Butler County Senior News
November 2017
Volume 12, Number 2
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The United States Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial).
Lest we forget: Area veterans travel to Washington to view war memorials By Jimmy Dunn For Butler County Senior News In May of this year, 40 area veterans boarded a tour bus for a five-hour ride to Washington, DC. Their mission was to view the national military memorials to which they could relate. Significant parts of American history are depicted in impressive works of art at each memorial. The World War II, Korean and Vietnam memorials,
accompanied by the famous Iwo Jima and Air Force tributes, will remain etched in their memories. On the way, at a prearranged rest area, the company was treated to lunch by volunteers and three young ROTC Marines. As the bus unloaded in Washington, volunteers quickly assisted the vets who needed wheelchairs to navigate the spacious and eye-catching
World War II Memorial. Moving onto the Korean War memorial with its 19 poncho-clad GIs in the field triggered sharp memories for those who fought in “The Land of the Morning Calm”, as it was once known. The Vietnam era veterans were remembered with three contrasting soldiers
Continued on page 6
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ON SITE SURGICAL CENTER
“Prevention” is a healthcare buzzword these days, and for good reason. It is essential to sustain good health, especially as we age. Turn to page 9 to learn more about preventative tests and screenings that are covered by Medicare. Wishing everyone a healthy and happy Thanksgiving!
Lynn Webster
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Proofreader: Jeff Makkos Volume 12, Number 2 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. for Butler County Senior News 8280 Tanglewood Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 760-5914 Visit our website at pittsburghseniornews.com or email us at pghseniornews@icloud.com
102 Technology Dr.•Butler•724-482-0090•www.BalourisEyeCenter.com Butler County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Butler County area. Copyright 2017 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.
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Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 18)
O
ur veterans more than deserve a free meal, and Veteran’s Day is a good day to show our gratitude. Typically, local eateries and restaurant chains offer special on this national holiday. In past years, establishments like Applebees, Starbucks, Bob Evans, Denny’s, Primanti Bros. and Olive Garden have offered free deals and meals on November 11. Check with your local favorite place to dine about discounts that they may be offering this year. If you’re a veteran, you are probably familiar with places that offer discounts. Here’s quick refresher of events and venues around Pittsburgh that offer special fares and more to military personnel with valid military ID. Retail: Apple: Apple offers all active duty military service members discounts on select Apple products. Footlocker: Offers 20% off of online purchases to all active duty and retired military service members. Hanes.com: Hanes.com offers 10% off online orders to active duty and retired military service members. Home Depot: Offers active and retired military 10% off on orders up to $500 in store only. Lowe’s: Offers a 10% military discount every day to current and honorably discharged members of the Armed Forces. Michael’s Crafts Store: O������������������������������������ ffers a 15% military discount to active duty and retired service members every day of the week, in store only. Nike: All active and retired personnel receive a 10% at Nike. com and at Nike, Converse, and Hurley stores. OfficeDepot: Offers active duty and retired military service members a 20% discount on select purchases. OfficeMax: Offers active duty and retired military service members a 20% discount on select purchases. Sam’s Club: Offers a $15 e-card to former and active duty military service members. Travel: Amtrack: O�������������������������������������������������� ffers a 10% military discount on the lowest available rail fare to active duty military personnel, their spouses and dependents. Greyhound: Offers a 10% military discount to active duty service members and their families at the ticket window. Offer is not available online. Rental Car Companies: Alamo Car Rentals, Budget Truck Rental, Dollar Rent-A Car, Enterprise Car Rental and Hertz all offer discounts to active duty and retired military service members
Heritage Elder Law & Estate Planning, LLC What kind of inheritance are you leaving your kids? Quite often, I encounter clients who want to ensure that some of the money they’ve worked so hard to earn and accumulate in their lifetimes can be left to their children and grandchildren. But when I ask them how they want to leave their inheritance, I usually get a puzzled look. That’s because the traditional approach to leaving an inheritance is Attorney Dan Reimer merely to ‘dump’ whatever assets Pre-planning remain in the estate to the heirs -- regardless of what might be going on in those children’s and grandchildren’s lives -- and to just ‘hope for the best.’ Often, the children are less than responsible in their own lives, or may be going through a divorce, or might be dealing with a legal matter -- all of which might affect the inheritance which you thought you were leaving to your children. The reality is that the money you might be leaving your children might end up in the pockets of your ex-son or ex-daughter-in-law, or a personal injury attorney, or it might be used to buy something exotic and completely impractical. Or, perhaps the money you’ve dumped on the next generation is enabling a gambling or alcohol addiction. Or even worse, you might have an adult child or grandchild who is disabled, and you’re about to ruin any government benefits and programs that they might have become quite dependent upon for their happiness and success. Very few people consider the effect of the typical, cookie-cutter Last Will and Testament, which typically just gives an ‘outright’ distribution of assets. There’s a better way. You might want to give serious consideration to creating a trust for your heirs -- so that any money you might be leaving them would not be exposed to their divorcing spouse, their bad spending habits, their poor money management or many of the other ‘creditors and predators’ that seek to take what you’ve left them. Trusts can be used to thwart the ex-husbands and ex-wives, to keep the greedy personal injury attorneys at bay, and to ensure that the children and grandchildren use their inheritance in a way that enhances their lives in a positive manner, all while honoring the hard work, sacrifice and love that you exhibited in building that nest egg for them. If you want to learn more about how to protect your children’s and grandchildren’s inheritance, attend one of our FREE educational workshops presented by Heritage Elder Law and Estate Planning, LLC. Call (724) 841-0004 or visit our website at HeritageElderLaw. com for Workshop dates, times, locations or to RSVP.
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
Local eateries, retailers, entertainment venues and more offers special discounts for military personnel and veterans
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Keystone Paralyzed Veterans of America host annual awards banquet
T
his year’s annual awards banquet for the Keystone Paralyzed Veterans of America—held on October 5 at the Hampton Banquet Hall in Gibsonia—combined entertainment, awards and prizes, and lots of good food. Kurtt [sic] Robinson, the Pittsburghbased national service officer for the Paralyzed Veterans of America, served as the banquet’s master of ceremonies. Paralyzed Veterans of America national vice president Robert Thomas administered the oath of office to two re-elected members of the Keystone PVA Board: George “Murph” Neelan of Gibsonia and Bill Lightner of Hollidaysburg.
Photo provided by Joseph W. Dornbrock.
Keystone PVA President Jim Riemer of Butler introduced the chapter’s board
National PVA vice president Robert Thomas inaugurates George “Murph” Neelan and Bill Lightner for new terms on the Keystone PVA’s board of directors.
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of directors then Kurtt introduced a number of distinguished guests, including State Senator Randy Vulakovich, State Representative Ed Gainey, and Butler VA Medical Center Director David Cord. Also present and recognized were Mayor Richard Panza, Council President Karen Pastor, Fire Chief Lou Costanzo, and Borough Manager Bill Rossey, all from Sharpsburg, the borough in which Keystone PVA is headquartered. At the event, veterans and their guests recognized the accomplishments and service of a number of local individuals and organizations that support paralyzed veterans in the area. Member John Kellner of Ford City was presented with the Sports and Recreation Award; Andrea Berkheimer, who works at the VA Medical Center in Altoona, was cited for her work as the center’s spinal cord injury unit coordinator; Member Ben Williams was the recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award; and American Legion Post 940 of West Brownsville was recognized with the Friend of Keystone PVA Award for its support of the chapter’s Bass Tournament. After the dinner and awards program, attendees enjoyed comedic entertainment (with a few magic tricks thrown in!) by Jim Henry, a VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System employee. The Albert Gallatin School District Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps presented and retired the colors at the beginning and end of the evening’s events. BCSN
For more information about the Keystone Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, call executive director Joseph Dornbrock at (412) 781-2474 or visit kpva.org.
Senior News October 2016 1/4 page - 3.625” x 4.875”h color $125 PO # 1694 Senior News Contact: Lynn Webster 412-367-2522 pghseniornews@icloud.com
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November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Lest we forget: Area veterans travel to Washington to view war memorials Continued from page 1
portraying a small yet determined young American fighting and dying in a foreign land. From a distance, the men and women viewed the Air Force memorial. It was definitely different, but appropriate. The final presentation occurred in Arlington Cemetery. It was an emotional experience with the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier while a bugler played “Taps.” The event requires silence from the spectators and is complied with without question. On the ride home, food was again served at another spacious rest area. Sitting on picnic benches, recollections of the memorable day began. The oldest veteran on the trip was Charles Wiggins who turned 100 in September, recalled being in the Navy at a young age and ended up being a CB then promoted to 1st Class Seaman. While being in Dublin, Georgia, “I took care of the wounded,” he shared. After his tour of duty, Charles went to work for the Post Office. When asked what he attributes his long life to, he answers simply: “I’ve been blessed.”
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Ruth Appelton, 93, a Marine with a hearty laugh, made her first visit to DC and the national military memorials. Asked why, she paused then answered: “I have so much respect for our veterans.” Fresh out of high school with little work to be found, the Ross Township resident joined the Marine Corp. Ruth worked as a quartermaster, not a glamorous position but an essential one during war time. Upon return, she took a job at Trader Horn, working there until she was 90. When the company closed, the feisty grey-haired Marine was a bit miffed when nobody would hire her.
Photo credit: Al Gonchar
Jimmy Dunn shake hands with youngsters.
Photo credit: Al Gonchar
Former Marine Ruth Appleton and Charles Wiggins enjoy the day.
Another Ross Township resident, Al Gonchar, 72, served as a flight line attendant mechanic working on Air Force B-52 bombers. His comment on his second visit to the historical site: “This place never loses its importance.” Navy veteran, Jerry Fisher and wife, Lydian, along with their team of dedicated volunteers, deserve a salute for their unflagging support of veterans in the past 10 years by covering all the aspects of transporting hundreds of veterans to the memorials. And lest we forget, we live in the land of the free because of the brave. BCSN
Photo credit: Al Gonchar
Veterans at the WWII Memorial.
“Veterans Bus Trips” has been escorting US veterans to Washington, DC for more than a decade
B
righton Township residents Lydian Fisher, 75, and her husband, Jerry, 75, a US Navy veteran, wanted to give back something to those who have sacrificed so much for our country and the freedoms that we all enjoy. So when Jerry saw a story in the Beaver County Times about a bus trip to be held on November 6, 2006 for World War II veterans to see the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC, he called the organizer and, in that conversation, volunteered Lydian’s skills as a nurse to accompany the veterans. “Jerry called Jim Hilts of Coraopolis, who was organizing the original trip, and volunteered my services,” says Lydian, a 45-year career registered nurse. “From then on, we became part of the committee for the trips and have been involved ever since.”
Chuck LeClaire/Butler County Senior News
Lydian and Jerry Fisher.
Arlington Cemetery to view the Changing of the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown, and the Marine Corp (Iwo Jima) Memorial.”
The committee of volunteers organizing the trips grew under Jim’s leadership, with trips every May and October departing from a pick-up point in downtown Beaver, as well as from Green Tree and Monroeville. Over the years, veterans filled as many as five buses; now, the excursion is down to one bus.
The one-day trips are free and are open to all military veterans who served prior to May 15, 1975. The trip includes transportation to and from Washington, meals, snacks and beverages. A nurse, several volunteers and two Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) students accompany the veterans. Wheelchairs are available on request.
“As the years went by, we received fewer and fewer calls from World War II veterans, so we invited all Korean veterans starting in 2014. We also increased the number of memorials we visit to include the Korean Memorial,
In total, 1,798 veterans have traveled on 38 buses since 2006. The oldest World War II veteran to date is Charles Wiggins, who was on the October trip after celebrating his 100th birthday in September.
There have been many touching moments throughout the years, Lydian shares. “When the veterans are at the various memorials and people, adults and children come up to them and thank them for their service, many don’t understand why they are thanking them. They say, ‘It was just something I had to do’.” The next trip is being planned for May 2018. Since the goal is to fill every seat with a veteran, family and friends are not able to attend. BCSN In order to continue offering the trips free to veterans, donations are gratefully accepted. Checks should be made payable to “The Vets Bus Trips” and mailed to Wesbanco, 701 Corporation Street. Beaver, PA 15009, ATTN: Vets Bus Trips. For more information or to make a reservation for the May 2018 trip, call (724) 709-3614.
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
The Fishers give the credit to Jim Hilts for his inspiration to create what are now twice-annual trips. “Jim, a Vietnam War veteran, wanted to take his father, a World War II veteran, down to see the memorial,” Lydian explains. Unfortunately, his father died a year after the memorial was completed and he wasn’t able to get him down there in time. So Jim made a vow to himself that he would get as many World War II veterans down to DC “before it was too late.”
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The Friends of Saxonburg Library presents “A Christmas Peril”
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he South Butler Community Library Friends group will once again offer a night to remember with a Mystery Dinner “A Christmas Peril” performed by Mystery’s Most Wanted December 2. This event will take place at the Saxonburg VFW, 572 W. Main St., Saxonburg, across from Knoch High School (parking in rear). Doors open at 5 p.m. and the cost is $30 per person. Featured activities include cash bar, 50/50, door prizes, wine cork pull and appetizers. An Italian buffet will be provided by Fairgrounds Market and will include: chicken parmesan, lasagna, salad, rolls, coffee, tea and dessert. Contact the library at (724) 352-4810 or Sylvia Nagle at (412) 977-9836 for tickets or for more information. BCSN
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Photo provided by Randy Olva.
Mystery’s Most Wanted perform “A Christmas Peril.”
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Senior Express
By Brittany Buzzelli Community Liaison/APPRISE Coordinator Butler County Area Agency on Aging For Butler County Senior News
P
revention is a hot healthcare buzzword. The saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” yet our healthcare system tends to focus more on treating disease rather than preventing it. Prevention focuses on sustaining good health, and encouraging and supporting an active population to maintain good health. In 2011, Medicare began to change the way it offers healthcare by adding preventative tests and screenings to the list of covered services. Over the past six years, the list has continued to grow with the addition of services such as cardiovascular disease screenings, mammograms and cancer screenings, which are all covered without copayment or deductible. Medicare offers preventative services with the goal that everyone enrolled in Medicare utilize these benefits. Preventative care does not only improve one’s physical health, but is an important step in reducing the overall cost of healthcare. Focusing on prevention places an emphasis on treating the individual as a whole, rather than a specific disease or condition. Prevention just makes sense. Now is the time to get the most out of your Medicare coverage by utilizing Medicare’s Preventative Services. Medicare covers the following Preventative Services at lowto-no copays and deductibles. When utilizing Medicare’s preventative services, make sure your doctor or doctor’s office is aware of the preventative nature of the visit (to avoid billing and coding issues): November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
* Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening * Alcohol misuse screening and counseling * Bone mass measurement * Breast cancer screening (mammogram) * Cardiovascular disease (behavioral therapy) * Cardiovascular disease screening * Cervical and vaginal cancer screening * Colorectal cancer screenings * Fecal occult blood test * Flexible sigmoidoscopy * Colonoscopy * Barium enema * Multi-target stool DNA test * Depression screening * Diabetes screening * Diabetes self-management training * Flu shot * Glaucoma test * Hepatitis B shot * Hepatitis C screening * HIV screening * Lung cancer screening * Medical nutrition therapy services * Obesity screening and counseling * Pneumococcal shot * Prostate cancer screening * STD screening and counseling * Tobacco/smoking cessation counseling * “Welcome to Medicare” preventative visit (New to Medicare beneficiaries only) * Yearly “Wellness” visit Additional information on preventative tests and screenings covered by Medicare can be found in the 2018 Medicare and You handbook, which is mailed to all Medicare beneficiaries during Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period (October through December), and also available on Medicare’s website: medicare.gov. BCSN For more information on Medicare Preventative Services, visit medicare.gov or contact a certified APPRISE counselor at the Butler County Area Agency on Aging by calling (724) 2823008 or via email at bbuzzell@co.butler.pa.us. APPRISE is Pennsylvania’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). It offers free and unbiased information on Medicare and Medicare Assistance programs and resources.
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
Focus on prevention is “worth a pound of cure”
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging Evidence Based Exercise Senior Express Stay Active and Independent for LExercise ife Evidence Based Stay Active and Independent for Life
S.A.I.L. S.A.I.L S.A.I.L.S.A.I.L.
Evidence Based Exercise Stay Active and Independent for Life
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WORKShave …better You’ll be stronger, have better It WORKS… You’ll It be stronger, Class Schedule It WORKS … You’ll be stronger, have better balance, and feel better – this will help you stay balance, and feel better – this will help you stay
All listed independent, active and prevent falls.and feel better independent, active –and falls. balance, thisprevent willclasses help you stayare FREE to seniors and open to the public. independent, active and falls. It’s SAFE… the instructors are experienced and It’s SAFE … the instructors areprevent experienced and
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skilled, and exercises have been tested with the seniors. Always checkseniors. with your skilled, and exercises have beenare tested with instructors experienced anddoctor before starting any exercise routine. Participant waiver … you’ll meet… other seniors and make new skilled, and exercises have been tested withnew seniors. It’s you’ll meet other seniors and make friends. required for all classes. friends.
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It’s FUN…Best you’ll meet andALL! make new friends. of allother it’s seniors FREE TO Butler Senior Center – Tanglewood Best of all it’s FREE FOR ALL! Classes are specifically designed10 Austin Avenue, Lyndora Classes are specifically designed Best of all it’s FREE TO ALL!
for people 60 years or older to Monday, help Wednesday, Thursday for people 60 years or older to helpClasses are specifically designed improve balance and mobility; improve balance and mobility; 9:15 A.M. for people 60 years or older to help reducing the risk of falls and reducing the risk of falls and improve balance andofmobility; improving quality of life. improving quality life.Cranberry Township Senior Center Each class can be tailored to fit reducing thebe risktailored of fallstoand 2525 Each class can fit Rochester Road, Cranberry Twp individual needs and are perfect Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:15 A.M. improving life. individual needsquality and areofperfect for any fitness level – you can Each class can be tailored to fit Tuesday 10:30 A.M. for any fitness level – you can even participate sitting down!
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
What to expect
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individual needs and aredown! perfect even participate sitting Slippery Rock Senior Center for any fitness level – you can 52 Branchton Road, Slippery Rock What to expect even participate sitting down! Tuesday, Thursday 10:00 A.M.
1 hour of exercise Classes are taught by qualified senior 1 hour of exercise What to expect Westminster Church exercise instructors. Classes are taught by qualified senior North Main Street, Butler You can sit or stand. Exercises are exercise instructors. 1 hour of exercise Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 11:00 A.M. adapted for all levels of physical ability. You can sit or stand. Exercises Exercises are specifically designed Classes are taught by qualifiedare senior adapted for alland levels of physical ability. to help maintain and improve your balance mobility. exercise instructors. Registration paperwork and participant Exercises are specifically designed You can sit or stand. Exercises are waiver are required for enrollment. to help maintain and improve your balance and mobility.
adapted for all levels of physical ability.
Registration paperwork and participant waiver Exercises specifically designed are are required for enrollment.
to help November 2017 • Butler County Seniormaintain News
and improve your balance and mobility.
Evidence Based Exercise Stay Active and Independent for Life Registration paperwork and participant
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
BUTLER COUNTY SENIORS 60+ ARE ELIGIBLE FOR A SUBSIDIZED MEMBERSHIP TO THE YMCA
Contact the Butler County Area Agency on Aging 724-282-3008 for program details and membership application!
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Senior Center events Please note: All centers will be closed for Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 23. _ Butler Senior Center, 10 Austin Ave., (located in Tanglewood Senior Center), Lyndora, offers the following events: Leadership meeting at 11:30 a.m. and birthday party November 9; honoring veterans celebration at 11:30 a.m. November 10; technology 101 at 9:30 a.m. November 14; blood pressure from 10 a.m. and a pot luck lunch at 11:30 a.m. November 16; Seniors for Safe Driving from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. November 21 and 22; 500 card party from 6 to 9 p.m. November 22; and wellness breakfast at 9 a.m. November 29. Call (724) 285-5392. _ Chicora Senior Center, lower level of Moose Hall, 117 West Slippery Rock St., offers the following events: Deviled Egg Day November 2; Mickey and Minnie Mouse birthday party November 7; birthday party at 11:30 a.m. November 9; stoke program and support group at 10 a.m., Wheel of Fortune and blood pressure at 10:30 a.m. and Veterans Day party November 14; teddy bear party day November 16; Christmas in Chicora from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. November 17 and 18; leadership meeting at 10 a.m. November 21; and tablet class at 10 a.m. November 28. The center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 445-2551.
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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_ Cranberry Senior Center, Municipal Building, Rochester Rd., offers the following events: Open conversation at 11 a.m. November 2; mind matters at 10:30 a.m. November 3; Meadows bus trip from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. November 7, cost is $15 per person; birthday celebration November 9; Veterans breakfast at 9 a.m. November 10, free for veterans and $5 for all others; game day from 2 to 5 p.m. November 14, cost is $5; Thanksgiving party at 10:30 a.m. November 16; wellness Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. November 29; and leadership meeting at 10:30 a.m. November 30. The center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 772-6086. _ Evans City Senior Center, 426 East Main St., offers the following events: drum circle at 1 p.m. November 8; leadership meeting at 1 p.m. and blood pressure screening and birthday celebration November 9; and a special November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
evening out from 4 to 8 p.m. November 14, cost is $15 and includes dinner and entertainment. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Call (724) 538-9414. _ Mars Senior Center, Penn Mar Plaza, Gilkey Dr., offers the following activities: back and spine health at 1 p.m. November 2; snack bingo at 1 p.m. November 7; birthday party at 11:45 a.m. and end of life care at 1 p.m. November 9; pain and symptom management at 1 p.m. November 16; Thanksgiving party and gift card bingo at 1 p.m. November 21; movie day at 1 p.m. November 28; and leadership meeting at 12:15 p.m. and seniors eating well at 1 p.m. November 30. 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 11:30 a.m. November 2; leadership meeting at 12:45 p.m. November 6; birthday celebration November 9; and Bible study at 12:30 p.m. and Thanksgving party November 20. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Call (724) 282-6006. _ Slippery Rock Senior Center, Township Building, 155 Branchton Rd., will offer the following events: blood pressure screening at 9:45 a.m. November 2; birthday party at 12:30 p.m. and honoring veterans November 9; leadership meeting at 12:30 p.m. November 14; technology series at 9:30 a.m. and a celebration of thanks at 10:30 a.m. November 16; and wellness Wednesday at 9 a.m. November 29. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 794-6440. _ Southeast Senior Center, Winfield Township Firehall, Brose Rd., offers the following upcoming events: Birthday celebration at 11:30 a.m. November 9; leadership meeting at 9 a.m. and Thanksgiving party at 10 a.m. November 16; and wellness breakfast at 9 a.m November 21. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call (724) 352-2036. _ West Sunbury Senior Center, West Sunbury Presbyterian Church, hours are from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday. Lunches are provided. Call (724) 637-2959. BCSN
Butler County Area Agency on Aging November Menu for senior centers
Senior Express The Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Serving you:
Wednesday, November 1: Breaded chicken, au gratin potatoes, peas, Mandarin oranges. Thursday, November 2: Baked salmon, rice, broccoli, pineapple tidbits.
About the Area Agency on Aging
Friday, November 3: Mushroom Swiss burger, cauliflower soup, fruit.
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.
Monday, November 6: Breaded fish sandwich, macaroni and cheese, stewed tomatoes, pears. Tuesday, November 7: Barbecue chicken breast, scalloped potatoes, coleslaw, brownie. Wednesday, November 8: Beef brasciole, mashed potatoes, carrots, cottage cheese with sliced peaches. Thursday, November 9, Birthday menu: Chicken thigh, rice pilaf, mixed bean medley, cupcake. Friday, November 10: Baked cabbage roll, whipped potatoes, corn, apples. Monday, November 13: Burgundy beef over noodles, broccoli and carrots, fruit salad.
Butler County Commissioners Leslie Osche, Republican Kimberly Geyer, Republican Kevin Boozel, Democrat Area Agency on Aging Administrator: Beth A. Herold, RN, BSN, MBA
Tuesday, November 14: Chili con carne, tossed salad, baked potato, mandarin oranges. Wednesday, November 15: Pizza burger, baked sweet potato bites, creamy coleslaw, sherbet. Thursday, November 16, Thanksgiving menu: Roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, corn, pumpkin mousse.
How may we help you? • Community Services for Older Adults and their families • Home and Community Based Services • PDA Waiver Services Access to Services
Friday, November 17: Chef salad, three bean salad, fruit. Monday, November 20: Beef burrito, fiesta corn, Spanish rice, pineapple. Tuesday, November 21: Pot roast, baked potato, carrots, cookie. Wednesday, November 22: Chicken alfredo, penne pasta, Italian green beans, fruit. Thursday, November 23, Happy Thanksgiving: Closed. Friday, November 24: Hot dog, diced potatoes, baked beans, fruit. Monday, November 27: Swiss steak, whipped potatoes, lima beans, pears. Tuesday, November 28: Baked sweet sausage sandwich, au gratin potatoes, green beans, peach cobbler delight. Wednesday, November 29: Chicken thigh, rice pilaf, Oriental vegetable blend, pineapple delight.
• 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: co.butler.pa.us/butler Email: aaainfo@co.butler.pa.us
Thursday, November 30: Roasted pork loin, seasoned redskins, green beans, fruit. BCSN November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Entertainments and Events * Join Audubon for a naturalist-led walk through Succop Nature Park, 185 W Airport Rd., Butler, from 9 to 10 a.m. every Thursday. This event is free and open to the public. Call (412) 963-6100. * Butler Symphony presents The Great American Songbook from 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. November 4 at Butler Intermediate High School, 551 Fairground Hill Rd., Butler. Selections include George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and Porgy and Bess, and songs by legendary composers Cole Porter, Jerome Kern, Irving Berlin, Henry Mancini and Harold Arlen. Kate Amatuzzo, vocalist Patrick Thiem, vocalist. A pre-concert lecture begins at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $20. Call (724) 283-1402. * Maridon Museum, 322 N. McKean St., Butler, presents the Thailand Film Series Fall 2017: “Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives” at 6 p.m. November 10. The film centers on the last
days in the life of its title character. Together with his loved ones – including the spirit of his dead wife and his lost son who has returned in a non-human form – Boonmee explores his past lives as he contemplates the reasons for his illness. This event is free to the public. Reservations are required as seating is limited. Call (724) 282-0123 or visit maridon.org for details. * Come out to the Butler Veteran’s Day Parade on Main St., Downtown Butler, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. November 11. Visit cityofbutler.org/ schedule. * The Jaggerz, a high energy dance group, will perfrom at 8 p.m. November 11 at the Tanglewood Center, 10 Austin Ave., Lyndora. Doors open at 6 p.m. and dinner is at 7 p.m. Cost is $30 per person. BYOB; there will be a 50/50 drawing and door prizes. Call (724) 287-0021.
* The Harmony Museum’s annual WeihnachtsMarkt, a Christmas market in the German tradition, will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. November 11 and from noon to 4 p.m. November 12 at Harmony Museum, 218 Mercer St., Harmony. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for students, free for children younger than six, including all-day access to the market, museum, entertainment and wagon rides. Almost 50 artisans and specialty vendors will display their wares. Museum quilters and weavers demonstrate their work. There are model railroad displays in the museum’s Wagner House annex. Entertainment, food and refreshments also reflect Harmony’s German heritage. Call (724) 452-7341 or visit harmonymuseum.org. * The fourth annual Night at the Races will take place from 5:30 to 10 p.m. November 18 at the Saxonburg VFW
Ambulance Service • Wheelchair Van Service
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Care You Can Count On
• Our wheelchair van service, Butler Assist Coach, currently operates 14 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 11 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
Entertainments and Events Community Library, 240 W. Main St, Saxonburg, after parade. There will be a live nativity at the Saxonburg Memorial Church, 100 W. Main St., Saxonburg. Enjoy the Knoch Band and free horse and buggy rides. Visit saxonburgbusiness. org/upcoming.php.
* Connoquenessing Country Club, 1512 Mercer Rd., Ellwood City, will host Comedy Night at 7 p.m. November 18. Gene Collier, Sean Collier and Collin Chamberlin will be performing to benefit the Zelienople Area Public LIbrary. There will be snacks and cash bar. Over 21 only. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at eventbrite. com or at Zelienople Library, 227 South High St., Zelienople. Call (724) 452-9330 or visit zelienoplelibrary.org.
* Butler Little Theatre, One Howard St., Butler, presents Boeing Boeing from November 24 through December 2. Call (724) 287-6781 or visit bltgroup.org for details.
* Come out for the annual Saxonburg Area Business Association Holiday Parade from 7 to 9 p.m. November 24. Bring the grandkids and enjoy some cookies with Santa at the South Butler
* Come our for a Butler Township Preston Park, 415 South Eberhart Rd., Butler, from 10 a.m. to noon November 25. This walking tour is available at no cost, but registration is required and spaces are limited. Private group tours may also be arranged for groups of 10 or more. For more information or to register for a tour contact the Butler Township Municipal Building at (724) 283-3430, ext. 212 or email mlove@butlertwp.org.
* The Butler City Spirit of Christmas Parade will take place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. November 25 on Main St., Butler. Visit cityofbutler.org/schedule. * Join the Butler County Symphony Orchestra for their annual holiday concert “Holiday Traditions,” featuring traditional and contemporary pieces, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. December 2 at Butler Intermediate High School, 551 Fairground Hill Rd., Butler. Doors open at 6. Cost is $20 per person. Call (724) 283-1402. * A Holiday Tea at Succop Nature Park will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. December 9 at Succop Nature Park, 185 W. Airport Rd., Butler. Enjoy tea, snacks, holiday carols and a craft. The Nature Reserve is decorated for the holidays so this is a great time to take photos. Cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. Call (412) 9636100 or visit aswp.org for details. BCSN
November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
Post 7376, 572 West Main St., Saxonburg. There will be a buffet dinner, cash bar, DJ, 2 dozen baskets to win, 50-50, lottery raffle and games.“Own” one of the racehorses for the night. Winning owner gets a bottle of wine. For details, visit brightfuturesfarm.org.
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Lifestyle changes and medical options can help reduce joint pain Often seniors who have joint pain become accustomed to it and eventually accept it. Perhaps their parents or grandparents had it and they believe it’s in their genes. Or maybe they think it is brought on by a past injury. Many get so used to the pain that it doesn’t even occur to them to discuss it with their doctor. If you are experiencing joint pain, here’s good news: there are many approaches you can take to manage it and get relief. Some are therapies and treatments your doctor can prescribe. But others are lifestyle changes you can make on your own. If you have joint pain, the first step is to talk to your doctor to learn if you have arthritis—or something completely unrelated, such as damaged ligaments, tendons or muscle tears. Or, your pain could be due to excess body weight and even bad posture. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
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Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease and is sometimes described as “wear and tear” arthritis. It is the most common form of arthritis in seniors, typically developing after age 45 and progressing over time. It thins and wears away the cartilage, which is the tissue that cushions the joints. Areas typically affected include your hips, hands, knees, lower back or neck. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory type of arthritis that commonly develops between ages 30 and 60. In RA, the immune system is unable to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy joint cells and begins attacking the healthy ones, causing inflammation. Then, this inflamed joint attracts more immune cells, causing swelling and fluid buildup.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help reduce pain by strengthening the muscles around your joints. It can also help improve your flexibility and endurance. Typically, joints on both sides of the body are similarly affected. It sometimes starts on small or individual joints then can progress to large ones. Steps You Can Take to Manage Your Pain These steps, in combination with advice or treatments your doctor provides, can help reduce your pain: • Lose weight. If you are overweight, losing weight will reduce pressure on your joints which can help reduce pain. • Eat to enhance strength. Foods high in vitamins C, K, and D can enhance muscle and bone strength, and may help reduce joint pain. • Exercise regularly. Swimming, walking or weight training are excellent options and can help reduce joint pain. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program. • Rest when needed. If your joints become inflamed after exercise, rest. Also, you may need to take a short break from exercising at times to let your joints recover. • Use heat and cold treatments. Use a hot water bottle or heating pad to relax stiff, sore joints. Use a cold pack if your joint is inflamed and you have a burning sensation. Other Ways to Get Relief Without Medication or Surgery Braces: Braces, such as fabric knee braces, canes or splints, are often used to ease pressure that causes joint pain. However, don’t use braces on your own simply to avoid going to the doctor.
Medications for Different Types of Arthritis For Osteoarthritis. For mild to moderate OA, doctors may inject steroids into the joint to relieve inflammation. Other times, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen may be recommended. For Rheumatoid Arthritis. In recent years, several new RA medications have become available. There are also different types—for instance, if your RA is mild, there are drugs that can help slow its progression. Check with your healthcare provider to see which drugs may be suitable for you. Surgical Options for Arthritis Sometimes joint pain can become so severe that surgery is recommended. There are different types of surgery, for different patient needs. The decision to have surgery is always up to you. If you’re not sure what to do, get a second opinion. Also, keep in mind that the surgery itself is only part of your treatment—your commitment is a key factor in a successful outcome. That means after surgery you should follow your doctor’s advice regarding things like rest and physical therapy. Finally, no matter what you do to reduce your joint pain—exercise, bracing, physical therapy, medications or surgery—don’t wait. The actions you take today could mean less pain, better joint function and greater mobility sooner rather than later.
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November 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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ACROSS 1 Knight’s address 4 Humdrum 8 — Hari 12 One of us 13 Exceptional 14 “As — saying ...” 15 Party drink made with Bacardi 17 Make fun of 18 Partner 19 Big knives 20 Use the rink 22 Corp. kingpins 24 Perukes 25 Type of soup 29 Pub order 30 More furtive 31 Egypt’s cont. 32 Put off 34 Regarding 35 Abhor 36 Singer Elliott 37 Be a poor winner 40 Hourglass fill 41 Deserve 42 Broad range 46 Arduous journey 47 Employ 48 Popular card game 49 Get lippy 50 Pro votes 51 Bumped into
DOWN 1 Neighbor of Leb. 2 Debtor’s letters 3 Searches haphazardly 4 Crude dude 5 Bowling spot 6 Joan of — 7 Sneaky laugh 8 Orange juice and champagne 9 MP’s quarry 10 Mexican snack 11 Requests 16 Light touches 19 Physicist Niels 20 Trade 21 Narc’s measure 22 “Crazy” singer Patsy 23 Duel tool 25 Oodles 26 Large percussion instrument 27 New newts 28 Helen’s home 30 Lovers’ quarrel 33 “Merci!” 34 “— She Sweet” 36 Spiked clubs 37 Understands 38 Zhivago’s love 39 Raw minerals 40 Antitoxins 42 Bashful 43 Chart format 44 French article 45 Witticism
724-282-6806 Toll-free 877-862-6659 www.lutheranseniorlife.org 154 Hindman Road, Butler, PA 16001
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State Birds Name the correct state to each bird for a chance to win $30 cash. 1. Western Meadowlark _____________ 7.Northern Flicker
_____________ 13. Willow Ptarmigan _____________
2.Northern Cardinal
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3. American Robin
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4.Cactus Wren
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5. Mountain Bluebird
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6. Common Loon
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To enter, mail your answers to Butler County Senior News Contest, 8280 Tanglewood Rd., 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.
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Name________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone____________________________Age________________
Congratulations to Pat Rydberg who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. Spooky; 2. Skeleton ; 3. Pumpkin; 4. Bats; 5. Monster; 6. Candy; 7. Costume; 8. Mummy; 9. Haunted; 10. Ghost; 11. Treat; 12. Boo; 13. Spider; 14. Vampire; 15. Beware; 16. Mask; 17. Spell; 18. Potion; 19. Dark; 20. Wicked; 21. Trick.
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