Prime January 2012

Prime your life...your time

Hoop free

january 2012

Gym promotes hula-hooping fitness classes

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it up

Prime people

Prime activities

Century club

The

Let it

Barbara

people’s priest: Memories of Rev. Gregg Lestrange.

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snow!

CNY is fun when it flurries.

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‘Bobbie’ Morton celebrates 100th birthday.

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Prime opinion

Ol’ Burdock left his community a better place When I was a young editor of the Eagle Bulletin in the mid-1990s, Hamilton Armstrong initially treated David me as a know-nothing. On several occasions, he called to belittle my editorial opinions, or question why I wasn’t following up on a story he felt deserved coverage. His phone calls, like his letters, could be From the harsh.

But as we got to know each other a little better, the Publisher Ol’ Burdock and I developed a mutual respect. He invited me into his home, which was a trip into the past. We talked about issues, about history and about people. He gave me a perspective that a 25-year-old simply doesn’t have, and he made me appreciate the importance of my role as local journalist.

Early on, we set guidelines for his letters: don’t libel anyone, stray from personal attacks, stay within our 500-word limit. Hamilton took those parameters and pushed right to the line. He would viciously attack a councilor’s or supervisor’s decision making, while ensuring that he didn’t cross any legal boundaries. Following his signature, there would be a little note: “There are EXACTLY 500 words in this letter.”

We often didn’t agree, both on issues and on method. Hamilton felt the best way to get government to lean his way was to push … and he could really push. His biting commentary in print and his name calling and vocal outbursts at public meetings often led to a heated Us vs. Them attitude at Manlius Town Board and village of Fayetteville meetings. On many occasions, the Eagle Bulletin was criticized for publishing his diatribes and we lost a few subscribers who felt the Ol’ Burdock had pushed too far.

An example, from Sept. 24, 1997, when the Hamilton directed his ire at Fayette-

Tyler

ville Mayor Henry McIntosh: “In your game of dirty pool, good things don’t count – all that counts is how much you can make Fayetteville look like one big McDonald’s from village line to village line … This says nothing about how two-faced you and your flunkies looked each claiming how concerned you were for the residents of the area.”

But when a public official did something he deemed worthy of praise, he was the first to publicly applaud. Consider this note, from July 30, 1997, in which he commends Manlius Supervisor Dick Lowenberg, with whom he frequently sparred.

“I came away proud of my town board last night … Great! I am “The Ol’ Burdock, Hamilton Armstrong, 1926-2011. very happy to know that the Duguid Road homeowners are not disenfranchised. As long as the town board or any other governmental body represents their constituents fairly and equally applies the See Ol’ Burdock, page 3

The people’s priest: My memories of Father Gregg LeStrange It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of Father Gregg LeStrange. He was there for three important Jennifer milestones in my life — my wedding and the baptism of both of my children. I know that many of my fellow parishioners at Immaculate Conception in Fayetteville have similar memories of a man who stood tall and proud in his but was infinitely approachable as a friend, sounding Momsense faith, board and advisor.

I remember being grateful to Father LeStrange for the way he quickly put at ease my

Wing

Prime your life...your time

A monthly publication devoted to Central New Yorker’s in the “Prime” of their lives.

Prime is published monthly by Community Media Group LLC, 2501 James St., Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13206.

Publisher David B. Tyler

Editor Jennifer Wing, 434-8889, ext. 340 Associate Editor Farah F. Jadran, fjadran@eaglenewsonline.com Sales Heidi Tyler 434-8889 ext. 320 Joan Brockway Griffiths, 662-3690 Jack Gardner, 434-8889 ext. 304

questions, comments, news? email jwing@eaglenewsonline.com 2

January

future husband, Eric, who was raised in the Methodist faith, during Pre-Cana, a weeks-long course/consultation couples must undergo before they can be married in a Catholic church. He made sure to keep the tone of our sessions light, but kept the importance of the step we were taking in the forefront, with discussions about the sacrament of marriage and what it meant to us as a couple done with realistic candor.

He, quite simply, was a priest who knew and loved his flock, warts and all. He lived in the now, rolled with the changes, and didn’t judge those he counseled.

When times were tough in the Catholic church, with transgressions by fellow priests making headlines worldwide, he did not sugar-coat; he addressed those allegations in his Rev. Gregg LeStrange, 55, died Tuesday, Dec. 13, after battling lymhomilies, urging parishioners to pray phoma since June. for all involved. He didn’t mince words, but he didn’t point fingers.

He was soft-spoken, but his voice would ring with conviction as he discussed everything from the God he loved to the importance of a life well-lived in the service of others. He was witness to many life-changing events in his parishioners’ lives — both happy and sad, and made sure his presence during the hard times was comforting, imparting a soothing voice, a steadying hand to those he consoled.

He also made sure to be a part of the community, attending events held by the church, businesses and organizations alike. He was outgoing, friendly and fun to be around.

When he left IC for his new post he brought his years of experience to his new parishioners at St. Joseph’s Church in Camillus, who welcomed him with open arms to his new home.

Now Father LeStrange — priest, father, mentor, guide and friend — has been welcomed home yet again, this time by his savior.

May he rest in peace.

Prime 2012

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Prime opinion

Prime editorial

When you know, you just know

Two strong personalities leave their mark on CNY

I have said this too often since entering the world of journalism (about eight years ago), but I’ll say it again: I am very lucky to do what I do!

I truly believe this because I get to meet so many interesting people and have had an array of unique experiences through my occupation. Not only that, but I have gotten to be the voice for hundreds of people that I have interviewed.

When I interview someone, I am basically engaged in a conversation and in this conversation, I am learning something about him or her that others most likely do not know. It’s this immediate connection and initial form of intimacy between minds that makes being a journalist so rare  not to mention, rewarding!

Because I meet so many people, I can confidentially say that I meet a lot of special people. With that said, it should be easy to understand why I leave every interview inspired in one way or another.

In this edition of Prime you will read about Dawnmarie Raymund, the owner of Go Figure Gym in Camillus. Dawnmarie, along with her fellow hulahoopers, were an absolute pleasure to interview. Their animated personalities and openness were refreshing.

Dawnmarie has a calm, inviting and interesting persona, which was most enjoyable. We chatted about how she constructs hula-hoops and how she has

taught hundreds of people how to hula hoop. She even refreshed my childhood skills before I left her gym.

I was a regular hooping machine by the time I headed back to the office.

It’s an occasion like this one that makes every day an adventure. How many people wake up and know they have an 8 a.m. meeting with a colleague, but at 9:30 a.m., you’re meeting with someone else and will most likely be hula-hooping as part of the experiential interviewing process?

Once Dawnmarie got me hooping, we were still talking and most important, we were laughing! She reminded me how much fun the activity is and because I was following her instruction, I found that it could have some aerobic offering.

It’s a day like that in which I count my blessings. I have the opportunity to meet new people and try different things, simply because it’s my job.

Dawnmarie’s motivation to run a solid business and to keep her class offerings unique was inspiring. She has an incredible spirit about her and I can see why so many people are drawn to her and her gym.

Whether I’m hula-hooping with a new friend or learning about how that hoop is made, I have to say I know an intriguing human being when I see one.

When you know, you just know.

Farah

Jadran Associate Editor

This past month has been a sad one for Central New York, with the passing of two men who have made their mark on the region — in ways that are both similar and divergent.

One — Hamilton Armstrong — also known as “The Ol’ Burdock” for his ability to mimic that seed’s ability to cling, and sometimes irritate, even as it spreads its influence, passed away at the ripe age of 85. He attended board meetings in the Manlius area, peppering those gatherings with his wit and wisdom. If he was unhappy with whatever took place in the east, you knew it through his comments in person and screeds in the opinion pages of the Eagle Bulletin.

His view was certainly that “the squeaky wheel gets the grease,” and he tested that theory with gusto. He made sure government was responsive to its constituents, and practiced what he preached, ever-vigilant that his concerns as a taxpayer were addressed.

The other — Rev. Gregg LeStrange — was three decades younger, but also left a lasting impression wherever he went. His strong presence was felt in many ways besides when he stood at the pulpit. His door was always open; he kept his finger on the pulse of his flock, and rolled with the times, keeping pace with what was happening outside the church doors as well as what was happening in the hearts and minds of his congregation.

He counseled the sick and hurting and rejoiced when wedding vows were exchanged and families were formed.

His church family itself was an ever-expanding group of varying backgrounds, but with a common goal: to fill themselves with the grace so obviously displayed by Father Gregg; to learn and benefit from his calm wisdom; to be a part of something special and important.

Father Gregg and “The Ol’ Burdock” were two divergent personalities, but they shared one important thing in common: they were both driven to make a difference in the lives of people around them; and in this, they both succeeded.

Ol’ Burdock

Generations get cooking at The Nottingham Mario Fiorini, a resident of Loretto’s The Nottingham in Jamesville, right, enjoyed a long career as a chef. When staff member Kelly Mason and her daughter Emaline, left, heard about Mario’s culinary talents, they saw an opportunity. Emaline regularly visits Mario to bake everything from apple pies to dog biscuits. “She’s learning from the best,” says Kelly. They also utilize their time together to give back to the community. The dog biscuits they make are donated to a local animal shelter. Mario sees his time with Emaline as a way to pass on everything he’s learned. “Helping a child learn about their passion is really fulfilling,” says Mario. “The food’s pretty good, too!” The two are pictured on the cover of the “Young at Heart Faces of Loretto 2012” benefit calendars available for $5 each. To order calendars, call 446-5538, ext. 3035 or e-mail ccrosby@lorettosystem.org. All proceeds benefit Loretto.

Eaglenewspapers

January

Prime 2012

from page 2

law to all, the Ol’ Burdock will stay at home just minding his weed patch. Dick Lowenberg and his people deserve a paean of praise.”

Hamilton took on all comers, from all corners of the town and beyond. He looked for injustice, whether it was in his backyard or across town, and when he believed he found it, he spoke his mind firmly. And he doggedly worked to protect the community he loved from overdevelopment.

Times have changed. Now, more people chime in on local issues, but they do so from the privacy of their homes, and they hide their criticisms behind screen names. On everything he authored, Hamilton put not only his name, but also his well-chosen moniker.

Communities are stronger when there are self-appointed watchdogs like Hamilton, keeping not only their government but also the media that covers it on its toes. I’ll miss the Ol’ Burdock, and so will the town of Manlius.

David Tyler is the publisher of the Eagle Bulletin. He can be reached a dtyler @eaglenewsonline.com or at 4348889 ext. 302.

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Prime activities

Let it SNOW! CNY is fun when it flurries Ski, snowshoe, hike at Highland Forest Locally known as the “Adirondacks of Central New York” Highland Forest County Park, located just outside of Fabius, has become the place residents and visitors alike flock to for wintertime fun. Highland boasts over 20 miles of cross-country ski trails, 11 of which are groomed and track-set for all ability levels, and over 20 miles of snowshoeing and hiking trails. It is the ideal place for skiers, snowshoers and hikers who are looking to experience the pristine nature that Southern Onondaga County has to offer.

In addition, individuals may enjoy a ride on the horse-drawn sleigh, a slide down the sledding hill, or the cozy fire and spectacular views from Skyline Lodge with hearty fare from the park’s concession.

The trails and Skyline Lodge are open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Sleigh or hay rides will be running weekends through March 18 and weekdays Jan. 2 and 16 and Feb. 20 and 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $6; $3 for 5 and under, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Inside the Lodge, skiing and snowshoeing equipment will be available to rent at the rental shop daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Daily use of the ski trails is $5 for age 16 and older and $2 for age 15 and younger.

Daily use of the park for all other use is $1 for age 22 and older. For frequent users of the trails, a $20 adult and $10 child ski season pass, and a $10 snowshoe/hiking season pass is available for purchase at the information desk inside Skyline Lodge.

Cross country ski lessons will be of-

fered weekends in January and February and daily during winter break (Feb. 2024.) A 9 a.m. session, by reservation only, will be offered while lessons will also be available on a first-come, first-served basis from noon to 3:30 p.m. A lesson is $20, which includes equipment rental, or $10 for folks who have their own skis and poles.

Highland Forest, an Onondaga County Park, is located off of Route 80, four miles east of the village of Fabius. For more information, call 683-5550 or visit OnondagaCountyParks.com.

Baltimore Woods releases January calendar The following events are planned for the month of January at Baltimore Woods: Jan 10 The Art of Seeing Things: Snowshoe with John Burroughs 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Join Tom Meier on an inspirational snowshoe hike through The Woods. We will stop at some of the best winter views our trails have to offer, and reflect on the words of a legendary naturalist of the last century, John Burroughs. Snowshoes will be provided, terrain will be relatively flat. $5 for members, $8 for nonmembers.

Jan 21 Owl Prowl 7 to 8:30 p.m.

The owls are out, so join a naturalist on a nighttime snowshoe hike in search of these magnificent and secretive birds.

Dress warmly, and bring a flashlight. $5 for members; $15/family; $8 for nonmembers, $25/family.

Jan. 22 Third Annual Local Harvest Dinner, Savor local foods grown and produced in Central New York as you graze from station to station chatting with the hard working folks who provide this year round bounty.

Grazing session one: 1 to 3 p.m.; Grazing session two: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. $20 for members; $35 for nonmembers. Reserve tickets by Friday, Jan. 13. Call 673-1350 or email: info@baltimorewoods.org.

Jan. 27 Star Party: Clear Winter Skies 7 to 9 p.m.

Back-up date: Jan. 28.

Winter skies at their finest! No moon, perfect views of the brightest nebulae and star clusters the season has to offer, plus great viewing of the planet Jupiter.

Dress warmly, in layers. $5 for members, $15/family; $8 for nonmembers, $25/ family.

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January

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Jan. 28 F r e s h” D o c u mentary Film 7-8:30 p.m.

As a follow-up to the Annual Local Harvest Dinner on Jan. 22, the Woods presents the documentary “Fresh,” an inspirational film that explores creative ways thinkers and business people are overcoming challenges to eating locally. $8 for members; $12 for nonmembers.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center is located at 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus, NY 13108 Hours: Interpretive Center is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mond ay t hroug h Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturd ay, closed Sundays.

Submitted photo The hiking trails Why not snowshoe the trails at Baltimore Woods? and p ark ing are Standards, lesson content supports free and open every teachers while directly impacting studay from dawn to dusk.

Baltimore Woods Nature in the City dents. Holding programs in parks and brings authentic natural science learn- neighborhood green spaces as well as ing to K-6 grade urban school children. the classroom, students’ earliest learning Supported by the Syracuse City School experiences in the sciences are relevant, District and corporate sponsors, tied to meaningful and fun.

Visit baltimorewoods.org for more the Syracuse City School District curriculum and New York State Science information

Prime 2012

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Cover story

Hoop in hand, here’s to your health Go Figure Gym promotes hula-hooping

By Farah F. Jadran

Eaglenewspapers

PHOTOS BY FARAH F. JADRAN

Inside Go Figure Gym after some hula-hooping, back row, are Irma Pastorello, left, and gym owner Dawnmarie Raymund. Front row, form left, Carolyn Mollosky, Cynthia Sedgwick, Shirley Till and Joan Naton. she makes sure that anyone who purchases a hoop is equipped with the skills necessary to enjoy their new workout tool.

You can hula at any age!

Raymund is proud of her regular hooping group that ranges in ages from 55 to 80 because some of these ladies never tried

hula-hooping until coming to Go Figure Gym. These women meet regularly to hoop a little and then do more cardio or a 30See Hoop, page 6

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Prime 2012

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It comes in all sizes, but it only comes in one shape. You may have done it for hours upon hours as a child, but perhaps you’ve never tried it. What is this? It’s hula hooping, and it might just be the activity for you.

Almost every gym’s class offerings have expanded, and the variety will most likely continue to grow. Dawnmarie Raymund, a five-year gym owner, says “people are bored” and this means that workouts need to keep people focused.

Raymund owns and operates Go Figure Gym in Camillus, and she knows all too well about the sudden spike in exercise boredom.

“People are bored of the gym,” Raymund said. “They want to have fun!”

While Raymund offers one of the hottest workout trends, Zumba, she also offers hula-hooping lessons. About three years ago, Raymund bought a few hula hoops from a toy store so she could check out the exercise possibilities and also figure out how to improve the make of a hoop.

Raymund researched hula hoops and worked out the kinks. She quickly learned that the smaller and lighter the hoop, the harder it is to hula. With this fact in mind, she started to construct hula hoops for her gym members and for other interested “hoopers.” She has made and sold more than 500 hoops over the past three years.

For her beginners, she makes hoops with a bigger diameter and keeps water inside the heavy rubber tubing. “The larger and heavier the hoop, the longer a person has until it comes around again,” Raymund said. “The weight makes it easier to control and have the hoop hang on your hips.”

Fifty-two inches is a “standard” size (for the hoop’s diameter) and “good for beginners,” according to Raymund. (Another good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that your hoop’s diameter should meet your belly button when you stand it on the ground in front of your body.)

Raymund has had many people come through her doors who have never hula hooped before, but also she has taught many family members of her interested hoopers. Once you have found the hoop that is right for you and Raymund has taught you the “right moves,” you are on your way! Although Raymund doesn’t host an official class for hula-hooping,

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Prime planning

The gift that keeps on giving Betty had been a client for over 15 years.

Her only daughter and her husband were deceased. Betty had two grandchildren whom she cared for deeply.

Betty is a very smart woman and over the years she had come to rely heavily on her estate planning attorney for guidance. So much so, that she would travel over 45 miles to see him. They had built a partnership on trust and his advice was as good as gold.

Recently, Betty’s grandson Benson announced that he planned to start a photography business. In addition to his normal day job, he had been working weekends photographing weddings and parties for several years, and had developed a strong following.

Betty knew that her grandson had worked very hard and wanted to help him get his new business off to a solid financial start. There was a lot of equipment to buy, a small space to rent and a change in income for Benson when he left his job to pursue photography full time.

Betty thought she could help financially and wanted to make a gift of about

$150,000 to her grandson to get him up and running.

Betty set a time to visit with her attorney to make sure it was OK to make the gift. She had heard about gift taxes and was worried about paying those. She also was worried that somehow she was not being fair to her granddaughter, who was a stay at home mom. Betty wanted to make sure that her granddaughter would be treated equally, but did not feel that it was the right time to make a large gift to her granddaughter.

The first thing Betty’s attorney did was to ask her to complete an updated financial profile, so they would be able to make sure that Betty had enough money to make the business investment and still maintain her lifestyle.

Once they were satisfied that she had the money to make the gift, the attorney explained that she could make annual gifts to her grandson of $13,000, but she could also make lifetime gifts of up to $5,000,000.

All without paying any gift taxes.

Finally, Betty’s attorney explained that while she could gift the money outright

About David J. Zumpano, CPA/Esq.

to her grandson, she might be better off making a loan to him, secured by the photography equipment.

Betty was not sure she liked the idea so she asked for reasons why she should make a loan instead of a gift. The attorney explained that the loan would make the transaction more businesslike and might encourage her grandson to work hard to make sure the loan could be re-paid. It also meant that if something went wrong with the photography business, the equipment could be sold and Betty could recover some of her investment. In addition, the loan would be an asset in her estate and could be forgiven. But it also would be a way of tracking the fact that Benson had received money and allow the estate to equalize this “gift” to Betty’s granddaughter when Betty died.

Betty gave the matter some thought and decided that it made sense to make the loan.

She had her attorney document the loan with a promissory note and an amendment to her living trust to add loan forgiveness language.

A Central New York native, he started the Law Offices of David J. Zumpano, remaining “of counsel” to his former firm, now known as the Estate Planning Law Center, David J. Zumpano CPA, Esq. Estate Planning Law Center offices are located in Syracuse, New Hartford and Miami, Fla. Contact Mary Brewer at 446-3850 to register for a free educational estate planning workshop or schedule a complimentary consultation. Visit eplawcenter.com.

Several years later, Betty is still alive and enjoys watching her grandson’s success.

She has since made a similar loan to her granddaughter to help her buy a small ski home in Vermont where Betty and all of her family meets at least once a year for a get together much to her delight.

Gifting or loaning money to your grandchildren can help your grandchildren get a good start in life. Gifts can also give great pleasure. Keep in mind that there are several ways to accomplish your goals.

An experienced attorney can be helpful in terms of thinking through the different ways to accomplish your particular goals in the best way possible.

Hoop minute circuit workout that Dawnmarie encourages.

Gym member and hooper Irma Pastorello says she hula hooped as a child and never forgot the skill.

However, she says she enjoys using this lifelong skill as a warm-up before she works out.

Shirley Till says she couldn’t hula hoop as a child, but now she’s a hooping veteran, thanks to Raymund. “She also taught all my grandkids!” Till said as she hooped up a storm on a winter afternoon at the gym.

Taking pride in her newfound hula-hooping talent, former SUNY-ESF Dean of Students Cynthia Sedgwick took on a challenge by her college students.

Every year, ESF students challenge their dean to a “ridiculous challenge” during Earth Week. In 2010, the kids challenged her to a hula-hooping contest. She went to Raymund with her mind made up  she was going to win!

“I looked ridiculous at first,” Sedgwick said.

She had her own hoop, purchased form Raymond, and she was ready to take on Earth Week.

“I beat their butts!” Sedgwick said of her triumph.

“Those kids said, “Man, the dean can hoop!”

While some of her hula hoopers prefer this activity as a warm-up, Raymund assures me that this can be quite the cardio workout.

She suggests finding a hoop that is just above your comfort zone and working toward hula-hooping for 10 minutes straight. After that, the hooper should work his or her way up to spinning their hoop around their hips for up to 30 minutes without dropping it.

Since Raymund never hula hooped as a child, but can be viewed as quite the hooping expert, she is certain that “anyone can learn to hula hoop” and the benefits are plentiful.

Hula hooping at a challenging rate with the right hoop could allow you to burn between 400 and 600 calories per hour. Hula-hooping works your abs, back,

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from page 5

Cynthia Sedgwick, far left, Shirley Till, center, and Dawnmarie Raymund, show off their hooping skills. arms, hips, gluts and legs, all with a low-impact fitness sensation.

And if you become an expert at any point, challenge yourself to this: have your hoop hovering on your hips, but also spin two more hoops, one on each arm!

That requires just a bit of focus and concentration…

January

Prime 2012

Get your own hoop Adult hoops are $25 and kids’ hoops are $10, and they can be purchased at Go Figure Gym. If you have more questions about this exercise activity or about getting your own hoop, visit gofiguregym.net or call 487-3380 and ask for Dawnmarie Raymund.

Eaglenewspapers

Century Club

Barbara ‘Bobbie’ Morton celebrates 100th birthday Family members, friends and staff recently gathered at the Residential Health Care Facility of Loretto’s The Nottingham Senior Living Community in Jamesville to celebrate the 100th birthday of Nottingham resident Barbara “Bobbie� Morton. Morton was born on Dec. 2, 1911, in Syracuse and became the wife of the late William Morton (who was CEO of the former Onondaga Savings Bank, now M&T Bank), a homemaker and mother of their three children. Morton has 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Once very active with the congregation of Park Central Presbyterian Church in Syracuse, Morton’s favorite life-long interests include fishing throughout New York State’s 1,000 Islands Region and golf and tennis at the Onondaga Golf and Country Club in Fayetteville.

Do you know someone turning 100 or older? Send in their information, along with a photo if available, and we’ll help mark the occasion with a writeup in Prime. Mail your submission to:

Prime, 2501 James St. Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13206 or email it to jwing@eaglenewsonline.com

Award defrays cost of center’s energy efficiency upgrades

Eaglenewspapers

January

heat recovery.�

Energy efficiency improvements to Loretto’s Cunningham Skilled Nursing and Fahey Rehabilitation facilities included installation of high energy efficient heat recovery wheels, high performance energy efficient lighting, and variable frequency drives on main air handling units to reduce energy consumption and eliminate wasteful air exchanges, to name a few. “With the assistance of National Grid’s Custom Incentive Program, Loretto Health and Rehabilitation Center’s Energy Project will reduce annual operating costs by approximately $368,000 while significantly reducing the environmental impact of our facility in the community,� said John Murray, chief financial officer for Loretto.

Loretto’s energy plan will remove 2,769 tons of carbon dioxide and 6,456 pounds of nitric oxide every year. According to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency calculations, the environmental benefits from this project are equivalent to planting 12,718 trees per year.

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National Grid will provide a $333,000 Custom Incentive award to Loretto Health and Rehabilation Center for energy efficiency upgrades implemented at Loretto’s Cunningham Skilled Nursing and Fahey Rehabilitation facilities in Syracuse. Custom Incentive awards are available for more complex or unique energy efficiency equipment or projects. “We are very grateful to National Grid and its financial support of Loretto Health and Rehabilitation Center’s Energy Project through its Custom Incentive Program,� said Sally Berry, Loretto, senior vice president for policy and program development. “As a leading long-term care provider and employer of choice in Central New York, it’s important that Loretto demonstrates environmental leadership in our community through innovative and cost-effective energy conservation measures that add to the overall quality of life for and comfort of our elder residents and staff.�

Loretto’s 10-year, $4.5 million energy conservation plan, is aimed at reducing the annual operating costs of the Cunningham Skilled Nursing and Fahey Rehabilitation Facilities by approximately $368,000, or 30 percent, while significantly reducing the environmental impact of these facilities and improving the quality of life for both residents and staff. “National Grid is thrilled to work with Loretto,� said Kenneth Daly, National Grid president for New York. “We support initiatives like this because we are committed to sustainability and energy effi- On December 6, National Grid presented a $333,000 Custom Incentive award to the ciency and projects that Loretto Health and Rehabilitation Center in Syracuse for energy efficiency upgrades. reduce environmen- National Grid funding helps defray costs associated with Loretto’s 10-year, $4.5 million tal impact. National investment to reduce the center’s carbon footprint and improve the quality of life for Grid is very pleased to its elder residents. Pictured from left are Loretto staff members, John Murray, Chief help the Cunningham Financial Officer, Joe Harris, Energy Project Manager, Sally Berry, Senior Vice President and Fahey facilities for Policy and Program Development, and Tom O’Connor, Vice President of Administrarealize energy savings tive Services, with Tom Cunningham, Constellation NewEnergy Business Development through improved ef- Manager, and National Grid representatives, Melanie Littlejohn, Regional Executive ficiencies like better – Central New York Division, Christopher Gorman, Manager – Community & Customer lighting, airflow, and Management NY, and Kenneth Daly, National Grid President for New York.

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Prime hearing

Prime event

‘The Influence of Strata’ featured

ABOVE: “Verdant� by Diana Godfrey “The Influence of Strata,� an exhibit and sale of mixed media collage by Syracuse artist Diana Godfrey will be held from Jan. 2 through Feb. 29 in the Baltimore Woods Nature Center Weeks Art Gallery, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. There is no admission charge to the gallery, and parking is free.

Godfrey has exhibited her work throughout the Northeast, and is currently represented by several CNY galleries. More information on Godfrey’s work can be found on her website, dianagodfrey. com.

Hearing aid consumer beware

Many people in need of hearing aids are dismayed Doctors of Audiology said “This undermines every to discover hearing aids are not covered by Medicare good practice with regard to hearing healthcare as this or most health insurance plans. It has been a historical diagnosis and delivery model is unsound, unsafe and problem and efforts by many groups to change the lack unreliable. Without the proper diagnosis, counseling, of coverage through congressional legislation have so hearing aid fitting and follow-up evaluations, successful far been unsuccessful. The reJane Waligo- treatment for hearing loss cancent announcement by United ra is a certified not be achieved. The purchase Healthcare (UHC), the largest licensed audiol- and use of hearing aids without U.S. insurer by revenue, to offer ogist with a Doc- a proper examination, diagnosis an online diagnostic, treatment tor of Audiology and counseling is a recipe for and distribution model for heardegree. She has poor treatment outcomes and ing healthcare is not the change over 35 years of increased risks.�

The Academy of Doctors of hoped for and has prompted exprience and growing concerns within the owns her own Audiology, American Acadhealth community. practice at 6700 emy of Audiology, International Hearing aids are medical deKirkville Road, Hearing Society, and Better vices regulated by the U.S. Food East Syracuse. Hearing Institute are all warning and Drug Administration (FDA) Dr.Waligora, along with her protege Dr. against “do-it -yourself hearing and must be recommended, sold Megan Jordan, offer complete hearing care� and urge consumers who and fit by qualified health profes- evaluations as well as a ful line of hear- suspect that they have hearing sionals. Omitting an evaluation ing aids that meet the hearing loss with loss to seek treatment from a and treatment by a licensed au- emphasis on the individual’s needs and licensed audiologist or other diologist or hearing healthcare lifestyle. All hearing aids come with a hearing healthcare professional professional puts the patient at three-year warranty and a three-year to ensure the proper diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, risk to have a missed diagnosis supply of batteries. Call 463-1724. and to identify potentially serious of a serious underlying health condition that requires medical intervention as well as underlying medical conditions. Further, they remind subsequent hearing loss as a result of improper fitting of consumers that even when hearing loss is detected hearing aids. The UHC model also limits the choice of through comprehensive examination, hearing aids are not always the recommended course of treatment for hearing aid manufacturer, model and technology.

Dr. Eric Hagberg, president of the Academy of hearing loss.

Jane Waligora, Au.D.

Megan Jordan, Au.D.

NYS Licensed

NYS Licensed

Doctor of Audiology

Doctor of Audiology

Helping people hear better for over 35 years

Repair service available for all major brands of hearing aids.

Providing diagnostic evaluations for hearing and balance disorders, including OAE’s, ABR’s, & ENG’s. (From infants on up.)

Approved provider for most major insurance companies, including The Empire Plan.

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Starkey, Oticon, Widex, Phonak,

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Every hearing aid receives: 3 yr warranty 3 yrs of batteries 3 yrs of service

and more

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Offering a full line of the most technically advanced hearing aids to fit individual needs, and all include our Complete Hearing Health Care.

January

Prime 2012

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Prime advice

The gift of time is the greatest of all

By Pat Beisel When we grow up as adults and form our own family, we understand better the role our own parents had when they were raising us up all the joy, pain and challenges that comes with having a family. As our parents get older and their children have grown up and have their own families, it can be a lonely experience for them to miss the chaos, fun and noise of having their children around when they were still small and growing up. As tribute to your parents, you can do something to make them happy.

Let your parents know that everything in your life is good and you are in perfect control. Your parents worry about you and what’s going in your life at any point. By letting them know you are doing great, they will be at ease.

If you are going through difficulties, refrain from sharing it with them unless extremely important and try to fix it the best way you can without them knowing. This way you save them the stress by keeping the burden off their back.

Show respect to your parents at all times. It brings great happiness to

parents to see that they are respected by their children. There’s no amount of money that can equal to receiving respect. When you show respect to your parents, you are giving them a priceless gift that makes them happy and proud.

Be grateful. Showing gratitude to your parents for everything they have done to you in the past as well as in the present brings happiness to them. Acknowledge your parents’ contribution to your growth as a person and don’t forget to thank them for every moment.

Remember your parents’ birthdays and important anniversaries. There’s no better way for you to let your parents feel happy and special than remembering important dates that matter to them and doing something for them on those special days. Composing a personal letter will touch them on many levels.

Perhaps a note of thanks is in order explaining why you are grateful for them and how they blessed your life. Remind your parents to reread the letter often to remind them of how much they are loved and appreciated. Send cards, treat them to special dinners and spend time with them on those occasions.

together. For a special touch, purchase a decorative night-light that displays a photograph of family, friends, pets or a favorite place.

Quality relationships make for best decision. Verbally give thanks for having special times together, no matter what condition your aging parents may be in now. As we say, savor the moment, make no assumptions, and do what you can to be tuned in to what you need as well as what your parents need. Take a moment of reflection on what we have, rather then what we don’t have. And may it bring you joy in that appreciation.

We never stop learning. As our parents are teachers to encourage us to learn more. The more we learn about the aging parent caregiving period of our lives, the more we help family members more gracefully through the aging process. Along the way we can also become effective advocates. Perhaps in the process we can even dispel a few of our own fears about getting older. Pay tribute to the amazing people in our lives, individuals who are experiencing the later years of their lives.

The memories you created for them will stay in their hearts and make them feel you still love and care for them in their senior years.

Keep them involved. Invite your parents to parties, birthday celebrations, holiday events and other family activities. It makes them happy to still be part of the fun regardless of age.

Stay in touch with your parents and update them what’s going on in your life. Give them a call and ask how they are especially if you don’t see them everyday or you live far from them. Send photos of yourself and your family.

Make the news positive and uplifting for your parents. Just letting them know how you are brings happiness to them.

A great gift for the upcoming holidays is satellite radio which offers hundreds of stations and 24 hour continuous entertainment including music from the 1940’s, radio programs from the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s featuring Lucille Ball, Jack Benny, and other favorites, the Suspense series, and much more. This is a great time to spend time reminiscing and listening

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9

News

Madison County Office for the Aging Inc. From the desk of the executive director

Why not resolve to make a difference?

A new year is upon us, time to make those resolutions. How about making a resolution to volunteer for the Office for the Aging? We could not assist as many frail and Theresa Davis, OFA isolated elderly executive director as we do without the assistance of dedicated volunteers

but we could always use more. We are updating our list of volunteers and wanted you to know about the volunteer opportunities we offer.

Senior Medical Transportation Program – Join a group of volunteer drivers and help your neighbors get to routine medical appointments. Volunteers use their own vehicles and mileage reimbursement is offered.

The program Coordinator helps you volunteer at times that are convenient for you.

LIMESTONE GARDEN APARTMENTS

Estate Planning Workshop “The “the 7 Essentials 7 Threatsfor to an Your Estate Family PlanSecurity” to Work”

Tuesday, January 17th 5:30-7:30 PM This workshop covers frequently asked questions and common misconceptions on: Wills & Trusts

Asset Protection Nursing Home Issues Medicaid Qualification

Seating is Limited. Call Today!

(315)446-3850

12688 08048

Tuesday, Jan. 3, 11:30 a.m. – noon, Madison Lane Apts, Bldg 5, Hamilton Tuesday, Jan. 24, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Town of Sullivan Parks & Rec,701 Legion Dr, Chittenango

WILLS & TRUSTS Wills Living Wills/Health Care Proxy Personal Care Plan Power of Attorney Revocable Living Trusts Irrevocable Trusts Special Needs Trusts

ESTATE PLANNING Asset Protection Planning Tax Planning Business Protection & Succession Charitable Giving Blended Families Single People or Unmarried Couples LGBT Pet Planning Widows/Widowers

Support Group: Mon, Jan 30, 2:00 – 3:30 pm Caregiver Support Group, Madison County Office for the Aging, Canastota

When it comes to sorting facts from fiction in estate planning, we provide leadership.

We help our clients, as well as professionals in the field, create individual solutions that work.

We have a variety of workshops designed to teach fundamental estate planning concepts.

Day, evening and weekend sessions are regularly available.

MEDICAID QUALIFICATION At Home Care Nursing Home

VETERAN BENEFITS

Located in the 1st Floor Conference Room

gram–help other seniors understand Medicare and other medical insurance policies. We have all the tools you will need; reference guides, regular updates on insurance plans and a staff program coordinator.

The Office for the Aging is a volunteer station registered with RSVP. Your time spent volunteering will count towards RSVP service hours and awards.

If you are interested in volunteering for any of these programs or have talents not listed here, please let us know that you are interested in volunteering by calling us at 697-5700.

OFA Advocate Site Visits – January 2012

Independent Living for Seniors Only (Over 62), beautiful setting in the lovely village of Manlius with a strong community spirit.

7626 Highbridge Rd. Subsidies available for qualified individuals.

Manlius 13104 • 682-7001

We invite you to attend a free

Age Simulation Volunteer – Each May volunteers & OFA staff go to 7th grade classrooms and give a presentation on aging. New volunteers are teamed with experienced presenters. The program differs each year, as volunteers are encouraged to share their positive feelings about aging and answer questions from the 12 - 13 year olds.

General Office Tasks – We always make an effort to be cost efficient. If you would like to help stuff envelopes for one of our mailings or do computer data entry let us know.

Health Insurance Counseling Pro-

Attorneys

PROBATE AND TRUST ADMINISTRATION

David J. Zumpano Ryan F. Coutlee‘ Jennifer M. McDonnell Elizabeth A. Evans

SPECIAL NEEDS PLANNING

www.eplawcenter.com

11529

5789 Widewaters Parkway, Dewitt

10

January

Prime 2012

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Madison County OFA news

OFA Golf Outing planned

The Office for the Aging is planning a golf outing on June 18, 2012, to raise funds to support services provided to the elderly in Madison County. We are looking for individuals and businesses to sponsor holes for the event.

The Madison County Office for the Aging is a private not-for-profit Area Agency on Aging.

Since 1977, our mission has been to advocate, assist, and provide services that enrich the quality of life and promote the independence and dignity of older individuals and their families. Please consider these sponsorship opportunities: Hole Sponsors, $125/hole; Practice Green Sponsors, $125; Hole in One, $200; Longest drive, $125; Closest to the Pin $125; Putting contest $200; Gifts/ Prizes/Donations. For more information please call Office for the Aging 697-5700.

January SNACK Menu

Monday, Jan. 2 – Holiday – OFA and SNACK closed Tuesday, Jan. 3 – Beef burgundy over egg noodles, diced carrots, fruited yogurt Wednesday, Jan. 4 – Chicken spiedie on bun, peppers and onions, mixed veggies, tapioca pudding Thursday, Jan. 5 – Veggie quiche, roasted potatoes, broccoli, apple crisp Friday, Jan. 6 – Macaroni and cheese, stewed tomatoes, tossed salad, diced peaches Monday, Jan. 9 – Sloppy Joe on a bun, veggie blend, coleslaw, Mandarin oranges Tuesday, Jan. 10 – Baked chicken thigh, rice pilaf, corn niblets, vanilla pudding Wednesday, Jan. 11 – Baked ham w/pineapple glaze sauce, boiled parsley potatoes, cut green beans, apple pie Thursday, Jan. 12 – Swiss steak and gravy, mashed potatoes, baby carrots, fruit cup Friday, Jan. 13 – Fish on a bun, tartar sauce, diced beets, peas and pearl onions, sugar cookie Monday, Jan. 16 – Holiday – OFA and SNACK closed Tuesday, Jan. 17 – Baked ziti w/meat sauce, spinach, tossed salad, applesauce Wednesday, Jan. 18– Seasoned pork chop, red potatoes, corn niblets, peanut butter cookie Thursday, Jan. 19 – Chicken currie and broccoli over biscuit, peas and carrots, rice pudding Friday, Jan. 20 – Roast turkey and gravy, mashed potatoes, butternut squash, fruited yogurt Monday, Jan. 23 – Vegetable lasagna, sliced carrots, diced beets, chocolate chip cookie Tuesday, Jan. 24 – Spanish rice w/ground beef, broccoli, veggie blend, chocolate pudding Wednesday, Jan. 25 – Chicken parmesan, pasta and sauce, tossed salad, fruit cup Thursday, Jan. 26 – Meatloaf and gravy, mashed potatoes, corn niblets, fruited yogurt Friday, Jan. 27 – Veggie quiche, hash browns, green beans, fruit cup Monday, Jan. 30 – Reuben casserole, broccoli and cauliflower, sliced pears Tuesday, Jan. 31 – Meatball sub w/sauce and parmesan cheese, cut green beans, Mandarin oranges

Madison County OFA in brief

Office for the Aging is a phone call away

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Are you taking care of an older parent or spouse? Are you responsible for meal preparation, transportation to medical appointments, personal care, household tasks, insurance claims, lawn care, grocery shopping, hair appointments, etc.? Well, the Madison County Office for the Aging can help with a variety of services and programs to assist senior citizens and their caregivers. For example: the Respite program provides temporary relief from the daily tasks of Caregiving; Outreach Workers will come to your home and assist you with entitlements and other benefits; Insurance Counselors that can explain the maze of paperwork; and home delivered SNACK Program meals so that you can spend time with your loved one or pampering yourself.

Other services include; volunteer transportation to medical appointments, support groups, home helpers, case management, in-home services, legal services, handymen, meal sites, nutrition education, registered dietitian services, and much more. The services provided by the OFA are funded by the U.S. Administration on Aging under Title III of the Older Americans Act, New York State Office for the Aging, Madison County Board of Supervisors and local contributions. For more information about the Office for the Aging services, call us at 697-5700. Help is a phone call away.

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Prime hearing

Audibel Hearing Aids addresses hearing loss myths Do you know the real truth about hearing loss and hearing aids?

Here are some helpful answers to some of the most common myths about each.

Myth: If I had hearing loss, my family doctor would have told me.

Truth: Only 15 percent of doctors routinely screen for hearing loss during a physical exam.

Even when a doctor does screen for hearing problems, the results may be suspect since most people with hearing problems hear pretty well in quiet environments – like a doctor’s office.

Without special training on hearing loss, it may be difficult for your family doctor to even realize you have a hearing problem.

Myth: Nothing can be done about my hearing loss.

Truth: People with hearing loss in one ear, with a high-frequency hearing loss, or with nerve damage may have been told by their family doctor that nothing can be done to help.

Modern technology has changed that. Now, nearly 95 percent of people with hearing loss can be helped, most with hearing aids.

Myth: Only people with serious hearing loss need hearing aids.

Truth: Your lifestyle, your need for refined hearing and the degree of your hearing loss will determine whether you need a hearing aid. If you’re in a profession that relies on your ability to discern the nuances of human conversation – such as a lawyer, teacher or group psychotherapist – even mild hearing loss can interfere with your life.

Myth: Hearing aids are big and ugly. Wearing one will make me look old or disabled.

Truth: Untreated hearing loss is far more noticeable than today’s hearing aids. If you miss the punch line of a joke, or respond inappropriately to a comment or question, people may wonder about your mental capacity.

Hearing aid makers realize people are concerned about how they will look wearing a hearing aid. Today, you can find miniature hearing aids that fit totally within the ear canal or behind your ear, making them virtually invisible.

Myth: Hearing loss is an inevitable part of growing older and there’s nothing I can do to

Visit OFA website for information, help The Madison County Office for the Aging website, ofamadco.org, is a valuable resource for any older adult or caregiver.

prevent it from happening to me.

Truth: You can take steps to prevent hearing loss. Noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss; 10 million Americans have already suffered irreversible damage to their hearing from noise. Yet a third of all hearing loss could be prevented with proper ear protection.

Myth: I cannot afford hearing aids.

Truth: There is a wide price range in hearing aids on the market just like there is for other consumer products. There are also financing options available that can make purchasing hearing aids very affordable.

Myth: Hearing loss only affects the old, right?

Truth: Hearing loss affects all age groups. Only 40 percent of people with hearing loss are older than 64. The largest age group with hearing loss is people between 18 and 64 – about 19 million people compared to 14 million at retirement age.

More than 1 million school-age children have hearing problems as well.

If you want to avoid hearing loss, it pays to know the truth behind the myths and the basics of hearing loss prevention.

Madison County OFA in brief

Assistive Equipment Loan Closet wish list

The Office for the Aging has a loan closet with a variety of items that are loaned out to the elderly and their caregivers to use for as long as they need the item. The OFA requests the item be returned when it is no longer needed so that another person can benefit from its use. Unfortunately, not all items are returned and the OFA is looking to restock the loan closet.

Consider donating to the OFA by calling 697-5700 and we will make arrangements for drop off or pickup. Needed are: Depends size M, L and XL; shower benches; handheld showers; rollators (walkers w/ four wheels and hand brakes); transport chairs; wheelchairs; grab bars and grabbers.

Get help with your HEAP applications Home Energy Assistance Program-eligible older individuals with financial help to pay heating bills. An annual, one-time only benefit may be applied for by persons age 60 and over. Persons who have never received this one-time per winter assistance may check to see if they are entitled to a benefit. Checks will not be mailed to homes, but funds will be sent to fuel dealers or utility companies. Additional benefits may be obtained in cases of emergency through the Madison County Department of Social Services. Never wait until the last hours of a 72-hour shut-off notice before applying for an Emergency benefit. If you are over 60 and need assistance filling out the application or if you have never applied for HEAP call Office for the Aging at 697-5700.

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2453 West Genesee Turnpike (Rte. 5) Camillus, NY 13031 Phone: (315) 672-3790 Fax: (315) 672-5607 Email: jasonsantiago@centralny.twcbc.com Website: camillusridgeterrace.com

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