot, in our own neighborhood or in some far-flung place across the world. Try matching up each movie to one of its sites—you may be surprised where they are!

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1. Captain Phillips (2013)

a) Long Beach, CA

2. A Christmas Story (1983)

b) Niles, MI

3. Only the Lonely (1991)

c) Mission San Juan Bautista, CA

4. Dr. Zhivago (1965)

d) Martha’s Vineyard, MA

5. The Birds (1963)

e) Glendale, CA

6. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

f) Whiting, IN

7. Pearl Harbor (2001)

g) Cleveland, OH

8. National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

h) Bodega, Bodega Bay, CA

9. Vertigo(1958)

i) Malta

10. Home Alone (1990)

j) Algarrobico, Spain

11. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

k) Gary, IN

12. The Desperate Hours (1955)

l) Winnetka, IL

13. Jaws (1975)

m) Salem, OR

14. Rudy (1993)

n) Universal City, CA

15. Animal House (1978)

o) Madrid, Spain (near)

Find the answers on page 20.

Bring Back The Old Times Don’t you love to reminisce about the old days? Why not make it happen again? Creating memories is something that you will always cherish so why not relive them once again?

1. Visit A Local Diner: Sit at the bar and twirl around in the spin chairs. Order a grilled cheese with cheese fries with a large

handcrafted milkshake. Top it off and order a root beer float or a hot fudge Sunday for desert.

2. Go To The Drive-Ins: Don’t forget to pack extra blankets and pillows and enjoy a movie from your own vehicle.

3. Throw A Themed Party: Bring out your old records and record player to create the atmosphere. Tell your guests to dress a genre that you would like to create. boom | JULY 2014

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book review

Revolutionary

Summer:

The Birth of American Independence

By Joseph J. Ellis

Reviewed By: Kalie Steele, Reference Librarian, Harris Branch Looking for a good book to help you celebrate the 4th of July? If so, then check out Pulitzer Prize-winner Joseph J. Ellis’s latest book Revolutionary Summer: The Birth of American Independence. This book is a newcomer to the field of American history and is a relatively short and sweet narration of what the author argues is the “crescendo moment” in American history: the summer of 1776. That summer set the tone for what became the Revolutionary War and the early history of the United States. Interested readers will find both the political story, as seen in the Continental Congress and the military story, as seen in the Continental Army, told side by side in this book as Ellis argues that one story cannot be understood without the other.

Ellis does a good job of bringing the history of this particular moment in time to a general audience and emphasizes throughout that what we now take for granted as American history was actually our founding fathers “making it up as they went along.” By employing colorful descriptions and pointing out where present day hindsight interferes with reality, Ellis lets readers see that giants of American history – Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Franklin – were living, breathing, normal men, whose futures were anything but guaranteed.

The book contains several maps and a color spread of paintings and photographs to illustrate Ellis’s argument that the military and political sides of the American Revolution converged in the military action in New York during the summer of 1776. He points out where modern historical scholarship on this subject differs greatly from the entrenched public version that teaches the British army had only to destroy the Continental Army at New York in order to end the American Revolution at its birth. Instead, Ellis shows that the roots of the rebellion went much deeper and that the Continental Army’s fight for survival in New York is ultimately what shaped the outcome of the war both politically and militarily. Those looking to pick up a short read on the Revolution will find this book hits all the important points while presenting some of the most recent scholarship on a topic that is perpetually fascinating and important to many Americans.

boom Book Picks

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Southern As A Second Language

The Hurricane Sisters: A Novel

The House On Mermaid Point

www.barnesandnoble.com

www.goodreads.com

www.amazon.com

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Healthy living

Move It or

By: Todd A. Graham, M.D.

Lose It

Dealing With Joint Pain

Is your back stiff when you get up in the morning? Do your knees crack and pop when you walk? Does your shoulder hurt when you swing a golf club or tennis racquet? If you suffer from these or similar aches and pains and you’re between the age of 50 and 60, you may be afflicted with boomeritis. This term describes the onset of tendonitis, arthritis, bursitis and other musculoskeletal conditions in baby boomers.

We are an active generation and are not accepting our advancing age lying down. We still run, walk, bike, swim, golf and play softball. But as we age and our bodies change, we may be struggling with joint pain. This makes it difficult to enjoy the same level of activity as we did when we were younger.

Many different conditions can lead to painful joints, including osteoarthritis, bursitis, gout, strains and overuse injuries.

Knee pain is the most common complaint, followed by hip pain, but joint pain can affect any part of your body. The pain can range from mild to debilitating. It may go away after a few weeks or last for months.

Even short term pain can affect your quality of life, making it difficult to perform daily chores such as opening jars, lifting your grandkids or tying your shoes. But what can we do to maintain our active lifestyle? In this article we will discuss some lifestyle modifications to help prevent aching joints, as well as some non-surgical treatment options.

No Pain, No Gain

Exercise and keeping your weight down are crucial in preventing or reducing joint pain. The extra pounds associated with middle age can strain our joints, especially the knees, hips, and ankles.

Gaining one pound puts four times more stress on your knees and hips. Overtime this strain may lead to arthritis and joint pain. Even a small reduction in weight can have positive benefits. One recent study found that women who lost an average of 11 pounds over 10 years cut their risk of osteoarthritis by half.

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Exercise along with a proper diet are the healthiest ways to lose weight. The old adage “no pain, no gain” does not apply to joint health. Pain during activity is the body’s mechanism for telling you to stop. A better cliché is “move it or lose it.”

Exercise provides numerous benefits to joint health, including: • Strengthening the muscles around your joints.

• Helping to maintain your bone strength.

• Giving you more energy and strength to get through the day.

• Controlling your weight.

• Improving your mood and sense of well-being.

Though you may think that exercise will aggravate your joint pain and stiffness, which is not the case. Lack of exercise can actually make your joints more painful or stiff because the surrounding muscles may weaken and not be able to support the joint.

Regular activity also provides lifeblood to the cartilage that cushions joints. Unlike most tissues in the body, cartilage doesn’t receive nutrients from the bloodstream. Instead, it gets nourishment from a fluid, called synovial fluid, in the joints. When your joints move, the fluid sloshes around, giving the cartilage a healthy dose of oxygen and other vital substances. As an added bonus, regular exercise encourages the body to make more synovial fluid.

Exercise and

keeping your weight down are crucial in preventing or reducing joint pain.

If you are currently suffering from joint pain, talk to your doctor about the types of activities and exercises that will work best to alleviate your condition. He or she may recommend range of motion exercises, which involve moving your joints through their normal range of motion. Raising your arms above your head or rolling your shoulders forward and backward can help relieve stiffness and increase joint mobility.

Strengthening exercises will build your muscle strength that help support your joints. Aerobic or endurance exercises help with overall fitness. They can improve your cardiovascular health, help control your weight and give you more stamina.

Oh, My Aching Joints

If you have been suffering from regular joint pain, there are many non-surgical treatment options that can provide you relief.

You can relieve short-term joint pain using the PRICE method:

• • • • •

Protect the joint with a brace or wrap.

Rest the joint, avoiding any activities that cause you pain.

Ice the joint for about 15 minutes, several times each day.

Compress the joint using an elastic wrap.

Elevate the joint about the level of your heart.

Pain relievers, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can help with mildto-moderate joint pain. A more potent type of pain reliever is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug known as NSAID. These medications, such as Advil and Aleve, help reduce inflammation which should help with moderate joint pain and stiffness.

Some doctors prescribe working with a physical therapist to improve your range of motion and strengthen muscles.

Treatment techniques may include therapeutic exercises, activity modification, ultrasound, heat or cold therapy, electrical nerve stimulation, and manipulation.

For boomers who don’t find joint pain relief from exercise or oral medications, your doctor may suggest injection therapy.

Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that can be injected directly into the joint. By reducing the inflammation in the joint, you may have reduced pain and

Another treatment option is a procedure called viscosupplementation. In this procedure, a gel-like fluid called hyaluronic acid is injected into the joint. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring substance found in the synovial fluid of your joint. It acts as a lubricant to enable your bones to move smoothly over each other. This can be an effective treatment option for those suffering from osteoarthritis.

Let “move it or lose it” be your mantra when dealing with joint pain. But without overdoing it. Listen to your body and take a break from exercise and activities that cause pain.

Regular exercise is your best defense in the battle with aging, especially with sore, stiff joints. •••

Now, it is YOUR turn.

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Healthy living

By: Daniel Abel, M.D.

Act Like A Kid Again And Reap The Mental Health Benefits Growing up doesn’t have to mean growing out of playtime. In fact, finding ways to let loose as adults allows us to enjoy the same feel-good, carefree attitudes we once did as children—while keeping our minds sharp.

Research indicates that play can help you relax, enhance creativity and can stimulate curiosity. You allow for a different part of the mind to function in a different way other than what it would do on a daily basis.

Playful activities even can help with problem solving, improve brain function, alleviate stress and improve social skills, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. It’s time for you to embrace your inner child and experience the mental and physical health benefits of play.

Walk Down Memory Lane

As adults, we give up playful, stimulating activities in lieu of family, work and social responsibilities. But being an adult doesn’t mean you can’t mentally venture back to the days of bologna sandwiches and paper dolls. If you’re unsure about how to incorporate playtime into your adult life, try a relaxation exercise.

Reflect on times when you were younger and ask yourself: What made you laugh? What part of that playful activity made you joyful? What about that situation can you use now? Was it being outside and playing ball or was it the interaction with friends? Then, put those realizations to use.

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Use Your Body

Any type of play is beneficial. But sports and physical activities also have added physical benefits of increasing lung capacity and flexibility. They help get blood flow to the brain, which is very good for your mental well-being.

Take up a sport, like tennis or golf that also allows you to mentally escape. Or simply try adding youthful activities, such as skipping or hula hooping, to your regular workout routine.

Roll The Dice

The health benefits of play happen often when you have interaction with other people. Gather friends to play a classic game like Monopoly or Clue.

Board games are great in allowing people to connect. And the laughter that is bound to erupt when adults gather round a game will lead to the release of endorphins—pain-relieving, feel-good hormones—and help improve mood and well-being.

Move To The Music

Many children break out dancing when they hear music—no matter who’s watching. Mimic that spontaneous attitude by exploring dancing styles. No, you don’t have to do the Monkey when a song comes on at the supermarket. Grab a partner, kick up your heels and try a class like ballroom dancing or square dancing.

Take a Break

Kid Around

What better way to embrace your inner child than by spending time with little ones? Intergenerational play allows children and adults to learn from each other, discover new things and develop respect for each other’s strengths and values.

Volunteer with a group, or spend time with your own children or grandchildren. You’ll experience a positive change in mood and a higher level of engagement.

Adopt A Furry Friend

It’s easy to feel youthful and relaxed when spending time with a loving animal. Having a pet has a positive effect on mental aging. Studies show that when people are visiting with a pet, it helps lower their blood pressure. And pets can easily shift your attention away from other things occupying your mind. •••

Daily stressors at work make it difficult to access your inner child. But even by switching your train of thought to something slightly more enjoyable for just a few minutes each day, you can experience the health benefits of play.

Adults should incorporate play into their daily routine to enhance mental health. The good news is that you don’t have to round up co-workers for a game of kickball to benefit (although that would be fun). Try one of these mini-recess tactics to give your brain a break midday: •

Listen. Put on peaceful music or the sound of rain.

•

Look. If you have an aquarium, watch the fish swim for a bit.

•

Touch. Mold modeling clay or Play-Doh. If that’s too messy, squeeze a stress ball.

•

Create. Learn to knit or crochet, and devote a few minutes of your lunch hour to your latest project.

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Healthy living

Pretty BUT

By: Margo Bell

POISONOUS Some Houseplants Can Harm You, Your Family & Your Pets Dieffenbachia

I’m a big fan of the old TV show Emergency! that’s still being shown on nostalgia TV stations. One particular 1974 episode—although I haven’t caught it recently—features a woman who fed her grumbling husband plant sap to make him shut up. The man appeared to be gasping and unable to speak. What was in this particular houseplant that caused that condition?

It was the lovely dieffenbachia, also known by its descriptive name dumb cane, and is one of several other houseplants containing irritating calcium oxalate crystals. Ingesting any part of the plant will cause the tongue and throat to swell and interfere with breathing. Other houseplants containing oxalate are elephant’s ear (caladium) and philodendron; all three are members of the Araceae family.

Schefflera, also known as the umbrella plant, is yet another houseplant with the needlelike oxalate crystals causing similar toxic symptoms as the araceas to dogs and cats. Toxicity to humans is low, but touching the sap or a cut portion of a leaf can produce dermatitis with its itching, swelling and rash, and can last only a few minutes, according to North Carolina State University.

The oxalis, or shamrock plant, whose name identifies it as a source of oxalate. All parts contain the toxin, and symptoms include nausea, vomiting and kidney inflammation.

Paperwhite Narcissus The hardy pothos plant, also known as devil’s ivy, is non-lethal but can cause a burning sensation if placed in the mouth.

Other potentially harmful houseplants are anthurium, azalea, calla lily, and English ivy.

Even the popular Aloe Vera is toxic. It’s true that the nonpoisonous gel extracted from its green spikes is used to soothe burns and is added to a variety of cosmetic products, but the thin layer surrounding the gel is toxic if eaten, causing nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and red urine. Also, people sensitive to latex should avoid this succulent plant. But you other folks, go ahead and apply the gel—it’s safe. Just don’t eat it.

Let’s Talk Christmas

You’ve probably heard that the most popular of Christmas botanicals, the poinsettia, is dangerous when ingested and should be kept away from small children and pets. Actually, this native of Mexico is only slightly toxic. It would take 500 of the colorful bracts (leaves) to sicken a 50-lb. child, and what kid would eat even a couple of these, especially if they hate vegetables to begin with?

Amaryllis brings winter delight with its bright flowers, but it contains an alkaloid lycorine that can cause symptoms such as diarrhea and tremors in dogs and pets. The bulb also poisons humans, inflicting them with nausea, vomiting and other gastrointestinal distress.

Another plant is the paperwhite narcissus (Narcissus papyraceus) that may be forced-bloomed during the holidays.

Like the amarylllis, the bulb contains lycorine, as well as other alkaloids, and is toxic to all mammals, adding cardiac arrhythmia to digestive misery.

Although mistletoe is an outdoor plant that lives off other trees (i.e., parasitic), it makes its way indoors during Christmas as part of an old-time tradition. The white berries may look inviting to a curious child or pet but they are poisonous (one variety has phoratoxin, another an alkaloid tyramine). Eating these, or any part of the plant, can cause death in house pets and humans. If you’re going to use mistletoe this holiday, be sure to hang it high enough to avoid temptation to the curious.

If concerned about toxic holiday plants, a safer choice around pets and children would be the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii), an easy-to-carefor plant that can last for many years.

Other Notable Times of the Year

All parts of the Easter lily (Lilium longiforum) can bring on kidney damage and even death to cats, and can bug humans with minor skin irritations.

Daffodils and hyacinths are also potentially harmful.

The chrysanthemums, that gorgeous hallmarks of autumn, is an infamous poisoner of dogs, cats, horses and other mammals, although rarely fatal. In fact, a few species are cultivated to make pyrethrum, a pesticide that can cause illness to animals, including people, when exposed to large amounts.

However . . .

Keep in mind that houseplants add beauty to the home and are mutualistic with animal life, taking in carbon dioxide and giving off oxygen in return. •••

What To Do Consider plants that are safe to have around.

Bedsides the above-mentioned Christmas cactus, others are orchids, African violets, Boston ferns, dracaenas, jades and wax plants.

“Know the names of the houseplants you have,” advises Heidi Gray, manager of the Botanical Society of South Bend. “Keep any toxic plants out of reach of children and pets, or just remove them from the house.”

“That said,” she continues, “NASA has a list of 15 houseplants than can purify the air, although some are also considered toxic. These include golden pothos, spider plants, peace lily, English ivy, philodendron, weeping fig, dracaena, aloe vera, gerbera daisy, snake plant, chrysanthemum, azalea, Chinese evergreen and bamboo palm.”

If you have any toxic plants, wash your hands after handling, and watch for symptoms of poisoning. If you see these symptoms or suspect them, call 911 or: The National Poison Center (800) 222-1222 ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Emergency Help Line (888) 426-4435

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Alice loves her:

• Delicious meals • Caring nursing staff • Safety and security • Stylish courtyard • Events and activities • Spacious apartment • No hassle living • Vibrant community ...and, all her new friends!

“I absolutely love living here. It’s like Heaven to me. I love that it is all on one floor...no steps to worry about. Everything is taken care of in my new home and the food is delicious. I would like everyone to live in a home as wonderful as this!”

- Alice, Assisted Living Resident

Do you want to live like Alice?

Call 574.222.1234 today to take a tour and have lunch with our administrator 60257 Bodnar Boulevard, Mishawaka, IN 46544 Connect with Sprenger on Facebook and Twitter

www.SprengerHealthCare.com BOOM_HalfPg_3_2014.indd 1

| JULY 2:51 boom 2014 PM 15 3/25/14

boom

The traveler

Day Trip:

Make Kokomo Your First

By: Phyllis Rose

You’ll be surprised at the number of firsts credited to Kokomo from the first automobile to the first carburetor to the

The Seiberling Mansion was built in 1890 in a Neo-Jacobean, Romanesque Revival style.

Go, go, go to Kokomo.

That’s my advice since my first visit to this town that bills itself as the “City of Firsts” has us wanting to go back for more. You’ll be surprised at the number of firsts credited to Kokomo from the first automobile to the first carburetor to the first canned tomato juice.

first canned tomato juice.

the parlor, I saw one of the original gas fireplaces, each with a different colored brick surround. Another feature seen in the parlor and elsewhere in the house is the curved windows and doors following the curves of the house. In the breakfast room is a display of beautiful glass items from the Kokomo Opalescent Glass company, which produced the stained glass used throughout the mansion.

After the first floor tour, I was free to wander to the second The first stop for me was the Seiberling Mansion built by floor to see various historical displays, including the wedding Monroe Seiberling in 1890 in a Neo-Jacobean, Romanesque dress of Emma Seiberling, Monroe’s oldest daughter who Revival style. I didn’t know any of that when I walked up to married Charles Butler in the mansion in 1893. Another display the mansion with its impressive tower in the center front and highlighted items such as flatware and cups made from dirilyte, a large porch curving around the front and sides. Entering a gold-colored alloy created in Sweden, but eventually produced the foyer featuring stained glass windows and beautiful hand in a Kokomo factory. The third floor ballroom was used by a carved woodwork, I was greeted by volunteers, Roberta Hite later owner, George Kingston, as a roller skating rink. Although and John Wilkinson. They gave me a brief history of the house he invented the Kingston carburetor used in Henry Ford’s and of Seiberling, who brought his Model T, Kingston also manufactured entrepreneurial talents to town when The Elwood Haynes Museum is housed in the home toys, including roller skates. the city promised free natural gas where Haynes lived the last 10 years of his life. for factories locating in Kokomo.

My next stop in this city of firsts was Seiberling used the area’s natural the Kokomo Automotive Museum gas to fuel his Kokomo Strawboard where I learned about the first Company, which produced paper commercially viable gasoline powered board made from straw. automobile built by Elwood Haynes.

And I always gave Henry Ford credit After the brief overview, Roberta for that! invited me into the rest of the home as if I was a visitor in the late 1890s when the Seiberlings lived there. In 16

JULY 2014 | boom

been manufactured in Kokomo, including Stellite and its various uses.

Bidding goodbye to Tim, we left the museum, stopping to peek through the garage windows at three Haynes automobiles on display there.

Then, it was on to the Courthouse Square in downtown Kokomo for lunch at Drakes Bar and Grill which is a great choice for its decor and cuisine. Located in a historic building that was once a movie theater and a retail shop, the restaurant has carved wooden beams and stained glass, much like what I've seen at the Seiberling and Haynes mansions.

Be sure you also note the beautiful woodwork over the bar and the huge wooden doors in the back by the restrooms. The great food was a complement to the decor.

The dining room table in the Elwood Haynes Museum features a set of Wedgwood bone china given to Haynes and his wife as a wedding present in 1887.

Organized in chronological order with small road signs in the floor pointing visitors in the right direction, the museum starts with information about Haynes and his company along with displays of his automobiles, including a replica of his first, the 1894 Pioneer. The museum has a facade of Haynes’ home where he supposedly tried out his engine in the kitchen to the dismay of his wife, who then relegated him to the garage for his experiments. A short video highlights the history of the Haynes Automobile Company.

Car lovers will be captivated by the display of over 100 cars and automobile memorabilia from the earliest days to the 20th century. Since red is my favorite color, I gravitated to the red models such as the 1909 Maxwell Run-About, the 1935 Auburn four-door convertible, and the 1948 Chrysler New Yorker.

My final stop was the Elwood Haynes Museum located in the home Haynes purchased in 1916 and where he lived until his death in 1925. Curator Tim Rivers welcomed me and gave me a very informative tour where we learned more about Haynes’ life and inventions. While he may be known for inventing the first gasoline engine automobile, he never made a penny from his car company, Rivers said. Instead, he made his fortune by inventing Stellite, a noncorrosive alloy, in 1906 and stainless steel in 1912. Stellite is still used today in the space industry, but the original idea for noncorrosives was to create a substitute for silver cutlery since his wife didn’t like to clean the silver. On the dining room table are some Stellite candlesticks along with Wedgwood bone china dishes, which Haynes and his wife received as a wedding gift in 1887. Tim said the set is 100 percent complete, with no pieces having been broken in 127 years.

Other displays include mementoes from Haynes’ early life including a photo of him as a child and his college textbooks.

In the sunroom is a Haynes automobile from 1905, featuring a folding seat in front of the driver’s seat. Upstairs are displays of various items which have

Walking back to the car, I looked around the beautiful downtown square and knew that my first visit to Kokomo wouldn’t be my last. There are many more firsts to discover. ••• Photos: Phyllis Rose

For More Info: Seiberling Mansion 765-456-7500 www.howardcountymuseum.org Kokomo Automotive Museum 765-454-9999 www.kokomoautomotivemuseum.org

Elwood Haynes Museum 765-456-7500 www.cityofkokomo.org Note: Click on “Visitors,” then “Historical Sites, Landmarks.”

Drakes Bar and Grill 765-457-1611 www.drakesbarandgrill.com

Come Experience Hubbard Hospitality Hubbard Hill offers a Full Continuum of Care Including • Dynamic Rehabilitation • Healthcare Center • Licensed Residential Apartments with Supportive Services • Maintenance-Free Duplex Homes in a Neighborhood Setting

Faith Based – Locally Owned – Non Profit

28070 CR 24W • Elkhart, IN 46517 574.295.6260 866.295.6260 F: 574.295.5852

www.hubbardhill.org boom | JULY 2014

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boom

The traveler

F

rom the Charles Bridge, built in 1357 over the Vltava River, to the Old Town Square with an astronomical clock ticking away on the 14th century Town Hall, Prague is pretty and old. Since it is pretty and old, the city draws people back, something that Prague’s most famous writer, Franz Kafka, knew when he said, “Prague never lets you go… this dear little mother has sharp claws.”

That is exactly what happened to my friends and me. We first visited Prague on a day trip from Vienna, Austria. We had just enough time to see the Old Town with our guide, explore a little on our own, and then, with the city clawing at us, we had to leave. But Prague had planted its claws firmly so, later, we returned for more of its charms. We booked a hotel near the Old Town and for ten days wandered the cobblestone streets, visiting ancient churches and castles whose spires served as guideposts helping us find our way around. And, of course, there were the cafes where we enjoyed goulash or freshly baked bread and pastries.

So, I highly recommend letting Prague get its claws into you. If you’re visiting this vibrant city for the first time, here are Mother Prague’s main charms: The Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall in Prague attracts crowds on the hour to watch the 12 Apostles parade across the top of the clock.

Photos: Phyllis Rose

Old Town Square

By: Phyllis Rose

The Old Town Square, the heart of historic Prague, has been a market square since the 11th century. It maintains that feel today with shops, cafes and tourists crowded around the Old Town Hall to see the Astronomical Clock. Be there on the hour to watch the twelve apostle’s parade around the top of the clock.

Then, go into the nearby Tourist Information office and purchase a ticket to go up into Town Hall tower to see the inner workings of the clock and to get some wonderful panoramic photos of the city.

Charles Bridge

From the Old Town Square, follow Karlova Street to Charles Bridge, named for Charles IV, a Holy Roman Emperor from the 14th century. After passing through the bridge’s tower gate, stroll across the pedestrian-only bridge for wonderful views of the city along the Vltava River and of Prague Castle on a hill across the river from the Old Town. Drawing your attention away from the scenery are musicians, artists, and souvenir vendors. This is a great place to find watercolor paintings of Prague scenes, a magnet commemorating your trip, or it can be just a relaxing stop to listen to a jazz combo, with their CDs on sale, of course.

Before leaving the bridge, climb the towers at either end for more wonderful views of Prague. In the tower on the Old Town side, there’s a movie in English about the bridge and the symbolism contained in its 30 statues along with interesting facts such as from the bridge on the summer solstice, the sun appears to set over St. Vitus’s tomb in a cathedral on the other side of the river.

Castle Quarter

Leaving the Charles Bridge, make your way uphill to Prague Castle. Arrive on the hour if you can for the changing of the guard and if you want the full pomp and circumstance, be there at noon. Music and marching soldiers create a perfect welcome for your castle tour. Inside the Castle Quarter, you can visit the Old Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, the Basilica and Convent of St. George and the Golden Lane.

Ceremonial Hall, there are exhibits detailing death and burial traditions while in the Klaus Synagogue you’ll learn about other Jewish traditions such as bar mitzvahs and weddings.

The Old-New Synagogue, over 700 years old and the oldest in Europe, was the main synagogue for Prague’s Jews. The Maisel Synagogue, funded by a wealthy financier, Mordechai Maisel, was built in the 16th century.

During World War II, it served as a warehouse for the artifacts that were to be displayed in the “Museum of an Extinct Race.” The Spanish Synagogue, built in 1868 in a Moorish style, gleams with gilded decorations.

Its exhibits depict Jewish history from the 18th through the 20th centuries.

Entrance to the Castle Quarter

In the Old Royal Palace’s large hall, kings were elected starting in the 1400s, a tradition which continued for centuries since the president was elected here as late as 1990. In one small room, we heard about angry nobles who threw two governors out of the windows into a pile of manure in 1618, an action permitted under the law. Called defenestration, the action was usually aimed at bad politicians.

St. Vitus Cathedral, begun in 1344 and finished in 1929, houses the tomb of St. Wenceslas, patron saint of the Czech people popularized in the Christmas carol, “Good King Wenceslas.” If you have time, wander into the Basilica to see the Romanesque church and into the convent to see 19th century Czech paintings. The Golden Lane once housed the city’s goldsmiths, hence its name, but now is lined with gift shops.

As you wander the city from one historic site to another, slowly but surely, you’ll find Prague is just like Kafka said. This dear mother will get her claws into you and you’ll have no choice but to return. •••

Changing of the Guard at Prague Castle

Jewish Quarter

This is definitely the most moving place in Prague. To visit the sites within the quarter, you must purchase a ticket. Interestingly, the Nazis did not destroy this area since they intended it to be “A Museum of an Extinct Race.” So Jews were allowed to archive artifacts here. On your visit, you’ll see the Pinkas Synagogue, the Old Jewish Cemetery, Ceremonial Hall, Klaus Synagogue, Old New Synagogue, the Maisel Synagogue and the Spanish Synagogue.

We started with the Pinkas Synagogue, the memory of which still nearly brings me to tears. On the walls are the handwritten names of 77,297 Czech Jews who died in the concentration camps. The names are also read aloud interspersed with a cantor singing the psalms. Old, decaying tombstones fall all over each other in the Old Jewish Cemetery. For over 300 years from 1439 until 1787, this was the only place where Prague Jews could be buried so there are graves on top of graves. In the

The Ceremonial Hall in Prague's Jewish Quarter

The Spanish Synagogue

Guidebook: Rick Steves’ Prague & The Czech Republic Website: Prague Welcome - The Official Travel and Tourism Guide (English version) www.praguewelcome.cz/en/ Map: Streetwise Prague This sturdy, folding, laminated map pops easily into your purse. It also lists major sites and hotels so you can easily find them on the map.

Grayline Tours www.grayline.com This company provides tours of Prague as well as day trips from Prague into the countryside. You can purchase a Prague card from this site which gives you free admission into many museums and historic sites. boom | JULY 2014

19

boom

hobbies

PLACES,

Movie Trivia

PLEASE!

Answers

By: Margo & Jim Bell

1-i: The thrilling true story about sea pirates takes place off the coast of Somalia in the Indian Ocean, but Malta in the Mediterranean was safer. The container ship Alexander Maersk stood in for its twin, the Maersk Alabama.

2-g: Fictitious Hohman, Indiana is based on author Jean Shepherd’s

boyhood home Hammond for this Christmas classic. The movie’s Parker home in Cleveland is now a Christmas Story museum. A “frozen tongue” statue recently was erected in Hammond.

3-b:

The last scene of this movie was filmed at the old Amtrak station— renamed “Willougby”—in Niles.

4-o: Although some scenes were filmed in Finland, most of the production

was shot outside Madrid, even during the hot summer months. The Varinko country “ice palace” was filled with frozen beeswax to resemble hunks of ice.

Marble dust often was used as fake snow.

5-h: The story’s setting is Bodega Bay on the Pacific Coast, but the movie

was also filmed in Bodega five miles inland. Annie’s school, Porter Schoolhouse, is now a private residence where the unforgettable silhouette of director Alfred Hitchcock is seen at an upstairs window.

6-a: Much of the filming was done in and around Chicago, but the Bueller

home is on Country Club Drive in Long Beach, California. The glass-and-steel enclosure that housed the Ferarri is part of a Highland Park, Illinois, property that recently sold for $1.06 million.

7-k: Doolittle’s air raid over Tokyo was shot over the U.S. Steel Works in Gary. Lake Michigan stood in for the Pacific Ocean.

8-e: Before the Griswolds leave their home in Chicago, Clark and his son

Russ pick up a new station wagon at Star Ford in Glendale, California, over 2,000 miles away! Glendale is the third largest city in Los Angeles County, topped only by Long Beach (see 6-a) and, of course, Los Angeles.

9-c:

Another Hitchcock classic, this movie was filmed in part at Mission San Juan Bautista (est. 1791) 90 miles south of San Francisco. The mission bell

BOOMER MOVIE TRIVIA FANS!

tower—the place where tragic heroine Madeleine fell to her death—collapsed years ago, so Hitch superimposed a matte- painting of the bell tower into the film. Adjacent to the San Andreas Fault, the mission has its own seismograph.

10-l: The lovely home at 671 Lincoln Avenue appears smaller than in the movie. It sold in 2012 for more than $1.5 million.

11-j: The raid at Aquaba, Arabia, was filmed in Playa del Algarrobico, Spain.

Desert scenes were also filmed in El Centro, California, and Jordan. Filming took 17 months.

12-n:

Most of us Boomers may not remember seeing this nail-biting Humphrey Bogart crime thriller in theaters, but it’s available online and through other sources such as an occasional viewing on classic TV channels. As the Indianapolis-setting house looked vaguely familiar, we did the research and discovered that it was the second Cleaver home on the Leave It To Beaver TV sitcom and built on Colonial Drive in one of Universal Studio’s lots.

13-d:

The story takes place in Amity, New York in July, but filming began in Martha’s Vineyard in early May 1974, a chilly experience particularly for the cast and extras on the beach and in the ocean. Part of the movie was shot in a giant pool.

14-f: OK, we all know the movie was filmed mostly in South Bend, but

other shots were done in Chicago, Rockville, and Joliet, Illinois, as well as Whiting, Indiana just west of East Chicago. This small town supplied the scenes for the Ruettiger boys playing football, running across the railroad tracks, and playing air hockey in a bar. Back in South Bend, there was the University of Notre Dame and Corby’s, and the house Sherry picked out for her and Rudy’s future home was located on Scott Street just west of downtown. The guardhouse on the Notre Dame Campus was erected on the Circle but torn down after filming was completed.

15-m:

The fictitious Faber College (we assume it was in Pennsylvania) was filmed at the University of Oregon in Eugene after a number of colleges passed on being the site because of the raunchy-themed script. Both the Delta and Omega houses were located on 11th Street. The homecoming parade took place in nearby Cottage Grove. •••

The trivia puzzle for August will be our most challenging ever! Spot the flubs and bloopers in the following movies: Double Indemnity (1944); Hello Dolly (1969); Chariots of Fire (1981); The Patriot (2000); Saving Mr. Banks (2013); and 42 (2013). See you then!

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JULY 2014 | boom

{a special boom promotion}

July 2014

Selling a home can be a stressful time for any baby boomer!

Packing memories into a box, finding a new place to live, applying for a new mortgage, remodeling and trying to sell an old home can be overwhelming and time consuming. But, finding resources of those who can help make that transition go more smoothly is even harder.

That's why BOOM Magazine is making your decision easier by highlighting local businesses in Michiana who will be there throughout your moving process.

Let's move forward with ease!

on the July 2014

Inspired with RE/MAX 100 574-968-4236 / 3010 Hickory Road, Mishawaka 46545 www.inspiredhomes.com

What about Inspired with RE/MAX 100 makes you most proud?

“Inspired is a faith based TEAM of realtors, working together to make real estate dreams come true.” Our team synergy makes us GREAT servants for our clients. We are passionate about seamless service for an exceptional experience each and every time.

Certifications

ABR=

Accredited Buyer Representative

CDPE=

Certified Distressed Property Expert

SRES=

Senior Real Estate Specialist

AWARDS RE/MAX Hall of Fame 2013 RE/MAX Platinum Club 2013 RE/MAX Rising Star Award 2012 RE/MAX Sagamore Club 2010, 2011, 2012 RE/MAX 100% Club 2009 RE/MAX Executive Club 2008

What sets you apart from your competitors?

Our team meets weekly to discuss our client needs and determine the best way to help each client achieve their real estate dreams, whether they are selling or looking for a new home.

Also, we help assist one another with our clients when needed. This gives us the opportunity to enjoy life with our family and friends and, in return, enjoy our careers. In an industry that can be overwhelming at times, each one of us ultimately loves what we do. Our goal is always to cross every t, dot every i, and go beyond every client’s expectation.

What simple changes can someone do to their home to give it a new look?

STAGING! We are big believers in staging your home. We pay for a decorator to assist sellers in the preparation of showing their home. Showing a home is similar to blind dating and sellers must put their best face forward.

How much should someone invest in updating their home to sell?

This question is case specific but we highly recommend calling an experienced agent to visit your home. The agent will talk with you about your home, your lifestyle and what your end goals are.

What services do you provide to help BOOMERS move with ease?

BOOMERS are now the sandwich generation. They need more help with home sales than any other generation that we work with. Since BOOMERS are either downsizing, relocating, encouraging their parents to take up residency in a retirement community or helping their children purchase their first home, they are called upon for guidance to family members, in a field that is not their full time profession. With our team’s variety of designations and experience, we love to work with first time home buyers, resellers and seniors.

Words of Advice: This is the time of life you’ve been working for! Enjoy your family and let the professionals take care of what they do best.

How can a potential homeowner make their moving process easier?  Work with an experienced realtor for market analysis and advice.  Work with a stager to know and incorporate best updates and best appearance for showings.

 Work with an experienced LOCAL mortgage originator to make sure your loan process is smooth.  Work with a highly respected mover to insure quality and timeliness during the final step. {a special boom promotion}

on the July 2014

ASC Fertilizing Solutions 574-514-8979 / P.O. Box 98 Granger, IN 46530 ascfertilizing@yahoo.com

How long has ASC Fertilizing Solutions been in business?

I started ASC Fertilizing Solutions five years ago. I have been in the lawn care service industry for 20 years. My business was started from the ground up with focus on quality products and customer service.

What about ASC Fertilizing Solutions makes you proud?

I am proud that my business continues to grow every year with loyal customers as my biggest advertisers. I betlieve quality products along with comprehensive knowledge of chemicals creates healthy soil which shows in my service.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

I take great pride in my work and personal service on every lawn. I use quality products to assure the best results possible. I also provide tips and suggestions throughout the season to assure we are working as a team to set your lawn apart.

What simple changes can someone do to improve their lawn?

Weekly care and maintenance is an important step to improve your lawn. Proper watering and fertilizing will give your lawn a boost which can really set your home apart.

What tools should a homeowner invest in to maintain their lawn?

There are several simple adjustments which can improve your curb appeal with little cost.

Edging, trimming and landscaping are simple but important steps to capture your audience.

What services do you provide to help BOOMERS move with ease?

I can make their move to a new home easy with continued care that covers several counties.

Updating your lawn can also be a big selling point to help ease you through the selling process.

Word of Advice: I recommend researching your new area so you are familiar with expectations from your new neighbors. Your neighbor’s lawn and maintenance practices can be a good indicator to who you will be living by.

How can a potential homeowner make their moving process easier?  Making a list of all services and providers will help make the transfer of utilities and services smoother.  Detailed packing and labeling makes unpacking more organized and less stressful.

 Always enlist friends or movers to make the job easier.  I would be happy to measure your new lawn in advance to make transfer of lawn service uninterrupted. {a special boom promotion}

Jan Lazzara

on the

with Cressy & Everett Real Estate

July 2014

574-651-1665 OR 574-532-8001 (Call/Text) Jan@JanLazzara.com www.JanLazzara.com What about Cressy & Everett Real Estate makes you most proud?

Real Effort Real Results! For 68 years, Cressy and Everett is a name that

you can both trust and depend on. Their core values are very similar to my own which includes customer centered commitment, respect and partnership.​

What sets you apart from your competitors?

My passion is to help others and to fulfill my client’s dream of buying or selling their home! I have been the #1 agent with Cressy and Everett since 2003 and the #1 agent for St. Joseph County since 2007. I am energetic, caring, professional and knowledgeable of our local area and community. I am highly recommended for my service and reputation as a strong leader. My website is a great resource to help you find your home, tips on how to sell your home and so much more. I will help a seller market their home to obtain the maximum selling price and help a buyer negotiate the best price for their purchase. My goal is to make the process easy and enjoyable!

What simple changes can someone do to their home to give it a new look?  De-Clutter (Especially the bedrooms, closets and kitchen cabinets.)

 Rent a Storage Unit if Necessary (Almost every home shows better with less furniture which will make rooms appear larger.)​  Update Light Fixtures and Hardware As Needed  Freshly Painted Walls Creates a Very Clean and Crisp Appearance  Make Any Needed Minor Repairs  Make Your Home SPARKLE!!! (Clean, Clean, Clean!)  Have Your Carpets Cleaned  Clean Your Windows Inside and Out

Broker Associate GRI Licensed in IN & MI Luxury Home and Relocation Specialist​ #1 Agent in St Joseph County Since 2007 (7th year in a row)

#1 Realtor with Cressy & Everett

(10th year in a row)

Chairman’s Club 2014

How much should someone invest in updating their home to sell?

A freshly painted home with updated light fixtures and hardware can go a long way without having to completely remodel a room. If you have the money, updated kitchens and baths will give you the best return or even updating the counter tops gives the room a fresh look.

What services do you provide to help BOOMERS move with ease?

I will help each and every step of the way from start to finish! Beginning with the listing price, suggestions on what to do to make your home more marketable, negotiating the VERY BEST price for you, arranging all the inspections, estimates and repairs once negotiated are just a few things that I can help you with. It’s easy to get attached to our homes but I can make your downsizing move easy and stress free!

Words of Advice: When you are ready to make a change, give me a call. I will help you make your moving experience be exciting, easy and smooth. My team and I will help you through each and every step. You want a strong negotiator on your side. I take great pride in helping my clients buy or sell homes. I put forth the most

Reader’s Choice Favorite Realtor 2013

effort and resources to get the ultimate results that can make your dreams come true.

Winner of Dancing with Our Stars 2014 for the Homeless Center

How can a potential homeowner make their moving process easier?  Start de-cluttering each room in your house.  Store items that you would like to keep into boxes.  Sell and donate items ahead of time that you no longer want.  Get a couple quotes ahead of time for a moving company. {a special boom promotion}

boom

recipe

Ingredients •

3/4 Cup Grape Tomatoes

•

1/4 Red Onion

•

2 Cloves Garlic, Finely Chopped

•

2 Tablespoons EVOO

•

Salt and Pepper

•

1 Pound Pizza Dough

•

1 Cup Crumbled Blue Cheese

•

1/2 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

•

1 Romaine Heart, Thinly Sliced

•

5 Large Basil Leaves

Directions

1.

In a large bowl, toss together the tomatoes, onion, garlic and one tablespoon. EVOO is a season with salt and pepper.

2.

Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of EVOO on a baking sheet then turn the dough disks in the oil. Press each disk into a 10-inch round.

3.

Place the dough on the grill, cover and cook until it bubbles on top and grill marks appear underneath. Flip the crusts and top with the blue cheese and mozzarella. Cover and grill until the cheese is melted and the crusts are golden.

4.

Add the romaine and basil to the tomato mixture and toss to dress. Then top the pizzas with the salad.

C ov e r story

All Aboard: A New Boater’s Guide to Enjoy the Open Water By: David Palmer

ver since man took his first steps on the earth, he has been drawn to the sea. There is something about warm air and the sound of crashing waves that reaches out and pulls people to the shore’s edge and beyond.

As the famous musician James Taylor once said; “being on a boat that's moving through the water, it's so clear. Everything falls into place in terms of what's important and what's not,” and he isn’t alone in that thinking. With summer in full-swing and water temperatures steadily rising, boaters are hitting the water to soak up the sun and enjoy some time off shore. If, like many of those called to the sea in the warmer months, you have ever wondered if boating is right for you, then what follows will serve as a primer on boating and offer a little insight into summer recreation on the high tide.

Before You Buy

While it may be tempting to rush out and purchase the boat you have always dreamt of, there is much to know and learn before making a commitment and laying down your hard earned cash. One of the first things to consider is what kind of boating you plan to do.

Primarily, boats are separated into two very distinct, and very different, classes: Motorized and non-motorized vessels. Motorized boats have many different options within themselves, such as cabin cruisers for extended time on the water, ski boats for those who enjoy power sports like skiing and tubing, and smaller vessels with more specific purposes like fishing. Outside of motorized boats, sail boats are another option available to those looking to spend time on the water. While they are most typically powered by the wind in the sails, many come with motors as well that can be used if needed. Furthermore, there are many websites, such as discoverboating.com, that can help in deciding what boat is best for you. If you would like to see more in person before settling on a specific make or model, any local marina will have boat experts on hand to talk with about what type of boat fits your needs.

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JULY 2014 | boom

The Purchase

Buying a boat can be a big investment, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be. If you’re new to boating, then it might be in your best interest to look into the used boat market rather than dropping cash down on a brand new, showroom boat. Zach Wenrick, a Mishawaka resident and boater, says that he has had many boats and never once has he bought new. “I’ve had a lot of boats in the past and I’ve always gotten them used,” He says. “What most people don’t realize when they buy a brand new boat is that they can depreciate very quickly. Because of that, I buy older model boats at lower prices.” Further, Wenrick advises that new buyers only look into used boats that they can see and hear run on the water, and suggests trying to set up a test-ride in the boat in question.

“I wouldn’t suggest buying a boat that can’t be run around the lake for a while before you pay for it,” Wenrick says. “It can be too risky and if you don’t have a lot of knowledge about boats, you can get in over your head real quick. A problem in a boat isn’t like a problem in a car. It can be expensive if something turns out wrong.” With that in mind, make sure you

feel comfortable with what you’re looking into purchasing, and don’t hesitate to ask a friend or family member who knows a bit more about boats and boating to come along for the ride.

The Law Of The Sea

Once you’ve taken the plunge and purchased a boat, motorized or sail, the next step is to get all of the proper training and knowledge you will need for your time on the water.

According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website, “boater education prevents accidents and saves lives. Whether or not their state requires it, all boaters have a responsibility to learn about boat operation, communications, navigation and life-saving techniques before taking to the water. Statistics bear out what logic suggests—those without boater education put themselves and others at risk.” Most states have their own sets of rules and regulations for boating, and those can almost always be found on the state’s website, or from a call to the local government building.

As for the proper training in safely operating

When all is said and done, the most important aspect of boating as a hobby is the pleasure you receive from spending time on the open water.

Be it by motor or by sail, there is very little that can match the feeling of pushing through the waves on a warm afternoon or rocking gently with the current under a sky of shining stars. Keeping in mind all that has been mentioned here, you can have fun and stay safe with the wind in your sails and the sun ever at your back. •••

your new boat, there are a great number of boating clubs out there with classes and groups dedicated to educating and training new boaters.

According to Dave Makielski, a sail boater and member of the Eagle Lake Sailing Club in Edwardsburg, Michigan, a good way to learn is by gaining experience firsthand. “The best way to learn to sail is to get your feet wet,” Makielski says. “I would suggest coming up to the sailing club and crewing for somebody. We are always looking for crews members and there is always a crew job for someone who’s interested. It’s a good way to learn.” Once you have been trained in safe boating and have spent some time on the water with those who have experience, you will feel more comfortable at the helm of your new boat and be able to safely enjoy the time with your new hobby. boom | JULY 2014

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It’s Not Your

4-H

Grandmother’s By: Evie Kirkwood

S

troll through the barns at any Midwest 4-H fair and you’ll find dairy cows, pigs and rabbits. In another building you’ll find vegetables, flowers, baked goods and sewing projects. But you also might notice it’s not your grandmother’s 4-H anymore. While tried and true traditions remain such as showing livestock, sewing and foods, there are scores of new projects from wind energy to aerospace technology designed to challenge young people ages 10 to 19.

Val June Schafer knows all about the changes. She was a ten-year 4-H member and continued on as a long-time volunteer. So long in fact that she is one of just a handful of people who will be honored at this year’s Indiana State Fair for 50 years of volunteer service to 4-H. Val June says back when she was a member, 4-H was just for rural kids and showing livestock or working on a tractor was a big deal.

She remembers the St. Joseph County Fair when it was in North Liberty, Indiana, then in Lakeville and eventually at the old Playland Park site near IU South Bend, before it moved to its current location south of South Bend. She laughs when she recalls that the show ring at the Lakeville site was literally in

“Things have to change to adjust to new trends and interests of young people.” the middle of US 31. “They re-routed traffic and set up pens behind some of the stores,” she says. “It seems funny now, but it worked.” Church groups sold food and the midway, which consisted of a Ferris wheel and merry-go-round, was also set up right on US 31.

Val June walked her hogs down the highway to get to the show ring and earned the grand champion title four years in a row. Her sister was a champion quilter. “She had a fit when they started allowing machine quilting,” she chuckles, “but things have to change to adjust to new trends and interests of young people.”

Projects such as dog obedience, llamas and microwave cooking didn’t exist when Val June was a member. Today’s 4-H fair projects are designed for urban, 28

JULY 2014 | boom

suburban and rural kids. Oliver plows were the technology of the day once, but now 4-H projects include garden tractors and zero-turn-radius mowers.

Opening Summer 2014

Matt Bellina, oversees 4-H youth development for the Purdue Extension of St. Joseph County, Indiana. He says 4-H continues to evolve to stay current while keeping its core focus.

“It has always been about handson science: food science, animal science, environmental science and technology,” he notes. “It’s a perfect complement to STEM curricula,” he adds, referring to the sciencetechnology-engineering-math focus of many schools today.

In addition to the fair, 4-H members have opportunities for scholarships and some pretty special learning experiences.

Matt says this spring members of the St. Joseph County Aerospace Club competed in the national finals of the Team America Rocket Challenge in Washington D.C. They beat out 700 other US teams for a berth in this, the largest rocket contest in the word. The goal was to send a rocket 825 feet in the air and back with two raw eggs. “After the competition, they got to spend an hour with NASA executives.

How cool is that?” smiles Matt.

4-H participation revolves around clubs, many of which are township based and led by scores of adult volunteers, although some newer clubs have a slightly different feel. For example, the Robotics Club draws kids from a wide area and partners with Purdue Technology South Bend whose instructors and students meet with members monthly to experiment with building working robots.

Wellbrooke of South Bend is under construction and slated to open Summer 2014. Our new approach to health and wellness sets a new standard: a distinctly different design and unique hospitality experience with three exceptional choices in one location:

• Service-Rich Assisted Living • Short-Term Rehabilitative Care • Long-Term Care Interest is high, and we are currently taking reservations for the service-rich assisted living apartments. We promise you’ve never seen anything like this before, so call (574) 247-7044 to learn more today!

Call today to learn about our move-in incentives for service-rich assisted living!

The Cooperative Extension Service began 100 years ago and nationalized the 4-H program. Both Matt and Val June agree 4-H has weathered the test of time, providing real-life educational opportunities that develop leadership and problem-solving skills. “These kids will be assets in tomorrow’s work force,” says Matt. •••

Enrollment for 4-H begins in fall, and continues through spring. To enroll a young person, or to get involved as a volunteer, visit www.JoinIndiana4-H.org or for Michigan: 4h.msue.msu.edu/

(574) 247-7044

52565 State Road 933 • South Bend, IN 46637 www.WellbrookeOfSouthBend.com MAG/BOOM/5-14 boom | JULY 2014

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Add Value

To Your Home:

Remodeling Tips And Tricks By: Kristine Smith

W

ith the real estate market improving slowly over the past few years, many homeowners have opted to do their own remodeling projects in order to make their home more appealing to home buyers. There are several ways you can add value to your home without draining your savings account in the process.

Remodeling the Kitchen

Most people consider the kitchen to be the heart of the home, and because of this, updates to this room does pay off.

According to Home and Garden TV, you can expect to recoup 60% to 120% of your investment on a kitchen remodel, as long as you do not go overboard. You should never make your kitchen fancier than the rest of the house, or make the kitchen more spectacular than neighboring homes. For example, an older home built in 1900 should not have a $60,000 upgraded kitchen. That kind of investment will probably not be recovered. Try to keep potential home buyers in mind before any major remodeling. One easy fix for the kitchen can be as simple as paint. Fresh paint in modern colors can update the look of a kitchen for a relatively inexpensive 30

JULY 2014 | boom

price. You might want to consider using low-VOC paint; this makes your kitchen more eco-friendly, and helps your family avoid breathing in dangerous chemicals, like benzene, the off-gas from regular fresh paint. Also, replace old appliances with energy-efficient models. Energy Star-rated appliances are better for the environment and uses less energy which in return will save you money. Potential buyers often look for ways to save money when shopping for a new home.

Bathroom Addition

If your home only has one bathroom, you can regain a large chunk of your investment by adding another bathroom. HGTV estimates that you can gain 80% to 130% of what you spend by adding a bathroom. When it comes to finding room in your house for an extra bathroom, take a look at any extra rooms or underutilized spaces. Consider other spaces, such as closets or areas under the stairs. If you want a half-bath you need at least 18 square feet. If you want a full bath, including a stand-up shower, you need at least 30 square feet. If you want a bathtub, make sure you have at least 35 square feet to work with for a bathroom addition. With any project, the cost of adding a bathroom depends largely on the types of additions and accessories you want to use and the cost of each of these items. You can save money by frequently checking out a Habitat for Humanity Restore for products that are discontinued or were floor models at hardware stores.

Add Energy Efficient Windows

These days, buyers shop for homes with energy efficiency in mind. In this part of the country, older, drafty single pane windows do not protect against the harsh winter winds and are a major turn off to prospective buyers. Energy Star claims that adding Energy Star-rated windows can save you up to $500 a year in heating and cooling costs by making your home more energy efficient. You can also receive a green energy tax credit for 10% of this upgrade as long as you install Energy Star rated windows. In addition, you may qualify for additional credits from your state or utility company. Check with your account to receive more information on the tax credit. According to HGTV, you can expect to gain 60% to 90% of your costs when you invest in energy-efficient windows.

Learn more about available offers and rebates in your area by visiting the Energy Star website for their available rebates.

BMW Repair Center

Deck or Screened Porch Addition

Adding a deck or screened in porch increases the value of your home.

Outdoor living spaces have become more desirable. If you make your deck and your backyard more appealing, your house will be more appealing to prospective buyers when you decide to sell. HGTV claims that homeowners recover 65% to 90% of their investment by adding a deck or enclosed porch.

The cost of adding this space to your home varies widely. Everything depends on its size and how many extras you want added. Decks can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $10,000 or more. Again, it all depends on the design and materials used. As you might guess, you can save a huge chunk of the cost, usually half, by doing the work yourself. Keep in mind, however, that deck construction is not an easy weekend DIY project. Just a reminder; a building permit may be involved prior to the construction.

Energy-Efficient Insulation

If your home lacks basic insulation because of its age, a good home inspector that is working with potential buyers will include this in their reports.

Homes that have not been modified with energy efficiency in mind cost more to live in. You can save $2,500 or more each year just by making simple changes. For example, you can add extra insulation to your attic for $200 or less and this small change can save you hundreds each year on your utility bill or make your home more desirable to a potential buyer.

While the market continues to improve slightly, homeowners can make reasonable repairs and remodels to their home to make their home stand out to buyers. These five tips are just the start of ideas to assist you in selling your home as you move to the next chapter in your life. Do not be discouraged by the cost of the remodeling. The payoff will be an increased interest in your home by homebuyers and an increase in the price they are willing to pay. •••

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At Clothes Mentor, you can buy the most sought-after brands “gently-used” in like-new condition for about 70% off of mall store prices... and you won’t have to wait for a sale event either! ann taylor | banana republic | cache | chicos | coach coldwater creek | dooney & bourke | gap | j.crew lane bryant | limited | loft | louis vuitton | talbots white house black market | and many more

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boom | JULY 2014

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Prepare Your Home

For

And Yourself

Downsizing

I

By: Kristine Smith

f you are an empty nester moving from a single family home into a retirement condo, apartment or just a smaller home, downsizing can be a stressful and daunting task. Most of us are feel of the economic squeeze to some extent and are looking to cut costs, especially as we reach retirement. To reduce our expenses, the most logical place to start is with the most significant one, and for the majority of people, that's housing.

A Noticeable Savings

Your bills in your downsized home will likely be lower. When downsizing, chances are your new house is going to cost a lot less than your current one. Assuming you're able to sell your house for a reasonable price, you could put a huge

If you are moving into a smaller home with less closet space and no basement, it only makes sense to be ruthless and rid yourself of items you really no longer need.

Simplify. down payment toward the smaller space and end up cutting your mortgage payment in half. You will also cut your power bill, water bill, cleaning costs, landscaping costs and your property taxes, which can be a huge one depending on your local tax regulations. If you shorten your commute to work, you'll also cut your gas expenditures. In all, the savings can be substantial.

The bursting of the real estate bubble has made downsizing an increasingly appealing option. According to the National Association of Home Builders, an estimated 60% of those searching for a home were downsizing from their current one. That same burst makes the cost-effectiveness of downsizing a bit trickier than it once was. For one thing, will you be able to sell your house for what it's worth? Will you be able to sell it in a timely manner? If you have to lower the price, how will that affect the projected financial benefits of your move? Once you have made the decision to downsize, how do you get started?

Start Organizing

Getting your house in order after making this emotional decision consists of clearing clutter, getting organized and simplifying tasks. Selecting which furniture or other mementos to keep and which to discard can be overwhelming. Try to be honest with yourself. If the thought of parting with your daughter’s childhood desk fills your eyes with tears, maybe that’s a piece you should hang on to. However, if you have a basement full of clothes you have not worn in two years, now may be a good time to donate them. Be ruthless.

If you are moving to a smaller home with less closet space and no basement, it only makes sense to be ruthless and rid yourself of items you really no longer need. Simplify.

If you have a new home selected and you know the floor plan for this home, choose furniture that is functional for your new space and if your items are too large for the new space, consider having a moving sale and selling those pieces.

Use the money from the sale to purchase smaller pieces of furniture that fits in your new place. Also, hang onto your treasured souvenirs from past trips or favorite paintings. Doing so can help you feel more adjusted in your new home.

Save the date!

FASHION SHOW

Sell Your Current Home

Once you have sorted through your possessions, it is time to sell your home.

Find a good realtor who listens to your motivation behind downsizing. If you are in a hurry to leave your old home behind, convey that to the realtor so that they can express to potential buyers that you are very motivated and willing to work with them in order to unload your property. If, on the other hand, you are more interested in making a certain amount of profit off the sale and have the luxury of time, then by all means communicate that to the realtor.

Downsizing is one of the most emotional decisions you can make and nearly everyone, at some point, has to make that call. Whether it is for health reasons or financial reasons, saying goodbye to a family home can be challenging. However, with patience, family support and a good sense of humor, you can make this transition easier and relax to enjoy your next chapter in life. •••

Thursday November 6th, 2014 The Morris Inn, South Bend boom | JULY 2014

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LIFE

Choosing The

RIGHT Senior Housing By: Phyllis Rose

A

s Ernie and Janice Shaw got older, they realized there were things about maintaining a home that they couldn’t do anymore. So, they eventually moved into a manufactured housing community because of the ease of maintenance. Finally, they gave up that home and moved into a senior apartment residence when their children were concerned about whether they could take care of themselves. “They wanted us to be much closer to our neighbors,” Ernie says.

For Joyce Webb, the decision to leave her home came when she lost her ability to walk and her home wasn’t handicap accessible. She looked at three places to live and, with her daughter's help, decided on a senior apartment residence.

Like Joyce and the Shaws, most seniors are having to make decisions about their living circumstances at some point in time. With so many options available, how do seniors make the decision whether for themselves or for a family member?

Do Not Wait to Plan: The important thing is to look at the housing issue before a health situation or other lifestyle change requires you or a family member to make a quick decision, says Dianne Carlson, community services director with the Region IV Area Agency on Aging, in St. Joseph, Michigan.

“Make decisions when you are not in a stressful situation or you have to make a decision or be in the situation where someone has to make a decision for you,” she says. “Make those decisions up front. Take care of those things that will keep you much more in control of your own autonomy.”

For example, if you want to stay in your home long-term, evaluate how it will meet your needs as you age and what 34

JULY 2014 | boom

changes might have to be made. Then, make those changes whether it’s grab bars in the shower or levers on the doors instead of doorknobs, she says.

“It’s cheaper to do when you’re not under the stress to hurry up and make some home modifications down the road,” she says. If you decide you want to move to a retirement community, you need to evaluate your lifestyle, and then look at housing options available and, of course, the cost, she says.

One resource to help with the decision-making process is a new publication available from the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, “Housing Options for Older Adults: A Guide for Making Housing Decisions,” available through the Area Agency on Aging. This guide includes definitions of the various housing options and what level of care you can expect from each.

Visit the Retirement Community: Part of the decision making process is visiting the community where you think you would like to live but don’t base your decision on the beautiful appearance of the facility, she says.

You need to look at the cost, any in-home support services available and evaluate how well you think the facility will work out for you. Also, if the community is in Florida where you spend the winters, it’s important to visit in the summer

to ensure that it’s going to be a good year-round place to live, she says.

unlicensed ones do not. Unlicensed facilities are often called “board and care homes.”

When you’re looking at an assisted living or nursing home facility, the visit is very important. First, you’ll need to meet with the social worker at the facility, says Mike Reaker, aging and disability resource center coordinator, with REAL Services in South Bend. Ask questions about the staff-to-patient ratio, for example, or about the different types of meals available such as diabetic or low salt. Be sure to tour the facility and ask to sample the food served at meals.

For licensed facilities, you can view their report cards at the Indiana State Department of Health website (www.in.gov/isdh), he says. Don’t forget to talk to family and friends who have had experience with one of the facilities you’re considering to get their insights into how good the facility is, Reaker says. And ask people who have made the decision to move into senior housing about what was important to them in the process.

Ask Questions and Take Notes:

For Ernie and Janice Shaw, convenience and cleanliness were two important considerations. “But look at the people who live there as much as the facility,” Ernie says. “The people are more important than the facility.”

“Take a lot of notes mentally and visually,” he says. “Listen for people who might be distressed like they might not be getting the help that they need. Make sure that you keep your eyes, ears and nose open. Those are the big ones.”

Also, stop and talk to residents to get their opinions of the facility, he says. Then, make another visit during the off hours when administrators and supervisors aren’t there. “From 8 to 5, you have the administrators and all the supervisors there, so people might be a little more on their game than they might be at 9 p.m.,” he says.

If Alzheimer’s and dementia are issues in your situation, find out what the security is like such as whether there are locked doors to prevent patients from wandering away, says Reaker.

Also, ask if the facility is licensed or unlicensed, he says.

Licensed facilities have to meet all the state regulations while

Joyce Webb agrees, noting that she was looking for people her age who were friendly and caring. “When you walk through a building, try to get a feeling for the kind of people who are there,” she says.

But the bottom line is you don’t have to go through the decision process alone. There are resources available to help you.

Choose to make the most of life For more than 33 years, Center for Hospice Care has helped over 25,000 patients live their final months on their terms, providing the depth of services they need to have the highest quality of life possible.

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Services from Center for Hospice Care are typically covered by Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance. No one is turned away due to inability to pay.

CFIN-029 7.375x4.8125 4c_Brand.indd 1

©2013 Center for Hospice Care | JULY11:33 boom 2014 AM 35 4/5/13

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HOME

Saucy Get A Little

By: Lara West

T

here are a lot of reasons why it’s easy to believe that summer was designed for family gatherings and grilling, but it’s not a party without wonderfully flavored meats.

This year, it’s time to forget those bottled sauces that everyone has already tasted before, and serve a deliciously unique sauce that will have your friends begging for the recipe.

Just like language and culture, barbecue sauce has a different taste profile in different regions of the country. Basic sauce making ingredients you can find in your cupboard are brown sugar, vinegar, honey and a tomato product. Adding other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, herbs and molasses can help make your sauce taste out-ofthis-world delicious.

Sauce making is more than mixing a little ketchup and brown sugar. There are endless possibilities for what you could be mixing in your homemade sauces, but even a perfect sauce can be robbed of its fame when four simple mistakes are made:

1. Cooking on a dirty grill. Show your grill some love

Flavor tip: If you find your sauce is too sweet, add a bit of mustard to counteract it.

by cleaning and oiling it, and your love will taste through to your food.

2. From fridge to grill. Pull your meat out to warm

when you preheat your grill. When your meat is cold, the outside will cook and burn before the heat cooks the insides.

3. Burning the sauce. When your sauce is sweet and

includes sugar, that sugar is going to be burnt. Hold off on adding the sweet sauces until your meat is nearly cooked (or completely cooked if you have that kind of self-control.)

4. Cutting into the meat. Put the knife away, and save all the delicious flavors in your meat. Use a thermometer to check if it is cooked properly and thoroughly.

5. Rushing to eat. The secret to serving great meat off

the grill is cooking it low and slow, but it’s also important to save a few minutes to allow the meat to rest before serving.

Even cheap meats can be masked by a great sauce, and anyone who tells you otherwise didn’t have a great sauce or marinade on their cheap meat. •••

Try one of these recipes, or create your own this summer: Just Dip Your Tongue In It BBQ Sauce • 2 Cups Ketchup • 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar • 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce • 3 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce • 2 Tablespoons Cider Vinegar • ¼ Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes • 3 Cloves of Garlic, Minced Add all ingredients to a medium-sized saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat and continue simmering for 15 minutes.

Apply to meat same day, or refrigerate in airtight container for four to five days.

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Dream of Me Marinade • ¾ Cup Red Wine Vinegar • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil • 2 Tablespoons Chopped Fresh Rosemary • 2 Tablespoons Chopped Fresh Oregano • 3 Garlic Cloves, Chopped • 1 Bay Leaf • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper to Taste Stir all ingredients together in mixing bowl.

Refrigerate with meat for 30 minutes to overnight.

Kiss My Hive Glaze • ¼ Cup Honey • 1 ½ Tablespoon Soy Sauce • 1 ½ Tablespoon Ketchup • 2 Teaspoon Dijon Mustard • 2 Teaspoon Worcestershire sauce • 1 Teaspoon Cider Vinegar • 1 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Season the chicken with salt and pepper and brush on a thin layer of glaze every five to eight minutes. Apply a fresh layer of glaze just before serving.

BS-

boom

business

It’s Not What You

Think!

B

By: Rita Miller

y any standards, today’s culture is enamored with acronyms. Everything from LOL to TBH gives us a reason to scratch our heads to make sense of today’s shorthand.

One abbreviation every adult should become familiar with is BS and not the BS you are probably thinking of! I’m referring to Balance Sheet, the accounting term for your financial health.

Over the years, I’ve heard plenty of business owners’ talk about their net income and their income statement. There is a temptation to believe that if your income statement shows a profit; your financial health is fine. That may not always be the case. It is important to put the balance sheet at the top of your monthly financial review, giving it priority over profit/loss.

The balance sheet is a listing of assets, liabilities and equity.

In personal finance, this becomes a summary of things you own such as bank accounts, brokerage investments, home, car, coins and other assets. These assets are “balanced” with the sum of liabilities and equity. Liabilities include mortgages, lines of credit and items such as auto loans. Equity is what you’ve put into to your financial health over the years. Let’s take a look at each of these items.

1. Assets- Assets are the good guys of financial health. It’s easy to list them out and assign a value. How much money do you have in the bank, both checking and savings? You should aim to have three to six months of projected expenses in savings. Do you have a brokerage account that provides a monthly statement of earnings? What personal items do you own: house, condo, cars? Do you have an IRA or 401(k)? List each of these items, with their values (use a month end to get a good cut off time). If you don’t have a statement to back up the value, use a good estimate.

2. Liabilities- Hopefully this list is short! Start with credit card debt; do you have numerous cards? List the balances and interest rates. List other short term debt such as lines of credit.

Finally, what is your long term debt, such as home mortgage or other bank notes that are payable over a year. The balances should reflect principal due, not the sum of principal and interest.

3. Equity- Equity is a really a plug figure. If your assets exceed your liabilities you will have positive equity. This means you are worth more than what you owe. If your assets are less than your liabilities, you will have negative equity. You owe more than what you are worth.

After you have compiled these items, you can review your personal balance sheet. For each month, all of the items on the list should be reconciled to statements you receive from banks and other financial institutions. After the items are reconciled, you can feel confident that you have an accurate picture of your financial situation. Only then can you flip over to the income statement and find out exactly how your money is spent. The two statements work together to give you a complete picture, but often the balance sheet is neglected. A sample balance sheet would look like this:

Checking........................ $100 Savings.......................... $200 Home............................. $100,0 00 Cars............................... $50,00 0 IRA................................ $300,00 0 Total Assets................... $450,30 0 Credit Card................... $300 Mortgage....................... $50,000 Total Liabilities............. $50,300 Equity............................ $400,00 0

In this balance sheet, we can see the assets are greater than the liabilities. This person has spent their money wisely and has very little debt. They have positive equity. Use an excel spreadsheet to create a balance sheet, or just jot it down on a piece of paper. Either way, you can give yourself a better, bigger picture of your financial health. That’s no BS! ••• boom | JULY 2014

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JULY 2014 Events

The following listing includes events around town. Always call ahead for updates.

July 3rd

Eat Up and Wine Down

5:00 p.m.

Valparaiso Lincolnway Avenue, Valparaiso

Hosted on the first Thursday of every month, this event featuring a wide array of food choices costs only $5 per selection. Bring your appetite and save some money! Check out Valpodining.com for more information.

Monopoly Game Tournament 6:00 p.m.

Bittersweet Branch Library, Mishawaka

Go directly to Jail. Land on Free Parking. Build a hotel on Marvin Gardens. The possibilities are limitless during the Monopoly Game Tournament. All participants must be at least 8 years old and no registration is required.

The single game will be played by official, long-game rules, but with a 90-minute time limit. The player with the highest score at the end of the game will be the winner. Prizes will be awarded to all participants, and snacks will be served. Contact Margo Ferguson for more information at 574-259-0392.

July 4th

Fridays by the Fountain

11:45 a.m.

Jon R. Hunt Plaza, Downtown South Bend

On July 4th, The Pat Heiden Quartet, a Big Band/Swing Quartet, will be performing as part of the weekly Friday summer concert series. Food vendors are available and they offer a variety of lunchtime favorites including pizza, sandwiches, salads and pasta, or you may choose to 'brown bag' it. Tables are set in and around the plaza to give the concertgoers a space to eat and rest and enjoy the festivities or you may opt to bring a blanket and relax on the lawn. The event is free to the public. Call 574-235-9198 for more information.

July 5th

Summer Stroll with a Master Gardener

11:00 a.m.

Wellfield Botanic Gardens, Elkhart

Looking for something fun and relaxing to do this 4th of July weekend? Visit Wellfield Botanic Gardens and take a Summer Stroll with a Master Gardener. WBG Volunteer and 38

JULY 2014 | boom

Master Gardener Emma Wynn will be leading a guided tour of the Gardens on Saturday July 5th. Emma will be discussing the Garden’s history, plants and upcoming summer highlights as you leisurely stroll through the different gardens, enjoying the beautiful artwork and scenery. Participants should meet at the education tent. Program will take place rain or shine. It is free with admission.

No registration necessary. Call 574-2662006 for more information.

July 6th

East Race Concert Series 5:00 p.m.

Seitz Park, South Bend

Head on out to watch Terry and the Heart Beats, a group who plays blues, soul, and rock n’ roll! The event is free to the public. Call the South Bend Parks and Recreation Department for more details at 574-299-4765.

July 8th

Move Live on Tour

7:30 p.m.

Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend

MOVE LIVE ON TOUR is an all-new stage show starring JULIANNE and DEREK HOUGH who appeared on "Dancing with the Stars" and the MOVE company dancers. The show is a cross between a spectacular Broadway musical and the hippest, coolest dance party you have ever been to. Tickets are available at the Morris Box Office: M-F 10 AM-5 PM, ONLINE, or at the following Ticket Outlets with credit card: Hammes Bookstore/Eddy Street Commons and O’Brien Recreation Center, South Bend. Dinner and show ticket reservations are available. Call the Morris Box Office for more information at 574-235-9190.

July 9th

Your Health Matters in 2014

1:00 p.m.

Catholic Community Center, Benton Harbor

Join a Lakeland Health Educator for this FREE series of classes on a variety of health topics for men and women. Following each presentation, a free health screening will be offered, including blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and waist measurement. Preregistration is preferred, but not required; walk-ins are welcome. For more information or to register, call (269) 556-2808 or (866) 260-7544.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Seminar

6:00 p.m.

Paw Paw Lake Medical Center, Coloma

Join Orthopedic Surgeon Jeffrey Postma, DO, Community Bone & Joint, for a free presentation exploring the causes and treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome, a common and painful condition affecting the wrist and arm. Registration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. To register or for more information, call (269) 556-2808 or (866) 260-7544.

July 10th

Pre-Diabetes Class

1:30 p.m.

Lakeland Community Hospital, Niles

A FREE program designed for those at risk for developing type 2 diabetes! This twohour class will help people with higher than normal blood sugar levels learn about lifestyle changes that may help them avoid or delay the onset of the disease. During the first hour, a registered nurse will guide you through the disease process of diabetes and introduce healthy lifestyle changes. The final hour will be spent with a registered dietician who will suggest meal selections that can help you maintain your health and manage your weight. Class registration is required, please call (269) 556-2868.

July 11th EnviroFest

5:30 p.m.

Wellfield Botanic Gardens, Elkhart

Enjoy live music, local food and brews, and family-friendly entertainment. The Everyday People Band will take the stage at 5:30 p.m. and there will be live shows by Dr. Ian Caldwell (I.C.) Coldwater at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. in the Children’s Area. Peruse the booths to find local organizations and eco-friendly vendors, right here in Michiana. It’s an evening of good, green fun for everyone! Adults are $5 and kids are free at the gate. For more information call the Elkhart Environmental Center at 574-293-5070 or go to the website at www. elkhartindiana.org/eec.

July 12th

Saturday Visitor Hours at the Elkhart Environmental Center 1:00 p.m.

Elkhart Environmental Center, Elkhart

The Elkhart Environmental Center features indoor and outdoor activities for all ages.

Use the boat launch to fish along the Elkhart River, check out the food education garden, or take a walk along the beautiful trails that are open from dawn to dusk. The air-conditioned cabin is open from 1 to 4 p.m. Come inside to refresh, watch birds at the viewing window, check out environmental displays and explore the children’s activity loft. Visit the Elkhart Environmental Center’s website for more information at www.elkhartindiana.org/eec or call 574-293-5070.

July 13th

July 16th

The Ann Arbor Art Fair 9:00 a.m.

Ann Arbor

The Ann Arbor Art Fair is composed of four independently juried art fairs taking place simultaneously and contiguously throughout Ann Arbor, from July 16-19, 2014. The annual event includes live performances, interactive activities and artist demonstrations. Hours include: Wednesday July 16 - Friday July 18, 2014, 10-9, Saturday July 19, 10-6. For more information, visit www.TheAnnArborArtFair. com or on Twitter @AnnArborArtFair.

Squeeze Before You Sneeze

6:00 p.m.

Lakeland Medical Center, St. Joseph

Head on out to the Annual Family Festival, where food and fun awaits for all ages!

Music will be provided by the Soundsations.

Admission is free and open to the public. Call M.R. Falcons for more details at 574-288-1090.

Women of all ages may be affected by incontinence – even young women in their 20s and 30s who’ve recently had babies. Get your questions answered by providers from BellaNova Women’s Health during a free and candid discussion about the causes of female incontinence. Preregistration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome; call (269) 556-2808 or (866) 260-7544.

July 14th

July 17th

5:30 p.m.

Elkhart Environmental Center, Elkhart

8:30 p.m.

Between the Buns, Osceola

Annual Family Festival

12:00 p.m.

M.R. Falcons, South Bend

Monthly Meditation Yoga

Team Trivia

Are you interested in yoga? The Elkhart Environmental Center and Kristen Smith-Myers RYT 500 certified yoga instructor from Tree of Life Yoga are teaming up to offer free Monthly Meditation Yoga Classes in 2014. Class is held on the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Elkhart Environmental Center. Participants will learn basic relaxation techniques to help stretch the body and clear the mind. All levels are welcome. It is recommended that you dress comfortably and bring a yoga mat or towel. Space is limited and classes fill up fast. Registration is required. Call 574-293-5070 to register or for more information.

Head on out to Between the Buns for rousing rounds of trivia! Categories range from sports to movies to literature! Trivia is free with a $2 purchase. Call Between the Buns for more information at 574-679-4474.

July 15th

Smoke Free Life

6:00 p.m.

Lakeland Community Health, Watervliet

Lakeland HealthCare offers free quarterly seminars and one-on-one support sessions to help and encourage you to quit smoking.

Schedule a consultation with a tobacco treatment specialist and receive the tools you need to kick the habit for good. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call (269) 556-2808 or email smokefreelife@ lakelandregional.org

July 18th

Tour de Mitt- A Bike Ride for Hospice 8:00 a.m.

Mackinac City to Stevensville, MI

Dawn will take her first long-distance bicycle ride to raise money for a cause near to her heart – hospice. Join her July 18 through 26 on a 423-mile bike ride from Mackinac City to Stevensville, Michigan. Participate in all or part of the ride, no matter your level of experience. Help people get the care they need; go to www.fundly.com/tour-de-mitt-abike-ride-for-hospice.

July 19 & 20 ShakeScenes

2:00 p.m.

Washington Hall at Notre Dame

The Notre Dame Shakespeare Festival presents ShakeScenes. Over the course of one magical weekend, dozens of actors from throughout the community—neighbors, friends, and young and old alike—take to the stage at the

University of Notre Dame's historic Washington Hall with their own unique spin on some of Shakespeare’s most beloved works. Two different performances, each offering a series of ten-minute scenes, are sure to inspire and delight the entire family. Performances are free but require a ticket. Visit shakespeare.nd.edu or call 574-631-2800 to learn more.

July 22nd

Red Table Plaza Lunchtime Concert Series 11:45 a.m.

Studebaker Plaza, South Bend

Come out and enjoy acoustic performances by soloists, duets, and small groups. Enjoy local food from downtown restaurants while you listen! Call 574-282-1110 for more information!

July 24th

Andrew and the Family Ferlic 9:00 p.m.

Fiddler’s Hearth, South Bend

Hear Andrew and the Family Ferlic play traditional folk/Americana on July 24th at Fiddler’s Hearth. Call 574-232-2853 for more information.

July 26th

Castles & Cottages Tour of Homes 10:00 a.m.

Paw Paw Lake Yacht Club, Coloma

Enjoy a day on Paw Paw Lake while supporting the Community Health Foundation of Watervliet at the Castles & Cottages Tour of Homes. During the tour, pontoon boats ferry participants to unique lakefront homes from the Paw Paw Lake Yacht Club; maps are available for those who want to travel by car.

Proceeds from the event support projects and services at Lakeland Community Hospital, Watervliet. Advance tickets will be available at Lakeland gift shops and on the day of the event at the Yacht Club. Please call (269) 9275143 for more information. To register online, visit www.lakelandhealthfoundations.org.

July 29th

Living Through Grief

6:30 p.m.

First Congregational Church, St. Joseph

This seminar is offered free of charge for any adult who has experienced the death of someone close. Anticipatory grief feelings will also be discussed. The seminar will address various aspects of grief to help individuals gain knowledge and renewed strength. Presented by staff from Lory’s Place, this discussion is intended to offer hope and life-affirming ways to address one’s own grief, as well as be of support to another facing grief. Call 269-983-2707.

boom | JULY 2014

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Offer expires July 31, 2014.

5155 Verdant Dr. | Elkhart, IN 46516 | 574.294.6181 | 3355 Douglas Rd. | South Bend, IN 46635 | 574.647.2273

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