October-November 2022 Beaver County Senior News

COMPLIMENTARY

Blackhawk Area Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals to those in need in Beaver County

By Randy Detweiler

S eniors often face three challenges: inadequate nutrition, isolation and staying safe. Many are not aware that a great re source is available in Bea ver County to help with all three of these things. If you are unable to prepare meals or shop for groceries due to a recent surgery or a number of other reasons, Blackhawk Area Meals on Wheels (BAMOW) will deliver two meals to your door five days a week (Monday through Friday).

The history of Meals on Wheels

The first Meals on Wheels kitchen started in 1954 with a small group of Philadelphia citizens de livering 14 meals to se niors in need. The mis

sion was to support senior neighbors to extend their independence and health as they age. Today, this program has grown to one the largest and most effec tive social movements in America, currently help ing more than 2.4 million seniors annually. Meals on Wheels’ goal is to en sure that every senior in America has a chance to live a fully nourished, in dependent life for as long as possible.

BAMOW started out as the Chippewa Meals on Wheels in 1994 and was funded by the Lutheran Service Society. Wilma Uebelacker was newly retired and saw a request for volunteers in the paper. She became a volunteer

and later became the co ordinator of the program. Wilma just recently retired at age 91, but stays active on the board.

This kitchen has not always had an easy time though. In May 2013, funding was cut and the kitchen was closed. Wilma received many calls from clients in quiring where they could get meals. Clearly, a need in the community was not being met. Wilma decided to open the kitchen back up independently. In order to continue, they would need funding, volunteers, a cook and a place to fix and prepare the meals. By November, they had raised $18,000 and secured two years of free rent from the Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Chippewa. The kitchen reopened that month un der their new BAMOW name. The charge for two meals was $5; today, it is $7 for two meals. All meals are freshly cooked, not fro zen. One of the daily meals is a bagged lunch and the other is a hot, three-course meal with a generous en trée portion.

For information and refer ral Services, call the Beaver County Office on Aging at:

Sponsored

by Beaver County Office on Aging

Barb Jablownski (cook), Bernadette Latus, and Dawn Petti (volunteers)

In this issue, we honor grandparents. On page 15, our very own edi tor, Gina Mazza, asks the question: "What's so special about being a grandparent?" Read ers share childhood memories of being at "grandma's / grand pa's house" on page 14. Looking for fun things to do indoors with your grandkids? Turn to page 16.

The autumn months are a great time to get out and enjoy events and classes. Check out pages 3 and 7 for ac tivities in the county. Happy fall to all!

by

Senior News, Inc.

Beechmont Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15229

www.pittsburghseniornews.com pghseniornews@icloud.com

Owner/Publisher: Lynn Hogan Webster

Gina Mazza

Designer: Brian Svoboda

Contributing Writers: Randy Detweiler, Gina Mazza, Mary Bach, Kimberly Blaker, Angela Gentile Printing Company: Knepper Press

Proud Member of

maturepublishers.com

Beaver Fall Events

New Brighton Fall Festival

Saturday, October 15, noon to 6 p.m.

Third Ave., New Brighton

The fourth annual New Brighton Fall Festival will be filled with live music, children’s activities, great food, and displays from area vendors. The event is free. Call (724) 846-1870 for more details.

Halloween in the Park

Saturday, October 29, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

703 Buffalo St., Beaver

Hometown Happenings

will host this holiday “trunk or treat” event at Shaw Park. The day will include music, face painting, food trucks, a haunted pool house, and more. Free admission and parking.

Adopt a pet trough the Beaver County Humane Society Senior 2 Senior program

Kuma, a very friendly, neutered, male, brown and black German Shepherd mix, is at the Beaver County Humane Society eagerly waiting to find his "furever" home.

Kuma is approximately

Household Chemical Disposal

Saturday, October 8, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. South Drive, Brighton Township

Beaver County will hold a household chemical disposal event at the Brady’s Run Park Recycling Center. For details on what is disposable, call the Pennsylvania Resources Council at (412) 488-7490.

To learn more about these and other events happening in Beaver County, go to visitbeavercounty.com.

8 years old and therefore qualifies for our Se nior 2 Senior program which includes a waived adoption fee if adopted by someone 65 years of age or older.

Kuma loves to just lounge around, although he does like an occasional walk. Kuma is waiting for that person or couple who will let him live the leisurely life with them.

Blackhawk Area Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals to those in need in Beaver County

on the role of coordinating the drivers and routes. “Our Friday driving route is very rewarding,” Bruce says, “and have become friends with our clients. When we visit, we get to know them and take note of how they are doing. Enabling these seniors to remain in their homes by delivering their meals is very gratifying. Rita and I can see the difference this makes in their lives.”

Bernadette Latus began volunteering two days a week in 1995 and volunteers. “Wednesdays I’m in the kitchen and I drive a route on Fridays,” she comments. “I love visiting these older adults while contributing to my community. It’s a lot of fun. Everyone from the volun teers to the clients we serve become friends and look out for each other.”

BAMOW cook and volunteers

Today, BAMOW has 50 dedicated volunteers who put in many hours to ensure that older adults in their homes can receive nutritious meals. Volunteers in clude kitchen help, drivers, driver coordinators and accounting personnel. The only paid employee is the cook, Barb Jablonski, who has been at the kitchen since 2009. Barb is known to say that she is no Bobby Flay (the well-known chef) but she is consistent and her standards are high; for example, she makes her own breading and entrees are baked, not fried. All meat is tender and can be cut with a fork. Rita and Bruce Hammerly have been delivering meals at BAMOW for 15 years. Two years ago, they also took

BEAVER FALLS PLAZA

Bernadette Latus and Dawn Petti (volunteers)

Dawn Petti also volunteers two days a week and has been doing so for three years. “Hats off to Barb who coordinates everything in the kitchen and puts so much love and thought into the daily meals,” Dawn says. “Most of my clients are age 85 or older, and each one is kind, sweet and appreciative. I have become friends with them and I always ask if they need any additional help. My 91-year-old client makes me smile when I ask how she is doing, and she responds, ‘I am upright at 91!’”

Pam Rimbey, the volunteer accountant at BAMOW is a retired school teacher who signed on as treasurer to keep track of payments. She soon realized this role would also involve tracking donations, expenses and balancing the budget. “I enjoy this work and it’s a good feeling to help this great program stay success ful,” she notes.

Donations are appreciated

Donations are always needed and appreciated to help the BAMOW operations. Its kitchen is completely inde pendent and depends solely on volunteers and dona tions. Here are the main ways to support this nonprofit:

• Donate your time.

• Make a monetary donation.

• Donate approved prepared items or supplies.

Ways to contact BAMOW

•

To volunteer in the kitchen or as a driver, call Rita Hammerly at (724) 513-9812.

• To inquire about donating food items or supplies, call Barb Jablonski at (724) 843-1022

• To receive Meals on Wheels, call Wilma Uebelacker at (724) 843-6646.

• You may also write to BAMOW, PO Box 1573, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Other Meals on Wheels in Beaver County

In addition to BAMOW, there are two other MOW kitch ens in Beaver County:

• Beaver Falls: (724) 843-5450

• Rochester (through Lutheran Services): (724) 774-

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

Q A&

Ombudsman

Question: What is an Ombudsman?

Answer: An Ombudsman makes reg ular visits to long-term care residents in nursing homes and personal care homes to protect residents’ rights and ensure their quality of life.

Question: How can an Ombudsman help residents?

Answer: The Ombudsman can assist and suggest ideas to help residents solve problems on their own or, with the resident’s consent and direction, the Ombudsman can help the resi dent find a solution. Confidentiality and resident direction are extremely important throughout this process. Residents can remain anonymous if they desire.

Question: How can a resident’s prob lem be resolved?

Answer: First, the Ombudsman obtains written or verbal consent from the resident to help resolve the problem. Next, the Ombudsman and the resident will discuss different strategies and make a plan of action together which includes steps to re solve the issue.

Question: What does the Ombuds man do when helping the resident resolve a problem?

Answer: After getting the resident’s consent and making a plan of action, the Ombudsman will investigate to verify the complaint by speaking with staff, other residents, and/or admin istration at the facility. Once the Om budsman has verified the complaint, they will speak with the resident and develop a plan to resolve the issue. The Ombudsman will follow the plan and keep the resident informed of progress. Once the issue has been resolved, the Ombudsman will follow up with the resident to evaluate the outcome and see if the problem was solved to the resident’s satisfaction.

Question: Could you give an ex ample of problems an Ombudsman can help to resolve?

Answer: There are many types of problems an Ombudsman can help with, such as a resident not getting butter for their toast in the mornings consistently, not having enough activities at the facility, the staff entering resident’s rooms without knocking, the staff not be ing respectful to the residents, or the residents not getting enough of the snacks offered to them. Ombuds men have also helped with residents not being informed of medication changes, residents not being asked to participate in their own care plan meetings, or call bells not be ing answered in a timely manner. Ombudsmen can help with many other issues.

Question: If a resident has a con cern and would like to speak with a certified Ombudsman to discuss it in confidence, how can they contact them?

Answer: Call the Beaver County Of fice on Aging Ombudsman Depart ment at (724) 480-8589.

We have

information, contact

Chalupiak at 724-847-2262.

you interested in

for the Beaver County Office on Aging?

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin SPOTLIGHT on Senior Concerns

Surprises for Shut-ins program now accepting monetary donations

Activities for Fall Fitness

By Tracy Costo and Heather Spinelli Exercise Specialists

Fall is here and the changing leaves are a beautiful scene for all to enjoy. This season is an opportunity to get out and enjoy the cooler air and a host of fun activities.

Enjoy the burst of color by taking a brisk walk and seeing nature’s beauty close up. Visit your local farmer’s market for fresh produce and flowers. Take a friend or your family to a local pumpkin patch for an afternoon. Football and soccer are in full swing, so get out there and root for your favorite team, or have loved ones over to watch the game.

Preparing your yard for winter may feel over whelming. Consider turning it into a workout and plan to do a certain amount each day or week. Staying fit as we age means we need to stay active. Try dancing, water aerobics, yoga, tai chi, swimming, biking, or hiking.

Visit us at Center at the Mall for help with get ting moving through our fitness center and many classes and exercise programs. There is something for everyone! Classes are offered Monday through Friday. We would love to meet you!

To learn more, stop by Center at the Mall or call (724) 7745654.

Since 1987, the Beaver County Office on Aging’s Surprises for Shut-in Program has provided a friendly visit and a bag of gifts to many of our consumers, caregivers, and personal care home residents. For 35 years, we have been amazed at the enormous gen erosity of the community and the hard work and dedication of volunteers and staff to help brighten the holiday season for many older adults.

Even though everything has reopened since the pandemic, it is difficult to predict what these fall and winter months will bring. For this reason, the program cannot accept do nated gifts. However, please consider send ing a monetary donation to assist with the purchase of food, gifts, and necessities. Make checks or money orders (no cash) payable to the Beaver County Office on Aging and mail to Beaver County Office on Aging, 1020 Eighth Ave., Beaver Falls, PA 15010. Please write “Surprises for Shut-ins” in the memo section of your check. Your support will be greatly appreciated by many isolated and homebound individuals.

Visit the Beaver County Office on Aging on line at beavercountypa.gov/Depts/OOA, the upcoming December issue of Beaver County Senior News, or the Center at the Mall news letter or Facebook page for updated informa tion about the program. If it is safe to do so, we may have a few volunteer wrapping days at Center at the Mall.

Thank you for making a difference and spreading joy in the lives of many older adults!

To learn more, call Angela Gentile at (724) 8472262.

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

Circle of Friends

Senior Community Centers

Special Events

October 5 and 9: Pinochle tournament at 9:30 a.m. includes lunch and prizes.

October 10: Fall bingo at 10 a.m. includes lunch.

October 12: Card party includes lunch and prizes. Fee is $5 per person.

November 2 and 16: Pinochle tournament at 9:30 a.m. includes lunch and prizes.

November 9: Card party includes lunch and prizes. Fee is $5 per person.

November 22: Thanksgiving party includes special food, bingo and prizes.

December 1: Christmas party at 10 a.m. in cludes food and music with Gene Testa. Fee is $5 per person.

December 7 and 28: Pinochle tournament at 9:30 a.m. includes lunch and prizes.

December 20: Christmas present bingo in cludes snacks, lunch, and bingo cards. Fee is $5 per person.

December 27: New Year’s party at 10 a.m. includes food and games.

Registration in advance is required for all of the above events.

Weekly events

Wednesdays: Bible study at 10 a.m.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays: Beginner exercise class at 11 a.m.

Thursdays: Line dancing with Marilyn Hall at 9:30 a.m. Fee is $3 per person.

Other events: Bowling, billiards, “out to lunch” trips to various restaurants, and trips to local shows and other events.

more information,

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

Where in the world is Angela? (Hint, hint: look for the volcanos!)

By Angela Gentile Beaver County Office on Aging

After two years of having trips canceled due to COVID, it was time to travel again. I made it to Hawaii, took a cruise while there, and was able to visit four islands: Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai.

I had envisioned how this warm weather state may look from all the beautiful photos in travel magazines and on the internet, but it has many different facets and looks.

I knew Honolulu and Waikiki on the island of Oahu were business-type cities with skyscrapers, and they were much larger than I imagined. There are also lots of apartments, condos, and hotel build ings in the city. The islands get different amounts of rainfall. I was surprised to see how dry and brown the grass was on Oahu and Maui; Hawaii and Kauai were much greener and lusher.

Many people dream of retiring and living in the paradise of Hawaii, but I learned that it takes a lot of money to live there. One driver/tour guide explained to me that many people make between $30,000 to $40,000 a year with a full-time job. He said that married couples may have five jobs, with the husband having three and the wife hav ing two, just to make a comfortable living. Prior to the pandemic, he worked seven days a week.

He added that it can be challenging when severe storms hit the islands, noting that one time, he did not have electricity for a month and a half.

Another guide mentioned that a gallon of milk can cost $11, and gasoline is well over $5 a gal lon. Everything retail is taxed, including services. Housing prices vary, with some properties need ing a lot of tender loving care and others that are beautiful as they are.

I got to see many supernatural and tourist sites while there, including Pu’uhonuao Honaunau His torical Park, Wailuku River State Park, Pearl Har bor, and the National Memorial and USS Arizona Memorial. In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, I walked through a lava tube, At the Hawaii Coffee Company, I enjoyed tasting 100 percent Kona cof fee. I attended a luau. Other awesome sites were the Lahaina Historic District, Waimea Canyon lookout, Wailua River Fern Grotto, and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Turtles looked like rocks along the beach at Ho’okipa Beach Park. And who knew that chickens and roosters run wild all over the islands! I noticed a lot of pay phones throughout the islands, too.

I was impressed with how hard people work throughout the state to welcome visitors like myself who come to take in a bit of paradise. They exhibited true Aloha spirit.

Angela visits the waterfall at Wailua Homesteads.

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

Ombudsman

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

Department of Revenue proposal offers one-time bonus rebates

T

o help older and disabled Pennsylvanians who are still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, Gov. Tom Wolf proposed delivering one-time bonus rebates to claimants of the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program. This proposal is a way to ensure that some of Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable residents receive financial support during a time of need.

This proposal became effective when Gov. Wolf signed Act 54 of 2022 into law. The legislation calls on the Department of Revenue to issue a one-time bonus rebate equal to 70% of the original rebate amount for every claimant who was approved for a rebate on rent or property taxes paid in 2021. The bonus rebates will be paid for using approximately $140 million from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

What do I have to do to get this bonus rebate?

If you are an eligible claimant who has already filed an ap plication for a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2021, you do not need to take any further action. The Department of Revenue will take care of everything on the back end to ensure that you receive your original rebate and bonus rebate for the 2021 claim year.

For eligible claimants who have not yet filed an application (PA-1000), they are encouraged to do so. Eligible Pennsylva nians can do this online by visiting myPATH, the Department of Revenue’s online filing system. This is the best option to ensure that your application is processed as quickly as possible. Claimants may also find a paper application and instructions on the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program by visiting www.revenue.pa.gov/ptrr.

What if I haven’t filed an application yet? Isthere still time to do that?

Yes, there is time to file an application through the remainder of the year. The deadline to apply for rebates on rent and property taxes paid in 2021 was extended to Dec. 31, 2022. The department strongly encourages eligible claimants to use myPATH to file their applications online.

How much can I expect to receive?

A claimant who received the maximum standard rebate of $650 for the 2021 claim year will receive an additional one-time bonus rebate of $455 (70% of the original rebate). Under this example, the claimant will have received a grand total of $1,105 between the standard rebate and one-time bonus rebate.

Qualifying homeowners also may receive a supplemental rebate that will boost their rebate to a maximum of $975. If a claimant received the $975 maximum rebate for the 2021

claim year, their one-time bonus rebate will be $682.50 (70% of the original rebate including the supplemental amount). In this example, the claimant will have received a grand total of $1,657.50 for the 2021 claim year.

When will the bonus rebates start going out?

The Department of Revenue anticipates that checks and direct deposit payments for the one-time bonus rebates will start in early September 2022. The department will work as quickly as possible to ensure the bonus rebates are distributed in a timely manner

How do I check the status of my bonus rebate?

The Department of Revenue will issue letters to 2021 claim ants of the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program to explain how much they will receive for their one-time bonus rebates. The letters will show the total rebate amount — a grand total that includes the amount of the original rebate for the 2021 claim year plus the amount for the one-time bonus rebate that the claimant will receive.

I have not yet received my original rebate for the 2021 claim year. Will I receive one check or two? How will it work if I elected direct deposit for my rebate?

As of mid-August, if you are a claimant who has already received your original rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2021, you will receive your additional bonus rebate in a one-time payment. The rebate will be delivered through the same method (check or direct deposit) that you elected on your original application form.

As of mid-August, if you are (a) an eligible claimant whose 2021 rebate application is still being processed; or (b) an eligible claimant who has not yet submitted your 2021 re bate application form, you will receive a combined rebate (original + bonus) in a one-time payment. You will receive your combined rebate through the same method you elected on your original application form (check or direct deposit).

What if I already received my original rebate for the 2021 claim year? Is there any action I need to take to secure or apply for my one-time bonus rebate?

No, you are set. The Department of Revenue will automati cally calculate your one-time bonus rebate and deliver it to you through the same method that you received your original rebate for the 2021 claim year. No additional application is necessary to receive the one-time bonus rebate.

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

DMVA provides financial relief to veterans and beneficiaries facing hardships

The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) wants to remind veterans and their ben eficiaries that assistance is available if they are dealing with unexpected financial issues.

DMVA’s Veterans Temporary Assistance program pro vides eligible veterans and their beneficiaries with finan cial relief for essentials such as food, shelter, fuel, and clothing.

More information, including how to qualify, can be found online at dmva.pa.gov.

Suicide prevention and crisis support hotline launches as 988

A new, shortened phone number for suicide prevention and crisis support was recently launched across the coun try through the Department of Human Services. Now, anyone in crisis can dial or text 988 to be connected with a trained, compassionate crisis response counselor.

Pennsylvania has 13 crisis call centers that collectively serve the entire state. “Pennsylvanians now have a new, easier way to connect to behavioral or mental health crisis services—a historic step to increase access to life-saving support when people need it most,” commented DHS Act ing Secretary Meg Snead. “988 can be used by anyone, any time, at no cost, no matter what you are experienc ing. Your life matters, so please know that this service is always here to help provide the support that you or your loved ones deserve.”

The call centers provide support for individuals consider ing suicide, self-harm, or any behavioral or mental health need for themselves, as well as people looking for help for a loved one experiencing a mental health crisis. While the majority of calls are triaged and de-escalated without deploying in-person services, in communities where mobile crisis mental health teams are available, the 988 counselor can dispatch a team to provide on-site support and interventions. They are also able to call police or other emergency services if there is an immediate risk to life or safety. Callers to 988 can also connect with the Veterans Crisis Line or to assistance in Spanish.

Lifeline services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at no cost. The existing Lifeline phone number (800) 273-8255 will remain available, as will 911 for anyone experiencing a life-threatening emergency.

To learn more, visit dhs.pa.gov/Services/Mental-Health-In-PA/ Pages/988.aspx.

Are you or someone you know at risk of losing water service at their home? Help is available for Pennsylva nians who need help with water bills or who may lose water service.

The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a new, temporary assistance program cre ated by the American Rescue Plan Act. LIHWAP can help households that are in emergency situations maintain essential water access. Crisis situations include:

• Past-due water bills;

• Termination of water service; or,

• Threat of termination of water service in the next 60 days.

To qualify, applicants must meet income requirements and have a crisis situation with water service. Learn more about LIHWAP and find out if your water service is participating at www.dhs.pa.gov/waterhelp.

Apply for LIHWAP and other public assistance programs online at anytime through www.compass.state.pa.us.

Walking Down Memory Lane

with Vintage Debbie

By Debbie Smith Wagner

It’s so much fun sharing my love of nostalgia with all of you! I mean, who doesn’t enjoy reflecting on the easier, breezier years of our youth and decades past? In hon or of September being Grandparent’s Month, I hope the memories that our readers share below bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.

What can you remember about your grandparent’s house?

“My grandmother was my piano teacher and gave les sons to many kids in Rochester. She had a baby grand piano in her living room, which we all played. Those days of her sitting beside me on the piano bench while she chewed Beeman’s gum are forever ingrained in my heart.”

- Dianne Neely Hemphill, Beaver Falls

“The asparagus patch, horseradish, and cherry tree. Fun Picnics. The wringer-type washer with a copper boiler on a two-burner gas stove to starch the sheets. The coal furnace and linoleum floors. Homemade Ger man cooking.”

- Karen Martino, Zelienople

“The love!”

- Al Mazuch, Mars

“The smell of Grandma’s food, her house dress, the house itself. Listening to her talk in Italian. I’m not crying, you’re crying!”

- Jackie DiCicco Fullen, Patterson Twp.

“Unconditional love from Nonna.”

- Elena Punzell, Ellwood City

“The smells, sliding down the cellar bulkhead doors, butterscotch candies, a cookie tin full of crayons and coloring books, standing over the heating grate (á la Marilyn Monroe), watching Wild Kingdom.”

- Holly Mathias, Ambridge

“My grandpa in his police uniform, his wine cellar, his silver, airplane-shaped lighter, my grandma’s home made tarts and baked goods.”

- Debbie Ferrigno Black, Chippewa

“My grandfather had an apple orchard and kept the apples in a cool room. Even years after his death, you could still smell apples. He and my grandma (she died when I was five) made apple butter over an open fire in the back of the house.”

- Trudi White, Aliquippa

“I loved the glass doorknobs in grandma’s house, the big Santa she hung on the front door and the big brick front porch where we sat on her green metal glider for hours.”

- Kimpa Moffatt, Wexford

“Real peacock feathers passed down for generations, coo-coo clocks, Hummels, so many treasures.”

- Erika Schaltenbrand, Wexford

“Pumping water from an outdoor pump for our drink ing water. There was no indoor plumbing so we used an outhouse.”

- Janet Smith, Cincinnati, Ohio

“The wonderful aromas of Italian cooking and learn ing how to make gnocchi, singing together around the piano, making old-fashioned milkshakes, swinging on the porch swing, and playing in the snow.”

- Sabina Simpkins, Palm City, Florida (formerly of Beaver)

“Playing Pokeno and eating homemade pierogis.”

- Annemarie Ballas Tejan, Beaver County

Vintage Debbie is a vintage history buff and performance artist. She entertains at local senior centers and high rises, retirement facilities, nursing homes, and historical societies with her unique style of era-specific music, dance and dress. To learn more, follow Vintage Debbie’s World on Facebook. To book her for an event, email wagner.debbie@ymail.com.

What’s so special about being a grandparent? I was about to experience the answer

By Gina Mazza

T

hese are variations on the answers I expected to hear in the spring of 2022 when I asked some friends in the 412 to share what makes being a grandparent so special. Eagerly awaiting the birth of my first grandchild in early summer, I had begun to ponder, sincerely and curiously, what could possibly top the preciousness of having my own children and watching them grow into kind, loving, accomplished adults.

The responses I got were actually far more profound than I had anticipated, which only elevated my excitement for the blessed event.

“A grandchild is the most amazing gift that your child gives you,” shares Nancy Kelmeckis of Freedom, Beaver County, grandmother of two. “While you may never have thought that your heart could open more than it did when your children were born, it does—almost twice as much the first time you hold that newly born baby.”

As the grandchild grows, that bond only deepens, Nancy went onto explain. “Parents love their children uncondition ally, but they will not always ‘like” their child because this is the natural case in raising kids. But those kids know that in grandma’s arms, they will always find comfort and a heart that only sees them for their best, with no strings attached. They will continue to seek that out as they grow older.”

Not having the responsibility of being the disciplinarian was a central theme in my friends’ comments. “I can honestly say that the joy and love is different than having your own children, perhaps because there isn’t the same responsibil ity,” confirms Lisa Story of Moon Township, grandmother of eight. “With my grandchildren, time seems to stand still when I’m with them. I can just slow down, hold their hands, pick flowers, read books and spoil them with love.”

As for the “sending them home” comment that I thought I’d hear, Debra Holz of Monroeville, grandmother of four, says “I don’t get grandparents who say that or who have the attitude that ‘I raised my children and I’m not going to raise my children’s children.’ I feel privileged to have been a part of my grandkids’ lives these past 15 years, and all that matters is the simplicity of loving these children. Deep in my heart, even the sensation I have right now talking to you about this, it’s unlike anything else I’ve ever experienced. It’s nothing but joy.”

Free of the worries and stress that come with raising and financially supporting a family, Debra and others cite that this next phase of life brings with it a different perspective.

“When I was a father, I had a lot of life responsibilities, like spouse, jobs, and running a business,” recalls Freddie Cec chini, who splits his time between Pittsburgh and Phoenix, Arizona, where his two grandsons live. “Even though I was there every day with my son while he was growing up, I am able to devote more quality time now with my grandkids. At this stage, you can teach them about life because you have that experience. I feel a strong desire to pass on the wisdom I’ve acquired. It’s the greatest thing to see their eyes light up and them being so enthusiastic about even the simple things that we do together.”

Debra agrees that the deepening of years means we have more to offer our progeny. “My values and priorities are dif ferent now that I’ve become aware of what is really important and meaningful in life and what is not.”

Lisa adds: “Your grandchildren’s thoughts, ideas and interests become yours, all while you teach them direction in life.”

With all of this heartfelt advice being proffered in response to my inquiry, anticipation for my grandchild’s birth contin ued to mount. April showers and May flowers turned into a June span of sunshine and sweltering heat in Nashville, where I (thankfully) live 30 minutes down the road from my daughter, Gianne, and son-in-law, Dominic, the parents to be.

Then one night towards the end of June, I dreamt of my grandson for the first time. He was a baby, but as is often the case with dreams, he was equally mature enough to walk, talk and suit up for a fun game in a youth football league. Bending forward with his tiny hand poised on the line of scrimmage, he could barely contain his excitement to get in the game. “Put me in, coach! Put me in!” he seemed to cheer to the sky above.

The very next evening, Gianne went into labor. Finally, I would get to meet my grandson, Nico Joseph.

Everything that my friends told me is true . . . and then some. I distinctly recall the feeling of falling in love with my daughter—and 18 months later, my son, Carlin—when they came into the world, and yet, meeting Nico was somehow as poignant in a different sort of way. What words can I put to it? I was mesmerized by this tiny being and mystified by the miracle of it all.

This child of my child . . . that priceless look of pure love and awe in the eyes of his new parents . . . my son becom ing an uncle . . . being witness to it all while a part of it . . . sensing the great, glorious expanse of the future before us and our family. The circle of our lives instantly felt all the more complete, with our infinite capacity to love only beginning to reveal itself.

As this next phase of life’s journey begins, I am bearing in mind one other piece of sage advice that I happened upon in a random online meme: “Grandparents eventually grow old, but their love never does.” That’s my new end game, from now through the rest of my years. Give the love that only a grandparent can. Like every other stage of life, I’ll figure it out as I go along, but I have a feeling this will be the most natural thing I’ve ever done.

Gina Mazza is the managing editor of Pittsburgh Senior News and Beaver County Senior News. She can be reached at ginamazza@ me.com To learn more, visit ginamazza.com.

“You can spoil them with treats then send them home.”

“It’s all of the fun with none of the responsibility.”

“It’s nature’s compensation for the teen years.”

Gina with her grandson, Nico Joseph.

Indoor fun with grandkids: Activities to brighten a gloomy day

By Kimberly Blaker

D

on’t let the weather get your grandkids down, because there’s no better occasion to enjoy cozy indoor fun. Try some of these ideas to brighten everyone’s spirit and strengthen your family bond.

Make a tent or fort. Indoor tents and forts make fun play areas as well as cozy retreats for reading or watching movies. To build a tent, take several bed sheets, tablecloths, or blankets, and hang them over tables or backward-facing chairs. For a more permanent structure, connect PVC tubing into the shape of a box. Then drape it with sheets.

Hold a magic show. Pick up magic trick books or watch magic videos online. Then practice up, and invite the neighborhood kids to come and watch your act.

Have a dance-a-thon. Crank up the volume to some pop, hip-hop, or whatever your grandkids’ favorite music, and see whose energy holds out the longest.

Hold an art workshop. Gather the basics such as paper, paint, and markers. Then scrounge for a variety of recyclables such as boxes, toilet paper rolls, plastic bottles, caps, old magazines, and any thing else you can think of. If you have any crafting supplies such as yarn, fabric, or glitter, pull those out as well. Then let your family’s inspiration flow, and create to everyone’s heart’s content.

Do a read-in. First, head to the library and have everyone pick out some books. When you return home, pull out pillows and blankets in the family room, and spend the day lounging and reading. Another option is for everyone to take turns read ing aloud from a book that’s geared toward all ages. Learn self-defense. Rent or buy a martial arts DVD on basic self-defense. Then gather your grand kids to practice techniques that could help them escape a dangerous situation.

Play bakery. What better way to warm up on a chilly day and enjoy family time than to bake up some tasty treats? Make a day of it, and get all your baking done in advance for an upcoming gathering or so you have treats to store. After you’ve suffi ciently sampled the goodies, freeze the remainder.

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a workout. Physical fitness is vital for the entire family. Look for a HIIT, Zumba, or another cardiovascular exercise video with today’s hottest music and moves.

Paint a wall mural. Is your family artistic? If so, choose a wall in your basement, garage, mudroom, or playroom in need of a personal touch. Before you begin, draw your mural idea on a piece of paper. Then buy a couple quarts of primary color paints plus a quart of white and black. Mix the col ors at home to create additional colors and shades.

Enjoy a picnic. Who says picnics are only for outdoors? Put together all the fixings of a picnic complete with a picnic basket, if you have one. Then spread out a blanket in your family room, and enjoy the grub.

Tell stories. Write a dozen or so story prompts each on a separate piece of paper, and toss them into a bowl. Then take turns pulling out a story prompt and telling a story. Another option is for one person to start the story. Then, go around the room, and each of you adds a sentence to the story. See how long you can keep the story alive.

Get cultured. Choose a culture your grandkids would like to experience and learn more about. Look for recipes from that culture online as well as mealtime customs for a fuller experience. Then have everyone pitch in and help cook the inter national fare.

Hold a game night. Pull out the cards and board games, and gather some snacks. Then start keeping score to see who will be the night’s grand winner.

Leetsdale Manor

Perform a puppet show. Pull out old socks or brown paper lunch bags, and make your own puppets. Draw on the faces, and use yarn or string for the hair. Then take turns performing your acts.

Consumer Corner

Beware of schemes, scams and frauds that steal your identity and other assets

By Mary Bach

I n 2021, Americans lost $5.9 billion of their hard-earned money to identity theft, invest ment fraud, and numer ous other scams. While the old ones still work, there are many new ones that dupe the in nocent, including our seniors. Ben Franklin said, “Distrust and cau tion are the parents of security.” Fraud persists today and requires each of us to be very careful in all of our business dealings, whether using the phone, debit/credit cards, or an investment advisor or broker. Here is an update on some of the latest creative scams.

• The automated caller advises that a family member has made financial arrangements for you to have a medical/emergency alert button should you “fall and can’t get up.” He directs you to dial “1” to connect with the shipping department and to fill out required paperwork. Don’t do it! If you do, you will pay dearly and will likely get nothing.

• An email in your inbox notes that the US Postal Ser vice or other delivery service has a package for you that they have not been able to deliver. You are directed to click on a provided link to get more details. Don’t do it! If you do, your computer will be infected with a virus or malware that will cost you money to repair.

• The caller notes that he is with Microsoft technical support and that there is a serious issue with your computer that he can help you fix. All he needs is for you to go online and let him take remote control of your system so that the problem can be cleaned up. Don’t do it! With control of your computer, the scammer can steal your identity and empty your financial accounts.

• You sometimes browse on social media because you want to connect with others who have similar interests to yours. Before long there is an exchange requiring your financial help with either plane tickets or other expenses for that first in-person meeting. Don’t do it! Many people have lost their life savings on this one.

• I learned of this scam from a hotel clerk who had the following story transpire twice at her location: After midnight a call comes in asking for a specific guest in a specific room. Many hotels make that information es sential to connect a late-night call. A crook may garner such information by sitting near the registration desk and listening to the name and room number that was assigned. He or she makes a phone call at one o’clock in the morning and gets connected to the resident. “This is the front desk, Mr. or Mrs. Guest” the scam mer notes and apologizes for the disturbance at such an hour. “We’re having a problem with your credit card information and have been denied payment on the basis of there being no such account of that number in your name. I just need you to give me the numbers and expiration date on your card and the three digits on the reverse of the card and I will be able to clear this up for you. If I don’t call you back within five minutes, you will know that the problem has been resolved.” Now how many guests wouldn’t cooperate with the hotel’s desk clerk? The bottom line here is that at least two guests at this hotel found out that they gave up their identity when they checked out of the hotel and were told there never was a problem. Their next credit card statement was a whopper!

• A number of scams work so well for crooks that they are always in vogue. The “Grandparent Scam,” the “Missed Jury Duty Scam,” the “Foreign Lottery Scam,” and the “Sweepstakes Scam” are some of the most prolific. Keep them all in mind when you answer the phone or get mail on these types of subjects.

When I speak to groups of theft prevention, I am often privately approached by an attendee who will tell me that they wish they had heard my warnings before that day, as they or a loved one had been scam victims. Sometimes someone in the audience will raise their hand and admit they were scammed. It takes courage to admit before friends and associates that you were taken, but it does much to convince people to remain on guard and to follow that gut feeling to be wary of anything that sounds too good to be true.

Mary Bach is a nationally recognized, independent consumer advocate who lives in western Pennsylvania. She can be reached at mbadvocate@msn.com or (724) 327-6969.

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call (724) 775-1220 for additional information www.beavercountyhousing.org

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