orizons ENLIGHTEN t ENRICH t ENGAGE
Inside Federal Deficits & You Views of Senate candidates ........ 2
Eating On The Road How to avoid acquiring excess ‘baggage’ . ......... 2
The Doctor Is In Staying physically active is a key to good health ...... 3
Issue Seven
Retirement Communities Promote ‘Green’ Living Residents, Planet Benefit From Healthier Lifestyles
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mericans have been making the move to active 55 and retirement communities for many reasons, but the draw of a healthier, ‘greener’ lifestyle is one of the big ones. “With a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), we believe that the sharing of resources and energy among residents will do more to conserve than when those residents are scattered in their individual houses,” says Herb Kaiser, Secretary of the Board for American Heritage Communities, the management firm for The Heritage of Green Hills. “I think the older, smarter, and more experienced people want to save on energy and save the environment.” Studies Examine Impact Experts agree. Research-
ers at Cornell University cite a number of ways that CCRCs can be environmentally friendly. CCRCs can deliver “efficient service provision for a group that has specific needs — service providers come to them. This can be energy efficient in the sense that Residents and staff of The Heritage of Green Hills gathered to plant trees transportation during Earth Day 2010. costs of numerous people drivcompact layouts, while their homes, they’re often ing or being driven to serfreeing up larger homes in in environments where the vice providers individually the wider community and “automobile is the main, are reduced.” reducing the need for new and often exclusive, mode In addition, they note construction.” of transportation,” and that CCRCs provide “[r]ight On the other hand, the “walking is neither facilisizing of dwellings for older Cornell researchers note tated nor encouraged.” people, typically in more that when seniors remain in SEE “GREEN LIVING” ON P. 7
Federal Commission To Weigh Deficits Train aficianados get head start on building Christmas display ..............4
Upcoming Events ................ 4 Sudoku . ............. 5 Green Thumbs Up
history from the very beginning, You load sixteen tons, what do you when the Continental Congress get? Another day older and deeper in debt. had to find creative ways to Saint Peter, don’t you call me, ‘cause I finance the Revolutionary War. But how much debt is too much? can’t go; Much of our debt today is owed I owe my soul to the company store. —“Sixteen Tons” to foreign creditors. What if they Merle Travis demand higher interest rates, which may make borrowing re two federal programs critical prohibitively expensive, for seniors, Medicare or cut us off altogether? and Social Security, in To confront these problems, a Analysis And in a country where jeopardy because of federal new organization has been created, advocating tax increases is deficits? the National Commission on Fiscal often viewed as a form of America is in debt. This is nothing Responsibility and Reform (NCFRR). new; debt has been a part of America’s political suicide, what are the options if America is taking on too much debt? SEE “DEFICITS” ON P. 2
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Residents enjoy the great outdoors ............5
Residents’ Active, Healthy Lives Are No Accident At The Heritage
Crossword Puzzle ................ 5
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A Good Influence Grandparents share the calm that comes with experience ..... 6
Discover The Heritage Full-Service Retirement Living................ 8 Heritage Retirement Specialist Elizabeth Proffitt
here is a new attitude toward the golden years. Retirees are no longer content to sit back and just relax on the front porch. They’re living active, productive lives filled with fun and adventure. To reap the rewards of a lifetime of hard work, seniors understand the great importance of maintaining their physical and mental health. “Seniors today enjoy active lives that previous generations would have envied,” says Elizabeth Proffitt, Retirement Specialist at The Heritage of Green Hills. “And they are keenly aware of just how important it is to take care of their health so they can stay active. They can see the advantages of our Well By Design® program right away.” Well By Design® is The Heritage’s SEE “BY DESIGN” ON P. 7
The Heritage of Green Hills 200 Tranquility Lane Reading, PA 19607
Building A New World
Will Social Security’s Huge Surpluses Protect It From Cuts?
Horizons
Page 2
July 2010
Your Vacation Can Please Your Palette And Still Be Healthy
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acations are supposed to be an escape from the routine, where you overindulge on the pleasures of the world. However, when traveling, we should never escape from
the routine of healthy living, and the only thing you should overindulge in is common sense. Here are a few tips to stay healthy on your next trip, whether it’s by land, air or sea. Shift to a Snacking Gear Ignore those blue signs on the side of the interstate that list the tempting fast-food options at the next exit. Instead, bring a snack-attack pack of fruits, nuts, yogurt, granola bars and carrot sticks, along with a big bottle of water. Not only is it a healthier option, but you’ll also get to your destination sooner by not stopping so often. Snacks on a Plane While the
FROM “DEFICITS” ON P. 1
The commission’s website proclaims, “The Commission is charged with identifying policies to improve the fiscal situation in the medium term and to achieve fiscal sustainability over the long run. Specifically, the Commission shall propose recommendations designed to balance the budget, excluding interest payments on the debt, by 2015.” The Future of American Debt It’s an ambitious goal. The cumulative impact of spending for two wars, bailouts, the Bush-era tax cuts, diminished revenues from the economic downturn plus the stimulus to combat it have all combined to raise deficit spending to levels higher (relative to the economy) than at any other point in the post-World War II era. Looking further into the future, America’s aging baby
rules for items you can take on airplanes have grown stricter recently, you can still take solid snacks like apples, trail mix, bananas and energy bars. All of those are better options than the salty snacks provided in-flight. Fly Veggie Airlines On your next long flight, request vegetarian meals, which tend to be lighter and healthier than their meaty counterparts. Some airlines provide choices for vegetarians — including vegan, Indian and Asian — giving you plenty of options to suit your palate. Be Keen on Kitchenettes Let us find you a hotel with a kitchenette. On one of the first days of your vacation, hit the local supermarket and stock up on healthy basics you can cook right in your room. The fewer times you have to eat at restaurants, the better. Plus, the supermarket is a great place to learn about local foods if you’re in a foreign country. Start the Day Right A hotel’s continental breakfast or morning buffet gives you a wide choice of options, some healthy, most not. Stay clear of the Danishes and doughnuts, and stick to the
With Deficits Climbing, Will Politicians Protect Commitments To Social Security? boomer generation will require more Social Security and Medicare spending, which will potentially create tremendous deficits if no adjustments are made, according to the nonprofit organization, America Speaks. This organization projects that federal spending could be more than double its revenues by the middle of the century. Social Security’s Confusing Role Debate about Social Security’s exact role in contributing to the federal deficit can be confusing because of the way its outlays are indirectly connected to its revenues. For more than two decades, Social Security has not contributed
fruits, cereals and yogurt. With a big day ahead of you, you’ll want to get off to the right — and healthier — start. Stay in Shipshape Shape Keep a healthy focus when faced with cruise ships’ massive buffet bars. Split one of those large plates with your mate, and only hit the buffet once per meal. After your food has settled, tackle some of the ship’s onboard activities — such as the fitness center or ice skating rink — instead of plopping down next to the pool. We all want to return from a vacation looking invigorated and well-rested. That’s hard to do when you spend the entire time gorging yourself on local delicacies or opting for the motorcoach over the volcano hike. So keep these tips in mind the next time you travel so that when you return, everyone will shriek with jealousy when they see how great you look. Boscov’s Travel is pleased to be a Community Partner with The Heritage. Visit a Boscov’s Travel Counselor on site at The Heritage. Dates and hours will be made available in your mailbox.
to federal deficits at all. In fact, the program has been racking up huge surpluses, as Americans — particularly the baby boomer generation — have been paying a lot more into the system than retirees have been collecting. Those extra funds have been ‘invested’ in Treasury bills. That is, the federal government has been borrowing that money — basically borrowing money from itself, so to speak — to pay for other programs (such as helping fund the Cold War buildup in the 1980s and later financing the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan). Borrowing these funds instead of having to go to the private market helped keep interest levels down. On the Social Security side, if it had invested in stocks instead of government debt, it may have been able to grow, but it would also have risked incurring the same enormous losses that other investors experienced with the bursting of the tech bubble and the housing market meltdown. Social Security is only now beginning to pay SEE “COMMISSION” ON P. 6
What Do Our Senate Candidates Think About Social Security And The Deficit? Congressman Joe Sestak Democrat
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estoring the long-term financial security of our nation must be a top priority in Congress. I support focused efforts to close the deficit and bring down the debt, including a commission, as long as we keep our promise to hard-working Americans who have funded Social Security. President Clinton left a budget surplus that was projected to eliminate the entire federal debt by 2012. Instead, Congressman Toomey and his Republican colleagues tossed out pay-as-you-go rules and squandered the surplus on upper-class tax cuts and reckless spending that doubled the debt and generated unprecedented wealth for those at the top, but tremendous hardship for working families and retirees. We need to restore pay-as-you-go budgets, close costly tax loopholes for corporations, end earmarks, and reform the payroll tax, allowing Social Security to remain solvent for another 50 years without cutting the benefits seniors count on. I respect my opponent, but what we can’t do is follow Congressman Toomey’s plan to privatize Social Security and entrust the nation’s retirement to bankers and hedge fund managers. That would mean massive fees for Wall Street, but it would come at the expense America’s seniors. From a statement Congressman Sestak released June, 2010.
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Congressman Pat Toomey Republican
ccording to President Barack Obama’s administration’s Office of Management and Budget, the country’s publicly held debt for the fiscal year 2010 will total an unprecedented $9.3 trillion. That is the amount by which our cumulative budget deficits have exceeded the rare surpluses throughout our history. As the federal government continues its unprecedented borrowing and spending, that number is projected to rise to $14 trillion in 2015, or 73 percent of our national output. … The administration also passed a whopping $3.6 trillion budget for the fiscal year 2010 and additional spending bills stuffed with wasteful pork projects. … In 2008, Bush’s final budget deficit totaled $459 billion. Now, that is a lot of money, and Republicans should never have allowed it to get that high. But even that large number constituted only 3.2 percent of GDP. One year of complete Democratic control and our deficit skyrocketed to $1.6 trillion, or nearly an astonishing 11 percent of our GDP in 2009. … Reigning in out-of-control spending that is creating unsustainable debt should not be subject to political gamesmanship. It is imperative that Washington politicians join together in a bipartisan movement to save our country from financial ruin. … From an op-ed piece Congressman Toomey wrote April, 2010.
Horizons
July 2010
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xercise is one of the key ingredients to a healthy, long life and staying mentally sharp. But if you haven’t been active lately, how much exercise should you do? Perhaps you are newly retired and have moved into a senior community to take advantage of the fitness center. Where to begin? The experts at National Institute on Aging offer many suggestions on how to gauge your current fitness and what exercise frequency and intensity is best suited for you. Studies indicate that people with arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease can benefit from regular exercise, but should get their doctors’ approval before undertaking a new regimen. You should also check with your doctor first if you have any new, undiagnosed symptoms, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, joint swelling, severe shortness of breath, or you recently had surgery or other health issues. Ask if there are any activities you should avoid. Additionally, be sure all your preventive care is up to date. Set Your Goals The first step is to keep an activity log of your current lifestyle over two weeks. Record what activity you performed and for how long. In the meantime, write down your long and short term
Dr. Roland Newman II, D.O.
It’s Never Too Late To Start (Or Restart) Being Physically Active
goals. Short term goals are the things you need to do in order to make daily exercise easier. You may need to purchase appropriate sneakers or loose fitting clothing, for example. If you are currently active, your short-term ambitions may include increasing the frequency or intensity of your work out. Short-term objectives are generally easier and quicker to obtain, and will boost your confidence as you strive toward long term targets. Your long-term goals should be broken into six months, a year or two year increments. Remember to keep these comprehensive aims realistic, attainable and a priority to you. And specific. For instance, in a year you will successfully run three miles by running every other day. Expound on what, why and when you will do these things. Make a habit of checking on your written plan, so you can update it and achieve cumulative successes. Often, people find committing their exercise plan to paper helps them keep their promise to themselves. And involving others in your plan can increase your commitment. Strive For A Balanced Approach The National Institute on Aging recommends these Try to incorporate tips to avoid injury while exercising: activities that are enjoy• When starting an exercise program, begin slowly with able, fit your budget and health. Even if you low-intensity exercises. have no major health • Wait at least two hours after eating a large meal concerns, if exercise is before doing strenuous exercise. not something you’ve • Wear appropriate shoes for your activity and comfortbeen doing, you may able, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to move want to check with your physician for any spefreely but won’t catch on other objects. cific safety tips prior • Warm up with low-intensity exercises at the beginto getting started with ning of each exercise session. your new health regi• Drink water before, during, and after your exercise men, and then gradually session. start activity. Consider working with a personal • When exercising outdoors, pay attention to your surfitness trainer if you are roundings — consider possible traffic hazards, the new to all this. weather, uneven walking surfaces, and strangers. The best plans will Stop exercising if you: include the four types of exercise: endurance, • Have pain or pressure in your chest, neck, shoulder, or strength, flexibility, and arm balance. Each form has • Feel dizzy or sick to your stomach different benefits, and the variety will help • Break out in a cold sweat prevent boredom and • Have muscle cramps injury. The National • Feel severe pain in joints, feet, ankles, or legs Institute on Aging recommends that you “Try Source: to do at least 30 minutes http://www.nia.nih.gov/HealthInformation/ of moderate-intensity Publications/ExerciseGuide/03_go.htm endurance activity on For specific exercises go to: most or all days of the http://nihseniorhealth.gov/exerciseforolderadults/ week. If you don’t have 30 minutes in your daily toc.html routine to be active, look for three 10-minute
How To Avoid Injury When You Start An Exercise Program
periods. Getting this amount every day is best, but doing anything is better than doing nothing at all. When you do strength exercises, try to do them for all of your major muscle groups on two or more days a week for 30-minute sessions each, but don’t do strength exercises of the same muscle group two days in a row.” Be sure to warm up before you begin any form of exercise with a few minutes of walking or other light endurance exertion. Endurance exercises increase your heart rate and breathing for a prolonged period of time. You should gradually increase your endurance, even if you start with five minutes, aiming to eventually attain 30 minutes of moderate-intensity endurance activity on five to seven days a week. Less than 10 minute increments will not benefit your heart or lungs, but a smaller increment is OK to build up from as you first implement your fitness program. Here are some suggested moderate endurance activities for the typical baby boomer: walking briskly, swimming, and dancing. More vigorous activities include: basketball, jogging, climbing stairs and hills, shoveling, bicycling, gardening, mowing, raking, stationary bicycle, and tennis. Once again, if you have been inactive for awhile, be sure to work up to these activities gradually. To build muscle, perform strength exercises. Even a small improvement in muscle strength will lighten your burden when you go to lift something. To avoid injury, start with light weights that you can lift or push a weight eight times in a row, and slowly increase the weights as the weeks go by. When you can do two sets of 10 to 15 repetitions, it’s time to increase the load. Stretch Yourself To avoid debilitating falls, incorporate balance exercise in addition to your strength routine. If you feel unsteady, have a chair or person close by to hold onto and check with your doctor about any specific move that makes you unsure (perhaps after surgery, etc.). Finally, incorporate stretching exercises to increase flexibility. The resulting freedom of movement will be helpful when performing everyday activities. Start by performing your stretches three to five times each. You should not feel pain, so don’t overdo it. As you progress, reach further. Do not “lock” your joints or “bounce.” Try to maintain your new active lifestyle. Sometimes vacations, company or illness can interrupt your routine. If the break was long, allow yourself to gradually get back into the routine. If the event was life altering you may need to try new strategies, like doing an exercise DVD while your ill spouse naps. To reach your goals, you’ll ultimately want to make it a priority to exercise daily. Be sure to incorporate activities you enjoy! Performing all four types of exercise — endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility — will help give you variety. Review and update those short and longterm goals. Then reward your accomplishments, maybe with a movie or day in the park. Go forth and conquer! Dr. Newman and his associates at Green Hills Family Medicine hold regular hours at The Heritage’s on-site medical center.
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Train Garden Artisans Get Early Start On Christmas
Heritage Resident Rodney Focht
July 2010
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hat is even more fun th and collaborating with At The Heritage of Green iaturists come together to to c previously had in their old ho in a special room set aside fo landscape with model trains dollhouse furniture will use t elements, while others create Hop On For A Joy Ride Rodney Focht, who mov Mary Ann, is happy to brin idents. What began for him a yearly tradition that overto tained their five children — the wonderful locomotives. to the community, he inquir The Heritage happily oblige Rodney explains that the The Heritage of Green Hill “What we’re doing back he guides an inquirer throu the mountain, there’s a lady and people, so she’s makin right on top of that mounta log cabin back here. Anoth In addition to Rodney’s tributed his collection, and watching the engines whiz to the group, where the su
Upcoming Events Here are some highlights of activities residents will be enjoying in the month ahead. For more information, contact us at 484-269-5143. ON CAMPUS Monday in the Art Studio: Mondays at 1 p.m. July 5: Fresh flowers with Monika. $10 July 12: Dried flowers with Gene. $5 July 19: Creative Writing Class. Free July 26: Dried flowers with Gene. $5 Phillies Games in Tavern: $1 hot dogs and $2 domestic beers: Sunday July 11, Saturday July 17, Sunday July 18, Saturday July 24. Check team schedule for exact times. Monday Games: Outside at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. Ladder Golf Bocce Ball Horseshoes Wednesday Games: Meet On The Patio at 7 p.m. July 7 Ladder Golf & Croquet July 14 Ladder Golf & Bocce Ball July 21 Ladder Golf & Croquet July 28 Ladder Golf & Horseshoes Tuesday, July 6 Heritage Literary Dinner Club: Still Alice, Lisa Genova. Dinner at 5 p.m., discussion at 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 7 Alvernia Sr. College Breakfast: Presentation on golf injuries and prevention with Dr. Zellers of Kulp Chiropractic Clinic. 8:30 a.m. Comedy with Linda: “Chocolate Date” celebration with biography of Milton Hershey, founder of Hershey Chocolate, plus a sweet surprise. Wednesday, July 14 Summer Pool Game Day I: Stay
cool, exercise, have fun, enjoy patio picnic & beer on patio afterwards. $10/off meal plan for picnic. 3 p.m. Thursday, July 15 Pina Colada & Patio Open House: Join us for BBQ and show off your new community to friends and neighbors. Food, drinks, and music provided. 3 p.m. Wednesday, July 21 Summer Patio Potluck: Relax with friends and bring your favorite summer dish to share. 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 28 Summer Pool Game Day II: Stay cool, exercise, have fun, enjoy patio picnic & beer on patio afterwards. $10/off meal plan for picnic. 3 p.m. ONGOING ON CAMPUS Mondays: Outdoor Games 1 & 7 p.m. Tuesdays: Bridge 1 p.m., Dancing 2 p.m., & French 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays: Outdoor Games 7 p.m. Thursdays: Spanish 2 p.m. Fridays: Wii Bowling 2 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays: Movies 7 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays: Bridge 1 p.m. SUMMER CONCERT SERIES July 1: Muhlenberg School. 6 p.m. July 3: New Holland. 6 p.m.* July 4: Conrad Weiser. 12:30 p.m.* July 7: New Holland. 6 p.m.* July 11: Grings Mill. 5:15 p.m.* July 18: New Holland. 6 p.m.* July 24: New Holland. 6 p.m.* July 25: Grings Mill. 5:15 p.m.* July 31: New Holland. 6 p.m.* * Chairs needed
OFF CAMPUS Saturday, July 3 Reading Pagoda: View city of Reading; visit café and gift shop. Noon. Tuesday, July 6 Kutztown Folk Festival: Enjoy history and the finest in PA Dutch cooking, crafts, music, folk life and more; $9. 10 a.m. Thursday, July 8 Elmwood Zoo: This Norristown zoo’s mission is to foster an appreciation of wildlife in their habitat; $7. 10 a.m. Friday, July 9 Glick’s Greenhouse Summer Celebration: Take in the sights of Manatawny Creek Farm’s 400 varieties of hybrid daylilies in peak bloom. Produce, bargains, food and fun.10 a.m. Saturday, July 10 Summer Yule Festival: The National Christmas Center in Lancaster holds “Christmas in July” with craftsmen, songs, food and gifts. 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 14 American Helicopter Museum: This museum restores and displays over 35 civilian and military helicopters, autogiros and convertiplanes; $8. 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 14 Midsummer Night Stroll: Local ecologist Bob Hopkins points out the fascinating flora and fauna of the Heritage Center. 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 17 Hopewell Furnace Operation Days: Living history lessons, furnace start up, crafts, flea market and food. 10 a.m. Saturday, July 17 Reading Country Club Dinner & Dancing: Enjoy dinner and dance
to the Maria Damore Trio. 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 21 Intercourse Canning Company/ Pretzel Factory: Two stops in Intercourse. One, the canning company offers products freshly packed by local Mennonite and Amish folk. Two, overlook the room where people are making pretzels and learn to twist your own. 10 a.m. Thursday, July 22 Kimberton Whole Foods/ Michael’s Diner: Striving to bring you the best local, natural and organic products available. Support your healthy lifestyle. 10 a.m. Friday, July 23 The Ecological Indian: Dave “Big Owl” McSurdy takes a look into whether American Indians were true ecologists and stewards of the land. 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 24 Landis Valley Civil War Village: Go back to 1863 for a day with Union Soldiers encamped on historic grounds, demonstrations and food; $10. 9 a.m. Sunday, July 25 125th Anniversary of Reading Liederkranz: German song, dance, music and culture on the mountain. 12:30 p.m. Thursday, July 29 Herr’s Factory Tour: No fake machinery or actors — it’s the real process Herr’s has perfected to make their snacks taste really great. 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 31 Kempton Railroad & Kempton Hotel Lunch: Take a ride through some of the prettiest scenery in Pennsylvania on the “Hawk Mountain Line”; $8. 11 a.m.
Horizons
July 2010
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han enjoying a hobby on your own? Sharing h other enthusiasts! Hills, individual model train experts and mincreate something even more grand than they ouses. At their new home, they meet together or trains. Here they can contribute to a scale and tiny houses. Residents that enjoy making their talents to create small houses and garden e mountains and rivers.
ved to The Heritage last year with his wife, ng his collection out to the delight of other resas a childhood Christmas display turned into ook the family garage every fall. He enter— and later their eleven grandchildren — with Rather than give them up when they moved red if he could have a space for them, and the ed him with a room dedicated to the hobby. e group is working towards exhibiting during ls open house. k here is building a mountain,” he explains as ugh the room’s arrangement. “And at the top of y who’s very good at making miniature towns ng a pagoda for it. And we’re going to have it ain. … We’re going to have a waterfall. And a her lady is making a circus tent.” s pre-war Lionel, resident Bob Zinn has cond spends time embellishing the scenery and z by. They look forward to welcoming others um is most definitely greater than the parts.
Residents Eager To Enjoy Amazing Atlantic City Air Show In August
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n Wednesday, August 25, residents will travel to Atlantic City to take in the truly spectacular air show, “Thunder Over The Boardwalk.” The show features breathtaking aerial maneuvers by the U.S. Air Force squadron, “Thunderbirds” (which fly the F16C Fighting Falcons, above), as well as intriguing flights by vintage aircraft like the famous World War II P51 Mustang (below). Reserve your seat today to take in one of the greatest air shows in the world. Seating is limited. Call 484-269-5143 for details.
Planting For The Future Kathy Wagner, Kathy Maier, Lois Beam, and Susan Johnson were just a few of the many Heritage residents and staff who pitched in recently to plant flowers and trees during Earth Day.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1 First principles 5 Small goby 9 Bird 12 Vegetable 13 Hence 14 Yellow Sea arm 15 Evening (Ital.) 16 Bosh 18 Grandfather of Saul 20 Weight allowance 21 Hog’s guts 23 Biddy 24 Begin 25 Daughters of
the American Revolution (abbr.) 26 Double (abbr.) 29 Ibsen character 30 Science class 31 3 (Rom. numeral) 32 Sp. article 33 Fishing line cork 34 Desolate 36 Bird 37 Headstrong 38 Scientific name (suf.) 40 Card 41 Dire 43 Freshwater worm
46 Grab 47 Gray wolf 48 Eight (pref.) 49 Father: Arabic 50 Elbe tributary 51 Interpret DOWN 1 Able-bodied seaman (abbr.) 2 Stinging insect 3 Horned viper 4 Firm 5 Fr. artist 6 Absent without leave (abbr.) 7 Son of Hermes
8 Edible shellfish 9 Without (Ger.) 10 Old-style verb 11 Tall tale 17 Sea eagle 19 Comparative ending 21 Cure 22 Handle 23 Habakkuk (abbr.) 25 Drop 26 Shame 27 Chew 28 Song (Ger.) 30 Afr. eye-worm 33 Church officer 34 Cooking vessel 35 Trojan hero 36 Cyclades island 37 Sorrow
Answers on page 7
38 Arabic (abbr.) 39 Phil. island 40 Rood screen 41 Genetic letters 42 Daze 44 Thus (Lat.) 45 Arabic letter
Answers on page 7
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July 2010
GRANDparents Corner
by Marc Hequet
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y grandson Justice and I British intelligence knew were prowling his favorite the Nazis had developed a urban landscape, the alley, when he radio beam to guide German turned to me and held out his arm. planes to targets at night A yellow fluff crawled on his or in bad weather — bad hand — a bumblebee. Brusquely news for English cities. I whisked it off, sweeping up the British scientists, however, 2-year old in my arms to look for soon found a way to “bend” the sting. Justice began to cry. I the German radio beams. hurried him home to get ice. Bombers missed targets. As I checked the hand, however Some completely missed — no sting. cities. We just know. Consequently, German fliers knew somewe can carry an authentic air of False Alarm thing was up but couldn’t spot it. calm and self-assurance for our All of us — child, me, bee — Churchill told only a tight inner grandchildren, as Churchill did for had been calmly going about our circle. “The very few who knew,” England. business. When I brushed away writes Churchill in his history of Sociologists confirmed it in a the bee, however, Justice read the World War II, “exchanged celestial survey of older adults earlier this change perfectly. I was scared. He grins.” year: As we age, we do find peace. got scared too. Churchill became prime minis“It seems to be a positive thing As it turned out, we were all ter in 1940 at age 65 — kind of a about aging,” says researcher John fine, including the bee. This is a grandfather Mirowsky, age 59, of the Universtory to his gensity of Texas in Austin, “and the about findSociologists confirmed it in a eration. He more balanced emotional state is ing peace had been something to be enjoyed rather than — so let’s survey of older adults earlier through all dreaded. …” turn to this year: As we age, we do this before, We can’t explain all of what we war. having know. Why try? Someday, our chilIn 1940 find peace been deeply dren and grandchildren will know Enginvolved in too. Meantime, while their parents land was World War I. He had been in battle are busy — we can be our grandenduring weeks of German bombhimself. Courageous, unafraid of children’s peace. ing. A British officer stationed in adversity, he knew England would Churchill never soft-pedaled London sent his wife and children prevail — and he knew how. what England faced. “I have nothaway for safety. ing to offer but blood, toil, tears, Ten miles from any town, Veterans Of Life’s Battles and sweat,” mother and children were amazed In a way, we grandparents are one day to see explosions in nearby like that, are we not? We’ve fields. No one was hurt by the survived times we hope bombing gone astray. The explaour grandchildren never To get a FREE nation for the off-target raid long experience. We made subscription and access all remained secret. it. We know how. issues of GRAND, the Online What we know may Churchill’s Secret still be secret, or at Magazine for Grandparents, visit Prime Minister Winston least too complicated Churchill was among the few who http://tinyurl.com/freeGRAND to tell children. Secret knew the secret — and it was one or not — why try to reason he could maintain a sturdy explain? self-assurance in those dark days.
he said in his first speech as prime minister. “We have before us an ordeal of the most grievous kind.” Throughout, however, Churchill urged calm. My own grandfather spread such calm without saying a word — rocking in his chair with a smoldering grin that made it look as though he’d just gotten away with something. In fact, he had. We all have. We’ve gotten away so far with this wild adventure called life. It’s not as if we can tell our grandchildren how. It’s rather something we can be for them. We can be their peace — the occasional bumblebee notwithstanding. And the next time that happens, I’ll try to be calmer. Author note: Marc Hequet has covered the world as a freelance journalist and as a longtime contributor to Time magazine — but he somehow always finds his way back home to Minnesota. This article is abridged from an article that appeared in the November/December 2008 issue of GRAND Magazine. Reprinted with permission of GRAND Media, LLC, copyright © 2010. All rights reserved.
Commission Appointed To Help Fix Nation’s Fiscal Balance Sheet jections — it will have exhausted its trust fund out more than it is taking in. The program itself and would have to reduce benefits by about 25 is in great shape, though, thanks to all those percent unless it was given additional revenues. years of surpluses. It has a trust fund of more If it didn’t cut benefits and the government borthan a $2 trillion in treasury bills it can redeem, rowed to cover the cost, Social Security would, and will have no problem covering all of its at that point, be contributing to the country’s expenses for another two and a half decades. At long term deficit problem. that point — in the year 2037, according to proSo, Social Security is healthy and solvent for at least the next two decades. But — and here’s the confusing part — the Economic Downturn, Financial Rescues, federal government is not in such And Legacy of Prior Policies Drive Record Deficits great shape. All the money that the Deficit, in trillions federal government has borrowed from that huge Social Security trust Recovery measures Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan fund has all been spent. It now has TARP, Fannie, and Freddie Bush-era tax cuts to find the money from somewhere Economic downturn to give that money back to Social -$1.5 Security so Social Security can con– Current deficit tinue to pay out benefits. -1.2 projection Enter The President’s Commission -0.9 This is one of the issues that the – Deficit without NCFRR is going to try to address. -0.6 these factors Though just starting, the NCFRR has already begun to generate -0.3 controversy. It has pledged that its main meetings will be open … but 0 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 the meetings of the working subcommittees of the commission have Source: Center on Budget Policy and Priorities (cbpp.org) chart based on Congressional Budget Office FROM “COMMISSION” ON P. 2
estimates. Copyright CPBB; used with permission.
been closed to the public. Moreover, liberal groups have raised concerns about the views and associations of the NCFRR members. Former Senator Alan Simpson (R-WY) co-chairs the commission, along with President Clinton’s former Chief of Staff, Erskine Bowles. Some fear ‘the deck has been stacked’ with members partial to taking aim at two of the biggest components of future federal spending: Medicare and Social Security. According to liberal blogger Jane Hamsher of FireDogLake, 14 of NCFRR’s 18 members are either on record or “likely” to be receptive to cutting benefits for current or future retirees, while 10 of the members appear to be open to some kind of Social Security privatization approach. Hamsher also points out that several NCFRR members have ties with financial corporations that may derive highly profitable business handling the investments of a privatized Social Security system, should that be the direction approved by Congress. The NCFRR’s ultimate recommendation to Congress must be approved by 14 of its 18 members. Its recommendations are non-binding, but they are likely to carry considerable weight with Congress as it wrestles with the politically difficult issue of closing the gap between spending and revenues.
July 2010
Horizons
Page 7
Retirement Communities Point Towards A Green Future Green Hills such a popular choice. system. “CCRCs offer seniors a return Researchers discovered that living But The Heritage at Green Hills to a lifestyle that is both healthier in areas with walkable green spaces does not intend to rest on its laurels, for them, and more sensible for the was directly related to longevity says Herb. “We’re in the process of environment,” notes Kevin Glover, for senior citizens, and had a meaputting in monitoring and control senior architect and principal for the surable effect on their perceived systems which can better match development firm KGRW. Kevin health. They even discovered that usage with need,” he explains. has overseen the design of over having a window with a view can Green Hills is also evaluating two dozen full-service retirement help someone recover from surgery! further investments in systems that communities. The produce renew“Retirement communities that health of able energy or have services and amenities on residents use energy more “CCRCs offer seniors a site are doing more than giving and the efficiently, but return to a lifestyle that is their residents access to a pool or health of will move ahead shop,” he adds. “They’re providboth healthier for them, with them only if the coming their residents with the tremen- munity at make ecoand more sensible for the they dous social and health benefits of a large is a nomic sense for walkable community … and doing environment.” priority residents. great things for the environment by for Green “I think our reducing our reliance on cars!” Hills. Its apartments and villas residents would like to set an examare outfitted with high-efficiency ple for their children and grandThe Health Benefits Of Natural, GE Energy Star appliances with children,” Herb says. “To protect Walkable Settings the environment, it’s important that Internationally, researchers have lifetime warranties, and villas are equipped with rainfall collection we explore generating energy in a confirmed the importance of living systems for landscaping. In addirenewable and sustainable way. It’s in attractive communities in natural tion, the assisted living facility on important for the long-term viability settings which encourage residents site, The Manor, uses a geothermal of the country.” to be both socially and physically system to help power its heating, active. It is precisely these qualities that have made The Heritage of ventilation, and air conditioning FROM “GREEN LIVING” ON P. 1
Sources used in this article: “Residential Environments for Older Americans and Their Sustainability: From the Room to the Region”; Ann Forsyth, Esther Greenhouse, Nancy Wells, Lorraine Maxwell, Joseph Laquatra, David Kay, Jennifer Tiffany; proceedings of the Aging and Environment Conference, Ithaca, NY: July 23 - 24, 2009. “Green space, urbanity, and health: how strong is the relation?” Jolanda Maas, Robert A Verheij, Peter P Groenewegen, Sjerp de Vries, Peter Spreeuwenberg; Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, 2006 “Urban residential environments and senior citizens’ longevity in megacity areas: the importance of walkable green spaces”; T Takano, K Nakamura, M Watanabe; Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, 2002 “View through a window may influence recovery from surgery”; Ulrich RS; Science, 1984.
Personalized Guidance Helps Residents Stay On Course FROM “BY DESIGN” ON P. 1
unique, holistic philosophy geared toward helping each resident find a personal path to wellness. The program has been developed around the six dimensions of wellness: social, spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional and vocational. Heritage residents work with an experienced team of wellness experts, who help them set and achieve goals for all aspects of a fulfilling retirement. Studies show that exercising the brain is no less important than exercising the legs or back. Well By Design® encourages residents to pursue new experiences and challenges through lectures, social interaction, and the availability of a host of cultural and artistic opportunities in the community. Residents at The Heritage enjoy the many interesting classes and outings that help to keep them young at heart. A Community On Your Side “It is so much easier to maintain a physically and socially active lifestyle when you have a whole community that cares about you,” says Well By Design® Director, Cheryl Anderson. “Fitness Specialist Lindsay Hallman is just great at helping folks stay on track in keeping fit.” The Well By Design® program encourages residents to participate
A N S W E R S
Fitness Specialist Lindsay Hallman leads residents through aquatic exercises in the community’s temperaturecontrolled indoor pool. in the physical activities they enjoy most. They have a wide variety of activities to choose from: fitness classes like yoga and low-impact aerobics, swimming, walking outdoors, personal training sessions, activities for cardiovascular endurance, muscular strengthening and
flexibility. Health screenings help guide residents to pick what is most appropriate for them, and their personal coach helps them set their goals and tailor a workout plan to their fitness level. As part of the Well By Design® program, residents of The Heritage have endless opportunities to stay connected with neighbors, friends (old and new), family and the community at-large. They enjoy trips to area attractions, entertainment, clubs, social engagements and much more. Well By Design® recognizes the satisfaction residents get from using skills they have in meaningful, productive activity, and helps them to maintain those skills. For example, residents are encouraged to foster their skills through volunteering, mentoring, leading a class, or even continuing to work. In addition to exercising their faith, residents maintain their spiritual wellness listening to expert speakers, engaging in group discussions, and
taking part in activities in the larger community. “It is really gratifying to see new residents of the Heritage take advantage of the many opportunities here to increase their well being,” Cheryl adds. “Our calendar of upcoming events is filled with fun options for interaction, learning and exercise.” It’s all part of the program’s philosophy: wellness in each of the six dimensions doesn’t happen by chance, but by design.
Horizons
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July 2010
Live Life To The Fullest Take Away The Chores And Replace Them With Fun
Enjoy the good life. Villas at The Heritage of Green Hills offer spacious living close enough to The Heritage Clubhouse for easy access, yet removed enough to enjoy the scenic tranquility. Plus, a private garage and extra storage space. In other words, the best of both worlds! Amenities at The Heritage include: • Hobby Train Room • Tavern • Maintenance-Free Villas • State-Of-The-Art Fitness Center • All-Season Indoor Swimming Pool • Art Studio And Pottery Kiln • Woodworking Shop • Nature Trails • Two Restaurant-Style Dining Venues • Resident Gardening Spaces • Computer Center • Exercise Studio • Inviting Lounge Areas • Day Spa And Salon • Full-Service Bank • On Campus Doctor Office • Rehab Center
Achieve A Healthier Lifestyle
More than physical amenities, The Heritage of Green Hills’ lifestyle embraces Well By Design®. This holistic approach emphasizes working with an experienced team of wellness experts. You’ll have the opportunity to set and achieve goals for all aspects of a fulfilling lifestyle, whether you’re exercising your mind, strengthening your spirit or invigorating your body. You’ll enjoy great
trips, interesting classes and spectacular on-site amenities.
A Great Location
The superb amenities at The Heritage are all in an ideal location! With 78 acres of rolling hills and mature trees — and just across the street from The Flying Hills Golf Course — The Heritage of Green Hills offers exceptional natural beauty. At The Heritage of Green Hills you’ll find unmatched value AND an Every villa comes with a golf cart, which allow residents like Susan Johnson and Cliff Key easy access to The unmatched location! Clubhouse.
“The first time my wife and I glanced at The Heritage’s information kit, I thought it was too expensive but then I looked again and compared the prices to the cost of staying in my old house. I soon realized that the costs were about the same … but at The Heritage, I was getting all these additional services and amenities. This place is awesome!”
- Arden Ebling
“Here, when I come home from work, I can play. I can go swim, I can work out at the fitness center, I can go to dinner, and I don’t have to cook, I don’t have to do this or that. I get cleaning service every other week and it’s wonderful. I go to work and I can leave work there, and I come home and I play. And that’s great.”
- Bonnie Ebling
Arden and Bonnie Ebling
These Retirement Villas Come With Maintenance-Free Living
From spacious villas with garages to generous three-bedroom/twoden apartment homes, to amazingly designed one-bedroom apartment homes, you’re sure to find a maintenance-free Heritage home to suit your style and budget. But no matter what home suits your style, you won’t have to spend any more money or time taking care of it! From the shingles to the shoveling, from the appliances to the housekeeping, the staff takes care of everything inside and out. All of which leaves you with the time to do the things you really want to do!
Adding Years To Life And Life To Years
From the on-site Medical Center to delicious dining and an
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
Water aerobic classes help you stay healthy and have fun.
array of activities, The Heritage is a healthier place to live, thanks to American Heritage’s Wellness By Design® Program. Top-notch athletes and actors have help practicing healthy living, why shouldn’t you?
Unmatched Home Styles And Financial Choices
Just like we offer more apartment styles than anyone else, we also offer more financial options which is why
The Heritage is selling so quickly. This unique community provides three financial options: the 100% refundable entrance deposit, the 75% refundable deposit, and the declining deposit. Regardless of which plan you choose, you’ll discover unbelievable value at The Heritage. In fact, most of our residents tell us it cost about the same or less than it did to live in their old house.
Free Information Kit! The kit tells you everything you need to know about this incredible maintenance-free lifestyle, including details on prices, the amenities, services, and the important access to on-site health care, or just request your kit online at http//tinyurl.com/AHGHkit. Call today to receive your free, comprehensive retirement kit. (484) 269-5090
� Yes, please send me my free retirement information kit. Fill out this coupon and send to:
The Heritage of Green Hills 200 Tranquility Lane, Reading, PA 19607 www.HeritageOfGreenHills.com (484) 269-5090
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