50plus LIFE York County December 2016

Complimentary | York County Edition

December 2016 • Vol. 17 No. 12

Suspense Author Rewrites ‘Retirement’ page 4

small towns celebrate christmas in big ways page 6

Flu Vaccines for older adults page 19

It Was 50 Years Ago Today

‘Last Train to Clarksville’ Randal Hill

Q: What do “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “Eve of Destruction,” “Give Peace a Chance,” and “Last Train to Clarksville” all have in common?

A: During the 1960s, each became a million-selling antiwar song.

Wait a minute! A teenybopper Monkees hit belongs on that contentious list?

Yes, and soon you too will be saying, “I’m a believer.”

In September 1965, both Daily Variety and The Hollywood Reporter ran an unusual advertisement: Madness! Auditions. Folk and Roll Musicians – Singers for acting roles in new TV series. Running parts for four insane boys, age 17–21.

“Last Train to Clarksville” The Monkees December 1966

Included among the tryout hopefuls were Stephen Stills (later of Crosby, Stills, and Nash), Danny Hutton (later of Three Dog Night), and—supposedly but never verified— mass murderer Charles Manson.

Happy Holidays!

We at On-Line Publishers, Inc. are grateful to our dedicated staff, loyal readers, and supportive advertisers who have all enabled us to continue our mission to serve the mind, heart, and spirit of the 50+ community in 2016.

We wish to thank each of you for helping to make 50plus LIFE a fun, interesting, and unique source of information and entertainment for our readers in Central Pennsylvania.

At this special time of giving thanks and reminiscing, the staff of On-Line Publishers wishes you, our friends, warmest holiday wishes.

From the 437 applicants, coveted roles went to musicians/non-actors Mike Nesmith and Peter Tork and actors/non-musicians Davy Jones and Mickey Dolenz.

The quartet was hired to ape the Beatles’ zany antics in their debut movie A Hard Day’s Night. (Writer Barney Hoskyns once declared the advent of the Monkees a “post-moptop surrealism for pre-teens, with great songs thrown in as part of the package.”)

And great songs they often were.

Songwriting partners Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart composed the “manufactured” band’s first single.

“Last Train to Clarksville” took its chord structure, “jangly” guitar sound, and tight vocal harmonies directly from the Beatles’ “Paperback Writer” from earlier in 1966. In fact, Hart had thought that Paul McCartney was singing something about a “last train” rather than “paperback writer” at the song’s fadeout.

Knowing that The Monkees was to be a music/comedy TV show in the style of A Hard Day’s Night, Boyce and Hart figured they couldn’t go wrong emulating the Fab Four.

The songwriting pair wanted a simple title that would be easy for fans to remember. On Songfacts (www.songfacts.com), Hart explained, “We were just looking for a name that sounded good. There’s a little town in northern Arizona I used to go through called Clarksdale. We were throwing out names, and when we got to Clarksdale, we thought Clarksville sounded even better.”

Boyce and Hart both opposed the Vietnam War, and they wanted the first Monkees “45” to include their take on the conflict. But both writers knew they had to exercise caution.

“We couldn’t be too direct with the Monkees,” Hart admitted later. “We really couldn’t make a protest song out of it. We kind of snuck it in.”

In the tune’s storyline, a young soldier pleads with his girlfriend to say goodbye at a train station. He knows he may die in the war, hence the downbeat, often-repeated line, “I don’t know if I’m ever coming home.”

The Monkees debuted on NBCTV in September 1966, and “Last Train to Clarksville” on the Colgems Records label rocketed to No. 1 within weeks. While Boyce and Hart would also write the group’s sixth and final hit (“Valleri”), only the first of the Monkees’ tunes offered up a serious (if subtle) antiwar statement.

Randal C. Hill is a rock ’n’ roll historian who lives at the Oregon coast. He may be reached at wryterhill@msn.com.

Like 50plus LIFE? Then “Like” 50plus LIFE!

www.facebook.com/50plusLIFEPA

“Like” us on Facebook to receive a free 6-month subscription!

Plus, you’ll receive event updates, story links, and more!

2

December 2016

50plus LIFE t

www.50plusLifePA.com

Your Friends’ and Neighbors’ December Holidays The celebrations and holidays of December come from many different countries and cultures.

Here’s a guide to what your friends and neighbors are up to this month:

Hanukkah, Dec. 24 to Jan.1 Hanukkah marks the rededication of the Temple of Jerusalem following the Jews’ victory in the Maccabean Revolt in 165 B.C. According to the Talmud, the Jews had only enough olive oil to keep the eternal flame in the temple burning for a single day—but miraculously, the oil continued to burn for eight days, during which time the Jews were able to produce and consecrate fresh oil for the flame.

The eight-day Jewish holiday begins at sundown. Hanukkah is observed by the lighting of a nine-branched candelabrum, called a menorah. One candle is lit each of the eight nights,

with a central candle lit each night to light the others.

Christmas, Dec. 25 This Christian holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus, sometime between the years 7 and 2 B.C. The word Christmas comes from “Christ’s Mass,” a phrase first recorded in old English in 1038.

Christmas began to be observed with feasts and celebrations in the Middle Ages—the online encyclopedia Wikipedia notes that King Richard II of

England hosted a Christmas feast in 1377, with 28 oxen and 300 sheep eaten.

The colonial Puritans of New England disapproved of Christmas celebrations, banning them during the 17th century.

But other colonists observed the day with Christmas trees and nativity scenes.

President Ulysses S. Grant signed the law making Christmas a federal holiday in 1870.

Kwanzaa, Dec. 26 to Jan. 1 A seven-day celebration of African heritage and culture, Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by activist Maulana Karenga to provide African-Americans with a holiday that emphasized their shared history and experience.

The name Kwanzaa derives from “matunda yakwanza,” a Swahili phrase meaning “first fruits.”

Houses are decorated with African art and colorful cloth, and seven candles are placed in the kinara, a candleholder. The central candle in the kinara is black, with three red candles on the left and three green candles on the right.

The candles represent the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, which are contemplated each day as one is lit: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.

At Your Fingertips Helpful numbers, hotlines, and local businesses and organizations eager to serve you—all just a phone call away.

Active Adult Communities Roth’s Farm Village Roth’s Church Road, Spring Grove (717) 633-7300

Funeral & Cremation Services Cremation Society of Pennsylvania Serving Lancaster County (800) 720-8221

Hearing Services Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (800) 233-3008 V/TTY

Animal Hospitals Community Animal Hospital Donald A. Sloat, D.V.M. 400 S. Pine St., York (717) 845-5669

Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (717) 651-5020

Home Care Services Senior Helpers (717) 920-0707

Alzheimer’s Information Clearinghouse (800) 367-5115

Visiting Angels Living Assistance Services Hanover: (717) 630-0067 Lancaster: (717) 393-3450 York: (717) 751-2488

Automobile Sales/Service Gordon’s Body Shop, Inc. 10 Mill St., Stewartstown (717) 993-2263 Dental Services Susquehanna Dental Arts 100 S. 18th St., Columbia (717) 285-7033 or (717) 684-3943 Energy Assistance Low-Income Energy Assistance (717) 787-8750 Entertainment Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre 510 Centerville Road, Lancaster (717) 898-1900 www.50plusLifePA.com

American Diabetes Association (800) 342-2383 CONTACT Helpline (717) 652-4400 The National Kidney Foundation (800) 697-7007 or (717) 757-0604 Social Security Information (800) 772-1213 Healthcare Information Pennsylvania HealthCare Cost Containment (717) 232-6787

Housing Assistance Housing Authority of York (717) 845-2601 Property Tax/Rent Rebate (888) 728-2937 Independent Living Pine Run Retirement Community 1880 Pine Run Road, Abbottstown (800) 683-0706 Insurance – Long-Term Care Apprise Insurance Counseling (717) 771-9610 or (800) 632-9073

Pharmacies CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com realtors Berkshire Hathaway — Becky Schor (717) 246-6700 2798 S. Queen St., Dallastown Services York County Area Agency on Aging (800) 632-9073 Transportation Rabbittransit (800) 632-9063 Travel AAA Southern Pennsylvania (717) 600-8700 Veterans Services Lebanon VA Medical Center 1700 S. Lincoln Ave., Lebanon (717) 228-6000 or (800) 409-8771

50plus LIFE t

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

December 2016

3

Cover Story

Suspense Author Rewrites ‘Retirement’

Corporate Office

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

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Donna K. Anderson

EDITORIAL

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

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

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

CIRCULATION

Project Coordinator Loren Gochnauer

ADMINISTRATION Business Manager Elizabeth Duvall

Member of

Awards

50plus LIFE is published by On-Line Publishers, Inc. and is distributed monthly among senior centers, retirement communities, banks, grocers, libraries and other outlets serving the senior community.

On-Line Publishers, Inc. will not knowingly accept or publish advertising which may be fraudulent or misleading in nature.

Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles and letters are not necessarily the views of the publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. The publisher will not be responsible for mistakes in advertisements unless notified within five days of publication. On-Line Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to revise or reject any and all advertising. No part of this publication may be reproduced or reprinted without permission of On-Line Publishers, Inc. We will not knowingly publish any advertisement or information not in compliance with the Federal Fair Housing Act, Pennsylvania State laws or other local laws.

4

December 2016

50plus LIFE t

By Megan Joyce Publishing technology has changed significantly since Sherry Knowlton’s childhood, when she cranked out a school newsletter on a mimeograph machine in the principal’s office.

But Knowlton is still fascinated by the process of putting ink on paper—especially now that the words printed are her own.

Knowlton, who graduated from Dickinson College in 1968, embarked on what has become a successful novelist career after retiring from fulltime work in 2009.

“Like most authors, my interest in writing grew from my love of reading,” Knowlton said. “As a small child, my mother and father read me stories. As soon as I learned to read on my own, I spent hours with my nose in a book, as my mother would say.

“I’d sneak books to bed at night and read under the covers by flashlight,” she said. “I bicycled to the town library at least once a week to get a new stack of books.”

Elementary-school writing awards followed, as did that experience of printing the school newsletter on the mimeograph— and she later edited her high school newsletter and yearbook.

Knowlton cites a range of authors among her influences, including Ernest Hemingway, John D. MacDonald, John Grisham, Tracy Chevalier, and Jane Austen.

“I’ve probably read Pride and Prejudice 10 times. I’m a total sucker for Mr. Darcy and the triumph of romance,” she said.

Knowlton’s series of suspense novels follows Alexa Williams, a young lawyer living in SouthCentral Pennsylvania “who keeps stumbling into dangerous situations,” Knowlton said. “Each book tells a unique, contemporary story with a historical subplot.”

Her two first novels in the Alexa Williams series, Dead of

The third book in Knowlton’s Alexa Williams suspense series, titled Dead of Spring, is due to be released in early 2017.

Autumn and Dead of Summer, were published by Sunbury Press in September 2015 and July 2016, respectively. The next in the mystery series, Dead of Spring, is slated for release in early 2017.

“The options for publishing vary widely these days, ranging from the traditional, big New York publishing houses to smaller, independent presses to selfpublishing,” Knowlton said.

The idea for Knowlton’s first book, Dead of Autumn, came from her knowledge of two Central Pennsylvanian historical crimes: the 1993 murder of a young Russian woman found dead in the forest near Carlisle, and the Depression-era “Babes in the Woods” case, where three girls were found dead in the forest near Pine Grove Furnace State Park.

Knowlton’s love of creative writing remained a neglected avocation while in the throes of her career. She spent more than 20 years working for the Pennsylvania Department of Welfare (now the Department of Human Services) before becoming deputy secretary for medical assistance programs.

“Before writing these books, I’d never done any novel-length fiction … Although I’ve always wanted to tackle a novel, all my earlier attempts fell to the wayside due to the time pressures of career

and family,” Knowlton said.

After her tenure with the Department of Human Services, Knowlton moved to executivelevel jobs in the health insurance industry, culminating in her roles as senior vice president and general manager of a national health insurer.

When that company downsized, Knowlton had the opportunity to take early retirement in 2009 and began her own part-time healthcare consulting company.

“When I began to work as a consultant, I decided that it was ‘now or never’ to begin work on that novel I’d always wanted to write,” Knowlton said. “Working part-time and setting my own schedule gave me the freedom to spend a considerable amount of time writing.”

Knowlton still consults occasionally but has scaled back significantly to focus on her novels, which are available online from Amazon.com and IndieBound and at Barnes & Noble and Sunbury Press.

Much of Knowlton’s career included professional writing, such as writing regulations and policy, proposals, speeches, and policy statements. To write a suspense novel, however, Knowlton relies on several forms of research, both online and in person.

In addition to scouring books and documents and visiting sites featured in her books, Knowlton has cultivated relationships with a wide range of professionals, including contacts in law enforcement and the legal system for her crime-related research.

“I’ve spoken to farmers for information on crop cycles; physicians for information on gunshot wounds; state regulators for background on things as disparate as adoption and hydraulic fracturing,” Knowlton said. “I’ve found that people are remarkably generous in sharing their expertise with me.” www.50plusLifePA.com

Knowlton and her husband are avid travelers, starting with their postcollege sojourn around the United States in their self-described “hippie van” and their stop at the infamous Woodstock music festival in 1969.

More recently, the Knowltons have broadened their journeys beyond the U.S. to places such as the Caribbean, Central America, Europe, Africa, South America, and Indonesia.

“In general, travel has expanded my horizons by exposing me to new experiences, new cultures, and different ways of life,” Knowlton said. “Being out of your element and pushing the limits of your comfort zone can teach you powerful lessons.”

Her travels have also afforded Knowlton a rich source of settings for her novels, enabling her to comfortably place her protagonist in exotic locales, like the Golden Triangle region of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, and on African safaris.

Less familiar, and therefore more challenging, to Knowlton has been adjusting to her role as the public face of her writing and as a crucial cog in its marketing machine. These days, authors—especially new ones—must play an active part in publicizing their work.

“Before Dead of Autumn was released, I hadn’t fully appreciated all the effort that authors need to put into promoting their books,” she said.

“That effort includes doing events,

often maintaining a blog or newsletter, and more.

“Although I struggled with that unfamiliar aspect at first, I now have a knowledgeable publicity team that makes the process much smoother.”

This year alone, Knowlton has done a number of book-related events, including appearing on a panel in New York City at the International Thriller Writers’ ThrillerFest conference.

Having successfully established a burgeoning “second career” postretirement, Knowlton now makes a point of reading books from up-andcoming authors to help pull them up into the spotlight, working specifically with International Thriller Writer’s Debut Author initiative.

“As a fairly new author myself, I know how hard it is to break through and connect with an audience of readers,” she said.

Despite her newfound appreciation for the business side of publishing, at heart Knowlton’s drive stems from the transportive, simple joy of the written word, from recalling the nostalgic comfort of huddling nose-deep in a novel smuggled under the bedcovers.

“As long as I can remember, I’ve liked to lose myself in a world of make-believe—whether I was reading a book or writing a story of my own.”

For more on Sherry Knowlton and her novels, visit www.sherryknowlton. com.

Merry Christmas!

Here’s to a season filled with love, warmth and happy memories. If you’re thinking about a change of address in the New Year, please contact me for a FREE home analysis, and I’ll explain how I can make your move smooth and easy.

Becky Schor, Realtor Berkshire Hathaway

717-757-7811 (office) 717-246-6700 (mobile) bschor1100@yahoo.com

2798 S. Queen Street Dallastown, PA 17313

“Be Sure with Becky Schor”

Enter to

WIN

a

50

$

Gift Card to

Around Town Donations Sought for Coat and Blanket Drive Running through December, Senior Commons at Powder Mill is collecting winter coats and blankets to be donated to Bell Family Shelter.

Senior Commons, in partnership with New Fairview Church of the Brethren in York, is asking for new or gently used coats and blankets for adults and children.

All donations benefit Bell Family Shelter, which opened in 1986 and remains York County’s only 30-day emergency shelter serving homeless families.

Items can be dropped off at Senior Commons at Powder Mill, 1775 Powder Mill Road, York. For more information, call Brandy Reeve, marketing director, at (717) 741-0961.

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

www.50plusLifePA.com

Take a quick survey on issues important to people over 50. You will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card to Isaac’s Famous Grilled Sandwiches.

You’re a SageAge and we want to hear from you ... and your friends, family, and coworkers!

Go to www.SageAgeToday.com to enter!

Contest sponsored by:

The winner will be selected at random. You may enter to win once per contest (one winner every six months). The winner will be emailed and called.

50plus LIFE t

December 2016

5

Traveltizers

By Andrea Gross

Small Towns Celebrate Christmas in Big Ways

St. Augustine, Florida, which was founded by Spanish conquistadors in 1565, is festooned with 3 million lights. These represent the candles that brighten Spanish homes during the Christmas season.

The town of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, features a parade of les petits chanteurs who sing French carols, while the Kansas community of Lindsborg, settled by Swedes in the late 19th century, celebrates Christmas with Scandinavian music and folk dancing.

And so it goes. Across the United States, people come together to observe the holidays in ways that combine quintessentially American customs while at the same time honoring the traditions of their ancestors.

Here, a spotlight on three towns that speak to the best of America: its commonalities as well as its diversity.

St. Augustine’s Spanish Heritage I take a sip of water. According to legend, this water, which comes from a natural spring near St. Augustine, Florida, is going to bestow upon me a magical gift—the gift of eternal youth.

Convinced that they’d found the storied Fountain of Youth, the Spanish, along with enslaved AfricanAmericans and native Timucuan Indians, established the first

Photo courtesy of FloridasHistoricCoast.com

St. Augustine honors its Spanish heritage by putting lights in the windows of downtown buildings.

Photo courtesy of Ste. Genevieve Tourism

Photo by Irv Green

The Colonial Spanish Quarter in St. Augustine is filled with museums, eateries, and shops that reflect the town’s heritage.

Photo by Irv Green

Ste. Genevieve’s holiday parade honors the town’s many traditions.

Ste. Genevieve is known for its well-preserved collection of early French architecture.

permanent settlement in what became the United States.

Then, knowing that their families back in Europe were celebrating the Fiesta de Navidad, they celebrated a Christmas Mass. It was the first Christmas in the New World.

I swallow the water, but it’s laden with sulfur and smells like hardboiled eggs. I’d rather have eggnog.

Today, St. Augustine’s annual “Nights of Lights,” which has been selected by both National Geographic and the Smithsonian as one of the world’s best holiday displays, begins the Saturday before Thanksgiving and runs through the end of January.

   

Ste. Genevieve’s French Connection Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, 60 miles

south of St. Louis, is a charming town of 4,500 people, most of whom trace their ancestry back to France.

We explore streets filled with intriguing shops and eateries, stopping for nearly an hour at ASL Foundry, where we watch folks craft pewter plates, goblets, and—to my delight— Christmas ornaments.

Finally, we make our way to the town’s historic district, which has gained worldwide recognition for its collection of French Creole buildings.

Christmas in the historic district begins the day after Thanksgiving with Vieux Noël in Lights, during which folks follow a path marked with signs that tell the Christmas story. The path ends at a small crèche that has been secreted in a boxwood grove.

The Holiday Christmas Festival, which takes place a few days later on the first weekend in December, celebrates 500 years of the area’s rich musical traditions.

Free performances feature everything from chamber concerts and violin concertos to church music and holiday carolers. For good measure, there’s even a grand holiday parade with Santa.

In addition, the Felix Vallé State Historic Site hosts Le Réveillon, which features a French Christmas circa the early 1800s.

As French music plays in the

PINE RUN

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Designed for Independent Living

            

    

6

December 2016

50plus LIFE t

Mon. – Fri 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

  



OPEN HOUSE

1880 Pine Run Rd., Abbottstown

From York: Rt. 30 W to Abbottstown. At square take Rt. 194 N 2.5 miles to Pine Run Road on the left

or by appointment

(717) 259-8644 (800) 683-0706 www.50plusLifePA.com

background, guides in historically accurate dress explain the various decorations and encourage people to taste test dessert items such as bûche de Noël, a sweet rendition of the Yule log.

But the biggest holiday celebration is La Gulannée Watch Party on New Year’s Eve. Similar to the English custom of wassailing, partygoers dress in outlandish costumes and go from house to house begging for favors.

Photo by Irv Green

During the summer festivals, the streets of Lindsborg are filled with folk dancing.

Photo by Jim Turner

Photo by Irv Green

Lindsborg is home to the world’s longest-running annual performance of Handel’s Messiah.

Your regional paper has national appeal!

50plus LIFE recently earned 3 Media Awards from the North American Mature Publishers Association (NAMPA)!

Division C General Excellence

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

14th Annual

“Reap More than What You ‘Sew’” by Chelsea Peifer www.50plusLIFEpa.com

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

June 8, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

CHESTER COUNTY

Division C Profile

Hershey Lodge 325 University Drive Hershey

May 18, 2017 LANCASTER COUNTY

Third Place

www.50plusLifePA.com

May 9, 2017 DAUPHIN COUNTY

First Place

Division C Most Improved

For an expanded version of this article that includes other ways that these towns celebrate their heritage, see www. traveltizers.com. Photos © Irv Green unless otherwise noted; story by Andrea Gross (www.andreagross.com).

Please join us for these FREE events!

18th Annual

Third Place

Lindsborg has strong musical traditions.

18th Annual

Lindsborg’s Swedish Celebration In Lindsborg, Kansas, where more than a third of the residents are of Swedish descent, Christmas is all about music.

The season kicks off the first Sunday in December with a musicfilled Jultide Concert and doesn’t fully end until spring, when the town choir performs the country’s longestrunning annual presentation of Handel’s Messiah.

The biggest event of the season is the St. Lucia Festival, which celebrates the shortest day of the year, the winter solstice.

To brighten a time when light is in short supply, a young girl adorned

Photo by Jim Turner

Lindsborg’s Christmas festivities, like those in Sweden, lighten the dark days of winter.

with a crown of lighted candles is chosen to serve cookies and coffee.

The candles, which are set among green leaves, are meant to show that the dark winter is turning into a bright spring.

Finally, as Christmas winds down, folks begin to prepare for the spring presentation of Handel’s Messiah.

Although the oratorio is traditionally associated with Christmas, only the first section focuses on the birth of Christ. The latter parts tell the story of death and resurrection and were originally intended to be performed at Easter.

It is then, after a weeklong celebration, that the 200-person Bethany Lutheran Choir performs the well-known piece. As the last notes fade away, Lindsborg’s Christmas truly ends, just as the sights and sounds of spring begin to fill the air.

Feliz Navidad, joyeux Noel, god Jul ... Happy holidays to all!

Church Farm School 1001 East Lincoln Highway Exton

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

www.50plusExpoPA.com 50plus LIFE t

December 2016

7

On Life and Love after 50

Men Have Trouble Meeting Women Tom Blake

Usually, it’s the women who comment to me that meeting mature single men is difficult. But, lately, older men have also said meeting older single women is difficult.

One man, who lives in a Philadelphia suburb, contacted me by telephone, saying he’d like to be introduced to the 68-year-old woman I wrote about in my October article.

I told him she would want to see a photo of him and asked if he would email it to me so I could forward it to her. And, I asked how far away from his home he would be willing to date a woman.

He said he doesn’t own a computer so he can’t email a photo. Plus, he does not drive or own a car.

Those two conditions will make dating hard for him. Without a

computer, he won’t be able to meet anyone online, and without a car, meeting someone who lives more than a few miles from him will also be difficult.

When I pointed out those things to him, he said he’d give the single women at his church another look. ​ Martin emailed: “I’m 55 and single. I read in your columns that men can meet women anywhere if

advertisement

AFFORDABLE CREMATION SERVICES If you want a funeral with an expensive casket and embalming, go to a funeral home!

If you are interested in affordable cremation services, we are the name to remember!

We specialize in cremation only, statewide, no removal fees.

No Embalming

No Caskets

Cremation Society of Pennsylvania, Inc. serving all of York county since 1981 Largest in the state of PA

For FREE brochures and pricing, call:

1-800-720-8221 (toll-free) or mail us ...

Please send me FREE brochures and pricing! www.cremationsocietyofpa.com Name______________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________ _______________________________ Phone (

)_________________

4100 Jonestown Rd., Hbg., PA 17109 Shawn E. Carper, Supervisor

8

December 2016

50plus LIFE t

Code YSN

they are willing to get out of the house. But, I find that reunions, weddings, grocery stores, Laundromats, adult-education classes, bookstores, and churches are hit or miss. Even internet profiles don’t work because the lady you see probably isn’t the lady you get.

“I’ve tried many of the places you have recommended and many of them don’t work.”

I responded to Martin. “You say, ‘Many places don’t work.’ You need to try them all. It only takes one. Keep looking and put a positive spin on your search.” ​​ Al, 64, wants to know: “How does an average-looking guy like me compete? Where are the average women? In every group I join, there are always five to 10 more men than women, sometimes more.

“Even at church, there are more older men than older women. I don’t care what women do—they can wait tables, cashier, be retired, whatever.

I just want to find a nice, gentle, intelligent, plain-looking woman to spend my life with. Where are they?”

Perhaps Al should join a sewing or knitting club. At least he would find more women in places like that.

Richard, 71, says he’s in great shape, works out regularly, is nice looking, a good dresser, is educated, and owns a home.

But, he has a tough time meeting women because he’s an engineer and works only with men, so he does not meet single women at work.

“All I meet are women who’ve been divorced twice and mollycoddle their

grandkids and who have a number of women friends they shop with at expensive stores. Men are not in their mainstream.”

I suggested Richard expand his search by seeking women who aren’t totally involved with their grandchildren and don’t shop at expensive stores.

Where? That’s up to him; he needs some outside-of-work interests where he’ll meet single women more to his liking. ​ Mike emailed: “In my church, I can’t find single women in my age group. They all seem to be a bit older.

Like Social Security-collecting older.”

Besides church, Mike needs to go to other places to meet women.

Volunteering to help others less fortunate and internet dating are two recommendations. ​Bill, who lives in Florida, said, “I’ve never married, have no children, and can put a woman first. I’m looking for a woman who will do the same.

“I’ve been in relationships where the grandkids come first, the job second, and the relationship third.

When one slips to third on the priority list, it’s time to say adios.”

Maybe Bill isn’t meant to be in a relationship. In Florida, there are a plethora of older women who would love to have a mate. He needs to ask himself, “What am I doing wrong?”

The men featured in today’s article are whining a bit too much. They need to get out and join in new activities, make new friends, and exhibit positive attitudes.

And then, they may catch the eye of a nice mature woman, of which there are plenty, in most every city and town across America.

For dating information, previous articles, or to sign up for Tom’s complimentary, weekly e-newsletter, go to www.

FindingLoveAfter50.com.

www.50plusLifePA.com

Is This Thing On?

Abby Stokes

How to Navigate Google Maps on Your Smartphone

Whether you want to find your way to your granddaughter’s ballet class or finally drive cross country, it’s time for you to learn to use the free GPS app on your smartphone or tablet.

Google Maps is an app that offers global mapping with satellite imagery, street maps, and actual traffic conditions as well as route planning for getting from here to there by foot, car, bicycle, and public transportation.

So where a smartphone has improved driving safety is when it’s used for navigation.

With a car phone holder accessory, your smartphone hangs from the rearview mirror or attaches to the dash, letting you be hands-free while it guides you on your way—much better than trying to read an unwieldy map while driving. Visit the store on AskAbbyStokes.com for some choices about car phone holders.

Google Maps vs. Maps

If you have an iPhone, Google Maps may not be preinstalled; iPhones come pre-installed with Maps. They are very similar in purpose and use, but we’re focusing specifically on Google Maps.

Finding Your Way Around Before we ask Google Maps to provide directions, let’s get used to some of its features. To find yourself,

Once you see your destination on the screen, tap on the blue circle in the bottom right. The next screen will allow you to choose whether you’re

tap on . The map will then zero in on your current location.

From here, you can pinch or spread the screen to zoom in or out of your location.

traveling by car

The blue dot represents where you are. At the top of the screen is a text box where you type in the address of your destination.

As you type, suggestions for what you seek will start to appear in a list below. If your destination appears, then you can stop typing and tap on it. But be sure that it’s the correct town and state—not just the street. There are a lot of 25 Main Streets out there!

Thank You, Volunteers!

On-Line Publishers, Inc., and 50plus LIFE would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to all of the individual and senior group volunteers who donated their time and efforts at our 2016 50plus EXPOs and the Veterans’ Expo & Job Fairs.

Because of your assistance, we were able to bring the contents and the mission of 50plus LIFE to life for the residents of Central Pennsylvania!

www.50plusLifePA.com

transportation

, public , foot

, or

bicycle .

The next screen gives you a choice of route, if there is a choice. Tap on whichever route you desire, and then tap on the arrow in the blue circle at the bottom right. The screen will also show the length of the trip and the estimated time of the trip.

Once you’ve tapped on the arrow, you’re on your way. The app will now talk you through the journey, while the map indicates your place en route and alerts you to when and how soon your next turn will be.

Any calls, texts, or emails will be

held on the phone until you’ve arrived.

So, please don’t be tempted to answer any overtures while you are in transit.

Happy trails!

Abby Stokes, author of “Is This Thing On?” A Friendly Guide to Everything Digital for Newbies, Technophobes, and the Kicking & Screaming and its companion website, AskAbbyStokes.com, is the Johnny Appleseed of Technology, singlehandedly helping more than 300,000 people cross the digital divide.

Thank You, Columnists!

50plus LIFE continues to bring important information as well as entertaining articles to the 50+ community. We at On-Line Publishers would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the editorial contributors of 50plus LIFE: Tom Blake (On Life and Love after 50) Mike Clark (The Way I See It) Suzy Cohen (Dear Pharmacist) Dick Dedrick (Nostalgia Road) Andrea Gross (Traveltizers) John Johnston (Social Security News) Bill Levine Clyde McMillan-Gamber (The Beauty in Nature) Jim Miller (The Savvy Senior) Victor Parachin (Fragments of History)

Saralee Perel (Such is Life) Dr. Leonard Perry (The Green Mountain Gardener) Mark Pilarski (Deal Me In) Sy Rosen (Older But Not Wiser) Terri Schlichenmeyer (The Bookworm Sez) Walt Sonneville (My 22 Cents’ Worth) Abby Stokes (Is This Thing On?) Nick Thomas (Tinseltown Talks) Dr. Lori Verderame (Art and Antiques) Robert Wilcox (Salute to a Veteran)

It is through the varied interests and considerable talents of our contributors and freelance writers that such a range of informative and entertaining content is available to read each month.

The pages of 50plus LIFE are enriched by your contributions.

50plus LIFE t

December 2016

9

Fragments of History

We Go in the Snow Let us take you!

Call us to request a Ride Guide and application today!

RESTAUR ANT GROCERY

VISIT SENIOR CENTER

BANK

PHYSICAL THERAPY BEAUTY SALON

WORK

RECREATION

SHOPPING FITNESS

1-800-632-9063 rabbittransit.org

ADULT DAY CARE

Serving Adams, Columbia, Cumberland, Franklin, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Snyder, Union & York Counties

Stabilize Your Dentures Instantly!

Why now? Why wait? Why not turn your dreams of a more comfortable and attractive smile into a beautiful reality! Start smiling again with a simple, gentle, non-surgical procedure.

Restore your comfort and confidence while speaking and eating.

In one procedure you can walk out ready to enjoy the foods you wish, without the long healing times and high costs typically associated with conventional implants.

Victor Parachin

10 Quick Facts about Santa Claus

1. He’s only been “Santa Claus” for about 300 years. When the Dutch came to the United States in the 17th century, they brought along “Sinter Claus”—their name for St. Nicholas. Before long, Sinter Claus was Anglicized to Santa Claus.

2. He first slid down a chimney in 1809. In Washington Irving’s satire book A History of New York, he characterized Santa Claus as a portly, bearded man who slid down a chimney.

3. His reindeer were introduced in 1832 via a poem written by Clement Clark Moore, “’Twas 



             

      





the Night before Christmas.” Their names were Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blitzen.

The popular reindeer, Rudolph, was introduced in a 1939 booklet written

by Robert L. May. 4. He became a department store Santa in 1890 when Massachusetts businessman James Edgar developed the idea of dressing up in a Santa Claus costume as a marketing tool.

It worked, as children from all over the state begged their parents to take them to Edgar’s small dry-goods store in Brockton, Massachusetts.

5. He was a bachelor until the 19th century. Mrs. Claus was first introduced in the 1849 short story A Christmas Legend by James Rees.

Over the next decades, other poems and stories referenced his wife.

6. He helps the Salvation Army.

Around 1890, the Salvation Army needed more money to pay for the free Christmas meals they provided to needy families.

They came up with idea of dressing unemployed men in Santa

please see SANTA page 13

Get in on our holiday special: 15% off regular price on implant treatment plans started before the end of the year.

Call today for your free consultation appointment which includes a panoramic xray.

(717) 285-7033 or (717) 684-3943

Owen Allison, DMD 100 South 18th Street, Columbia At The Columbia Shopping Center

www.susquehannadentalarts.com 10

December 2016

50plus LIFE t

www.50plusLifePA.com

When you have a health care concierge, you have an advantage.

UPMC for Life is the Medicare Advantage plan that gives you award-winning customer service* and more: • $5 copay for primary care doctors visits (on most plans) • HMO plans starting at $0 for your monthly plan premium** • Brand-name and generic prescription drug coverage

Toll-free: 1-866-416-8870 seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

TTY: 1-800-361-2629 www.upmchealthplan.com/medicare *The UPMC Health Plan Call Center earned the 2015 Award for Best Large Contact Center from ICMI. For more information, visit www.icmi.com.

This award was not given by Medicare. For more information about UPMC for Life’s Star Rating go to www.Medicare.gov. **You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B Premium.

This information is not a complete description of beneďŹ ts. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. BeneďŹ ts and premiums may change on January 1 of each year.

UPMC for Life complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

UPMC for Life cumple con las leyes federales de derechos civiles aplicables y no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo.

UPMC for Life ᆰॳŇ?ůĀԕᅨΧ‍ܧ‏ʒŕ¤?‍܊‏ǭëť&#x;ÄƒČ‚Ć?ŕ˘ŽëşŽâ€ŤŮźâ€ŹÉĄëşŽÎ§ŕ˘ŽÓ‰Ő”ëşŽĹ­ŕŠ”ëşŽŕ¤Ąŕś ÍąČĄČŽĆŚá“ľËˇÎ€ĚœÄ‰áŽŁ ATENCIĂ“N: si habla espaĂąol, tiene a su disposiciĂłn servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingßística. Llame al 1-877-381-3765 (TTY: 1-800-361-2629). ͊Nj띭Ƨưǡ̚ů୒ɅĥNJ ëť&#x;ÇˇÄťĹ˜Ń‹Í˜ČŚÄŤĐ”Ňśŕž˝ŐŽË–ÓŠ 뺯É?ŮŽÇ– 1-877-381-3765 (TTY 1-800-361-2629) UPMC for Life has a contract with Medicare to provide HMO and PPO plans. Enrollment in UPMC for Life depends on contract renewal.

UPMC for Life is a product of and operated by UPMC Health Plan Inc., UPMC Health Network Inc., and UPMC Health BeneďŹ ts Inc. Y0069_17_1184 Accepted

www.50plusLifePA.com

50plus LIFE t

December 2016

11

Assisted Living Residences/Personal Care Homes Bethany Village — MapleWood

325 Wesley Drive • Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 717-766-0279 • www.BethanyVillage.org Total AL and/or PC Beds: 100 Assisted Living Residence: Yes Personal Care Home: Yes Private: 100 Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes

Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: Yes Comments: One-bedroom suites; secured memory support neighborhood; skilled nursing – The Oaks.

The Bridges at Bent Creek

2100 Bent Creek Blvd. • Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 717-795-1100 • www.thebridgesatbentcreek.com Total AL and/or PC Beds: 100 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: Yes Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: No

Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: Yes Comments: Home-like setting, personalized, tailored care and healthcare, secured memory supports, peace of mind. Call today!

Colonial Lodge Community

2015 North Reading Road • Denver, PA 17519 717-336-5501 • www.coloniallodgepa.com Total AL and/or PC Beds: 70 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: Yes* Short-term Lease: No Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Health Fee-for-Service Available: No Alzheimer’s Care: No Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: No Comments: *SSI depends on availability. A veteran-approved “home for heroes” facility, all in a beautiful, rural setting.

Harrison House of Chester County

300 Strode Avenue (Rt. 82) • East Fallowfield, PA 19320 610-384-6310 • www.harrisonseniorliving.com Total AL and/or PC Beds: 80 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: Yes Comments: Excellent arts and entertainment programs. Affordable rates and professional staff. Call to schedule a tour.

Homeland Center

1901 North Fifth Street • Harrisburg, PA 17102 717-221-7727 • www.homelandcenter.org Total AL and/or PC Beds: 56 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: No Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes

Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: Yes Comments: Providing exemplary care in a beautiful environment for more than 149 years. Our continuum includes a hospice program, therapy services, home care and home health services, and 24-hour medical staffing. All-private rooms with full baths and kitchenettes.

Homewood at Plum Creek

425 Westminster Avenue • Hanover, PA 17331 717-637-4166 • www.homewood.com Total AL and/or PC Beds: 92 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: No Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: No Comments: Excellent care in a lovely environment. Call to schedule a visit.

The Middletown Home

999 West Harrisburg Pike • Middletown, PA 17057 717-944-3351 • www.middletownhome.org Total AL and/or PC Beds: 64 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes Alzheimer’s Care: No Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: No Comments: Beautifully appointed apartments overlooking the garden terrace with the safety and security of 24-hour nursing care.

Pleasant View Retirement Community

544 North Penryn Road • Manheim, PA 17545 717-665-2445 • www.pleasantviewrc.org Total AL and/or PC Beds: 96 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: Yes* Short-term Lease: No Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: Yes Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: No Comments: *Three-year private pay spending. Maintain independence in an enriching and supportive environment; now offering respite stays.

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

12

December 2016

50plus LIFE t

www.50plusLifePA.com

York County

Calendar of Events

Community Programs/Support Groups Free and open to the public

Senior Center Activities

Weekends in December, 1–5 p.m.

Miniature Railroad Holiday Open House Miniature Railroad Club of York 381 Wheatfield St., York (717) 434-4277 www.mrrcy.org

Crispus Attucks Active Living Center – (717) 8483610, www.crispusattucks.org

Dec. 5, 9:30 a.m.

Green Thumb Garden Club Meeting Emmanuel Lutheran Church 2650 Freysville Road, Red Lion (717) 235-2823

Dillsburg Senior Activity Center – (717) 432-2216 If you have an event you would like to include, please email information to mjoyce@ onlinepub.com for consideration.

Dec. 2, 10:30 a.m.

Partners in Thyme Herb Club of Southern York County John Rudy Park 400 Mundis Race Road, York (717) 428-2210

Dec. 2, 6–8 p.m. – Hanging of the Greens, Rail Trail – Hanover Junction Train Station Dec. 4, 1–3:30 p.m. – Natural Ornament Workshop, Nixon County Park Dec. 29, 9:30–11:30 a.m.; Dec. 30, 1:30–3:30 p.m. – Marshmallow Hike, Rocky Ridge Park

Library Programs Collinsville Community Library, 2632 Delta Road, Brogue, (717) 927-9014 Tuesdays, 6 to 8 p.m. – Purls of Brogue Knitting Club Dec. 7, 2–4 p.m. – Tech Guru Dover Area Community Library, 3700-3 Davidsburg Road, Dover, (717) 292-6814 Wednesdays, 2:30–4 p.m. – Adult Coloring Group Guthrie Memorial Library, 2 Library Place, Hanover, (717) 632-5183 Dec. 13, 6–8 p.m. – The History of Hanover’s Industries Past and Present Kaltreider-Benfer Library, 147 S. Charles St., Red Lion, (717) 244-2032 Thursdays, 6 p.m. – Knit Wits Knitting Group Dec. 14, 6:30–8 p.m. – Adult Book Discussion Martin Library, 159 E. Market St., York, (717) 846-5300 Dec. 13, 10 a.m. to noon – Resume and Cover Letter Help

SANTA from page 10

7. He is immortalized in song. Every December he appears in songs such as “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “Here Comes Santa Claus,” “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” and “Santa Baby.” New songs about him continue to be added.

8. He has a town named after him: Santa Claus, Indiana. The town was established in 1854 and was originally known as Santa Fe, Indiana.

However, when the town tried to establish its postal service, the USPS declined their application, saying there was already a Santa Fe. www.50plusLifePA.com

Eastern Area Senior Center, Inc. – (717) 252-1641 Golden Visions Senior Community Center – (717) 633-5072, www.goldenvisionspa.com Heritage Senior Center, Inc. – (717) 292-7471, www.heritagesrcenter.org

Parks and Recreation

Claus suits and assigning them to New York City streets to solicit donations.

Those familiar Santas continue to ring bells on behalf of the Salvation Army.

Delta Area Senior Center, Inc. – (717) 456-5753, www.deltaseniorcenter.com

Town meetings were held and the name Santa Claus, Indiana, was selected.

9. He has other names: Grandfather Frost, Kris Kringle, Father Christmas, St. Nicholas, Papa Noel, and Old Saint Nick.

10. His residence is a mystery. Some say he lives in Finland. Others say he resides in Sweden.

Still others claim he lives in Greenland. Perhaps the most popular residence for Santa Claus is the North Pole.

That was established by 19th-century cartoonist Thomas Nash, who did a series of drawings for Harper’s Weekly. Nash’s drawings clearly show Santa living at the North Pole, where he has a workshop for building toys as well as a large book filled with the names of children who had been naughty or nice.

Northeastern Senior Community Center – (717) 266-1400, www.mtwolf.org/SeniorCenter Red Land Senior Center – (717) 938-4649, www. redlandseniorcenter.org Golden Connections Community Center – (717) 244-7229, www.gcccenter.com South Central Senior Community Center – (717) 235-6060, http:// southcentralyorkcountysrctr.webs.com Tuesdays, 10–11 a.m. – Stretch Yoga We dnesdays, 9–9:45 a.m. – Intermediate Line Dancing; 10–11 a.m. – Beginner Line Dancing Wednesdays, 12:45 p.m. – HoopFit Stewartstown Senior Center – (717) 993-3488, www.stewsenior.org Susquehanna Senior Center – (717) 244-0340, www.susquehannaseniorcenter.org Mondays, 9:30–10:30 a.m. – Chorus Practice Tuesdays, 6–10 p.m. – Bluegrass/Country Music Jam Session White Rose Senior Center – (717) 843-9704, www.whiteroseseniorcenter.org Windy Hill On the Campus – (717) 225-0733, www.windyhillonthecampus.org Tuesdays, 10 a.m. – Zumba Gold York Community S.E.N.I.O.R.S. – (717) 8484417 Yorktown Senior Center – (717) 854-0693, www.yorktownseniorcenter.org Just a snippet of what you may be missing … please call or visit their website for more information.

50plus LIFE t

December 2016

13

Health Matters

Holiday Help for Alzheimer’s Caregivers Lisa M. Petsche

Many people consider the holiday season a hectic time, due to the preparations and festivities that typically take place.

Staying sane, not to mention enjoying this special time of the year, is even more of a challenge when you are caring for someone with dementia.

If your relative has changed significantly, you may be particularly uneasy about the approaching holidays.

Follow these suggestions to help keep stress manageable for everyone in your household.

Gifts • Shop by mail order, online, or buy gift cards.

• Use decorative bags and boxes to streamline wrapping.

• Keep presents stored away until it’s time to exchange them.

• Be prepared when friends ask for suitable gift ideas for your relative.

Suggestions should take into account cognitive and physical limitations.

Decorating • Don’t decorate too far in advance.

• Keep decorations minimal and out of reach as much as possible. Forgo anything valuable or fragile.

• Avoid lights that flash or play music

and sound- or motion-activated items.

• Don’t keep food, such as a gingerbread house, out in the open.

• Don’t let extension cords dangle or run across walkways and don’t rearrange furniture.

• Steer clear of decorations that could be harmful if ingested.

Entertaining • W henever possible, entertain at home rather than go out. Familiarity provides comfort.

• Prepare guests for your relative’s cognitive and physical functioning and any uncharacteristic behaviors.

• Enlist a friend to supervise your relative while you’re engaged in hosting duties.

• Keep rooms well lit, since shadows may cause confusion and fear. Avoid candles.

• Keep music soft and familiar.

• Keep gatherings small. Otherwise, situate your relative in a quiet spot and have guests visit one or two at a time.

• Instruct guests to introduce themselves to your relative by name and relationship—for example, “I’m Mary, your brother John’s wife.”

• Place guests’ coats and handbags in a secure area if your relative is prone

Stories of ordinary men and women called to perform extraordinary military service.

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

Simply complete and mail this form with your payment to the address below to order Salute to Our Veterans.

On-Line Publishers • 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Name_ _______________________________________________________ Address_ ______________________________________________________ City_______________________________ State_ ____ Zip_ ______________ Phone_ _____________________ Email______________________________ Number of copies_ ______ (Please include $20.80 for each copy)

Every Hero Has a Name.

Is your military hero also your spouse, child, grandchild, friend, or neighbor?

Help us put a face and a name to the courageous men and women who are currently serving or who have served in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Salute to Service

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

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

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

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

14

December 2016

50plus LIFE t

www.50plusLifePA.com

to rummaging.

• Clean up immediately after entertaining, before your relative has a chance to consume anything that might make them ill.

• Before inviting overnight guests, consider how disruptive this might be to your relative’s routines.

Outings • If you accept an invitation, do so on the condition that you may back out if your relative is having a bad day.

• Limit the time and ensure there’s a quiet place your relative can retreat to if they can’t handle the stimulation.

• Take along medications, adapted dishes and utensils, a bib, extra briefs, and a change of clothes as needed.

• Recognize that your relative may not eat as well as they normally do, owing to anxiety or distractions.

• Attend an event without your relative, if it’s not feasible to take them with you.

Further Tips • Let family and friends know your

needs and limitations.

• Share plans with your relative on a need-to-know basis.

• Include your relative in simple preparations to make them feel valued.

• Share holiday memories. Bring out photo albums or home movies and play favorite seasonal music.

• Schedule holiday activities during your relative’s best time of the day.

Space them out and try to stick to routines.

• Have a plan in place to deal with challenging behaviors that may arise.

• Don’t pressure your relative to participate in festivities. Previously enjoyed events may cause distress if they don’t understand the significance or no longer recognize family or friends.

• Last, but not least, find something relaxing you can do each day. And do treat yourself to a special gift.

Lisa M. Petsche is a social worker and a freelance writer specializing in boomer and senior health matters. She has personal and professional experience with elder care.

April 20, 2017 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

York Expo Center • Memorial Hall East 334 Carlisle Ave., York

This event is FREE to attend.

Veterans (of all ages) and the military community and their families are invited to join us!

The Expo brings federal, state, and local agencies together with area businesses to provide information and resources to veterans and their families.

The Job Fair brings veterans and spouses who need jobs together with employers who can benefit from this rich source of talent to aid their organizations.

Are You Reading?

Join the 2017 One Book, One Community campaign by reading Rose Under Fire by Elizabeth Wein 80 libraries in Berks, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, and York counties and their community partners present the regional reading campaign.

Read the book during December and January and attend free library programs and discussions throughout the winter and early spring!

At the Expo

Visit www.oboc.org or your library to learn more

Veterans Benefits & Services Medical/Nonmedical Resources Products and Services Available Support/Assistance Programs Education/Training Services

At the Job Fair

Employers Job Counseling Workshops Employment Seminars Resume Writing Assistance Hosted by:

Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available

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

www.50plusLifePA.com

50plus LIFE t

December 2016

15

Art & Antiques by Dr. Lori

Photographers Offer Tips for Taking Pictures Lori Verderame

History’s famous photographers show us some tips for taking super photographs. The masters of photo history discussed everything from shooting lots of film to composing a good picture.

Here are their Top 5 Tips: Storytelling is Key The photographer Lewis Hine thought that telling a story with a camera was much better than telling it on paper. His pictures made an impact on society when he shot a photo of a group of coal mine breaker boys, dirty and tired, from Pennsylvania.

Their job in the early 1900s was to separate coal from slate, and Hine’s photo sparked a revisiting of America’s early 20th-century child labor laws.

Photos can be powerful.

Once in a Lifetime or Bust Astronaut Buzz Aldrin took a major photograph in the history of mankind.

He captured a once-in-alifetime event.

Aldrin snapped a photograph that had a long-lasting impact on world culture.

His photo was

Take a photo of only a portion of a subject and let the viewer fill in the missing parts, like this photograph of a mother’s and daughter’s hands.

Have You Seen It?

that of the famous lunar footprint of fellow astronaut Neil Armstrong.

When Armstrong stepped onto the moon and made that giant leap for mankind in July 1969, Aldrin got the famous photo of the footprint that remains on the moon today.

Parts Tell the Whole Story Don’t take a

WE CAN BE YOUR EXTRA HAND

50plus LIFE’s website has a new look!

Bigger photos, cleaner layout ... but still the articles and columnists you love.

Our in-home caregivers are available to assist you or your senior loved ones for a few hours a week or around the clock.

Whether it is for personal assistance or expert guidance in working with those who have Alzheimer’s or dementia, call today and let us be your extra hand.

Take a Look! www.50plusLIFEpa.com 16

December 2016

50plus LIFE t

Call today!

717-920-0707

Visit seniorhelpers.com/harrisburg for more information.

3806 Market St., Camp Hill

photograph of an entire subject, but instead take a photograph of one or two parts of the subject.

For instance, take a photo of the eye of an alligator at the zoo instead of the entire alligator. Take a picture of a blade of grass instead of the entire lawn.

You get the idea. Let the viewer of the photograph fill in the visual blanks.

Various Vantage Points Common shots are just that: common. Try to take a photo in a new way.

Don’t take a picture of your grandkid’s soccer team in the traditional manner; take a photo of the team as they run to congratulate a fellow teammate or on their way off the field.

Kneel down, get to their level, and snap your photos. Forget the perspective that’s typical and try a new perspective that’s terrific.

Shoot, Shoot, and Shoot Some More National Geographic photographer Steve McCurry tells budding photographers to shoot mountains of film and seek to capture images instead of just taking pictures.

McCurry’s famous Afghan Girl photograph was published in National Geographic in June 1985 after he disguised himself to gain access to Afghanistan, passed border guards, and then smuggled the film he shot out sewn in his clothing.

When it comes to taking great pictures, use these tips from the greats in photography to get the best shot possible.

Ph.D. antique appraiser and awardwinning TV expert Dr. Lori Verderame is the star appraiser on Discovery channel’s international hit TV show Auction Kings and appears on FOX Business Network’s Strange Inheritance.

Visit www.DrLoriV.com or call (888) 4311010.

www.50plusLifePA.com

Puzzle Page

CROSSWORD

Solutions for all puzzles can be found on page 18 SUDOKU

brainteasers

More Singers of the Top Songs of the ’50s Find the last names of the singers of these top songs of the ’50s: 1. “Honeycomb,” 1957 – Jimmie __________s 2. “It’s Not for Me to Say,” 1957 – Johnny __________s 3. “Singing the Blues,” 1957 – Guy __________l 4. “Jamaica Farewell,” 1957 – Harry __________e 5. “Great Balls of Fire,” 1958 – Jerry Lee __________s 6. “Splish Splash,” 1958 – Bobby __________n 7. “Peggy Sue,” 1958 – Buddy _________y 8. “All the Way,” 1958 – Frank __________a 9. “Johnnie B. Goode,” 1958 – Chuck __________y 10. “Lipstick on Your Collar,” 1959 – Connie __________s Radio Shows of the ’50s Find the titles of these radio shows that were popular in the ’50s.

Many of them were popular both before and after the ’50s: 1. Amos ’n’ A_____ 2. My Little M_____ 3. Can You T_____ This?

4. The C_____ Kid 5. F_____ McGee and Molly 6. Gang B_____ 7. The Green H_____ 8. Hopalong C_____ 9. The Life of R_____ 10. S_____ King Written by Alan Stillson. Please see http://stillsonworks.com

Across

1. Cut off 4. Aeneid 8. To and ___ 11. Roof 12. ___ B. Toklas 14. Appeal 15. Dill seed 16. Jamborees 17. Expel 18. Majestically 20. Hateful 22. Age 23. Affirmative vote 24. Egg holders

28. Retrieve 30. Mollusk 31. Gazelles 33. Adolescent 35. Macaw 36. Fuse together 37. Dig 38. Shade trees 39. Goal 40. Brink 41. Porters 42. Locomotive type 45. Saddle horses 47. Disease controller

48. Wildebeest 49. Watering hole 52. Tern 55. Revolves 57. Thought 60. Transported, as gas 62. Workspace 63. Perjurer 64. Fling 65. College studies 66. Allow 67. Not daughters 68. My (Fr.)

25. Moth-eaten 26. Conditions 27. Sp. ladies (abbr.)

28. Craze 29. Wife of Hagar the Horrible 30. Single 31. Spirit 32. More anile 34. Fir, for example 36. Espouses 37. Actress Dolores ___ Rio 38. Golfer Ernie 41. Meet

43. Sweetener 44. Ostrich relative 46. Electrodes 49. Cubic meter 50. Blighters 51. Queries 53. Old records (abbr.)

54. Mouth parts 56. Garden man 57. Sick 58. Expire 59. Consume 61. Country club figure

Down

1. Hermit 2. Gr. letter 3. Conservation org.

4. Young bird 5. Performed on stage 6. Cooking additive 7. Swindle 8. Grippe 9. Thing, in law 10. Cereal grain 11. Challenge 13. Compass point 14. Cornbreads 19. Caustics 21. Some

Your ad could be here on this popular page!

Please call (717) 285-1350 for more information.

www.50plusLifePA.com

50plus LIFE t

December 2016

17

Such is Life

Bob’s Parting Sorrow Saralee Perel

“Honey,” I said to my husband, Bob, “it’s time to say goodbye.”

Sniffling, he said, “But I think she has six more months in her.” (Bob refers to our truck as a “she.” He’s actually named it—Connie.)

I gently brushed a tear from his cheek.

“Yes, but what kind of quality would that life be? She can’t go anywhere without needing to stop every 20 minutes. It’s like driving with your grandmother.”

Bob leaned against our 14-year-old Chevy truck and tenderly cleaned white-colored heaven-knows-what from the side mirror by using the tee shirt he was wearing.

He cooed, “Looking good, Con.” He was in the first stage of grief: denial.

I said, “We pay our mechanic as much as our mortgage payments.”

I held his hands. “She’s had a long, happy life, sweetheart.”

Wistfully, he said, “Remember the camping trips we took?”

“Yes, Bob, I remember.”

“I was talking to Connie.”

“Bob, right now Connie would die with dignity.”

Volunteers Age 55+ Wanted for Food Pantry in York

Puzzle Solutions

RSVP of the Capital Region – York County is seeking volunteers for the York County Catholic Harvest Food Pantry.

Volunteer benefits include: transportation reimbursement, free supplemental liability insurance, recognition and appreciation events, paid assistance with clearances, volunteer of the month eligibility, and improved personal happiness.

Become a volunteer and make a difference. Please contact Scott Hunsinger at (443) 619-3842 or email at yorkadamsfranklin@rsvpcapreg.org.

December 2016

Nationally syndicated, award-winning columnist Saralee Perel can be reached at sperel@saraleeperel.com or via her website: www.saraleeperel.com.

Brainteasers More Singers of the Top Songs of the ’50s

Puzzles shown on page 17

18

Our truck’s windows don’t work.

It makes a ba-boop, ba-boop sound nobody can fix.

It didn’t pass inspection because, unbeknownst to us, the back lights stay in the flasher mode.

The gas gauge is fixed at zero, leaving fill-ups just a random guess.

He blocked me from the truck.

“You can’t take her. It’s not her time yet.” The second stage of grief: anger.

“Do you need some kind of a sign?”

Knowing what would happen, I put the driver’s seat window down— where it stayed—never to go up again.

He said, “I want to give her more time. Three months?” The bargaining stage.

That night, I found him looking through old photos of the truck (the fourth stage: depression) in which we were four-wheel driving on the beach,

getting stuck in the sand at the beach, being towed at the beach.

I sat with him. “It’s her time, Bob.” “I know.” Acceptance stage. “She’ll need a memorial service. We’ll invite her mechanics.”

“Then we’ll need to rent out the stadium.”

Eventually, we wound up leasing a car and letting go of Connie.

When we pulled out of our driveway in the new car, we looked back and saw the truck. Bob was sobbing. Yet he quickly became enthralled with all the gadgets in the new car.

He pulled over to grab the 645page manual. He reads that manual like it’s a Robert B. Parker novel.

He reads it over breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

He reads it while he’s cooking, while he’s in bed, while he’s on the phone.

He gets super excited telling me about the gadgets as my eyes glaze over with “I don’t care” disinterest. He spends an insane amount of time on a website: MyCarDoesWhat.org.

And so, the happy ending to letting Connie go? When it comes to men like Bob, gadgets trump old trucks.

1. Jimmie Rogers 2. Johnny Mathis 3. Guy Mitchell 4. Harry Belafonte 5. Jerry Lee Lewis

6. Bobby Darin 7. Buddy Holly 8. Frank Sinatra 9. Chuck Berry 10. Connie Francis

Radio Shows of the ’50s 1. Amos ’n’ Andy 2. My Little Margie 3. Can You Top This?

4. The Cisco Kid 5. Fibber McGee and Molly

50plus LIFE t

6. Gang Busters 7. The Green Hornet 8. Hopalong Cassidy 9. The Life of Riley 10. Sky King

www.50plusLifePA.com

Savvy Senior

Jim Miller

Flu Vaccines Designed Specifically for Older Adults

Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any specific flu shots that are better suited for seniors? I just turned 65 and would like to find out what’s recommended and how Medicare covers it.

– Semi-Healthy Senior Dear Semi-Healthy, There are actually two different flu vaccines available this year that are designed specifically for adults age 65 and older. One option is the Fluzone HighDose, which has been available since 2010, and the other is the new FDA-approved FLUAD vaccine (you only need to get one of these).

The Fluzone HighDose (see www.fluzone. com) is a high-potency vaccine that contains four times the amount of antigen as a regular flu shot does, which creates a stronger immune response for better protection.

The new FLUAD vaccine (www. fluad.com) also contains an added ingredient called adjuvant MF59 that also helps create a stronger immune response.

The extra protection these vaccines provide is particularly helpful to individuals who have weaker immune defenses and have a great risk of developing dangerous flu complications. The CDC estimates that the flu puts more than 200,000 people in the hospital each year and kills an average of 24,000—80 to 90 percent of whom are older adults.

But be aware that both the Fluzone High-Dose and FLUAD are not recommended for people who are allergic to chicken eggs or those who have had a severe reaction to a flu vaccine in the past.

You should also know that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend one vaccination over the www.50plusLifePA.com

other, and to date, there have been no studies comparing the two vaccines.

If you decide you don’t want to get an over-65 flu shot, there are other options available, including the standard (trivalent) flu shot; the quadrivalent flu shot, which protects against four different flu viruses; and the FluBlok vaccine for those who have egg allergies.

To locate a vaccination site that offers any of these flu shots, visit Vaccines.gov and type in your ZIP code.

You’ll also be happy to know that as a Medicare beneficiary, Part B will cover 100 percent of the costs of any flu shot, as long as your doctor, health clinic, or pharmacy agrees not to charge you more than Medicare pays.

Pneumonia Vaccines Two other important vaccinations the CDC recommends to people over 65, especially this time of year, are the pneumococcal vaccines for pneumonia.

Around 1 million Americans are hospitalized with pneumonia each year, and about 50,000 people die from it.

The CDC is now recommending that all adults 65 or older get two vaccinations—Prevnar 13 and Pneumovax 23. Both vaccines, which are administered just once at different times, work in different ways to provide maximum protection.

If you haven’t yet received any pneumococcal vaccine, you should get the Prevnar 13 first, followed by Pneumovax 23 six to 12 months later.

But if you’ve already been vaccinated with Pneumovax 23, wait at least one year before getting the Prevnar 13.

Medicare Part B covers both shots if they are taken at least 11 months apart.

Jim Miller is a regular contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior Book. www.savvysenior.org

50plus LIFE’s editorial content just earned 3 awards!

Silver Award “2,000 Miles of Happy Trails”

by Rebecca Hanlon

Silver Award “Penning a ‘New Normal’”

by Chelsea Peifer

Merit Award “Shall We Dance?”

by Jason Tabor www.50plusLIFEPA.com

Give someone you love the gift that entertains, informs, and inspires, month after month!

Or renew an existing subscription!

Get a 12-month subscription to 50plus LIFE for just $10.

Mail form to: 50plus LIFE, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Please start a gift subscription for: Beginning (month) _ ___________________________ Name_ _____________________________________ Street_ _____________________________________ Apt._ ______________________________________ City/State_ __________________________________ Zip_ _______________________________________ Sign card from: Your name___________________________________ Street_ _____________________________________ Apt._ ______________________________________ City/State_ __________________________________ Zip_ _______________________________________ Your phone number____________________________ Paper (or papers/$10 per edition): Expires 12/31/16 qChester qCumberland qDauphin qLancaster qLebanon qYork

50plus LIFE t

December 2016

19

Holiday Orange Sunsation!

Tangerines

Navels

ONLY

Tangelos

$1998

*

Special limited time offer!

3 favorite varieties

SAVE $15!

delicious oranges

20 fresh from Florida

Reg. Price $34.98 (Limit 5 per customer)

WOW! Handpicked fresh from the grove!

3 unique varieties. 20 delicious oranges!

Call 1-800-681-9752 Visit HaleGroves.com/D918 Order Item #483V2, mention Code 7SH-D918 for your $15 savings.

Only $19.98* (reg. $34.98), plus $5.98 shipping & handling. (Limit 5 boxes per customer) Satisfaction completely guaranteed. This gift ships in December at the peak of freshness. Order by Dec. 16, 2016 for GUARANTEED Christmas delivery.

Since ����.

Hale Groves, Vero Beach, FL �����

December 2016

SAVE 43%!

*Plus $5.98 handling to the 48 contiguous states. Limited time offer, good while supplies last.

Not valid with any other offer.

IC: �SH�D��� 20

Call now and

50plus LIFE t

www.50plusLifePA.com