March - May 2024 Beaver County Senior News

Linda Hall retires from Beaver County Office on Aging

By Gina Mazza

T hose who’ve worked with Linda Hall during her span of 39 years with the Beaver County Office on Aging know her to be a humble, behind-the-scenes person whose heart was deeply embedded in the agency’s mission to help older adults in the county have a better quality of life, stay safe and preserve their dignity.

“Linda has always been very much in touch with the problems and tribulations that affect the lives of Beaver County seniors, including the need for support and advocacy to navigate the wide range of issues they face,” comments Susan Lintz Pollack, Deputy Administrator for the Beaver County Office on Aging. “Creative solutions and compassion are an inherent part of Linda’s character.”

Linda officially retired from the agency on February 1. “It has been my honor and privilege to serve the 44,000 older adults in Beaver County, and to help grow programs and services over the years that better their lives,” Linda shares. “It’s always been my passion to work with older adults and continue the agency’s mission.”

Linda has seen a tremendous amount of positive changes since she began working at BCOA in 1985. “Back then, there were 11 employees and now there are 35, which is due in great part to the expansion of new programs and the increasing demand for services.”

Linda came into the agency as a care manager, then worked in the Information & Referral Department before moving into the administrative side handling contracts before becoming administrator in April 2015. Much has happened during her tenure as administrator in terms of the growth of the senior population and the agency’s response to meeting their needs.

Tuesday, March 19

Happy Easter!

Sunday, March 31

BCOA Advisory Council members: [from left] Linda Ondrusek, Linda Hall, Theresa Lukes and [sitting] Fanny Farmer.

United Way of Beaver County’s ALICE Fund helps those who earn above the Federal Poverty Level yet can’t afford basic essentials

Did you know that in Beaver County, 38 percent of the households who are working (perhaps several jobs) are not able to afford essentials like food and utilities? The United Way of Beaver County is aiming to lower the number of local low-income residents who often go hungry, fall behind on their utility bills, struggle to stay in their homes, or need after-school programs to keep their children safe and engaged while they are working second or even third jobs. These individuals could be any of our neighbors, co-workers, friends and even family members.

This is the goal of the ALICE Fund—to help county residents who may not be able to afford the essentials that some may take for granted, like food for their families. ALICE is an acronym for “Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.” This describes households that earn more than the Federal Poverty Level but less than the basic cost of living.

Individual Beaver County neighborhood ALICE percentages range from 17 to 73 percent, with many hovering right around the 50 percent mark. Many in this group earn too much to qualify for assistance programs, so their need is often overlooked.

The United Way of Beaver County recognizes these percentages and is seeking to lower them in the coming years with help from others in the community who can make either individual or corporate donations to the fund. As an added incentive, ALICE is set up as an individual donor matching grant challenge with local companies. So far, UWBC has received three offers of matching grants:

1. Shell Polymers in Monaca has given $50,000 to use to match either new Corporate/Business donations or Corporate/Business donations that are higher than their donations last year. This matching grant has now been fulfilled.

2. An anonymous Beaver County donor has generously given $25,000 to use to match new individual donations or individual donations that are higher than the person donated last year.

3. Due to the outpouring of support from the community and the great need, Shell Polymers in Monaca has given an additional $25,000 to use to match donations to The ALICE Fund.

Here’s how it works: All first-time donations or donation amounts greater than what was given by a company or individual last year will be matched. So, if you gave $5,000 last year and raise your gift to $6,000 this year, the additional $1,000 will be matched, which allows $2,000 to go into the ALICE Fund (the $5,000 will go towards the UWBC’s Annual Campaign). If you did not donate last year, your entire donation this year will be matched.

These mini-grants have the ability to help many Beaver County families in 2024 and beyond—families that we may never be able to get help otherwise.

The United Way of Beaver County is located 3582 Brodhead Road, Suite 205 in Monaca. To make an online donation, visit unitedwaybeaver.org.

Cultural events happening this spring in Beaver County

The World Goes ‘Round

March 14 to 16, 7:30 and 9 p.m.

March 17, 2 and 3:30 p.m.

Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, Midland (724) 576-4644

$18

Come to the cabaret! You’ll leave the theatre swinging and swaying as you get a glimpse into the musical world of distinguished and celebrated writing team Kander and Ebb. Enjoy a stunning musical and dance revue of the songbook from this multi-Tony Award-winning team.

April 2, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.

Beaver Falls Middle School Auditorium, Beaver Falls (724) 846-3203

$25

The Suits are four dynamic gentlemen performing four genres of hit music across four decades: from the 50s through the 80s. The group fuses smooth choreography and tight harmonies with exciting showmanship and fun audience interaction.

The Suits

with Vintage Debbie Walking Down Memory Lane

By Debbie Smith Wagner

Libraries remind us that there are so many wonderful things in the world. They are a place for not only books, but a whole world of community, knowledge, communication, education, and culture. Most of us have memories of spending time in libraries during our youth. As you read the following reflections from local residents, I hope they spark some memories with your own friends and family, and inspire you to visit to your local library.

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood library?

“Lived in many places, but my favorite was in Winthrop, Massachusetts, which had a library in the town square. It was like a temple to me.”

– Ross Jennings, Wexford

“At the Rochester Library in Beaver County, I was always amazed by all the great books in their children’s room. It’s where I discovered my all-time favorite childhood book, The Boxcar Children.”

– Jody Mengel-Gulish, Butler County

“Carnegie Free Library was my favorite library when I was growing up. They had the best biographies and such kind librarians!”

– Jody Shugert, Beaver County

“All my life, I either went to or worked in the library. I was five or six when I discovered books and that was the only thing I wanted for Christmas. I’d go with my cousin who also loved books and became a librarian, too. I went to Avalon Library and later worked there, as well as in the North Hills, before we moved to Ohio.”

– Carole Wagner, Aurora, Ohio (former Pittsburgh resident and Debbie Wagner’s mother-in-law)

“Carnegie Free Library of Beaver Falls was my safe haven when I was younger. I wrote most of my reports there and would spend time reading my homework chapters. I felt safe there and, of course, it was a quiet place to study.”

– Debbie Ferrigno Black, Beaver County

“I practically lived at the Carnegie Library from age four on up. Still love it to this day. I wish everyone realized the value of a library to a free society.”

– Jackie DiCicco Fullen, Beaver County

“I loved story time at Beaver Area Memorial Library. My favorite part was looking at the fish tank. So pretty and calming!”

– Paula Soto, Beaver County

“My favorite part of Northland Public Library was the fish tank in the children’s section. Kids would gather at the library every day after school and play on the hillside. I was lucky to go to school right next to the library. I would go to the yearly $5 bag of books sale with my mom and grandma. The last time I was there, I scored a hardcover version of Shel Silverstein’s Where the Sidewalk Ends. A great vintage book that I now enjoy sharing with my nephew!”

– Erika Schaltenbrand, Pittsburgh

“My momma didn’t drive and my dad worked a couple jobs, so I wasn’t introduced to a library until high school. I was a member of the library club and worked there. One of my favorite books was Black Beauty. To this day. I am a book worm.”

– Nettie Doutt Chaffee, Beaver County

“I loved the New Castle Public Library. I was eight years old when I first discovered that I could find so many books there about things I liked, check them out and take them home to read. Libraries have always been dear to my heart.”

– MJ Isles McCurdy, Butler County

“When I was a kid, I went to the Oakley Library in Cincinnati for story time. It was such a magical place. I’d walk in and feel so comfortable. We had a wonderful librarian who would act out the characters in all the books. We always had a snack and we were able to play with the puppets in the room, which was a blast! I’m still a big library buff and I don’t think that will ever change.”

– Debbie Wagner, Beaver County

Vintage Debbie is a vintage history buff and performance artist with a unique style of era-specific music, dance and dress. She entertains area seniors through an interactive and fun music memory experience in Beaver, Lawrence and Butler counties. To learn more, follow Vintage Debbie’s World on Facebook, search Vintage Debbie’s music videos on YouTube, or view videos of her performances by visiting pittsburghseniornews.com. To book her for an event, email wagner.debbie@ymail.com.

Linda Hall retires from Beaver County Office on Aging

Continued from page 1

“Many of us are living a lot longer nowadays, so our clientele gradually started to serve county residents into their 80s and 90s, as well as the caregiver population, which can be, for example, a 70-year-old taking care of their 90-year-old parent. Our clientele also grew to include serving grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.”

Because people are living longer and desire to remain in their own homes, BCOA has stepped up over the decades to support this goal, including connecting consumers to resources for assistance with home repairs, home modifications like ramps and grab bars, home-delivered meals, grocery shopping, transportation to doctor and other appointments, and other programs necessary for individuals to age in place.

“Within the next three years, there will be more older adults in Beaver County than children, so that tells you that there is an ever-growing demand for services,” Linda predicts. “Fortunately, the agency has been able to obtain a couple of local grants over the years to fund these new programs, especially for those living alone. BCOA has developed a lot of partnerships beyond the typical social service agencies. In recent years, those partnerships have included local municipalities, police departments, and the county court system. All of this has benefitted the agency’s ability to protect older adults from neglect, exploitation and abuse.

“I’ve also noticed that we get a lot many more phone calls than in the past, which I believe is due to seniors

needing help with the technology and navigating through complicated applications when signing up for programs and services.”

The biggest challenge that Linda has seen in recent years is staffing in-home services to match the demand for them. She notes that the number of overall services that people request and use has increased across the board, particularly programs that enable them to be active, stay fit and socialize with other older adults.

“That is why our senior centers are steadily growing. Attendance is up. Ridership [to and from the centers] is up. Participation in lunches [at the centers] is up.”

The BCOA management, advisory council and staff celebrated Linda on her last day as administrator with cake and a special photo opp. “I asked that everyone show up with the BCOA T-shirts on, and they did!,” she says. “I was so lucky to have had a great staff and management team all these years. They are dedicated, caring, knowledgeable and an asset to not only the agency but to Beaver County and older adults and their families Everything I’ve been able to accomplish there has been a team effort. I didn’t do it alone.”

“Linda always has been a creative thinker on how we can offer services in a unique way that help our older adults to be healthy and active,” confirms Administrative Officer Angela Gentile. “She felt that this could happen by creating a state-of-the-art senior center in a non-traditional setting: a shopping mall. Now, we have

Center at the Mall, which opened October 2010 in the Beaver Valley Mall. Moving to this new location resulted in tremendous growth in our senior center program. Thousands of Beaver County older adults have attended for the meals, fitness center, fitness classes, computer lab, classes, clubs, pool tables, coffee bar and more. It has become a safe haven for older adults to meet new people and to enrich their lives with activities.”

Now that she is retired, Linda very much looks forward to spending more time with her three children, who live in Louisiana, Atlanta and Las Vegas, as well as her five grandchildren.

“One thing on my bucket list is to do a cross-country trip and see all the friends I haven’t been able to spend time with over the years,” she says. “I look forward to reconnecting with them in Seattle, Arizona, Florida, New Hampshire and elsewhere on the East and West Coasts.” Everyone at BCOA wishes Linda the best into the future. “The aging population in Beaver County is better off today for the groundwork that Linda has brought to the agency,” Susan says. “We wish her happiness, peace and good health in her retirement.”

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

Tips for trimming expenses when costs are escalating

By Angela Gentile, Administrative Officer II Beaver County Office on Aging

E

xpenses have increased significantly for everyone. The cost of utilities, rent, taxes, gasoline, groceries and more have escalated and are putting a crimp on monthly budgets of many households. Here’s some ways to save money—either immediately, or gradually over time.

• Consider cutting out memberships that you do not use or rarely use. Reevaluate if you are using the mobile apps on your phone or reading all of the magazines that you subscribe to.

• Ask if stores or restaurants offer a senior or veterans discount.

• Check the costs of your Medicare supplement or Advantage Plan during open enrollment in October through December. The Beaver County Office on Aging PA MEDI counselors can help you determine what plans may be beneficial to you and can save you some premium or copay costs.

• Use the public library to borrow books. Stop at the Little Free Library boxes throughout the county, where you may take a book at no cost.

• Ease your energy consumption by not using a second refrigerator when you can get everything you need in one. Unplug any unused electronic devices and chargers when not in use.

• Evaluate your television choices. If you have cable, call the company and request a retention discount for being a long-time customer. Consider dropping cable service and purchasing an online streaming service instead.

• Brew your coffee at home. Cook and eat meals at home. Freeze leftovers to enjoy another day.

• When dining out, consider having a meal at one of our three senior centers in the county. The suggested donation for those ages 60 or older is $3.

• Buy generic brand grocery items instead of name brands.

• Use what you already have in your home. Read those books, work a jigsaw puzzle, make things with fabric, yarn and other craft supplies. Cook with the dry goods in your pantry.

• Check the ad circulars or online flyers for weekly sales at stores.

• Save money on clothing by shopping at the variety of thrift shops in the area.

• Use less water by taking quick showers and not running the water while you are brushing your teeth. And do what most of our parents told us, “Shut off the lights when you leave the room!”

Are you interested in volunteering for the Beaver County Office on Aging?

We

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

Caregivers get support through local Caregiver Support Program

The Beaver County Office on Aging has a program that supports caregivers in keeping their loved ones at home. Caregivers are assigned a Care Manager, receive a caregiver assessment, and can receive reimbursement for preapproved services, supplies, home modifications and assistive devices.

Caregivers ages 18 and older who are caring for individuals ages 60 and older, as well as caregivers ages 55 and older who are raising children under age 18, may qualify for this reimbursement program. Verification of the care receiver’s household income is required as part of the assessment. Caregivers and care receivers with Medicaid-funded, in-home services are not eligible for this program.

Educational opportunities for caregivers are also offered through the Caregiver Support Program. Recently, the program purchased 147 caregiver books and kits for the Beaver County Library System. (See sidebar for a sampling of titles.) Visit your local library to see which books are available or to request items from one of the other libraries.

To learn more, contact the Beaver County Office on Aging at (724) 847-2262 or email CSP@bcoa.us to make a referral. Mention the Caregiver Support Program when you call or email.

REGISTERED DIETITIAN NEEDED

The Beaver County Office on Aging is seeking a parttime registered dietitian to work under contract.

Duties include:

• On-site monitoring of our food service provider once a year

• Monitoring of our three senior centers and how they serve the meals every six months

• Monitoring of the meals served at three senior centers every six months

• Completing a monitoring form for each visit

• Some limited menu reviews

• Occasionally writing an article for the agency newsletter and presenting information at health fairs.

• Up to 30 hours of work per year

Interested individuals may submit name, address, telephone number, email and a resume to the Beaver County Office on Aging at aging@bcoa.us.

Pick up one or more caregiver books at your local library

• Managing Anxiety in Children: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents and Caregivers by Helen J. Vogt

• When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness: A Guide for the Parenting Journey by Frank J. Sileo PhD, Carol S. Potter MFT

• Some Days: A Tale of Love, Ice Cream, and My Mom’s Chronic Illness by Julie A. Stamm, Chamisa Kellogg

• How Do You Care for a Very Sick Bear? by Vanessa Bayer, Rosie Butcher

• The Reluctant Caregiver: Making Peace with an Imperfect Parent by Karen Oke

• Being Well with Chronic Illness: A Guide to Joy and Resilience with Your Diagnosis by Kat Hill, Nancy Peate

• Chicken Soup for the Soul: Navigating Eldercare and Dementia: 101 Stories for Family Caregivers by Amy Newmark

• When Grandparents Become Parents: How to Succeed at Raising Your Children’s Children by Rick Johnson

• When Caregiving Calls: Guidance as You Care for a Parent, Spouse, or Aging Relative by Aaron Blight

• Raising Your Grandchildren: Encouragement and Guidance for Those Parenting Their Children’s Children by Cavin Harper, Josh Mulvihill

• Parenting Our Parents by Jane Frances

• Get it Together: Organize Your Records So Your Family Won’t Have To by Melanie Cullen, Shae Irving J.D.

• The Complete Family Guide to Dementia: Everything You Need to Know to Help Your Parent and Yourself by Thomas F. Harrison, Brent P. Forester

• The Caregiver’s Guide to Cancer: Compassionate Advice for Caring for You and Your Loved One by Victoria Landes, LCSW

• The Anatomy of Grief: How the Brain, Heart, and Body Can Heal after Loss by Dorothy P. Holinger, Ph.D.

• The Accidental Caregiver: Wisdom and Guidance for the Unexpected Challenges of Family Caregiving by Dr Kimberly Fraser

• The Alzheimer’s Spouse: Finding the Grace to Keep the Promise by Mary K Doyle

• Who Cares: The Hidden Crisis of Caregiving and How We Solve It by Emily Kenway

• ABA/AARP Checklist for My Family: A Guide to My History, Financial Plans, and Final Wishes, Second Edition by Sally Balch Hurme

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

Q A &

Switching Natural Gas Suppliers and the CHOICE program

Question: What is the Natural Gas Customer Choice Program?

Answer: Most natural gas distribution companies, like Columbia Gas, offer programs that allow customers to choose their natural gas supplier. The Columbia Gas Customer CHOICE program offers customers the option to purchase the natural gas they use from a supplier other than Columbia Gas. If customers choose to purchase their gas from a different supplier, Columbia Gas will continue to deliver the same reliable service, read customers’ meters, perform safety checks, and respond to emergencies. The prices charged by suppliers are set by the competitive market, meaning there is no guarantee that consumers will save money, but the suppliers may offer special pricing or incentives. If consumers would like to enroll, they need to shop among suppliers serving their area, compare pricing and offers, and make a choice that best fits their needs and circumstances.

Question: What is natural gas distribution, and who offers this?

Answer: Natural gas distribution refers to the natural gas distribution company that delivers natural gas to consumers’ homes and businesses. Distribution companies like Columbia Gas operate a network of underground pipelines that distributes to consumers natural gas that has been gathered and transported from natural gas producers and suppliers to Columbia Gas’ distribution system.

Question: What is a natural gas supplier?

Answer: A natural gas supplier is a company that supplies natural gas to consumers and businesses at a contracted rate. Suppliers provide natural gas to customers through the natural gas distribution company’s existing pipeline system.

Question: How can I find out who the suppliers are?

Answer: Columbia Gas includes a current list of suppliers in our service areas at ColumbiaGasPA.com. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has a list of approved natural gas suppliers operating in Pennsylvania at PAGasSwitch.com. Alternate natural gas suppliers may not offer service in all areas of the state, so if you are interested in a specific supplier, check to see if that supplier serves your areas.

Question: How do I determine my current gas charges?

Answer: Look at the Detail Charges section of your bills, which breaks down their Delivery and Supply charges. The Gas Supply Charge shows what you currently pay for your natural gas supply, on a per therm basis. Use that cost-per-therm number to compare your current gas costs with what other potential natural gas suppliers may be offering.

Question: What should I look for in prices from a supplier?

Answer: Look at the cost per “therm” (units of heat) to evaluate a competitive supplier’s offer. You can determine how much you may save by using the residential price that Columbia Gas currently charges compared to a supplier’s price based on the cost-per-therm and how many therms of gas they use during a specific time period.

Question: How do I calculate my potential savings?

Answer: Columbia Gas has a CHOICE calculator on its website to help customers compare their current bills and potential bills from a different supplier. Customers input the supplier’s price, indicate how many therms they estimate they use monthly, and the calculator will provide the customers’ estimated savings per month.

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

The price-to-compare changes on a quarterly basis, so customers are encouraged to check back to determine what the latest price-to-compare number is if they are considering switching natural gas suppliers.

Question: What is a fixed rate?

Answer: A fixed price is an all-inclusive per therm price that will remain the same for a length of time identified in the contract. This will give customers certainty that their price will not change under the conditions of the agreement; however, if market prices fall, customers may have to wait until their contract expires to get a lower price.

Unless customers act prior to the expiration date in their contracts, their rates may then change to monthly variable rates. Customers should read their contract’s disclosure statement for the terms and conditions to find out what happens after their term expires.

Question: What is a variable rate?

Answer: A variable price is an all-inclusive per therm price that can change at any time during the length of the contract, according to the terms and conditions in the supplier’s disclosure statement. If customers select a variable rate, the rate may change with market conditions, so, if market prices increase, their rate may increase. If market prices drop, their rate may decrease.

Question: Do I need to enter into a supplier contract for a year or two?

Answer: You should consider all contract terms, including length of the contract, before approving any agreement with a supplier. Always read the contract thoroughly and understand the product you are purchasing, its price, when the contract ends, cancellation or other fees, and other terms and conditions that apply, including if and when the price will change.

Question: How do I enroll?

Answer: By contacting the supplier directly. If you choose not to switch natural gas suppliers, nothing will change and there will be no change to their bills.

Question: Where can I compare rates?

Answer: The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s site, PAGasSwitch.com, provides a comprehensive overview about switching natural gas providers in Pennsylvania, explains the switching process, lists suppliers and distributors, and offers valuable tips and guidelines to follow when deciding when to switch.

Question: Does Columbia Gas explain Customer Choice on their site?

Answer: Yes. Go to ColumbiaGasPA.com for details about Customer Choice.

Question: Who regulates all of these plans and their prices?

Answer: The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) issues licenses to competitive natural gas suppliers in Pennsylvania.

Question: If I am on a special payment plan through my distribution company, can I select another supplier?

Answer: Check with your natural gas distribution company. In many cases, customers who participate in customer assistance programs through their natural gas distribution company are not eligible to enroll with natural gas suppliers.

Question: Will I get one bill or two?

Answer: Suppliers have the option to send a separate bill for gas supply charges only, or Columbia Gas may send a single consolidated bill that includes both the Utility’s distribution charges and the gas supply charges provided by the supplier. The Detail charges section of their bills will show both their delivery and supply charges.

Question: Do I need new pipes connected to my home if I select a natural gas supplier?

Answer: No. The gas lines that run down the street and into homes are still owned and operated by local natural gas distribution companies, like Columbia Gas.

Question: Who handles meter readings, safety checks and natural gas emergencies?

Answer: Natural gas distribution companies like Columbia Gas will continue to provide distribution services, make repairs to its pipeline distribution system, and respond to emergencies.

To learn more about switching natural gas suppliers in Pennsylvania, call (800) 692-7380 or visit PAGasSwitch. com. Columbia Gas customers can call at (888) 460-4332 or visit ColumbiaGasPA.com.

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

Circle of Friends

Senior Community Centers

Circle of Friends hosts fun activities and events!

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CONWAY UPCOMING EVENTS

• Healthy Steps in Motion Exercise Class: Mondays and Fridays, 11 a.m. to noon

• Bingo Monday: 12:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; and Bingo Thursday, 10 a.m. to noon

• Pinochle Tournament: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Pancakes and Pokeno: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 9 a.m. to noon

• Make It Take It Monday Crafts: 1st Monday of the month, 9 to 11 a.m.

• Diamond Art Class: every Tuesday and Friday, 9 to 11 a.m.

• Beginner Quilt Block Class: every Friday, 9 to 11 a.m.

• Bowling at Baden Bowl: 2nd Wednesday of the month starting in April, 9 a.m. to noon

Circle of Friends Conway is located at 305 11th St., lower level, Conway. Call (724) 869-4224.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS NEW BRIGHTON UPCOMING EVENTS

• March 5: Lunch and Learn with Jane Miller (topic is Medicare), 11:30 a.m.

• March 12: St Patrick’s Day Bingo, 10 a.m., $5

• March 26: Easter Party and Bingo, 10 a.m., $5

• April 16: Spring Party and Bingo, 10 a.m., $5

• May 7: Mother’s Day Party and Bingo, 10 a.m.

• Mondays and Fridays, staring in May: Exercise with Connie, 9 a.m.

• Bingo, starting in May: Tuesdays, 10 a.m.

• Beginner Exercise, starting in May: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 11 a.m.

• Line Dance, starting in May: Thursdays, 10 a.m.

• Pool, starting in May: Thursdays, 9 a.m.

Circle of Friends New Brighton is located at 1851 Third Ave., New Brighton. Call (724) 846-1959.

Unit 284

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

570 Beaver Valley Mall Blvd

Rural King Corridor

Inside the Mall

Monaca, PA 15061

724-774-5654

Center Hours

Mon - Thurs 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Fri 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Check out our website www.centeratthemall.net or like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/centeratthemall

Fitness Classes

Member exercise classes are SilverSneakers, Renew Active, and Punch Pass eligible.

Chair Volleyball Class

Tuesday & Thursday at 11 a.m.

Monday, Wednesday, & Friday at 1 p.m.

SilverSneakers Classic

Monday, Wednesday, & Friday at 11 a.m.

Yoga

(sitting/standing only; no floor activities)

Tuesday & Thursday at 10 a.m.

SilverSneakers Circuit

Thursday at 9 a.m.

Cardio Sculpt

Monday & Friday at 9 a.m. or 10 a.m.

Belly Buster

Wednesday at 9 a.m. or 10 a.m.

Mix-It Up Cardio

Tuesday at 9 a.m.

30 Minutes of Strength (New Class)

Tuesday at 8:15 a.m.

Room Rentals

(The Center has rooms available to rent, perfect for birthday parties, bridal showers, council meetings, graduations, etc.)

Room 1 - $55

Room 2 - $85

Congregate Room - $350

Clubs, Groups, & Amenities

ACTS Care Cancer Support Group

Meets Thursdays from 1 - 2:30 p.m..

Art Club

Use provided materials or bring your own projects. Meets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Bible Study

First and third Thursday of each month from 10 - 11 a.m.

Bingo

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Cards are 25¢ each, payouts relative to number of players.

Café Area (always available)

Coffee, tea, and water. Donation of $1 is appreciated.

Casino Trips

Bus trips to a local casino. Cost is $30/person. You must preregister/pre-pay.

Computer Lab (always available)

Computers with internet access. Computer and iPhone classes available throughout the year ($).

Crochet and Knitting Club

Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Fitness Center

Fully functioning fitness facility with staff on hand to provide instruction. Complimentary to SilverSneakers or Renew Active members. Self-pay options available for others.

Garden Club

Meets every first and third Monday 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Join other members to help with the garden, listen to speakers, and create garden related crafts.

Mah-Jongg

Meets every Thursday from 12:30 - 3 p.m.

Library (located in Computer Lab)

A variety of books. No sign-out, use the honor system.

Line Dancing

Class meets Wednesday and Friday 10 - 11 a.m. ($)

Lunch

Nutritional lunches every day from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. $3 donation for ages 60+; $6 fee for ages 50 -59. Must preregister one business day in advance.

Organ Club

Wednesdays from 10 - 11 a.m. Note: this club is not for beginners, must have some experience. ($)

Pinochle Club

Every Thursday from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Pool Tables (always available)

The Center has two 8ft tables, all skill levels welcome.

Shuffleboard Club

Tabletop version, meets 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Tuesday of each month 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

&

Pennsylvania

introduce you to Medicare and gives you the opportunity to ask questions to PA MEDI’s specially trained staff and volunteers.

“Medicare 101” will help you learn about:

• Medicare Eligibility & Enrollment

• Notices, Costs & Penalties

• Original Medicare, Medigap, & Medicare Advantage

• Services under Medicare Parts A & B

• Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) Benefit

• Switching Plans

• Medicare Appeals

• Medicare Savings Programs to save you money

• How PA MEDI can assist you…and much more.

Center at the Mall Senior Center. #284

Beaver Valley Mall (next to Rural King) Monaca, PA 15061

8:30 am Pancake Breakfast 9:30 am Medicare 101

Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin

YOU CAN USE

• Daylight Savings Time begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 10, when we spring forward. Remember to set your clocks ahead one hour on Saturday, March 9 before you go to bed.

• Beginning May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID compliant license, identification card or another form of federally-accepted identification (such as a passport or military ID) to board domestic commercial flights, enter a military base or enter a federal facility that requires ID at the door. For information on how apply for a REAL ID in Pennsylvania through PennDOT, visit: https://www.dmv.pa.gov/REALID/ Pages/default.aspx.

Address:

1020 Eighth Ave. Beaver Falls, PA 15010

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Phone: (724) 847-2262 (local)

(888) 548-2262 (long distance)

TDD (724) 728-5700

Website: beavercountypa.gov/departments/office-on-aging

Beaver County Commissioners

Daniel C. Camp III, Chairman

Jack Manning

Tony Amadio

Protective Services for Older Adults

(724) 775-1786

(TO REPORT ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND EXPLOITATION - 24 HOURS)

• The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue will have staff available to assist in filing the 2023 Property Tax/Rent Rebate applications at two Beaver County locations in April. Representatives will be at the Circle of Friends Conway Community Center, 305 11th St., lower level, in Conway from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 19; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 26 at the Circle of Friends New Brighton Community Center, 1851 Third Ave. in New Brighton. Bring all of your income documents; proof of paid property taxes or rent; signed rent certificate by the landlord, if you are a renter; proof of age if applying the first time; if you are a widow or widower ages 50 to 64, provide a copy of spouse death certificate, if filing for the first time; if you are disabled and between the ages of 18 to 64, bring proof of disability, if applying the first time.

• Thank you for your financial support of the 37th annual Surprises for Shut-ins program. We provided a bag of gifts and a friendly visit to 300 isolated older adults living in their homes and apartments during the Christmas holiday.

Ombudsman

(724) 480-8589

ombudsman@bcoa.us

(to report resident rights issues in nursing homes, personal care homes and long-term care services)

Services

• Information and Referral

• Care Management

• Benefits / PA MEDI – Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight

• Pre-admission Assessment

• Caregiver Support Program

• Domiciliary Care

• Ombudsman

• Adult Day Care

• Home Delivered Meals

• Homemaker

• Personal Care

• Legal Services

• Protective Services

• Senior Centers

• Transportation

Word Search

Down

Across

Across

47. Jolson and Pacino

5. 19th pres.’s monogram

1. Kitchen equipment

1. Kitchen equipment

5. Lea animals

5. Lea animals

9. Flirtatious signals

9. Flirtatious signals

14. Per unit

14. Per unit

15. Fraternal gr.

16. Pull ___ one on (trick)

15. Fraternal gr.

17. Half of a 1991 Jesus Jones hit

16. Pull ___ one on (trick)

19. Receive with enthusiasm

17. Half of a 1991 Jesus Jones hit

20. Show a show again

19. Receive with enthusiasm

21. Jewish calendar month

20. Show a show again

23. Quill tip

21. Jewish calendar month

25. Tanks of fish

23. Quill tip

30. Medical examiner in court, e.g.

25. Tanks of fish

33. Bale filler

35. Online auction site

30. Medical examiner in court, e.g.

36. Olympics sensation Hughes

33. Bale filler

37. Piece of news

35. Online auction site

39. Below low

36. Olympics sensation Hughes

42. Eliminate

37. Piece of news

43. Soy foods

39. Below low

45. Clumsy fellows

42. Eliminate

47. Jolson and Pacino

43. Soy foods

48. From Maine to Arizona, directionally

45. Clumsy fellows

52. Pollen reaction

53. Neighbor of It.

54. “Word on the street is...”

57. ___ virus (African scourge)

61. Region of Israel

65. Floods

67. Hindu dress

68. 1492 ship

69. Notes between sol and do

70. Takes ___ on (wears)

71. Student stats

72. Actress Cannon

Down

1. Henry VIII’s last wife, Catherine ____

2. Andy Taylor’s boy

3. Frat party wear

4. Landmark near the pyramids of Giza

48. From Maine to Arizona, directionally

6. With the stroke of ____

52. Pollen reaction

7. “Memento ____” (Muriel Spark novel)

8. Teeter-totter

53. Neighbor of It.

9. Ingredients in some brownies

54. "Word on the street is..."

57. ___ virus (African scourge)

10. “____ Man Answers” (Bobby Darin/Sandra Dee film)

61. Region of Israel

11. Afternoon snooze

12. The Wildcats’ sch.

65. Floods

13. Engine additive brand

67. Hindu dress

18. Horsefeathers

68. 1492 ship

22. EPA pollution meas.

69. Notes between sol and do

24. Neuwirth of the stage

70. Takes ___ on (wears)

71. Student stats

26. Place ____ (get into the Classified section)

27. Peruse anew

72. Actress Cannon

28. “That ___”

29. Hearth heap

30. Lots to see

31. St. Louis pro

32. Clerical errors

33. ____ homer

34. “Tragedy is ___ for the living to gain wisdom”: RFK

38. Remote button

40. Plain document file ext.

41. Fir trees

44. Wither

46. Snored, with “logs”

49. Pres. between TWW and JCC

50. Observing

51. R-rated, as humor

55. Had ____ (drank)

56. ____ race (compete)

58. “Our Gang” affirmative

59. James Brown hit “____ Man Come in and Do the Popcorn”

60. Words of clarification

61. Wiretapping org.

62. Put away

63. 12 doz.

64. Electric ___

66. “One Mic” rapper

Corner

BEAVER

1008 Seventh Ave., Beaver Falls (724) 843-4822

Two BR Vacancies Immediate Occupancy

• 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance • On-site Management and Maintenance

• Carpet/Blinds on All Windows

• Individually Controlled Heat & Air Conditioning

• Generous Closet Space • Potential Rapid Occupancy • No Application Fee

•All Utilities Included in Rent • Income Limits Apply:

• 1 Person hh...$17,850 • 2 Persons hh...$20,400

Maximum income for eligibility is: 1 Person $47,500; 2 Persons $54,300

Francis A. Farmer Apartments

and Older

Accessible 1 bedroom apartments with equipped kitchens, A/C, balconies, community room, laundry facilities, parking lots and Secure Intercom System.

Newly-renovated accessible apartments with roll-in showers also available. There is an admission priority for very low-income persons whose incomes are:

• 1 Person hh...$17,450 • 2 Persons hh...$19,950

Maximum income for eligibility is: • 1 Person $46,500 • 2 Persons $53,150

Application or assistance available Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Housing Authority of the County of Beaver, 300 State Ave., Beaver, PA 15009

Or call (724) 775-1220 for additional information

www.beavercountyhousing.org

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