Butler County Senior News
December 2014
Volume 9, Number 6
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Enjoy holiday cheer at seasonal events around Butler County It’s the most wonderful time of the year to get out into the community and enjoy one or more of the special events going on during the holiday season. Check out some of these activities happening around Butler County and create some holiday cheer with family and friends. 2 Zelienople Historical Society’s 22nd annual Christmas Home Tour will be held at 9 a.m. December 6.
Zelienople area homes decorated in a variety of styles will be opened for guests during the self-drive event. The starting point and luncheon location will be outlined in the greeting letter given to paid ticket holders. The $22 ticket price includes the tour and a catered luncheon featuring door prizes and a quilt raffle drawing. Paid reservations are required in advance; no tickets
will be available at the door. Tour tickets may be purchased at Passavant House, 243 S. Main St. Zelienople, PA 16063 weekdays from 9 a.m. to noon, or by mailing a request, a check, and a self-addressed stamped envelope to the society at the same address. Call (724) 452-9457. 2014 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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Publisher’s Corner
provider of the Butler community’s medical and surgical eye care. The eye physicians at Balouris Eye Center are certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.
Here in Butler County and around the Pittsburgh region, we are fortunate to have so many educational and interesting things to do, especially around the holidays. Keep our cover story and the article on page 4 handy this month when deciding how you’d like to make a special memory or two during this season of goodwill. Wishing everyone a blessed holiday.
Some of the services provided include: • No stitch, no patch cataract surgery at our adjacent surgical center • Laser surgery for secondary cataracts, diabetes and glaucoma • Facial rejuvenation treatments, including Botox®, dermal C.A. Balouris, M.D. fillers and eyelash enhancement • Complex retinal care with Drs. Sorr, Hoffman & Shultz • Eye Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery with Dr. Randall Beatty Comprehensive Retinal Services are available at Balouris Eye Center, PC. Drs. Sorr, Hoffman and Shultz of Everett & Hurite Ophthalmic Association provide complex retinal care in our office. They treat all conditions affecting the retina including macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and Melissa A. DeRenzo, M.D. advanced diabetic retinopathy.
Art Director: Burnfield Consulting Sales Executive: Wallace Webster Photographer: Chuck LeClaire Printing Company: Knepper Press Contributing Writers: Gina Mazza
Volume 9, Number 6 Published monthly by
102 Technology Drive•Ste. 120•Butler•724-482-0090 Visit us at
www.BalourisEyeCenter.com
Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. for Butler County Senior News P. O. Box 11126 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 367-2522
The staff at Butler County Senior News would like to wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday season.
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
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Editor: Gina Mazza
Intern: Kara Boyle
Lynn Webster
Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com or email us at pghseniornews@icloud.com
Please Note: We will not publish a January issue of Butler County Senior News. See you in February!
Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 15)
Owner/Publisher Lynn Webster
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Butler County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Butler County area. Copy right 2014 by Butler County Senior News. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All advertisement in Butler 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
Enjoy holiday cheer at seasonal events around Butler County Continued from page 1
2 Bring the grandchildren out for Brunch with Santa December 13 at Cranberry Highlands Golf Course, 5601 Freshcorn Rd., Cranberry Township. Enjoy brunch and take pictures with Santa. There are two sessions: 10 to 11:30 a.m. and from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Cost is $13.95 for adults; $7.50 for children ages 5-9; free for children 4 and under.
2 A Christmas Carol will be performed at 8 p.m. December 19 and 20 and at 2 p.m. December 21 at Succop Theater, 250 College Dr., Butler. Cost is $10.50 for adults and $5.50 for children. Visit www.hobnobtheatre.com. 2 Harmony Museum’s Stewart Hall, 218 Mercer Street and Historic District, Harmony, will host a Silvester New Year’s Eve Celebration from 2 to 6:30 p.m. December 31. This family-oriented celebration welcomes the new year in “German time” in recognition of the community’s heritage; 6 p.m. EST is midnight in Germany. Festivities
include 5K and 1 mile races (see below), museum tours, pork and sauerkraut dinner, entertainment, fireworks and more. Call (724) 452-7341 or visit www. harmonymuseum.org. 2 Historic Harmony will hold 5K race, followed by a one-mile fun run on December 31. The 5K race begins at 3 p.m. and the one-mile at 3:45 p.m. Runners may register on-line or mail in a paper registration form. Register at www.harmony-pa.us. Registration will also be available the day of the race at the Grace Church Youth Center in downtown Harmony. BCSN
Tickets starting at $16! Fri. Dec. 26 1pm & 6pm
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
2 Holiday decorating with native plants will take place from 2 to 3 p.m. December 7 at Succop Nature Park. This event is free for Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania and Fox Chapel Garden Club members, $6 for nonmembers. Learn to decorate your home for the holidays using native plants. Visit www.aswp.org or call (412) 963-6100 to register.
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Pittsburgh’s Downtown is alive with exciting holiday happenings for all ages By Gina Mazza For Butler County Senior News Something wonderful has been happening in Pittsburgh’s Downtown area: People of all ages are living, working and spending more of their leisure hours in the Cultural District along Penn Avenue, at Consol Energy Center and other venues uptown, and at restaurants around the city proper. This holiday season, treat yourself and your loved ones to a special event downtown. Take the grandkids skating at PPG’s rink or to celebrate the New Year at First Night Pittsburgh. Catch a classic music performance at Heinz Hall or the Byham Theatre. Enjoy all the great things that Pittsburgh has to offer and make a special lifetime memory. Here’s a roundup of some of our favorite things to do. B. E. Taylor Christmas Concert
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Now in its 18th year, the B.E. Taylor Christmas Concert continues to wow audiences. Pittsburgh legend B.E. Taylor transforms old favorites through bold interpretations to create new traditions. Each year, a band of brothers fills the silent nights of December with harmony, music and love. Sold out audiences return year after year to listen, watch, sing and celebrate God’s greatest gift. Join in the tradition at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, December 15 and Tuesday, December 16 at Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts. For tickets, call (412) 392-4900. Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History For the 53rd year, the museum’s Hall of Architecture will dazzle visitors with six uniquely decorated Carnegie Trees, flanking the museum’s perennial favorite, the Neapolitan presepio, a beautiful 18th-century Nativity that has been a holiday tradition since 1957. This year’s tree decorations will be inspired by the theme, “Winter Wonders.”
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Capture the awe and exhilaration of the holiday season with the classic story, iconic choreography and soaring score of The Nutcracker. This Pittsburghinspired production laces the traditional tale with new surprises each year and keeps the magic alive by showcasing the virtuosity of more than 170 dancers. From the moonlit Snow Scene to the effervescent Land of Enchantment, young and old will love this performance. December 5 through 28. Following a successful pilot performance last year, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre will again present a sensory-friendly performance on Tuesday, December 23 at 2 p.m. Patrons can experience the show in a supportive theater setting designed for those with sensory sensitivities, autism and other special needs. To purchase tickets, call (412) 456-6666. The presepio, handcrafted between 1700 and 1830, teems with lifelike figures and colorful details that recreate the Nativity within a vibrant and detailed panorama of 18th-century Italian village life. More than 100 superbly modeled human and angelic figures, along with animals, accessories and architectural elements cover 250 square feet and create a memorable depiction of the Nativity as seen through the eyes of Neapolitan artisans and collectors. The Carnegie Museum Group is headquartered at 4400 Forbes Avenue in Oakland. Seniors ages 65 and older, $12; adults, $15; ages 3 to 18, $11. Price of admission includes both art and natural history museums. For hours and other details, call (412) 622-3131 or visit www.cmoa.org. First Night Pittsburgh A production of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 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 around 150 events at
nearly 50 indoor and outdoor locations within the 14-block Cultural District. 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. To learn more or to order your admission buttons, visit www.firstnightpgh.org. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Take a walk in a Winter Wonderland as Phipps brings to life one of the most beloved carols of all time. With glowing evergreens, festive poinsettias, illuminated glass and our stunning outdoor Winter Light Garden, Phipps is sparkling bright this holiday season. Experience the wonder of its Winter Light Garden and Flower Show from 5 to 11 p.m. through January 11. Bring the grandkids or the entire family to pose for a photo with Santa from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday through December 20. It’s a perfect way to get into the spirit of the season and share a special memory.
Santa Visits are free with Phipps admission. Phipps and Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre team up to present Saturdays with the Sugarplum Fairy, 30-minute creative movement dance classes and story time sessions with a dancer in costume. Takes place from 10:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 6 and Saturday, December 13. Free with Phipps admission. Phipps is located at One Schenley Park in Oakland. To learn more, call (412)622-6914 or visit www.phipps.conservatory.org. Pittsburgh CLO The holidays would not be the same without Pittsburgh CLO’s “A Musical Christmas Carol.” Join Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and a host of colorful characters for this remarkable holiday presentation. With dazzling special effects, holiday charm and ticket prices even Scrooge would approve of, this Charles Dickens classic is a wonderful way to celebrate all the tradition of the season. December 5 through 21 at the Byham Theater. To learn more, call (412) 456-1350. Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Celebrate the season with favorite carols and holiday music at Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts with the Highmark Holiday Pops. Ring in the season with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Mendelssohn Choir and a highly decorated cast of guest artists in this spectacular Pittsburgh tradition. Rejoice in your favorite carols and cherished holiday tunes like “Sleigh Ride”, “Joy to the World” and more. And be good for goodness sake, because Jolly Old St. Nick will be dropping by for a special visit. Performance dates are Friday, December 12 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, December 13 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, December 14 at 2:30 p.m.; Saturday, December 20 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, December 21 at 2:30 p.m. Admission is $24.75 to $84.75. Don’t miss the ornate decorations and 25-foot tree in Heinz Hall’s Grand Lobby. For tickets, call (412) 392-4900.
Rediscover the Christmas you love to remember at A Vintage Christmas Experience on Saturday, December 13 at 7 p.m. at Stage AE. Turn back the clock to the ‘60s,’ 70s and ‘80s, to a time when Christmas was full of fun and wonder. Rock with the band Nitebridge. Bid on 12 exciting once-ina-lifetime experiences in the silent auction or get a chance to win amazing prizes in the 12 Days Of Christmas Chinese Auction. Strike a pose with friends at the Ugly Christmas Sweater photo booth. Visit Santa at his vintage space complete with Barcalounger recliner and streaming Christmas TV classics. Give and get from the Christmas Giving Tree and turn a Charlie Brown Tree into Christmas joy for community friends in need. Create vintage Christmas photos on our graffiti wall or share your funniest Christmas memory on our live twitter feed. Admission is $75. Proceeds benefit programs and services of Catholic Charities. To learn more, email Cynthia Oliver at colive@ccpgh.org, call (412) 4566950 or visit www.downtownpittsburgh.com. BCSN
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
A Vintage Christmas Experience
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Tri Rivers Surgical Associates aligns with UPMC and Butler Health System
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ri Rivers Surgical Associates is aligning with two strong, strategic partners: UPMC and Butler Health System. This partnership will help to ensure access to exceptional musculoskeletal care for the greatest number of patients in both Allegheny and Butler counties well into the future. “We want our patients to know that we remain available to provide care for them,” says D. Kelly Agnew, MD, president and managing partner of Tri Rivers Surgical Associates. “We are committed to serving our current patient population.” Because the dynamics of health care are rapidly changing both nationally and regionally, the physicians of Tri Rivers entered this joint venture so they can continue to expand their services for patients while solidifying the practice’s long-term stability in the ever-changing landscape. They formalized their decades-long histories with these two major healthcare institutions into a permanent partnership. Q: Will Tri Rivers Surgical Associates keep the same name? A: Through the end of 2014, the practice will continue to operate as Tri Rivers Surgical Associates. Beginning January 1, 2015, Tri Rivers Surgical Associates will be renamed Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers to more appropriately reflect the numerous specialties the practice provides and the scope of services offered.
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
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(both the McCandless and Cranberry campuses), Butler Memorial Hospital, the Butler Outpatient Surgery Center at Benbrook Medical Center and Western PA Surgery Center. The practice is also exploring other alternate in-network locations where patients could have procedures done. Q: Will my relationship with my doctor remain the same? A: Absolutely. A commitment to quality patient care remains a top priority at Tri Rivers. Q: I have an appointment scheduled with Tri Rivers before December 31, 2014. Do I need to do anything differently before my appointment? A: No, everything will remain the same through the end of this year. Q: I have an appointment scheduled with Tri Rivers after January 1, 2015. Do I need to do anything differently before my appointment? A: Not at this time, other than to remember that the name changes to Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers on Jan. 1. The practice is working to make this a smooth transition and will communicate any other changes with patients if, and when, they become available. For updated information, visit the practice website at www.TriRiversOrtho.com.
Q: Will Tri Rivers keep the same physicians and office locations?
Q: What insurances will Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers accept in 2015?
A: Yes, the same Tri Rivers’ physicians will continue practicing in the same six convenient locations: Butler – BHS East, Butler – Clearview, Cranberry/Mars, North Hills, Saxonburg and Slippery Rock. The practice also plans to maintain its three additional diagnostic testing sites: for EMG services in Aspinwall and Armstrong County, and for bone density testing in Wexford. Patients should continue to schedule appointments by calling (866) 874-7483 or online at www.TriRiversOrtho.com.
A: As always, Tri Rivers will continue to accept most major insurance carriers. If you have any questions, please call the dedicated communications line at (412) 367-5814, ext. 222.
Q: Will Tri Rivers’ physicians maintain the same hospital affiliations? A: Yes, this is one of the key benefits of the joint venture. The Tri Rivers’ physicians will continue meeting the needs of patients they have served in past decades in both Allegheny and Butler counties by maintaining hospital privileges at all of the following facilities: UPMC Passavant
Q:
I have a Medicare plan. What does this mean for me?
A: Most Medicare-covered patients, including those with Highmark plans, will have in-network access to all Tri Rivers’ physicians for office visits as well as surgical and non-emergency care at any UPMC facility, including UPMC Passavant McCandless or UPMC Passavant Cranberry. Q: Will Tri Rivers continue seeing patients with Highmark insurance after the UPMC–Highmark contract expires on January 1, 2015? A: Absolutely! As a result of this partnership, Highmark-insured patients can see Tri Rivers physicians as
in-network providers in all practice locations, including the UPMC Passavant office. However, the contract lapse between UPMC and Highmark means that for any Highmark subscribers (again, excluding Medicare patients), elective orthopedic surgeries cannot be performed at UPMC Passavant or any UPMC facility. This is true for ANY surgeons who operate at UPMC Passavant and not just Tri Rivers physicians because of the new affiliation with UPMC. 1. If surgery is needed, Highmark patients’ pre- and post-surgery office visits will be considered in-network at every office location, including the UPMC Passavant location. Tri Rivers staff will assist patients in scheduling surgical procedures at an alternate in-network location. Although we have been assured by UPMC and Highmark that we are in-network providers for both, please remember that the regional market continues to experience a lot of change and remains in flux. Q: The media recently reported that Highmark patients could not be seen by Tri Rivers physicians at the UPMC Passavant office location. Is this true? A: No, this is wrong. Before and after January 1, the physicians in the UPMC Passavant office and all Tri Rivers’ offices will continue to be able to care for Highmark patients because of Butler Health System’s involvement in this partnership.
Q: If I have Highmark and switch to an independent (non-UPMC affiliated) orthopedic practice, then can I have my surgery at UPMC Passavant? A: No, as of January 1, under the current arrangement with UPMC and Highmark, any Highmark-insured patient (excluding Medicare plans) is unable to have surgery at any UPMC-owned facility. However, the joint venture with UPMC and Butler Health System allows Tri Rivers’ physicians to perform surgery on Highmark patients at alternate locations such as Butler Memorial Hospital, Butler’s Outpatient Surgery Center at Benbrook Medical Center or the Western PA Surgery Center. Patients’ pre- and post-surgery care will be in-network with all Tri Rivers physicians, including the office at UPMC Passavant. Q:
How can I stay informed about any future changes?
A: Tri Rivers’ staff is working to clearly communicate any changes that directly affect the physician-patient relationship. The practice is committed to working through various issues that will inevitably result during these challenging times in health care. Visit the practice website at www.TriRiversOrtho.com for more information. If you have questions after reading this information, call (412) 367-5814, ext. 222. If you leave a message, your call will be returned in a timely manner. BCSN
Care You Can Count On
• Our wheelchair van service, Butler Assist Coach, currently operates 10 vans providing transport to and from hospitals, doctor’s appointments, nursing homes, and private events (i.e. funerals, weddings, birthdays, etc.)
Serving the Community Since 1967
• Our Assist Coach is available to individuals: with or without their own wheelchairs; with stairs or other obstacles at their residence; and those needing extra assistance in and out of their wheelchairs. • BAS also provides emergency and non-emergency ambulance transports to sick and injured patients. • We operate 10 ambulances from 3 stations, serving the community 24 hours a day. • Reduced rates are available for members.
Butler Ambulance Service • 106 First Street Butler, PA 16001 • (724) 283-4385
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
Ambulance Service • Wheelchair Van Service
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Butler AAoA program provides OPTIONS for older adults Protective services, home-delivered meals, transportation services and counseling also fall under OPTIONS.
By Gina Mazza For Butler County Senior News
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oberta Garrett, 68, of Butler needed a little support after returning home from a hospital stay as the result of a mini stroke and COPD. While at Butler Memorial Hospital, she learned about the Butler County Area Agency on Aging’s OPTIONS program. As a result, she now gets the support she needs in the form of home-delivered meals every Tuesday at her home (7 meals a week), as well as once-weekly help with housekeeping, laundry and grocery shopping. “I am very happy with all of the services I receive, and the meals are really good,” she says. “I feel very blessed that this has come into my life to help me.”
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The OPTIONS program is part of an array of community-based long-term care services provided by the Butler County Area Agency on Aging (BCAoA) to help older adults live at their most optimal level while remaining independent in the community—preferably, in their own homes. This personalized level of support is accomplished first through an assessment of the applicant’s condition and circumstance. “A typical OPTIONS consumer could be a husband and wife who are having trouble keeping up with all the needs of a household, or perhaps one of them has had leg amputation from diabetes complications, and the other has difficulty breathing and must use oxygen,” explains Boyle, director of the OPTIONS Care Management Department. “They are mentally stable, but need assistance remaining in their own home. An aide could come a couple times per week and assist with a full shower; or an aide could also come in on regular basis to complete household
Photo credit: www.istockphoto.com.
tasks like running vacuum, mopping, cleaning the bathrooms, and laundry. Perhaps a stair glide can be installed to allow them access to the second floor of their home that has their bedroom and full bathroom. They are now able to remain in their home and can still access all living areas. They have maintained independent living.” The first step is an assessment. “My services were arranged through the Area Agency on Aging and Adrienne Fuhrman-Renwick, my care manager,” Roberta shares. “After I was referred to the Area Agency on Aging, Gina Lascuola came out to do an assessment. Then Adrienne came to my house and talked with me about what services are offered and got them set up for me.” The assessment determines eligibility, appropriateness and the order of the applicant on a waiting list, “Once the care manager completes the assessment with the senior, we work to match that individual’s identified needs with exactly the right services,” Leslie explains. “These can be anything from home health, personal care, home support and adult day care to medical equipment/supplies, adaptive devices and respite care for caregivers.”
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
A care manager who is assigned to the consumer will call to set up an appointment and explain that an assessment of their needs will be completed. The assessment includes questions about medical conditions and medications, the ability to complete Activities of Daily Living (ADL), which include areas such as bathing, dressing, toileting, mobility and instrumental ADLs like the ability to prepare a meal, do cleaning and laundry and manage finances. The assessment includes “informal supports”, which include any family members who are helping the individual. Once needs are determined, a care manager develops a care plan with the individual based on his or her needs. The care manager will contact a provider of the individual’s choice that is contracted with the AAoA to carry out the needed services. The assigned care manager maintains regular contact with the older adult and is available if there are any problems with services for the duration of the time he or she is receiving them. Services are always based on the individual’s choice and self-determination. The program is available to eligible individuals who are age 60 and older. There is a sliding fee scale set up by the state, which may require consumers to have to pay for a portion of their services based on their income. BCSN If you are an individual or family member who is interested in inquiring about the OPTIONS program, call the Butler County Area Agency on Aging at (724) 282-3008 and ask for Information and Referral to begin the assessment process.
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Gloria Heemer Martha Brown Judy Neigh Roni Lucas Jean Lloyd Dolores Bertuzzi John Seitz Kathleen Ligday Kathleen Treme Gretchen Cararie Guy Travaglio Jr. Bob Lutz Donald Knoll Charlotte Lutz Sue Murray Tariogh Crawford Mary Ann Dandoy Carole Stolz Timothy Sechler Wm. L. McCarrier C.J. Mitchell
Senior Express
Pam Croyle Bonnie Fiel Rita Garvey Doris Gotwald Thelma Hassler Deb Grossman Shari Manos Sue Shultz Ginny Stadler Del White Anna Godiewski Ellen Raposa Joan Douglass Connie Francis Lorna Gavin Janet Marzullo Caroline Mahood Eugene Mercurio
Sue Huntsman Edith Huntsman Mary Jo Nebel Susanne Seybert
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Center events
_ Butler Senior Center, 10 Austin Ave., (located in Tanglewood Senior Center), Lyndora, offers the following events: card party at noon December 3, cost is $2.50; bingo with Dawn at 10 a.m. December 5; leadership council meeting at 11:30 a.m. and birthday celebration day December 11; Bunco at noon December 17; center Christmas party December 18; bingo with Jen at 10 a.m. December 19; Pokeno at noon December 24; and New year’s Eve party December 31. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 285-5392. _ Chicora Senior Center, lower level of Moose Hall, 117 West Slippery Rock St., offers the following events: blood pressure screening at 10:30 a.m. December 2; catered Christmas party at 5 p.m. December 5; birthday celebration December 11; Chicora elementary school holiday carolers at 1 p.m. December 12; leadership council meeting at 10:30 a.m. December 15; living with pulmonary disease at 10:30 a.m. December 16; bingo fundraiser with Dot at 10:30 a.m. December 18; New Year’s Eve party December 31. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 445-2551. _ Cranberry Senior Center, Municipal Building, Rochester Rd., offers the following events: bingo with Jen at 11 a.m. December 4; Christmas party munchies table at 10:15 a.m. and birthday celebration December 11; senior concert and luncheon at Seneca Valley High School at 12:30 p.m. December 18, reservations are required; and New Year’s Eve party at 10:30 a.m. December 31. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 772-6086.
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_ Evans City Senior Center, 426 East Main St., offers the following events: healthy eyes for the holidays at 12:30 p.m. December 4; drum circle at 1 p.m. December 9; blood pressure screening at 11:15 a.m. and birthday celebration December 11; support the senior center game night at 5 p.m. December 17, donate a paper product for admission; Christmas party December 18; Tai Chi Christmas December 19; leadership council meeting at 12:30 p.m. December 23; and New Year’s Party December 31. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 538-9414. _ Mars Senior Center, Penn Mar Plaza, Gilkey Dr., offers the following activities: brain health and your memory at 11:15 a.m. December 4; secret Santa shopping at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. December 6; blood pressure screening at 11:15 a.m. and birthday celebration December 11; deadline to sign up for the Christmas party December 12; Christmas tree trimming December 15; Christmas party with entertainment by Freddy the Music Man December 17, bring a covered dish; living with pulmonary disease at 11:15 a.m. December 18; leadership council meeting at 1 p.m. December 22; root beer December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
Senior Express floats at 12:30 p.m. .December 29, $1 each; and New Year’s Eve party December 31. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 625-4466. _ Mount Chestnut Senior Center, Presbyterian Church, 727 Old Route 422, will offer the following events: blood pressure screening at 11 a.m. December 4; Wii bowling December 8; catered Christmas party from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. December 9, reservations are required; birthday celebration December 11; Bible study at 10:15 a.m. December 15; and book club at 10:30 a.m. December 22. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Call (724) 282-6006. _ North Central Senior Center, West Sunbury Presbyterian Church, will offer the following events: winter fire safety and use of fire extinguishers at 11 a.m. December 3; birthday celebration December 12; leadership meeting at 12:30 p.m. December 19; Christmas party December 24; share a Christmas memory; and New Year’s party December 31. Hours are from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday. Call (724) 637-2959. _ Slippery Rock Senior Center, Township Building, 155 Branchton Rd., will offer the following events: game day with Julie at 11:30 a.m. December 2; Bobbie Davis art club at 9 a.m. December 4; birthday celebration December 11; cognitive conditioning December 16; blood pressure screening at 11:30 a.m. and Christmas party December 18; spelling bee at 11:30 a.m. December 23; and leadership council meeting at noon December 29. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 794-6440. _ Southeast Senior Center, Winfield Township Firehall, Brose Rd., offers the following upcoming events: chair volleyball at 10:15 a.m. December 2; card game Garbage at 10 a.m. December 4; wake up yoga at 10:15 a.m. December 9; leadership meeting at 10 a.m. and birthday celebration with entertainment December 11; deep breathing yoga at 10:15 a.m. and cookie exchange December 16; leadership council meeting at 10 a.m. and Christmas party December 18; share Christmas memories and traditions December 23; and New Year’s party December 30. The center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call (724) 352-2036. _ Zelienople Senior Center, 700 S. Green Lane, Zelienople, offers the following upcoming events: safety in the home at 10 a.m. December 3; sing-along with the oldies from 3 to 7 p.m. December 6; leadership council meeting at 10 a.m. December 8; birthday celebration December 11; nail painting at 9:30 a.m. December 17; Christmas party at 10:30 a.m. December 22; and raffle baskets December 24. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 452-5292. BCSN
Butler County Area Agency on Aging December Menu for senior centers
Monday, December 1: Baked meatloaf, O’Brien potatoes, zucchini, fruit.
Senior Express The Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Serving you:
Tuesday, December 2: Tuna salad, pineapple, sugar cookie. Wednesday, December 3: Baked cabbage, whipped potatoes, corn, banana flip cake.
About the Area Agency on Aging
Thursday, December 4: Hot dog, baked potato wedges, garden salad, cherry crisp.
The Butler County Area Agency on Aging (AAoA) is a community service agency for older adults and has operated in Butler County since 1984. The Area Agency on Aging administers programs and manages services for Butler County residents who are 60 years of age or older. Agency programs and services are designed to serve approximately 38,000 older consumers who call Butler County home.
Friday, December 5: Turkey sandwich, creamy potato soup, pineapple and oranges. Monday, December 8: Cheese pizza, mixed greens, applesauce, raspberry sherbet. Tuesday, December 9: Roast beef, whipped potatoes, coleslaw, chocolate pudding. Wednesday, December 10: Italian hoagie, bean soup, fruit. Thursday, December 11, Birthday menu: Baked vegetable lasagna, Caesar salad, cupcake and ice cream. Friday, December 12: Egg salad, vegetable soup, fruit. Monday, December 15: Chicken, stuffing, vegetable medley, applesauce, sugar cookie. Tuesday, December 16: Chef salad, mixed greens, pineapple tidbits, lime sherbet. Wednesday, December 17: Baked pepper steak, rice, green beans, fruit salad. Thursday, December 18, Christmas special: Baked ham slice, au gratin potatoes, carrots, special dessert. Friday, December 19: Egg salad sandwich, vegetable soup, fruit. Monday, December 22: Sweet sausage, redskin potatoes, peas, fruit. Tuesday, December 23: Stuffed pepper, whipped potatoes, corn, oatmeal cookie. Wednesday, December 24: Turkey and cheese sandwich, noodle soup, coleslaw, pears. Thursday, December 25, Christmas Day: Closed.
Butler County Commissioners William L. McCarrier A. Dale Pinkerton James Eckstein Area Agency on Aging Administrator: Beth A. Herold, RN, BSN, MBA How may we help you? • Community Services for Older Adults and their families • Home and Community Based Services • PDA Waiver Services Access to Services • Information and Referral • Assessment • Care Management
For more information, call or visit our office at Sunnyview Complex 111 Sunnyview Circle, Suite 101 Butler, PA 16001
Friday, December 26: Meatball hoagie, oven browned potatoes, bean medley, banana pudding.
Office Hours: Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Monday, December 29: Roast turkey, whipped potatoes, peas and onions, fruit.
Phone: (724) 282-3008 (888) 367-2434
Tuesday, December 30: Grilled chicken salad, tossed salad, applesauce, vanilla ice cream.
Website: www.co.butler.pa.us/butler
Wednesday, December 31, New Year’s Eve party: Roast pork loin with sauerkraut, whipped potatoes, peas, pineapple upside down cake. BCSN
Email: aaainfo@co.butler.pa.us
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
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Grocery delivery company makes food shopping quick and easy
SHELBOURNE PERSONAL CARE Embracing Life’s Journey Together
F
ive years ago, a company called Delivered To U began delivering groceries right to the doorsteps of older adults and disabled individuals in the North Hills of Pittsburgh. The service caught on so well by word of mouth that the company steadily expanded its service area to include senior high rises in Butler, Allegheny, Washington and Westmoreland Counties. “In the past few years, our territory grew even more to include the entire area of Allegheny County, and some fringes of the surrounding counties.” says owner Don Stachelek. “In addition, we also serve private homes in the region.” How does the service work? It’s easy: The staff of Delivered To U shops for its customers on the day the order is to be delivered from local grocery stores and food warehouse stores. Customers are charged an $8 fee for delivery (a $35 minimum order is required). Orders need to be placed by 5 p.m. for delivery the next day. Deliveries are made every Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Orders can be placed in any of the following ways:
Our community offers accommodations for those who may require assistance with their daily living activities. Shelbourne is staffed 24 hours a day with trained healthcare personnel and offer as much or as little care as a resident may want or need. 296 Dinnerbell Road|Butler, PA 16002
724.360.3000 THENUGENTGROUP. COM A Nugent Group Partner
G Age of 55 N I L L RO lts Over the N E u er Ad NOibW le Old Elig
• Online at www.deliveredtou.com • Phone (412) 254-3882 • Fax (412) 213-0546
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
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• Email at groceriesdtu@gmail.com “We don’t stock anything—it all comes fresh off the shelves of local grocery stores and all items are name brands,” Don comments. “The products listed on our website recently increased from about 7,000 to more than 19,000, so there are more items to choose from than ever. But even if we do not list a product, a customer can still request it and we will do our best to get what they ask for. Basically, any product a grocery store would have is available for delivery.” The company provides a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on every item purchased. To learn more about Delivered To U, call (412) 254-3882. BCSN
LIVE to Love. Comprehensive, Coordinated Services with No Co-Pays or Deductibles for Qualified Older Adults… A Partnership with Families Caring for their Older Loved Ones. 231 W. Diamond Street Butler, PA 16001
724-287-LIFE (5433) Call 711 for TTY Relay Services www.lutheranseniorlife.org/LIFE A Partnership of Lutheran SeniorLife and Butler Health System
Senior Resources Skilled Short & Long-Term Rehabilitation
Following is a list of resources that are relevant to issues affecting seniors. We are providing this as an easy reference for information that you may need now or in the future.
A small, local business providing tender loving care.
County of Butler Area Agency on Aging: www.co.butler. pa.us/butler/. Gives detailed information on aging programs. Call (724) 282-3008 or 1 (888) 367-2434. 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. Benefits Checkup www.benefitscheckup.org. An online questionnaire to help search for a list of all state and federal benefits. 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.
724.352.9445
1172560
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.
Saxonburg, PA
www.saxonyhealthcenter.org CALL US FOR A PRIVATE CONSULTATION QCF/Saxony Health Center, LLC d/b/a Saxony Health Center. We subscribe to a non-discrimination policy
“We feel much safer now, knowing help will always be here if we need it.”
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.
NEW!
Medicare: www.medicare.gov. The official government site for Medicare consumer information. Call 1 (800) 633-4227. Pennsylvania Long-Term Care: www.longtermcare.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. Pennsylvania Hunger Action Center: www.pahunger.org. A non profit organization working to end hunger and ensure food security for all Pennsylvanians. The link for Pennsylvania food programs provides information on various nutrition resources in our state. Call 1 (800) 634-2033. BCSN
Now with New Optional Capabilities Personal Emergency Response Systems
VNA’s newest Alert Systems offer simple wireless devices that provide round-the-clock protection with wireless communication, fall detection and GPS capabilities for anywhere monitoring. In an emergency, help is available at the touch of a button. You choose the service and device that best suits your needs and budget.
Western Pennsylvania
For more information, call 1-877-862-6659. Visit vna.com
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
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.
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What number is related to these clues? Answer each question correctly for a chance to win $30 cash. 1. Commandments, plagues of Egypt, Virginia, Bo Derek. _____ 7. Disciples, Tribes of Israel, Labors of Hercules, number of “Angry Men”. _____ 2. Piper’s piping, first Apollo moon landing, U.S. Veteran’s Day, players on a football field per team. _____ 8. Cube, insects, Star of David, ESP. _____ 3. Noble gases, holes on a golf course, U.S. voting age. _____ 9. U.S. Supreme Court justices, human gestation, Greek mythology muses, cat’s lives. _____ 4. DEF on a standard phone keypad, blind mice, turkey (bowling), hat trick. _____ 10. Deadly sins, Dwarfs, Wonders of the World, day of rest. _____ 5. Lines in a sonnet, fortnight, Woodrow Wilson’s “Points”, 11. Ides date, quarter hour, minutes of fame, first point in Tetradecimal. _____ tennis. _____ 6. A stop sign, the black billiard ball, Hanukkah, spiders. _____ 12. President James Monroe, Olympic rings, pentagon, Jupiter. _____ To enter, mail your answers to Butler 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 Butler County Senior News.
Name________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone____________________________Age________________
Congratulations to Gale Rudert who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. (D) To get angry; 2. (C ) A big eater; 3. (A) Drunk; 4. (A) To get married; 5. (A) Potato Peeler; 6. (D) To dance; 7. (C) A waitress at a drive-in restaurant (maybe on skates); 8. (C) Sex appeal; 9. (D) Corn whisky; 10. (D) A press agent.
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
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Crossword Puzzle answer on page 2
The requirements of this job Employer: “In this job we need someone who is responsible.” Applicant: “I’m the one you want. On my last job, every time anything went wrong, they said I was responsible.” Bank customer service “I’m not saying that the customer service in my bank is bad, but when I went in the other day and asked the clerk to check my balance – she leaned over and pushed me.” A walking economy This guy is walking with his friend, who happens to be a psychologist. He says to this friend, “I’m a walking economy.”
ACROSS 1 Play area 5 Cranberry terrain 8 Egg-shaped 12 Hodgepodge 13 Melody 14 Where Cleo barged in? 15 Fictional destroyer of Tokyo 17 Secluded valley 18 “... fear is fear —” 19 Shoulder wraps 21 Old Olds 22 Actor LaBeouf 23 PC alternative 26 Diving bird 28 Cat- —-tails 31 “Oh, woe!” 33 Gun the engine 35 Summertime pest 36 Lehar’s merry one 38 Wrigley product 40 Singer Sumac 41 On the rocks 43 Felon’s flight 45 Rock salt 47 Easily built building 51 Look lasciviously 52 Overflow 54 Abbott’s second baseman 55 “— -Tiki” 56 Rorschach image 57 Frilly 58 Witness 59 Plankton component
DOWN 1 Boo-Boo’s mentor 2 Greatly 3 Disencumbers 4 Napper 5 Early 1900s U.K. prime minister 6 Lubricate 7 Lawn 8 Current 9 Scoundrel’s specialty 10 Sheltered 11 Contact, for one 16 Intestinal parts 20 Nevertheless, in verse 23 Gullet 24 Boxing legend 25 Escalade, for one 27 Small barrel 29 “Platoon” locale 30 Greek vowel 32 Classy group 34 Foxlike 37 Drench 39 Crumbly deposit 42 Classroom array 44 Dame Nellie 45 Bay 46 Turkish official 48 Autumn 49 Thunderstruck 50 Software prototype 53 “Ulalume” writer
The friend asks, “How so?” “My hair line is in recession, my stomach is a victim of inflation, and both of these together are putting me into a deep depression!” Taken from www.ahajokes.com.
December 2014 • Butler County Senior News
©King Features
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Quality
Defining
Tri Rivers Surgical Associates
Happy Holidays from our family to yours!
Tri Rivers Surgical Associates
celebrating Now, always and most especially during the holiday season, the physicians and staff of Tri Rivers Surgical appreciate the special bond and mutual respect that we share with those who matter the most: Our patients.
For more than 40 years, Tri Rivers has defined quality care. Beginning in 2015, we will provide that same quality care under our new name, Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers.
1-866-874-7483 www.TriRiversOrtho.com