Senior Life - St. Joseph Edition - December 2024 by The Papers Inc.

Key Positions

Hershberger is lifelong musician

By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer

“I have loved music and singing since I was a young child and I began studying the piano at age eight,” Maretta Hershberger mentioned. Hershberger has been a pillar of the St. Joseph County community since 1996 when she took a position as director of music at Christ the King Lutheran Church in South Bend.

“I have an undergraduate degree in music education and although I have always most loved doing church music as a sideline to whatever put food on the table for many years,” Hershberger explained. “It wasn’t until mid-life that I was able to obtain a degree in music and worship from a seminary.”

Several years ago, Hershberger was involved in a senior choral group. When she tried to find something similar in her new area, she realized — there was no such group.

“With many years of experience working with volunteer adult singers, I knew this was something I would like to pursue,” Hershberger decided. “However, I knew that such a group needed to be anchored somewhere, but I had no idea

to begin.”

Hershberger happened to mention her senior choral group idea to a colleague and they suggested she look into Forever Learning Institute, “a venue for continued intellectual challenges, spiritual reflection and social stimulation.”

“I believe a major thing that sets Forever Learning Institute apart is that when one volunteers, one is pursuing one’s own interest,” Hershberger explained. “Nobody teaches at Forever Learning Institute in a subject that does not interest them.”

Forever Learning Institute welcomes seniors 50 years of age and better to deepen and share their knowledge in a formal classroom setting. Forever Learning Institute helped Hershberger jump start the senior choral group, Silvertones.

“Silvertones began quite small, but grew fairly quickly, so that we now have over 40 members!” Hershberger exclaimed. “We are not an auditioned group, but we do have quite a number of very good, experienced singers who serve as the leaders for everyone else.”

Hershberger uses her music expertise gained through years

of acting as director of music to teach Silvertone members proper techniques, styles and notes.

“I spend quite a bit of time looking for music, putting together programs, creating printed material and sometimes arranging music,” Hershberger mentioned.

Although the hours can be long, Hershberger knows when she walks into her classroom to prepare for rehearsal she is meeting friends. Hershberger and members of Silvertones unanimously agree that one of the best parts of being in the group is the sense of camaraderie that comes with it.

“I know they will work hard and give their best effort to the songs we prepare to sing. While we enjoy each other’s company and there is laughter and jesting, it does not detract from the work in front of us,” Hershberger explained. “Wednesday morning rehearsals are easily my favorite part of the week.”

Silvertones share their musical talents at various retirement centers through the county and occasionally for other groups in the area. Each

semester, the senior choir arranges a free, full-length public concert. The upcoming Christmas concert will be held 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8 at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 17195 Cleveland Road, South Bend.

“I have been privileged to be

here during a time of tremendous growth in the school and it has been so exciting to watch and to be a part of it,” Hershberger said. “I am proud to direct a group of singers who are great ambassadors for Forever Learning Institute.”

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 reper-

toire 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.

SILVERTONES Maretta Hershberger is the director of Forever Learning Institute’s senior choir, Silvertones. She has loved music since she was a little girl and creating Silvertones has only deepened and strengthened her love for it. Photo provided by Forever Learning Institute.

Educators invited to The History Museum’s ‘Gallery Talks for Teachers’

Educators are invited to “Gallery Talks for Teachers,” presented by The History Museum and the Studebaker National Museum. They can learn about the museums’ educational offerings.

From 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, they can learn about Victorian Christmas traditions and take a brief tour of Copshaholm. Curriculum materials related to Copshaholm are provided.

Each “Gallery Talks for Educators” provides a certificate of completion for two PGP points. The event is free; complimentary wine will be offered.

To register, contact Stephanie McCune-Bell, director of education, at smccunebell@historymuseumSB.org or (574) 235-9664, ext. 6241.

Copshaholm was built by industrialist, J.D. Oliver. He and wife, Anna, and their four children moved into the 38-room home on New Year’s Day 1897.

St. Patrick’s Park hosts

private tubing parties

People may begin booking Private Tubing Parties on Dec. 2, for St. Patrick’s County Park. Groups are invited to enjoy the beauty and fun of winter at St. Patrick’s County Park by booking a two-hour private tubing party.

Reservations for the season are being accepted for early January through early March.

Private tubing parties are available from 5:30-7:30 p.m. or 8:30-10:30 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. The fee for a private tubing party is $190 for up to 80 people.

Each private tubing party includes exclusive use of the tubing hill, staff to assist, campfire, and access to an indoor warming room.

To schedule a private tubing party, call (574) 654-3155.

For additional information, visit sjcparks.org or call (574) 654-3155. St. Patrick’s County Park is located on Laurel Road, north of Auten Road in South Bend.

The historic house is part of The History Museum campus and is open for guided tours daily.

For information, call (574) 235-9664, ext. 6256 or visit historymuseumSB.org.

GALLERY TALKS — Educators are invited to “Gallery Talks for Teachers,” presented by The History Museum and the Studebaker National Museum. They can learn about the museums’ educational offerings Thursday, Dec. 5, and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions and take a brief tour of Copshaholm. Photo provided by The History Museum.

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.

Hudson Strachan finds passion in art

By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer

“Her art was simply fantastic work, but, of course, at the time we did not even realize it,” Roberta Hudson Strachan, of the South Bend area, reminisced. Hudson Strachan’s passion for art was kindled by her cousin, Norma Morgan. Morgan was an artist in New York for nearly six decades. She would paint fantastic works that would

leave an everlasting impression on Hudson Strachan.

“I spent a lot of time with her and she had her studio right there in her apartment in Manhattan,” Hudson Strachan remembered. “We grew up watching her paint. That’s all there was to it.”

Raised between Connecticut and New York, Hudson Strachan’s passion for art was ignited. Now, at 80, Hudson Strachan’s love for art is just as

CORPORATE OFFICE

strong as it was when she was a little girl.

She attended Indiana University South Bend from 2009 to 2015 to obtain a second undergraduate degree as an art major. While there, she had her artwork published twice in Inspire magazine: in 2014, her silk screening piece was highlighted and again in 2015, one of her copper edged art pieces were honored.

Hudson Strachan’s preferred medium is printmaking. One of her instructors, Alan Larkin, helped her hone her skill. With Larkin’s expertise and guidance, Hudson Strachan became the artist she always knew she was.

Hudson Strachan entered one of her pieces in the 46th Elkhart Juried Regional Exhibitions, sponsored by Elkhart County CVB and Elkhart County Well Crafted. The Elkhart Juried Regional Art Exhibition is an all-media art competition hosted by the Midwest Museum of American Art, in downtown Elkhart. Artists from all over several counties submit their work to be judged and rewarded by expert judges. This year’s judges were Art Director Condessa Croninger and Professor of Drawing and Printmaking Bill Hosterman.

Hudson Strachan began working on her piece in January and finished just days before the exhibition’s deadline in September.

and

matched the color thread to the bottom button of each stack of buttons. She chose to border her piece with gold, industrial-style buttons, which created a striking contract between the red backing and bright buttons.

“I love adding a border to my pieces,” Hudson Strachan explained. “My mind just needs to have a border. It makes the piece feel finished and polished.”

The Papers Incorporated, 206 S. Main St., P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 STAFF

“Sometimes the hardest part about art is just getting started, but once I got started, I was on a roll,” Hudson Strachan admitted. “I know I had to keep going and keep going.”

Her piece pops with bright buttons, colors ranging from pink to blue to yellow to green. These colors pop out from the rich, red fiber backing upon of which they were hand stitched. Carefully, Hudson Strachan

Although Hudson Strachan did not place in the art exhibition, she was grateful nonetheless for the opportunity and the privilege of being selected to be showcased.

“I just want people to be able to see my art,” Hudson Strachan said. “I was jumping up and down when I found out my piece was accepted.”

Hudson Strachan continues to work on her piece, adding finishing touches she did not have time to do before the exhibition.

“Nobody knows it is not finished but as an artist, you do. You see what you want your art to be,” Hudson Strachan explained. “I have a lot more sequins to add.”

Hudson Strachan worked over 25 years as a registered nurse. Now retired, Hudson Strachan is filling her time with art and education as she is heading back to Indiana University South Bend to finish her art education undergraduate degree. She plans to teach art to high school students.

“It’s been wonderful to see the art programs kind of blossom into something bigger,” Hudson Strachan noted. “I am so grateful to be an artist.”

Ron Baumgartner, Publisher rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

Annette Weaver, Business Manager aweaver@the-papers.com

Kristin DeVittorio, Director Of Marketing kdevittorio@the-papers.com

Deb Patterson, Editor-In-Chief dpatterson@the-papers.com

Phoebe Muthart, Editor pmuthart@the-papers.com

Publication Manager/Account Executive Marla Schroeder mschroeder@the-papers.com • 574-350-4488

Jerry Long, Circulation Manager jlong@the-papers.com

Elkhart/Kosciusko Edition

Joseph Edition

EDITORIAL DEADLINES

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Mailed subscriptions are available, prepaid with order at $37 for one year; and $64 for two years. (Select one edition.) Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt. To order a subscription, call 574-658-4111.

ADVERTISING

For advertising deadlines call your sales representative. The existence of advertising in Senior Life is not meant as an endorsement of any product, services or individuals by anyone except the advertisers. Signed letters or columns are the opinion of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publishers. To advertise contact Marla Schroeder at 574-350-4488 or mschroeder@the-papers.com.

PRODUCTION

Senior Life is digitally composed on Macintosh Computers using Digital Technology’s Newspaper Publishing Suite software and Photoshop software. Submit ads as .tif, .eps or .pdf files. ASCII (generic text) may be submitted via email or on CD/DVD. Check our website at www.the-papers.com for

— Roberta Hudson Strachan points to

to the bottom button to create a cohesive art piece. She began working

this piece

January

finished in September. Photo by Marissa Sweatland.

Elves for Elders create Christmas miracles

By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer

The Elves for Elders program has been spreading holiday cheer and Christmas miracles to St. Joseph county seniors for nearly two decades. Elves for Elders is a program created and implemented by REAL Services that gifts seniors and disabled participants that take part in other REAL Services programs with a $50 gift card.

Sandra Chambers acts as head elf and volunteer services manager overseeing the program. She has been in this position for three years and her passion for the program grows her heart three sizes every year.

“The Elves for Elder program exemplifies the spirit of giving, aiming to spread holiday cheer among 1,000 seniors in northern Indiana,” Chambers explained. “This

initiative seeks to ensure that every senior feels remembered and cherished during the festive season.”

In the past, Elves for Elders have collected physical presents to gift seniors. It was only recently, with a little holiday magic by the head elf herself, that the program shifted to collecting and gifting the prepaid gift cards to promote fairness and flexibility.

“Gift cards empower seniors to choose how they’d like to spend their holiday gift,” Chambers said. “Whether it be on necessities or a special indulgence.”

However, individuals in the Adult Guardianship program, a program through REAL Services that provides support and advocacy to those who are unable to care for themselves and who have no one to make decisions on their behalf, will receive a personalized gift from a

donor elf.

“The heartfelt generosity of individuals and businesses is the backbone of Elves for Elders,” Chambers mentioned. “The program appreciates and runs on the support of all donors and volunteers to bring joy and warmth to our community seniors.”

Elves for Elders are still accepting donations in form of Visa or MasterCard gift cards or financial donations made through its online portal, realservices.formstack. com/forms/real_donation_ onetime_elves_for_elders. Gifts of any dollar amount are welcome. Elves will pair donations together so each participant receives a $50 value. Every dollar donated to the program is gifted back to community seniors.

“The true magic of this program is seen in the twinkle in the eyes and the heartfelt appreciation ex-

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.

pressed by the elders as they receive their gifts,” Chambers reminisced. “Feeling the warmth and kindness that comes from being remembered and cherished.”

Elves for Elders are always welcoming elves from the North Pole and from local communities. Elves help package, mail and deliver the gifts to the community.

“Elves donate their time, resources and compassion to ensure that our seniors receive thoughtful gifts during the holiday season,” Chambers explained. “Many of our elves have been dedicated to the program since its inception, showcasing their unwavering commitment to making a difference.”

Those interested in spreading holiday cheer and creating Christmas miracles

for those that need it most, consider becoming a volunteer elf. For more information, call (574) 284-7138 or email volunteer@realservices.org.

“This program not only brightens the lives of seniors but also fosters a sense of community and human connection that transcends generations,” Chambers said.

REAL Services provides a roster of other helpful programs that help keep seniors independent, including Meals on Wheels, aging and disability resource center, Alzheimer’s and dementia services, energy assistance and weatherization and transportation. For more information about any of the programs or services REAL Services offer, call (574) 2338205.

I want to thank everyone for your unwavering support during my campaign. I’m so humbled and honored to have been elected as your next St. Joseph County Treasurer and it wouldn’t have happened without your help.

I am extremely grateful for your belief in me and will strive to work for the citizens of our community every day.

Paid for by Mary Beth Wisniewski for County Treasurer.

Steve Bruce grateful to coach at IU South Bend

By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer

A new women’s basketball season is underway at Indiana University South Bend, but a familiar face is still leading the program. Coach Steve Bruce is entering year 19 coaching the Titans. For Bruce, coaching the Titans is all he can ask for.

“I couldn’t do anything else,” Bruce said. “I can’t fix cars. I don’t know anything about finances. None of that stuff, but coaching basketball is something I really enjoy doing and we’ve got a nice family environment that makes it all the more enjoyable.”

The women’s program is currently experiencing a record high coming off a 31-2 season. IU South Bend won its first ever game in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Tournament back on March 15, when it beat Grand View University 72-53.

IU South Bend does not have expectations that a division I program has and for Bruce that is a selling point.

“We don’t have the pressure that they do at a Notre Dame. We’re kind of quested with helping these kids get their degree. Give them a great experience in basketball. That’s been good for me,” Bruce said.

“My father (Dale Bruce) was a coach, the biggest thing for him was really to try and make a positive difference in the lives of the people you cross

paths with. This has always been a perfect place to be able to do that.”

Basketball is his passion today, but that has not always been the case for Bruce. Bruce played college football at Ohio Wesleyan University and wanted to coach football. He earned a spot on the coaching staff at Morehead State University in Kentucky. Another coach on the staff, Dan Haley, got Bruce connected with a different job at a high school in Kentucky.

“Coach Haley went to Bowling Green and kind of dragged me along with him. I started out just helping out with football. They needed a ninth grade boys coach, they didn’t have anybody around. I played basketball in high school so by default they asked if I would help. Kind of unintentionally, I stepped from football to basketball. I enjoyed football less as time went on and I enjoyed basketball more.”

While he was coaching in Bowling Green, Bruce was also running a camp for high school athletes to receive more exposure from college coaches.

Keith Freeman was head coach at Valparaiso University at the time and came across Bruce at the camp, and later asked him to join his staff as an assistant. By 2006, Bruce was ready to be a head coach of his after seven seasons at Valpo.

“I just started searching around for any head coaching

ANTIQUES

position at the college level.

IU South Bend was open,” Bruce said. “I didn’t know anything about it. I put the application in because it was an hour away. I’ve enjoyed my time here. I love the university standing. The people here on campus have been great.”

He credits three seniors who just graduated this past year, Maddie Gard, Katie Gard and Emma Fisher, for helping the program to new heights.

“We’ve had great girls in here. I’m attached to all of them,” Bruce said. “Each of these last two seasons we’ve won both our conference tournament and our regular season championship.”

PROGRAM BUILDER

—

Steve Bruce had a long journey of coaching stops, but has now been at IU South Bend for nearly 20 years. Photo provided by Michael Caterina for IU South Bend athletics.

By DICK WOLFSIE

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 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 usually 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 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. 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 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

The History Museum presents lecture on Yuletide traditions

At The History Museum’s “Insights in History,” taking place at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 4, curator of Copshaholm Skylar Whited describes Christmas traditions of yesteryear. Admission is $3. Reservations are required by Dec. 2. “Insights in History” is

The seasons change

By JIM CARPENTER Guest Writer

ometimes 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

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

But now the checks come in, even as the duties are lessened.

The abundance of free hours, can be a curse or a bless ing.

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

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

help 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.

Advertising with us is a Breeze

Where are Senior Life Newspapers distributed?

A. Each Senior Life Newspaper is distributed to over 300 locations each month and is free for public pickup and supported by advertisers. Locations for distribution are chosen with the 50+ aged person in mind and include grocery stores, libraries, senior centers, restaurants, senior communities, banks, gas stations, apartment complexes, doctor offices, drug stores, farmer’s markets, resale locations, churches, convenient stores, and retail stores.

There are four distinct issues of Senior Life Newspaper including:

• Allen — including Allen, Adams, DeKalb, Huntington, Noble, Wells and Whitley counties

• Elko — including Elkhart, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble and Wabash counties in IN and St. Joseph county in MI

• Northwest — including Lake, Porter counties in IN and Cook county in IL

• St. Joseph — including LaPorte, Marshall and St. Joseph counties in IN and Berrien and Cass counties in MI

Call today for more information on how we can help your business reach the Senior Life loyal audience.

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS The curator of Copshaholm, Skylar Whited, will describe Christmas traditions of yesteryear at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 4. Photo provided by The History Museum.

History Museum has exhibit on dollhouses

A fascinating look at miniatures is explored in The History Museum’s exhibit, “Lifting the Roof: The World of Dollhouses,” on view until Aug. 10, 2025.

The exhibit is presented with support from Notre Dame Federal Credit Union, Melanie Sanchez-Jones and Steve Jones, Hayes Family Foundation, Aimee and Patrick Matthews, Mary Ann Matthews-Derda and Colleen Matthews Katranis.

“Lifting the Roof: The World of Dollhouse” showcases over 20 dollhouses. Many of the structures on view are from The History Museum’s collection, given by individuals across the St. Joseph River Valley. Some were formerly used as teaching tools at the Hannah Lindahl Children’s Museum of Mishawaka prior to their collection being acquired

by The History Museum.

Still others were collected or constructed by a local collector, Mo Miller. Some of the dollhouses showcased in the exhibit are the Guske Dollhouse, built by David Guske and a replica of a 1904 Victorian house; one built for J.M. Studebaker for his daughters; one built by Mishawaka Fire Chief Louis Ludwig to teach fire safety; Barbie’s Dream House; and a handmade “Mouse Mansion.”

Dollhouses have captivated and been part of our culture for years. Decorating their interiors and designing their exteriors is just part of our fascination with these miniature houses.

“Lifting the Roof: The World of Dollhouses” chronicles their history from as far back as the 1700s, when some showed the wealth of European manors.

The miniature homes were copies of their owners’ houses, and the furniture inside was replica furniture made of exotic wood, lavish window coverings, and tiny paintings. They were meant as symbols of a lady’s wealth and social status.

Over the centuries, dollhouses slowly made the transition from status symbols to children’s play things, and the focus turned to fun and imagination. Houses were built by parents to entertain their children, and gradually were picked up by mainstream society.

The History Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. House tours are also available.

Admission is $11, adults; $9.50, seniors; $7, youth 6-17; and free for members, and includes tours of the 38-room Oliver Mansion. For an additional

cost, visitors can also tour the adjoining Studebaker National Museum.

For information, visit historymuseumSB.org or call (574) 235-9664, ext. 6256.

Bring the whole family to the South Bend Symphony Orchestra Annual Family Concert for a heartwarming conclusion to the Thanksgiving weekend.

bring this delightful story to our community.”

Adapted from Welty’s book, “The Shoe Bird,” this is a musical fable written for a children’s choir, narration, and orchestra.

Tickets are also available during the times listed above or two hours before any performance at the box office.

The story follows Arturo, the parrot, when he picks up and repeats a boy’s comment, “Shoes are for the birds,” which results in much chaos.

To view the 2024-25 season schedule, visit southbendsymphony.org.

from Hammond. The poppy was located on page 1 in Senior Life Allen; page 8 in Senior Life Northwest; page 6 in Senior Life Elko and page 5 in Senior

The South Bend Symphony Orchestra, featuring the Notre Dame Children’s Choir, brings the annual Shein Trust Family concert to life — Eudora Welty’s “The Shoe Bird” — a fun and inspiring story for all ages. It will be at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 1.

“This enchanting tale, brought to life with the musical talents of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra and the Notre Dame Children’s Choir, offers a unique opportunity for families to experience a magical blend of literature and music,” said Alastair Willis, music director of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra. “We are thrilled to

While describing the many birds of the story, the music introduces the audience to the orchestra’s instruments by featuring each instrument of the woodwind section.

Student and children tickets are $13 and adult tickets are $25. Visit dpactickets.nd.edu or DeBartolo Performing Arts Center’s Box Office by calling (574) 631-2800 from noon to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday.

County Park to host winter solstice hike

Join St. Patrick’s County Park for a hike on the longest night of the year. The hike will be from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21. Bundle up and come out to enjoy the brisk air and night sky as you follow a glowing trail for a self-led hike.

Afterward, enjoy a sugar cookie and hot chocolate as you make a solstice craft in the Brown Barn. The fee for this program is $5 per person. Registration and payment are required by Dec. 18.

To reserve your spot for this program, call (574) 654-3155.

For additional information, visit sjcparks.org. St. Patrick’s County Park is located on Laurel Road, north of Auten Road in South Bend.

UPDATES & HAPPENINGS IN THE AREA

Editor’s note: Send listings of events, for nonprofit organizations only, to Senior Life, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542, or email Editor Phoebe Muthart by the 15th of every month at pmuthart@the-papers.com. With the listing, include the contact person, area code and phone number

—o—

Internationally-renowned actor and Shakespeare scholar, Lisa Wolpe, has arguably played more of the Bard’s male roles than any woman in history. From gender explorations to inter-generational trauma to the unforgettable story of her life, she triumphantly illustrates Shakespeare’s insight into the human condition is as relevant as ever. This lyrical, fearless, and deeply personal one-person show is a quest for gender equality and women’s rights.

Co-sponsored with the gender studies program and Notre Dame Film, Television and Theatre, it will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, Friday, Dec. 6, and Saturday, Dec. 7, at Philbin Studio Theatre, DeBartolo Performing Arts Center.

—o—

St. Patrick’s County Park will be hosting an opportunity for children to have their pic-

ture taken with Santa Claus from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Cost for the program is $7 per child. Mrs. Claus will have a story to share, and children will be able to decorate a cookie and write a letter to Santa. Registration and payment is required by Dec. 4. St. Patrick’s County Park is located at 50651 Laurel Road, South Bend. For more information, call (574) 277-4828.

—o—

An evening hike will be held from 6:30-8 p.m. Dec. 12; hikes are self-led with a course suggested by staff. Cost is $5 per person; registration is required by the Tuesday prior to the hike by calling (574) 654-3155. The night hike will be at Bendix Woods County Park, 56960 Timothy Road, New Carlisle.

o—

Yeti, Set, Go! to St. Patrick’s County Park for its second annual Yeti Night from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13. Cost for the program is $5 per person. Walk the night trails in search of glowing yetis. Then enjoy hot cocoa and s’mores by the campfire. There will be indoor activities and a winter-themed photo booth. Registration and payment is required by Dec. 11. St. Patrick’s County Park is located at 50651 Laurel Road,

South Bend. For more information, call (574) 654-3155.

—o—

Celebrate the wonder of sugar plum fairies and tin soldiers at a magical holiday tea Saturday, Dec. 14. Guests are seated at tables of eight aglow with yuletide decorations. This one-of-a-kind experience offers a menu of savories, sweets, and classic teas, catered by the Oliver Inn Bed and Breakfast.

The tea also includes a private tour of the first floor of the Oliver Mansion, which is decorated for the holidays.

Tickets are $30, adults; $25, members; $15, youth 6-17; and $5 for children 5 and under. Reservations are required by Monday, Dec. 9, and can be made online at historymuseumSB.org.

For information, call (574) 235-9664 or visit historymuseumSB.org.

—o—

RiverBend Cancer Services, 3516 E. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend, offers the following events each month: 10 a.m. Mondays, seated strength; 5:30 p.m. Mondays, gentle yoga; 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, chair yoga; 1 p.m. Tuesdays, Garden Club; 10 a.m. Wednesdays, Knitting Krew; 9 a.m. Fridays, Walking Club; 10 a.m. Thursdays, yarn work; 3 p.m. Thursdays, Zumba.

Drowsy driving can dash dreams

By CECIL SCAGLIONE

Mature Life Features

Driving to visit the grandkids, old school crowd or bucket list sites has climbed to the top of many travel-planning lists in the wake of the global COVID-19 shutdown.

Putting together a long drive includes checking maps, reviewing what type of weather to expect, having your vehicle inspected and repaired or deciding what type of vehicle to rent for the trip, and deciding

where and what you might like to see along the way there and the way back.

It’s also the time you should plan how long you can drive each day without getting sleepy behind the wheel rather than focusing on how fast you can get there and back.

Traffic studies indicate drowsy drivers are responsible for more than 325,000 traffic accidents a year. Some of them are fatal.

A major problem is many drivers don’t realize they’ve

fallen asleep.

The simplest way to avoid this hazard is to stop frequently and switch drivers. When you stop, get out and stretch your limbs.

Back in the car, keep talking to your passengers. If they fall asleep, turn on the radio or play a tape.

Also open your driver’s side window. The breeze and noise will help keep you awake.

And if you feel a bit sleepy, stop and take a few strolls around the car.

Major Mary Poff heeds the call of God

By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer

“When I got my calling to enter the ministry, I told God he had the wrong person,” stated Major Mary Poff of the Kroc Salvation Army, South Bend. “I was shy and introverted. The last thing I wanted to do was speak in front of groups of people. Through the years, I’ve grown to love pastoring people and even preaching.”

Poff grew up in a single-parent household.

“Mother sang in the Baptist church choir while her friends sitting in the pews kept an eye on me,” she said.

However, when Poff got to middle school, her mother stopped attending church for a while.

“That’s when I was introduced to Girl Guards, a character-building organization of the Salvation Army, much like Girl Scouts. We learned practical, everyday things like doing laundry, the correct way to clean and how to change the oil in the car.”

The director of Girls Guards took a personal interest in Poff.

“She mentored me through my high school years,” she said.

Poff dedicated her life to

Jesus Christ when she was 13.

“It was at a weekend youth retreat. Even though I was not yet sure exactly what it meant, I went forward. As I invited Jesus into my heart, I had the feeling I’d be called to serve him in a special way,” Poff said.

It wasn’t until her mission trip to Mexico that she understood exactly what that special calling was.

“I lived and worked at a children’s home in Mexico. That gave me time to pray and read Scripture. The Lord spoke to my heart and told me he wanted me in full-time ministry in the Salvation Army.”

Poff ran away from that calling.

“I enrolled at St. Louis University, planning to earn a degree in social work,” Poff said.

But God had other ideas.

In the meantime, Poff’s home church got a new minister.

“I decided early that I didn’t like the minister’s son at all. He told me truth I didn’t want to hear,” she said.

Poff was sitting in the second row on a Sunday evening.

“The Lord continued to tug at my heart. I went to the church altar and prayed, rededicating my life to Jesus Christ. I

still didn’t believe I could be a minister but promised to follow where the Lord was leading me,” she said.

Following God required her to drop out of college and she got engaged to Jason Poff, the minister’s son.

“We began our schooling at the College for Officer’s Training in Chicago at the same time. We did not get married until our 2 ½ years of college and seminary were completed,” she said.

The couple were married June 27, 1998, at the Salvation Army in St. Louis, Mo.

“I had worked through many struggles I’d had since childhood in our couple years’ training period. Now, I was ready to be a wife, mother and minister,” she said.

Their first pastorate was a busy one.

“We were located in Chillicothe, Mo. At that time, Jason did the bulk of the preaching. We ran the Christmas program and thrift store. We also had an active youth group,” she recalled.

They are newcomers at the Kroc Center.

“We’ve been here a little more than a year. In the 26 years we’ve been ministers, I’ve grown to love preaching. So, we

share the pulpit now,” she said.

The Poff’s have six kids, two of which are adopted.

“We love hanging out with our four grandchildren,” she said.

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.

SERVING THE LORD TOGETHER Major Mary Poff, right, ran away from the call of God at first. Her husband, Jason, also an officer in the Salvation Army, urged her to go where the Lord was leading her. Now both serve together at the Kroc Center, South Bend, where she has developed a love of preaching. Photo provided by Mary Poff.

Bobby Riggs said whaaaaat?

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.

By RANDAL C. HILL

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 latein-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-of-shape 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

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.

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.

St Joseph County Mishawaka

100 Center (574) 259-1611

Battell Center

904 N Main St (574) 256-2325

North Liberty

300 S. Main St. (574) 381-8980

Osceola

United Methodist Church

421 Beech Rd (574) 674-6503

South Bend Sanctuary at Trinity Towers 316 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. St (574) 234 -7278

Fairington Apartments 1220 Fairington Circle (574) 291 -5597

Karl King Riverbend Tower 515 E Monroe (574) 232 -4934

South Bend

Charles Black Center 3419 W Washington (574) 229-5911

Heritage Place at LaSalle Square 3224 Ardmore Trail (574) 286-0916

1 Roof Southeast Neighborhood Center 405 E. Dubail Ave. (574)381-8981

Walkerton 302 Kentucky Street, Walkerton 574-334-1047

December MPHPL programs for adults

Below is the MPHPL December calendar of events for adults. Registration can be secured at (574) 259-5277; check mphpl.org for the most up-to-date information regarding events or to register. Registration is required for most programs.

Bittersweet Branch Events

“Make with Us: Needle Felted Ornaments,” 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14. Enjoy a morning of crafting and conversation. Participants will be given all the supplies needed to create a needle felted ornament, which could be a great gift or decor for a tree.

Bingo, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 18. Join MPHPL for an hour of bingo and beverages. Winners will receive small prizes and raffle tickets for a chance to win a door prize.

Harris Branch Events

“Chapter Chats Book Club,” 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. “Under the Wide and Starry Sky” by Nancy Horan can be picked up in advance at the front desk.

“Winter Wonderfest,” 4:30-7

p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17. Families are invited to take a holiday photo with real reindeer, enjoy hot cocoa and have some festive fun. Registration is required for a 45-minute session at 4:30-5:15 p.m., 5:15-6 p.m. or 6-6:45 p.m. Preference is given to MPHPL card holders. All others will be placed on a waiting list.

Mishawaka Library Events

Local Author Fair, 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3. The third annual MPHPL Local Author Fair for adults will showcase a variety of local authors and their work. Meet and greet authors. Light snacks will be provided.

“Saturday Morning Book Club,” 10:15-11:15 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Discuss this month’s book selection, “Binti” by Nnedi Okorafor. Books can be picked up in advance at the front desk of the Mishawaka library.

“Movie Trivia Night,” 6:308:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13. Dive into films from the 1930s to today, with questions about actors, settings, soundtracks

and more. The winning team will receive a prize. During this event, donations of non-perishable food items for the Mishawaka Food Pantry will be collected. Any participant who donates an item will be entered for a chance to win a small prize. Teams must have two to six members. Registration limited to 15 teams.

“Cooking Classics: Hot Chocolate Cupcakes,” 10:30-11:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 16. Try your hand at easy culinary creations and experiment with different flavors to make irresistibly delicious goodies. Registration limited to MPHPL cardholders.

“Delectable Lit,” 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19. In this unique book and food club, you get the chance to combine the two. This month take part in a cozy mysteries genre study where you will discuss and learn about different book genres. Participants will make a delectable dish based on this month’s genre. Registration limited to MPHPL cardholders.

Virtual Library Events

“Flavors of the Season Virtual Tasting,” 6-6:45 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9. Explore popular flavors of the winter season at a virtual tasting. Participants will receive goodies to try and will learn the history of those classic flavors. Details on when and where to pick up program supplies will be sent via email to registrants. Limit one kit per household. In the Community

“Winterfest,” 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. The Mishawaka Parks and Recreation Department will host the annual Winterfest event. Come by yourself or bring the family. MPHPL will have a table at the event and will pass out free holiday crafts along with program guides.

Winter Reading Challenge

The MPHPL Winter Reading Challenge is right around the corner. Starting Monday, Dec. 16, reading challenge cards can be picked up at any MPHPL location or can be downloaded

online by visiting mphpl.org/ reading-challenge. This year’s challenge will take place from Thursday, Jan. 2 through Feb. 28. All ages welcome; adult participants must have a free MPHPL card to participate.

Local Author Fair| For Adults

The third annual Local Author Fair will take place at the downtown Mishawaka Library from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3. The event allows writers and readers of adult fiction and nonfiction to connect. The public will be able to meet and greet local authors. Authors will be available for book sales and signings. The fair is open to adults and is free for both readers and writers.

Local authors are encouraged to email communityengagement@mphpl.org to inquire about participating in the author fair.

To view a growing list of authors who are signed up for this event, visit mphpl.org/ mphpl-2024-local-author-fair.

Mildly depressed older women are more likely to live longer

By JAMES GAFFNEY Mature Life Feature

Apparently a bout of the blues can be good for you.

Contrary to the prevailing view that depression increases one’s risk of dying, there is evidence that mild depression can

actually enable older women to live longer lives. According to the study, women 65 years or older with mild depression are only 60% as likely to die as senior women who are not depressed and women who experience more depressive symptoms.

Mild depression among older women could reflect a healthy coping mechanism associated with longevity and not a risk factor for early mortality, as many earlier studies have found for more severe depression, according to an article in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.

Researchers examined data on depression and mortality over a decade on more than 1,000 people 65 years and older who were interviewed at threeyear intervals to assess their health status.

No effects on mortality were found among men, but the women exhibited what appeared to be a striking protective effect from this form of depression.

The study looked at adults living in community settings, not at clinical populations being treated for debilitating episodes of depression.

But the women with mild depression still appeared to live longer even when factors associated with lowering the risk of mortality, such as age, marital status, and socioeconomic class, that could have skewed the results were considered.

Apparently, previous studies indicated depression may be adaptive by increasing an organism’s ability to cope.

The report indicated that it is possible sub-threshold depression, a less severe depressed mood, in elderly women is not damaging but is a biological or psychological response to protect women from future risk.

Annual bone density scans support osteoporosis patients

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Several scientific studies and numerous reports have questioned the necessity and effectiveness of some diag-

nostic imaging techniques, but osteoporosis experts say bone density scans are a vital tool for finding and monitoring that disease. Bone mineral density measurement is the gold stan-

dard for diagnosis of osteoporosis before a fracture occurs, say experts. In addition, it is a sensitive tool to assess the response to drugs used in the treatment of osteoporosis. Increasingly, experts say

the correlation between bone mineral density and bone strength allows doctors to use scans to assess bone quality. But other factors, including age, gender and race, must be factored in to accurately assess patients’ conditions. An annual bone density scan should be considered as part of routine care for osteoporosis patients.

Assisted Living, nursing

And rehAbiLitAtion guide

Aperion Care - Arbors Michigan City

1101 E. Coolspring Avenue, Michigan City, IN 46360 (219) 874-5211 • www.aperioncare.com

Short Term Rehab, Long Term Care, On-Site Therapy 7 Days A Week, Orthopedic Rehab, Post-Stroke Rehab, Nurse Practitioner Oversight, Wound Care, Respiratory Care, IV Therapy, Cardiac Rehab, Newly Remodeled Communities, Memory Care

Hamilton Grove

31869 Chicago Trail, New Carlisle, IN 46552-0836 (574) 654-2200 • www.greencroft.org/hamiltongrove

Independent Living Apartments, HUD Housing and Villas, Assisted Living, Rehabilitation, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies - Onsite and Outpatient Also Available, Long Term Care and Respite Care. Maintenance Free Living, HUD and accepting the Medicaid Waiver.

Morning View Assisted Living

475 North Niles Avenue, South Bend, IN 46617 (574) 246-4123 • www.morningview-alf.com

Compassionate and trained caregivers on staff 24-hours per day. Accepting Medicaid waiver. Secure units.

Assistance with activities of daily living.

Daily life enrichment activities. Nutritional and dietary support.

Primrose Retirement Community of Mishawaka

820 Fulmer Road, Mishawaka, IN 46544 (574) 259-3211 • primroseretirement.com

Our spacious independent and assisted living apartments offer something to retire to not just something to retire from. Residents at Primrose enjoy a healthy and active living environment.

Healthwin

20531 Darden Road, South Bend, IN 46637 (574) 272-0100 • www.healthwin.org

A Specialized Care Facility. Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-Respiratory-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Medicare and/or Medicaid

Holy Cross Village at Notre Dame

54515 933 N., P.O. Box 706, Notre Dame, IN 46556 (574) 287-1838 • www.holycrossvillage.com

Dujarie House, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Respite Care, Rehabilitation Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Residential Apartments

Hubbard Hill Retirement Community

28070 CR 24 ., Elkhart, IN 46517 (574) 295-6260 • www.hubbardhill.org

Rehabilitation, Healthcare, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Maintenance Free Homes, Licensed, Locally Owned, Non-Profit, Faith Based, Physical, Occupational, Speech Therapies, Memory Care Support Group, Pet Friendly, There’s No Place Like Hubbard Hill

Lily Assist Apartments

Live Independent with a Helping Hand Tawnya Thayer RN BSN • Argos, IN (574) 952-2929 • info@lilyassist.org

Truly an Affordable Option! One and Two Bedrooms, Private Front Porch, Private Back Patio, Ground Floor, All Appliances Included (with Washer and Dryer), Central Air. lilyassist.org

Majestic Care of South Bend

52654 N. Ironwood Road, South Bend, IN 46635 (574) 277-8710 • www.Majesticcare.com

Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational- Respiratory-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Medicare and/or Medicaid

Riveridge Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center

1333 Wells Street, Niles, MI 49120 (269) 684-1111 • www.riveridgerehab.com

Riveridge Rehab in Niles, Michigan, offers newly renovated rehab units with 4 private suites. Additionally, we have a locked memory care unit with multi-sensory room.

Signature HealthCARE of Bremen

316 Woodies Lane, Bremen, IN 46506 (574) 546-3494 • SHCofBremen.com liaison2.bremen@signaturehealthcarellc.com

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.

6450 Miami Circle, South Bend, IN 46614 (574) 231-1000 • www.greencroft.org

Independent Living, Assisted Living, Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-OccupationalRespiratory-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Private/ Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Residential Apartments, Medicare and/or Medicaid

Tanglewood Trace Senior Living

530 Tanglewood Lane, Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 277-4310

www.tanglewoodtraceseniorliving.com

Offering Retirement Villas, Independent and Licensed Assisted Living, Therapy Services, Respite Care, Social and Recreational Activities, Pets Welcome, Transportation, Beauty Shop and Spa Services Available.

The Waters of Wakarusa-Assisted Living Facility

Previously Miller’s Senior Living

303 N. Washington Street, Wakarusa IN 46573 (574) 862-1918

admissions@watersofwakarusaALF.com

Independent/Assisted Living. Private studio/1bed/2bed apartments. Home-like family-oriented environment. Family-style dining. Daily activities. Transportation available. 24-hour care-givers. Pet friendly. Out-patient therapy available. Come for tour today.

Southfield Village

Why amass collectibles in the first place?

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

So, you’re well on your way to completing the set of 50 state quarters that you began on a whim, decided to put them together for your grandchildren, and decided to get one for yourself.

What’s going to happen to the collection, whether it’s one or several sets, when you’re done? And will it (or they) sell for the profit you had in your head when you began? If you spend each set, you can buy $200

worth of something. And that’s about all they’ll be worth. You probably would have been better off buying each grandchild a $200 savings bond.

Collectibles just don’t cut it a lot of the time if profit is the motive. It isn’t even good sense to collect $1 bills and paste them in a book to keep around the house. Inflation deflates their value over time.

A recently deceased relative left behind cartons of comic books and baseball cards. The recipient heirs haven’t found it worth their while to cata-

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

REAL SERVICES, INC.

1151 South Michigan Street Phone (574) 233-8205

www.realservices.org

Provides services to empower our community to live with independence, dignity, and strength. Call us to learn more.

ALZHEIMERS/MEMORY CARE

NORTH WOODS VILLAGE

AT EDISON LAKES

1409 E. Day Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 247-1866

www.northwoodsmemorycare.com

SIGNATURE HealthCARE OF BREMEN

316 Woodies Lane

Bremen, IN 46506 (574) 546-3494

SHCofBremen.com

liaison2.bremen@signaturehealthcarellc.com

logue the collection and have it appraised.

During family visits back to northern Canada, resolves are made to pick up collectibles and antiques and rent a vehicle to transport them to California to be sold to provide for a comfortable retirement. After getting over the wishing, a cold calculating look at the costs involved dampened the emotional ardor and gave way to common business sense.

The point is that collectibles are not only in the eye of the beholder, they’re also in the

heart of the collector. They usually offer more thrill in the hunt and satisfaction in the acquisition than profit in the purse.

They give the collector a circle of like-minded colleagues to discuss likes and dislikes, as well as to brag about the latest addition to one’s collection. But you can conduct the same spirited exchanges over your favorite sports teams without having to spend the time and money tracking down another cloisonne piece for your collectible closet.

If you enjoy the hunt and your chest swells with pride when you add to your hoard, then you have the core of a collector. And there are always new “hot” items to boost you up the ladder of collecting society. For example, it seems that almost anything can become a collectable, even old gas station appurtenances. Those roadside facilities that began appearing 100 years or so ago have become popular despite climate activists’ aversions to gasoline-gulping, carbon-spoutContinued on page 17

SAINT JOSEPH PACE

250 East Day Rd., Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 247-8700

saintjosephPACE@trinity-health.org

Helping seniors live safely at home. PACE’s main objective is to keep seniors out of nursing homes.

310 N. Ironwood Dr. South Bend, IN 46615 (574) 232-8487

www.abc-michiana.com

Leaders in Non-Medical Home Care. VA Provider. Indiana Medicaid Waiver Provider. Michigan Medicaid Provider. Private Pay. Long-term Care Insurance. Veterans Care Bridge.

FOOT CARE

FOOT SOLUTIONS

323 Florence Ave., Granger, IN 46530 (574) 272-3668

granger@footsolutions.com

Better Health Through Your Feet! Solutions for Plantar Facitis Morton’s Neuroma, bunions, morton’s neuroma, sore knees, sore ankles and more. Call for your FREE foot analysis.

COMFORT KEEPERS

6910 N. Main St., Ste. 3, Unit 47 Granger, IN 46530 (574) 277-4121, (574) 327-6123

www.southbendin.comfortkeepers.com

Provides In-Home Care Services through our interactive caregiving approach, personal care, companionship and housekeeping, transportation, respite care, dementia care.

HOME INSTEAD

3025 Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 256-1479

www.homeinstead.com/343

From companionship to transportation to loving care, to us it’s personal.

Beware of sweaty sweats

By CECIL SCAGLIONE

Mature Life Features

A sweaty athletic jersey is a favorite hangout for some pretty unathletic, and unfriendly, bacteria and viruses that can grow quickly and

possibly become a source of illness.

Family doctors recommend senior athletes change and shower immediately after a game or workout.

The moist, warm clothes worn after a workout are a

Why amass collectibles

Continued from page 16 ing vehicles. As items, such as the solid glass gasoline pump globes, become more scarce, their prices rise as do the number of reproductions that appear at flea markets and in collector catalogues.

As electronic slot machines become the norm in the ever-expanding gambling industry coast-to-coast, the old one-armed bandits with those old fashioned spinning reels have taken on new value

because some collectors began coveting them.

Jukeboxes have been a favorite among collectors for several decades now, especially since compact disks all but eliminated the old black plastic records.

The best way to find out if what you’re collecting, whether it’s little red wagons or ceramic salt and pepper shakers, can make you any money is to check catalogues, flea markets and Internet sites on that particular item. If you already

HOME CARE SERVICES

VILLAGE CAREGIVING

2515 N. Bendix Dr., Ste. 201 South Bend, IN 46628 (574) 931-0712

villagecaregiving.com

Nations Largest Privately Owned And Operated Home Care Agency. VA Provider. We Accept A Variety Of Payment Options. Call Today!

VISITING ANGELS OF MICHIANA 3840 Edison Lakes Parkway Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 323-6756

jfinnessy@visitingangels.com

Nonmedical services include: Customized Memory Care Program, Housekeeping, Transportation, Bathing, Dressing, Transferring, Companionship, Meals, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care. We are a VA Provider.“We’re Here for You — Always!”

HOME HEALTHCARE AGENCY

NORACARE

1251 N. Eddy Street, Suite 200 South Bend, IN 46617 (574) 222-5992

info@noracare.us

www.noracare.us

Access experienced health professionals to support your home healthcare needs at affordable rates. We accept long-term care insurance.

prime breeding ground for germs, says doctors. Exercise and working out are definitely part of a healthful lifestyle, so continue to exercise. Just change clothes when you’re done.

have a collection built up, you should have some idea of what the items are worth and how prices have risen since you began collecting.

You might even test the waters by taking a couple of articles to a swap meet to try to sell, or offer them on the ‘net, to check how much interest and what prices they will bring.

And you may find some extra 50 state quarters to add to your collection.

HOSPICE CARE

CARING COVE HOSPICE

3120 N. Home St. Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 855-3017

www.caringcovehospice.com/ We’re here to help by providing personalized exceptional hospice care. Serving St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall and Laporte counties.

HEART TO HEART HOSPICE 620 Edison Rd., Suite 122 Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 855-4475

hearttohearthospice.com

Compassionate care from our heart to yours. Volunteers needed.

CHAP Accredited

IN-HOME CARE

SENIOR HELPERS

230 W. Catalpa, Ste. B Mishawaka, IN 46544 (574) 968-1068

https://www.seniorhelpers.com/in/southbend/ South Bend’s Premier Service Provider of Personalized In-Home Senior Care. Our mission is to provide reliable senior care throughout our community. We will visit you or your loved one where you ARE. Call TODAY for more information.

LaPorte

459-2349 www.northshorehealth.org

Consider dementia demands

By CECIL SCAGLIONE

Mature Life Features

A lot of time has been spent talking about how to travel with the grandkids. How to keep them from getting bored and to bathrooms on time and visiting sites that will keep them entertained.

But how about travelling with grandma or grandpa who slips in and out of reality?

Travellers at any level of dementia require special care.

On the road, whether in an airplane or automobile, means that person’s routine has been altered, which can disorient and even panic them. So you may have to make sure you’re always holding their hand and talking them through airport security or a restaurant washroom or motel lobby.

Before launching your trip, make sure you have the stamina to take over their care when their stamina gives out.

Rice & Rice Walks to End Alzheimer’s

Rice & Rice Attorneys joined others in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Oct. 6 to support all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, including 121,300 in Indiana. An additional 11 million, including 216,000 in Indiana, are providing unpaid care — a physically, emotionally and financially challenging role.

Alzheimer’s is among the most expensive diseases in America and will cost our nation an estimated $360 billion this year. The impact on the workforce is staggering. Six in 10 caregivers were employed in the past year, and 57% of employed caregivers had to go in to work late, leave early, or take time off due to caregiving demands.

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is held annually, in more than

By CLIFFORD J. RICE

Elder Law Attorney, Granger 600 communities nationwide, and is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s

Association Memory Walk; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

“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!”

Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.

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.

Walls

Ceilings

Window And Door Trim

Ceilings

Window And Door Trim

Stairways

Together, we can advance Alzheimer’s care, support and research on behalf of the more than 7 million Americans living with this disease.

Window And Door Trim

Stairways

Woodwork Staining

Stairways

Woodwork Staining

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

Great Service – Reasonable Rates

References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org or call (800) 272-3900.

To learn more about how Rice & Rice Attorneys helps families affected by this disease, through careful elder law planning, call (800) 3037423 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation or visit www.riceandrice.com.

WALKING TO END ALZHEIMER’S Rice & Rice Attorneys came together to form a team to participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in early October to support those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. Shown is the turnout at the annual walk. Photo provided by Rice & Rice.

Photo provided by Social Security.

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.

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.

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 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 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 peo-

ple 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.

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.

A Boomer Blast To The Past

By RANDAL C. HILL

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 par-

ents said it’s about drugs.’ And I didn’t know what LSD was at the time, so I just kept it quiet, to myself.”

Fighting the fear of flying

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

It’s bad enough to know that eight out of 10 people in the jetliner cabin has some version of flight phobia, but the added strain of airport searches, luggage pricing and fees for a pillow and blanket has upgraded the number of unruly, impolite, rude and downright ornery passengers on your flight.

Piling on the stress of sitting in the middle seat are oversized seat mates with cute little pets and oversize bags packed underfoot.

Almost every air travel trip recap and recollection is dominated by complaints rather

than contentment.

• “The guy in front of me put his seat all the way back so I couldn’t even move my knees.”

• “When I get an aisle seat, everybody — even the flight attendant — bumps me when they go up and down the aisle.”

• “The blind on the window seat rarely works — it either won’t stay up or stay down.”

• “The cool air blower blows right down my neck.”

Sound familiar.

Yet people keep flying, despite the fact that ticket prices are climbing at jet speed and airlines are shaving flights from their schedules so their planes will be crammed full.

It’s important to point out again that the majority of fellow passengers aboard your plane are emotionally brittle because of their flying phobias, which range from anxiety to claustrophobia to pure panic.

Almost 20% of the adult population cannot fly.

John Madden, legendary coach of the Oakland Raiders, never set foot on an airplane after his panic attack in 1979. He continued his sports commentator career by travelling coast to coast in a motor home.

The fact that the U.S. National Safety Council statistics have proved over and over that flying is much safer than travelling in traffic has not diminished the number of fearful flyers. An average of 21,000 people die on the road in the U.S. in a six-month period. This is about the same total of all commercial air travel fatalities worldwide in 40 years.

While the flights may be safe, it appears flying has become less safe.

The internet is packed as tightly as a jet plane with videos of confrontations in airports and on airliners. Noting a “disturbing increase in incidents where airline passengers have disrupted flights with threatening or violent behaviour,” the Federal Aviation Administration has adopted a zero-tolerance policy for those who “interfere with, physically assault, or threaten to physically assault aircraft crew or anyone else on an aircraft” and increased fines to as high as $37,000 for each incident.

Airlines have reported more than 1,400 unruly passenger cases to the FAA through September of this year and it reports an average of 100 of these case to the Federal Bu-

Studebaker National Museum unveils new exhibit

Nearly 250 years later, the Marquis de Lafayette still looms large in American history as one of the heroes of the Revolutionary era.

A new exhibit about Lafayette is now on display through May 4, 2025, at The Studebaker National Museum.

Born into a wealthy, land-owning French family with a long military tradition, Lafayette firmly believed that the American fight for independence from Great Britain was noble and became one of George Washington’s most trusted generals.

After the war, Lafayette returned to France a hero. Lafayette tirelessly championed revolutionary causes, sparred with Napoleon, joined a plot to overthrew King Louis XVIII, spent five years in jail, and became an international symbol of liberty.

Later in life, Lafayette became an international, anti-slavery advocate and took on many social causes such as religious freedom and equality for women. From a glory-seeking youth to world-weary elder statesman, Lafayette never stopped fighting for what he believed in.

In 1824, the 67-year-old Lafayette was invited by President James Monroe to return to the U.S. for a triumphal

“Farewell Tour” of the country he helped forge. Lafayette was treated as a living legend and hero everywhere he went. Locals decorated his route and erected ceremonial arches. Cannons were fired and church bells rang out in his honor.

Lafayette’s packed itinerary, which included 170 stops in New England alone, took him to all 24 states over 13 months. In all, he traveled more than 6,000 miles conveyed by carriage, stagecoach, horseback, canal barge, and steamboat.

Lafayette discovered an American nation very different from the one he left in 1785. The U.S. had quadrupled in both size and population, and the nation’s political system — though far from perfect— had matured. This tremendous growth and development often came at the expense of native peoples and slaves, a fact which Lafayette — an avowed abolitionist who embraced racial equality— often expressed to his slave-holding American friends over the years, especially Washington.

The carriage on display was one of several horsedrawn vehicles used by Lafayette on his tour and likely the only surviving example. It was commissioned by the U.S. government, who spared no expense in crafting a truly

Seasonal savings

By CECIL SCAGLIONE

Mature Life Features

As the festive season and snow months slips away, it’s time to buy winter clothing, as well as other wintertime gear and equipment, such as skis and snowmobiles.

Wait until summer is over to stock up on t-shirts, shorts

and swimsuits.

Post-season shopping can save you money and still keep your closet comfortably stocked with new clothing.

A simple example of this method of saving is the annual trip to the shopping mall the day after Christmas to stock up on gift wrapping paper for next year.

Travel through time

By CECIL SCAGLIONE

Mature Life Features

As you motor around the country visiting the grandkids, getting to see the sites on your to-do list or heading back for a class reunion, you can also travel back through time to trace your ancestry.

When you get to your home town, you can leaf through local records to trace your forebears back as far as they lived in that location. Having

pored through your lineage online or through family files, you can stop on the way there or the way back home in towns and cities mentioned in your chronicles.

It’s a good way to see America as well as trace your ancestors.

On a grander scale, you can visit the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Foundation to view some 65 million immigrants who were documented at the island from 1820 to 1957.

fine carriage, fit for a Revolutionary War hero and “America’s guest.”

The carriage was purchased by Clement Studebaker in 1887 to display as part of the Studebaker Brothers Manufacturing Company’s collection in its Chicago factory and repository building on Michigan Avenue. On several occasions, Studebaker displayed the carriage at huge, international expositions and world’s fairs in dedicated pavilions, along

with President Abe Lincoln’s carriage and other historical vehicles.

When Studebaker wound down operations in the 1960s, the carriage and over 30 other historical vehicles were gifted to the city of South Bend. These vehicles later formed the original collection of the Studebaker National Museum. Today, Lafayette’s carriage remains the oldest vehicle in the collection.

The Studebaker National

Museum is located at 201 Chapin St., South Bend. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $11 for adults, $9.50 for seniors over 60, and $7 for youth ages 6-18.

For more information, call (574) 235-9714 or (888) 3915600 or visit studebakermuseum.org. For an additional cost, visitors can tour The History Museum, which adjoins the Studebaker National Museum.

LAFAYETTE’S CARRIAGE Marquis de Lafayette still looms large in American history as one of the heroes of the Revolutionary era. A new exhibit about Lafayette is now on display through May 4, 2025, at The Studebaker National Museum. Photo provided by the museum.

What a way to start the holidays

GREAT ESCAPES Text and Photos

By ROD KING

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.”

EXTRAVAGANT

GOWNS — Strong voices and elegant costumes provide color to the program, which is backed by the 65-member Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

CROWD PLEASER Holly Jolly Dollies provide a lot of action as they spell holiday greetings with large building blocks.

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 will change gowns and perform with the ensemble.

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 Continued on page 23

St. Joseph County Parks to host winter wonderland ornament hunt

Elves have hidden ornaments around the St. Joseph County Parks and they want the public to embark on a quest to find them.

Every Friday in December, the elves will unveil clues on the parks’ Facebook page, facebook.com/sjcparks, to help lead people to the secret ornament hideaways. Join the game, locate the ornaments, snap a photo, and submit them for a chance to win park prizes. For additional information, visit sjcparks.org or call (574) 654-3155.

June

May

June

What a way

Continued from page 22

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. Blackclad 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

All

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.

Dentists lengthen your life

By CECIL SCAGLIONE

Mature Life Features

If you’d like to life a long and healthy live, visit your friendly dentist.

While oral health has long been acknowledged as a foundation of overall health, visits to the dentist reportedly drop significantly as one reaches their 80th birthday.

This slices years off your longevity, according to a Journal

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.

on Ageing study that reports seeing a dentist once or twice a year can cut your mortality risk from all causes and assure you of a few more years of healthy living.

While brushing your teeth

twice a day is the acceptable norm to maintain a healthy mouth, you should also floss. According to the same journal report, flossing increases your health benefit by 30%.

Biloxi and New Orleans

March 17th — 23rd

SOLD OUT

JOIN THE WAIT LIST

The Castles of Upstate New York August 24th — 29th

Brown County Girlfriend’s Getaway

Crossroad

SOLD OUT WITH WAITING LIST

April 8th — 10th

$699 pp/dbl.

The Dells, Minnesota and More! May 12th — 15th

SOLD OUT JOIN THE WAIT LIST

Traverse City June 18th — 20th

Visit to Castle Farms, Mission Point

Lighthouse and a boat ride on the tall ship Manitou, a replica of a 19th century cargo schooner. Hands-on sailing experience, walking tour of the Village and tunnels, guided tour of the former Northern Michigan Asylum and its transformation into the village redevelopment and a private tour of the brick steam tunnel.

Trip includes two nights lodging at Comfort Inn, two breakfasts, one lunch, one dinner and admission to all of the above. $859 pp/dbl.

Overnights at Hilton Garden Inn, Erie, PA, Castle View rooms at Captain Thompsons Resort on the St. Lawrence Seaway in Alexandria Bay, NY.

Antique Boat Museum, Two Nations Boat tour, Singer Castle and Boldt Castle, free time in Alexandria Bay for shopping and sightseeing.

Nine meals: 5 breakfasts, one lunch and three dinners.

$1,899 pp/dbl., $2,629 single.

Trains, Candy and Wine!

October 7th — 9th

Trip includes two nights lodging at Hampton Inn in Bardstown, KY, a trip to Schimps Candy, The Bluegrass Railway Ride and Museum, wine tasting and tour at Equus Run Vineyards, Kentucky railroad museum and train ride, tram tour of Mega Caverns, Howard Steamboat Museum.

Two breakfasts, two lunches and one dinner. $899 pp/dbl.

Branson, MO November 3rd — 7th

$1,259 pp/dbl.

All Trips Depart From Plymouth, Knox and South Bend, IN

*Minimum of 6 people for pickup.

Follow us on Facebook at travelbybridgetllc - Group Itineraries Are Always Subject To Change Call for pricing on Triple or Quad rooms.

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.

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Puppeteers with Santa and his reindeer exit after the telling of the famous Clement Moore story.

photos provided by the Indianapolis Symphony.

Cooperstown, N.Y.: ‘A drinking town with a baseball problem’

By FYLLIS HOCKMAN

Mature Life Features

The year is 1954.

For the first time in six years, the New York Yankees are not in contention for the World Series.

I spent the early school year racing home to watch my heroes on our tiny black and white television set. I not only know all the players — Andy Carey on third, Mickey Mantle in center, Hank Bauer in right, Moose Skowron on first, Yogi Berra catching — but also their batting averages and other stats. I was obsessed. I was also a 10-year-old girl.

Years later, when all my friends were watching American Bandstand, I was hanging out at Yankee Stadium.

But as years pass, my sports team loyalty switches from baseball to football — and now a native of Washington, D.C., maybe the Capitals hockey team.

But it was an upcoming trip to Cooperstown, N.Y. — home of the Baseball Hall of Fame — that brought me six decades back to that baseball-crazy little girl — and the fear that I would no longer care.

So here I am. And I do. Hard not to focus on baseball when the whole town is obsessed, as noted on well-worn T-shirts sporting (pun intended) the mantra: “A drinking town with a baseball problem.”

Just walking along Main Street is a not-so-subtle introduc-

tion to the national pastime. A quick bite at the Dugout Bar and Grill; a storefront promoting Safe at Home collectibles; Shoeless Joe’s — a Field of Dreams reference — promises more baseball memorabilia; a Baseball Town Motel offers lodging; and the Heroes of Baseball Wax Museum provides a niche version of the usual famous replicas.

Want a bat with your name inscribed on it — and who wouldn’t? Visit the Bat Store.

Okay, I get it — it’s a baseball town. But does it have to be everywhere? Apparently, yes. Several folks in baseball uniforms stroll the street without drawing any attention. And because it was fall, there were pumpkins displayed along the street — all decorated like huge baseballs. Even the toothpicks in the Hotel Otesega Resort restaurant have tiny baseballs attached to their tip. Baseballs apparently come in many sizes.

A TV set in one of the diners had a football game on. Man, did that seem out of place.

At the Doubleday Café, I snarkily asked if it would be more appropriate to be called the Doubleheader Café, until someone patiently — and no doubt a tad pityingly — explained to me that Abner Doubleday was credited with inventing baseball. I slithered away from the café and was only slightly mollified to later discover that actually, he had not.

Want to literally walk in the steps of Hall of Famers? Plan a stay at the stately Otesaga Resort, a historic Coopers town landmark that houses new inductees, their families and former Famers every induction year. Apparently, pretty much every Hall of Famer has stayed at the resort. And has probably had one of their toothpicks holding a cherry or an olive in a drink.

Which brings us back to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Clearly the rest of the town is just an extension thereof.

Where to begin? An introductory movie starts with a trivia quiz of memorable moments, and then tells you where in the Hall you can get more information or find the famous memorabilia referenced on film. In case you want to see a ball from the first game at which admission was charged — Sept. 10, 1858 — you’ll know where to go.

Lou Gehrig. Cal Ripken. Sandy Koufax. Nolan Ryan. Willie Mays. Despite my many years away, I still knew a surprising number of players. Traversing the many hallways, it was like walking on sacred ground.

You could spend two hours — or two weeks — and still find stuff to see. The first, a photo gallery covering generations of greats, has write-ups of those on exhibit. But it’s the intimate quotes from the players that humanize the entire sport.

When I got to the Yankees’

Saturday, December 14th · 12pm-1pm

Highlights Era, I was channelling a very excited 10-year-old self. I found Mickey and Yogi and felt an immediate kinship. It was as if they knew I was coming back after all these years just to see them.

Of course, there was also Babe Ruth and Hank Aaron and Satchel Page. Even if you’re just a fair weather fan, there will be something that will delight you.

A large display that caught my interest was devoted to the origin of women’s baseball teams — 1943-54 — which inspired the

movie “A League of Their Own.” It warmed my little 10-year-old heart. In my high school days, there was no Title IX, no girls’ baseball team, no opportunity for me to play a game I already loved — and I felt deprived my entire life. I coulda been a female Moose Skowron.

Later, at another local baseball-infused tavern, three TVs were tuned to baseball games. After spending so much time at the Hall of Fame, I didn’t know whether they were historic replays — or current games.

Enjoy a magical experience with your family and meet SANTA! Enjoy delicious pizza after the littles take a picture with jolly old St. Nicholas and share their Christmas wishes. Our photographer will be here taking pictures with Santa and our Christmas tree for your family 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

BASEBALL HALL OF FAME The Baseball Hall of Fame is home to all of baseball’s greatest players, including Mickey Mantle. Photo by Victor Block.