Pittsburgh 55+ Magazine Winter 2022 issue by Northern Connection Magazine

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Winter 2022

YourOwn Retirement

We Can HELP Also in this Issue...

Step Back into 1951 | Senior Living Spotlights Senior Profile: William Dell & the Wee Jams

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Editorial 4 Senior Profile: William Dell of Wee Jams Janice Lane Palko 6 Cover Story: We Can Help Your Own Retirement 10 Avoid Social Isolation for a Happier and Healthier 2022 Dr. Joseph Maroon 12 Advertorial: Getting Ready to List Your Home? Deb Walton, SRES® 13 Debunking Health Care Advance Directives UPMC Senior Services 14 Senior Living Spotlights 17 Advertorial: Tri-State Neuropathy Centers 18 A Life Plan Community – An Investment that Pays Dividends for a Lifetime Lutheran Senior Life 20 Advertorial: Making Wise Medicare Decisions Crystal A. Manning

PO Box 425 Mars, PA 16046

Phone: 724-940-2444 Email: info@PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

President & Publisher Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor Janice Lane Palko 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.

In Every Issue... 16 Remember When: Cocktails Janice Lane Palko 22 The Good Old Days: Step Back Into 1951 Paula Green 24 Pondering Pittsburgh: Defunct Discount Department Stores Paula Green

Welcome to the Winter 2022 issue of Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus magazine! As events and activities are starting to open in and around the Pittsburgh area, I hope you will be able to enjoy this winter with your family and friends. Enjoy reading this issue’s featured articles and our regular columns. Thank you for your continued support. Together we continue to make our community a great place to live, work and retire!

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine is published four times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 425, Mars, PA 16046, 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. 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.

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

SENIOR PROFILE

Senior Profile

William Dell of Wee Jams W illi a

By Janice Lane Palko

“It all began in 1964, when a group of Avonworth High School students decided to form a ‘combo,’ as it was called back then, and we called ourselves The In Crowd,” said William Dell, vocalist for the group, which would later be called Wee Jams.

he group’s originator was Barry Haughin (lead singer and saxophone), and he teamed up with Bill Barnhart (drums), Paul Schuchman (guitar), and the late James A. “Doc” Haliday (bass), to perform early Rock and Roll songs. The group soon became very popular among the kids at Avonworth. Schuchman left the group in 1965, and Steve Meyer (lead singer & guitar) and Augi Neidhardt (guitar & vocals) joined. With the new members, the group decided to change its name to Wee Jams. “Believe it or not, we named the group after a classmate of Haughin’s cat named Wee Jam,” said Dell. How Dell came to be a member of this long-running musical group is serendipitous. Dell, Neidhardt and Meyer were best friends and classmates. “One night we were out cruising the hots spots,” said Dell. “I was ordinarily shy, but I started singing with a song on KQV Radio, ‘Kind of a Drag,’ by The Buckinghams. Steve and Augi were shocked! They said, ‘We didn’t know you could sing. We need you in Wee Jams.’” The following weekend, Dell

became a member of Wee Jams, and he’s been one ever since. Dell sang all the R&B, and Motown songs and the group toured the teen hotspots in the area like Man Friday’s in Moon Township, The Midnite Hour in Ohio Township as well as all the area colleges. In 1966, the group competed in The KQV ABC Records “Big Break Contest” against 400 other groups for a recording contract. Wee Jams won. “Avonworth High School had a Wee Jams day where we performed an afternoon concert,” said Dell. “We were on Cloud 9!” In the 1980s and 90s the group performed periodically, but for the last 27 years, the group has been performing extensively with their 11 - 14-piece band depending on the venue doing hundreds of concerts with their band as well as acapella performances. “We’ve recorded seven albums and probably a dozen 45 rpm records,” said Dell. “Most on the Stacy’s Golden Wax label.” Since 1995, the group has been billed as William Dell & Wee

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

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Jams. The group continues to perform at places like The Oaks Theater, The Syria Temple, and The Lamp Theater. One of the things Dell is most proud of is his hit song “You Are Everything” written by Collins Solomon Jr., and recorded with Amelia (Milly Tamburro), one of the finest female vocalists to ever come out of Pittsburgh. “That song and ‘Patti Ann’ were highlighted in Billboard Magazine, giving the band regional and national recognition,” said Dell. n

For Booking call Bill Dell 724-650-5205 www.weejams.com

COVER STORY

We Can HELP

The first thing you notice when you get off the elevator to their office is the old-school sandwichboard-style sign next to the door. It doesn’t promise any bold statement. It just says, “We can help.” That is the attitude and commitment Sue and Dave Hickey of Your Own Retirement have embraced since opening their practice.

“H

elping people enjoy their retirement without having to worry about money is our sole focus,” says Sue, who is a Retirement Income Certified Professional. “There is plenty of assistance available out there for younger people. We want to concentrate on those folks that will or want to retire relatively soon. And those already there, not enough attention is paid to them especially women,” adds Dave who holds the CPCU designation. Often, the first person you meet is Wendy Muller, a Grand Rapids, Michigan, native who moved to Cranberry with her husband and two children. Wendy manages the welcome desk, schedules client visits and is “Official Goodwill Ambassador.” She also has witnessed the transition in business during the COVID period. “The clients Sue and Dave have are incredible people. It is more like a big family, which I love, versus a stuffy corporate relationship. Everyone seems very happy,” said Wendy. However, when COVID hit Pennsylvania, “we were ordered home at first as nonessential workers” says Sue. “In the space of a few hours, we had laptop com-

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

puters set up at my office at home.” “Being a boutique-style firm, we concentrate on client-first services instead of corporate mandates,” Dave adds. “Everything we do has a paperless backup. We can work effectively from anywhere with internet access.” During the forced closing, Sue and Dave focused on client education. “We held a number of webinars on social security, women’s issues, and even topics like cryptocurrency. With all the changes in politics, economics and current events, we thought it important to reach out to both clients and prospects,” says Dave. “You can’t be an effective advocate today without assessing all the influences affecting the money supply.” Now that the pandemic appears to be under control, what does the future hold? For YOR it is time for folks to become bold again. You can only go around once, as they say. “A significant number of our clients have decided to retire earlier than originally planned. The good news is because we did all the heavy lifting early, we could assess the situation and determine what is possible. Too many people unfortunately decide to

retire, then how to figure it all out. I know there is comfort in hoping all will work out, and I firmly believe God has a plan for all of us,” says Dave, “but I also believe God helps those who help themselves.” “That is where we come in,” Sue adds. “We can and do help. Baby Boomers deserve a plan. It’s not easy to leave work and depend fully on your savings without a dedicated income stream. If you have a great pension plus adequate social security, great. Then you know that as long as you and your spouse live, you will have a livable income. However, if you are like the great majority of the rest of us, you don’t have a large pension, stock options, or significant enough social security to provide you with an adequate income forever to comfortably cover all of your needed expenses.” After all, the reason you contributed to that 401(k), 403(b), or 457 plan was to save enough money to fund your retirement, the golden years, or as Sue and Dave like to say, our third great act of life. Sue says your third act can be the most rewarding - grandchildren, volunteering, teaching, reading, playing, meeting new people. Once you have a financial plan for retirement, you are now free to explore, engage, and create new relationships and, of course, to continue and improve all of your current and past relationships. “We have all worked hard for 40 years or more. What about all your friends and family you’ve longed to spend more time with or would like to see more of them, help them, inspire them. That’s what we help you do,” says Sue. When we think of life expectancy, we look to traditional mortality tables. According to health.ny.gov, a male child born today has a life expectancy of 76 and a female age 81. But a curious thing happens once we actually reach those ages. When a man achieves 76 years of age, his life expectancy actually increases to age 87. A woman at age 80 today will now likely live another 10 years to 90. Even more, a man of 87 should live to 92 and a woman of 90 should celebrate her 95th birthday. You get the point. The longer we live...the longer we live. “Women in particular have a vested interest in planning on a long life. They are our caretakers but often find themselves alone as they age. It is vital that women, particularly single women, meet with a retirement specialist to create a plan for their future needs,” Sue stresses. What’s it really like to engage a retirement planner like Sue and Dave? Well first, they are incredibly easy to talk to says Wendy. “After every meeting, they come out of the conference room with their notes and tell me how nice and interesting their meeting was. I think, no I know, they genuinely believe in the goodness of people

and try to discover the best of everybody,” says Wendy. “Anyone who comes through our doors has a story,” says Dave. “My job is to ask and understand that story and how it impacts our guests as they come to our office and how we can create a more perfect ending.” Sue is especially proactive in her practice with single women concentrating on education and selfsufficiency. “Women are unique,” Sue says, “and unfortunately, many women find themselves alone later in life, so they deserve, really need, to understand their finances. Even if their husband or significant other handles everything now, they still need to take responsibility for their part. Too many women find themselves

To learn more about YourOwnRetirement, visit www.yourownretirement.com or give Sue or Dave a call at 1-866-677-PLAN (7526). www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

widowed, divorced or somehow single at ages before 70, sometimes before 50. I teach them about investing, income planning, social security, Medicare and legacy planning. Women especially do not want to leave a mess for their kids. I know I won’t,” Sue adds. Does it cost anything to meet with YOR? No. Their belief is they should not charge someone to get to know them. Dave’s experience from his earliest years in the business, was dealing with families that lost a loved one or experienced a serious injury. Those families suddenly had a disastrous experience thrust upon them. They were not ready, never could be. Nevertheless, they had to deal with it at the moment, “so I did planning for them with significant time constraints,” Dave says. People think about retirement, scaling back, changing lifestyles, however you want to call it. Whenever that is, there is time. There is some time to plan, and that’s what we should do, and we should use the time wisely. There really is no excuse not to.” You needn’t go it alone. Find an expert. Nearly every study indicates a retirement advisor will not only save you money but also outperform all of the doit-yourselfers. Most online financial advice deals with what’s already happened. It’s looking in the rearview mirror or chasing returns. The stock market is naturally volatile and ever-changing. The world is truly global, political, and complicated. “The point is,” said Sue, “we need to find predictable, stable sources of income to support our lives. Stocks will fluctuate daily but have long-term

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

advantages. Taxes are more than complex, and in retirement become increasingly more important. “Did you know, for example,” says Sue, “taking early distributions from your qualified accounts may actually provide tax advantages in the future?” Advertisements that promise average rates of return can mislead you into a false sense of security Dave points out. “The sequence of your returns, the order in which you gain or lose money has much more to do with your financial success than any average rate of return. We protect against that. Frankly we just don’t have an extra 20 years to recover if the proverbial stuff hits the fan.” “Moreover, we ask why would clients want to risk all of that?” Sue points out. “Whenever folks leave our first meeting or visit, I believe they feel a certain calmness. They discover that their fears and concerns are not uncommon, and we know why that is and how to handle it. Our big task is to incorporate all of the information, the empirical kind like account statements, bank accounts, life insurance, budget expense models, credit card debt, you name it, plus, and this is very important, what our clients want their future to hold. Then we balance both while preparing a draft retirement plan.” “Whenever we have a second visit, we lay out that vision using their needs, wants, and client wishes. This is the keystone moment when reality and realization meet. “It’s always about focus,” said Dave. “If we can help you determine what is most important, you will find a way to succeed.” Sue says, “Half of our practice concerns money management, planning and taxes. The other half, perhaps more importantly, is helping people discover their future and make it a reality.” n Your Own Retirement, LLC is an independent financial services firm that utilizes a variety of investment and insurance products. Investment advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM). AEWM and Your Own Retirement, LLC are not affiliated companies. All investments are subject to risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Any references to guarantees or lifetime income generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investment products. Insurance and annuity product guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claimspaying ability of the issuing insurance company. Please remember that converting an employer plan account to a Roth IRA is a taxable event. Increased taxable income from the Roth IRA conversion may have several consequences including (but not limited to) a need for additional tax withholding or estimated tax payments, the loss of certain tax deductions and credits, and higher taxes on Social Security benefits and higher Medicare premiums. Be sure to consult with a qualified tax advisor before making any decisions regarding your IRA. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. Neither the firm nor its agents or representatives may give tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult with a qualified professional for guidance before making any purchasing decisions. 1116050 - 11/21

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

YOUR HEALTH

Avoid Social Isolation for a Happier and Healthier 2022 By Joseph C. Maroon, MD, FACS

s we again approach a new calendar year, I realize that for many the beginnings, endings and holidays within the year tend to be a blur. But for others, especially now as COVID-19 continues to plague our world, time has seemed to slow down, and a day seems forever. A United Kingdom study in 2020, noted people’s perception of the passage of time has been significantly affected by the pandemic lockdown, with age and social satisfaction influencing how quickly the days and weeks seem to pass. The study reported that 20% thought the passing of time felt normal, while 40% perceived it to be going faster and 40% thought slower. A person’s age was a key factor with those over the age of 65 more likely to believe that time was passing more slowly during the lockdown than before. Those that also reported a lack of social interactions during the pandemic experienced time went by slower.

Why this is Important! The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionally affected our older population. This includes not only physical health, directly due to being infected, but also more universally it has impacted mental and cognitive health. As we age, the need to be with others becomes more critical. Social interaction stimulates the brain to improve blood supply and can actually build new brain cells and new brain connections. It also enhances our immune system to resist infections. Associating with others allows for thoughts to be expressed and can reduce feelings of sadness and isolation that help us to resist clinical depression and symptoms of dementia.

Importance of Mobility to Avoid Isolation One of the most important factors to healthy aging is your ability to remain mobile. Interaction with friends and family or just saying hi to a neighbor as you go for a walk all requires mobility. This may require the use of an assist device, like a cane or walker. Preserving your own ability to walk as long as possible requires planning and practice. Few people realize the important relationship between maintaining mobility, social interaction, fall prevention and avoiding dementia.

Scary Facts on Social Isolation that you have the POWER to Avoid Per the CDC, social isolation can significantly increase a person’s risk of premature death from all causes. The risk of social isolation is similar to the health risks of smoking, obesity and physical inactivity. Social isolation is associated with a 50% percent increased risk of dementia, a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke. Being lonely is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety and even suicide. Building a better lifestyle that includes social interaction, a healthy diet, exercise and avoiding toxins like excessive alcohol or smoking are just some the ways we can make 2022 a better year. I wish for you a joyous new year that includes, making new friends, visiting family or just making a call to say hello to old friends. n

Joseph C. Maroon, MD is a Board-Certified Neurosurgeon, Nutritional and Sports Medicine Expert. Dr. Maroon has written and lectured extensively on brain health and healthy life choices. As a competitive Ironman triathlete, Dr. Maroon practices what he preaches and is committed to the promoting healthy choices to his patients and readers.

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

ADVERTORIAL

GETTING READY TO LIST YOUR HOME?

MAP OUT A PLAN

Preparing a home for sale is always a significant undertaking. For seniors, in particular, the pre-listing process can feel overwhelming. An agent who has earned their Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation can guide your efforts and help make the transition go as smoothly as possible.

SET PRIORITIES EVALUATE RENOVATIONS SUGGEST TRUSTED RESOURCES DISCUSS STAGING OPTIONS

You can trust your SRES® designee to help you:

1. Map out a plan.

4. Suggest trusted resources.

An SRES® understands that each client faces different circumstances and challenges. They can advise you on a sequence of steps tailored to your situation. And they’ll guide you through the process at whatever pace suits your needs. Your SRES® will take a no-pressure approach and look for ways to make your move more manageable and less stressful.

If you need help with any aspect of your move, your SRES® can provide suggestions. They’ve already vetted related service professionals that understand seniors’ concerns and can assist in decluttering, packing, renovating, and more. The choice is always yours, but it’s nice knowing you can turn to these trusted resources.

2. Set priorities. Please don’t assume that every aspect of your home has to appear picture-perfect before listing it for sale. Your SRES® understands what matters most to buyers in your market and can help you focus on the most critical projects. The top priorities are often decluttering living spaces and cleaning your home thoroughly, immediately before it is listed.

3. Evaluate renovations. Is it essential to update your flooring, paint your walls, or replace your appliances? Your SRES® knows local buyers’ top priorities and understands which renovations offer the biggest bang for the buck. They’ll explain your options, but it’s up to you to decide if you want to add these projects to your list.

5. Discuss staging options. Many sellers assume they need to stage their home before listing it. Again, this depends on your local real estate market and your personal situation. Often, staging isn’t mandatory. Today’s property marketing options include virtual staging techniques, which might be a good alternative. Your SRES® can discuss your options and offer recommendations tailored to your concerns. Regardless of when and where you are moving, you’ll have a better experience if you work with an agent who has earned the SRES® designation—someone who is committed to helping seniors navigate their housing transitions successfully.

Count on an SRES® to guide you through the process of buying or selling your home, making the transaction less stressful and more successful.

Deb Walton, SRES®

The Seniors Real Estate Specialist ® (SRES®) designation is awarded by the SRES® Council, a subsidiary of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). To learn more about SRES® and access various consumer resources, please visit seniorsresource.realtor.

The SRES® PROFESSIONAL | JAN/FEB 2021

YOUR HEALTH

Debunking Health Care Advance Directives UPMC Senior Services

Do you have a health care advance directive? Not sure what an advance directive is? An advance directive is a fancy name for a document that explains someone’s health care wishes that only becomes active if he or she is unable to make medical decisions on his or her own behalf. Another name for a health care advance directive is a living will.

tive goes into place. It is only if you cannot speak for yourself that your health care advance directive and health care agent become involved and are used for guidance. Do you already have an advance directive? At this point, it is very important to do two things. The first thing to do is to keep this document in a secure yet accessible place. Do not store this

hese do not go into legal or financial matters; it is specific to health care. It is an empowering piece of one’s personal health care. An advance directive is not a medical order, so a physician does not need to sign off on it. In the past, physicians made most health care decisions for their patients. It was not until the early 20th century when a movement started to offer individuals the right to make choices for their own health care. A very important reason to fill out a health care advance directive is to identify a health care agent. You should choose an individual who is trusted to follow your own wishes and would know what you would want when it comes to your health care. Remember, this should be someone who would advocate for you with your medical team. The agent does not need to be a family member. If you do not identify an agent, it could be difficult for the medical team to understand your health care wishes in a circumstance where you are unable to speak on your own behalf. Another important feature of the advance directive addresses what medical treatments and interventions you would want should you be unable to make your own health care decisions. Say you go to the hospital for hip surgery and are alert after the procedure; this does not mean that your health care advance direc-

document in a place where it cannot be readily located or accessed in a time of need (do not put it in a safe). The other important consideration is to let both your health care agent and health care provider know about your advance directive and health care wishes. Provide these individuals with a copy. In this way, they know what you wish and can reference this should the need arise. Are you worried you will change your mind about your health care wishes? You are allowed to change your advance directive. It will be vital that you shred any previous copies and share this new copy with those who had the prior version. The health care advance directive does not have to be renewed or updated. Once you make one, it can be your current edition until you fill out a new directive. Please note that guidelines can vary state to state. Additionally, there is some variation in cases of mental health advance directives. If you have questions about community resources, please reach out to Education and Consultative Services of UPMC Senior Services. Our phone number is 866-430-8742, our e-mail is UPMCSeniorServices@UPMC.edu, and our website is SeniorServices.UPMC.com. Join us on Facebook for posts on topics like this at facebook.com/groups/ UPMCSeniorServices. Please note that we are not a crisis or emergency line. n

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

Senior Living Spotlights Envisage What does your future look like as you age? Do you have a long-term care plan in place? Envisage is a members-only program that works in tandem with your financial plan so that if or when you need any kind of personal assistance, you’ll be able to easily access high quality caregiving within the privacy of your own home. Envisage offers an array of services for those who do not want to use an assisted living or a nursing home community to receive the care they might need – those who want these things to be handled and managed for them, so that they can have the highest possible level of control over their own lives. To learn more about Envisage, sign up for a virtual seminar at www.Envisage.org/events or call us at 866.435.6777.

St. Barnabas Communities It’s always the perfect time to enjoy retirement living at St. Barnabas. The beautifully landscaped campuses provide a peaceful space to relax and enjoy Mother Nature. Our residents stroll walking trails with their dog, play bocce with friends, fish at our private pond, golf on one of our two 18-hole golf courses or join neighbors for happy hour on the Crystal Conservatory pool deck. Our indoor mall at The Village includes a bank, gift shop, library, general store, chapel, salon, wine room and three restaurants where residents gather daily for events, entertainment, happy hour and chef-prepared meals. We offer a diverse array of amenities to match your lifestyle and these are just a sampling of the St. Barnabas retirement experience exclusive to our residents. Call 724-443-0700 to find out how you can start enjoying your retirement! www.stbarnabascommunities.org.

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network Help Individuals Living with Dementia THRIVE! As a Dementia Care Center of Excellence, we’re committed to Making Aging Easier® for older adults, and caregiver education is a vital part of that commitment. This year, we’re taking that education virtual by offering a series of complimentary, online events featuring experts in dementia care, which can be viewed on-demand, right from the comfort of your home. Changing lives—one meaningful moment at a time. Learn with us – register now! www.srcare.org/dementia-education

UPMC Senior Communities Make the most of what life has to offer by making one of UPMC Senior Communities your new home. Choose from a variety of locations around greater Pittsburgh that keep you close to your family, friends, church and shopping preferences. Feel safe and secure in an environment that surrounds you with all the support you need to continue living your senior years to the fullest. Let go of snow shoveling, grass mowing, home maintenance, cleaning and even transportation and cooking if you prefer. Choose from a complete schedule of engaging social and spiritual activities with many new friends. At UPMC Senior Communities, we offer all this and more at reasonable pricing options that enable you to take full advantage of this lifestyle. By offering a variety of facility styles, levels of care and payment options, UPMC Senior Communities can accommodate your preferences. Knowing what is right for you is based on knowing what you need to live life well, regardless of the level of support you require. Perhaps you are looking to enrich your life with more social activities and interactions, or to move to an environment that enables you to be free of daily obligations, such as home maintenance. You may need some assistance with managing your health and wellness, or you may require more medical help due to more significant health issues. Offering options in independent living, personal care and assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation, this spectrum of living styles is designed to accommodate your needs and provide you with the fullest lifestyle possible. UPMC Senior Communities is proud to be part of UPMC – one of the most innovative and patient-centered health systems in the country. That affiliation brings valuable benefits to our residents and staff. As members of the larger UPMC family, our residents benefit from the opportunities and resources that can only be found in a world-class health system. For more information and to schedule a tour, visit UPMCSeniorCommunities.com or call 1-800-324-5523.

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

REM EM BER WHEN

Cocktails By Janice Lane Palko

This past summer we looked at drinks from days gone by. Since the holiday season is upon us, and it is a time of year when many celebrate by imbibing in alcoholic drinks, it seemed appropriate to look back on cocktails of the past.

ike many things in life, alcoholic beverages often are trendy for a while and then fall out of fashion. Speaking of fashion, how about an Old Fashioned? This drink has a long history going back to the early 1800s. Back then, people often drank a Whiskey Cocktail of a mix of sugar, bitters, whiskey and ice, with a lemon garnish for breakfast. (Hearty people those early Americans!) Since there was no set recipe for this drink, it was not uniform and tasted different depending on whomever concocted it. So, people began asking that the drink be made in the “old fashioned” way of adding a lump of sugar to a whiskey glass and dissolving it in a small amount of water. Then two dashes of bitters, a lump of ice were mixed with a miniature bar spoon. Bourbon was then added and voila—the Old Fashioned. While the Old Fashioned has a long history, most cocktails were invented during Prohibition because bootleg liquor was not of the best quality and imbibers found the drinks more palatable if they were mixed with something. Some cocktails like Martinis and Manhattans never lost their popularity, but others are lesser known such as the Sidecar did. It is traditionally made from brandy, triple sec and lemon juice. The screwdriver has an interesting history. Purportedly, back in the 1940s, American petroleum engineers in Saudi Arabia secretly added vodka to their orange juice and stirred the cocktail with their screwdrivers. Daiquiris also became popular then as wartime rationing made getting whiskey, gin, and vodka difficult. Therefore, rum drinks became popular. The 1950s brought an explosion of new cocktails including the Pina Colada, Sloe Gin Fizz, Tom Collins and colorful drinks like the Pink Squirrel and Grasshopper.

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The Harvey Wallbanger became popular in the 1960s and 70s and featured the Italian liqueur Galliano, a yellow herbal concoction. In the 1970s and 80s, the Tequila Sunrise became popular, and The Eagles even had a hit called Another Tequila Sunrise. The Long Island Iced Tea also came onto the scene back then and was an “everything-but-thekitchen-sink kind of drink” and included vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec and lemon juice and packed a punch! Don’t forget the Fuzzy Navel, a combo of peach schnapps and orange juice. In the 2000s, the show Sex and the City helped to popularize the Cosmopolitan, a mixture of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice and lime juice. Recently, the Aperol Spritz, a drink popular in Italy and the Mojito, a traditional Cuban cocktail, have become quite popular. Christmas brings some holiday drinks to the fore. The Hot Toddy is made with honey, boiling water, whiskey, cinnamon, cloves and lemon and will warm you up on a cold winter night. A close cousin is the Hot Buttered Rum or spiked Apple Cider. Some new holiday favorites in our house are Rum Chata, a blend of rum, cream, vanilla and cinnamon, and Baileys Irish Cream. For New Year’s Eve, Champagne is always appropriate, but if you want to jazz it up a bit, try a Kir Royale. I was served this drink in Paris, and the waiter explained that Kir is any sparkling wine combined with crème de cassis, a cherry liqueur. The drink become a Kir Royale when it features authentic French Champagne. The waiter explained that Kir Royale was served to monarchs when they visited the French court. Whether you choose to go retro or royal this holiday season, cheers to you! n

ADVERTORIAL

HOPE

Frank S.

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have

Ten years ago I hurt my foot and it continued to get worse over the years. It got to the point that my feet were so sore and cold all the time. Outdoor activities are very important to me and I was losing the ability to do them. I felt there was no hope. A friend of mine learned of Tri-State Neuropathy Centers and I made an appointment. The results have been unbelievable. I have no more pain and my feet are no longer cold. My range of motion is so much better, and my balance is back. I am now enjoying all the outdoor activities I use to and am nearly 100% better.

Don’t Give Up!

Janie C. It seems like it became noticeable about 20 years ago. At first my feet would ache from time-to-time, then my feet would ache so bad that I had to limit my time standing or walking. In the last two years I have had to change the way I have lived my life. I could no longer go hiking with my husband or just take a walk. I knew it was just a matter of time before I would need a wheelchair. I heard about Tri-State Neuropathy Centers and went for my free consultation to see if I was a candidate. To date, I see a significant improvement. I can take short walks, cook and I have even been gardening. It feels like a miracle. I plan to get back into volunteer work.

Paula C. It all began with major surgery in October 2020 with an ankle break on two major bones from a fall. I was getting very depressed as my foot was numb on the side of the incision and it was affecting my life. I decided to meet with Tri-State Neuropathy Centers for a free consultation. I have completed the program I am pain free and 90 percent better. I highly recommend anyone needing help to go see a Tri-State Neuropathy Center. I am 68 and a Grammy of six grandchildren. The treatment has helped me walk without a cane and be more active with my active family as my balance has improved tremendously. The staff is truly compassionate and kind. Thank you Tri-State Neuropathy and your staff for your kindness and helping me walk again!

Peripheral 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 place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. A specialized treatment protocol utilizing brand new technologies is available at the TRI-STATE NEUROPATHY CENTERS. It includes the combination of very specific, noninvasive, FDA approved and painless treatments that are designed to get rid of symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. With over 90 percent satisfaction rate and the experience of seeing over 8000 patients, they are able to tailor a specific and successful treatment plan for each individual to provide maximum results. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, don’t wait until they get worse.

Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms can include: • Sharp Pains or Cramps in the Feet or Legs Take o • Burning Pain in the Legs, Feet or Hands PREQUA ur LIFYING • Extreme Sensitivity to Touch SU www.M RVEY at aryDan • Loss of Balance or Coordination cedIn.c om • Feelings of Walking on Pins and Needles • Weakness in the Arms and Legs • Numbness and Tingling or Pain in the Toes, Feet, Hands, Arms and Fingers • Dependency on Medications If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait till they get worse. Call today to schedule your FREE consultation.

Call for your FREE consultation to begin your path to recovery. Call Dr. Shawn Richey at 724-940-9000 to schedule your time.

Five Locations: Sewickley

2591 Wexford-Bayne Rd., Suite 207

Monroeville

4314 Old William Penn Hwy, Suite 105

Washington, PA

1385 Washington Rd., #100

Poland, OH

70 W McKinley Way, Poland, OH 44514

Weirton, WV

3350 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite A, Weirton, WV 26062

MaryDancedIn.com • (724) 940 -9000 17 www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

PLANNING YOUR FUTURE

A Life Plan Community — An Investment that Pays Dividends for a Lifetime When you purchased your home, you were investing in your future. Is it time to think about a different type of investment? One that is guaranteed for life, and if you are not completely satisfied, up to 90 percent of your investment may be refunded. That is one of the benefits of living in a Life Plan Community.

hat is a Life Plan Community? It is a senior living community for your retirement years. These types of communities offer a continuum of

care, including independent living, personal care/assisted living, and skilled nursing. By investing in a Life Plan Community, you have the ability to transition your

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

living situation as your needs change. The Life Plan communities of Lutheran SeniorLife are designed to foster a culture where people are serving others in a community with purpose, so our residents can continue to experience and live an Abundant Life®. Imagine living in a maintenance-free environment without the worries associated with home ownership and with access to health and wellness support and transportation, as well as social activities in a faithbased community. There are income requirements and a one-time entrance fee. Once admitted, your investment is protected, even if for whatever reason your assets are reduced—you are a member of the community for life. Furthermore, if you move in and determine it’s not the place for you, 90 percent of your entrance fee may be refunded within a certain time frame. A Life Plan Community provides a pathway for older adults to determine how they want to live as their lives change. It also helps you maintain control of your life over time, while ensuring your investment lasts a lifetime. To learn more about Lutheran SeniorLife, visit www.LutheranSeniorLife.org n

MULTI-DAY TOURS

(All Multi-day and Air tours are priced per person, double occupancy) Daytona Beach 15 Day Feb 20-Mar 6....................................................$1,645 Amelia Island & St. Augustine Mar 20-26........................................................$1,544 David in Lancaster Plus Apr 8-9; Jun 17-18; Sep 9-10.............................$497 Historic Charleston May 15-20........................................................$1,409 Washington, DC Weekend May 20-22...........................................................$429 Ocean City, MD Jun 5-9................................................................$679 Mackinac Island Jun 6-10; Jun 13-17.........................................$1,465

CASINO TOURS Caesar’s Casino Atlantic City Mar 20-23...........................................................$359 Jun 5-9; Jun 19-23.............................................$499 Tropicana Casino Atlantic City Apr 24-27............................................................ $416 Resorts Casino Atlantic City May 15-18............................................................$447

ONE-DAY TOURS PA Farm Show Jan 8.................................................................... $127 I Love Lucy Murder Mystery Feb 14.................................................................. $118 Hamilton Mar 1...................................................................$290 When Amish Eyes are Smiling Mar 17.................................................................$162 Amish Tea Party Apr 25..................................................................$143 Punxsutawney Phil & Jimmy Stewart Apr 27..................................................................$140 David One Day Lancaster Apr 30; Jun 25; Oct 8..........................................$329

AIR TOURS & MOTORCOACH-TO-CRUISE TOURS Bus to Bermuda Apr 30-May 5*...................................Starting at $983 9 Night Bermuda & Bahamas Cruise Jun 2-11*........................................Starting at $1,230 Pacific Coast Adventure Jun 12-19..........................................................$3,675 *Includes port charges, taxes, fees, & shipboard gratuities!

Motorcoach Drivers Wanted! Current CDL Class B required with Passenger Endorsement. Contact Michelle Conner at 412-749-4188 or email your resume to michelle.conner@coachusa.com

CALL NOW

to reserve your advertising space for the Spring issue!

724-940-2444

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

ADVERTORIAL

Making Wise Medicare Decisions By Crystal Manning

edicare decisions are highly personal. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, the average Medicare beneficiary has a choice of 54 Medicare plans. There are 766 Medicare Part D prescription drug plans and a record 3,834 Medicare Advantage plans will be available in 2022 (up 8% from 2021). You are eligible for Medicare Part A (hospital care) and Part B (Medical) when you

CONFUSED ABOUT MEDICARE?

Medicare is confusing – call for a one-to-one, no charge consultation with a Medicare expert! Remove the FEAR, UNCERTAINTY, AND COSTLY MISTAKES from the Medicare enrollment process. Crystal A. Manning

Medicare Advisor

Call 412-716-4942 or email crystalmanning33@gmail.com 10008 Pine Ridge Drive Wexford, Pa. 15090

turn 65. If you are already receiving Social Security benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare. Otherwise, you can sign up during the 3 months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and the following 3 months. If you were automatically enrolled, you can opt out of Part B if you don›t want to keep it, but there are financial consequences for doing so.

What Do I Do About Medicare If I Work Past Age 65? If you plan to work past 65, you may be able to delay enrolling in Medicare. Or, you may have to enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period in Parts A, B and D if you want to avoid late enrollment penalties. It will depend on your employer and whether your employer coverage is creditable.

How Much Does Medicare Cost? You will likely pay the Part B premium to Medicare. The Part B premium usually comes out of your social security check. The 2022 standard monthly premium for Part B is $170.10. Beyond that, you may pay other premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance.

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

How Do I Know What Medicare Coverage Is Right for Me? In general, you need to understand your personal health care needs and choose Medicare coverage to help meet them. Original Medicare (Parts A & B) does not cover routine dental or vision care; however, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans do. Plans include all the coverage provided by Parts A and B, and often additional benefits like dental, vision, hearing and gym memberships, all in one plan. These all-inclusive plans are Medicare Advantage plans which can be HMO or a PPO. HMO plans usually helps pay only for care you receive from providers in the plan network. Many Medicare Advantage plans across the nation have a $0 premium or a low monthly cost in general. While this coverage can seem appealing to many Americans, there are disadvantages to lower cost Medicare Advantage plans. Saving on the premium is great until you encounter serious medical conditions and require more medical coverage. Be cautious of the claims made on television commercials. While certain plans may seem cost effective today, those plans may be insufficient to meet your medical coverage needs tomorrow. While everyone is bombarded with commercials and advertisements during the Annual Election

Sign-On

BONUS

Period (AEP) which occurs from October 15 to December 7, a mostly ignored and underpublicized rule of the Medicare system is the subsequent Open Election Period (OEP) which occurs from January 1 to March 31. During the open election period, an enrollee may reconsider their current insurance coverage and choose a different policy for the year. Understanding Medicare and your insurance coverage options is critical in determining when to enroll in Medicare and being confident in your choices. Learn more about Medicare and choosing a Medicare plan that is right for you…contact Crystal A Manning, Licensed Medicare Advisor for a no fee consultation at 412-716-4942 or crystalmanning33@gmail.com. n

Available!

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

THE GOOD OLD DAYS

Step Back Into...1951 Colored television is introduced Tupperware parties are launched By Paula Green

n mid-July 1951, heavy rains led to an abundance of water in the Kansas River. Flooding happened in the river basins in Kansas and Missouri. There was over $935 million in damage, and the flood killed 17 people. In response to the growing popularity of television, movie theatres experiment with a variety of attractions, including wide-screen projection and 3-D effects.

Average

ratified on Feb. 27.

Television

The average income was $3,515. Cost of a new home $7,300. The average cost of a new car was $1,500. Gasoline was 20 cents per gallon. Pound bacon was 63 cents. A loaf of bread sold for 16 cents. 14 oz. can of Hershey’s Syrup was 17 cents. Eggs sold for 24 cents per dozen. The first-class stamp was 3 cents. Coca Cola, six bottles cost 37 cents.

The new United Nations headquarters officially opens in New York City.

The classic television show I Love Lucy debuted on the CBS network on October 15. Popular TV shows: Amos N’ Andy, Arthur Godfrey Talent Scouts, Colgate Comedy Hour, Gangbusters, The Jack Benny Show, The Lone Ranger, The Milton Berle Show, The Red Skelton Show, The Roy Rogers Show, The Texaco Star Theater, You Bet Your Life, and Your Show of Shows.

Firsts The first tests for color television pictures were broadcast from the Empire State Building on June 25. For the first time, electricity is generated from nuclear power. RCA introduces the first portable video camera. Pabst airs the first beer commercial. The first commercial computer, UNIVAC, is put into use at the U.S. Census Bureau. The first direct-dial coast-to-coast telephone call was made during November.

U.S. events The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, limiting the number of terms a president may serve, is

The fast-food chain restaurant Jack in the Box is founded by Robert O. Peterson in San Diego, California.

World News General Douglas MacArthur is relieved of command in Korea. North Korean offensive pushes beyond the 38th parallel; truce negotiations fail. Stalin claims the Soviet Union has the atomic bomb. Europe continues to export many cars to the U.S. including Volkswagens and Austin’s.

Entertainment Yul Brynner makes his first appearance in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The King & I. Popular movies: The African Queen, An American in Paris, Strangers on a Train, and A Streetcar Named Desire. Walt Disney’s 13th animated feature film, Alice in Wonderland, is released in July. The classic science-fiction film The Day the Earth Stood Still debuted during September in New York.

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

Songs The term Rock N’ Roll is coined by Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed. Billboard Hits – Because of You, Cry, Getting to Know You, Hello Young Lovers, In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening, Kisses Sweeter than Wine, and Too Young. Nat King Cole’s song Unforgettable hits #2 on the record charts.

Publishing Popular books: The Caine Mutiny, The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, Desirée, From Here to Eternity, Lie Down in Darkness, A Man Called Peter. Robert Frost and Carl Sandberg both publish collections of poetry titled Complete Poems. The Dennis the Menace

comic strip appears in newspapers across the U.S. for the first time.

Sports NFL Champs: Los Angeles Rams; World Series Champions: The New York Yankees; Stanley Cup Champs: Toronto Maple Leafs; NBA Champions: Rochester Royals. The first NBA All-Star Game of basketball is played in the Boston Garden. Joe DiMaggio announces his retirement from baseball.

Politics President: Harry S. Truman, Vice President: Alben W. Barkley.

Quotes: “What a time we’ve had, Rosie. What a time. We’ll never lack for stories to tell our grandchildren, will we?” – Charlie Allnut (Humphrey Bogart) The African Queen “I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.” – Blanche Dubois (Vivien Leigh) A Streetcar Named Desire “Honey, I’m home!” – Ricky Ricardo (Desi Arnaz) - I Love Lucy Sources: https://fiftiesweb.com/pop/ prices-1951/, https://www.liveabout.com/ nfl-champions-1920-present-1335977, https://www.infoplease.com/year/1951, https://www.babyboomers.com/1951, thepeoplehistory.com, historic-newspapers.com, huffpost.com.

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2022

PONDERING PITTSBURGH

Defunct Discount Department Stores Recollecting Remarkable Mark-Downs By Paula Green

ast holiday season, we looked at Five and Dime stores that are no longer around in the ‘Burgh. This season we’re going to reflect upon defunct discount department stores. Both concepts are the same—you shop for merchandise and receive bargain prices. The only difference is how the stores are labeled; a few stores had “discount department store” in their marketing. So take a stroll with me as we remembered those rock-bottom priced shops. Zayre was a discount store that operated on the east coast from 1956 until 1990. The store was opened by Russian immigrant brothers Max and Morris Feldberg. The siblings called their store Zayre which transformed from the

Jewish saying “Zehr gut,” which means very good. In 1988, the Zayre department stores were sold to the parent company of the competing Ames chain, and Zayre’s other businesses continued as the TJX Companies. When Hills stores were launched in 1957, they were a full-fledged department stores (as opposed to the discount department stores for which the chain later became known). Hills store was founded in Youngstown, Ohio. The discount chain sold clothing, footwear, bedding, furniture, jewelry, seasonal, beauty products, electronics, toys and housewares at low prices. In addition, they had a great snack bar that featured soft pretzels, popcorn and slushies. Hills stores flourished until 1999 when Ames acquired the chain. Founded in 1958 by two brothers, Ames Department stores became the nation’s fourth-largest discounter with over 700 stores in 20 states. The company sold quality merchandise at discount prices and relied upon its sales of housewares, automotive supplies and hardware to generate growth. At its peak, the company employed 22,000 people. Ames filed for bankruptcy in August 2001 and shuttered its doors

Winter 2022 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

in 2002. W.T. Grant was another popular discount chain. Their first store opened in 1906 in Massachusetts and expanded to nearly 1,100 locations around the country. The discount chain which was once the fifth-largest retailer in the country ended when the company declared bankruptcy in 1975. Gee Bee was launched in 1906 when the chain began as Glosser Brothers Department Store in Johnstown. The store opened a small one-room shop in the Franklin Building. The discounter was so popular that some locations even opened grocery stores. The final Gee Bee shut its doors in 1993. Kmart, famous for its “blue light” specials, began operating in 1899 in Detroit, Michigan. It was founded by the S.S. Kresge Company and eventually merged with Sears Holdings. As a result, the once-flourishing discounter gradually closed its doors. Today, there are no more Kmart stores in Pennsylvania, and only 32 remain nationwide. Value City was an American discount department store chain was founded in 1917 by Ephraim Schottenstein, a traveling salesman in central Ohio. At one time, there

were 113 locations. Value City filed for bankruptcy in 2008 and closed its doors. The current discounters are Gabes, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Big Lots, Five Below, Target, Wal-Mart and numerous online sites. Competition may be stiff, but you still find those bargainbasement prices if you play your cards right. n Sources: https://bestlifeonline.com/defunctdepartment-stores/, https://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Category:Defunct_discount_ stores_of_the_United_States, https://fallriverreporter.com/remember-zayre-store-1/, https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/pennsylvania/old-stores-pa/ https://www.insider.com/chains-stores-outof-business-no-longer-exist-2019-w-t-grant https://www.scrapehero.com/locationreports/Kmart-USA/ https://www.metv.com/lists/7-discountstores-from-back-in-the-day-you-probablyforgot-existed

We wish all of you

and your family a Merry Christmas and a Holiday Season full of love, peace, and joy and a healthy and Happy New Year! From the Staff of

FOR YOUR HEALTH SERIES SPONSORED BY PASSAVANT HOSPITAL FOUNDATION Passavant Hospital Foundation partners with CCAC North Campus to provide a wide variety of health and wellness education programs free to the public. The courses below feature speakers who are top-notch physicians, clinicians, and researchers providing up-to-date medical information in layperson’s terms. The sessions are interactive with time for questions and answers. A Certificate of Attendance for 2.0 hours is awarded for these seminars. UPMC Passavant is a hospital accredited by The Joint Commission and an approved provider for continuing education requirements for professional nurses. Registration is required. Call 412-788-7546 to register. CONTEMPORARY MANAGEMENT OF PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE Tuesday, February 8, 2022 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM CCAC North Campus

Join Michael Madigan, MD as he discusses atherosclerosis and arterial insufficiency of the lower extremities affects millions of people annually in the US. We will review common presentations and treatment strategies, including medical management, endovascular intervention, and surgical intervention. His presentation will include an informative lecture followed by a question-and-answer session. Speakers: Michael Madigan, M.D. Assistant Professor of Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery, UPMC Passavant

SAVE YOUR SHOULDER: SURGICAL AND NONSURGICAL TREATMENTS FOR SHOULDER PAIN Tuesday, March 8, 2022 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM CCAC North Campus

Dr. Richmond, orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist with Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers, will present the latest information on common shoulder conditions and injuries, nonoperative treatments and surgical advancements. There will also be an opportunity for questions and answers following the presentation. Speaker: John M. Richmond, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon, Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers, Fellowship-trained in Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery

STOP THE BLEED Tuesday, April 12, 2022 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM CCAC North Campus

Join APP Megan Tomaino as she teaches basic bleeding control and tourniquet application to community members and medical staff to improve survival after trauma and prevent hemorrhagic death. Speaker: Megan Tomaino, PA-C, MPAS, UPMC Passavant Department of Anesthesia, PACU/APS

Passavant Hospital Foundation advances the health and wellness for ALL in our community: • Providing facilities, technology, and equipment at our hospital to support excellence in patient care • Presenting free health education seminars for everyone in the community • Offering support groups for families affected by a loved one’s addiction • Forming community partnerships for greater impact on health concerns that affect us all Learn more at PassavantHospitalFoundation.org