Pittsburgh 55+ Magazine Winter 2016 issue

Why Does Weight Loss Get Harder with Age? Dr. Bridget Chufo

Also in this Issue...

• Beware of Scams • Retirees Living the Dream • Downsizing Your Home • A Look Back to 1977

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

HappyNewYear!

P.O. Box 722 Wexford, PA 15090-0722

Phone: 724-940-2444 Fax: 724-940-2447 Email: info@PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com President & Publisher Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor Marianne Reid Anderson Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator Laura Arnold

Marketing & Account Executive Mary L. Simpson Design & Production Kostilnik & Assoc. Graphics, Inc. Distribution Dominion Distribution

Laura Arnold

Mary Simpson

llpspc@consolidated.net

mlsspc@consolidated.net

Marianne Reid Anderson

Paula Green

info@PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

info@PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine is published four times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge throughout the Greater Pittsburgh region.

Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year.

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his is the time of year where we are inundated with suggestions on how to improve our health, looks, bank accounts, organizational skills and relationships. With this being noted, this issue has many suggestions on how to start and help us keep our New Year’s resolutions. For instance, our cover story deals with weight loss as we age and will help you understand why it is harder, but not impossible.

Downsizing seems to be a popular topic as we age and we are featuring some practical tips on how to downsize and help you to get your homes organized.

Every day on the news, I hear about another health scam alert.

UPMC Aging Institute has some updated information for us in this issue to keep us informed and aware.

As a child, I remember visiting the Buhl Planetarium on the North Side on a cold winter Sunday. Pittsburgh has always been known for interesting and exciting things to do all year round and this issue; we take a look back at some of the fun places that are a part of Pittsburgh’s winter history in our Pondering Pittsburgh feature.

Some of our retirees are living out their dreams, and they have shared the exciting accomplishments they have achieved with Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus magazine. We hope this article encourages other readers to share with us what they have accomplished by doing what they love. Please contact us at info@ pittsburghfiftyfiveplus.com so we may share your stories in future issues!

Stay warm and enjoy reading the winter issue of Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus magazine. Thank you for your continued support and we invite Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus readers to submit story ideas and photos about the people, places and things that make Pittsburgh an outstanding place to live! n

“Age is an issue of mind over matter.

If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter”

By Mark Twain

The mission of the Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. is to connect the people of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest senior publication, Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, health, and recreational needs of seniors in our area.

The contents of Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.

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Find us on under Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus Magazine!

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Contents 6 Cover Story: Why Does Weight Loss Get Harder with Age? 8 The Aging Institute: Beware of Health Scams 10 Chiropractic Family Health Center: Healing Peripheral Neuropathy 13 Better Hearing is a Process, Not an Event!

14 Lose Up to 30 Lbs. in 30 Days!

16 Retirees Living the Dream Marianne Reid Anderson and Rosemary Garrity

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18 Former Winter Pastimes in the ‘Burgh Paula Green 20 Ice Dams and Attic Condensation Pete Piotrowski 21 Reverse Mortgages 22 The Upside of Downsizing Don Fritsch 27 Nonprofit Development Corp.

Transforming Property into Service

In Every Issue...

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2 From the Publisher Marion Piotrowski 24 The Good Old Days: Step Back into 1977 Paula Green 26 Winter ’16 Happenings 28 Remember When: A Winter Welcome Joe Bullick Correction: On page 27 of our Fall 2015 issue, Dwight D. Eisenhower succeeded Harry S. Truman. Eisenhower was not vice president. In 1950, the vice president was Alben W. Barkley.

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Winter 2016 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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COVER STORY

Why Does Weight Loss Get Harder with Age? Dr. Bridget Chufo has heard these words all too often. In fact, for over 35 years, she has been listening and helping people who need to lose weight, particularly those who need to lose weight so they can enjoy an active, happy retirement.

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ccording to Dr. Chufo, “It is important to maintain a healthy weight as we age. Excess weight combined with the strain of aging can make one more susceptible to illness and can actually shorten one’s life. However, changes in metabolism and the difficulty of eliminating poor habits from one’s lifestyle can make weight loss difficult for middle age and elderly individuals.”

“However,” continues Dr. Chufo, “losing weight requires more effort as one reaches middle age due to many factors. Although it is indeed harder to lose weight with age, it still can be done and one can still have a healthy body, if you understand why the weight is tougher coming off and then, finding the answers to these changes in the aging body.”

Specifically, Dr. Chufo has identified the following changes that our bodies go through as we age as the culprits in bringing about weight gain: n A key reason for losing weight becomes more difficult with age is that one’s muscles naturally shrink as one ages. But, if we fight back with strength training, each pound of muscle one gains will increase the metabolism and help one burn more calories throughout the day. Strength training can also help protect your bones and prevent osteoporosis. n Besides the major changes in muscles, our metabolisms change. Metabolism, the amount of calories naturally burned

per day, decreases as one ages as much as 3% a decade.

Consequently, weight loss can become more challenging with a slower metabolism. n Also, the changes our bodies go through with our hormones affect weight significantly. According to the Mayo Clinic, the hormonal changes of menopause do not necessarily trigger weight gain in women. They can, however, change the way your body looks, causing excess weight to accumulate in the abdomen, rather than the hips and thighs. The emotional effects of hormonal changes, can lead to crash diets that ultimately make permanent, healthy weight loss more difficult. n Additionally, sleep is far more important with weight gain and loss than we ever thought. Research shows that we do need eight hours of uninterrupted sleep most every night. n Another factor that may strongly affect weight gain as we age is our thyroid. Thyroid problems strike as many as 1 out of 5 adults over age 40 and 8 out of 10 of those adults are women!

The most common of these is hypothyroidism—an underactive thyroid—and it’s one of the primary reasons many women over 40 can’t lose weight. The thyroid is a tiny gland that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, and when it’s underactive, so is everything else. Think of low thyroid as having your internal thermostat set too low. Symptoms include feeling cold

What People over 55 are saying about Dr. Chufo: I like EVERYTHING about Dr. Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness program. I want to be a sexy grandma and look great at my granddaughter’s wedding. People can’t believe I’m in my 70’s and I don’t feel like it. My recent visit to my GYN said “Where’s your legs?!” Any change is hard and cutting down my bread and cheesecake took me about 4 weeks to get used to it, but I lost the urge to eat them and I’M ITALIAN! I feel great, I can fit into my clothes, and I hit my goal of a 20 pound weight loss in about 8 weeks! I am eating anything I want now while still maintaining my weight! Thank you, Dr. Chufo!! You’re the best!”

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Winter 2016 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

“Thank you, Dr. Chufo! You made me feel good and your guidance was perfect!”

• “I like the way I look.”

• “I feel good getting into old clothes I used to wear. I also get to go out and buy new, smaller clothes!”

• “Losing this weight helped me become happier!”

• “I love hearing the complements from friends when they notice how much my body has changed.”

• “I am self confident.”

• “I feel 10 years younger.”

• “Dr. Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness supplements helped me control my appetite and gave me energy.”

• “I knew what to eat to stay healthy, but the supplements helped me stay on track. I needed a boost. I like coming into the center for one-on-one coaching to make me feel accountable every week. Sometimes a phone call would suffice if I was busy and a visit wasn’t possible.”

all the time, poor circulation in the hands and feet, clammy hands, tiredness and lethargy, hair loss and weight gain! If you have these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice from a medical physician, as with any weight loss plan, and many times, medications are given which can help the metabolism.”

While it may seem too much to combat, all of these effects can be overcome!

Fortunately, Dr. Chufo has developed a remarkable combination of products, services and easy-to-follow weight loss plans to achieve success!

To begin, as a PhD and Registered Nurse who received her doctorate in Weight Loss and Obesity from NYU, Dr. Chufo has devoted her career to helping others with weight loss and wellness. Subsequently, Dr. Chufo has formulated a series of dietary supplements that will assist you in losing weight, toning your muscles, and more, regardless of your age.

These proven products have aided Dr. Chufo in helping thousands upon thousands of individuals of all ages, genders, sizes, occupations, economical statuses, and educational levels with the ability to lose weight and keep it off.

In addition to the effectiveness of her supplements, at Dr. Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness Center, Dr. Chufo provides the necessary services to help you first lose and then maintain your success and weight loss.

Specifically, Dr. Chufo’s center offers both group and 1:1 counseling with Dr. Chufo, personally, to help you stay motivated and to help you address any eating habits that may undermine your success. For example, if you eat from stress, boredom or emotion, Dr. Chufo can help you address these issues and provide the correct education and coping strategies to conquer these habits. Dr. Chufo is devoted to helping you because she cares.

Other services provided at Dr. Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness Center include access to the innovative Fat2Fit® equipment and state-ofthe-art Infrared Sauna.

The Fat2Fit equipment combines ancient Chinese medical theories with modern theories, to promote metabolism, eliminate tiredness, unwind muscles, and shape the curves of the body. With the Fat2Fit, just 10-20 minute sessions 2-3 days a week, is equivalent to spending 4- 6 hours training and with no strain on the joints or the heart.

Likewise, the Infrared Sauna sooth away aches and pains, increases your metabolism, improves blood circulation, loosens your muscles and helps give you clear and healthy skin. The warmth of the sauna can also decrease mental fatigue, fade away tension and leave your body and soul refreshed.

Over her 35+ years of education and experience, Dr. Chufo has found that her counseling sessions, products, services and weight loss plans COMBINE to bring about success for weight loss and wellness, mostly in people over 55.

If you are over 55 and want to lose weight, the time is now! It is imperative to your continued health and wellness as you age. Let Dr. Chufo help you ease your struggles with weight loss so you can maintain an active, happy and long life.

Call Dr. Bridget Chufo, PhD RN, today, to receive the help you need to lose weight, at 1-800-900-THIN (8446). Dr. Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness Center is conveniently located in Wexford at 11279 Perry Highway, Suite 302 or visit http://www.drchufosweightlossandwellness. com for additional information. n

Who is Dr. Bridget Chufo?

Dr. Bridget Chufo is a nationally renowned expert in the field of weight loss and obesity. She is a registered nurse with a Ph.D. from the prestigious New York University who has studied this field since 1980. She has been interviewed by most all national television and radio shows in the country. Working with thousands of patients who are debilitated from being overweight and obese, she has instituted strategies and techniques unique to helping them stick to a healthier way of living. She believes that most anything can be accomplished with hard work, persistence, prayer, and a great positive attitude. She believes that challenges come with life, but they can be overcome.

The reasons behind Dr. Chufo’s successes are clear. She has a strong drive and true passion for whatever she does and passes this on to her patients. She is full of energy and has a great sense of enthusiasm, even in the face of despair and hopelessness, which is simply a miserable part of life that most of us must go through at some point in our lives. Dr. Chufo has a tremendous amount of compassion and sincerity. She is gentle and kind in the way she does works with patients. She has a talent for helping people feel special and helps them to see the good in themselves. She believes in being responsible and accountable for the choices one makes in life and not in blaming others or situations. She, herself, has been through much adversity and many challenges in her personal and business life, but continues to put one foot in front of the other and keeps on moving.

Dr. Chufo shares her knowledge and experiences with others in both large and small groups. Anyone who wants to change their lives and make them better in all ways is her goal in life.

She helps people weather the storms that life presents and helps them to find the rainbows in their lives. She is consistently contacted as an expert in the areas of weight loss and obesity, but these areas continue to lead to changes in one’s whole being, meaning the body, as well as the mind, heart, and soul. She shares wonderful and miraculous stories that others have experienced with these changes. www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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F E AT U R E

The Aging Institute

Beware of Health Scams M

onetary scams are not the only type of scam that individuals need be mindful of in this era. Today, advertisements flood our senses with news of miracle drugs or drugs that will keep you healthy and ageless. No matter how enticing this sounds, we need to remain realistic so as to avoid falling victim to health scams. The NIA states that health scams usually revolve around diseases that have no cures, like diabetes, arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease.

According to the NIA, “untested remedies may be harmful.

They may get in the way of medicines prescribed by your doctor. They may also waste financial resources. And, sometimes, using these products keeps people from getting the medical treatment they need.”

The NIA addresses several subjects that have been linked to scams: n Anti­-aging medications: These “medications” are a product of living in an anti­-aging culture. There are no verified “treatments” to “slow or reverse the aging process.”

Instead, the NIA concludes for now, “making healthy lifestyle choices offers you the best chance of aging well.” n Arthritis remedies: Arthritis is not always a constant pain, which is why, the NIA theorizes, arthritis remedies remain on the market. If the pain is suddenly gone after you take an arthritis remedy, one might attribute it to the effectiveness of this remedy. However, that is not necessarily the case. Be cautious; remember that before the introduction of the remedy, your pain might have disappeared for periods of time as well. n Cancer cures: As with anti-­aging medications and their growth, “cancer cures” survive, because there is a constant panic associated with cancer in our culture. The NIA says, “people with cancer may lose valuable time and the chance to benefit from a proven, effective treatment” when victims succumb to cancer cure scams. n Memory aids: The NIA address several scams involving memory aids, such as “smart pills, removal of amalgam dental fillings and certain brain­retraining exercises.” n Dietary supplements: Supplements are something that individuals should be wary of, because it is likely that they have not been formally tested. The best thing that people can do is talk to their doctor prior to use. n Health insurance: If you are worried that you fall victim to a health insurance scam, you can call your county State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) office to see what background knowledge they have on the health insurance provider and the specific program that you have heard about. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

SHIP is there for you to look into these matters, including whether the provider covers your area or not.

Here is a list of red flags that the NIA has compiled to assist you when you hear about a drug or remedy that may leave you skeptical: n Promises a quick or painless cure n Claims the product is made from a special, secret or ancient formula n Offers products and services only by mail or from one company

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Winter 2016 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

n Uses statements or unproven case histories from so­-called satisfied patients n Claims to be a cure for a wide range of ailments n Claims to cure a disease (such as arthritis or Alzheimer’s disease) that hasn’t been cured by medical science n Promises a no-­risk, money­back guarantee n Offers an additional “free” gift or a larger amount of the product as a “special promotion” n Requires advance payment and claims there is a limited supply of the product And here are some helpful organizations: n Council of Better Business Bureaus 4200 Wilson Blvd., Suite 800 Arlington, VA 22203­-1838 1­-703-­276-0100 www.us.bbb.org

n National Institute on Aging Information Center P.O. Box 8057 Gaithersburg, MD 20898-­8057 1­- 800­-222­-2225 (toll­ free) 1-­800-­222­- 4225 (TTY/toll ­free) n State Health Insurance Assistance Program (in PA­Apprise) Contact information varies by county and state.

For PA, the number is 1­800­783­7067 http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/ server.pt?open=514&objID= 616587& mode=2

A list of contact numbers and website can be found here: http://www.payingforseniorcare. com/longtermcare/resources/state_ health_insurance_programs.html n U.S. Postal Inspection Service http://postalinspectors.uspis.gov n

n Federal Trade Commission FTC Complain Assistant 1­- 877­-382-­4357 (toll­ free) 1-­866­- 653­- 4261 (TTY/toll­ free) www.ftc.gov n Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Ave. Silver Spring, MD 20993­-0002 1­- 888­- 463­- 6332 (toll­ free) www.fda.gov n National Cancer Institute Public Inquiries Office 6116 Executive Blvd., Suite 300 Bethesda, MD 20892­-8322 1­- 800­- 422­- 6237 (1­800­4­CANCER) (toll­ free) n National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse 1 AMS Cr. Bethesda, MD 20892­-3675 1-­877-­226­- 4267 (toll­ free) 1­-301-­565­-2966 (TTY) www.niams.nih.gov

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

Chiropractic Family Health Center is the only facility in the Pittsburgh area to offer this breakthrough treatment.

Chiropractic Family Health Center: Healing Peripheral Neuropathy Chiropractic Family Health Center announces a breakthrough treatment protocol for treating peripheral neuropathy pain, a common condition with devastating effects and thought to be incurable.

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eripheral Neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body.

Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes

Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms can include: • • • • • •

Numbness Burning pains Cramping Sharp, electric pain Hurt when you walk Difficulty sleeping from leg/foot discomfort • Pricking/tingling feelings • Dependency on medication • Loss of balance or coordination

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place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur.

Approximately 20 million Americans suffer from this debilitating disease. It is commonly associated with diabetes, however, neuropathy symptoms can also occur in patients with restless leg syndrome, sciatic neuropathy, and has been recently linked to statin drugs used to lower cholesterol. Although, there are also patients who just have neuropathy without a particular cause.

Many patients are suffering from symptoms of painful cramping, burning and tingling, difficulty walking, numbness and even interruption of sleep.

The specialized treatment protocol offered at the Chiropractic Family Health Center includes 9 specific treatments that are designed to heal rather than just deal with the symptoms. This therapy has

Winter 2016 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

long been well recognized internationally, and these recent advancements offer hope for many more to live a more painfree and enjoyable life.

Dr. Shawn Richey (a member of the NeuroTCA) has seen many patients suffering with peripheral neuropathy. He has treated patients that have tried everything including potentially harmful medications and other painful testing and treatments. This can leave patients still struggling and wandering down the long road of endless disappointment. Now we

Proven Results

for Diabetics, Post Chemotherapy, and Idiopathic (Unknown cause)

I started seeing results after only three treatments. After several weeks, I no longer awake during the night with nerve pain or electric shocks in my foot.

I now walk with little or no pain and I am able to complete an hour-long Jazzercise class or 90-minute Pickleball game.

What little soreness I may feel after activity is significantly reduced and goes away quickly without medication. — Christine H.

Originally, my neuropathy was diagnosed as due to my diabetes, even though I had symptoms years before I had diabetes. So a friend of mine suggested that I go to Dr. Shawn Richey. I immediately felt better after each treatment and noticed a significant change by the time I was on a third of the way through the process. Dr. Shawn also adjusts my back for me and that always makes such a difference, as well. I highly recommend Dr. Shawn for both neuropathy and for chiropractic care. — Phyllis Neszpaul

This treatment program has given me miraculous relief from a debilitating and painful disease. I would recommend anyone, who suffers from peripheral neuropathy, choosing to have Dr. Shawn help you to your way to recovery as he has helped me. I thank him so much for bringing into my life this miraculous treatment. — Nancy

I’ve suffered with peripheral neuropathy in my feet and legs for 12 years. I travel 100 miles a day for treatments, my feet and legs are waking up after a long hibernation. I’m going to see my neurologist and tell him that I beat neuropathy!

I can’t wait to see his reaction! I now take my brother’s 88-year-old mother-in-law with me. She also noticed improvement after one visit. Dr. Shawn and his neuropathy treatments are awesome! Life is good… — Lynne Karanovich

“For a few months I was experiencing tingling and numbness in my feet, I was also becoming off balance when I walked. A friend of mine saw an article in Pittsburgh 55+ Magazine describing exactly what I was experiencing. It was called neuropathy. It has only been a short time and already I’m feeling 50% better. Thank you Dr. Richey.” — Liz H.

are able to address the pain associated with peripheral neuropathy with a successful, non-invasive, drug-free approach that includes the use of light therapy to stimulate tissue repair.

With Dr. Shawn Richey’s neuropathy treatment protocol, patients no longer need to suffer with the pain and symptoms that have restricted their lives.

“I highly recommend Dr. Shawn Richey and everyone at his practice. I am already feeling a significant reduction in symptoms and pain relief even though I’m only part-way through my treatments. I am even improving my overall health since now, I can go for walks and be more active.” — Lynda E.

This ground-breaking treatment has achieved a 90% overall satisfaction rate.

The treatment identifies the cause and enables nerve endings to regenerate and heal rather than remain damaged. As the treatments repair the nerve endings, pain is reduced, and patients regain balance and coordination. n

We may not be your first choice, but we will be your last.

Call for a free consultation!

Dr. Shawn Richey is a neuropathy professional and a member of Neuropathy Treatment Centers of America – www.neurotca.com.

Contact Dr. Shawn Richey today at 724-940-9000 or email him at drshawn@backnline.com.

2591 Wexford-Bayne Road, Suite 207, Sewickley, Pa. 15143 • Located within a mile off the Wexford exit of I-79.

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

Better Hearing is a Process, Not an Event!

The road to better hearing is a process. A hearing loss affects your awareness of sound (loudness, the quality (base/treble) of sound and the way your brain organizes the information from each ear to form a total “auditory landscape” of your environment.

Dr. R. Patrick Francis, Board Certified Audiologist

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ypically, a person seeking help with their hearing has had the problem for many years. As hearing loss gradually worsens, sounds slowly fade into the distance until they simply no longer exist and are soon forgotten. After years of hearing sound in a muted fashion, we tend to remember sounds with the same muted quality and so the brain reconfigures itself to recognize our environment in this fashion.

Because we tend to “remember” sound in this distorted fashion, we become almost hypersensitive to the presence of these sounds when they are again made audible. The re-awakening of sound awareness often results in the perception that they are too loud or they are not “normal.”

When hearing aids are introduced, we must reorganize how our brain reacts to the world of sound that surrounds us 24 hours a day! The only way our brain is able to reorganize the rich and beautiful world of sound is to use your hearing aids all waking hours and approach these experiences with a positive attitude.

With the many recent changes in healthcare, you may have access to hearing aid benefits that were not an option in the past, however they can be confusing. Please call our office, Francis Audiology Associates, at 724-933-3440 and we will be glad to help you understand your insurance options and how we can best meet your hearing needs with your available benefits. n

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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Lose 30 lbs. in 30 Days up to

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as your weight loss plateaued? Do you eat right and exercise but the scale doesn’t move? Is your metabolism slowing due to middle age or over-eating? Are you having health-related issues due to your weight? Feeling aggravated, frustrated and helpless every time you get on the scale?

With Dr. Michael Vactor’s innovative weight loss program, you can lose up to 30 lbs. in 30 days and learn to keep it off, permanently.

Jen S., Pittsburgh PA Lost 47 lbs.

Tammy T., Cranberry Twp. PA Lost 48 lbs.

How it Works: Unlike other weight loss programs, Dr. Vactor’s plan focuses on losing the weight and keeping it off through a safe, healthy system that is made up of ALLNATURAL INGREDIENTS with NO STIMULANTS. The system is, quite simply, designed to increase your metabolism. The system increases your metabolism by naturally invigorating your hypothalamus (responsible for your metabolism), without stimulants, while decreasing your hunger response. This way, your own fat-burning engine works at its optimum performance while re-acclimating your metabolism to first lose the weight and then adjust to your new body to keep off the weight. Unlike other programs that you may have experienced, where you lose weight but then gain it all back or even more, this program focuses on first weight loss, then helping you readjust to the thinner you.

In addition, this program has consistent, predictable weight loss results where people also see a dramatic improvement in their overall HEALTH in about a month’s time. According to Dr. Vactor, “I have seen cholesterol numbers, blood pressure and blood sugar levels return to normal in 30 days. People who follow our program as outlined get great results! But I must be straight-forward about our sys-

Here is my weight loss journey…

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CALL NOW

to reserve your advertising space for the next issue!

724-940-2444

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Winter 2016 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

was over 205+ pounds, miserable and uncomfortable! I wanted to be healthy and thin so I could go and do everything my husband and stepson like to do! I was sitting in my home office one day, at the end of my rope about 5 minutes away from signing up for Nutrisystem (even though in my heart, I didn’t believe it would work for me because I travel for my job 50-75% of the time). I came across an ad and it was Dr. Vactor’s program. I called and made an appointment for the next free seminar to hear more…MY LIFE HAS CHANGED EVER SINCE! Not only did I lose over 65 pounds in less than 10 months, I am the happiest and healthiest, I have ever been! Plus, I have been able to successfully learn how to manage my body and keep the weight off for good!! I am NOT an actress, I am a normal woman who always struggled with her weight! This program really works if you follow it and you are willing to find the foods that don’t work for your body and stop eating them!

Here are the pictures of my results…I hope you give it a try and find the same happiness and success that I did.

Tina Z. (Wexford, PA)

and Keep it Off with Dr. Vactor’s Innovative Weight Loss Program! tem. You must be dedicated, committed and want results.”

Several different products come with the plan, as well as, a simple, easy-to-follow meal plan that is based on normal food that you can get anywhere and prepare easily for yourself. In addition, they supply pH-balanced, ionized drinking water which is another important part of the system.

Also, exercise is NOT required. Alternatively, the focus, is getting the weight off first, so that exercise programs will help tone and strengthen rather than contribute to the risk of over-exertion from carrying too much weight.

Who is Dr. Michael Vactor, DC? Dr. Michael Vactor is a doctor of chiropractic, and a natural healthcare advocate in the north Pittsburgh area for over fifteen years.

He is also an award winning expert in weight loss management and is frequently featured on KDKA-TV, WPXI, Cornerstone-TV, radio shows and other public speaking venues on health and weight-loss issues. In addition, Dr. Vactor also cares for the players, coaches and families of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ and Pirates’ organizations.

To date, 90-95% of his patients have achieved their weight loss goals. YES, 90-95% of patients have achieved their weight loss goals. Dr. Vactor is so absolutely sure of the results and outcomes of his program, that he offers a GUARANTEE of RESULTS! Dr. Vactor and his family have lived in the Cranberry and Mars area, where he is also devoted to his community and helping his patients reach their goals. Over fifteen years in this community, he would not and could not make any such guarantee claims for weight loss, if they weren’t true.

How to Get Started: If you are serious about losing up to 30 lbs. of extraneous weight, inches off your waist and, most importantly, improving your health in about a month’s time, call for a FREE, in-office review of our revolutionary weight loss system. Our office is conveniently located at 673 Castle Creek Drive Ext., Suite 106, Seven Fields, PA 16046. http://www.drvactor.com Improve your health today! Call now, at 724-742-2700.

If you are one of the first 25 callers to schedule your no cost/no obligation consultation and in office review, and mention you saw Dr. Vactor in the Winter 2016 Pittsburgh FiftyFive Plus, you will receive a $50 discount good towards any of his guaranteed weight loss programs. Not valid with any other offers and new patients only are eligible. F

Before

After

Patty M., Cranberry Twp. PA – Lost 67 lbs. & 30 inches

Juanita S., Ambridge PA – Lost 43 lbs.

Guarantee can be reviewed in office prior to starting the program. Results may vary based on an individual’s health, diet, personal commitment, and adherence to the program. Information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

www.DrVactor.com 724-742-2700 Dr. Michael Vactor, DC

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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F E AT U R E

Jim Klinger and Greg Veal on the trail.

Retirees Living

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON AND ROSEMARY GARRITY

So many of our local retirees are getting the most out of life, enjoying what they love and doing what they have always dreamed of doing. We at Pittsburgh’s Fifty-Five Plus magazine applaud their many accomplishments. In this issue, we highlight the following inspirational retirees: ADVENTUROUS and FIT … and BIKING THE TRAILS

ACTIVE and HELPFUL … and SUCCESSFULLY PUBLISHED

Recently-retired Jim Klinger went on an incredible journey this summer – he biked with friend, Greg Veal, all the way to Washington, D.C. Rather than roads, the men traveled the 370 miles of bike trails that connect Pittsburgh with D.C. This way, they avoided trucks, traffic and hazardous conditions and enjoyed the smooth ride. They took nine days in order to take their time and see the sites and stop for meals. They camped along the way and carried everything they needed, except food.

“The amazing thing,” says Jim, “is the number of people you meet along the way and how nice they all are.” Jim rode a hybrid road/mountain bike by Trek®.

Jim encourages others interested in biking the trails to “first attend some biking seminars such as the ones at REI on the south side where you can also get some really great books and learn some great tips on the gear you might need.”

Did you know that Joe Bullick, 84 years young and one of our core writers at Pittsburgh’s Fifty-Five Plus magazine and the Town Crier columnist for our sister magazine Northern Connection, has also written and successfully published two books?

The first is his memoir entitled Put a Tent Over the Circus: The True Story of a Foster Child’s Love and Loss During the Great Depression that he wrote with Jennifer Gill Kissel. His amazing life story of love, faith and tragedy has sold over two thousand copies to date. Joe says the best way to get a copy of his memoir is to contact him directly at jejoe@consolidated.net.

His second book, Inspired Messages from A to Z by a Catholic Priest has just been released. Written with Jennifer Hogan, this book is a collection of inspirational messages and sentiments that Fr. William Schroeder assembled over the years for his homilies. Fr. Schroeder was with St. Alphonsus parish for 27 years from 1971 to 1988 and where Joe has been

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an active member for most of his life. Joe had his First Communion at St. Alphonsus, his confirmation, was married, both his children went to St. Alphonsus School and Joe remains active in the parish as a Eucharistic Minister and volunteer. While Fr. Schroeder was at St. Alphonsus, he and Joe became good friends and he left Joe all his files, from A to Z, of his collected inspirational messages. Be sure and watch our Facebook page for information on the best way to get the your copy or contact Joe directly at jejoe@consolidated.net.

SEASONED and SASSY... and STILL PLAYING! Envision this. The temperature is below freezing and it is snowing outside.

You open the door and are hit with air so cold that it takes your breath away. You retreat to your warm kitchen to drink coffee and to read the newspaper. As you peer out your window, you see your neighbor dressed in full winter gear heading to her car. She is waving with one hand and holding her paddle bag in the other.

REALLY?? Yes…REALLY! She is heading to the paddle courts in North Park to play paddle with friends, who, in many cases,

Joe Bullick and his wife Emma

The 4.0 senior tennis team enjoyed dinner in Lancaster after their matches.

First row: Lori Ruffolo, Joann Sirera, Colleen Geyer, Rose Lied, Jan Thompson Second row: Barb Griffith, Rosemary Garrity, Polly Burkhard

ng the Dream are much younger. Why? Ask Michelle Weniger, captain of one of the NP (North Park) teams and she’ll tell you, “Paddle is a lot of fun, and I feel energized after playing.” She is one of many players who play because it is great exercise and keeps the competitive juices flowing. And playing to win is important when you are one of eight teams in your division. According to Christi Hays, PPTA/USA certified professional, “It is all about guile…which we older set have in spades. And it is the only racquet sport that I know of where 50 and 60 year olds can compete with 20 year olds!” And if you’re wondering, competing in inclement weather requires choosing clothing that keeps you warm. These ladies know how to layer their outfits and wear gloves and even use hand warmers if necessary.

Many ladies play paddle in the winter and tennis in the summer. Others, like Jan Thompson who lives in Richland, plays tennis and paddle all year. “I love both sports and really enjoy the camaraderie with the women.” In August, a USTA 4.0 senior tennis team from the Oxford Athletic Club won their local division and went to Lancaster to compete with other senior teams from Philadelphia, Delaware, and New Jersey, among others. Trust me - the matches, as well as the ladies - were TOUGH!!

The ladies (and men) who play, are athletic, competitive, and energetic, but the socialization aspect of racquet sports

is also really important. Shirley Johnson, Carol D’Achille, Barb Lamagna and Colleen Ferraro play at Lakevue, a club located off Rt. 8, and play both competitively and socially with teams from NP, simply because they enjoy the sport and the people. Jeff McMaster, a nationally ranked paddle player, observes, “Many experienced players show the competitiveness, tremendous hand/eye coordination and the skill set to compete with women much younger than themselves.”

As the new year begins, it might be time to consider getting involved in a sport that will be an enjoyable way to exercise and socialize.

Whether you choose to be active with tennis, golf, or other sport or just want to look a fashionable woman of leisure, be sure and visit Gals On and Off the Green.

They offer stylish tennis, golf, resort, leisure and sports wear in sizes from zero to 22 and in a variety of fits and lengths so that you have great choices. From country club classic, to edgy and fashion forward - from sporty chic to feminine - Gals on and off the Green offers the looks and sizes that work well for you.

You can shop online at www.galsonandoffthegreen.com or visit the shop, conveniently located at 7440 McKnight Road, to browse, try on and get outfitted for your new sport or social activity.

let us know by emailing Pittsburgh’s Fifty-Five Plus magazine at info@ PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com. n

Do you know any retirees who are living the dream? Be sure and www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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PONDERING PITTSBURGH

Former Winter Pastimes in the ‘Burgh

BY PAULA GREEN

The Monroeville Mall is famously known for being a filming location for George Romero’s 1978 horror cult film Dawn of the Dead. It was fun to showcase the mall in an eerie fashion; however this expansive shopping facility also offered some exciting frolics as well.

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he mall was dedicated in Monroeville on May 13, 1969 and along with its array of shops and displays it also housed its own recreational fun. At the center of the original mall, on its lower level, was the Ice Palace, a large, indoor ice arena promoted as “a new rink-le in shopping.” For 15 years, mall patrons got to skate around at their leisure. Due to expansions and renovations, the Ice Palace closed its doors in 1984. It was replaced with an extensive food court, so if you visit the Monroeville Mall anytime soon, you can take a nostalgic trip back to those skating glory days.

Chances are longtime North Hills residents will recall skiing at Wildwood Highlands Ski Area which was located adjacent to North Park. The winter facility was an area hot-spot in the mid-seventies. It offered a 300-foot vertical drop and a chairlift which went over Pine Creek. A beginner’s slope was also featured

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along with three intermediate slopes and night time skiing which was popular with the teens.

Wildwood Highlands also has a rustic lodge equipped with arcade games, a snack bar and a ski school. The lodge sustained a devastating fire which brought about the ultimate demise of the ski facility. Today, Wildwood Highlands is opened as a family fun center with plenty of indoor and outdoor recreational activities. For snow enthusiastic, they also have snow tubing during the winter.

Many Pittsburghers may also recall Buhl Planetarium’s Great Miniature Railroad and Village. This railroad display began in 1920 with Charles Bowdish of Brookville, Penna. He originally began the holiday exhibit on the second floor of his house. On Dec. 1, 1954, it was relocated to Buhl Planetarium where it was originally called The Great Christmastown Railroad. The display which included a 200 foot track with a fairly small platform expanded to include the Thanksgiving and New Year’s holidays. In 1957 it was renamed The Miniature Railroad & Village. MRRV was a very popular pastime with Pittsburghers.

Buhl Planetarium officially became part of the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh on Jan. 1, 1987. Buhl closed its doors on August 31, 1991, and Carnegie Science Center opened on October 5, 1991. Under the new Carnegie Science Center ownership, the miniature railroad display is now bigger and better than ever. It’s now opened year round, except for two months, when it is closed for maintenance. The current railroad display features – 105 animations, 250,000+ trees, 14 aircrafts, 85 automobiles, one Mon Incline, 60 trucks, 22 horse-drawn vehicles, and 23,000 fans at Forbes Field. For more information, visit http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/ exhibits/miniature-railroad/. n

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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YOUR HOME

Ice Dams and Attic Condensation

BY PETE PIOTROWSKI

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hile stopping a leak or repairing a washing machine hose down in the basement might be fairly straightforward, ice dams and attic condensation, two forms of water damage typical to cold climate homes, are a little more complicated and a little trickier to fix. And since many homeowners aren’t frequent visitors to their own attics in the frigid winter months, water damage on the top floor might catch you off guard.

What are ice dams? What causes attic condensation? And if you’ve got either, what can you do?

Ice Dams: When the temperature in your attic is above freezing, snow on the roof will likely melt. When the snowmelt runs down the roof and hits the colder eaves, it refreezes. If this cycle repeats over several days, the freezing snowmelt builds up and forms a dam of ice, behind which, water pools up into large puddles, or “ponds.”

The ponding water can then back up under the roof covering and leak into the attic or along exterior walls. The right weather conditions for ice dams are usually when outside air temperatures are in the low 20s (°F) for several days with several inches of snow on the roof.

Attic Condensation: Condensation of water vapor on cold surfaces in attics can cause wood to rot, which can lead to costly repairs. Condensation typically occurs when warm, moist air migrates or is directed into the attic from living spaces below.

Research indicates unusually high humidity in the home’s living spaces is strongly associated with attic condensation problems.

Prevention: Building codes have some requirements that attempt to prevent the problems of ice dams and attic condensation. But codes don’t address all the issues, and many houses are built without following building codes.

First and foremost, it’s your builder or designer’s job to understand the relationship of humidity and air movement when designing and constructing the house so these problems don’t occur. Nevertheless, there’s more you can do.

Here are a few simple steps that can help prevent ice dams and condensation in your attic:

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Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, as well as dryer vents, should never be discharged into the attic space, always discharge outside. You may have an adequately ventilated attic, but this won’t matter if the bathroom exhaust fan dumps warm moist air directly into the attic space. This will result in condensed water vapor freezing onto cold attic materials, which will eventually thaw creating wet attic materials resulting in damage in the attic and inside the home.

Minimize ceiling mounted fixtures below the attic that create the need for holes in the drywall or plaster ceiling.

Properly seal ceiling penetrations to make them airtight, taking care to follow manufacturer clearance requirements for flues, chimneys, and recessed light fixtures.

Research shows keeping the attic air temperature below freezing when the outside air temperature is in the low 20s can reduce the occurrence of ice dams. Proper attic ventilation is key to keeping the attic cool, while adequate and properly installed insulation is key to keeping your house warm.

It is critical to keep soffit vents free from obstructions to allow the natural flow of cool outside air into the attic space to replace the warmer attic air that rises and flows outside ridge and/or roof vents. This flow of air will keep the attic cool and free of moisture build-up. Consult a professional for the best way to avoid ice dams and water damage in your home.

What Not To Do: While it might be tempting to try a quick-fix to break up that ice dam, don’t get too eager; not only is it dangerous on your roof, but you can also cause a lot of damage, especially in the colder months. Here are some things to keep in mind: Do not routinely remove snow from the roof or attempt to “chip away” the ice of an ice dam. It will likely lead to shingle damage. Do not install large mechanical equipment or water heaters in attics, especially in cold climates. Not only do they present an unwelcome fire hazard, but they’ll also increase the temperature in your attic. Do not routinely use salt or calcium chloride to melt snow on a roof.

These chemicals are very corrosive and can shorten the life of metal gutters, downspouts, and flashings. Runoff that contains

Winter 2016 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

high concentrations of these chemicals can damage nearby grass and plants.

What To Do: Follow up with your new home or home-improvement contractor to be sure that insulation in the attic space is adequate for your location. Verify soffit and roof or ridge venting exists for all roof planes and that soffit vents are neither blocked by attic insulation nor covered by newly installed maintenance free finishes outside the home. Verify all penetrations, access panels, and electrical fixtures are properly sealed and insulated to prevent heat and moisture from entering the attic space, while maintaining manufacturer’s required clearances. Verify all exhaust fans and dryer vents are discharged to the outside. Keep gutters clean of leaves and other debris. This will not necessarily prevent ice dams, but clean gutters can help drain ice melt away as it makes its way to the gutters during a thaw. Follow up a short-term ice dam remedy with determining and fixing the actual cause to your ice dam problem. Consult a trusted and competent professional.

This information is brought to you by State Farm Agent Pete Piotrowski. Contact Pete Piotrowski at (724) 935-6330 or visit www.peteinsurance.com. n

Reverse Mortgages What is a Reverse Mortgage?

A reverse mortgage is a loan for senior homeowners that uses a portion of the home’s equity as collateral. The loan does not have to be repaid until the last surviving homeowner permanently moves off of the property or passes away. At that time, the estate has approximately six months to repay the balance of the reverse mortgage. All remaining equity is inherited by the estate, and the estate is not personally liable if the home sells for less than the balance of the reverse mortgage.

Eligibility for a Reverse Mortgage To be eligible for an HECM Reverse Mortgage, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) requires that the homeowner be at least 62 years of age. If the home is not owned free and clear, then any existing mortgages must be paid off using the proceeds from the reverse mort-

gage loan at closing. In addition, you must meet financial eligibility criteria as established by HUD (Department of Housing and Urban Development).

Distribution of Money from a Reverse Mortgage

Loan Limits

There are several ways to receive the proceeds from a reverse mortgage: • LUMP SUM – a lump sum of cash at closing.

• TENURE – Equal monthly payments as long as the homeowner(s) live in the house.

• TERM – Equal monthly payments for a fixed period of time.

• LINE OF CREDIT –Draw any amount at any time until the line of credit is exhausted.

• And finally, ANY COMBINATION OF THE PRECEDING METHODS.

The available amount generally depends on four factors: • Age • Current Interest Rate • Appraised Value of the Home • Government Imposed Lending Limits.

For more information, visit www.arcfinancial.com or contact Joseph E. Archer, President of Arc Financial License NMLS #139712, directly, at (412) 471-6705 or email info@arc-financial.com. n

When Does a Reverse Mortgage Come Due? A reverse mortgage typically does not come due as long as you meet the loan obligations. You must live in the home as your primary residence, continue to pay any required taxes and homeowner’s insurance, as well as, maintain the home according to FHA requirements.

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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R E A L E S TAT E

The Upside of Downsizing

BY DON FRITSCH ASSOCIATE BROKER, CRS, SRES (SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST) NORTHWOOD REALTY SERVICES PA LICENSE AB067268

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hether we want the extra money from our current house, to do less yard work and maintenance, or to enjoy a newer home with a more open floor plan and less stairs, each of us will consider downsizing our house and our belongings at some point. While it may seem an overwhelming task at first, once you have a plan and get started, you will find yourself on a meaningful, new adventure filled with rewards.

When you downsize, your quality of life may improve dramatically.

For example, you can avoid the work, expense and hassle of maintaining a larger, more expensive house by moving

into one that suits your current needs and retirement budget. In addition, you may choose to move into a fifty-five plus or other retirement community. In this case, there is typically a community center filled with fun activities, fitness choices and social events where you can truly enjoy your retirement.

There are also potential financial benefits to downsizing. In addition to lower maintenance costs and perhaps getting rid of a mortgage, you may have lower taxes, lower utility costs, and may even increase your finances for your retirement, to name only a few of the financial rewards.

Of course, there are other alterna-

tives available that will enable you to stay in your current house rather than moving. You may want to consider modifying your existing home so that you can age in place. For example, you can work with an architectural designer to add a master bedroom and bathroom to the first floor, or make the laundry room and kitchen more accessible and easier to use. You may even want to consider a reverse mortgage or other means of financing to enable your choices.

Overall, the process to downsize is much simpler and the outcome more satisfying when you think it through and make a plan earlier rather than later. The key is that there is lots of help available so consult with experts. To begin, attend a free, no-obligation educational downsizing seminar and learn about your various housing options, how to downsize on your own terms and all the various resources that are available to you.

Times and Locations for upcoming, FREE downsizing seminars: Saturday, January 23 at the Pine Community Center from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon; Saturday, February 13 at the Northland Library 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. To RSVP or for other seminar dates and locations: Don Fritsch dfritsch@consolidated.net 724-816-9831 cell 724-741-2111 office www.downsizerseminar.com.

These seminars are presented by: Don Fritsch Associate Broker, CRS, SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) Northwood Realty Services PA license AB067268. n

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When Downsizing: Consider Donating

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hen busy going through things to downsize, you may find that you have items that you wish to donate to a charity. When donating to a charity, make sure you receive a tax receipt for the items donated as this can help off-set the taxes owed for the selling of your home or items. Another thing to consider when choosing a charity is FREE pickup of your items.

For example, Beautiful Buys, an up-scale, charity thrift store, offers FREE pickup of donated items and are so good at restoring items for re-sale in their two shop locations, that some donators have actually bought items of art and furniture back. Beautiful Buys is a part of the St. Barnabas Health System and all proceeds from the sale of donated items go to the St. Barnabas Free Care Fund. Some people have even donated their entire home of belongings. For more information on the services provided by Beautiful Buys, visit their website at www.BeautifulBuys.com. n

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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T H E G O O D O L D DAY S

Step Back Into...1977 “Roots” captivates television viewers

“The King” is found dead in his Graceland mansion

BY PAULA GREEN

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he year 1977 was an electrifying year. Lightning struck a Consolidated Edison substation along the Hudson River, which tripped two circuit breakers. The result was a massive power failure.

The entire city of New York was blacked out, parts of it for more than 24 hours. The United States was in the midst of an energy crisis, which resulted in the formation of the Department of Energy.

Average: The average income was $13,600.00.

Cost of a new home $49,500.00.

The average cost of a new car was $4,300.00. Gasoline was 65¢ per gallon. A dozen eggs cost 82¢. A gallon of milk cost $1.68. Bread was 32¢. Cost of a first-class stamp was 13¢.

Firsts: The space shuttle Enterprise, sitting atop a Boeing 747, went on its maiden flight above the Mojave Desert.

Criminal Gary Gilmore faces the firing squad, first execution in ten years.

Scientists identify previously unknown bacterium as cause of mysterious legionnaire’s disease.

Carter pardons Vietnam War draft evaders.

World News: Quebec adopts French as the official language.

The first oil flows through the Trans Alaskan Oil Pipeline.

The Queen of England “Queen Elizabeth II” celebrates 25 years as the monarch and more than one million people line the streets of London to watch the Royal Family on their way to St Paul’s at the start of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.

The first fusion reactions by laser are achieved.

Entertainment:

The first Apple II computer went on sale.

First woman Episcopal priest ordained.

U.S. Events: Elvis Presley dies from a heart attack, aged 42, on August 16 and leaving rock and roll fans worldwide mourning his loss.

On Oct. 14, Hollywood legend Bing Crosby dies while playing golf near Madrid Spain. He was 73 years old.

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Star Wars written and directed

by George Lucas and released by 20th Century Fox opens in American Theaters. The original Star Wars grossed nearly $800 million worldwide and won multiple awards at the 50th Annual Academy Awards and created a cult following. Academy Award winner for Best Picture – Annie Hall. Other popular 1977 films included

Winter 2016 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

- Rocky, Smokey and the Bandit, A Star is Born, Saturday Night Fever, King Kong, The Deep, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

Television: Laverne & Shirley, Happy Days, Three’s Company, 60 Minutes, Charlie’s Angels, All in the Family, Little House on the Prairie, Alice, M*A*S*H, and One Day at a Time. The Alex Haley book Roots is turned into a TV mini-series of eight episodes which aired in January 1977. It made history when it won nine Emmys, a Golden Globe, and a Peabody Award.

Songs: Album of the Year – The Stranger by Billy Joel. Hit tunes – Dancing Queen, Go Your Own Way, Like a Hurricane, What’s Your Name, Running on Empty, Hotel California, Deacon Blues, Dreams, Sweet Talkin’ Women, We Will Rock You and Black Betty.

Publishing: Time Magazine’s Man of the Year: Anwar Sadat. National Book Awards – Biography and Autobiography: Norman Thomas: The Last Idealist, W.A. Swanberg; Children’s Literature – The Master Puppeteer, Katherine Paterson; Fiction – The Spectator Bird, Wallace Stegner and World of Our Fathers, Irving Howe.

Sports: World Series Champions – The New York Yankees, Super Bowl Champs – Oakland Raiders, Stanley Cup Champs – Montreal Canadiens, NBA Champs – Portland Trail Blazers.

Politics: 39th President: James Earl Carter, Jr., Vice President: Walter F. Mondale

Quotes: “May the Force be with you” – Harrison Ford, Star Wars “We are two wild and crazy guys” – Steve Martin and Dan Aykroyd Saturday Night Live “I love New York” – NY State Dept. of Economic Development ad Sources: http://www.pop-culture.us/Annual/1977. html, http://www.infoplease.com/year/1977. html, http://www.thepeoplehistory.com/1977. html, http://norviewlodge113.com/fun%20 facts%201977.html, http://www.inthe70s. com/prices.shtml, http://www.1970sflashback. com/1976/economy.asp, http://www.wired. com/2010/07/0713massive-blackout-hits-newyork/, http://ultimateclassicrock.com/1977-songs/

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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WINTER ’16 HAPPENINGS Free Home Safety Inspection is available for seniors through the Open Your Heart to a Senior program. For info, call Cathy at (412) 307-0069, ext. 3313 or clpschirer@ nhco.org.

UPMC Senior Communities offers independent living & personal care.

For details, call 1-800-324-5523.

Free Services for Seniors through North Hills Community Outreach.

Help with rides to medical appts., grocery stores, yard work. For info, call Cathy at (412) 307-0069 ext.

3313 or Kerry at (412) 449-0151 to schedule an in-home registration visit.

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 10 a.m., 1st Monday of each month, St. Catherine of Sweden Parish, 2554 Wildwood Rd. For details, call Suzie, at (412) 337-6731.

Home Instead Senior Care® is offering a unique approach to help area families in Northwest Allegheny County manage the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Free training is available for families at HelpForAlzheimersFamilies.com.

McKnight Meals on Wheels provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled.

Services Ross Twp., Berkley Hills, Swan Acres & part of McCandless Twp. Call (412) 487-4088.

Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring – An Hour a Week Can Change a Child’s Life. For adults 50 & over become a tutor. Training sessions held on the fifth floor of the Duquesne Light Building. For details, call (412) 393-7648 or email jdspehar@oasisnet.org.

Support Groups

Bereavement Support Group (for Widows/Widowers over 50), 1-2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., St. Sebastian, Haber Hall. To register, call (412) 366-1300.

Paramount Senior Living at Cranberry Alzheimer’s Affiliated Support Group meets 3 p.m., the 1st Mon., of every month, and 2 p.m., the last Friday. Contact Pam, at (724) 779-5020.

Senior Meetings Cranberry Senior Citizens Club for residents 55+ meets at 1 p.m., the 2nd Tues., of the month in the Cranberry Municipal Center. Call (724) 816-4977 for info and programs.

Friends and Fun 55+ Singles meet at 7 p.m., every 1st Friday, at St. Ferdinand’s, Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp., Oldenski Hall, Upper Room. For info, call 724-7769274.

Friendship Groups for Visually Impaired, Men’s Group meets every Weds. 1-3:15 p.m., Knitting & Crocheting Circle meets every Weds.,1-3:15 p.m., Monthly Meeting 2nd Thurs. of each month 1:15-3:15 p.m., The Lunch Bunch meets 4th Thurs. of every month 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., The Talking Book Club meets 1st Mon. of each month 1-2:30 p.m. For info, call (724) 444-0064.

Gateway North Chapter of AARP meets the 3rd Monday of the month (Feb. 15) at West View Fire Hall, Perry Hwy next to the VFW. All are welcome!

Primetimers, noon, first Thurs of the month, Christ Church Grove Farm, Ohio Twp. Call (412) 7414900 or visit http://www.ccgf.org.

Entertainment & Social Events Legacy Theatres shows: The Tamburitzans, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 21; Swingin’ With An Angel (Johnny Angel), 7:30 p.m., Mar. 12; Rat Pack with Bo Wagner and Buster Maxwell, 7:30 p.m., Apr. 2; Pure Gold, 7:30 p.m., Apr. 30. For tickets, 1-877-9876487 or thelegacylineup.com.

Murder Mystery, 2 p.m., Jan. 26, Sherwood Oaks, Cranberry Twp., call 1 (800) 642-2217.

Three Rivers Quilters Guild Show, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Mar. 17; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Mar. 18; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Mar. 19, The Circuit Center, South Side.

For info, visit quiltshow@threeriversquilters.org.

Health Good News for Bad Hips, 2:30 p.m., Jan. 27, Beatty Pointe Village, call, (412) 374-9000.

Seminars Hollywood Scandals, Lies & Coverups, 2:30 p.m., Jan. 26, Strabane Trails Village. To register, call (724) 225-4100.

Who Killed Jon Benet Ramsey, 2:30 p.m., Jan. 20, Beatty Pointe Village, Monroeville, call, (412) 374-9000; Jan. 26, Vanadium Woods Village, Bridgeville, call, (412) 221-2900; Jan. 27, Lighthouse Pointe Village, Fox Chapel, call (412) 781-2707; Jan. 29, Hampton Fields Village, call (412) 492-8448.

Spiritual 2nd Act, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 2nd Thurs., runs thru May 12, Orchard Hill Church, Brandt School Rd. For adults ages 55+ worship time through music and prayer. For details, (724) 935-5555.

The Oscars, 3 p.m., Jan. 28, Seneca Hills Village. For info, call (412) 7931700.

Orchid Show Blossoms at Phipps Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival & The Pittsburgh Creative Arts Festival

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he Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival & The Pittsburgh Creative Arts Festival will be held March 4-6, at the David Lawrence Convention Center. Special events include: PJ Party with SteveBe, 8 p.m., Mar. 5; Magical Mystery Spin, Creative Open Spin, Pat Catan’s “Make It & Take It,” Pop-Up Stand, and Warm Up America Lounge. Learn more at www.pghknitandcrochet.com. n

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he Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania (OSWP) annual Orchid Show, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, March 19, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, March 20, at the Phipps Garden Center, 1059 Shady Avenue (Fifth & Shady). This year’s theme is “An Orchid Odyssey.” Patrons will be enchanted by the varied exhibits displaying hundreds of blooming orchids at their finest. Admission is free.

Donations are appreciated, open to the public. For info, visit www.oswp.org. n

Volunteer Opportunities: Drivers Urgently Needed for Volunteer Shuttle Service, NHCO, in partnership with Allegheny County and St. Margaret Foundation. The new shuttle will pick up seniors on various days on the Route 28 corridor for local UPMC medical appts. No special license is required and training is provided. Contact Kerry at (412) 449-0151 or kkmulhern@nhco.org.

Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers to visit Hospice patients. For details, call (412) 367-3685.

North Hills Community Outreach’s Faith in Action program is seeking Senior Companion volunteers. For details, contact Nancy, at (412) 307-0069 or nljones@nhco.org.

North Hills Community Outreach needs volunteers for their senior programs. For details, contact Patti, at (412) 408-3830 ext. 3204.

Open Your Heart to a Senior volunteer orientations, 6 p.m., Jan. 26, Lighthouse Pointe, Aspinwall,(412) 449-0151,kkmulhern@nhco.org.

Pittsburgh Friendship Group is looking for volunteers to help visually impaired seniors. No experience is necessary. Call (724) 444-0064.

Seniors in all areas of Allegheny County need snow shovelers.

Call the North Hills Community Outreach at (412) 307-0069 ext.

3313 or clpschirer@nhco.org to register for the Snow Angels program.

Senior Volunteers needed at The Emmaus Community of Pittsburgh, 282 Sarah Street on the Southside.

Help make a difference in the lives of those with intellectual disabilities.

For details, call (412) 381-0277 or www.EmmausPgh.org.

Volunteer drivers are needed for various programs to help seniors.

For details, call (412) 307-0071 or allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org.

Nonprofit Development Corp.

Transforming Property into Service Since 2010, Nonprofit Development Corporation (NDC) has been working to support individuals, nonprofit organizations and government entities to obtain technical assistance, affordable space, supported employment and funding opportunities.

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n 2013, the agency launched a new division, Community Builders Group (CBG). The purpose of CBG is to provide the community and nonprofits with affordable, quality residential and commercial construction, property maintenance and supportive services. As a nonprofit organization, CBG’s places the highest value on providing service to individuals and improving the community in which we live and work.

CBG has been able to create a team of skilled craftsmen to perform construction and remodeling, including carpenters, plumbers, electricians and general laborers.

Residential services include home modifications and adaptations for accessibility, such as wheelchair ramps and accessible, safe bathrooms, along with general home repairs and remodeling.

In June of 2014, the agency recognized a need for in-home services for the older adult population. CBG began working with the Butler County Area Agency on Aging to provide home support services to older adults who were experiencing difficulty in maintaining their home environment, to enable them to remain in their homes.

Through a contract with the Butler County Area on Aging, the growing staff provide essential services such as general and heavy cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, and escorting to appointments. The program also provides lawn care and snow shoveling services to assist elderly homeowners with this aspect of home maintenance.

CBG is licensed as a home care agency by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and is an approved provider with the PA Office of Long Term Living for accessibility adaptations, Personal Assistance and Home Support services under the Aging, Independence and OBRA Waiver programs. These services are also available on a private pay basis. To inquire about services offered by the agency, call 724-431-3660. n www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2016

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REMEMBER WHEN

A Winter Welcome

BY JOE BULLICK

Hello winter, a season that brings the coldest and darkest time of the year. During this period, we see the best black ice for skating and the most invigorating weather for skiing. As a young boy, I could not wait for the first snowfall. I would get my sled out, go ice skating and hope that school would be closed because of a big snowfall. We had a really big one in 1950 during Thanksgiving time.

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ome nice memories that I have, are of Mom making homemade soup and bread. During winter, the radio and the paper were my best friends. Friday night was boxing night, Fritzie Zivic was my favorite. His given name was Ferdinand Zivic. He was born on May 8, 1913 in Lawrenceville and died on May 16, 1984 in Pittsburgh.

Lawrenceville, at that time, was a region in Pittsburgh where immigration surged and folks worked in mills and factories.

Job nationalities respected the ward boundaries but fisticuffs were a way of life. Zivic grew up with four brothers in the 9th ward. He is quoted as saying, “You either had to fight or stay in the house. We went out.” He was the welterweight champion from October 4, 1940 until July 29, 1941. Thanks Mr. Zivic for great Friday nights on the radio.

Winter changed as I got older. I have to make sure I don’t get influenza, and I have to make sure I don’t fall on the ice, and I cover my walk-ways. I can see why some of my older friends go south.

But, I always love winter. There are always a lot of things to do. You can ice fish at North Park. I have a few friends that really enjoy this sport. In Pennsylvania, there are more than 2,000 natural and man-made lakes. Why not go snowboarding? There are thousands of miles of roads and trails in our state parks. Most trails are open from December to early April, just check the conditions. Pennsylvania also has a robust roster of ski resorts for downhill skiing.

Why not go ice skating? There’s lots of family fun at Schenley State Park Skating Rink. They host three special events, in December they have Santa Skate, Mascot Skate at the beginning of January and Valentine’s On Ice (for adults only) from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 14.

In February, Fun Fore All in Cranberry Township offers Ballocity Kid’s Play Area. Ikea in Robinson Township has unique shopping with a great play area that is safe and fun for kids. For kids five to 12 years of age, Home Depot has great workshops held the first Saturday of every month.

There are also plenty of things for us old timers to do.

Best of all, though, is to sit around the fireplace and talk to your grandkids. Well, enjoy winter and remember spring is just around the corner. God Bless and I leave you with this – In the depth of winter I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.

– Albert Camus

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Winter 2016 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com