FREE - Volume 1 - Issue 2 - Fall/Winter 2011

TMLifestyles over 50Encouraging vibrant and healthy living in Schuylkill, Carbon, Luzerne and Berks Counties

w w w . l i f e s t y l e s o v e r 5 0 . c o m

Tips for First-Time CruisersThings to Do with Grandkids

Making Friends for LifeGift Ideas, Focus on Veterans and more!

Schuylkill County Bicentenial

December

FROM THE EDITOR

Lifestyles over 50 is distributed FREE. Copyright 2011 © Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc. Reproduction of any and all content is not permitted unless express

written permission is granted. Opinions expressed in any commentary published in this magazine do not necessarily

represent those of Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc. and are not to be regarded as advice (legal, tax, investment or otherwise). Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc. assumes

no liability for the actions by any group or individual based upon such material.

Advertising rates are available upon request. Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or other

information at any time. You can find copies of Lifestyles over 50 at: Libraries • Churches • Senior Centers • Fitness

Centers • Community Centers • Resource Offices • Doctor & Healthcare Offices Independent & Assisted

Living Facilities. Subscriptions are available for $20.00/year.

PUBLISHER: Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc.91 Pebble Lane, Tamaqua, PA 18252

www.Lifestylesover50.comEditor In Chief

Kimberly S. Noel, 570-624-9674, knoel@lifestylesover50.com

Graphic DesignAngela Guldin

Editor At LargeSara Hodon

Sales and DistributionPaul Deibert

Lifestyles over 50To place ads or subscribe call 570-624-9674

Join our Facebook fan page Lifestyles over 50 Schuylkill,

Carbon and surrounding

Welcome to our second issue of Lifestyles Over 50 Schuylkill, Carbon, lower Luzerne, upper Berks. We appreciate all of the positive feedback from our premier edition. We welcome any input. Call 570-624-9674 or email me at knoel@

lifestylesover50.com.Our January/February edition will have some noticeable improvements for

you. We will have some better quality paper and we will add four more pages. We hope you continue to enjoy our publication.

From this issue forward, we are adding a care feature. This will be a section with helpful resources for you. We believe many of you will return home for the holidays only to find that aging relatives may need some extra help in the home. You’ll notice we are highlighting home care agencies for your convenience. This will be a part of our annual directory which will come out in December.

Please remember for more information and a more detailed calendar of event, go to lifestylesover50.com. Also, ‘like’ our facebook page lifestyles over 50 Schuylkill, Carbon, and surrounding.

November

This Month is... Banana Pudding Lovers Month, Greens and Plantains Month, National Georgia Pecan Month, National Peanut Butter Lovers Month, Spinach and Squash Month, American Indian Heritage Month, Diabetic Eye Disease Month, National Family Stories Month, National Chicken Lady Month, Epilepsy Awareness Month, International Drum Month.Birthstone: Yellow Topaz Flower: Chrysanthemum

A Reason to Celebrate

This Month is.. Tomato and Winter Squash Month, Universal Human Rights Month, Bingo’s Birthday Month, National Tie Month, Worldwide Food Service Safety Month, Spiritual Literacy Month, Root Vegetables and Exotic Fruits Month, Quince and Watermelon Month, Rising Star Month, World Aids Month, Safe Toys and Gifts Month, Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month.Birthstone: Turquoise Flower: Orchid

Funny Doctor One Liners:• The Doctor called Mrs. Cohen saying, “Mrs. Cohen, your

check came back.” Mrs. Cohen answered, “So did my arthritis!”

• The Doctor says, “You’ll live to be 60!” “I AM 60!” “See, what did I tell you?

• A doctor says to a man, “You want to improve your love life? You need to get some exercise. Run ten miles a day.” Two weeks later, the man called the doctor. The doctor says, “How is your love life since you have been running?” “I don’t know, I’m 140 miles away!”

• The patient says, “Doctor, it hurts when I do this.” The doctor says: “Then don’t do that!”

• The doctor says to the patient, “Take your clothes off and stick your tongue out the window”. “What will that do?” asks the patient. The doctor says, “I’m mad at my neighbor!”

• A doctor has a stethoscope up to a man’s chest. The man asks, “Doc, how do I stand?” The doctor says, “That’s what puzzles me!”

• “Doctor, my leg hurts. What can I do?” The doctor says, “Limp!

New Seasons at Blue Mountain Health System and Carbon County Area Agency on Aging present:

Senior Health Fair,Nov. 18, from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

at the Lehighton Recreation Center

Publishers wanted! The baby boomer generation is the largest and wealthies generation in history. Lifestyles over 50 has just begun offering licensing opportunities in the U.S. for you to own and manage your own publication. Be yur own boss, set your own hours and improve your community.

Training is provided. Minimal investment,Lifestyles over 50 is a trademarked and copyrighted publication.

Hurry before your territory is taken! If you are energetic and creative call

610-762-9011 for more information.

Change Your Life for 2012

Many of our residents’ fondest memories are those growing up with their pet pooch or as many refer to as man’s best friend.

Some of us have shared our homes with cats, birds, and rabbits, but the number one pet choice for our families and residents is a dog! Talk with pet owner Kim Noel who not only has 2 dogs but shares her love of horses too.

Kim brought her dog “Skye” to visit the residents for some pet therapy. Well, interesting to note is that the residents are just as therapeutic for the dog also.

For our residents and their visit with Skye, it was “love at first sight”. A big smile appears followed by the reaching out for the “paw shake”. Talk about tactile sensory stimulation at it’s best! And yes Skye couldn’t wait for the “Reach out and touch me” because she loves attention too. We hope you come back soon Skye.

Any dog lovers in the house?Things To Do with Grandkids

Nov. 5: Holiday Marketplace. Historical Society of Schuylkill County, Pottsville. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Get a jump on your holiday shopping! Handmade crafts and art pieces, jewelry, Boilo Recipes, Moravian Stars, Skook Products, T-Shirts, Historical Books, and so much more! Refreshments will be available for purchase. 570-622-7540.

Thurs., Nov 17: “Chippy Chipmunk” Book Signing with Kathy Miller. Healthy Habits Natural Market, 1120 Centre Turnpike, Rt. 61, Orwigsburg. 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. For more information call 570-366-2620.

Dec. 2-4th, Dec. 10-11th, and Dec. 17th-18th. Old Time Christmas Weekends in Historic Jim Thorpe. Bells ringing, live Nativity, caroling, mansion tours, a Christmas play, Santa, train rides, shopping, and many other holiday activities will bring you back to Jim Thorpe every holiday season. Let Jim Thorpe’s Olde Time Christmas treat your family. We will teach, delight, entertain and revive your spirits. For more information visit www.jimthorpeoldetimechristmas.com.

Fri., Dec. 2-Sun. Dec. 4, Fri. Dec. 9-Sun. Dec. 11: “A Christmas Carol” presented by the Strawberry Playhouse, 60 Church St., Tuscarora. Fri & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sundays 2 p.m. Tickets, $14 Adults, $12 Sr./ Students , Children under 10 $5 please make your reservation today 570-325-4368 or email lafala@ptd.net.

Sat., Dec. 3: Old Time Toys Program. Sweet Arrow Lake Clubhouse, Pine Grove. 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Ever walk on stilts or a moonwinder? Or play with a whimmy diddle geehaw? Now is your chance to enjoy these Appalachian Mountain type toys with Porcupine Pat. Learn about the history of toys in this fun and hands-on program.

Sat. & Sun. Dec. 3 & 4: Schuylkill Christmas Gala by the Square and Compass Club. Saturday 4 - 8 p.m. and Sunday 3 - 8 p.m., The Pottsville Masonic Building, 4 South 2nd St., Pottsville. Featuring over 25 Christmas trees on display donated by Schuylkill County tree growers and decorated by area community groups. Appearances by Santa and other special guests. Live holiday musical entertainment, model trail display, great homemade food and craft vendors. 570-622-9260.

Fri. & Sat., Dec. 9 & Dec. 10: Charles Dickens’ “Scrooge”. Presented by The Carbon/Schuylkill Theatre. Summit Hill Cultural Center. For more information call 645-9133.

Sat. & Sun., Dec. 10 & 11: Catch the Spirit Weekend. Join us in Downtown Hamburg, PA for a weekend of holiday events and festivities for the whole family! Historic house tours, children’s activities and crafts, a variety of musical entertainment, business open houses, a wine and cheese gala in the Gallery of Hamburg and much more! The event is free and open to the public. All proceeds benefit the Our Town Foundation. Visit our website: www.hamburgpa.org.

Elder LawWe Focus on Matters Affecting Senior Citizens

LAW OFFICES OF LIPKIN, MARSHALL, BOHORAD & THORNBURG, P.C.

1940 West Norwegian Street, Pottsville, PA 17901

Tel:(570) 622-1811 • Fax: (570) 622-4850 Email: attys@lmbtlaw.com • Toll Free: 1-877-669-1811

For Consultation Regarding Nursing Home Planning and other Elder Law issues –

Contact James C. BohoradMembers of the Firm:

Alvin B. Marshall • Richard ThornburgDirk Berger • Thomas J. Campion, Jr. • Robert N. Bohorad S.

John Price, Jr. • James C. Bohorad

Branch Offices:9 E. Centre St., Mahanoy City, PA 17948

1435 Arch St., Ashland, PA 17921 (570)875-2121

Other Services Available: Business Law – Tax Law – Corporate Law – Municipal Law – Wills – Estates – Trusts – Personal Injury – Employment Law – Domestic Relations – Family Law – Civil

Litigation Mergers and Acquisitions – Financing – Bankruptcy – Real Estate – Title Searches

By Cynthia Kobilinski, Millville Health Center Marketing Director

6 Lifestyles over 50 • Early Fall 2011 Lifestyles over 50 • Early Fall 2011 7

By Marj Federanich, Cruise One By Lori Michael, RN

From the day we are born, we all begin the aging process. As we enter into our “golden” years, we expect changes.

How we age is a result of a combination of many factors. Genetics, lifestyle, stress and disease can all affect the rate of aging. Everyone ages at different rates and in different ways. Most individuals over the age of 65 are healthy, happy and fully independent. How you age is up to you.

Here are some of the “Normal” changes that occur: • Skin: Skin becomes less elastic and more lined and

wrinkled. Fingernail growth also slows. The oil glands gradually produce less oil, making the skin drier than before. Skin heals more slowly.

• Hair: Hair gradually thins and loses pigment, causing more gray hair growth.

• Height: By age 80 it is common to have lost as much as 2 inches in height.

• Hearing: Changes accelerate in the ear, making high-frequency sounds harder to hear, changes in tone and speech less clear and affecting the ability to distinguish sounds when there is background noise.

• Taste: Taste buds decrease along with production of saliva.• Touch and Smell: Sensitivity to touch and the ability to

smell decrease with aging.• Vision: The lens becomes less flexible necessitating

reading glasses. Night vision becomes more difficult, visual sharpness (clarity of colors) declines and glare increasingly interferes with clear vision. Loss of peripheral vision and decreased ability to judge depth also occurs.

• Sleep: It is normal to sleep less at night and possibly not sleep as deeply as you did when you were younger. Getting up at during the night or waking earlier is also likely.

• Bones: Bones gradually lose some of their mineral content. They get less dense and weaker.

• Metabolism and Muscles: The body needs less energy, thus your metabolism slows. Hormone changes in the body result in a shift to more body fat and less muscle mass. Body fat increases until middle age, stabilizes until later in life, then decreases.

• Memory: Starting in your 30’s, the weight of your brain and the size of its nerve network and blood flow decrease. The brain adapts by growing new patterns of nerve endings. Memory changes are normal – there is less recall of recent memories and you may be slower in remembering names and details. Engaging in regular social activity, challenging yourself to learn and do new things, being

physically active can help you keep your brain sharp.• Heart & Circulation: The heart muscle thickens

and becomes less efficient as it ages resulting in it working harder during activity than in the past. Arteries stiffen; fatty deposits build up in vessels over time eventually causing arteriosclerosis.

• Lungs: Lungs become less efficient in inactive people. Lung tissue loses its elasticity and the rib cage muscles shrink progressively. Maximum breathing capacity diminishes.

• Kidneys/Bladder: Kidneys shrink in size and become less efficient over time. They don’t clear wastes and some medicines from the blood as quickly and don’t help the body handle dehydration as well as in the past. Increased frequency in urination is normal.

• Sexual function: Men and women produce lower levels of hormones starting in their 50’s. Men produce less sperm, the prostate enlarges and their sexual response time slows. Women stop ovulating and have a number of menopausal changes linked to lower estrogen production.

The physical aging process can be influenced in many ways. People who live in areas with especially long life expectancy have the following characteristics, apart from hereditary or genetic influences: regular physical activity, a balanced diet, social involvement.

Making changes to your lifestyle can lessen any negative impact of the normal aging process. Eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, maintaining a normal body weight, exercising, limiting alcohol consumption, not smoking, protecting yourself from sun exposure and other environmental hazards, maintaining mental stimulation and staying connected to family and friends are all ways you can slow the aging process so it won’t slow you down!Lori Michael, RN, is the owner of Lori’s Angels in Schuylkill Haven, a full-service home health care agency. For more information call 570-385-8450.

The Normal Aging ProcessQ: I’ve never cruised before, but I’m thinking of planning

one in the spring. What does a first-timer need to know?A: First of all, when new to cruising, I would qualify

you to help narrow down the choices. There are a few things I would need to know:

1.) How many people are traveling?2) How many days would you like to cruise?3) Do you want to fly to board the ship or prefer

something in your drive market?4.) Depending on the answer to #3, are you looking for

warm temperatures, such as the Caribbean or perhaps cooler temps as in Europe? Do you have a destination you have always wanted to visit?

5.) What brand of hotels do you normally stay in? This will help me to determine what cruise line(s) to recommend.

6.) What type of accommodation are you looking for on the ship? Do you think you would like an interior cabin without a window, an oceanview cabin, a cabin with a balcony or veranda, or perhaps a suite?

7.) Would you like to visit more ports of call or have a few days onboard the ship to enjoy the activities?

Once I qualify the client, it will help me pair you with

the ship and destination that might be best for you. There are many options for cruises, so it depends on what type of experience the client is looking for. Options include:

• Smaller ships that don’t offer as much entertainment but offer luxury and more historical ports of call

• Mid-size ships that are geared to families or couples that have great children’s programs and/or lots of fun things to do for couples and families

• Mega ships that are a destination in themselves since there is so much entertainment and activities on the ship itself.

It’s important that the client knows the options available to them so they can make the right choice for their cruis.

For more information, visit http://mfederanich.cruiseone.com/travel/HomePage.html.

By Mindy HeppeMy father’s grandfather built and

operated a hotel in Sheppton in the late 1800’s. It wasn’t until my grandmother was dead that I learned that Mother Jones, the labor activist and hellraiser, had stayed there. What I wouldn’t give to know about the interaction between those two formidable women!

My mother’s family had a Pennsylvania Dutch side, and some of them were healers in the PowWow tradition. Their particular branch passed the tradition from grandmother to grandson to granddaughter and so on. My mother, an only child, was a girl. Had she been a boy, she would have been next in line. That’s all I know. I wonder if her grandmother gave her any little information?

What you consider mundane, boring, or a little embarrassing will be a source of wonder to someone in your family – if not now, in a generation or two. You’ve probably left some photographic record of your life, and maybe even scrapbooked it.

But what about the stories? There are

some that only you can tell.You have no better gift to give in

the upcoming holiday season. And you have time for a small project. How about giving a grandchild a file titled, “Ten things your father doesn’t know about me”? “My Ten favorite Fishing Stories?” Or maybe “Ten wonderful recipes and where I served them”? It could include your worst culinary disaster and the Jell-o mold you made in 4-H along with your grandmother’s signature dish. Write about what you love, what your readers would never know if you didn’t tell them.

Be specific. Did your grandmother wear a housedress, apron, and babushka? There are kids here in Shenandoah who have never seen any of those things. That is a source of wonder to those of a certain age. Describe them, and what they said about their wearer. And remember that it is possible that in seventy five years, only old fogies will know what blue jeans were. Treat every detail as if it is amazing. It is.

Be yourself. Your voice is unique, and if it has Pennsylvania Dutch and/or Coal

Cracker inflections, that’s beautiful. And here’s a suggestion: we’re the last

generation who were taught to write letters. Write one a week. Take your topics from seasons, holidays, life rhythms – proms, childbirth, funerals, first day of deer season – you get the idea.

Your Story, Your Gift

Ten gift giving ideas for the person who has everything• Spend time enjoying a favorite activity or dinner with them.• Grocery or other store gift certificates• Heating oil gift certificates• Car care basket with gift certificates• Family fun basket• Hand made card with letter• Photo album• Offer to clean house or run errands for a day• Donation to their favorite charity in their honor• Day of beauty/relaxation

Deck the Halls SafelyAs the holiday season approaches, the American Red

Cross reminds you to follow simple safety tips.Please go online to lifestylesover50.com for a list of

tips to prevent fires for a safe and happy holiday.

8 Lifestyles over 50 • Early Fall 2011 Lifestyles over 50 • Early Fall 2011 9

By Sara Hodon with Kerry Dowd-Lasky

The end of 2011 marks the end of Schuylkill County’s year-long 200th Bicentennial celebration.

A number of events were held countywide throughout the year to mark this milestone. A group

of Schuylkill County employees headed a Steering Committee that held four signature events – a Flag Ceremony in downtown Pottsville, held on the county’s founding date of March 1; an old-fashioned picnic and geocaching event at Sweet Arrow Lake Park in Pine Grove in July; a groundbreaking ceremony for the Courthouse Commons plaza at the Schuylkill County Courthouse, and an Open House at the Courthouse in September.

The origination date of Schuylkill County is historically recorded on March 1, 1811 (which was a Friday of that year). The area of land was taken from parts of Berks County and parts of Northampton County, and named after the Schuylkill River. It famously lies in the heart of the anthracite coal region of East-central Pennsylvania with many distinct ethnic groups.

Mike McCord, Schuylkill County Register of Wills and co-chair of the Bicentennial Steering Committee, had this to say about his all-American hometown:

“I’ve lived in Southern California and the Lehigh Valley but Schuylkill County has always been my home. And I’m happy to be living and raising a family here.”

Many notable businesses and individuals claim Schuylkill County as their home. For example, Eagle Brewery (Pottsville), more recognizably known as Yuengling Brewery, got its start in 1829 and is historically known as “America’s Oldest Brewery”. The Dorsey Brothers from Shenandoah used their skills to direct musicians and lead Americans through the big-band era of the 1940’s. Let’s not forget the Famous Reading Anthracite Company in Pottsville which started in 1871.

McCord is also the Co-Chairman for the Schuylkill County Bicentennial Steering Committee. McCord continues by

explaining why being involved in the Bicentennial has touched him personally:

“One of the most inspiring aspects of being involved in the planning portion of the Bicentennial is discovering the overwhelming contributions that have been made by the citizens of Schuylkill County over the past 200-years. Just about every aspect of life-science, literature, industry – has been influenced or shaped by contributions from the citizens of Schuylkill County.”

It’s not too late for you to celebrate Schuylkill County’s 200th birthday! There are a number of partnered events scheduled until the end of the year. For more information, log onto their website www.schuylkill200.com or tune to Magic 105.5 WMGH-FM or AM-1410 WLSH for weekly updates on partnered events going on throughout the County. Commemorative merchandise is also available for sale on the Bicentennial website or through the County courthouse by calling Kyla Snyder at (570) 628-1353. You can also purchase a paver for $100 as part of the Courthouse Commons. More information is available on the Bicentennial website.

At the finale event, a collection of items from all 67 county municipalities was gathered and will be buried in a time capsule on the grounds of the Courthouse at a later date.

1 Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pans). In large bowl, beat cake mix, butter, 1 tablespoon milk, vanilla and egg with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, or mix with spoon. Mix in additional 1 tablespoon milk if dough is too dry. Stir in nuts and chocolate chips. 2 Drop dough by slightly less than tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. 3 Bake cookies 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are set (centers will be soft and cookies will be very light in color). Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets to cooling rack. Store covered.

Schuylkill County Bicentenial Wraps Up

Valley Nursery and Greenhouses, owned by Rick Bolinsky, recently held its grand opening, for its new building, along with its greenhouse, still under construction. Ashland Downtown Inc. congratulated Bolinsky, who has provided many landscaping services on the islands along Hoffman Boulevard.

Top TenTV Shows1. I Love Lucy2. The Jackie Gleason Show3. Dragnet4. You Bet Your Life5. The Toast of the Town6. Disneyland7. The Chevy Show (Bob Hope)8. The Jack Benny Show 9. The Martha Raye Show10. The George Gobel Show

Top Ten Movies1. Lady and the Tramp2. Mister Roberts3. Guys and Dolls4. Rebel Without a Cause5. The Seven Year Itch6. Picnic7. Oklahoma!8. Love Me or Leave Me9. The Sea Chase10. East of Eden

1955 Highlights• Average cost of new house was $10,950.• Average cost of new car $1,900.• Gallon of gas - 23 cents.• The famous “Don’t Walk” signs are introduced

to the streets of New York City.• Ann Landers starts her famous column in the

Chicago Sun-Times.• Ray Kroc starts McDonald’s chain of fast food.

• Defying Alabama law, Rosa Parks refuses to give up her seat on a bus to a white man.

• Crest, the first toothpaste with fluoride clinically proven to fight cavities, was introduced.

• Disneyland opens and has over 1 million visitors in only 7 weeks.

• Albert Einstein, the worlds greatest genius, dies at age 76.

• Top of the line mink coats are on sale this week for $895.

Trivia

1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened1 to 2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon vanilla1 egg

1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, or try experimenting with oatmeal or candy pieces like M & M’s

Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookies

10 Lifestyles over 50 • Early Fall 2011 Lifestyles over 50 • Early Fall 2011 11

Trinity Mission of Shenandoah Heights is now Ridgeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center

On September 1st, 2011, Ridgeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, LLC joined Nationwide Healthcare Services, with Mr. Meir Gelley at its helm. Nationwide Healthcare Services recognizes and respects its residents and takes great pride in providing comprehensive medical, emotional and social support on a personal level.

Please take some time and explore Nationwide Healthcare Services at www.NationwideHealthcare.com. Their other facilities — Sterling, Brookside, Regal Heights and Regency Healthcare and Rehabilitation Centers — are located locally in the Pennsylvania/Delaware region. These facilities demonstrate how Nationwide Healthcare Services has raised the bar in healthcare. This is an exciting opportunity for us to join this dynamic company.

As you will immediately begin to see, our facility will be receiving a much needed face lift and state of the art amenities. New ideas, avenues and resources will only increase the quality of care that our residents have become accustom to. We welcomed a new medical director, Dr. Philip Benyo, a certified Gerontologist to our staff. We are pleased to offer our residents this option for medical care and treatment. Also, we would like to welcome Rachelle Cuff, RN as Director of Nursing and Kathy Corotto, RN as Assistant Director of Nursing.

Ridgeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center is located at 200 Pennsylvania Avenue, Shenandoah PA 17976. We are a 111 bed skilled nursing facility, offering short term rehabilitation, long term care, and respite stays. Our facility offers in- house physical, occupational and speech therapy. The therapy staff develops individualized treatment plans designed to get you back to your previous level of functioning.

As we begin this new chapter, please be assured that this transition will be as seamless as possible and will have only a positive impact on our residents. Please do not hesitate to stop by or call with any questions. We can be reached at (570) 462-1921.

We look forward to a productive and bright future as Ridgeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center.

Veteran’s Benefits...And Rightfully So!By Galen Jones & Bob Walley The incalculable value of the contributions of our Veterans to our country is rarely, fully comprehended. Likewise, the full value of the non-service connected improved pension benefit available for our Veterans and their widows, is rarely comprehended either.

To meet the military qualifications, a Veteran has to have served 90 days active duty, have a discharge of any kind other than dishonorable, and be either age 65 or disabled. In addition, the Veteran or his widow must also meet other means testing criteria for their income and assets. When properly understood, neither of these is as exclusionary as they first appear.

So why all the confusion and misunderstanding? First is the very name of the benefit itself, an improved pension benefit. Everyone in America thinks you only get a pension benefit from your employer after a significant number of years of service, usually 20 or 30. Even the military has a 20 or 30 year retirement pension benefit. No one believes there are any benefits due after only 90 days of employment. But there is a benefit for our Veterans and their widows. And rightfully so!

Second, one of the military qualifications is being disabled or at least age 65. Again, as Americans, we might expect there to be a benefit for someone if they were disabled as a result of their employment. But not if it is nonemployment related. And definitely not just because they turned 65! Indeed some might even object that just because they reached age 65 they are grouped together with those who are disabled. And not even disabled as a result of their military service. There is a benefit for our 65 year old Veterans and their widows. And rightfully so!

Finally, there are income limitations considered for those considering their eligibility for this benefit. Income minus UME = IVAP! Indeed they call it IVAP or Income for Veterans Affairs Purposes, which is income minus un-reimbursed medical expenses (UME). Many do not expect to receive a benefit based in part upon their un-reimbursed medical expenses. But there is for our Veterans and their widows. And rightfully so!

Contact Bob at veteransbenfits@gmail.com or610-562-9302 for more information or help.

• Naturalists use marshmallows to lure alligators out of swamps.

• Whales die if their echo system fails.• It takes a ton of water to make a pound of refined sugar. • Weevils are more resistant to poisons in the morning

than at night.• Cacao, the main ingredient of chocolate is the most pest-

ridden tree in the jungle.• In deep space most lubricants will disappear.• America once issued a 5-cent bill.• The only vehicle legally allowed to pass a funeral

procession is a government owned vehicle: a mail truck.• The average person can live 11 days without water.• There are 35 million digestive glands in the stomach.• In 1800 only 50 cities on earth had a population of more

than 100,000.• More steel in the US is used to make bottle caps than to

manufacture automobile bodies.• The motto of the American people, “In God We Trust,”

was not adopted as the national slogan until 1956.• More Americans have died in automobile accidents

than have died in all the wars ever fought by the United States.

• During the time of Peter the Great, any Russian man who had a beard was required to pay a special tax.

Community News

Pottsville’s Block of Art is honored to host the nationally renowned Graffiti of War art exhibit on Veterans’ Day, Nov. 11, 2011 in Pottsville. The exhibit will run through Nov. 20th at a number of venues in downtown Pottsville. Currently, Pottsville currently is Graffiti of War’s only stop in Pennsylvania, with other stops planned in a number of

other American cities. Featuring photography, drawings,

videos and music, Graffiti of War, the only traveling exhibit of its kind, preserves an unconventional historical record of modern warfare through works of art from soldiers, civilians and overseas nationals.

The exhibit will be showcased in

a number downtown businesses in Pottsville. Admission is free. Donations will be accepted. Proceeds will benefit war veterans through the Graffiti of War nonprofit whose mission is to raise awareness of the invisible wounds of war and help nonprofit partners.

For more information please visit www.graffitiofwar.com.

Pottsville’s Block of Art Hosts Debut of Nationwide Graffiti of War Exhibit

Give Back All Year LongBy Janice Johnston

The holidays are just around the corner. Are you in the giving mood yet? If you’re looking for an easy way to give to the community that requires little effort but is so vital to someone in need, here’s an opportunity for you.

Community Contacts are a group of over 60 Schuylkill County residents who have been trained in the basic services provided by some of the biggest Human Service agencies in the county.

Volunteers in Action. Six hours of training, spread over two evenings, will take place in February and March. If you’d like to join the Community Contact Class of 2012, contact Janice Johnston at 628-1426.

Janice Johnston is the Director of Community Volunteers in Action (CVIA) in Pottsville, a countywide organization that links volunteers to the organizations that need them. For more information visit www.schuylkill.us/cvia.

Signs that a loved one may benefit from home careOften people that live alone are not eating the way they should for various

reasons. Is their refrigerator and cupboards well stocked with simple, healthy meals? If not, they may benefit from home care or Meals On Wheels.

Are they having difficulty getting around? If so, they may benefit from a home care aid assisting them with their activities of daily living. This includes bathing, dressing, and running errands.

If the person lives alone, it may be invaluable to have someone else watching out for their best interest.

For more information, please call your county’s Area Agency on Aging or any of the home care agencies listed below.

• Bayada Nurses, 570-429-1500, bayada.com see our ad on page 4• Lori’s Angel’s, providing personal care, homemaking support, errands, transportation to appointments, etc., 570-385-8450.• Omni Home Care, Hazleton, PA, 570-450-4050, omnihha.com• Home Instead Senior Care, West Lawn, 610-372-2500• Home Instead Senior Care, To Us It’s Personal, Centre St., Pottsville, 570-581-8692• Compassionate Concern Home Care, 484-651-5775.• Griswold Special Care, A Tradition of Home Care Excellence, Wyomissing, 610-372-9940.• Comfort Keepers® of Luzerne, Carbon, Columbia, and Schuylkill Counties, Hazleton: 570-450-0890, Wilkes-Barre: 570-970-7800, Berks County, Kutztown Area, Oley Valley: 610-678-8000.

Jacqueline Dormer keeps busy with her job as a photographer for the REPUBLICAN-Herald in Pottsville, but always makes time for her friends – in this case, the four-legged variety. Over the years,

Jacque and her family have adopted a number of rescued pets, and she’s taken her love of animals a step further by volunteering her time at the Hillside SPCA in Pottsville.

Jacque has always had a soft spot in her heart for animals – especially dogs. “I grew up watching Snoopy and falling in love with dogs,” she says. “I begged my parents for a beagle and one day our neighbor’s son was visiting and could no longer keep his dog, a beagle, and asked if we would like to adopt him. How could my parents say no when I was standing right there?” From that moment on, Jacque and the newly-adopted Maggie were inseparable. “Just about everyone in town knew Maggie. I used to get called to the office at school to call home to my parents for a ride for my dog, because somehow he managed to follow me to school without me knowing and find his way into the building looking for me,” she says.

As an adult, Jacque and her family’s menagerie of furry friends have grown over the years.”It’s funny because we never actually went out to adopt a dog. They all literally found us!” she says. They adopted their two current dogs, Fluffy and Peanut, from Misfit Toy Rescue in Pottsville, an organization that rescued dogs from closed puppy mills. The Dormers also had Bo, Bailey, Harry, and Franco – all animals who found their way to the family’s doorstep.

Jacque has managed to combine her job with her volunteerism as a way to help the SPCA’s animals. She is responsible for taking the pictures of the Pet of the Week that run in the REPUBLICAN-Herald regularly. “I love taking pictures, but I never realized how many animals I could help find homes for by just taking their photo,” she says. “Many animals are at the shelter because their owner has died, or their owners got a divorce, their owners lost their home, or their owner is moving and they could no go with them. They do not understand why their family can no longer keep them or why they are at an animal shelter. All they know is they are waiting for someone to rescue them. Little do the animals know they are the ones that rescue us.”

To adopt a rescued dog or for more information, contact the Misfit Toy Rescue at (570) 544-2947 or your local animal rescue.

Take 20% off your purchase of any pet product.Exp. 12/31/11 LS911

By Sara Hodon

Jacqueline Dormer with her two dogs Fluffy, left and Peanut, bottom.

The photo of Buddy Touchinsky and his dog Ernie from the Sept/Oct. issue of Lifestyles was courtesy of Buddy Touchinsky.

Level 6

Make your own Sudoku puzzles at SudokuMaker.blogspot.com

Answer on next page.

puzzle number: 394665

8 4 6 2 9 1 5

2 5 3 1 9 6

5 8 2

3 5 1

6 2 1 3 7 4 8

6 3

9 2 8 4 3

8 9 1 6 4

5 4 6 2 7 1 9

Sudoku Maker http://sudokumaker.blogspot.com/

1 of 2 10/19/2011 5:21 PM

Level 3

Make your own Sudoku puzzles at SudokuMaker.blogspot.com

Answer on next page.

puzzle number: 544899

6 8 3 4 9 5

2 3 7 9 6 8

4 1 8 6 3 7

5 8 6 9 7 2 3 4

3 4 8 6 1

1 9 7 3 4 5 8

7 1 9 8 5

9 3 5 2 7 8 1

6 3 9 7 2

Sudoku Maker http://sudokumaker.blogspot.com/

1 of 2 10/19/2011 5:18 PM

Level 9

Make your own Sudoku puzzles at SudokuMaker.blogspot.com

Answer on next page.

puzzle number: 313486

2 4 3 5 9

1 3 8

6

5 9 2

3 4 1 6

8 5 4 3

4 3 2 9 7

1 5 7 9 3

7 4

Sudoku Maker http://sudokumaker.blogspot.com/

1 of 2 10/19/2011 5:23 PM

SudokuBetter safe than sorry, Wheel of Fortune, Hard times ahead, Black eyed peas, Jumbo Jet, Minimize

WuzzlesThe images to the right represent common phrases or sayings. Can you figure them out? The answers are below.

Local Happenings email knoel@lifestylesover50.com to submit your calendar of events

Classes/LecturesDiakon Living and Learning

Over 50 offers a variety of classes on everything from health and wellness to personal finance and arts and crafts! Visit http://www.diakon.org/community-services-for-seniors/Living-Learning-After-50/. For more information on upcoming programs, contact Susan Long at 570-624-3018 or 1-800-621-6325 or longs@diakon.org.

The Restaurant at the Station, Tamaqua, is Schuylkill County’s most historic dinner destination. Enjoy dinner and a full calendar of events guaranteed to make your visit a memorable one! Visit www.therestaurantatthestation.com.

Tues., Nov 1, 15, 29, Dec. 13: Meditation. Healthy Habits Natural Market, 1120 Centre Turnpike, Rt. 61 Orwigsburg. 7 p.m. For more information call 570-366-2620.

Tues. Nov 8, 22; Dec. 6, 20: Awakenings. Healthy Habits Natural Market, 1120 Centre Turnpike, Rt. 61 Orwigsburg. 7 p.m. For more information call 570-366-2620.

Sat., Nov. 12 & Dec. 10: Dementia & Alzheimer’s Support Group. Healthy Habits Natural Market, 1120 Centre Turnpike, Rt. 61 Orwigsburg, 11 a.m. (tentative). For more information call 570-366-2620.

Sun., Nov 13: Northern Berks Holiday Vegan Potluck. Healthy Habits Natural Market, 1120 Centre Turnpike, Rt. 61 Orwigsburg. 12:30 p.m. For more information call 570-366-2620.

EventsThurs., Nov. 10: 2nd

Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival. Sovereign Majestic Theater, Pottsville. 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Sponsored by the Schuylkill Headwaters Association. The Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival is the largest environmental film festival in the United States. Tickets: $8 in advance; $10 at the door. Students and senior citizens: $8 at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at www.schuylkillheadwaters.org. For more information contact Adele Holzman

at (570) 622-3742 x 119 or at aholzman@schuylkillheadwaters.org.

Sat., Nov. 12: Quilting Class with Cheryl Hanks. Summit Hill Cultural Center. For more information call 645-9133.

Sun., Nov. 13: 2nd Sunday Tea. The Restaurant at the Station, Tamaqua. 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. $15.99/person. Pre-paid reservations required.

Tues., Nov. 15: Free Memory Screenings and Open House. LIFE Geisinger Center, 1100 Spruce St, Kulpmont, PA 17834 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Light refreshments, tours, giveaways from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Contact Marc Varano at 866-230-6465 or email mavarano@geisinger.edu for more information.

Tues., Nov. 15: Wellness Series. “Help Eliminate Risks of Falling in your Home.” Speaker-Laura Sheehan, Lifelong Program Manager, American Red Cross. Providence Place Retirement Community, 2200 First Avenue, Pottsville. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Light Refreshments will Follow. RSVP to Yvonne 570-628-6950.

Nov. 19: 3rd Annual Remembrance Vigil Scheduled.Candlelight vigil held on National Suicide Survivor’s Day where survivors can come together to celebrate the memories of their loved ones. Feel free to bring any memento you would like to share. 6 p.m., Yuengling Park, Mahantongo Street in Pottsville.

Sat., Nov.19: Radio Disney DJ Party. JC Penney Court, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Sat., Dec. 3: Huge Holiday Sale and Flea Market. Summit Hill Cultural Center. 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Holiday items and homemade food for sale. For more information call 645-9133.

Sun., Dec. 4: Rabies Clinic. Adorable Pets, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading. Call 610-929-9100 for information

Wed., Dec. 7: Free Blood Pressure Screening by Covenant Home Care. JC Penney Court, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading, 8:30 – 10 a.m.

Mon. Dec. 12: Miller Keystone Blood Mobile. Fairgrounds

Square Mall, Reading (Baja Beach entrance), 3 – 7 p.m.

Fri., Dec. 16: Redneck Christmas Bash. Shenandoah Community Center, 116 N. Main Street, Shenandoah. 12:30 – 4 p.m. Register by Dec. 2. It will be a bonanza of good food, good old time redneck holiday music and lots of laughs... all for only five bucks! You don’t have to be a redneck to attend. For more information, contact Susan Long at (570) 624-3018 or 1-800-621-6325 or longs@diakon.org

Sat., Dec. 17: Great Dane Rescue Fundraiser. Boscov’s Court, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Vacations/GetawaysTues., Nov. 15: Peddlers

Village Shopping. Join us for a unique shopping experience and discover 65 shops with gifts, merchandise and services for all ages and lifestyles. Departs 8:30 am from R & J Tours, Route 183, Cressona. Cost: $25 Limited seating: To guarantee your space, payment and registration form must be received by November 1. For more information call Susan Long at (570) 624-3018 or 1-800-621-6325 or longs@diakon.org

Meetings Looking for a free class that

offers fun, fitness, and fellowship? The Exer-ettes meet several times a week in locations throughout Schuylkill County. For more information, call Diakon at 570-624-3018.

Healthy Resolutions: a monthly get together with special guest speakers presenting a variety of topics. Join us at the Trinity Episcopal Church, 200 South Centre Street, Pottsville, PA For more information call 570-624-3012. Upcoming presentations include: Fri., Nov. 18: Aromatherapy and Oils of the Bible with Donna Bowen, McCann School of Massage. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.; Fri., Dec. 16, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Woman In Nature. The story of Hagit Cohen’s extraordinary journeys hiking and biking thousands of miles around the world and studying many cultures,

spectacular geographical landscapes, fascinating animal behavior, and her inner self. In her slide show, “Woman in Nature”, Hagit will share the cheerful wisdom she was enriched with on those journeys and more.

Holiday HappeningsFri., Nov. 25: Black Friday.

Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading. Mall opens at 7 a.m. Individual stores may have earlier opening hours. Please check www.shopatfairgrounds.com for details. Stop by any of our mall entrances for great Black Friday deals from mall merchants. Shop early for the best deals! FREE Gift Wrap on any Fairgrounds Square Mall purchase (must show mall receipt). Receive a free plush gift card holder with any gift card purchase of $100 or more (while supplies last). Santa’s Arrival – 1 p.m. in Center Court. Photo set will be open daily now through Dec. 24th for family pictures with Santa.

Fri., Nov. 25 – Sun., Dec. 11 Toys For Tots Collection. Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Sat., Nov. 26: Breakfast with Santa. Chef Alan’s American Bistro, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading. 9 a.m. Tickets are $10 for Child (includes Breakfast Buffet and photo with Santa). $7 for adults (includes breakfast only!) All Children must be accompanied by an adult. See Customer Service beginning Nov. 1st for tickets!

Thurs., Dec. 1: Spring Valley Choir Holiday Performance. Boscov’s Court, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading. 7 p.m.

Fri., Dec. 9: Reading Philharmonic Holiday Performance. Center Court, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading, 7 p.m.

Sat., Dec. 10: Melanie Wright Dance Studio Holiday Performance. Center Court, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading, 4 p.m.

Sat., Dec. 17: Dance Gallery Holiday Dance Performance. Center Court, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading, 1 p.m.

Tues., Dec. 20: Exeter Jr. High Orchestra & Choir Performance. Center Court, Fairgrounds Square Mall, Reading, 11:30 a.m.

tamaquaarea.com • schuylkill.org • www.readingberkspa.com • carboncountychamber.net • hazletonchamber.org