Chester County Edition | January 2019 • Vol. 16 No. 1
Complimentary
page 4
how to cope with seasonal affective disorder page 14
5 tips for safe winter driving page 18
Tech Talk
Be Wary of Websites Warning of Computer Viruses
Mark Rinaudo
Question: What do I do when I’m browsing the web and my computer suddenly flashes a warning telling me my computer has infections and I should call a number on the screen to have them removed? As an IT consultant, I’ve seen all kinds of ways for scammers to make money off of the uninformed by intimidating them with fear. If you’re asked to call a number that shows up while you are searching inside a web browser, no matter who they say they are, do not call them. It is most likely a scam. This particular scam starts innocently enough. You want to go to a particular website for your favorite online store, but you don’t know the exact web address for this website. You type in the name of the company in the web address bar, and
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it pulls up a list of matching websites. Like most search engines, the paid search results are displayed at the very top. This is where scammers enter the picture. Scammers are betting on you clicking on one of the top handful of results that states it’s the website that you want to go to. Unfortunately, when you click that search result, you’re not usually going to your desired website. You are actually clicking on an ad purchased by the scammer. As you click on this link, you’re redirected through a chain of websites that ultimately lands on a fake website. It will cause your browser to pop up a window that takes up your whole computer screen and disables any means of closing it. For added intimidation, your speakers may start talking to inform you that your machine is infected and your machine is going to infect other machines.
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You’re presented with a message that your machine is infected and needs to be cleaned and that you should call the 1-800 number provided on that screen. You’re in the beginning stage of a scam. If you do call the scammer and allow them to connect to your computer, then the security of your machine has been compromised. In most cases the scammers will install free, downloadable software from the web on your machine to “clean” your machine. They ask for your credit card information, of course, before doing this. The charge to provide this service can range from $200 on up. If you think calling your credit card company after the fact will help, you’ll be surprised to learn there’s nothing they can do about it because you gave the scammer permission to connect to your machine and install the free software. You’re basically paying them a minimum of $200 an hour to install free software that you could download and install yourself. The danger in all this is when you allow this scammer to connect to your machine, you are allowing a complete stranger, under false pretenses, to have complete access to your computer and all the files on it. Now, you may not think this is very dangerous, but think about it this way. This dubious individual has had access to install whatever they want on your machine.
Sure, you may have turned off your computer, or disconnected the network cable from the back of your computer and hung up on them, but did you do this before they had time to install their software onto your machine? They could still have access to your machine. They may have installed a key logger program that’s keeping track of everything that you’re typing into your computer and sending it back to them. Bank account logins. Credit card numbers. Account logins to your online financial websites. The possibilities are endless. If you ever find yourself in this predicament, the easiest thing to do is hit the power button on your computer. If your computer will not turn off, then hold the power button in for longer than four seconds, which will turn it off. It’s the simplest way to get out of the scammer’s snare. If you fall prey to the deception and let a spammer onto your computer, it will need to be professionally wiped clean so that no malicious software remains operating on it. Mark Rinaudo has been working in IT in Shreveport, La., for more than 20 years. He is the owner and operator of Preferred Data Solutions. Email mark@ preferreddatasolutions.com to submit a question for this column.
At Your Fingertips Helpful numbers, hotlines, and local businesses and organizations eager to serve you—all just a phone call away. Disasters American Red Cross Greater Brandywine (610) 692-1200 Chester County Emergency Services (610) 344-5000 Salvation Army Coatesville (610) 384-2954
Arthritis Foundation (215) 570-3060
Housing Authority of Chester County (610) 436-9200
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (800) 232-4636
Housing Authority of Phoenixville (610) 933-8801
Coatesville VA Medical Center (610) 383-7711 Domestic Violence (800) 799-7233
JEWELERS American Gold & Estate Buyers, Inc. 363 E. Lincoln Highway, Exton (484) 872-8216
National Osteoporosis Foundation (800) 223-9994
Legal Services Lawyer Referral Service (610) 429-1500
PACE (800) 225-7223
Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania (610) 436-4510
Office of Aging (610) 344-6350/(800) 692-1100
Senior Healthlink (610) 431-1852
Financial Services Internal Revenue Service (800) 829-3676
Social Security Administration (800) 772-1213
Natural health Chasing Miracles www.chasingmiracles.com
Salvation Army West Chester (610) 696-8746 Emergency Numbers Central Pennsylvania Poison Center (800) 521-6110
Funeral & Cremation Services Cremation Society of Pennsylvania Serving Chester County (800) 720-8221 Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (800) 272-3900 American Cancer Society (800) 227-2345 American Heart Association (610) 940-9540
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Southeastern Pennsylvania Medical Institute (610) 446-0662 Hearing Services Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (800) 233-3008 V/TTY home equity loans Glendale Mortgage (610) 853-6500; (888) 456-0988 Housing Assistance Community Impact Legal Services (610) 876-0804
Nutrition Meals on Wheels Chester County Inc. (610) 430-8500 Pennsylvania Hunger Action Center (800) 366-3997 Office of Aging Chester County Department of Aging Services (610) 344-6350 Pharmacies CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com
retirement living Friends Home in Kennett 147 W. State St., Kennett Square (610) 444-2577 Harrison Senior Living Locations in Christiana and East Fallowfield (610) 384-6310 The Hickman 400 N. Walnut St., West Chester (484) 760-6300 Senior Centers Coatesville (610) 383-6900 Downingtown (610) 269-3939 Great Valley (610) 889-2121 Kennett Square (610) 444-4819 Oxford (610) 932-5244 Phoenixville (610) 935-1515 Wayne (610) 688-6246 West Chester (610) 431-4242 Not an all-inclusive list of advertisers in your area.
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3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Phone 717.285.1350 • Fax 717.285.1360 Chester County: 610.675.6240 Cumberland County/Dauphin County: 717.770.0140 Berks County/Lancaster County/ Lebanon County/York County: 717.285.1350 E-mail address: info@onlinepub.com Website address: www.onlinepub.com
Cover Story
How Seniors Can Truly Benefit from Low-Impact Workouts
PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Donna K. Anderson
By Christopher W. Grayson
EDITORIAL
Vice President and Managing Editor Christianne Rupp Editor, 50plus Publications Megan Joyce
ART DEPARTMENT Project Coordinator Renee McWilliams Production Artist Lauren Phillips
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Senior Marketing Consultants Joshua Binkley Jennifer Schmalhofer Angie Willis Marketing Consultant Joseph Herr Rebecca Leader Events Manager Kimberly Shaffer Marketing Coordinator Kelsey Fishburn Account Service Coordinator Emily Polito
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Member of
Activity is vital at any life stage. It helps children develop correctly, keeps adults healthy, and reduces the impact of old age in seniors. Elders that stay active can enjoy various benefits to their wellbeing, even from lowimpact workouts. Still, it isn’t always easy to keep motivated to work out, especially during these cold winter days. To avoid loss of motivation, seniors should always keep in mind how beneficial exercise can be for them. Let’s have a look at how seniors can genuinely benefit from low-impact workouts, as well as what the best low-impact workouts are.
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50plus LIFE is published by On-Line Publishers, Inc. and is distributed monthly among senior centers, retirement communities, banks, grocers, libraries and other outlets serving the senior community. On-Line Publishers, Inc. will not knowingly accept or publish advertising which may be fraudulent or misleading in nature. Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles and letters are not necessarily the views of the publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. The publisher will not be responsible for mistakes in advertisements unless notified within five days of publication. On-Line Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to revise or reject any and all advertising. No part of this publication may be reproduced or reprinted without permission of On-Line Publishers, Inc. We will not knowingly publish any advertisement or information not in compliance with the Federal Fair Housing Act, Pennsylvania State laws or other local laws.
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Better Mental Health Whichever form of exercise you choose, it’s sure to produce endorphins. Activities in nature will further increase the impact of the “feel good” hormone, ensuring you’ll feel satisfied and happy afterward. Nature walks or hikes, cycling, and yoga can serve you well
in reducing bad moods and improving your overall mental health. Exercise has an exceptionally positive impact on insomnia and other sleeping problems, which are common in seniors. Better Physical Health Regular activity prevents or lowers the risk of many illnesses and keeps your body strong and healthy. Working out improves the immune system, which is especially crucial for elders, as they are more vulnerable to diseases. But low-impact workouts don’t only keep diseases at bay. They also reduce the risk of falling by improving strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Even the most basic, low-impact exercise, such as walking, can help, as long as it’s done regularly. More Social Engagement One of the best things about exercise is that it doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Likeminded seniors can get together for walks or hiking. Having company usually improves www.50plusLifePA.com
they are relatively easy compared to full-blown workout routines. Walking is the easiest one to get into and provides a full-body workout. The same goes for swimming, which is considered one of the safest solutions for exercising when joint health is in question. Stretching and yoga are great for building flexibility and balance or maintaining them in old age. Alternatively, you might want to take up cycling, dancing, or tai chi. Ultimately, staying active is one of the best ways to ensure a good quality of life even if you’re well into your senior years.
accountability as well, so you’ll be more motivated to keep up with your workout habits. Another right way to stay active while enjoying company is signing up for dancing or a fitness class. By maintaining social ties, you’ll keep loneliness at bay as well. Improved Brain Function According to multiple studies, physical activity also has a positive influence on cognitive function. Exercise improves and fine tunes our motor skills, which, in turn, keep our mind sharp. Active seniors have less risk of dementia, regardless of whether they’ve always been active or not. What matters is that you stay physically active. Best Low-Impact Exercises Sometimes seniors can find the idea of exercise intimidating due to fear of falling or injury. It is precisely why low-impact workouts are recommended, as
Christopher W. Grayson, M.D., Florida Orthopaedic Institute, is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons. Grayson is the author of multiple articles in peer-reviewed journals.
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Simple Aquatic Exercises for Boomers and Beyond We all know water as a key ingredient in maintaining absolute prosperity with our health, but did you also know water can serve as a great alternative for cardio workouts, rehabilitation, and other forms of training? Aquatic-based exercise is ideal for aging and elderly individuals with arthritis and other agerelated maladies as well as those recovering from injury and surgery. Here are a few of the benefits and best practices of integrating aquatic exercise and therapy into a regular fitness routine:
By Danielle Debulgado
To most of us, the thought of staying fit while balancing the day’s activities and demands is a hefty undertaking, especially when you have ever-increasing daily aches and pains. What if you could ease aches and pains while getting a workout in a fast and effective way that’s easy to integrate into daily routines? Would you believe that it starts with something as simple as water?
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Benefits • Aquatic exercises can decrease aches and pain in the back, hips, and lower extremities quickly, even after only a few sessions. The buoyancy properties of water decrease weight bearing and pressure, which unloads joints and allows them to maintain exercises even if muscle mass is reduced and bone density isn’t as strong. • Older athletes can increase exercise activity without increasing pain due to the decrease in pressure and weight bearing. Chest-high water results in approximately 30-35 percent weight bearing, which mimics the effect of weight training on muscle strength and weight loss without the pressure. Additional properties of water, such as hydrostatic pressure, can increase circulation and result in decreased edema. Always consult with your physician and listen to your body. You will know if something doesn’t feel right. Best Practices • Don’t be afraid to use assistance. Exercising in the water may require the use of the pool wall and some pool noodles, so it’s important your balance is maintained at a comfortable depth. If you ever feel like you’re struggling or need assistance while stretching or exercising, ask for help. The most important rule in the pool is that safety comes first. • Safety is always important, so know your limits. There are some restrictions when performing aquatic therapy, including but not limited to: fear of water, incontinence, and open wounds/infections. There are also some precautions to be aware of when performing aquatic exercise. Pool temperatures over 90 degrees can increase overheating and dehydration and should therefore be avoided. Danielle Debulgado is an ATI aquatic therapy expert from Aurora, Ill. www.50plusLifePA.com
Dear Pharmacist
Suzy Cohen
5 Supplements that Make You Look Younger than You Are
Maybe you thought beauty is only skin deep, but it’s not. A radiant, youthfullooking face is actually an inside job. It helps to drink fresh water, exercise regularly, and eat healthy foods to get the nutrients that provide the building blocks of healthy skin. Your gut and liver enzymes (glutathione and catalase) must remove toxins and free radicals every second of the day; otherwise, the junk inside your cells damages your skin. I’ve tried various supplements over the years (on and off) to keep my skin looking as good as it can. Some level of aging is inevitable, but it’s amazing what your face can look like if you use high-quality skin care products and neutralize free radicals before they age you. Here are some of my favorite skin-loving herbs and nutrients: Milk thistle. It’s a food, but it’s also a liver-supporting supplement. Milk thistle contains a compound called silymarin, which can ease liver inflammation and promote cell repair. Your liver processes everything that goes in your mouth, including alcohol, prescription medications, pesticides, preservatives, additives, and artificial colors. Your liver detoxifies everything your body doesn’t need. This reminds me of that episode of I Love Lucy where she’s struggling to keep up with the conveyor belt of chocolates coming down the line! When your liver falls behind on its job, poisons come out through your skin, causing rashes and itchiness. You’ll age faster. Avoid milk thistle if you’re allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies. Collagen. Collagen is a natural component of skin that declines as you age, resulting in thinner, less elastic, saggier skin. Two 2014 studies found that oral supplementation with this may improve skin elasticity and diminish wrinkles. Silica. This makes hot springs pretty and blue in color. Silica is a trace mineral that helps soothe psoriasis, eczema, and rashes when applied topically. Taken internally, silica helps you make collagen naturally, strengthening your nails. Vitamin E. You may think of rubbing vitamin E oil directly on your skin to prevent scars, but taken orally, vitamin E is a powerful cellular antioxidant, which means it gobbles up free radicals that could otherwise potentially www.50plusLifePA.com
damage your skin cells and lead to premature aging. Zinc. It’s not just for your prostate, or for colds! This mineral reduces skin inflammation and irritation, whether that’s associated with acne, pimples, or rashes. It also plays a role in managing the production and turnover of skin cells. When I worked in nursing homes with residents who had painful diabetes-related please see SUPPLEMENTS page 8
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Such is Life: I Hate Fresh Starts By Saralee Perel
I said to my husband, Bob, “I start so many new things without sticking with them.” We were looking around the gym at the YMCA. “This is horrifying,” I said, as we passed the torture machines. “We’re supposed to pay to put ourselves through this agony? That’s like paying a dentist to stick a needle in our gums.” “We do.” “See? That’s insane,” I said. “And look at that thing!” “What?” I pointed to the mirror. “They’ll force us to look in that.” He ignored me. Denise, a gal in charge, lovingly welcomed us as if we were family. She thought I was kidding when I said, “Where’s the hot dog stand?” “Bob, I’m not joining,” I said later. “I’m tired of taking first steps.” “What’s wrong with doing that?” Now that was one heck of a good question. I’ve been thinking that taking another first step is equivalent to picking up a thousand-pound boulder for the 227th time — hard, heavy, and depressing. Actually it’s the opposite. What’s depressing is not starting something new. And really, what does it matter how many first steps I’ve already taken? “Sweets,” I said, filling out the application, “it’s the YMCA. I’m neither young, male, nor Christian.” He grabbed the pen. “Then find the OWJA.” “Huh?” “The Old Women’s Jewish Association.”
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wounds, or decubitus ulcers, we always put them on zinc and vitamin C. Be careful with zinc — don’t take too much. In fact, avoid it if you take ginkgo biloba, ibuprofen, or warfarin because it slightly increases risk of bleeding.
Discover support and services available to meet challenges you may encounter as a senior, as someone who is caring for an older loved one, or as a person with a disability.
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Award-winning columnist Saralee Perel can be reached at sperel@saraleeperel.com or via her website: www.saraleeperel.com.
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I took the pen and finished the form. For me, the Y is not just a gym. It’s a salvation. What makes it extraordinary? The people who work there. Each one makes me feel that every notch I progress on a machine is an Olympic achievement, even when it’s as tiny an increment as a wave moving only an inch closer to shore. While I was exercising, a fitness trainer named Louise, who’s too modest to think of herself as the remarkable inspiration she is, asked, “Has this helped?” She was referring to my spinal cord injury, but I pointed to my head and said, “It’s helped up here.” I often say, “I can’t bring myself to do this.” But Louise has taught me that it’s what I do in spite of that thought that matters. The harder it is to motivate myself to get dressed and go, the greater the accomplishment of getting there. The people at the Y are not determined to make me exercise; they’re determined to help me be happy and loving, to myself and others. I have faith in the team. I have faith in looking at only one moment without overwhelming myself with the whole picture. I have faith in first steps, even if I’ve tried the same ones before. But most of all, I’ve found new faith in myself. As the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”
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If you’d like to read the longer version of this article, it’s available at my website, www.suzycohen.com. Please make sure to ask your doctor if these supplements are right for you. This information is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or treat your disease. For more information about the author, visit SuzyCohen.com
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Booming Voice
Shun-shine State Bill Levine
During the three months that my wife and I wintered in Florida in 2018, we befriended a few small lizards who jumped right into our pool, but no fellow snowbirds. Our lack of new Florida friendships was the most disappointing aspect of our three-month escape from winter. We realized that as renters, occupying the smallest house on our palm-tree-lined block of seven-figure-priced homes, we clearly were not magnets for forging Floridian friendships. Sure, we could have invited neighbors over to our backyard pool, but that would be gauche because everyone on the street had a pool, plus a dock, and plus and most likely a boat. We just had a Toyota Highlander as our lone water vehicle, albeit good only to a level of 6 inches. Of course we knew that it would be harder to meet fellow winterers on a residential street than in a high-rise condo facility. But the conventional wisdom is that you meet fellow temporary Floridians practically by osmosis. I imagined standing in line at an
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urgent care for sunburn remediation while engaging in snowbird banter on how to stabilize a beach umbrella. Realizing that our street was a dead-end socially, we did make a decent effort to show up at events and places that would put us in contact with snowbirds. One of my goals in going to Florida was to take up tennis again after abandoning the game when racquets were wood and I had aerobic capacity. There was a municipal tennis club in our adopted hometown that augured well for accumulating friends. To make sure I didn’t come across as a complete courtside neophyte, I took four lessons at the club. After the fourth lesson, my instructor said I was ready to play. He introduced me to an early-morning round-robin doubles group whose leader, Jack, welcomed me and said that I could play right away. The players seemed to range in age from old to really old, so I wouldn’t be run ragged by a 45-year-old kid. I started worrying when my record of games won/lost got to 4-20; I wondered if I was inducing a “winter of please see SHUN-SHINE page 13
OU R N EW B U IL DIN G IS N OW OP EN
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Reverse Mortgage Age in Place
Relax.
can “come after” the estate or your heirs. No one is “saddled” with debt because of the reverse mortgage. As a financial tool, a reverse Rob Miller, President mortgage is a wise choice. In many cases it provides relief from financial pressure in the near term and greater financial security in the long term. A n NO MONTHLY MORTGAGE reverse mortgage is basically a tax-free PAYMENTS REQUIRED. LOAN advance on your home equity. IS DUE WHEN YOU MOVE OUT For some people, a reverse mortgage PERMANENTLY, SELL THE HOME, OR PASS AWAY. can offer the financial freedom to enjoy their later years without worrying about n NON-RECOURSE: NEVER OWE income. For others, it can provide MORE THAN WHAT THE HOME IS much-needed funds for staying in WORTH* their homes. The money from a reverse mortgage can be used for any purpose. n PAYMENT DISBURSEMENT
Let Your Home Work for You.
OPTIONS BASED ON YOUR NEEDS
Call Rob Miller, NMLS No. 142151, President of Glendale Mortgage, NMLS No. 127720, and Reverse Mortgage Specialist, to learn more. (610) 853-6500 or (888) 456-0988 RMiller@GlendaleMortgage.com, www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org
Happy New Year!
* If the heirs choose not to repay the loan and the home is foreclosed, they will not be liable for any deficiency. Glendale Mortgage NMLS 127720 is an Equal Housing Lender. Some products and services may not be available in all states. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. If you qualify we will reimburse you for the cost of the appraisal at closing. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Licensed by the |Pennsylvania Department of Banking, State of Delaware Bank Commissioner, and the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org
If you are at least 62 years old and own your own home, a reverse mortgage may be a useful financial tool. There’s no limitations to how you use the money, so you can cover medical expenses, fund education for your grandchildren, or any other reason. With a reverse mortgage, you can access the equity in your home without having to make monthly mortgage payments. The loan would come due when you sell the home, move out permanently, or pass away. Call us today to see if you qualify! Your Financial Partner
ROB MILLER, NMLS #142151
President, HECM Mortgage Specialist
Direct: 610.853.6500 Toll Free: 888.456.0988 RMiller@GlendaleMortgage.com
Please join us for these FREE events! April 30, 2019
20th Annual
“I’ve lived in my home for over 30 years. I didn’t want to leave it and move to a new area where I no longer knew my neighbors. A reverse mortgage allowed me to have the security of staying in my home without a mortgage payment. That increased the money in my monthly budget. What a relief!” Pennsylvania aging statistics bear out that aging in place benefits many seniors. The ability to maintain a familiar routine and neighborhood can reduce stress and add years to one’s life. For many seniors who are living longer, the question is, “How do I fund my longevity?” Spouses are thinking about what will happen when one of them passes away. Will the surviving spouse be able to stay in the home comfortably? The answer is often “Yes!” When a reverse mortgage is put in place, it ensures there is no monthly mortgage payment, and often a sum of money is available to the surviving spouse. The bank never owns the home, and the property may be willed to the heirs. Because a reverse mortgage is FHA insured, it is a nonrecourse loan. No one
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Exhibitors • Health Screenings • Seminars • Demonstrations • Entertainment • Door Prizes Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available (717) 285-1350 (717) 770-0140 (610) 675-6240
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The Bookworm Sez
November Road Terri Schlichenmeyer
Catch me if you can! Houston and she likely And the chase began, knew how. He’d tried one of you the pursuer, to keep his head low but the other pursued, he figured that Marcello racing through park would know what he was or playground, across driving long before he hit the yard, down the the Texas-New Mexico sidewalk in a game border. that children have been To avoid the guy who playing forever. was undoubtedly tailing Catch me if you can, him, he needed to find and escape wins the some sort of disguise, game. In the new book some way to not stick out. November Road by Lou He needed to become a Berney, escape means family man, quick. another day to live. A future divorcee and November Road On the day after two kids was just the By Lou Berney President Kennedy ticket. c. 2018, Wm. Morrow was shot, everything When was the last 303 pages became crystal-clear time you had a manicure? to Frank Guidry. For years, he’d been Never mind. You won’t have any Carlos Marcello’s right-hand man, his fingernails left to manicure when you fixer, his enforcer, the guy Marcello read this book. You’ll have them all relied on, but something was up. chewed off. On the day after Kennedy was That’s because November Road is shot, Marcello’s assistant, Seraphine, a nail-biter from the first chapter. By told Guidry that he was being sent to then, author Lou Berney has prepared Houston to get rid of a car that could a deliciously scandalous possibility for connect Marcello to the assassination. his readers, centered in a historically Guidry knew the rest: get rid of the unforgettable backdrop, in a culturalcar, and then they’d get rid of him. turning-point year, run by characters And so he escaped. who kill as casually as they walk. When she was dating Dooley, Those guys are terrifyingly ice-cold, Charlotte Roy knew he drank too in fact, and their presence will make much. you want to check the other rooms in Two daughters later, too many nights your home — and if that’s not enough waiting for Dooley to come home, and to keep you perched nervously on the Charlotte had enough. The president edge of your recliner, put a lovely, young was dead and so was her marriage. housewife-almost-feminist innocently Grabbing her daughters and the family in the midst of this tale, add national dog, she left Woodrow, Oklahoma, and turmoil and a slinky female mobster headed for California. with absolutely zero morals, and you’ve When a guy like Carlos Marcello got a book that you’ll stay up all night tells you to find someone, that’s what to read. you do, and finding Guidry should have You’ve got a book you’ll carry around been easy for Barone, Marcello’s newest with you. fixer. In November Road, you’ve got the Sure, there were wrong trails and a perfect escape. little matter of a badly injured hand, but The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. he was smarter than Guidry. Finding Terri has been reading since she was 3 years Guidry was only a matter of time. old, and she never goes anywhere without a Frank Guidry couldn’t relax for book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 14,000 books. a second. Seraphine knew he’d fled www.50plusLifePA.com
Stop a Cold Before it Starts New research shows you can stop a cold in its tracks if you take one simple step with a new device when you ÂżUVW IHHO D FROG FRPLQJ on. Colds start when FROG YLUXVHV JHW LQ \RXU nose. Viruses multiply fast. If you don’t stop Research: Copper stops colds if used early. them early, they spread and cause it “one of the best presents ever. This little jewel really works.â€? misery. But scientists have found a Now thousands of users have simquick way to kill a virus. Touch SO\ VWRSSHG JHWWLQJ FROGV People often use CopperZap LW ZLWK FRSSHU 5HVHDUFKHUV DJUHH copper is “antimicrobial.â€? It kills SUHYHQWLYHO\ )UHTXHQW Ă€LHU .DUmicrobes, such as viruses and bac- HQ *DXFL XVHG WR JHW FROGV DIWHU FURZGHG Ă€LJKWV 7KRXJK VNHSWLteria, just by touch. That’s why ancient Greeks and cal, she tried it several times a day (J\SWLDQV XVHG FRSSHU WR SXUL- RQ WUDYHO GD\V IRU PRQWKV Âł6L[fy water and heal wounds. They WHHQ Ă€LJKWV DQG QRW D VQLྡH ´ Businesswoman Rosaleen says didn’t know about viruses and when people are sick around her bacteria, but now we do. 6FLHQWLVWV VD\ WKH KLJK FRQGXF- VKH XVHV &RSSHU=DS PRUQLQJ DQG tance of copper disrupts the elec- QLJKW Âł,W VDYHG PH ODVW KROLGD\V ´ trical balance in a microbe cell VKH VDLG Âł7KH NLGV KDG FROGV JRLQJ URXQG DQG URXQG EXW QRW PH ´ and destroys the cell in seconds. Some users say it also helps Tests by the Environmental 3URWHFWLRQ $JHQF\ (3$ VKRZ ZLWK VLQXVHV $WWRUQH\ 'RQQD JHUPV GLH IDVW RQ FRSSHU 6R %OLJKW KDG D GD\ VLQXV KHDGDFKH some hospitals tried copper for When her CopperZap arrived, she touch surfaces like faucets and tried it. “I am shocked!â€? she said. doorknobs. This cut the spread of “My head cleared, no more headMRSA and other illnesses by over DFKH QR PRUH FRQJHVWLRQ ´ Some users say copper stops half, and saved lives. 7KH VWURQJ VFLHQWLÂżF HYLGHQFH QLJKWWLPH VWXŕľśQHVV LI XVHG MXVW JDYH LQYHQWRU 'RXJ &RUQHOO DQ before bed. One man said, “Best LGHD :KHQ KH IHOW D FROG FRPLQJ sleep I’ve had in years.â€? &RSSHU PD\ HYHQ VWRS Ă€X LI on he fashioned a smooth copper SUREH DQG UXEEHG LW JHQWO\ LQ KLV XVHG HDUO\ DQG IRU GD\V /DE WHFKQLFLDQV SODFHG PLOOLRQ OLYH nose for 60 seconds. “It worked!â€? he exclaimed. Ă€X YLUXVHV RQ D &RSSHU=DS 1R YL“The cold went away complete- ruses were found alive soon after. &RSSHU HYHQ NLOOV GHDGO\ JHUPV O\ ´ ,W ZRUNHG DJDLQ HYHU\ WLPH KH IHOW D FROG FRPLQJ RQ DQG KH that have become resistant to antibiotics. If you are near sick peohasn’t had a cold since. He asked relatives and friends SOH D PRPHQW RI KDQGOLQJ LW PD\ to try it. They said it worked for keep serious infection away. It them, too, so he patented Copper- may even save a life. Zap™ and put it on the market. The EPA says copper still Soon hundreds of people had works even when tarnished. It WULHG LW DQG JLYHQ IHHGEDFN 1HDU- NLOOV KXQGUHGV RI GLŕľľHUHQW GLVHDVH ly 100% said the copper stops JHUPV VR LW FDQ SUHYHQW VHULRXV RU colds if used within 3 hours after even fatal illness. WKH ÂżUVW VLJQ (YHQ XS WR GD\V LI CopperZap is made in the U.S. WKH\ VWLOO JHW WKH FROG LW LV PLOGHU of pure copper. 90-day full money than usual and they feel better. EDFN JXDUDQWHH ZKHQ XVHG DV GL8VHUV ZURWH WKLQJV OLNH Âł,W UHFWHG WR VWRS D FROG ,W LV VWRSSHG P\ FROG ULJKW DZD\ ´ DQG *HW Rŕľľ HDFK &RSSHU=DS ZLWK “Is it supposed to work that fast?â€? code PAFP3. and “No more colds for me!â€? Go to www.CopperZap.com or 3DW 0F$OOLVWHU DJH UH- call toll-free 1-888-411-6114. FHLYHG RQH DV D JLIW DQG FDOOHG Buy once, use forever. (paid advertisement)
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Where friends become family.
March 26, 2019 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Wyndham Hotel York 2000 Loucks Road, York
This event is FREE to attend. Veterans (of all ages) and the military community and their families are invited to join us!
The Expo brings federal, state, and local agencies together with area businesses to provide information and resources to veterans and their families.
The Job Fair brings veterans and spouses who need jobs together with employers who can benefit from this rich source of talent to aid their organizations.
A MISSION TO SERVE This vibrant senior community provides for the needs of older men and women with independent living, personal care, and skilled nursing. Residents enjoy a homey atmosphere with a Quaker mission. AN ADAPTABLE APPROACH & A HEART FOR COMMUNITY Rather than having residents adapt to Friends Home, we work to adapt our environment to their individual interests and needs. In addition, residents actively participate in various intergenerational programs throughout the community and enjoy giving back.
147 West State Street, Kennett Square 610.444.2577 | www.FHKennett.org Independent Living | Supportive Independent Living | Personal Care | Skilled Nursing
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www.facebook.com/50plusLIFEPA “Like” us on Facebook to receive a free 6-month subscription! Plus, you’ll receive event updates, story links, and more!
Pet of the Month
Loki At the Expo
Veterans Benefits & Services Medical/Nonmedical Resources Products and Services Available Support/Assistance Programs Education/Training Services
At the Job Fair
Employers Job Counseling Workshops Employment Seminars Resume Writing Assistance Hosted by:
Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available
www.veteransexpo.com (717) 285-1350 www.olpevents.com
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Loki is an easygoing 3-year-old mixed breed with some seriously cute ears. He’s always ready for a snuggle session, especially when it involves belly rubs. Loki would prefer an adultonly home where he can be an only pet while he learns all of his puppy manners. For more information, contact Brandywine Valley SPCA, 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, at (484) 302-0865 or www.bvspca.org. www.50plusLifePA.com
Winter Heating Bill Assistance Available The Department of Human Services is accepting both crisis and regular applications for Pennsylvania’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) through April 12. LIHEAP provides assistance for home heating bills to keep Pennsylvanians with lower incomes warm and safe during the winter months. Assistance is available for renters and homeowners. During the 2017-18 LIHEAP season, 344,008 households statewide received $115,936,887 million in LIHEAP cash benefits. These households received an average season benefit of $337. LIHEAP benefits are paid directly to the utility company or fuel provider. Eligibility for the 2018-19 LIHEAP season is set at 150 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines. The chart beside shows the maximum
income allowed for eligibility based on household size: Household size 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Maximum Income $18,210 $24,690 $31,170 $37,650 $44,130 $50,610 $57,090 $63,570 $70,050 $76,530
In addition to financial assistance, eligible customers may also be able to receive LIHEAP support for emergencies due to broken or faulty heating units, fuel lines, windows, or pipes. Should any of those emergencies occur, customers can contact their caseworker to see if the unit can be repaired or replaced through LIHEAP’s Crisis Interface Program. Online applications for LIHEAP can be completed at compass.state.pa.us or on the myCOMPASS PA mobile app if you received LIHEAP during the 2017-18 season. Paper applications are available through local county assistance offices, or interested applicants can download and print an application from the department’s website. For more information on LIHEAP, visit dhs. pa.gov.
SHUN-SHINE from page 9 discontent” from my playing partners. On my sixth or so visit, an 80-year-old member told me that I am not “ready for prime time” and suggested that I just go practice. That was the end of my friends-through-tennis initiative. My new tennis partner was the practice backboard. Like Florida gators, it was possible that we could make impact on the water, so we did take some inter-coastal waterway cruises. These excursions featured the waterfront properties of the rich and ostentatious. Our best shot at making acquaintances came on the close quarters of a so-called “gondola” cruise. It was sort of a misnomer as there was no cheery, singing gondoliers, but instead just a weary tour guide with a singsong-y set of obscure facts (miles of canal dredging). The seating was intimate, but unfortunately the other couple on the gondola steered the conversation so politically slanted that the gondola appeared to be severely listing on the starboard side. We thought that visits to the dog park would be a great way to make acquaintances. Our expectations were that Cookie, our 11-year-old Boston terrier, would interact with other dogs, which would generate an invitation to hang out with their owners. Cookie, though, didn’t play. She just walked around sniffing the periphery of the park, often zeroing in on water bowls like a canine divining rod. We did conduct our longest seasonal conversation with a snowbird couple in the dog park. Much of our chatting was fueled on our common Boston background. When they left, we did think that maybe we should have planned a get-together. We really didn’t anticipate this would be our 15 minutes of conviviality for the season. Well, at least we engaged better than Cookie did. This winter we do expect to make friends because we will be in snowbird Valhalla, a.k.a., a high-rise ocean-side condo complex. The numbers favor us. Our rental-house footprint held two people — us — but the 17-floor condo silo in that same footprint probably holds 100 snowbirds. We will just have to prepare a good elevator speech, as follows: “Hi, we are from Belmont, Massachusetts, but don’t hate the Yankees. We are in apartment 4C but are happy there and have no envy if you are in the penthouse. We don’t play cards, but we will look unobtrusively over your shoulder while you play.” We also will have much opportunity to meet people at the pool and use that great conversation starter, “It seems like it’s less windy today.” www.50plusLifePA.com
We should thus make snowbird friends; otherwise it’s on to the 50,000population Villages retirement complex. Hopefully, those numbers favor us. Bill Levine is a retired IT professional and active freelance writer. Bill aspires to be a humorist because it is easier to be pithy than funny.
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Savvy Senior
Jim Miller
How to Cope with Seasonal Affective Disorder
Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about seasonal affective disorder? I have always hated wintertime, but since I retired and am home a lot more, the dark and cold winter months make me depressed and lethargic. – Fighting the Blues Dear Fighting, If you get depressed in the winter but feel better in spring and summer, you may indeed have seasonal affective disorder (or SAD), a wintertime depression that affects roughly 6 percent of Americans. In most cases, SAD is related to the loss of sunlight in the winter months. Reduced sunlight can upset natural sleepwake cycles and other circadian rhythms that can affect the body. It can also cause a drop in the brain chemical serotonin, which affects mood, and can increase the levels of the hormone melatonin, which can make you feel more tired and lethargic. If you think you may have SAD, a trip to your doctor’s office is the best way to diagnose it, or you can take a SAD “self-diagnostic” test at the Center for Environmental Therapeutics website (cet.org/self-assessments).
Your guide to choosing the right living and care options for you or a loved one. Read it online, in print, and on mobile/tablet devices. onlinepub.com
23rd annual edition
Call today for your free copy! (717) 285-1350 14
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In the meantime, here are several treatment options and remedies that can help. Light therapy: The most effective treatment for SAD is sitting in front of a specialized light-therapy box for 15-20 minutes a day. Light therapy mimics outdoor light to cause a change in brain chemicals linked to mood. It’s most effective when timed to fit a person’s individual circadian rhythm, which varies widely from person to person, depending on whether they’re a night owl or a morning lark. You can calculate the proper time for doing light therapy by taking the circadian rhythm test at cet.org/self-assessment. The best light-therapy lamps provide 10,000 lux of illumination, many times stronger than typical indoor light, and have a diffuser screen that filters out ultraviolet rays and projects downward toward the eyes. Some top-rated products as rated by Wirecutter (thewirecutter.com) include the Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Lamp ($115), Verilux HappyLight Deluxe 10,000-Lux Sunshine Simulator ($160), and the Northern Light Technology Boxelite Desk Lamp ($190), all of which are available at Amazon.com. Cognitive behavioral therapy: Even though SAD is considered a biological problem, identifying and changing thought and behavior patterns can help alleviate symptoms too. To help you with this, choose a therapist who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and who has experience in treating SAD. To locate someone in your area, check with the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (findcbt.org) or the Academy of Cognitive Therapy (academyofct. org). Antidepressants: Some people with SAD benefit from antidepressant treatment, especially if symptoms are severe. Some proven medications to ask your doctor about include the extendedrelease version of the antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin XL, Aplenzin) and antidepressants in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class, such as sertraline (also known as Zoloft) and fluoxetine (also known under the brand name Prozac). But keep in mind that it may take several weeks to notice full benefits from an antidepressant. In addition, you may have to try different medications before you find one that works well for you and has the fewest side effects. Lifestyle remedies: Some other things you can do to help alleviate your SAD symptoms include making your environment sunnier and brighter. So, open up your blinds, sit closer to bright windows, and get outside as much as can. Even on cold or cloudy days, outdoor light can help, especially if you spend some time outside within two hours of getting up in the morning. Moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, yoga, and even tai chi, can also help alleviate SAD symptoms, as can social activities. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit www.savvysenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.
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Puzzle Page
CROSSWORD
Solutions for all puzzles can be found on page 16 SUDOKU
WORD SEARCH
Transportation
Across 1. They, in Trieste 5. Turkish title 9. At a distance 13. Voting group 14. Excitement 16. Cousin of a mandolin 17. Murray of What About Bob? 18. Kidney secretion 19. Jockey’s whip 20. Stabilized 22. Clutches 24. Persia, today 25. Race unit
26. Turkey’s highest peak 29. Third tonsil 33. Fall behind 34. Like Chicago 36. Kind of ink 38. Picnic pest 40. Citadel student 42. Sparkle 43. High points 45. Man with a mission 47. Compass point 48. Nova Scotia capital 50. Steel man Carnegie
52. Author LeShan 53. “Gimme ___!” 54. Toddler 57. Hairstyle 61. Son of Jacob and Leah 62. Driving hazard 64. French bread? 65. Lover of Aphrodite 66. Postal scale unit 67. Train station 68. Drill 69. Orders to plow horses 70. Stereo knob
21. No-win situation 23. Eastern royal 26. Aquatic plant 27. Dressing type 28. Old World lizard 29. African antelope 30. Like Easter eggs 31. Slacker 32. Cheers role 35. California wine valley 37. Over again 39. Broadcast 41. Rookies
44. Fries, maybe 46. Begrudge 49. Red River city 51. Execrate 53. Compel 54. Thick slice 55. Matinee follower 56. Say for sure 57. Glazier’s item 58. Garage occupant 59. Vitamin additive 60. Easy gait 63. Big galoot
Down 1. Trails off 2. Narrow opening 3. Seafood selection 4. French pastry 5. Mediterranean arm 6. Clover color 7. Full house, e.g. 8. Pal for Pierre 9. Famous gangster 10. Wraps 11. Above 12. Gym set 15. Vantage point
Your ad could be here on this popular page! Please call (610) 675-6240 for more information.
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Melinda’s Garden
Light ’Em Up Now for Better Garden Results Melinda Myers
Photo credit: Gardeners Supply Company
LED grow-light stands come in a range of sizes. From left, clockwise, Compact 3-Tier SunLite Garden, Compact Tabletop SunLite Garden, and Micro Grow Light Garden.
dropped. And if you consider that LED plant lights typically use half the energy of fluorescent tubes, provide consistent light quality, and last up to five times longer, the long-term savings outweighs the initial investment. Plus, they’re mercury-free and won’t add contaminates to landfills. When replacing fluorescent tubes with LED grow lights, look for
compatibility. Some of the newer LED grow lights are compatible with existing T-5 light setups. You just replace the bulb, not your whole lighting system. You will get the most out of your investment and grow better transplants with proper use. Move seedlings under lights as soon as they start breaking through the soil surface.
Keep the lights about 6 inches above the top of seedlings. This means you’ll need to raise the lights or lower the plants as the seedlings grow. Make your own light stand using adjustable supports to raise and lower lights as needed. Use a reflector above grow-light tubes to direct the light downward toward the plants. Bounce light back onto seedlings by using reflective surfaces under and around the plants. Even easier — invest in a quality grow-light stand. Set the lights on a timer. Seedlings need about 14-16 hours of light. Plants do need a dark period, so running the lights longer wastes electricity and is not good for the plants. If you are using grow lights to supplement natural daylight, you may only need to run the lights a few hours a day. Monitor plant growth and increase the duration if plants appear leggy or pale. Increased light, along with proper watering, fertilizer, and growing temperatures, will ensure you have a bumper crop of transplants for your gardens and containers. Melinda Myers is the author of more than 20 gardening books and host of The Great Courses’ How to Grow Anything DVD series. Her website, www. melindamyers.com, offers gardening tips and videos.
Puzzles shown on page 15
Puzzle Solutions
It’s time to break out the seeds and potting mix to start your garden plants indoors. It’s a great way to keep your green thumb in shape over winter. Plus, you’ll save money, increase your variety of plants, and jumpstart the growing season when you start seeds under LED grow lights. Indoor growing conditions often offer limited light, and that can mean tall, leggy transplants with weak stems. You can greatly increase your success by investing in quality grow lights. Adding artificial light to your seed-starting regime results in stout transplants with strong stems and deep-green leaves. Invest wisely when shopping for indoor plant lights. Fluorescent tubes used to be the standard because they provided a wide spectrum of light needed for plant growth and flowering and were relatively inexpensive and readily available. Unfortunately, they used significant amounts of electricity and needed to be replaced every few years. Then many gardeners shifted to full-spectrum fluorescent grow lights. Many last longer than the older and larger fluorescent tubes, but new LED grow lights provide even better light intensity and use much less energy. If you’ve looked at LED lights in the past, you may have suffered sticker shock. Fortunately, the prices have
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Chester County
Calendar of Events
Support Groups Free and open to the public
Senior Center Activities
Mondays (except holidays), 10-11:30 a.m. Sunshine Memory Café United Methodist Church of West Chester 129 S. High St., West Chester (610) 349-3401 adean0413@gmail.com
Jan. 9 and 23, 6:30-8 p.m. Bereavement Support Group Jennersville Hospital Conference Room B 1015 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove (610) 998-1700, ext. 226
Jan. 2, 6 p.m. Memory Loss and Dementia Support Group Sunrise Assisted Living of Paoli 324 W. Lancaster Ave., Malvern (610) 251-9994
Jan. 14 and 28, 10:30 a.m. to noon Caregiver Coffee Break/Support Group Active Day of Exton 201 Sharp Lane, Exton (610) 363-8044
Coatesville Area Senior Center (610) 383-6900 250 Harmony St., Coatesville www.coatesvilleseniorcenter.org Mo ndays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 10:30-11:15 a.m. – Going Fit Exercise Program Jan. 3 and 17, 11 a.m. to noon – Veterans Coffee Club Jan. 9 and 23, 1-2 p.m. – Bingo
Jan. 8 and 22, 5-6:30 p.m. Bereavement Support Group Main Line Unitarian Church 816 S. Valley Forge Road, Devon (610) 585-6604 phoenixbereavement@yahoo.com Nondenominational; all are welcome.
Jan. 15, 6 p.m. Family Caregiver Support Group Sunrise of Westtown 501 Skiles Blvd., West Chester (610) 399-4464
Jan. 9 1:30 p.m. Family Caregiver Support Group Sarah Care 425 Technology Drive, Suite 200, Malvern (610) 251-0801 Jan. 9, 7-8:30 p.m. Hearing Loss Support Group Christ Community Church 1190 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester (610) 444-445 www.hearinglosschesco.com
Jan. 15, 6:30-8 p.m. Bereavement Support Group Brandywine Hospital Conference Room 2N 201 Reeceville Road, Coatesville (610) 998-1700, ext. 226 Jan. 30, 6 p.m. Living with Cancer Support Group Paoli Hospital Cancer Center 255 W. Lancaster Ave., Paoli (484) 565-1253
Community Programs Free and open to the public Jan. 3, 7:30 p.m. Compassionate Friends Valley Forge Chapter Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 132 E. Valley Forge Road, King of Prussia (484) 919-0820 www.tcfvalleyforge.org Jan. 5 and 19, 5-10 p.m. Bingo Night Marine Corps League Detachment 430 Chestnut St., Downingtown (610) 429-8174
Jan. 15, noon AARP Valley Forge Chapter Meeting St. Luke Evangelical Lutheran Church 203 N. Valley Forge Road, Devon (610) 647-1823
If you have an event you would like to include, please email information to mjoyce@onlinepub.com for consideration.
parks and recreation Jan. 1, 2-3 p.m. – New Year’s Day Hike, Warwick County Park Jan. 20, 1-2 p.m. – Hibernia Winter Mansion Tours, Hibernia County Park Jan. 21, 6-8 p.m. – Winter Full Moon Hike, Wolf’s Hollow County Park
Downingtown Senior Center – (610) 269-3939 983 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown www.downingtownseniors.org Weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Games and Puzzles Tuesdays, 1 p.m. – Quiddler Word Game Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. – Photoshoot Hour Great Valley Senior Center – (610) 889-2121 47 Church Road, Malvern Tuesdays, 11 a.m. – Scrabble Thursdays, 10 a.m. – Cards Jan. 30 – Winter-Fest Kennett Area Senior Center – (610) 444-4819 427 S. Walnut St., Kennett Square www.kennettseniorcenter.org Oxford Senior Center – (610) 932-5244 12 E. Locust St., Oxford – www.oxfordseniors.org Wednesdays, 8:30-11:30 a.m. – Paint Class Phoenixville Area Senior Center – (610) 935-1515 153 Church St., Phoenixville www.phoenixvilleseniorcenter.org West Chester Area Senior Center – (610) 431-4242 530 E. Union St., West Chester www.wcseniors.org Thursdays, 1 p.m. – WCASC Chorus Submit senior center events to mjoyce@onlinepub.com.
Library Programs Avon Grove Library, 117 Rose Hill Ave., West Grove, (610) 869-2004 Jan. 7 and 21, 3-4:30 p.m. – Sit and Knit Jan. 12, 10-11 a.m. – Hinsonville’s Heroes Author Talk Jan. 26, 11 a.m. to noon – START Retirement Education Program Downingtown Library, 330 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, (610) 269-2741 Jan. 14, 6:30 p.m. – Fantasy Book Club Jan. 15, 10-11 a.m. – Book Walkers Jan. 15, 6:30 p.m. – Crafters Maker Space Paoli Library, 18 Darby Road, Paoli, (610) 296-7996 Mystery Book Club – Call for dates/times
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5 Tips for Safe Winter Driving The 2018-19 winter has gotten off to a quick start for much of the United States. Stretches of cold temperatures and abundant frozen precipitation have already resulted in slippery driving conditions. While the weather has been challenging, the public must still continue to go to work, school, and other destinations. Many drivers are intimidated by taking to the roads when a mixed bag of weather has created challenging conditions. By taking a few simple precautions and being aware of the current conditions, you greatly increase your safety, that of your passengers, and the safety of those around you.
Plan for winter driving – You can be the safest winter driver on the road, but you’re only as good as the tools you use. Be sure your tires aren’t worn out — or better yet, buy winter tires. Tires with a good tread, intended for winter use, are critical and serve as your point of contact with the road. Be sure other parts of your car are in good working order: check the health of your wiper blades, make sure the windshield washer fluid is filled, and keep gloves, a hat, a coat, a small shovel, jumper cables, and a tow strap in your vehicle.
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When possible, it is also a good habit to keep at least a half tank of gas in your tank during the winter months. Test the conditions … and your car – Before you are faced with a real-world driving challenge, find a safe, open space and firmly apply your brakes or make a hard turn. Doing this early in the winter will allow you to know how your car reacts in these conditions, its limits, and how to safely compensate for it. Doing so throughout the winter and during different storms will give you a better idea of the current conditions and how much steering and braking input you can effectively utilize. This will also allow you to know how much to compensate for the conditions. Look where you want to go – This simple rule sounds obvious, but keeping it in mind will help you end up where you want to be. When confronted with an unexpected slide, drivers often will fixate on an object on the side of the road; inevitably, the car will head toward that object. Remain calm and stay focused on where you want the car to go. Continue to concentrate on driving, and often you will have a positive result. Prioritize your maneuvers – With limited grip available, if you
are using a good amount of one input (steering, braking, accelerating), you must wait to strongly apply another. For example, when braking hard, if you turn the steering wheel sharply, odds are you will continue straight. Wait until you are releasing the brake and then steadily apply the steering.
“There’s no place like home.” We agree. –L. Frank Baum
Be aware safety systems can be counterproductive – Systems such as ABS (antilock braking system) are in place to keep your wheels from locking up under heavy braking. When surfaces are slick enough from snow and ice, this may cause you to require several times’ the distance to come to a stop. Traction control is meant to eliminate the tires spinning faster than the distance of road traveled. Sometimes in winter, however, wheel spin is beneficial in cutting through the top layer of snow/ice and finding grip below it. Be prepared to have trouble accelerating in certain slippery scenarios. Know these systems and what their positive and negative impacts are. Team O’Neil Rally School in Dalton, N.H., offers a variety of driving courses for individuals, private companies, and government agencies. For more information, visit www.teamoneil.com.
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www.Harrisonseniorliving.com Harrison House—Chester County 300 Strode Avenue East Fallowfield, PA 19320 610.384.6310 Harrison House—Christiana 41 Newport Avenue Christiana, PA 17509 610.593.6901 Credit: Readers.com
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