Lancaster County Edition
January 2014
Vol. 20 No. 1
Wearable Memories Fabric Artist Creates Keepsakes from Belongings of Loved Ones By Lori Van Ingen Laurie Kolanko was just looking for a way to make some Christmas gifts while caring for her elderly mother. What she found was a new venture and a new way to help people honor their departed loved ones. “I knew someone who made purses out of placemats. I thought that sounded like fun,” Kolanko said. She also knew a lot of people used tote bags and wondered if she could make them using placemats. So Kolanko found some online tutorials, purchased some unusual-looking placemats and webbing, and she was set to go to work. “I enjoyed it so much,” Kolanko said, that she went back for more. “I fell in love with the whole process of shopping for them, mixing and matching colors and textures.” Kolanko said she has always liked sewing and making things with her hands. “I remember making clothes for my trolls out of felt when I was very young. I always had a needle of some sort in my hand when sitting down and relaxing.” She even made her daughters’ school clothes with matching clothes for their Cabbage Patch dolls. She also did counted cross stitch, embroidery, please see MEMORIES page 15 Laurie Kolanko with several of her handmade tote bags and tie pins.
Inside:
Strength-Training Tips for Seniors page 4
The Gone with the Wind Trail page 10
Social Security News
Ring in the New Year with a COLA
Best Wishes for a Happy M 2014!
By John Johnston
from
Please join us for these events! • Exhibitors • • Health Screenings • • Seminars • • Entertainment • • Door Prizes • Limited Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Lancaster
Celebrates Seniors
Two of your favorite events, together!
26th Annual
15th Annual FREE!
&
May 5, 2014 May 5–9, 2014 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Spooky Nook Sports (Just off Rt. 283 at the Salunga exit)
11th Annual
DAUPHIN COUNTY
CHESTER COUNTY
May 27, 2014
June 10, 2014
FREE!
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hershey Lodge 325 University Drive Hershey
FREE!
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Church Farm School
1001 East Lincoln Highway Exton (717) 285-1350 • (717) 770-0140 (610) 675-6240
www.50plusExpoPA.com 2
January 2014
50plus SeniorNews •
John Johnston is a Social Security public affairs specialist.
NEW LOCATION!
2913 Spooky Nook Road, Manheim
15th Annual
any people ring in the new year with champagne. People who receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) get to ring it in with a COLA. This year, more than 60 million Americans are receiving a 1.5 percent cost of living adjustment (COLA) in their monthly benefit payment. The 1.5 percent COLA begins with increased benefits for more than 57 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2014. Payments to more than 8 million SSI recipients began in late December 2013. The estimated average monthly Social Security payment to a retired worker is $1,294 (in 2014), up from $1,275 (in 2013). The average monthly Social Security disability payment for an individual is $1,148 (in 2014), up from $1,131 (in 2013). The basic monthly federal payment for SSI is $721 (in 2014), up from $710 (in 2013). Some other changes that take effect in
January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. For example, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security payroll tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $117,000, up from $113,700. Of the estimated 165 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2014, about 10 million will pay higher taxes as a result of the increase in the taxable maximum. The amount of earnings needed for one credit of Social Security coverage has gone up as well, but all workers can still earn up to four credits in a year. In 2014, a worker earns a credit after earning $1,200. In 2013, one credit of coverage was $1,160. It takes 40 credits to be fully insured for retirement benefits. Information about Medicare changes for 2014 is available at www.medicare.gov. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/pressoffice to learn more about the COLA and other Social Security changes in 2014. From everyone at Social Security, have a Happy New Year.
Help Seniors Know Where to Find Help Do you care about seniors in your community? Do you like to talk with others? Do you want to help reach out to seniors who may not know where to turn? The Pennsylvania Behavioral Health and Aging Coalition will present a program from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, that teaches attendees how to reach out to seniors by providing them with important information on how to recognize the signs of depression, anxiety, substance
abuse, and more. You will learn how to give a brief presentation to seniors in your community on these important topics. This is not a counseling program; rather, you will be a resource to assist seniors in knowing where to turn for help. The program will be held at the Public Safety Training Center, 101 Champ Blvd., Manheim. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. To register or for more information, call (717) 541-4219, ext. 106, or sign up online at www.olderpa.org. www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
Resource Directory This Resource Directory recognizes advertisers who have made an extended commitment to your health and well-being.
Coins & Currency Steinmetz Coins & Currency, Inc. 350 Centerville Road, Lancaster (717) 299-1211 Dental Services Dental Health Associates 951 Rohrerstown Road, Lancaster (717) 394-9231 Smoketown Family Dentistry 2433C Old Philadelphia Pike, Smoketown (717) 291-6035
Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (717) 651-5020 American Cancer Society (717) 397-3744 American Diabetes Association (888) DIABETES American Heart Association (717) 393-0725 American Lung Association (717) 397-5203 or (800) LungUSA
Emergency Numbers
Strasburg Health Associates (717) 687-7541
Housing Eastwood Village Homes, LLC 102 Summers Drive, Lancaster (717) 397-3138
Real Estate Prudential Homesale Services Group Rocky Welkowitz (717) 393-0100
Manor House Apartments 1415 Spencer Ave., Lancaster (717) 393-0465
Senior Move Management
Marietta Senior Apartments 601 E. Market St., Marietta (717) 735-9590
TLC Ladies (717) 228-8764 Transition Solutions for Seniors Rocky Welkowitz (717) 615-6507
Insurance Medicare (800) 633-4227
Central PA Poison Center (800) 521-6110
American Red Cross (717) 299-5561
Office of Aging (717) 299-7979 or (800) 801-3070
Arthritis Foundation (717) 397-6271
CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com
Consumer Information (888) 878-3256
Wiley’s Pharmacy Locations in Lancaster, Millersville, Quarryville, and Strasburg (717) 898-8804
Employment Lancaster County Office of Aging (717) 299-7979 Entertainment Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre 510 Centerville Road, Lancaster (717) 898-1900
CONTACT Helpline (717) 652-4400 Disease and Health Risk (888) 232-3228 Domestic Violence (800) 799-7233
Financial Services Internal Revenue Service (717) 291-1994 Funeral Directors Richard H. Heisey Funeral Home 216 S. Broad St., Lititz (717) 626-2464 Gastroenterology Regional Gastroenterology Associates of Lancaster (RGAL) 2104 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster 694 Good Drive, Suite 23, Lancaster 4140 Oregon Pike, Ephrata (717) 544-3400
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
Travel Pharmacies
Passport Information (877) 487-2778 Veterans Services Lebanon VA Medical Center 1700 S. Lincoln Ave., Lebanon (717) 228-6000 or (800) 409-8771
Physicians — OB/GYN May•Grant Obstetrics & Gynecology Women & Babies Hospital with other locations in Brownstown, Columbia, Elizabethtown,Willow Street, and Intercourse (717) 397-8177
Not an all-inclusive list of advertisers in your area.
Flu or Influenza (888) 232-3228 Hearing Services Hearing and Ear Care Center, LLC 806 W. Main St., Mount Joy (717) 653-6300 Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (800) 233-3008 V/TTY
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January 2014
3
Savvy Senior
Strength-Training Tips for Seniors
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
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50plus Senior News 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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January 2014
Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, Can lifting weights help with agerelated health problems? At age 70, I have diabetes, arthritis, and osteoporosis and recently read that strength training could improve my conditions. What can you tell me? – Looking for Help
develop a safe and effective routine you can continue on your own. To find one, ask your healthcare provider or contact a good health club or fitness facility in your area. You can also search for one online at reputable sites like the American Council on Exercise
Dear Looking, A growing body of research shows that strength-training exercises can have a profound impact on a person’s health as they age—and you’re never too old to start. Regular strength training, done at least two nonconsecutive days a week, helps you build muscle strength, increases your bone density, and improves your balance, coordination, and stamina. It can also help reduce the signs and symptoms of many chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, back pain, depression, and obesity. And some studies even show that it helps improve cognitive function too. Safety First For the most part, strengthtraining exercises—especially if you start conservatively and progress slowly—are safe for most seniors, even those with serious health conditions. But, if you have health concerns or if you are currently inactive, you should talk to your doctor about what may be appropriate for you. A good self-help resource to help you find an appropriate, safe exercise program is the “Exercise and Screening for You” tool at EASY (Exercise and Screening for You, www.easyforyou.info). Getting Started If you’ve never done strengthtraining exercises before, you may want to work with a personal trainer for a few sessions to help you
50plus SeniorNews •
(www.acefitness.org) or the IDEA Health & Fitness Association (www.ideafit.com). If personal training isn’t an option, there are lots of great senior strength-training videos you can purchase to guide you through a wide variety of exercises that you can do at home. Collage Video (www.collagevideo.com, (800) 8197111) sells dozens of age- and fitness-appropriate DVDs. Also see Go4Life (www.go4life.nia.nih.gov), a resource created by the National Institute on Aging that offers a free exercise DVD and guide that provides illustrated examples of exercises you can do at home to strengthen your body. You can order your free copies online or by calling (800) 222-2225.
Senior Classes If you don’t like exercising alone or need some motivation, consider joining a gym or call your local senior center to see if they offer any strength-training exercise classes. You should also check out SilverSneakers (www.silversneakers. com, (888) 423-4632) or Silver&Fit (www.silverandfit. com, (877) 427-4788). These are fitness programs offered in thousands of fitness centers, gyms, and YMCAs throughout the U.S. that offer special classes designed for older adults. These programs are available only to seniors that have certain Medicare supplemental policies or Medicare Advantage plans. Equipment If you work out at home, you’ll probably need to invest in some equipment. While some strength training can be done using your own body weight (like push-ups, sit-ups, and leg squats), hand weights, ankle weights, medicine balls, resistance bands, or rubber tubing are all great tools for strength training. You can find all these products at sporting-goods stores or online. Cans of soup, water bottles, or plastic milk containers filled with water or sand could also be used (like small hand weights) for resistance. Another strength-training tool you should know about is the Resistance Chair. This is an all-inone home fitness system that helps seniors maintain and improve their strength from a safe, seated position with minimal risk of injury. To learn more, see www.vqactioncare.com or call (800) 585-4920. Jim Miller is a regular contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior Book. www.savvysenior.org
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
Lancaster Man Celebrates Centennial
Moving Yourself or Moving Mom & Dad ... You Can Count on Rocky! Dedicated to Making Older Adult Transitions Easier, More Economical, and Lower in Stress We Can: • Organize and Implement the Entire Move • Create a Floor Plan for Your New Residence
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Ross Martin celebrates his 100th birthday surrounded by Lancashire Terrace staff members.
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Statistics show that there are more than 50,000 centenarians in the U.S., but Lancaster’s own Ross Martin falls into a unique category. Not only does he live independently, but his memory is also phenomenal. Ross Martin is a lifelong Lancastrian, and he knows the city well. He recalls riding home on a horse-drawn carriage as a child. On occasion, he was given a large bowl and some change and sent to the neighborhood store for ice cream. The whole family sat around the table enjoying good conversation with their dessert. Martin found his soul mate at a high school dance, and although he left the area to attend Drexel University in Philadelphia, he returned to a job here and he and Velma were married. He built a cottage for the two of them
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along Mill Creek. On a recent drive, he encountered the current owner, who was pleased to meet the man who built his home. Martin was an early member of the Overlook Golf Club, and he rode the trolley to Manheim Township to play. He was also a member of the Conestoga Country Club. Besides golf, he has enjoyed reading and the art of marquetry. After retirement, the Martins traveled to 46 U.S. states, which he has written extensively about in his journals. Of his many accomplishments, he considers his 74-year marriage to the love of his life (who passed away in 2009) his greatest.
(717) 295-HOME
Direct Line: (717) 615-6507
Serving Lancaster County for over 29 Years! ©2008. An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Prudential is a registered service mark of The Prudential Insurance Company of America. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Written and submitted by Susie Cromer, Resident Services, Lancashire Terrace Retirement Village
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January 2014
5
Tinseltown Talks
Elly May Offers Up Some Vittles Nick Thomas f ever an actor was recognized by one career role, it was Donna Douglas with her portrayal of Elly May in the highly popular CBS ’60s comedy The Beverly Hillbillies. In the four decades since the series ended its nine-season run in 1971, the drop-dead gorgeous blonde, a native of Pride, La., is still strongly identified with the show wherever she goes. Rather than distancing herself from the connection to Jed, Granny, Jethro, and the Clampett clam, Douglas has embraced her sitcom heritage and still makes public appearances as a real-life Southern belle. “Elly was a slice out of my life,” says Douglas, whose official website (www.donnadouglasofficialwebsite.com) was launched in 2012. “I was raised a tomboy, with one older brother and all male cousins. So I grew up swinging from vines and playing
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The cast of The Beverly Hillbillies
The cover of Douglas’ cookbook, Southern Favorites with a Taste of Hollywood
softball. I was getting ready for Jethro long before we ever met! I still adore Elly and we have a lot in common, with the same interests and values.” After Hillbillies ended, Douglas was offered many roles but accepted just a handful that she felt wouldn’t compromise her standards. “I’ve got no regrets about anything I turned down. I sold real estate for a while, made a couple of record albums, and speak at churches, ladies groups, and schools around the country. My days are full and I’m very happy!” This year, she also published a nostalgic cookbook, Southern Favorites with a Taste of Hollywood, a collection of recipes gathered over the years, many from friends including Debbie Reynolds, Buddy Ebsen, Phyllis Diller, and Valerie Harper. “The cookbook came about as a way to share my favorite recipes,” said
On-Line Publishers, Inc. and the Lancaster County Office of Aging have teamed up to bring you
18th annual
26th annual
Lancaster County 50plus EXPO
Lancaster Senior Games
Boomers, seniors, caregivers and their families welcome.
Monday May 5, 2014
Spooky Nook Sports 2913 Spooky Nook Road, Manheim (Just off Rt. 283, Salunga exit)
New Dates and Location!
exclusively for Lancaster County residents 55+
Monday thru Friday May 5–9, 2014
Each event will continue to maintain its own identity. Combining these two organizations’ events — each highly recognized in the senior community — together with the dynamic new location, Lancaster Celebrates Seniors will prove to be an enriching experience for the seniors of Lancaster County.
Contact us today about sponsor and exhibitor information! • 717.285.1350 • email info@50plusExpoPA.com 6
January 2014
50plus SeniorNews •
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
people are rushing all the time, and no Douglas, who recalls homecooked meals one sits and visits any longer.” prepared in the rich, Southern tradition Not a big fan of today’s television that many will also remember from their programming, Douglas says she likes to childhood. watch the classics in reruns, such as “Homemade dishes are almost Touched by an Angel as well as the unheard of today,” she lamented. occasional Hillbillies episode, which “They’re all premade in a box or from a brings back memories. drive-thru. That’s today’s way. But there “Elly may not have kissed many was something about the way your mom made dishes with a special touch—with a fellows during the show’s run, but she sure did kiss a heap of bit of this and a pinch of animals. Somewhere around that.” 500 were used during the Although her own series, provided by mother never used Hollywood animal trainer Granny’s “possum fat,” Frank Inn.” her childhood meals Today, she shows little weren’t exactly lean. sign of slowing down. “Lard and bacon “I seldom really rest,” grease, especially in the admits Douglas, who turned South, were cooking 80 in September. “I travel all essentials!” over the U.S. and Canada Interspersed between Donna Douglas today and have a very busy the book’s recipes are schedule. But I have to turn delightful personal down a lot of requests. I also garden, anecdotes from her Hollywood days. spend time with family and friends, and “I thought fans would enjoy a few still get quite a bit of fan mail. remembrances from my life, along with “My days are full and then some, so some photos from my scrapbook.” I’m always playing catch-up. Life has In an effort to remind readers of the been very good to me and full of long-lost art of good manners, there’s blessings for a little backwoods girl from also a quaint section called “Hollywood Louisiana who never had any thoughts of Social Graces.” Advice includes never a career in showbiz.” using your fork as a toothpick, chewing gum in someone else’s home, or Thomas’ features and columns have appeared answering a cell phone while a dinner in more than 300 magazines and newspapers, guest. and he is the author of Raised by the Stars, “Etiquette was taught in the South, but I’m afraid it’s a thing of the past now. published by McFarland. He can be reached at his blog: http://getnickt.blogspot.com Social graces are lacking all around us,
is seeking an ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE On-Line Publishers, Inc. has an opening for a highly motivated person with a professional attitude to sell print and online advertising as well as niche events. The successful candidate should: • Enjoy building and maintaining your own long-term business relationships. • Be highly motivated, detail oriented, and able to multitask. • Have good communication skills. • Show a willingness to learn and grow in a fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive compensation plan with a benefits package that includes health insurance and a 401(k) plan. If you have sales experience and are interested in joining our growing sales team, please send your resume and compensation history/requirements to danderson@onlinepub.com. On-Line Publishers, Inc. • 3912 Abel Drive • Columbia, PA 17512 • 717.285.1350 www.onlinepub.com
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50plus SeniorNews •
January 2014
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Are You Reading? Join the 2014 One Book, One Community campaign by reading The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan
Get a copy at your local library or area bookseller
© Sophie Egan
93 libraries in Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, and York counties and their community partners present the regional reading campaign:
Visit www.oboc.org or your library to learn more
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Public Vote Selects Book for 2014 Reading Campaign Representatives from libraries in Berks, Dauphin, Lebanon, Lancaster, Perry, and York counties recently announced the selection of The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan as the 2014 One Book, One Community selection. As part of the campaign’s 10th anniversary, organizers wanted to promote community involvement in the selection of the title, rather than handing over a single title for the 2014 campaign. A public vote in October selected a book from a narrowed-down list of three titles. The vote also established a new timeline for the community read project, which previously took place in the fall. The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan is a non-fiction book that tells the
Book Review Unpacking Memories: The Story of a Suitcase, a Country Doctor, & a Community
(717) 394-9773
Emergencies & New Patients Welcome Evenings Available
951 ROHRERSTOWN RD., LANCASTER
Have you photographed a smile that just begs to be shared? Send us your favorite smile—your children, grandchildren, friends, even your “smiling” pet!—and it could be 50plus Senior News’ next Smile of the Month! You can submit your photos (with captions) either digitally to mjoyce@onlinepub.com or by mail to:
50plus Senior News Smile of the Month 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Digital photos must be at least 4x6'' with a resolution of 300 dpi. No professional photos, please. Please include a SASE if you would like to have your photo returned.
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January 2014
50plus SeniorNews •
story of the 1930s Dust Bowl primarily through the eyes of those who did not flee but stayed and watched the disintegration of their homes. Residents of the six-county region are encouraged to read the book during January in preparation to attend free programs and discussions that will be held at public libraries during February. The public will also be invited to a post-read celebration that will be held the end of February or early March. Libraries in the six counties will stock copies of the book that can be borrowed free of charge in January. Books will also be available for purchase at local booksellers. More information is available at www.oboc.org.
By Deborah Sweaney npacking Memories: The Story of a Suitcase, a Country Doctor, & a Community is the story of life in the 1950s in a tiny town in Missouri where Deborah Sweaney, her siblings, her mother, and her country-doctor father lived. She was inspired to write Unpacking Memories when she opened an old, forgotten suitcase stored in her basement. It was filled with newspaper clippings, photographs, cards, and notes packed away in the summer of 1960. Frank Sweaney was a doctor in the rural community of Oregon, Mo. His welcome to town on the day he arrived was an office packed with patients. It remained that way until Doc Sweaney got sick and died. He made house calls late into the night and on weekends, took time to talk with and listen to his patients, and, as his daughter writes, believed that healthcare was far more about care than about medicine. But he worked too hard, ignored his own health, and died a young man. Towns like Oregon, Mo., dotted the American landscape in the years following World War II. Unpacking Memories portrays life before the interstate highway
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system, strip malls, and technology changed America. The book returns the reader to a time and place that is no more, back to the days of black-and-white television, the March of Dimes, and doctors who administered care in place of drugs. Sweaney writes of a community that nurtured its youth through scouting, 4-H, and county fairs. It was a world where kids had the freedom to run and play unsupervised— climbing trees, playing cowboys and dress-up, and creating their own games. Unpacking Memories is available from www.deborahsweaney.com and other online sources and can be purchased at Whistlestop Bookshop at 129 W. High St. in Carlisle. About the Author Deborah Sweaney lives in Cumberland County. After residing in Washington, D.C. for 30 years, she and her husband left the Washington area for Pennsylvania in 2006. She is a frequent lecturer at the Cumberland County Historical Society, a former adjunct instructor at Messiah College, and a consultant for National History Day. www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
CROSSWORD
Solutions for all puzzles can be found on page 12
WORD SEARCH
Across
SUDOKU
1. 6. 10. 14. 15. 16. 17. 19. 20. 21. 23. 24. 25.
Famed Island garlands Tempo Decrease Dwarf buffalo Aquatic bird Ohio city Sharp Bristle Noblewoman Fr. saint (abbr.) Merriment Bowman
27. 31. 33. 34. 35. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 47.
Singer Callas Lightweight wood Remediate Witches Mouth off Fixes Beer relative Digress Wager Fastened Badger Iniquities Rounded
48. 51. 53. 54. 57. 61. 63. 65. 66. 67. 68. 69. 70.
22. 24. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 34. 36. 37. 38. 41. 43.
Annums (abbr.) Crazes Fmr. president Parent Prayer word Lease So Bundles Elderly Applaud Saddle horse Flower holder Saw Pack Most kempt
46. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59.
Alit Some Japanese capital Jeweled headdresses Tobacco holder Redact Building toy Deceptive maneuver Aspect Mason’s Street Hurried N.M. city Fencing swords
Down
1. Negatives 2. Double-reed instrument 3. Tense 4. Bunsen burner 5. Temp. (abbr.) 6. Romance language 7. Organic compound 8. Hawkeye State 9. Shoes 10. Time zone (abbr.) 11. Inundated 12. Menu 13. Go inside 18. So. school inits.
Ex-serviceman Ogles Summate Racket Confronts Time zone (abbr.) Solo Make over Homework Cay Hawaiian volcano goddess 60. LAX postings 62. Turner or Williams 64. Lyric poem
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Traveltizers
Travel Appetizers: Stories that Whet the Appetite for Travel
The Gone with the Wind Trail Trail that leads people to five sites that are in some way connected to the book, the film, or the author. allow three days to explore the Our first trail stop is in Clayton Gone with the Wind Trail in and County, where Mitchell’s relatives near Atlanta, but it takes me only had a rural home. As a child, one to become a Windie. A Windie Mitchell visited often and listened is a die-hard GWTW fan, a person intently as her family elders told who is immersed in the history, stories about their experiences legends, and legacy surrounding the during the Civil War. Pulitzer Prize-winning novel and Many of these tales were enormously popular film. A Tudor Revival mansion had been transformed into scenes in her novel, Some dream of Rhett; others subdivided into small apartments leading her heirs to dub Clayton dream of Scarlett’s fancy clothes or by the time Mitchell and her Gone with the Wind has earned husband moved in. 17-inch waist. As for me, I dream of One of the most popular County the “Official Home of Gone more money than any other publishing a novel that wins one of pieces in The Road to Tara with the Wind.” (To Mitchell’s movie in box-office history, Museum is a replica of the dismay, Selznick upgraded the the world’s most prestigious awards adjusted for inflation. “drapery dress,” worn by comfortable farmhouse of Mitchell’s and is turned into a film that earns Vivian Leigh. memory into Tara, a much grander me millions. mansion that he thought would On the surface, GWTW is the better appeal to movie audiences.) wildly romantic tale of Scarlett story of the American South during and overnight sensation. David Selznick The Road to Tara Museum has a O’Hara, a headstrong Southern belle produced the movie, which is the immediately after the Civil War, a time painting of the old farmhouse, in (played by Vivian Leigh in the movie) when an entire society was challenged highest-grossing film in box-office and her love-hate relationship with Rhett and ultimately transformed. history, earning an estimated $3.3 billion addition to authentic Civil War items and reproductions of many of the Butler, a dashing, successful opportunist in today’s dollars. The book, written by first-time costumes worn in the film, including the (depicted by Clark Gable). To capitalize on the public’s interest, novelist Margaret Mitchell, was released green “drapery dress” that Leigh wears in But on a deeper level, GWTW is the the state of Georgia created a GWTW to the public in 1936 and became an By Andrea Gross
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one of the movie’s most memorable scenes. But it’s not until I see the display of foreign-edition books that I begin to morph from casual tourist to possible Windie. GWTW has been translated into more than 40 languages and sold in more than 50 countries, from Albania and Burma to North Korea and Serbia. Why are people all over the world so intrigued by a story about a war that took place in America so long ago? We learn the answer the next day when we visit the Margaret Mitchell House, where the author lived when she began her novel. It takes only a few minutes to see the small apartment but much longer to peruse the exhibits in the nearby hallway. There, on a large signboard, is a quote by Margaret Mitchell: “If the novel has a theme, it is that of survival.” Why, of course. GWTW addresses a basic concern: If their old world is “gone with the wind,” how do people create a new one that will work in their new circumstances? This is a question asked by everyone who has ever suffered a hardship, be whatever the cause. When seen in this light, it’s easy to understand the story’s universal and enduring appeal. Our next stop is Atlanta’s Public Library, where there are more than 1,500
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The apartment where Mitchell lived when she began her novel has been reproduced as accurately as possible in the Margaret Mitchell House.
Stately Oaks is an 1839 home in Clayton County. Although it bears some resemblance to Tara, the plantation home depicted in the movie, it is much more elegant than the home that Mitchell described in her book.
Windies from all over the world visit Margaret Mitchell’s grave, which is in Oakland Cemetery.
Gable got $160,000 plus a bonus that enabled him to divorce his wife and marry Carole Lombard, the love of his real life. On the other hand, his co-star Vivian Leigh got a mere $30,000. Yes, Gable was a mega-star, but still, I can’t help but wonder what Mitchell, who was quite the feminist for her time, thought of that. Finally, we double back to Atlanta to visit Oakland Cemetery, where Mitchell is buried next to her husband. Her tombstone is small compared to many and gives no hint of her fame. It’s simply inscribed with her married name, Margaret Mitchell Marsh. Someone, a Windie no doubt, has decorated the grave with pink flowers, reputedly Mitchell’s favorite color. I want to extend my stay in Georgia, to delve more deeply into the GWTW phenomenon and to learn more about the era in which the novel is set. But we have a plane to catch, so I console myself by remembering Scarlett’s words, “Tomorrow is another day.” I’ll be back. www.gwtwtrail.com
of Mitchell’s personal items, including her old Remington typewriter and 1937 Pulitzer Prize certificate. We’re even more fascinated by the
items on display at the Marietta GWTW Museum, Scarlett on the Square, which holds a treasure-trove of photos and ephemera. I examine the film contracts.
Photos © Irv Green unless otherwise noted; story by Andrea Gross (www.andreagross.com).
50plus SeniorNews •
January 2014
11
The Way I See It
It’s Over So Soon Mike Clark
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y now, most of us are back to our routine day to day. The Christmas tree stands lifeless in the corner of the room where, just days ago, it was imbued with a certain seasonal magic—a magic especially obvious at night when its lights glowed warmly, and the bright, shiny ornaments reflected the illumination in a colorful palette of red, green, blue, silver, and gold throughout the room. The electrical plug now droops over a bottom branch. Nobody notices; the lights remain cold. The tree has seen its best days, done its holiday duty, and will soon be stripped of its finery. The township mulch pile is the next stop for some trees. Others will be enclosed in giant bags and placed curbside on trash-removal day. There are tiring days ahead for those who must heave the woody remains onto a truck.
In the meantime, some gifts remain under the tree. Sweater sleeves appear to slither over the shallow sides of their boxes to touch the floor, chainstore tags dangle from bathrobes and slippers, and returnable items are bagged up and ready to go back to the mall at the next convenient moment. The best gifts are already in use. That’s not to say that sweaters, slippers, and bathrobes aren’t great gifts. They are. It’s just that most people do not feel compelled to model slippers and robes when they’re outside the home. It would just be odd. There’s not much about
those items that elicit admiration and approval, anyway. As for sweaters, I haven’t looked good in one since I was young and almost slim (maybe not slim, but a lot less bulgy). Stockings will be taken down, and not necessarily with the care in which they were hung; I yank, and tacks fly. They land in places where only bare feet can find them. The small stuffers of pen sets, bottles of fragrance, candy bars, shaving razors, and all sorts of other knickknackery have been whisked away. I shook my stocking out several times.
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I’m convinced it was only hung to add symmetry to the lineup; I didn’t ask. Listen, it’s all good. I have little use for pen sets; the ink is nearly dried up in the ones I already own. My bottle of Old Spice is almost full. It’s obvious that I don’t need candy bars. I mostly use an electric razor, when I remember to charge it. And I certainly have no use for knickknacks and the dust they collect. It’s a new year. We embrace hope and the idea of a do-over for mistakes, poor decisions, and bad habits that have hindered our aspirations and relationships. We vow to be better. We will lose weight, quit smoking, be more patient with our spouses and children, unselfishly serve mankind, and make other resolutions, numerous and diverse. We will invariably fail to follow through on some of our loftier aims. It happens because we are human. Being human is a good general excuse for why we often fall short of our grand schemes. But resilience of spirit is another aspect of being human. When we fail, we feel challenged. We back up, take a running start, and head for the goal, again and again. That’s when good things happen, and we become better human beings. Keep at it—you’ll see. Happy New Year.
January 2014
50plus SeniorNews •
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
Art and Antiques by Dr. Lori
Collecting Colored Glass Lori Verderame oda lime glass is basically colorless. Metals and oxides can be added to glass to change its color during the glassblowing, molding, or machineproduction process. The following additives make the distinctive colors:
• Purple or amethyst glass: manganese • Violet glass: nickel • Black glass: nickel depending on the concentration • White glass: fluorspar or zinc oxide • Milk glass: tin oxide, arsenic, antimony
• Red glass: selenium • Ruby/cranberry glass: copper or gold, depending on the concentration • Amber glass: sulfur, carbon, iron salts • Yellow-green or Vaseline glass: uranium • Yellow glass: cadmium sulfide • Yellow-brown glass: titanium • Dark-green glass: iron oxide and chromium • Green-blue glass: iron oxide • Turquoise glass: copper oxide • Blue glass: cobalt with potash
Why are wine bottles green? Why are beer bottles brown? Why are medicine bottles blue? The answers to these questions speak volumes about American culture and design. For instance, bottles for wine and beer were typically dark in color, such as green or brown, in order to protect the wine or beer from the light that could change its taste. Dark-colored wine bottles also hide the unsightly sediment that accumulates at the bottom of a wine bottle.
S
please see GLASS page 14
Who Has the Best Bites in Central PA? Help 50plus Senior News celebrate the local eateries that deserve national fame!
Where do you frequent for: Breakfast _________________________________________ Lunch ____________________________________________ Dinner____________________________________________ Ethnic Cuisine _____________________________________ Celebrating _______________________________________ Bakery ___________________________________________ Coffeehouse ______________________________________ Fast Food _________________________________________ Seafood __________________________________________ Steak_____________________________________________
Humane League Pet of the Month
Outdoor Dining____________________________________ Romantic Setting __________________________________
Katie Katie is a mild-mannered lady who prides herself on being excellent company to keep. This loving, 6-year-old feline likes to hang out by your side, indulging in grooming sessions or just quietly enjoying your presence. When her people are busy though, Katie doesn’t mind quality alone time in a cozy bed or soaking up sunlight from a nearby window. Katie loves her people, but she also has enjoyed the company of other kitties during her stay at the shelter. She is already spayed and litter-box trained. Taken in as a stray, Katie is looking for a loving family to spend her life with. Katie is a wonderful companion and she can’t wait to get started on the best years of her life with you. Katie ID No. 19970461 For more information, please contact the Humane League of Lancaster County at (717) 393-6551.
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50plus SeniorNews •
January 2014
13
Calendar of Events
Lancaster County
Support Groups
Jan. 13, 10 to 11 a.m. Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group Garden Spot Village Concord Room 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland (717) 355-6076 jmorton@gardenspotvillage.org Jan. 16, noon Brain Tumor Support Group Lancaster General Health Campus Wellness Center 2100 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster (717) 626-2894
Free and open to the public Jan. 22, 6 to 8 p.m. Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania Support Group Lancaster General Hospital – Stager Room 5 555 N. Duke St., Lancaster (800) 887-7165, ext. 104
If you have an event you would like to include, please email information to mjoyce@onlinepub.com for consideration.
Community Programs Jan. 6, 6 p.m. Red Rose Singles Meeting Park City Diner 884 Plaza Blvd., Lancaster (717) 475-3007 Jan. 8, 15, 22, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Three-Part Educational Series: “The Joy of Being Amish” Garden Spot Village Chapel 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland (717) 917-5212
Jan. 27, 2 to 3 p.m. Parkinson’s Support Group Garden Spot Village Concord Room 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland (717) 355-6259 jshaffer@gardenspotvillage.org
Free and open to the public Jan. 12, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pennsylvania Music Expo Continental Inn 2285 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster (717) 898-1246 www.recordcollectors.org
Jan. 18, 8:30 a.m. Busy Buddies: Widows & Widowers Social Group Dutch Way Restaurant 365 Route 41, Gap Reservations required (484) 667-0738
Jan. 17, 6 to 9 p.m. Music Fridays Downtown Lancaster (717) 341-0028
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Elizabethtown Area Senior Center – (717) 367-7984 Jan. 2, 9:30 a.m. – Stamping Craft Class Jan. 9, 11 a.m. – Trivia with Bob Jan. 14, 11 a.m. – “The Aging Eye” Health Seminar Lancaster House North Happy Hearts Club Senior Center – (717) 299-1278 Tuesdays, 1 p.m. – Varied Activities Thursdays, noon – Pinochle Lancaster Neighborhood Senior Center – (717) 299-3943 Jan. 10, 10:30 a.m. – Consumer Corner Jan. 15, 10:30 a.m. – When We Were Younger Jan. 23, 10 a.m. – Blanket Bingo
Luis Munoz Marin Senior Center – (717) 295-7989 Jan. 6, 9:30 a.m. – Three Kings Celebration Jan. 14, 10 a.m. – Winter Safety with Bonnie
from page 13
January 2014
Columbia Senior Center – (717) 684-4850 Jan. 9, 10:15 a.m. – Manicures by American Beauty Academy Jan. 13, 10:15 a.m. – Computer Class: “How to Search Websites” Jan. 22, 11 a.m. – Signs and Symptoms of Hypothermia
Lititz Senior Center – (717) 626-2800 Jan. 15, 10 a.m. – Drumming and Zumba with Heidi Jan. 16, 10:15 a.m. – Music and Dancing with Leslie Bower Jan. 23, 10:15 a.m. – “Is It Worth the Gamble?” by Compass Mark
Lititz Public Library, 651 Kissel Hill Road, Lititz, (717) 626-2255 Jan. 14, 7 p.m. – Affordable Healthcare Act Information Session Jan. 15, 7 p.m. – Genealogy Club Jan. 18, 1:30 p.m. – Mystery of the Pequea Silver Mines
Often used for powder jars and bedroom vanity pieces, purple or amethyst glass has a long history. Purple or amethyst glass was first used in ancient Egypt and is a popular collectible today. In many 19th-century and early 20th-century general stores and early pharmacy or apothecary shops, blue bottles lined the shelves. Blue bottle glass was inexpensive to make, which was of interest to those who were trying to attract customers to new potions, tonics, and medicinal products. The cobalt-blue bottles
Cocalico Senior Association – (717) 336-7489 Jan. 7, 10 a.m. – Visit to Adamstown Library Jan. 16, 8:30 a.m. – Hot Breakfast with Rick Jan. 24, 10 a.m. – Music by Harry Wilkenson
Lancaster Rec. Senior Center – (717) 392-2115, ext. 147 Jan. 6, 1:30 p.m. – Open Pickleball Jan. 7, 1 p.m. – Drawing and Painting Art Studio Class Jan. 8, 1:30 p.m. – Open Indoor Shuffleboard
Library Programs
GLASS
Senior Center Activities
were attractive and became connected with signs of good health. Ruby glass is associated with its additive, gold, making the collecting of ruby glass a highsociety status symbol. Ruby glass is often featured in objects such as decanter sets, goblets, and vases. Milk glass was a Venetian invention, the site of a longstanding history of glassblowing and glassworks. Milk glass was commonly used for items at weddings, such as bride’s baskets to hold money for the newlyweds,
50plus SeniorNews •
since milk glass resembled porcelain. Color reveals a great deal about the chemistry and history of collecting glass. Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel’s Auction Kings. To learn about your antiques: www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori, @DrLori on Twitter, and (888) 4311010.
Millersville Senior Center – (717) 871-9600 Jan. 10, 10:15 a.m. – Program by Comedian Ken Hussar Jan. 17, 10:15 a.m. – Storytelling and Classical Guitarist Lauren Knatz Jan. 31, 10:15 a.m. – Entertainment by Rick Kilby Next Gen Senior Center – (717) 786-4770 Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – Chorus Practice Jan. 2, 10:30 a.m. – Trip to Ferguson & Hassler Jan. 9, 10 a.m. – Intergenerational Activity with Senior Buddies Rodney Park Happy Hearts Club Senior Center – (717) 393-7786 Tuesdays, noon – Pinochle Wednesdays, 1 p.m. – Varied Activities Thursdays, noon – Bingo www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
MEMORIES
from page 1
and pillowcases. “I would sit and watch TV with a needle in my hand. I liked to do that even as a child. It was my time to relax. It was very calming,” she said. Creating tote bags gave her that same feeling, so she kept making them to give to family and friends. Because everyone loved the tote bags she made, her husband and daughter thought she could sell them. They brainstormed name ideas and came up with Totelly Unique. “No two tote bags I make are alike. I now make three different sizes: a small, purse-type tote; a medium-size tote that would carry a laptop; and a large one to carry more items,” Kolanko said. She sold her first tote bags to the store where she gets her glasses. “They said, ‘You should bring some in and people will buy them,’” she said. “The first time I walked away with being paid for something I made was really exciting.” The 58-year-old was a full-time physical therapist for VNA for 30 years before her mother needed her care. She now takes her Totelly Unique bags to area craft shows and would like to expand the territory she has attended.
“I enjoy embellish the meeting people totes, my best and making friend’s father contacts. It’s a passed away, and I really enjoyable wanted to make business.” something for her Besides using as a keepsake for “beautiful and her dad,” Kolanko unusual” said. “He was a placemats, pastor and had Several memorial tie pins made from neckties. Kolanko now many ties, and I adds handmade thought I could flowers and probably make other some lovely embellishments flowers out of his to her tote bags. ties. So I asked her “I’d sit at for some and night with my made her and her mom and make mom some flower flowers” for the brooches. tote bags, she “That brought Tie pins, also created from an oxford shirt. said. She’d make such joy to my a “poofy” flower heart that I began and put something in it like costume to do the same for family and friends, jewelry or a button. and it spread from there.” The tie flowers are 99.9 percent hand Then on other tote bags she’d just use sewn with only a tiny bead of hot glue jewelry, like retro pins, from old on the back that can’t be seen, she said. fashioned to contemporary. She also uses the tag that comes on the Kolanko also has added a side branch back of the tie, adding beauty to the to her business, Tie Flowers. “When I had begun making flowers to flower.
The Beauty in Nature
Blue Spruces and American Hollies
M
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Your key to choosing the right living and care options for you or a loved one.
18th Edition Now Available!
Clyde McMillan-Gamber aturing blue spruce and American holly trees have pyramidal forms, drooping limbs like halfcollapsed umbrellas, and densely packed needles, or leaves, the year around. Blue spruces are native to the Rocky Mountains, and wild American hollies are barely established in southeastern Pennsylvania. But both species are commonly planted on local lawns, as elsewhere, because of their beauties, including shapes, evergreen
“I try to make the back as beautiful as the front,” she said. Kolanko also makes flowers out of fabrics other than ties. “If a mom or grandma had a special dress or scarf, or even a tablecloth around which the family had dinner, I could make flowers from these,” she said. She has made pocket squares out of shirts for a man to remember his dad, hairclips using ties for little girls, and tote bags using pockets, buttons, and belt loops from a man’s jeans as pockets on the bag. It gives Kolanko the most pleasure when customers see a flower for the first time and tears come to their eyes, or when the tie is from a very special occasion. She recently worked on a tie flower pin from a tie that a man wore to his daughter’s wedding, and her mom gave it to her for Christmas. Also, in the future when she is able to travel, Kolanko would like to teach women in other countries to make tote bags and flowers to help them earn money. “A lady from Nicaragua likes to wear bright and colorful flowers in her hair, and she said she would like me to teach her to make them,” Kolanko said.
leaves, and decorative cones on the spruces and strikingly red berries on the hollies. And both offer year-round shelter, and seasonal food, to the wildlife that add their beauties to those of the trees. Heaps of snow push the limbs of those trees down tighter than normal. The snow and foliage together protect squirrels, hawks, owls, and small birds nestled under them from cold, winter
Call today for your free copy! (717) 285-1350 In print. Online at onlinepub.com.
please see HOLLY page 17
50plus SeniorNews •
January 2014
15
Salute to a Veteran
He Flew in 32 B-17 Missions over Germany and Came Out Without a Scratch Robert D. Wilcox hen Walter Jones graduated from high school, he reasoned that, since it was likely that he would soon be drafted, he better enlist in the Army Air Corps. In that way, he could follow his long-held dream of becoming a pilot. So, on Nov. 28, 1942, he enlisted and shipped to Miami for basic training. After basic, the Air Corps discovered that he was color blind, so that was the end of his dream of becoming a pilot. They then put him through a battery of tests and found that he was adept at radio work. So, he was sent to Scott Field in St. Louis to learn to become a radio operator. Morse code seemed to come to him naturally, and he did so well with it that he was made an instructor, teaching Morse code there for 18 months before he was sent to more extensive training to
W
equip him to be a B-17 gave heading radio operator. information. He could Jones says there was a forward radio fixes, lot more to that training known as position than he ever imagined. reports, to the navigator. On a B-17, the radio And as long as the operator compartment navigator knew where was just behind the the radio signal was bomb bay and just in coming from, based front of the waist section upon the heading of the of the Flying Fortress. signal from the radio He had far more operator, the navigator responsibilities than just could get a fix on where manning the main radio the aircraft was. Pvt. Walter N. Jones in 1943 at gear for the aircraft, After that training, Scott Airfield in St. Louis. however. He also had a Jones was assigned to a .50 caliber machine gun B-17 crew at Lincoln, mounted in the ceiling of his Neb., and they were soon headed for compartment. And he primarily assisted combat, flying over the northern route, the navigator. through Goose Bay, Labrador; Reykjavik, He had a couple of instruments that Iceland; and Valley, Wales. duplicated those of the navigator that In England, he was assigned to the
303rd Bomb Group (called the Hell’s Angels) in Molesworth, England, and flew his first mission on Dec. 6, 1944. On that and later missions, he found that there was a lot to keep the radio operator busy in combat. He would monitor the group frequencies to find out any changes to the flight plan. If the lead plane decided to switch to a secondary target, or if a plane fell out of formation, he would record the message over the group channel and pass the information on to the pilot. He logged all radio events and as much of what he could see going on around him as possible. He would note which planes went down, when and where, along with the number of chutes seen to come from the plane. He checked with his crew every 15 minutes on intercom to make sure all were OK. If needed, he would have been one of the
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first ones to tend to a wounded saw enemy fighters circling but was crewmember. never attacked, “probably,” he says, He remembers well that, on one of “because we flew such tight formation.” his missions, his ball turret gunner He remembers having lost two hadn’t yet entered the ball turret, and engines more than once, and there was Jones found him flopped over, many a time his plane was riddled by apparently asleep. Jones examined him flak, yet it somehow always got them and found that the man’s oxygen tube home in one piece. had come loose from the main supply After his last mission, on April 3, line, and he 1945, Jones was getting no came home to oxygen. the U.S. on He the luxurious promptly French reattached it passenger and brought liner, Ile de him to life. France, except But a few that it was more minutes now packed at the 28,000 with 10,000 feet that they men. were flying, He was and the man discharged T/Sgt Walter Jones (far right, front row) surely would from the Air with his combat crew in 1945. have died. Corps as a As all radio tech sergeant operators did, Jones had flare pistols, so in May at Fort Dix, N.J., and then he could signal other aircraft when became a lineman for Bell Telephone. formations were forming (when he was Did his getting that job have in the lead ship) or to signal that there anything to do with his World War II were wounded on board when the knowledge of electronics? plane was returning to base. He also Laughing, he says, “Not a chance. had a clear view of the bomb bay and They told me to forget all that stuff. could check the area for damage or a They wanted me to learn the Bell way.” hung bomb when the aircraft came off Well, he did and, after varying levels the target. of responsibility, retired from Bell in It was also his responsibility to 1983. dispense the chaff that was used to He lived for many years in New scramble enemy anti-aircraft artillery Holland and now lives comfortably in a radar when over the target area. He retirement home in Quarryville with would unbind the chaff bundles and Marie, his wife of 31 years. But he still release the chaff out a chute that was has vivid memories of those missions built into the radio room. high over Germany, with enemy flak On many of his missions, his plane bursting everywhere. was with 1,000 or more other planes, Colonel Wilcox flew a B-17 bomber in and his plane often led his group, an especially dangerous position. He often Europe in World War II.
HOLLY
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from page 15
winds and the keen vision of predators. Through that leaf and snow insulation, and their own fur or feathers, much body heat of those mammals and birds is retained, keeping them warm. In winter, owls shelter in the spruces and hollies during the day, while redtailed hawks, Cooper’s hawks, mourning doves, dark-eyed juncos, American crows, blue jays, and other kinds of birds snuggle in them at night. Those trees are good nursery sites in early spring because their evergreen foliage conceals eggs and young. The hawks also hide in those trees to ambush squirrels and birds. Squirrels, mice, and wintering www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
American goldfinches, pine siskins, chickadees, and other bird species eat seeds in the spruce cones. The small birds cling to the cones to pull seeds from between the scales. Flocks of American robins, cedar waxwings, and other kinds of birds consume berries on the hollies during winter. And robins also do so in March when migrating north. Look closer at blue spruces and American hollies on lawns. You will enjoy the beauties of those trees and the animals that benefit from them. Clyde McMillan-Gamber is a Lancaster County Parks naturalist.
50plus SeniorNews •
January 2014
17
The Search for Our Ancestry
What’s New at Ancestry.com? Angelo Coniglio
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Both sites have extensive images of believe is the least helpful to new U.S. federal census records and access to researchers. manifests of passenger ships that brought Ancestry.com also has family tree immigrants to the U.S. If a searched options, for which it encourages the use name on FamilySearch yields information of its site as well as its associated software, on a ship’s manifest, Family Tree Maker. that site just transfers However, it’s not as you to Ellis Island’s forward as It’s a good idea to website (www.ellis FamilySearch is with its use Ancestry.com island.org) to see the Family Tree function. document’s image, Generally, it’s a good and FamilySearch while the same search idea to use both of in concert. What on Ancestry.com will these sites in concert. produce the actual What you don’t find on you don’t find on image; furthermore, it one, you may find one, you may find on can be downloaded the other. Images may on the other. and printed. be clearer on one than In my experience, on the other, or it may Ancestry.com is more be simpler to make user friendly and more intuitive in its use copies. You may find that due to indexing than FamilySearch. I find that errors on either site, a name search on, FamilySearch also tends to steer the user say, the 1930 U.S. federal census on to its Family Tree function, which I FamilySearch fails to find your relative,
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y last few columns have reviewed changes to the free Mormon genealogy research website FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org). The most recognized subscription genealogy site is Ancestry.com. As previously noted, Ancestry.com may be considered expensive by many beginning researchers; however, the service does offer free 14-day trials. It is available for free at many public libraries and at most Mormon FamilySearch Centers (FSCs). Many features of FamilySearch may also be found on Ancestry.com. These include images of many European civil birth, marriage, and death records. Ancestry.com, however, has records from some European towns that FamilySearch does not, while FamilySearch has church baptism and marriage records for U.S. cities, which Ancestry doesn’t.
Job Opportunities LANCASTER COUNTY EMPLOYERS NEED YOU!! Age 55 or over? Unemployed? The 55+ Job Bank is one of three services offered by Employment Unit at the Office of Aging. Jobs are matched with those looking for work. Based on an evaluation of your skills and abilities, we can match you with a position needed by a local employer. Some employers are specifically looking for older workers because of the reliability and experience they bring to the workplace. There is a mix of full-time and part-time jobs covering all shifts, requiring varying levels of skill and experience, and offering a wide range of salaries. The other services available through the Office of Aging are the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) and the regularly scheduled Job Search Workshops.
For more job listings, call the Lancaster County Office of Aging
at (717) 299-7979 or visit
www.co.lancaster.pa.us/lanco_aging
Lancaster County Office of Aging 150 N. Queen Street, Suite 415 Lancaster, PA 18
January 2014
50plus SeniorNews •
while a search of the same census on Ancestry.com gives the results you wanted. Or vice versa! Ancestry.com, like FamilySearch, has online instructional videos. Though they are not as extensive and are not grouped by nation, subject, etc., they too can be very helpful. Included are such titles as “Coming to America – Finding Your Immigrant Ancestors,” “Polish Ancestry,” “Irish Ancestry,” “Finding Females in Your Family Tree,” and “Forward Thinking – Tracing the Children of Your Ancestors and Their Children.” This latter video shows that there is much more to genealogical research than just finding one’s direct ancestors. Those ancestors had siblings who had children, and their descendants are your relatives. This video explains how to identify them. Like FamilySearch, Ancestry.com has options to allow searching by an individual’s name. But unlike
E.O.E.
RETAIL SUPPORT – PT Large department store seeks person to supervise a team of associates to ensure merchandise is properly signed; oversee timely sign setup/removal; conduct audits for accuracy; and maintain sign library/supplies. Need one to three years’ retail sales/support supervisor experience. SN120038.01 MAIL DELIVERY – PT Suburban retirement community is seeking a reliable person to deliver daily mail within their campus complex. Must have a valid driver’s license and be subjected to a pre-employment drug screen. Work approximately 16 hours/week, Monday – Friday. SN120045.02
VIEW OUR JOB LIST We list other jobs on the Web at www.co.lancaster.pa.us/ lanco_aging. To learn more about applying for the 55+ Job Bank and these jobs, call the Employment Unit at (717) 299-7979. SN-GEN.03
LAUNDRY AIDE – FT Nursing/rehab facility looking for person to provide laundry service for residents. Handle soiled linens; load/unload washers and dryers; and sort/fold cleaned and finished items. Must be able to lift 50 pounds, push heavy carts, and operate large-capacity washers. SN120046.04
— Volunteer Opportunities — Have you made any New Year’s resolutions? How about making a resolution that will enrich your life and the life of an older person in your community? The volunteer opportunities available at Lancaster County Office of Aging are diverse, offer flexibility, and require a minimal time commitment. As a volunteer, you can choose to provide a consumer with hands-on help with laundry, grocery shopping, or cleaning. You can also provide socialization as a Phone Pal or Friendly Visitor. There are also several specialized programs for volunteers through our agency. They include the Volunteer Ombudsman and APPRISE volunteer programs. Volunteers are also invited to participate in several special events during the year, such as the distribution of donated chicken barbecue dinners and the Christmas holiday program. For more information about any of these opportunities and others, contact Bev Via, volunteer coordinator, at (717) 299-7979 or by emailing aging@co.lancaster.pa.us. Becoming an Office of Aging volunteer is one resolution you’ll enjoy keeping!
www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
FamilySearch, when you do so on Ancestry.com, many sources can be viewed in their original format, rather than in the transcribed version. In some instances, selecting “View Image” on
FamilySearch will simply transfer the user directly to Ancestry.com, and to see the record you must log on there, as a paid user, or from a library or FSC that allows access.
As with many genealogy sites, Ancestry.com is continually tweaking its functions and adding to the already vast array of information it holds. I’ll go into more detail about that next time.
Early Warning for Alzheimer’s: Peanut Butter? The sense of smell may be an important clue in a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers at the University of Florida ran an experiment designed to test the ability of Alzheimer’s patients to detect odors, based on the fact that impaired smell is often one of the first effects of cognitive decline. The main ingredient in the test: peanut butter. The scientists capped subjects’ nostrils one at a time and observed the distance at which each participant could smell a teaspoon of peanut butter, which was used because
Write to Angelo at genealogytips@aol.com or visit his website, www.bit.ly/AFCGen. He is the author of the book The Lady of the Wheel (La Ruotaia), based on his genealogical research of Sicilian foundlings. See www.bit.ly/ruotaia or www.amzn.to/racalmuto.
On Seeing Snow for the First Time The little boy stood by the window watching the morning sky. Something strange was falling from heaven. He knew neither what nor why.
its odor doesn’t include any secondary effects like stinging or burning (as other smells generally do). They found that in patients who had been previously diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the left nostril’s sense of smell was significantly more impaired than the right. Control subjects who either didn’t suffer from cognitive decline, or who had different kinds of cognitive disability, didn’t exhibit the same discrepancy. The finding could serve as a vital early warning of Alzheimer’s, a disease that’s difficult to detect in its early stages.
He had never seen anything like it, But it was pretty and oh-so-white. It fell to the ground and stayed there, Truly a beautiful sight. “O, Mama, come quickly,” he called her, “and see what’s happening this morn. The weather’s all mixed up and crazy, ’Cause today it’s raining popcorn.” Written and submitted by Wilma Musser
Connect with the people you need most – customers! Lancaster County
omen’s Expo us o t r Talk ponso ts u tor o ab exhibi s. and rtunitie o opp
May 17, 2014 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Spooky Nook Sports 2913 Spooky Nook Road, Manheim (Just off Rt. 283 at the Salunga exit)
The third annual women’s expo in Lancaster County will be held in spring 2014. It features lively demonstrations, shopping, free spa treatments, and a fashion show. A wide variety of exhibitors provides information that embraces the many facets of a woman’s life, including:
Health & Wellness Finance Home Shopping Technology Beauty Nutrition Fashion and more!
717.285.1350
FREE advance guest registration online. ($5 at the door.)
a G r e a t W a y To S p e n d M y D a y . c o m www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com
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