While Christmas is meant to be a joyful time of year, it can also present difficulties, especially for those on fixed incomes. Food pantries and other community organizations do their best to fill in gaps where needs aren’t being met during the holiday season.
“The big push would be getting people through our (food) pantry,” said Ken Locke, envoy of the Warsaw Salvation Army. “We try to beef our pantry up. We’re seeing a lot more seniors come through our pantry. ... And the demand gets a little bit higher during the holidays.”
The Salvation Army’s food pantry, which offers both food and hygiene items, is open 9-11:30 a.m. and can be used once a month.
“A lot of what we see are senior people coming in, they’re on a fixed income and they’re trying to make ends meet,” said Ami Pitt, case manager at Combined Community Services.
Combined Community Services, 1195 Mariners Drive, Warsaw, has winter coats available in all sizes during the fall and winter. For those who might need to provide for their grandkids, there is also free children’s clothing available at CCS ranging from infant to toddler sizes.
CCS’ food pantry is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday
and Thursday. Coats and clothing can also be picked up during these hours. More information on CCS services is available at ccsgives.com or by calling (574) 269-6019.
Pitt added their Hand Up crisis program can provide guidance for seniors who find themselves in dire financial straits and need help navigating the system.
“Crisis can happen at any age. It is often really difficult to ask for help, that’s not an easy thing to do. Especially when you don’t know the system and with the economy we have right now ... when you’re older, how do you navigate that?” said Pitt.
“Many of the families we service at Toy Time are grandparents
who have inherited grandchildren,” she mentioned. “A lot of our guests that come in for groceries are seniors that do have custody of their grandchildren. We service them at Toy Time and at Tools for School in July.”
CCS’ Toy Time toy sale will take place at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15. Gently used toys are available for sale at reduced prices.
For the second half of Toy Time, a free giveaway of new toys also takes place at the fairgrounds from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday,
PANTRY PROVISIONS Shawne Buller, left, and Karen Roberts organize carts of food at the Combined Community Services food pantry.
Sharp finds stride in education
By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer
Corey Sharp has only been with the Elkhart County Purdue Extension office since June 2023, but he is no stranger to education.
He moved to the Elkhart area in 2021, after living most of his life in the Muncie, Anderson area. Sharp is a Ball State University alum, receiving his Bachelors of Science in social studies education in 1997.
“I’ve been in education my entire career, so I have 30 years of experience in education,” Sharp explained. “I have taught everyone from kinder-
garten to college.”
Five years later, Sharp found himself siting at a student’s desk, earning his Masters of Science in executive development for public service.
“My first job teaching was at an alternative school in a juvenile detention facility,” Sharp mentioned. “We had a program for the kids that half day we worked with the kids in detention, and the other half is what we called our ‘cottage program’ and those kids were in foster care or transitioning into foster care.”
Sharp has been passionate about education his whole life, and he attributes his passion
Organizations offer
Dec. 17; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18. The Center, 107 E. Marion St., Nappanee, offers a similar opportunity with their Christmas Jubilee. Toys are distributed from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 14. Anyone living within the Wa-Nee Community Schools district or who has children in the school system can sign up at the schools or at The Center, open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Center also has a food pantry, open 1-3:45 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Kosciusko Community Senior Services, 800 N. Park Ave.,
Warsaw, will begin serving a REAL Services Christmas luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. Lunch is followed by a game of bingo at 12:30 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $4.25 for the meal. Those interested in attending should call (574) 267-0026 to reserve a spot.
Seniors who have difficulty getting around in the winter or are otherwise homebound can also call KCSS for a ride at (574) 267-2012. Their trans portation services run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and are available to any senior within Kosciusko County.
EXTENSION EDUCATOR
Corey Sharp, right, joined the Elkhart County Purdue Extension team in June 2023. He was looking for a local job when the extension educator position opened. Sharp has three decades of education experience under his belt. Pictured behind him is fellow extension educator Sthele Greybar.
Photo provided by Corey Sharp.
to two people: his grandmother, Eleanor Sharp, and one of his high school teachers, Glenn Dellman.
“My grandmother was a natural when it came to teaching,” Sharp explained. “There was not a conversation she had that didn’t involve education or her students in some way.”
Dellman was Sharp’s history teacher. Although Sharp was only in Dellman’s class for a school year, he left an everlasting mark on Sharp.
“He always made learning so engaging. It was never just reading out of a book or off a presentation,” Sharp said. “He would frequently perform first person characters, like a pioneer, and teach as that character.”
tioned. “Seeing the light bulb go off and knowing that your student made a connection or understood is what keeps us going. It’s amazing how much students can grow.”
keting and recruiting strategies to achieve higher enrollment and retention.
Through his three-decade
even a second. He attributes his focus on his students to keeping
Sharp served as an admission adviser at Ivy Tech Community College for nearly a decade before he took the director of enrollment management position. As the director of enrollment management, Sharp was responsible for developing mar-
Once he left Ivy Tech, he transitioned into a director of college of technology for Purdue University. He held this position for just over 12 years. While there, he was tasked with providing leadership and strategy developments that would enable and enhance student success.
“Watching your students walk across the stage and graduate as a culmination of four years of hard work is something you do not forget,” Sharp reminisced. “It was extremely gratifying because they took it so seriously.”
Sharp was drawn to the Elkhart County Extension office because he was “looking for opportunities to stay local.”
“My travel used to be extensive,” Sharp recalled. “I would be on the road for my Purdue job anywhere from three to 10 days at a time.”
Once he became a grandfather, Sharp knew it was time to put down some roots.
“I was looking for opportunities to stay with Purdue but be local and as soon as I started to look, this job opened up,” Sharp explained. Sharp serves as an extension educator for 4-H youth development. “It was like going back to my roots in terms of working with youth.”
As an extension educator, Sharp’s main focus is providing STEM education for Elkhart County’s 4-H youth.
With help, now I can hear this
My wife convinced me to get hearing aids about three years ago; however, I frequently forgot to wear them. I had to keep asking, “What?” After a while, it annoyed
By DICK WOLFSIE
my friends and family, so I added a little variety, like, “Say what?” and “Excuse me?”
When I returned to New York for a visit, I asked, “Are you talking to me?”
Mary Ellen kept telling me I wasn’t hearing well. I’m not sure she was correct. I think the proper grammar is “You are not hearing good,” but I need to check that with my editor, who is my wife, so now the case is closed.
This kind of problem is usu-
ally more apparent with glasses. I didn’t need my spouse to point out vision issues. I got a lot of practical feedback walking into a glass door or putting on two different-colored socks or a sneaker and a loafer.
When Mary Ellen realized I was having vision issues, she first said I wasn’t good looking and then said I didn’t look well. I didn’t care about the grammar. I didn’t like the sound of either one.
Hearing aids are relatively
Get back to the life you love
By GREENCROFT GOSHEN
As we age, recovering from surgeries, injuries or health conditions can become more challenging. That’s where rehab comes in! Whether you’re looking to regain strength, reduce pain or get your body moving better, rehab can be the key to returning to the activities you enjoy.
cardiac conditions. Our goal is to help you feel your best as quickly as possible.
Short-term Rehab
easy to use. You put them in your ears, both of them; then you put both of the hearing aids into both of your ears. Then, you take them out of both of your ears at night. I’m glad I read the directions. I am quite good at inserting them, although sometimes I would put them in the wrong ears, making it hard to understand people on my right. Sorry, I don’t mean that politically.
my Costco card. I also found a cluster of dog hair, which is pretty troubling because we haven’t had a dog for 10 years. My wife is usually quite helpful in situations like this. The last time I thought I had misplaced my glasses, she pointed out I was still wearing them, so her question, “Did you check your ears?” seemed quite reasonable. No, they weren’t in my ears, lost in the cushion, or on the floor. Because I take prescription sleep meds, I wondered if I could have unknowingly wandered about the house in my sleep, a possible side effect of this drug. I checked the bathroom, the laundry room, and the second bedroom. I finally found them in a very unlikely place. They seemed to work fine — after I defrosted them. NUTSHELL
At Greencroft Goshen, our experienced team of physical, occupational and speech therapists are ready to support you every step of the way. With a wide range of specialized programs, we treat conditions ranging from joint replacements and fractures to neurological disorders and
Our Short-term Rehab program offers focused care for those recovering after an illness, surgery or hospital stay. This program is ideal if you need additional nursing support and therapy to rebuild strength and regain independence before returning home. With private rehab suites, 24/7 skilled nursing care and a dedicated therapy team by your side, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and effective recovery.
Outpatient Therapy
Outpatient Therapy ser-
vices are available for both our campus residents and the surrounding community, with flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether your goal is to increase strength, improve balance, recover from an injury, or regain independence, our outpatient program offers personalized treatment plans designed to meet your specific needs. A doctor’s referral is required to access outpatient services. By addressing health challenges early, you can stay active and engaged in the things you love.
Call our Outpatient Therapy team (574) 537-4022 to schedule an appointment. Let’s help you get back to living life to the fullest!
I fell asleep the other night in my La-Z-Boy while listening to music in the family room, so I neglected to remove the devices from my ears. I thrash around when I doze, so when I woke up, they had fallen out, lost somewhere in my chair, I assumed. The search began.
First, I felt around the insides of the cushion. I did find two pencils, three dimes, and
Monitor automatic payments
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
Paying bills by automatic withdrawals from your bank account can save you from late payments as well as cut back on your postage and mailing costs. Some folks prefer to have the monthly payments withdrawn from a credit card,
which is paid off with a single monthly payment from the bank account.
In either case, you should make a list of such payments that can be reviewed by survivors after your death to make sure all payments are made and scammers have not added charges to your accounts.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2024
Your #1 Choice for Rehabilitation!
Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy
• Flexible scheduling seven days a week
• Personalized one-on-one treatment
• Newly renovated therapy gym
• State-of-the-art therapy technology
• Short-term rehabilitation
• Outpatient therapy for all ages
• First-class amenities and resources
For more information, please contact our Therapy Department at 574-537-4039
Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for. – Epicurus –
CORPORATE OFFICE
What Seniors Think
WARSAW
When
KEN
MILFORD
ROSIE BRITTAIN ELKHART
An
RICHARD HALCOMB SILVER LAKE
KIM TOWNSEND ELKHART
Clothing was a special gift for me, because I liked to look beautiful.
PAT MISENER ELKHART
The Papers Incorporated, 206 S. Main St., P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542. STAFF
Dolls were my favorite gift. I liked to dress them up.
One year, I was probably 4, I got a train on a track that you could sit on and ride around.
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Elkhart/Kosciusko Edition
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Socks and gloves because they were warm. It was during the Depression and we didn’t have money for extra stuff, it was a real hard time to live, so I appreciated things that kept me warm. And the peppermint candy in our stockings was a special treat.
Financial planning less painful than root canal
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
If you think preparing and maintaining a financial plan is akin to a visiting your dentist, you’re in a big club. Yet 99% of Americans manage their own fiscal matters rather than work with a financial planner as the remaining 1% of the adult population do.
While the bulk of the folks who work up their own facts and futures would rather do their own dental work, they still avoid financial advisors because they feel like they’re too stupid to work intelligently with economic experts or they don’t feel smart enough to trust who might be fiscal finagles.
A simple approach to establishing a fiscal road map
Rice & Rice walks to end Alzheimer’s
By CLIFF RICE Elder Law Attorney
As we approach the end of the year, please consider the Alzheimer’s Association and Team Rice & Rice in your year-end donations.
“Alzheimer’s has a dramatic impact on families in our community and around the country,” said Donna Rice, partner at Rice & Rice Attorneys.
“The Alzheimer’s Association provides care and support to all those impacted by the disease while also advancing critical research toward methods of treatment and prevention and ultimately, a cure. This is why we are
proud to support the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s.”
Our fundraising efforts continue for this important cause. Would you join us in the fight to end Alzheimer’s? We can’t do it without you!”
To support the Alzheimer’s Association with a donation to Team Rice & Rice, go to act.alz.org. Click on Walk To End Alzheimer’s, then click on Find A Team and enter Rice & Rice Attorneys in the search box.
Together, we can advance Alzheimer’s care, support and research on behalf of the more than 7 million Ameri cans living with this disease.
is to treat it like planning for a cross-country trip.
Just as you wouldn’t leave on such a trip without a road map, you should prepare and maintain a household budget to track daily spending, saving, and investing, and a financial plan to map out long-term financial goals.
Half of American households maintain some form of a budget and only slightly more balance their checkbooks monthly.
While we hire plumbers, electricians, and auto mechanics to handle complicated repair problems, we avoid seeing a financial professional to help with one of the
most important aspects of our lives — our finances.
Sadly, very few people take a course on how to handle their finances. They learn mainly from watching how their parents managed to put gas in the car and food on the table.
It often takes a serious life altering event, such as a job loss, having a baby, winning a lottery or sending the children to college to make people focus on their finances.
Even a bit of financial planning would reduce the stress in such situations.
While many Americans try to save money, they sabotage
Seniors battle online abuse
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
Cyberspace crooks steal billions of dollars every year from seniors.
No one knows exactly how high that figure is because less than half of these robber-
Saturday,
Computer theft from the elderly includes identity theft and credit card, investment, tax return and lottery winnings fraud.
Another cruel caper is attacking the seniors’ computer system with malware that requires payment to remove — and it’s not
their efforts with too much debt and not investing in the best financial vehicles.
Among the fault lines in their future are too much credit card debt, no money saved anywhere, and not putting anything away for retirement, despite the fact that most people admit they’ll need at least $1 million for retirement.
In a not-long-ago survey, less than half of the respondents contributed to a retirement account at work and 30% save money, whether its in coins or dollars or in a cookie jar at home — about the same amount that invest in stocks.
To curb the amount spent, nine out of 10 respondents said they cut coupons, 70% ate leftovers, and 60% bought items only when they were on sale.
What did they spend their money on? The number one financial pleasure is eating out, followed by spending too much on holiday gifts and splurging on clothes.
The major reasons to save and invest were listed as retiring comfortably, having enough money so there’s no reason for any economic worries and being free to do what you want.
to remember the experience.
Space is limited for this complimentary event. Please RSVP by Dec. 12th by calling 574-247-1866 or visit us online to reserve your spot.
• Purposeful Community Design
• Certified Dementia Practitioners on staff
• Nurse on-site 24 hours a day
• “New Directions” ® customized programming 10 Years of Award-Winning Memory care
Mature Life Features
Lillys are volunteer extraordinaires
By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer
“Volunteering is not new to us. Both of us, over the years, have volunteered for various organizations,” Marianne Lilly explained.
Tom Lilly has been involved with P.T.A, Lifeline, CARES, Elkhart schools, SCORE, a business mentoring service and Riverview Adult Day Health Center. Marianne has volunteered with Junior Women, Tri Kappa, Trinity on Jackson Church and P.E.O.
Now, the couple has really found their stride at their latest volunteer opportunity: The Wellfield Botanic Garden. Tom has been a volunteer for 16 years and Marianne for 14 years.
“What drew us to The Wellfield was its uniqueness,” Tom explained. “Elkhart is very fortunate to have a beautiful botanic
garden of this stature.”
The Wellfield Botanic Garden was created by the Elkhart Rotary Club as its 100th anniversary commemorative project.
The Gardens stretch across 36 acres in the middle of downtown Elkhart.
“Almost all of the construction has been done by local companies,” Marianne explained. Ground for the Gardens was broken in 2006. The Gardens have recently constructed a Visitors Center and outdoor pavilion.
“Wellfield is very much, as they say, ‘home grown,’” Tom said. “The financial support to make it happen is all from the generosity of the local community.”
The Lillys perform many tasks in the Gardens. Tom spent the first six years of his volunteer career in horticulture, mowing the
lawn and the undeveloped areas. But he really found his stride when he got involved in helping with the Gardens’ events, including tours, Groovin’ in the Garden, Taste of the Garden and Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights. He has accumulated over 1600 hours of service.
“Volunteering in different areas has provided different rewards,” Tom explained. “Mowing was a solitary event but offered the opportunity to enjoy the peacefulness of the Gardens.”
Marianne has worked weekly in the visitor’s cottage since she first began to volunteer at the Gardens. She also teams up with Tom to help with Garden events.
“I am very much a people person and I just love the interaction with visitors and my close association with the staff and other volunteers,” Marianne mentioned. Marianne has clocked over 850 hours of service.
The Gardens boast a Rolodex of 200 regular volunteers, comprised of many area businesses, schools and organization members.
“We are both grateful to volunteer as see it as an opportunity to ‘get you out of yourselves.’ The focus of volunteering is meeting the needs of others and what one can do to make our community a better place,” Tom offered. “Volunteering at the Wellfield is a good example of that.”
“It makes us a part of the community of really nice people: the staff, volunteers, and especially the many people who come to visit,” Marianne added. “It has also made us part of a team. We are just two of over 200 others who come together to make this happen.”
The Lillys are natives of Elkhart. Marianne spent much of her career at Midwest Commerce Bank, now known as Chase Bank. Tom retired from
his family’s business, W.F. Lilly Co./The Paper Depot. Both are now retired and fill their time with various hobbies, spending time with family and, of course, volunteering.
“We think, for anyone considering volunteering, without trying to sound corny, just do it!” Tom encouraged. “Obviously, it should be with something that interests you, or that you believe in.”
“Any organization will welcome you!” Marianne exclaimed.
The Wellfield Botanic Garden is always welcoming new volunteers. Those interested in volunteering should visit wellfieldgardens.org/get-involved/ volunteer/.
Middlebury Community Schools offering community gold cards
Middlebury Community Schools recognizes members of the community as it valuable members of its community and wants to say think you to those living in the school district.
School officials believe that the school district is stronger when it is engaged in the community and the community is engaged in its schools. There are countless opportunities for the community to connect with the school district.
The Middlebury Community School Corporation would be excited to have members of the community partner with area schools by attending future events at no cost, whether that be an athletic event, a music performance or a school theater production.
To do that, the Middlebury Community Schools is providing a Middlebury Community Schools Gold Card to every person 60 years or older who lives within the school district.
This card allows these residents to attend any of the school plays, musicals, concerts and home athletic events free of charge, excluding IHSAA tournaments and events with reserved seats.
All gold card holders need to do is show the card to the ticket taker at the event and enjoy themselves.
To learn more about upcoming events, keep an eye on the school corporation’s social media accounts or visit www.mcsin-k12. org. The card is non-transferable.
WINTER WONDERLAND Tom and Marianne Lilly have been volunteering at the Gardens for well over a decade. One of their favorite parts is helping put on the Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights event.
Photo provided by the Lillys.
Seventies Flashback
—
Bobby Riggs said whaaaaat?
By RANDAL C. HILL
On Sept. 20, 1973, over 30,000 people crowded into Houston’s cavernous Astrodome. At the same time, TV viewers around the world switched on over 90 million sets. The reason? To witness a tennis match that promoters had trumpeted as the Battle of the Sexes.
The contestants were 55-year-old Bobby Riggs, at one time the nation’s best male tennis professionals, and Billie Jean King, age 29, consistently ranked among the greatest women players of all time. The winner would take home $100,000 — about $700,000 today.
In Las Vegas, sports bettors heavily favored Riggs; Jimmy the Greek declared, “King money is scarce. It’s hard to find a bet on the girl.”
Bobby boasted that he could beat any woman player on the planet. Billie Jean felt she had a duty to accept Rigg’s highly publicized challenge for the event after thinking, “It would set us back 50 years if I didn’t win that match. It would affect the self-esteem of all women.” (At the time, a woman could still not obtain a credit card without a man’s signature.) Bobby, though, viewed the quirky contest as a springboard to easy cash and a late-in-life career launch playing exhibition matches against easily defeated women.
Both players hailed from Southern California. Riggs had begun playing tennis at age 12, and by 1946 he was the world’s top professional. King also proved to be a natural at the game and, at 17, won the women ‘s doubles title at Wimbledon, the first of 20 such victories for her there.
Riggs had always loved the media spotlight, and by the early 1970s women tennis players had become a favorite target of his bombast. Some of his jaw-dropping proclamations back then included such whoppers as “Women belong in the kitchen and the bedroom, in that order” and “Women don’t have the emotional stability to win.”
His first tennis coach had been a woman.
Riggs usually trained rigorously for his matches, but he had slacked off with the King contest. While Billie Jean spent practice time playing skilled male players, Bobby chased women, went to parties, knocked back cocktails, puffed on cigars and gained 15 pounds. When asked about King as an opponent, he chortled, “There’s no way that broad can beat me.”
Riggs ended up eating his words. From the match’s outset, King forced Bobby to cover the entire court as she ran him from side to side, always playing to his weak backhand and rocketing shots past the out-ofshape opponent. Winning three straight sets, Billie Jean had simply ground down her much older rival, a man the same age as her father.
Bobby declared himself a “bum” and sank into a sixmonth funk before becoming a tennis pro and greeter at a Las Vegas casino. Billie Jean continued to mow down the competition and retired with 39 Grand Slam titles.
“To beat a 55-year-old guy was no thrill for me,” King said later about the match. “The thrill was exposing a lot of new people to tennis.”
BOBBY RIGGS
End-of-Year 2024 events at the LaGrange County Public Library
Here are the events coming up for the remainder of 2024 at the LaGrange County Public Library and its branches in Shipshewana and Topeka. For more information and latest updates go to www.lagrange.lib. in.us
Enjoy stories, songs and rhymes with a fun activity or craft.
Classic Cinema: Offbeat Christmas LaGrange, 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26 Showing “Three Godfathers.” Three outlaws on the run risk their freedom and their lives to return a newborn to civilization. Starring John Wayne, Pedro Armendariz and Harry Carey, Jr. Directed by John Ford (1948) TV-G. 106 min. Free admission. Free popcorn. Ages 12 and up.
Tuesday Night Survival Club — Meat!
LaGrange, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26.
Featured speakers: Scott Beam, How to Field Dress a Deer; Charlotte Dick, How to Pressure Can Meat. Grandma survived the Great Depression because her supply chain was local and she knew how to do stuff. Learn to be as tough as Grandma! What do you want to
learn? What can you teach? Folk skills? Survival skills? Mechanical skills? Come make friends and share your know-how!
Calligraphy with Markers LaGrange, 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 30. Register by Friday, Nov. 22, either at LaGrange’s Adult Services desk or by calling (260) 463-2841 x1030. Cost is $5 per person. Learn how simple the ancient art of calligraphy can be! With calligraphy markers, there are no ink spills, no smudges and no mess. Learn how to draw an italic alphabet. No experience necessary. All materials provided. Ages 12 and up.
Oculus VR, Nintendo Switch, Wii LaGrange, 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays.
Ages: Switch and Wii, ages 6 and up (parent must stay with children ages 10 and under).
Oculus VR: ages 13 and up (must have a waiver signed by parent on file).
Controllers can be signed out from Children’s desk for 1 hour use, first come first served.
Three Devil’s Island escapees hide out in the house of a kindly merchant and repay his kindness by helping him and his family out of several crises. Starring Humphrey Bogart, Aldo Ray and Peter Ustinov. 1955, Not rated. 106 min. Free
Drop in anytime between 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. and stay as long as you want. Come and make some crafts or gifts for friends or family. Maybe even make your own wrapping paper. Have fun making and creating!
Ages 5 and up. Parents must stay with kids 10 and under.
Hillsdale Online:
Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ LaGrange, 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, 12, 19. Register by Saturday, Nov. 30 at (260) 463-2841 x1030.
This Christmas, we invite you to join Professor Dwight Lindley as he leads us through the mysterious world of Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Jacob Marley, the Ghosts of Christmas, and Tiny Tim in Hillsdale College’s online course, “Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol.’” You’ll learn profound lessons from the Ghosts of Christmas, explore the true meaning of Christmas through Scrooge’s surprising encounters, and discover how to open yourself to life’s many joys and blessings. This is a free non-credit course and there are no prerequisites. Ages 12 and up.
Teen Games (Grades 6-12) LaGrange, 4-6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9. (second Monday each month).
Drop in any time and stay as long as you can. We will be
Who’s helping you with major 2025 Medicare changes?
By BENJAMIN SNYDER, PhD and AMY SNYDER, RN
The Annual Enrollment Period , which runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, will be the most disruptive in recent history.
Estimates that as many as 70% of Medicare beneficiaries will be shopping around has proven true.
Everyone with Part D benefits is impacted, whether you have a Medicare Supplement Plan with a standalone prescription drug plan or an Advantage Plan.
Changes for 2025 are that the Donut Hole/Coverage Gap is ending, the Max Out of Pocket for prescription drugs is dropping
from $8,000 to $2,000, the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan begins and Medicare reimbursements to insurance companies are below the rate of inflation.
The good news is the most you could pay for covered medications in 2025 is $2,000, you can set up a payment plan to pay now for your 2025 medications to budget and with no donut hole, there will be no mid-year cost increases.
The bad news is neither Medicare nor your insurance company will cover these expenses. If you have Part D, you bear the cost of these improvements.
The Part D changes have lead
to a sharp increase in supplement costs and prescription drug plans, Medicare Advantage benefits have decreased significantly for some companies, and tier level changes for some medications.
If you are not already working with a local agent, we would be honored to guide you through reviewing your coverage. It doesn’t cost anything to work with us, we offer all Medicare coverage types (Supplements/Medigap, Part D, and Advantage plans) with a wide variety of carriers, and you will have a local resource to call when questions arise. See our ad for our contact information.
learning some new games and helping to decide what titles to add to our circulating games for all library patrons. Come enjoy some non-electronic games while snacking and chatting with other teens! Registration appreciated but not required.
Pokemon Club (Ages 8-18)
LaGrange. 6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9 (second Monday each month).
Have fun playing Pokemon, trading cards, and learning strategies for improving your game! Bringing cards to trade is optional. This group will meet on the second Monday of every month. Registration appreciated but not required.
Teen Dungeons & Dragons (Grades 6-12)
LaGrange, 6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9 (second Monday each month).
Play Dungeons & Dragons. The group will decide who is Dungeon Master and how long each campaign will be. Meets the second Monday of each month. Space is limited so registration is appreciated. Sign up online.
Showing “The Miracle of Morgan’s Creek.” After an all-night sendoff party for the troops, a small town girl with an awkward boyfriend wakes up to find herself married and pregnant, but with no memory of her husband’s identity. Starring Eddie Bracken, Betty Hutton & Diana Lynn. 1944, not rated. 95 min. Free admission. Free popcorn! Ages 12 and up.
Homeschool Hangout
LaGrange, 1-2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11 and 10:30 a.m. to noon Friday, Dec. 13
Join other homeschool families for a time to hang out, play games, share ideas and make new friends! Feel free to come to one or both days and enjoy some time to relax together. Registration appreciated, but not required.
Mini Archi-Trek: Angola Thursday, Dec. 12. Depart and return at LaGrange Main Library. Departure at Noon, return approximately 4 p.m. Registration is required. Register at LaGrange or call (260) 463-2841 x1030. Cost $10 per person.
Take a break from holiday stress! Archi-Treks are tours
for architecture exploration and appreciation, within easy reach of Northeast Indiana. They include some walking, some riding and local lunch. This mini Archi-Trek tour includes lunch at a local coffee shop, a tour of the Carnegie Public Library and a visit to a hidden Christmas Village! Ages 12 and up.
Second Saturday Book Club
The 4-Way Café, 5990W 200S, Topeka. Saturday, Dec. 14 at 11 a.m.
This month we’ll meet at the restaurant to discuss “Where the Sidewalk Ends” by Shel Silverstein. You’ll meet a boy who turns into a TV set, and a girl who eats a whale. The Unicorn and the Bloath live there, and so does Sarah Cynthia Sylvia Stout who will not take the garbage out. It is a place where you wash your shadow, plant diamond gardens, where shoes fly, sisters are auctioned off and crocodiles go to the dentist. Copies of the book available at LaGrange Library’s Adult Desk. Ages 16 and up.
Elementary Book Club (Grades 1-3)
LaGrange, 4-5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17.
We will discuss “Timmi Tobbson A Family Secret.” We will also do a fun activity, and pass out the next book club book. Sign up by checking out the book to read for the month in the youth department. Meets third Tuesday of each month.
Middle Grade Book Club (Grades 4-7)
LaGrange, 4-5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17.
We will discuss “Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library.” We will also do a fun activity, and pass out the next book club book. Sign up by checking out the book to read for the month in the youth department. Meets third Tuesday each month.
Teen Book Chat: Genre Book Club — No meeting this month.
Teen Advisory Group: TAG –—No meeting this month.
Family Movie Night — No movie this month. Next Movie Jan.24
All LaGrange County Public Library locations will be closed the following days:
Thursday and Friday, Nov. 2829: Thanksgiving holiday Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 24-25: Christmas holiday Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1: New Year’s holiday
Christian author excels in storytelling
By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer
“I’ve always enjoyed writing and telling stories, even when I was young,” stated Katrina Hoover Lee, Elkhart. “When I was growing up and we were doing chores, I used to entertain my brother with stories about Terry, Gary and Larry.”
Lee has now written 16 books, both for children and adults. In 2024, Lee received both a Reader’s Favorite and Christian Indie award for her Terry, Gary, and Larry books, officially the Brady Street Boys Adventure Series.
Lee was raised attending church. Her father was a pastor in a Mennonite church in Wisconsin. She gave her heart to Jesus when she was around 8 years old and was baptized a few years later. Although she dedicated her life to Christ at
a young age, Lee admits that experience has caused her to redefine her walk with the Lord as she discovers more areas to surrender to Him.
She, her husband, Marnell, and daughter, Anina, attend Cornerstone Chapel, Elkhart.
“It’s actually an outreach church that was started in 2016. Marnell is an elder and I have various roles, including teaching children’s Sunday school class.”
The church is situated in an area where the people are often struggling. “We continually look for ways to join God’s work of helping people without hurting or enabling. Sometimes this is very practical, like installing storm windows for someone who has attended our church.”
Lee and others from the church also volunteer at a soup kitchen through Guidance
Magician Justin Willman coming to The Lerner in 2025
Justin Willman, the magi cian behind Netflix’s Magic For Humans will bring his Illusionati Tour to the Lerner Theatre in Elkhart at 7 p.m.
Ministry. “Next Thursday we are going to serve the evening meal there and Marnell will supply the inspirational talk.”
Being a schoolteacher for eight years opened Lee’s understanding of young people to a greater degree. She enjoys helping people of all ages. Lee has a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
“I started writing books for Christian Aid Ministries, a Mennonite and Amish aid organization, when I was doing volunteer work in Haiti. My first book was titled ‘Blue Christmas.’ The book that sold the most, ‘Kidnapped in Haiti,’ the account of the Mennonite missionaries who were kidnapped for 62 days, was published in 2022.”
Lee also wrote a fiction book for adults called “From the White House to the Amish.”
“That book is about a man from Southern Indiana who served at the White House in the Eisenhower and Kennedy administrations. But he’s eventually drawn to the simple life of the Amish. It’s based on a true story.”
The main character in Lee’s Brady Street Boys Adventure
Flourish, Here.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
“I mention Elkhart in the books. Each book has its own adventure, and also a Fruit of the Spirit background theme. The first book has a theme of love, the second of joy, the third of peace and so on. I’ve completed eight books and am working on number nine now.”
Although these books are written for children, they have an appeal for people of all ages.
“They’re great for grandparents to read to their grandchildren. Each book has its own mystery, but it is best to read them in order.” Lee’s website is katrinahooverlee.com.
As a caregiver, you manage multiple responsibilities for your loved one in addition to your own. When you need help, The Thelma A. Schrock Adult Day Services program is here for you – at least five hours a day or a few days per week.
As a caregiver, you manage multiple responsibilities for your loved one in addition to your own. When you need The Thelma A. Schrock Adult Day Services program is here for you – at least five hours day or a few days per week.
As a caregiver, you manage multiple responsibilities for your loved one in addition to your own.When you need help, The Thelma A. Schrock Adult Day Services program is here for you — at least five hours a day or a few days per week.
As a caregiver, you manage multiple responsibilities for your loved one in addition to your own. When you need help, The Thelma A. Schrock Adult Day Services program is here for you – at least five hours a day or a few days per week.
In the Homestead’s intimate atmosphere, each member benefits from a variety of health, social, and therapeutic activities designed to encourage meaningful engagement, purpose, and creativity.
Walls
Walls
Walls
Ceilings
Ceilings
Window And Door Trim
In the Homestead’s intimate atmosphere, each member benefits from a variety of health, social, and therapeutic activities designed to encourage meaningful engagement, purpose, and creativity.
In the Homestead’s intimate atmosphere, each member benefits from a variety of health, social, and therapeutic activities designed to encourage meaningful engagement, purpose, and creativity.
Ceilings Window And Door Trim
Window And Door Trim
Stairways
Stairways
Woodwork Staining
Stairways
Woodwork Staining
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Small Patch Repair
Woodwork Staining
Small Patch Repair
Drywall Repair
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Drywall Repair
Small Patch Repair
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
Drywall Repair
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
In the Homestead’s intimate atmosphere, each member benefits from a variety of health, social, and therapeutic activities designed to encourage meaningful engagement, purpose, and creativity.
The Homestead gives the caregiver and participant both the freedom to flourish.
As a caregiver, you manage multiple responsibilities for your loved one in addition to your own. When you need help, The Thelma A. Schrock Adult Day Services program is here for you – at least five hours a day or a few days per week.
The Homestead gives the caregiver and participant both the freedom to flourish.
We are available five days a week, Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
The Homestead gives the caregiver and participant both the freedom to flourish.
We are available five days a week, Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
The Homestead gives the caregiver and participant both the freedom to flourish.
For more information, call 574-537-4181.
In the Homestead’s intimate atmosphere, each member benefits from a variety of health, social, and therapeutic activities designed to encourage meaningful engagement, purpose, and creativity.
For more information, call 574-537-4181.
We are available five days a week, Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
We are available five days a week, Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
The Homestead gives the caregiver and participant both the freedom to flourish.
For more information, call 574-537-4181.
For more information, call 574-537-4181.
We are available five days a week, Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. For more information, call 574-537-4181.
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
PUBLISHED AUTHOR — Katrina Hoover Lee, Elkhart, holds her Brady Street Boys Adventure Series books and her adult novel “From the White House to the Amish.” She has written 16 books, both for children and adults. Her Brady Street series earned both a Reader’s Favorite and Christian Indie award. Photo provided by Katrina Hoover Lee.
INDEPENDENCE | DIGNITY | STRENGTH
Taking Care of Your Health During the Holidays
Maintaining a focus on personal health and safety is especially important at this time of year. These six tips can help you have a more enjoyable, healthy, and injuryfree holiday season.
Nourish Your Body:
Maintaining energy levels while nourishing our bodies requires a balance between indulgence and eating healthily. Portion management is key, as is eating only until you are satisfied rather than full. Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and protein are essential parts of a balanced diet and should be consumed moderately during the holiday season. “Eat what you love in moderation, ” suggests Jody Engel, a nutritionist and registered dietitian at NIH.
Hydration Matters:
It’s easy to lose track of how much water you are drinking during the busy holidays. Adequate hydration is essential for sustaining energy, increasing alertness, facilitating digestion, and protecting brain health. If you consume alcohol, drink plenty of water before, during, and after. According to Healthline, alcohol “causes your body to remove fluid at a much quicker rate than other liquids. ” Healthline.gov
Stay Active: Moving and staying active year -round is especially important during the colder months. Plan time for exercise, such as light yoga or strolling through the mall. When venturing outdoors, protect yourself from the elements by layering your clothing, and keeping your mouth and nose covered. Be mindful of icy paths to avoid falls by wearing appropriate footwear with non -slip soles. Also, consider aids like a cane or walker when needed.
Kayde Martin from Dunes Hospice will discuss how pet therapy for seniors, also known as Animal Assisted Therapy, is a technique that uses animals to interact with seniors for numerous reasons to help improve their quality of life. Studies show that just fifteen minutes spent bonding with an animal promotes hormonal changes within the brain. Stress levels drop as the brain produces serotonin (the “feel-good” hormone), along with prolactin and oxytocin.
December 10: YMCA in Downtown South Bend
December 19: OWLS Active Aging Center in Elkhart
December 27: 11:30 a.m.: 1Roof Southeast Neighborhood Center in South Bend
Snacks will be provided!
For more information and to register, call (574) 284-7189
Relax and Recharge:
During this potentially stressful time of year, it ’ s important to prioritize self -care and effective stress management for our mental and emotional well -being. Setting reasonable goals for the use of our resources (time, money, and energy) is crucial. We can decrease our stress by scheduling downtime and by practicing mindfulness including relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation and listening to music.
Mind Your Medications:
Our daily routines can easily be sidetracked during the busy holidays. It ’s important to remember to maintain your medication schedule and doses as prescribed by your doctor. Using a pillbox with compartments for each day provides a visual reminder to take medication and avoid taking two doses at once. Don ’t be afraid to ask for help from a family member or friend if needed.
Protect Yourself: Many infections spread more rapidly over the holiday season. Other health risks, such as COVID -19 concerns, can be addressed by encouraging vaccinations, practicing hand hygiene, staying home while sick, and avoiding close contact with others who are in your close space.
The key to a safe and enjoyable holiday is balancing fun with self -care. By following these six tips to stay healthy and safe over the holidays you will thrive and enjoy the season with peace of mind, knowing you are safeguarding your health and wellbeing.
Happy Holidays!
Adapted from: Thriving Through the Holidays: Six Tips for Older Adults , AARP
INDEPENDENCE | DIGNITY | STRENGTH
Energy Assistance Program
The REAL Services Energy Assistance Program (EAP) is here! Here is what you need to know to stay out of the dark this fall and winter. EAP applications open on October 1, 2024. The program will officially start on November 1, 2024. Households that qualify for EAP are protected from disconnection from December 1, 2024 March 15, 2025. The program ends on April 14, 2025. When applying, please read all application materials carefully.
EAP is income based, and you are not required to have a senior in your household to participate. Proof of income is required. The household monthly income limits are as follows:
One person: $2,686
Two people: $3,513
Four people: $ 5,166
You must provide your heat and electric bills. You do not have to have a disconnect notice to receive assistance. Payment will be made directly to the utility company, or to you if utilities are included in your rent. Note that payments are onetime payments, not monthly. There are several changes to the program this year. It is no longer necessary to submit ID and social security cards. If there if a credit limit of $250 or more on a utility account, the household does not quality fo r a benefit for that utility. To ensure all households who apply and quality can receive assistance, benefits are lower this year. For more information and to obtain an application, visit our office at 1151 South Michigan St. South Bend, IN 46601, email eapapps@realservices.org, or call (574) 232 -6501.
Elkhart County
Elkhart: Riverside Terrace 181 N. Elkhart Ave. (574) 320-5995
Goshen: Greencroft, Manor II 1425 Greencroft Blvd. (574) 971 -6016
Kosciusko County
Mentone: 101 W. Main Street (574) 353-7555
North Webster: 301 N. Main Street Suite D (574) 834-1193
Pierceton: 205 N. First Street (574) 526-1060
Silver Lake: 108 N. Harrison Street (260)450-2416
Syracuse: 1013 N. Long Drive (574)457-2631
Warsaw: Warsaw Tigers 320 W. Main Street, Warsaw 574-267-0037
Warsaw Senior Activity Center 800 N. Park Ave.
Will remarrying affect my Social Security benefits?
By MONA HARTER District Manager, South Bend Social Security Office
Are you getting remarried?
If so, we can help you with Social Security related questions regarding your remarriage.
You may be wondering how your new marriage affects your Social Security benefits now or in the future.
Remarrying may affect your benefits if you receive (or expect to receive) any of the following:
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments
– Your SSI eligibility and payment amount may change (or stop) due to your new spouse’s income and resources.
Surviving spouse or divorced surviving spouse benefits –
If you remarry before age
50 — You won’t be eligible for survivors or disability benefits as a surviving spouse unless your later marriage ends by divorce or annulment.
If you remarry between the ages of 50 and 59 — You may be able to get benefits as a disabled surviving spouse (or disabled surviving divorced spouse) if you were disabled and unable to work when you remarried and your remarriage occurred after age 50. If you remarry before you reach age 60 and that marriage ends, you may be able to get benefits on your previous deceased spouse’s record. If you remarry after age 60 — You may be eligible for survivors benefits on your deceased spouse’s record or benefits on your new spouse’s record.
Divorced spouse’s benefits — Generally, if you remarry, benefits paid to you on your former spouse’s record stop. You should report your new marriage to us to avoid being overpaid.
Children’s benefits (under age 18 or full-time student ages 18 or 19) — Under certain circumstances, we may be able to make payments to stepchildren of a worker who receives retirement or disability benefits.
To learn more about how your new marriage will affect your Social Security benefits now or in the future, read our blog post Will Remarrying Affect My Social Security Benefits at blog.ssa.gov/will-remarrying-affect-my-social-security-benefits.
Share this with family and friends — and post it on social media.
Fraley named new CEO of Council on Aging of Elkhart County
The Council on Aging of Elkhart County is proud to announce the appointment of Tina Fraley as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Fraley will succeed David Toney, who has served the organization with dedication.
Fraley brings with her a wealth of experience, having previously held leadership roles at The Council on Aging of Elkhart County. With a proven track record of NFP finance, Fraley is well-positioned to lead the Council on Aging into its next chapter, continuing its mission of serving and supporting the elderly population of Elkhart County.
“I have been blessed to work with a well-respected staff and organization over the years
and am honored to continue in this new role. The Council on Aging plays a vital role in ensuring the aging community has access to the resources and care they need. I am eager to work with staff, volunteers, and community partners to build on the great work already being done,” said Fraley.
The Council on Aging of Elkhart County provides a wide range of services including transportation, home-based assistance and community engagement programs that support the health and independence of seniors. Under Fraley’s leadership, the organization looks forward to expanding its programs and reaching even more individuals in need.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tina in this new role,” said
FRALEY Celesta Vaughan, chairperson of the board. “Tina’s vision and leadership will be instrumental as we continue to grow and adapt to the changing needs of our community’s aging population.”
REMARRYING AND SOCIAL SECURITY Social Security can help answer questions regarding remarriage and Social Security benefits. Photo provided by Social Security.
TINA
Faith, family fuels Special Olympics champion Jerry Davis
Text and Photos
By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer
It does not take much for two close friends, Jerry Davis and Pernell Bailey, to get competitive. When playing a game of corn hole or horseshoes you can expect some light trash talk.
“I gotta show him how to do it,” Bailey said in a game of corn hole.
Truth is, Bailey does not need to give pointers to Davis. Davis is a Special Olympics state champion in corn hole and other events. Even at the age of 72, Davis shows his competitive side in horseshoes, corn hole, bocce ball, basketball and bowling. Davis says he has competed in Special Olympics Indiana going back 50 years.
Born with special needs, Davis takes nothing for granted and credits his relationship with God for keeping him standing.
“I could do nothing without the Lord’s help,” Davis said. “Cause he’s in everything we do. I give him credit for everything. We could be gone tomorrow. We don’t know.”
His favorite verse of the Bible is John 3:16 and he says Revelation is his favorite book.
“It’s got meanings to it,” Davis
said on Revelation.
Davis does not wear his faith on his sleeve, but he does wear it on his head with hat that says, “Simply blessed.” He volunteers at God’s Highway to Heaven Church in Warsaw by cleaning up the facility after services.
Davis was born in Sidney, Ind. and has a strong trust with his sister, Manda Vuittonet.
Vuittonet spends time with her brother at the Kosciusko Community Senior Services at 800 N. Park Ave. in Warsaw. Davis also volunteers at the senior center by taking out trash and cleaning up tables. It is where he competes with his friend Bailey in multiple games.
Vuittonet serves as the legal guardian for Jerry, but she credits him for looking after her as well.
“He helps me. I’m a widow. Everyday it’s, ‘anything you need, sis?’ From here he comes to my house,” Vuittonet said. “You can stand on his sidewalk and see my house. I’ve been taking care of him since birth. I’m seven years older than him but I’ve always taken care of him. I had nine brothers. I took care of the younger seven. I still have five left.”
It was not an easy upbringing
displays a state champion medal he won through Special Olympics Indiana.
for the siblings, as they described their parents as alcoholics. Vuittonet stepped into a parental role for her younger siblings when their mother left the family.
“We were just raised hard,” Vuittonet said.
The two became closer when Vuittonet was in need of medical attention over two years ago.
“Went into cardiac arrest. [Davis] and a friend helped get me to the hospital. He helped me
get into a wheel chair. From that I don’t remember, for 30 days I don’t remember.”
Professional Services
A Healthcare Directive is a document that allows you to specify your wishes concerning medical care in the event of an emergency or if you become unable to communicate those wishes. This can be in the form of 1) a Living Will, which provides instructions related to medical treatment, or 2) a Healthcare Power of Attorney that designates a trusted decision-maker to act on your behalf, if needed. A Healthcare Directive can
protect your loved ones from having to make difficult decisions during difficult times. By providing detailed instructions regarding your desired course of action for various medical scenarios, you can ensure that any decisions made regarding your care will reflect and preserve your values and preferences. Contact Everwise for more information on healthcare directives and why it’s important to have a healthcare directive in your estate plan.
Vuittonet has also coached her brother’s basketball team at the Indiana Special Olympics where Davis won a state championship at the event. Their team name was “Smokey and the Bandits.” Vuittonet says wherever they go there is always someone who recognizes Davis.
Elder Law
Q:
What is Elder Law, why should I seek advice & counsel from an Elder Law attorney, and at what age should I begin?
A: Elder Law encompasses many different topics which can arise in the planning process for long-term care, asset preservation, and estate planning. It is advising senior clients (directly or in consultation with their family members and/ or caregivers) on all legal issues (e.g. real estate transfers, probate avoidance techniques, health care decision making authorizations, eligibility for public assistance care and residency programs, end of life decision making, etc.) in an effort to provide the senior client with peace of mind knowing they will be protected and properly cared for during the aging process.
Planning for long-term care, asset preservation, and estate planning, with senior clients has revealed many regularly recurring Elder Law issues which arise that are common among many clients. Addressing these issues early, while still competent
“He’s got a ton of friends. Everywhere we go, someone knows him,” Vuittonet said. “All in all he is a pretty good guy.”
to do so, will help to provide peace of mind to the client and family, and ultimately aid in ensuring that the client’s needs are met, and goals are accomplished.
There is no specific age to seek advice from an Elder Law attorney, but generally a person would want to consider beginning the discussion somewhere between the ages of 55 and 65, depending on one’s health and competency.
Please discuss these issues with a qualified Elder Law attorney to determine the appropriateness of such planning in your situation.
GAME DAY MORNING — Jerry Davis, left, plays cornhole with his friend Pernell Bailey at the Kosciusko Community Senior Services in Warsaw.
PROUD MEDALIST — Jerry Davis
Kurt
Bachman, Partner
COMING TO MIDDLEBURY — The Chicago Classic Brass will perform a community concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at First United Methodist Church of
The Chicago Classic Brass performs a unique repertoire of works by
Sousa. Hailed as “sensational” and “heartwarming,” this highly talented
the Midwest. The concert is free, but a love offering will be taken up.
Chautauqua-Wawasee’s 2024 Season Highlights
By MARK KNECHT President Chautauqua-Wawasee
Chautauqua-Wawasee strives to be a beacon of tradition and community spirit, offering a unique blend of programs based on the four Chautauqua pillars. This season was our most ambitious yet with more than 20 programs. In addition to a successful year of programs, we doubled our volunteer base, which is critical for our organization. Here is a recap of the year:
• Purdue Varsity Glee Club provided an energetic repertoire of music performing at the Wawasee High School.
• Our Earth Day program highlighted the monarch butterfly.
• Local celebrity Shanna Zolman Mahaley, Indiana’s 2002 Miss Basketball returned to overflowing audiences, sharing her faith and life story.
• Wawasee Fine Arts Festival featured an increase in children’s participation for onsite art activities.
• Northern Indiana Plein Air Art Association conducted a successful “paint out” and workshop for beginners.
• Taps Across the Water at Dusk, our Memorial Day tribute, was heard across Lakes Syracuse, Wawasee, Papakeechie and Webster.
• New this year was the Pawasee Dog Parade with many dressed-up owners and pets!
• Ben Franklin was this year’s Patriotic Speaker. Reenactor Barry Stevens delighted the crowd with his multifaceted Franklin impersonations.
• Our “Famous Hoosiers” program featured legendary basketball coach John Wooden. Dr. Richard Gunderman, author of Hoosier Beacons, provided an inspiring presentation of Wooden’s career and life lessons.
• The Survival of the Myaamia People program featured historian Dr. Cam Shriver, who shared the fight of the Myaamia nation’s removal from their Indiana homelands.
• Our Digging Through History programs featured two previous year presenters: Trevor
Tipton and Notre Dame Professor Dr. Mark Schurr.
• Old Fashioned Christmas continued to grow with more free fun and tradition as the annual kickoff to the Christmas Season.
Plans for 2025 are all set. It promises to be our best year yet! Follow us on Facebook or website CHQW.org to stay in touch.
The seasons change
By JIM CARPENTER Guest Writer
Sometimes it takes a while to realize, when you are in a different stage of your life.
Having been distracted for so many years, with merely trying to survive.
But lately it seems, I have conceded.
My life has turned a page, Recent events have convinced me,
I am into an older age. Basement apartment with family.
It seems we have all we need.
But one thing was forgotten, we have a new identity.
Years of raising garden and kids, while budgeting all the while. Keeping the sheds and barn together, using duct tape and baling wire.
But now the checks come in, even as the duties are lessened.
The abundance of free hours, can be a curse or a blessing. But whatever it is, it is different.
And I will try to use the time.
To record my continued journey in life.
In simple words, that just might rhyme.
‘THE RAT PACK IS BACK’ Tickets are available now for “The Rat Pack Is Back,” paying tribute to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr., coming to The Lerner Theater at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Photo provided by The Lerner Theater.
Middlebury, 702 S. Main St., Middlebury.
Bach, Bizet, Gershwin, Joplin and
brass quintet performs throughout
Photo provided by First United Methodist Church of Middlebury.
Exercise a good bet to prevent falls
By JAMES GAFFNEY Mature Life Features
Most people know exercise can keep off unwanted pounds while increasing strength, flexibility and balance.
But exercise offers another major advantage, especially for older adults. It can help prevent falls, according to a British healthcare review.
A variety of other factors, from pacemakers to vitamin D supplements, might be useful in preventing certain individuals from falling, but exercise appears to be the most widely effective strategy for reducing both the risk of falling and the overall number of falls among older people.
Exercise may not prevent falls completely, but people who tend to fall frequently may be enabled
to fall less often.
An estimated 30% of people above age 65 who do not live in assisted-living facilities experience a fall. Among the reasons are poor balance, diminished eyesight, dementia and the side effects of medications.
One in five of these falls could require medical attention but, even without causing serious injury, falling can make individuals
Too much of a good thing can kill you
By CECIL SCAGLIONE
Mature Life Features
As long as a tan is perceived as cool, the risk of contracting skin cancer will continue.
More than 5 million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed this year, 90% of them caused by exposure to the sun, according to the American Cancer Society.
Malignant melanoma, which is easily preventable by wearing sun-protective clothing, using sunscreen and seeking shade, will kill as many as 8,000 Americans during the year.
Yet more than half of teens and adults believe people look and feel better with a tan.
This was not so fashionable a century or so ago. Bronzed skin then meant you were most likely a menial worker who made a living working out in the field while the owners of the farm or plantation spent the day indoors.
Industrialization reversed all that, as workers moved inside large manufacturing plants and the wealthy began lolling along tropical beaches. So, tans became a fashionable sign of leisure.
Unfortunately, a lot of people haven’t learned to used sunscreen properly.
A lot of people still use a sunscreen with an SPF as low as 15 and then head to the beach or play a couple of games of volleyball and finds their skin turning red. The damage has been done.
Added problems are that too little sunscreen is used or it may be washed off by sweat or swimming.
Medical counselors recommend sun screen with an SPF of at least 30, and even higher. The problem is not what you see — the tan. It’s the unseen ultraviolet radiation that produces it.
The rays from the sun triggers a reaction in pigment-producing skin cells to produce a browner color in the skin. This same radiation causes damage in the DNA of skin cells as well as other types of damage to the skin, and that is what has been related to the risk of skin cancer as well as premature aging of the skin.
There are two reasons tanning salons are not safe, even though they may advertise that they
use innocuous UVA radiation and not the UVB that causes sunburn. First of all, UVA is not totally harmless. Secondly, most tanning booths give users some UVB also.
If you use an artificial tanner — tan in a bottle — it will give you a tan in color only. They don’t protect you from sun exposure or ultraviolet light.
The American Cancer Society offers a slogan: “Slip, Slop, Slap” — slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat.
That’s a good way to avoid ultraviolet damage no matter how unfashionable it may appear.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2024
fearful of leaving their homes or participating in activities.
Studies suggest that group exercise programs, tai chi, and home exercise programs all reduce the risk and rate of falls.
Effective exercise programs for reducing falls focus on balance, strength and flexibility. However, older adults should check with their primary care physician before beginning an exercise, especially if they have significant weakness, balance issues, or dizziness.
Other preventive measures might only be effective for small, targeted groups. For instance, taking vitamin D supplements probably does not reduce falls, except in people who have a low
level of vitamin D in their blood. Similarly, cataract surgery and insertion of a pacemaker can help people with poor eyesight or certain blood pressure conditions to fall less often.
Anti-slip devices worn on shoes during icy conditions and reviewing medications regularly are also effective in reducing falls. In some cases, gradually reducing the dosage of sleep aids and depression medicines can reduce the number of falls.
Behavioural changes can also make a difference. An older adult should probably reconsider climbing up a ladder to clean gutters or using a chair to change a light bulb or reach high shelves.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2024
AGING & WELLNESS RESOURCES
AGING CONNECTIONS
Serving Northern IN & Southwest MI
A free online directory for aging & wellness resources. Our members offer a wide variety of services and information for your specific needs. www.agingconnections.org
Hover over Chapters on the navigation bar, then select your area and click directory.
Aging Connections is a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
ALZHEIMERS/MEMORY CARE
GREENLEAF LIVING CENTER
HOME CARE SERVICES
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Provides In-Home Care Services through our interactive caregiving approach, personal care, companionship and housekeeping, transportation, respite care, dementia care. VILLAGE CAREGIVING
THE STATE HEALTH INSURANCE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SHIP) is a FREE health-benefits counseling and advocacy service for Medicare Beneficiaries and their families or caregivers. The mission is to educate, advocate FOR, counsel and empower people to make informed benefit decisions. Confused about your Medicare? Have questions about Medicaid? Visit your SHIP Counselor at Majestic Care of Goshen or call for an appointment 574-533-0351.
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Greencroft — Goshen
1225 Greencroft Blvd., Goshen, IN 46527-0819 (574) 537-4000 • www.greencroft.org
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Greenleaf Health Campus
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Hellenic Senior Living
2528 Bypass Road, Elkhart, IN 46514 (574) 389-1776
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Living at NoraCare
28688 CR 16, Elkhart, IN 46516 (574) 222-5992 • info@noracare.us
We Offer A Home To High-Functioning Individuals With Physical Assistance Needs At A 3.2 Ratio. Enjoy Independence With Meals And A Certified Nurse Aide Available 24/7.
Majestic Care of Goshen 2400 W. College Avenue, Goshen, IN 46526 (574) 533-0351
www.MajesticCare.com/Location/Goshen
Mason Health Care
900 Provident Drive, Warsaw, IN 46580 (574) 371-2500 • www.masonhealthandrehab.com
Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing or Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-RespiratoryPhysical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Medicare and/or Medicaid
Orchard Pointe Health Campus
702 Sawyer Rd., Kendallville, IN 46755 (260) 347-3333 • www.orchardpointehc.com
Offering Memory Care, Assisted & Independent Living Apartments and Skilled Services. We’ll meet you with the appropriate level of care wherever you are — whether you’re fully independent or looking for additional assistance. Call us.
Our Gated Community is a smaller, dedicated unit for comfort and safety for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Residents. We offer Enhanced Quality of Life Programming which includes cognitive strengths, life skills, daily movement, power of music, artistic expression, creativity and socialization.
The Waters of Wakarusa-Assisted Living Facility
303 N. Washington Street, Wakarusa IN 46573 (574) 862-1918
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Woodland Manor
What a way to start the holidays
As holiday shows go, there is none better than the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Yuletide Celebration. In fact, it’s the largest orchestra-produced holiday production in North America. Believe me, it has everything. It’s got dancing, singing, beautiful costumes and a wonderful version of “The Night Before Christmas” story.
The venue is the beautiful Hilbert Theater on the circle in downtown Indianapolis. Yuletide goers are greeted under the marque by a host of larger than life costumed characters, who are more than willing to pose for photos. Inside, there are even more. A 30-foot-tall tree dominates the lobby and an organist is playing carols. Children and grandchildren are eagerly awaiting the reading of “How Grinch Stole Christmas.”
The atmosphere is light and festive and is a great buildup to the two-hour stage show. Hosting the performance will be popular vocalist, Sandi Patty. This year marks her 10th time to host Yuletide. She’ll not only sing several songs, but
Lodge
January 18, 2025 - Hard Rock Casino
February 14-15,
February 22, 2025 - Travel, Deer & Water Fowl Show
March 15, 2025 - Indy Flower & Patio Show
April 19, 2025 - Shedd Aquarium
May 10, 2025 - Tulip Festival
May 24, 2025 - Fort Wayne Zoo
June 14, 2025 - Indy Zoo
June 22, 2025 - Dayton Air Show
February 22 - March 2, 2025 - San Antonio, TX
April 6 - 12, 2025 - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
May 26-30, 2025 - The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum
June 9-13, 2025 - Niagara Falls & Toronto September 21-27, 2025 - Beautiful Vermont
EXTRAVAGANT GOWNS — Strong voices and elegant costumes provide color to the program, which is backed by the 65-member Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.
TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Puppeteers with Santa and his reindeer exit after the telling of the famous Clement Moore story. All photos provided by the Indianapolis Symphony.
ROD KING
What a way
Continued from page 18
will change gowns and perform with the ensemble.
Manners
make travel more enjoyable
By CECIL SCAGLIONE
Mature Life Features
Listening to travellers complain about how they were treated in some foreign land is akin to hearing kids complain about their teachers.
First off, keep in mind that travellers are guests where they are. Just because the locals didn’t understand English is no reason to harp about their rudeness. Many travellers discover they had no concept what language was spoken in the country they visited. They didn’t try to learn a few vital words in that language, such as “please” and “thank you.”
Ignorance of one’s surroundings is an all-too-common trait of travellers.
Here is a small sample of such mindlessness.
A member of a small group strolling in the shadow of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City proudly proclaimed loudly how thrilled she felt “walking in the footsteps of Jesus.”
Then she complained — loudly — to her tour guide that the Pope’s noon blessing from his high-up window was too far away to tell if it was really him.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2024
Santa takes center stage. At first a couple Santas enter from stage right and begin tap dancing. They’re quickly joined by a few more until they fill the entire stage. There are 30 of them who conclude their dancing with a kick line reminiscent of the Rockettes of Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
Tap dancing Santas have been an audience pleaser and staple of the show since the symphony’s initial Yuletide presentation 38 years ago.
Another eye catching specialty will be the Holly Jolly Dollies. Dressed as Raggedy Anns, the Dollies will spell various holiday greetings with large building blocks and even throw in a salute to the local sports teams. It looks chaotic as the Dollies assemble words with their blocks, but everyone seems to know where they need to be to make sure the words are correct. It’s one of the most fun segments of the show.
There’s plenty more. A number of specialty dance,
vocal and instrumental presentations make for a great change of pace. And, you’ll be surprised and amazed at the novelty performers.
Enthralling is the only way to explain the “’Twas The Night Before Christmas” story. Black-clad puppeteers enter down the main aisle with a cartoonish Santa and his reindeer on 10-foot-tall poles. Onstage, Santa is lowered into a chimney and out pops a life-size Santa, who goes about delivering gifts as the music swells and the story unfolds. With the children snug in their beds, Santa goes back into the fireplace and the puppeteers depart back up the center aisle.
Providing smooth transitions between segments and an overall grand musical flow to the show is the 65-musician Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Conductor Jack Everly.
The tightly choreographed production has a cast of 50 singer and dancers and a crew of 40 backstage making sure costumes are ready for changes
and scenery is set to go onstage. There are no dead spots because everything is kept moving. It’s nonstop action.
The show runs from Dec. 6-23. Tickets are available by calling the ISO box office at
(317) 639-4300.
To get your holiday season off to a glorious, colorful, rousing, and fun start, plan to attend the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Yuletide Celebration.
Dec. 4 - Texas Tenors Christmas, Blue Gate Performing Arts Center, Shipshewana, IN
Dec. 13 - Miracle on 34th Street, Wagon Wheel Theatre, Warsaw, IN Coming in 2025! Oct. 5-11, 2025 - New Hampshire & the White Mountains
For full information on any of these tours, or to make a reservation, please call 574-537-4090
CROWD PLEASER Holly Jolly Dollies provide a lot of action as they spell holiday greetings with large building blocks.
TAP DANCING SANTAS Long a staple of Yuletide are the tap dancing Santas who end their routine with a kick line reminiscent of the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
50 Years Ago, Blast to the Past —
‘Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds’
Elton John
Lucy O’Donnell was 4 years old when she attended the upscale Heath House School in Weybridge, Surrey, England.
One of her best friends there was John Lennon’s son, Julian, who arrived at school each day in a Rolls-Royce.
Years later, in a BBC interview, Lucy recalled, “I remember Julian and I both doing pictures on a double-sided easel and throwing paint at each other, much to the horror of the classroom attendant. Julian painted a picture of me.”
The lad’s 5” x 7” paper artwork showed Lucy floating in an orange haze among stars that he called “diamonds.”
That afternoon, the boy took his creation home and proudly showed it to his dad.
John loved the image. It reminded him of a scene from Lewis Carroll’s classic “Through The Looking Glass,” in which Alice floats in a boat beneath a sunny sky. Lennon immediately summoned Beatles partner Paul McCartney to work up a song inspired by Julian’s picture.
Four days later, the two had “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” ready to be added to what would become the quartet’s LP masterpiece, “Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.” (The name supposedly derived from the Dr. Pepper drink, unavailable in the UK until 1982 and enjoyed by the Beatles whenever they toured America.)
Recording at London’s Abbey Road studios, the Fab Four spent 700 drug-fueled hours recording psychedelic-inspired music that would, in essence, sweep away traditional rock ‘n’ roll and usher in sophisticated “rock art.” Much of the creation of “Sergeant Pepper” was Paul’s idea, including the wearing of marching-band uniforms and displaying the songs’ lyrics on the back of the 1967 album.
Although drugs had fueled the “Lucy” recording, the
tune itself, according to Lennon, had nothing to do with lysergic acid diethylamide — LSD. “Until somebody pointed it out, I never even thought of it,” he said later. “I mean, who would ever bother to look at the initials of a title?”
As 1974 drew to a close, Elton John’s version of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” gave him his third Number One American single when his MCA Records disc topped the Hot 100 chart for two weeks.
His friend (and the song’s co-creator) John Lennon had provided some guitar work and backup vocals along the way, although Lennon forgot some of the chords during the recording session.
Okay, so “Lucy” supposedly wasn’t about drugs, but no one can deny that many of the lyrics are “trippy”:
“Picture yourself in a boat on a river
“With tangerine trees and marmalade skies
“Somebody calls you, you
answer quite slowly
“A girl with kaleidoscope eyes.”
Lucy O’Donnell (later Lucy Vodden) appreciated the Beatles’ music but did once admit, “As a teenager, I made the mistake of telling a couple of friends at school I was the Lucy in the song. They said, ‘No, it’s not about you. My parents said it’s about drugs.’ And I didn’t know what LSD was at the time, so I just kept it quiet, to myself.”
