Heritage Valley Beaver Auxiliary seeks new members
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By Gina Mazza
If helping others, meeting new people and having fun appeal to you, then becoming a member of the Heritage Valley Beaver Auxiliary may be just the thing for you. The Auxiliary is comprised of Beaver County women who serve the hospital by promoting volunteerism and raising funds for Heritage Valley Beaver. Since its inception in 1986, the Auxiliary has raised nearly $2.8 million for renovations, programs and special projects.
One of the mainstays of the Auxiliary’s fundraising efforts is the operation of the Heritage Valley Beaver Gift Shop, which is located in the main lobby of Heritage Valley Beaver. The Gift Shop is open to the public and sells a variety of beautiful, affordable and unique
gifts (not to mention the lovely jewelry selection!). The Auxiliary would love to welcome new volunteers at the Gift Shop, and will gladly work around your schedule. Some Auxiliary members also enjoy assisting with greeting visitors in entrance areas and in waiting rooms.
By joining the Auxiliary and volunteering, you will make new friends and support your community health system.
To inquire about membership, call (724) 728-7000 and ask for Pat Kisio in the Gift Shop. To learn more about volunteer opportunities within Heritage Valley Beaver, call Kim Anastas at (412) 749-7121.
During the holidays and throughout the year, it is always wise to be cautious of scams that target seniors. NEVER give out your personal information over the phone, even if the caller claims to be from a federal agency, bank or a company that you have done existing business with. If you are not sure about the company, verify information about them with the Better Business Bureau.
For information and referral services, call the Beaver County Office on Aging at: (724) 847-2262 or (888) 548-2262 (long distance)
Be Aware of Senior Scams
[From left] Heritage Valley Beaver Auxiliary member Sally Rosepink, Auxiliary President Pat Kisio and Auxiliary member Shirley Rynd at the Heritage Valley Beaver Gift Shop.
Publisher’s Corner
Many individuals and families are in need this year, and the holidays are for giving; yet it’s smart to be cautious when donating to charities. See page 12 for tips on this topic, and our front page for a few more regarding senior scams.
Angela Gentile serves up a warm dish of comfort foods in her column on page 9. Making and sharing our favorite foods sets the tone for a cozy holiday season. We wish our readers a healthy and joyous end of the year!
LIHEAP grants are available to help low-income households
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps low-income households pay some energy costs associated with heating their homes, reopens on November 4. LIHEAP is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. Consult this chart to determine if you qualify:
2024-2025 FEDERAL INCOME GUIDELINES: LIHEAP
• Download the LIHEAP Application form and submit the completed document to your local assistance office, which you can determine by visiting duquesnelight.com/docs/default-source/default-documentlibrary/liheap-mailing-insert-addresses-2022-23. pdf?sfvrsn=a7dcb742_2. In Beaver County, the local assistance office is located at 171 Virginia Avenue in Rochester. Call them at (724) 773-7495 or (800) 653-3129.
• Visit the local county assistance offices listed below to file an application.
• Call the LIHEAP Client Helpline at (866) 857-7095 Monday through Friday; or TDD (800) 451-5866.
• LIHEAP applicants now have the option to share certain application information directly with public utilities. This can help you access utility assistance programs more easily. Your household may be eligible for a discount on your energy bill and/or additional benefits, including debt forgiveness. Learn more by visiting duquesnelight.com/docs/defaultsource/default-document-library/liheap-data-shareinformation.pdf?sfvrsn=a066ee44_1.
CRISIS GRANTS
Crisis grants are offered if you are without heat or are in danger of being without heat, or facing an emergency, such as:
• Termination of utility service
• Broken heating equipment or leaking lines that must be fixed or replaced
• Lack of fuel
Please note that if you have received an increase in benefits due to the cost-of-living adjustment, you may still qualify for LIHEAP funding. Visit pa.gov/en/agencies/dhs.html for additional information and County Assistance Office locations.
CASH GRANTS
You do not need to have an unpaid balance to qualify. LIHEAP grants can be applied to a past balance in order to establish service at a new address. The amount allowed to post against prior bills is limited to 50 percent to ensure a portion of the LIHEAP cash grant goes toward future energy needs.
There are several ways to apply:
• Visit https://www.compass.dhs.pa.gov/home/#/, the online tool for Pennsylvanians to apply for health and human service programs.
• Danger of being without fuel (less than 15-day supply)
• If you received a letter indicating that your bill is past due and encouraging you to pay it to maintain bill affordability
To apply for a crisis grant, call (866) 857-7095.
To apply for either a cash grant or crisis grant, you will need to gather the following information:
• Name and date of birth for all household members
• Proof of income for all household members
• Social Security number for all household members
• A copy of your most recent utility bill (both electric and gas, if appropriate)
Ten early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. Here are 10 warning signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s. If you notice any of them, see a doctor.
Memory loss that disrupts daily life. A common sign of Alzheimer’s is memory loss, especially recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events, asking for the same information over and over, increasingly needing to rely on family members for things they used to handle on their own.
Challenges in planning or solving problems. Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe, keeping track of bills or concentrating.
Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home or work. People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to complete daily tasks. They may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget or remembering the rules of a favorite game.
Confusion with time or place. People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately, or forget where they are or how they got there.
Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. For some, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast.
Problems with words in speaking or writing. People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following a conversation. They may stop in mid-sentence and have no idea how to continue, or they may repeat themselves.
Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. A person with Alzheimer’s may put things in unusual places, lose things and be unable to retrace steps to find them. They may accuse others of stealing.
Decreased or poor judgment. People with Alzheimer’s may experience changes in judgment or decision-making; for example, giving large amounts of money to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to hygiene.
Withdrawal from work or social activities. The person may start to remove themselves from social activities. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby. They may avoid being social because of the changes they have experienced.
Changes in mood and personality . The personalities of people with Alzheimer’s can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home or in places that are unfamiliar.
Source: Alz.org
Alzheimer’s Association
Helpline
(412) 261-5040 or (800) 272-3900 alz.org/pa
The Alzheimer’s Association provides vital services and support to individuals struggling with the disease, their families and caregivers. The telephone Helpline is toll-free, convenient and confidential. It is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and provides:
• answers to your questions about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia;
• an outlet to express your feelings and concerns to someone who understands your situation and can offer practical tips for coping;
• ongoing, unconditional support during the course of the disease;
• insight into the effects the disease will have on the afflicted person and family members; and
• information on assessment centers, legal and financial issues, home care, adult day services, personal care homes, nursing homes and other resources in your community.
Care Consultation
This service assists persons with Alzheimer’s or related dementias and their families in planning for and dealing with all aspects of the illness.
Components of Care Consultations include:
• assessment of needs;
• assistance with planning and problem solving;
• information and resource lists;
• supportive listening; and
• follow up, as needed.
Care Consultation is not case management, care management, counseling, crisis intervention or case advocacy, but part of it may identify the need for and refer families to appropriate agencies or persons that provide these services. Care coordinators are not trained to provide crisis intervention. Families with ongoing or extremely critical needs will be linked with resources in the community that are best able to support them.
Alzheimer’s Support Groups
All support groups are facilitated by trained individuals and are offered either virtually or in-person. To find a virtual sup- port group or in-person meeting near you, contact the above helpline, or use the Community Resource Finder tool available online communityresourcefinder.org
The Alzheimer’s Association and AARP Community Resource Finder is a database of dementia and aging-related resources that makes it easy for individuals and families to find programs and services in a specific location. In addition to Alzheimer’s Support Groups, the online Community Resource Finder can assist with locating care at home, community services, housing options, and medical services.
Alzheimer’s Support Groups in Beaver County
Charles Fenchel and Associates 2242 Darlington Rd. Beaver Falls, PA 15010 (724) 847-4723
St. Barnabas Beaver Meadows 5130 Tuscarawas Rd. Beaver, PA 15009 (724) 495-1600
Enjoy a festive holiday show right here in Beaver County
By Gina Mazza
You don’t have to venture far from home in order to enjoy delightful holiday performance with family and friends. Below are a few seasonal offerings happening right here in Beaver County.
Home for the Holidays: A Christmas Musical Revue
Sandy Reigel Theater 350 Adams Street, Rochester showclix.com/event/ctp-hh24
Celebrate the magic of the season with this heartwarming variety show featuring the talented cast from the Center Theatre Player’s. This local favorite typically sells out every year. Performance dates are December 11 through 14.
Oliver Jr.
Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center 11 Lincoln Park, Midland 724) 576-4644
lincolnparkarts.org
This 60-minute Junior adaptation of the classic Charles Dickens novel and award-winning musical springs to life with some of the most memorable characters and songs to ever grace the stage. Performance dates are November 15 to 17 and November 22 to 24 on the Main Stage.
The Gift of the Magi
Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center 11 Lincoln Park, Midland (724) 576-4644
lincolnparkarts.org
An intimate and beautiful adaptation of the O. Henry classic, this is a heartwarming, captivating holiday treat for audiences of all ages. Performance dates are December 6 through 8, December 12 through 15, and December 19 through 22 in the Black Box.
The Nutcracker
Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center 11 Lincoln Park, Midland (724) 576-4644
lincolnparkarts.org
Celebrate the holiday season with Tchaikovsky’s whimsical masterpiece. Performance dates are December 12 through 15 and December 19 through 22 on the Main Stage.
All My Sons: A Twentieth Century Classic American Tragedy
The Bobcat Players Community Theater
1300 Fifth Street, Beaver bobcatplayers.com
This is Arthur Miller’s first Broadway success, a gripping drama about greed, guilt, and loss set in the aftermath of World War II. Performance dates are November 15, 16, 21, 22 and 23.
A
Holiday Celebration
Iron Horse Community Theatre
348 Maplewood Ave, Ambridge (724) 263-0075
ironhorsetheatrecompany.ticketleap.com/2022-season-pass/
Get in a festive mood with these three One- Act Plays: “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry, “The First Night of Chanukah” by Sheri Wilner and “Starman Wish Me Luck” by Nicole Burton. Performance dates are December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21.
Q A &
Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin Surprises for Shut-ins Program
Question: What is Surprises for Shut-ins?
Answer: The 38th annual Surprises for Shut-ins is a Christmas program of the Beaver County Office on Aging. It provides a bag of gifts and a friendly visit in December 2024 to isolated and homebound adults ages 60 and older who live in the community. They are identified by the Office on Aging as needing some special attention during the Christmas season.
Question: How can you help?
Answer: Through December 2, 2024, the Office on Aging is accepting monetary donations to purchase food, gifts, necessities and gift wrap supplies. Checks or money orders can be made payable to the Beaver County Office on Aging; a receipt will be issued. We CANNOT accept donated gifts. Donations can be mailed to the Beaver County Office on Aging, 1020 Eighth Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.
Question: Do you accept donations of gift wrap and tape?
Answer: Yes. We do not accept bows as they get crushed in the gift bags. Gift wrap and tape can be dropped off at Center at the Mall, 284 Beaver Val-
ley Mall Boulevard in Monaca, located in the Rural King corridor of the Beaver Valley Mall, Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Question: Do you need help wrapping gifts?
Answer: Yes. Two wrapping open houses will be held at Center at the Mall. All gift wrap supplies, snacks and beverages will be provided. Come anytime between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20 or Monday, December 2.
Question: Who can be contacted regarding the program?
Answer: Angela Gentile with the Office on Aging is the project coordinator. For more information, call (724) 847-2262 or (888) 548-2262; or email Angela at agentile@bcoa.us.
For the past 37 years, the Office on Aging has been amazed at the enormous generosity of the community and the hard work and dedication of volunteers and staff to help brighten the holiday season for many older adults. As a result, 13,502 gift deliveries have been made. Thank you for making a difference and spreading joy!
Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin
Comfort foods: A celebration of family and traditions
Angela prepares her apple-crunch “comfort” food.
By Angela Gentile, Administrative Officer II Beaver County Office on Aging
As the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday seasons approach, it is comfort food time. Certain foods bring up feelings of nostalgia, happy memories, family—even simpler times. Comfort foods remain constant and dependable. When we eat them, we remember happy times and feel … well, comforted!
Thanksgiving meals can include a feast of turkey, ham, vegetable dishes, potatoes dishes, stuffing, bread, cranberry sauce and pies. Christmas is well known for fantastic meals plus an abundance of cookies. (I am a pizzelle maker.)
Many times, comfort foods are made to celebrate someone’s birthday, anniversary or accomplishment, among many other things. They help you reminisce about the people who made wedding soup, eggplant parmigiana, macaroni and cheese or the best chocolate chip cookies. When my mom asks me what meal I’d like for my birthday, I always say her meatloaf with a tomato sauce, baked potatoes and Italian green beans with mushrooms.
Comfort foods vary from culture to culture, and we have been fortunate in Beaver County to have a delightful array of ethnic flavors and traditions.
Just think of all the pierogies, haluski, stuffed cabbage, nut rolls, grape leaves, pastitsio, gyros, spaghetti and meatballs, pepperoni rolls and much more that we have enjoyed from household kitchens, churches, festivals and restaurants.
Tradition is a big part of comfort food as families pass down recipes. It is great to share recipes. Here’s my favorite comfort food recipe during the fall season using locally grown apples from the farmer’s market. It is easy, quick, and best of all—made using the microwave.
2 T. flour
1 t. cinnamon
6 c. apples, peeled and sliced thin
¼ c. granulated sugar
Topping:
¼ c. oleo
½ c. graham cracker crumbs
½ c. oats
3 T. brown sugar
For topping: Melt oleo and stir in remaining topping ingredients. Set aside. In an 8-inch microwave baking dish, toss apples, flour, cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle topping over apples. Microwave uncovered on high for 8 to 10 minutes. I would like to wish everyone a blessed and happy holiday season.
Apple Crunch
Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin
November is National Family Caregivers Month
By Tesi Dye, Care Management Supervisor Beaver County Office on Aging
November is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country. Caregiving can lead to stress and burnout so it’s important for caregivers to also care for themselves. Sometimes caregivers may need encouragement to ask for help.
During National Family Caregivers Month, consider reaching out to a caregiver you know. Ask if they need anything, or offer to sit with their loved one so they can have some time to themselves. Perhaps bring them a meal or offer to run to the store for them. Invite them out to lunch and a movie. Share information on caregiving resources. Offer a listening ear so they can share some of their frustrations, concerns and successes.
Caregivers can call the Beaver County Office on Aging to learn about the Caregiver Support Program (CSP). This is a financial reimbursement program for caregivers of older adults, as well as those 55 and older who are raising children under the age of 18. Household verification is required. Caregivers can get reimbursed monthly for preapproved services and items such as incontinence supplies, personal care, respite care and adult day service.
Each caregiver gets a one-time allotment for reimbursement of a needed home modification or assistive device such as a stair glide or lift chair. Those raising children can get reimbursed for babysitting, band instrument rental, seasonal clothing, various camps and after-school classes and activities. The caregiver and care receiver cannot be receiving any Medicaid in-home service programs such as Waiver or LIFE Beaver. This program is based on the needs of the caregiver as they care for their loved ones.
Each caregiver in the program has a care manager who develops the care plan and assists with finding other resources. A yearly recognition event is provided for all interested caregivers and educational material is available through brochures and books.
This year, CSP introduced Trualta, a web-based educational platform that includes a wide variety of articles and videos on caregiving. Online support groups and special training events also are available.
If you are a family caregiver, contact the Beaver County Office on Aging to gain access to Trualta at no cost. To learn more about CSP or Trualta, call the Information and Referral Department at (724) 847-2262 or email CSP@bcoa.us.
PA MEDI provides free counseling on Medicare enrollment and coverage
PA MEDI (Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight) provides free unbiased counseling to anyone currently on or who will start Medicare (and those within their support system). Trained counselors can help compare plans that are available in the area, assist with plan enrollments, and address billing concerns and appeals.
In addition, PA MEDI counselors screen to determine if someone might be eligible for assistance programs that may reduce out-ofpocket costs. They also hold Medicare 101 presentations to provide Medicare information to the general public. They meet with beneficiaries throughout the year, with their busiest time being during Open Enrollment, which extends until December 7.
PA MEDI is offered throughout the state through local Area Agencies on Aging. It is Pennsylvania’s branch of the national SHIP program (State Health Insurance Assistance Programs).
Appointments can be scheduled at PA MEDI’s office in Beaver Falls, all three Beaver County senior centers (Center at the Mall, and Circle of Friends New Brighton and Conway), or by calling (724) 847-2262.
Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin
Beaver County Senior Gardens sports a new look
Older adults have been growing summer fruits and vegetables for decades at the Beaver County Senior Gardens on Western Avenue in Brighton Township. The fencing that encloses the gardens was decades old and was showing a lot of wear and tear. The Beaver County Office on Aging contracts with Brighton First to handle management of the gardens during the growing season. Brighton First applied for and was awarded a 2024 Environmental Mitigation Community Fund Grant from The Pittsburgh
YOU CAN USE
• Exercise your right to vote on Election Day, November 5.
• Standard Time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday, November 3. Remember to set your clocks back one hour.
Foundation to enclose the gardens with a permanent fence.
Lee Cain Fencing of East Liverpool, Ohio, installed the new fencing in September. They also installed chicken wire fencing along the bottom to prevent critters from getting in. It has freshened up the entire look of the gardens!
• Remember and reflect: Veterans Day is November 11.
• You have until November 30, 2024, to spend your Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers for Pennsylvania grown fruits and vegetables at the area farmer’s markets.
• Medicare Open Enrollment period goes through December 7, 2024. You can make changes to your Medicare health or prescription drug plans during this period, and the changes go into effect January 1, 2025.
Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin
Be cautious with your holiday charitable giving
People generally donate to a charity because they have been asked to do so. Be cautious with your holiday charitable donations in order to ensure that your contributions are used effectively. Here are some things to keep in mind.
• Research charities: If you want to donate to something that is new for you, verify the legitimacy of the organization. Check the status on Charity Navigator of the IRS database of tax-exempt organizations.
• Watch out for similar names: Scammers have used names that sound like well-known charities. Double check the exact name, contact information and website of the organization.
• Understand how donations are used: Look into how much of your donation goes directly to the cause and how much is allocated for administrative expenses.
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)
• Avoid on-the-spot donations: Do not be pressured to make immediate donations. Legitimate charities will give you time to think about a donation and will provide information about their work.
• Protect your personal information: Be careful about the information you share. Just provide necessary information details and do not give out your Social Security number.
• Use safe payment methods: Donating through secure methods such as credit cards or checks is the best. Avoid wire transfers and be very cautious with cash donations.
• Consider local charities: You can have a direct impact on your community by donating local. It may be easier to verify the work that they do.
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
Beaver
Where in the world has Angela been?
Many people have been asking where I have traveled to recently. I got to see a tiny part of our largest state: Alaska. It was breathtakingly beautiful. I saw the sweet small town of Sitka, where I got to make a piece of glass in a workshop. Then it was off to explore the town, including St. Michael Russian Orthodox Church Cathedral, the Lutheran Church established there in the 1800s, parks, shops and even the public library.
Then I was off to the capital city of Juneau, which is accessible by boat or air. The best part was riding the Goldbelt Tram to the top to see Mt. Robert’s Trail, and I walked most of the Alpine Loop Trail. There were stunning views of the mountains, water and wildflowers. It was fun to watch numerous sea planes take off from the downtown area. Then I rode Icy Strait Point Transporter Gondola to Hoonah. There I had a van ride to see wildlife, which was not too eventful. I just got momentary
glimpses of a mother bear and two cubs and then a young male bear.
The totem poles in Potlatch Park in Ketchikan were sweet. The most awesome experience was the ride in the Endicott Arm Explores boat in Icy Strait Point—with endless beautiful, serene scenes of the mountains and glaciers. As I witnessed the calving of the Dawes Glacier, a piece of the glacier the size of a tall apartment building fell into the water.
Angela holds a piece of a glacier that the ship’s staff pulled out of the water.
Beaver County Office on Aging Bulletin
Circle of Friends
Senior Community Centers
Circle of Friends hosts fun activities and events!
CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CONWAY
Daily Activities
• Monthly Blood Pressure Check: 3rd Thursdays, 9 to 10 a.m.
• Make It, Take It Monday Craft: First Monday of each month, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
• Healthy Steps in Motion: Every Monday, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Exercise with Connie: Every Thursday, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
• Bingo, every Monday: Noon to 2 p.m. and every Thursday, 10 a.m. to noon
• Crafts with Nicole: First Tuesday of each month, 9:30 a.m. to noon
• Green Thumb Gardening: Third Tuesday of each month, 9:30 a.m. to noon
• Craft Class: Second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 9 a.m. to noon. Variety of crafting at all skill levels.
• Diamond Dot Craft Class: Second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 9 a.m. to noon
• Pinochle Tournament: First and third Wednesday of each month, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Bowling with Seniors: Second Wednesday of each month, 9:30 a.m. to noon
• Pokeno with doughnuts or muffins: Fourth Wednesday of each month, 9:30 a.m. to noon
• Diamond Art Class and Holiday Crafts: Every Friday, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
• Healthy Steps in Motion: Every Friday, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Lunch and Learn: December 16, 11:30 a.m. AmeriHealth discusses Medication Safety.
Circle of Friends Conway is located at 305 11th Street in Conway. To inquire, call (724) 869-4224.
This striking Diamond Art scene was created by Circle of Friends New Brighton attendees Linda Zoppit, Patty Davis, Sheryl Adams, Marge Mayo and Phyllis Fuller.
CIRCLE OF FRIENDS NEW BRIGHTON
Daily Activities
• Pool and Exercise room are open daily.
• Mondays and Thursdays: Exercise with Connie, 8:30 a.m.
• Tuesdays and Wednesdays: Beginner Exercise, 11 a.m.
• Wednesdays: Bible Study, 10 a.m.
• Thursdays: Chair yoga, 9:30 a.m.
• Fridays: Diamond Art, 11 a.m.
• December 3: Christmas Party with Gene Testa, 11 a.m.
• December 4 and 18: Po-Ke-No, 9 a.m.
• December 11: Card Party, 10 a.m., $5
• December 17: Christmas Bingo, 10 a.m.
Circle of Friends New Brighton is located at 1851 Third Avenue in New Brighton. To inquire, call (724) 869-4224.
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 & Sat 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Check out our website www.centeratthemall.net or like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/centeratthemall
Exercise Classes
Member exercise classes are SilverSneakers, Renew Active, and Punch Pass eligible.
Chair Volleyball
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
Tuesday at 8:15 a.m.
Clubs, Groups, & Amenities
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 $1 is appreciated.
Caregiver Support Group
Meets the last Friday of each month from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Allows caregivers to share in a supportive environment.
Bus Trips
Overnight and day trips to various destinations. You must pre-register/pre-pay.
Computer Lab & Library (always available)
Computers with internet access. Computer and iPhone classes available throughout the year ($). Honor system library.
Crochet and Knitting Club
Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Fitness Center
Complete gym with staff on hand to provide instruction. Complimentary to SilverSneakers or Renew Active members. Self-pay options available for others.
Game Day
Every Wednesday 2 - 4 p.m. Games provided Genealogy Club
Meets first Tuesday of each month from 2 - 3 p.m. Discuss and exchange resources for discovering your family tree.
Mah-Jongg
Meets every Thursday from 12:30 - 3 p.m.
Line Dancing
Class meets 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 every Tuesday from 1:30 - 3 p.m.
with Vintage Debbie Walking Down Memory Lane
By Debbie Smith Wagner
The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year for music, caroling, festivals and walks down memory lane to Christmases past. I hope the Q&A below inspires you to reflect on holiday cheer from prior years … because music and memories are the greatest gifts of all!
What are your favorite memories of Christmas caroling, musicals and shows, church musicals or Christmas festivals?
“I loved Christmas caroling so much. One year, I convinced my best friend to go caroling with me on Christmas Eve, with my cassette player as an accompaniment. Neither of us have great voices … but she is a great friend to do this, isn’t she?”
-Jenni Wilson Bartling, Sewickley
“Every Christmas Eve was spent with our grandpar- ents for a fabulous Italian dinner. The kids sat at a little table in the living room and the adults sat at the dining room table. My aunt always had a special orna- ment for all the kids at their seat. My grandparents had their homemade wine and we always got a little sip. Being together was priceless.”
-Kathy Steines, Beaver County
“When we were kids, we had to learn how to say ‘Merry Christmas’ in different languages for a Christmas program at church Christmas program. I still remember how to say it in Gaelic. In my high school concert choir, we walked around the hallways the day before Christmas break and sang carols. It was a lot of fun!”
-Alicia Shafer Bloom, Pittsburgh
“I remember stopping at a live nativity scene with my boys running around. I stepped up and joined them in singing. One of my favorite memories.”
-Sandra Jacobs, Rochester
“My hometown held a community Christmas carol sing-along in front of the bank. We took over the street, led by high school music teachers and choruses. It put me in the holiday spirit!”
-Holly Mathias, Ambridge
“Christmas caroling with the church, going from home to home visiting shut-ins.”
-Eddie Marx, Butler County
“Christmas caroling with the St. Peter’s Pipers church group at the senior citizens home in Evans City.”
-Al Mazuch, Butler County
“My grandma took us to see ‘The Nutcracker’ and it was lovely! I didn’t expect to love something so much that had no words!”
-Erika Homapoor, Wexford
“As a longtime member in our church choir, I remember visiting the local nursing homes to sing Christmas carols. Very poignant and gratifying at the same time.”
-Mary Scoumis, Beaver County
“My oldest daughter’s birthday is in December. We always had a sweet party making jingle-bell necklaces and caroling in our cul-de-sac.”
-K. M. Moffatt, Pittsburgh
“My family participated in a neighborhood Lumineers tradition in the North Hills when I was young. My brothers and I lit all the Lumineers. It was really a big job! We have a lot of funny memories about it and laugh a lot when we discuss it.”
-Dave Wagner, North Sewickley
“When my sons were young, we used to go Christmas caroling with Dr. David and Lisa Cahill every year. It was a very special experience because the Cahills had a large family and their children brought all their friends. I used to lead the group and their voices were so sweet because there was such a mix of children’s ages. Afterwards, we went back home for hot cocoa and treats. Great memory!”
-Debbie Wagner, North Sewickley
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.
Now accepting applications for residency at Green Diamond Place!
Apartment A menities:
Spacious, one bedroom apartments
Rent is based on income
Fully equipped kitchen
Most utilities included in rent
24-hour emergency maintenance
Small pets welcome
Call or visit Green Diamond Place today!
Address: 379 Mellon Avenue Baden, 15005
Phone: 724-869-2080
Designed to meet the needs of adults 62 years of age and older.
Professionally managed by SeniorCare Network www.SrCareNetwork.org
Leetsdale Manor
27 Spencer Street, Leetsdale, PA 15056
Rent-Assisted Housing for Persons Ages 62 and Older
1 bedroom apartments w/ equipped kitchens, wall-wall carpet, A/C, balconies, community room, laundry facility, limited off-street parking and Secure intercom system.
HUD has mandated that an admission priority be implemented for households whose incomes are 30% of the area median income or less.
(gross
Crossword Puzzle
Answer on page 2
Across
1. Lambaste
8. Nick’s wife and others
13. Early American style
14. ___ million
16. Easy to get rid of
17. Game with falling blocks
18. Maintains one’s subscription
19. Law enforcers
21. “Spirited Away” genre
22. Cooling capacity (abbr.)
23. Answer to “Who did it?”
24. Start of a Faulkner title
25. Memento ____
26. Exposes
27. No-frills beverage
30. Display monitor
31. “Laughing” scavenger of Africa
33. Map markings
35. Piggie?
36. Guernsey, for one
40. Take ___ sign
42. Whispers lovingly
43. Epcot city (abbr.)
46. Earth tone
47. “The Wonder Years” sister portrayer
48. Grant ____ of approval
50. Head count
52. Apple video-editing application
53. Regulations for nature lovers (abbr.)
54. Yule decoration
56. “She ___ wrong!”
57. “Desperate Housewives” lane
58. Moorehead of “Citizen Kane”
59. Chanel fragrance for men
Down
1. Infamous Bobbitt
2. “Hand in My Pocket” singer Morissette
3. ___ Sam
4. Gobsmacked
5. Old pen parts
6. Mikhail of chess
7. It’s in the chips at L.A. store
8. Written reminders
9. Lulu
10. Blind spot’s spot
11. Part of RAF
12. Certain goblets
13. Michael of “Arrested Development” and “Superbad”
15. Basketball statistic
20. Twice quatre
22. Gift topper
25. Assigner of R’s
26. Vim
28. “Shave ____ haircut...”
29. Prison brks.
31. Winter warmer
32. Like most subscriptions
34. Pairs
35. Like some cakes
37. Log finisher
38. “Brothers & Sisters” actor
39. Hoo preceder
41. Dour
44. Go back (to), as a habit
45. Kazan of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”
47. Revere’s cohort
48. Cremona violin-maker
49. “I ___ Song Go out of My Heart”
51. Put in an appearance
52. ____ many words
55. Semi
345 Commerce St. 2nd Floor Beaver, PA 15009 www.rabanksesq.com
Word Search
CHARM DRILL HETERODOX RANKLE STARK
CHELATION FOAL JAMBOREE RIVER SUCCUMB
COERCE GELATIN MISCHIEVOUS SLACKEN TABLESPOON
BEAVER FALLS PLAZA
1008 Seventh Ave., Beaver Falls (724) 843-4822
Two BR Vacancies Immediate Occupancy
DEBARK GUITAR OCTAGON SPORTS
• 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
Koppel Terrace Senior Apartments
Maintenance Free, Garden Style Apartments
For persons 55 years of age and older
Corner of 1st Avenue and Richard Street in Koppel
19 spacious, fully carpeted 1 and 2 bedroom apartments
One Bedroom $400 Two Bedrooms $500 plus electric Water, sewage and garbage included.
Fully equipped with stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and garbage disposal. On-site laundry facilities are also available. For additional information and application packet, call (724) 775-4535.
Income restrictions apply. Annual income must not exceed:
$25,450 one person; $29,050 two persons
Francis A. Farmer Apartments
274 Friendship Circle, Brighton Township, Beaver, PA 15009
Rent-Assisted Housing for Persons Ages 62 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
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
