50plus Life Chester County – February 2024

Complimentary | Chester County Edition

February 2024

A human approach to homelessness page 4

How to ease the winter blues page 8

Navigating norovirus page 18

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1. Sitter’s headache 5. Psyches 8. FBI employee (abbr.)

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February 2024

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Cover Story

A Human Approach to Homelessness

By Gabriele Amersbach Corporate Office

P.O. Box 8049, Lancaster, PA 17604 Phone (717) 285-1350 (610) 675-6240 Fax (717) 285-1360 Email address: info@onlinepub.com Website address: www.onlinepub.com

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people are no different.”

His stories reflect the diversity of people who have lost their homes.

“I met an 84-year-old man who became homeless after his apartment building was sold to a company that flips housing. The tenants were all evicted. I put a notice on Facebook, and someone took in this man and his dog.

“I meet people who get out of jail with no place to go and help point them in the right direction, from job leads to connecting them with local services,” he explains. “There are kind individuals and organizations out there who will help if they know about the problem.”

“Once you get to know the people living on the street, you can’t unsee them,” says Dave Costarella, a native of Lancaster County and vocal advocate for these often-overlooked Lancaster city residents.

Costarella works as a contractor and leader of D.C. & Co., a well-known eight-piece local dance band.

In his travels throughout the city, he was aware of people sleeping on curbs or gathering by shelters but was surprised when a friend discussed passing out sandwiches to a large number of people living in Binns Park on Queen Street.

“After checking things out, I was compelled to Hand Up Partners: A help,” he says.

Stepping Stone to Hope Eight years later, his While he continues passion is to help put to pass out food and a system in place that clothes, Costarella resolves on a human level wanted to help the people the issues these “beautiful he met to take steps to human beings” face. regain their own lives. In Costarella asserts that April 2023, he started to governmental programs provide a stipend of $20 often attempt to for people living on the address the anonymous Two Hand Up cleaners ready to go on a chilly street to gather trash in “homeless problem” morning. the park, on their block, without taking into or in community areas. account the real human needs of individuals who are “You have to give people something to do during forced to live in parks and on streets. the day, some responsibility, so they don’t just sleep,” Even the most well-meaning efforts may be he says. “People need to relearn how not to be shaped by funding requirements rather than the needs of the unhoused populations they aim to serve. homeless.”

As enthusiasm for the program grew — both from “I’m not personally obligated to anybody,” he participants and neighbors who were pleased with clarifies. the cleanup of local parks and streets — Costarella Subsequently, he doesn’t deal with nameless statistics. Instead, he passes out sandwiches, clothes, established a partnership with the Lancaster County Food Hub, a local organization that provides basic and sleeping bags to individuals in need. services — food, shelter, and clothing — to anyone “I take the time to sit and listen — for them, this in need. corner of the park is their living room, and I give

By August 2023, the cleanup program was them the respect they require,” says Costarella. formalized as Hand Up Partners.

By developing friendships and trust, he has “I’m happy the Food Hub offers a way for the learned that each person he meets has their own program to expand and receive publicity,” says story to tell, just like in the rest of society.

Costarella. “It gives legitimacy to the project, “Some people were just released from jail, some and people can donate directly on their website are mentally ill, some were thrown out of the (lancasterfoodhub.org/about/#handuppartners).” home when a marriage breaks down, and some just He is a strong advocate of giving people couldn’t afford to pay rent because of illness or job responsibility that leads to dignity and greater loss,” he says. “Let’s recognize we have every level of choices in their lives. humanity in the houses on your street — homeless www.50plusLifePA.com

“Even with a small amount of money, they now have a choice about what to eat, where to get a haircut, and people start to remember who they are.”

“It’s not just me yelling by myself anymore,” he says. “I’m super excited about neighborhood groups like SoWe [a southwest Lancaster city resident-led community organization] also leaning in The Spiraling Housing Crisis and embracing a program like Hand Up. “David Costarella has been a friend to They have begun to join park residents in our unhoused neighbors for a long time,” group cleanups and community meals. We says Paige McFarling, executive director at are proving things can change.” the Lancaster County Food Hub. Despite his optimism, Costarella feels a Her organization is happy to work with growing sense of urgency to meet the needs local activists like Costarella and Hand Up of homeless individuals now — before a Partners because “an opportunity to earn new “zombie” drug, xylazine, also known as something gives people dignity, which leads “tranq,” becomes prevalent locally. to hope,” she explains.

This horse tranquilizer is used as a cheap Hope has been elusive. Lancaster cutting agent for fentanyl, heroin, and other Costarella performing with his band, D.C. & Co. County’s annual one-night census of its opioids that are injected. Currently, it is homeless population jumped 11% from found in more than 90% of Philadelphia 2022 to 2023, according to figures from the street drugs and has caused a spike in county’s Homelessness Coalition. overdose deaths.

In 2023, 526 people were sleeping in According to a Drexel University emergency shelters, in transitional housing, College of Medicine blog, the drug “causes and outdoors, an increase of 64% since serious sedation, putting the brain to sleep, 2017. lowering blood pressure, and slowing the Costarella and McFarling agree that heart.” housing has become a crisis, both locally As blood vessels constrict, lesions form and nationally. In Lancaster city, average and the skin starts to decompose, requiring rents have increased from 13.4% to 19.9% amputations. There is no antidote. since 2019.

“Right now, 10% to 15% of drugs locally “The lifting of the eviction moratorium already have tranq in it,” says Costarella. and the conclusion of COVID-based “Once that takes over, we can’t help subsidies were pivotal to housing anymore.” instability,” explains McFarling.

But for now, David Costarella is a “There’s also been a change in housing vocal advocate well known at city hall.

Costarella, second from left, with a group of Hand Up Partners locally — multi-unit houses are being He continues discussions with politicians, workers and volunteers at Culliton Park, Lancaster. converted into single homes. Even if people private-sector funders, and the local want to try to afford an apartment together, community so everyone understands some to qualify, each individual must meet rigid income requirements.” basics about people living in streets and parks: Spiraling rents have added to the crisis. For example, the average rent for “They are our brothers and sisters and need our help. Let’s talk to them and a 1,000-square-foot city apartment is $1,500-plus a month (not including find out what they want and need and how they think their problems should be utilities — which are also increasing). solved.

“We have to find ways for people to become self-sufficient and proud of Speaking Out to Change the System themselves. It’s not a homeless issue — it’s a human issue.”

As homelessness escalates, Costarella has learned to speak out.

On the cover: Dave Costarella at Culliton Park in Lancaster, one of the “In the first five years, I wanted to help with sandwiches and clothes,” he meetup locations for Hand Up Partners participants to begin their explains. “Now I want to help change the system.” neighborhood cleanup assignments.

He wrote a booklet that details his approach, available online at dcandco. net/afreshaproach.pdf.

Costarella admits he never aspired to go to city council and other public forums to advocate for everything from more public bathrooms to better job opportunities and transitional housing.

“I don’t enjoy it,” he says, “but I say how things really are and try to smile my way through it.”

He is also quick to point out the positive impact of small, individual efforts like Hand Up Partners.

“I give the participants an orange vest to wear while they clean up. People in Plus, you’ll receive the neighborhood now say hello. Before, no one would even look them in the event updates, story eye. The program shows how everybody in the community can get along and thrive together.” links, and more!

According to Costarella, reducing the number of people living on the streets can be extremely manageable with enough support from local communities, the private sector, political leaders, and partnerships with local nonprofits.

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February 2024

5

Atrial Fibrillation – Take Your Fluttering Heartbeat Seriously

By Kimberly Blaker Often, when we think of heart conditions, we associate them with age.

Although atrial fibrillation (AFib) is found more often in those over age 60, it can affect people of all ages, even children.

Two million Americans are affected by this serious condition, which increases the risk of health complications, including heart attack and stroke.

sleep apnea, lung disease, infection, or an overactive thyroid.

Caffeine, heavy alcohol use, street drugs, and certain medications can also cause AFib. What are the symptoms, and how is it diagnosed?

The most common symptom of AFib is a fluttering heartbeat or palpitations. Other symptoms also sometimes accompany the condition, such as:

What is AFib, and what causes it?

• Fatigue AFib makes the heart beat rapidly and irregularly. It commonly feels like a • Dizziness fluttering of the heart.

• Thumping in the chest According to the Mayo Clinic, “During • Anxiety February is American Hearth Month atrial fibrillation, the heart’s two upper chambers (the atria) beat chaotically and • Shortness of breath irregularly — out of coordination with the • Feeling faint or confused two lower chambers (the ventricles) of the • Sweating heart.”

AFib, also known as arrhythmia, is not deadly in and of itself but is • Chest pain or pressure nonetheless a serious condition. It increases the risk of heart failure or can be the result of a serious underlying health problem.

In the event of chest pain or pressure, you should treat it as a medical There are several causes associated with AFib. It can be genetic or may emergency because it could indicate a heart attack. be caused by one of several heart-related diseases, previous heart surgery,

please see ATRIAL on facing page

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Your name: _______________________________________________________________ Your address: ____________________________________________________________________ Your phone: ________________________________________ Email:_____________________________________________ Nominee’s name (if not self): ____________________________________________________________________________ Nominee’s town of residence: ___________________________________________________________________________ Nominee’s phone: __________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________ Why they would make a great story: _____________________________________________________________________ Note: Please get your nominee’s permission before submitting them!

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’70s Flashback

‘Maybe it Will Grow on Me’ Randal C. Hill

The Nike “Swoosh” symbol is so well Davidson figured she worked 17.5 hours recognized worldwide that it can stand alone on the project, so she submitted a bill for $35 without naming the Oregon sports-apparel — equal to about $250 now — to Knight and empire. showed him five potential designs, each drawn The iconic logo was the brainchild of on tracing paper and laid over the side outline Carolyn Davidson, a now-comfortably retired of a shoe. graphic designer — with the primary emphasis Knight didn’t really like any of the images, being on “comfortably.” but he chose the wing-like Swoosh.

In 1969, Davidson met future business “Well, I don’t love it,” he grumbled, “but The original logo designed by kingpin Phil Knight when she was a graphics maybe it will grow on me.”

Carolyn Davidson for Nike, Inc., in 1971. design student at Portland State University and Blue Ribbon Sports became Nike later he was a part-time accounting instructor there. that year, and the Swoosh was on its way As Knight passed Davidson in a hallway one day, he overheard her telling to becoming one of the best-known images in the world, eventually being some friends that she wanted to take an oil painting class but couldn’t afford the displayed on everything Nike, including shoes, socks, pants, hats, t-shirts, paints. The next time Knight saw her, he said, “Excuse me, are you the one who jerseys, and coats. can’t afford to take oil painting?”

Davidson earned a PSU degree in graphic design and stayed with Nike Knight told Davidson he needed a part-time graphics artist to create charts through 1975, when she decided to freelance and do charity volunteer work and graphs for his business meetings. (Since 1964, Knight and partner Bill from home.

Bowerman had had a side job running Blue Ribbon Sports, the West Coast In September 1983, Knight invited Davidson to have lunch at the Nike distributor for Tiger shoes from Japan’s Onitsuka Company.) headquarters. That luncheon turned out to be a surprise party for her.

Knight offered to pay Davidson $2 an hour for her work, and she readily After multibillionaire Knight told Davidson that he was glad that his accepted. $35 check hadn’t bounced 12 years earlier, she was given a box of chocolate Davidson completed all the projects Knight brought to her. Then, one day in Swooshes, a Swoosh-shaped gold ring, and 500 shares of Nike stock.

1971, Knight proposed something new: an assignment for a logo.

Over four decades and numerous stock splits later, Davidson’s Nike holdings Citing hassles from Onitsuka, he and Bowerman had decided to strike out on would now total about 32,000 shares and be worth around $4 million. their own and offer a new line of cleated shoes. Their company would be called Davidson has apparently never cashed in a single one of those shares.

Nike, who, in Greek mythology, was the winged goddess of victory.

Although Randal C. Hill’s heart lives in the past, the rest of him resides in Bandon, A factory in Mexico was ready to begin shoe production, and Knight and Ore. He can be reached at wryterhill@msn.com.

Bowerman wanted a logo that conveyed motion and speed for their fledgling footwear.

ATRIAL from facing page If you do experience symptoms of AFib, diagnosis is painless and relatively simple. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and an electrocardiogram. A patient-activated cardiac event recorder can also help with the diagnosis.

How are the types of AFib treated?

There are four types of AFib, although one form can progress into another.

1. Paroxysmal AFib is intermittent and can last for just a few seconds or up to a week. Symptoms may range from none to severe. Either way, this form of AFib goes away on its own within a week or less.

2. Persistent AFib doesn’t go away on its own. It lasts until it’s treated with either medication or electric shock. For those at high risk of a stroke or if there’s another known cause of the AFib, physicians will treat the source of the irregular heartbeat as well. www.50plusLifePA.com

3. Longstanding and persistent AFib doesn’t respond to the above typical treatments, so several forms of minimally invasive catheter ablation are usually considered. For this procedure, you’ll be given something to relax you and a local anesthetic to numb the groin or neck area where the catheter will be inserted.

4. Finally, permanent AFib occurs when longstanding, persistent AFib is unresponsive to treatment. If treatment has been ineffective, your doctor might decide to discontinue the treatment. This form of AFib is associated with an increased risk of a heart attack and can also impact the quality of your life.

So whatever the form of AFib, take the condition seriously. If you experience symptoms, seek medical attention without delay.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera; and more at sagerarebooks.com.

50plus Life

February 2024

7

Savvy Senior

How to Ease the Winter Blues Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about seasonal affective disorder? I’ve always disliked winter, but since I retired and am home a lot more, the gray, cold winter months make me feel really blue.

– Sad Sam Dear Sam, If you get depressed in the winter but feel better in spring and summer, you may indeed have seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, a wintertime depression that affects roughly 5% of Americans.

In most cases, SAD is related to the loss of sunlight in the winter months. Reduced sunlight can upset natural sleep-wake cycles and other circadian rhythms that can affect the body.

It can also cause a drop in the brain chemical serotonin, which affects mood, and can increase the levels of the hormone melatonin, which can make you feel more tired and lethargic.

If you think you may have SAD, a trip to your doctor’s office is the best way to diagnose it, or you can take a SAD “self-assessment” test at the Center for

The ultimate resource for boomer and senior living and care options.

Environmental Therapeutics website, cet.org/assessments.

If you find that you have SAD, here are several treatment options and remedies that can help.

Light therapy: The most effective treatment for SAD is sitting in front of a specialized lighttherapy box for 20-30 minutes a day, within the first hour of waking up in the morning. Light therapy mimics outdoor light to cause a change in brain chemicals linked to mood.

While you can buy a light box without a prescription, it’s best to use it under the guidance of a healthcare provider and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Most health insurance plans do not cover the cost.

The best light-therapy lamps provide 10,000 lux of illumination, many times stronger than typical indoor light, and have a diffuser screen that filters out ultraviolet rays and projects downward toward the eyes.

Some top-rated light therapy products include the Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Lamp ($145); Northern Light Technology Boxelite-OS ($205); and the budget-friendly Verilux HappyLight Luxe ($70), all of which are available at Amazon.com.

Cognitive behavioral therapy: Even though SAD is considered a biological problem, identifying and changing thought and behavior patterns can help alleviate symptoms too.

To help you with this, choose a therapist who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and who has experience in treating SAD. To locate someone in your area, Psychology Today offers a search tool at psychologytoday.com/us/ therapists/cognitive-behavioral-cbt.

Antidepressants: Some people with SAD benefit from antidepressant treatments too. Some proven medications to ask your doctor about are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and the extended-release antidepressant bupropion.

But keep in mind that it may take several weeks to notice full benefits from an antidepressant. In addition, you may have to try different medications before you find one that works well for you and has the fewest side effects.

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Lifestyle remedies: Some other things you can do to help alleviate your SAD symptoms include making your environment sunnier and brighter.

So, open up your blinds, sit closer to bright windows, and get outside as much as you can. Even on cold or cloudy days, outdoor light can help, especially if you spend some time outside within two hours of getting up in the morning.

Moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, yoga, and even tai chi can also help alleviate SAD symptoms, as can social activities.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit savvysenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

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The Beauty in Nature

Burrowing Rodents Clyde McMillan-Gamber

Though not closely related, woodchucks and muskrats are adaptable rodents that have traits in common. Both species are native to much of North America, including southeastern Pennsylvania.

Both dig deep burrows to live in the year around and raise young: the chucks in meadows and fields and along country roadsides and the muskrats along streambanks.

These rodents are Woodchuck vegetarians, the chucks consuming grass, clover, and other kinds of terrestrial plants and the muskrats ingesting cattail stems and roots and other kinds of aquatic vegetation.

Being rodents, chucks and muskrats have teeth that grow all their lives and need to be ground down by chewing on tough plants, or they will grow through the opposite jaw and make eating impossible.

Both species have brown fur that camouflages them on the ground and in streams. Their fur blends them into their surroundings, making them difficult to see, thus protecting them.

Woodchucks are active by day. They are about 20 inches long and weigh around 9 pounds. They hibernate in their burrows from November to February but look for food and mates in February into March.

Each female woodchuck delivers four to six young in her burrow. Those youngsters are dependent on her until early June, when they leave home and search for a territory of their own and dig a den in it.

Chucks dig burrows 2-6 feet deep and up to 50 feet long, with a few chambers at the ends of their tunnels. Each burrow has a main entrance, surrounded by piled-up soil and a few hidden exists so the chuck doesn’t get

Nature’s Wonders

by Clyde

A nature blog

by Clyde McMillan-Gamber, retired Lancaster County Parks naturalist and longtime 50plus Life columnist

Each story is like a walk with your own naturalist.

NaturesWondersByClyde.BlogSpot.com

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trapped in his or her own home.

Some abandoned chuck dens get used by striped skunks, opossums, mink, red foxes, and coyotes, who dig them out more to be larger for themselves. I’ve seen skunks and mink going in out of deserted woodchuck burrows.

Coyotes and bald eagles are predators on young and mature woodchucks. I’ve seen chuck remains in eagle nests through a Muskrat live camera and our computer screen. Red foxes and red-tailed hawks also prey on young chucks.

Muskrats are nocturnal, aquatic rodents that are about 27 inches long and average 3 pounds. They have webbed rear feet for swimming and long, scaly, vertically flattened tails for steering. And they have two handsome layers of waterproof fur.

Muskrats dig burrows into streambanks, starting just below the normal water level and tunneling up to just under the grassroots level. There they hollow out a living and brood chamber.

Female muskrats annually bear two or three litters of six to eight young per litter in their burrows. The young grow rapidly and are soon on their own.

Predators on muskrats include mink, red foxes, coyotes, and great horned owls. Mink kill and eat muskrats and then move into their victims’ dens and use them as their own.

Woodchucks and muskrats, being adaptable rodents, have traits in common. And both species provide food (themselves) and shelter for a variety of other creatures.

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9

The History of Ordinary Things

A Brief on Lingerie Doris Montag

Do you wonder about the history of women’s undergarments? From the time of our origins until the 1500s, no underwear was worn. This made toileting, e.g., squatting, easy.

So what was the purpose of early undergarments?

outerwear clean.

Bathing was infrequent and outerwear difficult to launder. Intimate relations could be had while fully clothed. Recall, homes were cold and small, and relations often occurred in common areas.

1. Warmth 2. Comfort from the rub of rough fabrics 3. Absorbing body oils and sweat to keep fabrics clean 4. Shaping the body

1800s – The corset, often worn on the outside, cinched the waist and supported the breasts. They were first tied with strings. Crotchless “bloomers” were added as dresses got shorter.

During the Victorian era of the late 1800s, undergarment fashion took on an erotic role, showing a little camisole at the breast line. This was the first association of undergarments with female attraction.

The bum roll and bustle, both added to make the hips appear larger, made it difficult to sit down or to squat.

1500s – This century claims the earliest documented evidence of underwear, meaning garments worn beneath clothing. Layers and layers of outer garments indicated a woman’s social status. The undergarment was made of two separate panels (like kitchen towels) that were tied at the waist, i.e., crotchless.

1700s – Hoopskirts were popular. Women couldn’t reach their bottoms with all the layers and the rigid dress form. (Remember: squatting.) They wore a shift, which was like a long-sleeve nightgown, for warmth and to keep

a r t x E d e Ne h?

Cas

A depiction of ladies’ underwear from a 1913 fashion magazine.

1893 – Marie Tucek invented the first underwire bra with pockets for each breast and a rigid metal plate under the breast for support. Shoulder straps were added. The design shifted the weight of the breast to the center front with a lift to create the desirable shape. It was the first use

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of the hook and eye for bras.

1910s – Women’s involvement in sports and activism resulted in fewer layers of outer and underclothes. The shift was replaced with the slip, a loosefitting, sleeveless, dress-like garment to keep outer clothes clean.

Rayon, introduced in 1917, made fabric more affordable.

Women discarded cotton and wool in underwear. Clothes were simpler. Indoor toilets were becoming more common. The long underpants crotch was closed!

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New Yorker Marie Tucek was granted a patent in 1893 for a “breast supporter.”

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1930s – After the liberties of the Roaring ’20s, the ’30s were a period of form-fitting designs.

Women embraced girdles and corsets for shaping and bras with rounded or pointed cups.

Underpants got shorter.

1940s – Nylon had been introduced in undergarments but was discontinued during World War II. In 1947 it returned in the pushup bra by Frederick’s of A linen shift or chemise, circa 1800.

Hollywood.

1949 saw the innovations of the first front-hook closure, padded cups, and adjustable straps and the invention of cup size. It was the prototype of the modern bra. Women were replicating the look of the pinup girl.

1950s – The underwire bra, designed in the 1930s, became popular. Lastex thread (rubber wrapped in cotton fiber) was used for shaping in bras and girdles.

The rubber made them hot to wear. Girdles were effective in shaping but hard to get on and off (hence, the use of talcum powder).

This thread was replaced with Spandex by the late 1950s. It was stronger and more comfortable, and it created smooth shapes. New fabrics came in soft colors, were affordable, and were associated with “class” distinction. Spandex and nylon fabric were promoted as easy to rinse and dry overnight.

1980s – With pantyhose available after 1959 and the control top by 1979, women rejected the girdle for the simplicity of panties. The “teddy” was introduced, combining the panty and bra.

2000s – Spanx changed the industry with built-in support in the fabric. It was originally intended for shapewear but was quickly adopted for sports and outerwear.

The lifecycle of underwear has evolved. Today, referred to as lingerie and considered intimate apparel, they are marketed for the temptation of the risqué and the lure of romance rather than the necessities of the past. They seem rarely worn with Spanx.

But will we give up our granny panties? Hmm. Doris Montag is a homespun historian and an exhibit curator who researches and displays historical collections of ordinary things, such as can openers, crochet, toy sewing machines, hand corn planters, powder compacts, egg cartons, and more.

Contact or follow her on Facebook, HistoryofOrdinaryThings.

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50plus Life

February 2024

11

Celebrating 60 Years since the Beatles’ Invasion

By James Patterson The 60th anniversary of the Beatles’ arrival in the U.S. is a time to recall one of the most exciting moments in TV history.

In February 1964, Ed Sullivan showcased the Beatles on his Sunday evening program. It was rock ’n’ roll history on black-and-white TV. Music, America, and the world would never be the The Beatles with Ed Sullivan from their same. first appearance on Sullivan’s U.S. variety With Sir Paul television program in February 1964.

McCartney and Sir Richard “Ringo Starr” Starkey still touring and making new music, it is safe, and corny, to say “the beat of the Beatles” goes on. At an early-2000s McCartney concert, fans were treated to scenes from the group’s 1964 Sullivan program. It can also be seen on YouTube.

In New York City, fans can visit the Imagine Mosaic in the Photo credit: Phil Nash from Wikimedia Commons, CC–BY–SA 4.0 & GFDL Strawberry Fields section This semi-detached home in Woolton, Liverpool, of Central Park. The is the childhood home of John Lennon. mosaic was a gift from Italy in memory of John Lennon.

During my first trip to Liverpool, England, I visited Mendips, the childhood home of John Lennon, owned by Lennon’s aunt and uncle. The house was purchased by Yoko Ono, Lennon’s widow, and gifted to Great Britain’s National Trust.

Mendips is open for public viewing in certain months of the year for a small fee. A custodian explains the living arrangements of the household while Lennon lived there and gives background to the photos of Lennon on the walls.

John Lennon’s bedroom at Mendips is small. Several 45-rpm records near his bed were all by U.S. performers, including Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and Chuck Berry.

McCartney’s childhood home is known by its street address, 20 Forthlin Road. It is a red brick home built after World War II. The custodian said McCartney’s mom died young, and when his dad

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learned his son dropped out of school to practice music in pool halls and pubs, he allowed the four future Beatles to practice in the house. A large piano occupies most of the small living room.

Once McCartney became famous, fans pestered his dad at the house, some camping out on the lawn. He moved his dad into a larger, more Photo credit: Joey O’Rourke from secure home. After his Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0. dad’s death, McCartney Exterior doors of The Cavern Club in donated the Forthlin Liverpool, where the Beatles made their property to the National debut in 1960.

Trust. It is also open to the public for a fee.

For some, the most exciting part of the tour of 20 Forthlin Road is the time spent in McCartney’s bedroom.

“When girls enter Paul’s bedroom, they would call their girlfriends and scream, ‘I’m in Paul McCartney’s bedroom!’” the custodian explained.

For this reason, Photo credit: Phil Nash from Wikimedia Commons, CC–BY–SA 3.0. the house policy is Paul McCartney spent his youth in this rowhome no mobile phones in on Forthlin Road, Liverpool.

McCartney’s bedroom.

At the time of my travels to Liverpool, George Harrison’s childhood home was privately owned.

Neither the owners nor the neighbors of Ringo Starr’s childhood home wanted tour buses in their vicinity.

While in Liverpool, I saw a rock performance at The Cavern Club, where the Beatles first performed. It is located below street level and is impressively atmospheric.

I went to Liverpool’s Public Library for a lesson in Scouse (rhymes with “house”), known as Liverpool English or Merseyside English. Scouse is an accent and dialect associated with Liverpool and the surrounding region. A librarian patiently spoke Scouse with me and translated Scouse terms spoken

by Paul McCartney.

Based on my conversations with Liverpudlians, the City of Liverpool was for many years largely unchanged from the 1960s. Although it has changed in recent years, the city still gives me a special feeling of a time when the youthful musical talent of the Beatles changed the globe.

The songs of the Beatles, I believe, remain a powerful force for positive change in our world.

The celebration of the Beatles started 60 years ago and continues today, informed by the youthful memories of yesterday, when all our troubles seemed so far away.

James Patterson is a writer based in the Washington, D.C. area.

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Continuing Care Retirement Communities/Life Plan Communities

Listings with a screened background have additional information about their services in a display advertisement in this edition.

Bethany Village 325 Wesley Drive Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 Stephanie Lightfoot Director of Sales & Marketing (717) 766-0279 slightfoot@asbury.org www.bethanyvillage.org

Sy st e Lif es m e sC (O lon ns g e n i t e Le te r ) arn /Po Ev i ng en ol t /E Op nte po r ta r tu i nm nit ie s en t (O ns ite )

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Cornwall Manor P.O. Box 125 Cornwall, PA 17016 Jennifer Margut VP for Marketing & Public Relations (717) 274-8092 marketing@cornwallmanor.org www.cornwallmanor.org

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Cornwall Manor offers countless opportunities for staying active, engaged, and fullfilled while knowing extended care is available when needed.

Diakon Senior Living Buffalo Valley Lutheran Village 189 East Tressler Boulevard Lewisburg, PA 17837 Katherine Asche (570) 293-1383 aschek@diakon.org www.diakonseniorliving.org Cumberland Crossings 1 Longsdorf Way Carlisle, PA 17015 Melissa Stanton (717) 527-3868 stantonm@diakon.org www.diakonseniorliving.org

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Homeland Center 1901 North Fifth Street Harrisburg, PA 17102 (717) 221-7900 jmurray@homelandcenter.org www.homelandcenter.org

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Homeland’s proud tradition of exceptional care includes No Yes a vibrant personal care and five-star skilled nursing home, along with community outreach services throughout south-central Pennsylvania.

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February 2024

13

Continuing Care Retirement Communities/Life Plan Communities

Listings with a screened background have additional information about their services in a display advertisement in this edition.

Homestead Village 1800 Village Circle Lancaster, PA 17603 Christina Gallagher (717) 397-4831 cgallagher@hvillage.org www.homesteadvillage.org Messiah Lifeways at Messiah Village 100 Mt. Allen Drive Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 850-4262 life@messiahlifeways.org www.messiahlifeways.org

Sy st e Lif es m e sC (O lon ns g e n i t e Le te r ) arn /Po Ev i ng en ol t /E Op nte po r ta r tu i nm nit ie s en t (O ns ite )

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Messiah Lifeways provides a network of services, enrichment programs, and residential living communities for those in South Central Pennsylvania.

StoneRidge Retirement Living Communities Poplar Run – (717) 866-3200 Church of God – (717) 866-3200 Towne Center – (717) 866-3200 Schoolyard Square – (717) 866-3200

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Part of your community since 1924, StoneRidge has been creating Yes senior living environments and communities that are designed to enhance the bonds and benefits of community as we continue to follow Christ’s loving example through our mission and our core values.

United Church of Christ Homes Ephrata Manor – (717) 738-4940 Kindred Place at Annville – (717) 867-5572 Kindred Place at Harrisburg – (717) 657-7900 The Lebanon Valley Home – (717) 867-4467 Sarah A. Todd Memorial Home – (717) 245-2187 Yes Thornwald Home – (717) 249-4118 Victoria Velez Director of PR & Fund Development (717) 303-1502 vvelez@ucc-homes.org www.ucc-homes.org

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Honoring the uniqueness of each Yes Yes person, residents of United Church of Christ Homes receive individual care and attention based on specific needs, preferences, and interests.

We offer a place to be yourself and celebrate your life!

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Continuing Care Retirement Communities/Life Plan Communities

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Willow Valley Communities 600 Willow Valley Square Lancaster, PA 17602 Margie Seagers Manager of Sales (717) 464-6800 info@willowvalley.org www.willowvalleycommunities.org

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On Life and Love after 50

Why I Keep Valentine’s Day Low-Key Tom Blake

Recently, a buddy said, “As the ‘Finding Love after 50’ columnist, what plans do you have for you and your new woman friend to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year?”

I think he expected to hear me describe something fancy.

I hadn’t thought about our Valentine’s Day plans and replied, “The plans will be low-key. We’ll stay home and enjoy a fire in the fireplace. We might splurge by preparing a seafood dinner with a spinach salad, and a glass of Chianti topped off with a piece of candy. We’ll be asleep long before midnight.”

He looked at me with a raised eyebrow and muttered, “But you’ve written about senior love for 29 years.”

I said, “I’ve never been a fan of Valentine’s Day. Granted, it’s good for the economy. However, greeting-card companies, restaurants, candy makers, and flower shops mount such an overwhelming marketing blitz, I feel it takes some of the romance out of Valentine’s Day. “Similar to New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day can make people without a mate feel lonelier than they already are. That’s why I avoid making Valentine’s Day a big deal in my columns. I don’t want lonely people to feel even worse.”

When I was younger, I experienced some lonely Valentine’s Days. www.50plusLifePA.com

In a 1996 column, I wrote: “Valentine’s is a bummer for me this year. I’ve taken a few romantic hits lately: divorce, rejection, and loneliness.”

Valentine’s Day 2023 was that way. My partner of 25 years, Greta, had passed away four months before.

I stayed home that Valentine’s night and thought to myself, “Even though I’m grieving, I have my health, a nice roof over my head, good friends, and my two sisters who care about me.”

This year, I have a new woman friend in my life. To us, every day is Valentine’s Day, so we aren’t going to make a big deal out of it this year.

I think the most thoughtful thing a couple can do on Valentine’s Day is to reach out to lonely friends who may be spending the day alone. Invite them to join you for lunch or dinner. Share the love of the day with them.

And look after them during the rest of the year. Loneliness isn’t just a Valentine’s Day reality. It’s year-round.

That said, a Valentine’s rose or orchid for your sweetheart is always appreciated.

For dating information, previous articles, or to sign up for Tom’s complimentary, weekly e-newsletter, go to findingloveafter50.com.

50plus Life

February 2024

15

Bob’s Tech Talk

Bob DeLaurentis

Bundled Software, Silence Callers, and Used iPhones

Q. I got a new computer this year as a gift. Are there any essential apps I should install?

A. If you have been purchasing computers or phones for many years, it’s likely you’ve become habituated to installing special software soon after purchase.

One of the best aspects of new devices is that every PC, Mac, smartphone, and tablet sold today comes with a powerful bundle of free software. There is usually no need to go beyond the bundled software unless something does not fit your workflow, and the short list of exceptions grows shorter each year.

Sometimes the bundled apps are preinstalled, and sometimes they are free from their respective app stores.

When it comes to productivity such as word processors, photo editing, and general internet usage, the built-in software is powerful enough for nearly everyone.

In 2024, the best advice for new devices is to stick with what is preinstalled.

A new purchase is a great time to review your present needs and explore switching to a bundled app. It will simplify your life and save some money in the long run.

Q. I have an iPhone 6 Plus, which does not have a feature to reduce unwanted calls. Help!

A. I am sorry that your iPhone does not include Silence Unknown Callers. This feature was added five years ago in iOS 13. Unfortunately, the iPhone 6 Plus only supports up to iOS 12. However, there is a workaround that might help.

On the Do Not Disturb settings screen, it’s possible to configure different options so that the phone only rings if the caller is already in your contacts list. This is not an ideal solution for everyone, but I hope it helps.

Your question is a good example of the challenges tech writers wrestle with when they cover a product that has over a billion devices in active use and tiers of new features that change from year to year. please see SOFTWARE on facing page

Lend

! r a e r u us yo

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Booming Voice

Weapon of Choice Bill Levine

I just completed the sorting of a 550piece jigsaw puzzle into 5-quart-size storage bags, each with hopefully related pieces.

This was my first step toward climbing the Mount Everest that is puzzle solving with my limited spatial abilities. It has been an engrossing activity. My last attempt at solving jigsaw puzzles was probably around age 10, when I just gave up after fitfully trying to fit pieces together.

But now I am using puzzles as my weapon of choice against dementia, hoping that even sorting and then attaching these pieces will generate new neural paths, even though my puzzle-solving abilities currently are paths to nowhere.

I did give thought to other ways of fostering neuroplasticity. There was, for me, the possibility of concentrating on puzzle solving’s evil twin: woodworking.

I admire those retirees who become master birdfeeder craftsmen.

That’s not in my bailiwick, though. Industrial arts was the only class I got a “C” in during junior high. I did eventually bring home the requisite wooden salad bowl, but really this was an item that was pretty much ghost-crafted by the IA teacher.

I also thought about taking a language courses. Studies show that bilingualism can lower chances of Alzheimer’s.

Unfortunately, I am not bilingual. I perhaps had an opportunity as a child to gain a little proficiency in Yiddish, as my parents and grandparents would slur others in that tongue, shielding me from unsavory English.

The closest I got to bilingualism was in sophomore honors French class, which was truly a nurturing bilingual space. I was clearly overmatched in this class; it was totally conducted in French. When I couldn’t muster the phrase for

“I need to go to the boys’ room,” I asked out of honors.

My first attempt at developing new neural networks was to advance my nonexistent iPhone photography skills.

Starting from scratch, I bought the iPhone for Dummies book.

I thought of photography as an extension of my creative inclinations, albeit with certain technical skills required. I thought I could achieve enough as a photographer to continually entertain my friends with 10 consecutive still lifes of my dog, Mabel.

But I stopped reading the Dummies book when I got to chapter three, entitled “Setting Up Your Camera for Photographic Greatness,” and I determined I was not bound for glory, camera-wise. I did learn how to hold the iPhone camera to center my favorite photo subject: invoices.

So, I am now challenging myself with the aforementioned 550-piece puzzle called Food Truck, centered on a very colorful portable Mexican cantina with too many pieces of similar color patterns. Fortunately, though, the puzzle features a food truck menu, and yes, I can solve interlocking pieces that, for instance, spell “tostadas.”

Matt, my son, asked for pictures showing discernible puzzle progress. I’m confident that I soon will be able to send him a picture of the completed food truck menu, centered perfectly by my proper iPhone-camera-holding position.

SOFTWARE from facing page

battery or a cracked screen.

Cracked screens are visible and easy to avoid, while recent iPhone models show the battery’s overall health in Settings g Battery.

My advice for locating used iPhones begins and ends online.

The safest option is apple.com/store. The refurbished section is not prominent, but searching for “refurbished” will lead you in the right direction.

Refurbished models also qualify for an AppleCare warranty.

Keep in mind that Apple’s refurbished models are priced at modest discounts. Usually the best deals are found on mid-level models with generous installed memory compared to the base models.

Amazon is a bit riskier because it’s a gateway to multiple different sellers with different reputations. But the volume of offerings tends to keep used prices close to fair market value.

In general, I think the best strategy is to focus on devices that are priced at least 50% less than they were new. Much more than that, the risk might not outweigh the potential savings.

Here are a few other observations that I hope are helpful.

When treated with reasonable care, an iPhone will last for five years, and often longer, especially if the battery is replaced.

As a result of their durability and ongoing system updates, there is a vibrant market for used iPhones. (See also the next question.)

Apple releases a major new version of iOS each year. The most recent release is iOS 17, which is the 17th major release since the iPhone was invented.

The iOS version number never matches the iPhone model number, which is why your iPhone 6 Plus originally shipped with iOS 9 and continued to support major version updates though iOS 12.

Unless I explicitly note that a feature I write about is new, I tend to focus on features that have been around at least several years. According to a number of different sources, about 97% of active Apple devices use iOS 13 or newer.

Sadly, significant system updates on Android devices are less frequent.

Q. Given the cost of a new iPhone, are used iPhones a viable alternative?

A. Purchasing a used iPhone comes with risks, but given their solid state construction, the only two things that go wrong most of the time are a weak www.50plusLifePA.com

Bill Levine is a retired IT professional and active freelance writer. Bill aspires to be a humorist because it is easier to be pithy than funny. He may be reached at wlevine0607@comcast.net.

Bob has been writing about technology for over three decades. He can be contacted at techtalk@bobdel.com.

50plus Life

February 2024

17

Nurse Nancy

Navigating Norovirus Nancy J. Schaaf

According to the CDC, fewer than 100 norovirus particles can make you sick, and infected people typically shed billions of particles.

Most people are infectious from the time symptoms begin until about two or three days after symptoms resolve, but some people can remain contagious for up to two weeks after recovery. Outbreaks often occur in schools, daycares, healthcare settings, nursing homes, and cruise ships.

According to the experts, norovirus’s most common signs and symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain or cramps. Other possible symptoms include headaches, body aches, and a lowgrade fever.

According to the CDC, norovirus symptoms usually develop within 12-48 hours after exposure.

Norovirus usually lasts a few days.

However, those at higher risk of developing severe or prolonged symptoms include babies, the elderly, and the immunocompromised.

If symptoms become chronic, this can lead to complications like dehydration. Replenish fluids lost from vomiting and diarrhea, which means drinking plenty of water, Pedialyte, or sports drinks.

Then, eat bland foods and try to let the virus pass through the body, which usually takes one to three days. Most people can be managed at home and should be isolated until they improve.

However, it is essential to watch for signs of severe dehydration and to contact a healthcare provider. These include dry mouth, decreased urination, dizziness, and, in children specifically, crying without tears, fussiness, or unusual sleepiness.

Children under the age of 1, immunocompromised people, and those with prolonged or severe symptoms should also be seen by a physician.

We do not have a vaccine against norovirus yet. However, there are steps you can take to prevent infection and transmission.

Puzzles shown on page 3.

Puzzle Solutions

Recently, I was a substitute teacher at a local school.

Over 100 students were called in sick, and several were sent home during the day. Yes, I did get sick later that evening, experiencing chills, fever, and intestinal problems.

The culprit: norovirus.

Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness outbreaks in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause acute gastroenteritis, or an inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines, resulting in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

Annually, norovirus causes 19 million to 21 million cases of vomiting and diarrhea in the U.S., 465,000 emergency room visits, 109,000 hospitalizations, and 900 deaths, according to the CDC. Anyone can become infected with norovirus, which spreads year-round, but outbreaks are most common during winter. Norovirus is highly contagious; it only takes a few virus particles to cause infection.

It is spread primarily through the fecal-oral route: Bacteria or viruses shed in stool end up on surfaces and our hands, and then get passed from our hands to our mouths, where they are ingested.

Norovirus may be transmitted directly from an infected person or indirectly through contaminated surfaces, objects, foods, or drinks.

If in close contact with someone with an active infection with norovirus, you are at high risk of getting it. Norovirus can spread by caring for an infected person, sharing utensils, or changing diapers.

Even if somebody throws up and there are droplets of vomit aerosolized in the air — that can cause infection. It takes minimal virus particles to transmit the disease, which is why norovirus causes so many explosive outbreaks.

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Hand hygiene is critical, but how you clean your hands matters: It must be with soap and water. Hand sanitizer does not work against norovirus; it is one of the few viruses that does not deactivate with alcohol.

Wash your hands after using the restroom or caring for someone with norovirus and before cooking and eating.

Use a high-level disinfectant like bleach when cleaning surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus. If you or your child is sick, isolate to prevent the virus from spreading within the household.

It is essential to continue washing your hands often, even after you feel better.

Nancy J. Schaaf, a retired RN, worked as a school nurse, a nurse supervisor at a men’s prison, and a health educator. She earned her BSN at Edinboro University.

She is a freelance writer whose health articles appear in magazines throughout the U.S. and Canada. She can be reached at nancyjschaaf@gmail.com.

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Please Join Us for These 2024 Events!

omen’s Expo

28th Annual 22nd Annual 24th Annual

May 10

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

DAUPHIN COUNTY

Hershey Lodge 325 University Drive Hershey

June 4

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Church Farm School 1001 East Lincoln Highway Exton

Sept. 18

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

LANCASTER COUNTY

Spooky Nook Sports 2913 Spooky Nook Road Manheim

Sept. 24

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

York Expo Center Memorial Hall East 334 Carlisle Ave., York

YORK COUNTY

Oct. 16

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

Carlisle Expo Center 100 K St. Carlisle

50plusExpoPA.com

10th Annual

2300 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster

2nd Annual

(Formerly Lancaster Host)

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Wyndham Resort (Formerly Lancaster Host)

2300 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster

omen’s Expo

May 4

York County

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

York Expo Center Memorial Hall East 334 Carlisle Ave., York

June 1

11th Annual

LANCASTER COUNTY

12th Annual

Wyndham Resort

April 6

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Hershey Lodge 325 University Drive Hershey

Sept. 21

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Lebanon Expo Center 80 Rocherty Road Lebanon

E

Oct. 12

8th Annual

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

13th Annual

May 8

20th Annual

25th Annual

25th Annual

Caregiving t Finances t Health & Wellness t Home Improvements Leisure Activities t Nutrition t Retirement Living t Technology and more!

Health & Wellness t Finance t Home Shopping t Technology t Beauty Nutrition t Fashion t Travel and more!

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Wyndham Resort (Formerly Lancaster Host)

2300 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster

omen’s Expo

Nov. 9

Cumberland County

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Carlisle Expo Center 100 K St. Carlisle

aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com

Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available!

(717) 285-1350