016 2 , 2 1 Marcha.m. – 2 p.m.
Complimentary | Cumberland County Edition | March 2016 • Vol. 17 No. 3
9 e y Lodg Hershe rive, Hershey D iversity PON 325 Un HIS COU T H IT W m MISSION yDay.co FREE AD pendM
WayToS aGreat
Celebrating Central PA’s Many Cultures page 14
Combating Colon Cancer page 7
On Life and Love after 50
Tom Blake
E March 12, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hershey Lodge
325 University Drive, Hershey
Relax and unwind!
Women of all ages have enjoyed this fun-filled event!
Pa. Couple Met Online Years Ago, Still Going Strong
Pat stated that Len Nearly every had not dated since Friday for 15 years, I’ve published and his wife had died two years before. She emailed a newsletter had dated, but “not called On Life and very successfully,” in Love After 50. One of my longtime the 3.5 years since she had lost her subscribers is Pat, who became a husband. “Why was he on widow shortly BikerKiss.com?” I after the newsletter Pat and Len in Lone Butte, asked. started and lived in British Columbia. She said, Shickshinny, Pa. In 2005, Pat sent me an email saying “Although he’s not a biker type, he has a Honda motorcycle. After a few dates, she had met a wonderful man named Len on a website called BikerKiss.com. we knew there was no turning back. Love is wonderful the second time She wrote, “I had not heard of that around. We are like two kids—holding website until a girlfriend, who had just hands, laughing, motorcycling, and bought a motorcycle, told me about it. I went on it as sort of a joke. Len is also enjoying the simple things.” from Pennsylvania; however, he lives 85 please see GOING STRONG page 6 miles away.”
Health & Wellness • Finance • Home Technology • Beauty • Nutrition Spa Treatments
TH E “H
E TH ” F
st Di s a T HOT
har VE i t y ST
A RC H F O S E ES R T TO OT
and more!
er C E S R e c o ve r y A R T AN D THE B
Call about sponsor and exhibitor opportunitie s today!
A History of Caring ... A Commitment To Excellence Since 1867.
We know you want to live
aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com 717.285.1350
FREE advance guest registration online! ($5 at the door.) March 2016
Pursue your favorite hobbies or engage in our many activities. Options for independent and supportive care available.
Sponsored by: Freedom Auto Group • Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology • Premiere #1 Limousine Service • Tanger Outlets Hershey
2
life on your own terms.
50plus LIFE ›
Our residents are the honored guests of the best resort in town!
It’s not about giving up;
It’s about giving hope.
Hope for pain-free time together. Hope for dignity and respect. Live every moment. Find the hope in hospice.
717-221-7902
717-221-7890
1901 North Fifth Street Harrisburg, PA 17102
2300 Vartan Way, Suite 115 Harrisburg, PA 17110
www.homelandcenter.org
www.homelandhospice.org
www.50plusLifePA.com
Let the Easter Eggs Roll Ever wonder how the tradition of the White House Easter Egg Roll came to be? It began with Dolley Madison, first lady to President James Madison from 1809 to 1817. Mrs. Madison was fascinated to learn that Egyptian children rolled
colored eggs on the site of the great Pyramids. She thought the children of the Washington area would enjoy the
activity as well. The first Easter Egg Rolls were held on the Capitol grounds. In 1877 members of Congress grew
tired of slipping on the remains of boiled eggs and gave orders to ban the event. So in 1878, President Rutherford B. Hayes and his wife, Lucy, officially opened the White House grounds to the tradition.
At Your Fingertips Helpful numbers, hotlines, and local businesses and organizations eager to serve you—all just a phone call away. Assisted Living Residences Brookdale Grandon Farms 1100 Grandon Way, Mechanicsburg (717) 730-4033 Emergency Numbers American Red Cross (717) 845-2751 Central PA Poison Center (800) 521-6110 Cumberland County Assistance (800) 269-0173 Energy Assistance Cumberland County Board of Assistance (800) 269-0173 Eye Care Services Kilmore Eye Associates 890 Century Drive, Mechanicsburg (717) 697-1414 Funeral Directors Cocklin Funeral Home, Inc. 30 N. Chestnut St., Dillsburg (717) 432-5312 Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (717) 651-5020 American Diabetes Association (800) 342-2383
Hearing Services Duncan Nulph Hearing Associates 5020 Ritter Road, Suite 10G Mechanicsburg (717) 766-1500 Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (800) 233-3008 V/TTY Heating/AC/Plumbing Farr Tech Heat (717) 889-3960 3537 Hartzdale Drive, Camp Hill Home Care Services Senior Helpers (717) 920-0707 Home IMPROVEMENT Grand Opening Windows & Doors 46 Warwick Circle, Mechanicsburg (717) 691-5670 Hospice Services Homeland Hospice 2300 Vartan Way, Suite 115, Harrisburg (717) 221-7890 Hospitals Carlisle Regional Medical Center (717) 960-1696
Arthritis Foundation (717) 763-0900
Housing Assistance Cumberland County Housing Authority 114 N. Hanover St., Carlisle (717) 249-1315
CONTACT Helpline (717) 652-4400
Property Tax/Rent Rebate (888) 728-2937
The National Kidney Foundation (800) 697-7007
Salvation Army (717) 249-1411
PACE (800) 225-7223
Insurance Apprise Insurance Counseling (800) 783-7067
Social Security Administration (Medicare) (800) 302-1274 Healthcare Information Pa. HealthCare Cost Containment Council (717) 232-6787
Intellectual Disabilities Keystone Human Services 124 Pine St., Harrisburg (717) 232-7509
Nursing/Rehab Homeland Center 1901 N. Fifth St., Harrisburg (717) 221-7902
Drug Information (800) 729-6686
Nutrition Meals on Wheels Carlisle (717) 245-0707 Mechanicsburg (717) 697-5011 Newville (717) 776-5251 Shippensburg (717) 532-4904 West Shore (717) 737-3942
Health and Human Services Discrimination (800) 368-1019
Flu or Influenza (888) 232-3228
Internal Revenue Service (800) 829-1040 Liberty Program (866) 542-3788 Medicare Hotline (800) 638-6833 National Council on Aging (800) 424-9046
Orthopedics OSS Health 856 Century Drive, Mechanicsburg (717) 747-8315
Organ Donor Hotline (800) 243-6667 Passport Information (888) 362-8668
Personal Care Homes Homeland Center 1901 N. Fifth St., Harrisburg (717) 221-7902
Smoking Information (800) 232-1331
Pharmacies CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com
Social Security Office (800) 772-1213
Social Security Fraud (800) 269-0217
Travel AAA Central Penn (717) 657-2244
Services Cumberland County Aging & Community Services (717) 240-6110
Journease Travel Specialists (717) 462-4806
Toll-Free Numbers Bureau of Consumer Protection (800) 441-2555
Veterans Services American Legion (717) 730-9100
Cancer Information Service (800) 422-6237
Governor’s Veterans Outreach (717) 234-1681
Consumer Information (888) 878-3256
Lebanon VA Medical Center 1700 S. Lincoln Ave., Lebanon (717) 228-6000 or (800) 409-8771
Disease and Health Risk (888) 232-3228 Domestic Violence (800) 799-7233
Veterans Affairs (717) 240-6178 or (717) 697-0371
Not an all-inclusive list of advertisers in your area.
www.50plusLifePA.com
50plus LIFE ›
March 2016
3
Tinseltown Talks
Last of The Honeymooners
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 Amy Kieffer Ranee Shaub Miller Account Representatives Brantley Lefever Sales & Event Coordinator Eileen Culp Events Manager Kimberly Shaffer Marketing Coordinator Mariah Hammacher
CIRCULATION
Project Coordinator Loren Gochnauer
ADMINISTRATION Business Manager Elizabeth Duvall
Member of
Awards
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.
4
March 2016
50plus LIFE ›
Nick Thomas
From I Love Lucy and All in the Family to Married … with Children and Seinfeld, structuring a sitcom around four lead characters often proved a successful formula. “It was the perfect format for The Honeymooners,” said Joyce Randolph, who starred as Trixie in the popular 1950s series based on two tenement-dwelling couples: the Kramdens and the Nortons. As the sole surviving member of the original series cast—which included Jackie Gleason, Art Carney, and Audrey Meadows— Randolph, who turned 91 last year, continues to be identified with the show. “I worked mostly in theater and early TV, but people still recognize me as Trixie,” said Randolph. “I’m amazed by the show’s longevity.” The Honeymooners was originally a series of short sketches on the DuMont Network’s Cavalcade of Stars and later featured regularly on The Jackie Gleason Show at CBS. “I had done a breath mint commercial and got a call that Jackie wanted ‘that serious actor’ to audition for a skit called ‘The Honeymooners’ and to play the sewer worker’s wife,” recalled Randolph. “It didn’t pay much and my character was less developed than the other three, but I was happy to have a job.” Gleason soon recognized that the chemistry between himself, Carney, Meadows, and Randolph had sitcom potential and expanded The Honeymooners into a half-hour series that ran initially for 39 episodes during 1955-1956. The show was filmed with a live audience at the Adelphi Theater in Manhattan and generally without full rehearsals. “Jackie hated to rehearse and
wanted shows to be spontaneous, so Art, Audrey, and I would go over the script together on Saturday mornings,” said Randolph. “Jackie ran everything and nobody told him what to do. “He was extremely talented, and for a big guy was incredibly
Jackie Gleason, Art Carney, Audrey Meadows, and Joyce Randolph in The Honeymooners on CBS.
Recent Joyce Randoph photo provided by Randoph’s son, Randy Charles.
light on his feet doing physical comedy. For one roller-skating skit, I went with Art and Audrey to practice at a roller-skating palace here in New York. But we never saw Jackie practice. He just came out on the skates and amazed us.” Gleason, however, was not the most convivial of coworkers. “Jackie was a very strange man, not overly friendly and very moody,” said Randolph. “He just never sat around and talked. Audrey was very professional
and would have the whole script memorized. If Jackie forgot a line, she got him back on track. “Art was quiet, and it was well known he had a long history of problems with alcohol, but was a wonderful and talented guy.” And while fans like to imagine their sitcom stars from a favorite show palling around after hours, that wasn’t the case with The Honeymooners’ foursome. “We just didn’t hang out,” said Randolph. “At 9 o’clock, when we finished filming, we all went our own way.” Randolph continued in the role when it once again became part of a new Jackie Gleason show. But when Gleason moved to Florida and revived The Honeymooners in several TV movies and in another show from 1966-1970, Randolph wasn’t invited. “Years later I saw Audrey, and she said Jackie had looked for me, but couldn’t find me,” Randolph recalled. “Well, that was a lot of nonsense. Jackie wanted to use his longtime friend Jane Kean to play Trixie, and that’s what he did. “But that was fine with me because I wasn’t going to move from New York where my husband had his job, and I was happily raising my son.” Today, when she ventures from her New York apartment of 55 years, Randolph happily greets devoted Honeymooners fans. “Strangers still come up and want to hug and kiss me and tell me how much they love the show,” she said. “You learn to accept it, but it’s fun and people are nice. The show continues to influence my life.” Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala., and has written features, columns, and interviews for more than 600 magazines and newspapers. Follow @TinseltownTalks
www.50plusLifePA.com
Dear Pharmacist
Suzy Cohen
5 Truly Effective Ways to Fight Cold and Flu
I think I am a real germaphobe because I get very conscious when someone sitting next to me starts coughing, especially when they don’t cover their mouth. I’ll let the first one slide, but if it happens again, I am apt to leave or hand them a tissue. Cover it! Is it just me, or are you that way too? If you feel like you’re coming down with something, here are five considerations: 1. Oil of oregano is a super-strong germ fighter—the essential oil of oregano sold at health-food stores and online in a little dropper bottle. Pour one or two drops in your own
www.50plusLifePA.com
carvacrol and thymol, both of which inhibit the growth of hundreds of microorganisms.
“medicinal herb tea” (wink) and then drink it. It will not taste pleasant. You will probably curse me. But it’s going to help you. Squeeze some lemon and honey into it. The key ingredients in oregano are
2. Probiotics should be taken daily for proper immunity, but when you feel symptoms coming on, then of course I feel like you should at least double up on the dose. I am not afraid of taking probiotics throughout the day; I’m more afraid of feeling miserable and sick. Highquality probiotics will improve the quality and count of your healthy, disease-fighting bacteria. Some strains will even induce IL-10-producing regulatory T cells, which is a scientific way of saying
True Infrared
Heaters $50 OFF
Regularly Priced Heaters Farr Tech Heat
• Factory authorized repair center • NEW / USED / REBUILT models (when avail.) • Multiple brands and features available • Factory and dealer warranties • Delivery / home repair available
PERFORMANCE ZONE HEATING Sales•Service•Parts
889-3960
3537 Hartzdale Dr•Camp Hill, PA
please see FLU page 11
50plus LIFE ›
FARRTECHHEAT.COM
March 2016
5
Calendar of Events
Cumberland County
Support Groups Free and open to the public
Senior Center Activities
March 1, 6 p.m. CanSurmount Cancer Support Group HealthSouth Acute Rehab Hospital 175 Lancaster Blvd., Mechanicsburg (717) 691-6786
Big Spring Senior Center – (717) 776-4478 91 Doubling Gap Road, Suite 1, Newville Fridays through April 15 (except March 25) – AARP Tax Preparation Assistance by Appointment March 8, 12:15 p.m. – Emergency Preparedness Program March 17, 1 p.m. – High School Spring Luncheon
March 1, 6 to 7 p.m. Alzheimer’s Support Group Senior Helpers 3806 Market St., Suite 3, Camp Hill (717) 920-0707 March 3, 6:30 p.m. Too Sweet: Diabetes Support Group Chapel Hill United Church of Christ 701 Poplar Church Road, Camp Hill (717) 557-9041 March 7, 4 to 5 p.m. Caregivers Support Group Messiah Lifeways Meetinghouse 1155 Walnut Bottom Road, Carlisle (717) 243-0447
March 8, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Carlisle Area Men’s Cancer Support Group The Live Well Center 3 Alexandria Court, Carlisle (717) 877-7561 sirbrady12@gmail.com March 9, 1:30 p.m. Parkinson’s Support Group Bethany Village West – Springfield Room 325 Asbury Drive, Mechanicsburg (717) 877-0624 March 9, 6:30 p.m. Amputee Support Team Meeting Helen M. Simpson Rehabilitation Hospital 4300 Londonderry Road, Harrisburg (717) 652-3000 March 15, 1 p.m. Caregiver Support Group Mechanicsburg Church of the Brethren 501 Gale St., Mechanicsburg (717) 766-8880
Community Programs Free and open to the public Mondays and Wednesdays, noon to 12:45 p.m. SilverSneakers and Silver and Fit Classes Living Well Fitness Center 207 House Ave., Suite 107, Camp Hill (717) 439-4070
March 9, 11:30 a.m. NARFE West Shore Chapter 1465 VFW Post 7530 4545 Westport Drive, Mechanicsburg (717) 737-1486 www.narfe1465.org Visitors welcome; meeting is free but fee for food.
GOING STRONG from page 2 In 2009, I included Pat and Len’s story in How 50 Couples Found Love After 50, a book I wrote that revealed how 50 couples had met later in life and to give hope to singles that finding a mate is possible. Pat and Len’s story had two important lessons: long-distance relationships can work, and when people venture out of their comfort zones, positive results can occur. From time to time, I follow up with the couples featured in the book to see how they are doing and to get an update on their lives. Last month, I checked in with Pat and Len. She wrote, “Len and I are still together, into our 12th year now and still going strong. And we’re
6
March 2016
still riding. Since 2005, we’ve covered close to 175,000 miles across the U.S. and Canada. “Our life as a couple is one of great contentment; we spend a lot of time together but we also do things apart from each other. I’m busy with volunteering at our library. And yoga takes up a few mornings each week. “We both love music and go to many concerts; we have eclectic musical tastes, so there is always something new and fun to listen to. “We are truly blessed,” Pat said. “We found the right person at the right time, and life is good. The most important thing to me as I have gotten older is having someone to laugh with and enjoy all of the crazy, silly things that 50plus LIFE ›
Branch Creek Place – (717) 300-3563 115 N. Fayette St., Shippensburg Carlisle Senior Action Center – (717) 249-5007 20 E. Pomfret St., Carlisle Mary Schaner Senior Citizens Center – (717) 732-3915 98 S. Enola Drive, Enola Mechanicsburg Place – (717) 697-5947 97 W. Portland St., Mechanicsburg West Shore Senior Citizens Center – (717) 774-0409 122 Geary St., New Cumberland Just a snippet of what you may be missing … please call or visit their website for more information.
Library Programs Bosler Memorial Library, 158 W. High St., Carlisle, (717) 243-4642 March 4, 7 p.m. – Music at Bosler March 7, 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. – Monday Bosler Book Discussion Group March 23, 10:30 a.m. – Engage for Health Presentation
life is made up of. Quirkiness is a good thing.” Pat and Len found love where they least expected to find it, which often happens to older singles. They also met the challenges of a long-distance relationship. And now, they are active, still on the bike and very much in love. And, BikerKiss.com is still operating. If you see an older couple whiz by on a motorcycle, wave! It just might be Len and Pat, living the good life and happy they met nearly 13 years ago.
New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland, (717) 774-7820 March 8, 10: 30 to 11:30 a.m. – One Book, One Community Program: Book Review, Gaining Ground by Forrest Pritchard March 13, 3 to 4 p.m. – Cultural Program: Spring Wildflowers March 23, 6 to 9 p.m. – Pennwriters Writing Group
For dating information, previous articles, or to sign up for Tom’s complimentary, weekly e-newsletter, go to www.findingloveafter60.com.
If you have an event you would like to include, please email information to mjoyce@onlinepub.com for consideration.
Cleve J. Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, (717) 761-3900 March 7, 7 p.m . – The History of Women’s Health in the LGBT Community March 11, 4 to 7:30 p.m. – Blood Drive March 15, 7 p. m. – Fredricksen Reads: Coal River by Ellen Marie Wiseman
www.50plusLifePA.com
Combating Colon Cancer By Claire Yezbak Fadden
“There are some cases where a patient may not recognize the symptom or diagnose themselves as having hemorrhoids and purchase over-thecounter products as a treatment.”
It’s your first physical since you turned 50, and instead of wishing you a happy birthday, your doctor hands you a referral for a colonoscopy. Not Screening Options the gift you had in mind, but quite Doctors agree that the single most possibility the best present you can important thing you can do to combat give yourself. colorectal cancer is to be screened. Excluding skin cancers, colorectal “And to follow through to make a cancer is the third most common colonoscopy appointment when one is cancer diagnosed in both men and recommended,” reminded Ly. women in the United States. It is the A colonoscopy lets a doctor closely second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, according look at the inside of the entire colon and rectum by using a thin, flexible, to the American Cancer Society (ACS), and is expected to cause about hollow, lighted tube that has a tiny video camera on the end. The doctor 49,190 deaths this year. is looking for polyps or signs of Most health experts consider cancer. Polyps are small growths that, colorectal cancer highly preventable, over time, can pointing to become cancer. early detection The exam and routine itself takes checkups to about 30 save lives. In minutes. fact, according This test is to the ACS, recommended the death rate once every from colorectal 10 years. cancer has However, been dropping depending on for more than March is your individual 20 years. Colon Cancer Awareness Month risk factors, Doctors credit your physician the decreased will determine how frequently you numbers, in part, to screenings that need to repeat it. detect colorectal cancer at its earliest A sigmoidoscopy is similar to stages when it is easier to treat and a colonoscopy; however, a doctor possibly cure. examines only the lower part of the colon and the rectum for signs of Evaluating the Risk cancer or polyps. The scope used is “While discussing bowel about 2 feet long, enabling the doctor movements and following through to see the entire rectum but less than with an invasive procedure may half of the colon. This test takes be uncomfortable,” said Quan Ly, between 10 and 20 minutes and is M.D., “finding colon cancers at an recommended once every five years, early stage often reduces the length, severity, and cost of cancer treatment.” depending on your personal risk for colon cancer. Ly, a surgical oncologist at the For individuals over the age of 50 University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, acknowledges that with no symptoms and no family the topic is difficult to broach because history of colon cancer, some doctors recommend using a fecal occult blood many people are uncomfortable test (FOBT) screening kit. This is a talking about changes in their bowel non-invasive test, which can be done movements, constipation, or diarrhea at home by collecting three stool with their physician. “It may take a patient some time to samples on three different days. The test can detect blood in the stool and realize there is blood in their stool, if the initial amount is small,” said Ly. please see COLON page 9
Over 50? You’re overdue for a colonoscopy. FACT: When colon cancer is found early, there is a 90% chance for a cure. If you’re over 50, with or without colon cancer symptoms, you need to schedule a colonoscopy soon. Because when found early, there is nearly a 90% chance for a cure. Even better news: with timely and thorough testing, colon cancer is up to 95% preventable. If you wait for symptoms, it may already be too late. Schedule your colonoscopy today. If you’re over 50, talk to your primary care doctor about screenings, or call Carlisle Surgical Institute at 717-713-2100.
£ -«À Ì À°] -Õ Ìi Î U >À à i *č £Çä£x
>À à i-ÕÀ} V> °V / i č iÀ V> > ViÀ - V iÌÞ ÀiV i `à L Ì i > ` Ü i >Ì >ÛiÀ>}i À à v V ÀiVÌ> V> ViÀ Ã Õ ` Li} ÀiVi Û } > V ÃV «Þ iÛiÀÞ £ä Þi>Àà >Ì >}i xä° ÕÌ Þ Õ Ã Õ ` Ì> Ü Ì Þ ÕÀ ` VÌ À >L ÕÌ your own health and your family history so that you can choose the best screening plan for you.
www.50plusLifePA.com 90035_CARLI_COLON_5x12_5c.indd 1
50plus LIFE ›
March 2016
7
2/16/16 5:57 PM
Volunteer Spotlight Social-Work Retiree Helps Fourth-Graders for the Office of Aging Elaine Downing for many years. Before is RSVP’s March Volunteer of the that she had been a stay-at-home mom and Month. Downing a substitute teacher. volunteers with She’s lived in Central the America Reads Pennsylvania for 35 years program in Crestview Elementary School. She but is originally from New Jersey. started in the fall and is The desire to touch devoted to the kids she Elaine Downing children’s lives is strong sees each week. with Downing’s family; “There are two fourth-grade boys I see nearly every her two sons and daughter-inlaw are also teachers. When not week,” Downing said. “They look forward to seeing me, too. It’s a lot volunteering, Downing enjoys time with her young grandson and of fun.” planning for her upcoming trip She also tells a story of having a moment of doubt as to whether she to Japan, where one son teaches English. was making any difference for the “It will be my first time; I’m kids and quickly finding the answer. really looking forward to it. We’ll “I came in the week after get to visit an exchange student I Christmas and all of the kids had had many years ago and have kept made me Christmas cards. They all had things like, ‘You’re the best, in touch with.” For more information about Mrs. Downing’ and ‘You’re my volunteering with RSVP in favorite.’ It was fantastic.” Downing looked to volunteering Cumberland County, contact Michelle Jones at (717) 541-9521 or after retiring from social work. She perrycumb@rsvpcapreg.org. worked in Cumberland County
#G re atP la ceToWo r k la c eTo L iv e tP a re G #
WELCOME TO THE FAMILY
824 Lisburn Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011
Imagine a place where the only things on your “To Do” list are the things you enjoy most: spending time with your family, entertaining friends or taking in a movie. Imagine yourself living at The Woods at Cedar Run without all the worries and hassles of home ownership. The Woods at Cedar Run offers residents an active social life combined with first class amenities including scenic walking paths, a movie theatre, a pool room, a pub and much more. It’s not only a wonderful place to live, it’s also an inviting destination for friends and family.
1.888.265.0613 An
Community
integracare.com/jobs
INDEPENDENT LIVING • SENIOR LIVING • MEMORY CARE
8
March 2016
50plus LIFE ›
Do you know a 50+ volunteer who gives selflessly to others? Tell us what makes him or her so special and we will consider them for 50plus LIFE’s Volunteer Spotlight! Submissions should be 200 words or fewer and photos are encouraged. Email preferred to mjoyce@onlinepub.com or mail nominations to 50plus LIFE, Volunteer Spotlight, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512.
Like 50plus LIFE? Then “Like” 50plus LIFE!
www.facebook.com/50plusLIFEPA “Like” us on Facebook to receive a free 6-month subscription! Plus, you’ll receive event updates, story links, and more! www.50plusLifePA.com
COLON from page 7 some cancers; however, it doesn’t typically notice any pre-cancerous cells that may be present. “Many people don’t consider themselves at risk for this disease,” added Dr. Ece Mutlu, a boardcertified gastroenterologist in Chicago, Ill. “The truth is everyone is at risk. Some groups are just at a higher risk. Early detection and routine checkups for colon cancer can save lives.” Just the Facts The most recent estimates for the number of colorectal cancer cases in the United States:
• 93,090 new cases of colon cancer • 39,610 new cases of rectal cancer • The lifetime risk for developing colorectal cancer is about one in 21. This risk is slightly higher in men than in women. For more information, visit the American Cancer Society at www. cancer.org. To learn more about advances in colorectal cancer research, visit the National Institutes of Health website at www.nih.gov/science/ colorectalcancer.
Get a colon cancer screening if: v v v v v v v
You’re over the age of 50 Anyone in your family has a history of colorectal cancer You have had pre-cancerous polyps You use tobacco You drink alcohol to excess You are obese or lead a sedentary life You have a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
Specializing in: Windows • Doors Specialty Bays/Bows • Siding Premium Products + Attention to Detail + Low Overhead = Exceptional Value 20 Years of Experience Owner-Operated, Local Company Quality Workmanship for Much Less than the Big Guys! Ask us about our “Say it Forward” Program and our Seasonal Discount
FREE In-Home Estimate | Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed! 46 Warwick Circle, Mechanicsburg
717-691-5670
grandopening12@gmail.com | www.grandopeningwindows.com PA88086
COCKLIN
FUNERAL HOME, INC. Dillsburg, Pennsylvania
Scott D. Brenneman
Becky J. Cocklin
Funeral Director, Supervisor
Funeral Director
Serving Dillsburg and the Surrounding Area Since 1935 • Pre-Arrangement Counseling • Cremation 30 N. Chestnut Street Dillsburg, PA 17019 (717) 432-5312
www.cocklinfuneralhome.com www.50plusLifePA.com
50plus LIFE ›
March 2016
9
The Bookworm Sez
Please join us for these FREE events! 17th Annual
Always free parking! NEW LOCATION!
May 18, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Shady Maple Conference Center
LANCASTER COUNTY
Smorgasbord Building 129 Toddy Drive, East Earl
17th Annual
May 31, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hershey Lodge
DAUPHIN COUNTY
325 University Drive Hershey
13th Annual
June 8, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Church Farm School
CHESTER COUNTY
1001 East Lincoln Highway Exton
20th Annual
Sept. 21, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Spooky Nook Sports
LANCASTER COUNTY
2913 Spooky Nook Road Manheim
14th Annual
Sept. 28, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
York Expo Center
YORK COUNTY
Memorial Hall East 334 Carlisle Avenue, York
17th Annual
Oct. 19, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Carlisle Expo Center 100 K Street Carlisle
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Exhibitors • Health Screenings • Seminars Demonstrations • Entertainment • Door Prizes
Limited Sponsorship Opportunities Available
(717) 285-1350 (717) 770-0140 (610) 675-6240
10
www.50plusExpoPA.com
March 2016
50plus LIFE ›
Terri Schlichenmeyer
NFL Confidential: True Confessions from the Gutter of Football
Three points! That’s all your team He repeatedly lost, then found, needs to win. Can they make it? the anger that made him good at You’re doing your part: You’re playing offense, and he ate constantly wearing your lucky shirt and hat. A to maintain the weight the coaches stuffed mascot is nearby, the team logo unofficially said he had to have. hangs on the wall, and you had coffee He hurt everywhere, often, until his this morning in the official team mug. teammates returned from their injuries You’re doing everything you can for and Anonymous stepped back because a win but, as in the new book NFL that’s what players do. Confidential by Johnny “… This isn’t a Anonymous, other fairytale,” he says. “This forces are afield. isn’t a Hollywood story. Johnny Anonymous This isn’t a happy ending. came to football later “This is the NFL.” than most boys. There’s a reason Looking to fill a why author Johnny void after his mother Anonymous has changed died, he joined his “names, timeline, details, high school team as a the usual” in this book. freshman. Neither he “Go ahead, try” to figure nor his father knew a out who he is. I’m sure thing about football, the league would like to but Anonymous learned know, too, because NFL quickly, just as he Confidential is TNT on NFL Confidential: learned that he had paper. True Confessions from the talent for the game. But here’s the rub: Gutter of Football “Back in high It’s easy to wonder if By Johnny Anonymous school, football was Anonymous is hiding c. 2016, Dey St. fun,” he says, but in behind a pseudonym 241 pages college, “it was a fullin order to embellish time job.” the truth—because this College ball was serious, both book is funny, very entertaining, and mentally and physically; it was more than a little smart-alecky, readers also where Anonymous began to may be tempted to dismiss his words. understand what football would do to It would be likewise easy to say his brain and body. He suffered injuries that it’s just a profanity-laced, updated playing college ball and he considered North Dallas Forty, until you consider quitting, but going pro was a chance to that what Anonymous describes seems “make a … ton of money.” to be on display, to a greater or lesser He was cut from his first pro team, degree, each August through February: through no fault of his own. He started injuries, mental abuse, domestic issues, as third-string at his second team and substance abuse, and more. soon decided that standing on the So … truth? Or just a good story? sidelines was an easy way to make a You’ll have your theories, but either living—but then his teammates started way, I think you’ll love this book. For getting injured. die-hard fans of the ol’ pigskin, NFL They were out. Anonymous was in, Confidential is a big win. at least for awhile. The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. He tried to bring fun back into the Terri has been reading since she was 3 game. He tried to remember that it years old and she never goes anywhere was a game, “not World War III,” and without a book. She lives on a hill in he endured hassle from his coach and Wisconsin with two dogs and 14,000 books. from fans. www.50plusLifePA.com
FLU from page 5 they reduce inflammation and can help immune function as well as inflammatory disorders of the gut like painful Crohn’s. 3. FluNada is a natural, over-thecounter spray that I squirt into my throat. You can (and should) spray this product into your nose because this is the point of entry for germs. FluNada contains a homeopathic blend of wintergreen, eucalyptus, and elderberry essential oils. It is sold at Walgreens if you need it right now, and if you’re feeling like you’re coming down with something, now is the time. This product was tested by two independent labs and found to be 99.9 percent effective against multiple cold and flu strains, including swine, bird, and seasonal flu. FluNada provides non-drowsy relief from multiple symptoms, including runny or blocked nose, sore throat, cough, and body aches and pains. 4. If you keep rummaging around
in my purse, you will find teabags of flavored green tea. It is common for me to ask the waitress at a restaurant for a little cup of hot water “because I have my own medicinal herbs.” My husband affectionately scolded me once, saying, “Do you realize we live in Colorado? She thinks your little ‘medicinal herbs’ are a different kind of ‘green’ tea!” The EGCG in green tea was shown in numerous studies, including a 2005 “Antiviral Research” article, to have antiviral effects by unraveling the viral membrane. 5. Vitamin D is a strong immune modulator and reduces susceptibility to all sorts of infections. Also, D controls the expression of more than 900 genes involved in hundreds of physiological functions.
April 6, 2016 June 10, 2016 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.
This information is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or treat your disease. For more information about the author, visit SuzyCohen.com
At the Expo Putting the EASE in your travel planning!
May 18 - 21, 2016
Take a step back in time as we travel to
“MAYBERRY”
MOUNT AIRY, NORTH CAROLINA with a stop at
WALTON’S MOUNTAIN MUSEUM Departure from Carlisle
717.462.4806 | www.TravelByJournease.com
Contact Us For Our Full Schedule of 2016 Trips & Some of 2017 Now Available
BROOKDALE Come discover the many comforts of our caring community. When you join our family, you can feel secure knowing that we’re here for you every step of the way. Whatever the future holds, our communities are designed to care for your needs, through all the stages of life. For more information, contact 717-730-4033 or lauren.kline@brookdale.com.
Employers Job Counseling Workshops/Seminars Resume Writing Assistance Principal Sponsors:
Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available
www.veteransexpo.com
Grandon Farms Personal Care Community Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care (717) 730-4033
At the Job Fair
Sponsored by: Blue Ridge Communications • ESPN 92.7 • Fulton Financial Corporation PA National Guard Employment Outreach Services • Pennsylvania American Legion Pennsylvania State Headquarters VFW • The Stewart Companies Veterans’ Affairs of Berks County • York County Veterans Affairs Office • WFYL
Once you’re here, you’re home.
1100 Grandon Way | Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Veterans Benefits Community Services Products and Services Available Support/Assistance Programs Education/Training Services
brookdale.com
(717) 285-1350 www.olpevents.com
Brought to you by:
&
24192
BROOKDALE® is a trademark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA
www.50plusLifePA.com
50plus LIFE ›
March 2016
11
Salute to a Veteran
Robert D. Wilcox
This Marine’s World War II Service Took Him 15,000 Miles through the Pacific
battalion on the island of was to mean so much to Kauai. The DC-6 plane him later. that flew him there gave After boot camp, him the first airplane he dreamed of being assigned to sea duty. ride of his life, and there he got more training But he was told that he that prepared him for could ask for any kind going into combat. of duty at all … as long as it was radar operator, In early 1944, all since that was what the their gear was loaded on the Army transport Sea Marines needed right Carrol G. Smith Sturgeon, and they were then. off for a two-month trip So he was soon off to Radar Technician to the Palau Islands as School at Camp Lejeune, N.C., they zigzagged their way across the broad Pacific. where he learned how to use radar to What was that like? correct fire for artillery and to feed Smith says, “It was OK, but, the azimuth, elevation, and range during a drill, I slipped while running information for attacking enemy aircraft to the anti-aircraft guns. to my gun position and cut the top of my head. They let an Army medic Then it was to Treasure Island, practice by sewing it up. When he Calif., by troop train coaches fitted messed up, they took out the stitches with bunks. There, they were soon and told him to try again. loaded on the Navy destroyer USS “As we went by the Marshall Thatcher to take them to Hawaii. When they arrived in Oahu, Smith Islands, they looked great, but any taught radar maintenance before time we were near land, our food was covered with flies. You had to scoop being transferred to an anti-aircraft them off your food with your hand and quickly grab a bite before they were all over it again. “The only stop we made en route was when we anchored off the Admiralty Islands, and everyone piled off to get a beer or two at Duffy’s Tavern. I’ll never forget how Is your military hero also your spouse, wonderful that beer tasted after weeks at sea,” Smith adds. child, grandchild, friend, or neighbor? “Our next stop and destination Help us put a face and a name to the courageous was the Palau Island group, where we men and women who are currently serving or who assaulted Angaur, one of the islands of have served in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. the group.” How did that go? Salute to Service Wagging his head slowly, Smith is an online photo gallery honoring says, “It was a terrible experience. the military heroes in our lives. I was 19 at the time and found out quickly that it made men out of boys. Upload your hero’s Throughout the island, the Japanese had built pillboxes, bunkers, dugouts, picture, name, and information at and antitank trenches. VeteransExpo.com/salute-to-service. “Our battleship, Tennessee; four cruisers; and 40 Douglas SBD dive bombers had been thoroughly
In the first 17 years of his life, Carrol G. Smith had scarcely been outside New Jersey, where he lived in Cranford. That changed a bit when he decided to go to Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts. And it changed a lot more when, at the end of his first semester and nearing his 18th birthday, he left college in 1942 to enlist in the Marine Corps. Parris Island, S.C., where he went to boot camp, was a long trip for him. But, as he learned later, it was to be negligible in the miles he was to travel as a Marine. Was Parris Island as tough as it was reputed to be? “Nah,” he says, “not for me. At home I had worked in a feed store, where I was used to slinging those huge bails of feed I delivered to farmers. So I was in good shape and really enjoyed what turned out to be a real test for some of the guys.” Another thing he did well was firing the M-1 rifle. He qualified at the coveted “sharpshooter” level that
Every Hero Has a Name.
12
March 2016
50plus LIFE ›
lambasting the island, but to conquer it took 36 days of fighting and blasting the Japanese from their caves with explosives, tanks, artillery, and flamethrowers.” Smith says, “Two things about that ordeal that I’ll never forget were the first sight of tracer bullets coming at me … and nights in the jungle, before the island was secured, when we didn’t know where the [Japanese] were. We also learned to live with land crabs that were 6 to 8 inches in diameter.” After Angaur, Smith was ordered to another anti-aircraft battalion on Guam, where he learned that he had been accepted for the Merchant Marine Academy in King’s Point, N.Y. By that time, he had lost interest in that, however, and his next stop was to Saipan, where he trained for the dangerous job of shore observer. Doing that, he would sneak ashore, hide, and observe where the big shells from the naval armada off shore were landing and then report by radio to the Navy ships the corrections they should make in azimuth or range. After the atomic bombs were dropped and Japan surrendered, Smith sailed for Nagasaki, where he did occupation duty and had a chance to see the “total and absolute destruction” of the city caused by the atomic bomb. A point system was set up to decide the order in which men would be brought home. Since Smith had been overseas for about 22 months, he was high on the list. So he soon boarded a Liberty ship in Sasebo and sailed to San Diego. From there it was by train to Bainbridge, Md., where he was discharged as a sergeant on Jan. 7, 1946. Summing up his wartime service, he now says simply, “It was the most tremendous experience of my life.”
Colonel Wilcox flew a B-17 bomber in Europe in World War II.
www.50plusLifePA.com
Puzzle Page
CROSSWORD
Solutions for all puzzles can be found on page 14 SUDOKU
Across brainteasers
Novelty Songs of the ’50s and ’60s Find the names of these zany songs from the ’50s and ’60s, based on the information given: 1. 1957 – Royal Teens, clothing: Sh _ _ _ Sh _ _ _ _ 2. 1957 – Ames Brothers, baby girl: T _ _ Na _ _ _ _ _ L _ _ _ of Sh _ _ _ L _ _ _ 3. 1958 – Sheb Wooley, swinger from space: T _ _ P _ _ _ _ e P _ _ _ _ e E _ _ _ _ 4. 1958 – David Seville, wise words: W _ _ _ _ Do _ _ _ _ 5. 1958 – Playmates, little car: B _ _ _ B _ _ _ 6. 1959 – Paul Evans, loved Fred: Se _ _ _ Li _ _ _ _ Gi _ _ _ 7. 1959 – Johnny Horton, alligator shoots cannonball: Ba _ _ _ _ of N _ _ O _ _ _ _ _ s 8. 1960 – Hollywood Argyles, caveman: A _ _ _ _ O _ _ 9. 1963 – Allan Sherman, letter to parents: H _ _ _ _ Mu _ _ _ _, H _ _ _ _ Fa _ _ _ _ 10. 1969 – Johnny Cash, bad dad: A B _ _ N _ _ _ _ S _ _ Fashion of the ’50s and ’60s Find these phrases that described fashions that were popular for some time during the ’50s and ’60s: 1. P _ _ d _ e Sk _ _ _ 2. S _ d _ _ e O _ f _ _ _ 3. B _ _ _ y So _ _ _ 4. P _ d _ _ Pu _ _ _ _ s 5. C _ _ _ sk _ _ C _ _ 6. Be _ _ B _ _ _ _ ms 7. P _ t _ _ Pa _ Co _ _ _ _ 8. P _ _ _ _ _ x H _ _ 9. W _ d _ T _ _ 10. N _ _ r _ J _ _ _ _ t 72 Written by Alan Stillson. Please see http://stillsonworks.com
1. Month (abbr.) 5. Not again! ___ vu 9. Drifts 14. Domain 15. Dance 16. Pointer 17. Grotesque ornaments 19. Bush or Dern 20. Mixture of soluble salts 21. Sulk 23. Roadhouse 24. Shoestrings Down
1. Adventure story 2. Epochal 3. Fringe benefit 4. Filipino 5. Solidified carbon dioxide 6. Soft-finned fish 7. Landrovers 8. Likewise 9. Compleat Angler author Izaak ___ 10. Macaw 11. Waldorf, e.g. 12. Lacerated 13. Aquatic bird
26. Lampblack 28. Muffin, maybe 31. Inactive 34. Dross 35. Jamboree 38. Mexican dish 39. Pelvis 40. Clotheshorse, maybe 41. Land parcel 42. Swear 44. Solar disk 45. Valley 46. Common contraction
48. Hydriodic acid salts 51. Root vegetable 52. Bone cavities 53. Mauna ___ 55. Low dam 57. It, in a game 61. Family member 63. Think 65. Warheads 66. Ace 67. Malaria 68. Resource 69. Logs Z’s 70. Domestic
18. Patron saint of Norway 22. Common 25. Plant disease 27. Away 28. Grandma’s word 29. Oil type 30. Some books 32. Fr. school 33. Fawns over 36. Beverage 37. Bolsheviks founder 40. Dull 43. Sandpiper 45. Schematic
47. Most up-to-date 49. Playful aquatic mammals 50. Dreary 52. Stadium 53. Moon goddess 54. Burden 56. Rel. image 58. Enamored, to the hilt 59. Pocketbook 60. Exploit 62. Downwind 64. Agent (abbr.)
Your ad could be here on this popular page! Please call (717) 770-0140 for more information.
www.50plusLifePA.com
50plus LIFE ›
March 2016
13
Cover Story
Culture Club President Helps Blend Central PA’s Melting Pot By Lori Van Ingen Ukrainian-born Vlada Prymak moved to the United States more than 20 years ago looking for better opportunities for her young family. Living in a democracy was very important to her, she said. Prymak lived in Kyiv, only 30 miles from Chernobyl when it had its nuclear disaster in 1986. “I saw so many terrible things happen. A lot were dead because of radiation and the aftermath of the tragedy … I wanted my life better than that.” So after she had earned a bachelor’s degree in economics and engineering from Kyiv National University of Technologies and Design, she and her husband moved to start their own American dream.
Prymak—who had been a straight-A student in an English boarding school as a young child— was fluent in Ukrainian, Russian, and English, but not in American English, so she pushed herself to learn American English from the time she arrived in the U.S. Prymak held numerous positions after arriving in this area; she was a manager for Estee Lauder Cosmetics and Lord & Taylor. She also worked at a Volvo dealership, getting great experiences interacting with affluent people, who know how to achieve. “It opens your mind to what they do,” she said. Prymak is now a certified licensed insurance professional and member of her local rotary club. “The more you put into life, the more you get. Learn always and be
Senior Helpers® Caregivers
Are Like Family. This is why families trust in-home senior care from
Emmy® award-winning broadcaster Leeza Gibbons knows that when you trust your loved ones in the care of professionals, you want to know they will treat them like family. When families need to trust someone like family, trust Senior Helpers®.
Puzzle Solutions
Visit us at SeniorHelpers.com/harrisburg, e-mail us at bobbi@SeniorHelpers.com or call us at 717-920-0707.
March 2016
Culture Club of Central Pennsylvania. From that point on, then-president Diana Carel-Diaz came alongside Prymak and mentored her. “Diana was important to me,” Prymak said. “She prepped me a long time to be more active (in the club).” Prymak held several positions in the club, and little by little she became ready to take over as president when Carel-Diaz retired two years ago. “All of the board members were supportive of me through the transition,” she said. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, the World Culture Club of Central Pennsylvania has been built on the traditions of “embracing diversity and overcoming intolerance, ignorance, and prejudice against other cultures, races, and traditions through educational programs,” Prymak said. The Central Pennsylvania area—from Lancaster to Hershey, Harrisburg to Carlisle—is such a diverse place, she said. “There is so much diversity in culture and countries. We want them to feel more welcome.” The club initially began as a place where people from other countries could feel more comfortable and welcome and adjust to a new environment. But it evolved to become increasingly centered on the educational aspect of their programs to “help alleviate the tension and Brainteasers
Novelty Songs of the ’50s and ’60s 1. “Short Shorts” 6. “Seven Little Girls (Sitting in the Back Seat)” 2. “The Naughty Lady of 7. “Battle of New Orleans” Shady Lane” 3. “The Purple People Eater” 8. “Alley Oop” 9. “ Hello Muddah, Hello 4. “Witch Doctor” Fadduh” 5. “Beep Beep” 10. “A Boy Named Sue”
Puzzles shown on page 13
14
an example for others. If you just sit at the computer and look at someone else’s life, you will not get a better education or life,” she said. The mother of two children, a 24-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter, Prymak had gotten involved in the Swarthmore Parents Council when her son attended college there. But after he graduated, she wanted to do something to help her own community that she could be passionate about. That something came along when she found World Culture Club of Central Pennsylvania. According to its website, the World Culture Club of Central Pennsylvania strives “to foster education, understanding, and tolerance; to build a community that welcomes people of different cultures and traditions; and to promote a shared humanity and a better society.” The club—which formed in March 2001 as the Cultural Community Club and became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization when it changed its name in 2009—presents free programs the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Penn State Hershey Medical Center. Approximately 60 to 110 people attend each program to learn about traditions and culture. Five years ago, Prymak and her daughter, then aged 10, did a presentation on the Ukraine for World
Fashion of the ’50s and ’60s 1. Poodle Skirt 6. Bell Bottoms 2. Saddle Oxford 7. Peter Pan Collar 3. Bobby Socks 8. Pillbox Hat 4. Pedal Pushers 9. Wide Tie 5. Coonskin Cap 10. Nehru Jacket
50plus LIFE ›
www.50plusLifePA.com
cultural divide among world communities,” according to its website. The World Culture Club of Central Pennsylvania received the 2011 Penn State Hershey Milton S. Hershey Medical Center Community Service Award. And in May 2015, it received a certificate of appreciation from the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg as its founding institution. In December, Prymak received the Diversity Champion Award for 2015 from the Campus Council on Diversity at Penn State Hershey Medical Center for her “outstanding efforts, passion, and dedication to diversity.” “I’m not a shy girl, but I am humbled to receive such recognition,” Prymak said. Among her duties as president, Prymak works with sponsors and donors of the club and does a lot of networking. But she also spends a great deal of time trying to find great speakers for each meeting. She meets with potential speakers and listens to their presentations elsewhere to be sure she finds just the right speakers who would be
interesting for the World Culture Club members to hear. She doesn’t look for “boring college lectures” but presentations that are exciting, hold your attention, and open your mind. Among the prominent speakers at the World Culture Club were Pennsylvania Secretary of State Pedro Cortes and Dr. Hector Ortiz, an assistant professor at Central Penn College. But the speakers she is most proud of are two students who spent a year in Romania and Croatia as part of a study abroad program. Their presentation, “Youth Around the World: Realities and Possibilities,” was “stellar,” she said. Prymak was excited about bringing in the younger generation and getting them involved. “It all starts with the children,” she said. “By understanding others’ traditions and how others live their lives, we can better accept what differences there are ... and how to solve conflicts peacefully.” For more information on the World Culture Club of Pennsylvania, visit www. worldcultureclubpa.org.
Around Town Traditions Lifestyle Director Recognized Nationally Karen Karkuff, lifestyle director for Traditions of America at Silver Spring, took home a silver award recently from the National Association of Home Builders’ Best of 55+ Housing Awards. Karkuff, who has worked at the 55-and-over community in greater Harrisburg for more than five years, was recognized as one of the nation’s Best 55+ Lifestyle Directors. Traditions of America, the developer of Silver Karen Karkuff Spring, was also named the 55+ Builder of the Year during the awards. NAHB’s Best of 55+ Housing Awards encourage and promote quality and innovation in the 55+ housing market. If you have local news you’d like considered for Around Town, please email mjoyce@onlinepub.com
ADVERTISEMENT
Professionally Speaking... Colon Cancer: Early Detection Makes a Difference As part of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, I would like to share with you some important information about this life-threatening but treatable disease. In the United States, colon cancer is the third most common cancer in men and women and is the second most common cause of cancer deaths. It is most commonly seen in those age 50 and older, but an increasing number of patients less than 50 years of age are developing colon cancer. Encouragingly, the incidence of colon cancer is on the decline, likely because of aggressive colon cancer screening programs. Screening is currently recommended for all men and women starting at age 50 if they are of average risk for colon cancer or younger for high-risk individuals or those with symptoms. Despite colon cancer being a major health concern, myths about this disease remain common. Many believe that colon cancer is always a fatal disease, but this is false. Colon cancer is curable when found at an early stage. Others believe that colon cancer screening is not necessary if one has no symptoms (e.g., bleeding, pain, irregular bowel habits). This is a dangerous myth as the majority of curable colon cancers have no symptoms. Once colon cancer progresses to the point of causing symptoms, cure is less likely. The goal of colon cancer screening is to detect precursors of cancer (i.e., polyps) and remove or destroy them and to find colon cancers at an early stage. The most common screening test used to prevent colon cancer is the colonoscopy. While other modalities for screening exist, colonoscopy remains the most widely used and accessible way to prevent and diagnose colon cancer.
The day prior to the procedure, the bowel is cleansed of residual stool using various medications. On the day of the procedure, patients are sedated with intravenous Dr. Jadd Koury medications, and Board-Certified a flexible tube Colorectal Surgeon containing a camera, called the colonoscope, is inserted into the rectum and advanced into the colon. The goal is to reach the very first portion of the colon called the cecum to ensure no polyps or tumors are missed. The physician then slowly withdraws the colonoscope and surveys all of the inner lining of the colon, looking for lesions. Despite aggressive screening programs, some patients will have or can potentially develop colon cancer over their lifetime. It is important to note that the treatment for colon cancer has evolved, and cure is possible. Treatment is based on the initial stage of the disease, which is determined using various x-rays and lab tests. Colon cancer remains a surgical disease, and cure is not possible without removal of the involved portion of colon. If the surgeon is experienced in laparoscopic surgery (a minimally invasive approach involving smaller incisions and instruments), there is typically less pain and a faster recovery. Further treatments, including the need for chemotherapy, are dictated by the stage of disease. In conclusion, colon cancer screening saves lives by either preventing colon cancer or detecting cancers at an early, curable stage. Please consult a healthcare professional regarding your risk for colon cancer and the need and timing for screening.
19 Sprint Drive, Suite 3 Carlisle, PA 17015
(717) 713-2100
www.carlislesurgical.com ADVERTISEMENT
www.50plusLifePA.com
50plus LIFE ›
March 2016
15
16
March 2016
50plus LIFE ›
www.50plusLifePA.com