50plus LIFE Lebanon County March 2017

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Complimentary

n yToSpe a W t a e Lebanon County Edition | March 2017 • Vol. 12 No. 3 aGr

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Mastering the Arts — Martial Arts, That Is page 4

Easier Screening Tests for Colon Cancer page 8

boomers downsize to tiny houses page 10

The Bookworm Sez

For men of all ages . . . and the women who love them!

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March 2017

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Cradles of Power Terri Schlichenmeyer

Your parents had such high hopes in battle; the younger two promptly for you. joined the cavalry and were captured You were going to make it, and by the British. make something of yourself. You’d “Betty” rode horseback to the have a better life than they had: more prisoner’s camp, bargained for the wealth, stronger health, bigger home, release of Robert and Andrew, more opportunities. brought them home, and the You were going to be somebody, following summer rode back to even if, as in the new book Cradles broker the release of her neighbors’ of Power by Harold I. Gullan, it took sons. The second trip resulted in “the everything they had. fever,” and she died that fall.

Walk Martin through any Van Buren’s bookstore father was or library a tavern and you’ll keeper. John learn that Tyler’s father over the last raised eight 240 years, children and a lot has 21 wards. been written The only about president America’s not to marry presidents. grew up “at Cradles of Power We know the center

By Harold I. Gullan what history of a circle c.

2016, Skyhorse Publishing says about of adoring 379 pages those men, females.” but what Chester about the people who raised them?

Arthur’s parents had “Canadian George Washington, for instance, connections” that caused a stir when loved his mother very much but, he ran for office. according to Gullan, she was a bit And, perhaps significantly, a of a nag. She also embarrassed her number of presidents used their son by comp-laining so much about mothers’ maiden names as their own. a lack of money that the Virginia Sick of politics, you say? That’s House of Delegates granted her a fine; Cradles of Power is really more pension. biographical in nature anyway.

Thomas Jefferson also loved From George W. to George W. his mother but “he wrote next to and the guy after him, author Harold nothing” about her. When her home I. Gullan writes of the influences burned to the ground in 1770, that shaped our presidents, for better Jefferson’s main concern was not or worse, going back sometimes for Mom, but the loss of his personal generations. library.

Because the new nation (or the When he was just a child, James journey here) could be a hardship, we Madison’s father lost his father. clearly see how outside forces shaped Because there was a plantation to run early leaders and how modern times and his mother couldn’t do it, the led to different issues.

9-year-old future father of our fourth Gullan does the occasional president stepped up to the plate. comparison between sets of parents, Elizabeth Hutchinson Jackson which is a viewpoint that becomes had three sons. The eldest was killed quite fascinating, and he doesn’t gloss www.50plusLifePA.com

over negative aspects of our presidents’ childhoods. That offers a nice balance and a great peek through history.

Perfect for parents or grandparents,

this book might also be enjoyed by teens who are just gaining an appreciation for the past and its players.

And, of course, if that’s you, then Cradles of Power is a book to hope for.

The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer.

Terri has been reading since she was 3

years old and she never goes anywhere without a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 14,000 books.

Try These Tips for Better Napping Sleep is important to your health, and regular naps can make a positive difference.

One Harvard study found that people who nap at least three times a week for a half hour or more have a much lower risk of heart disease.

Other studies suggest that a 40minute nap can improve performance on the job.

The Science of Us website summarized the findings of different studies.

First, try to sleep for at least an

hour to get a deeper sleep, even though shorter naps have positive benefits as well.

Second, lie down for your nap;

you’ll wake up feeling more alert than if you sleep sitting up in a chair.

Finally, nap in the morning if possible. You’re more likely to get REM sleep because your brain still craves it from the night before.

Although, on the other hand, afternoon naps tend to be more restorative and improve memory.

At Your Fingertips Helpful numbers, hotlines, and local businesses and organizations eager to serve you—all just a phone call away.

Emergency Numbers Poison Control Center (800) 222-1222 Food Resources Food Stamps (800) 692-7462

CONTACT Helpline (717) 652-4400

Medicaid (800) 692-7462

Kidney Foundation (717) 652-8123

Medicare (800) 382-1274

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (717) 652-6520

PA Crime Stoppers (800) 472-8477

Lebanon County Area Agency on Aging Meals on Wheels (717) 273-9262

Lupus Foundation (888) 215-8787 Hearing Services

PennDOT (800) 932-4600

Lebanon County Christian Ministries (717) 272-4400 Salvation Army (717) 273-2655 Funeral & Cremation Services Cremation Society of Pennsylvania Serving Lebanon County (800) 720-8221 Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (717) 651-5020 American Cancer Society (717) 231-4582 American Diabetes Association (717) 657-4310 American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association (717) 207-4265 American Lung Association (717) 541-5864 Arthritis Foundation (717) 274-0754 Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services (717) 787-7500 www.50plusLifePA.com

Melnick, Moffitt & Mesaros ENT Associates 927 Russell Drive, Lebanon (717) 274-9775

Legal Services Pennsylvania Bar Association (717) 238-6715 Office of Aging Lebanon County Area Agency on Aging (717) 273-9262 Pharmacies CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com Senior Centers Annville Senior Community Center (717) 867-1796

Recycling (800) 346-4242 Social Security Information (800) 772-1213

Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (800) 233-3008 V/TTY Home Care Services Senior Helpers (717) 920-0707 Hospitals Medical Society of Lebanon County (717) 270-7500

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (800) 827-1000 Housing Assistance Housing Assistance & Resources Program (HARP) (717) 273-9328

WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital 252 S. Fourth St., Lebanon (717) 270-7500 Hotlines Energy Assistance (800) 692-7462

Lebanon HOPES (717) 274-7528, ext. 3201 Independent Living Communities Country Acres Manufactured Home Park 1600 Kercher Ave., Myerstown (717) 866-5496 Insurance Medicare Hotline (800) 638-6833

Environmental Protection Agency Emergency Hotline (800) 541-2050 IRS Income Tax Assistance (800) 829-1040

Lebanon County Housing & Redevelopment Authorities (717) 274-1401

Maple Street Senior Community Center (717) 273-1048 Myerstown Senior Community Center (717) 866-6786 Northern Lebanon County Senior Community Center (717) 865-0944 Palmyra Senior Community Center (717) 838-8237 Senior Center of Lebanon Valley (717) 274-3451 Veterans Services Governor’s Veterans Outreach (717) 234-1681 Lebanon VA Medical Center 1700 S. Lincoln Ave., Lebanon (717) 228-6000 or (800) 409-8771

50plus LIFE p

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

March 2017

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Cover Story

Mastering the Arts — Martial Arts, That Is

Corporate Office

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

Vice President and Managing Editor Christianne Rupp Editor, 50plus Publications Megan Joyce

ART DEPARTMENT Project Coordinator Renee McWilliams Production Artists Lauren McNallen Janys Ruth

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Account Executives Angie McComsey Jacoby Ranee Shaub Miller Account Representatives Itan Cooke Tia Stauffer Sales & Event Coordinator Eileen Culp Events Manager Kimberly Shaffer Marketing Coordinator Mariah Hammacher

CIRCULATION

Project Coordinator Loren Gochnauer

ADMINISTRATION Business Manager Elizabeth Duvall

Member of

Awards

50plus LIFE is published by On-Line Publishers, Inc. and is distributed monthly among senior centers, retirement communities, banks, grocers, libraries and other outlets serving the senior community.

On-Line Publishers, Inc. will not knowingly accept or publish advertising which may be fraudulent or misleading in nature.

Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles and letters are not necessarily the views of the publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. The publisher will not be responsible for mistakes in advertisements unless notified within five days of publication. On-Line Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to revise or reject any and all advertising. No part of this publication may be reproduced or reprinted without permission of On-Line Publishers, Inc. We will not knowingly publish any advertisement or information not in compliance with the Federal Fair Housing Act, Pennsylvania State laws or other local laws.

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March 2017

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By Megan Joyce

application of that knowledge with someone who is an uncooperative If athletic ability is supposed attacker resisting your efforts,” he to dissipate with age, Ken Eberle’s said. “You cannot respond with body clearly hasn’t gotten the a predetermined, practiced set or message. pattern of [self-defense] techniques Eberle is closing in on the 50to the reality of an unpatterned year mark in his dedication to event—which is the reality of a the martial arts—but he achieved confrontation.” many of his most impressive Eberle appreciates Lee’s emphasis credentials in his late 40s and on developing one’s own martial beyond. arts style, rather than strictly Today, at 63, his accreditations adhering to one particular system. include a sixth-degree black “It would be like recreating belt in Korean Moo Duk Kwan Eberle with trophies earned a bowl of fruit through an karate and a brown belt in Isshinduring his early tournament days. artistic form, say watercolors,” Ryu Okinaman karate. He is a he said. “The pictures would be certified level-three instructor in different because of each person’s Jeet Kune Do and has attained expression of themselves, but some an intermediate level in Japanese styles would say everyone’s painting aikido. should look the same.”

“I always consider myself the This philosophy has also student, always learning, and I made Eberle an effective PPCT enjoy instructing others to improve (pressure point control tactics) their lives and set an example that and STAR (survival tactics and one can still be active well into Eberle, third from right, doing response) instructor for law a Filipino Sinalwali double stick their ‘senior’ years,” Eberle said. enforcement officers. In addition drill during a recent Richard In 1969, Eberle was already a to educating officers, Eberle Bustillo seminar. Bustillo was an successful gymnast at his high has conducted training for the original student of Bruce Lee. school when he saw a karate county’s sheriff’s department and than only making corrections after courthouse staff. demonstration by Donald Von someone has been injured.

Klopp, his school’s art teacher and He is most proud, he said, of his “Safety is really about selfan Okinawan Isshin-Ryu black law-enforcement students who have defense,” Eberle said. “The belt. actually applied their PPCT or Although Eberle would go on to increased awareness to potential STAR training and survived a lifetrouble areas is probably the biggest threatening confrontation. become a local 1971 All-Around benefit in both [martial arts and Champion in gymnastics, he had “Some of my students … have safety training].” already joined and achieved a had to use the skills they learned In the late ’90s, Eberle began brown belt in Klopp’s karate club in class, with great success,” Eberle pursuing Bruce Lee’s training in the meantime, finding that the said. “Their experience keeps the body control and attributes needed concept, “truth in combat,” training real and honest.” after attending a seminar by for karate were very similar to In 2002, Eberle traveled internationally known Jeet Kune those required for gymnastics. to Jeet Kune Do Unlimited’s Do instructor, movie star, fight After graduation, Eberle headquarters in Honolulu to test choreographer, and writer Burton regularly competed in local karate for apprentice instructor, despite Richardson, who founded Jeet tournaments, consistently placing being age 49 at the time. Not Kune Do Unlimited, one of the in the top three events: emptyonly did he successfully complete hand kata, weapons kata, and point top Jeet Kune Do schools in the seven different rounds of strenuous world. Eberle became a student and testing requirements, but he also sparring. a member of JKDU in 1999.

He would eventually discover surpassed apprentice level and “Truth in combat” emphasizes that his “regular job,” that of was promoted directly to JKDU the use of self-defense tactics safety coordinator for High Steel instructor level one.

Structures, marries quite well with that are truly effective in real-life To date, he is the only JKDU scenarios. Eberle said he could the philosophies and approaches member to have achieved this never understand how one trains in and, in 2007, Eberle was certified used in the martial arts, enabling so-called “deadly” techniques. him to spot potential hazards and further as a level-three instructor.

“Knowledge is not power; it’s the correct them proactively, rather “The martial arts have enabled www.50plusLifePA.com

me to achieve and maintain a level of confidence, fitness, and flexibility better than most people half my age,” Eberle said. “I continue to challenge myself as an example to the students of the benefits of the martial arts through sparring and training along with my students.”

In 2009, Richard Bustillo, an original student of Bruce Lee and the founder of the International Martial Arts & Boxing Academy, certified

Eberle as an apprentice instructor in Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do. And in honor of his 60th birthday in 2013, Eberle returned to his tournament roots, entering the State Games of America national competition, where he earned a gold medal in the advanced elite black belt event, age 55-60 division, in forms, weapons, and sparring.

In 2014, Eberle took on the Keystone State Games, where he was

a gold medalist, advanced elite black belt, age 60-64 division, in forms and a silver medalist in weapons.

These days, Eberle conducts classes in self-defense mixed martial arts and Filipino battlefield kali private lessons from his home studio. He is currently in JKD Unlimited’s “Indonesian Silat for the Street” program.

Eberle said the many varieties of martial arts all have something different to offer, making the

opportunities for learning endless.

“Over the years, I have discovered the body only moves in so many ways.

What one does with those movements can depend on self-expression or be dictated by a particular style or system,” Eberle said.

“After 45-plus years in the martial arts, I still and will always consider myself the student and see no reason to stop learning, improving, and sharing.”

Social Security News

Get Replacement Tax Forms Online with Ease

By John Johnston

It’s that time of year again.

Preparing for tax season can seem overwhelming. Some forms and paperwork might be difficult to track down.

If you misplaced your benefits statement, we’ve made it easy for you to go online to request a replacement with “my Social Security.”

An SSA-1099, also called a benefit statement, is a tax form Social Security mails each year in January to the more than 60 million people who receive Social Security benefits.

It shows the total amount of benefits received from Social Security in the previous year so people know

how much Social Security income to report to the IRS on their tax return.

For noncitizens who live outside of the United States and received or repaid Social Security benefits last year, we’ll send form SSA1042S instead.

The forms SSA-1099 and SSA1042S are not available for people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

If you currently live in the United States and need a replacement form SSA-1099, we have a way for you to get a replacement quickly and easily.

Go online and request a replacement form with a “my Social Security”

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account at www.socialsecurity.gov/ myaccount.

Online replacement forms are available beginning Feb. 1, 2017.

Every working person in the U.S. should create a “my Social Security” account. The secure and personalized

features of “my Social Security” are invaluable in securing a comfortable retirement — for today and tomorrow.

John Johnston is a Social Security public affairs specialist.

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Code LebSN

March 2017

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Calendar of Events

Lebanon County

Community Programs/Support Groups Free and open to the public

Senior Center Activities

March 22, 6-7 p.m.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Family Support Group Linden Village 100 Tuck Court, Lebanon (717) 274-7400

Annville Senior Activity Center – (717) 8671796 200 S. White Oak St., Annville March 2, 10:3 0 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Thaw Out with a Southwest Chili Cook-off March 17, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Super Stan’s St. Paddy’s Sing-along March 22, noon – Presentation on Medicare Fraud

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

Library Programs Annville Free Library, 216 E. Main St., Annville, (717) 867-1802 Tuesdays, 6:15 p.m. – AFL Knitters March 6, 6:30-8 p.m. – The Mindful Foodies March 10, 1-4 p.m. – Paint Together Group Lebanon Community Library, 125 N. Seventh St., (717) 273-7624 March 2, 10 a.m. to noon – Is This Thing On? Beginner Computer Class March 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Tech Help March 20, 6-8 p.m. – “One Book, One Community” Book Discussion Matthews Public Library, 102 W. Main St., Fredericksburg, (717) 865-5523 March 8, 1-3 p.m. – Is This Thing On? Beginner Computer Class March 15, 1-3 p.m. – Intro to Word, Part One March 28, 5:30-6:30 p.m. – Book Club Myerstown Community Library, 199 N. College St., Myerstown, (717) 866-2800 Palmyra Public Library, 325 S. Railroad St., (717) 838-1347 March 14, 6-7 p.m. – Cut the Cord (Save on Your Cable Bill) March 21, 7-8:30 p.m. – Palmyra Public Library Board Meeting Richland Community Library, 111 E. Main St., Richland, (717) 866-4939

parks and recreation March 5, 1-4 p.m. – Music by the Fireplace Bluegrass Jam March 11, 9-11 a.m. – Second Saturday Volunteer Work Day March 26, 1:30 p.m. – Senior Walkabout

Free Tax Assistance Offered Through April 18 of each year, the AARP TaxAide program offers free one-on-one counseling as well as assistance on the telephone and Internet to help individuals prepare basic tax forms, including the 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, and other standard documents.

The following are locations in your area. Please call for an appointment (unless otherwise noted) or visit www.aarp.org/money/taxaide for more information.

Lebanon Area Evangelical Free Church 600 Shepherd St., Jonestown March 2 and 23; April 6 (717) 274-2596 Call on Thursdays for an appointment.

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Lebanon Senior Citizen Center 710 Maple St., Lebanon Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

(717) 274-2596 Myerstown Church of the Brethren 51 W. Stoever Ave., Myerstown Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

(717) 274-2596 St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 22 S. Sixth St., Lebanon March 4 and 18; April 1, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

(717) 274-2596

Maple Street Senior Community Center – (717) 273-1048 710 Maple St., Lebanon March 8, 10:30 a.m. – Medicare Fraud Program, APPRISE Coordinator March 16, noon – Meet & Mingle Café March 17, 11 a.m. – Woman’s Awareness Luncheon Myerstown Senior Community Center – (717) 866-6786 Myerstown Baptist Church, 59 Ramona Road, Myerstown Mondays in March, 10:30 -11:30 a.m. – Line Dancing with Alice March 14, 11:05 a.m. – Spring Card Making with Ethel March 21, 11:05 a.m. – Water Facts: Stay Hydrated Northern Lebanon Senior Community Center – (717) 865-0944 335 N. Lancaster St., Jonestown – www.jonestownpa.org/senior.html March 3, 10:30 a.m. – Adult Coloring March 16, 12:30 p.m. – Bingo: Lucky Shamrock Palmyra Senior Community Center – (717) 838-8237 101 S. Railroad St., Palmyra March 7, 10:15 a.m. – Blood Pressure Screening March 15, 10:30 a.m. – Mystery Game with Ellen March 22, 10 a.m. – Movie and Popcorn Privately Owned Centers Senior Center of Lebanon Valley, Inc. – (717) 274-3451 710 Maple St., Lebanon Washington Arms – (717) 274-1401 303 Chestnut St., Lebanon Just a snippet of what you may be missing … please call or visit their website for more information.

www.50plusLifePA.com

The Beauty in Nature

Bluebirds and Phoebes Clyde McMillan-Gamber

Though from different bird Today they also hatch babies on families, eastern bluebirds and eastern support beams under small bridges phoebes have much in common, over little waterways and under porch besides their first name. roofs in woodlands.

Both are attractive and a bit larger However, eastern bluebirds than house sparrows. Males of both and eastern phoebes are feathered kinds sing lovely neighbors in songs to establish certain local nesting territories meadows shaded and attract by many trees mates for raising and bushes and young. Both divided by a nest in eastern stream with a North America, small bridge over including here it. There, the in southeastern nesting needs of Pennsylvania. each species are Each is a good Photo by John Benson met. The bluebirds neighbor to us raise young in Eastern phoebe. by eating pesky tree hollows in insects during the the pastures while warmer months, the phoebes rear the bluebirds in offspring under overgrown pastures the bridge. and fields and In summer over the phoebes in the years, I’ve seen bottomland woods families of lovely near streams and bluebirds and boulders. phoebes sharing Bluebirds and several humanphoebes arrive in made meadows our area in March in southeastern to nest, though Pennsylvania.

Eastern bluebird. some bluebirds It’s exciting and are here all winter, inspiring to watch eating berries and roosting overnight both kinds of attractive birds in a treein little groups to share body heat in dotted pasture catching invertebrates tree hollows and nesting boxes. and feeding them to their fledged Being adaptable, both kinds raise youngsters. young in sheltered places, both Eastern bluebirds and eastern natural and human-made, and feed phoebes are another local example invertebrates to their progeny. of two species of adaptable life from Pairs of bluebirds hatch two two different habitats converging in a or three broods in abandoned habitat that suits both their needs. woodpecker holes and other tree Therefore, a meadow bird and a cavities or in birdhouses erected woodland bird perch in the same particularly for them in proper habitat watching for the same food. habitats, which are pastures studded They could be competitors for insects, with a few trees and shrubs. except bluebirds get more of that food Each phoebe pair produces one or off grass tips, while phoebes get more two broods per summer, traditionally of it from mid-air. on rock ledges, under overhanging Nature always has a way of working boulders, and near streams in woods. things out. www.50plusLifePA.com

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March 2017

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Savvy Senior

Easier Screening Tests for Colon Cancer Jim Miller

require no laxativetaking/ bowelcleansing preparation.

The best option is the new FDAapproved Dear Jim, Cologuard It’s a great question. test While a colonoscopy is considered (see www. the gold standard screening test for cologuardtest. detecting colon cancer and is widely com), which recommended once adults reach age March is Colorectal Cancer has a 92 50, only about half of Americans Take-Home Awareness Month percent Tests who’ve passed that milestone ever get There are sensitivity tested. rate for detecting colon cancers. two different types of tests on the Why? Because most people, like market today that you can take in With this test you simply take a yourself, dread the all-day laxative sample of a bowel movement and prep and sedation, not to mention the privacy of your own home that mail it in to the lab for analysis. The lab looks for both blood and cancerrelated DNA cells in your stool.

The Cologuard test, which is recommended every three years, requires a prescription from your doctor and costs $599 but is covered

by Medicare and many private insurers.

If, however, you find that the Cologuard test is not covered by your insurer, and you can’t afford or don’t want to pay the $599 fee, the other option is the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or the fecal immunochemical test (FIT), which detects 74 percent of colon cancers.

These tests, which are also provided by your doctor, check for traces of blood in the stool that could indicate cancer or large polyps that can develop into cancer, but they don’t look at the DNA. You simply send a Convenient print edition plus extensive online access. stool sample to the lab.

Recommended annually, both of Discover support and services available to meet challenges you may these fecal tests cost only around $25 encounter as a senior, as someone who is caring for an older loved one, and are covered by Medicare and or a person with a disability. most insurers.

Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any easier alternatives to a colonoscopy to check for colon cancer?

I’m in my 60s and would like to be tested, but I hate the idea of drinking all that laxative solution and being sedated for the procedure.

– Squeamish Jim

the procedure itself.

Fortunately, there are some easier alternatives, but be aware that if these tests uncover any suspicious results, you’ll still need to undergo a colonoscopy.

Check out our NEW Online Resource Directory!

www.ResourceDirectoryPA.com

On-Line Publishers, Inc. • 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 • 717.285.1350 • www.onlinepub.com

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Less Invasive Tests Two other tests to consider that are less invasive than a colonoscopy but

more entailed than the take-home tests are the virtual colonoscopy and the sigmoidoscopy (both tests are recommended every five years).

A virtual colonoscopy uses a CT scan to view your colon instead of a scope in the rectum, so it’s a less invasive procedure than a traditional colonoscopy and doesn’t require sedation. But, it still requires the same bowel-cleansing prep. It’s also more expensive, typically costing between $400 and $800 and is not covered by Medicare or most insurers.

A sigmoidoscopy exam, which is covered by Medicare and most insurers, uses a short, flexible scope inserted in the rectum like a colonoscopy to look at the lower colon only.

This is a much faster and less involved procedure than a colonoscopy and one that doesn’t require sedation. You follow a clearliquid diet the day before the exam and take a laxative or enema the morning of.

Colon Cancer Numbers Colon cancer, which develops slowly over several years without causing symptoms especially in the early stages of the disease, is the second largest cancer killer in the U.S., killing around 50,000 Americans a year.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force—an independent panel of medical experts that advises the government on health policies— recommends colon cancer screening to all adults, ages 50 to 75. Earlier screenings are recommended to people who have an increased risk due to family history or other factors.

Experts believe that as many as 20,000 lives could be saved each year if the screening rate went up to 90 or 95 percent.

Jim Miller is a regular contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior Book. www.savvysenior.org

www.50plusLifePA.com

Art & Antiques by Dr. Lori

Wonderful Wall Designs Using Antiques

Reach Active, Affluent Boomers & Seniors!

Lori Verderame

Integrating antiques, vintage and other small keepsakes. items, and family heirlooms into The result of reusing these vintage a home’s interior design aesthetic travel items will be a nifty and stylish sparks memories and brings dazzle space that even travel-accessory to a room. Don’t be afraid to place designers like Louis Vuitton would something love. old alongside Forget painting something new one wall a different and contemporary. color than the While there other three and are traditional consider this ways to decorate feature-wall all four walls of a technique: wall room—paintings, world map! prints, wreaths, Cut out various and the like— pieces of printed there are also some wallpaper in the non-traditional shapes of the Vintage suitcase shelves. solutions that can world’s continents. make your walls Apply the wonderful. wallpaper shapes And, when it as they would comes to making appear on the bedroom walls say pages of an atlas wow, use vintage and create a cool objects in new and decorative ways. For instance, feature wall. to make a built-in Enhance the storage area or shelf cutout shapes with space on your wall, rub-on lettering try using whimsical to indicate famous Wallpaper wall map. vintage objects. cities, landmarks, Take a few wellor places that you worn yet vintage have visited. suitcases—available Also, use this at flea markets for feature-wall $15 to $50 each— method to make and carefully cut wallpaper cutouts them in half using a of a color wheel hand saw. Use sand for the bedroom paper on any rough of a budding edges that will artist, a map of the touch the wall.

United States for a Then, attach the geography fanatic, half with the handle or a baseball to your wall studs diamond for your Transferware frame. using wall-bracket favorite Little hardware. A few League player. suitcases hung near each other will If you want to make a wall of give your guest bedroom a travelyour craft room both functional and ready look. To complete the look, use fancy, use a hanging, metal plate an old makeup-carrying case on a please see WALL DESIGNS page 17 nearby table as a catchall for jewelry www.50plusLifePA.com

Reserve your space now for the 18th annual

Sponsor and exhibitor applications are now being accepted!

May 18, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Shady Maple Conference Center • Smorgasbord Building 129 Toddy Drive, East Earl Exhibitors • Health Screenings • Seminars Entertainment • Door Prizes

Why Participate?

It’s the premier event for baby boomers, caregivers, and seniors in Lancaster County • Face-to-face interaction with 3,000+ attendees • Strengthen brand recognition/launch new products

For sponsorship and exhibitor information:

(717) 285-1350

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March 2017

9

Boomers Downsize to Tiny Houses

By Jeffrey B. Roth Millennials and boomers are the two largest demographic groups who are driving the tiny-house movement.

Tennessee Edwards, executive producer for Loud TV and the FYI network’s reality TV series Tiny House Nation, said millennials are the primary force behind the tinyhouse trend. But the number of boomers choosing tiny-house living is increasing.

“Boomers are growing in the tinyhouse world,” Edwards said. “Boomers are catching on, and the good thing about tiny is that it’s a fit for anyone looking to change their lives and reduce the daily pressures of having stuff and to try and do more with less.

That message relates to millennials and baby boomers and all in between. Less is more.”

An average-size home in the United States is about 2,600 square feet, according to the website The Tiny Life.

Living space for a typical tiny house is between 100 and 400 square feet, but in some cases may be larger.

“Lots of people decide to get an RV when they retire, which is a similar concept since you downsize from a large home to a small space that gives you more freedom,” Edwards said.

“With the growing popularity of tiny homes, we have seen an uptick in boomers wanting to go tiny, and it fits into their concept of seeing the country and living with less when they retire. I think the main concern for boomers is a place that gives them freedom—control of retirement funds—and a tiny home can give you all of that.”

A Garrett County, Maryland, contractor who began specializing in building tiny houses in 2012, Hobbitat has completed more than a dozen custom-built tiny vacation homes—13 for Blue Moon Rising Center for Sustainable Education, an ecotourism venture located on Deep Creek Lake in the Allegheny Mountains, near the Maryland-West Virginia border.

Known as the “Lake Tahoe of the East,” the 3,900-acre lake features 65 miles of shoreline and is 12 miles in length. A four-season resort, the lake is about two to three hours

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March 2017

from Washington, D.C., making with a built-in bed, which can be it a popular weekend and vacation accessed from both sides, and closets. destination.

The vacation hobs, by comparison, Sue and Bill Thomas, the owners include a three-quarter-size kitchen of Hobbitat, a variation of the word without an oven; a small, underhabitat and not an allusion to J.R.R. counter refrigerator; and no washer or Tolkien’s book The Hobbit, said the dryer. They are equipped with a pulltiny houses or hobs, as they call them, down Murphy-type bed located in the encompass 250-600 square feet. loft.

At the time of interview, Bill Others feature a nook with a small Thomas was building a 573-squarebed that can only be accessed from one foot hob for David and Katharine Law side—think accommodations found in of Reston, sailboats, which Virginia, as provided a model a retirement of efficiency that home. David is applied to the is 70 and hob design, Sue Katharine is Thomas noted.

60. Katharine “I’ve been works with [very] interested the elderly by in these small taking them houses for a to medical long time,” said and other David Law, who appointments. works as a safety Tiny House Nation featured some of For a manager for an Blue Moon Rising’s 13 hobs in a special airport authority number of Halloween episode. years, the in the D.C. area.

Tiny houses, or “hobs,” built by Hobbitat Spaces at Blue Moon Rising development at Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, Md.

Laws have been in the process of downsizing their living space from a 3,000-square-foot residence in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley to a 1,500-square-foot home in Reston; and now, they live in a condo/apartment with about 1,100 square feet of living space. The Laws’ hob is the first fulltime hob residence Bill Thomas has built.

While there are hob plans available on the Hobbitat website, no two hobs are identical, Thomas said. The hob being built for the Laws includes a washer/dryer, a stove and oven, and a refrigerator. It features a loft bedroom

50plus LIFE p

“My wife and I are on the same page.

The bottom line is that it seems to be the wave of the future.”

Law said many people of his generation downsize their living arrangements and un-clutter their lives by paring down their possessions.

Any remaining items they wanted to keep, but would not fit in their smaller living space, were already consigned to a storage unit; other items are to be given to their son and his fiancée.

“We really love the way they’re put together; they’re very cool. With everything built in ... there’s not much need for furniture, so I think our next

step is to have a fire sale. The whole idea is to eventually pare down to the bare essentials.”

Letting go of possessions accrued over a lifetime is a very difficult chore, Law said. People, as they get older, get very attached to things.

“Most people really won’t be willing to do this,” Law said. “Eventually what we’ll do is give up the storage room and put in a shed at the cabin. We’ve got a beautiful lot. [The Thomases] use a lot of repurposed things like the wood door they found, which was 100 years old.

“The hob has a funky, cool, different kind of quirky appearance— it isn’t your standard carpet, drywall, or standard ceiling. It takes on the personality of the people it’s built for.”

Three Tiffany lamps acquired over the years by the Laws are to be wired directly into the ceiling. The amount of possessions—clothes and a couple pieces of furniture that they plan to move into the hob—would fit in a large van.

Their hob is located on the lake and will have a view of the Wisp Ski Resort, Law said.

“Start unloading stuff,” he advised other boomers preparing to downsize.

“Life’s not about collecting stuff—not about hoarding. The prices of the hobs are really fair. We won’t have to worry about a big mortgage.”

The Thomases recommended that people interested in the hobs take a test drive by renting a hob at Blue Moon Rising. If couples considering a hob can’t get along with each other in a small space, living in a hob would only magnify relationship problems, Sue Thomas said.

“Tiny houses contain all the necessities of a larger house, but do so in under 500 square feet,” Edwards said, noting that Tiny House Nation has been on the air for four seasons and Tiny House Hunting is in its third season.

“Tiny houses are part of a social movement where people are drastically downsizing the space they live in.”

For more information on Hobbitat, visit http://hobbitatspaces.com; for more information on Tiny House Nation and Tiny House Hunting, visit www.fyi.tv/ shows/tiny-house-nation. www.50plusLifePA.com

The Green Mountain Gardener

10 Ways to Get from March to May Dr. Leonard Perry

If you’re like most in the Northeast, you’re ready for spring to be here in March, when the days become longer than the nights once again.

This is really true for most gardeners. While you can’t spend too much time in the garden yet, here are 10 projects to get you through until the real gardening fun gets underway in May.

1. If you haven’t been browsing seed and plant catalogs, or checking out these firms online, don’t wait. Lots of new varieties, particularly perennials, sell out quickly. If you’re starting flowers from seeds, you want to order them as some are started this month and many next month.

2. There are many home-andgarden shows, garden seminars, and symposia you can make plans to attend. For example, the Philadelphia Flower Show returns March 11–19.

3. Easter is approaching, so it’s a great time to visit local greenhouse growers to see all the Easter flowers and even bring some home: Easter lilies, azaleas, potted bulbs, and even cut flowers.

4. If you have houseplants, fertilize them if you haven’t done so in a few weeks, and check them closely for pests. If dusty, give them a rinse in the shower or wipe leaves with a damp cloth. If they dry out quickly, and roots are totally filling the pot, perhaps you need to repot them.

5. Many varieties of flowers and vegetables can’t be purchased locally,

so you’ll need to start them yourself from seeds. This really is easy, and there is not much better in spring than to watch new plants growing indoors.

Inventory your seedstarting supplies or, if you don’t have any, make a list of what you’ll need. Visit a garden supply store to stock up.

6. March is the month to start some seeds, but not all. Start too many too soon, and you’ll run out of space and plants will get too leggy.

Since it is about eight to 10 weeks before you’ll be planting seedlings outside, some of those to start now indoors include ageratum, coleus, dianthus, dusty miller, annual geranium, impatiens, American marigold, ornamental pepper, petunia, salvia, and snapdragon.

7. When any snow has gone, you can begin cleanup of beds. Remove straw or winter mulch from strawberries, garlic beds, and from around roses or tender perennials. Rake leaves from beds.

Cut back perennials if you didn’t do

so already last fall.

8. When days are slightly warm or sunny, you can prune any broken branches from shrubs and trees, or prune fruit trees to shape them. Pruning when it is too cold may damage the plant tissues and set their growth back this spring.

9. If you didn’t clean your garden

tools the end of last season, do so now. Check to make sure none need replacing, and to see if pruners or hoes need sharpening. You can do this yourself with sharpening stones, those with diamond bits being the best. If you have mowers or power tools, now is a good time to get them tuned up.

10. If you have some springflowering trees and shrubs, such as forsythia, crabapples, or pussy willows, cut some branches to force into bloom indoors.

When buds show color, you can bring them into more warmth and use them in arrangements. They’ll remind you that spring is not too far off!

Dr. Leonard P. Perry is an extension professor at the University of Vermont.

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March 2017

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Dear Pharmacist

Pharmacists Don’t Just Lick, Stick, and Pour Suzy Cohen

When I worked in retail pharmacies, one of the most common questions I had was, “What side effects will this drug cause?”

I remember some of my customers, especially the funny ones or those who gifted me with tokens like flowers, handmade jewelry, or pickled herring, which I craved during my pregnancy in 1993. I had a good relationship with all of my patients.

I used to work 14-hour shifts, day after day, back in the ’90s and 2000s.

I “floated” all around central Florida whenever a pharmacist called off.

The pharmacy would be closed, and I was the pharmacist called upon to go open it.

I thrived in this position, basically walking into a mess and catching the store up, making all the customers suddenly happy.

But there’s a ton of mental chatter to reconcile in our brain when we are not sure that you need what the doctor prescribed, or if there’s a natural vitamin for that, or we realize the side effects will be far worse for you than your condition itself. We are never sure if we should say it out loud.

People trust us. Americans have deemed us to be among the most honest professions, maintaining the highest ethical standards. That’s why

Your guide to choosing the right living and care options for you or a loved one.

Read it online, in print, and on mobile/tablet devices. onlinepub.com

pharmacists have been rated in the top two “most trusted professionals in the United States” yet again (Gallup survey).

Pharmacists: 1. Keep you safe. As medication experts, we reduce risk of miserable side effects.

Occasionally, one drug is intended, but another drug is prescribed by accident. Maybe Zyrtec for Zantac, Actos for Actonel, or Neurontin for Noroxin. Your pharmacist should catch these errors.

2. Are accessible and fast.

Pharmacists are always on duty if a pharmacy is open. You don’t have to make appointments weeks in advance to get advice.

3. Are intelligent. If you have a skin rash from poison ivy or a bee sting, your pharmacist can suggest an over-the-counter remedy; if you are constipated or have the flu, we’ve got your back.

4. Aren’t paid off. Pharmacists work for you, not the pharmaceutical

companies that probably sent a drug rep over to your doctor’s office with delicious meals, trinkets, and trips.

This colors the decision-making process of some (not all) physicians.

5. Can save you money. The pharmacy technician expertly runs your prescription through your insurance company online; they’ll check the cash price against your insurance co-pay in case it’s lower.

Some will phone your insurance company to authorize cheaper alternatives.

6. Know about food, too.

They’ll suggest you avoid grapefruit if you take statins or avoid MSG when taking sedatives. Bananas are constipating—you should avoid those with hydrocodone but eat them with some diuretics like HCTZ. Tips like this are worth their weight in gold.

Your pharmacist may be high up and partially hidden behind glass (that’s for security reasons—they are in charge of millions of dollars of drugs!), but I highly recommend that you develop a relationship with your local pharmacist. We are on your side.

This information is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or treat your disease.

For more information about the author, visit SuzyCohen.com

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Puzzle Page

CROSSWORD

Solutions for all puzzles can be found on page 18 SUDOKU

brainteasers

Groups with Big Hits in the ’60s Find the names of these groups with big hits in the ’60s, based on the year, title, and minimal letter clues: 1. 1960 – “Save the Last Dance for Me,” The Dr_____ 2. 1960 – “Cathy’s Clown,” The E _____ Brothers 3. 1962 – “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” The Four S _____ 4. 1963 – “Surfer Girl,” The B_____ Boys 5. 1964 – “Little Old Lady from Pasadena,” J_____ and D_____ 6. 1964 – “Sound of Silence,” Si_____ and Ga_____ 7. 1965 – “Stop in the Name of Love,” The S_____ 8. 1966 – “I’m a Believer,” The M_____ 9. 1967 – “Somebody to Love,” Je_____ A_____ 10. 1969 – “Spinning Wheel,” B_____, S_____ and T_____ TV Shows that Started in the ’50s Fill in the blanks of the names of these television shows that premiered during the ’50s: 1. Gu _ _ _ _ ke 2. The Ho _ _ _ _ _ _ ners 3. Ca _ _ _ in Ka _ _ _ _ oo 4. Tr _ _ _ or Con _ _ _ _ _ _ _ es 5. Dr _ _ _ et 6. Am _ _ _ _ an Ba _ _ _ _ _ nd 7. My F _ _ _ _ d F _ _ _ _ a 8. Y _ _ _ H _ _ P _ _ _ de 9. Bo _ _ _ za 10. The Tw _ _ _ _ _ t Z _ _ _ Written by Alan Stillson. Please see http://stillsonworks.com

Across 1. Hyphen 5. Dutch cheese 9. Failure 13. S-shaped molding 14. Cloak 15. Riyadh native 16. Theatrical role 18. Inert gas 19. Solitary 20. Speak haltingly 22. Insect egg 23. Small drink 24. Gangways

27. Camel relatives 32. European sea eagle 33. Burst 36. Run off 37. Tear 39. Regions 41. Comedian Johnson 42. Express contempt 44. Alters paperwork 46. Antiquated 47. Garnered 49. Prayer 51. Double-decker

53. Devotee 54. Crush 58. Search 61. Culpability 62. Accord 65. SA mountain range 66. Debt 67. Waterless 68. Football play 69. Egyptian cobras 70. Allows

21. Suffer 24. Playing field 25. Central 26. Certain 28. Pie ___ mode 29. Imbecile 30. Competently 31. Lawn starter 32. Gaelic 34. Foot (Prefix) 35. Caudal appendage 38. Lair 40. Tightens up 43. Contradicts

45. Gaze 48. Bug for payment 50. Brute 52. Opera’s La ___ 54. Bluefin 55. Frees 56. Bullfight cheers 57. Selves 59. Withered 60. Stitch 61. Breach 63. Knock 64. Football scores (abbr.)

Down 1. MD, briefly 2. Turkish title 3. Close an envelope 4. Wading birds 5. And so forth 6. Morse code blip 7. Develops 8. Retail stores 9. Grange 10. Olympic runner 11. Smell 12. Bowling item 15. Try out 17. See 46 Across

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March 2017

13

Study Finds EEG Can Help Tell Apart PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury A recent VA study points to a possible breakthrough in differentiating between post-traumatic stress disorder and mild traumatic brain injury, otherwise known as a concussion.

The two disorders often carry similar symptoms, such as irritability, restlessness, hypersensitivity to stimulation, memory loss, fatigue, and dizziness.

Scientists have tried to distinguish between mTBI and PTSD in hopes of improving treatment options for veterans, but many symptombased studies have been inconclusive because the chronic effects of the two conditions are so similar.

The researchers used electroencephalogram, or EEG, a test that measures electrical activity in the brain. The size and direction of the brainwaves can signal abnormalities.

Analyzing a large set of EEGs given to military personnel from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the researchers saw patterns of activity at different locations on the scalp for mTBI and

PTSD. They saw brainwaves moving slowly in opposite directions, likely coming from separate places in the brain.

The researchers emphasize that these effects don’t pinpoint a region in the brain where the disorders differ. Rather, they show a pattern that distinguishes the disorders when the EEG results are averaged among a large group.

The study linked mTBI with increases in low-frequency waves, especially in the prefrontal and right temporal regions of the brain, and PTSD with decreases in lowfrequency waves, notably in the right temporoparietal region.

The differences in the levels of the waves may explain some of the symptoms of the two disorders,

suggesting a decline in responsiveness for someone with mTBI, for example, and more anxiety for someone with PTSD. Laura Manning Franke, Ph.D., the study’s lead researcher and research psychologist at the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia, noted that more low-frequency power has also been linked to cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Less low-frequency power has been linked to problems such as drug addiction.

Additionally, spotting distinct patterns of mTBI and PTSD in separate parts of the brain is key for two reasons: First, the possibility these conditions can be confused with each other is reduced. That can help

improve diagnosis and treatment.

Second, the patterns show that electrical activity appears to be affected long after combat-related mTBI, suggesting long-term changes in neural communication, the signaling between cells in the nervous system.

“That could help, in part, explain the reason for persistent problems,” Franke said.

Despite the new findings, Franke and her team believe more work is needed to better explain the differences in the patterns of both conditions in the brain’s electrical activity.

Meanwhile, she said she hopes the research will play a role in helping medical professionals better diagnose someone’s condition through an individual EEG—whether that person has PTSD, a brain injury, or a combination of the two.

For more information, visit the VA’s webpages for PTSD (www.research. va.gov/topics/ptsd.cfm) and TBI (www. research.va.gov/topics/tbi.cfm).

Stories of ordinary men and women called to perform extraordinary military service.

Since 1999, writer and World War II veteran Col. Robert D. Wilcox has preserved the firsthand wartime experiences of more than 200 veterans through Salute to a Veteran, his monthly column featured in 50plus LIFE. Now, for the first time, 50 of those stories— selected by Wilcox himself—are available to own in this soft-cover book.

Simply complete and mail this form with your payment to the address below to order Salute to Our Veterans.

On-Line Publishers • 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Name_ _______________________________________________________ Address_ ______________________________________________________ City_______________________________ State_ ____ Zip_ ______________ Phone_ _____________________ Email______________________________ Number of copies_ ______ (Please include $20.80 for each copy)

Every Hero Has a Name.

Is your military hero also your spouse, child, grandchild, friend, or neighbor?

Help us put a face and a name to the courageous men and women who are currently serving or who have served in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Salute to Service

is an online photo gallery honoring the military heroes in our lives.

Upload your hero’s picture, name, and information at VeteransExpo.com/salute-to-service.

Credit card #______________________________________ Exp. date________ Signature of cardholder_________________________________CVV #________

Or send a check made payable to On-Line Publishers, Inc. You can also order online at www.50plusLIFEpa.com!

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A Perfect Cool-Weather Pairing Some foods just seem to evoke the smell, taste, and feel of chilly weather.

As a beloved flavor, maple syrup can be much more than a breakfast condiment or pancake topping— it can be an impressive way to transform simple, seasonal snacks.

A delicious beverage or dessert can be enhanced with the flavor of maple. For example, chef Megan Miller, of Baker Miller in Chicago, recommends the crisp, fresh taste of Homemade Maple Cream Soda as a beverage that pairs perfectly with the smoky kick of Stacy’s® Fire Roasted Jalapeno Pita Chips.

For a sweet treat, chef Joanne Chang, of Flour in Boston, suggests New England Maple Apple Dip. This dip delivers the flavors of the season with maple syrup, fresh apples, and cinnamon as another delectable accompaniment to pita chips.

By combining these seasonal ingredients, you can create delicious pairings and mouthwatering desserts. Find more chef selections and featured pairings at www.stacyssnacks.com.

New England Maple Apple Dip Prep time: 5 minutes Servings: 6 • 1 cup cream cheese • 1/2 cup maple syrup • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon • Pinch of salt • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt • 2 apples, peeled and chopped into 1/4-inch cubes • Stacy’s Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips or Stacy’s Simply Naked Pita Chips Using food processor, blend cream cheese with maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.

Fold Greek yogurt into cream cheese mixture; mix in apples.

Serve with pita chips.

Homemade Maple Cream Soda Prep time: 1 minute Servings: 1 • 1/2 ounce maple syrup • 1 tablespoon warm water • Ice cubes • 6 ounces sparkling water • Orange or lemon, for garnish • Stacy’s Fire Roasted Jalapeno Pita Chips Stir maple syrup in warm water to dissolve.

Add ice and sparkling water; stir and garnish with orange or lemon. Serve with pita chips.

April 20, 2017 May 31, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

York Expo Center

Memorial Hall East 334 Carlisle Ave., York

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Crowne Plaza Reading Hotel 1741 Papermill Road Wyomissing

Please, join us!

This combined event is FREE for veterans of all ages, active military, and their families.

At the Expo

Veterans Benefits Community Services Products and Services Available Support/Assistance Programs Education/Training Services

At the Job Fair

Employers Job Counseling Workshops/Seminars Resume Writing Assistance Principal Sponsors: Sponsored by: Berks Encore • Church & Dwight/Arm & Hammer Products Disabled American Veterans • Pennsylvania American Legion Pennsylvania National Guard Outreach Office Pennsylvania State Headquarters VFW York County Economic Alliance • WFYL • WHTM abc27

Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available

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March 2017

15

Identify and Treat Water and Mold Problems in Your Basement

By Allen Taylor

foundation rather than toward it.

• Have a sump pump installed, making sure it is the necessary depth and horsepower to meet your requirements.

When it comes to water and mold issues, the basement is as low as it gets.

But it’s not a lost cause. If you know what to look for, you can spot problems before they become too big and treat them so your home can be preserved for your retirement years.

How to Tell if You Have Water Damage in Your Basement First, understand that your basement is a big hole in the ground.

Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing event coordinator Wesley Pfleiger said, “When it rains enough, this hole in the ground will [want to] fill up with water. As [this happens], pressure builds up around your basement walls.”

This pressure is called hydrostatic pressure and pushes against the walls of your basement. Enough pressure over time can push a wall inward and

There are many types of mold that can grow in a home’s basement.

cause cracks to appear.

Water will then begin to seep into your basement, either through the floor or cracks in the walls, and can eventually do enough damage to cause a mold issue.

“Water can break down the waterproofing that may or may not have been installed when the house was built,” Pfleiger said. “But it’s not the water you see that’s a problem. It’s

Have you photographed a smile that just begs to be shared?

Send us your favorite smile—your children, grandchildren, friends, even your “smiling” pet!—and it could be 50plus LIFE’s next Smile of the Month!

You can submit your photos either digitally to mjoyce@onlinepub.com or by mail to: 50plus LIFE Smile of the Month • 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Please include the following information: Your name___________________________________________________ Your town of residence____________________________________________ Names(s) of those in photo_ ________________________________________ Their town(s) of residence__________________________________________ Their relationship to you (e.g., daughter, brother, grandson)_ ______________________ Digital photos must be at least 4x6’’ with a resolution of 300 dpi. No professional photos, please. Please include a SASE if you would like to have your photo returned.

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the water you don’t see.”

You clean up and dry the area where you see water, but water can also get between the cinder blocks of a house or between the walls of the foundation and erode the concrete.

This can take place over a period of years, sometimes as many as 40.

Pfleiger said water can also push itself up through the basement floor as the water table underground rises.

The more common place homeowners may see water, however, is where the walls meet the floor.

“Water only needs one-sixty-fourth of an inch to penetrate an area,” Pfleiger said. “It will follow the path of least resistance.”

There is a natural path for water to enter the basement because the wall, floor, and footer are all separate structures. Over time, water underground will erode the sealant, creating a way for water to enter the basement.

If you smell a damp, musty odor; require excessive use of a dehumidifier; see white, chalky residue on the walls or floor; or see cracks in the walls or floor of your basement, then you may have a water problem.

Pfleiger recommends a little preventive maintenance, such as: • Install rain gutters around the house to push water away from the building.

• Check the grade of your property.

Is it sloping toward the house?

If so, fix the grading so that it channels water away from the

If you suspect a water problem in your basement, contact a professional to evaluate your foundation and make recommendations based on your unique property situation.

Some companies, including MidAtlantic Waterproofing, will come to your home and make remedial recommendations, free of charge.

How to Tell if You Have a Mold Problem There are many different types of mold that can grow in a home’s basement. While all of them can lead to health issues, each type of mold affects individuals differently.

Amos Martin, emergency services manager at Service 1st Restoration, said, “People are often scared of black mold, but I have found that other types of mold are more harmful to me. Everybody’s susceptible to different types of molds.”

Infants and elderly people are most at risk, he said, because they tend to have weaker immune systems. People with allergies are also susceptible to certain types of mold. In general, the brighter-colored molds are the most dangerous, Martin said.

On the flip side, mold is a natural part of the earth’s ecology.

“Mold levels inside are safe when the levels are the same or less than those outside the home,” Martin said.

To determine that, you have to have an air-quality test performed both inside the home and outside the home. To determine if you might have a mold problem and need to call a professional, check for these signs: • You’re sick and don’t know why, usually resulting in unexplained respiratory or congestion problems.

• Your basement smells damp and musty.

• The mold is visible (if you can see www.50plusLifePA.com

condensation, poor ventilation, wet clothes, and flooding. If you • A n excessive experience water need for a loss or spills in dehumidifier the basement, can also be a hire a professional sign that you to clean it up. have a mold For treating problem. mold in the basement, the Environmental Mold can be a Protection serious problem Agency if left untreated, recommends a even in the 10 percent waterbasement. Replace bleach solution. your furnace However, you can filters often to get a professionalprevent them from grade solution spreading mold over the retail spores throughout counter to help your house. you fight mold in Martin your basement. recommends Sunlight and upgrading your air movement filter to the best are also good, so brand and leaving open up the cellar behind the paper door on occasion. filters, which tend Caution must to collect mold Remediation of mold caused by a be taken when spores. leaky pipe in the laundry room over removing mold.

He also a long period of time.

Depending on recommends using the amount of a maintenance-free dehumidifier so that you don’t forget mold you see, it may be a simple to empty the water bucket, which is a or complicated process and it may be wise to hire professional common problem. remediation experts, such as Service Moisture is the leading cause 1st Restoration, who have trained of mold problems and is often technicians. caused by leaking pipes, roof leaks, it, you don’t need an airquality test).

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18th Annual

May 9, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Hershey Lodge

325 University Drive Hershey

DAUPHIN COUNTY

18th Annual

May 18, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Shady Maple Conference Center Smorgasbord Building 129 Toddy Drive, East Earl

LANCASTER COUNTY

14th Annual

June 8, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Church Farm School

1001 East Lincoln Highway Exton

CHESTER COUNTY

21st Annual

Sept. 21, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Spooky Nook Sports

2913 Spooky Nook Road Manheim

LANCASTER COUNTY

Sept. 28, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

York Expo Center

Memorial Hall East 334 Carlisle Avenue, York

YORK COUNTY

secured wooden frame surround.

Don’t forget to wear gloves in order to protect your hands from the sharp, broken ceramic pieces.

When it comes to antiques, make them part of your home design and keep the memories of loved ones close to heart.

Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality on History channel’s hit treasure-hunting TV show, The Curse of Oak Island, Dr. Lori Verderame hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Visit www.

DrLoriV.com/Events, www.Facebook.com/ DoctorLori, or call (888) 431-1010.

Oct. 19, 2017

18th Annual

rack to hold rolls of wrapping paper; blank, stretched canvases; or empty flea market frames, which are ready to be filled with mirrors, needlepoint pictures, or vintage prints.

When it comes to antiques, don’t cry over broken antiques or family heirlooms. Don’t trash the broken pieces, either. Pick up the pieces and make something useful and special.

Broken china plates are a common craft source, and you can also make a good-looking picture frame from old transferware plates of ironstone ceramic or from red terracotta pottery pieces. Be sure to use a tile grout in a

Always free parking!

15th Annual

WALL DESIGNS from page 9

Please join us for these FREE events!

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Carlisle Expo Center CUMBERLAND COUNTY

100 K Street Carlisle

Exhibitors • Health Screenings • Seminars Demonstrations • Entertainment • Door Prizes

Limited Sponsorship Opportunities Available

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

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March 2017

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Tinseltown Talks

50 Years of The Carol Burnett Show Nick Thomas

three or four show,” Burnett years. Harvey suggested.

(Korman) was “My husband brilliant from (the late Joe the beginning, Hamilton) but even he was producing honed his craft. the show, and “Vicki we would say, (Lawrence) ‘Let’s call sowas 18 and and-so and ask right out of him or her on high school at Carol Burnett, center, with Tim Conway, the show.’”

Harvey Korman, Lyle Waggoner, the start, so But their and Vicki Lawrence in a 1992 Harvey took guest wish list CBS publicity photo. her under his wasn’t always wing, teaching fulfilled. her accents “We wanted and giving her Bette Davis and had a acting tips. standard fee for She absorbed all our guest everything stars, but she like a sponge, asked for too and millions much money,” of viewers recalled watched her Burnett. “I evolve into The cover of Burnett’s Publicity photo of wanted to pay a brilliant book, In Such Good Carol Burnett. her more, but comedienne.”

Company: Eleven Years we couldn’t Audiences of Laughter, Mayhem, because were also and Fun in the Sandbox. everyone would treated to have wanted more.” a parade of weekly special guests In addition to its impressive guest throughout the series, which list, the show is legendary for the cast collectively could be considered “breaking up” and laughing during a history of Hollywood from the filming. period.

“People remember those sketches “We might have had more famous and think we did it all the time, but guest stars than any other TV

Puzzle Solutions

A couple of years ago, visitors to Carol Burnett’s home might have observed the comedy legend glued to the TV set, binge-watching every episode of her old variety show. But it wasn’t a case of extreme celebrity vanity sweeping through the Burnett household.

“I’d been getting calls from writers wanting to interview me about the show,” said Burnett from Los Angeles.

“So I thought, maybe I should write a definitive history of the 11 years I worked on The Carol Burnett Show because, after all, I was there!”

Her timing was perfect. In Such Good Company: Eleven Years of Laughter, Mayhem, and Fun in the Sandbox was published late last year as a prelude to this year’s 50th anniversary of the show, first broadcast in September 1967.

Scrutinizing the episodes, Burnett jotted down notes to help with the book preparation.

“I watched all the episodes—over 270 of them—in a period of several weeks. I fast-forwarded through the sketches that I remembered, but really wanted to jog my memory about the ones I’d forgotten. Watching also helped me remember behind-thescenes stories and the great variety of guests that appeared each week.”

As she progressed through the viewing marathon, Burnett says it was fascinating to observe the cast evolve.

“We all improved over the first

March 2017

Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala., and has written features, columns, and interviews for over 600 magazines and newspapers.

Brainteasers

Groups with Big Hits in the ’60s 6. 1964 – Simon and Garfunkel 7. 1965 – The Supremes 8. 1966 – The Monkees 9. 1967 – Jefferson Airplane 10. 1969 – Blood, Sweat and Tears

Puzzles shown on page 13

18

we really didn’t,” she laughed.

“Nor did we ever do it on purpose, and it was mostly when Tim (Conway) was on. We’d tape two shows on Fridays with different audiences. Tim would do it the way we rehearsed for the first taping, then go crazy for the second without telling anyone what he would be doing.”

For all her television work, Burnett amassed an incredible collection of honors, including three personal Emmys just for The Carol Burnett Show.

“Of course, I’m proud of the awards and they’re sitting on a shelf—but I don’t go and polish them every day!” she laughed.

Already an author of several other popular books on her life and career, her latest 320-page memoir on the show has been warmly received by critics and fans. She says she wasn’t too concerned about finding an audience for a book about a 50-yearold TV show.

“It still airs on cable, and there are old and new fans watching it. But I really just wanted to get the memories down on paper for myself, and if others enjoy it, that’s the cherry on top of the sundae.”

1. 1960 – The Drifters 2. 1960 – The Everly Brothers 3. 1962 – The Four Seasons 4. 1963 – The Beach Boys 5. 1964 – Jan and Dean

TV Shows that Started in the ’50s 1. Gunsmoke 6. American Bandstand 2. The Honeymooners 7. My Friend Flicka 3. Captain Kangaroo 8. Your Hit Parade 4. Truth or Consequences 9. Bonanza 5. Dragnet 10. The Twilight Zone

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Boomers Seek Culturally Immersive, Active Travel The best way to become immersed in the local culture of any destination is by learning about the native history, traditions, and cuisine first-hand.

Baby boomers are one of the largest cohorts of travelers (77 million people or 35 percent of the U.S. population), and many are looking for active, immersive experiences to spend their money on instead of the typical luxury goods.

This demographic is specifically seeking to fit off-the-trail activities into each vacation day, including language lessons, cooking classes, and participating in cultural traditions.

AARP’s 2016 Top Travel Trend report stated 99 percent of baby boomers intend to travel this year, with 45 percent expecting to take an international trip.

Two travel companies, VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations and Country Walkers, are developing vacations perfect for active boomer travelers.

Whether it’s a wine-tasting trip through Portugal, or a truffle hunt in Italy, these active travel brands are catering to what boomers want.

Samplings of their immersive tours are outlined below.

Rolling vineyards in the Italian countryside.

The Bay of Fundy Caves in St. Martins, New Brunswick, Canada.

Biking Through Italy’s Slow Food Movement On VBT’s “Cycling Piedmont: Into Italy’s Slow Food Farmland” tour, travelers spend time biking through vast stretches of vineyards and get to meet a truffle farmer—or trifolao—to go on a “hunt” for some of the world’s most expensive mushrooms.

The trifolao and his trusty dog show how they find, choose, and preserve truffles before tasting the results of their hunt.

Walking Along Spain’s Coast Country Walkers’ new tour, “Spain: Barcelona to the Costa

The historic streets of Meaux, France.

The seaside town of St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada.

Brava,” begins with a performance by the Santa Maria de Montserrat Monastery’s acclaimed boys’ choir and then continues onto Garrotxa Volcanic National Park—home to 30

dormant conical volcanoes.

Other highlights include a visit to Santa Pau, a 13th-century village and Girona’s old town, for a visit to a local market and the Girona Cook School.

Sipping and Walking Through Champagne While on VBT’s first walk and barge tour, “Into Champagne Country: France Walk & Barge,” travelers get to meet a local cheesemaker whose family has been making and aging brie for more than 130 years.

The family gives a tour of the aging cellar and samples cheeses with fresh bread and a glass of Bordeaux wine.

Additionally, guests wander Epernay’s elegant Avenue de Champagne and explore the hometown of the monk Dom Perignon.

Celebrate the 150-Year Anniversary of Canada Country Walkers launched a new guided walking experience, “New Brunswick: Bay of Fundy & Campobello Island,” which connects travelers with a local resident historian to share details, myths, and tales from Canada’s past 150 years.

Additionally, the tour is guided by local Beth Johnston, who has been leading travelers through New Brunswick for more than 30 years.

Johnston shares details on the native environment and can point out majestic bald eagles, porpoises, seals, and sea birds.

Explore Portugal’s Wine Country More than 250 years ago, Portugal’s Douro Valley became the first controlled and demarcated winemaking region in the world.

On VBT’s new walking tour, travelers can discover this UNESCO World Heritage Site through the “Pathways of Portugal: Walking the Douro Valley” experience.

Travelers meet vintners, walk through the grapevines, and learn about the difference between the region’s young Vinho Verde wine and aged ports.

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WellSpan HealthTalks

Your goal is better health. We’ll help you get there.

Total Knee Replacement Surgery: Is it right for you?

Knee pain is one of the most common causes of disability, producing pain and mobility issues that can greatly impact quality of life. Learn about available surgical options, including total knee replacement, when non-surgical treatments are no longer working.

Tuesday, April 11, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Palmyra Community Library 50 Landings Dr., Annville

This presentation will include discussion of: • Osteoarthritis knee pain • Non-operative and operative options • Benefits of total knee replacement • When is it the right time • Who is an appropriate candidate

Amy Jo Krall, CRNP

Presented by: Amy Jo Krall, CRNP WellSpan Orthopedics Register now for this FREE program by calling (717) 272-7971 (extension 0).

For more information visit WellLebanon.org 20

March 2017

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