Dauphin County 50plus Senior News Feb. 2012 by On-Line Publishers, Inc.

Dauphin County Edition

February 2012

Vol. 14 No. 2

Art Through the Ages By Laura Farnish As an artist for more than four decades, Barbara Warfel’s talent has inspired the young and old alike. “I’ve been bringing art to people ranging in age from 5 to 95 on and off for 40 years,” said Warfel. A gifted painter, Warfel began her career as a high-school art instructor, but her artistic passion is now focused on the opposite end of the generational spectrum. Warfel has been at the forefront of a movement that recognizes the cognitive benefits of art instruction for seniors, especially those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. “My current path is a product of necessity and bringing together three activities I most enjoy,” explained Warfel. “The necessity was to find meaningful employment. The three activities: teaching art, doing art, and enjoying the company of older people.” Thus, Warfel decided to offer art activities for senior citizens residing in assisted living communities. Her first class, which took place in 1998, was at an assisted living facility in Mechanicsburg. “I really enjoyed working with the seniors there, and they responded very positively to art activities,” said Warfel. These activities ranged from holding a pencil properly to drawing lines and writing names on their canvas. The basics, as Warfel described them, remain the key component in her lessons. “I really work hard on starting with very basic processes—literally, how to hold a pencil correctly,” said Warfel. “It’s important they are not working on please see ART page 10 In addition to her work with seniors, Barbara Warfel produces fine art such as Sierra, which she recently completed.

Inside:

Special Insert: 50plus Resource Directory

Leaving Your Legacy page 11

Art and Antiques by Dr. Lori

History and Value of Colored Gemstones

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Colored gemstone rings (amethyst, left, and ruby) with diamond accents.

or those of you who are shopping for that special someone this Valentine’s Day, here are some tips that will help you get the most for your money when buying gems. When it comes to colored gemstones, color has the greatest impact on value. Generally, the most valuable colored gemstones are those with a medium to medium-dark tone. Nine times out of 10, pure gemstones, or those with no enhancements, hold a higher value than others. A gemstone’s clarity is determined by its natural environment. For instance, emeralds almost always form in nature with inclusions that are visible to the naked eye, and, conversely, aquamarines do not. While clarity relates to value, inclusions are like birthmarks on a gemstone, showing its individuality, not its flaws. Still, inclusions impact the look of a gemstone and its value. Carat weight is the standard unit of weight for most gemstones and the percarat price will increase as size increases. Birthstones hold special meaning and symbolism. Based on the zodiac, the original birthstone calendar was created by the ancients, who believed that gems possessed mystical powers. The stones were said to bestow good health, prosperity, and protection. Gemstones were associated with the months of the year, and later, in 1912, the American Association of Jewelers adopted a list of birthstones. The ruby (July’s birthstone) is one of history’s most popular gems, known as the King of the Gems. From the Latin word ruber, meaning red, the ruby is mentioned in the Bible as one of the

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gems used to represent one of the 12 tribes of Israel. It is a hard gemstone and comes from the mineral species corundum, related to the sapphire. Rubies rarely occur in sizes over a carat, so a large ruby will always come with a very high price tag. While sapphires come in almost every color of the rainbow (e.g., we call red sapphires rubies), blue is the most common color associated with the gem. Sapphires, or safir stones, are hard and durable and may be faceted cut or carved as cabochons. Sapphire cabochons are best known as star or cateye sapphires. Sri Lanka and Myanmar are sources for high-quality sapphires. The May birthstone and the gemstone that highlights the 20th wedding anniversary is the emerald. Emeralds have adorned royalty throughout history, and its rich green color has been long associated with gardens and rebirth. The first emeralds were mined in ancient Egypt, and today, Colombia is the world’s main source for the fragile stone. If you are buying an emerald, expect inclusions. It is believed that the famed Roman Emperor Nero used slices of emeralds laced in front of his eyes to view gladiator fights. So, emeralds served as the first sunglasses, perhaps? A quartz species, the amethyst is related to rock crystal, citrine, and agate. It is best known for its early Greek association with the god of wine, Dionysus. Beautiful purple amethysts were worn by high-ranking members of both the clergy and royalty. Folklore dictates that the amethyst would convey strength and wit to those who wore it. www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

Be careful as amethysts may fade, so avoid prolonged exposure to bright light. With a hardness of 7.0 on the Mohs hardness scale, garnets (January’s birthstone) are found in many places around the globe, including Kenya, Brazil, Madagascar, Germany, Russia, the United States, etc. Deep-red garnets, popular in the early 1900s, were named for the deep-red pomegranate fruit.

Garnets are diverse in color and form in red, orange, yellow, and green. In the first century AD, the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder wrote that an opal (October’s birthstone) demonstrates a wide spectrum of color. Most opals come from Australia, and they are rarely faceted due to their relative softness when compared to other stones. Opals should not be exposed to heat and

should not be cleaned with ultrasonic or steam cleaning. They have been known to crack under harsh conditions. It is advised that jewelry collectors store each colorful gemstone piece of jewelry separately in a soft cloth or padded box to avoid damage, scratching, or wear. When it comes to gems, look for size, color, and value.

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Why Listen to a Groundhog? Most of us know the tradition of Groundhog Day. On Feb. 2, the legend goes, a groundhog that comes up out of its burrow to check the weather will go back inside if it sees its shadow, and winter will continue for six more weeks. But if the sky is cloudy and it casts no shadow, the harsh winter weather is over.

Punxsutawney, Pa., hosts the bestknown Groundhog Day event, featuring “Punxsutawney Phil” (who gained fame in the 1993 film Groundhog Day), but other towns in Pennsylvania and Maryland hold similar celebrations. Where does the legend come from? It may have origins in ancient European

beliefs involving a badger or a bear as a weather forecaster, as well as the pagan festival Imbolc, whose traditions point to a bear or a serpent as a herald of good or bad weather. In the United States, Groundhog Day can be traced back to 1841, when a Pennsylvania shopkeeper wrote in his

diary that Candlemas Day (Feb. 2) was the day on which, “according to the Germans, the Groundhog peeps out of his winter quarters and if he sees his shadow he peeps back for another six weeks’ nap, but if the day be cloudy he remains out, as the weather is to be moderate.”

Resource Directory This Resource Directory recognizes advertisers who have made an extended commitment to your health and well-being.

Emergency Central PA Poison Center (800) 521-6110 Dauphin County Office of Aging (717) 255-2790

Tri-County Association for the Blind (717) 238-2531 Healthcare Information PA Healthcare Cost Containment Council (717) 232-6787

Floor Coverings Gipe Floor & Wall Covering (717) 545-6103

Home Care Services Central Penn Nursing, Inc. (717) 361-9777 (717) 569-0451

Funeral Services Neill Funeral Home (717) 564-2633

Home Instead Senior Care (717) 540-5201

Zimmerman Auer Funeral Home (717) 545-4001 Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (717) 651-5020 American Diabetes Association (800) 342-2383 Arthritis Foundation – Central PA Chapter (717) 763-0900 CONTACT Helpline (717) 652-4400 The National Kidney Foundation (717) 757-0604 (800) 697-7007 PACE (800) 225-7223 Social Security Information (800) 772-1213 www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

Insurance Apprise Insurance Counseling (800) 783-7067

Toll-Free Numbers American Lung Association (800) LUNG-USA

Legal Services Keystone Elder Law PC (717) 691-9300

Bureau of Consumer Protection (800) 441-2555

Medical Equipment & Supplies GSH Home Med Care (717) 272-2057

Meals on Wheels (800) 621-6325 National Council on Aging (800) 424-9046

Safe Haven Quality Care (717) 238-1111

Orthotics & Prosthetics The Center for Advanced Orthotics & Prosthetics (800) 676-7846

Visiting Angels (717) 652-8899

CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com

Veterans Affairs (717) 626-1171 (800) 827-1000

Home Improvement Dreammaker Bath & Kitchen (717) 367-9753

Rehabilitation Spring Creek Rehabilitation & Health Care Center (717) 565-7000

Transportation CAT Share-A-Ride (717) 232-6100

Senior Home Repair (717) 545-8747

Retirement Communities Country Meadows of Hershey (717) 533-1880

Wheelchair Getaways (717) 921-2000

Housing/Apartments B’Nai B’rith Apartments (717) 232-7516 Housing Assistance Dauphin County Housing Authority (717) 939-9301 Property Tax/Rent Rebate (888) 728-2937

Social Security Office (800) 772-1213

Travel

Services Dauphin County Area Agency on Aging (717) 255-2790 The Salvation Army Edgemont Temple Corps (717) 238-8678

Not an all-inclusive list of advertisers in your area.

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February 2012

Such Is Life Corporate Office:

Bob’s Beloved Becky

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

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Donna K. Anderson

EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR Christianne Rupp EDITOR, 50PLUS PUBLICATIONS Megan Joyce

ART DEPARTMENT PROJECT COORDINATOR Renee Geller PRODUCTION ARTIST Janys Cuffe

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

ADMINISTRATION BUSINESS MANAGER Elizabeth Duvall

Member of

Saralee Perel ur 5-year-old border collie, Becky, is the weirdest dog we’ve known. My husband, Bob, and I couldn’t love her more. Our older dog, Gracie, is a shepherd/collie mix. She’s the smartest dog we’ve known. We assumed that Becky would watch and learn from Gracie. Boy, were we wrong. Border collies are known for herding sheep. Plus, they need lots more activity than other dogs need and are considered one of the smartest and bravest breeds. But apparently Becky swam through the genetic pool without soaking up one drop of it. If a gun-wielding gangster broke into our house, Becky would go after him with the courage of a SWAT team commander. When a fly is anywhere in the house, she runs, trembling and whimpering, behind the toilet where she stays until I’ve spent half the day finding the fly. Bob has always wanted a border collie. We adopted Becky because we were told she was bred to need no more activity than any other dog and that she didn’t have the herding instinct that all border collies do. That was a bunch of hooey. Becky is not only on the go 24/7, but she also herds everything in her universe. She herds:

1. The vacuum cleaner Winner

50plus SeniorNews 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.

February 2012

2. Our empty-headed cat Murphy, who doesn’t even notice 3. Apples that fall out of the shopping bag 4. Anything that drops on the floor, including tomatoes but especially meatballs Becky spends time in our fencedin backyard herding her flock. No, not sheep. It’s her flock of clay plant pots that once contained pretty

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flowers. Using her nose to move them along, she herds the pots one by one from the left to the right side of the yard. Then, crouching down with that intense border collie stare that is used for the purpose of intimidation, she makes sure that none of the pots makes a break for it and runs fleeing from the rest of the pack. Then she herds all of them to the left side of the yard. Then back to the right; then left. This keeps her happy for hours.

Becky doesn’t bark. She screams. When she does, she sounds like a woman. She screams when she sees that a miniature painting has been moved 3 inches. She screams when she sees a truck in our driveway—our truck. One day, Bob decided it would be fantastic for Becky to follow her genetic instincts and see sheep. We drove to a farm that had lots of sheep and chickens. Bob’s chest was bursting with pride and anticipation to see her in all of her historic splendor. He said to the farm owner, “Would it be OK if I kept my dog on a leash and took her over to your sheep?” “Sure.” Gracie and I stayed in our truck and watched. Bob walked Becky to the pen where there were a dozen sheep. He

looked so proud, just like a shepherd and his border collie in the ancient hills of Scotland. When they got to the pen, Becky peered at the sheep—her body crouched for a full two minutes in that concentrated border collie stare. It truly was a beautiful sight to see her in her timeless glory. Then she let out a scream so earsplitting that all the chickens jumped a foot off the ground. Bob rushed Becky back to our truck while the farmer came running over, looking around frantically for what he thought was a screaming woman who was severely injured. Meanwhile, all 12 sheep kept doing what they had been doing all along: eating stuff from the ground, still ignoring the doofus border collie who was scared to death of them. There is something that Becky does that she has never been trained to do. When she sees Bob, and he always kneels down to greet her, she slowly stands on her hind legs, puts her front legs gently around his neck, rests her head against his, and hugs him. She doesn’t move no matter how much time Bob spends hugging her and kissing her forehead. Becky loves Bob the way Romeo loved Juliet. And he loves her the same. When Bob leaves the house, Becky stays by the door, no matter how many hours it takes for her beloved leader to return home. She will not move, eat, drink, or do anything other than stand at her post … waiting. When he comes home, the first thing they do is hug. Bob keeps his eyes closed in ecstasy. To me, love is love, whether it’s between adults, between parents and children, between dolphins, between whales. But especially between Bob and Becky. Award-winning columnist Saralee Perel welcomes emails at sperel@saraleeperel.com or via her website: www.saraleeperel.com.

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Creativity Matters

Creating Age-Friendly Cities, Part 2 Judith Zausner wo senior women who had successful careers refused to retire. They met serendipitously. Now Lucy Marco, a Canadian, and Jean Kincade, an American residing in Canada, have been revolutionizing the aging-friendly-cities movement in Brantford, Ontario. With high-level careers in the health services, they have utilized both their knowledge and passion to be a driving force in creating a master aging plan for their community and to pioneer the movement across the country. By forming a steering committee, providing webinars to various organizations, gathering political support, and obtaining grants, these women are developing a model for urban entities to follow. “Today’s seniors are better educated, more technically sophisticated, have more disposable income, and are healthier and living longer,” says Marco. Now, Marco and Kincade are making sure that this new demographic gets the support they need to continue to live dynamic lives. As an indicator of the global awareness on the importance of urban environments for the elderly, The World Health Organization held the First International Conference on AgeFriendly Cities in Dublin, Ireland, in September 2011. It brought together people from all over the world, from public, private, and voluntary sectors, to share their thoughts and plans, their challenges and opportunities.

With their forecast of 2 billion people who will be aged 60 and over by 2050, the urgency is immediate. Ideas will be for large-scale transportation and housing as well as innovations on a small scale, such as increasing public seating by encouraging private donors to dedicate benches in memory of loved ones (in Saanich, Canada). Locally, Philadelphia has the highest proportion of older persons (age 60+) of any of the 10 largest cities in the United States and therefore understands the critical importance of providing an agefriendly community for its seniors. The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) has taken the lead as a catalyst by bringing partners together to build this change through programs and services that meet and embrace a new urban model. The Age-Friendly Philadelphia initiatives collaborate on:

3. Increasing opportunities for flexible housing 4. Improving walkability 5. Enhancing neighborhood social capital 6. Improving access to fresh foods 7. Educating the next generation of leaders And there are many organizations poised to help older people in Philadelphia. Coming of Age

(www.comingofage.org) was founded by WHYY, AARP, United Way, and The Intergenerational Center at Temple University to help people age 50 and over explore their future and connect to their community. Director Dick Goldberg says, “Communities must respond or miss the opportunity of fully engaging the largest, most educated generation of social innovators in the nation’s history.” The future starts right now. It starts with knowing what’s ahead and optimizing plans for success. It’s no use saying, “We are doing our best.” You have got to succeed in doing what is necessary. – Winston Churchill Judith Zausner can be reached at judith@caringcrafts.com.

1. Making parks more age friendly 2. Helping public transportation become more accessible

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February 2012

Beyond the Battlefield

He Played a Role in Decimating the Japanese Fleet Alvin S. Goodman wight W. “Bud” Huntington III, 88, of Susquehanna Township, Dauphin County, is a proud veteran of the Navy’s Submarine Service. Subs escaped the destruction of our surface fleet at Pearl Harbor in 1941 and had a key role in taking it to the enemy until the U.S. could repair and replace our lost shipping and gear up for war. “At Pearl Harbor our subs escaped the Japanese attack unscathed—no damage to the four subs in Pearl Harbor and the remaining 18 boats in the Submarines Pacific Fleet that were not in Pearl at the time,” Huntington said. In addition, the Asiatic Fleet, which operated out of the Philippines with 39 submarines, was not as lucky in Japan’s first attack there. The Sea Lion was hit by two aerial bombs and was later destroyed to keep her from falling into enemy hands. The Sea Dragon, which was alongside, escaped with minor damage

and was able to maneuver in our rescue party, formed into the bay. She was one to aid in retrieving downed of the first subs to go out pilots.” on patrol. During World War II, “As battle quartermaster subs were named after fish. on the USS Pargo, I was The Pargo was a member lucky to be on the bridge of the snapper family in a surface attack or in the found in Caribbean waters. conning tower manning Approximately 16,000 the periscope with the submariners in the force skipper when submerged. conducted more than In these stations we knew 1,600 war patrols and what was going on all the destroyed 5.3 million tons time,” Huntingdon of enemy ships. Quartermaster Dwight “Bud” Huntington III. said. “I was Thus, 1.6 percent fortunate to see of the U.S. Naval enemy ships strength was disappear responsible for 55 beneath the percent of all waves on a few enemy ships lost. occasions. I was Unfortunately, also chosen as 3,506 rescue swimmer submariners paid The USS Pargo (SS264) in San Francisco Bay.

the ultimate sacrifice. Huntington is a native of Flanders, Long Island, N.Y. His father, Dwight W. Huntington Jr., was a World War I veteran, who volunteered the day war was declared. He was wounded in Europe. On his return to America, after his recuperation, he met and married Alice Dunbar on Long Island, N.Y. “As time went on, my father was unable to support the family, so my mother, with two children, moved back to Flanders, where she taught school. My sister and I were brought up by our maternal grandparents.” Huntington graduated from Riverhead High School, where he was on the mile and cross country track teams. After graduation in June 1941, he returned to school for postgraduate work and sports. He was offered a sports scholarship to Syracuse University but by then, war had been declared, so he

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attempted to enlist in the U.S. Army Air Corps. “I was rejected because I had hay fever,” he remembered. In April 1942, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and started serving in August. Huntington attended boot camp at Newport, R.I., where he saw submarines maneuvering at the torpedo range in the bay and he decided to volunteer. “Of the 120 men in our company, 36 of us volunteered but only six were accepted.” Following Submarine School and Quartermaster-Signal School in Groton, Conn., he was assigned to the newly constructed Pargo from February 1943 through the end of hostilities in 1945. During that time, Pargo was able to complete eight successful patrol runs. “We returned to the West Coast for new engines after the second run and new equipment and overhaul after the seventh run.” The Pargo was a Gato Class boat, 312 feet long with a 26-foot beam and a 5/8inch-thick hull and carried a crew of 10 officers and 70 enlisted men. After commissioning April 26, 1943, at the sub base in New London, Conn., the ship underwent its shakedown in the Atlantic until late June, when she

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departed for Pearl Harbor via Panama. On her first war patrol in the East China Sea, the Pargo sank a large 10,000-ton tanker. Two days later, on Sept. 6, a very successful night torpedo attack was made on a six-ship convoy, with the sinking of three ships, the severe damaging of another, and the complete disruption of the convoy. By the war’s end, the Pargo was credited with sinking more than 100,000 tons of enemy shipping. On its last patrol, Pargo ran submerged through enemy minefields into the Sea of Japan. Subs were held there, on orders of Gen. McArthur, until the final surrender terms were signed Sept. 2, 1945, in anticipation of a possible invasion of Japan by the Russians. On Sept. 3, the Pargo skirted the minefields of Tsushima by running on the surface close to the coast of Korea en route to Guam. Three floating mines were exploded by gunfire. This sub was decommissioned June 12, 1946. Continued next month … If you are a mature veteran and have interesting or unusual experiences in your military or civilian life, phone Al Goodman at (717) 541-9889 or email him at klezmer630@comcast.net.

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February 2012

New Census Statistics Available in Time for African-American History Month

16th Edition Now Available! • Active adult and residential living • Independent and retirement living communities • Assisted living /personal care residences • Nursing and healthcare services • Home health, companions, and hospice care providers • Easy-to-read format

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To commemorate and celebrate the veterans in the United States in 2010. contributions to our nation made by people of African descent, American Education historian Carter G. Woodson established • 82 percent – Among blacks 25 and Black History Week. The first celebration older, the percentage with a high school occurred on Feb. 12, diploma or higher in 1926. 2010. For many years, the second week of • 18 percent – February was set Percentage of blacks aside for this 25 and older who celebration to had a bachelor’s coincide with the degree or higher in birthdays of 2010. abolitionist/editor Frederick Douglass • 1.5 million – and Abraham Among blacks 25 Lincoln. In 1976, as and older, the part of the nation’s number who had bicentennial, the an advanced degree week was expanded in 2010. into Black History Frederick Douglass Month. • 9 million – Number of blacks Population enrolled in college in 2010, a 1.7 million • 42 million – The number of people increase since 1990. who identified as black, either alone or in combination with one or more other Families and Children races, in the 2010 Census. They made • 62.5 – Among households with a black up 13.6 percent of the total U.S. householder, the percentage that population. The black alone-or-incontained a family. There were 9.4 combination population grew by 15.4 million black family households. percent from 2000 to 2010. • 44.4 percent – Among families with • 65.7 million – The projected black black householders, the percentage that population of the United States were married couples. (including those of more than one race) for July 1, 2050. On that date, • 1.3 million – Number of black according to the projection, blacks grandparents who lived with their own would constitute 15 percent of the grandchildren younger than 18. Of this nation’s total population. number, 47.6 percent were also responsible for their care. • 3.3 million – The black population in New York, which led all states in 2010. Businesses The other nine states in the top 10 • $135.7 billion – Receipts for blackwere Florida, Texas, Georgia, owned businesses in 2007, up 53.1 California, North Carolina, Illinois, percent from 2002. The number of Maryland, Virginia, and Ohio. black-owned businesses totaled 1.9 million in 2007, up 60.5 percent. • 2.2 million – People who identified as black in New York City, which led all • 37.7 percent – Percentage of blackplaces with populations of 100,000 or owned businesses in 2007 in healthcare more. It was followed by Chicago; and social assistance, repair and Philadelphia; Detroit; Houston; maintenance, and personal and laundry Memphis, Tenn.; Baltimore; Los services. Angeles; Washington; and Dallas. More information is available at the Serving Our Nation U.S. Census website, www.census.gov. • 2.4 million – Number of black military www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

CCRC Continuing Care Retirement Communities CCRCs (Continuing Care Retirement Communities) have so much to offer the vibrant, active, semi- or retired individuals of today. These communities present a variety of residential living options in addition to comprehensive medical and nursing services. Residents move between independent living, personal care or assisted living, and nursing care based on changing needs. CCRCs can range from all-inclusive monthly rates to pay-as-you-go or fee-for-service. These communities may also offer scheduled activities, programs, swimming pools, banks, chapels, fitness centers, walking paths, computer rooms, and more. More important, these communities strive to provide the best in care, which includes a professional staff.

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Bethany Village 325 Wesley Drive Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 Stephanie Lightfoot Director of Sales & Marketing (717) 766-0279 www.bethanyvillage.org Brethren Village 3001 Lititz Pike P.O. Box 5093 Lancaster, PA 17606-5093 Scott Wissler Director of Marketing (717) 581-4227 www.bv.org Calvary Fellowship Homes 502 Elizabeth Drive Lancaster, PA 17601 Marlene Morris Marketing Director (717) 393-0711 www.calvaryhomes.org Chapel Pointe at Carlisle 770 South Hanover Street Carlisle, PA 17013 Linda D. Amsley Director of Marketing/ Admissions (717) 249-1363 www.chapelpointe.com Cumberland Crossings 1 Longsdorf Way Carlisle, PA 17015 Oliver Hazan Marketing and Sales Director (717) 240-6013 www.diakon.org/cumberlandcrossings

Ephrata Manor 99 Bethany Road Ephrata, PA 17522 Admissions Department (717) 738-4940 www.ucc-homes.org Fairmount Homes Retirement Community 333 Wheat Ridge Drive Ephrata, PA 17522 James K. Woolson Admissions/Marketing Director (717) 354-1800 www.fairmounthomes.org

Freedom Village Brandywine 15 Freedom Boulevard West Brandywine, PA 19320 Anna Wynn Director of Marketing (484) 288-2600 www.freedomvillage.com

Normandie Ridge Senior Living Community 1700 Normandie Drive York, PA 17408 Joyce Singer Director of Marketing (717) 718-0937 www.normandieridge.org

Frey Village 1020 North Union Street Middletown, PA 17057 Michael Nagy Marketing & Sales Coordinator (717) 930-1303 www.diakon.org/freyvillage

St. Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Retirement Community 3952 Columbia Avenue Columbia, PA 17512 Christina E. George Director of Marketing (717) 285-6112 www.stannesretirementcommunity.com

Garden Spot Village 433 South Kinzer Avenue New Holland, PA 17557 Scott Miller Director of Marketing (717) 355-6000 www.gardenspotvillage.org

Willow Valley Retirement Communities 600 Willow Valley Square Lancaster, PA 17604 Kristin Hambleton Manager of Sales (717) 464-6800 www.willowvalleyretirement.com

Homeland Center 1901 North Fifth Street Harrisburg, PA 17102-1598 Barry S. Ramper II, N.H.A. President/CEO (717) 221-7902 www.homelandcenter.org Homestead Village Enhanced Senior Living 1800 Marietta Avenue P.O. Box 3227 Lancaster, PA 17604-3227 Susan L. Doyle Director of Marketing (717) 397-4831 ext. 158 www.homesteadvillage.org The Middletown Home 999 West Harrisburg Pike Middletown, PA 17057 Jennifer Binecz Director of Residential Services (717) 944-3351 www.middletownhome.org

Woodcrest Villa Mennonite Home Communities 2001 Harrisburg Pike Lancaster, PA 17601 Connie Buckwalter Director of Marketing (717) 390-4126 www.woodcrestvilla.org Woodland Heights Retirement Community 2499 Zerbe Road Narvon, PA 17555 Lynne A. Bickta Director of Marketing and Sales (717) 445-8741 www.retireatwoodlandheights.com

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from page 1

a flat tabletop. It makes it so much easier couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe the effect that one hour for them to see. The pencil grip I use is had on her motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to write her not a writing grip; it is a grip which name.â&#x20AC;? makes it easier for them to use their Warfel was astounded at the power of hands.â&#x20AC;? such an activity. Since teaching her first lesson more â&#x20AC;&#x153;Neuroscientists are exploring than 10 years ago, Warfel has provided evidence that artistic expression instruction to more than 18 facilities, stimulates the growth of new brain cells such as senior centers, apartment and creation of new neuron networks in buildings for low-income elderly, and the cerebral cortex,â&#x20AC;? Warfel explained. adult daycare centers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Working with this group for almost two â&#x20AC;&#x153;My range of experience working years gave me many insights into the with this capacity of the population is mind to create very broad,â&#x20AC;? while suffering said Warfel. â&#x20AC;&#x153;By endless losses.â&#x20AC;? observing which She has creative seen her activities are programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s successful and positive which are not, impact on not and why, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve only the built a strong elderly, but on art program for their loved senior citizens.â&#x20AC;? ones as well. Nearly eight â&#x20AC;&#x153;The years after her families are so first seniorhappy,â&#x20AC;? Warfel instruction said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It gives class, she began them some a new peace that collaboration. something is The initiative, still going on Warfel gives student Joann Greise guidance created in in their loved on her drawing. conjunction oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mind.â&#x20AC;? with a For her nonprofit arts organization in exceptional work, Warfel was awarded Harrisburg, was called Jump Street and Jump Streetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spectrum Award for aimed to provide art classes to those Excellence in the Arts in October 2006, suffering from Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. recognizing her influential work with â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thought, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;This is the challenge I senior citizens suffering from dementia. have been preparing for all these years.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Her innovations also inspired her We met the program services coordinator authorship of a manual, Simple Lines and set up the schedule,â&#x20AC;? explained Make a Difference. Warfel. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had only one requirementâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; The manual, designed for non-artist select 10 people who could still write use, guides would-be art teachers through their first name to join the class.â&#x20AC;? Warfelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proven methods, providing The first lesson was a drawing lesson; questions to ask and demonstrating each however, before everyone got started, lesson. Even someone with no artistic they were asked to write their name on background can read the manual and their piece of paper. All members of the teach the lesson as if Warfel were there. class were able to do so, except for one As for the future, Warfel hopes to woman, whose illness had progressed continue to spread the word about the further than the others. power of art for the elderly. She would After explaining how to draw lines, like to provide more seminars for the class spent an hour using the muscles caregivers in order to incorporate her in their arms, shoulders, and backs to program in retirement homes in various complete the task. At the end of the communities. lesson, everyone was instructed to write â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to do more of that,â&#x20AC;? she said. their name againâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;including the woman â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where the important work with more advanced Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. is.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;[She] wrote her first name in To learn more about Barbara Warfel beautiful, cursive script,â&#x20AC;? said Warfel. and her groundbreaking work with â&#x20AC;&#x153;Her daughter was there beside her. Her Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s patients, visit her website at eyes grew wide in amazement. She www.passeri-warfel.com. www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

Leaving Your Legacy Are You Prepared to Leave a Legacy? You box toys and shoes for disadvantaged children, collect canned goods, and donate to your favorite charity every year—but have you considered leaving a permanent legacy to help support your cause? Bequeathing money to a charity in your will is one of the best ways to act as a philanthropist through your lifetime and beyond. Many charities rely on legacies to run their programs—some receive as much as 40 percent of their income from bequests. There are many ways to leave a bequest to the charity or charities of your choice. You can donate all or part of your retirement plan, IRA, 401(k), life insurance plan, stock portfolio, or estate. You can even ask a charity to put your money toward a specific cause or program. For example, those bequeathing funds to Running Strong for American Indian Youth (www.indianyouth.org), a nonprofit organization that helps

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American Indians meet their immediate survival needs while creating programs that promote self-sufficiency and selfesteem, can ask that their money support Running Strong’s community garden program or youth programs. If you do not specify how you want your money to be used, the charity will most likely add the money to their endowment, where it can be used to support any number of worthy causes. Many charities offer legacy programs to help potential benefactors give. Americans Helping Americans (www.helpingamericans.org), a nonprofit that helps improve the lives of impoverished people living in Appalachia, created its Americans Helping Americans Legacy Society to recognize those who wish to include the charity in their will. More than 80 percent of Americans give to charities. But a 2007 survey conducted by Indiana University’s Center on Philanthropy found that only 8

percent of all Americans include legacies in their wills. Considering the rocky economic climate since then, that percentage has surely dropped. Many Americans worry that, by leaving a charitable bequest, they may put their heirs at a disadvantage. But leaving a legacy in your will could reduce

the estate taxes that the will’s other beneficiaries need to pay. Gifts given to charitable organizations are free of federal estate taxes, as well as inheritance taxes in most states. (NewsUSA)

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February 2012

Travel Appetizers: Stories that Whet the Appetite for Travel

Traveltizers

Headlines of History: Washington, D.C.’s Newseum By Andrea Gross JAMES P. BLAIR/NEWSEUM

ne minute I’m standing in front of eight 4-foot wide, 12-foot tall sections of the Berlin Wall. A few minutes later, I’m watching videos of the moon landing, Princess Diana’s wedding, JFK’s assassination, 9/11 … As I walk through the Newseum, Washington, D.C.’s 250,000-square-foot paean to journalism, I’m reminded of the old adage: Yesterday’s news is today’s history. The museum, which is located on Pennsylvania Avenue just blocks from the National Mall, contains more than 35,000 newspapers, including one from 1718 that heralds the death of Blackbeard, the notorious British pirate, and one started by the brother of Benjamin Franklin. It’s filled with journalistically relevant artifacts, like the microphone used by Edward R. Murrow for his radio broadcasts during the Blitz and the notebook used by the Newsweek reporter

The Newseum complex, just blocks from the National Mall, is deserving of a banner headline.

SAM KITTNER

The Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery is filled with pictures that have burned themselves into the national consciousness.

who broke the Monica Lewinsky story. In addition, the Newseum houses hundreds of videos. In fact, a person could spend hours just watching videos— from an eight-minute overview of major events narrated by Charles Osgood to a 25-minute look at the history of sports reporting. I hesitate before walking into the Comcast 9/11 Gallery. Do I really want to relive that horrible day? But of course I go in and sit spellbound as journalists who were there tell what they did to bring the story to the rest of us. The audience is transfixed; the room is completely silent. I feel as if I’m in a church. All told, the Newseum houses 15 theaters and 14 main exhibits. My personal favorite is The Pulitzer Prize Gallery, a collection of photographs that deliver a gut-punch to the soul. There’s the horrified girl who saw her fellow student shot at Kent State, the napalmburned child running down a street in Vietnam, the flag being raised on Iwo

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MARIA BRYK/NEWSEUM

A replica of Tim Russert’s office as it looked on the day of his death is on display through 2012.

Jima. Video interviews with the photographers give the story behind the story. In addition, there are a number of temporary exhibits that will only run until the end of this year. One of the most popular and poignant, “Inside Tim Russert’s Office,” shows the famous newsman’s desk arranged exactly as it was on the day of his death. Another, titled “First Dogs,” features nearly two dozen pets that have provided our presidents with apolitical companionship. These include Coolidge’s white collie, which was photographed wearing an Easter bonnet; George H.W. Bush’s English Springer Spaniel, which was credited with writing a bestselling book; and Warren Harding’s Airedale, which attended Cabinet meetings with his master. (One can only wonder what scandals would have been adverted if the dog had barked a few words of caution into the president’s ear.) On a more serious note, the “G-Men and Journalists” exhibit provides insight into the tension between law enforcement and the press, showing how the press prevents abuses of power but also makes the work of the special agents more difficult. More than 200 artifacts complement the photos and newspapers, including the cabin used by the Unabomber and the electric chair that ended the life of Bruno Hauptmann, who steadfastly denied that he was the person who kidnapped the Lindbergh baby. Later, after a quick lunch in the Wolfgang Puck café on the lower level, I explore some of the interactive galleries, which are among the museum’s most popular. In one, reporter-wannabes try reading a news report from a Teleprompter and writing a story on deadline. In another, they confront ethical problems. When is it OK to quote anonymous sources? Is it more important to photograph a dying child who’s about to be eaten by a vulture, and thus alert the world to the plight of the Sudanese, or is it better to drop the www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

camera and try to save the child?* I wander out on the terrace, where a guide tells me that the Newseum was built on the site of the old National Hotel. “That’s the hotel where John Wilkes Booth stayed when he plotted the murder of Abraham Lincoln,” he says. Inside I see the newspaper announcing the assassination of the president as well as ones telling of the hunt for Booth. For contemporary events, there’s the broadcast studio where ABC News films its Sunday morning program, This Week. Behind the desk where George Stephanopoulos interviews the week’s newsmakers is the famous view of the Capitol. But even more interesting is the daily display of the front pages of 80 newspapers from across the United States and around the world, posted every morning at 6 a.m. Washington time. They are a stark reminder that while we in the United States may be absorbed with the presidential primaries, the people in New Zealand are focused on something else entirely. www.newseum.org Story by Andrea Gross. andreagross.com

*Note: Faced with this dilemma, Kevin Carter opted to snap the awardwinning photo. Afterward he chased the vulture away, but haunted by the scene and by his own priorities, he committed suicide a few months later.

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Jessica L. Fisher Attorney Keystone Elder Law P.C.

that are current and temporary. An example would be if you are in surgery under anesthesia and your doctor cannot consult you. Your health care agent would know and would authorize your treatment preferences. A living will, however, becomes effective only when you are at the end stage of a terminal medical condition or when you are in a permanent state of unconscious. The third necessary document is your last will and testament. Many couples have simple “I Love You” wills, meaning spouses have left everything to each other and then to their children. This type of will may have been adequate at age 30, but as a senior, this type of will may adversely affect your family members. Suppose your spouse requires skilled nursing care and is receiving government benefits, such as Medicaid, to pay for care. If you pass away and all of your assets go to your spouse, that will result in him or her losing the benefits that pay for their care. Take positive steps so you do not fall into a crisis situation that could easily be prevented. Have all of these documents prepared or reviewed by an elder law attorney to ensure that they are up to date and effective to meet your needs. Keystone Elder Law can help you ensure not only that your documents are current and appropriate for your needs, but that you also have plans in place so that your personal wishes can be fulfilled. 555 Gettysburg Pike, Suite C-100 Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

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February 2012

Social Security News

Q&A’s for February 2012 By Doris Brookens Question: I know that Social Security’s full retirement age is gradually rising to 67. But does this mean the “early” retirement age will also be going up by two years, from age 62 to 64? Answer: No. While it is true that under current law the full retirement age is gradually rising from 65 to 67, the “early” retirement age remains at 62. Keep in mind, however, that taking early retirement reduces your benefit amount. Question: Do I automatically get Medicare benefits if I’m eligible for disability benefits? Answer: After you have received disability benefits for 24 months, we will automatically enroll you in Medicare. We start counting the 24 months from the month you were entitled to receive disability, not the month when you received your first benefit payment.

Sometimes you can get State Medicaid in the meantime. There are exceptions to this rule. People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and chronic renal disease may be able to get Medicare earlier. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov or call (800) 7721213 (TTY – (800) 325-0778). Question: Next month I’ll turn 65 and, because of my financial situation, I thought I’d be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). But my neighbor told me I’d probably be turned down because I have a friend who said he might help support me. Is this true? Answer: If your friend helps support you, it could have an effect on whether you get SSI and on the amount you receive. Whether you can get SSI depends on your income and resources (the things you own). If you have low income and few resources, you may be able to get SSI.

However, if you are receiving support from your friend or from anyone else, that income will be considered when making a decision on your SSI eligibility and amount. Support includes any food or shelter that is given to you or is received by you because someone else pays for it. Question: My dad, who is receiving Supplemental Security Income, will be coming to live with me. Does he have to report the move to Social Security? Answer: Yes. An SSI beneficiary must report any change in living arrangements within 10 days after the month the change occurs. If the change is not reported, your dad could receive an incorrect payment or he may not receive all the money that is due. Also, your dad needs to report his new address to Social Security so that he can receive mail from us. Even if benefits are paid by direct deposit, we need to be able to get in touch with him. He can report the change by telephone, mail, or in

person at any Social Security office. Keep in mind that failing to report a change to Social Security could result in incorrect payments that may have to be paid back or a penalty deducted from SSI benefits. Just call (800) 772-1213 (TTY – (800) 325-0778). You can get more information in the booklet Understanding SSI at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi. Question: If I retire and start getting Social Security retirement benefits at age 62, will my Medicare coverage begin then too? Answer: No. Medicare benefits based on retirement do not begin until a person is age 65. If you retire at age 62, you may be able to continue to have medical insurance coverage through your employer or purchase it from an insurance company until you reach age 65 and become eligible for Medicare. Doris Brookens is the Social Security office manager in Harrisburg.

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We’d Like to Know More About You Complete Our Reader Survey to be Entered in Our Drawing Please participate in our confidential reader survey. The information you provide is important to us. The results are for 50plus Senior News’ use only. Thank you for participating and good luck in the drawing! Mail your completed survey to: 50plus Senior News Survey • 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 by March 15, 2012. Name_________________________________________________Phone ______________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________City _____________________State ____Zip _______________ Please give us your opinion so that we can give you a better publication. Thank you! The contest winner will be announced in our May issue. 1. What are your favorite columns in 50plus Senior News? ________________________________________________________________ 2. What do you dislike about 50plus Senior News? ________________________________________________________________ 3. What topics would you like us to cover? ________________________________________________________________ 4. How often do you pick up your copy of 50plus Senior News? Monthly Semi-regularly Occasionally Rarely 5. Where do you get your copy of 50plus Senior News? ________________________________________________________________ 6. Over the last few years, has 50plus Senior News: Improved Stayed the same Gotten worse I am a new reader 7. Which of the following actions have you taken in the last 12 months as a result of reading 50plus Senior News? Requested information offered in an article Requested information from an advertisement Visited a specific store Bought/ordered advertised product or service Visited a specific travel destination Attended a local event or meeting Saved an article for future reference Other 8. Do you patronize 50plus Senior News advertisers? Often Sometimes Never 9. How important to you is our calendar of events? Very important Somewhat important Not important 10. Do you use coupons or discounts when offered? Often Sometimes Never 11. Number of people (include yourself) who read your copy of 50plus Senior News? ____ 12. What percentage of 50plus Senior News do you read? __________________ 13. Is 50plus Senior News an important source of information for you? Yes No 14. Have you visited 50plus Senior News’ website? Yes No 15. How likely are you to read our website’s additional editorial content? Very likely Somewhat likely Not likely 16. Have you visited 50plus Senior News on Facebook? Yes No 17. Please check which activities you enjoy: Dining Out Bowling Live Theater Fishing Concerts RVing Travel Casino Gaming Golfing Exercise

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The following questions are asked for statistical purposes ONLY. Replies will be held in strict confidence. Please check all appropriate boxes. 18. I am (check all that apply): Male Female Married Divorced Widowed Single 19. My age is: Under 49 50-59 60-69 70-79 80+ My spouse’s age is: Under 49 50-59 60-69 70-79 80+ 20. My/our education level is: High School Grad Some College College Grad Graduate/Professional Degree 21. My present work status is: Full-Time Part-Time Retired Volunteering My spouse’s current work status is: Full-Time Part-Time Retired Volunteering 22. Our/my household net worth is (includes home, pensions, investments, etc.): Under $50,000 $50,000-$99,999 $100,000-$249,999 $250,000-$349,999 $350,000-$499,999 $500,000-$999,999 $1 million or more 23. My sources of income are (check all that apply): Salary Pension Social Security Stocks/Bonds Savings Annuity Income Property 24. Our/my housing status (check all that apply): Own Rent Condo Single-Family House Apartment Retirement Community Nursing Home 25. In the next two years, might you consider moving to any of the following? Smaller House Apartment Condo Retirement Community 26. How many times do you dine out each month? 14 or more 10-13 times 6-9 times Fewer than 5 times 27. Do you have a pet? Yes No 28. How many times a month do you attend cultural events, plays, concerts, movies, etc.? 1-4 5-8 9-11 12 or more times 29. How many times a year do you travel? 1-4 times 5-8 times 9-11 times 12 or more times 30. Have you visited a casino in the past year? Yes No If yes, how many times? 1-2 3-4 5-9 10 or more 31. What professional services have you employed in the past year? Attorney Insurance Broker Stock Broker Travel Agent CPA Financial Planner Real Estate Agent Other ______________ 32. Check which purchases you plan to make in the next 12 months: New Car Make? ___________________ Used Car Motor Home or RV Computer Furniture Television Major Appliance Eyeglasses Heater/Air Conditioner Real Estate Financial Advice Hearing Aid Home Improvements Airline Tickets/Travel Tax Advice Health/Long-Term Care Insurance Other__________________________ 33. Do you have a computer? Yes No 34. Do you use email? Yes No 35. Do you use the Internet? Yes No For what? ____________________ 36. Do you have a regular exercise program? Yes No If yes, how many times per week do you exercise? 1-3 4-6 7 or more 37. How would you rate your overall health? Excellent Good Fair Poor 38. How much do you spend on prescription drugs annually? $100 or less $101-$300 $301-$500 $501-$999 more than $1,000 39. Have you taken out a policy for long-term care insurance? Yes No 40. Have you or has someone you know taken out a reverse mortgage? Yes No

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February 2012

The Search for Our Ancestry

Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland Angelo Coniglio have discussed online genealogical research of the United Kingdom, so far covering England and Wales. Before proceeding with Scotland and Ireland, a clarification is in order. The island of Ireland comprises two political divisions: Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, and the Republic of Ireland, or the Irish Republic, which has been an independent nation since 1922. When I refer here to Ireland, I mean the whole island. More about this below. In prehistory, Scotland was settled by an influx of settlers from Ireland, and the two peoples share many common traits. One of these, important in genealogical research, is the naming convention for children in a family, especially in the 1700s and 1800s.

• The first son was named after the (child’s) father’s father.

• The second son after the mother’s father. • The third son was named after the father. • The first daughter was named after the mother’s mother. • The second daughter was named after the father’s mother. • The third daughter was named after the mother. Later children were named for their parents’ siblings, and often the child’s mother’s maiden surname was used as a second given name for some if not all children. This can be a valuable guide

when the mother’s surname is otherwise unknown. Information on the availability of Scottish and Irish sources may be found online; however, many of the actual records must be ordered and purchased in hard copy. The “catalog” of the free Mormon site FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org) may be searched for the place in Scotland or Ireland to get a list of civil and church records (e.g., “Glasgow” or “Kildare”). Such searches show if microfilms are available for rental, to obtain photocopies of records at a nominal price. These may

be copies of register indexes or of actual records. However, the searches may be tedious and the results, though valuable, may be spotty. Many of the listings are for church records, so knowing your relatives’ ancestral town, religion, and parish at the start are invaluable. Similarly at this site, you can “Browse by location” for “Europe” and then “Scotland” or “Ireland” to find a list of church or census records, and so on. These may be searched by an ancestor’s name and usually display transcribed details without an actual image of the document. For Ireland, use this process and select “Ireland, Civil Registration Indexes, 1845-1958.” The same collection is available on Ancestry.com, which is a paid site but more easily navigated. In 1922 the Republic of Ireland was created. Six of the nine counties forming

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February 2012

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the province of Ulster voted to remain part of the United Kingdom as Northern Ireland. This split affected the location of various records. Moreover, because England ruled Ireland for much of its history, many Irish records are found in English repositories. There are thousands of Scottish/Irish genealogical websites, free and paid, and I cannot possibly list them all or even all the good ones. Search for them by typing “Scottish genealogy” or “Irish genealogy” into your Web browser. The paid sites I mention are not endorsed by me but are presented only as a guide. The site Family Chronicle (http://familychronicle.com/10_scot_site s.htm) lists helpful Scottish genealogy sites, paid and free. The site Irish Genealogy Toolkit (www.irish-genealogytoolkit.com) is an excellent free site that describes the location and access procedures for Irish records. At GENUKI (http://genuki.org.uk/ big/eng), each Scottish or Irish county, including both Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic, can be selected to access sources of various types of information. In Scotland and Ireland, as for the rest of the UK, a General Register Office (GRO) is the government agency responsible for civil registration. The former Scotland GRO is now the National Records of Scotland

(http://gro-scotland.gov.uk/). Ireland has a Northern Ireland GRO (GRONI) based in Belfast and a Republic of Ireland GRO, or GRO Dublin. Links for both Irish GROs can be found at Irish Genealogy Toolkit. The actual records are contained in various hard-copy registers of the data. For Scotland and Ireland, indexes of birth, death, and marriage registers are available online through the links noted above. You must provide the person’s name, place information, and the register volume or other ID information found by your search to the appropriate GRO to order a photocopy of the actual record, which is sent by mail. Generally, photocopies are available as “certified copies” or “research copies.” The former are necessary as proof of births, marriages, or deaths for legal purposes, while the latter are adequate for genealogical needs. The two types of copies are identical, with the exception that one bears an official stamp or seal, and the other doesn’t. The certified versions are more expensive than the research versions. Angelo Coniglio encourages readers to contact him by writing to 438 Maynard Drive, Amherst, NY 14226; by email at Genealogytips@aol.com; or by visiting www.conigliofamily.com/ConiglioGenealogy Tips.htm.

Not a Love Story: The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre On Feb. 14, we remember our sweethearts, our loved ones, and of course … the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre of 1929, in which seven Chicago mobsters were lured to a garage on the north side of the city and gunned down by killers hired by notorious gangster Al Capone. The killings erupted from a conflict between Capone and a rival gang led by George “Bugs” Moran, who was the primary target of the massacre. According to one account, Capone hired members of Detroit’s infamous Purple Gang to carry out the hit. They promised Moran’s crew a shipment of bootleg whiskey in order to get them to a warehouse on Clark Street. Moran was late for the delivery, and the killers may have mistaken one of the gang leader’s men for Moran himself. Two of the four gunmen wore uniforms of the Chicago Police Department and drove a stolen police car. When they entered the warehouse, the gangsters inside initially believed they www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

were being arrested. They allowed themselves to be disarmed and lined up against the wall before realizing they were about to be murdered. After the gunshots died out, the two uniformed killers and their two accomplices left the building, with bystanders assuming the police had carried out an arrest. A barking dog prompted neighbors to investigate, and they quickly discovered the gruesome scene and summoned the real police. One of the victims, still hanging onto life, reportedly told the police, “Nobody shot me,” despite the bullet holes riddling his body. He died at the hospital three hours after the shooting. Police identified the shooters, but they were never actually prosecuted for the killing (although one did go to jail for shooting a police officer in an unrelated incident). Still, the outcry over the killings marked the beginning of the end of the Capone gang’s power in Chicago, and it captured the imagination of the public for years afterward.

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February 2012

Older But Not Wiser

Playing the Senior Card Sy Rosen he other evening my wife, Wanda, and I were watching TV when our remote control just stopped working, and, unfortunately, our cable box wasn’t set up for changing

the channels manually. After confirming that it wasn’t the batteries, Wanda and I looked at each other with desperation and panic—we would have to talk to each other.

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February 2012

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I read somewhere that the average married couple talks to each other about six minutes a day. I think they may have been overestimating. After a couple of minutes of, “How was your day?” … “OK, how was yours?”… “OK, how was yours?”… “You just asked me that,”… “I was double checking,” I ran to the telephone, called the cable company, and told them we had an emergency situation. The service rep informed me that they no longer bring out remotes, and I would have to pick it up at their local supply store (and by “local” they meant 12 miles away). And then I would have to call the cable company and they would give me instructions on how to program it. I don’t know what was worse, the inconvenience of driving to their warehouse or the fear of having to program the remote myself. And so, in a moment of desperation, I, for the first time, played the senior card! Greatly exaggerating, I said it was hard for me to travel and I would have difficulty programming the remote with my bad senior eyesight. You have to understand that I really don’t like declaring myself a senior, and I hate when, unasked for, I’m given a senior discount (of course I take it). However, here I was, playing the senior card. I was embarrassed, humiliated, and delighted that it worked. The repairman was scheduled for the next day, and I asked Wanda if I should dress a little differently to make sure I looked like a senior. She said I didn’t need to change a thing, and I “thanked” her for her help. When the cable guy, an annoyingly

confident young man, arrived, I took him into the family room, handed him the remote, and told him it didn’t work. And then … it did work. It worked perfectly. I guess the problem corrected itself. However, the cable guy assumed there never was a problem. At first he looked at me sadly, like I was an incompetent old fool, and then the creep decided to have some fun. He started changing channels like a maniac—left-handed, right-handed. For a second I thought he was going to use his toes. He then spoke very loudly and slowly, “Remember … you … always … have … to … point … the … remote … at … the … TV.” “Yes,” I sarcastically answered, “if I point it toward the kitchen, it might shut off the refrigerator.” He didn’t get my sarcasm and continued even louder. “And the red button turns it on.” “So pushing that button doesn’t start a nuclear war?” I asked. As he left he asked if I remembered everything. “Do you want me to write it down?” I told him it wouldn’t be necessary as I closed the door behind him. I felt really depressed. The senior card had become the “old man is losing it” card. And suddenly, I received a gift from the heavens. The cable guy forgot his tool belt. He came back in and as I handed it to him, I said he should check all his equipment before he leaves a job. And then in a very slow, loud voice, I added, “Maybe … I … should … write … that … down … for … you.” www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

By Myles Mellor and Sally York

Solutions for all puzzles can be found on page 20

Across 1. 5. 9.

WORD SEARCH

14. 15. 16. 17. 20. 21. 22.

Stopping point Mischievous god Regional flora and fauna Accomplished Masculine side ___ management Gain wealth wrongfully UK soft drink Perennial plants Refines

25. 26. 28. 32. 37. 38. 41. 42. 43. 44.

Clear Provided relief Back talk Cone-like structures Window alternative Subject of parent-child talk Alleviated Some eyes and teeth “Isn’t it a ____,” Harrison song Old Faithful, e.g.

46. 47. 53. 58. 59. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66. 67.

Other side Italian city Pristine Mexican bread Confess New World lizard Gulf leader Fill beyond full Less Fishing site Genuine

Young herring “Rock the Boat” music Bronx cheer Brings into play Bug out German historian Joachim Dance bit Pad ___ (noodle dish) Leftovers Mind Nod, maybe Pop-ups Astringent substance Perceive Arias, usually

45. 46. 48. 49. 50.

Looked secretly Manicurist, at times Place for sweaters? Perspicacity Bartender on TV’s Pacific Princess Needle point? Still One of seven branches Supreme Court count Singer Phoebe Rake’s look It’s just for show Melody Blubber

Down 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 18. 19. 23.

Drifts Crosswise, on deck Grassy plain Surrender Burn cause Galley tool Turning point? Slight, in a way Established ___ of Court S-shaped molding Check Fine things? Radioactive Chisholm Trail town It grows on you

24. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 39. 40. 44.

51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 60. 61.

Would you like to see your ad here? Sponsor the Puzzle Page! Please call (717) 285-1350 for more information.

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February 2012

Balancing Act

Gilding the Zumba Candace O’Donnell umba, “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” – Elizabeth Barrett Browning We fortunate Zumbites at the Lancaster YMCA have an inspiring leader, the incomparable Molly Linkey. She’s an incredible dancer—it’s an optical illusion to behold how fast she moves. She manages to embody an oxymoron in her style: she’s simultaneously wholesome and sexy. Most important, she’s a gifted teacher. A combination of guru and cheerleader, Molly doesn’t waste time reviewing each and every step. She leads, we follow (in my case, attempt to follow), guided by her hand motions and encouraging shout-outs of “got it” and sometimes more racy asides such as “move that thing” or “shake everything you’ve got.” Molly also motivates us with nicknames. Beth is “Sassy.” I’m “Shakira” because I love to dance to her song “Ojos Asi.” Molly creates such an atmosphere of joy that only if you pause to analyze it later, do you realize that she has systematically worked every muscle and elevated and then slowed (in the cooldown) your heart rate. Molly continually researches new songs, so we move to a variety of music. Over half of our routines are to a Latin beat, but we also have tunes from India, Africa, hip-hop, and classic rock and roll. We even “box” to “Kung Foo Fighter.” We celebrate diversity with all ages, ethnicities, and body types. Here’s just a sampling of our crazy quilt. Kelly, a shapely new mom, whose

Here’s how I gild my Zumba. I stand in the back row so I won’t be embarrassed when I can’t keep up. I remind myself that I’m not in my 20s or even in my 40s, so I give myself permission in advance to set my own pace. I have a strong sense of rhythm, so I do get frustrated when my body is behind the beat. If I’m having trouble coordinating my arm and leg movements, I concentrate on the arms. Since I walk at least 2 miles a day, I figure that my leg muscles get plenty of exercise. I happen to have a bad back that’s not equal to the challenge of 60 minutes standing, so after about 40 minutes, I take a break. (Hats off to Justy, 73, who manages to stay on her feet for the entire hour.) At first I simply sat on the floor in the corner, but that presented two problems. I was faster getting down than getting back up. Plus, I didn’t want to alarm Molly or my classmates. So I started to reassure them: “Don’t worry, I’m not going into cardiac arrest. It’s just my senior-citizen break.” Now I rest on the sofa outside in the hall, sipping water for 10 minutes. Then it’s back to the fun, just in time for my all-time favorite, “Fire” (the Glee version). It’s steamy, it’s funny, and, dare I confess it, just slow enough so that I can hit every move. Ah, Zumba—you can be gilded! Candace welcomes feedback via letter to 231 N. Shippen St., Unit 424, Lancaster, PA 17602 or by phone at (717) 392-7214.

Puzzles shown on page 19

Puzzle Solutions

Amanda has bright-eyed baby, lost almost 100 Lillian, follows the pounds. She was a action from her great dancer when carriage. she started Zumba. Jamaal, quite Now, she’s the improviser, fantastic. Watching who occasionally her move is like takes eight Zumba watching an classes a day. exquisite flower Mary, clerk at blossom. the office of I get a bird’s-eye elections, who view of the entire dashes in and out group, about 25 of on her lunch hour. us, from my back Rob, our row, and I can renowned attest that we have puppeteer, who all levels of ability. entertains us with Members of O’Donnell’s multigenerational It is heartening to his witticisms. For Zumba class include: back row, from left, see that while a instance, while Amanda Green, O’Donnell, and Sherry few dancers can Molly is cueing the Green; center, Meghan McLane; and front, stay precisely on next tape and we’re instructor Molly Linkey. the beat and all trying to catch execute every move our breath, he’ll to perfection, most of us frequently get call out, “Take your time, professor.” Several Latinas: Mi, the lovely jewelry lost, confused, turn the wrong way, and start giggling. maker; Kim, the delivery room nurse; Guess what? No one cares. It’s all part and Marcella, who kindly translates key of the general hilarity. The giggles blend phrases for us (“Lo que pasó, pasó” in with the lusty hoots, hollers, and means “What happens, happens”). catcalls, which serve as a backdrop to our We also have Bob, an Opera music. Workshop and Ephrata Performing Arts Finally, you may have heard of Golden veteran, and, I think most remarkable, Zumba, a variation specifically designed we have two mother/daughter combos. for seniors, which I understand is taught I consider it a blessing to have this at various venues in our area. At 69, I’m extra time to spend with my two girls, a prime candidate for Golden Zumba, Meghan and Katie. The other duo is the but currently it isn’t offered at our Y, so adorable Sherry and Amanda. Sherry, with her infectious giggle, could easily be I’ve figured out how to make Molly’s taken for Amanda’s sister. class golden.

February 2012

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Dauphin County

Calendar of Events Dauphin County Department of Parks and Recreation

Senior Center Activities

Feb. 1 to 29, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Fifth Annual Used Nature Book Sale, Wildwood Park

Bistline Senior Center – (717) 564-5633

Feb. 7, 7 to 8 p.m. – Paradise Almost Lost Lecture Series: “Coal, Coffee, and Cooperation: Saving a Vanishing Songbird,” Wildwood Park

Edgemont Senior Center – (717) 236-2221

Feb. 21, 7 to 8 p.m. – Paradise Almost Lost Lecture Series: The South Mountain Conversation Landscape Initiative, Wildwood Park

Friendship Senior Center – (717) 657-1547 Heinz-Menaker Senior Center – (717) 238-7860

AARP Driver Safety Programs

Highspire Area Senior Center – (717) 939-4580

For a Safe Driving Class near you, call toll-free (888) 227-7669 or visit www.aarp.org/findacourse. Feb. 2 and 3, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Mohler Senior Center, 25 Hope Drive, Hershey, (717) 533-2002 Feb. 9, 1 to 5 p.m. – Boscov’s – Colonial Park, Route 22 and Colonial Road, Harrisburg, (717) 540-4222 Feb. 15 and 16, 1 to 5 p.m. – Boscov’s – Colonial Park, Route 22 and Colonial Road, Harrisburg, (717) 540-4222

Hoy/Latsha Senior Center – (717) 939-9833 Hummelstown Senior Center – (717) 566-6855 Jewish Community Center – (717) 236-9555 Lick Towers Senior Center – (717) 233-0388

Dauphin County Library Programs

Lykens Senior Center – (717) 453-7985

East Shore Area Library, 4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg, (717) 652-9380

Millersburg Senior Center – (717) 692-2657

Elizabethville Area Library, 80 N. Market St., Elizabethville, (717) 362-9825

Mohler Senior Center – (717) 533-2002, www.hersheyseniorcenter.com

Harrisburg Downtown Library, 101 Walnut St., Harrisburg, (717) 234-4976 Johnson Memorial Library, 799 E. Center St., Millersburg, (717) 692-2658

Royalton Senior Center – (717) 944-4831

Kline Branch, 530 S. 29th St., Harrisburg, (717) 234-3934

Rutherford House – (717) 564-5682, www.rutherfordhouse.org

Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library, 2410 N. Third St., Harrisburg, (717) 232-7286

Steelton Senior Center – (717) 939-0693

Northern Dauphin Library, 683 Main St., Lykens, (717) 453-9315 William H. & Marion C. Alexander Family Library, 200 W. Second St., Hummelstown, (717) 566-0949 Feb. 7, 6:30 p.m. – Novel Thoughts Book Club Feb. 21, 1 p.m. – Novel Thoughts, Too!

Just a snippet of what you may be missing … please call or visit their website for more information.

Programs and Support Groups

Give Us the Scoop!

Free and open to the public. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. Free Art Classes Thrive 100 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg (717) 238-1887 or cglover@jumpstreet.org

Feb. 18, 10 a.m. Teamster 776 Retirees Club Meeting Union Hall 2552 Jefferson St., Harrisburg (717) 233-8766

Feb. 16, 12:30 p.m. Hershey Area AARP Monthly Meeting Spring Creek Church of the Brethren 335 E. Areba Ave., Hershey (717) 832-3282

Feb. 28, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Parental Loss Support Group AseraCare Hospice 75 S. Houcks Road, Suite 101, Harrisburg (717) 541-4466

If you have an event you would like to include, please email information to mjoyce@onlinepub.com for consideration.

www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

Please send us your press releases so we can let our readers know about free events occurring in Dauphin County! Email preferred to: mjoyce@onlinepub.com

(717) 770-0140 (717) 285-1350

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Let Help you get the word out!

February 2012

Savvy Senior

How to Choose a Home Blood Pressure Monitor Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about home blood pressure monitors? My doctor recently told me that I have hypertension and need a monitor for the house so I can keep an eye on it. But with all the choices, I’m a little overwhelmed. – Hypertensive Helen Dear Helen, Everyone with high blood pressure (140/90 or higher) or pre-hypertension (between 120/80 and 139/89) should have a home blood pressure monitor! Home monitoring can help you keep tabs on your blood pressure in a comfortable setting. Plus, if you’re taking medication, it will make certain it’s working and alert you to a health problem if it arises. But with all the styles and options available today, selecting one can be confusing. Here are some tips to help you choose.

Types of Monitors While there are various types of blood pressure monitors on the market (manual monitors, automatic and semi-automatic upper arm monitors, wrist monitors, and finger monitors), the most popular option that’s also recommended by the American Heart Association is an automatic monitor for the upper arm. The reason? They’re reliable and simple to use. With an automatic arm monitor, you simply wrap the cuff around your bicep, and with the push of one button the cuff inflates and deflates automatically, giving you your blood pressure reading on the display window in a matter of seconds. Semi-automatic models work the same way, except you inflate the cuff manually by squeezing a rubber bulb. Manual blood pressure monitors, on the other hand, aren’t nearly as popular because they require you to check your own blood pressure with a stethoscope,

which is difficult for most folks. And wrist and finger monitors are not recommended because they’re not considered to be as accurate.

validated monitors is available at the British Hypertension Society’s website at www.bhsoc.org. • Display: Be sure you can read the numbers on the display comfortably. Most automatic models offer extra-large digital displays and some even have voiceannounced readings.

What to Know To help you choose a good monitor that meets your needs, here are several things you need to check into: • Cuff size: If you’re opting for an arm monitor, make sure it has a cuff that fits your bicep. Blood pressure readings will be wrong if your cuff is the wrong size. • Accuracy: Check the packaging to make sure the monitor has been independently tested and validated for accuracy and reliability by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation or the British Hypertension Society. Many monitors on the market are not, and their readings may not be reliable. A list of

• Extra features: Depending on your wants and needs, many automatic arm monitors come with a variety of additional features, such as a built-in pulse (heart rate) measurement, irregular heartbeat detection, memory to store previous readings, and computer connections so you can download the data to your computer. • Portability: If you plan to take your monitor with you while traveling, look for one with a carrying case.

Each month, 50plus Senior News profiles one of your friends or neighbors on its cover, and many of our best cover-profile suggestions have come from you, our readers! Do you or does someone you know have an interesting hobby or collection? A special passion or inspirational experience? A history of dedicated volunteer work? If so, tell us, and we’ll consider your suggestion for a future cover story! Just fill out the questionnaire below and return it to 50plus Senior News, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512, or email your responses to Megan Joyce, editor, at mjoyce@onlinepub.com. Your name:___________________________ Your address:_________________________________________________________________________ Your phone number/email address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Name of person nominated (if not you): _______________________________________________________________________________________ Please receive their permission to nominate them. Nominee’s age range: 50–59

60–69

70–79

80–89

90+

Why would you/your nominee make a great cover profile? _______________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512

February 2012

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(717) 285-1350 • (717) 770-0140 • (610) 675-6240

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Where to Shop Savvy Tips: After February is While there are you buy a monitor, American Heart Month itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to many companies that make and sell take it to your automatic blood doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office so pressure monitors, they can check its the leading supplier accuracy as well as in the industry and teach you the the one most often proper techniques recommended by of how and when to Consumer Reports is Omron use it. And for more information on high (omronhealthcare.com, (877) 216-1333). blood pressure, including tips on how to Other top makers include LifeSource, check it, visit â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your Guide to Lowering ReliOn, Microlife, HoMedics, Proton, High Blood Pressureâ&#x20AC;? at and Lumiscope. You can find these and www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp. other monitors at most pharmacies, Jim Miller is a regular contributor to the NBC medical supply stores, or online at prices ranging from $30 to more than $100, and Today show and author of The Savvy Senior Book. www.savvysenior.org. you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need a prescription to buy one.

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Symptoms of Diabetes Common signs of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Çľ Č?É&#x192;ČśÉ&#x201A;É&#x2020;ČśČżÉ&#x2026; É&#x2020;É&#x192;ČşČżČ˛É&#x2026;ČşÉ&#x20AC;Čż Çľ ČŹČżÉ&#x2020;É&#x201E;É&#x2020;Č˛Č˝ É&#x2026;ČšČşÉ&#x192;É&#x201E;É&#x2026; Çľ Č&#x153;É&#x2030;É&#x2026;É&#x192;ČśČžČś ČšÉ&#x2020;ČżČ¸ČśÉ&#x192;

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Diabetes often goes undiagnosed because many of its symptoms seem so harmless. Recent studies indicate that the early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can decrease the chance of developing the complications of diabetes.

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February 2012

Can you belt it out like nobodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

SENIOR IDOL competition!

Auditions held at regional locations Tues., April 24 Body Zone

Wed., April 25

3103 Paper Mill Road Wyomissing, PA 19610

York Little Theatre

Wed., May 2 Broadway Classics Theatre at the Harrisburg Mall

NEW LOCATION!

27 South Belmont St. York, PA 17403

3501 Paxton Street Harrisburg, PA 17111

Thurs., May 3 The Heritage Hotel Lancaster 500 Centerville Road Lancaster, PA 17601

Win a limousine trip to New York City with dinner and a Broadway show!

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February 2012

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