Senior Life - St. Joseph Edition - January 2025 by The Papers Inc.

January 2025

Chaplain Kevin Farmwald Makes A Difference In People’s Lives

See Page 10

Dollhouse exhibit housed within The History Museum

By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer

South Bend’s The History Museum, 808 W. Washington St., houses “Lifting the Roof: The World of Dollhouses,” which opened to the public in June.

The dollhouse exhibit showcases over 20 dollhouses collected by individuals across the county, including local collector, Mo Miller. Miller has not only collected but also constructed several of the displayed dollhouses.

“I enjoy crafting together a house that looks like people could really live in,” Miller explained. “I enjoy making houses and room boxes with different themes like an AirBnB ready for snow skiers to enjoy, a southwest house, a house that only mice live in and of course, a Victorian Mansion complete with servants.”

Included within the fantastic exhibit is the Guske Dollhouse, a replica of a 1904 Victorian house built by David Guske; one built by J.M. Studebaker for his daughters; one used to teach fire safety, built by Mishawaka Fire Chief Louis Ludwig; the iconic Barbie’s Dream House and Miller’s handmade Mouse Mansion.

“I have always liked both very small things and huge things,” Miller said. “About 7-8 years ago I decided to concentrate on this hobby in a more focused manner. I now have about 15 dollhouses and room boxes and a few more ready to work on.”

The history of dollhouses, although unclear, can be traced back to England, Germany and Holland in the 1600s. Dollhouses in its infancy were a testament to wealth and high social standing, only afforded by the fortunate elite. Historically, dollhouses displayed scenes placed behind

glass, allowing it to be viewed but not touched.

Through the years, dollhouses have slowly transitioned from a symbol of high status to a common child’s play toy.

Dollhouses have enamored and entertained children and adults for generations as to this day, it is hard to find someone who does not have some memory playing with a dollhouse.

“When I was a child, we inherited a dollhouse that a neighbor was putting out for the trash,” Miller reminisced. “It came with a few boxes of furniture and old tiny things and I was always surprised that my mother seemed to enjoy it as much as we children liked it all.”

“So many people have their own memories of their dollhouse when they were young, a dollhouse up in their own attic, a dollhouse their dad made for them,” she continued. “I knew this exhibit would have a wide appeal for both adults and children.”

Miller was instrumental in making this exhibit come to life.

“The thing that got this exhibit off the ground was two fold,”

Kristie Erickson, deputy executive director of The History Museum, explained. “Mo Miller, an avid collector, approached us with Continued on page 3

STUDEBAKER FAMILY DOLLHOUSE Kristie Erickson looks at The Studebaker Dollhouse. It began as a toy barn for J.M. Studebaker III in 1910. Over two decades later, he had the barn converted and furnished as a dollhouse for his daughters, Mary and Lillian. Photo by Marissa Sweatland.

GUSKE DOLLHOUSE The Guske Dollhouse is a scale replica of a 1940 New York Victorian house, made by David Guske for his daughter, Nicole. Guske worked for two years on the house, using

book he checked out from his local library as inspiration. Shown is Kristie Erickson, deputy executive director of The History Museum. Photo by Marissa Sweatland.

George Azar is lifelong educator

By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer

“I have always loved education. I loved going to class and getting to learn,” George Azar said. “Working in education has only made me love learning more.”

Azar is a lifelong educator. He began his education journey by acquiring his Bachelor of Science in biology from Indiana University Bloomington Master of Science in secondary education and teaching from Indiana University South Bend. He also earned his principal license through Bethel College.

Azar worked in the South Bend Community School Corporation for over a decade, teaching in John Adams High School and serving as principal at Rise Up Academy and LaSalle Intermediate Academy. While at Rise Up Academy, Azar’s leadership raised the school’s Indiana state grade from ‘F’ to ‘C’ and doubled the graduation rates.

“That was something I was

really proud of,” Azar said. “It’s amazing the pride of students who get what they have worked for.”

He then transitioned into the principal role at St. Joseph Grade School. He has also served as a remote instructor for New York-based Brooklyn Laboratory Charter School and dean of instruction for North Carolina-based Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools.

“My family and I moved to North Carolina in summer 2021, for a change of pace and scenery,” Azar explained. “But our friends and family brought us back. We moved back to the South Bend area in June.”

Azar has transitioned into his most recent educational endeavor this past October when he accepted the position to serve as Forever Learning Institute’s executive director.

“When the position was posted, and the more I read into it, I knew it was going to be a perfect fit,” Azar said. “I love the population. I have always been an old soul and I love working with people I feel connected to.”

Forever Learning Institute is a school that promotes lifelong learning. The organization allows community seniors the opportunity to further their ed-

ucation in a variety of different subjects and topics.

“In the spring semester we will offer 102 classes and that number is still counting,” Azar mentioned. “In the fall, we offered 94. We have also added about 20 new instructors.”

Classes range from language to art to history to health and fitness to technology and almost everything in between. Classes are taught by volunteers who are trained in that area of expertise. Classes are $55 per class for a 10-week semester. Fall semester begins the first full week following Labor Day and spring semester begins the first week of March.

“Our mission is to serve our senior population, to bring them together so they can find community and they can continue their dream of wanting to pursue life-long learning,” Azar confirmed. “For us, it’s not just the learning that takes place within these walls, its the camaraderie, the fellowship and the community. It’s coming together and enjoying each other.”

Forever Learning Institute is housed within the parish center of St. Therese Little Flower Catholic Church, where it leases office space, six classrooms, a full gymnasium and kitchen.

Home Instead introduces new brand and campaign

By EMILY WILSON Home Instead

Home Instead, the leading provider of in-home care for older adults, has launched a new brand identity and campaign to promote the evolving organization. Formerly known

as Home Instead Senior Care, the company was founded in 1994 by Paul and Lori Hogan to address a need for personalized care to allow adults to age at home, inspired by Paul’s own grandmother. It has since grown to more than 1,200 independently

owned and operated franchises across the globe, which employ 90,000 professional caregivers and deliver more than 80,000,000 hours of care annually.

Created in partnership with creative agency Energy BBDO, the brand’s update includes a simplified logo and the removal of the term “senior care” from the official name — Home Instead. The changes are meant to be more inclusive and a reflection of the evolving global language around the way people talk about older adults. The name change also allows the brand to more broadly address helping aging adults meet their needs wherever they are on their care journey.

The new campaign, “A Life Well-Lived Should Continue at Home,” incorporates the updated Home Instead brand identity. The campaign highlights older adults who have had fulfilling lives full of ups and downs and as they want to continue their lives comfortably and safely in their own homes, Home Instead is there to help.

“When we founded Home Instead around my mother’s kitchen table, we never dreamed it would grow to serve so many older adults across the globe,” said Paul Hogan. “The new brand and name change moves us into the future and honors the history and inspiration behind our company.”

“Our new brand represents Home Instead today and will continue to serve us as we look to the future,” said Jessie Brumbach, global chief brand officer, Home Instead. “We’ve given our logo a modern, refreshed look, while keeping the tulip that has come to symbolize the highly personalized care we’re known for. In addition to the updated logo, shortening our name to Home Instead better reflects our global presence and the desire of our clients to remain at home as they age.”

CHESS TOURNAMENT Forever Learning Institute Executive Director George Azar, left, stands with Alan Gunn, right, FLI’s inaugural chess tournament winner. The chess tournament is just one of many events FLI students can look forward to and participate in. Photo provided by George Azar.

DOLLHOUSE EXHIBIT Avid local collector, Mo Miller was instrumental in helping The History Museum create “Lifting the Roof: The World of Dollhouses.” The exhibit features over 20 dollhouses, many from Miller’s own collection. The exhibit will be showcased until Sunday, Aug. 10. Photo provided by The History Museum.

Dollhouse

Continued from page 1

the idea. But also when we acquired the Hannah Lindahl Children’s Museum collection — that also came with a bunch of dollhouses.”

“Lifting the Roof: The World of Dollhouses” will be on view until Sunday, Aug. 10. The exhibit is presented through 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. The exhibit took about a month to complete.

The History Museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.

“I always hope people come to exhibit and learn something new,” Erickson said. “All these dollhouses hold a story worth knowing.”

The History Museum will be hosting several lectures and workshops about dollhouses and miniatures, in conjunction with the exhibit, in 2025. For more information about the lectures and work-

St. Joseph County Parks offers activities for adults

St. Joseph Country Parks is offering January events for adults. For all programs, people can call (574) 654-3155 or visit www.sjcparks.org for details and updates.

“Click and Go Cross-Country Skiing” will be Fridays, Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28, 2025. Skiing is from 3-4:30 p.m. at St. Patrick’s County Park.

Cost is $15 per person and includes equipment rental.

Enjoy the winter wonderland on skis. Learn the basics of skiing and hit the trails with a cross-country skiing lesson; weather and ski trail conditions permitting. Arrive 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the program.

shops, visit historymuseumsb. org or call (574) 235-9664.

“Hopefully, this will give museum guests the impetus to start a project of their own,” Miller added.

“Sweet and Savory Maple Cuisine” is from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at Bendix Woods County Park. Cost is $15 per person. Join in as the parks depart-

ment reveals the magic of maple syrup and explore the different ways to enjoy it. Learn how versatile and fun cooking with pure, local maple syrup can be by preparing and cooking maple-roasted acorn squash and baking a maple dessert. Come hungry. Space is limited. Registration and payment required by Jan. 15.

A Big Trees awards reception is from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at Rum Village Nature Center, South Bend.

This free event honors the owners and nominators of the largest native trees found in St. Joseph County. Enjoy refreshments and a slide-show presentation showcasing these special trees.

A Glow Ski Night Skiing event is from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24, at St. Patrick’s County Park. Cost is $5 per person plus a $10 ski rental.

Ski by the light of glowing luminaries on snow-covered trails. At the Manion Cabin, warm up by the fire and enjoy a homemade treat; weather and ski trail conditions permitting. Registration and payment is required by Wednesday, Jan. 21.

“Rags to Riches Rag Rug Making” is from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26, at Bendix Woods County Park, New Carlisle. Cost is $10 per person.

Turn something old into something new during this cozy program; you’ll make a pair of potholders or a trivet and gain the skills needed to make your own rag rug. Participants will need a basic knowledge of crochet and should bring a pair of scissors and a size J crochet hook. All other supplies will be provided.

Registration and payment required by Jan. 21.

St. Paul’s Independent

and freedom within a

Our Assisted Living apartments offer seniors all the benefits of a St. Paul’s lifestyle with the added security of 24-hour support and assistance from our nursing staff.

Ettl dedicates time helping sick children and

By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer

“I was raised by my parents who, through our local Catholic Church, were always involved with the needs of others,” Julie Ettl, star volunteer at Ronald McDonald House Charities Michiana, explained. “From their example, I learned that the world is a much bigger place than just my family and me.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities Michiana provides a home-away-from-home, at no

cost, for families with sick or injured children, aged 21 and under. Ettl has been involved volunteering at the RMHC Michiana for nearly two decades, since December 2006. She has never forgotten the love for others that was instilled in her by her parents.

“The best part of volunteering is that the charity is very well organized, the staff is enormously dedicated and it is almost infectious,” Ettl mentioned. “They put every ounce of effort and creativity into

CORPORATE OFFICE

ensuring that the benefit of our efforts is for the children and their families.”

Volunteers generally donate six hours a month, with each scheduled shift being three hours every other week. Although, there are opportunities for volunteers to donate extra hours to several fundraising opportunities.

“I try to add hours in as I can on weekends since I work a 40 or 50 hour week,” Ettl admitted. Ettl has worked in publishing for over 50 years.

She worked with New York-based Harcourt Brace Jovanovich for nearly a decade and a half before she left the Big Apple for South Bend in 1990. Once she planted some roots in the area, she landed a job working on Notre Dame University’s alumni magazine, “Notre Dame Magazine.”

“When I first started at RMHC the only shift available was 3-6 p.m. on Tuesdays. I asked my boss, the magazine’s editor, if that would be okay and I would make up the two hours that belonged to the magazine,” Ettl explained. “He very graciously said of course, and I need not worry about making up the hours. Notre Dame’s mission is aligned very closely with Ronald McDonald House Charities.”

Although Ettl has nearly two decades of volunteer experience at RMHC Michiana under her belt, no two days have looked the same. Her usual volunteer shift starts at 3 p.m.

munity living room and kitchen area and laundry facility.

“We will tidy up the kitchen, restock water bottles and frozen entrees for the refrigerator,” Ettl said. “Then move to the laundry area where we clean out lint traps and make sure there’s plenty of detergent and dryer sheets.”

tioned. “Or we will use our culinary talents and check out our pantry and creatively prepare the meal.”

There has not been a day go by where Ettl is not thankful she is in a position to be able to help others.

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“Often the lunch has yet to be put away and cleaned up in preparation for dinner later,” Ettl said. “Then there may be a dishwasher or two to unload, kitchen towels to be laundered and a quick check of the walkin bathrooms and showers for our day guests.”

After these duties are completed, Ettl and another volunteer will head up to the second floor, where the overnight guests have their rooms, a com-

After this, Ettl often sorts and stocks various donations in the storage room. Ettl ends her volunteer shift by preparing for the dinner meal.

“Sometimes it is donated by a local restaurant or a volunteer group will bring in the groceries and prepare dinner in our kitchen,” Ettl men-

“I think there is more to volunteering than simply having he time. Volunteering provides a necessary need and engages one in tasks that we maybe didn’t realize we were good at our might learn from,” Ettl said. “It also keeps us thinking, caring for others beyond our own needs and in the end more conscious of one’s own gratitude.”

STAR VOLUNTEER Ronald McDonald House Charities Michiana star volunteer Julie Ettl, left, chats with a couple of fundraiser attendees. Ettl has been volunteering at RMHC Michiana for nearly two decades. Photo provided by Julie Ettl.

The church lady and I

This past weekend, our church had its annual auction, a big fundraiser where I always have the honor of being the emcee. As we were cleaning up, I couldn’t find my cell phone. I knew I had used my phone earlier to cheat when the congregation played trivia. (I’m kidding, I’m kidding. I really did know the first country to give women the right to vote. It was New Zealand in 1893. You’re welcome.)

NUTSHELL

By DICK WOLFSIE

When I couldn’t find my phone, I panicked. My wife, as always, was a calming influence, explaining to me that the cell had to be somewhere in the room. I asked my son to call on his phone to see where the device was hiding. No ring was heard, but…

“Hello, this is Amy.”

“Amy, this is Brett Wolfsie, Dick’s son. You were sitting with us all evening tonight. You must have taken my dad’s cell phone home by mistake.”

“I don’t think so, Brett.”

“Well, you’re talking on his cell now. Turn it over and look at the back.”

The back of my cell clearly directs what to do if found. I always debated whether the instructions should read “IF FOUND CALL” or “IF LOST CALL.” Both make sense, but my initial mistake was listing my own number to call. That person would just be calling me on my phone, which he had in his hand. What an Einstein, I am. But back to the story…

I took Brett’s phone and explained to Amy that she would have to answer my phone that evening and pretend she was Mary Ellen. Otherwise, people would wonder what I was up to when a mysterious woman answered the phone at 11 p.m. I also told Amy that I get a lot of

calls late at night because I have several friends on the west coast who like to chat before they go to bed at 8 p.m. (their time). It’s an older crowd.

“Dick, this was an honest mistake I made. I’ll tell whoever calls that I have your phone because we spent the night together.”

“Amy, please rephrase that.”

The next morning, I was lost without a phone. I always check the weather and time before I get out of bed. I asked Alexa twice, but there was no response. The internet was down temporarily, but I knew Mary Ellen was in the kitchen having coffee…

“What time is it?” I screamed out from the bed.

No answer.

“WHAT TIME IS IT?” Louder, this time.

No answer again.

Wait, I forgot the most important part. With Alexa, it has to be personal to work. I tried again.

“MARY ELLEN! What time is it?”

“Good morning, Dick. It’s 8 a.m. Now, leave me alone, please. I’m having my coffee.”

Well, at least she was connected and working.

Later that morning at church, Amy returned my phone and said she only got one call. It was from my sister, who was visiting her daughter in California.

“I pretended I was Mary Ellen,” said Amy, “but I’m not sure it worked.”

“I guess she didn’t recognize your voice?”

“She also didn’t recognize my hair, nose, and eyes. She was using FaceTime.”

St. Patrick’s County Park to host moonlight ski event

Mark your calendars for a night skiing event at St. Patrick’s County Park. The moonlight ski through the winter woods is from 6-9 pm. Friday, Jan. 10.

Enjoy a leisurely ski on luminaire-lit trails by the light of the almost-full moon. At the Manion cabin, warm up by the fire and enjoy a hot beverage, as well as a homemade winter treat.

Program fee is $5 per person.

Bring your own skis or rent a pair for $10 per person. Rental includes skis, boots and poles.

Advance registration and payment are required; space is limited. An additional night skiing event will be offered on Friday, Jan. 24, which is a glow ski.

For more information or to sign up, call (574) 654-3155.

St. Patrick’s County Park is located on Laurel Road, north of Auten Road in South Bend.

It’s a brand new year! Like many Americans, you may have made some New Year’s resolutions. Perhaps a resolution you should include, if you haven’t already done so, is to get your personal affairs in order. According to the American Bar Association, 60% of all Americans have done no endof-life planning whatsoever, not even a will. You could do a will, but most wills end up in probate. Do you really want your children to end up in probate court when you pass away?

If you’re like most Americans today, you may be considering a living trust rather than simply creating a will. The assets that are in the living trust at the time you pass away can totally avoid probate. There are a number of other documents that would also be present in a good estate plan, including:

1) Living Will to make sure you’re not forever hooked up to machines if there’s no hope for recovery.

2) HIPAA Waiver so it’s not a felony for the doctors to communicate with your spouse or your adult children in the event that you become disabled.

3) Advance Medical Directive so the doctors and family will know what persons you want to be in charge to make long-term medical decisions in the event you become unable to make your own medical decisions.

4) In-Home Healthcare Instructions. Nursing homes cost an average of $9,000 a month in this part of Indiana. If you have a good living trust that contains in-home healthcare instructions, there’s a good chance it can keep you or your spouse out of a nursing home, saving most of that $9,000 each

By CLIFFORD J. RICE Elder Law Attorney Granger

month, meanwhile maintaining your own privacy and dignity and allowing you to remain in

your own home.

5) We can include a funeral planning declaration, personal effects distribution memorandums and build in remarriage protection, so that if your surviving spouse gets remarried after you die, they don’t lose half of everything you own to a new spouse.

Because we are an elder law firm, we can even help save you or your life savings from nursing home spend-downs. Want to learn more? Come to Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, 902 E. University Drive, Granger at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6 or 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13. Reservations required; seating is limited! Call now: (800) 303-7423 or visit our website at riceandrice. com.

Notre Dame fan reconnects players through her writing

By Nathan Pace Staff Writer

Cheering on your university football team is part of the standard college experience but Lisa Kelly took that one step further with her passion for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Kelly has authored multiple books about Notre Dame, contributed to blogs and has become close with the heart of the Fighting Irish community.

“I can definitely say I am not done writing books,” Kelly said. “It’s been really fun.”

Kelly was briefly unemployed by the end of 2008 and started a blog where she talked about marketing, being a mom and Notre Dame sports. Just two years later Kelly was selected by the Big East Conference to represent Notre Dame in a contest among fan bloggers.

“Quite an extensive contest.

They took the 16 of us and picked the final four. They evaluated our writing and how we promoted ourselves,” Kelly said.

To her surprise, Kelly won the contest and was awarded a new car at Madison Square Garden during the 2012 Big East Tournament. Attention to her site, “Bridget McGuire’s Filling Station,” was another bonus from winning.

“My blog went from 10 people reading it to 10,000 reading it overnight,” Kelly said.

With the new attention on her blog, Kelly saw an opportunity to take her site in a new direction. She began interviewing former Notre Dame athletes with Oscar McBride as the first feature. McBride played for Notre Dame when Kelly attended the school in the 90s. McBride encouraged Kelly to keep posting more stories on

former Notre Dame athletes leading her to football greats Rick Mirer and Tim Brown.

“I never in a million years thought I would be on a phone call with Tim Brown,” Kelly said. “It was one pinch me moment after another.”

The interviews would pile up and Kelly was talked into creating a book for all of them. The first was “Echoes from the End Zone: The Men We Became.” She would go on to add two more books featuring former Notre Dame athletes.

McBride reached out to former Notre Dame head coach Lou Holtz to write an introduction for her first book and Kelly has been able to get to know the coaching icon.

“Every opportunity to see coach I’m not going to turn it down. Coach Holtz has been such a big supporter of me. Oscar McBride, he wrote the forward and was like “Maybe it would be cool to have coach Holtz write the introduction for me.’ Now as I would start to write books coach would call and ask how can I help you. My parents have met him. Both of my kids have met him.”

Kelly has authored a Notre Dame cookbook and a Notre Dame children’s book where her dog, Clover, is featured. Her husband, Jim, helped with the cookbook to make sure the recipes worked as intended.

Kelly also writes for the Notre Dame fan site “One Foot Down,” with a weekly column and more. She held a book signing in South Bend prior to the college football playoff

game with Indiana University on Friday, Dec. 20. She and her friends try to go to at least one Notre Dame game a year.

“I think after we graduated it became our yearly tradition,” Kelly said. “We would come back to one to two games. We

came back to a place we all called home. Once I got back into blogging it really rejuvenated my passion. As I started reaching out to these former players I was able to facilitate reconnecting these guys. It’s fun to watch them look back.”

St. Patrick’s County Park winter sports begins

Winter sports at St. Patrick’s County Park will be available through March 9, snow conditions permitting.

St. Patrick’s County Park will offer snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and public tubing. Snowshoeing will be available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

The rental fee is $5 per person. Cross-country skiing will be available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wednesday through Sunday. Equipment rental is $10 per person, and the daily trail fee is $5 for adults and $4 for youth (age 15 and under). Seasonal trail passes are $20 for adults and $15 for youth. Seasonal ski trail passes will also be accepted at Madeline Bertrand County Park during regular park hours; regular gate fee in effect. Public tubing will be open daily from Dec. 26 through Jan. 5 and on the weekends from

Jan. 11 though March 2 from noon to 5 p.m. The fee for tubing is $5 per person. Preschool tubing for children ages 3-5 years old will be available on Thursdays, from Jan. 16 through Feb. 20. It is from 2-4 p.m. at no cost. Regular gate fees will be in effect for all winter sports. For additional information, tube hill, and trail conditions, visit sjcparks.org, Facebook or X (Twitter) page, or call (574) 2774828. St. Patrick’s County Park is located on Laurel Road, north of Auten Road in South Bend.

MEETING COACH HOLTZ — Lisa Kelly, left, poses for a photo with former Notre Dame football coach Lou Holtz. Holtz wrote the introduction to Kelly’s first book. Photo provided by Lisa Kelly.

To The Past! —

‘Mandy’ was Manilow’s brass ring

Barry Manilow

it bombed.”

A Boomer Blast To The Past

By RANDAL C. HILL

Imagine that you are a multi-talented singer-pianist who just isn’t “happening” in the music-recording world. You might ask yourself, “What would it take to soar to the heights of this world, ride high on the hit charts, and sell out concerts night after night? I’ve got both the pipes and the looks for success. Over the years I’ve learned the ins and outs of the record business. I’ve even managed to sign with a small label and release an LP, even though

Such is a conversation 31-year-old Barry Manilow could have had with himself as the year 1974 began to wind down.

Eventually he would grab the elusive brass ring, but he nearly blew his chance when he did.

He met the right person — record-business veteran Clive Davis, who would soon change the life of the frustrated Brooklynite. After being a Columbia Records executive, Davis was about to take over Bell Records — Manilow’s recording home — and rename it Arista Records.

To see what Manilow had to offer, Davis went to evaluate him when Manilow opened a show for Dionne Warwick.

“I was really taken by his performance,” the businessman enthused later in his autobiography. “He was a terrific singer,

and his manner was upbeat, funny and self-deprecating. The audience loved him.”

Davis believed that none of Manilow’s maiden LP tracks had shown the potential to be a hit single (at the time a necessity for most new artists seeking success). To the super-savvy Davis, there was nothing more important than to correctly match the just-right singer with the just-right material and the just-right production.

Manilow knew that Davis had primarily worked with rock artists, but Manilow had no real interest in rock ‘n’ roll. Davis thus set about casting for something suitable — no, perfect — for his talented protege. Davis had nurtured the early careers of several recording luminaries and knew how to connect good artists with good songs.

Sifting through hundreds of

Center for Hospice Care awarded CHAP accreditation

Community Health Accreditation Partner Inc. announced The Center for Hospice Care has been awarded CHAP Accreditation under the CHAP Hospice Standards of Excellence.

CHAP Accreditation demonstrates Center for Hospice Care meets the industry’s highest nationally-recognized standards. The rigorous evaluation by CHAP focuses on structure and function, quality of services and products, human and financial resources and long-term viability. Simply stated, adherence to CHAP’s standards leads to better quality care.

“We are honored to receive accreditation from the Community Health Accreditation Partner. This accreditation is a testament to the dedication and compassion of our entire team. It underscores our commitment to providing the highest quality of care to our patients and their families and we will continue to strive for excellence in all that we do,” said John Mastrojohn III, president and CEO, Center for Hospice Care.

“By achieving CHAP accreditation, Center for Hospice Care has shown a commitment to excellence,” said Nathan DeGodt, CHAP president and CEO.

“This is the fourth year Center for Hospice Care has achieved CHAP Accreditation, and we are excited to continue our partnership by offering support in its commitment to providing quality care and continuous improvement.”

Center for Hospice Care is a nationally recognized, award-winning agency focused on improving the quality of living through hospice and palliative care, grief counseling, and community education. Founded in 1978, the organiza-

tion serves patients and their loved ones in nine counties in northern Indiana.

CHAP is an independent, not-for-profit, accrediting body for community-based health care organizations. Created in 1965, CHAP was the first to recognize the need and value

for accreditation in community-based care. CHAP is the oldest national, community-based accrediting body with more than 9,000 agencies currently accredited nationwide. CHAP’s purpose is to define and advance the highest standards of community-based care.

discs, Davis was drawn to an obscure tune called “Brandy,” a mid-chart 1971 British hit by American expatriate Scott English. But when Davis showed Manilow the hauntingly beautiful ballad of lost love and regret, Manilow balked, thinking “Brandy” would at best be an album-track “filler” and that English’s tune would be of no help to him as a career-launcher.

Davis disagreed and pushed hard for a first-class production and promotion. Eventually, Manilow decided not to argue with his new boss (good idea!) and reluctantly agreed to record the song.

Davis had the disc’s title tweaked to avoid confusion with the 1972 Looking Glass hit “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl).” To Barry’s amazement, “Mandy” — as it was now known — shot to the top of the Billboard chart, and Barry Manilow was instantly catapulted into the pantheon of recording superstars. You can see and hear the original British hit of “Brandy.” Go to Google, key in YouTube, add “Brandy Scott English,” then select the concert video clip. You’ll find that it’s 1971 UK “cool” at its very best!

BARRY MANILOW

Photo from Wikipedia by Philip Romano.

Industry spotlight —

South

Bend Toy Company

Did you know South Bend Toy Company was one of the region’s leading toy makers for over 100 years? From signature products, like croquet sets and doll carriages, to Studebaker-branded “goat wagons” and rocking horses, South Bend Toy played an important role in South Bend’s

history and brought millions of smiles to children around the world.

There is a special display in the Carmichael Bullet Nose Gallery, featuring images and toys from the museum’s collection.

The Studebaker National Museum is located at 201

Chapin St., just west of downtown 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 toll free at (888) 391-5600 or visit studebakermuseum.org.

For an additional cost, visitors can tour The History Museum, which adjoins the Studebaker National Museum.

IJanuary MPHPL programs for adults

Below is the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris- Public Library’s January calendar of events for adults. Registration can be secured by calling (574) 259-5277; check mphpl.org for the most up-to-date information regarding events or to register; most programs require registration.

Bittersweet Branch Events

“Personalize Your Planner is from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6. Start the new year by learning to create a planner which works best for your lifestyle and interests.

Bingo is from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22. 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 is from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 9. The January book, “I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman” by Nora Ephron, can be picked up in advance at the front desk.

A slow cooker social is from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16. Explore unique ways to use a slow cooker to create a variety of warm beverages perfect for the winter season. Participants will watch a demonstration, sample a yummy drink and share slow-cooker recipes.

Mishawaka Library Events

Winter Reading Kickoff Party is from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Jan. 3. Everyone is welcome to attend this two-hour kickoff for the 2025 MPHPL Winter Reading Challenge at the downtown Mishawaka Library. Enjoy games, crafts and snacks, and don’t forget to grab a reading challenge card. Stevens Puppets will present

“The Wizard of Oz” from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The performance is free but registration is required.

Saturday Morning Book Club is from 10:15-11:15 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 4. Discuss this month’s book selection, “China Dolls,” by Lisa See. Books can be picked up in advance at the front desk of the Mishawaka Library.

“American Heritage Spotlight” is from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14. Kyle Sater, curator at the Studebaker National Museum, will present “Over a Century on Wheels: Explore Over 100 Years of Transportation History.” This presentation tells the story of the Studebaker family’s arrival in America to the present day. It illustrates the company’s growth from a blacksmith shop to the world’s largest wagon manufacturer and its transition to automobile production. The program covers Studebaker’s history beyond its products, addressing the company’s impact on the community and its legacy in the 21st century.

“Family Literacy Day” is from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27. Celebrate Family Literacy Day with your family and MPHPL. Enjoy literacy-based games, activities and fun for all ages. Light refreshments will be served. Each family will choose one free book to take home.

Winter Reading Challenge

The 2025 Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library Winter Reading Challenge begins Thursday, Jan. 2, and ends Feb. 28. All ages can participate. Cards are available at any MPHPL location or can be downloaded online by visiting mphpl.org/reading-challenge. Adult participants must have a free MPHPL card to participate. Once all challenges on the card are complete, participants can return their cards for a new book from a pre-selected book list containing over 115plus titles. Prize redemption begins Monday, Jan. 6.

Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.

Walls

Ceilings

Window And Door Trim

Ceilings

Window And Door Trim Stairways

Stairways

Window And Door Trim

Woodwork Staining

Stairways

Woodwork Staining

Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls

Woodwork Staining

Small Patch 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

KIDS WAGON A special display in the Carmichael Bullet Nose Gallery features images and toys from the museum’s collection like this wagon. Photo provided by the museum.

Couple finds solace at Milton Village

At Alzheimer’s and Dementia Services of Northern Indiana, often known as ALZNI, the primary mission is to offer support and education to families touched by dementia.

This support manifests in various forms, including support groups, family meetings, referral resources and the provision of a safe, inclusive environment where families can seek comfort and assistance during challenging times.

A poignant example of this is the journey of one of its families, Connie and Jim Kehoe, who found solace at Milton Adult Day Services, affectionately known as Milton Village.

Connie initially brought Jim Kehoe, who was living with dementia, to participate in a music club, while she attended a stitching club. Jim Kehoe had a passion for music, often bringing a different guitar each week to share stories about its history and reminisce about his musical past.

Their routine brought joy to both, creating a sense of community and belonging; however, their lives took a sudden turn when Jim Kehoe suffered a stroke, which led to his hospitalization.

Understanding that support can take various forms, ALZNI’s Program Manager Joe Collins visited Jim Kehoe in the hospital, bringing along his musical talents. Upon arriving, Collins found Jim Kehoe incoherent and unable to communicate meaningfully. Undeterred, he sat

by his side, held his hand, and announced that he would play the guitar for him. As Collins strummed the familiar chords, Jim Kehoe’s eyes lit up and a spark of recognition seemed to return.

Connie Kehoe arrived shortly thereafter and was taken back to see her husband, who was now animatedly conducting and singing along with the music. His excitement upon seeing her was palpable. As she helped him prepare for a meal, it became evident that the music he played was revitalizing his movement and speech. With each note, he appeared more engaged, and began to eat, showcasing a remarkable improvement in his condition.

As the visit came to a close, Jim Kehoe was sitting up, engaged in conversation with his wife by his side, his face radiating joy.

Collins, having formed a close bond with the couple over the months, remarked that witnessing Jim Kehoe’s transformation through music was one of the most beautiful experiences he had ever encountered.

Though Jim Kehoe passed away shortly after returning home, his legacy will forever be a part of Milton Village.

Connie Kehoe remains a regular presence there. She participates in the grief support group and leads the stitching and baking clubs, while also volunteering for various events. She uses her experience with Jim Kehoe to support fellow care-

and Connie Kehoe

pet therapy at Milton Village through the Paws for Humanity organization, which brings therapy dogs to the facility. Photo provided by Milton Village.

givers, embodying the spirit of community that ALZNI fosters. Stories like that of the Kehoes

illuminate the vital role of ALZNI partnering with Milton Adult Day Services. Each per-

Finding purpose on a lazy day

support needs are unique, and assistance is provided in the most meaningful ways possible.

Writing my stories

By JIM CARPENTER Guest Writer

I find myself smiling on occasion. Lately it seems, for very little reason. And I think this amuses me further. So I hold the smile just a bit longer. I realize sometimes when I am watching, an old show that is a rerun on TV, I smile at something that is said, by those characters familiar to me. Then there will be other times, when I am just sitting lost in thought. When a random memory will saunter by,

and catch me a bit off guard. And then I might give a little smile. Innocent and organic as all get out. A smile provoked by an old, old, memory. Spontaneous and devout.

Perhaps I make too big of a deal, for what is such a minor issue. I might tear up during that smile, but not to where I need a tissue.

I feel good when I am touched, by the writers of those old shows. Lessons are learned through onerous times. Just ask the Beaver. He knows!

son’s

Faith Chaplain makes a difference in people’s lives

By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer

“I believe all Christians are called to look after those in the margins of life, seeing that those people have food, shelter, medical care and social justice,” stated Kevin Farmwald. “The Bible tells us in Isaiah 1:17 to rescue the oppressed, the widows and the orphans. These are people society often casts aside. Those who have mental illness are often in this category. They struggle for existence from day to day. Making a difference in their world gives me life.”

Farmwald has been the chaplain at Oaklawn for 11 years, serving both St. Joseph and Elkhart counties. He was born and raised in the Mennonite church.

“My parents and I were there every time the church doors

opened. I was baptized in my late teens,” he said. It wasn’t until his early 30s when Farmwald received a call to ministry.

“I’ve got a Master’s of Divinity from Associated Anabaptist Biblical Seminary in Elkhart,” he said.

He spent 20 years in congregational ministry in Indiana and Ohio.

“Although I’ve always had a heart for outreach, in the church I was paid to preach and do weddings and funerals; however, I did participate in social justice on the side and the church was Ok with that,” he said.

When Farmwald came to Oaklawn 11 years ago, he was able to minister to those in the margins of life. He has two major roles. One is coordinating spiritual care for the clients. He

also educates the faith community on the needs of those who suffer mental illness. His other role is a bit different. He coordinates spiritual care for the staff.

“I’m also the team leader of homeless outreach in St. Joe and Elkhart counties. We meet people, who are homeless, in shelters, soup kitchens and under bridges. We bring services and resources to them. We may take them to the doctor if they have a serious illness. We might deliver a housing application and help them apply. We alert them to mental health services in the area,” Farmwald said.

He spends his days doing both ministries.

“Twenty five percent of the general population are diagnosed with a mental illness. That could be depression or anxiety. People diagnosed with mental illnesses are in the workforce, the congregations and in all walks of life. So, part of my ministry at Oaklawn is to encourage people of faith to welcome those diagnosed with mental illness into the faith community,” Farmwald said.

When asked to tell of his success stories, he remarked, “We measure things in little steps. I may help save a life by getting a homeless person to the doctor. We work together at Oaklawn to help people who are suffering addictions. We get people to a better place in life. That’s how I measure success.”

Farmwald is looking at semi-retirement at the end of this year.

“I love what I do and am in good health. So, I’ll still keep working but it will not be full time,” he said. “My wife, Dawn, and I met when she was working in a soup kitchen and I with the homeless. We unwind in the evenings together by walking our two golden doodles.”

The Farmwalds have nine grown children and six grandchildren.

“Each year, on Christmas morning, our family works

together preparing food at the First Presbyterian Church in Goshen for those in need. We’re a family who enjoy making a difference in our world.”

Inside, outside helps protect skin from the sun

By JAMES GAFFNEY Mature Life Features

Taking carotenoid and vitamin E supplements first became popular in Europe as an effective adjunct to sunscreens in reducing sunburn.

The two supplements — natural mixed carotenoids and vitamin E — that were more often associated with nutrition than sun protection were found to help protect the skin from dangerous ultraviolet exposure.

Studies built on earlier benchmark research conducted in Germany, as reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, revealed that natural mixed carotenoids and vitamin E reduce the skin-reddening effects of sunburn.

can do for the skin.

While researchers found that while natural carotenoid supplements reduced skin reddening after the subjects were exposed to UV rays, it was important to note that these supplements must be taken along with the use of sunscreens.

This is what results in “inside-outside” protection. The natural mixed carotenoid supplements are ingested while sun screen is applied on the outside all over your skin for optimum protection.

The vitamin supplements must be taken for at least three months before benefits can be seen, researchers reported.

It takes time for your body and skin to accumulate enough of these natural carotenoids to provide some UV protection.

Clinical evidence revealed that beta carotene modifies sunburn damage and vitamin E adds protection. Sunburn intensity was significantly reduced in subjects who took vitamin supplements over a 12-week period while being exposed to UV radiation.

The study of the effects of carotenoids and vitamin E study suggests the two antioxidants may be working together, thereby speeding up the time it takes for benefits to be seen.

Tests indicated that what carotenoids do for plants, they

In this study, a protective effect was seen after only four weeks.

CUP OF COLD WATER AWARD Oaklawn Chaplain Kevin Farmwald holds the Cup of Cold Water Award he received in 2023. This honor is given to individuals or organizations for their acts of kindness and service to the community. Photo provided by Kevin Farmwald.

Beware of that ‘big ugly hole’

Sunday, Sept. 8, 1974.

Robert “Evel” Knievel was nervous. “I can’t sleep nights,” he had told Sports Illustrated.

By RANDAL C. HILL

“I toss and turn, and all I can see is that big ugly hole in the ground grinning up at me like a death’s head.”

Near Twin Falls, Idaho, about 15,000 fascinated fans had crowded onto land that rimmed the Snake River Canyon, the “big ugly hole” that Evel had referred to.

The professional daredevil had rented several acres for what he promised would be a spectacular achievement — soaring across the quartermile-wide river canyon in a steam-powered rocket.

A comic-book superhero come to life, the ruggedly handsome adrenaline junkie had been on the national scene since the 1960s with his spectacular motorcycle jumps — and crashes.

For years, 35-year-old Knievel had boasted he would one day leap the Grand Canyon. When the Department of the Interior turned thumbs down on that oddball idea, he took on Idaho’s less magnificent, but still imposing, Snake River Canyon instead.

His team had set about constructing a 13-foot homemade rocket that Evel dubbed the Skycycle. In reality, it was a dubious contraption assembled from a discarded airplane fuel tank and a seat from an old go-kart.

The risk-taker had explained to the press he would blast off from the canyon rim, clear the abyss, and parachute down to a soft landing, aided by a shock absorber on the rocket’s nose to cushion the impact.

At least, that was the plan.

That afternoon, at 3:36 p.m. Knievel crawled into the cramped cylinder, flipped the launch switch, and shot up the steeply angled 108-foot-long ramp at 200 miles an hour. As he lifted off from the Earth, an emergency parachute at the back of his craft unexpectedly unfurled. It released the main chute, which caused the rocket to roll, then flip downward and begin a lazy drift toward the river below.

$1 off Specials on Spritzes, Mules, and Mimosas! 70s Flashback —

The machine fell out of sight from the crowd, where the people there, including Knievel’s wife and children, feared the worst. Falling into the churning water, everyone knew, would mean certain death for the daredevil strapped inside the Skycycle.

Miraculously, however, the rocket bounced off a canyon wall and came to rest seven feet from the river’s edge. Moments later, a rescue helicopter

lifted Evel from the shore and hurried him to the launch site. The event had lasted 16 minutes.

Most in the crowd were overjoyed that Knievel had returned safely, but some there claimed Evel had released the emergency chute on purpose, that what had unfolded was all planned. He, in return, argued he had delivered on his promise to make the attempt. End of discussion.

Years later, the undaunted performer shared a favorite quote of President Teddy Roosevelt: “Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much, because they live in a gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.”

Weekly At

Seating 11am-2pm

Carving Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding Weekly

Rotating an Additional Roasted Protein at Carving Station

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Two Additional Entrees on the Buffet (including a vegetarian option)

Rotating an Additional Roasted Protein at Carving Station

Two Additional Entrees on the Buffet (including a vegetarian option)

Assorted Sides & Condiments

Dessert Station

Assorted Sides & Condiments

Dessert Station

Two Additional Entrees on the Buffet (including a vegetarian option)

$25 per person ($14 ages 6-12 / kids under 6 free)

Assorted Sides & Condiments

Dessert Station

$25 per person ($14 ages 6-12 / kids under 6 free)

Dessert Station Only…$7

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Reservations at www.fiddlershearth.com

$1 off Specials on Spritzes, Mules, and Mimosas!

THE SKYCYCLE — Evel Knievel’s Skycycle X2. Photo from Wikipedia.

| Strength

Save the Date!

Nominations are now open for our annual awards, honoring individuals who have made a meaningful impact in our community through their dedication and service.

Ways to Nominate:

1. Email Form to: events@realservices.org

2. Visit realservices.org for online form

3. Drop Off/Mail Form to: AOE Nominations 1151 S. Michigan St. South Bend, IN 46601

4. Scan QR Code below

Nomination deadline: March 15, 2025

Join us May 8, 2025 Century Center | 120 S. Dr MLK Jr Blvd | South Bend, IN 46601 11:30am - 1:00pm Keynote Speaker: Kim Campbell

Kim Campbell, widow of music legend Glen Campbell, is a caregiver advocate, author, and leader in Alzheimer’s awareness.

As Glen’s wife and caregiver, she shared their journey in the award-winning documentary Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me, which chronicled his “Goodbye Tour” and earned two Grammys, a CMA Award, and an Oscar nomination.

Celebrate Community Champions

To support caregivers, Kim founded CareLiving.org and serves on boards for dementia care initiatives. Through the Kim and Glen Campbell Foundation, she is funding a music lab at Abe’s Garden to explore music’s impact on dementia. Her memoir, Gentle On My Mind, is widely available

Save the Date: May 25, 2025 | Century Center | 11:30am-1pm

Recognize & Nominate an Individual by filling in the circle for the category below.

Family Caregiver of the Year: A family member demonstrating excellence in providing care and support to someone who is 60 years of age or older.

Wyatt Mick Volunteer of the Year: An individual who has displayed a commitment to volunteerism.

Les Fox Hoosier Lifetime: An individual, 60 years of age or older, who has demonstrated a lifetime of service to his or her community (paid or unpaid).

Sgt. Shriver Lifetime Achievement: A person who has spent the majority of their life in service to low-income populations.

Nomination Deadline: March 15, 2025

Name:

Address: City:

Email:

State: Zip:

Please describe in detail why the nominee deserves this award. Include specific information and attachments are encouraged.

Nominator:

Email:

Chicken & Noodles

Mashed Potatoes

Peas and Carrots Bread w/ marg. Pears

Turkey Tetrazzini

California Blend Veg.

Garlic Bread Mandarin Oranges

MLK Day Closed for Holiday

Beef Stew Cauliflower

Dinner Roll/marg. Pineapple Cup

Sausage, G.Bean & Potato Casserole

Stewed Tomatoes

Dinner Roll w/ marg.

Warm Spiced Apples

Sausage Gravy w/ Biscuit

Scrambled Eggs

Breakfast Potatoes Banana Yogurt

Liver & Onions

Au Gratin Potatoes Beets

Bread w/ marg.

Cherry Apple Crunch Bar

New Year’s Day Closed for Holiday

Bruschetta Chicken Garlic Mashers

California Blend Veg. Bread w/ marg. Mandarin Orange Cup

Baked Ziti w/ Sausage Salad w/ drsg. Green Beans

Texas Toast

Warm Spiced Peaches

Polish Sausage/Bun

German Potato Salad

Sauerkraut Carrots

Pineapple Cup

Sweet & Sour Meatballs Rice

Stir Fry Blend Veg. Egg Roll Pineapple Cup

Stuffed Baked Potato w/taco meat & chz. Broccoli Breadstick Oreo Cookie

Sloppy Joe on a Bun Baked Beans

Mixed Vegetable Strawberry Applesauce

Chicken, Mushroom & Rice Casserole

Mixed Vegetables

Bread w/ marg.

Nutty Buddy Bar

American Goulash Cauliflower

Ciabatta Roll w/ marg.

Warm Spiced Apples

Butternut Squash Soup

Chicken Salad Slider

Succotash Peach Cup

Tuna Casserole w/ Peas

Glazed Carrots

Dinner Roll w/ marg. Assorted Jello Cups

Chicken Drumstick

Garlic Mashers & Gravy

Green Beans

Bread w/ marg.

Mandarin Oranges

100 Center High Rise Apartments

N. Center St. | (574) 259-1611 Battell Center 904 N. Main St. | (574) 256-2325

Liberty

Liberty Community Center 300 S. Main St. | (574) 381-8980 Osceola United Methodist Church

Beech Rd. | (574) 674-6503 Walkerton

Legion Hall

Kentucky St. | (574) 334-1047 South Bend Sanctuary Trinity Tower

Dr. MLK. Jr. Blvd. N. | (574) 234-7278

Fairington Apartments 1220 E. Fairington Circle | (574) 291-5597

Karl King Riverbend Tower 515 E. Monroe St. | (574) 232-4934 Charles Black Center 3419 W. Washington | (574) 229-5911

Why it’s important to check your earnings history

By MONA HARTER District Manager, South Bend Social Security Office

It may have been years or even decades since you thought about how much you earned at your first job. Did you know that you can find out how much you made that first year? Or any year you worked and paid Social Security taxes?

Your earnings history is a record of your progress toward your future Social Security benefits. We track your earnings so we can pay you the benefits you’ve earned over your lifetime. That is why it’s so important for you to review your earnings record.

Even though it’s your employer’s responsibility to provide accurate earnings information, you should review your earnings history and let us know if there are any errors or omissions. Otherwise, your future Social Security benefits could be lower than you should receive. It’s important to identify and report errors as soon as possible. If too much time passes, it could be hard for you to get older tax documents. Also, some employers may no longer exist or be able to provide past payroll information.

The best way to verify your earnings record is to visit ssa. gov/myaccount and create or sign in to your personal my Social

Security account. You should review your earnings carefully every year and confirm them using your own records, such as W-2 forms and tax returns.

Keep in mind that earnings from this year and last year may not be listed yet. When you have a personal my Social Security account, we send you an email once a year, three months before your birthday, to remind you to check your earnings and to get future benefit estimates.

If your Social Security earnings record is incorrect and does not match your personal records, you may be able to submit a correction request online using your personal my Social Security at ssa.gov/myaccount. If that feature is available in your personal my Social Security account, you can use the online process to correct missing earnings, inaccurate earnings from a valid employer, or earnings from an employer you did not work for. You’ll need to provide:

• Your address if we need to contact you about your request.

• Details about your correct earnings and employer.

• Evidence or proof of correct earnings, if available.

You can electronically upload your proof (W-2, W-2C, tax return, wage stub, pay slip, etc.) in a JPG or PDF format. After you successfully submit your

evidence, you can print or save a receipt.

Earnings corrections cannot be processed online if they are for:

• The current or prior year, which may not be recorded yet.

• Self-employment.

• Railroad Board.

• Certain years before 1978. Also, you cannot submit an earnings correction online if you:

• Receive Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income, or Medicare.

• Have applied for Social Security benefits or SSI.

If you cannot correct your earnings online, call us at (800) 772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778), 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday to request a correction.

Start a conversation today. Ask a family member or friend about their first job and let them know they can find out what they earned that year.

Time is hard on nails

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Fingernails become prone to splitting as we age. Getting them too wet (doing the dishes or washing your hair, for example) exacerbates the problem. You might wear cotton-lined

rubber gloves for these chores. Letting your hands get too dry — not using enough moisturizer — also endangers your nails.

And quit biting them.

Washing your hands helps keep your nails moisturized, but you also need to brush your fingers to get the dirt out from under your nails. Avoid picking at them to remove dirt or to pluck hangnails. Trim them regularly. Don’t use them as tools to scrape dirt off a surface or pry open a container or other such seemingly minor chore.

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

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.

Southfield Village

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.

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The History Museum hosts new exhibit on Italian Americans

The History Museum announces a new exhibit, “Traditions and Progress: Italian Americans in Northern Indiana,” on view through May 4, 2025. The exhibit features photographs, maps, artifacts, and an impressive amount of information about the history of Italian Americans in northern Indiana.

“Traditions and Progress” describes the heritage, values, and willingness to help their neighbors, who have been the cornerstone of Italians’ progress in the United States, despite hardships and challenges.

The exhibit also chronicles local history. Italians began migrating to the St. Joseph River Valley in the 1880s, when many found jobs in local industries. Many local Italians rose to positions of prominence in the community, exhibiting a knack for entrepreneurship and accomplishment, becoming captains of industry, world champions, shoemakers to the pope and household names. Throughout, they have held on to a piece of Italy by maintaining their traditions and customs and bettered their community through social

clubs and mutual aid societies.

Accomplishments of local Italian Americans in all sectors of the economy are presented, including the many jobs, innovations, and opportunities they have provided. The significance of their cultural stamp on the area is explored, including excellent food and entertainment.

Stories of many local Italian Americans are told, including Rocco Linarello of Rocco’s Style Shop, who apprenticed many barbers-to-be; Rocco Ameduri of Rocco’s trained many pizzaiolos, who started

their own restaurants; and pioneer Rocco Simeri, who employed many early immigrants building South Bend’s infrastructure.

In the 1950s and 1960s, an hourly program was broadcast weekly on WJVA (AM 1580), hosted by Pietro Agostino, Louis Baldoni and Earnie Calabro.

Substantial assistance to this exhibit was provided by many local Italian Americans, especially the four local Italian American Clubs, Maria SS di Loreto Society, Italian American Relief Association, Edmondo DeAmicis Mutual Aid Society,

and Italian American Heritage Society of Notre Dame/Michiana.

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 available at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Sunday. 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.

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Aging politicians ignore aging population

By CECIL SCAGLIONE

Mature Life Features

While there have been loud voices bemoaning the fact that we’re not paying enough attention to climate change, there isn’t even a whimper about what’s happening to our population change.

It’s paradoxical that the greying heads in government are paying little attention to the greying of their constituents.

More then 60 million Americans are 65 or older. That’s 18% of the population. And the voters’ rolls are aging at the rate of 10,000 over-65ers every day. You’d think all those silver-haired politicians would be looking hard at how to accommodate the needs of folks who are growing old just as they are. Even the aging talking heads on television seem ignorant of what’s concerning a growing segment of their viewers.

The apparent reasoning for this blindness to a massive problem is the mantra that 70 is the new 50, and the spreading myth that age is simply a state of mind. Several studies topple this trend in thinking by supporting what we’ve always known — ailing and aching increase as you get older.

No matter how Pollyannish we may feel, our odds of falling victim to such widespread debilitations as Alzheimer’s disease increase

the longer we live. While healthcare is high on the list of promises by those seeking votes, the focus usually is on the young who have inadequate coverage rather than the elderly who cannot care for themselves.

Another major concern is the strength and stability of Social Security. Predictors tell us there will be about two workers supporting each recipient by the early 2030s. This was not in any forecasts when there were more than

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A sign of the widening awareness that aging has its problems, not only for the aging but for those around them who care, are recent reports that three-quarters of respondents to a survey indicated doctors should be allowed to help a patient die peacefully and painlessly if there is no possible cure.

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A good night’s sleep keeps you healthy as well as awake

By JAMES GAFFNEY Mature Life Features

If someone says, “Wake up, sleepyhead,’’ and all you want to do is catch a few more hours of shut-eye, you might fall into the category of Americans who are chronically sleep deprived.

People are sleeping less than they used to, according to sleep experts, and this “sleep debt” can take a toll on health, relationships and daily functions.

Despite the popular notion that you need less sleep as you get older, sleep needs generally remain constant throughout adulthood.

Lack of sleep is implicated

in a host of conditions and diseases, from the common cold to memory impairment to high blood pressure. Lack of sleep has also been linked to increased risk of some cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancer.

And when you’re short on sleep, chances are good that you’ll be irritable and have low energy.

Medical experts offer suggestions to improve your sleep:

• Make sleep a priority. Set aside adequate time for sleep and only do what tasks you can get done with the time remaining instead of taking the reverse approach. Go to bed and

get up at about the same time every day, even on the weekends. Sticking to a schedule helps reinforce your body’s sleep-wake cycle and can help you sleep better at night.

• Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol. Nicotine and caffeine are stimulants that can keep you awake. Although alcohol is a depressant and may help you doze off, it can cause restless sleep.

• Exercise regularly. Regular exercise, especially aerobic exercise, can help you fall asleep faster and make your sleep more restful.

• Keep active. Not being busy enough can cause bore-

dom and an inability to sleep. However, being too busy can keep you from getting adequate sleep.

• Develop a relaxing bedtime routine. Do the same things each night to tell your body it’s time to wind down. Avoid doing work in bed, such as balancing a checkbook or using a laptop computer.

• Make your bedroom cool, dark, quiet and comfortable. Adjust light, temperature, humidity and noise levels to your preferences. Pets often disrupt sleep, even if you are not aware of it. You may need to set limits on pets sharing your bedroom.

• Go to bed when you are

sleepy. If you don’t fall asleep within 30 minutes, get up and do something else. Go back to bed when you are tired.

• Don’t put up with pain. If pain is keeping you from sleeping, talk to your doctor about medications or therapies to reduce pain. Use sleeping pills only as a last resort. Check with your doctor to make sure the pills won’t interact with other medications you are taking.

If you take a sleep medication, reduce the dosage gradually when you want to quit. Never mix alcohol and sleeping pills. The bottom line is, the better you sleep, the better you feel. Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

Coping with grief takes patience

By TOM ROSE Coping With Grief

There is not an exact timeline for grief that you “should be over it by now.” It takes extreme patience as it may last a long time, short time, or you may spend no time at all with grief. And some grief, to some degree, may last forever. The depth of the relationship that you have with your loved one will probably de-

termine the degree and length of your grief journey or, as I prefer to call it, “your love journey” because, remember, there is no grief without love. In the case of a spouse, child or family the grief will be with you your whole life. Spending “no time” with grief after a death, loss or tragic event may indicate shock or denial which can create serious psychological problems and may require “professional” help.

During our lifetime, we will likely experience several different types of grief: the death of a loved one, job loss, divorce, loss of a pet, a sudden health or handicap issue, etc. All of these can trigger the same emotions. Grief is the same for everyone but only different. We may experience the same feelings and emotions no matter the loss but in various ways. The best example of this is a recent experience

of mine.

I was monitoring a grief group where the group leader used my book as his “prompts” for conversation. They were discussing the chapter on emotions, and he asked the group to take a few minutes and write down how they were feeling. The group was mixed with people who had lost spouses, children and siblings, several grieving over divorces and two

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people coming out of a drug rehab program. Everyone in the group shared their feelings by reading what they had written. I was fascinated by the fact that a man who had lost his wife and a divorced woman had written almost the same thing. If they had been sitting beside each other, you would have thought they copied each other, but they were seated at opposite ends of the table. He was grieving the loss of a companion’s life. She was mourning the loss of life, a lifestyle.

There is another kind of grief rarely discussed, anticipatory grief, which is the type of grief you experience when you are anticipating the death of a loved one. If you have ever lost a loved one, knowing it would eventually happen, you have experienced anticipatory grief. This may be particularly true when they have been diagnosed with progressive disease or an incurable diagnosis. The recent pandemic caused a great deal of anticipatory grief when family members were not able to visit terminally ill patients in the hospital.

There is no right or wrong way to deal with grief; as I mentioned before, “it is the same for everyone, only different.” You do not need to be a certain type of person to grieve; we all grieve. Grief is wrapped up in emotions, feelings and memories. Comparing one person’s grief to another is not helpful.

Like the Frank Sinatra song “My Way,” you need to do it your way.

When experiencing grief, take as much time as necessary to move forward. You will learn to honor the one you lost by finding the freedom to move forward peacefully and love yourself. You do not need to justify how long it takes you; there are no rules. Just be patient...

Editors Note: Tom Rose is the author of “Balloon in a Box, Coping with Grief.” The book is available on Amazon, Fables Books, Goshen or the website thomaslrose.com. He is available for speaking engagements and as a grief group facilitator. He would love to hear your comments or questions. Phone: (574) 596-6256. Email: roseandrose@comcast.net.

Senior Talk Michiana podcast available at: thomaslrose.com/senior-talk

It is about the time zones

By TOM MORROW Mature Life Features

It happens every autumn. We “fall” back one hour to Standard Time from Daylight Savings Time.

The first implementation of DST was by the city of Port Arthur in Ontario, Canada, in 1908. A merchant talked the city council into launching the new time so he (and his fellow townsfolk) could enjoy an extra hour of summer daylight.

The first nationwide implementation was launched April 30, 1916, by the German and Austro-Hungarian empires to save energy during World War I. The United States adopted the practice about the same time for the same reason, dropped it after the war and reinstituted it during World War II.

Japan, China, India and most of Africa and South America do not adust their clocks twice a year.

But about the only time most of us take notice of “time” is when we have to keep an appointment, find out when our favorite television program is aired — or cuss out the confounding leap forward and fall back changing of our clocks and watches.

And if we have to call someone at the other end of the country or across an ocean.

The definition of a time zone is a longitudinal (up and down) geographic location that observes a uniform area for legal, commercial and social purposes. There are 24 time zones wrapped around the globe. Each is 15 degrees (60 miles a degree) apart longitudinally. They often follow the boundaries between states and countries and their subdivisions instead of strictly following longitude degrees, because it is convenient for areas in frequent communication to keep the same time … like railroads, airlines, and communications networks.

In reality, the position of the sun in the sky designates solar time, which is by location because of the spherical shape of the Earth.

This variation corresponds to four minutes of time for every degree of longitude. So, for example, when it is solar noon in London, it is about 10 minutes before solar noon in Bristol, England, which is about 2.5 degrees west of that city.

The British Royal Observatory in Greenwich was founded in 1675, establishing “Greenwich Mean Time,” which measures solar time from that geographic location. In the 19th century, as transportation and telecommunications improved, it became increasingly inconvenient for each community to observe its own solar time. In November 1840, the Great Western Railway started using GMT on portable

chronometers. This practice was soon followed by other railway companies in Great Britain and became known as “Railway Time.”

During the summer of 1852, time signals were first transmitted by telegraph from the Royal Observatory. By 1855, Great Britain’s public clocks were using GMT, but that didn’t become England’s legal time until 1880.

Timekeeping on North American railroads in the 19th century was complex. Each railroad used its own standard of time, usually based on the local time of its headquarters or, more importantly, its terminus. Each railroad’s train schedules was published using its own time.

Some junctions served by several railroads had a clock for each railroad, each of which showed a different time.

In 1863, school principal Charles F. Dowd proposed a system of hourly standard time zones for North Amer-

ican railroads but never consulted the railroads until 1869.

He proposed four ideal time zones for the United States, having north-south borders, with the first centered on Washington, DC. But the first time zone was established in 1872 and was centered on meridian 75 degrees west of Greenwich. Dowd’s system was never accepted.

Instead, US and Canadian railroads implemented a version proposed by the Traveler’s Official Railway Guide. The borders of its time zones ran through major cities’ railroad stations

Canadian-born Sanford Fleming proposed a worldwide system that divided the globe into 24 time zones. All clocks within each zone would be set to the same time and differ by one hour from those in the neighboring zones.

By 1900, almost all inhabited places on earth had adopted a standard time zone, but many applied the time at

a local astronomical observatory to an entire country without any reference to GMT. It took several decades before all time zones were based on some standard offset from GMT.

By 1929, the majority of countries had adopted hourly time zones, except Iran, India and parts of Australia, which have time zones with a 30-minute offset.

Today, several countries and subdivisions use halfhour or quarter-hour devi-

ations from standard time. China and India use a single time zone even though the extent of their territory far exceeds the ideal 15 degrees of longitude for one hour; while others such as Spain and Argentina, use standard hour-based offsets, but not necessarily those that would be determined by their geographical location.

Russia, which has 11 time zones, removed two zones in 2010, but they were reinstated in 2014.

Mature

Soak in southern allure on Georgia coast

By SANDY KATZ Mature Life Features

If you think the livin’ is easy in Georgia’s First City, let

yourself be lulled leisurely into its surroundings to soak in the true South.

British colonists established Savannah city in 1733 when Gen. James Oglethorpe pitched

a tent alongside the Savannah River, planting the seed for a city that grew into such a beauty it was spared from Gen. William Sherman’s torch in his March to the Sea in 1864.

To maintain a record of and memorialize its past, it became one of the first cities in the state to launch a historic preservation program that features, among other things, 22 mossdraped, tree-filled squares embracing historic buildings, green space, and riverfront areas.

You can pick from several guided walking, riding or carriage tours that focus on everything from ghosts to food to history to birding.

For some truly laid back Southern comfort, there are Savannah Riverboat cruises as well as nearby Tybee Island, with its old fashioned charm of a beach community that stood still in time.

Among other nearby diversions is The Mighty Eighth Air

Force museum that chronicles the history of the Eighth Air Force, which was activated at nearby Hunter Field during World War II and created the largest air armada in history. Its exhibits include the City of Savannah, a B-17 bomber flown on combat missions to Germany.

Fort King George, the oldest fort on the Georgia coast that served as the British Empire’s southernmost outpost in North America from 1721 to 1737, has been reconstructed on its original site in nearby Darien.

The remains of the Scottish pioneer village built here after the fort was abandoned are also on the grounds.

A highlight of a Georgia coast trip is the boat ride in the Okefanokee National Wildlife refuge, where you can get pretty up close and personal to an abundance of wildlife that includes alligators, black bears, otters, herons and egrets.

On Jekyll Island, you can

visit the exclusive cottages that were once inhabited by the richest barons in the United States.

Down the road a piece is La Grange on the shores of West Point Lake, a 26,000-acre reservoir with a 500-mile shoreline. It’s reputed to have some of the best bass fishing in the nation.

You can take a trip back in time at The Exploration in Antiquity Center, which gives visitors a look at and feel of daily living during ancient Biblical times.

Just above Atlanta is Marietta and the Gone with the Wind Museum, which houses the largest private collection of movie memorabilia.

Pedi-cab rides are educational and enlightening tours around Marietta square and the Marietta trolley offers a one-hour narration of the historic city of Marietta that includes a visit to battlefields at Kennesaw Mountain.

The

FORT KING GEORGE The oldest fort on the Georgia coast, Fort King George, which served as the British Empire’s southernmost outpost in North America from 1721 to 1737, has been reconstructed on its original site in Darien.

HISTORIC DISTRICT Savannah’s International Trade and Convention Center is perched on Hutchinson Island across from the city’s historic district.

Text and Photos

What Donald Trump and Grover Cleveland both have in common

By TOM MORROW Mature Life Features

The election of Donald Trump as the 47th U.S. president is historically important because he is only the second U.S. chief executive, joining Grover Cleveland, to be president of the United States two different times.

Cleveland’s first term stretched from March 4, 1885, to March 4, 1889. After losing re-election, he ran and served again from March 4, 1893, to March 4, 1897.

The first Democrat elected after the Civil War, Cleveland was the only U.S. president to have served two non-consecutive terms, until Donald Trump who served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021 and becomes the 47th president serving form 2025 to 2029.

Cleveland’s presidencies were the nation’s 22nd and 24th. He defeated James G. Blaine of Maine for his first term, lost a re-election bid to Benjamin Harrison of Indiana, and defeated President Harrison in 1892. He was succeeded by Republican William McKinley in 1896. Cleveland won the 1884 election with the support of a reform-minded group of Republicans known as Mugwumps and he expanded the number of government positions that were protected by the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act. He also vetoed several bills designed to provide pensions and other benefits to various regions and individuals. In response to anti-competitive practices by railroads, Cleveland signed the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887, which established the first

independent federal agency. The major foreign policy event of his first term was the Samoan crisis, ended with a tripartite protectorate in the Samoan Islands.

As his second term began,

the Panic of 1893 produced a severe national economic depression. He also presided over the repeal of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act, striking a blow against the Free Silver movement and ordered federal soldiers to crush the Pullman railroad-car strike.

In foreign policy, Cleveland resisted the annexation of the Hawaiian Islands and any American intervention in Cuba. He also sought to uphold the Monroe Doctrine and forced Great Britain to agree to arbitrate a border dispute with Venezuela and British Honduras. In the midterm elections of 1894, the Democratic Party suffered a massive defeat that opened the way for the agrarian and silverite supporters to seize control of the party.

The 1896 Democratic

National Convention turned against Cleveland and nominated agrarian populist William Jennings Bryan of Nebraska, but in the general election of 1896, Bryan was defeated by Republican William McKinley.

Cleveland left office extremely unpopular, but his reputation was eventually rehabilitated in the 1930s by scholars. Recent historians and biographers have taken a more ambivalent view of Cleveland, but in rankings of American presidents by historians and political, he is generally ranked as being an “average” or “above-average” president.

During the next four years, it’ll be interesting to see President Trump and where he’ll end up on history’s ranking years after most of us are gone.

Imagination can break down borders

By CECIL SCAGLIONE

Mature Life Features

With a bit of imagination, you can travel anywhere in the world without ever stepping outside your backyard. Or, if you’re quartered in a condo or apartment, your patio or balcony.

Longing to sip a dewy glass of wine at a sidewalk café in Paris? Arrange your outdoor furniture in proper Parisian order, sit down with a cool glass of wine and leaf through photos of the iconic Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Left Bank and any others you have in your collection of photos you took or in travel magazines.

If it’s Rome you want to revisit, gather your photos of the Colosseum, Vatican, and surroundings, order a pizza and pull up to a hearty glass of vino

rosso to transport you to the land of the Caesars.

You don’t have to go all that far.

Remember the last time you visited the grandkids? While you can’t haul them off to their nearby park or favorite ice cream shop, you can replicate the backyard barbecue and their favorite ribs or hamburger or hot dog.

Or how about the time you watched the sun slip over the edge of the ocean that last time you cruised through California?

Point your chair toward the western sky and enjoy your own private sunset every day.

All this should not sound all that absurd to seniors. Imagining travel was prevalent before the jet age and the building of the national freeway system.

Getaways to the tropics, Europe or such exotic sites as

the Great Wall of China were limited to books and travelogues for most folks because of the cost and time required.

One old timer recalled not too long ago that his first trips to Niagara Falls were taken at breakfast each morning by looking at the scene on the

Nabisco cereal box.

The COVID-19 lockdown produced a Renaissance in the use of backyards. Landscapers, and outdoor furniture suppliers report business still booming as householders focus on making their properties more usable and comfortable because they’re looking for something to do.

High on the list of amenities, along with inflatable pools and cooking equipment, are giant-screen television sets, which makes life much easier for the armchair traveller.

GROVER CLEVELAND

A good insight into RV history

At one time, Elkhart and the surrounding Michiana area had some 300 firms producing recreational vehicles. These RVs accounted for more than 85% of all RVs made in the country. Because of this, Elkhart was known as the RV Capital of the U.S.

Today, you can trace the industry’s heritage by visiting the RV/ Manufactured Home museum,

Before entering Founders Hall to see the early RVs, take a few minutes to check out the photo timeline highlighting the history of RVs by decade, starting with 1900.

Among the unusual vehicles shown is one produced in the 1970s by Winnebago, called the Heli-home, which was actually designed to fly.

The early RVs were a far cry from present-day luxury homes on wheels. They basically started as camping trailers and add-ons to pickup trucks with attached

Continued on page 23

STRIKING VISITORS BUREAU BUILDING The RV/Manufactured Home Museum, Hall of Fame and Library is housed in the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau Building overlooking the Indiana Turnpike near exit 96. It had been located in downtown Elkhart since 1972 before moving into this building seven years ago.

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature

valuables through fire, tornado or theft can be sensibly covered with the proper amount of insurance.

Liability coverage to protect you financially should someone injure themselves when they stumble on your steps is also a possibility to ponder.

If you operate a small business, lawn and garden care or tax preparation, for example, you probably should add liability coverage in that sector.

Life and accident insurance also are a portion of many folks’ portfolio.

An error that some people make is spreading the responsibility for coverage among several companies thinking that spreading responsibility for coverage lowers their level of risk.

In most cases, you’ll find you can save up to 15% on insurance costs if you consolidate your premiums with the same company.

Elkhart RV Museum —

THROUGH THE DECADES This photo board outside Founders Hall shows some of the creations that led up to today’s luxury homes on wheels.

TINY TRAILER — A 1957 teardrop trailer had barely enough room for two people. An Ohio manufacturer is making them again.

library and hall of fame, located just off the Indiana Turnpike at Exit 96 in the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau building.

GREAT ESCAPES

Text and Photos By ROD KING

A good insight

Continued from page 22

tents and awnings that rolled out to cover a camp table.

Shult Trailer built the first production model in 1911. It was followed in the 1920s by the motorized house car. In the late 1950s, the self-contained vehicles were called “motoring houses” before becoming recreational vehicles.

Founders Hall is laid out roughly in chronological order along a winding roadway through a campground setting with trees, park benches and a foot bridge. An earliest example is the 1913 Earl Travel Trailer. Each has a descriptive information plaque.

Among the oddest are the 1916 Model T “Telescoping Apartment” and the 1935 Bowlus Road Chief, which resembles an Airstream with a fish tail. In the far corner of the hall is the 1988 Star Streak II, looking like an oversize minivan with Cadillac trail fins.

Nearby stands the world’s oldest Winnebago, built in 1957, and the 1931 Chevrolet Housecar built by Paramount Pictures to haul actress Mae West from her hotel to the movie set.

Some tiny trailers bring a new meaning to the word “togetherness.” One is the 1957 Serro

Scotty 10-foot teardrop trailer.

Two people can supposedly wedge themselves in, but it’s difficult to imagine getting a good night’s sleep.

Also on display is the 1958 prototype of the smallest Airstream trailer ever built called the “der Kleiner Prinz” (Little Prince) for the German market. It never went into production.

The RV/Manufactured Home Museum is located in Elkhart, just off the Indiana Turnpike at exit 96. When you arrive there, turn right onto Executive Park-

way and follow it to the museum, which is in the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau building.

Winter hours through March are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Saturday.

Summer hours (April through October) are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, and children 6-16, $12.

For more information click on rvmhhalloffame.org or call (800) 378-8694.

Tours

January

CHEVROLET HOUSE CAR Paramount Pictures built this house car in 1931 for its star, actress Mae West, to take her from her hotel to the movie set.

COVERED-WAGON TRAILER The first production travel trailer was the covered-wagon trailer in 1929. The company went out of business during World War II.

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