Issuu

Lancaster County Edition

November 2013

Vol. 19 No. 11

Take Two PA State Senior Idol Winner Delights in ‘Second Chance’ By Megan Joyce For a guy looking to take his second chance and run with it, 2013 has seen singer Chris Roda in a full sprint. After a four-year battle with a nerve disorder that silenced Roda’s powerful, operatic vocals, his reemergence into the world of music has been heralded with not one but two talent-competition wins in six months’ time. Roda’s win at the recent 2013 PA STATE SENIOR IDOL finals competition was actually his second top-place title of the year: in April, he also won the Welsh Mountain Spring Sing competition in Lancaster. Not a bad restart for a performer whose voice returned to him a mere 14 months ago. Roda was one of 15 semifinalists who performed during the finals night of OLP Events’ annual over-50 talent competition, a sold-out affair held at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster and emceed by Diane Dayton of Dayton Communications. It was Roda’s second time appearing as a SENIOR IDOL finalist, having been the second runner-up in 2007. Born and raised in Lancaster, Roda was one of five children growing up in a musical household. His late father’s love for the music of American tenor Mario Lanza instilled an early appreciation for opera in Roda, who began pursuing his own vocal gifts around age 20 after his father passed away. “I’m a diehard opera singer,” he said. “That’s what I love—that’s been the main influence in my style of singing.” please see TAKE TWO page 25 Chris Roda singing “E Lucevan Le Stelle” from Tosca, a performance that secured his place as the 2013 PA STATE SENIOR IDOL.

Inside:

PA STATE SENIOR IDOL:

Tough Choices for Judges page 8

How to Get Paid for Being a Family Caregiver page 24

LANC., PA 17604

PERMIT 280

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

The Way I See It

An Autumn Day Mike Clark feel rejuvenated by the sunshine; it’s been absent for so long. A string of chilly, gray days had driven me into a mild funk. I’m fine, now. An occasional autumn gust strips the remaining leaves from the maples and oaks around the neighborhood as nature prepares the giant trees for a long winter nap. The colorful carpet beneath is blown downwind, relieving me of the dreadful chore of raking or firing up that infernal, high-decibel gas blower. I ponder that humble blessing as I set fire to a layer of kindling in the wood stove. I’ll add a few chunks of hardwood and the fire will grow to a small blaze. My plan is to sit in peace before the radiant warmth as I read an old book—A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson. Those who know me will quickly detect the irony of my choice. Eventually (maybe tomorrow), I will have to walk around the property to

perform a late fall cleanup. There are fallen branches and small limbs to fetch; terracotta pots must be gathered and stored; and those leggy, desiccated annual plants must be plucked from their summer beds. It’s a job that probably should have been done weeks ago, but a weather-induced indifference set me back. A tree-service expert extracted forsythia trunks from the corner of the yard last week. My wife and I cut the beautiful but invasive shrub as far down as we could, shortly after it finished displaying the bright, yellow flowers that make early spring seem warmer. The bare spot must now be raked level

while the earth is damp and loose. I’ll wait until spring to plant grass, of course. By then, that plot will have to be weeded. As the wind now clears the leaves, so too will it bring new weeds. A plant stand that sits in front of the garage displays a few wilted mums and a large pumpkin that my wife wants to adorn with some kind of a turkey ornament. I wanted to remove the ponderous gourd, but my wife thinks it is in good-enough condition to serve as the anchor for our Thanksgiving motif. I’m fine with it. It’s hard to believe that a Christmas display will soon fill that space. There’s

no way to incorporate a shriveled pumpkin into that, is there? Yes, I’ve got work to do. The air is brisk and the sunshine stimulates my dormant enthusiasm. The problem is that I am currently more passionate about my fire and my book. The clocks have been turned back; the days will assuredly get shorter and colder. We’ll all find ways to steel ourselves against the inevitable driving snow and cutting wind. As for me, I have many books and a lot of firewood. I’ll be fine. As published in The Globe Leader newspaper, New Wilmington, Pa. Mike Clark writes a regular column for The Globe Leader newspaper in New Wilmington, Pa. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in organizational behavior/applied psychology from Albright College. Mike lives outside Columbia, Pa., and can be contacted at mikemac429@aol.com.

Sixth annual

Veterans Appreciation Dinner Saturday, November 6 5 p.m. • Ephrata Business Center

If you couldn’t make the show, here’s your chance to see it! LCTV 66, Lancaster Community TV on Lancaster Comcast Channel 66, will air the eighth annual PA STATE SENIOR IDOL competition in November! Sunday, November 17 at 5 p.m. Wednesday, November 20 at noon Saturday, November 23 at 3 p.m. Thursday, November 28 at 2 p.m. (Thanksgiving)

The Veterans Appreciation Dinner is a complimentary event that is organized for veterans throughout all of Northern Lancaster County. Veterans will be treated to social time, dinner, entertainment, and a keynote speaker.

For more information or to RSVP, please call (717) 335-2336 Horizons of Northern Lancaster County

Denture Repairs While You Wait

You can get new dentures started, repaired, or relined the same day. With our on-site dental lab, most repairs are done while you wait. Initial consultation is free and most insurance plans are accepted.

Emergencies & New Patients Welcome Evenings Available

(717) 394-9773

951 ROHRERSTOWN RD., LANCASTER 2

November 2013

50plus SeniorNews •

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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 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

Employment Lancaster County Office of Aging (717) 299-7979 Entertainment Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre 510 Centerville Road, Lancaster (717) 898-1900

Consumer Information (888) 878-3256 CONTACT Helpline (717) 652-4400 Disease and Health Risk (888) 232-3228 Domestic Violence (800) 799-7233

Housing Eastwood Village Homes, LLC 102 Summers Drive, Lancaster (717) 397-3138 Marietta Senior Apartments 601 E. Market St., Marietta (717) 735-9590

Strasburg Health Associates (717) 687-7541 Real Estate Prudential Homesale Services Group Rocky Welkowitz (717) 393-0100 Senior Move Management

Insurance Medicare (800) 633-4227 Pharmacies CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com

TLC Ladies (717) 228-8764 Transition Solutions for Seniors Rocky Welkowitz (717) 615-6507 Travel

Wiley’s Pharmacy Locations in Lancaster, Millersville, Quarryville, and Strasburg (717) 898-8804 Physicians — OB/GYN May•Grant Obstetrics & Gynecology Women & Babies Hospital with other locations in Brownstown, Columbia, Elizabethtown,Willow Street, and Intercourse (717) 397-8177

Passport Information (877) 487-2778 Veterans Services Lebanon VA Medical Center 1700 S. Lincoln Ave., Lebanon (717) 228-6000 or (800) 409-8771

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

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

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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 Home Care Services Visiting Angels Living Assistance Services Serving Lancaster and surrounding counties (717) 393-3450

50plus SeniorNews •

November 2013

Social Security News 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 ARTIST Janys Cuffe PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Jessica Johns WEB DEVELOPER Kahla Livelsberger

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Karla Back Angie McComsey Jacoby Valerie Kissinger Susan Krieger Ranee Shaub Miller Sue Rugh SALES & EVENT COORDINATOR Eileen Culp

Social Security Serves Those Who Have Served By John Johnston n Nov. 11, we honor our nation’s veterans for their service to America. What better time than now to tell you— and for you to help spread the word—about the many benefits and wealth of information Social Security has available for veterans and military personnel? Social Security recognizes those who put their lives on the line for our freedoms. Members of the armed forces receive expedited processing of their Social Security disability applications. The expedited process is available for any military service member who became disabled during active duty on or after Oct. 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurs. Some dependent children and spouses of military personnel may also be eligible to receive benefits. Visit our website designed specifically for our wounded veterans: www.socialsecurity.gov/ woundedwarriors. There, you will find answers to a number of commonly asked questions, as well as other useful information about

disability benefits available under the Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. Please pay special attention to the fact sheet available on that website, Disability Benefits for Wounded Warriors.

You’ll also find a webinar that explains the faster disability process available to wounded warriors. The program covers general information about Social Security disability benefits as well as topics unique to wounded service members. The online video is less than three minutes and a great introduction to disability benefits for veterans and active-duty military. On the same webpage, you’ll also find links to useful Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense websites. The requirements for disability

benefits available through Social Security are different from those from the Department of Veterans Affairs and require a separate application. Military service members are covered for the same Social Security survivors, disability, and retirement benefits as everyone else. Although the expedited service is relatively new, military personnel have been covered under Social Security since 1957, and people who were in the service prior to that may be able to get special credit for some of their service. To learn more about Social Security for current and former military service members, read Military Service and Social Security. It’s available in our digital library at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs. But first, take a look at the wounded warrior page (www.social security.gov/woundedwarriors). The webinar, factsheet, and pertinent links will brief you on everything you need to know to “maneuver” your way through the Social Security process. John Johnston is a Social Security public affairs specialist.

CIRCULATION PROJECT COORDINATOR Loren Gochnauer

About Our Company

ADMINISTRATION BUSINESS MANAGER Elizabeth Duvall Member of

Awards

Winner

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.

November 2013

Since 1995, On-Line Publishers, Inc. has celebrated serving the mind, heart, and spirit of the community of Central Pennsylvania. Our corporate office is located outside Columbia, Pa.

SUCCESS STORIES highlights the achievements of local professional women so that others may be inspired. It is a special insert in the March issue of BUSINESSWoman magazine. All publications are available in print and digital formats.

Publications

Events

50plus Senior News is a monthly newspaper touching on issues and events relevant to the 50+ community. The Resource Directory for the Caregiver, Aging, and Disabled is published annually in distinct county editions with information from local businesses and organizations that meet the needs of these groups. 50plus LIVING, an annual publication, is a guide to residences and healthcare options for mature adults in the Susquehanna and Delaware valleys. ((b)) magazine is Central Pennsylvania’s premier publication for baby boomers, reflecting on the past, examining where baby boomers are today, and identifying the issues they may face in the future. BUSINESSWoman is a monthly magazine with a focus on business. It features profiles of local executive women who are an inspiration to other professionals. Lifestyle and wellness articles are also included to round out the publication and address the many facets of a woman’s life.

50plus SeniorNews •

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OLP EVENTS, our events division, produces six 50plus EXPOs annually in Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster (two), and York counties. Entrance to the event, health screenings, and seminars held throughout the day are free to visitors. The women’s expo is a one-day event featuring exhibitors and interactive fun that encompasses many aspects of a woman’s life. It is held in Lancaster and Hershey in the spring and in Lebanon and Carlisle in the fall. OLP EVENTS conducts the annual PA STATE SENIOR IDOL competition. Fifteen semifinalists vie for the title of PA STATE SENIOR IDOL during the finals competition, held in October at a popular venue. POWERLUNCH is held in York in the spring and in the Capital Region during the fall. Executive women can network and enjoy lunch, seminars, and information from a select number of exhibitors.

For more information, call (717) 285-1350 or visit www.onlinepub.com.

www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

Requiem Yorktown Gettysburg Flanders Arlington Normandy Point du Hoc Afghanistan Iraq The young and not so young Lie together in narrow graves One cannot visit And hold back tears Give thanks for life and choices Fought and died for They so willingly did save That I and all I love Can live unbroken days Of blessed peace and freedom. My fervent prayer Dear God above Do not allow My fickle mind Drowned in self-concerns To carelessly forget Those precious freedoms So sacrificially and bravely earned! Written and submitted by Peggie Potts

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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

Need a Speaker for Your Group? Let Rocky Share Her 29 Years of Downsizing Expertise!

• Assist with the Sorting, Packing, Disposal and Unpacking Processes • Prepare Your Home for Sale to Obtain Top Price • Sell Your Home or Help You Find a New One * • Perform Intra-Community Moves • Work with Estates • Provide Specialized Services Tailored to Your Needs

Licensed Realtor With:

Please Call for a FREE Information Packet

Rochelle “Rocky” Welkowitz Founder

(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.

50plus SeniorNews •

November 2013

Art and Antiques by Dr. Lori

Where to Sell Your Unwanted Stuff Dr. Lori have advised many people that when it comes to selling your unwanted vintage collectibles, you have to think outside the box. Why? Many people have the same unwanted objects that you do, and they want to cash in on them with ease, too. Did you know that party planners and prop shops are two outlets looking for various objects from the world of antiques and collectibles?

Antique Party Accessories To cut costs at wedding receptions, baby showers, and parties, many bridesto-be, florists, and caterers are on the lookout for some relatively common vintage items, and they are looking for them in big numbers. For example, vintage white milk-glass pieces; decorative teacups used as small, floral centerpiece groupings; and old, silver-plated trays for food service are

coveted by TV Antique caterers and Trends When TV party planners. execs need an Many object from grooms will bygone days, seek out sports where do they collectibles, look? vintage flasks, Prop beer shops—the collectibles, and ones that liquor bottles to provide the serve as gifts for major movie ushers and and TV groomsmen in production a wedding White milk-glass serving pieces like this covered party. dish with a rabbit on the lid may be just the favor crews with those obscure Brides prefer for guests at a baby shower. objects that you to provide her see on film—are attendants with always looking for items such as vintage vintage fashion accessories like hair jewelry, period appliances like avocadoaccessories (ribbons, barrettes, hair bands, etc.), scarves, and beaded or metal green can openers from the 1970s, and vintage clothing and accessories. mesh purses.

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 6

November 2013

50plus SeniorNews •

Prop shops are often used for TV shows like Mad Men, The Big Bang Theory, and the new sitcom set in the 1980s, The Goldbergs. You don’t think that Christina Hendricks spends her free time searching flea markets for Jackie Kennedy-esque brooches? And where does Dr. Sheldon Cooper get his evergrowing collection of vintage Star Wars collectibles? When it comes to considering the resale of your vintage collectibles and accessory pieces, consider party goers and production-house set professionals. Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, awardwinning TV personality, and TV talk show host, Dr. Lori presents antiques appraisal events nationwide. Dr. Lori is the expert appraiser on Discovery channel’s hit TV show Auction Kings. Visit www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori, or call (888) 431-1010.

E.O.E.

TAX PREPARERS – PT Business services provider is seeking experienced persons to prepare federal, state, and local tax returns for consumers. Prior tax preparation experience required. Must be available for two weeks of software training beginning Nov. 1. SN100032.01 DONOR SERVICE REP – PT Thrift outlet seeking reliable person to greet and assist donors, issue tax receipts, and prepare hard goods for resale. Must have good customer-service skills and be able to lift up to 50 pounds and work flexible schedule. SN100034.02

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

SPRAY PAINTER – FT Leader in design, staging, and scenery for entertainment industry needs experienced painters familiar with HVLP system, cup and gravity guns, and utilizing variety of materials. Paint mixing a plus. Need reliable vehicle, stable work record. SN100040.04

— Volunteer Opportunities — The holidays are right around the corner. Give yourself a gift this year by volunteering to assist an older person. For a small investment of time and energy, you’ll receive the satisfying present of knowing that your presence has made a difference in that person’s life! Here are a few of the volunteer opportunities that will change the life of the older person, and yours, for the better! You’re needed by: • A lady who lives in Lancaster city who is asking for help with grocery shopping • A woman who is 96 but still walks her dog each day; she’s asking for a friendly visitor • A man who’s requesting a volunteer cleaner once a month to do light housecleaning If you’d like more information about these opportunities or the many others we have, call Bev Via, volunteer coordinator, at (717) 299-7979 or email us at aging@co.lancaster.pa.us.

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Nursing & Rehabilitation Centers Bethany Village – The Oaks

Claremont Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

325 Wesley Drive • Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 766-0279 • www.bethanyvillage.org

1000 Claremont Road • Carlisle, PA 17013 (717) 243-2031 • www.ccpa.net/cnrc

Number of Beds: 69 Rehabilitation Unit: Yes Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes Scheduled Entertainment: Yes

Number of Beds: 290 Rehabilitation Unit: No Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes

Private Rooms Available: Yes Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Accreditations/Affiliations: CARF/CCAC; Eagle, LeadingAge PA Comments: Maplewood Assisted Living also available.

Scheduled Entertainment: Yes Private Rooms Available: No Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Comments: Claremont provides quality skilled nursing and rehabilitation services for short- and long-term stays.

Homeland Center

Mennonite Home Communities

1901 North Fifth Street • Harrisburg, PA 17102-1598 (717) 221-7902 • www.homelandcenter.org

1520 Harrisburg Pike • Lancaster, PA 17601 (717) 393-1301 • www.mennonitehome.org

Number of Beds: 92 Rehabilitation Unit: No Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes Scheduled Entertainment: Yes

Number of Beds: 188 Rehabilitation Unit: Yes Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes Scheduled Entertainment: Yes

Comments: A beautiful, full-service continuing care retirement community with a 145-year history of exemplary care.

Private Rooms Available: Yes Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Accreditations/Affiliations: Equal Housing, LeadingAge PA Comments: Person-centered care with reputation for compassion and excellence. Established in 1903. Respite care available w/minimum stay.

Pleasant Acres Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

Spring Creek Rehabilitation & Health Care Center

118 Pleasant Acres Road • York, PA 17402 (717) 840-7100 • www.yorkcountypa.gov

1205 South 28th Street • Harrisburg, PA 17111 (717) 565-7000 • www.springcreekcares.com

Number of Beds: 375 Rehabilitation Unit: No Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Physical, Occupational Respiratory Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: No 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes

Number of Beds: 404 Rehabilitation Unit: Yes Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes

Scheduled Entertainment: Yes Private Rooms Available: Yes Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Comments: A charming campus offering short-term rehab, long-term skilled nursing care, ventilator and tracheostomy support, and Alzheimer’s memory care.

StoneRidge Retirement Living 440 East Lincoln Avenue • Myerstown, PA 17067 (717) 866-3200 • www.stoneridgeretirement.com Number of Beds: 194 Rehabilitation Unit: Yes Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes Scheduled Entertainment: Yes

Private Rooms Available: Yes Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Comments: Continuing care retirement community with two Myerstown sites convenient to Lebanon, Berks, and Lancaster counties.

If you would like to be featured on this important page, please contact your account representative or call (717) 285-1350.

This is not an all-inclusive list of agencies and providers. These advertisers are eager to provide additional information about their services.

www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

50plus SeniorNews •

November 2013

Maudie Becker

PA STATE

Steve Gallion

SENIOR IDOL Finals

Present Judges with Tough Choices Judge Calls 2013 Talent Lineup ‘Unbelievable’ By Megan Joyce

Paul Zavinsky

Ray Ricke Jr.

November 2013

The mid-October air outside was brisk and calm, but indoors, the PA STATE SENIOR IDOL finals competition seemed to generate its own atmosphere: warm and close, with an almost visible hum of energy produced by the nerves of the performers and the anticipation of the milling crowd. Produced by OLP EVENTS, PA STATE SENIOR IDOL is an annual talent competition that highlights the vocal, comedic, dance, or instrumental abilities of the state’s performers over age 50. The 15 semifinalists for the evening’s show were culled from nearly 100 contestants who auditioned at regional tryouts in late August and early September. There was not a vacant seat to be had inside the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster, which hosted the eighth-annual event. The sold-out crowd was lively and supportive, as were the four local celebrity judges: RJ Harris of WHP580, Adrian “Buddy” King of the former Magnificent Men, Valerie Pritchett of abc27, and Janelle Stelson of WGAL-8. The show opened up with a performance by last year’s winner, Vickie Kissinger of Gap, who told emcee Diane Dayton of Dayton Communications that her year as the reigning SENIOR IDOL had been “wonderful.” “It’s just opened up a lot of new doors; it’s given me opportunities I never would have had,” Kissinger said. Being first up is seldom a desirable position, but John “Legs” Lawrenzi of Sutersville was likely unfazed as he sang “An American Trilogy” by Elvis Presley. The state Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductee estimated he’d performed in more than 3,700 concerts. “You have like two different voices,” King observed. “You have the lower one, your more expressive solo voice, and you have the upper, more

50plus SeniorNews •

dynamic [voice]. I prefer the more expressive, lower voice.” Second in line was Roy “Jake” Jacobs of Thomasville with “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers. Jacobs tearfully noted that he dedicates that song to his late wife. “That came through very clearly,” Stelson agreed. “It was very clear that you were singing to someone.” West Brandywine’s Tom Williams played his acoustic guitar while singing “Early Morning Rain” by Gordon Lightfoot, a mellow, intimate rendition that King called “very atmospheric.” “I felt like I could be sitting with you at a campfire,” Pritchett added. “Your voice is very smooth, and I really enjoyed it.” Tammy Estep of York was the first of the night’s female performers. She sang a passionate version of “Long, Long Time” by Linda Ronstadt. “I like the control you had; you could tell you were really working on control,” Pritchett noted. The audience buzz increased rather dramatically when dancer Ray Ricke Jr. of York appeared on stage in his Michael Jackson getup. His “Smooth Criminal” routine included the moonwalk as well as some pulsating pectoral muscles thrown in for good measure. “Let me just politely say on behalf of all my girlfriends here: That was very enjoyable,” Stelson joked. Ricke may have been a tough act to follow, but Dan Kelly of Philadelphia didn’t disappoint with his confident rendition of “Maybe This Time” from Cabaret. “I love the richness in your voice, and I also like how when you belt it out, you belt it out—you go right down to the belly and bring it up,” Pritchett said. Kelly’s confidence was followed up by Maudie Becker’s version of “At Last” by Etta James, which King called “a gutsy, soulful performance.” Stelson complimented the Seltzer resident’s choice of key.

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“You sang that kind of low, and I really liked it,” she said. “I thought it really showed you off to your best advantage.” Next up was Chris Roda of Lancaster, who used his operatic vocals on “And This is My Beloved” from Kismet. King praised Roda’s use of dynamics. “Your last note was my favorite note of all,” King said. “It seemed like you held it for about five minutes.” Adding some variety to the night’s otherwise musical lineup, Steve Gallion of Lancaster performed a stand-up comedy routine that elicited a solid 3.5 minutes of raucous laughter from the audience and judges alike. King praised the pacing and cadence of Gallion’s delivery. “I like the way you built the routine, too,” King said. “You finished on top. It was great.” Music returned in force with Cheri Coleman of Coatesville singing “Inseparable” by Natalie Cole. King liked her “sweet and tender way of singing.” “A couple of those notes you hit, I thought my glass was going to shatter,” joked Pritchett. “I thought your voice was phenomenal.” Another phenomenal voice followed in the form of Kevin Pierce, also of Coatesville, who performed “Ol’ Man River” from Show Boat. King and Stelson commented on his storytelling ability. “Your voice and your presentation were both very dynamic,” Pritchett observed. “I was captivated. I just kept watching you because you’re so expressive.” The acoustic guitar then returned on stage with Paul Zavinsky at its helm. Zavinsky, of Hummelstown, sang and strummed “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver. “Good voices are a gift; they’re not something that you just take for granted,” noted King. “You have a nice, buttery kind of feel to your singing.” Constance Kuba Fisher of Mechanicsburg brought a different energy onto the stage with her theatrical rendition of “Ring Them Bells” by Liza Minnelli. “You’re fun, you’re a storyteller, and your stage presence was really wonderful,” Harris said. Nick Ferraro of Harrisburg brought images of Elvis to mind both in his appearance and his sound

as he passionately sang Presley’s “If I Can Dream.” “That was a really soulful performance. You put your heart and soul into that,” said King. Last but not least, Tom LaNasa of York closed the evening’s semifinalist performances with a dramatic, spoken-word presentation of Johnny Cash’s patriotic poem “Ragged Old Flag.” “I wish you would go down and do that same performance before Congress,” Stelson said. “I just defy them before the end of the day not to have a deal on this [government shutdown] silliness.” The four judges’ scores for all 15 contestants were then collected and tallied to determine which three semifinalists would move on to the finalist round and present a second performance. “You have no idea how tough this is tonight,” Harris said. “This is the best lineup we’ve had— every SENIOR IDOL has been great, and we’ve been here since the beginning—but tonight is unbelievable.” After a brief intermission, Ray Ricke Jr., Cheri Coleman Campbell, and Chris Roda were named the night’s three finalists. For their second selections, Ricke danced to “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson; Campbell performed “Saving All My Love for You” by Whitney Houston; and Roda sang “E Lucevan Le Stelle” from Tosca. The judges as well as the audience then voted for their favorite, and Roda was named the 2013 PA STATE SENIOR IDOL. Roda, a customer-service representative for RR Donnelly in Lancaster, had earlier shared with the judges and audience that his powerful voice had returned only a year ago after conquering a four-year illness that had ravaged his vocal chords. “It’s none of our business the health difficulties that you went through,” she said, “and it’s also nobody’s business who you believe in, in terms of God or Buddha … but I will say that I think God gave you a second lease so that we could have you.” For more information and highlights on the 2013 PA STATE SENIOR IDOL finals competition, visit www.SeniorIdolPA.com.

2013 PA STATE SENIOR IDOL Winner Chris Roda Cheri Coleman

Nick Ferraro

From left: Valerie Pritchett, RJ Harris, Janelle Stelson, and Adrian “Buddy” King

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November 2013

Salute to a Veteran

When They Fought in Vietnam, They Flew Their Artillery in with Them Robert D. Wilcox ary Levinson found out early that the world is full of coincidences. When he was drafted into the Army in 1966, he took his training at Fort Riley, Kan. There was a sergeant in charge of each barracks, and his sergeant made an effort to know each of his men. It turned out that both the sergeant and Levinson came from Pennsylvania— what’s more, the sergeant knew Levinson’s family. Did it help to have that kind of connection to the sergeant? “Well, it sure didn’t hurt,” he says. But he was soon on his way to Vietnam, in any case. From Oakland, Calif., he boarded the General Maurice Rose, a troopship that took him to Vung Tau, Vietnam. How was the crossing? “It was hell on wheels,” Levinson says. “It took three weeks, and almost

Chinook everybody was helicopters sick as a dog the whenever they whole way. By went to hotspots the time we got where they were there, no one needed. The was worried troops were in about facing the the helicopters, Vietcong. We with the guns just wanted to and ammunition get off that towed in another ship.” helicopter. The Once ashore, guns and they recovered Private First Class Gary M. Levinson ammunition fast, but they in a Vietnam bunker in 1967. were also moved found that by truck. Later being ashore on, some guns were placed on boats. had its own problems. As part of the 9th Division, Levinson’s first assignment was There were plenty of helicopter as an ammunition handler in a howitzer crashes that killed a lot of men, and they battery. were always especially vulnerable to His outfit was unusual in that they enemy gunfire from the ground. hauled their artillery with them on Levinson’s first job was to transport

the 105mm ammunition by truck. He drove the truck to the ammunition depot and delivered it back to the base camp or to the field. The ammunition was in heavy, wooden crates that had to be unloaded and stacked up. Then, the colonel of his battalion transferred him to a special information unit. His responsibility was to travel with the battalion on major missions in the field, prepare reports on all activities, and transmit everything to the 1st Brigade, 9th Division headquarters. Later, Levinson was transferred again to a different artillery unit in the Mekong Delta, where he served on a gun crew preparing ammunition for firing. They were often under mortar attack, and he recalls one shell having landed just short of his bunker. He has memories of all the men who were killed and thinks about them all the time, but

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bridges and standing out in 1,107 kilometers his memory is the way one of his of roads. buddies beat the For that odds. effort, Levinson Levinson says is proud that his that the man was 9th U.S. Infantry Division was very religious and Guns and ammo were carried by awarded the always carried a Chinook helicopters. Civil Actions small Bible in his Honor Medal. breast pocket. “Of course,” he says, “little of that One day, he caught a bullet in the chest that surely would have killed him, except kind of help was reported by the press back home. We were largely reported as a that it hit that Bible, and the bullet large power imposing its self-interest on a stopped just short of the man’s flesh. small Asian nation during a long and One thing Levinson feels strongly bloody war. Which resulted in our troops about is that people have been pounded so much with stories of the combat itself being reviled by so many when they returned home after their selfless service.” … and so little about what we did in a For Levinson, the end of that war came humanitarian way for the South on Dec. 11, 1967, when he flew from Vietnamese people. Bien Hoa to Maguire Air Force Base, N.J. “That, actually, was a major part of He then went to Fort Bragg, N.C., to our being there,” he says. train troops headed to Vietnam. Then his Part of his responsibility in the information unit was to travel with Civil hitch was up, and he was discharged. He then reenlisted in the Army Reserve and Action troops to see firsthand how the was discharged as a sergeant. Vietnamese people lived and the He worked on Wall Street for a while tremendous outpouring of help the American military provided to the people before coming to Central Pennsylvania to work with the Disabled Veterans of South Vietnam. Outreach Program. He then became Noting that the U.S. spent $222 chief of the recruitment division for the million a year in aid to the South Pennsylvania State Civil Service Vietnamese people, Levinson says that th Commission in Harrisburg. his 9 Division alone provided massive help. He retired in 2004 and now spends They provided medical care to much of his time trying to reverse the 708,000 South Vietnamese, image of the Vietnam veteran and help reconstructed more than 350 schools, the many disenfranchised vets of that era. opened English courses in high schools He often thinks of his time in for almost 30,000 students, provided combat, and he’s proud of that. But he 48,256 man hours to helping the local says he considers himself fortunate to people in repairing destroyed houses, have been part of the other side of our furnished 89 orphanages with efforts in Vietnam as well. construction materials, distributed 1,000 Colonel Wilcox flew a B-17 bomber in tons of food and 8 tons of clothes to Europe in World War II. refugees, and assisted in repairing 447

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November 2013

The Beauty in Nature

Massive Trees in Central Pa. Clyde McMillan-Gamber lder individuals of four kinds of deciduous trees get massive in Central Pennsylvania, as elsewhere. These stately trees grow tall and have trunks several feet across and bulky limbs. Large white oak trees are rugged looking with their horizontal, gnarled branches. This species dominates the moist, bottomland habitats that suit it. White oaks produce acorns that are edible to people, as well as deer, bears, rodents, wild turkeys, blue jays, and other species of wildlife. Sycamores have blotchy bark where shreds of the older, darker covering fall away, exposing the younger, lighter bark. Some huge sycamores on their native floodplain habitats along waterways have hollows at the ground level large enough that a bear or a couple of people could

shelter in them, but not at once. Sycamores are also called buttonwood because their tiny, fluffy seeds are attached to round structures that resemble buttons. Big silver maples have shaggy bark and large, winged seeds that twirl down on the wind like helicopter blades, which spreads them across the countryside. This sycamore associate grows quickly but easily breaks down in

wind. Squirrels, chipmunks, and other critters eat many silver maple seeds. Monster American beeches grow on slopes of rich, moist soil above bottomlands. They have smooth, gray bark; gnarled limbs; and beige, curled leaves that cling to twigs through winter. In winter we can see how numerous beeches are in beech/sugar maple woods because of the dead foliage still on them.

Beeches also have long, pointed leaf buds that become longer and fatter in spring before they open to release leaves. Beeches’ small, three-pointed nuts in bristly pods are edible to the critters mentioned above. Many of these magnificent trees have cavities where wind ripped off branches, exposing the wood to weathering, fungus, insects, and other agents of decay. Those tree hollows are homes for squirrels, certain owls, raccoons, black rat snakes, honeybees, chickadees, house wrens, and other creatures. Each of these massive, majestic trees in Central Pennsylvania has its own niche and beauties. And they provide food and cover for wildlife. Clyde McMillan-Gamber is a Lancaster County Parks naturalist.

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Calendar of Events

Lancaster County

Lancaster County Department of Parks and Recreation

Senior Center Activities

Pre-registration is required for these programs. All activities are held at the Environmental Center in Central Park unless otherwise noted. To register or to find out more about these activities or any additional scheduled activities, call (717) 295-2055 or visit www.lancastercountyparks.org.

Cocalico Senior Association – (717) 336-7489 Nov. 5, 10 a.m. – Visit to Adamstown Library Nov. 7, 6 p.m. – Cocalico Jam Nov. 14, 10 a.m. – Crocheting with Kathy

Nov. 16, 10 to 11 a.m., 1 to 2 p.m. – Positive Influences of Native Americans Nov. 20 and 23, 10 to 11 a.m. – Fibers from Nature Nov. 27, 6:30 to 8 p.m. – Owl Prowl

Library Programs Lititz Public Library, 651 Kissel Hill Road, Lititz, (717) 626-2255 Nov. 6, 6:30 p.m. – Astronomy Enthusiasts of Lancaster County: The Sun and Family of Stars Nov. 11, 1:30 to 3 p.m.; Nov. 19, 6:30 to 8 p.m. – Scrabble Meet-ups Nov. 13, 6:30 p.m. – Great Decisions Discussion Group: Threat Assessment Manheim Township Public Library, 595 Granite Run Drive, Lancaster, (717) 560-6441 Nov. 7 and 14, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. – Explore Your Future 50+ Workshops: Envision and Act Nov. 22, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. – Tech Toy Saturdays: Android Phones and Tablets

Support Groups Nov. 6, 7 p.m. Support for Caregivers Lancashire Terrace Retirement Village 6 Terrace Drive, Lancaster (717) 659-0565 Nov. 6, 7 to 8:15 p.m. Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group Willow Lakes Outpatient Center 212 Willow Valley Lakes Drive Willow Street (717) 464-9365

Free and open to the public Nov. 11, 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 Nov. 21, noon Brain Tumor Support Group Lancaster General Health Campus Wellness Center 2100 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster (717) 626-2894

Community Programs Nov. 4, 6 p.m. Red Rose Singles Meeting Park City Diner 884 Plaza Blvd., Lancaster (717) 475-3007 Nov. 6, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lancaster County 50plus EXPO Spooky Nook Sports 2913 Spooky Nook Road Manheim (717) 285-1350 www.50plusExpoPA.com Nov. 9, 7 p.m. Matthew Sware, Development Director of The Clinic for Special Children Garden Spot Village Chapel 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland (717) 355-6000 www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

Nov. 25, 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 Nov. 27, 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 Free and open to the public

Nov. 10, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pennsylvania Music Expo Continental Inn 2285 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster (717) 898-1246 www.recordcollectors.org Nov. 15, 6 to 9 p.m. Music Fridays Downtown Lancaster (717) 341-0028 Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m. Service of Remembrance Garden Spot Village Chapel 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland (717) 355-6000

Nov. 19, 9 a.m. to noon Free Memory Screenings Garden Spot Village 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland (717) 355-6259 Nov. 23, 8:30 a.m. Busy Buddies: Widows & Widowers Social Group Dutch Way Restaurant 365 Route 41, Gap Reservations required (484) 667-0738 Nov. 24, 3 p.m. Concert: Organist Olukola Owolabi Grace Lutheran Church 517 N. Queen St., Lancaster (717) 397-2748

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

Columbia Senior Center – (717) 684-4850 Nov. 1, 10:15 a.m. – Disaster Preparedness Nov. 5, 9 a.m. – Manicures Nov. 21, 10:15 a.m. – Bingo with Our Ladies of Angels Sixth-Graders Elizabethtown Area Senior Center – (717) 367-7984 Nov. 5 and 12, 10:30 a.m. – Be Healthy, Be Wise Nov. 11, 10:30 a.m. – Music with Men’s Chorus Nov. 20, 10:30 a.m. – Music with Dan Martin Lancaster House North – (717) 299-1278 Thursdays, noon to 3 p.m. – Happy Hearts Club Pinochle Lancaster Neighborhood Senior Center – (717) 299-3943 Nov. 14, 10:30 a.m. – Music & Memories Nov. 21, 9:30 a.m. – Chorus and Game Time Nov. 27, 9:30 a.m. – Lacota Indian Program Lancaster Rec. Center – (717) 392-2115, ext. 147 Fridays, 12:30 to 3 p.m. – Happy Hearts Club Bridge Lititz Senior Center – (717) 626-2800 Nov. 4, 10 a.m. – Penn State Nutrition Nov. 14, 10:30 a.m. – Music by Sterling Lamm Nov. 20, 10 a.m. – Nutrition Bingo LRC Senior Center – (717) 399-7671 Nov. 4, 1:30 p.m. – Pickle Ball Playing Nov. 7, 9:30 a.m. – Chi Gung Nov. 14, 10 a.m. – Haircuts and Manicures Luis Munoz Marin Senior Center – (717) 295-7989 Nov. 7, 10 a.m. – “The Grieving Process” by Deb Gonzalez Nov. 20, 9:30 a.m. – Holiday Craft Ideas Nov. 27 – Thanksgiving Celebration Party Millersville Senior Center – (717) 871-9600 Nov. 6, 10 a.m. – Haircuts and Manicures Nov. 12, 11 a.m. – Trip to American Music Theatre for Christmas Show Nov. 20, 10 a.m. – Music by Rick Kilby Next Gen Senior Center – (717) 786-4770 Nov. 7 – Trip to Fergie’s Nov. 7, 9:30 a.m. – Self-Defense Class Nov. 19, 9:30 a.m. – Blood Pressures with Laura Rodney Park Center – (717) 393-7786 Tuesdays, 1 to 3 p.m. – Happy Hearts Club Pinochle and Bingo Please call or visit the centers’ websites for additional activities.

50plus SeniorNews •

November 2013

Traveltizers

Travel Appetizers: Stories that Whet the Appetite for Travel

From Apricots to Computer Chips: California’s Silicon Valley By Andrea Gross life-size model of a cosmonaut floats near the ceiling. A few feet away, a green Statue of Liberty holds aloft a plasticized chocolate sundae. And sitting next to me are two men who might, just might, be making a deal that will change my life. This is Buck’s of Woodside, a restaurant in the hills surrounding California’s Silicon Valley. It’s a place known for comfort food, quirky décor, and big deals, like the ones that resulted in funding for Hotmail, Netscape, and PayPal. “The Valley,” as it’s generally called, is centered in the fertile farmland between Palo Alto and San Jose. “This area was paradise back in the ’60s,” says Phil Consentino, who owns J&P Farms, the last commercial orchard in San Jose. Since then, the valley’s population has increased six-fold, and flourishing fruit trees have been cut down to make

Phil Consentino owns J&P Farms, the last commercial orchard in San Jose.

The garage where Bill Hewlett and David Packard started their small electronics company has been dubbed the “Birthplace of Silicon Valley.”

Stanford University has served as an incubator for Silicon Valley entrepreneurs since the 1930s.

Colorful sculptures give the Google campus a welcoming feel, despite the fact that the buildings are off-limits to visitors.

room for middle-class homes and apartments. This transformation from a region of bountiful orchards to one filled with some of the world’s most renowned hightech companies began just a few miles from Buck’s in a small garage at 367 Addison Ave. in Palo Alto. Here, in 1939, Stanford graduates Bill Hewlett and David Packard pooled their life savings (a total of $538, which included cash and a used drill press) in order to start a small electronics company. Today, Hewlett-Packard ranks 43rd on Fortune’s 2013 list of the world’s largest companies, and the small garage is on the National Register of Historic Places. The sign out front dubs the garage the “Birthplace of Silicon Valley.” My husband dubs the $538 a good investment. Another Silicon Valley landmark, the house where Steve Jobs lived from the mid-1990s until his death in 2011, is a few blocks away at 2101 Waverly St. The

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two-story brick home, which sits on about a half acre, is fairly large but at the same time unpretentious and casual. In fact, a determinedly casual attitude permeates the entire Valley. People walk with purpose, but the suits of Mad Men have morphed into the jeans of geniuses. During our week in Silicon Valley, we see only four men in sport coats, none in ties. (The dress code for women is more liberal. The only rule: Save the stilettos for after-hours.) Of course, comfortable shoes are more than a fashion statement. They’re a necessity. In Silicon Valley, workplaces are not clustered in high-rises but sprinkled across “campuses”—a word that connotes not only low-slung buildings interspersed with large, open spaces, but also youth and conviviality. Some companies have such sprawling campuses that they provide their employees with bicycles. Except for the Apple store, which is filled with logoed t-shirts and mugs, the buildings are closed to visitors, so we move on to Castro Street in the town of Mountain View. Unlike Buck’s, which is the restaurant where people make deals, Castro Street is filled with eateries where folks hatch ideas. Here, over salads and stir-fry, lattes and scones, ideas are floated, debated, and often massaged into “the next great

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The Google Maps Exhibit lets visitors to the The Google campus is so large that the company provides bikes for its employees. Computer History Museum find their own house on a giant screen.

The Computer History Museum has more than 1,100 artifacts.

A walk through nearby Henry Cowell State Park lets techies escape the manmade environment of Silicon Valley.

thing.” In the Red Rock Coffee Company we find a packed crowd taking advantage of the café’s free Wi-Fi. Most people are in baggy shorts and sandals and look to be about 19 years old. The fellow at the next table is typing feverishly on his

tablet. I wonder if I should ask him for his autograph, just in case he turns out to be the next Jerry Yang (the founder of Yahoo!). Finally we set out for the geeky part of our expedition: a visit to three Silicon Valley museums that will, we hope, give

us a layman’s overview of high-tech wizardry. They succeed beyond our wildest expectations. At the Computer History Museum we see everything from ancient abacuses to the first Apple computer (made in 1976) to an interactive display that explains how street-mapping works. At the Intel Museum we learn about semiconductor technology, and at the Tech Museum, which is not as much about how things work as it is about how much fun you can have when they do work, we train like Olympic contenders by virtually bobsledding down a virtual hill. We spend the final day of our visit strolling among ancient redwoods at Henry Cowell State Park. It’s a delightful as well as humbling experience, reminding us that nature predates even the oldest manmade wonders. On the plane ride home, we reflect on what makes Silicon Valley so different from other places. Our conclusion: Silicon Valley is a state of mind as well as a geographical entity, a place where optimism and creativity are as much a part of the environment as buildings and museums. Photos © Irv Green unless otherwise noted; story by Andrea Gross (www.andreagross.com).

50plus SeniorNews •

November 2013

Tinseltown Talks

Dick Gautier, a Man of Many Talents? Nick Thomas f all those zany sitcoms produced in the ’60s, Get Smart remains a favorite of classic-TV fans. This show had it all: crazy characters (Max, “99,” Larabee, Hymie the humanoid robot), delightfully wicked villains (Siegfried, the Claw, Leadside), goofy spy gadgets (shoe phone, cone of silence), cool cars (Sunbeam Tiger), unforgettable catchphrases (“missed it by that much!”), a parade of stellar guests (Milton Berle, Don Rickles, Vincent Price), unbelievable save-the-world plots, and that omnipresent ’60s canned-laugh track. Don Adams, who played Max, passed away in 2005. A few years earlier, during a 75th birthday roast in his honor, Adams made a very simple request: “I don’t want a big funeral. I don’t want a lot of flowers or eulogies,” he told the gathering. “I’d just like a few of my close friends to get together … and try

Don Adams, Dick Gautier, and Barbara Feldon in a Get Smart publicity still.

A 1989 Get Smart Again publicity still featuring Robert Karvelas, Dave Ketchum, Don Adams, and Dick Gautier.

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and bring me back to life.” Dick Gautier, who played Hymie the robot, wasn’t close friends with Adams off the set, but says he enjoyed working with him. We talked recently from his home in Los Angeles. “He lived a very different kind of lifestyle to me,” said Gautier. “He and his buddies were always at the racetrack, but I was never a gambler.” Incredibly, Gautier’s Hymie character (“his father’s name was Hymie”) only appeared in six episodes during the first four seasons of Get Smart. Yet he remains one of the show’s most popular and memorable characters. Gautier based Hymie partly on a childhood memory. “As a kid in Canada, I saw this mannequin-like guy in a store window who moved in a very stiff manner. The deal was, if you made him smile, you could win a gift from the store. I almost

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got him to laugh! So I Gautier is also an artist started imitating him and specializing in caricatures discovered I had a flair for and has written numerous entertaining. books on drawing. “I told that story He’s captured the Burt during my Get Smart Reynolds forehead, the W.C. audition, did those Fields nose, the John movements, and got the Travolta chin, and dozens of role of Hymie.” other celebrities perfectly Not surprisingly, (see www.dickgautier.com). laughter was not He also makes an uncommon on the Get interesting comparison Gautier’s sketch of W.C. Fields. Smart set. between today’s stars to Gautier remembers those of yesteryear with their shooting one scene where more rugged features (think Max takes a rather drunk Hymie into a Bogie, Gable, Connery). closet and scolds him because drinking “Many of today’s actors look like and spying don’t mix. fashion models. Take someone like Brad “I had to reach over and kiss Don on Pitt, who has those stunning, boyish the cheek,” recalled Gautier. “But the good looks. Some are so handsome, they two of us started giggling like highjust don’t have any distinguishing school girls during every take, and the features to hang your comic hat on, as an crew grew impatient. I finally got artist.” through it by not looking at Don. In addition to drawing and painting, “When the scene was over, he looked Gautier has just finished writing a twoat me and said, ‘Are you going to say it character play that he hopes to direct. or am I?’ So I told him to go ahead. He And at 81, his career achievements just looked at the crew and said ‘OK, guys, keep mounting. we’re coming out of the closet!’” “I’ve been around so long,” he says, In addition to acting in hundreds of “sometimes I feel like I was in the TV shows and movies, Gautier has been original Flintstones—the real ones the a stand-up comedian, writer, producer, cartoon was based on!” director, voice actor, and singer. During Thomas’ features and columns have appeared lean times, he even demonstrated pogo in more than 300 magazines and newspapers, sticks at Macy’s. Details can be read on and he is the author of Raised by the Stars, his website bio, which Gautier describes published by McFarland. He can be reached as “that once grotesquely inflated thing at his blog: http://getnickt.blogspot.com which deflates slightly with each passing day.”

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Art Exhibit Winners Announced The Lancaster County Office of Aging is pleased to announce the winners of the 20th Annual Art Exhibit. The works were displayed at the Lancaster General Hospital Suburban Outpatient Pavilion Oct. 8–11. Local art professionals judged the exhibit, which consisted of works in watercolor, photography, pastel, acrylics, oil, and mixed mediums. Watercolor First – Beverly Felter, Sycamore Sentry Second – Judith Kozma, Open for Business Third – Carol Mastram, Outer Space Photography First – Tony Harnish, Golden Pond Second – Tony Harnish, Anxious Travel Third – William Lau, Paiutte Sunset

Pastel First – Herbert Ackerman, Belted Kingfisher Emerging Acrylics First – Doris Mooney, American Eagle Second – Thomas Santosusso, Flowers for Your Birthday Third – Marjorie Lovett, Into the Woods Oil First – Sylvia Goodling, Magnolia on Red Second –Edward Mongeau Jr., Boat Repair Third – Sylvia Goodling, Beethoven Other First – Betty Reiff, By the Pond Second – Janet Ray, Autumn Leaves Third – Robert Davenport Sr., Springtime at the Mill

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November 2013

Versatile Proteins Could Be New Target for Alzheimer’s Drugs A class of proteins that controls visualsystem development in the young brain also appears to affect vulnerability to Alzheimer’s disease in the aging brain. The proteins, which are found in humans and mice, join a limited roster of molecules that scientists are studying in hopes of finding an effective drug to slow the disease process. “People are just beginning to look at what these proteins do in the brain. While more research is needed, these proteins may be a brand-new target for Alzheimer’s drugs,” said Carla Shatz, Ph.D., the study’s lead investigator. Shatz and her colleagues report that LilrB2 (pronounced “leer-bee-2”) in humans and PirB (“peer-bee”) in mice

can physically partner with beta-amyloid, a protein fragment that accumulates in the brain during Alzheimer’s disease. This, in turn, triggers a harmful chain reaction in brain cells. In a mouse model of Alzheimer’s, depleting PirB in the brain prevented the chain reaction and reduced memory loss. “These findings provide valuable insight into Alzheimer’s, a

complex disorder involving the abnormal build-up of proteins, inflammation, and a host of other cellular changes,” said Neil Buckholtz, Ph.D., director of the neuroscience division at National Institute on Aging, which helped fund the research. “Our understanding of the various proteins involved, and how these proteins interact with each other, may one day

November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

result in effective interventions that delay, treat, or even prevent this dreaded disease.” Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults and affects as many as 5 million Americans. Large clumps—or plaques—of betaamyloid and other proteins accumulate in the brain during Alzheimer’s, but many researchers believe the disease process starts long before the plaques appear. Even in the absence of plaques, betaamyloid has been shown to cause damage to brain cells and the synapses, the delicate connections, between them. Source: National Institutes of Health

Church Connections Decline, but Belief Remains Religious belief continues to decline in the United States, according to the Pew Research Center’s Religion & Public Life Project. One-fifth of Americans say they’re not affiliated with any religion, and

one-third of adults under the age of 30 say the same. In the last five years, the proportion of people practicing no religion has risen from 15 to 20 percent, with 13 million (6 percent) describing

themselves as atheists or agnostics and 33 million identifying with no specific religion at all (14 percent). But spiritual belief may not be disappearing entirely. Sixty-eight percent of Americans who aren’t

attached to any church do say they believe in God, and 58 percent claim a deep connection with the earth and nature. Twenty-one percent say they pray every day.

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November 2013

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Book Review

The Early Life and Times of Max Hanold By Howard Leff saga from the heights of a Korean stalemate to the lowly killing of John F. Kennedy, Howard Leff captures an era’s essence in The Early Life and Times of Max Hanold. Young Max seeks adventure and security and to establish some elements of identity and purpose through his teen years after World War II’s victory and the Korean standoff. Married at 20, he begins a shipping career and is meticulously duped into assisting a Washington attorney in adventurous sorties to France, Cuba, Germany, and elsewhere.

The agitation, espionage, and struggles of the ’50s and early ’60s are interwoven amidst a conspiratorial melee between the U.S., Castro’s socialistic society, and the Soviet oligarchy. About the Author After graduating with an English major from Brooklyn College, Howard Leff spent his entire career in the international transportation business. Leff lives with his wife, Barbara Ann, and their Shih Tzu, Lucee, in a tranquil, hot, and humid area of the Lone Star State. He and Barbara are the proud parents of two children and five marvelous grandchildren.

Nurse Goes Above and Beyond – Literally Ferris wheels are for children—and for the very young at heart. When Huldah Folkman, 98, mentioned that she used to enjoy riding the big wheel, Amanda Roberts, RN, made a special effort to help her enjoy the experience again. Roberts, of Reinholds, is the nursing team leader of Franzen House, one of the skilled care households at Maple Farm, where Folkman lives. “When Amanda asked Huldah if she would like to join us on the annual resident trip to the Ephrata Fair for lunch on Wednesday, Huldah kindly declined. She did mention that she liked the Ferris wheel,” said Lora Gomboc, executive director at Maple Farm. “In the true spirit of person-centered care, Amanda came in on Saturday evening to pick up Huldah for the fair. They had a great time riding the Ferris wheel!”

Huldah Folkman, 98, a resident of Franzen House at Maple Farm (left), and Amanda Roberts, Franzen House team leader, enjoy a ride on the Ferris wheel at this year’s Ephrata Fair.

If you have local news you’d like considered for Around Town, please email mjoyce@onlinepub.com

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November 2013

CROSSWORD

Solutions for all puzzles can be found on page 22

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU

Across 1. Lox buddy 6. Junky vehicle 10. Gay Talese’s ___ the Sons 14. Emulate Cicero 15. Women’s magazine 16. Coward’s name 17. Saint-Germain’s river 18. Captain of literature 19. Party pooper 20. Outaouais River site 22. Train component 23. Jane Austen novel 24. Spline 26. Scintillas

28. Nabokov novel 31. Nouvelle-Calédonie, e.g. 32. Globetrotters founder Saperstein 33. In the same place (abbr.) 34. Blackguard 35. Galled 39. Dedicates 41. On a horse 43. Ringo, for one 44. Shred 45. McGregor of Trainspotting 46. Day break? 48. Cuckoo bird 49. Slow-witted

50. ___ fatale 52. Adherents (suffixes) 54. Au naturel 55. Summer shade 57. Infant’s garment 62. Computer image 63. Sin City actress Jessica 65. Med. worker 66. Before case or drive 67. Hang over 68. Nag 69. Fr. seasons 70. Darns 71. Artist’s tripod

Down 1. Anjou alternative 2. Expanse 3. Benefit 4. Sicilian smoker 5. City on the River Aire 6. Biddy 7. Chosen 8. Diva Gluck 9. Illinois River city 10. Resolute 11. Bellini opera 12. Squads 13. One of Chekhov’s Three Sisters

21. Wonderland girl 25. Regrettably 27. Passing mention? 28. Opposite of hinder 29. Prima donna 30. Decorations 33. Psyches 36. Fuzzy fruit or flightless bird 37. Cheese type 38. Hibernation locale 40. Streetcar 41. Slangy negative 42. Spotted

44. Sky show 47. Flower parts 50. Aspect 51. Toothed 53. From that time 54. Chomp 56. Burn soother 58. Mystique 59. Those for 60. Feudal slave 61. Stagger 64. Some times (abbr.)

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Don’t Be Shy about Gastrointestinal Symptoms For millions of adults in the United States, daily activities like going to work may also be accompanied by bothersome gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain and constipation. People may not talk to their doctor about these symptoms because they’re embarrassed and find the conversation a difficult one to have. They suffer in silence. Recurring abdominal pain and constipation, including hard stools and infrequent and incomplete bowel movements, may indicate a chronic gastrointestinal (GI) condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) or, without the presence of abdominal pain, chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC). There is no cure for these conditions, but there are ways to help manage the symptoms, starting with a candid conversation with a doctor, sparing none of the nitty-gritty details. Dr. Steven Lamm, internist and author of No Guts, No Glory, says patients don’t always communicate all their symptoms to a doctor even when

foods containing these sugars may also be helpful.

may also help. Check with your doctor before starting an exercise program.

those symptoms may have a negative impact on their lives. “Patients must have candid discussions with their physician to find treatments that work best for them,” Lamm said. “No one should feel embarrassed to talk about symptoms such as abdominal pain and constipation.” Here are some tips from Lamm: More exercise, less stress: Increased exercise and stress reduction have been shown to help relieve symptoms. Relaxation techniques may help in stressful situations, and increasing exercise like walking and yoga

Drink plenty of water: About six to eight glasses of water daily are important to stay hydrated.

Change your diet: Fiber may help create softer stools that are easier to pass. High-fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, beans, and bran flakes. For IBS-C sufferers, fatty foods, alcohol, and caffeinated drinks may worsen symptoms. Having smaller portions or smaller meals more often may also help. Some people with IBS may have intolerances to certain sugars such as fructose or lactose. Limiting intake of

Over-the-counter (OTC) products: Laxatives and stool softeners are approved to treat occasional constipation. These products are not intended for long-term use without supervision of a physician and are not FDA approved for IBS-C treatment. Talk to your doctor: Tell your doctor all of your symptoms, as well as treatments that have or have not worked for you. Your doctor may prescribe a medication approved by the FDA that targets your symptoms associated with IBS-C or CIC. Learning about and improving your GI health should be a part of your daily life. Take charge by speaking to your doctor and telling it like it is, sparing none of the nitty-gritty details. (StatePoint)

Each month, 50plus Senior News profiles one of your friends or neighbors on its cover, and many of our best cover-profile suggestions have come from you, our readers! Do you or does someone you know have an interesting hobby or collection? A special passion or inspirational experience? A history of dedicated volunteer work? If so, tell us, and we’ll consider your suggestion for a future cover story! Just fill out the questionnaire below and return it to 50plus Senior News, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512, or email your responses to Megan Joyce, editor, at mjoyce@onlinepub.com. Your name:___________________________ Your address:_________________________________________________________________________ Your phone number/email address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Name of person nominated (if not you): _______________________________________________________________________________________ Please receive their permission to nominate them. Nominee’s age range: 50–59

60–69

70–79

80–89

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Why would you/your nominee make a great cover profile? _______________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512

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November 2013

The Search for Our Ancestry

Starting Out with FamilySearch Angelo Coniglio amilySearch’s homepage (https://familysearch.org) is the starting point for the free Mormon site, with a variety of options. New users should click “Create Account” and follow the directions to register for free, and then return to the main page and sign in. The “Search” option appears at the top of the page and on many other pages within the site. Unlike searches on Yahoo! or Google, the site does not let you simply search “globally.” That is, you can’t enter just a surname, a keyword, or a phrase and find all references to it within the site. You must have an orderly approach to your searches, as in any scientific or technical research. On the search page (https://familysearch.org/search), you’ll be prompted to “Discover Your Family History,” with search boxes to enter names, etc., of your ancestors. Beginners should resist the temptation to do so. Searching for names may result in a number of people whose names look familiar to you, and who may be your relatives. You may even find a large family tree with familiar names. Until you learn more about identifying and confirming valid information, you may not recognize that the information and names you are viewing have not been properly “sourced.” FamilySearch can’t keep others from entering erroneous information on its trees. Whether it’s done innocently or intentionally, assuming an un-sourced connection—say, to a famous historical

Ireland, and the United States. Choose a region, click on it, and you’ll see a list of locales in that region. Selecting “United States” will return a list of states; “Canada” will prompt a list of provinces, etc. “Continental Europe” will return a list of nations and a list of dates and collections (census, military, etc.). Pick a country, date, or collection, and you’ll then see an ordered list by date, country, and so on. Using Italy as an example, clicking there will bring up a list alphabetized by province. Each list has a link to “Browse Images,” and then a list of towns appears. Clicking a town results in a list of types of record (in the language of the country searched); in this case, Nati (births), Matrimoni (marriages), etc., and the years for which those records are available. The images that appear in these searches are versions of the Mormon microfilms that were photographed from

the original records. As such, they are laid out like a microfilm, and paging through the images online is like rolling through a film on a microfilm reader. The advantage is that you don’t have to start at the beginning of the film. If the site indicates, for example, that there are 1,237 images for a town’s civil marriage records covering the years 1880 through 1891, and you want the records for the year 1886, you can estimate the location of that year’s records, go immediately to image 600, and begin your search from there. The disadvantage is that you must search image by image, and searching with a slow browser can be tedious. Many original records include indices after each year or after a 10-year period. Search for these indices first. They will give the record number of the document for which you’re searching, making it easier to find a specific record. In this example, Italian marriage records are displayed with two records per image. You can then count forward or backward by twos from any numbered record to find the document you want. Follow the on-screen hints to enlarge, reduce, or print the desired image. 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 for more information.

Puzzles shown on page 20

Puzzle Solutions

person—can lead you to “bark up the wrong (family) tree.” You could spend many hours researching unrelated people. Also, many records shown on FamilySearch are transcribed, rather than images of the actual records, which are more informative and may be found on other websites. Come back to this choice after you have more experience in genealogical research. Bypass the “Person Search” and scroll down the page, where you’ll see a world map. On the left is a link to “Browse All Published Collections.” Again, resist that link, which can flood you with unwanted choices. Below it are several regions, listed under “Browse by Location.” There, you’ll see links to browse records from: Africa, Asia and Middle East, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, Caribbean, Central and South America, Continental Europe, Mexico, Pacific Islands, United Kingdom and

November 2013

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Choose the Right Turkey for Your Feast With Thanksgiving approaching, you may be wondering what kind of turkey to buy for your big feast. The choices can be a little confusing. Check this quick guide to learn what the different labels mean: Butterball. Despite the name, these turkeys don’t actually have any butter. The turkeys come fresh or frozen. The fresh ones have no added ingredients. The frozen birds are injected in the breast with a solution of vegetable oil,

water, salt, emulsifiers, and a preservative. The solution is made to enhance the flavor and provide moisture that is lost during the freezing process. Kosher. Kosher turkeys are soaked in cold saltwater even before the feathers are plucked. The process draws out the blood and impurities, following Jewish dietary laws.

Because they go through both rabbinical and USDA inspections, the birds are very clean. The saltwater soak also makes for a more flavorful bird. Kosher poultry are fed an all-natural diet with no hormones or antibiotics.

Free-range. These birds are fed an allnatural diet and aren’t confined. Often, the birds eat natural feed that is not organic but is tested for chemical residue. Generally, they have more breast meat, about 50 percent less fat, and a quarter fewer calories than regular turkeys. However, some consumers have found that free-range turkeys are a little tougher. That’s because they are less fatty, so be careful not to overcook them.

A History of the Banknote Governments print it, misers hoard it under their mattresses, rich people light their cigars with it—but where does the idea of paper money come from, anyway? China, actually. The banknote apparently originated during the Tang Dynasty (seventh century) to replace bulky copper coins carried by merchants. The coins were minted with rectangular

holes in their center so they could be strung together on cords, but wealthy merchants found that lugging their coins around was difficult. A system was born in which merchants left their coins with a trusted agent in exchange for a note stating exactly how much money was being held. The merchant could return the note at any time to redeem his or her

Time is a Priceless Gift 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 Senior News’

Volunteer Spotlight!

Submissions should be 200 words or fewer and photos are encouraged. Email preferred to mjoyce@onlinepub.com or mail nominations to 50plus Senior News, Volunteer Spotlight, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512.

coins, and in time, paper money called “jiaozi” evolved. In Europe, banknotes first came into use in the 14th century. The term “banknote” derives from nota di banco. The holder of a note could redeem it for an amount of silver or gold held on deposit with a bank. In the New World, the Massachusetts Bay Colony was the first of the American

colonies to circulate its own banknotes in the early 1690s, but all 13 colonies were issuing their own notes by the early 1700s. The First Bank of the United States, chartered by Congress in 1789 shortly after the signing of the Constitution, was authorized to issue banknotes, but the U.S. federal government didn’t start printing its own paper money until 1862.

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November 2013

Savvy Senior

How to Get Paid for Being a Family Caregiver Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, I have been taking care of my elderly mother for nearly three years, and it’s taking a huge toll on my finances. Are there any resources you know about that can help family caregivers get paid? – Financially Exhausted Dear Exhausted, To get paid as a family caregiver, there are various government programs, tax breaks, and family payment options that may be able to help you, depending on your mom’s financial situation. Here’s where to look for help. State Aid If your mom is low-income and eligible for Medicaid, you may be able to get paid a small amount by the state. In 15 states, Medicaid offers a Cash & Counseling program (www.cashandcounseling.org) that

provides an allowance that can be used for various services, including paying family members for care. Many other states have similar programs for low-income seniors, even if the person receiving care doesn’t quite qualify for Medicaid. To find out about these options, contact your local Medicaid office. Veterans Aid In some communities across the U.S.,

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veterans who are at risk of nursing-home placement can enroll in the VeteranDirected Home and CommunityBased Services program, which allows veterans to manage their own care, including hiring and paying their own caregivers. Also available to wartime veterans and their spouses is a benefit called Aid and Attendance that helps pay for in-home care, as well as assisted living and nursing-home care. This benefit can

also be used to pay family caregivers. To be eligible, your mom must need assistance with daily living activities like bathing, dressing, or going to the bathroom. And, her income must be under $13,362 as a surviving spouse—minus medical and long-term care expenses. If your mom is a single veteran, her income must be below $20,795 to be eligible. Her assets must also be less than $80,000, excluding her home and car. To learn more, see www.va.gov/geriatrics, or contact your regional VA office or your local veterans service organization. For contact information, call (800) 827-1000. Tax Breaks Uncle Sam may also be able to help if you pay at least half of your mom’s yearly expenses and her annual income was below $3,900 in 2013 (not counting

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Social Security). If so, you can claim her as a dependant on your taxes and reduce your taxable income by $3,900. See IRS publication 501 (www.irs.gov/pub/irspdf/p501.pdf) or call the IRS helpline at (800) 829-1040 for information. If you can’t claim your mom as a dependant, you may still be able to get a tax break if you’re paying at least half her living expenses, including her medical and long-term care costs, and they exceed 10 percent (or 7.5 percent if

TAKE TWO

you’re 65 or over) of your adjusted gross income. You can include your own medical expenses in calculating the total. See the IRS publication 502 (www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p502.pdf) for details. Family Payments If your mom doesn’t financially qualify for the government aid or the tax breaks, can she afford to pay you herself, or do you have any siblings that would be willing to chip in? After all, if your

mom had to pay for home care services, the costs would be anywhere between $12 and $25 per hour. If she agrees to pay you, it’s best that you or an attorney draft a short, written contract detailing your work and payment arrangements so everyone involved knows what to expect. A contract will also help avoid potential problems should your mom ever need to apply for Medicaid for nursing-home care. Another payment option to consider

is for your mom to adjust her will, so you receive a larger portion of her estate for providing her care. But to avoid conflict, be sure all family members are aware and in agreement. Also, check to see if your mom has any long-term care insurance that covers in-home care. If she does, in some cases, those benefits may be used to pay you. Jim Miller is a regular contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior Book. www.savvysenior.org

from page 1

A girlfriend at the time connected Roda with her uncle, who was involved with the Fulton Theatre in Lancaster. At his urging, Roda also began lessons with renowned vocal coach Romayne Bridgett. Before long, he began getting gigs at weddings and then sang with the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra chorus for two years in the early 1980s. By the ’90s, Roda bought some recording equipment of his own, but his fulltime job at a printing company meant that, although music was his passion, it could only remain a hobby. “The reality was, I was a family man and I had a job, and I could only spend so much time on the music,” he said. Roda was then introduced to the Pennsylvania Academy of Music in Lancaster and connected with a teacher there who was a retired Metropolitan Opera tenor. “I was his student for a couple of years,” said Roda. “He really refined my voice … he got me into the style of singing that people heard from me [at SENIOR IDOL].” He was also invited to sing at one of OperaLancaster Associates’ Lemonade Concerts, but he remained “just a local, low-key, hobby-type singer for the last 30 years” before placing in the 2007 SENIOR IDOL competition. After that, he said, he was rendered unable to sing due to the onset of his illness, which affected his vocal nerve. Years went by in pained silence. “Music dropped off the radar for me, which was heartbreaking,” Roda recalled. Things finally began to turn back around for Roda in fall 2012 when he suddenly observed increasing improvements in his voice, which had become raspy during his illness. “A year ago September, my voice began to come back,” he said. “The last few months, it’s gotten better than it’s ever been. The worst is behind me, thank goodness.” His win at the Spring Sing Competition was a needed confidence www.50plusSeniorNewsPA.com

Apple he’ll be making in the coming boost, and formed, lots Roda began of joking and months. “I’m going to New York in weekly lessons banter back November,” he said. “I’m registered for with vocal there.” America’s Got Talent.” coach John As the He also plans to continue working Darrenkamp, 2013 SENIOR with Darrenkamp, who is grooming also retired IDOL winner, from the Roda’s prize is Roda to try out for opera roles in the Fulton’s 2014-15 season. Metropolitan a limousine Roda noted that many male opera Opera in New trip for two singers, especially tenors as he had been, York City. He to New York retire after age 50. But even several years is the first of City for past that mark, Roda is optimistic and Roda’s dinner and a unconcerned. instructors to Broadway Roda, center, reacts as he is announced as the “I feel like I’ve been given a second treat him as a winner of 2013 PA STATE SENIOR IDOL. He is flanked by show. But chance here. I’m not worried about being lyric baritone the other two finalists, Ray Ricke Jr. of York, left, and that’s not the Cheri Campbell of Coatesville, right. 57 because I’ve got a lot of good years of and not a only journey singing left.” tenor, as to the Big previous coaches had. “I would go through spells where I couldn’t sing because I was being pushed a little too far, a little too high up the vocal register,” he said. “You’ve got to be careful with a voice like that.” Meanwhile, Roda eagerly registered for a 2013 PA STATE SENIOR IDOL audition this summer. Or renew an At the finals competition, his performance of “And This is My existing subscription! Beloved” from Kismet secured him a spot amongst the three finalists. His follow-up Get a 12-month subscription to performance, “E Lucevan Le Stelle” from 50plus Senior News for just $10. Tosca, earned him the win. Mail form to: 50plus Senior News, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Roda said a chill went up his spine Please start a gift subscription for: upon hearing his name called. Beginning (month) _________________________ “It was an amazing feeling. It felt like Name ___________________________________ I kind of just lifted off the stage a few Street ___________________________________ inches; it was incredible,” he said. “It was Apt. ____________________________________ fulfilling, rewarding … it was relief, joy, City/State ________________________________ and euphoria all wrapped up into this Zip _____________________________________ little 10-second announcement.” Sign card from: Despite his success earlier this year, Your name _______________________________ Roda said he was “in no way” feeling Street ___________________________________ confident of a SENIOR IDOL win as the Apt. ____________________________________ finals night progressed and he mingled City/State ________________________________ with the other semifinalists. Zip _____________________________________ “I was having so much fun. I was very Your phone number ________________________ in awe of the talent of the other Paper (or papers/$10 per edition): performers,” he said. “I loved doing it. I Expires 12/31/13 Chester Cumberland Dauphin loved meeting all those people backstage. Lancaster Lebanon York There were lots of little friendships

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November 2013

The Squint-Eyed Senior

The Ups and Downs of Better Health Theodore Rickard verything from halitosis to osteoporosis can be treated, apparently, with the right stuff. Or, several stuffs, as it turns out. My authorities on this are the ads in that thumb-worn magazine about health that’s in my doctor’s office. The cover date is November 2007, and since then, the sheer number of things we should be swallowing has, I’m sure, increased. That’s because there are more things to be treated, especially for those of us who have reached more mature years. Mature enough, in fact, to have become forgetful about how many illnesses we are likely to suffer from and should do something about. The problem arises and intensifies because of this: Since I didn’t know I had the problem, I obviously was doing nothing about it. I was not taking my daily dose of concentrated vitamins,

glandular extract from near-extinct animals, or distillate of jungle fauna. Somehow I’d survived since November 2007, despite the new problems discovered every month— usually just before the magazine’s editorial deadline. This was probably just luck, so it was high time I paid better attention. All this seems a far cry from my youth, when “finish your oatmeal” was about as much nutritional advice as I ever got. The cereal-bowl battle was

Humane League Pets of the Month

Wibble and Wobble Wibble and Wobble were found surviving outside as wee kittens, and as they have come to rely on each other, they come as a package deal. Wibble, a 2-month-old girl, and Wobble, a 2month-old boy, were so little and shy when they were brought to the Humane League. But after spending a little time in a loving foster home, they have learned that they really do deserve to be loved and spoiled silly. When you first meet Wibble and Wobble, you’ll notice their little heads wobbling not unlike a bobble-head toy. Wibble and Wobble are living with a very mild form of cerebellar hypoplasia, a non-contagious, non-progressive neurological condition that results in jerky movements or the occasional loss of balance. Because Wibble and Wobble’s symptoms are so mild, they don’t need any extra care. They are very healthy and have a long life ahead of them. They should, however, be kept indoors and because they may have to work a little harder to keep their balance, they should never be declawed. As long as they have each other and support from their new family, Wibble and Wobble will continue to gain confidence and become the wonderful companions they were meant to be. Wibble ID No. 20580562 and Wobble ID No. 20580583 For more information, please contact the Humane League of Lancaster County at (717) 393-6551.

November 2013

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complicated by the maneuvers of an older brother who, grossly overacting, gave every sign of actually enjoying the mush. Then with a smug and superior glance at me, he’d put his empty bowl and spoon in the kitchen sink—just as we’d been told hundreds of times to do. Meanwhile, I’d be still pushing the groats around in their puddle of milk in the bottom of my bowl in hopes they might somehow simply disappear. They never did. Which explains why I always trailed a full half a block behind my brother on the walk to school. (Years later, the same brother needed to be bailed out due to a bit of overenthusiasm on certain civil-liberties issues—something regarding beverage consumption on public property. I took my own sweet time getting there, I can assure you. In fact, I didn’t come up with the cash until I’d asked what they served for breakfast in the First District lockup—a point which was lost entirely on my sibling, the bail bond guy, and the desk sergeant. But I felt better about it.) There’s no real reason a seaweed extract from an obscure, third-world tribal state should work any better than “eat your spinach” followed by “or no dessert.” But I’m convinced that if I just stay alert, something will work to reverse the reality of time passing … these days with remarkable rapidity. Exercise is another contentiously touted but dubious necessity for

continued health—or survival, according to the magazine enthusiasts. I do not jog. I no longer even quicken my step to catch the down elevator. Not even leaving my doctor’s office. I have learned, concerning the overall realities of elevators, that there will be another one coming along within another minute or so. Were I to act as though it were otherwise is to assume that all the downward-bound elevator boxes go through the basement floor into some sort of subterranean, bottomless pit. I must admit, however, that once having steeled myself to the decision in this, every ring of the elevator bell seems to presage a green arrow. All of the elevators are going up. Naturally, I react by repeatedly stabbing the down button. A bell rings and I move swiftly to an advantageous starting position, guessing which set of doors will slide open for me. That’s when the green arrow confirms “up” and then I quickly change my position to catch the next car. This goes on until the original car returns from the topmost floor. By then I am puffing from the exercise—the very thing the magazine article was touting. The solution would be to find a doctor whose office is on the ground floor. I refuse, however, to change what the bureaucracy insists on calling a “primary care provider” (which any mother knows is herself ). I’ll stick with my present doctor. He’s a good 40 pounds overweight. And I suspect he smokes cigars. He makes me feel better about myself. Especially after all the problems with the elevators. A collection of Ted Rickard’s family-fun essays is titled Anything Worth Knowing I Learned from the Grandkids. It is now available in paperback on Amazon.com.

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November 2013

Life-saving cardiac care.

And the gift of time. At 10 a.m., Dave began having chest pains. At noon he was rushed to Good Samaritan. By 1 p.m., the advanced technology of our cardiac catheterization lab had found ﬁve arterial blockages. And by 3:30 p.m., Dave was having the bypass surgery that would save his life. Now Dave has more time to pursue his love of restoring clocks. Thanks to the clockwork performance of the cardiac team at Good Samaritan. For more information or to ﬁnd a physician, visit comfortingcare.org.

November 2013

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