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Butler County Senior News

July 2013

Volume 8, Number 2

FREE

Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com

View the most recent issues of • Butler County Senior News, • Pittsburgh Senior News, • Beaver County Senior News • Beaver County Senior Resource Guide • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide.

Photo provided by Ashley Pino

The newly renovated Historic Lafayette Apartments in Butler.

Historic Lafayette Apartments get new look

By Ashley Pino Housing and Redevelopment Authority County of Butler For Butler County Senior News In last month’s issue, we introduced you to eight properties located within Butler County that are affordable and available to seniors.

This month, the focus is on two specific properties and what they have to offer.

Whether you enjoy country living, the convenience of city living or something in

between, the Housing Authority County of Butler has something for you.

Historic Lafayette Apartments is located at 302 South Main Street, right in the heart of downtown Butler. Recently, the apartment building has undergone some exciting renovations. This unique property consists of more than 50 apartments of varying sizes—from efficiency to one-bedroom units. Three ADA-accessible units have

also been renovated, making the property a good fit for anyone. Additional improvements include new heating and air conditioning systems, new trash compactors, new windows and blinds throughout, a remodeled ADA-accessible front entranceway, remodeled community room with a full kitchen that is also ADAaccessible, the addition of

Continued on page 14

Turn to page 6 to read about Sassy Seniors.

Softball is still going strong.

See page 16

Publisher’s Corner Owner/Publisher Lynn Webster

Are you interested in what’s going on in your local senior population and even want to have a say about matters concerning older adults in your community? Check out our feature, beginning on page 10, about the Butler County Area Agency on Aging’s advisory council. Consider attending the board’s monthly meetings, or even volunteering for a position on the council.

Happy Independence Day!

Lynn Webster Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 19)

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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You are invited to meet stimulating people, learn fascinating things and visit interesting places in Western PA. It all happens at SRU’s Institute for Learning in Retirement, where ‘lively’ is our motto. The ILR has no age or educational requirements.

ILR class catalogs are issued twice each year: mid-August and mid-February.

ILR Travel to Costa Rica (Feb, 2014) & D-Day Battlefields 70th Anniversary (Sept. 2014) For more information or to request the next ILR class catalog, call 724.738.1604 or

e-mail learning.retirement@sru.edu

Editor: Gina Mazza Art Director: Shantessa Hogan Sales Executive: Wallace Webster Photographer: Chuck LeClaire Printing Company: Knepper Press Contributing Writers: Barbara Bush Henry Gribbin Jude Lauffer Ashley Pino Gina Mazza Intern: Kara Boyle Volume 8, Number 2 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. for Butler County Senior News P. O. Box 11126 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 367-2522 Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com or email us at pghseniornews@comcast.net Butler County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Butler County area. Copy­ right 2013 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.

( 2 2 6 - 5 7 8 7 )

A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY HELPING PEOPLE FILE FOR RELIEF UNDER U.S BAKRUPTCY CODE

In Memory of John A. Hogan, Sr. Carmella M. Hogan Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan

Learn how eating well can be a SNAP

Seniors for Safe Driving

The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh continues to “empower communities and change lives” by putting healthy food within reach of those who need it. They are hosting pre-screenings for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—formerly known as Food Stamps—for residents of Beaver, Butler and Lawrence Counties. All information is kept confidential. Remember: Eating well is not a right; it’s a responsibility. To learn more, call Gianna Wright at (724) 658-7258, ext. 1410. BCSN

If you are age 55 or older and have successfully completed a senior education program in the past, you only have to attend a one-day refresher course to renew your insurance discount. If you have never participated in a Senior Driver Improvement Program, you must attend a two-day seminar to earn your automobile insurance discount. The insurance discount is five percent of the total premium for a period of three years. Cost for the course is $15 per person.

Here is the upcoming schedule: • July 15; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Passavant Retirement Community, 401 S. Main St., Zelienople.

• July 19; 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Butler Memorial Hospital, 911 E. Brady St., Butler.

• August 1; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Cranberry Senior Center, 2525 Rochester Rd., Municipal Building, Cranberry.

• August 16; 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Butler Memorial Hospital, 911 E. Brady St., Butler.

For a complete list of classes, go to www.sfsd-pa.com.

To register, call (724) 283-0245 or (800) 559-4880. Space is limited so register early. 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

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

Ambulance Service • Wheelchair Van Service

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Peripheral Artery Disease can be very serious if not treated properly

By Jude Lauffer, Gateway Health For Butler County Senior News

H

ave you noticed your legs cramping or your muscles hurting when walking or climbing stairs but those feelings disappear once you rest for a few moments?

Or, maybe you notice that one leg or foot may be cold or feels numb.

Have you noticed redness or changes to the color of the skin on your legs or sores on your feet or legs that won’t heal? The name for a condition that can cause this is peripheral artery disease (PAD), or sometimes known as poor leg circulation.

Many times, these symptoms are passed off as just getting older; however, it is not a normal part of aging.

This condition can lead to amputations, heart attack or a stroke.

Certain factors raise your risk of FNL BSNews ad wo banner 6/24/08 2:16 PM Page 1 this condition. Culprits are smoking,

diabetes, obesity, being African American, having high blood pressure, high cholesterol, increasing age over 50 and those with a family history of peripheral artery disease, heart disease or a stroke.

There is risk in not sharing symptoms of PAD with your health care provider.

If you have or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to make your doctor aware even if you think the symptoms don’t mean anything. Sometimes, things you don’t think matter are the very things that matter the most! Advise the practitioner about when the symptoms started, if they occur all the time or only with certain activities? Also, let the practitioner know what makes them better!

Medications can cause some of these symptoms, especially cramping. Take a list of all your medicines including over the counter and herbal treatments to your appointment.

Treatment focuses on controlling underlying conditions, such as hypertension or high cholesterol. Good skin care, diet and walking are important treatment options. Sometimes, a medication or procedure may be needed to correct PAD. Peripheral artery disease cannot be cured but it can be managed so other complications are less likely to occur. BCSN

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July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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Gateway Health Plan® is a Coordinated Care plan with a Medicare contract1 and a contract with the Pennsylvania Medicaid program2 (C-SNP1/D-SNP1&2). These plans are available to anyone with both Medicaid and Medicare, or anyone with Medicare and diabetes or cardiovascular disorder, or chronic heart failure. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits may change on January 1 of each year. *This number will direct you to a licensed insurance agent. To be directed to a general number, please call 1-800-685-5209, TTY: 711, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., 7 days a week. **You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium – the State pays the Part B premium for full dual members. Premiums may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. Please contact the plan for further details. †Benefit coverage depends on plan eligibility. H5932_861 Accepted

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

To see if you qualify, call 1-877-741-7756* (TTY: 711) or visit MedicareAssured.com.

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Sassy Seniors attest that “spunk, not age” defines the quality of one’s life

By Gina Mazza For Butler County Senior News It’s not the years in your life that count but rather the life in your years. That is the motto of a group of local older adults known as the Sassy Seniors, and they certainly live up to these words.

Members of this “entertaining” group can be found singing, dancing, acting, performing comedy skits and much more every month of the year, except January and February. “We are similar to a vaudeville troupe and we welcome anyone with an interest in theatre who wants to help out behind the scenes or be on stage,” says Jan Wire of Oakdale, who serves as secretary for the troupe, in addition to performing.

“I’m a frustrated Rockette, so I jumped at the opportunity to sing and tap dance,” says Bobbie Guzzo of Moon Township. “The variety in our shows seems to have something for everyone.”

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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Sassy Seniors can be found livening up the lives of others at a variety of venues around the Beaver County area, including senior residences, nursing homes, church socials and AARP meetings.

“We love doing banquets, parties, reunions . . . any type of event, really,” Jan explains. This month alone, the Sassy Seniors have four shows in Aliquippa, Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair. Most performances are scheduled during the afternoon or early evening hours.

“A Sassy Seniors performance is a wonderful trip back to the days when we seniors were young,” comments Jeanne Miller of South Park. “The comedy of Jack Benny, Red Skelton and others like them, and the music of Donald O’Connor and Debby Reynolds are memories that have lasted a lifetime.”

The idea for the group originated in 1990 at what is now Robert Morris University. “Back then, we were called the

Chuck LeClaire/Butler County Senior News

Bobbie Guzzo, Reva Roberts and JoAnn Ricci give a show-stopping tap dance.

Robert Morris College Independents, and it was for anyone age 55 or older,” Jan comments. “It was a big group, with between 25 and 50 seniors.” In 1997, the Independents split into two separate entities and the core group was renamed The Better Than Ever Independents. “We were called that for a while but we wanted a name that better described us. So last year, we changed our name again to Sassy Seniors.”

Along the way, the membership age was lowered to 50 to include more Baby Boomers. Currently, the youngest participant is 60 and the most senior members are 94 and 91. Of the 15 present members, four are men. Participants hail from all parts of the region, such as Bethel Park, South Park, Coraopolis, Crafton and Aliquippa. The commitment to join is minimal and well worth the reward, Jan says. “Each month, we meet at the Presbyterian Church located at 1201 Fifth Avenue in Coraopolis. Our rehearsal schedule varies depending upon the number of upcoming shows, and members pay annual dues of $12.”

Sassy Seniors currently has a goal to expand its participation in the Airport corridor, including (but not limited to) the Ohio River Valley and Allegheny, as well as Beaver and Washington counties. “We are always looking for new members who want to perform. Right now, we are particularly interested in anyone who plays a musical instrument,” Jan says. “But we take anybody who likes to entertain, enjoys being with seniors, is looking for something to do, and is even willing to do some goofy things and have a lot of fun.”

JoAnn Ricci of Bethel Park says that she “enjoys this rewarding opportunity to perform, brighten days, lift spirits and bring out the smiles on so many sweet faces.” And one of the group’s oldest members, Reva Roberts, 91, of Aliquippa sums it up this way: “Over the last 20 years I’ve made so many close friends.” BCSN If you are interested in becoming a Sassy Senior, call Betty Dapprich at (412) 367-3093.

Fred Zelesnik, Linda Graham and Bob Bowman act out a comedy skit.

Ken McCloskey, Bob Bowman and Gerald Mountain perform “You Gotta Have Heart.”

Betty Dapprich sings “When You Are Smiling.”

Marie Morgan impersonates Carmen Miranda with assistance from Fred Zelesnik.

Photos by Chuck LeClaire for Butler County Senior News

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July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

The show’s grand finale features Jan Wire and Geraldine Pastin.

7

Entertainment and Events 2 The Big Butler Fair will be held through July 6 at the Big Butler Fairgrounds, 1127 New Castle Rd., Prospect. Enjoy fair treats, animals, fireworks, demolition derbies, concerts, truck pulls, entertainment, games and rides. Call (724) 625-1977 or visit www. bigbutlerfair.com.

2 Cranberry Township Community Days will take place July 11 to 13 in Cranberry Township Community Park, Ernie Marshuda Dr., Cranberry. There will be 400 booths, car cruise contest, concerts, an art center, carnival and much more. Call (724) 776-4806 or visit www.ctcchest.org for details.

2 The 50th annual Zelienople and Harmony Horse Trading Days will take place July 18 to 20. Enjoy three days of food, crafts and music, plus horse parade, car cruise, bike night, children’s activities and more. Call (724) 452-5232

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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or visit www.horsetradingdays.info for details.

2 St. Christopher at the Lake Church, Rt. 528, Prospect, will hold its annual Parish Festival from 4 to 10 p.m. July 19 and from 5 to 10 p.m. July 20. There will be bingo, kids games, food, crafts, prizes, live entertainment and more.

Call (724) 865-2430 for more information.

2 Regatta at Lake Arthur will take place August 3 and 4 at Moraine State Park, 225 Pleasant Valley Rd., Portersville, and will feature water, air and land events on Moraine’s South Shore. Other activities include canoe and kayak races, childrens’ activities, car cruise, fishing tournament, swimming, fishing, puddleduck racers and fireworks. Call (724) 368-8811 or visit www.lakearthurregatta.org.

2 Harmony Museum, 218 Mercer St., Harmony, will hold its annual Antique Gun Show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

August 10 in Stewart Hall. The event will feature flintlock, percussion and cartridge firearms and accouterments from the 18th and 19th Centuries, most for sale, with emphasis on those made in the region. Call (724) 452-7341 or visit www.harmonymuseum.org for details.

2 The North Washington VFD Rodeo will kick off the week-long event with a parade at 6:30 p.m. July 19 at the Rodeo Fairgrounds, Rt. 38, North Washington.

The rodeo will take place August 20 to 24. Enjoy nightly dinners, bareback bronco riding, calf roping, saddle bronco riding, steer wrestling, bull riding, team roping, food, entertainment and more. Call (724) 287-6170 or visit www.nwvfd.com. BCSN

Butler County support and other senior groups Alzheimer’s Support Group Helpline, Bethany Bowman 1 (800) 272-3900 (24/7) Lifesteps Lori Williamson (724) 283-1010 Sugar Creek Rest Bridget Pierce (724) 445-3000 Paramount Senior Living at Cranberry Pam Adamski (724) 779-5020 VA Medical Center, Betty Bonner or Dawn Zuzolo (724) 285-2211 Concordia Lutheran Ministries Paula Sypulski (724) 352-1571 ext. 8271 Butler/Cabot Parkinson Support Group Al (724) 360-2802.

Common Bond (For people with chronic illness and pain) Chuck Jennings (724) 287-3132 National Alliance on Mental Illness Connection Kathy McDonnell (724) 431-0069 Multiple Sclerosis Club of Butler Jacque Cinski (724) 898-2116 Someone’s Caring (For those who have experienced the death of a loved one) Robin Miller, (724) 287-3706 or (724) 287-2273

Victims Outreach Intervention Center For victims of domestic violence 1 (800) 400-8551, 24-hour hotline (724) 283-8700, Butler office Weathering Grief VNA Hospice (For those dealing with the death of a loved one) Jolene Formaini (724) 431-3520 Butler Memorial Hospital Support Groups, offers support for breast cancer, chronic fatigue/fibromyalgia, diabetes, Look Good/Feel Better, multiple sclerosis and Overeaters Anonymous. Beverly (724) 284-4232 BCSN

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July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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Butler County Area Agency on Aging

Senior Express

County seniors positively impact their communities through advisory council service

By Gina Mazza For Butler County Senior News Eleven years ago when a good friend of Gloria Heemer shared her experiences as an advisory council member for the Butler County Area Agency on Aging, Gloria decided to pursue a council position herself. “My philosophy is that I want to have input into the same things that will concern me as I age,” says Gloria, a resident of Saxonburg who also volunteers at her church and served for 20 years on the Butler County Mental Health Association board. “Being on the advisory council allows me to put forth my ideas, and to be instrumental in positive changes that are being made for the senior population in Butler County.”

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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The Butler County Area Agency on Aging’s advisory council is directed by the Older Americans Act (OAA), which mandates the federal definition of services and support for older adults, and grants funding to counties through their respective states. OAA requires that every area agency establish an advisory council to help further its mission of developing and coordinating community based systems of services for older adults. In Butler County, a total of 21 council members meet once monthly from September through June to assist with developing and administering the area agency’s plan, conducting public hearings, representing the interests of seniors, and reviewing and commenting on all community policies, programs and actions that affect older adults.

“Like Gloria, I became involved six years ago because I wanted to have input in the senior community,” shares Carole Stolz of Saxonburg. “Most of my July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

Chuck LeClaire/Butler County Senior News

Guy Travaglio Jr, Gloria Heemer, Gretchen Cararie, Susan Murray, Kathleen Ligday, Judy Neigh, Charlotee Lutz, Bob Lutz, Jean Lloyd and Carole Stolz serve on the Butler County Area Agency on Aging’s advisory council. (Not all members are in the photo.) friends are older and we all had questions about services in the area. None of them wanted to serve so I’m doing it,” she says, half-jokingly. Carole is also a local hospice volunteer and managed a dental office prior to retiring.

The advisory council offers input, for example, on the agency’s four-year plan, which was last done in 2012 and will be updated again in 2016. “I’ve gone through two four-year plans in the time I’ve been with the agency, and the advisory board was very helpful in both processes,” comments the agency’s administrative assistant Diane Stevens. “They’ve helped with the gathering of data, sorting through

all of it, and participating directly with other peer networks and our service providers to move the plan forward.”

The current board members have had their hands full, as a tight economy and reduced funding has prompted changes within the past few years.

“This reduced funding has caused the agency and its advisory council to evolve,” Carole comments. “We’re taking a harder look at the needs in the community and available resources. If anything, we’ve become more efficient and have a better handle on what is available and what it costs. There’s no such thing as a ‘free lunch’, at least not all the time. Programs have had to be modified—I think, for the better.”

Butler County Area Agency on Aging

A good example of that is the recent recommendation made regarding the county’s home-delivered meals program. “The delivery of the meals had gotten quite expensive and with cutbacks in funding, we’ve had to make some changes,” Gloria explains. “Beginning this month, home-delivered meals will be freshly prepared, flashfrozen and ready to cook in a microwave or oven so that clients can eat at their desired time.” Delivery will now take place once a week on the same day, and participants will continue to receive as many meals as their care plans allow.

The council typically includes individuals with leadership experience in the private and volunteer sectors, and representatives from healthcare provider organizations and supportive services—as well as local elected Butler County Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board Delores Bertuzzi, Butler Martha Brown, Butler Gretchen Cararie, Valencia Tariogh Crawford, Mars Gloria Heemer, Saxonburg Shirley Hignet, Mars Donald Knoll, Chicora Kathleen Ligday, Harmony Jean Lloyd, Butler Township Roni Lucas, Butler Charlotte Lutz, Center Township Bob Lutz, Center Township John Malec, Karns City William McCarrier, Butler Susan Murray, Butler Judy Neigh, Butler John Seitz, Harmony Carole Stolz, Saxonburg Guy Travaglio Jr., Butler Mary Ann Dandoy, Butler

Senior Express

officials, or anyone who is an advocate for older adults. “We have a diverse group of people on our council who know the aging business—some work with personal care homes or assisted living facilities, or companies that serve the senior population,” comments Gloria, whose career was in nursing.

Kathy Ligday of Lancaster Township, for instance, previously worked for about 15 years as a dietician consultant for the agency, monitoring the menus and center kitchens. “After retiring two years ago, I wanted to volunteer, so taking a position on the advisory council seemed like a natural progression,” she says. In September, Kathy will step up to the role of board chairman. In this role, as well as her role as an elected official—she currently serves as auditor for Lancaster Township and was township supervisor for eight years—she has a pulse on what’s happening in her community. “As council members, we are actively out in the community talking to seniors in the centers, coordinating surveys and soliciting feedback from those we serve,” she explains.

“I’ve also had seniors call and tell me directly what their concerns are. We’re very accessible.”

This outreach by the council is particularly relevant in today’s times, Kathy notes. “The ages of seniors are different. Today you have kind of a younger senior, more interested in knowing what’s going on and wanting to participate in programs. At board meetings [which are open to the public] or at senior centers, clients will come up to me and give me feedback. They are more open and aware.”

The advisory board encourages anyone to attend its monthly meetings and

offer ideas. Time is allocated at the beginning of each meeting for public response and Q&A. To learn the times and locations of meetings in your community, visit www.co.butler.pa.us and click the Public Meeting link on the right side of the home page.

“More people should know about the services the agency on aging provides, and coming to the meetings is a great way to stay informed,” Carole says.

“Call your local council member and ask questions.

“Or better yet,” Diane adds, “consider taking a position on the board and making a difference in your local senior population.” BCSN To learn more, call Diane Stevens at (724) 282-3008.

Want to serve on the advisory board?

Are you interested in serving the senior population in your community in a substantive way? Is your personal or professional background perfect for serving the aging population? Consider volunteering on the Butler County Area Agency on Aging’s advisory board. To inquire, write a letter of interest - stating your name, background and what you feel you can bring to the table as a board member. Indicate whether you are under age 60, or 60 and older. Mail the letter to the Butler County Area on Aging, ATTN: Beth Herold, 111 Sunnyview Circle, Butler 16001.

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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Butler County Area Agency on Aging

Senior Center events

_ Bruin Senior Center, United Methodist Church, Main St., will offer the following events: birthday celebration July 11; ice cream outing at 7 p.m. July 16; and root beer floats at 12:30 p.m. July 25. Cost is $1 each. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday and Thursday. Call (724) 753-2922. _ Butler Senior Center, 10 Austin Ave., (located in Tanglewood Senior Center), Lyndora, offers the following events: birthday celebration, paparazzi jewelry party and Chinese auction from 10 to 11:15 a.m. July 11; Foster Grandparent program from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 12; trunk sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 13; bingo from 10 to 11:45 a.m. July 18; and Seniors for Safe Driving from noon to 4 p.m. July 23.

Reservations required. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday except November 2. Call (724) 285-5392. _ Chicora Senior Center, lower level of Moose Hall, 117 West Slippery Rock St., offers the following events: community card party fundraiser at 11:30 a.m. July 8; food bank education at 10:30 a.m. July 9; birthday celebration and bingo with mike at 10:30 a.m. July 11; guest speaker on VNA topic at 10:30 a.m.

July 16; guest speaker on identity theft at 10:30 a.m. July 18; nutritional bingo at 10:30 a.m. July 23; and bingo with Ed at 10:30 a.m. July 25. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Monday through Friday. Call (724) 445-2551.

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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_ Cranberry Senior Center, Municipal Building, Rochester Rd., offers the following events: birthday celebration July 11; Cranberry Community Days from 4 to 10 p.m. July 12 and from 1 to 10 p.m. July 13; UPMC carpal tunnel program at 12:30 p.m. July 17; picnic in the park from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

July 18; national hot dog day July 23. $3 hot dog bar, reservations required; hoagie sale July 24. $4 for hoagie only or $5 for hoagie combo, includes hoagie, chips, cookie and drink; and yard sale from 9 a.m. to 2 to p.m. July 25 and 26.

The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 772-6086. _ Evans City Senior Center, 426 East Main St., offers the following events: drum circle from 1 to 2 p.m. July 9; 50/50, birthday celebration and blood pressure screening at 11:15 a.m. July 11; wheel of fortune with VNA at 11 a.m. July 18; and 500 card party at 10:30 a.m. July 25. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 538-9414.

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

Senior Express _ Mars Senior Center, Penn Mar Plaza, Gilkey Dr., offers the following activities: wheel of fortune with VNA at 11 a.m.

July 10; birthday celebration July 11; Farmers Market vouchers from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 12; blood pressure screening at 10:45 a.m. July 17; and leadership council meeting at 10 a.m. July 25. 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: Farmers Market vouchers from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Wii bowling at 10:15 a.m. July 8; Wendys (New Castle Rd.) fundraiser night from 5 to 7 p.m. July 10; blood pressure screening at 11 a.m. and birthday celebration July 11; Bible study at 10:15 a.m.

July 15; share your hobby day July 22; and support the Mt. Chestnut food cupboard July 25. Bring in non-perishable food items. 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: birthday celebration July 12; blood pressure screening at 11 a.m. and Farmers Market vouchers July 17; and root beer float day July 26. Cost is $1 each. 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: wheel of fortune with VNA at 11:30 a.m. July 9; birthday celebration and bingo at 12:30 p.m. July 11; Avon order pick-up at 10:30 a.m. July 12; craft class at 11 a.m. July 15; Red Hat party for guys and gals and Olde Town Harmony Barbershop Chorus from 11 a.m. to noon July 18; blood pressure screening at 11:30 a.m. July 25; and leadership council meeting from 1 to 2:30 p.m. 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., will offer the following events: birthday celebration and blood pressure screening at 10:30 a.m. July 11; Farmers Market vouchers from 10 a.m. to noon July 11; deadline to order hoagies July 23; hoagie pickup from 10 a.m. to noon, blood pressure screening and summer basket drawing July 25; and root beer float day at 10:30 a.m. July 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 many events. 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 July Menu

for senior centers

Monday, July 1: Chicken, baked potato, vegetables, cake.

Senior Express The Butler County Area Agency on Aging

Serving you:

Tuesday, July 2: Stuffed cabbage, mashed potatoes, peas and onions, fruit.

Wednesday, July 3: Kielbasa, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, fruit.

Thursday, July 4, Holiday: Closed.

Friday, July 5: Meatballs and pasta, green beans, pudding.

Monday, July 8: Barbecue ribette, O’Brien potato, coleslaw, fruit crisp.

Tuesday, July 9: Pulled turkey, mashed potatoes, pickled beets, fruit.

Wednesday, July 10: Italian meatloaf, redskin potato wedges, carrots, cookie.

Thursday, July 11, Birthday party: Stuffed pork, garlic mashed potatoes, Caesar salad, cake and ice cream.

Friday, July 12: Fruit plate, cream of potato soup, sherbet.

About the Area Agency on Aging 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.

Butler County Commissioners William L. McCarrier A. Dale Pinkerton James Eckstein Area Agency on Aging Administrator: Beth A. Herold, RN, BSN, MBA

Monday, July 15: Hot roast beef sandwich, mashed potatoes, lima beans, cookie.

Tuesday, July 16: Chicken pepper strips, rice, peas and carrots, pudding.

Wednesday, July 17: Country fried steak, baked potato, vegetable blend, fruit.

How may we help you?

• Community Services for Older Adults and their families • Home and Community Based Services • PDA Waiver Services

Thursday, July 18: Lasagna, spinach salad, fruit.

Friday, July 19: Turkey, stuffing, broccoli, Mandarin oranges.

Monday, July 22: Stuffed pepper, mashed potatoes, gelatin fruit.

Tuesday, July 23: Chicken a la king, tossed salad, sugar cookie.

Wednesday, July 24: Pepperoni pizza, tossed salad, applesauce.

Thursday, July 25: Meatball stroganoff, pasta, broccoli, chocolate cake.

Friday, July 26: Chicken salad, wedding soup, fruit cocktail.

Monday, July 29: Hot dog, baked beans, pasta salad, pears.

Tuesday, July 30: Potato crunch fish, macaroni and cheese, stewed tomatoes, Jell-o poke cake.

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

Phone: (724) 282-3008

(888) 367-2434 Website: www.co.butler.pa.us/butler Email: aaainfo@co.butler.pa.us

Wednesday, July 31: Chicken bruschetta, broccoli, zucchini, pasta, tossed salad, pudding.

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

13

Historic Lafayette Apartments get new look Continued from page 1

storage units for residents, a remodeled first floor lobby and foyer, and new ceiling tile and carpeting in the resident hallways. In addition to the renovations, other amenities that the property has always offered are free monthly shuttle transportation, on-site laundry facilities, vending machines and 24-hour emergency maintenance.

Options are available for both flat-rate or income-based rent if you are income eligible; all utilities are included except telephone and cable television.

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

14

Although Historic Lafayette has most recently been renovated, many of the amenities listed are consistent throughout all of the Housing Authority senior properties. All offer community rooms, laundry facilities and access to public transportation if you live at one of the city sites. If you have wondered what carefree living could look like, consider stopping by the open house at Historic Lafayette at 10: 30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 24. Stop by the building to meet the staff, take a tour and enjoy a few light refreshments.

If city living doesn’t appeal to you, consider one of the other buildings in areas like Slippery Rock, Cranberry Township,

Parker, Chicora, Zelienople or Evans City.

Parker Heights Apartments are located at 302 North Wayne Avenue in Parker.

Parker Heights consists of 26 one-bedroom units, some which are accessible to persons with disabilities. The apartments are affordable and provide opportunities for social activities and recreation.

In this day and age, seniors have so many choices. The Housing Authority is happy to provide a safe, secure and affordable living environment to its residents. Staff is available to answer your questions or help guide you. Additional information can be found at www.housingauthority. com or call (724) 287-6797 or TDD (800) 545-1833, ext. 772. BCSN

Newly renovated ADA accessible unit in Historic Lafayette.

Newly renovated community room kitchen in Historic Lafayette.

Newly renovated community room in Historic Lafayette.

Parker Heights Apartments.

Photos provided by Ashley Pino

Cranberry Township Senior Citizens Club The Cranberry Township Senior Citizens Club meets at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at the Cranberry Township Municipal Center, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry.

Meetings include a feature program, business meeting and light refreshments or a special luncheon, picnic or outing. The groups motto is “Unity and Friendship.”

The organization is geared for men and women ages 55 and older in Cranberry Township. Call (724) 816-4977 for details. BCSN

.

Become a TRY volunteer Together for Retarded Youth, Inc., TRY, is a non-profit organization located in Wexford and operates year round. The scope of its activities range from craft programs where handicapped individuals create useful and decorative items to seasonal events such as holiday parties. TRY has a holistic approach to recreation and socialization and plans its activities commensurate with varying levels of participant ability so that each participant may experience success and pleasure in meaningful activity. The centerpiece of TRY’s annual calendar of events is its week-long Day Camp.

TRY does not charge for any of its activities; all regular and special events, including Day Camp, are open to any mentally and/or physically handicapped youth or adult. TRY is both managed and staffed entirely by volunteers. Mindful of the needs of special populations, volunteers are utilized and programs are geared to the handicapped individual.

Benefits of volunteering with TRY: * Helping and encouraging TRY members in performing a task * Interacting with the TRY members * Making new friends * Getting volunteer credit hours Call (724) 935-4910 or visit http://tryspecialneeds.org for details. BCSN

7 Threats To Your Family’s Future !!

• Learn how to protect and preserve YOUR life savings

Upcoming Workshop Dates: July 11 at 6 p.m.

July 16 at 2 p.m.

Seating"is"limited."

Call"to"reserve"your"seat"today:"(724)"84160004"

318 South Main Street Butler, PA

Phone: (724) 841.0004

www.HeritageElderLaw.com

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

"

Estate"Planning"and"Long6Term"Care"

"

15

With deep Pittsburgh roots, softball still going strong

By Henry Gribbin For Butler County Senior News

S

oftball has its roots buried in the past but the game is still very much alive as you can see if you drive by any ballfield on a warm summer’s evening.

In the 1930s at the height of the Depression, it was not softball but mushball that was the sport played by the masses.

Everyone played the game. A 14 inch ball was used and only the catcher used a glove. Over the years the ball was reduced in size to a 12 inch mushball and eventually to a 10 inch seamless softball. Thus the game of softball took hold in Pittsburgh.

At that time softball was fast pitch with the ball thrown underhand. A tenth man was added to the roster: a fourth outfielder called a rover.

Like sandlot football, softball leagues were formed which spread throughout the city. Each neighborhood had one or more teams and the pitchers were the most important players.

Shelton King, my next door neighbor, remembers watching many of these contests. “It seemed that every team had at least one pitcher who excelled at the sport and it wasn’t uncommon to see low scoring affairs. Pitchers like Swede Anderson, Paul Henry and Bullet Oskin were almost as well known throughout the neighborhoods as the Pirate pitchers who played at Forbes Field.”

People who played the game wanted the ball put into play more often so the game was switched to slow pitch. As a result of this change, homerun hitters became the new heroes. The game became even more popular and it wasn’t uncommon to see spectators three to four deep along the foul lines watching a game.

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

16

Looking for Senior Resources?

Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com View current and past issues of Butler County Senior News.

Call (412) 367-2522 or visit www.pittsburghseniornews.com for more information.

Photo taken from www.istockphoto.com.

In the 1940s and 1950s, the game continued to grow. The most popular league was the Honus Wagner League in the 1950s.

The registration fee was $40 and the home team was required to supply tire bases and balls. As time went on, the uniforms also changed, going from white ducks and t-shirts worn by teams in the 1930s to those more resembling baseball uniforms.

Players took the game seriously and every game was a hard fought battle. Before television sets became the norm in every household, these contests continued to draw quite a large number of fans.

In the 1960s and 1970s, women were drawn to the game of softball. As a boy growing up in the Squirrel Hill section of Pittsburgh, I watched many of their contests at Frick Park. I remember them playing the game just as hard as the men.

It is refreshing to see at least one thing survive the course of time. But for the game of softball to continue, it is important that young children are introduced to the sport. Without these new players, the game will fade away, just like so many other things that are now just a memory. BCSN

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For a complete list of covered generics and quantity limits, visit kmart.com/pharmacy.

Each generic prescription program covers up to the quantity specified for each eligible drug. Quantities are based on commonly prescribed dosages. Prices for greater than the specified quantity of an eligible drug are prorated based on the applicable generic prescription program price. Enrollment in the Kmart Generics+™ Program is required to receive the generic prescription program price. Only eligible drugs will be covered. The list of eligible drugs may change and may vary by state at any given time. Kmart reserves the right to modify or discontinue this program or modify the terms and conditions of this program at any time without notice.

AARP’s Presents for Patients seeks volunteers for its Christmas in July

By Barbara Bush AARP Communications Specialist For Butler County Senior News

week of July 15. From noon to 4 p.m. on Monday, July 15, we will be taking donations and moving articles from the storage area. The rest of the week we will be onsite from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.; this will allow volunteers time to travel without experiencing workday traffic.

Once again, the AARP Volunteer team will meet and prepare for the gala events to be held in December, which will hopefully delight our friends in the Kane and nursing facilities around western Pennsylvania.

We are looking for donations to be dropped off at our special wrapping location at Shoppes at Northway (formerly Northway Mall), 8000 McKnight Road, Pittsburgh. Our site will be on the lower level of the mall (McKnight Road side), with easy access entering directly from the parking lot.

This year, the big change is the fact that we will be sorting and wrapping for an entire week. If you find that you can spare a day or so, kindly mark on your calendar for the

Do you have anything that can bring cheer to a shut-in?

We look for new or gently loved stuffed animals, knitted or sewn lap-robes or shawls, ball caps, hand knitted or

new socks, writing paper and cards, books, and various sundries and toiletries.

Holiday ribbon and ornaments are used for package decorations. Ladies love the purses and gents like baseball caps, in addition to lovingly handmade wheelchair bags and totes. You always amaze us with the variety of items that you donate. Costume jewelry is a favorite for both men and women; Mardi Gras beads are a big hit, as well.

Again this year, we are inviting our partners at St. Barnabas to drop in and join us. Likewise, Kane Regional Center staff and other visitors may stop by to work or just to say thank you to the volunteers. There will be light refreshments served to the volunteers. So if you have an hour or two to assist us with our efforts, you are most welcome to drop by the wrap

location. Remember that the slightly used item you donate may be the gem that lights the eyes of a resident shut-in this upcoming holiday season.

As a note of interest, AARP volunteers adopt various nursing facilities in Beaver, Blair, Butler, Erie, Green, Indiana, Washington and Westmoreland Counties, as well as the four Allegheny County Kane locations. Our goal this year is once again 3,000 shut-ins or residents.

AARP thanks you for considering the support of this community service project.

Gather your calendars and see if you are free to donate some time to come in and help make this an extra special holiday event. To volunteer, call Bill Campbell at (412) 655-2843 or me at (412) 761-1549. BCSN

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724-776-0600

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July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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17

Hitchcock Films Scramble

Unscramble the following Hitchcock films correctly for a chance to win $30 cash.

1. GTOVRIE _________________________________________________

6. NOTR RUNCITA _________________________________________________

2. CBERACE _________________________________________________

7. NRZEYF _________________________________________________

3. OT TCCHA A FHETI _________________________________________________

8. PORE _________________________________________________

4. GTRSRSAEN NO A NARIT _________________________________________________

9. NPISUCSOI _________________________________________________

5. MAFLYI TOPL _________________________________________________

10. RSTONOUIO _________________________________________________

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 Dan Rudert who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. West Mifflin; 2. Railroad; 3. Laser Loop; 4. Carousel; 5. Fall Fantasy; 6. Monongahela; 7. Pippin; 8. Phantom’s Revenge; 9. Log Jammer; 10. Potato Patch.

I am going to shop “Cash, check or charge?” I asked after folding items the woman wished to purchase. As she fumbled for her wallet I notice a remote control for a television set in her purse.

“Do you always carry your TV remote?” I asked.

“No,” she replied. “But my husband refused to come shopping with me, so I figured this was the most evil thing I could do to him.”

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

18

The crowded store It was the day of the big sale. Rumors of the sale (and some advertising in the local paper) were the main reason for the long line that formed by 8:30, the store’s opening time, in front of the store.

A small man pushed his way to the front of the line, only to be pushed back, amid loud and colorful curses. On the man’s second attempt, he was punched square in the jaw, and knocked around a bit, and then thrown to the end of the line again. As he got up the second time, he said to the person at the end of the line...

“That does it! If they hit me one more time, I won’t open the store!”

Taken from www.ahajokes.com.

Senior Resources

Crossword Puzzle answer on page 2

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

©King Features

ACROSS 1 Vagrant 4 Poke 7 Femur or fibula 8 Elaine’s last name on “Seinfeld” 10 Cook by direct heat 11 Silvery 13 Smooth-coated pooch 16 1/20 ton (Abbr.)

17 Humdinger 18 Moving truck 19 Narnia’s Aslan, e.g.

20 Antitoxins 21 Munchie 23 Enthusiasts’ emotions 25 Roe provider 26 Group of quail 27 Debtor’s letters 28 Muslim maiden 30 Thee 33 High-backed chairs 36 Earthling, in sci-fi 37 Flavor 38 Go over the books 39 Spud’s buds 40 Always, in verse 41 Two, in Tijuana

DOWN 1 Give a leg up 2 One 3 Tuneful 4 Spanish wine town 5 Mad 6 Tavern offering 7 Forehead 8 Conductor’s wand 9 Whine 10 English channel?

12 Signs of sorrow 14 Kindle competitor 15 Genetic stuff 19 Young fellow 20 Put into words 21 Try for a two-pointer 22 Queasiness 23 Nil 24 Ousted 25 Bro or sis 26 Beyond well-done 28 Throng 29 Where the elated walk 30 Affirmatives 31 Uneaten morsels 32 Work with 34 Verifiable 35 Boxer’s successful blow

July 2013 • Butler County Senior News

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.

19

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