Dec15bcsn by Pittsburgh Senior News

December 2015

Volume 15, Number 8

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Chuck LeClaire/Beaver County Senior News

Irene “Cookie” Liller with lap robes and at BCOA offices with Angela Gentile.

Monaca senior donates time and talent to make lap robes for the elderly Irene “Cookie” Liller, 71, of Monaca has been crocheting for decades but in the last five years or so, she’s become known around town for the soft, pretty lap robes that she makes for the elderly. “My sister-in-law taught me how to crochet about 26 years and it’s been a hobby ever since,” she says. Several years ago, Cookie began making lap robes and donating them to nursing

homes in the area through the Salvation Army in Rochester. “I made 60 that first year and about 30 the next year. Then I was talking to someone at the Center at the Mall one day, and asked who else I could donate them to. That’s when I learned about the Surprises for Shut-ins Program. This will be my third year making lap robes for the Office on Aging. Last year I made about 50.”

The Surprises for Shut-ins program is now in its 29th year. Gifts will be delivered this month to sickly and lonely shut-ins ages 60 and older who live in the community and are identified by BCOA as needing some special attention during the Christmas season. Nearly 500 individuals will receive a bag full of gifts and a 2015 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

Continued on page 14

Publisher’s Corner

During the hustle and bustle of this holiday time of year, Angela Gentile encourages us to take some time for ourselves. See her column in Keen-Age News on page 9. Happy holidays to you and your loved ones.

Lynn Webster

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Volume 15, Number 8 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. for Beaver County Senior News P. O. Box 11126 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 367-2522 pghseniornews@icloud.com

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Beaver County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Beaver County area. Copyright 2015 by Beaver County Senior News. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All advertisement in Beaver County Senior News is subject to the approval of the publisher. Publication of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement.

In Memory of John A. Hogan, Sr. Carmella M. Hogan Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 19)

Holiday Happenings k Senator Vogel will host a holiday open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. December 4 at 488 Adams St., Rochester. Come in from the cold and visit with Senator Vogel and enjoy some cookies and holiday joy. Call (724) 774-0444 or visit www. senatoreldervogel.com. k The 19th annual CCBC Foundation’s HollyDay Gala will take place at 6 p.m. December 4 at Seven Oaks Country Club, 132 Lisbon Rd., Beaver. CCBC’s culinary students will prepare and serve their best culinary creations to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Enjoy this magnificent event that opens the holiday season with an elegant ambiance, scrumptious food, delectable wine and amazing gift baskets, plus supports the student scholarship program. Cost is $50. Call (724) 480-3561 or visit www.ccbc.edu/hollyday.

k The Genevans Christmas Concert will take place at 7 p.m. December 4, 5 and 6 at First Presbyterian Church of Beaver Falls, 1103 Eighth Ave., Beaver Falls. This performance by the Geneva College student choir is a Beaver County tradition. Enjoy beautiful performances and familiar carols for audience participation. Donations accepted. Call (724) 847-6660 or visit www.geneva.edu. Continued on page 5

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December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

k The 26th annual Beaver County Festival of Trees will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. December 4 and from noon to 9 p.m. December 5 and 6 at Bradys Run Park Lodge, Brighton Township. Sponsored by U.S. SARR Corp. Walk into a Winter Wonderland and be amazed with a wide variety of creatively designed Christmas trees displayed each with a different theme and wreaths. Visit the North Pole Café, Santa Land, Candy Lane gift shop, enjoy the model train display and local entertainment. Free shuttle service from the Beaver County Ice Arena parking lot. Cost is $5 for ages 13 to 62; $4 seniors 63 and older (except on Sunday it is $3); $2 for children ages six to 12; 5 and under free. Call (724) 843-5378 or visit www. beavercountyfestivaloftrees.org.

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Holiday Happenings Village. Enjoy a candlelit stroll, as well as local choirs, unique crafts and children’s activities. Cost is $10 adults, $9 seniors and $6 youth. Call (724) 266-4500 or visit www.oldeconomyvillage.org.

Continued from page 3 k Enjoy A Vintage Christmas from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m December 4 and from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. December 5 at the Rochester Area Heritage Society Museum, 350 Adams St., Municipal Building, Second Floor, Rochester. Tour the Vintage Collection while enjoying refreshments and snacks. Donations appreciated. Call (724) 777-7697.

k The Merrick Women’s Council is holding it’s first ever Christmas Brunch at 1 p.m. December 13 at Merrick Art Gallery, 1100 Fifth Ave., New Brighton. Cost is $45 per person. Call (724) 8461130 or visit www.merrickgallery.org.

k Come out for Aliquippa Light Up Night at 6:30 p.m. December 5 at the Aliquippa Police Department, 581 Franklin Ave., Aliquippa. Santa will arrive by sleigh for the lighting of the City Christmas Tree followed by music, cookies and hot chocolate. Call (724) 375-5188.

k A country Christmas breakfast will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. December 5 at the Independence Township Community Center, 116 School Rd., Aliquippa. Enjoy pancakes, sausage and egg breakfast. There will be Christmas cookies and bake sale, crafters, vendors, kids crafts, story time plus Santa Claus. Admission is free. Cost for breakfast is $8 for adults, $5 for children ages five to 12 and free for children under four. Call (724) 378-3739 or visit www.independencetownshipbeavercounty.com. k A free holiday concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. December 9 at Penn State Beaver Auditorium, Student Union Building, 100 University Dr., Monaca. Enjoy your favorite holiday music performed by the Beaver County Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Monaca Cornet Band. Doors open at 7 p.m. Call (724) 773-3610.

k BF Jones Memorial Library, 663 Franklin Ave., Aliquippa., will offer an evening of crafts, snacks, stories and a special running of the Polar Express train at 6 p.m. December 9. A special visit from Santa with a gift for all children attending will be the highlight of the evening. This event is free. Call (724) 375-2900. k The Festival of Trees annual auction is set to take place December 9 at Bradys Run Lodge, New Brighton. Doors open at 5 p.m. bidding starts at 6 p.m. All trees and wreaths will be auctioned off. All proceeds benefit Children and Youth Services, as well as U.S. SARR Corps. Visit www.beavercountyfestivaloftrees.org. k Lincoln Park Holiday Concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. December 10 at Lincoln Park Mainstage, One Lincoln Park, Midland. Lincoln Park students will present their annual holiday concert. Cost is $5 per person. Call (724) 576-4644 or visit www.lpacenter.org. k Christmas at The Village will take place from 2 to 9 p.m. December 12 and from 2 to 7 p.m. December 13 at Old Economy Village, 270 16th St., Ambridge. Visit a 19th Century Christmas

k Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is making its Pennsylvania debut at the Big Butler Fairgrounds, 1127 New Castle Rd., Prospect, this year and will run through January 3. Hours are from dusk to 10 p.m. including holidays and will run as scheduled in the rain. This award-winning Christmas light and music extravaganza is unlike any show you’ve seen. Guests simply tune in their radio, and watch the magic unfold as they drive through hundreds of thousands of brilliant LED lights dancing in perfect synchronization with the music filling their vehicle. The cost is $25 per carload, $40 for a minibus, limousine or activity van and school and tour busses are $80 (drive route and parking accommodations are tour bus friendly). Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are popular nights to visit the light show. Long lines should be expected. Visit Monday through Thursday to avoid extended wait times. Call (888) 321-7547 or visit www.shadrackchristmas.com.

Continued on page 6

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

k Nectar Valley Winery, 748 Shenango Rd., Chippewa Township, presents “Do You Want To Paint A Snowman” from 6 to 8 p.m. December 5. Paint a pair of wine glasses while enjoying a glass of your favorite wine with friends and family. Cost is $25 for one glass or $40 for two glasses with a glass of wine included. Participants must be age 21 or older. Call (724) 732-9360 for reservations or visit www.nectarvalleywinery.com.

k A free Christmas Day dinner will be provided to anyone in need from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. December 25 at Beaver Falls High School, 1710 Eighth Ave., Beaver Falls. Individuals will be provided a variety of gifts, including clothing, toys, domestic items. Call (724) 846-3751.

Holiday Happenings Spirits of Giving Around the World: The splendor of the holidays comes alive at PPG Place’s breathtaking “Spirits of Giving Around the World” exhibit in the Wintergarden at Two PPG Place, downtown, through January 7. This enchanting display of life-size Santas and original paintings captures a world of Christmas folklore and fantasy. The Wintergarden’s spectacular 32-foot tree is adorned with magnificent ornaments.

Continued from page 5 PPG Place Pittsburgh Ice Rink at PPG Place: Through February 28, the Plaza between Third and Fourth Avenues transform into The Pittsburgh Ice Rink at PPG Place, a spectacular one-of-a-kind outdoor ice skating rink. Enjoy an exhilarating holiday tradition as you glide around the breathtaking 65-foot Christmas tree at the plaza. Bring the grandkids to Skate with Santa on Saturdays: December 5, 12 and 19, from 2 to 4 p.m. Fee is $8 for adults and $7 for seniors (age 50 and older) and children. Skate rentals are $4 and skate sharpening is $5. Skating lessons are also offered. Call for hours or to learn more: (412) 394-3641.

Gingerbread House and Train Display: Also in the Wintergarden is the Gingerbread House and Train Display. Don’t miss this magnificent display of delicious dwellings created by area individuals, organizations, seniors, students and chefs. Local artist Don Jones enhances the exhibit with a unique display of trains from his private collection. There is no charge for admission; donations benefit the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s Free Care Fund.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Get into the holiday spirit and experience downtown in a whole new way during a complimentary horse-drawn carriage ride through Market Square, courtesy of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership. Free carriage rides depart the Fourth Avenue side of the PPG Place Plaza. Arrive early as rides fill up quickly. For more details on any of these PPG Place events, call (412) 434-1900 or visit www.ppgplace.com.

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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 low income persons whose incomes are

• 1 Person hh...$14,600 • 2 Persons hh...$16,700 Maximum income for eligibility is: 1 Person $38,950; 2 Persons $44,500 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

Holiday Happenings First Night Pittsburgh First Night Pittsburgh promises to be even bigger and better this year. A production of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, First Night is an arts-focused and family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration in downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. It is the largest single-day celebration in the region, offering about 150 events at nearly 50 indoor and outdoor locations within a 14-block area. The celebration offers something for everyone, including a countdown to midnight and fireworks display, parade with giant puppets, live music and dance, a sing-off competition and art displays both indoors and outside. This year, The Wailers are set to perform. To learn more or to order your admission buttons, visit www.firstnightpgh.org. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens The Winter Flower Show runs through Sunday, January 10. Daily hours for the Winter Flower Show are 9:30 a.m. to11 p.m. and 5 to 11 p.m. for the Winter Light Garden. Phipps closes at 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 24 and reopens at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 26. Admission is $15 for adults, $14 for seniors and students, and $11 for children ages two to 18). Members and kids under age two enter free. Phipps is located at One Schenley Park in Oakland. To learn more, call (412)-622-6914 or visit www.phipps.conservatory.org.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, in Phipp’s Outdoor and Discovery Gardens, the Winter Light Garden will sparkle with luminous orbs, trees and fountains of light. The Garden Railroad will be on view, too, taking you on a magical trip through the plots of nine fairy tales and fables brought to life with interactive buttons for children to push, and miniature living plants, shrubs and trees. Kennywood Lights Kennywood presents the fifth annual 2015 Lights. Come out to see Kennywood transformed with more than one million dazzling lights. Enjoy songs of the holiday performed by local choirs. See the spectacular light show on the lagoon choreographed to your favorite holiday melodies. Visit Santa, ride the Gingerbread Express and more. Hours are from 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays, Saturday and Sundays through December. The park will be closed December 25. Visit www.kennywood.com/ holidaylights. PSN

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December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

Don’t miss this seasonal showstopper! Take a walk in a winter wonderland as Phipps brings the familiar carol “Deck the Halls” to life. During its Winter Light Garden and Flower Show, each of the changing exhibit rooms will embody the spirit the holiday tune, complete with artful arrangements of LED lights, decorated fir trees, whimsical props and, of course, plenty of seasonal favorites such as colorful poinsettias, aromatic paperwhites and showy amaryllis.

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Baden Circle of Friends Circle of Friends, 371 Linmore Ave., Baden, will offer the following events: H Christmas dinner dance from 6 to 10 p.m. December 4. H Pinochle tournament at 9:30 a.m. December 9. H Young Living Essentials seminar at 6:30 p.m. December 15. H Christmas meal and party from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. December 17. H Penny bingo and New Year’s Eve party from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. December 21. H Center is closed December 24. The exercise room is open during center hours. Call (724) 8694224 or visit www.circleoffriendsbeaver.com for a complete schedule. BCSN

New Brighton Circle of Friends Circle of Friends New Brighton, Holy Family Parish, will offer the following events: H Trip to Mountaineer Casino at 9 a.m. December 2. H Christmas bingo from 10 a.m. to noon. December 8. H Christmas lunch at 11 a.m December 17. H Center is closed December 24. H New Year’s Eve bingo December 31. Zumba gold classes Mondays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 1:45 p.m. Call (724) 846-1959 or visit www.circleoffriendsbeaver.com for a complete schedule. BCSN

Center at the Mall December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

Center at the Mall (CATM), Beaver Valley Mall, Monaca, will offer the following activities: 2 Bake sale from 9 am. to 2 p.m. December 10. Come stock up for the holidays.

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2 Flu and shingles shots from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. December 11. Limited supply, come early. 2 Christmas party from 10 a.m. to noon December 17. There will be caroling, Karaoke with Les and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Visit www.centeratthemall.com for all programs, events and fitness center hours and class schedule. Call (724) 728-1422 to make reservations for upcoming events and programs. Follow the center on Facebook at www.facebook. com/CenterattheMall. BCSN

Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging

Angela is getting excited about watching some movies after Christmas.

It’s December. Are you going to get it all done by the end of the year? By Angela Gentile, Planning Unit Program Monitor Beaver County Office on Aging For Beaver County Senior News

t is great that at the conclusion of each year, there are holidays when we can give thanks, show love, visit one another, spread good cheer and offer a donation to worthy causes. During the month of December, it can be quite busy to prepare and plan for the holidays. Do you clean, vacuum, write out holiday cards, send email greetings, shop, wrap, visit, go to church, make cookies and candy, do community service, enjoy holiday concerts, attend holiday events and dinners and decorate? Does all of this happen? Maybe it does. Maybe it doesn’t. Regardless, do what

In the past several years, I have started to take some time after Christmas to slow down. I’ve let some things go, like the amount of Christmas decorating I do, and instead take some time for myself. Many people who know me think I do not like movies and remind me of this. I explain that I like movies, but since I am on the go throughout the year with many activities, hobbies, traveling and working, it is hard for me to sit down long enough to watch an entire movie. After Christmas, I look forward to watching some of my favorite James Bond films. Several years ago, I made a point to watch a really long Lord of the Rings movie. It was funny that after the movie, I told my sister I really did not understand it. She laughed and said that I watched the last movie of the series and that I needed to read The Hobbit first. She proceeded to go upstairs and bring down the book and told me to read it. I thought it was a good time to read a book. Well, I read it and now know about Middle Earth. If you don’t know what I am talking about, ask your grandchildren or nieces and nephews; they will explain it to you. Maybe you will have the chance to watch some movies with them, like some of the classics: White Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street and A Christmas Story. The important thing is to spend this holiday season in the way you will enjoy it the most. I wish all of you a joyous holiday season and a very Happy New Year! BCSN

No Senior Day in December and January There is no Senior Day event in December and January. We will see you February 10, 2016. Watch Beaver County Senior News for the schedule. BCSN

News You Can Use Happenings this month: 2 Hanukkah, December 7 2 Winter begins, December 21 2 Christmas, December 25 2 Kwanzaa, December 26 2 New Year’s Eve, December 31

Reminders: * You have until December 31 to apply for a Property Tax/Rent Rebate based on 2014 paid property taxes or rent. * Medicare open enrollment runs through December 7 in order to compare your current health and prescription plan with all available options in 2016. By comparing, you may find better coverage, higher quality or lower cost. BCSN

History Tidbits Captain William Vicary, who started building his family mansion in Freedom in 1826, was president of the Columbia Bank and Bridge Co. in Lancaster County before he came to western Pennsylvania. Marion Township, formed in 1845, was named in honor of General Francis Marion, a South Carolina Revolutionary War hero known for ambushes of English troops. Nicknamed Swamp Fox, he is known for beginning modern guerilla warfare using his resourcefulness and hit and run tactics, many times in swampy areas. BCSN

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

you can then include some time for yourself to rest, relax and reflect.

Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging

Funds are available to support local caregivers By Tesi Dye, Care Management Supervisor Beaver County Office on Aging For Beaver County Senior News

Lincoln Park presents The Nutcracker

ational Caregiver Month was celebrated in November. The Beaver County Office on Aging would like to recognize the caregivers who provide for the health and well being of their family members, friends and neighbors. We currently have funds available to help support local caregivers through education, benefits counseling, monthly reimbursement and an annual caregiver recognition luncheon.

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

Here is an example of how the program can assist caregivers: Jane is the primary unpaid caregiver for her husband, John, who has had dementia for several years. She provides most of the daily hands-on care for John. She private pays for some assistance by hiring her neighbor, Marie, to sit with her husband every Thursday evening so she can attend her church meeting. She also hires an aide from a local home care agency to come three times a week to help get John in the shower. Jane purchases adult diapers because John as started to have daily bladder accidents. Working with her care manager, she recently had a ramp installed. At the end of each month, Jane submits receipts showing the amount she has paid her neighbor and the care agency for their work. She also submits receipts showing the cost of the incontinence supplies she purchased. The following month, she receives a check reimbursing her for 90 percent of her costs up to $500. She was able to get reimbursement for $1,800 of the $2,000 she spent to have the ramp built. Jane has read several of the caregiver books provided by the care manager. She also

attended the annual recognition event in May and enjoyed the lunch, educational speakers and gift bags. She is able to call her care manager when she has questions, needs more information or needs an empathetic ear. Caregivers cannot receive payment of any kind for the care they provide to the individual. Sometimes applicants think that the Caregiver program will pay them for the work they do; however, this is not possible. The program reimburses the primary unpaid caregiver for costs they expend to purchase approved services and supplies for the care receiver. Verification of income and assets is part of the assessment and helps to determine the amount of reimbursement. If you are a caregiver and think you might benefit from this program, call the Information and Referral Department at (724) 847-2262. Let them know you would like to have a home visit and assessment to determine how the Caregiver program can help you keep your loved one at home as long as possible. BCSN

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

Come out to the Lincoln Park Mainstage, One Lincoln Park, Midland, to see The Nutcracker. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. December 18 and 19 and at 2 p.m. December 20. Cost of tickets is $20, $18, $15. Call (724) 576-4644 or visit www.lppacenter.org. BCSN

Christmas concerts The Beaver Valley Choral Society will present the following Christmas Concerts: * December 6 at 4 p.m. at Christ’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 409 11th St., Beaver Falls. * December 12 at 4 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 345 College Ave., Beaver. * December 13 at 4 p.m at St. John RC Church, 1409 Pennsylvania Ave., Monaca. * December 19 at 4 p.m. at New Brighton United Methodist Church, 1033 Sixth Ave., New Brighton. * December 20 at 4 p.m. at St. Cecilia RC Church, 632 Virginia Ave., Rochester. Enjoy the holidays with this thrilling concert of sacred Christmas choral and orchestral music. Visit www.bvchoralsociety.org.

Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging

Easy Holiday Brownies

Elmcroft of Chippewa’s Christmas Tree Wonderland benefits Beaver County Office on Aging’s Surprises for Shut-ins Program

hile doing all of your December activities, enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas when stopping by Elmcroft of Chippewa Christmas Tree Wonderland. This personal care home, located at 104 Pappan Business Drive in Beaver Falls, has a mini-festival of trees during the entire month of December. Area businesses donate and decorate the trees, and raffle tickets are sold for a chance to win the trees.

3 Green icing in a tube 3 Bag of red and green M&Ms and/or red or green sprinkles How to prepare: The residents of Elmcroft get to enjoy the trees in their living room, Elmcroft of Chippewa and the businesses get to support a great cause and eventually the recipients of the Surprises for Shut-ins receive a bag full of gifts and a friendly visit at Christmas time. BCSN

Seniors on the Web UncoveringPA.com: This is a great website to find out about interesting places in Pennsylvania. If you are an armchair traveler, you will enjoy the site, too. There are lots of great stories and photos about attractions, events, arts, breweries, wineries, culture, factory tours, food, history, museums, oddities, waterfalls, Pennsylvania travel books and travel videos. Also included is information about destinations in all areas of the state, including the Little Beaver Historical Society museums in Darlington. Follow Uncovering PA on Facebook. Geezerguff.com: If you enjoy older adult humor, this website is for you. It includes feisty satire, funny comments, senior videos on YouTube, funny pictures, blogs and more. BCSN

j Bake the brownies according to directions on the package and cool. j Cut the brownies into rectangle and triangle shapes. (Triangles resemble a tree.) j Using the icing, make an outline of a tree on the rectangular shapes and decorate with M&Ms as Christmas bulbs. j On the triangle shapes, spread the icing to cover the brownie and top with sprinkles. You can mix and match using the candy and sprinkles. j Enjoy the brownie alone or serve with ice cream. Your brownies will be an easy, festive treat to make and serve at the holidays.

Senior center menus Call the following senior centers for menu information and reservations: Aliquippa (724) 857-9989; Baden (724) 869-4224; Beaver Falls (724) 846-1959; Center at the Mall (724) 728-1422; Midland (724) 869-4224.

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

Elmcroft has earmarked proceeds of this event to benefit the Beaver County Office on Aging’s Surprises for Shutins program. Tickets can be purchased at the Elmcroft of Chippewa front desk for $1 each or six for $5. Winners will be notified at the end of December, and trees will be available for pick up the first week of January.

3 Box of brownie mix, any brand

Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors

Beaver County Office on Aging

The Beaver County Office on Aging

Serving you: Your financial gift allows the Beaver County Office on Aging to offer in-home services to frail older adults in their home—because home is where they want to stay. Your donation in any amount increases our ability to help care for our older adults in need.

---------------------------------------------------------Donation Form

Name:____________________________ Address:__________________________ City/State/Zip:_____________________ Amount ___$10 ___$15 ___$25 ___$50 ______any other amount You may make a donation in honor or memory of someone Dedication ___in honor of

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

___in memory of

• “Surprises for Shut-ins” • Information and Referral • Ombudsman Service • PDA Waiver Program • Domiciliary Care • Care Management • Benefits Counseling • Senior Day • Pre-admission Assessment • Family Caregiver Support Program • APPRISE Program • PrimeTime Health Program • Nursing Home Transition Beaver County Commissioners Tony Amadio, Chairman Joe Spanik Dennis Nichols Linda L. Hall, Administrator Beaver County Office on Aging

Services provided through subcontractors: • Adult Day Care • Attendant Care • Chore Service • Home Companion • Home Delivered Meals • Homemaker • Home Safe Home

• Legal Services • Personal Care • Protective Services • Respite Care • Senior Centers • Transportation

For more information, call or visit our office at 1020 Eighth Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

list name:__________________________

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

May we print your dedication?

Phone: (724) 847-2262 (Local) (888) 548-2262 (Long Distance) TDD (724) 728-5700

___Yes ___No May we print your name as a donor? ___Yes

___No

Make your donation payable to: Beaver County Office on Aging Mail to: Beaver County Office on Aging Attn: Planning Department 1020 8th Ave. Beaver Falls, PA 15010 A donation was made by Gilda DeFerrari .

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

Website: www.beavercountypa.gov/office-aging

Senior Day-Travel With Us The #1 Resource in Beaver County for personal, “on the spot” consultation and service for older adults all at one convenient location!

Proudly brought to you by ~ The Beaver County Office on Aging and Premier Sponsors: Medic Rescue ~ Concordia Visiting Nurses Please note: There will not be a Senior Day in December or January.

Read Beaver County Senior News for more information. Call (724) 847-2262 for information.

Center at the Mall

Senior center and therapy services at Beaver Valley Mall.

VNA, Western Pennsylvania Home Care & Hospice programs

Lutheran Service Society

Meals on Wheels, Senior Centers, HUD housing.

LIFE Beaver County

Living Independence for the Elderly in partnership with Heritage Valley Health System.

SilverSmart Technology TM

Technology assistance for seniors, including home assessments, hotline for questions, catalogue of devices and technology tips.

Valley Care Adult Day Center

Adult day center services in Ambridge and Moon Township.

www.lutheranseniorlife.org

Live an Abundant Life

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December 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ Beaver County Senior News

Living to serve residents of Beaver County through a full continuum of care.

13 FNL LSL Beaver CTY SR NEWS ad REVISE3.indd 1

5/22/15 12:46 PM

Monaca senior donates time and talent to make lap robes for the elderly the Mall. Our office is so appreciative of the time she spends to help brighten the holidays of the isolated elderly.”

Continued from page 1 friendly visit. In the 28 years of the program, a total of 9,276 gift deliveries have been made. “Cookie does a great job blending yarn colors together to make beautiful lap robes for the recipients of our program,” comments Angela Gentile, Surprises for Shut-ins coordinator at the Beaver County Office on Aging (BCOA). “We like to offer something warm in each bag, and Cookie’s creations help us meet that need. The BCOA staff and volunteer deliverers say that the older adults who receive the lap robes love getting them, and our Care Management staff tells me that they see the lap robes in use in the recipients’ homes as they make their home visits throughout the year.” Last year, Cookie asked Angela if BCOA could get her some donated yarn

Chuck LeClaire/Beaver County Senior News

Irene “Cookie” Liller. so that she could make more lap robes for the program. “I mentioned that we were looking for donated yarn in the Keen-Age News section of Beaver County Senior News, and the public really responded generously,” Angela explains. “We received a lot of donated yarn, and Cookie has been busily making lap robes for our program since then. She also comes out to help us wrap gifts for the program at Center at

Cookie also enjoys painting, making porcelain dolls and making other types of crafts. “I also like to sew. I am now sewing walker bags for people with walkers. I just made some Pittsburgh Steelers pillowcases and other things for my grandchildren.” Cookie and her late husband Charlie have two daughters, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Cookie was born and raised in Monaca and graduated from Monaca High School. Other than a brief move to Philadelphia, where she worked in a clothing factory, Cookie has always lived in Beaver County. BCSN The Beaver County Office on Aging is always looking for donations of yarn for the lap robes. If you would like to make a donation, call Angela Gentile at the Office on Aging at (724) 847-2262.

RANCISCAN M ANOR S ENIOR L IVING

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

A CHARMED LIF E AWA I T S YO U !

F 71 Darlington Road Patterson Township Beaver Falls, PA 15010

ranciscan Manor is Beaver County’s premier senior living community, reminiscent of the charm and character of a bygone era. Nestled in an area known for its innovation, our community maintains a fresh approach to senior living care.

Franciscan Manor offers: • 24-hour Nursing Care • Rehabilitation Services • Programmed Activities

• Nutritious Chef-Prepared Meals • Housekeeping Services

Zero dollar monthly plan premium. Zero worries about having in-network access to UPMC.

Toll-free: 1-866-416-8870 seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. TTY: 1-800-361-2629 www.upmchealthplan.com/medicare *You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. This plan does not include Part D prescription drug coverage. **The UPMC Health Plan Call Center earned the 2015 Award for Best Large Contact Center from ICMI. For more information, visit www.icmi.com. This award was not given by Medicare. For more information about UPMC for Life’s Star Rating go to www.Medicare.gov. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits and premium may change on January 1 of each year. The provider network may change at any time. You will receive notice when necessary. UPMC for Life has a contract with Medicare to provide HMO and PPO plans. Enrollment in UPMC for Life depends on contract renewal. UPMC for Life is a product of and operated by UPMC Health Plan Inc., UPMC Health Network Inc., and UPMC Health Benefits Inc. Y0069_16_1019 Accepted

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

• Plans starting as low as $0 for your monthly plan premium* • Full in-network access to UPMC as well as other doctors and hospitals in your community • Brand-name and generic prescription drug coverage (on most plans) • Award-winning customer service with our Health Care Concierge team**

Holiday Word Search

Senior Resources

Following is a list of resources that are relevant to issues effecting seniors. We are providing this as an easy reference for information that you may need now or in the future. AARP: www.aarp.org. The National site for AARP (formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons), a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization for people, ages 50 years and older. Call 1 (888) 687-2277. Alzheimer’s Association: www.alzpa.org. Programs and services for individuals and families coping with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders. Call 1 (800) 272-3900. FAMILY HOLLY MISTLETOE ORNAMENT

PRESENTS REINDEER SLEIGH SNOW

SNOWMAN STOCKING TREE WREATH

Animal cracker “Mom, can I have an animal cracker?” asked 3 year old Nathan. “Sure Nathan,” said his mom. “Open up the box, and take a few.”

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

Beaver County Office on Aging: www.beavercountypa. gov/office-aging. Gives detailed information on aging programs. Call (724) 847-2262 (Local); 1 (888) 548-2262 (Long Distance); TDD (724) 728-5700. Benefits Checkup: www.benefitscheckup.org. An online questionnaire to help search for a list of all state and federal benefits.

Forty five minutes later Nathan’s mother walked into the kitchen. “Nathan, why did you spill out all of the animal crackers, and what are you looking for?”

COMPASS (Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Application for Social Services): www.compass.state.pa.us. Enables Pennsylvania citizens to apply for social services programs online. Call 1 (800) 692-7462.

“It said on the box not to eat it if the seal is broken.” Nathan replied “I spilled out the whole box, I looked through all of the animals but I can’t find any seals!”

Eldercare Locator: www.eldercare.gov. Contains information on the complete array of services and programs of interest for older adults. Call 1 (800) 677-1116.

It’s time

Government Benefits: www.GovBenefits.gov. The official benefits website of the government that connects people in need to government assistance programs. Call 1 (800) 333-4636.

Brian’s stress level was at unsurpassed levels. His wife Maggie was in labor and Brian was sure it was time to head to the hospital. Breathing heavily, Brian grabbed the phone and called the doctor. “My wife, she’s ready, should we come?” The doctor tried to relax the poor fellow, “just try to relax, now tell me how much time elapses between the contractions?” “Shirley!” Brian screamed on the top of his lungs, “How much time in between the contractions? Ten minutes? Okay, ten minutes in between!” “And is this her first child?” asked the doctor. “NO! This is her husband!” Taken from www.ahajokes.com.

Medicare: www.medicare.gov. The official government site for Medicare consumer information. Call 1 (800) 633-4227. Pennsylvania Long-Term Care: www.helpinpa.state. pa.us. Provides long-term care information on available service options, including home care, public and private financing of those options, and other issues. Call 1 (866) 286-3636.

RE ! U’ ED YO VIT IN

Vaccines and Stem Cells: Weapons against Lung Disease By David Ebner

very fall, the billboards and television commercials urging you to get a flu shot start appearing. Many people have reservations about the flu vaccine. However, the statistics strongly support the flu vaccination over trying to tough it out, especially for the elderly. The CDC estimates that, in people over 50, there is a 77 percent reduction in hospitalization for flu symptoms when vaccinated. Why not give yourself the best chance to be healthy? The benefits are even more compelling for those with a lung disease. The coughing, shortness of breath and fatigue that come along with the flu are everyday symptoms of lung disease, and contracting the flu can turn these already harsh symptoms into something fatal. That’s why the CDC—and most pulmonologists—recommends that people with these conditions get the flu shot yearly.

Stem cells have become a buzzword in the news. However, few people are talking about the adult stem cells that are present in our own bodies. These cells live in blood, bone marrow and fat tissue. They naturally respond to injury or illness, yet since stem cells don’t move quickly, our bodies don’t instantly heal. Stem cell therapy can expedite this natural healing process. A clinic called the Lung Institute (lunginstitute.com) treats lung diseases with stem cells from the patient’s own body. They extract cells through a minimally invasive procedure, isolate them and reintroduce them to the lungs after giving the patient natural growth factors that promote cell replication. This quickens healing by directing the cells toward the diseased area. Although this doesn’t cure the disease, it acts like the annual flu vaccine by slowing further degeneration and bringing a normal life back within reach. We are in the midst of a fight to eradicate the flu. In the past, when the medical field banded together, they were able to develop a vaccine. With the medical advancements today, the question of whether this can be done for lung disease is forthcoming, and by the looks of it, stem cells could play a starring role.

The next generation of COPD treatment is here.

Join us for a stem cell seminar. Learn how stem cells from your own body can be used to help you breathe easier. Register for our next Pittsburgh seminar on Dec. 15th at 4 p.m. Call today to reserve your seat! Call (855) 978-5767 for more information or visit lunginstitute.com/SeniorNews

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

Now, patients are asking about other options to protect and improve their lung function. If a shot can vaccinate them from the flu, what can be done about lung disease? New options are emerging, and some have discovered stem cells as the answer. Just like the flu vaccine, stem cell therapy offers the possibility of improving lives through treatment of debilitating conditions.

Fractured Headings from the Yellow Pages A-Z Write the correct word(s) for a chance to win $30 cash.

1. A Turn Knees

_____________

10. Genes

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18. Wreck Crete Asian

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2. Buy Sickles

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11. Quenelles

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19. Sea Cure Ready

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3. Cream may Shin _____________

12. Lye Berries

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20. Trance Ms. Shuns

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4. Dome Stirs

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21. A Pollster Hers

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5. Express Sew

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13. Mare Ridge Sarah Moan Knees _____________

6. Fir Niche Sure

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7. Grow Sirs

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8. Hip Know Says _____________ 9. Inch Sure Rinse _____________

14. Gnus Pay Purrs

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22. Fettering Airy Oz Petals

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15. Ore Guest Straws

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23. Wait Laws

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16. Pond Broke Curs

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24. Hex Tray Slabs

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17. Cue West Shin

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25. Yo Gird

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26. Sue’s

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To enter, mail your answers to Beaver County Senior News Contest, P.O. Box 11126, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. One entry per person. Correct entries will be eligible for our drawing. One winner will be drawn. Entries must be received by the 15th of this month. Answers will be published in the next edition of Beaver County Senior News.

Name________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone____________________________Age________________

Congratulations to Marilyn Herrlich who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. Mesa; 2. Mesh; 3. Mash; 4. Cash; 5. Cast; 6. Fast; 7. Fest; 8. Felt; 9. Feat; 10. Beat.

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. Income limits apply (gross annual income) • 1 Person hh...$14,600 • 2 Persons hh...$16,700 Maximum income eligibility• 1 Person...$24,350 • 2 Persons ...$27,800

Housing Authority of the County of Beaver James F. Tress Administration Building 300 State Avenue, Beaver, PA 15009 Affordable, Accessible, Available Housing Assisting low income seniors with safe, decent and affordable housing opportunities and improve the quality of their lives.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

(724) 775-1220 www.beavercountyhousing.org

Beaver Elder Care

Koppel Terrace Senior Apartments

December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

(800) 238-7555

Rehabilitation Center

www.beavereldercare.com

and

A GUARDIAN ELDER CARE FACILITY 616 Golf Course Road Aliquippa, PA 15001 Phone: (724) 375-0345 Now offering Outpatient Therapy along with Short-Term Rehabilitation.

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: $29,220 one person; $33,360 two persons

Crossword Puzzle answer on page 2

LAKEVIEW PERSONAL CARE Embracing Life’s Journey Together

Affordable Quality Accommodations • Stimulating Activities Program • • Trained Healthcare Personnel (24 Hour Care) • Respite Services for Short Term Residents

724.495.6139

ACROSS 1 “The X-Files” gp. 4 Refrain opener 7 Flub 8 Vacation isle 10 “Uptown Funk” singer Mars 11 Detoxes, with “up” 13 Astronaut portrayer in “Gravity” 16 Toss in 17 Sewer cover 18 – tai cocktail 19 Auction cry 20 Joker 21 Japanese capital, once 23 A bit lit 25 Skewed view 26 – Hari 27 Olympian (Abbr.) 28 Cameo shapes 30 “So that’s it!” 33 Astronaut portrayer in “Gravity” 36 Evening do 37 Winslet and Hudson 38 Phases 39 At the drop of – 40 Donkey 41 Slangy “yes”

DOWN 1 Located 2 007 3 “It slipped my mind!” 4 Rainbow – 5 Russian money 6 Cain’s sibling 7 Alum 8 Just – (no better) 9 Scents 10 Org. with Eagles 12 Spine-tingling 14 Woody’s son 15 Josh 19 Yachter’s “Help!” 20 Tax prep pro 21 Sky boxes? 22 Yokels 23 Towering 24 “No harm done!” 25 Gucci product 26 Fights off a mugger 28 Creeps 29 No. 2 men or women 30 Draft status? 31 Icy Hot rival 32 Sounds of woe 34 Sultry Hayworth 35 Waikiki locale

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December 2015 • Beaver County Senior News

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