50plus LIFE Chester County February 2017 by On-Line Publishers, Inc.

Complimentary | Chester County Edition

Feb. 2017 â€˘ Vol. 14 No. 2

Special travel Section: Tours and Trips page 8

Fascinating Facts about U.S. Presidents page 5

quilt of valor presented page 11

The Beauty in Nature

Raccoons: Intelligent and Adaptable Clyde McMillan-Gamber

Although they are mostly nocturnal, I have heard and seen many raccoons in our area over the years. I’ve seen at least a few mother coons with their litters along waterways in midsummer. I’ve seen some crossing roads, a few looking out of tree hollows, and a couple dumped out of trash cans. I saw one big male go down a female’s home in a large drainage pipe under a country road during their February breeding season. And I’ve seen several dead raccoons on country roads. Raccoons are one of the most adaptable, intelligent, and interesting of mammals, all reasons for their success as a species and abundance here and across most of the United States.

Little cousins of bears, raccoons weigh 12–26 pounds as adults; have chunky, hump-backed bodies; and have a black mask over the eyes and dark rings on their tails. And they have five sensitive fingers on each

front paw they use to feel for food. Raccoons eat frogs, crayfish, freshwater mollusks called mussels, and other aquatic creatures along waterways in woodlands and farmland. But being omnivorous,

they also eat birds’ eggs, fruit, berries, field corn in the “milk” stage, mice, carrion, and anything else edible they find in their nightly travels. Some coons live in suburbs and cities, where they can be pests at times. There they consume garbage from trash cans, food from outdoor cat or dog dishes, and vegetables from gardens. Good climbers, many raccoons live in tree hollows in woods and maturing suburbs. But some dwell in hollow logs, in crevices between boulders, in abandoned woodchuck holes in the ground of woods and pastures, and under utility sheds. Although raccoons are inquisitive—which, to me, is a sign of intelligence—adult coons are also wary and ready to defend themselves. They are vicious fighters when need

Please join us for these FREE events! 18th Annual

May 9, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

DAUPHIN COUNTY

Hershey Lodge 325 University Drive Hershey

18th Annual

May 18, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

LANCASTER COUNTY

Shady Maple Conference Center Smorgasbord Building 129 Toddy Drive, East Earl

14th Annual

June 8, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

CHESTER COUNTY

Church Farm School 1001 East Lincoln Highway Exton

Exhibitors • Health Screenings • Seminars • Demonstrations • Entertainment • Door Prizes Limited Sponsorship Opportunities Available (717) 285-1350 (717) 770-0140 (610) 675-6240

February 2017

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www.50plusExpoPA.com www.50plusLifePA.com

be, clawing their opponents with sharp teeth and claws, accompanied by loud screeches and snarls. Some young coons, however, fall victim to bald eagles, red-tailed

hawks, great horned owls, bears, eastern coyotes, and bobcats. In fall, raccoons have long fur and layers of fat that will see them through winter. They are active all

winter, except during times of extreme cold or deep snow, when they stay in their dens for a few days until weather conditions improve. Raccoons are common, interesting

mammals in Central Pennsylvania, as elsewhere across the United States. And, although they are mostly nocturnal, some are noticed going about their business during the day.

Smartphone Use across the Generation Gap Quick—where’s your smartphone right now? A survey from YouGov Omnibus asked that question of millennials and people in other age groups to determine how connected we are to our devices. The survey found that pants pockets are the most common

location across all age ranges—58 percent of millennials, 39 percent of those age 35-54, and 44 percent of people 55 and older. But some people literally can’t let go. The survey found that more than 50 percent of millennials say they carry their phone in their hand all day long.

Only 30 percent of those in the 35-54 group said the same, and 16 percent of the 55-and-older crowd joined them. That makes durability an important issue for millennials. The survey found that 48 percent want their phones to come with shatterproof screens, water resistance, and other

protective features, while only 40 percent of the middle were looking for those elements and slightly more than 25 percent of the oldest group had the same worry. For the two older groups, battery life seems to be a more important concern.

At Your Fingertips Helpful numbers, hotlines, and local businesses and organizations eager to serve you—all just a phone call away. Dental services Anna Giacalone, DMD 100 Ridge Road, Suite 36, Chadds Ford (610) 558-1760

American Heart Association (610) 940-9540

Housing Authority of Phoenixville (610) 933-8801

Arthritis Foundation (215) 665-9200

Disasters American Red Cross Greater Brandywine (610) 692-1200

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (800) 232-4636

Legal Services Lawyer Referral Service (610) 429-1500

Chester County Emergency Services (610) 344-5000 Salvation Army Coatesville (610) 384-2954 Salvation Army West Chester (610) 696-8746 Emergency Numbers Central PA Poison Center (800) 521-6110

Coatesville VA Medical Center (610) 383-7711 Domestic Violence (800) 799-7233 National Osteoporosis Foundation (800) 223-9994 PACE (800) 225-7223 Senior Healthlink (610) 431-1852

Office of Aging (610) 344-6350/(800) 692-1100

Social Security Administration (800) 772-1213

Financial Services Internal Revenue Service (800) 829-3676

Southeastern PA Medical Institute (610) 446-0662

Funeral & Cremation Services Cremation Society of Pennsylvania Serving Chester County (800) 720-8221 Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (800) 272-3900 American Cancer Society (800) 227-2345

Hearing Services Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (800) 233-3008 V/TTY Housing Assistance Community Impact Legal Services (610) 876-0804

Legal Aid of Southeastern PA (610) 436-4510 Nutrition Meals on Wheels Chester County Inc. (610) 430-8500 Pennsylvania Hunger Action Center (800) 366-3997 Office of Aging Chester County Department of Aging Services (610) 344-6350 orthopedics Premier Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Associates LTD Kennett Square – (610) 444-1344 West Chester – (610) 692-6280 West Grove – (484) 748-6148 personal services Butler-Ette Services (484) 770-8059 Pharmacies CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com

Housing Authority of Chester County (610) 436-9200

Physicians The Center for Interventional Pain & Spine Locations in Bryn Mawr, Exton, and Wilmington (844) 365-7246 Gateway Medical Associates Locations in Coatesville, Downingtown, Lionville, and West Chester (610) 423-8181 retirement living Friends Home in Kennett 147 W. State St., Kennett Square (610) 444-2577 Senior Centers Coatesville (610) 383-6900 Downingtown (610) 269-3939 Great Valley (610) 889-2121 Kennett Square (610) 444-4819 Oxford (610) 932-5244 Phoenixville (610) 935-1515 Wayne (610) 688-6246 West Chester (610) 431-4242

Not an all-inclusive list of advertisers in your area.

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50plus LIFE u

February 2017

It Was 50 Years Ago Today

‘Ruby Tuesday’

Corporate Office

3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Phone 717.285.1350 • Fax 717.285.1360 Chester County: 610.675.6240 Cumberland County/Dauphin County: 717.770.0140 Berks County/Lancaster County/ Lebanon County/York County: 717.285.1350 E-mail address: info@onlinepub.com Website address: www.onlinepub.com

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Donna K. Anderson

EDITORIAL

Vice President and Managing Editor Christianne Rupp Editor, 50plus Publications Megan Joyce

ART DEPARTMENT Project Coordinator Renee McWilliams Production Artists Lauren McNallen Janys Ruth

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Account Executives Angie McComsey Jacoby Ranee Shaub Miller Account Representatives Itan Cooke Tia Stauffer Sales & Event Coordinator Eileen Culp Events Manager Kimberly Shaffer Marketing Coordinator Mariah Hammacher

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50plus LIFE is published by On-Line Publishers, Inc. and is distributed monthly among senior centers, retirement communities, banks, grocers, libraries and other outlets serving the senior community. On-Line Publishers, Inc. will not knowingly accept or publish advertising which may be fraudulent or misleading in nature. Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles and letters are not necessarily the views of the publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. The publisher will not be responsible for mistakes in advertisements unless notified within five days of publication. On-Line Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to revise or reject any and all advertising. No part of this publication may be reproduced or reprinted without permission of On-Line Publishers, Inc. We will not knowingly publish any advertisement or information not in compliance with the Federal Fair Housing Act, Pennsylvania State laws or other local laws.

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Randal Hill

The first Rolling Stones single of 1967 listed the The ballad was a lyrical sketch of a free-spirited “A” (main) side as “Let’s Spend the Night Together,” young groupie who once hung around the band. At a rollicking, electric piano-fueled tune that lead least that’s what most thought. Some cited actress singer Mick Jagger attacked with gleeful abandon. Tuesday Weld as being the inspiration. Predictably, though, radio programmers instantly Others claimed that Richards’s lyrics spoke yanked the controversially titled offering from their abstractly of the Zen ideal of living in the “here playlists. and now,” being conscious of the moment. Still, grumpy old Ed Sullivan hired the Stones to Some declared it a paean to hippie-era female sing the song on his top-rated Sunday night variety independence. show but insisted that Jagger Wrong, wrong, wrong, substitute the words “some and wrong. “Ruby Tuesday” time” for “the night” when was actually about Richards’s he performed live. one-time girlfriend, Linda In Rolling Stone later, Keith, who had left him for Jagger insisted, “I never said another superstar rocker and ‘time.’ I really didn’t. I said— sent him into an emotional mumbled—‘Let’s spend some tailspin. mmmmm together.’” But a In Life, his autobiography, YouTube clip of that night’s he says, “Basically, Linda performance clearly shows [Keith] is ‘Ruby Tuesday.’ him singing ‘Let’s spend … She went back to New some time together’ twice as York and took up with Jimi “Ruby Tuesday” he rolls his eyes. (Gotcha, Hendrix, who may have The Rolling Stones February 1967 Mick!) broken her heart, as she London Records began broke mine.” promoting the single’s “B” (secondary) side, a wistful He had written “Ruby Tuesday” a year earlier, Keith Richards ballad called “Ruby Tuesday.” (As alone and in a reflective mood in a Los Angeles with Beatles John Lennon and Paul McCartney motel room. sharing writing credits, the majority of Rolling “Ruby Tuesday” soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Stones tracks list the composers as (Mick) Jagger singles charts; “Let’s Spend the Night Together” and (Keith) Richards.) stalled at a lowly 55. “That’s a wonderful song,” Jagger said in Rolling Later, in According to the Rolling Stones, Keith Stone. “It’s just a nice melody, really. And a lovely Richards further explained his composition: “That’s lyric. Neither of which I wrote, but I always enjoy one of those things. Some chick you’ve broken up singing it.” with. And all you’ve got left is the piano and the Highlighted by the haunting recorder (it sounds guitar … and it’s goodbye, you know. like a flute) of Brian Jones, “Ruby” also featured “And so it just comes out of that, and after that a large double bass that had bassist Bill Wyman you just build on it … and for a songwriter, hey, plucking the notes while lead guitarist Richards break his heart and he’ll come up with a good song.” drew a bow across the strings and Jagger delivered such lines as: Randal C. Hill is a rock ’n’ roll historian who lives at the Don’t ask her why she needs to be so free She’ ll tell you it’s the only way to be

Oregon coast. He may be reached at wryterhill@msn. com.

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Fragments of History

Fascinating Facts about U.S. Presidents Victor Parachin

Kennedy in the confessional booth. President John F. Kennedy was private about his Roman Catholic faith but did make an effort to attend confession regularly. However, he worried that as president a priest might recognize him and someday reveal the contents of his confession. In order to conceal his identity he would be driven to a church with a group of Catholic Secret Servicemen. At the church he would find an inconspicuous place in the middle of them as they lined up for confession. Though the attempt was admirable, it didn’t work. On one occasion, the moment Kennedy stepped into the confessional, the priest greeting him with: “Good evening, Mr. President.” Kennedy replied, “Good evening,

Father,” and exited immediately.

collapsing in the president’s arms. Julia, an attractive woman from one Presidential of New York state’s embrace. On Feb. 28, 1844, Sen. David oldest families, had shocked New York Gardiner and his society by modeling daughter, Julia, were as “the Rose of invited guests of Long Island” for a President John Tyler department store ad. on the USS Princeton, For some time, the Navy’s first screw propeller steam ship. the widower President Tyler, 30 The highlight was years Julia’s senior, to be the firing of the had been interested new naval gun called Photo by Leon A. Perskie; Gift of Beatrice and Dr. Stanley Foxman in a relationship “The Peacemaker.” Official 1944 Campaign It exploded, killing with her, and he Portrait of Franklin D. comforted Julia Secretary of the Navy Roosevelt Abel Upshur and in the wake of her father’s death. In Sen. Gardiner. At the June 1844, they were married. blast, a frightened Julia backpedaled,

Presidents’ Day is Feb. 20

America’s largest stamp collection owned by a president. As a boy living in New York’s Hyde Park, Franklin Delano Roosevelt began collecting stamps from exotic places. His fascination with faraway destinations was stirred by his mother, whose side of the family included merchant shippers, sailing across the Pacific to Asian ports. His collection continued through student days at Harvard and later as assistant secretary of the Navy. Knowing of his interest in stamps, royalty and heads of state often gave him stamps as gifts while he was president. Many of those were rare first-release stamps. On his death in 1945, his collection—which was America’s largest—was sold for $200,000.

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February 2017

Calendar of Events

Chester County

Support Groups Free and open to the public

Senior Center Activities

Feb. 1, 6 p.m. Memory Loss and Dementia Support Group Sunrise Assisted Living of Paoli 324 W. Lancaster Ave., Malvern (610) 251-9994

Coatesville Area Senior Center – (610) 383-6900 250 Harmony St., Coatesville – www.coatesvilleseniorcenter.org Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 10:30–11:15 a.m. – Going Fit Exercise Program Feb. 2 and 16, 11 a.m. to noon – Veterans Coffee Club Feb. 8 and 22, 1–2 p.m. – Bingo

Feb. 7, 1:30 p.m. Grief Support Group Phoenixville Senior Center 153 Church St., Phoenixville (610) 327-7216

Feb. 14 and 28, 5–6:30 p.m. Bereavement Support Group Main Line Unitarian Church 816 S. Valley Forge Road, Devon (610) 585-6604 phoenixbereavement@yahoo.com Nondenominational; all are welcome. Feb. 14 and 28, 6:30–8 p.m. Bereavement Support Group Jennersville Hospital Conference Room B 1015 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove (610) 998-1700, ext. 226

Feb. 7 and 21, 6:30–8 p.m. Bereavement Support Group Brandywine Hospital Conference Room 2N 201 Reeceville Road, Coatesville (610) 998-1700, ext. 226 Feb. 8, 1:30 p.m. Family Caregiver Support Group Sarah Care 425 Technology Drive, Suite 200, Malvern (610) 251-0801 Feb. 13 and 27, 10:30 a.m. to noon Caregiver Support Group Adult Care of Chester County 201 Sharp Lane, Exton (610) 363-8044 Feb. 14, 7 p.m. Hearing Loss Support Group Christ Community Church 1190 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester (610) 444-445 www.hearinglosschesco.com

Feb. 15 to June 7 (Wednesdays), 7–9 p.m. GriefShare Support Group Series Grove Church 490 W. Boot Road, West Chester (610) 696-2663 pastor.lin.george@gmail.com Feb. 21, 6 p.m. Family Caregiver Support Group Sunrise of Westtown 501 Skiles Blvd., West Chester (610) 399-4464 Feb. 22, 6 p.m. Living with Cancer Support Group Paoli Hospital Cancer Center 255 W. Lancaster Ave., Paoli (484) 565-1253

Feb. 4 and 18, 5–10 p.m. Bingo Night Marine Corps League Detachment 430 Chestnut St., Downingtown (610) 429-8174

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Kennett Area Senior Center – (610) 444-4819 427 S. Walnut St., Kennett Square – www.kennettseniorcenter.org Oxford Senior Center – (610) 932-5244 12 E. Locust St., Oxford – www.oxfordseniors.org Phoenixville Area Senior Center – (610) 935-1515 153 Church St., Phoenixville – www.phoenixvilleseniorcenter.org West Chester Area Senior Center – (610) 431-4242 530 E. Union St., West Chester – www.wcseniors.org

Parks And Recreation Feb. 7, 11:30 a.m. West Chester University Retirees Luncheon For restaurant location, please email darsie@ verizon.net Feb. 21, noon AARP Valley Forge Chapter Meeting St. Luke Evangelical Lutheran Church 203 N. Valley Forge Road, Devon (610) 688-5733

If you have an event you would like to include, please email information to mjoyce@onlinepub.com for consideration.

Great Valley Senior Center – (610) 889-2121 47 Church Road, Malvern

Just a snippet of what you may be missing … please call or visit their website for more information.

Community Programs Free and open to the public Feb. 2, 7:30 p.m. Compassionate Friends Valley Forge Chapter Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 132 E. Valley Forge Road, King of Prussia (484) 919-0820 www.tcfvalleyforge.org

Downingtown Senior Center – (610) 269-3939 983 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown – www.downingtownseniors.org Mondays, Wednesdays, Frid ays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Games and Puzzles Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to noon – “Boom” Move It Dance Class Thursdays, 9–10 a.m. – Meditation Class

Feb. 18, 10–1 1 a.m. – Purple Martins Open House, Springton Manor Farm Feb. 25, 11 a.m. to noo n – All About Beavers, Warwick County Park Feb. 25, 2–4 p.m. – Maple Sugaring, Wolf’s Hollow County Park

LIBRARY PROGRAMS Downingtown Library, 330 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, (610) 269-2741 Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m. – Fantasy Book Club Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m. – Film Forum Feb. 16, 6:30 p.m. – Downingtown Library Writers’ Group Paoli Library, 18 Darby Road, Paoli, (610) 296-7996 Mystery Book Club – Call for dates/times www.50plusLifePA.com

Around Town

Please join us!

S ’ N E M

Little Carolers Sing for Seniors

April 8, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Lebanon Expo Center

80 Rocherty Rd., Lebanon

The Great Beginnings Preschool from the Exton United Methodist Church performed for the Downingtown Area Senior Center on Dec. 16.

Food • Microbrews • Wines • Cigars • Automotive • Fitness Outdoor Adventure • Sports • And so much more!

DASC Donates 65 Coats Recently the Downingtown Area Senior Center collected 65 coats for adults and children and took them to the Burlington Coat Factory in Springfield, Delaware County, to be given out to families in need. Pictured, from left, are Stacey Young, of Burlington; Ken Schreffer, executive director for DASC; and Matt Davis, Burlington Coat Factory manager. If you have local news you’d like considered for Around Town, please email mjoyce@onlinepub.com

Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available

Dynamic demonstrations, entertainment, contests, guest appearances, and more!

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Thanks to our Patients for Voting for Us! Standing left to right: Todd A. Michener, MD, Mark Tantorski, DO, Chet Simmons Jr., MD, Greg Kirwan, DO, Jeff Citara, DO, Matthew Schaeffer, MD Seated: Richard Ziegler, MD, John Benner, MD, Adrienne Towsen, MD, Robert Huxster, MD

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February 2017

Tours and Trips Savvy Senior

Health Tips and Advice for Older Travelers Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior, My husband and I are recently retired and would like to do some traveling both in the United States and abroad, but we worry about health issues, such as insurance, finding a good hospital if we get sick, etc. What tips can you offer health-conscious mature adults who want to travel? – Older Travelers Dear Travelers, A dream vacation can turn into a real nightmare if you get sick or injured while you’re away and aren’t prepared. Before setting out, here are some simple steps to help ensure a safe and healthy trip. Talk to your doctor: If you have a medical condition or health concerns, a good first step is to talk with your doctor now about what precautions you need to take before traveling. You should also have your doctor’s contact information with you when you travel, as well as a list of your medical conditions and the medications you’re taking in case you need emergency medical care while you’re away. If you’re traveling outside the U.S., you need to find out the health conditions of the country you’re visiting and what, if any, vaccinations and/or preventative medications are recommended. See the CDC’s Travelers Health page (www.cdc.gov/travel) or call (800) 232-463 to get this information. Check your insurance: If you have health insurance or a Medicare Advantage plan through an HMO or PPO that covers in-network doctors only, check your plan to find out what’s covered if you need medical care when traveling outside your geographic area. Beneficiaries that have original Medicare are covered everywhere in the U.S. But if you’re traveling abroad, you need to know that original Medicare does not cover medical expenses beyond the border except in rare circumstances, although some Medicare Advantage plans and some Medigap supplemental policies do. And, many private health plans don’t pay healthcare costs outside the U.S. either. Be sure to check. If you need coverage when traveling abroad, get a comprehensive travel medical insurance policy

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that covers medical care, medical evacuation, and trip-cancellation coverage. See InsureMyTrip (www.insuremytrip.com) and SquareMouth (www. squaremouth.com) to shop and compare policies.

Conditions.” You can also call TSA Cares at (855) 787-2227 prior to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures, and what to expect at the security checkpoint.

Locate healthcare: Before your trip, find out what health and urgent-care facilities are near the areas you’re visiting. Your hotel can help you with this, or see Urgent Care Locations (www. urgentcarelocations.com) or U.S. Hospital Finder (www.ushospitalfinder.com) for U.S. facilities. If you’re traveling abroad, the U.S. consulate or embassy in the countries you’re visiting is a good place to get a referral. Enroll your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (www.step.state. gov). Or join the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers (www. iamat.org), which provides its members access to a worldwide network of physicians who speak English and have agreed to affordable prearranged fees. Membership is free.

Seek mobility aids: If mobility is an issue and you’re flying to your destination, call your airline before you leave and ask them to supply you a wheelchair to use while you’re in the airport. And when booking hotel reservations, ask for an accessible room that accommodates wheelchairs and walkers. Jim Miller is a regular contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior Book. www. savvysenior.org

Pack your meds: Make sure you have a sufficient supply of medications to last the entire trip. If traveling by air, you need to pack your medicine in your carry-on bag, so if your checked luggage gets lost or misdirected, you won’t be without. It’s best to keep your medications in their original containers to get through airport security without delays. It’s also a good idea to bring along a note from your doctor that explains why you take these medications, especially if syringes or other medical supplies are involved. For airport security requirements, visit the Transport Security Administration’s website (www.tsa.gov) and click on “Disabilities and Medical www.50plusLifePA.com

Tours and Trips Traveltizers

Tasty Traveling By Andrea Gross

Sometimes we watch sausage being stuffed or ice cream being swirled. Other times we amble through markets, take a food class, or attend a wine festival. One way or another, food nearly always is an important part of our travels. And why not? Culinary travel is about more than what people eat; it’s about how they live. Here, food-based experiences in three diverse spots: Georgia, Wisconsin, and Washington. Shrimpin’ in Georgia Captain Larry Credle powers up the Lady Jane, an authentic shrimp trawler that’s been refurbished to hold 49 passengers. “Let’s go shrimpin’,” he says with a grin as we leave the pier in Brunswick, Georgia, to go on a shrimp-catching cruise (www.shrimpcruise.com) in St. Simon Sound. The crew lowers a huge net until it lies near the bottom of the sound. Then the boat moves forward at about 2 knots an hour while the net drags along behind, scooping up everything in its path. (Note the origin of the word dragnet.) After about 15 minutes, the crew raises the net and dumps the contents onto a big table. Passengers crowd around to touch and hold the catch, which includes shrimp, bluefish, jellyfish, horseshoe crabs, and even a small stingray, a mini-version of the one that doomed Steve Irwin (the Crocodile Hunter). Then we return them to the water or toss them to the seagulls that are hovering nearby. Midway through the cruise, First Mate John Tyre brings out a huge pot of boiled shrimp. We dig in with abandon, knowing that we’ll never again enjoy shrimp this much. www.50plusLifePA.com

an experience that we can truly take home, both around our hips and in the form of recipes for later!

Vendors at Pike Place Market stress that overnight shipping is available.

With Linda Harding’s help, amateur cooks are able to whip up a tasty meal.

From Farm to Table in Wisconsin Linda Harding isn’t satisfied just teaching folks how to cook. She wants them to understand food, to know what’s gone into the growing as well as the preparing of it. It’s for that reason that my husband and I find ourselves standing in an organic vegetable garden at Blooming Hill Farm (www.thekitchensage.com) in Plum City, Wisconsin. As owner Mary Maier-Abel walks us through the fields, Harding, who has an extensive culinary background, extols the virtues of farm-fresh produce. “Food that’s freshly picked and simply prepared allows the flavor to

shine through,” she says. After a thorough but all-too-short tour of the farm, we head back to Harding’s home, a delightful 1902 house that she’s refurbished to be both comfortable and efficient. Under her guidance the five of us, all admitted novices, have no trouble whipping up a masterful meal from local foods: wild mushroom duxelle on crostini; farm-fresh salad with beets and blue cheese; rosemary- and garlic-roasted leg of spring lamb; oven-roasted heirloom potatoes and vegetables; and a positively yummy apple crisp with black walnuts. Afterward, we sit down and enjoy our efforts. This, we agree, has been

Going to the Market in Seattle Seattle’s Pike Place Market (www. pikeplacemarket.org), one of the oldest continuously operated farmers markets in the nation, is colorful, crowded, and caffeinated, as befits the prime attraction in the city that birthed Starbucks. There are men hawking fish that, they promise, can be delivered to your home before spoiling, performers strumming guitars, people talking in a multitude of languages. And while the odor of fish predominates, it’s mixed with the strong smells of curry, kimchi, coffee, and chocolate. As for color, the flowers, which change seasonally, are startlingly bright, the vegetables are overwhelmingly supersized, and the fruit is incredibly sweet. We let ourselves be swept along with the crowd, and as we do, vendors ply us with samples: a handful of dried fruit, a slice of apple, a chunk of cantaloupe, a taste of jam, and the best chocolatecovered cherry I’ve ever tasted. We’re not really hungry, but in the name of research we order a halibut sandwich from the Mixed Grill. Delicious! Four hours later we decide we must try some fish and chips from Lowell’s. Incredible. We think we’ve seen it all, but just to make sure, the following day we take the Savor Seattle Tour (www. savorseattletours.com). In a space of two hours, our guide serves up bits of market history as well as tastes of more than 20 foods, from freshly made doughnuts to several kinds of piroshky. I roll home thoroughly sated. Photos © Irv Green unless otherwise noted; story by Andrea Gross (www. andreagross.com).

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February 2017

Tours and Trips What’s Safer: Food and Beverage Safety for the International Traveler Unclean food and water can cause travelers’ diarrhea and other diseases. Travelers to developing countries are especially at risk. In otherwise healthy adults, diarrhea is rarely serious or life-threatening, but it can certainly make for an unpleasant trip. Take steps to avoid diarrhea when you travel.

• Food from a factory-sealed package or container • Fruit and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled

What’s Safer • Pasteurized dairy products like milk • “Dry” food like bread or crackers • Water, sodas, or sports drinks that are bottled and sealed (carbonated is safer) • Hot coffee or tea • Hard-cooked eggs • Food that is cooked and served hot • Meat that is cooked all the way through

What’s Not • Fountain drinks • Water or ice made from the tap or a well • Flavored ice pops • Unpasteurized dairy products • Food from street vendors • Bushmeat (monkeys, bats, or other wild game) • Food served at room temperature • R aw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish • Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs • Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables • Salads Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Would you like to be included in the next Tours and Trips? Please call (717) 285-1350 for more information.

Stories of ordinary men and women called to perform extraordinary military service. Since 1999, writer and World War II veteran Col. Robert D. Wilcox has preserved the firsthand wartime experiences of more than 200 veterans through Salute to a Veteran, his monthly column featured in 50plus LIFE. Now, for the first time, 50 of those stories— selected by Wilcox himself—are available to own in this soft-cover book.

Simply complete and mail this form with your payment to the address below to order Salute to Our Veterans. On-Line Publishers • 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Name_ _______________________________________________________ Address_ ______________________________________________________ City_______________________________ State_ ____ Zip_ ______________ Phone_ _____________________ Email______________________________ Number of copies_ ______ (Please include $20.80 for each copy)

Every Hero Has a Name. Is your military hero also your spouse, child, grandchild, friend, or neighbor? Help us put a face and a name to the courageous men and women who are currently serving or who have served in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Salute to Service

is an online photo gallery honoring the military heroes in our lives.

Upload your hero’s picture, name, and information at VeteransExpo.com/salute-to-service.

Credit card #______________________________________ Exp. date________ Signature of cardholder_________________________________CVV #________

Or send a check made payable to On-Line Publishers, Inc. You can also order online at www.50plusLIFEpa.com!

February 2017

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Quilt of Valor Presented to Col. Robert Wilcox Rose Quilters Col. Robert Guild, D. Wilcox, represented World War at the II Air Force presentation veteran and by Dorothy longtime Shuman and veterans Dina Cerase. columnist for 50plus LIFE, was Wilcox has served awarded a Quilt With Col. Robert Wilcox’s the MOAA of Valor during Quilt of Valor are, standing, from left, since 1988 a recent meeting Dorothy Shuman, Red Rose Quilters of his local Guild, and Randy Wilcox, Col. Wilcox’s in various capacities, chapter of the son, and seated, from left, including Military Officers J.J. Bentman and Col. Wilcox. Association. chapter president, member, newsletter editor, Quilts of Valor are awarded and other roles. to deserving veterans and active He also penned 50plus LIFE’s service members for their service to monthly Salute to a Veteran column the nation. The Quilt of Valor is a for more than 16 years, preserving lifetime award. and illuminating the personal Wilcox’s quilt was approved by the national Quilt of Valor wartime stories of more than 200 veterans. Fifty of those stories were Foundation and produced by the published in book form in 2016. Quilt of Valor team from the Red

April 20, 2017 May 31, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. York Expo Center

Memorial Hall East 334 Carlisle Ave., York

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Crowne Plaza Reading Hotel 1741 Papermill Road Wyomissing

Please, join us! This combined event is FREE for veterans of all ages, active military, and their families.

At the Expo

Veterans Benefits Community Services Products and Services Available Support/Assistance Programs Education/Training Services

At the Job Fair

Employers Job Counseling Workshops/Seminars Resume Writing Assistance Principal Sponsors:

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www.veteransexpo.com (717) 285-1350 www.olpevents.com

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February 2017

CCRC Continuing Care

Retirement Communities Designed with their residents’ changing needs in mind, CCRCs offer a tiered approach to the aging process. Healthy adults entering a CCRC can live independently. When assistance with everyday activities becomes necessary, they can transition to personal care, assisted living, rehabilitation, or nursing care facilities. Some CCRCs have designated dementia areas that address the progressing needs of people who have any form of dementia. In addition, some communities have sought out and earned accreditation from CARF International, signifying they have met CARF’s stringent set of quality standards. CCRCs enable older adults to remain in one care system for the duration of their lives, with much of their future care already figured out—creating both comfort and peace of mind.

Bethany Village

325 Wesley Drive Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 Stephanie Lightfoot Director of Sales & Marketing (717) 766-0279 www.bethanyvillage.org

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The CCRCs listed are sponsoring this message. This is not an all-inclusive list.

Notable Numbers for Black History Month To commemorate and celebrate the contributions to our nation made by people of African descent, American historian Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week. The first celebration occurred on Feb. 12, 1926. For many years, the second week of February was set aside for this celebration to coincide with the birthdays of abolitionist/editor Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. In 1976, as part of the nation’s bicentennial, the week was expanded to a month. Since then, U.S. presidents have proclaimed February as National African-American History Month.

February 2017

• 46.3 million 17.9 percent of – The black the nation’s total population. population, either alone or in • 3.8 million combination with – The black one or more other population in races, on July 1, New York on 2015, up about 1.3 July 1, 2015, the percent from July largest of any state 1, 2014. or equivalent. February is National • 74.5 million The District of African-American History Month Columbia had the – The projected highest percentage black population, (50 percent), followed by Mississippi either alone or in combination, of the United States (including those of more (38.3 percent). than one race) on July 1, 2060. On • 1.3 million – The black that date, according to the projection, population in Cook County, Illinois the black population would constitute (Chicago), in 2015, the largest of any

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county. Claiborne County, Mississippi, was the county with the highest percentage in the nation (85.1 percent). • 108,473 – The estimated number of black-owned employer firms in 2014. • 2.2 million – The number of black military veterans in the United States in 2015. • 84.7 percent – The percentage of the black population age 25 and over with a high school diploma or higher in 2015. • 20.2 percent – The percentage of the black population age 25 and over with a bachelor’s degree or higher in 2015. www.50plusLifePA.com

CCRC Continuing Care

Homestead Village

Landis Homes

Pleasant View Retirement Community

St. Anne’s Retirement Community

1001 East Oregon Road Lititz, PA 17543 Sarah Short Director of Residency Planning (717) 381-3549 sshort@landishomes.org www.landishomes.org

Enhanced Senior Living 1800 Marietta Avenue P.O. Box 3227 Lancaster, PA 17604-3227 Christina Gallagher Director of Marketing (717) 397-4831, ext. 158 www.homesteadvillage.org

544 North Penryn Road Manheim, PA 17545 Amanda Hall Sales & Marketing Manager (717) 664-6207 ahall@pleasantviewrc.org www.pleasantviewrc.org

Willow Valley Communities

Serving from the 999 West Harrisburg Pike Heart in the Spirit of Friendship, Love, Middletown, PA 17057 and Truth Andrea Henney Director of Residential Services (717) 944-3351 www.MiddletownHome.org

“A Catholic-Centered Community, Honoring All Faiths”

3952 Columbia Avenue West Hempfield Township, PA 17512 Toni La Pann Marketing & Sales (717) 285-6112 www.StAnnesRC.org

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The Middletown Home

Woodcrest Villa Mennonite Home Communities

If you would like your CCRC to be featured on this page, please contact your account representative or call (610) 675-6240.

2001 Harrisburg Pike Lancaster, PA 17601 Connie Buckwalter Director of Marketing (717) 390-4126 www.woodcrestvilla.org The CCRCs listed are sponsoring this message. This is not an all-inclusive list.

Genes May Control Your Coffee Intake The amount of coffee you drink may be based on your genetic makeup. A study by an international team of researchers, written up in the journal Scientific Reports, identified a gene that regulates the expression www.50plusLifePA.com

of other genes connected to caffeine metabolism. The gene, PDSS2, hampers cells’ ability to break down caffeine, which causes it to remain in the body longer. Thus, people with the gene will feel the effects of caffeine longer, reducing

their desire for more. The scientists examined genetic data from two groups of people in Italy, and they asked participants to record how many cups of coffee they drank each day. People with a variation in their

PDSS2 gene tended to drink less coffee than those without the variant. The study was replicated in a similar study carried out in the Netherlands. So if someone ever tells you that you’re drinking too much coffee, you can blame it on your genes.

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February 2017

On Life and Love after 50

The Single Women of Central Pa. Tom Blake

This past December, a Harrisburg woman, whose nickname is Neet, was in the reception room of her doctor’s office. She started leafing through the December issue of 50 plus LIFE. An article I had written, “Men

Have Trouble Meeting Women,” intrigued Neet. Right there, while sitting in the chair, she emailed me. Neet wrote: “As I opened the paper, bam—I must admit I was very surprised to read that older single men

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have trouble meeting women. “I am 59; the group of ladies that are in my circle range in age from 50-68. Whether they be divorced, widowed, never married, co-workers, church members, classmates,

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Placing your classified ad is as easy as 1,2,3! 1. Choose a Category

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February 2017

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introduce single men to single ladies in Harrisburg. I’m open for new suggestions for 2017!” I thought about Neet’s email and began to think, wow, what if I did an article introducing her group of single women in Harrisburg to the older single men of Pennsylvania? Wouldn’t it be cool if some of the women met single men in the area? Neet and I spoke on the phone. She told me about her group members and the activities they do together. She said: “We’ve done church events, ladies’ retreats, wine tours, casino nights, cookie exchanges, paint-and-create sessions, on-andoff-Broadway plays, bus trips, and cruises. If single men in their 50s to 70s can’t meet women, come join us for an event or two. We will have fun together.” Casinos they’ve visited include the Hollywood Casino in Grantville and the Maryland Live Casino in Arundel Mills, Maryland. Neet’s group of traveling friends includes nearly 40 women. Some she’s known since relocating to Harrisburg in the eighth grade. Others attend the same church, and some are coworkers. A few are retired. She added, “I’ve been divorced for 15 years. I’ve dated, even been engaged, but they weren’t the right one! Being in my late 50s, if I had just one wish, it would be to find true love before I leave this earth. So, I’m putting myself out there once again in 2017. “Don’t get me wrong,” Neet added. “I enjoy spending time with girlfriends (because they are the laughs), but the topic ‘the lack of available men’ seems to always come up when we’re out and about.”

Tom’s comments: I think it is wonderful that a group of approximately 40 women, most in their 50s and 60s, get out and do things together. Why aren’t they meeting men? There may be two reasons: One, they may be pursing activities that men aren’t interested in, so the men don’t go to those places. For example, men don’t go to ladies’ retreats or cookie exchanges, and most don’t attend paint-and-create classes. Second, older single men often tell me that when they see women out and about, the women are usually in groups, and approaching them is just too intimidating. The women are having fun by themselves and the men feel ignored, so they are hesitant to approach them. I sent a copy of my book, How 50 Couples Found Love After 50, to Neet. The book’s purpose is twofold: one, to inform by showing singles how 100 singles across North America found love after the age of 50. Two, to provide hope to singles that finding love later in life is possible and they should never give up. Some of the book’s couples found love in their 70s and 80s. It’s never too late. If people (women or men) have questions about the wonderful women in Neet’s group or the events they have planned, her email is sweetneet2000@yahoo.com. Neet would enjoy hearing from them. Wouldn’t it be nice for some of them to find love in 2017! For dating information, previous articles, or to sign up for Tom’s complimentary, weekly e-newsletter, go to www. FindingLoveAfter50.com.

Where friends become family. At Friends Home, residents have the comfort of knowing that they can receive personal care without having to move. Our dedicated staff brings the care to them. Focusing on quality of life, combined with a comfortable setting, makes Friends Home unique.

Reach Active, Affluent Boomers & Seniors!

Reserve your space now for the 14th annual

Sponsor and exhibitor applications are now being accepted!

June 8, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Church Farm School 1001 East Lincoln Highway, Exton

Exhibitors • Health Screenings Demonstrations • Door Prizes

Why Participate?

It’s the premier event for baby boomers, caregivers, and seniors in Chester County • Face-to-face interaction with 1,500+ attendees • Strengthen brand recognition/launch new products

For sponsorship and exhibitor information:

(610) 675-6240

Independent • Personal Care • Skilled Call (610) 444-2577 for more information or to schedule a personal tour. Friends Home in Kennett | 147 West State Street | Kennett Square, PA 19348 Phone: (610) 444-2577 | Fax: (610) 444-2856 | www.friendshomeinkennett.org

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