winter 2012 lifestyles over 50 schuylkill

FREE – Volume 2 – Issue 8 – Winter 2013Encouraging vibrant and healthy living in Schuylkill, Carbon, Luzerne and Berks Counties

w w w.l ifest ylesover50.com

CHECK OUT THE WALK IN ART CENTER

A LOOK BACK AT 1969

The holiday season has passed and we are now focused on Valentine’s Day. Both Christmas and Valentine’s Day are about love and sharing….and sharing our love! But I ask you to make that a daily goal, every day, all year…not just on special occasions…Twice as much on special occasions! Do something good for someone today…and try not to let anyone know about it!

Remember, too, this time of year can be very hard on our senior friends and family. Please make sure they have appropriate clothing, warmth, and nutrition. They may need some help shoveling their sidewalks or going to the store or pharmacy, too.

And of course, pets need extra care during the winter. My therapy dog Skye, who is a yellow lab, asked me to remind you of that.

Finally, how are you doing with your New Year’s resolutions and annual goals? Is there anything we can do to help you? For article ideas, please feel free to call or email me!

FROM THE EDITOR

Lifestyles over 50 is distributed FREE. Copyright 2013 © Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc.

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Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc. assumes no liability for the actions by any group or individual based upon such material.

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EDITOR IN CHIEFKimberly S. Noel, 570-624-9674,

[email protected] DESIGNKimberly Medalis

EDITOR AT LARGECheryl Feeser

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FROM THE EDITOR

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SEAPA Announces New OfficeSchuylkill Elder Abuse Prevention Alliance, Inc., SEAPA, is pleased to announce they have established an office and now have a staff member working to support the organization’s mission. SEAPA has moved into office space at Avenues’ headquarters at 2 Park Street, Pottsville – directly across from the Avenues’ greenhouse. The office is staffed by Kathy Moser, who is also employed by Avenues.

In November of 2012, Avenues and SEAPA entered into an agreement that benefits both organizations. SEAPA is subletting office space and staff hours from Avenue and this collaboration has made it possible for SEAPA to establish a permanent presence in the community they serve. The agreement also generates revenue for Avenues and allows SEAPA to secure space and support staff at an affordable cost.

SEAPA is busy planning for several community education events. On March 13th, SEAPA will be hosting the Chamber’s “Networking Before Nine” event. On April 25th, SEAPA will be conducting training for all local EMS and first responders on identifying and reporting suspected elder abuse; this also includes information on HIPPA and the first responder. Two wonderful presenters will conduct the training - Dr. Ron Costen of Temple University, and Jay Taylor of the PA Department of Health. Dinner and continuing education credits will be offered.

Finally, SEAPA is gearing up for their annual “Silver Ribbon Campaign” – and have designated May as Elder Abuse Prevention Awareness month in Schuylkill County. They invite all civic groups, churches, businesses, and individuals to participate by displaying a large silver ribbon, wearing silver lapel ribbons, and helping SEAPA distribute silver lapel ribbons. SEAPA members are available to speak at businesses, churches, and civic organizations. More information can be obtained from the SEAPA office. In 2012, SEAPA distributed a total of 2500 silver ribbons – the goal for 2013 is 4000 and all of Schuylkill County is invited to partner with us in this important event.

The goal of SEAPA is to make “Schuylkill County safer for all our seniors.” As our county ages, stemming the tide of elder abuse becomes more and more of a priority. Elder abuse is everyone’s problem – from the actual victims to the taxpayers that absorb the costs of investigation, conviction and punishment.

SEAPA’s members are all volunteers and bring a diverse combination of personal and professional experience. Represented in our membership is law enforcement; clergy, banking, education, social services, aging services, and victims’ advocates. In existence since 2004, SEAPA has gradually grown into a viable resource for community education and empowerment.

SEAPA can be reached at 622-7290, ext. 16. To report suspected elder abuse, always call Schuylkill County Office of Senior Services at 1-800-832-3313. All reports are confidential. SEAPA can also be found on the web at: www.schuylkillelderabuse.com or follow SEAPA on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/SchuylkillElderAbusePreventionAllianceSeapaInc

Winter Weather Safety – Hypothermia! When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced. The result is hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature. Body temperature that is too low affects the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well. This makes hypothermia particularly dangerous because a person may not know it is happening and won’t be able to do anything about it.

What are the warning signs of hypothermia? In adults, look for shivering/exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech, memory loss, and drowsiness. In infants, be alert for bright red, cold skin, and low energy levels.

What should I do if I see someone with the warning signs of hypothermia? Take the person’s temperature – If it is below 95°F, the situation is an emergency! Get medical attention immediately. If medical care is not available, or is delayed for some reason, begin warming the person as follows: Get the victim to a warm room or shelter. If the victim has wet clothing, remove it. Warm the center of the body first, using an electric blanket if available, or by your own body heat with dry layers of blankets, clothing, or towels between. Warm beverages can help increase body temperature, but do NOT give alcoholic beverages, and never attempt to give beverages to an unconscious person.

After body temperature has increased, keep the person wrapped in a warm blanket, including the head and neck. Get medical attention as soon as possible. A person with severe hypothermia may be unconscious and may not seem to have a pulse or to be breathing. In this case, handle the victim gently, and get emergency assistance immediately. Even if the victim appears dead, CPR should be provided. CPR should continue while the victim is being warmed, until the victim responds or medical aid becomes available. In some cases, hypothermia victims who appear to be dead can be successfully resuscitated.


Eco- Friendly Cleaning Business Conquers Dirt and Grime in an Earth-Friendly WayBy Maria Herne

A mother-daughter cleaning team from McAdoo believes that you don’t have to be harsh on the environment to get the job done.

Crystal and Mara Wersinger started their residential and commercial cleaning business Green Green Eco Clean, Inc. in December 2012. They based their new business on an old-fashioned, common sense approach: they use only non-toxic, natural and safe cleaning products in their business.

“We’re an all natural janitorial service,” said Crystal Wersinger, 22, co-owner of the cleaning company. “All the products we use are natural: vinegar, baking soda and warming oils. Green Green Eco Clean, Inc. is more than just a janitorial service. We care about our customers and the earth.”

Crystal said she and her mother have a combined 17 years of experience in the cleaning industry. Mara Wersinger worked in janitorial service for 13 years and Crystal worked for four years for a cleaning service.

A few months ago, while taking online business classes, Crystal began tackling an assignment that required her to design her own business plan. She came up with Green Green Eco Clean, Inc., a business that reflected her own skills and career experience as well as her personal convictions.

The bottom line: offer customers a better, safer, more earth-friendly approach to clean.

“I’ve had health problems from toxic cleaning products,” Crystal said. “Toxic products can damage your body. There’s a whole list of health problems that show what toxic chemicals can do to you. Earth-friendly products help out a lot more than people think.”

Mara Wersinger said her daughter started the business by researching and purchasing the products on which their business would be based. They settled on a short list of tried and true favorites: vinegars, including plain white vinegar and apple cider vinegar, plant-based warming essential oils and baking soda.

“She spent more than $200 of her own money,” Mara said.

Finding out what works and what doesn’t took some time Crystal said. “There’s a lot of “fake” natural products out there that are almost as bad as toxic cleaning products,” she said. “Most of the cleaning products we use are things you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s easy to make but you have to know what product to use where. You can’t put something like vinegar on marble, for example. It takes time to work it all out.”

The pair make their own cleaning solutions at home and bring them to the job site. They also use recycled “eco-friendly” paper towels and rags to clean, Crystal said.

“We care about the health and safety of our employees and our customers, but we also care about the earth,” Crystal said. “We recycle, too.”

So far the service only has two clients, but Crystal said she hopes their unique commitment to eco-friendly cleaning will give them a distinctive edge over their competitors.

“I think people want this,” she said. “Our clients chose us because of the services we provide, and because we use non-toxic natural products.”

Business hours are from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and can be scheduled by calling 570-929-2428 or contacting them via e-mail at [email protected]. They offer standard janitorial services including wet and dry mopping, vacuuming, trash removal, bathroom and kitchen cleaning, window cleaning and other services. Services are by appointment. Website: [email protected]

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SCHUYLKILL MALL LISTS UPCOMING EVENTSFebruary 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th -- Junior Idol 5 Contest! A singing contest for ages 6 thru 15; each round takes place at 6pm in center court. For information and registration form, please visit the customer service center or www.shopschuylkillmall.com.

February 20th -- Sunburst Pageant and Model Search! Registration at 5pm; event starts at 6pm in center court. For information and registration from, please visit the Customer Service Center.

March 2nd -- Rabies Clinic in the small community room; for a listing of shots and prices call 484-769-8926.

Lifestyles over 50 Winter Issue 5

2 cups sugar1 cup butter1/3 tsp. salt1 tsp. vanilla2 eggs1 cup milk

2 tsp. vinegar1/2 tsp. baking soda2 large tsp. baking powder1 tsp. nutmeg2 lbs. flour, to start

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Cream together sugar, butter, salt and vanilla. Add eggs.

3. Mix milk and vinegar together and let sit until it thickens (or use buttermilk).

4. To milk mixture, add baking soda, baking powder and nutmeg.5. Add milk mixture to creamed mixture and add flour until a soft dough forms.6. Divide dough in half and knead in more flour. The less flour kneaded in, the

more tender the cookies.7. Roll out and cut with heart-shaped cookie cutter.8. Bake at 375 degrees until very, very light brown.

Valentine Cookie Icing1 stick margarine1 tsp. vanilla1 tsp. red food coloring1 box 10X confectioners’ powdered sugarMilk

Mix all ingredients except for milk. Add just enough milk to make pink icing. You can use a white or red icing tube to write ‘Be My Valentine’ or ‘To My Valentine’ or a special message on each one.

Marilyn had five children and would deliver a cookie to each child in her children’s school classrooms. She was a very popular mother!

Attorney Daniel Miscavige, shown here, along with other professionals from the community, E. Franklin Franklin Griffiths lll , and Pam Hess of Genworth Financial were recently at Heritage Hill Senior Community to discuss planning for your future. Those in attendance said they received important information that they were not previously aware of.

Residents and guests enjoyed the Italian cuisine and danced to the music of Tony Angelo at the That’s Amore event held here at Heritage Hill Senior Community.

by Pat NemetchApril’s arrival means the signs of spring

are all around us, the days are longer, the sun is brighter and trees and plants are beginning to show colors once again.

At the same time, the political debate over the future of Social Security and Medicare is warming up as well. For more than a year, the President and Congress have been talking about changes to Medicare and Social Security as part of a budget deal without any discussion about how any changes would affect you and your family. AARP wants to bring the debate out from behind the closed doors in Washington by holding a national conversation to ensure you have a say in

the future of Medicare and Social Security.They’re calling it You’ve Earned A Say

because you’ve earned benefits by paying into Social Security and Medicare for years, and you deserve to know how any proposed changes will affect you and your family.

If you are wondering why you should join this conversation, it is because your health and retirement security are at stake. Medicare is facing financial challenges. The Medicare fund that pays hospital bills will face a shortfall in 2024. Social Security can pay all promised benefits until about 2036, and after that, it can still pay 75%.

Your voice matters, because Social Security and Medicare are the foundation

of income and health security in retirement for most Americans. More than 1.8 million seniors statewide depend on Social Security benefits to help pay the bills every month, and 1.9 million count on Medicare to help them afford health care.

The fact is we all have an interest in keeping Social Security and Medicare strong for our children and grandchildren.

By working together, getting involved and making our voices heard, we can keep Social Security and Medicare strong for today and for future generations. Visit www.earnedasay.org for straightforward information and to share your ideas about how to strengthen Medicare and Social Security.

The political debate over the future of Social Security and Medicare is warming up

Valentine Cookiesprovided by Marilyn Feeser Family

Camp DragonflyWith over 30 years of experience providing end-of-life care and bereavement support to patients and their families, Hospice of Central Pennsylvania recognizes the unique needs that youngsters face while coping with the loss of a loved one. In response to those needs Hospice of Central Pennsylvania offers Camp Dragonfly, a “free of charge” weekend bereavement camp for children and teens that have experienced the death of a family member due to illness, accident, suicide or homicide.

This year, 2013, will be Camp Dragonfly’s nineteenth year of providing support to grieving youngsters in our community. Our Camp Dragonfly brochure provides a description of Camp Dragonfly along with the dates and locations for this year’s camps. If you know a child or teen that can benefit from participating in Camp Dragonfly, please share this information with the youngster’s parent/guardian.

We are currently accepting applications for children and teens who wish to attend Camp Dragonfly. Attendance at Camp Dragonfly requires the parent/guardian to register their child and complete a camper application. Participant space at Camp Dragonfly is limited so we encourage campers to register early.

For additional information, or to request a camper application please call Hospice of Central Pennsylvania at (717)732-1000, (570)628-2290 (Schuylkill Area) or toll free 1(866)779-7374.

SARCC — Who We Are!SARCC is the Sexual Assault Resource and Counseling Center (SARCC) of Schuylkill County engages all individuals, families and communities in healing, advocating and educating for the elimination of sexual violence. Prevention and education programs are two of the important services offered by SARCC. Their expert staff conducts a wide range of programs including professional training and community education. Their training service helps professionals in medicine, law and social service agencies understand the needs of clients who are sexual assault survivors. Their community education programs teach both protection against and prevention of sexual assault. The presentations have been specially designed to reach children, teens, and adults in an age-appropriate and non-threatening manner to increase understanding and reduce risk.

Rape Crisis Program – The Sexual Assault Resource and Counseling Center provides an array of services for children and adults who are victims of sexual assault and their loved ones. The staff, with the help of volunteers, provides crises and supportive counseling services, emergency room accompaniment, information and referral service, court accompaniment and assistance in applying for State Crime Victims Compensation benefits. Program staff is also actively involved in providing educational programs about sexual assault for religious, civic, business, youth and school groups.

List of Services• Free and confidential crisis counseling and intervention 24

hours a day

• Prevention education programs to schools and the public; hospital, court and police accompaniment

• Information and referral

• Bi-lingual (Spanish) counselors

• Empowerment groups

• Prison support groups

• Accessible facility

• Services for survivors with mental health issues

• 24 hour support

HIGHLIGHTSThe following accomplishments in Schuylkill County helped their mission during the 2010-2011 fiscal year:

• Handled 1,300 victim related calls.

• Worked with 493 clients, providing 2,862 hours of counseling and case management.

• Served on committees with medical, professional and law enforcement personnel to enhance services to victims.

• Presented 830 school programs for 21,901 students.

• Provided medical and legal accompaniments to 323 adults and children.

• Provided in-school programs and information packages to middle and high school students in all of the school districts.

• Presented 36 programs to community groups for 777 community members.

• Collaborated with the Schuylkill Medical Center in the

development of the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program protocol.

• Collaborated with the Actors Guild in presenting the Vagina Monologues.

• Recruited 100 men who successfully created a “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” fundraising event for Schuylkill County. This event netted over $9,000.00 for services to survivors. See the photo with this article.

SARCC is a United Way Agency. They are located at 17 Westwood Centre in Pottsville, PA 17901. You can reach them by phoning (570) 628-2965.

All of us are aware that we live in communities and a larger culture in which violence is not just tolerated but lauded as a viable response to everyday issues. Over the years we have come to recognize that violence is not just physical assault, but a culture that turns away from verbal assaults that can turn into episodes we cannot ignore. Violence and our response have also come to mean that our lack of response gives violence a chance to grow and flourish in each of our communities. The question becomes, what can I do and by extension what can our community do?

Green Dot answers that for all of us, individuals, organizations and institutions can do very small things that begin to turn the culture toward one where we all feel safe. These “small” things can build into larger effects on changing our community culture. Each of us is equipped both in very small and in some cases larger ways to effect these changes.

Green Dot does just that. It shows us that this building from each intervention both large and yes, even the smallest intervention, to recognize, address and prevent violence changes our community into one where each of us thrives not just survives.

Learn more about the green dot program at www.livethegreen.com

Lifestyles over 50 Winter Issue6

Just a reminder that lunch is now being served at the Shoppes at the Meck Knitting Mill, 101 W. Main St. in

Schuylkill Haven.

The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch—soups, salads and desserts! Stop by and try us out! The stores are open Wednesday through

Friday 9am to 7pm and Saturday 9am to 3pm.

Please check us out!

Should I Probate My Dad’s Estate Without An Attorney?Written By: Attorney Matthew J, Parker, Marshall, Parker & WeberThe do it yourself type might be inclined to settle the estate of a loved one without the assistance of an attorney. However, probate – the court monitored process of distributing the assets of a deceased – can become a headache for the inexperienced. There are those who think that probating is just a bunch of paperwork that can be acquired on-line. As an attorney who has probated hundreds of estates, take my word that the complex and frustrating issues that arise in estates go way beyond filing paperwork.

The personal representative of an estate (executor or administrator) is a fiduciary, a legally appointed representative who is responsible for managing the estate assets for ultimate distribution to the beneficiaries. If the personal representative behaves in a negligent manner, he or she may be held liable for any damages caused to the inheritance of the beneficiaries. Here’s an insight into some of the issues a personal representative may face in the estate administration.

1. Failure to follow the rules. Probate involves following the proper procedures associated with management of the estate. Among those procedures are the legally required notices to beneficiaries, creditors and, in some cases, the Department of Public Welfare and the Pennsylvania Attorney General. Fail to follow one of the many rules and the personal representative can cost the estate time and money.

2. Errors on the inheritance tax return. Pennsylvania has an inheritance tax. Even in estates where the tax percentage is zero, the tax return must still be filed. Make an error on the return, such as missing a deduction, the early tax payment period, or overstate the tax due, and you’ll cost the estate money.

3. Mismanagement of the assets. One of the personal representative’s responsibilities is to secure and protect the estate assets. A personal representative risks charges of negligence if stock is not sold in a timely manner before it drops in value. In addition, failure to acquire fair market value when personal effects or real estate are sold could bring similar charges.

4. Failure to account. At the end of the administration of the estate, the personal representative must account to the

beneficiaries, setting forth the value of the assets at the start of the administration, any gains or losses during administration, debts of the decedent and estate and costs of administration, among others. If the personal representative cannot produce accurate records of administration, he or she could face a claim for damages.

While many insist that their siblings all get along and there is no need to hire a lawyer, the reality is that the dynamics change between the siblings once the parents die. The money associated with an inheritance can further inflame fractured relationships between the siblings and make serving as a personal representative a thankless task. Using a lawyer to represent the personal representative reduces the risk of administrative error and helps maintain civility amongst the beneficiaries.

Given the potential pitfalls in an estate administration, it is generally not worth the savings on legal fees when one attempts to do it on their own. Hiring a good estate administration attorney helps to ensure all the proper steps are taken in a timely manner.

If you wish to learn more about estate administration, please do not hesitate to contact Marshall, Parker & Associates for more information.

* Attorney Parker is a Certified Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation. He is a partner with the law firm of Marshall, Parker & Weber

where they specialize in helping families across Pennsylvania plan and pay for long-term care. He can be contacted in Wilkes-Barre or Scranton at 822-6919 or

at www.paelderlaw.com.


570.822.6919201 Lackwanna Avenue, Scranton, PA 185031065 Highway 315 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 www.paelderlaw.com

CALL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

Nursing Home Care CanCost $90,000 A Year

Attorney Matthew J. Parker

It’s not too late to protect your spouse,your home, your savings, and the qualityof your life.

How to start the conversation on long term care………….Lori’s Angels in partnership with Covenant Home Health Care and Hospice, Providence Place, Spectrum Senior Consultants and the Schuylkill County Office of Senior Services is sponsoring a free informational seminar on how to start the important discussion on long term care options. There are multiple options available to individuals as they age; allowing individuals to remain in the least restrictive environment. Learn what those options are, the costs and where you might be able to receive help to pay for them. This free presentation and question and answer session is geared toward anyone who is a caregiver or who may be considering options for themselves. The time to think about long term care is before you need it. Educate yourself now so that you have the tools to make the best decisions if and when the time comes to seek service. Light refreshments will be served. Reservations are appreciated for planning purposes but not required. Please contact Erin at Lori’s Angels 385-8450 or [email protected] to reserve your seat or for more information.


New To Electronic Payments?By Greg SenichSocial Security District Manager in Hazleton

Beginning March 1, with few exceptions, all federal benefits, including Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, are to be paid electronically. That’s according to a rule from the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

For years, Social Security has stressed the convenience, security, and safety of getting benefit payments electronically, offering peace of mind that your payment will arrive on time, even in the event of natural disasters or being away from home when the check is in the mail.

Electronic payments (direct deposit or Direct Express) are not only the best way to receive federal benefit payments — for most people, starting in March, they are the only way.

The truth is, for most people getting monthly benefits, this isn’t really a change at all. That’s because more than 9 out of ten individuals who receive benefits from Social Security already receive payments electronically.

If you get your payments the old-fashioned way and electronic payments are new to you, here are some things you may want to know about your future payments.

•Electronic payments are safer: there’s no risk of checks being lost or stolen;

•Electronic payments are easy and reliable: there’s no need to wait for the mail or go to the bank to cash a check;

•Electronic payments are good for the environment: they save paper and eliminate transportation costs; and finally;

•Electronic payments save taxpayers money to the tune of $120 million per year: there are no costs for postage, paper, and printing; and

•Electronic payments could save you money on check-cashing and bank fees.

Please visit www.GoDirect.org today to learn more about getting your Social Security and SSI payments the safe, easy, inexpensive, and green way — electronically. And rest assured that on payment delivery day, you won’t have to wait for your money; your money is already in the bank and ready for you to use.

Highlights of the Year 1969• The Woodstock Music Festival opens with 500,000 rock

music fans going to this Peace and Harmony Music Festival.• Hurricane Camille a Category 5 hurricane makes landfall with

winds estimated between 150 and 205 mile per hour. The hurricane was responsible for the death of nearly 300 people and the destruction of thousands of homes in Alabama, Mississippi, Virginia and Louisiana.

• Five people, including actress Sharon Tate, were found murdered in the wealthy Bel Air suburb of the city Los Angeles, California, Cult leader Charles Manson and several of his followers were later convicted of the killings.

• Man lands on the Moon• Brian Jones Former Rolling Stones Guitarist Drowns• The French President, Charles de Gaulle, resigns from

President of France after 11 years, following his defeat in a referendum on governmental reforms.

• The verdict had been decided. James Earl Ray pleaded guilty of the crime of assassinating Martin Luther King, Jr. a major civil rights leader of the times.

• Israel elects Golda Meir• The Pontiac Firebird Trans Am the epitome of the American

muscle car is introduced.• The British Parliament votes to abolish the death penalty in

Great Britain.• The U.S. holds its first draft lottery since World War II to

determine the order of draft (induction) into the U.S. Army for the Vietnam War.

• The Beatles make their last public performance giving an impromptu concert on the roof of the London recording studio.

SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS• New York Mets beat Baltimore Orioles 4 games to 1• New York Jets upset Baltiomore Colts in Super Bowl III• Boston Celtics beat Los Angeles Lakers 4 games to 3

TOP TEN TV SHOWS• Laugh-in; Gunsmoke; Bonanza; Mayberry, RFD; Family

Affair; Here’s Lucy; Red Skelton Hour; Marcus Welby; Walt Disney; Doris Day Show

Schuylkill Computers 328 Washington St. Tamaqua, PA 18252 570-668-1059 [email protected]

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616 North Street, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229Phone 610-770-6500 or 610-295-9531

Walk In Art CenterThe Walk In Art Center (WIAC) is a 501 (C)(3) non-profit organization founded in the belief that art and culture can positively affect the lives of all. Located in Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, the WIAC has 15 artists working on-site and an event space where galleries will be built. The mission of the Walk In is to inspire, equip and celebrate the cultural and creative talent of Schuylkill County. Art centers can come in many shapes and sizes, but often repurpose no longer used industrial space, as those conditions are ideal for showing art and retrofitting for artist studios. The Walk In Art Center is using space that was once the Walk-in Shoe Company, a leading shoe manufacturing business. The factory closed in the 1980s, and was bought by Bert Evans though his business, Evans’ Network of Companies. Though much of the building is used by Evans’ Network of Companies, the rest was graciously leased or donated to the community, which is why at the Walk In Art Center facility you will also find the Schuylkill Haven Police Department and the local food pantry, along with the Walk In Art Center’s event space and artist studios.

Soon after the Walk In Art Center received its 501 (c) (3) not for profit standing, Bert Evans developed a statement that would explain why he felt giving back to the community through the development of the Walk In Art Center was necessary. Bert Evans is extremely involved in the Walk In Art Center, and serves as the Chairman of the Board with his wife Josette, who is also an active member of the Board of Directors. Their statement can be found below:

First, we wanted to give back to a great community, one that had a very positive effect on our family and our company. The way we chose to do this was to establish an attraction that would draw people from other areas, so they could experience the warmth and hospitality of Schuylkill Haven. In the process we believe they will support other business in the area and help our country revitalize.

Second, we wanted to create an awareness of the importance of creative expression by showcasing top artists from the region, along with other collections from other areas and countries.

Lastly, we wanted to teach and assist all who visit the center so that they may appreciate and understand how art can enrich their lives.

The Walk In Art Center currently hosts many free events, the biggest being the ‘First Saturday Open House’ event. Every first Saturday of the month from 1-6pm, the Walk In Art Center welcomes the community to visit for the free entertainment. On a normal First Saturday, there will be some form of entertainment, usually by a local musician. The artists who hold studio memberships with the Walk In Art Center are encouraged to be present on that day, to talk to visitors about their art. There is also a children’s art project available to teach young visitors an artistic skill or educate them on a specific artist or painting through a hands-on project.

The Walk In Art Center is open Thursday through Sunday from 1-6pm. Please reach out to the Walk In Art Center with any questions via phone, 570.732.3728 or via email at [email protected]. Classes and workshops are also offered regularly. The Spring schedule is currently out, and there are over 5 classes for adults- one is even an adult and child class. Grandparents with grandchildren welcome!

Photos courtesy of Johnathan Paroby

Why am I in pain?By Dr. Buddy Touchinsky

“Pain is just a normal consequence of aging. It’s probably due to arthritis.”

How many of you have been told something similar upon your visit to the doctor? Is pain “normal”? Is it just arthritis? Can something be done to prevent it, get rid of it, or prevent it from becoming worse? What treatment options are available?

Over the next few issues of Lifestyles Over 50, I will attempt to answer some of these questions. In this segment, let’s start with discussing pain and what can cause it.

First, pain is never “normal”. Pain is your body’s way of telling you there is a problem. Something in your body is either being excessively compressed (too much pressure), stretched (too much tension), or irritated (infected, swelling, rubbing). If the body is working properly during appropriate activities, pain should not be present.

With that said, pain is very common, especially in the aging population. People develop health issues, posture becomes abnormal, muscles become tight or weak, scar tissue and adhesions form from old injuries or repetitive stress; basically years of wear and tear begin to take its toll on the body.

Identifying the likely cause of pain is important in order to help choose what options are best for diagnosis and treatment. The following list is provided for educational and awareness purposes only. Pain and associated issues can be extremely complex, so it is always important to discuss any problems you have with your health care provider(s).

1. Pain due to body-wide illness - Although probably less likely to be the cause versus the others on this list, this must always be considered first. Any time a chiropractor, family doctor, or orthopedist sees someone with pain, they must always rule out diseases that are not directly related to the joints, muscles, and nerves themselves. Examples of diseases in this category are cancer, infection, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. Attributes common to these conditions are persistent fatigue, fever, swelling, excessive bleeding and bruising, night chills/sweats, blood in the stool or

urine, unintentional weight loss, chronic cough, excessive muscle weakness, numbness and tingling in the extremities, and pain in multiple areas of the body with no clear explanation.

2. Pain due to injury - This can be caused in two ways. One, excessive forces like during a car accident, fall, or heavy lifting may cause sudden injury to muscles, joints, and bones. Two, repeated small amounts of stress during every day activities or poor posture can cause a slow progression or wearing down of these structures until they eventually fail and become injured. In both scenarios, there is a “broken” part of the body causing pain and discomfort. Examples are a torn rotator cuff, disc herniation, dislocated shoulder, whiplash, bone fractures, “bone on bone” arthritis, etc. Pain from these issues often occurs immediately after an accident, feels much worse with activity, greatly restricts range of motion and causes severe pain in a joint, and the pain is usually very sharp and severe. Also, bruising, swelling, warmth, and redness may be found over the affected area. A difference between this and #1 is that these are often only found in one or two areas vs. multiple areas around the body. Also, pain from issues in this category can usually be linked to a specific reason (fall, heavy lifting, etc.).

3. Pain due to muscle and joint tightness and poor mobility - Everyday use and abuse, poor posture, poor

nutrition and hydration, and not being active enough can lead muscles and joints that are tight and tense and don’t move as well as they need to move. Muscle tension around a joint causes excessive pressure or compression to that joint, which can lead to joint pain, inflammation, and eventually arthritis. Additionally, issues from #2 can eventually resolve and move into this category. Pain from these conditions is usually worse in the morning upon getting out of bed and with sitting for a period of time, better with activity, dull,

achy, stiff, and is located in areas where there is an old injury or in areas affected by repetitive stress and strain (sitting at computer or driving several hours daily, using the same tools or machines at work for many years, etc.).

Pain from #1 can be very complicated and due to a large variety of health conditions. See your health care provider ASAP if you feel you have pain for any of these reasons. Pain from #2 and #3 is more common, yet often misunderstood. These conditions can be difficult for health care providers to find the exact cause making it difficult to choose the correct treatment to solve these issues. Over the next two articles in this series, I will cover these categories of pain along with potential treatment options that may be effective in reducing or eliminating pain for these reasons.

Check out the next issue of Lifestyles over 50 for part two of this series. I will cover pain due to injuries and trauma, treatment options, and keys to a full recovery.

(Dr. Buddy Touchinsky is a chiropractor at Blue Mountain Family Chiropractic located in Orwigsburg, PA. He can be contacted at 570-366-2613 and more information can be found at www.drtouchinsky.com)


Peter and Baxter-what a pair of lovers! Peter, who lives alone, met Baxter only eight months ago and it was instant love - love at first sight - love at their first encounter. Peter Tom Sebastian is a retired small business owner in Berks county, PA. His business was owning and managing a protective equipment distributorship. Here he supplied factories and mills with gear to protect workers in manufacturing facilities. Peter at 90 years says the key to acheiving age 90 is to stay active. He works often in his wood shop, Baxter by his side.

Peter is a wood carver competative hobbyist and he carves things as small as song birds to crows, owls, and ringnecked pheasants. A steady hand is required Peter says, for carving with small carving tools. His hands are quieted by stroking Baxters neck and back. Baxter is a yellow lab-mix lovable dog. The only departure from labrador features are the ears on Baxter are smaller than a full bred lab. Non the less Baxter's demeaner is that of a puppy. Baxter is well behaved. Peter states that Baxter must have had some prior training to coming to him via the Berks county animal rescue league. Baxter is very happy sitting on the passengers side secured with the seat belt and Peter at the wheel. Baxter, house broken, is eight years old and has a large fenced in are in which to romp and play.

Baxter enjoys meals of canned food-veggies/beef/chicken. So he is now a very healthy happy rescued dog. Happily Peter's and Baxter's love relationship will endure for a long, long time.

Baxter is from the ARL’s Grey Muzzle Foster Program. he ARL is always looking for foster homes who would be willing to provide temporary care for older or special needs pets. For more information email Marcy Tocker at [email protected].

It was love at first sight...

3C’s Family RestaurantOutside dining with a scenic view on the beautiful Schuylkill River.

(610) 562-5925 3CsFamily.comcastbiz.net“The Gathering Place of Friends and Family”

Monday - Friday5 am - 2 pm(til 3pm Seasonal Spring/Fall)Saturday - Sunday6 am - 2 pm

Celebrating 38 Years!Award Winning Breakfast

Voted #1 Since 2003

by Donna LongoAre you in the “sandwich generation?” I never thought I would

be at the age of 36, but there I was with a three year old and 15 year old taking care of my 71 year old father-in-law. I had one getting out of diapers and one going in.

I was like you. I made my mother feel guilty about putting her mother in a “home.” My grandmother raised five children, why couldn’t they take care of her? In my mind if everyone pitched in to care for her it wouldn’t be that bad - in a perfect world that is.

My mother took her in and she stayed for less than a year before it got too bad and she finally wound up in a county home. So when my father-in-law had a nervous breakdown less than two years later and the doctors wouldn’t let him live alone, they released him to an assisted living facility. He didn’t want to be there so, we sold our house and his to build a house that could accommodate everyone.

I grew up living with my grandparents until I was five and I loved it. I have wonderful memories of my grandparents and I wanted my children to have them also. I also thought it would help my father-in-law’s depression if he were surrounded with his family. Instead, I was the one in a state of depression.

You never really know someone unless you live with them. It didn’t go as well as I thought it would. He really didn’t want to spend time with the kids. What he did want however, was to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at a specific time every day. In my house that just doesn’t happen. We would eat whenever and where ever we got a chance. That didn’t go over very well with him.

I had thought that my father-in-law’s family would maybe take him overnight to spend time with him every once and a while. They did come to see him and take him out to lunch and he enjoyed it. I enjoyed having the time to run errands.

The sandwich generation

Take 10% off your purchase.Cannot be combined with other offers Exp. 05/31/11 SL0412


Schuylkill County’s VISION Expands to New LocationSchuylkill County’s VISION is pleased to announce that they will be moving to new and larger office space in January 2013. The new location is made possible through a generous donation by a strong community supporter who wished to recognize VISION’s outstanding work in Schuylkill County.

The new office space at 1461B Route 61 South is very accessible to the public. The expanded space will allow VISION to better serve their many strategic partnerships. These include the Schuylkill County Suicide Prevention Committee, Schuylkill on the Move, the Schuylkill County Mental Health Committee, the Schuylkill County Diversity Council, Schuylkill County Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster, the Interfaith Health Network, the Schuylkill County Immunization Coalition, Block of Art, and the Schuylkill County Diabetes Task Force.

Schuylkill County’s VISION will continue to serve the people of Schuylkill County in 2013 and beyond through projects that bring together coalitions to work together on important county objectives. These coalition projects include facilitating the Schuylkill County Youth Conference and facilitating the Schuylkill County Work Group for Community Health, a group working toward a Federally Qualified Health Center in Schuylkill County. VISION is the State Health Improvement Plan(SHIP) Partner for Schuylkill County and does many projects that promote a healthier Schuylkill County, such as free flu clinics throughout the county.Please visit the website www.schuylkillvision.com for more information or to make a donation to support VISION. For further information, please contact Kay Jones, Schuylkill County’s VISION at 570-622-6097 or [email protected].

Carbon County Friends of AnimalsBy Maria Herne

Rachel Rex and Dana Dunbar are dedicated to their job.

In fact, the two co-workers at the Carbon County Friends of Animals in Jim Thorpe, Carbon County, are known for “taking their work home with them” in a very special way.

Between them, the two women have fostered and adopted about a dozen kittens and cats over the years they have been employed as caretakers at the Carbon County non-profit shelter which specializes in felines.

Dunbar said she has loved animals her whole life, but when she first started at the shelter four years ago, she only had experience caring for small animals and dogs. It didn’t take long for her to become a “cat person” too, she said.

“I didn’t adopt any cats for about a year after I started working here, but after I got my first cat, I was really drawn to the ones that most people won’t adopt, the ones that needed a lot of one-on-one care,” Dunbar said.

Dunbar, who shares a home in Jim Thorpe with her mother and sister, has three cats: Olivia, Lil’ Lover and Runt Runt, all former special needs kittens that have grown and thrived under her and her family’s patience and loving care.

“I love them,” she said. “They’re a wonderful part of my life. You can be having the worst day of your life, but when you come home, there they are. They run to greet you there at the door and they’re so happy to see you.”

Stetson, the first adopted member of the feline family was a stray with health problems that came to the shelter with his brother. After Stetson’s brother died, Dunbar took the tiny orphan home to cheer him up and he soon became a permanent part of the household.

Lil’ Lover was unable to walk as a kitten the first few weeks of her life, having been abandoned at a young age by her mother and so never learned how to do it. But through loving care and warm water therapy six times a day, she is now a healthy cat with working legs and lots of energy, Dunbar said.

Runt Runt, was a stray that failed to thrive, weighing only three pounds at eight months of age. He’s still tiny- but healthy, Dunbar said.

“He now weighs eight pounds,” she said.

As for Rex, who has been employed at the shelter for about a year, she started fostering cats who needed a little more socialization and soon made some of them a permanent part of her feline family. In addition to two cats that she had before she began working at the shelter, she now has nine cats: Olivia, Starlin, Sonnie, Pip, Squirrely, Princess, Dane, Bane, and Jackie. Continued on Page 15

Dana Dunbar, seated in yellow top, and her sister Danielle with her special cats.

SUDUKO


R.C. Gaitlan, 21, walked up to two patrol officers who were showing their squad car computer felon-location equipment to children in a Detroit neighborhood. When he asked how the system worked, the officer asked him for identification. Gaitlan gave them his drivers license, they entered it into the computer, and moments later they arrested Gaitlan be-cause information on the screen showed Gaitlan was wanted for a two-year-old armed robbery in St. Louis, Missouri.

Observations by comedian Steven Wright • A conscience is what hurts when all your other parts feel so good.• A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.• All those who believe in psycho kinesis, raise my hand.• The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.• I almost had a psychic girlfriend, ...... But she left me before we met.• OK, so what’s the speed of dark?• Hard work pays off in the future; laziness pays off now.• I intend to live forever... So far, so good.• How do you tell when you’re out of invisible ink?• If everything seems to be going well, you have obviously overlooked something.


Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Group The Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Group at Healthy Habits Natural Market in Orwigsburg is an oasis of encouragement for family, caregivers, and patients. The group meets September through May, on the second Saturday of the month, at 10am.

This past year the support group received a generous donation from the Hidden Valley Ladies Golf League. Most recently they were contacted by a young man who is interested in planning a fundraiser. Both of these benefactors have been personally affected by loved ones diagnosed with Dementia. Members of the support group are currently researching options for an educational program on Dementia and Alzheimer’s to be presented in Schuylkill County.

Please feel free to join the support group on Saturday, February 9, at 10am. Healthy Habits Natural Market is located at 1120 Centre Turnpike (Rt 61 S) in Orwigsburg. Contact Beth Fligge at 570-366-2620 for more information.

Winter Car TipsWinter can be a gloomy time, with short days and unpredictable weather. Getting out of the house for a few hours can be a welcome relief, even if it’s just a trip to the store, mall, or local diner. Here are a few tips to make sure your short trips stay enjoyable.

Be ready for the worst: freezing rain, extreme cold, sudden snowstorms, or stopped traffic can be dealt with if you are prepared. Check the weather report before leaving, and always keep your fuel tank full in the winter. It’s a good idea to use a fuel additive like Dry Gas to remove moisture from the tank (every other fill-up should do the trick). This keeps the injectors from freezing up. Don’t drive your car with frost on the windows! Warm it up first and make sure you have full visibility front, back, and side mirrors. Have your wiper blades checked. If they are worn or dried out and cracked, replace them. The $20 - $30 is money well spent for your safety.

Keep a blanket, gloves, and an extra coat “just in case” of a breakdown or traffic jam. Also, your vehicle handles the best with good tires--have a garage or tire center check your tires for tread wear and proper air pressure. Familiarize yourself with the traction-control features of your vehicle, if equipped. If you feel the vehicle start to slide or lose traction, take your foot off the gas and apply the brake firmly and steadily, especially with antilocking brakes (ABS). Don’t “slam” on the brakes. Shifting the vehicle into Neutral (N) can also help stop the vehicle from sliding on ice, as it stops the drive wheels from spinning.

For more on car care and car tips, tune in to Magic 105.5 FM radio at 8 am on the third Saturday of each month for “Kerry and Jerry Car Talk” with Magic’s Kerry Dowd and Jerry Enders, Jerry’s Northeast Auto Sales in Pottsville.

Peter and Baxter-what a pair of lovers! Peter, who lives alone, met Baxter only eight months ago and it was instant love - love at first sight - love at their first encounter. Peter Tom Sebastian is a retired small business owner in Berks county, PA. His business was owning and managing a protective equipment distributorship. Here he supplied factories and mills with gear to protect workers in manufacturing facilities. Peter at 90 years says the key to acheiving age 90 is to stay active. He works often in his wood shop, Baxter by his side.

Peter is a wood carver competative hobbyist and he carves things as small as song birds to crows, owls, and ringnecked pheasants. A steady hand is required Peter says, for carving with small carving tools. His hands are quieted by stroking Baxters neck and back. Baxter is a yellow lab-mix lovable dog. The only departure from labrador features are the ears on Baxter are smaller than a full bred lab. Non the less Baxter's demeaner is that of a puppy. Baxter is well behaved. Peter states that Baxter must have had some prior training to coming to him via the Berks county animal rescue league. Baxter is very happy sitting on the passengers side secured with the seat belt and Peter at the wheel. Baxter, house broken, is eight years old and has a large fenced in are in which to romp and play.

Baxter enjoys meals of canned food-veggies/beef/chicken. So he is now a very healthy happy rescued dog. Happily Peter's and Baxter's love relationship will endure for a long, long time.

Baxter is from the ARL’s Grey Muzzle Foster Program. he ARL is always looking for foster homes who would be willing to provide temporary care for older or special needs pets. For more information email Marcy Tocker at [email protected].

It was love at first sight...

3C’s Family RestaurantOutside dining with a scenic view on the beautiful Schuylkill River.

(610) 562-5925 3CsFamily.comcastbiz.net“The Gathering Place of Friends and Family”

Monday - Friday5 am - 2 pm(til 3pm Seasonal Spring/Fall)Saturday - Sunday6 am - 2 pm

Celebrating 38 Years!Award Winning Breakfast

Voted #1 Since 2003

by Donna LongoAre you in the “sandwich generation?” I never thought I would

be at the age of 36, but there I was with a three year old and 15 year old taking care of my 71 year old father-in-law. I had one getting out of diapers and one going in.

I was like you. I made my mother feel guilty about putting her mother in a “home.” My grandmother raised five children, why couldn’t they take care of her? In my mind if everyone pitched in to care for her it wouldn’t be that bad - in a perfect world that is.

My mother took her in and she stayed for less than a year before it got too bad and she finally wound up in a county home. So when my father-in-law had a nervous breakdown less than two years later and the doctors wouldn’t let him live alone, they released him to an assisted living facility. He didn’t want to be there so, we sold our house and his to build a house that could accommodate everyone.

I grew up living with my grandparents until I was five and I loved it. I have wonderful memories of my grandparents and I wanted my children to have them also. I also thought it would help my father-in-law’s depression if he were surrounded with his family. Instead, I was the one in a state of depression.

You never really know someone unless you live with them. It didn’t go as well as I thought it would. He really didn’t want to spend time with the kids. What he did want however, was to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at a specific time every day. In my house that just doesn’t happen. We would eat whenever and where ever we got a chance. That didn’t go over very well with him.

I had thought that my father-in-law’s family would maybe take him overnight to spend time with him every once and a while. They did come to see him and take him out to lunch and he enjoyed it. I enjoyed having the time to run errands.

The sandwich generation

Take 10% off your purchase.Cannot be combined with other offers Exp. 05/31/11 SL0412

Oceans Away Salon and Spa

Massage • Facials Pedicures • ManicuresCut & Colors • Hi-lites • Waxing

25 West Main Street Schuylkill Haven, PA

570-385-1217

www.oceansawayspa.com

Best Deep Tissue Massage Around!!SATORI

YOGA STUDIO

Heart Opening Hatha/Vinyasa for All Levels

Meditation and Women Groups

Vegan/Vegetarian cook shows

Call for details and times

BE SURE TO TRY BLASHIA VEGAN/VEGETARIAN CAFE

Mauch Chunk Opera House14 W. Broadway, Jim Thorpe - A Relaxed & Intimate Space for Musicians and Music LoversPhone 570-325-0249MauchChunkOperaHouse.com

Summit Hill Heritage Ctr. 1 W. Hazard St., Summit Hill www.summithillheritagecenter.com

February 2nd ...Sat. 8-2pm...Valentine’s Day Flea Market

February 12th Tues....6pm...Open mic night!! Open to anyone who wants to show their talent or just hang out.

Always available at the Summit Hill Heritage Center: Hand quilting by our own on site Quilter’s Circle. Your whole or pieced top can be quilted by the experienced quilters of the Heritage Center. Prices vary by size. Marking available at reasonable prices. See your heirloom or pieced top in beautiful quilted form. Call Elnora at 570.645.3381 or email [email protected].

Wanted: Persons to Learn Hand Quilting. The Summit Hill Heritage Center Quilt Circle are seeking interested parties to learn how to hand quilt and eventually join their merry band of quilters. Elnora is the perfect teacher. You will be learning to hand quilt on a new “Baby” quilt to be raffled off at the Center upon completion. Call Elnora at 570.645.3381 for further information.

Every Sunday 6 pm Church on the Rock at the Heritage Center 1 West Hazard Street Summit Hill PA.

Diakon Living and Learning after 50 Community Services for Seniors. Come Live and Learn with Us www.diakon.org

02/21/2013Diakon Adoption & Foster Care Orientation, Topton 02/15/2013Discovery Event 02/09/2013Resource Pre-Certification Training - York 02/05/2013Adoption & Foster Care Information Session - York 02/05/2013Adoption & Foster Care Information Session - Mechanicsburg 01/29/2013Presenting Holy Spirit... in Carlisle

Fire & ice Winter Fest

Sunday, Jan. 27, 2 - 4 pmWinter fun for everyone! Fire up hotdogs over an open fire -- Sign up now to compete in the Fire Hot Chili Cook-off or Ice-ing on the Cake decorating competition. Advance registration is required to participate in the competitions by calling our

office.Free Admission: cost for some activitiesLocation: Sweet Arrow Lake Clubhouse, Pine Grove

Winter, Wine & WisdomThurs., January 24th, 5 - 7 pmCozy up at the Greystone for this unique Super Bowl warm-up.Terry Balent from Southern Wine & Spirits will show you how to liven up your party by pairing your favorite game day cuisine with wine.$15, includes wine tasting & game day sampling. Reservations strongly suggested.Location: Greystone Restaurant - 315 N Centre St., Pottsville, PA 17901Sponsored by Diakon Living & Learning After 50, hosted by The Greystone, benefits Diakon Community Services for Seniors. Call Susan to register (570) 624-3018 Email: [email protected]

Looking for a gift idea for someone? Diakon Living and Learning offers Gift Certificates of any denominationWe are currently working on our Spring 2013 schedule and are looking for new and exciting opportunities that provide enjoyment, socialization, learning/networking opportunities and meeting new friends.

If you have an interest in a program or course we do not offer, or, if you have a special talent or hobby you would like to share with others, please contact Susan at 570-624-3018 or 800-621-6325. Email: [email protected] www.diakon.org/LL50 for our complete Spring Schedule

Diakon Living & Learning Monday Meander’s Hiking Club Schedule

A special invitation from the Berks Community Hiking Club’s Thursday Wanderers

Thursday January 31, 2012 - Richard Pierce will lead this hike of about 5 miles on the east side of scenic Lake Ontelaunee. We will trek on an old abandoned rail road siding that once served the Evansville Cement Works along the Maiden Creek and continue on animal trails to an eventual grand lookout of the Lake. Sturdy shoes and blaze orange are recommended. A lunch stop afterwards is an option. Meet Teddi, Flo and Dave at 8:30 am - Orwigsburg’s Roman Delight on Route 61. We will carpool to Leesport from here.

Thursday February 28 – Inviting all Berks Thursday Wanderers! Dave McSurdy will lead this hike along the Schuylkill River to the Kernsville Dam, Schuylkill County’s Lowest Elevation Point. 4 miles and easy.Meets at 11:30 in the John Bartram Trail parking lot which is located past Cracker Barrel in Hamburg. (To carpool, meets at 11:15 at Cracker Barrel’s entrance.)

Sovereign Center Entertainment,700 Penn St., Reading, PA 19602 www.Sovereign Center.comReading Royals vs Las Vegas Wranglers - Jan. 27 Sun. 4:05

Reading Royals vs Wheeling Nailers - Jan. 30 Wed. 7:05

Professional Roughneck Bull Riding Series - Feb. 2 Sat. 7:00

Reading Royals vs Kalamazoo Wings - Feb. 10 Sun. 4:05 Reading Royals vs Elmira Jackals - Feb. 13 Wed. 7:05

Reading Royals vs Elmira Jackals - Feb. 16 Sat. 7:05

Three Days Grace, Shinedown & P.O.D. – Feb. 17, Sun. 7:00

Reading Royals vs Kalamazoo Wings - Feb. 21 Thurs.. 7:05

Reading Royals vs Trenton Titans - Feb. 24 Sun. 4:05

Penn’s PeakThe Lehigh Valley & Pocono Mountains Premier Entertainment Venue www.pennspeak.com

Sovereign Majestic Theater 209 N. Centre St., Pottsville, PA. For a listing of performances visit www.sovereignmajestic.com or call 570-628-4647. Rent the theater for your next event!

Orwigsburg—a support group for Dementia & Alzheimer’s patients and their families meet on the second Saturday of each month at 10:00 a.m. Anyone interested in more information should call Healthy Habits at 570-366-2620

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

LOCAL HAPPENINGS email: [email protected] to submit your calendar of events

WALK IN ART CENTER110 West Columbia St.

Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972Ph. 570-732-3728

Email: [email protected]

Sew SimpleFeb. 16th , Sat. 1pm-3pm

$10.00 Teen to AdultFor all skill levels

Art of Mask MakingJan. 26th , Sat. 10am-2pm

Bring a lunch. $50.00 - Teen to Adult

Collage: Basic and Advanced TechniquesFeb.2nd , Sat. 10am-2pm

Bring a lunch. Teen to Adult $45.00 For all experience levels

Drawing 101: ProportionFeb. 23rd 12-2pm $50.00

Teen to Adult

Introduction to PhotographyJan. & Feb. Sat. & Sun.

Individual 3 hr. sessions 10am-1pm or 2pm to 5pm $60.00 - Teen to Adult

INCREDIBLEFACTS

• The record for the world’s worst drivers is a toss-up between two candidates: First, a 75-year-old man who received 10 traffic tickets, drove on the wrong side of the road four times, committed four hit-and-run offenses, and caused six accidents, all within 20 minutes on October 15, 1966. Second, a 62-year-old woman who failed her driving test 40 times before passing it in August, 1970 (by that time, she had spent over $700 in lessons, and could no longer afford to buy a car).

• R.C. Gaitlan, 21, walked up to two patrol officers who were showing their squad car computer felon-location equipment to children in a Detroit neighborhood. When he asked how the system worked, the officer asked him for identification. Gaitlan gave them his drivers license, they entered it into the computer, and moments later they arrested Gaitlan because information on the screen showed Gaitlan was wanted for a two-year-old armed robbery in St. Louis, Missouri.

• There are more than 200 kinds of chili peppers, none of which belong to the pepper family.

• Native Americans never actually ate turkey; killing such a timid bird was thought to indicate laziness.

• In Bavaria, beer isn’t considered an alcoholic drink but rather a staple food.

13Lifestyles over 50tamaquaarea.com • schuylkill.org • www.readingberkspa.com • carboncountychamber.net • hazletonchamber.org

LOCAL HAPPENINGS email: [email protected] to submit your calendar of events

COMMUNITY ST. LUKE’S HOSPITAL – MINERS CAMPUS TEAMS WITH TAMAQUA YMCA TO OFFER FREE TALKS

St. Luke’s Hospital –Miners Campus is offering a series of educational talks on a variety of health topics beginning at the end of January and running through early spring. The speakers will include medical specialists and include the following topics: diabetes, sports medicine, heart disease, emergency medicine, preventive medicine, immunizations for adults, osteoporosis and healthy diets.

The talks will be held at the Tamaqua YMCA, 1201 E. Broad Street, Tamaqua. The talks are free and open to the public – but registration is required through St. Luke’s InfoLink at 1-866-STLUKES

(1-866-785-8537). Each talk runs from a half hour to an hour and a half, which includes a question and answer session at the end of each lecture.

The following health talks are listed in chronological order:

Monday, January 28, Noon – 12:30 pmDiabetes – Are you at risk?

Learn the risk factors of diabetes and how you can prevent this disease.By Lauri Price, RN, St. Luke’s Diabetes Educator

Register at 1-866-STLUKES (1-866-785-8537).

Tuesday, January 29, 11 am – noonTime to Play! An Introduction to exercise prescriptions for people with chronic conditions

Has your physician recommended you exercise to maintain your health or improve a chronic health condition? Learn how to incorporate exercise into your life for your condition (like diabetes, arthritis,

heart disease, etc).By Maheep Vikram, MD, St. Luke’s Sports MedicineRegister at 1-866-STLUKES (1-866-785-8537).

Thursday, January 31, 9 – 10 am

Cardiovascular Risk Factors (Session 1 of 3) Are you at risk for a heart attack or other heart or vascular event? Learn the risk factors that can lead

to heart attack, stroke, blood clots and other life-threatening conditions.By Joseph Paluck, MS, St. Luke’s Clinical Exercise Physiologist


Tuesday, February 12, 11 am – noonThe Impact of Exercise on Cardiovascular Risk Factors (Session 2 of 3) Learn how to reduce your risk

for heart attack, stroke, blood clots and other heart and vascular conditions through exercise.By Joseph Paluck, MS, St. Luke’s Clinical Exercise Physiologist


Monday, February 18, 6:30 – 7:30 pmTreating Sprains and Strains

Learn what to do when you twist your ankle or strain your back (or other body parts)!By Melanie Turock, DO, St. Luke’s Miners Campus Emergency Department


Tuesday, February 19, 11 am – noonCancers of the Urinary Tract and Genitals: What you need to know

Learn your risk factors for urinary and genital cancers and how to recognize when to get medical attention.

By Jonathan Bingham, MD, St. Luke’s Center for UrologyRegister at 1-866-STLUKES (1-866-785-8537).

Wednesday, February 27, 5 – 5:30 pmBenefits of Diet Modification (Session 3 of 3)

Learn how to incorporate healthier foods into your diet to meet your nutritional needs, prevent disease or help manage chronic health conditions.

By Joseph Paluck, MS, St. Luke’s Clinical Exercise PhysiologistRegister at 1-866-STLUKES (1-866-785-8537).

Thursday, February 28, noon – 12:30 pmEmergency Care for Pre-School Children

Learn when should you take your pre-school child to the emergency room and what kind of care is available.

By Matthew Morgan, PA-C, St. Luke’s Miners Emergency Department, “Fast Track” ProgramRegister at 1-866-STLUKES (1-866-785-8537).

Rex also shares her home with her boyfriend, who loves her cats, too, she said.

“I’m really glad for that,” she laughed.

To an outsider, the thought of nine cats sharing one home brings to mind much mischief and mayhem, but Dunbar said she’s blessed with a surprisingly peaceful and contented kitty community.

“Oh yeah, it does gets a little crazy here sometimes - they’re all different, they all have their own personalities, they all want love and attention,” she said. “But most of the time, they all get along pretty well.”

Fostering cats can be a important step toward increasing their chances for adoption, Rex said.

“They’re very different when they’re out of the shelter and living in a home,” she said. “Once a cat’s get in a home, where they’re given a little love and attention, they’re a different cat. It makes such a big difference.”

Carbon County Friends of Animals is a non-profit organization which advocates the elimination of animal suffering though the sheltering and finding homes for unwanted pets. The shelter also promotes low-cost spaying and neutering, and provides educational outreach concerning the welfare of pets. It is a privately run organization, founded in 1998 as a direct need to shelter unwanted cats within our county.

“Although ‘Carbon County’ is part of the organization’s name, we do not receive any money from the county or any other government agency.” Dunbar said. Unlike the Carbon County Shelter, which is a county run organization providing shelter for unwanted or stray dogs; and does receive county funding, all of their operating, maintenance, and care expenses are paid for by money raised by fund-raising and donations, she added.

INFORMATION: The shelter is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 900 Walnut Ave - Jim Thorpe, PA. Their phone number is (570)325-9400. Additional information about the shelter, the services they provide and cats available for adoption or foster homes is available on their Facebook page “Carbon County Friends of Animals” or by accessing their page on www.petfinder.com

Continued from Page 11

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