Cumberland County Edition
April 2012
Vol. 13 No. 4
For the Love of the Limelight Annual PA State Senior Idol Competition Gears Up for 7th Year By Megan Joyce
This year’s hopefuls for the PA State Senior Idol competition include, from top, Steven Albright, Victoria Newcomer, and Robert Long.
As in years past, the contestants for the 2012 PA State Senior Idol competition will celebrate their diversity: different musical styles, different stage presentations, and—with ages ranging from 50 to 80 or better—a few decades between them as well. But the common thread woven amongst them all seems to be an essential, cherished love for performance: for the joy it brings both them and their audiences, for the thrill of connecting to strangers through something as intangible and evanescent as a song, a dance, or a comedic routine. It’s like that for Steve Albright of Jacobus, a retired Maryland native who works part-time as a pharmacy delivery driver. Though he played the trumpet for about 10 years during his school years, it wasn’t until his daughter took up the French horn that his love for his own long-silent brass instrument was rekindled. And it wasn’t until a few years even later that his passion for performance was reawakened as well. Albright was delivering medications to an area retirement community when he observed a gentleman playing the accordion for the community’s appreciative residents. “This just struck a chord with me,” he said. “I remembered the gratification that I used to get from doing that, because [seniors] are the best please see LIMELIGHT page 15
Inside:
The 5 Best Senior Acting Performances page 4
Special Section: Living Your Best Retirement page 10
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Book Review
Never Too Late: A 90-Year-Old’s Pursuit of a Whirlwind Life By Roy Rowan oday at 90, I’ve become reconciled to young women getting up and offering me their seats. Pride or plain stubbornness keeps me from accepting, even though a few twinges in those two marathon-proven legs often say, ‘Shut up and sit down!’ “But that would be giving up on a body that has refused to surrender to two bouts of cancer, or one that continues to get up before sunrise to cast a fishing line into the surf, or is game to fly around the world to revisit the old haunts covered years ago as a correspondent for Time, Life, and Fortune.” Roy Rowan’s book Never Too Late warns readers that this “guide to growing old” is about “aging, vigorously, actively, and any
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way but graceful.” Rowan presents a pure, genuine, yet feisty testimony that speaks to the volumes of wisdom he has acquired through experiencing life as a journalist and simply sidestepping the pitfalls many of his peers in the “golden years” fall into, such as the ideology of “aging gracefully.” His insightful advice— such as practicing resiliency in order to properly navigate through life, keeping in touch with others, and listening to your gut feeling—stands as a call to action for pre-boomers to
continue to seek their goals and realize that age can truly be a state of mind. Rowan’s book is a memoir revealing beginnings that can be discovered in old age. His book truly uplifts those nearing old age, with a great desire to live an active and healthy life that births longevity. About the Author Roy Rowan was a career correspondent for Time, Life, and Fortune and the author of 10 books—including Chasing the Dragon (Lyons Press: forthcoming as a major motion picture); Throwing Bullets; and
First Dogs, which was made into a documentary by Discovery Channel. He spent 15 years of a nearly fourdecade career in journalism in Asia covering Mao’s revolution in China, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. During World War II, Rowan served in the U.S. Army in New Guinea and the Philippines. He is the recipient of an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Hartwick College, the 2006 Henry R. Luce Lifetime Achievement Award from Time Inc., and the Bronze Star medal. He currently lives in Greenwich, Conn., and Block Island, R.I., with his wife, Helen. Visit his website at www.royrowan.com.
Calling All Authors If you have written and published a book and would like 50plus Senior News to feature a Book Review, please submit a synopsis of the book (350 words or fewer) and a short autobiography (80 words or fewer). A copy of the book is required for review. Discretion is advised. Please send to: On-Line Publishers, Inc., Megan Joyce, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512. For more information, please email mjoyce@onlinepub.com.
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Resource Directory This Resource Directory recognizes advertisers who have made an extended commitment to your health and well-being.
Accountants Mark L.Wetzel, CPA (717) 730-2811 Emergency Numbers American Red Cross (717) 845-2751 Central PA Poison Center (800) 521-6110 Cumberland County Assistance (800) 269-0173 Energy Assistance Cumberland County Board of Assistance (800) 269-0173 Funeral Directors
PACE (800) 225-7223
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Social Security Administration (Medicare) (800) 302-1274 Healthcare Information Pa. HealthCare Cost Containment Council (717) 232-6787 Hearing Services Duncan Nulph Hearing Associates (717) 766-1500 Gable Associates (717) 737-4800 Home Care Services Home Instead Senior Care 717-731-9984
Cocklin Funeral Home, Inc. (717) 432-5312
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Grocers Wegmans (717) 791-4500 Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (717) 651-5020 American Diabetes Association (800) 342-2383 Arthritis Foundation (717) 763-0900 CONTACT Helpline (717) 652-4400 Health Network Labs (717) 243-2634 The National Kidney Foundation (800) 697-7007
Housing Assistance Cumberland County Housing Authority (717) 249-1315 Property Tax/Rent Rebate (888) 728-2937 Salvation Army (717) 249-1411 Insurance Apprise Insurance Counseling (800) 783-7067 Legal Resources Keystone Elder Law PC (717) 691-9300 Monuments Carlisle Memorial Service, Inc. (717) 243-5480
Ability Prosthetics & Orthotics, Inc (877) 848-2936 Pharmacies
Domestic Violence (800) 799-7233 Drug Information (800) 729-6686 Flu or Influenza (888) 232-3228
CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com Physicians Lung, Asthma & Sleep Associates P.C. (717) 701-8819 Retirement Communities
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Chapel Pointe at Carlisle (717) 249-1363
Liberty Program (866) 542-3788
Country Meadows of West Shore (717) 737-4028
Medicare Hotline (800) 638-6833
Services Cumberland County Aging & Community Services (717) 240-6110 Meals on Wheels Carlisle (717) 245-0707
Organ Donor Hotline (800) 243-6667 Passport Information (888) 362-8668 Smoking Information (800) 232-1331
Mechanicsburg (717) 697-5011
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Toll-Free Numbers Bureau of Consumer Protection (800) 441-2555 Cancer Information Service (800) 422-6237 Consumer Information (888) 878-3256
National Council on Aging (800) 424-9046
American Legion (717) 730-9100 Governor’s Veterans Outreach (717) 234-1681 Veterans Affairs (717) 240-6178 or (717) 697-0371
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Older But Not Wiser Corporate Office:
The 5 Best Senior Acting Performances
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
E-mail address: info@onlinepub.com Website address: www.onlinepub.com
PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Donna K. Anderson
EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR Christianne Rupp EDITOR, 50PLUS PUBLICATIONS Megan Joyce EDITORIAL INTERN Alysa Poindexter
ART DEPARTMENT PROJECT COORDINATOR Renee Geller PRODUCTION ARTIST Janys Cuffe
Sy Rosen he Academy Awards were a couple of months ago, and I was happy to see so many seniors winning or being nominated. There was Max Von Sydow, Nick Nolte, Glenn Close, Christopher Plummer, and Meryl Streep, and even George Clooney is AARP eligible. It made me feel like I was at the early bird buffet. Anyway, it got me thinking about what I consider to be the five alltime best acting performances by seniors. And so, without further ado (I always wanted to use the word ado in an article), here’s my list:
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ALLAN_WARREN
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George Burns
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Leah Craig Amy Falcone Janet Gable Hugh Ledford Angie McComsey Ranee Shaub Miller SALES COORDINATOR Eileen Culp
CIRCULATION PROJECT COORDINATOR Loren Gochnauer
George Burns – Going in Style. He was terrific in this poignant yet funny film about three seniors, struggling to live on Social Security, who decide to rob a bank. By the way, Lee Strasberg and Art Carney, the other two seniors, were also great in this film. There is one scene when George Burns is sitting alone in his room looking through photos of his past that just breaks my heart. Ruth Gordon – Harold and Maude. From the first time we see the 79-year-old Maude having the time of her life at a stranger’s funeral, she grabs the screen and never lets it go. Maude had an undeniable zest and joy for life, and it’s no wonder that the depressed Harold falls in
ADMINISTRATION BUSINESS MANAGER Elizabeth Duvall Member of
love with her—we all did. I loved when she said, “Harold, everyone has a right to make an ass out of themselves. You just can’t let the world judge you too much.” Since I often make an ass of myself, I figure these are great words to live by. By the way, Gordon was out-ofher-mind scary in the movie Rosemary’s Baby. Scary and joyful— the only other person I know of with that range of emotions is my wife. Burt Lancaster – Atlantic City. He was marvelous playing Lou, a smalltime numbers runner with a big-time love for the much younger Susan Sarandon. It’s a tremendous acting performance as Lou’s false bravado turns into real dignity.
This was Lancaster’s last Oscar nomination and Sarandon’s first. On a side note, Sarandon herself is now a senior (and the circle of life continues). Cast of Cocoon. I’m listing the entire senior cast because they were all so wonderful. What I especially liked was when they touched the alien cocoons and the years started to fall away, they weren’t replaced by younger actors. However, it definitely seemed like they were getting younger, and this was accomplished by their terrific acting. A special nod goes to Jack Gilford as the senior who decided not to join the others in the rejuvenation process. He decided instead to let nature take its course for him and his ailing wife. He is magnificent in his wrongheaded dignity. Art Carney – Harry and Tonto. Art Carney was 55 years old when he played Harry Coombes, a 72year-old widower who is evicted from his New York City apartment when it is condemned. He eventually goes on a cross-country journey with his cat Tonto to visit his adult children. Carney, who won an Oscar for his performance, plays Harry with compassion, dignity, and a touch of outrage. Oh, and to show you how great an actor he was, when the filming began he didn’t even like cats.
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50plus Senior News 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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NurseNews
Embracing Your ‘Third Age’ Gloria May, M.S., R.N., CHES
ot long ago I met a gentleman who proudly announced that at age 71, he had just passed his state’s bar exam. He said he recognized that having his law license would greatly enhance his business, so he went to law school. Obviously, how others might define retirement isn’t how he defines it. And apparently it wasn’t how Harland Sanders defined it either, as I understand that his little fried chicken business was inspired by a family recipe but funded by his Social Security checks. Why do retirees keep working? Sure, the extra income, but research indicates that continuing to work, even part-time paid or volunteer, is the way many choose to stay physically active, engaged in social interactions, and challenged. (It is said that the three M’s of successful aging are moving, mingling, and mastery.) After all, retirement at 65 sounded reasonable back when we didn’t live another 20 or 30 years afterward, but now? Decades of pursuing only leisure activities may sound terrific to some, but certainly not to all. Sociologist William Sadler coined the term “Third Age” to refer to the time in life when, after the “First Age” (our youth, when we are dependent on others and pursuing our education and careers) and after the “Second Age” (the parenting and working years), we can stay involved in our careers or we can explore different opportunities and learn new skills. The Third Age is the time when we can actively work toward making the most of the life we have left. But are we physically and emotionally up to this challenge? After
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all, half of us have at least one chronic health concern, and three-quarters of us have two or more. Can we actually do this? Well, just as the stereotypes of retirement are changing, so is the approach to healthcare for those who are of retirement age. There’s an increased emphasis on what’s called “selfmanagement healthcare,” and for those who are enthusiastically taking on their Third Age, it seems a good fit. After all, if we are going to take charge of our Third Age life, why not take charge of our Third Age health? Of course, in truth, our entire adult lives we have self-managed our health; this is really nothing new. Ever since we moved out on our own, we have chosen and controlled what we ate or drank, whether or not we smoked, if we exercised, fastened our seatbelts, or saw the dentist twice a year. So, the issue is not how to start selfmanaging our health in this Third Age, but how to get better at it. You may find that your doctor is shifting away from telling you what to do and leaning more toward asking you how he or she can help and suggesting ways you can take on more responsibility. Be it how to prevent or how to manage, your doctor might be eliciting more of your active participation in the pursuit of better health. You, after all, are your own primary health provider and now, in this Third Age, it’s time to get fully involved. Gloria May is a registered nurse with a master’s degree in adult health education and a Certified Health Education Specialist designation.
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Savvy Senior
Tips and Treatment for Snoring Seniors Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, My 60-year-old husband has become a terrible snorer, especially over the past few years. It’s gotten to the point I can’t stand to sleep in the same room as him anymore. What can help us? – Sleepless Sandy Dear Sandy, Most people don’t think there’s much they can do to fix their snoring problems, but that’s not true anymore. Today, there are number of viable tips and treatments that can make a big difference for snorers and their suffering spouses. Here’s what you should know. Snoring is very common. If fact, it’s estimated that nearly half of all adults in the U.S. snore at least occasionally, and 25 percent snore habitually. But men are the ones who tend to be loud problem snorers, as well as people who are overweight. And snoring often gets worse with age. Self-Help Remedies While there’s no surefire cure for snoring, there are a variety of things your husband can try to help reduce or eliminate the problem, including: • Slim down: If he’s overweight, a 10 percent loss of body weight can help
open up his airway and reduce snoring. • Stop smoking. If your husband’s a smoker, quitting will help. Smoking causes inflammation in the upper airways that can make snoring worse. • Avoid alcohol and sedatives: Sleeping pills, painkillers, tranquilizers, and alcoholic beverages all relax the muscles in the throat, which makes snoring more likely. He should avoid all of these three to four hours before bedtime. • Change sleeping positions: Snoring is more common when you sleep on your back. To prevent this, sew a tennis ball in the back of a t-shirt or his pajama top. This will make sleeping on his back uncomfortable and teach him to sleep in a more breathing-friendly side position. Or, buy a snoring pillow that’s designed to promote side sleeping. • Tilt the bed: Raising the head of the bed by 4 inches can also help reduce
snoring by helping him breathe easier. He can do this by placing some bricks or boards under the headboard legs, or purchase some inexpensive bed raisers. Or insert a foam wedge under the head of the mattress. • Clear nasal passages: If nasal congestion is causing your husband to snore, nasal strips may help, or if allergies are the cause, try steroid or saline nasal sprays. Antihistamines can help with allergies but can worsen snoring. Also consider purchasing a humidifier for the bedroom. This can help to reduce congestion and moisturize the throat. When to See a Doctor Loud snoring can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea (see www.sleepapnea.org), a serious condition in which the snorer stops breathing many times a night. Left untreated, it can cause high blood pressure and can sharply increase the risk for stroke and heart attack. If your husband is frequently sleepy
during the day, stops breathing during sleep, or snorts awake, gasping for breath, then it’s time to see an otolaryngologist or a sleep specialist who may recommend an overnight study at a sleep center. Even if he doesn’t have these symptoms, these types of doctors can help ease his snoring if the other remedies have failed. A common treatment for sleep apnea and severe snoring is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. This involves sleeping with a snorkel-like mask that’s hooked up to a machine that gently blows air up your nose to keep the passages open. Other treatment options include an oral appliance that fits into the mouth over the teeth like a removable mouth guard or retainer, as well as Provent therapy (www.proventtherapy.com), which involves small nasal devices that attach over the nostrils to improve airflow and breathing. If these don’t work, surgery is an option too. There are several procedures that are offered today that can help, including the new minimally invasive pillar palatal implant that has a 75 percent success rate. Jim Miller is a regular contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior Book. www.savvysenior.org.
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By Myles Mellor and Sally York
Solutions for all puzzles can be found on page 18
WORD SEARCH
Across 1. Measure 4. Belt the ___ 9. Iota 14. Old NOW cause 15. Come from behind 16. Certain student 17. Deck (out) 18. Succeed 19. Bad loan 20. “Audition,” et al. 23. Jack 24. Thumbs down Down 1. Move 2. Roughly 3. Disheveled 4. Cousin of a loon 5. Doctor Who villainess, with “the” 6. Not to mention 7. Ballyhoo 8. Ogler 9. Tope 10. Like some mothers-in-law 11. Needle holder 12. Wrap up 13. Florida has them 21. Wear oneself out
25. 26. 30. 33. 35. 37. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 49.
The __ of Night (old soap) Ever, old-style Start of a giggle Echo Thirst Gardner tomes Monastic officer Apprehensive Econ. figure Scratch Some auction bids Enzyme ending
51. Acquiesce 52. Angela’s Ashes, et al. 59. 1935 Triple Crown winner 60. Capital of Ecuador 61. Make a lap 62. Clemson athlete 63. Of an arm bone 64. Catullus composition 65. Great balls of fire 66. Roll top? 67. Surfing site
22. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31.
Whichever Visa statement, abbr. Long-tailed primate Detroit’s county Befuddled Skater Babilonia “___ Time transfigured me”: Yeats Dash widths Suffix with pamphlet Survey choice Decorative plant Car ad abbr. Samovar Van Winkle
40. 44. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58.
32. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39.
Little ’un Vereen Prayer Mock Sonnet section Son of Jacob Takes off Lifeless, old-style Cookers Utter Eastern music Prefix with plane Break in the action Series opener? Greek letters
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By Doris Brookens t’s never too early to start thinking about your retirement. When you do, one of your first questions may be, “When’s the best time to start receiving retirement benefits?” There’s no one “best age” for everyone and, ultimately, it is your choice. You should make an informed decision about when to apply for benefits based on your individual and family circumstances. With that in mind, Social Security has published a new fact sheet to help you make the decision that’s best for you. When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits is available online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10147.html. Things to consider are your current cash needs, health, family longevity, whether you plan to work after you retire, future financial needs and obligations, and the amount of your benefit and other income, such as pensions and deductions from retirement funds. Do you have investments to draw from when you need
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extra money? Will it last as long as you expect to live? Keep in mind that people are living longer than they used to. About one out of every four 65-year-olds today will live past age 90, and one out of 10 will live past age 95. If you decide to retire early, at 62 or any time before your full retirement age, you’ll get your benefits sooner—but you’ll get a reduced benefit for the rest of your life. Your monthly benefit will last as long as you do. So the reduction in monthly payment for taking early retirement can add up to a big difference over the life of your benefits. Your decision can affect your spouse and family, too. If you die before your spouse and dependent children, they may be eligible for survivors benefits. But if you took early retirement, their payments would be based on your reduced benefit amount. When you reach your full retirement age, you can work and earn as much as you want and still receive your full Social
Security benefit payment. If you are younger than full retirement age and if your earnings exceed certain dollar amounts, some of your benefit payments during the year will be withheld. On the other hand, if you put off retirement benefits until after your full retirement age, your amount will increase. In fact, your benefit amount will continue to go up until you reach age 70 or start receiving benefits, whichever comes first. And when thinking about Social Security, don’t forget Medicare. You should sign up for Medicare three months before reaching age 65, no matter when your full retirement age is—even if you decide to delay retirement benefits. Otherwise, your Medicare medical insurance, as well as prescription drug coverage, could be delayed, and you could be charged higher premiums. Learn more and make an educated decision about when to retire. Doris Brookens is the Social Security office manager in Harrisburg.
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The Cumberland County Department of Veterans Affairs provides assistance to veterans and their surviving spouses free of charge. They assist veterans with claims for serviceconnected disabilities, nonservice-connected pensions, emergency assistance, healthcare system enrollment, and other federal, state, and county benefits. Vietnam veterans diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, prostate cancer, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), Parkinson’s disease, ischemic heart disease, or hairy cell leukemia should contact them about filing a claim for disability. Veterans diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, and surviving spouses of
veterans who died from ALS should contact the office to determine eligibility for benefits. The county Department of Veterans Affairs also assists surviving spouses of veterans in applying for aid and attendance, pensions, dependency and indemnity compensation for service-connected deaths, and death benefits. If your spouse died as a result of any of these disabilities, please contact the office for more information. Please visit the department online (www.ccpa.net) or contact Neal Delisanti or Sharon McLaughlin at (717) 240-6178; toll-free at (888) 6970371, ext. 6178; or by email at ndelisanti@ccpa.net. The department is located at 18 N. Hanover St., Suite 103, Carlisle, and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
Born in April April showers are the spring’s refreshing rains Thus refreshing the earth and providing harvest grain. Those born in April, the season of spring, Add excitement and joy to the year as their voices ring. First that comes to mind is my wife, Erma, whose debut Brought special blessing to the Zimmerman family anew. Also the 18th of April is the date of my brother Chester’s birth On that date many years ago Paul Revere’s steed sped across the turf. Also there are others born in April whom from history we know Our learning from them enriches our lives as we all grow. Presidents Thomas Jefferson, Ulysses S. Grant and James Monroe, Served our country through thick and thin and helped it grow. Up from slavery Booker T. Washington rose, Challenging many others to build and to grow. The restless minds of Samuel Morse and Wilbur Wright Improved our lives with code and with flight. Oh, when we remember the Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle By Washington Irving, how it makes our eye twinkle. Actresses Shirley Temple, Loretta Lynn and Doris Day, Entertained many and enriched them as they walked life’s way. And who can forget how the chandeliers rang, As Susan Boyle burst onto the stage and sang. Written and submitted by Ira Sollenberger
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Chapel Pointe at Carlisle
Living Your Best Retirement
Chapel Pointe is a secluded neighborhood in the center of Carlisle, offering independent apartment living, personal care, fitness center, chapel, beauty salon, and an on-premise health center with skilled nursing care—all in a safe, clean, worry-free environment. Residents can enjoy their retirement years getting together for neighborhood events, participating in planned activities and outings, gardening, or just walking into downtown Carlisle. Its convenient location just off I-81 makes it one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Carlisle.
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770 South Hanover Street • Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 249-1363 marketing@chapelpointe.org
Elders Keep Motoring The high price of gas and the ease of electronic communication may be responsible for the drop in the number of teenagers getting driver’s licenses recently. But a recent report also notes that among the older population, the trend seems to be traveling in reverse. The University of Michigan’s Transportation Research Institute reports that from 1983 to 2008, the percentage of 16-yearolds who got driver’s licenses fell from 46.2 to 31.1 percent, and among 17-year-olds the percentage declined from 68.9 to 50 percent. For 18-year-olds, the rate fell from 80.4 to 65.4 percent.
Economic factors, along with the rise of cell phones and other devices that reduce the need for face-to-face interaction, may be behind the trend. In the same time period, however, the percentage of drivers in the 60 to 64 age range rose from 83.8 to 95.9 percent; among drivers 65 to 69, license holders increased from 79.2 percent to 94 percent; and for adults 70 and older, the percentage increased from 55 to 78.4 percent. Improved health and the need to continue working past the traditional retirement age may be driving the increase.
www.chapelpointe.com
Church of God Home The Church of God Home has proudly stood in Carlisle to serve senior adults for the past 64 years. This continuing care retirement community (CCRC) offers independent living in gracious apartments, personal care, and skilled nursing care. Respite care is available for those needing someone to care for a loved one on a short-term basis. Rehab stays can be chosen for a time of recovery from a medical episode or procedure. To enhance life at the community, various therapies are offered: physical, occupational, and speech in a setting with state-of-the-art equipment. They are also available to the surrounding community on an “outpatient basis.” The “committed to caring” motto of the Church of God Home is upheld daily by the staff who serve the residents. Fun activities, such as musical entertainment, games, ice cream outings, and plays, are enjoyed. Life at this Home is truly that – HOME!
801 North Hanover Street • Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 249-5322 www.churchofgodhome.org 50plus SeniorNews ›
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
A community outreach of Homeland Center
Who We Are ... It takes a special kind of person to be a part of hospice, and that is why Homeland has built a team of highly trained, compassionate, caring individuals to provide the highest quality of care to its patients and their families. Our competent staff consists of nurses, physicians, social workers, clergy, volunteers, and bereavement support. Our hospice team focuses on the patient as a whole to address all physical, spiritual, and emotional needs. We work closely with loved ones serving as an educator, resource, and support in any way possible. Homeland Hospice is private, nonprofit, and is accredited by The National Institute of Jewish Hospice. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and some private insurance plans.
What Is Our Goal …
Living Your Best Retirement
Homeland Hospice
The longstanding tradition of quality associated with Homeland Center is embedded with our goal of being respectful and considerate to all at the end stages of life. We understand the difficulties end-of-life issues present, and we are fully committed to addressing all the needs of our patients and their loved ones. At Homeland Hospice, we work in a team approach to provide care to patients with a life-limiting illness, encouraging patients and their families to live each day as fully as possible. Our focus is on symptom and comfort management, believing everyone has the right to die pain-free while retaining their dignity.
Those We Serve … When a medical cure is no longer possible or the patient and family decide to stop pursuing treatment, hospice provides high-quality, compassionate care. We serve any individual over the age of 18 who is in the end stage of life, regardless of race, gender, or creed, and who resides in Dauphin, Cumberland, Lebanon, Perry, or York counties.
www.homelandhospice.org 2300 Vartan Way, Suite 115 • Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 221-7890 www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
50plus SeniorNews ›
April 2012
11
Travel Appetizers: Stories that Whet the Appetite for Travel
Traveltizers
The Secrets of San Francisco By Andrea Gross lived in California for many years, but it wasn’t until last year that I began to learn the secrets of one of its greatest cities—San Francisco. Oh, I’d walked the Golden Gate, noodled around Chinatown, and shopped in Union Square, but I’d never heard the gossip. Then I took three neighborhood tours, each led by residents who showed me the hidden places and told me the scandalous stories. Finally, I feel like a native. Right: Café
I
North Beach The American Planning Association calls North Beach one of 10 “great neighborhoods in America,” and it’s easy to see why. It’s a community in every sense of the word—a place where people walk, talk, and eat. That’s exactly what my husband and I do during our award-winning Local Tastes of the City Tour. Tom Medin,
Provider and leader of quality healthcare in Central PA for more than 145 years. 50 renovated Personal Care Suites. Applications being accepted for a limited number. Skilled Nursing Care Unit accommodates 92, including a 20-bed Alzheimer’s Unit.
Left: The best way to understand San Francisco is to visit its neighborhoods.
Trieste is an iconic North Beach coffee shop.
Respectful, considerate, heart-felt care for those with a life-limiting illness. Providing care for hospice patients residing in Cumberland, Dauphin, and York counties in the setting they consider their home. Clinical and bereavement staff provide support for the patient and family before and after the death of your loved one.
717-221-7902
717-221-7890
www.homelandcenter.org
www.homelandhospice.org
Above: A visitor who wanders the back streets of Chinatown gets a much different perspective than one who stays on Grant Avenue.
At Messiah Lifeways, there are numerous opportunities for persons 55 and better to experience a life full of zest. Speak with a Messiah Lifeways Coach to help plan for the future. The coach will help identify and navigate services and resource options, guide caregivers, and connect individuals to opportunities available through Messiah Lifeways and beyond. Plus, stay fit and healthy with Messiah Lifeways Wellness. Located on the Messiah Village campus, our programs are designed for those 55 and better, with certified personal trainers, and group fitness and aquatic instructors.
717.790.8201
“A Continuing Care Retirement Community.” 1901 North Fifth Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102
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April 2012
50plus SeniorNews ›
owner and guide, begins by giving us the history of the area. It was, he says, settled by Italians, and then became a hangout for members of the Beat Generation and a risqué nightclub district. But now it’s relaxed into an area of small shops, eateries, bakeries, and delicatessens. He leads us from one to another, feeding us fascinating facts to digest along with the food. By the end of the tour, when we go into Café Trieste, a coffeehouse frequented by the likes of Steve Allen, Woody Allen, Pavarotti, and Bill Cosby, I’m feeling like I am an inthe-loop San Franciscan. That night, to solidify our city-wise credentials, we go to Beach Blanket Babylon, a San Francisco staple since 1974. We sip wine and watch performers, who wear outrageous hats that are 4 or 5 feet tall as they spoof all things political and most things sacred. The man next to me laughs so hard that he spills his wine into my lap. I barely notice because I’m laughing equally hard.
Life Coaching
Community Support
Enrichment Opportunities
MessiahLifeways.org
Messiah Village
Mount Joy Country Homes
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
The cable car always has been—and still is—the best way to get to Nob Hill. (Photo courtesy of Hobnob Tours)
News Reporter Serves as Game Show Host
Beach Blanket Babylon features performers wearing hats that are almost as tall as they are. (Photo courtesy of Beach Blanket Babylon)
Chinatown We’re walking through San Francisco’s Chinatown, but the bustling crowds of Grant Avenue seem far away. On the back streets men are playing mah jong, women are folding disks of dough into fortune-cookie packets, and a man is weighing medicinal herbs for a customer who has a hacking cough. “Nee haw, hello,” I say, trying out my one phrase of Chinese. Our leader—she doesn’t like to be called a “guide”— laughs. “No, no, no,” she says. “That’s Mandarin Chinese. Here in San Francisco, most of the Chinese speak Cantonese. It’s nay ho.” That’s only the first of many things we learn as we follow Shirley Fong-Torres, a.k.a., the Wok-Wiz, through the part of Chinatown where, as she says, “real people live, work, and play.” She points to a mural on an alley wall and explains the custom it depicts. “That’s not just a pretty painting,” she says. “It’s a picture of one of our Chinese New Year activities.” Next we go into a store filled with imitation cell phones, television sets, food, and clothing, all made out of paper. The Chinese, we learn, want to make sure their relatives have all the comforts of this world when they journey to the next one. Again, without Shirley, we’d have missed the real meaning of what we were seeing. We’d have thought the items were simply cute children’s toys.
since the cable car is what allowed the 19th century’s most privileged folks to live in rarefied hilltop air, far above the “lowlife” who frequented the docks. The street was simply too steep for horsedrawn carriages. Valerie Huff, owner of Hobnob Tours, meets us and leads us first through the public rooms of the grand hotel, then on a two-hour, flat-ground tour of the neighborhood. Before the earthquake of 1906, the area was filled with grand mansions and luxury hotels, all but two of which were destroyed by the postquake fires. Today the area is again filled with homes of the affluent. Valerie laughs as she dispenses gossipy tidbits. I learn, for example, that two feuding barons each hired bodyguards to protect one from the other, and that a rich widow disinherited her son when he opposed her marriage to a younger man. By the time the tour ends, I know why Nob Hill is sometimes called “snob hill,” and I’m reveling in my insider status. We’ve only begun to explore the neighborhoods in depth, but for now my mind is full and my feet are sore!
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
If you have local news you’d like considered, please email mjoyce@onlinepub.com
Residents at Susquehanna View Apartments in Camp Hill competed in the first Golden Girls Dating Game this past Valentine’s Day. Brett Thackara from abc27 hosted the event. Contestants were Margaret Pacheco, Sharon Ginter, Marie Fetrow, Jerry Eslinger, and Pat Gallagher. The winner was Fetrow, but all the ladies received candy and flowers.
Boomers and seniors – the largest buying group in America. 50plus Resource Directory — it’s the “yellow pages” for boomers and seniors in Cumberland County.
Online and in print. All at an affordable price to you ... priceless to consumers!
For more information: North Beach – www.localtastesofthecitytours.com, www.beachblanketbabylon.com Chinatown – www.wokwiz.com Nob Hill – www.hobnobtours.com
Nob Hill We take a cable car to the Fairmont, the grand dame of hotels atop San Francisco’s Nob Hill. It seems apropos
Brett Thackara, abc27, poses with contestants from the Golden Girls Dating Game.
Photos © Irv Green except where noted; story by Andrea Gross (www.andreagross.com)
Reserve your ad or listing by July 13
If you’re an organization or business that offers a product or service relevant to baby boomers and seniors, call now to be included in the annual 50plus Resource Directory.
717.770.0140 • 717.285.1350 info@onlinepub.com • onlinepub.com 50plus SeniorNews ›
April 2012
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Cumberland County
Calendar of Events Cumberland County Department of Parks and Recreation
Senior Center Activities
April 13, 8 to 9:30 p.m. – “Experiencing a Spring Night,” Kings Gap Environmental Education Center April 21, 9 a.m. to noon – Earth Day Volunteer Cleanup, Pine Grove Furnace State Park April 28, 9 to 11 a.m. – “Birding by Ear,” Kings Gap Environmental Education Center
For a Safe Driving Class near you, call toll-free (888) 227-7669 or visit www.aarp.org/findacourse.
Big Spring Senior Center – (717) 776-4478 91 Doubling Gap Road, Suite 1, Newville April 3, 11:30 a.m. – Easter Dinner April 10, 12:30 p.m. – Identity Theft Program April 11, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. – “Healthy Steps for Older Adults” Fall Prevention Program
April 11 and 12, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Hampden Township Recreation Building, 395 S. Sporting Hill Road, Mechanicsburg, (717) 761-4951
Carlisle Senior Action Center – (717) 249-5007 20 E. Pomfret St., Carlisle
AARP Driver Safety Programs
April 18 and 19, 8 a.m. to noon – Southampton Township Building, 705 Municipal Drive, Shippensburg, (717) 532-1707 April 18 and 25, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. – Joseph T. Simpson Library, 16 N. Walnut St., Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-0171
Programs and Support Groups
Free and open to the public.
Thursdays through May, 9:30 a.m. Free Zumba Gold Classes Prosser Hall 2145 Walnut St., Camp Hill (717) 737-3456 camphillrecreation@comcast.net
April 17, 1 p.m. Caregiver Support Group Mechanicsburg Church of the Brethren 501 Gale St., Mechanicsburg (717) 766-8880
April 3, 7 p.m. CanSurmount Support Group: A Discussion with Dr. Craig Meyers Health South Rehabilitation Center 175 Lancaster Blvd., Mechanicsburg (717) 458-8457
April 17, 7 p.m. Documentation on the Agnes Flood of 1972 History on High – The Shop Cumberland County Historical Society 21 N. Pitt St., Carlisle (7170 243-3437 April 28, noon to 3 p.m. Book Signing: Eileen Graham of Gardners, Pa. History on High – The Shop Cumberland County Historical Society 21 N. Pitt St., Carlisle (7170 243-3437
April 5, 6:30 p.m. Too Sweet: Diabetes Support Group Chapel Hill United Church of Christ 701 Poplar Church Road, Camp Hill (717) 557-9041 April 11, 11:30 a.m. National Active and Retired Federal Employees, West Shore Chapter 1465 VFW Post 6704 4907 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg (717) 737-1486 www.narfe1465.org Visitors welcome; meeting is free but fee for food.
Until Oct. 27 Exhibit: Pine Grove – A Lasting Legacy Cumberland County Historical Society 21 N. Pitt St., Carlisle (7170 243-3437
If you have an event you would like to include, please email information to mjoyce@onlinepub.com for consideration.
What’s Happening? Give Us the Scoop! Please send us your press releases so we can let our readers know about free events occurring in Cumberland County! Email preferred to: mjoyce@onlinepub.com
Let
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April 2012
help you get the word out!
50plus SeniorNews ›
Mary Schaner Senior Citizens Center – (717) 732-3915 98 S. Enola Drive, Enola Mechanicsburg Area Senior Adult Center – (717) 697-5947 97 W. Portland St., Mechanicsburg Southampton Place – (717) 530-8217, www.seniors.southamptontwp.com 56 Cleversburg Road, Shippensburg Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. – Zumba Classes April 17, 10 a.m. – Speaker on Identity Theft April 20, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Pinochle Tournament West Shore Senior Citizens Center – (717) 774-0409 122 Geary St., New Cumberland Just a snippet of what you may be missing … please call or visit their website for more information.
Cumberland County Library Programs Amelia Givin Library, 114 N. Baltimore Ave., Mt. Holly Springs, (717) 486-3688 Bosler Memorial Library, 158 W. High St., Carlisle, (717) 243-4642 April 18, 1 p.m. – Afternoon Classic Movies at Bosler East Pennsboro Branch Library, 98 S. Enola Drive, Enola, (717) 732-4274 John Graham Public Library, 9 Parsonage St., Newville, (717) 776-5900 New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland, (717) 774-7820 April 5, 10:30 a.m. – Mystery Discussion Group: “Mystery in London” April 11, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Great Books Discussion Group: The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gillman April 29, 3 to 4 p.m. – Cultural Program: “Korean American Culture” Shippensburg Public Library, 73 W. King St., Shippensburg, (717) 532-4508
(717) 770-0140
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
LIMELIGHT
from page 1
audiences—they really are.” In fact, in his youth, Albright had once been a member of a band that used to play at facilities and hospitals in Baltimore County, Md. And so, two years ago, he dusted off his trumpet, warmed up his vocal chords, and began assembling his “Songs of the ’60s” program, which he now performs regularly for thankful crowds at York County assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and retirement communities. “One time an elderly woman and her husband came up to me and said how much they enjoyed [my program] and said it reminded them of years ago, listening to their old Bert Kaempfert Christmas album,” Albright said. As for Senior Idol, Albright hopes to make some connections with other local performers who might be interested in joining him to produce a Christmas album of their own—its proceeds benefiting cancer and Alzheimer’s disease research, which afflicted his father and mother, respectively. “It gives me satisfaction to know that at least I can do something: I can provide pleasure for folks that definitely are much less fortunate than I am,” he said. “I’m fortunate to be healthy and have a healthy family … They say laughter is the best medicine, but I think music is awfully good medicine too for the soul.” Victoria Newcomer would likely agree to music’s soul-stirring capabilities. The Mount Joy resident has been a nursery school teacher for almost 20 years but also has a “weekend job” as the singer in a small classic-rock band. Her parents started cultivating their daughter’s vocal chops early on, calling on her to perform for their guests whenever they entertained at their Pittsburgh home.
“From the time I was 4—whether [the guests] wanted to hear it or not—my parents actually had me sing,” she laughed. “People seemed to enjoy it.” In her teens she participated in her high school’s choruses and musicals as well as a top 40 band she formed with five friends. At age 16 she started to sing at weddings, a practice she continued for the next 25 years. Then, five years ago, she and a friend began singing in restaurants, bars, and local establishments around Lancaster County on weekends. “I pretty much stick to classic rock and blues, but I enjoy all music,” Newcomer said. “I have an appreciation for everything.” She is eager to satisfy her performance bug at this year’s Senior Idol competition, hoping her “nonconformist” and “a little edgy” style and song choice help her stand out from her fellow competitors. “I am a little bit of a ham,” she admitted. “It’s just an exciting time when you actually perform and people are responding to what you’re doing.” Describing herself as “truly a people person,” Newcomer is also looking forward to meeting new people and anticipates a fun overall experience at PA State Senior Idol. “It’s a cool way to showcase those of us who have made it to the half-century mark,” she said, then added with an audible smile: “And my younger son convinced me to do it.” Robert Long of Reading, on the other hand, will be reviving the standards at Senior Idol, much like he revived his musicality after a 17-year hiatus. Long started out with the acoustic guitar at age 11 and took lessons for 12 years, switching to the steel guitar after being
told his “fingers were too short for a regular guitar.” But the change paid off unexpectedly in 1959. “The steel guitar came in handy because, when Hawaii joined the Union, then they had Hawaiian parties and people would call me to play Hawaiian music,” Long remembered. Through his early adulthood and beyond, Long played with different musical groups, including one formation where he took up electric bass and another where he sang harmony behind the band’s female vocalist. After marrying his wife, a pianist, the Longs set out as a duo with the accompaniment of a drum machine, playing cocktail music in area restaurants. When, at age 63, Long retired after a 45-year career at a pretzel plant, he retired from his music as well. Fastforward 17 years, and Long suddenly rediscovered his vocal gifts while singing along to some jazz records. Soon, a friend helped him record 20 songs— classics like Sinatra—against prerecorded background music. “It sort of amazes me with my voice,” he said. “I haven’t sung in 17 years and all of a sudden—I’m amazing myself, the way it sounds. I’m just having such a
good time with it.” The end result was a complete CD as well as three sets of 20 practiced songs that Long now rotates between two steady, monthly gigs at assisted living and nursing homes. “I like to sing for the seniors because they really enjoy it,” he said. “It makes you feel good, to see them tapping their toes and their mouths are going; they’re humming along with you. It just gives me a lot of pleasure.” And, judging by the grateful welcome he has received from his peers already, his reception at PA State Senior Idol promises to be just as friendly. “I had a lady in a wheelchair last month come up to me,” Long recalled, “and she says, ‘You can sing for me anytime.’” For more information on the 2012 PA State Senior Idol competition, call (717) 285-1350 or check out www.SeniorIdolPA.com to see clips from previous years or to download an application. If your business would like to support the 50-plus community, please call to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.
Through the years, all that’s changed is our ability to do even more.
Honor Bus Headed for DC Area World War II veterans are invited to come on the seventh Honor Bus trip to Washington, DC, on Sunday, April 29, to visit the World War II Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. There is no cost to veterans and all meals are provided. Each veteran is limited to a single trip. Reservations are now also being taken for Korean War veterans. www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
Deluxe motor coaches with lifts and restrooms will leave from and return to Mechanicsburg Middle School or the Dauphin County Technical School, Locust Lane, Harrisburg. The deadline for signup is April 15. For more information or to reserve your seat, contact Beckie Lacey at (717) 6914560 ext.7241 or Dr. Kevin Lacey at (717) 652-3170.
For over 80 years, Rolling Green Cemetery and Neill Funeral Homes have served the Central PA area with the highest level of personal service. As a Dignity Memorial® provider, we’re pleased to offer a number of additional benefits exclusive to the Dignity network. Like our 100% Service Guarantee, that assures you of service beyond expectation before, during, and after the service. But what makes us even prouder is the way we work with each individual family, helping to create lasting memorials as unique as the loved ones they honor.
ONE-OF-A-KIND MEMORIALS | GRIEF COUNSELING BEREAVEMENT TRAVEL PROGRAM | SERVICE GUARANTEE
ROLLING GREEN CEMETERY 1811 Carlisle Road Camp Hill, PA 17011 717-761-4055
NEILL FUNERAL HOME, INC. Kevin Shillabeer, Supervisor 3401 Market Street Camp Hill, PA 17011 717-737-8726
50plus SeniorNews ›
NEILL FUNERAL HOME, INC. Steven Wilsbach, Supervisor 3501 Derry Street Harrisburg, PA 17111 717-564-2633
April 2012
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Home Care Services & Hospice Providers Agency Name Telephone/Website
Alliance Home Help (800) 444-4598 (toll-free) www.alliancehomehelp.com
Year Est.
Counties Served
2010
Lancaster
Central Penn Nursing Care, Inc. (717) 569-0451 www.cpnc.com
1984
Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, York
Garden Spot Village (717) 355-6000 www.gardenspotvillageathome.org
2006
Lancaster
1911
Berks, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Schuylkill
1979
Berks, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Schuylkill
Good Samaritan Home Health (717) 274-2591 www.gshleb.org
Good Samaritan Hospice (717) 270-7672 www.gshleb.org
RNs
LPNs CNAs
HomeCare of York/ White Rose Hospice (717) 843-5091 www.mhyork.org
1988
York
Homeland Hospice (717) 221-7890 www.homelandcenter.org
2009
Cumberland, Dauphin, York
Hospice of Lancaster County (717) 295-3900; (717) 733-0699 (877) 506-0149; (717) 391-2421 www.hospiceoflancaster.org
1980
Berks, Chester, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, York
Home Medicare Aides Certified?
Other Certifications and Services
Providing non-medical companion, respite, and personal care services throughout Lancaster County. Caregivers matched specifically to you and your needs. Compassion, 24/7 on-call availability, trained, competent, and reliable. Medicaid Waiver approved.
No
Providing all levels of care (PCAs, CNAs, LPNs, RNs), in the home, hospital, or retirement communities with specifically trained caregivers for Alzheimer's and dementia clients. Home care provided up to 24 hours a day to assist with personal care and housekeeping. A FREE nursing assessment is offered.
No
Personal care and companionship services in your home with all the professionalism, friendliness, and excellence you expect of Garden Spot Village. Contact info@gardenspotvillage.org.
Yes
Good Samaritan Home Health is a Pennsylvania-licensed home health agency that is Medicare certified and Joint Commission accredited. We work with your physician to provide nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, wound care, and specialized care as needed.
Yes
Good Samaritan Hospice provides services to patients and their families facing a life-limiting illness. We are Pennsylvania licensed, JCAHO accredited, and Medicare certified. We provide services 24 hours per day with a team approach for medical, emotional, spiritual, and social needs.
Yes
When your physician recommends part-time or intermittent care, or the emotional support and pain control of hospice care, we can provide quality, professional medical care that allows you to stay at home. We provide individualized services by skilled registered nurses, therapists (physical, occupational, or speech), medical social workers, and home health aides.
Yes
Exemplary care provided by a highly trained staff who address all patient and caregiver needs.
Yes
Not-for-profit hospice providing physical, emotional, and spiritual end-of-life care at home, nursing home, or at one of our two inpatient centers located in Lancaster County. Palliative care and bereavement support services. JCAHO accredited. Massage therapy, music therapy, and pet therapy available. Referrals 24 hours a day: (717) 391-2421.
This is not an all-inclusive list of agencies and providers. These advertisers are eager to provide additional information about their services.
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April 2012
50plus SeniorNews ›
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
Home Care Services & Hospice Providers Agency Name Telephone/Website
Year Est.
Counties Served
RNs
LPNs CNAs
Home Medicare Aides Certified?
Other Certifications and Services
2004
Lancaster, Lebanon, York
No
Two- to 24-hour non-medical assistance provided by caregivers who care. Companionship, meal prep, bathing, cleaning, organizing, and personal care needs. Respite care, day surgery assistance. Personal organization services. Assistance with VA homecare benefits. Fiscal management services. Clutter Stopperssm Organizational Services. PA license #10053601.
Live-In Care of Pennsylvania (717) 519-6860 (888) 327-7477 (toll-free) www.liveincareofpa.com
1997
Adams, Berks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, York
No
For everyone’s peace of mind, 24-hour personal care in the home you love, yours! Premier, professional caregivers. Extensive background checks. Free home evaluations.
Sadie’s Angels (717) 917-1420 www.sadiesangels.vpweb.com
2011
Lancaster
Safe Haven Quality Care, LLC (717) 258-1199; (717) 238-1111 (717) 582-4110; (717) 582-9977 www.safehavenqualitycare.com
2005
Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, York
Seniors Helping Seniors (717) 933-2077 www.seniorshelpingseniors.com
2010
Dauphin, Lebanon
Keystone In-Home Care, Inc. (717) 898-2825 (866) 857-4601 (toll-free) www.keystoneinhomecare.com
Visiting Angels (717) 393-3450; (717) 751-2488 (717) 630-0067 www.visitingangels.com
VNA Community Care Services (717) 544-2195; (888) 290-2195 (toll-free) www.lancastergeneral.org/content/ VNA_Community_Care.htm
2001
Lancaster, York
1908
Berks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill, York
Locally owned and operated. On call 24/7. We offer non-medical in home assistance, errands, yard work, companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation. No long-term contracts. Independence is only a phone call away.
Yes
Owners Leslie and Sandra Hardy are members of the Society of Certified Senior Advisors. We have contracts with the VA and the Area Agency on Aging. Private insurance and self-payment are also accepted. Friendly faces, helping hands, warm hearts. Skilled nursing also available.
No
We have active, caring, and compassionate seniors who can relate to your parents’ needs. We provide meal prep, light housekeeping, companionship, and so much more.
No
Up to 24-hour non-medical care including companionship, respite care, personal hygiene and laundry, meal prep, and errands. Choose your caregiver from a list of thoroughly screened, bonded, and insured caregivers. Nurse owned and operated.
Yes
Home care specialists in physical, occupational, and speech therapy; nursing; cardiac care; and telehealth. Disease management, innovative technologies, and education help you monitor your condition to prevent hospitalization. Licensed non-profit agency; Medicare certified; Joint Commission accredited.
This is not an all-inclusive list of agencies and providers. These advertisers are eager to provide additional information about their services. www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
50plus SeniorNews ›
April 2012
17
Beyond the Battlefield
A Champ in Seniors Tennis and Directing Artillery Fire – Part 1 Alvin S. Goodman Last August, 50plus Senior News published a veteran profile of William Nicolai, 90, of New Cumberland, who was a finalist in tennis singles and champion in doubles at the National Senior Games in Houston, Texas. As the late Paul Harvey, well-known radio commentator and journalist, used to say, “Now here’s the rest of the story.” illiam H. Lentz Jr., 92, of Camp Hill, Nicolai’s partner in the 90-95 doubles tournament who also brought home a gold medal in June, is a World War II veteran with a distinguished Army career. As a passenger in a Piper Cub, Lentz as a field artillery observer flew low over hostile territory to relay information of German troop locations and other military targets to our artillery units on the ground. At times, during inclement weather and at night, he worked from tall buildings, such as church steeples or the roof of abandoned factories or hotels. A native of Allegheny County, Lentz graduated from St. Joseph High School, Natrona Heights, in 1938 and Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, in 1942 as a 2nd Lieutenant with an ROTC commission in Artillery. He completed
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the Officers Basic 202nd Group.” The air observer’s Artillery Course at job was to direct Fort Sill, Okla., and artillery fire on was assigned to the st targets and to 261 Artillery Battalion being register the organized at Camp battalion’s guns Swift, Texas, with whenever they more than 500 changed location so draftees from that the Fire California. Direction Center After basic and (FDC) could move artillery training, the artillery fire to unit became a nearby targets with training battalion at great accuracy. the Artillery School “My primary job at Fort Sill, firing from December the 105mm 1944 to April 1945 Howitzers and the was directing 80 William H. Lentz Jr. in uniform. old French 75s. In percent of the the spring of 1944, battalion’s fire the unit moved to Ft. Polk, La., and missions from the air and from forward became a “Long Tom” 155mm Gun observation points. Our first gun Battalion with a range of 18 miles. positions were in Searsdorf, Germany, On Oct. 4, they sailed to Europe, where we were attached to the 202nd Artillery Group of the XIII Corps, arriving in time to move into Germany and support the relief of the Battle of the Ninth Army.” Lentz completed 76 air combat Bulge. missions and was awarded the Air Medal Lentz entered combat there with the with an Oak Leaf Cluster and the Army 261st Infantry Battalion with 12 “Long Commendation Medal. His unit was Tom” guns. involved with supporting crossing points “My first air mission was to Bastogne with Major Merrill, the chief pilot of the of the Roer and Rhine rivers and the
drive to the Elbe River, 42 miles from Berlin. When the Ninth Army was preparing to cross the Rhine, a request was made to register our artillery on a windmill that was close to a railroad bridge and a major highway bridge. The Army wanted the capability of destroying the two bridges in case of a German counterattack but saving the bridges for our own use if possible. Lentz could not see the windmill from the Allied side. He and his pilot, Lt. Leland Wilhelm, crossed the river 10 feet above the ground and hedge-hopped all the way, only to find the windmill had been removed, but they noticed a stopped freight train a half mile away. Lentz sent the coordinates to the FDC. “The first shell landed just 5 feet from the train and the 19 boxcars began exploding in both directions like two rows of dominoes. Large German artillery shells were flying through the air as we headed for the friendlier side of the Rhine, passing surprised German soldiers and an 88-gun crew eating lunch. “When our own Artillery began using proximity fuses, we were the last to know,” Lentz said. “Flying so low between our flat-trajectory 155mm guns
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and the targets put us war was over; very close to the flight Germany had of our own shells. surrendered. An These new fuses older sergeant explode when they came down the come close to line. He refused anything. A Piper to surrender, Cub, covered in canvas saying he knew and shellac, can burn what the Russians completely in would do to his seconds.” country. In April 1945, “We are going when the Russians to stay and fight were closing in on to the last man!” Berlin, Lentz looked Lentz said. across the Elbe River “Good luck,” and saw hundreds of saluted the Lentz at his induction into the fleeing German sergeant, then Sports Hall of Fame. civilians and soldiers turned and along the shore. walked away, hoping he would not be “When I reported this to my group shot in the back. At that moment, three commander, Col. Billings, he said, ‘I P-47s strafed the dike and Lentz “ran am sending Lt. Wilhelm and you in a like hell” to the boat and the two small pontoon boat across the river, and paddled across the river. my unit will be the first one to meet the Seventeen days later, Victory in Russians.’ The German soldiers and the Europe was declared. civilians offered us guns and jewelry to Continued next month … let them use the boat to cross the river.” If you are a mature veteran and have While Wilhelm guarded the boat, interesting or unusual experiences in your Lentz walked to the foot of a 15-foot military or civilian life, phone Al Goodman dike. Climbing the slope, he looked up at (717) 541-9889 or email him at and saw two German soldiers pointing klezmer630@comcast.net. their rifles at him. He told them the
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Can you belt it out like nobody’s business? Do you belong on Dancing with the Stars ? Are you wild and crazy like Steve Martin? Pennsylvanians over 50 are invited to audition for the seventh annual PA STATE
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