SWPA Seniors - April 2023

• Complete audiology evaluation for patients of all ages

• Repair of all makes and models of hearing aids

• Both conventional hearing aids as well as the newest digital hearing systems.

• Custom hearing protection to protect your hearing at work or while participating in hobbies such as lawn care, target practice, hunting, or playing loud musical instruments

• Customized ear molds that are compatible with iPods, Blue Tooth, music monitors and other devices

• Screening hearing evaluations as part of pre-employment testing

• Most Insurances accepted including Aetna, UPMC, UMWA, United Healthcare and Highmark BCBS

Another shot at love: Castle Shannon couple together 30 years after midlife marriage

By Jon Andreassi

On the 17th day of July 1993, on the 17th floor of the Westin William Penn Hotel, Jamie Benjamin and Larry Gesoff told each other, “I do.”

Far from high school sweethearts, the two

were 50 when they got married, and are still together more than 30 years later. They currently live at South Hills Square Retirement Resort in Castle Shannon.

“This was a mature, smart decision. It was not only exciting and loving, but it was intelligent,” Benjamin said. “I knew it was go-

ing to be good, and it has gotten better and better through life.”

Benjamin and Gesoff were both divorcees, and clear headed about what they wanted, and didn’t want, in a relationship. Gesoff described themselves as deeply grateful to be together.

Jamie Benjamin and Larry Gesoff enjoy a moment in the lobby of South Hills Square Retirement Resort, where they live.

“I had two miserable marriages, and I wanted a real wife,” Gesoff said. “It was like coming home. Comfort, and it was just right. So we’re very grateful for that.”

Gesoff was originally from Easton, but had moved to Pittsburgh, where Benjamin is from, for work. Gesoff is a retired administrative law judge for the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC), while Benjamin worked as an addiction counselor and had a private practice.

They ended up meeting at an Insight Seminar in Pittsburgh. Insight Seminars are large group sessions with a focus on personal growth. When the participants were split into smaller groups, Benjamin and Gesoff were put in the same group.

At the time, Benjamin had been divorced for a dozen years. Gesoff was still in his second marriage, which, by his description, was “failing.”

“I was always interested in what Jamie had to say, because she was very perceptive … She was someone I admired greatly, but of course I wasn’t going to act on anything while I was still married. Even though my marriage was crumbling, it didn’t matter. I was still going to be loyal to that,” Gesoff said.

Benjamin had a 17-year marriage and two children with her first husband. They had moved to the Dominican Republic, but Benjamin said she left due to infidelity.

“We have our children. I learned Spanish, and we built a house from the ground up. We did all the labor. So we had a good time, but he ended up running around with other women,” Benjamin said. “I wasn’t going to stay for that, in the Dominican Republic. So I left.”

Benjamin said she prayed, and wrote down all the qualities she was looking for in a partner.

“It’s kind of interesting to be single in the middle of your life, as well. It’s not a terrible time, but you get to learn what it’s like to be alone and single. Then you really have time to say, ‘What do I want next?'” Benjamin said.

She found the person she was looking for in Gesoff, but respected the fact that he was still married. Benjamin also admired the effort Gesoff was making toward trying to fix his marriage.

“He never invited me out or drove me home or anything until he was divorced. I thought that was a big plus. Of course, it was the only right thing,” Benjamin said.

After Gesoff’s divorce, the two decided to get together.

“Jamie and I decided, ‘Well, maybe we can make a relationship.’ So we would give it four seasons, her idea, at the end of which, we were married. When we were 50,” Gesoff said.

Benjamin had a 15-year-old daughter living at home and a 19-year-old son. Gesoff did not have any children of his own. Like relationships, he also had negative experiences with stepparents, which shaped how he bonded with his wife’s children.

“My mother died when I was quite young, when I was 15. My father remarried twice. Both stepmothers could not stand me. They were very nasty. They let me know they didn’t want me around, and I learned what kind of stepparent not to be,” Gesoff said. “I had a good lesson from some bad experiences.”

Today Benjamin’s children are adults, about the same age she and Gesoff were when they got married. They spent a lot of time in their 30 years of marriage traveling. In their 80s, Gesoff says they have settled into a comfortable routine.

“We both have a wonderful ability to do nothing. We’re slow,” Benjamin said. “We sit well. We read well. Larry does every New York Times crossword puzzle.”

Benjamin and Gesoff say since their marriage 30 years ago, their relationship improves with each passing day.

“I told the person who married us when she interviewed us that I wanted to see and be seen,” Gesoff said. “And that was Jamie. I could see her and she saw me.”

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Recognizing the vital role of senior workers in today's economy

According to National Today, the current retirement age in the United States is 65 years. However, employers have been using various tactics to force people older than 40 years out of the workforce in the past few years. National Older Workers Employment Week is an initiative to hon-

or older workers and highlight the tremendous value seniors bring to our businesses and communities.

National Older Workers Employment Week took place back in March, but now is an opportune time to delve into the profound impact seniors have on local busi-

nesses and communities. While the narrative often skews toward youth-centric employment, the truth is, seniors bring an array of invaluable assets that enrich every aspect of the workforce and societal fabric.

Seniors possess a wealth of experience accrued over decades in the workforce.

• Low cost kosher-style grab-and-go lunch on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, with seating so you can enjoy your meal with friends

• Information and referral services

• Wellness programming

• Evidence-based programs such as HomeMeds, Chronic Disease Management and Aging Mastery

• Education opportunities in person and virtually through Virtual Senior Academy

• Clubs and social programs

• Volunteer opportunities

• Pickleball*

• Exercise classes*

*Additional

This experience is not only a testament to their dedication but also a reservoir of knowledge that younger generations can tap into. From seasoned professionals to skilled tradespeople, seniors offer insights and expertise that are irreplaceable. In industries ranging from healthcare to technology, their accumulated wisdom serves as a cornerstone for innovation and progress.

"Senior workers are skilled and experienced. They offer many skills that younger generations do not," remarks C.J. Girod, President of Seniors Helping Seniors® Southwestern PA. Seniors Helping Seniors® is an in-home care service provider that, as their name implies, prioritizes hiring senior caregivers for their team. "All companies should hire senior workers; they will have the great opportunity to experience their hard work and loyalty just like we get to experience at our agency."

Seniors are renowned for their strong work ethic. Having weathered the ebbs and flows of the economy, they understand the value of diligence and reliability. In a world where consistency is key, seniors often stand out for their steadfast commitment to their roles. Whether it's showing up on time, going the extra mile, or simply embodying a can-do attitude, their work ethic sets a standard for excellence that reverberates throughout the workplace.

Moreover, seniors bring a sense of loy-

alty that is unmatched. Rooted in their deep-seated connection to their communities, they approach their work with a dedication that goes beyond mere job duties. This loyalty not only fosters a sense of camaraderie among colleagues but also instills trust and confidence in customers and clients. Businesses that prioritize hiring seniors often find themselves with a workforce that is not only skilled but also deeply invested in the success of the company.

Furthermore, seniors play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of workers. Through mentorship programs, training initiatives, and on-the-job guidance, they impart valuable lessons that extend far beyond the confines of the workplace. Their willingness to share knowledge and offer support not only empowers younger workers but also ensures a smooth transition of skills and expertise from one generation to the next.

In addition to their contributions within the workforce, seniors are integral members of their local communities. Whether it's through volunteer work, civic engagement, or active participation in social groups, they serve as pillars of strength and sources of wis-

dom. Their presence enriches the cultural tapestry of neighborhoods and towns, creating vibrant and inclusive spaces for all residents to thrive.

As society continues to grapple with an aging population, harnessing the talents and capabilities of seniors becomes increasingly vital. By recognizing the inherent value they bring to the table, businesses can tap into a demographic that is not only skilled and experienced but also deeply committed to making a difference. From revitalizing industries to strengthening social bonds, seniors are a driving force for positive change in communities across the country.

National Older Workers Employment Week serves as a poignant reminder of the immeasurable contributions seniors make to businesses and local communities. By embracing their experience, work ethic, and loyalty, we not only honor their legacy but also pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future.

Koscheck, Stanley, Hildreth’s rare feat headed into Washington-Greene Hall of Fame

By Rob Burchianti

When Lorie Wise Hildreth was inserted in West Greene’s softball lineup as the cleanup hitter back on May 22, 1979, she took that role literally.

Hildreth cleaned off the base paths in all four of her at bats thanks to four home runs that produced 10 RBIs.

While that’s a feat in itself, Hildreth made it even more spectacular and unique by hitting for what has been dubbed the “home run cycle.”

Hildreth smacked a solo home run, a tworun shot, a three-run blast and a grand slam in a slugfest the Lady Pioneers eventually lost to visiting Carmichaels.

Hildreth’s rare accomplishment, which finally got notoriety with area media coverage last spring, was chosen as the Hall of Fame Moment by the Washington-Greene Co. Chapter of the Pennsylvania Hall of Fame. She will be honored at the Washington-Greene Hall of Fame banquet on

Sunday, June 9 at the Hilton Garden Inn at Southpointe.

“I was shocked, surprised,” Hildreth said when she got the news. “I am very honored and very excited.”

Hildreth never forgot her four-homer game but it took on a new life when current West Greene softball coach and athletic director Bill Simms examined the boxscore from the game last year. He excitedly pointed out that she had not only hit four home runs but hit for the home run cycle.

Pennsylvania Hall of Fame recently announced it has chosen Hildreth’s performance that day as their Hall of Fame Moment for 2024. She will be honored at the Hall of Fame banquet on June 9.

“Billy told me that and then it was like, wow, it’s an even bigger accomplishment than I ever thought,” Hildreth said. “Bil-

ly then sort of put it out there and Mr. John Sacco wrote a very nice story on it (which ran in the Observer-Reporter, Herald-Standard and Greene County Messenger). I think that definitely gave me some great publicity and helped me get noticed by the Hall of Fame.”

Lorie Wise Hildreth shows her batting stance as she displays the four balls she hit for home runs in a game against Carmichaels as a sophomore at West Greene on May 22, 1979. Hildreth hit for a rare home run cycle – a solo homer, two-run homer, three-run homer and grand slam – in the game. The Washington-Greene Co. Chapter of the

In addition to Hildreth’s moment, the Washington-Greene Hall of Fame chose two Greene County athletes – Waynesburg Central graduate Josh Koscheck and Butler and Waynesburg University graduate Paul Stanley – as 2024 inductee.

Following is a capsule on each inductee/honoree:

Josh Koscheck

Koshceck wrestled for Waynesburg where he earned a PIAA silver medal and also played football for the Raiders, rushing for over 1,600 yards. He graduated from high school in 1997 and went on to have an outstanding wrestling career at Edinboro University with an overall record of 128-17 that included a 42-0 record his junior year when he won the NCAA national championship. Koscheck also placed fourth as a freshman, second as a sophomore and third as a senior when he was hampered by a bulging disk injury in his neck.

Koscheck went on to a successful career in Mixed Martial Arts with Ultimate Fighting Championships. He won 17 of his first 22 professional fights, including twice winning Knockout of the Night and Fight of the Night, and once winning Submission of the Night. He lost a close decision for the 2020 UFC Welterweight Championship.

Paul Stanley Stanley went on to have outstanding ca-

reers in the Australia National Basketball League and the National Basketball League. In the latter won a scoring championship and became the fastest NBL player to reach both 1,000 and 2,000 career points. Stanley also was a longtime softball star in both ASA and USSSA competition and was chosen for induction into the 2023 Amateur Softball Association of Pennsylvania Hall of Fame in 2023.

Lorie Wise Hildreth

Hildreth, who is from New Freeport and currently lives in Wind Ridge, is amazed at all the publicity she’s been receiving recently for something that happened almost 45 years ago when she was a sophomore in high school.

“After all these years finally getting recognized for something that I did, especially after finding out how rare a feat it was, it just blew my mind,” Hildreth said. “Then when I heard from the Hall of Fame, it just hit me, like, ‘Oh my God. Is this really happening to me?’ It took me a while to have it all really sink in and, to be truthful, it’s still sinking in now.”

Softball has always been a part of Hildreth’s life.

“I love softball. I’ve played it and coached it for a lot of years,” Hildreth said.

She was an assistant coach under Simms for 11 years and was the head coach of the seventh and eighth grade team for two

years. She has also coached youth softball, getting involved when her daughter Kayla began to play, and Little League baseball, being highly successful at each endeavor. Hildreth didn’t have an opportunity to participate in softball in college but continued to play in the area after high school.

“I played in the summer league but when that went out for us women back in the day, I was very sad,” Hildreth said.

That’s when she turned to coaching.

“I was involved up until about six or seven years ago when I just kind of stepped down because the younger generation of coaches were coming in and it was just time for me to move aside and let them do their part now,” Hildreth said. “I do miss it terribly. Softball is one of the very strong passions I’ve had over my life.”

In addition to her daughter Kayla, now 35 and living in Charleston, South Carolina, Hildreth, whose husband passed away from cancer in 2015, has a son, Michael, 33, who lives next door to her in Wind Ridge.

There is a display near the gymnasium at West Greene High School honoring Hildreth’s accomplishment. She looks forward to attending the Hall of Fame banquet.

“My grandkids are going to be there so that’s what makes this even more special now,” she said.

New owners of iconic Brownsville diner want to keep traditions alive

By Mark Hofmann

For more than 100 years, Fiddles Diner in Brownsville has been a hot spot for locals, and a draw for Hollywood.

Now, the newest owners of the Water Street eatery are looking to Fiddles’ past as they make plans for its future.

April and Robert Sphar came to own the iconic diner, featured in movies and television shows, after seeing a Facebook post from the former owner last year. The Seattle couple who owned it, Larry and Camilla Brocker, hoped to sell it to someone who would carry on Fiddles’ long history.

The Sphars jumped at the chance.

“This has been here since 1910,” said April Sphar. “How could you not want to keep something like this going on in Brownsville?”

The couple owns a business in West Virginia, and ran a bar in Republic for two years before a fire caused it to close, so they were familiar with the ins and outs of what they’d need to do for their new venture.

April and Robert Sphar are the new owners of the iconic Fiddles Diner in Brownsville.

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April, who raised her children in the Brownsville area, was already familiar with Fiddles, and was excited to take the reins.

“It’s a wonderful spot to be in, and I’m just glad it’s us who keep it going,” she said.

Before the Sphars reopened the restaurant, it had been closed for four months. They spent two months cleaning the building and preparing the menu, and officially opened the doors the day after Thanksgiving.

They wanted the menu to be just right, so they took inspiration from the past, and sought input from future customers.

“We went back and looked at the old menus from the 1990s and early 2000s,” April said, adding they posted to Facebook asking community members to suggest their favorite Fiddles dishes.

“We tried to find the hotdogs that (were cooked) from the 60s to the 80s. They were so hard to find, but we’re cooking them low and slow on the flattop all day, and we’re trying to keep the chili basic for the hotdogs,” she said.

They’re also keeping mainstays like Fiddles’ western omelet and the patty melt, while introducing their signature burgers and other menu items.

“We’re trying to keep the same menu with new traditions,” April said.

Those sitting down to have a meal will also recognize the same benches that have been

there since the 1920s, complete with the names that have been carved into them over the past century. Some of the old tables – which also have names carved into them – will also stay.

“My name’s probably carved in one of these tables,” said Marvin Settles of Allison.

He’s been a regular at Fiddles since his father took him there as a child.

“The hamburgers and the French fries were my favorite. They’re still my favorite,” he said.

The diner has gone through a number of ownership changes since it was originally opened in 1910 by George Ellien under the name Empire Confectionary. Eight years later, he sold it to his nephew, Fadell Hallal, who renamed it Fiddles Confectionery.

Hallal and his business partner John Mitchell ran Fiddles together, and after Hallal’s death in 1979, Mitchell continued to run the business until 1990 when it was sold to Michael Novotney, who renamed it Fiddles Diner.

He ran it for 30 years before selling the property to the Brockers.

Settles remembers watching the hotdogs being sold when Mitchell owned the diner.

“They must have sold a couple hundred hotdogs a day,” Settles said. “Everybody came here to get the hotdogs.”

During the months the diner was closed as ownership transferred to the Sphars, Settles worried about Fiddles’ fate. To close

the landmark would’ve been like erasing a bit of Brownsville’s history, he said.

“I couldn’t wait for them to open back up.

The food is still as good as it was,” he said.

Over the years, Fiddles has appeared in several television shows and movies, including the 2019 Netflix series “I Am Not Okay With This,” where it was prominently featured during many scenes.

Other movies filmed there include “Maria’s Lovers” (1984), “Abduction” (2011), “Riddle” (2013) and “How To Tie A Tie” (2021).

“Hopefully, we’ll keep that tradition alive, too,” April said.

The Sphars celebrated the diner’s opening with a ribbon cutting on Feb. 2.

Fiddles Diner is currently open for breakfast and lunch, and once more staff has joined them, April said they’re looking to extend their hours.

The couple is also working on a delivery option to serve the community that seems to have welcomed them with open arms.

“I think people are being very positive about it,” April said. “I think we’re at a place where there will be more and more growth. We’re seeing new people coming in and spreading the word.”

Fiddles Diner is located at 101 Water Street, Brownsville. Their phone number is 724-785-2020.

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Deep roots: Local residents trace Irish ancestry

By Jon Andreassi

While St. Patrick’s Day is traditionally toasted with drinking, parades and more drinking, for many in Southwestern Pennsylvania it presented a chance to celebrate family and heritage.

How deep those Irish roots go varies, but all share a sense of pride in their lineage.

Both of Dorothy Weldon’s parents emigrated from Ireland, and she is of pure Irish descent. Ron Malmgren was unaware of his Irish heritage, and only recently learned about relatives who came to the United States during Colonial times. Kelly Sadlek,

a local high school teacher, is a first generation Irish-American. And 19-year-old Landon Sprowls has spent considerable time researching his Irish ancestry.

Weldon’s parents met after they had separately immigrated to America in the early 20th century. Her father, Martin, came from an Irish family with 15 children in County Galway to Pittsburgh, where he worked in the mills.

“Then my mother, she was born in County Kerry, Ireland. My mother was a natural redhead. Curly hair, never put a roller in. Never used any dye. Just a beautiful wom-

an,” Weldon said.

Her mother, Mary, worked in Oakland until she saved enough money to return to Ireland and take her own mother to parts of the country they could never afford to visit.

Mary went back and forth between countries, and eventually met Martin.

Though Dorothy Weldon was born in America, she describes her upbringing as distinctly Irish.

“I wasn’t allowed out after school. My mother baked, made all of our meals. We didn’t go to the store for this and that,” Weldon

Kelly Sadlek had the opportunity to see cousins she had never met in County Wexford. She notes, “They met us with open arms.”

said. “It was a whole different life. It was the Irish life. I lived it with two parents.”

Her upbringing and Irish hospitality were evident when Weldon welcomed a visitor to her home. Her dining room table was prepared with a spread of documents, photos and newspaper clippings. At the head of the table, a place was set for the guest with a glass of ice water. A pen and pad, for note-taking, were nearby.

While Weldon was raised in Irish tradition, Malmgren did not always know the extent of his Irish lineage.

Malmgren, of South Strabane Township, recalls taking a college course on genealogy in the late 1970s that required him to research his ancestry for an assignment. He got an A.

“Over the years I’ve added to it. With computers and things it’s a lot easier now,” Malmgren said.

What Malmgren learned is that he is related to Andrew Lynn (Malmgren notes that his research shows multiple spellings for the surname, including Linn), who arrived in Boston as an infant in 1701.

Malmgren was able to trace Lynn’s path from New England to New Jersey, where Andrew Jr. and William Lynn were born. From there he described how the family continued to move west, eventually settling in what is today Redstone Township, Fayette County.

At the time, however, it was Westmoreland County.

“Andrew Lynn Jr. was a captain in the Westmoreland County militia during the Revolutionary War. His brother William became a captain also,” Malmgren said. (William) actually went down the Ohio and the Mississippi to New Orleans to get arms and medicine from the Spanish.”

He added it was a two-month trek back up north for William.

What brought the Lynns to the area? Land, according to Malmgren. Benjamin Franklin issued the deed to Andrew Jr. for his property in Redstone. His father and brother died in Kentucky and Ohio, respectively, while looking for more real estate.

“They were always looking for land,” Malmgren said.

Sadlek’s upbringing was similar to Weldon’s. The North Strabane Township resident – a 10th-grade biology teacher at Canon-McMillan High School – has always been keenly aware of her Irish heritage.

Theresa Keegan, Sadlek’s mother, came to America by way of County Leitrim, Ireland, in 1956, at the age of 11.

Keegan arrived at the New York City harbor with her parents, two sisters and two brothers, and moved to Canonsburg.

“Growing up and listening to Irish music everyday, that was a big part of my life.

With my grandmother and I doing the jig,” Sadlek said.

Mary Margaret Hennigan, Sadlek’s grandmother, worked at Hahn’s Greenhouse until she was 80 years old.

Sadlek visited Ireland once as a teenager, but had the opportunity to return to the country last June with two of her three children. They were able to go to the house her mother grew up in, built by her grandfather.

“It was amazing, thinking about the trip,” Sadlek said. “It was very emotional.”

Weldon, too, has made the trip to her parents’ homeland.

“I can tell you this much, if there is a heaven, that’s where it is. It’s that beautiful. I say that honestly,” Weldon said.

In 1955, Weldon married Dr. John Weldon, who was the director of anesthesiology at Mon Valley Hospital. He died Sept. 19, 2022.

Weldon said her husband was Irish on his mother’s side, and both took an interest in celebrating that heritage.

She continues to be active in the local chapter of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, serving as president of the national organization from 2006 to 2008.

However, keeping organizations such as the Hibernians running gets more difficult as time passes. Weldon notes that the male-only Ancient Order of Hibernians in

Charleroi folded after the death of its president in 2020.

William “Bill” Lee died Dec. 18, 2020. Weldon spoke highly of Lee, describing him as such a gregarious leader that the remaining Hibernians did not want to continue without him and refused overtures to join the Pittsburgh branch.

“That was how dynamic he was with those men, and he ran that like a show,” Weldon said, adding that they all told her “no” when she passed along the offer from Pittsburgh. “But the men from Pittsburgh did come up and hear the word ‘no’ themselves.”

For the ladies order, it has been difficult to generate interest in the group to grow membership. About 15 members remain. “So we just have the women now, and we’re losing them,” Weldon said.

That’s not to say there are not younger people of Irish descent who take an interest in their ancestry.

Consider 19-year-old Landon Sprowls, who has been researching his family’s roots since the age of 13. Sprowls, of South Franklin Township, has spent much time researching and talking with older relatives about his family history.

Though not much is known about his early life in Ireland, John Sprowls immigrated to America in 1794. By 1976 the family had made their way to Washington County.

John Sprowls bought 100 acres of land for $150 in East Finley Township in February 1804.

Sprowls currently lives in Washington County, but grew up in Scranton.

“My dad moved there not too long after he graduated. Recently, we just moved back. Like two years ago. That might be the reason – I was disconnected from it for so long. I wanted to find out more,” Sprowls said.

Sadlek hopes to keep the Irish pride alive in her family by passing on the stories and traditions to her children. She has a strong sense of the sacrifices made by her grandparents. That was top of mind on St. Patrick’s Day.

“It’s more than getting drunk; it’s about celebrating your ancestry. I guess that’s hard to understand if you didn’t grow up living it. I lived it. It made me who I am just from hearing stories about how my grandparents came over,” Sadlek said. “Just to take that leap and to be a hard worker.”

Of course, those with the blood of Irish aren’t above having a good time on St. Patrick’s Day.

In the past, Weldon has marched in Pittsburgh’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and even served as the event’s grand marshal. This year, she attended Sunday morning Mass at St. Andrew’s in the Mon Valley, followed by a meal of corned beef and cabbage in the social hall.

On Saturday, Sadlek considered paying a visit to Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle in Pittsburgh’s Strip District. But on Sunday, it’s all about family.

Sadlek made a soda and treacle bread for a large family gathering.

Malmgren may have had a lowkey weekend, but repeats a common refrain about the inclusiveness of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

“We recognize it. The kids like to celebrate it. My wife, not so much. She’s eastern European, primarily,” Malmgren said. “But I think everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day.”

Mary, Michael and Kelly Sadlek at the house Kelly Sadlek’s mother grew up in County Leitrim, Ireland

A LIFE OF YOUR OWN

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This friendly, vibrant community is created through Community LIFE’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity, as they welcome seniors from all walks of life to join their program. They offer a complete network of medical specialists to cover the full spectrum of medical and health care needs, from diseases like dementia to physical disabilities. Comprehensive health care teams help coordinate care with access to physical and occupational therapists, dietitians, social workers, and more.

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CJ’s Furniture continues legacy nearing 100-year anniversary

By Melissa Gibson

Jaimie Amati isn’t technically an interior designer but she does have several years of choosing the right furniture for your home under her belt.

She and her husband Joe purchased CJ’s Furniture in Monongahela three years ago from long-time owner, Claudia Jean.

“We’re the third family to own the store. We bought all of our furniture from Clau-

dia, and when she was ready to retire, we bought the building,” Amati said.

The former owner helped the Amati’s learn the ropes and connected them to the same vendors she had vetted over the past three decades, keeping the same expectation of value and high-quality products customers have come to expect over the years.

They offer furniture for the living room, dining room and bedroom, and though the large pieces are popular, CJ’s also offers

smaller accessories, such as lamps and coffee tables.

What sets them apart?

Amati said it’s the variety of options.

“We’re known for our upholstery. There are thousands of fabric options and if we can find the fabric you’re looking for, we can make it for you,” she said. “We’ll talk about the factors that affect the wear and tear. Do you have animals or children? It

CJ’s Furniture in Monongahela offers both large furniture for the living room, dining room and bedroom, and smaller accessories to complete each room.

might make a difference when selecting a certain upholstery.”

Other factors might also come into play. “It’s imporant to look at the depth and height of a couch. Some elderly customers, for example, might want a shorter seat so they don’t sink down into the furniture,” Amati said. “All of our pieces are custom built so we can really make anything you want.”

In today’s age, customers don’t often see the level of service offered at CJ’s.

Joe is currently taking classes in upholstery – something the couple want to add to their knowledge base. They use a company to repair upholstery damage and fix other minor

issues, but the trade is slowly dying and the Amati’s want to be able to do it in-house.

In addition, it’s not everyday the owner of the furniture store you’re shopping in is willing to make a house call.

“We do in-home consultations. We take measurements and work with you to find the perfect piece,” Amati said.

She might not have formal interior design training, she does have furniture knowledge and can share that with customers who aren’t sure what will work best in their living space.

“One of my suggestions is to not buy everything at once. Oftentimes, when a customer

gets the largest piece in the room, they realize they didn’t need the other pieces,” Amati said. “You can also repurpose furniture you already have.”

What’s most important to the Amati’s is the relationships formed with the community and customers who walk in their doors.

“They’ve become friends. Throughout this process, we’ve gained some great friendships and really enjoyed helping people make their homes more enjoyable,” Amati said. “Your home is where you spend most of your time and we want to help make it a place you’re excited about.”

For more information, visit www.cjsfurniture.com.

Pain & Numbness in the Hands or Feet

By Andrea Ide

Pain and/or Numbness in your hands or feet, a feeling of burning, extreme cold, tingling, electrical shock like pain, even the feeling of walking on bubblewrap or like there is a sock balled up under your foot... these are all symptoms experienced by those suffering with Peripheral Neuropathy. Unfortunately, drugs and injections only mask the pain and there is no surgery, other than amputation, which will heal/stop neuropathy from progressing. Neuropathy is a term used to describe damaged nerves, primarily in the hands and/or feet, that are progressively breaking down due to a lack of blood supply, nutrients and oxygen reaching the nerves along with Alternative Breakthrough For Neuropathy Management a lack of communication from the brain. Since the nerves are what the brain uses to communicate with the area and they are breaking down the brains ability to communicate with the area lessens over time, allowing for the progression of more breakdown and worse symptoms. It can be caused by Diabetes, Poor Circulation, Poor Nutrition, Chemotherapy, Agent Orange, Misaligned Spinal Bones Placing Pressure on the Nerves, along with over

100 other causes. “Patients experience extreme sensations, loss of feeling, even No Feelings in their Hands and/ or Feet along with muscles spasms, pain, weakness, numbness, tingling and burning and may have a very hard time with balance” says Dr. Chris Carr, DC, clinic director at Pittsburgh Integrated Wellness, a Neuropathy Treatment Center in McMurray. This condition can eventually lead to further nerve damage, causing complete loss of legs or arms leading to loss of mobility due to falls or other injuries that will not heal. Are you or someone you love suffering with loss of balance, numbness or pain from Nerve Damage in your hands or feet that just won’t heal?

You are not alone. More than 20 Million people in the U.S. are dealing with some form of Neuropathy. Most commonly noticed first in the hands or feet, causing weakness, numbness, tingling pain and debilitating balance problems, often frustrated with no place to turn and no hope of recovery. “By the time they come to see us, they feel like they have tried everything. They typically have been put on Anti-Seizure or Epilepsy meds like Gabapentin, Neurotin, Cymbalta or Lyrica and were told they will just have to live with the pain.” said Dr. Carr.

That is until now...

With recent advancements in nerve regeneration technology and treatment options, clinics all over are seeing larger success rates and faster results with their neuropathy patients.

Since the development and success of the new Neuropathy Protocols, Dr. Carr and his team at Pittsburgh Integrated Wellness have seen amazing results in recent months. “This modern technology paired with our

Dr. Chris Carr and his skilled health care team have been treating patients for two decades now and judging by their reviews, they have been doing a very good job providing excellent patient care.

Your Invitation for a comprehensive Neuropathy Consultation, Examination & Blood Flow Scan to determine if you are a candidate for treatment... Dr. Chris Carr, DC and Dr. Corey Idrogo, DC want to help the

report of findings is Call 724-573-8520 and Mention the Code: NEURO0324 They have agreed to reduce the usual cost drastically to just a small fee of $69. Due to the number of patients the office can see, this is a limited time offer, with only 25 appointments available at this exclusively discounted rate. These will be on a first come, first serve basis, messages left will count. My advice, don’t suffer any longer, waiting around for it to get

Alternative Breakthrough For Neuropathy Management

multifaceted approach, has been life altering for our patients and our clinic. Our comprehensive approach combines different modalities offering a more personalized and effective treatment. “We have a remarkable Success Rate with our patients” said Rachel, the Patient Coordinator at the clinic. There are some things people can do at home to aide in the healing process of their neuropathy however, treating neuropathy is a thorough process that will require lifestyle changes, home care and -may or may notinclude in-office therapies (varying from patient to patient) along with guidance from a skilled professional that is experienced and trained to treat neuropathy.

There’s no place like home, but when your parents can no longer live alone at home, The Waters is a wonderful place to land! We found a one bedroom with a balcony for my mom. We are happy with The Waters. – David W.

“I can’t believe the difference it’s made. I don’t need my cane anymore and can finally sleep at night”

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readers of this paper learn about new options for finding pain relief!

All you have to do to receive a comprehensive Neuropathy Consultation, In-Depth Examination & Blood Flow Thermal Imaging

Scan with the most advanced Pain Free Testing and a full, easy to understand

worse… If you or your loved one is experiencing pain, numbness, tingling, pins and needle sensations, cramps and burning in your feet, or hands, along with the many other bodily symptoms this horrible condition plagues people with, take action because it will progress. Find out if their Painless Neuropathy Protocols can help you regain the feeling in your hands and / or feet to stop the pain and start living life again! “Our Neuropathy Protocol is a all-encompassing approach to treat neuropathy by nurturing the nervous system, increasing circulation, blood & oxygen, working to rebuild, strengthen & balance the body, all while stimulating the damaged nerves. Revitalizing and healing the damaged

areas, enabling them to reactivate and function at an increasingly higher rate over time, all while increasing the patients quality of life dramatically”. said Dr. Carr Over the years they have treated thousands of patients with chronic conditions of Neuropathy, Sciatic nerve pain, Back & Neck problems, Whiplash Injures along with Vertigo and Migraine headaches. The office is well known and has a good reputation. The vast majority of their patients enjoy superior, lasting relief. In fact, many who have suffered and tried other treatment options with no luck, only to have been told that they are just stuck with their pain, numbness and discomfort, have credited the health care team at Dr. Carr’s office for giving them their lives back!

Call them now at their McMurray office located on Route 19 for this indepth appointment at just $69 Code: NEURO0324 (saving you almost $200) to determine the severity of your neuropathy and learn if you are a candidate for care and let Dr. Carr and his team help you recover, just as they have helped so many others. Don’t wait, CALL NOW 724-573-8520

Messages left will be returned in a timely manner.

PA 15317

Changes that could arise from the "silver tsunami"

A report from the International Monetary Fund in the summer of 2023 indicated that a new challenge awaits the world in the coming years. The global population increased by one billion people between 2010 and 2022. That remarkable increase saw the world surpass the eight billion people mark in November of 2022.

Despite a sharp increase in the global population in such a short period of time, the IMF asserts that the population boom is not the most formidable demographic challenge facing the world. The IMF defines population aging as the most formidable challenge. Widely referred to as the "silver tsunami," a term credited to the AARP, the increase in the number of individuals age 65 and older could lead to some unique changes in countries across the globe.

· Increased recreation spending: Sixty-five has traditionally been viewed as retirement age, and that remains an unofficial bar for individuals living in countries like the United States that have increased their official retirement age. Though an uptick in the aging population is often framed in terms of the challenges countries will face, that increase also could present some opportunities. For example, a recent AARP Longevity Economy

Outlook report noted that people 50 and older account for the most spending on recreation and culture of any demographic. That could prove beneficial to businesses and regions that cater to consumers interested in recreation.

· Employment opportunities: The AARP also noted the role the 50 and older population plays in supporting jobs. In 2020, the demographic of people 50 and older supported roughly one-third of the world's jobs and generated $23 trillion in labor income with its spending on goods and services. Estimates from the AARP indicate that individuals age 50 and older will support 1.5 billion jobs across the globe by 2050. The labor income impact by then will more than double to $53 billion.

· Employment challenges: Though the silver tsunami could help to maintain existing jobs and create plenty of new ones,

employers might find it difficult to fill those positions. As more of the global population reaches retirement age, it bears noting that more workers will retire. Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute note that the manufacturing sector will need to fill 2.5 million job openings related to retirements between 2020 and 2030. That could prove a sizable challenge, as the aging population is increasing at a time when the young population is decreasing.

The aging population is increasing, which could lead to a number of opportunities and challenges in the decades to come.

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How nutritional needs change with age

Healthy eating is important at any age and can set the course for a life of vitality and wellness. Sufficient nutrition can help prevent chronic illnesses and make sure that growing bodies develop properly. As one ages, various changes take place in the body, making healthy eating even more essential.

ic rate.

be needed in addition to food.

According to Healthline, nutritional deficiencies can effect aging individuals, which can decrease quality of life and lead to poor health outcomes. Individuals should pay attention to their vitamin and mineral intake at various ages so they do not miss out on important nutrients. As a person ages, here are some approaches to consider.

· Consume fewer calories: According to Connie Bales, PhD, RD, associate director of the Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center at Durham VA Medical Center, people need fewer calories every decade. That's because individuals are moving around less and have less muscle. This causes a decline in metabol-

· Include more nutrient-dense foods: Even though caloric needs go down with age, it's important to pack as much nutrition into the calories a person does consume. That means finding nutrient-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, nuts, beans, vegetables, fish, and lean cuts of meat.

· Consume more lean protein: Muscle loss and loss of strength can develop as a person ages. Healthline says the average adult loses 3 to 8 percent of their muscle mass each decade after age 30. Eating more protein could help aging bodies maintain muscle.

· Eat fortified cereals and grains: The ability to absorb vitamin B12 can decrease as one gets older and with the use of certain medicines. Many health professionals recommend patients get more vitamin B12 by consuming foods enriched with this vitamin. Vitamin supplements may

· Drink more fluids: Health.com says sensation of thirst declines with age. Drinking water and other fluids becomes a priority to stay hydrated. It also helps with digestion.

· Prioritize bone health: Osteoporosis is a concern for older adults, particularly women who have reached menopause. Osteoporosis occurs when bones become brittle and can break from only the slightest bump or fall, says the Mayo Clinic. Vitamin D and calcium help strengthen bones, and older adults may need more of these nutrients.

Individuals should speak with their health care providers and nutritionists for further insight into their changing nutritional needs. Such professionals can help customize diets to address specific health concerns.

Tips to prevent pickleball injuries

Pickleball has inspired millions of devotees. According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals, roughly 36.5 million individuals played pickleball in 2022, and 45 percent of players who participated in a YouGov study conducted between August 2021 and August 2022 indicated they planned to play more pickleball in the com-

ing six months than they had in the previous six months.

Pickleball is thriving, and that's great news for those who love the game. Unfortunately, pickleball also has proven beneficial to orthopedic practices. A 2023 analysis from UBS estimated pickleball injuries could cost Americans nearly $400 million in 2023.

Seniors are especially vulnerable to pickleball injuries, as a 2021 study published in the journal Injury Epidemiology found that 86 percent of emergency room visits related to pickleball injuries affected individuals 60 and older.

Injuries are a part of any sport, and pickleball is no different. Though there's no

foolproof method to guarantee pickleball players don't get hurt playing the game they love, the following are some tips that can reduce injury risk.

· Gear up. Pickleball is a competitive sport, but there's a tendency among some players, particularly novices, to take a casual approach to the game. Veteran players may know better, but anyone new to the game should be sure to wear the appropriate gear when playing. Athletic shoes with ample traction can reduce the likelihood that players will slip or fall. The right racket also can reduce risk for elbow injuries. The sporting goods experts at Dick's Sporting Goods note that paddles should feature a light to medium weight, comfortable grip and a large sweet spot. The right paddle will be different for everyone, so novices are urged to speak to veteran players for advice on which paddle might be best for them.

· Embrace physical activity. Pickleball can be a great workout, and players can reduce their injury risk by embracing physical activity even when they are not playing. Leg exercises can help build lower body strength, but strength exercises that focus on the upper body also can reduce injury risk.

· Loosen up before playing. Taking the court right after getting out of the car is a recipe for injury. Arrive five to 10 minutes before a game and use that time to loosen up. A short walk and some subsequent stretches can help players make sure their bodies are not too tight to play. Some brief warm-up exercises and stretching can reduce muscle tension and make the body less vulnerable to injury.

· Hydrate before, during and after a game. The experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine note that water cushions the joints, which helps athletes maintain their flexibility. Flexibility can reduce injury risk, particularly in a sport like pickleball. The 2021 study published in Injury Epidemiology noted that 60 percent of pickleball injuries are sprains, strains or fractures. Remaining flexible can reduce athletes' risk for sprains and strains. Johns Hopkins

recommends adults consume between six and 12 ounces of water for every 20 minutes of sports play and to drink between 16 and 24 ounces afterward.

Pickleball is wildly popular, even though pickleball injuries are common. Players can embrace various strategies to reduce their injury risk.

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Tips for daily living with arthritis

Arthritis isn't a single disease, but a term that refers to more than 100 conditions characterized by joint pain or joint disease, says the Arthritis Foundation. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States, and affects women at a proportionally higher rate than men.

Arthritis looks and feels different to the various people who experience it, and symptoms can vary from day to day depending on variables such as the weather and individuals' level of physical activity. When arthritis flares up, it can make performance of daily activities challenging. Therefore, people experiencing arthritis

can take steps to make living with the condition somewhat easier.

Work with an occupational therapist

An occupational therapist can assess work and home situations and make recommendations on potential modifications to these spaces that might be right for your situation. The bathroom and kitchen typically are two spaces where people spend a lot of time and can be areas of focus. Having items at counter height; purchasing smaller sizes of products that are easier to hold; avoiding bending down by using a grabber tool; and having a chair or stool nearby so that you can sit while doing an activity can help.

Use smart devices

The bevy of smart devices now available can work to your advantage. With the push of a button on a phone app or through voice control, you can turn on lights, switch the thermostat or perform any other tasks programmed around the house. This can help when mobility is compromised.

Focus on kitchen tasks

Meal preparation can be a chore when arthritis makes it painful. Rather than eating out all of the time, some tips can help. Utilize frozen fruit or vegetables that already are chopped and prepared to cut down on these tasks. Invest in lightweight cookware

and dishes to simplify moving items around. Electric jar openers, kitchen scissors and even vegetable steamers that require less water are additional kitchen tools that can make life with arthritis a little easier.

Move your bedroom

If climbing stairs repeatedly is problematic, move clothing or even your bedroom downstairs to reduce trips up and down.

Get a rollator

A rollator is a wheeled walker that doubles as a seat. It provides support when walking, but also can be a comfortable place to stop and take a seated break.

Get the right pain relief

Pain relief can make it easier to cope. Strategies include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and massages,

Additional relocation techniques can include putting a mini fridge in your bedroom or relocating the washer and dryer upstairs to make laundry easier.

stretching and exercising, and even prescription therapies that target the immune system in people with autoimmune arthritis. Work with health professionals to get the right combination of what is needed to alleviate pain and stiffness.

Arthritis affects millions of individuals around the world. By making some changes, people living with the condition can find life a little bit easier.

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How communities can honor caregivers

Thanks to advancements in medicine and increased access to medical care, people are living longer. But that progress does not mean people are immune to illnesses or disabilities.

Many caregivers are highly trained professionals, but millions of informal caregivers offer unpaid assistance to the ones they love every day. The senior living resource

A Place for Mom indicates the number of unpaid caregivers increased from 43.5 million to more than 53 million between 2015 and 2020. And that increase could be just the tip of the iceberg.

As the need for caregivers increases, communities can heighten their efforts to express their appreciation to the paid and unpaid individuals who work so hard to ensure ill and/or incapacitated individuals get the care they need.

Self-care offerings

Community business owners can offer special discounts or specials for caregivers, particularly those whose businesses involve self-care. This can include spas, salons, therapy clinics, and more.

Support caregiver charities

Communities can collect donations for charities dedicated to supporting caregivers, such as the Family Caregiver Alliance or the National Alliance for Caregivers.

Give a global shout-out

Social media enables people to communicate with individuals all over the world. Acknowledging caregivers on social media can shed light on the roles these important people play. A personalized thank you message has the power to reach millions and inspire others to express their gratitude as well.

Offer support

Some of the best ways to honor caregivers is to offer assistance or support when it's needed. This support can involve physically pitching in or serving as a sounding board if or when a caregiver needs to vent frustrations or share thoughts.

Make signs

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, communities often displayed signs thanking medical professionals that referred to them as heroes. By and large those signs have disappeared, but they can be displayed anew in honor of the various caregivers who devote so much of their time tending to the sick.

Showing caregivers they are appreciated is a worthwhile endeavor any community can embrace.

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Mini stroke vs. stroke

A stroke occurs when blood supply to a portion of the brain is interrupted, essentially killing brain cells. This damage can change how the brain works, affecting a person's ability to move and speak. It also may change the way the affected person thinks and feels. The United Kingdom-based Stroke Association says the effects of a stroke depend on where it takes place in the brain and how extensive the damage is.

People may be familiar with ischemic stroke, caused by cutting off blood to the brain, as well as a hemorrhagic stroke, which is the result of bleeding in the brain. But a transient ischemic attack, also known as a mini-stroke, may be less understood.

What is a TIA?

Transient ischemic attacks, or mini-strokes, are caused by the same thing as larger strokes, which occur when blood flow leaks or is blocked in the brain. However, in mini strokes, the blood flow interruption or leakage is temporary, and will return to normal spontaneously.

Symptoms

MedicineNet says the majority of mini strokes produce symptoms similar to regular strokes, but they linger only temporarily. These can include, weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking (dysphasia), dizziness, vision changes, tingling, abnormal taste or smells, confusion, loss of balance, and altered consciousness.

Prognosis

Symptoms of TIA tend to last only a few minutes or up to 24 hours, says the Mayo Clinic. Since the symptoms of a mini stroke and stroke are the same, it is important to seek medical attention in every case. Medical imaging can help determine what caused the mini stroke. If blood clots are present, medicine to prevent those clots may be prescribed. Some people need procedures to remove fatty plaque deposits from arteries that supply blood to the brain.

Although a mini stroke is not as severe as a stroke, it often is an early warning sign that the patient is at risk for a stroke. Roughly one in three people who has a TIA goes on to experience a stroke. Therefore, they should be taken seriously. Fortunately, with treatment, a more dangerous incident often can be avoided.

Recognizing strokes and mini-strokes

The National Stroke Association and other organizations use the acronym FAST to determine if someone is having a stroke.

F: Ask the person to smile, if one side of the FACE droops, it is a warning sign.

A: Ask the person to lift both ARMS. If one arm drifts down or they have difficulty moving it, it's a warning sign.

S: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. If SPEECH is slurred or odd, it could be a stroke.

T: If a person develops any of the warning signs, it is TIME to call emergency services and take action.

Mini strokes are similar to strokes, but they are temporary. But mini strokes still warrant medical attention, as they can be a harbinger of larger strokes.

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Get local help with your Medicare questions.

I’m Paula Duffy, a licensed sales agent in Southwestern PA. When it comes to Medicare, it’s important to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. I know the ins and outs of Medicare, and I’m ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Take advantage of my knowledge and experience to:

• Take the confusion out of Medicare

• Get help comparing plans

• Receive one-on-one service

• Make enrolling in a plan easier

I look forward to helping you explore your Medicare options so you can enroll in a plan with confidence.

It’s time to take advantage.

Paula Duffy

Licensed Sales Agent

(412) 218-2855, TTY 711

pauladuffyuhc@gmail.com

myuhcagent.com/paula.duffy

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