Summer 2023 issue • Pittsburgh 55+ Magazine

When minor memory loss becomes a major concern

Saturday, June 24, 2023

2 and 7:30 p.m.

Ruby Shooz

Oldies Band

Saturday, July 22, 2023

2 and 7:30 p.m.

Beach Party Boys

Tribute to the Beach Boys

Saturday, August 19, 2023

2 and 7:30 p.m.

Elton John TRIBUTE BY JEFF SCOTT

Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023

2 and 7:30 p.m.

The Fabulous Hubcaps

FREE MATINEE MOVIES

Death on the Nile (PG-13, 127 min.)

Monday, 2 p.m.

June 26, 2023

The Banshees of Inisherin (R, 114 min.)

Monday, 2 p.m.

July 3, 2023

The Lost City (PG-13, 112 min.)

Monday, 2 p.m.

July 10, 2023

A Man Called Otto (PG-13, 126 min.)

Monday, 2p.m.

July 17, 2023

Ticket to Paradise (PG-13, 104 min.)

Monday, 2 p.m.

July 24, 2023

Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody (PG-13, 144 min.)

Monday, 2 p.m.

July 31, 2023

Uncharted (PG-13, 116 min.)

Monday, 2 p.m.

August 7, 2023

Living (PG-13, 102 min.)

Monday, 2 p.m.

August 14, 2023

80 for Brady (PG-13, 98 min.)

Monday, 2 p.m.

August 21, 2023

Creed III (PG-13, 116 min.)

Monday, 2 p.m.

August 28, 2023

FREE EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS

History of Hartwood Acres

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023 11 a.m.

411 on 911

Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023 1 p.m.

That’s Osteoporosis

Gen. Ulysses S. Grant on the Siege of Vicksburg, 1863

Tuesday, July 25, 2023 11 a.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023 11 a.m.

Pittsburgh To the Moon

Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023 11 a.m.

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• Burning Pain in the Legs, Feet or Hands

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In Every Issue...

PO Box 425 Mars, PA 16046

Phone: 724 -940 -2444

Email: info@PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

President & Publisher

Laura Lyn Arnold

Publisher Emeritus & Contributor

Marion Swanson Piotrowski

Executive Editor

Janice Lane Palko

Managing Editor/Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green

Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson

Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc. Graphics, Inc.

Web Master Swanson Publishing, LLC

Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine is published four times a year by Swanson Publishing, LLC (P.O. Box 425, Mars, PA 16046, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge throughout the Greater Pittsburgh region. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year.

The mission of the Swanson Publishing, LLC is to connect the people of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest senior publication, Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, health, and recreational needs of seniors in our area.

The contents of Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.

Brite Wellness Aids Those with Mild Cognitive Decline

By Janice Lane Palko

Now, those with mild cognitive disorders have more resources than ever with the expansion of the Brite Wellness Program. The program opened in November of 2016 and was developed and founded by Dr. James T. Becker, a professor of psychiatry, neurology, and psychology at the University of Pittsburgh; Dr. Oscar L. Lopez, director of Pitt’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center; and Dr. Elizabeth Skidmore, Associate Dean for Research the university’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and Professor of Occupational Therapy.

“We realized that there were many programs for those with more advanced Alzheimer’s and dementia,” said Dr. Lopez, “but nothing for those exhibiting mild to even moderate cognitive symptoms.” Dr. Lopez described examples of mild symptoms as things like forgetting to pay bills or taking medications.

Brite Wellness Program was modeled after a successful program in Spain that was created to respond to the demand of aging populations in Europe.

“The Spanish program began in 1994, so they were ahead of the U.S. in developing programs for those with mild cognitive issues,” said Dr. Lopez. Experts from Fundació ACE Barcelona Alzheimer Treatment and Research Center in Spain collaborated with Brite Wellness to bring their nonpharmacological programs that help to stimulate cognitive, behavioral, and physical functions to improve social and occupational functions to Pittsburgh. Grifols International also provided funding for Brite Wellness.

The innovative program incorporates music therapy, creative expression, movement/fitness and cognitive stimulation. Brite differs from other wellness programs in that it supports activities based on their beneficial effects on the brain. Members do not participate in a single class; rather, they engage in 3–4-hour sessions, encompassing all classes, three days each week.

“We have found that those with mild cognitive decline when they use a single program like dancing or music in isolation that there is no impact,” said Dr. Becker. “Everybody is different; there is no single recipe to help cognition. However, Brite Wellness offers a variety of activities that work together to strengthen weakness and challenge the brain in different ways.”

Dr. Becker also stressed another aspect of the program that may on the surface seem insignificant, but factors deeply in mental health and that is social interaction. “There’s time for members to socialize between classes, and that has proven to be crucial. Many people feel alone when they are dealing with cognitive issues, and through the program, they can connect with others and enjoy themselves at the same time.”

Those interested in participating in the Brite Wellness Program undergo an initial evaluation. Data collected during the assessment is used to craft a wellness profile focused on four areas: cognitive, emotional, physical, and social health. A patient baseline is established that can be used to help patients track their progress as they move through the program.

“Quantitatively, we can show that those participating in the program are holding their own,” said Dr. Becker.

When Brite Wellness debuted, it had one location in Oakland, since then that location has closed but three others have opened: Glenshaw Valley Presbyterian Church, Homewood Brushton YMCA, and their most recent one in Chicago.

“With the onset of COVID, things changed greatly,” said Paul McComb, Brite Wellness’s executive director. “Since the program couldn’t meet in-person, we quickly scrambled to move the program online.”

That proved to be a stroke of luck. “Since adding the online program, we’ve been able to reach more people,” said Mr. McComb, who emphasized that the online program is not only beneficial for individuals, but that it also is a great asset for senior facilities. “The increased foot-traffic into senior facilities for those utilizing the Brite Wellness Program is a real benefit for them as well.”

“The original Brite model was a place-based facility where our members would come three days a week. Research indicates the prevalence of subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is 1 in 9 adults. We knew if we were going to make a significant impact on the well-being of these individuals who have mild cognitive impairment, that we needed

(Continued on page 6)

No one wants to hear from a physician that they or someone they love is experiencing a cognitive decline. Until recently, those patients were sent home with the general directives to eat right, exercise, and remain active and little else.

to make our programs available across the country. It was two years in the making and Brite is now the only program of its kind in the United States,” stated Dr. James

Founder and CEO.

T. Becker,

To bring the Brite Wellness Program to a larger population, it has partnered with the Homewood-Brushton YMCA and expanded their renowned Lighthouse Project to include state-of-the-art High-Definition (HD) live broadcast and video production capabilities. “We record classes and add them to our on-demand catalog of programs, which can be accessed by individuals in their own home or at a senior facility,” said Mr. McComb. “We record between 6-9 classes per week, and we’ve recently rolled out the program in Chicago,

and we hope through the uses of the internet, to be able to provide Brite Wellness throughout the country.”

Some may wonder if the online experience still provides that social connection that members find so beneficial, and the answer is yes. “We have a member experience specialist who provides live interaction, and the beauty of being online is that you can take Brite anywhere, even on vacation or if you miss a day, you can just log on and pick up where you left off,” said Mr. McComb.

Another benefit of Brite Wellness that may be overlooked is the benefits it provides to caregivers. “The nine-hours per week that a member is involved in the program provides time for caregivers to carve out time for them to tend to their own needs,” said Dr. Becker. “And not only that, but the caregiver’s quality of life is improved when they see that their loved one is excited to participate in Brite Wellness. That makes them feel better too.”

Brite Wellness offers a variety of membership levels and a one-week, free trial membership. “We are a nonprofit and aim to never turn anyone away because of financial hardship,” said Mr. McComb.

“With our program, we hope to provide physicians with another resource for aiding their patients with mild cognitive decline,” said Dr. Lopez.

“Our goal at Brite Wellness is to help people extend the period of highest quality of life and optimize their lives through physical, social, and cognitive functioning,” said Dr. Becker. n

For more information on Brite Wellness Program, visit the website at: www.britewellness.org

“The Harmony Family is Growing!”

In addition to the four established locations in Mechanicsburg, State College, Hershey, and Glenshaw, Harmony Senior Services is adding a new senior living community in Moon Township featuring Independent Living, Personal Care, and Memory Care. Harmony Senior Services was founded on the belief that people deserve higher quality senior living options, which is exactly what they’re bringing to our area. Harmony communities offer a continuum of care but without the costly buy-in fees and long-term leases of other senior living homes. Their pet-friendly communities are equipped with a variety of spacious floorplans,

indoor and outdoor common areas, a salon and spa, pub, and restaurant-style dining rooms. Harmony communities host a full calendar of events that cater to each care level from happy hours and movie nights to live entertainment and gardening activities. Designed with the resident in mind, Harmony communities are located near popular shopping centers, dining options, and local attractions so residents can enjoy the comforts of home conveniently near their favorite frequented spots in town.

If you are considering senior living for yourself or a loved one, then you know how much research and time it takes to truly get all the facts you need to start making those tough decisions. A great way to experience the various aspects of senior living firsthand is by scheduling a visit and speaking with a Harmony team member. As senior living experts, the priority is always the resident and ensuring their best experience and providing excellent care. Call us at 412-947-4081 or visit our website at www.HarmonySeniorServices.com to learn more about your senior living options! n

Take Note : The Farina

Foundation

Welcomes

Donations of Musical Instruments

Consider donating your musical instruments to the Frank Farina Foundation. Your generous contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of those passionate about music but unable to afford the proper equipment. Your kindness can help inspire and nurture the next generation of talented musicians.

If you have a musical instrument you no longer use, consider donating it to the Farina Foundation. Established in 2015, this nonprofit organization carries on the legacy of Frank J. Farina Jr., a beloved music icon in the North Allegheny area. Through its Play-It Forward program, the foundation aims to provide underprivileged children in the Tri-State region with access to music education by accepting donated instruments. By donating your instrument, you can help these children fulfill their dreams of learning to play an instrument and discovering the joy of music.

The Farina Foundation accepts almost any playable instrument, but they are particularly interested in brass and woodwind instruments. The foundation partners with various organizations, such as the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association, the Children’s Hospital Music Therapy Department, and Goodwill Industries, to distribute the instruments to those who most need them. All donated instruments are repaired and sanitized before distribution, ensuring they are in good condition for the children who receive them.

To donate your musical instrument, you can drop it off at Brighton Music Center, which is located at 2110 Babcock Boulevard in Ross Township. n

For more information on how you can help make a difference in a child’s life through this excellent program, please email us at thefarinafoundation@gmail.com visit farinafoundation.org.

Allegheny Airlines

By Janice Lane Palko

When summer arrives, thoughts turn to vacation and maybe taking a flight to a new locale. The Wright Brothers are credited with the first motor-powered flight in 1903. However, it would be some time until flying became a commonplace mode of travel for Americans.

Initially, airplanes were used for airmail and then later for military purposes. The Air Commerce Act of 1926 gave the federal government the power to develop air commerce, establish airways, improve navigation, license pilots, and create and enforce safety rules. The following year, Pan American Airlines was founded as the first commercial airline along with Western Air Express and Ford Transport Services.

Over the next decade many more airlines would fill the skies. Pittsburgh’s first airline was founded in 1939 as All American Aviation Company and was primarily an airmail carrier. When it switched over to a passenger line in 1949, it changed its name to All American Airlines. In 1953, it changes its name again to Allegheny Airlines, and established Pittsburgh as its hub. It primarily flew out of Pittsburgh to destinations throughout the eastern United States.

Although some referred to the airlines as “Agony Airlines,” the airline was quite successful and merged with other airlines like Mohawk Airlines and Lake Central Airlines. It also acquired Piedmont Airlines and Pacific Southwest Airlines. In 1979, Allegheny Airlines changes its name to US Air to reflect that it serviced a larger area. In 1997, it became US Airways, with flights to 193 destinations and in 24 countries.

In the early 2000s, the airline fell on hard times and filed for bankruptcy twice. In 2013, American Airlines and US Airways merged, retaining the American Airline name.

The final flight of US Airways took place on October 15, 2015, and took off from San Francisco, stopped at Phoenix and Charlotte and landed in Philadelphia. It carried the number Flight 1939 to reflect the founding of All American Aviation Company. n

MULTI-DAY TOURS

(All Multi-day are priced per person, double occupancy)

America’s Historic Triangle

Jul 24-26 $784

Washington, DC Weekend

Jul 28-30 $609

Ocean City, MD

Aug 6-10 $1,153

Historic Gettysburg

Aug 8-10 $699

Red, White & Blue Salute: Arlington

Aug 8-10 $558

National Museum of the US Air Force

Aug 16-17 $343

Lenzner’s 84th Anniversary Tour-Smoky Mts

Aug 22-25 $875

Tour the Shore: AC, Ocean City & Cape May

Aug 28-31 $713

CASINO TOURS

Seneca Niagara Casino One Day

Aug 7; Oct 2 $132

Caesar’s Casino Atlantic City

Aug 20-24 $641

Seneca Niagara Casino Three Day

Aug 27-29 $391

ONE-DAY TOURS

Lucy Land Comedy Tour

Jul 18; Sep 26 $219

Holmes County Brown Bag

Jul 20 $185

Boxcar Escapade on Horseshoe Curve

Jul 26; Oct 4 $181

Amish Country Market Day

Jul 27 $167

Put-in-Bay, Ohio

Aug 2 $211

Blennerhassett Island, WV

Aug 8 $167

Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

Aug 9 $166

AIR TOURS & MOTORCOACH-TO-CRUISE

TOURS

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Oct 6-11 $3,225

8 Night Southeast Coast & Bahamas Cruise

Nov 24-Dec 2* Starting at $1,283

New Year’s Rose Parade

Dec 30-Jan 4 $3,675

*Includes port charges, taxes, fees, & shipboard gratuities! Motorcoach Drivers Wanted! Current CDL Class B required with Passenger Endorsement. Contact Mark Snyder at 412-749-4188 or email your resume to mark.snyder@coachusa.com

Health Benefits of Walking Expands

By Joseph Maroon, MD, FACS

Summer is here! What a great time to be outdoors. The barbeques, backyard picnics, spending the days at the pool are all fun activities this time of year, and so is walking. Every day, on average, we walk about 5,000 steps just doing our normal activities. This is about 2.5 miles. But recent studies show that just walking an extra 2,000 to 3,000 steps (1 to 1.5 miles), or a total of 7,000 and 8,000 steps on most days, we would be in the “sweet spot” for obtaining significant health benefits. Converted to minutes, this means walking at least 150 minutes a week, or 30 minutes most days, in addition to any moving around we do as part of our normal, daily lives.

When I say significant health benefits, I mean reductions in the BIG 3 causes of early death from – cardiovascular disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. By intentionally walking for an average of 30 minutes or more a day, you increase aerobic activity and lower the risk of heart disease and stroke by 35% percent. Walking can also reduce excessive blood sugar and help prevent Type 2 diabetes by 40%.

When it comes to protecting against dementia (the most common cause is due to Alzheimer’s disease), even some activity is better than none. In a recent 2022 study that was reported in JAMA, researchers tracked 78,000 healthy people (ages 40 to 79) for seven years, and even those who walked just 3,800 steps per day (about two miles) were about 25% less likely to develop dementia.

Those who walked about 9,800 steps per day (about five miles) were 51% less likely to develop dementia. There is no medical treatment or drug that can claim this degree of prevention that is impacting more and more people.

Even deadly breast cancer in women has been shown to be reduced by walking. A 2019 study of women in their 70s, who walked 4,500 steps a day, were able to reduce their risk of premature death by breast cancer by about 40 %, when compared to women completing 2,700 or fewer steps a day. The risks for early death continued to drop among the women walking more than 5,000 steps a day.

Walking has been as natural to us as breathing, but modern lifestyles have changed. We now walk less that we ever have in human history. By reducing walking, you burn fewer

calories and are more likely to gain weight. You may lose muscle strength and endurance and develop joint degeneration and weak bones that can lead to joint replacements and bone fracture. Your immune system may not work as well, and your body may suffer from increased “silent” inflammation.

My prescription for you this summer is to walk! Enjoy the nature that surrounds us and help yourself to avoid disease and live a longer and healthier life. n

Joseph C. Maroon,

MD is a

Board-Certified Neurosurgeon, Nutritional and

Sports Medicine Expert. Dr. Maroon has written and lectured extensively on brain health and healthy life choices. As a competitive Ironman triathlete, Dr. Maroon practices what he preaches and is committed to the promoting healthy choices to his patients and readers.

Enjoy Independent, Healthy Living at The Village at St. Barnabas!

Do you enjoy a brisk walk in the morning? How about a leisurely stroll after dinner? Walking is one of the best ways to stay healthy, fit and active. The lush grounds and gardens at the Village at St. Barnabas feature safe and secure walking paths for a solo jaunt or a walk with friends, any time of the day. Not a lover of the outdoors? You can still get your exercise taking a stroll around our expansive indoor mall. Experience an exceptional lifestyle when you make your home in one of the fabulous condominium-style apartments in the Village at St. Barnabas!

koi pond & walking

The Print Shop at Office Things Celebrates 50 Years of Business

By Janice Lane Palko

“After all these years, we still enjoy creating and making our customers look good in print,” said Nina Dryna, who, with her sister Mary Ann Nudi Sembrat, founded The Print Shop at Office Things 50 years ago this past March. Their first shop was in West View near Bronx Field, and then they moved to Wexford and then to their present location in Mars at 133 Grand Avenue.

You could say that ink is in their blood as their father was the printer for the Duquesne Club and part owner of The Free Press and The Allegheny Journal for a time. It was he who encouraged his daughters to open an office supply business.

“After about a year into business, he suggested that we go into printing as well and nudged us into that area,” said Nina.

“That was a blessing,” said Nina, “as around our 35th year in business selling office supplies, all the big box office supply stores opened and put many small stores out of business. If we

hadn’t had the print shop, we would not have survived.”

There were other challenges that Mary Ann and Nina faced over the years. “When we started out,” Mary Ann said, “this was in 1973, and there were few women in business.”

“While out canvassing for new business, it was hard for prospective new clients to believe a 20-year-old woman was the owner of a business,” said Nina.

Over their five decades in business, they’ve also had to juggle work with home life. “Between us, we have had seven kids,”

said Mary Ann. “When our kids were small, one week I’d work three days and stay home for two, and then the next week, we would switch.”

They’ve also had to change with the advent of new technologies. “When we went into printing, things had to be typeset by hand, and there were 3-4 steps before arriving at a finished product. Now there is usually only one step and clients can submit work in a variety of ways such as by email, online or by phone,” said Nina. “I think technology has made everything better for our business.”

The Print Shop at Office Things has a wide-ranging clientele from customers in New York and New Jersey to locations in the South and all over Western Pennsylvania, providing anything that needs to be printed on paper, vinyl, metal, and apparel.

One thing the sisters haven’t had to deal with is conflict on the job. “We’re very different,” said Nina.

“And our talents are different, but we complement each other,” said Mary Ann.

In addition to enjoying creating things for their clients and nonprofit organizations, they take great pleasure in establishing relationships with their customers. “We’ve been in business so long, that we’ve done the circle of life with birth announcements, First Communion party invitations, graduation invitations and wedding invitations for the same people,” said Mary Ann.

As for the future, the duo has no plans to retire. “What is it they say, find something you love to do, and you’ll never work a day in your life? We love what we do,” said Nina.

“It doesn’t seem like work,” said Mary Ann. “We still enjoy it.” n

Mary Ann Nudi Sembrat Nina Dryna

Organizing Your Home: Tips from your SRES®

Increase your home’s appeal for yourself or for buyers on the market with these organizational tips.

Decide what’s working in your home and what’s not.

Take stock of items in your home and how they are organized. What spaces work for you, and which ones feel overwhelming or inconvenient? Do you have too many items stored in a space that is too small? Go room by room and evaluate your closets and drawers. Ask yourself, “what do I like about this current organizational set-up? What should change?” Take notes.

Come up with a plan

After evaluating your current system, come up with a new plan. Get rid of items that you no longer need or have space to keep—remember, the fewer things you have, the less time and space you will need to keep them nice. After decluttering, organize your items using bins, shelves, racks, or other systems for separation. Your system will work best if the objects you use most are easy to access without bending or reaching.

Take a “step-by-step” approach

Avoid burnout by breaking up tasks and starting small. For example, you could start with a closet that you can reorganize in a day, or you could sort through old clothes to give to charity. Once you are done, take a break before moving on to the next project.

Ask for help

Some labor-intensive tasks are hard to do alone. When needed, do not be afraid to ask for help. Larger projects likely require the help of family, community members, or hired professionals. Talk with people in your network, including your SRES® professional, for recommendations for qualified professional organizers, cleaners, or movers in your area.

TIPS FOR GETTING RID OF EXCESS “THINGS”

1

Toss duplicate items: if you have more sets of work clothes or measuring cups than you need, consider giving away what is extra.

2

Sort items into four piles: one for things to keep, one for things to donate, one for things to throw away, and one for valuables to appraise and/ or sell.

3

Pass on belongings: if there are items you no longer need, or keepsakes you would like to go to a certain person, gift them personally now.

Deb Walton, SRES®

Safe Driving As We Age

No matter the season or our age, we want to be cautious each time we step into a vehicle. That said, as we age, there are some related changes that we want to be conscious of when getting behind the steering wheel. Here are some practical tips to remember.

1. Make sure to put on your seatbelt. Buckle up before starting the car every time you get in it. This is important for both the driver and any passengers. If the seatbelt is uncomfortable, consider making an adjustment. This could be adjusting the shoulder mount or buying a shoulder pad that slips over the belt.

6. Update your driving skills and get a discount. Consider a refresher course for older drivers. Updating your driving skills might even earn you a discount on your car insurance, depending on your policy. Check with your insurance provider for any eligible classes!

7. Adjust your vehicle. There are upgrades and/or adjustments that can be made to vehicles to potentially create a better fit for an older driver. Such changes include adjusting the mirrors, using a pedal extender, seat cushions, etc. Look for educational programs such as Car-Fit which can offer direct and personal assistance in assessing how well your car may suit your needs.

2. Mute your cell phone and minimalize any distractions. Talking or texting on the phone while driving can distract you from the road. Leave your cell phone on silent or “do not answer” while you are driving. The National Safety Council also advises against any type of phone conversation or voice-to-text features while driving, including hands-free and Bluetooth devices.

3. Choose safer routes. It is better to go a little further out of your way to avoid or limit difficult intersections and turns if these make you uncomfortable. Choose the routes that make you most relaxed.

4. Stressed or tired while driving? Stop the car on the side of the road, if safe, and stay where you are until you are well rested and calm. Driving when you are not at your best can be dangerous.

5. Discuss any medical issues with your doctor. Physical changes as we age may change the way the body interacts and reacts to medications. Taking more than one medicine may cause additional side effects and affect our driving. Talk to your doctor about any symptoms that could interfere with safe driving such as dizziness, tiredness, blurry vision, confusion, fatigue, etc.

If you have questions about community resources related to older adults, please reach out to Education and Consultative Services of UPMC Senior Services. Our phone number is 866-430-8742, our e-mail is UPMCSeniorServices@UPMC.edu, and our website is SeniorServices.UPMC.com. Join us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/UPMCSeniorServices. Please note that we are not a crisis or emergency line. n

Dementia Caregiver Training

The University of Pittsburgh’s Pittsburgh Regional Dementia Caregiver Training and Employment Program was awarded a grant through the Henry L. Hillman Foundation as a part of its Healthy Aging Challenge. In partnership UPMC Senior Services, free training sessions for family caregivers, professionals, and intergenerational champions provide new ways of interacting and supporting individuals living with dementia. If you would like to learn more about this opportunity, please reach out to Education and Consultative Services of UPMC Senior Services at 866-430-8742 or UPMCSeniorServices@UPMC.edu.

Pat Casper Insurance

By Janice Lane Palko

Pat Casper Insurance is dedicated to providing protection for their policyholders with insurance products from top-rated insurance carriers.

Located at 11676 Perry Highway in Wexford, Pat Casper Insurance is now in its fourth generation. Pat, Principal Agent and Co-owner, has been with the agency for over 37 years, and his son, Corey, Agent and Co-owner, has been with the agency for nearly ten years. In addition, they have two customer service representatives, Kristen Tejchman, who has been with the company for over 20 years, and Shawn Scherer, who has been there for more than four years.

Pat Casper Insurance provides all different types of insurance including auto, homeowner’s, umbrella liability, life, commercial, annuities, Medicare supplements, prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage Plans as well as providing all types of business insurance from small, single business owners to large corporations. They have policyholders all over Pennsylvania and Ohio, but most of their clients reside in Western Pennsylvania.

One type of insurance that people neglect to purchase is life insurance, which can cause catastrophic consequences. Most people think that just because they have a life insurance policy at work, they don’t need any personal life insurance. However, what people fail to realize is that if they leave their job for any reason, including retirement, they no longer will have a life insurance policy. When they look to purchase life insurance after they retire, often the rates are either very expensive because of their age, or they no longer qualify due to medical reasons.

Pat and Corey can also make clients aware of special insurance programs and discounts. One such program is the Erie Rate Lock, which allows you to actually “lock” in your auto rate until you change a vehicle, change a driver or change a location. If you don’t make one of those three changes, your auto rate renews at the same rate year after year. With inflation increasing at such a rapid rate, it is beneficial to lock in your auto insurance rate.

For most people Medicare can be very confusing. Pat Casper Insurance helps their clients understand what each part of Medicare is and how to pick a plan that is best for them. For some people, a Medigap plan works the best and for others a Medicare Advantage Plan does.

What sets apart Pat Casper insurance is their service. They take the time to explain different coverages and options and aim to build relationships with their policyholders and not just be an “800” number, to call. n

For more information on Pat Casper Insurance, visit their website @ www.casper4ins.com. They can be reached by calling the office at (724) 935-2229 or by email at: pat@ casper4ins.com or corey@casper4ins.com. You can also email their main address at pci@casper4ins.com.

Patrick Casper

Corey Casper

Changes Continue to Improve for Medicare Prescription Coverage

By Crystal Manning

Recently, I have worked with clients who have made costly mistakes with their Medicare insurance, simply because they were unaware of penalties or other potential traps with Medicare laws. In fairness, there’s no disputing that Medicare particulars are sometimes complicated and overwhelming. However, let’s discuss some common (and costly) mistakes you can easily avoid without exerting too much effort in the process.

Many Medicare beneficiaries that have a Medicare Advantage or Medicare sup -

plement plan with a separate Medicare part D plan utilized a savings of almost $470 million in out-of-pocket costs,

through lowering drug costs and copays for doctor’s office visits. This year the Medicare Advantage companies provided Part D plans, which cover drugs that patients pick up at a pharmacy, with more negotiating tools so they can put pressure on drug companies and get a good deal for patients. Plans will be able to make sure that beneficiaries have access to new generic drugs sooner, while ensuring that beneficiaries receive high-quality care.

Seniors will continue to save through upcoming improvements.

A. Manning Medicare Advisor

According to Medicare.gov, a new prescription drug law went into effect January 1, 2023, and will help save money for people with Medicare. This law improves access to affordable treatments and strengthens the Medicare program. How will this law help seniors and what does it entail?

Seniors taking insulin will be pleased to know that Medicare drug plans cannot charge you more than $35 for a one-month supply of each Part D-covered insulin. Medicare also eliminated the plan’s deductible on applicable insulin. Also of note, on July 1, 2023, the new rules apply If you get a 2- or 3-months’ supply of insulin, your costs cannot be more than $35 for each month’s supply of each covered insulin. This also applies if you take insulin through a traditional pump that is covered under Medicare’s durable medical equipment benefit, which is Medicare part B.

Starting April 1, 2023, you might pay a lower coinsurance amount for certain drugs and biologicals covered by Part B, if their prices have increased higher than the rate of inflation. The specific drugs and potential savings change every quarter.

More vaccines will be covered at no cost to beneficiary of Medicare Part D drug coverage. The Part D plan will no longer charge a copayment or apply a deductible for vaccines that are recommended including, the vaccines for shingles, whooping cough, and more.

Another benefit that seniors will be happy to know, if drug costs are high enough to reach the catastrophic coverage phase in your Medicare drug coverage, there will be no copayment or coinsurance, starting in 2024. There will also be an expansion of Extra Help payments for prescription drug coverage (the Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) program) to cover more drug costs for people with limited resources who earn less than 150% of the federal poverty level.

The future of these new regulations includes the first time, Medicare will be able to negotiate directly with manufacturers for the price of certain high-spending brand-name Medicare Part B and Part D drugs that do not have competition. Medicare beneficiaries will see these changes in 2026 and other changes in future years. Also noteworthy is the manufacturers that do not follow the negotiation requirements will have to pay a tax and will

have to pay penalties if they do not fulfill other manufacturers’ requirements. There are still plans that you can change to now. If you need assistance to make the best choice contact your local Medicare broker Crystal Manning at 412-716-4942 or email crystalmanning33@gmail.com. Manning will provide specialized health insurance knowledge and represents most plans in your area. She has her license in 14 states. n

Step Back Into...1973

The U.S. ends its involvement in the Vietnam War Hip Hop is born

By Paula Green

On January 20, 1973, President Nixon was inaugurated for his second term. Two days later, his predecessor, former President Lyndon Johnson, suffered a heart attack and died. On that same date, January 22, the Supreme Court ruled in a landmark case Roe vs. Wade, which affirmed a woman’s right to have an abortion. August 11, was the birth of hip hop, where DJ Kool Herc, real name Clive Campbell, and his friend hosted a back-to-school party in Bronx, New York.

Average

The average income was $12,900. Cost of a new home $45,000, and average monthly rent was $175. A new car sold for approximately $3,200. Gasoline was 40 cents a gallon. A dozen eggs sold for 45 cents. A gallon of milk cost $1.36, and a loaf was 27 cents. Oreos were 59 cents for a 19-ounce package, and peanut butter was 99 cents for a 2½-pound jar. A first-class stamp was 8 cents.

Firsts

On May 14, Skylab, the first American space station, is launched.

The Oldsmobile Toronado was the first car with a passenger airbag.

Gene splicing is developed.

The first cell phone was invented by Motorola.

The ethernet (local computer network) was created by Xerox.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was invented. Bic introduces the disposable lighter.

U.S. Events

Alaska Oil Pipeline bill is passed to allow construction of a pipeline to access oil from the North Slope of Alaska.

The 110-story Sears Tower opened in Chicago.

On April 30, on national TV, Richard Nixon accepts responsibility, but not blame, for Watergate; accepts resignations of H. R. Haldeman and John D. Ehrlichman, fires John W. Dean III as counsel.

World News

On January 27, a peace agreement was reached between the U.S. and the North Vietnamese during a meeting in Paris.

Princess Anne, marries Captain Mark Phillips in Westminster Abbey.

The Bahamas gains independence from Great Britain.

Sydney Opera House is opened.

Entertainment

The Sting and The Exorcist were the most popular films. The classic film American Graffiti premieres in the United States during August. Other blockbusters included Badlands, Bang the Drum Slowly, High Plains Drifter, Jesus Christ Superstar, Live and Let Die, Magnum Force, Paper Moon, Papillon, Serpico, Walking Tall, and The Way We Were A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving debuts.

Television

All in the Family is the top TV show. The Young & the Restless premieres on CBS. Popular TV shows –The Bob Newhart Show, Cannon, Hawaii 5-0, Kojak, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, M*A*S*H, Maude, Sanford & Son, The Six Million Dollar Man, The Sonny & Cher Variety Show, and The Waltons. Bonanza, Laugh-In, and Mission Impossible all ended their TV runs.

Songs

Hit tunes – Bad, Bad, Leroy Brown, Tie a Yellow Ribbon, Killing Me Softly with His Song; My Love, Crocodile Rock; You’re So Vain, The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia, Playground in My Mind, Delta Dawn, Drift Away, You Are the Sunshine of My Life, HalfBreed and We’re an American Band.

Publishing

Jonathan Livingston

Seagull was the bestselling fiction book. Other popular books – The Living Bible, I’m O.K. Your O.K., Breakfast of Champions, The Hollow Hills, The Matlock Paper, Evening in Byzantium, and Once Is Not Enough.

Sports Superbowl Champions

- The Miami Dolphins are victorious after finishing with a perfect 17-0 season. MLB - the Oakland Athletics defeat the Mets. Stanley Cup - the Montreal Canadiens win over the Chicago. NCAA Basketball New York defeats the Lakers. Secretariat wins the Triple Crown (won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes). On September 20, in a highly publicized “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match, top women’s player Billie Jean King, 29, beats Bobby Riggs, 55, a former No. 1 ranked men’s player.

Politics

President: Richard Nixon; Vice President: Spiro Agnew until October 10. Agnew resigned due to tax evasion charges. On December 6, Gerald Ford took the oath of office as vice president.

Quotes

“It’s slow good!”

~Heinz Ketchup commercial

“Well, I’m not a crook. I’ve earned everything I’ve got.”

~ Richard Nixon, November 17 speech

“A man’s got to know his limitations.”

~ Harry Callahan (Clint Eastwood) Magnum Force

Sources: www.thepeoplehistory.com/1973.html, www.infoplease.com/year/1973, www.inthe70s. com/prices.shtml, www.pbs.org/newshour/ show/when-four-historic-events-happened-overthree-days-in-1973, www.zdnet.com/article/ technology-that-changed-us-the-1970s/, orgs. wku.edu/ttas/anniversary/anniv-70s-inventions. php, //hobbylark.com/party-games/PositivelyBillabong-Fun-Facts-Trivia-About-the-Year-1973, //stacker.com/tv/famous-commercials-year-youwere-born

Here’s the Scoop on Former Ice Cream Parlors in the ‘Burgh

By Paula Green

There’s nothing quite like eating scrumptious ice cream. Over the years, Pittsburgh has seen some fantastic ice cream parlors in the area. One place is celebrating a centennial anniversary this year. Klavon’s opened its doors on Penn Avenue in the Strip District in 1923. Its founders, James and Mary Klavon, started their place as an apothecary and ice cream shop. Jacob and Desiree Hanchar purchased the parlor in 2013, and today Klavon’s is still dishing out yummy ice cream.

Another tasty tidbit is that the banana split was invented in our region. Latrobe pharmacy owner David Strickler sliced a banana in two and added vanilla, chocolate, strawberry ice cream scoops, three flavored toppings, and whipped cream in 1904.

On the flipside, some wellknown ice cream shops have for

the most part dwindled. The Isaly family’s success story began in 1833 when Swiss cheesemaker Christian Isaly and his family settled in Monroe County, Ohio. Then, they expanded into other parts of Ohio, western Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Isaly’s was an establishment that folks flocked to for a cool

cone. They were famous for their Skyscraper cones. Instead of serving up round scoops of ice cream, the Isaly team utilized a patented scooper which created the tall “Skyscraper” cones.

In addition, to the “Skyscraper,” the Isaly family is famous for their chipped chopped ham and Klondike bars. The square ice cream treat has been around for 101 years. You can still purchase Klondikes in local grocery stores, but Isaly’s Restaurants are no longer prevalent in our area. Fortunately, at least three Isaly’s still operate in southwestern Pennsylvania in West View, Turtle Creek, and East Allegheny, each retaining most of their classic interior.

Baskin & Robbins was another ice cream shop, an everyday staple in the ‘Burgh. Back in 1945, Burt Baskin and Irv Robbins launched their ice cream parlors with a clever idea. Instead of having three flavors – vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry- they introduced 31 flavors. And the public ate it up! Fast forward 78 years and Baskin & Robbins developed 1,400 different flavors. Over the years, the

number of Baskin & Robbin shops has faded, with only three remaining in the region. However, you can visit their stores on Liberty Avenue, Forbes Avenue, and Freeport Road in Fox Chapel.

Tastee-Freez was founded in 1950 in Joliet, Illinois. Their claim to fame was an ingenious new concoction called soft-serve ice cream. With its cool logo, the recognizable roadside stands of Tastee-Freez became a vintage stop. Expansion of the brand was rapid in the 1950s; by 1957 there were nearly 1,800 locations. There were numerous Tastee-Freez locations throughout our tristate area. In 1982, the ice cream chain was sold to the Denovo Corporation

of Utica, Michigan, which owned the Stewart’s Restaurants and root beer. The stores gradually began to fade away. Tastee Freez shops have since closed in Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania, only a handful remain in the United States. Although some of our favorite ice cream parlors have melted away, plenty of other shops are open for business. So, stop in and enjoy a delicious frosty treat; it will make you smile! n

Sources: wagnershoes.com/, littlesshoes.com/, scholar.liww.klavonsicecream.com/, theadanews. com/news/lifestyles/who-invented-the-bananasplit-plus-other-frosty-facts/, isalys.com/history/, baskinrobbins.com/, https://www.tastee-freez. com/