50 Plus News Magazine

Page 1

magazine 50PLUS FREE

news

What’s New for

Phase Two of Your Life

A Mature News Magazine for Southeastern Wisconsin

VOL. 31 NO. 5

“Veterans serving veterans and their families everyday”

T

American Legion National Commander, Denise Rohan is shown here presenting Ralph Buechner with a certification of appreciation for a task well done.

he American Legion Department of Wisconsin proudly presents Denise H. Rohan, for National Commander of The American Legion. Denise is a 33 year paid up for life member of The American Legion and a 24 year paid up for life member of The American Legion Auxiliary. She truly believes in the programs of The American Legion including those that put our veterans, our service members and their families first. Born in McGregor, Iowa, Denise lived in Elkader, Iowa, until joining the Unites States Army in 1974. Denise’s father was a volunteer fireman, both parents were volunteer EMTs and very active in their church and community. Learning from their parents, Denise and her two sisters have always given back to their church and communities in some way. Denise has served the American Legion for over 32 years. While Post Commander she established Sons of the American Legion Squadron 333

May 2017

INSIDE.... Thinking of a Move See Page 5 Independent

RETIREMENT

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

See Page 17-30

Events Calendar See Page 34

Interfaith Senior Programs is now ERAs Senior Network See Page 36

Dog and Animal Rescue See Page 32

ROHAN continued on page 14

Money Doesn’t Talk, It Screams AGING ISSUES

By Tom Frazier

As a registered lobbyist for almost 27 years and an unpaid, volunteer lobbyist for the last seven years, I have witnessed some major political changes, most of it not good. One such change is obvious and that is the ever increasing influence of money in political decision-making. This influence was growing already when I retired at the end of 2009,

but then the Supreme Court ruling in January 2010 in the Citizens United decision opened the floodgates for that influence. This 5-4 decision said that money was free speech and allowed for-profit corporations, non-profit corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts of money on political campaigns, including ads favoring one candidate

over another. The recent attempt by Speaker Paul Ryan and President Trump to pass the repeal and replacement of the Affordable Care Act (aka “Obamacare”) is an example of how bad the influence of money has become. The replacement, the American Health Care Act, contained a FRAZIER continued on page 3


2 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

Are cataracts clouding your focus on life? by Cheryl L. Dejewski

Even though six out of 10 people age 60+ have one, most people don’t know the facts about cataracts until they’re diagnosed with one. Don’t let poor vision cloud your future. Read, learn, and take action now. Definition “A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens located inside the eye behind the pupil,” says Mark Freedman, MD, senior partner at Eye Care Specialists, a leading ophthalmology practice recognized for providing advanced medical, surgical and laser treatment of most all eye conditions. “This lens works like a camera lens— focusing light onto the retina at the back of the eye to form the images you see. As you age, proteins in the lens may clump together and start to cloud. This is called a ‘cataract.’ As the clouding advances, it can blur or fog vision to the point of inhibiting daily functioning.” Depending on the cataract type, clouding can take years or just months to progress.

Symptoms Poor vision is not a fact of life as you age. David Scheidt, OD, advises to schedule an eye exam if you notice: ■ Foggy, fuzzy or blurred vision ■ Sensitivity to light and glare ■ “Starbursts” around lights ■ Holding items closer to view ■ Needing brighter light to read ■ Fading or yellowing of colors ■ Difficulty judging stairs or curbs ■ Difficulty seeing to drive at night ■ Vision affects ability to do tasks ■ New glasses don’t improve vision

Protection “Cataracts cannot be prevented. Cataract development may be delayed or slowed, however, by wearing sunglasses and hats with brims, eating a balanced diet high in healthy nutrients (vitamins, minerals and antioxidants) and low in fat and sugar, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake, and keeping your blood sugar under control if you have diabetes,” says Brett Rhode, MD, Head of Ophthalmology at Aurora Sinai Medical Center and a partner at Eye Care Specialists.

from doing tasks, new glasses won’t improve clarity, and no other conditions exist which would negate the benefits of removal, like severe macular degeneration (AMD), then it’s time for surgery.”

Normal Eye: The clear lens focuses light rays onto the retina, producing a sharp, clear image.

Before Surgery

Eye with Cataract: The cloudy lens causes light rays to scatter, producing a washed out, hazy image.

Risk Factors ■ Age (cataracts develop with time, ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

like age spots & wrinkles) Diabetes (doubles your risk) Cortisone/steroid use Sun exposure Previous eye injury Smoking

Treatment: How “There are no drugs, drops, glasses or exercises that can prevent or cure cataracts. The only effective treatment is to make an opening in the eye, surgically remove the cloudy lens (cataract), and replace it with an intraocular lens implant to once again focus light rays onto the

retina,” explains Daniel Ferguson, MD, who, along with his partners at Eye Care Specialists, uses the most advanced techniques to gently break up and remove cataracts through a tiny incision—often with only an eye drop needed for anesthesia.

Treatment: When Daniel Paskowitz, MD, an ophthalmologist with credentials from Harvard and Johns Hopkins advises, “It’s not necessary to wait to remove a cataract until it’s so ripe that almost all vision is blocked. In fact, if you wait too long, it can grow so dense that the operation becomes more difficult.” Eye surgeon and continuing education lecturer Michael Raciti, MD, adds, “If the cataract is preventing you

Cataract surgery is NOT performed in the office or on the day of your initial appointment. First, you must meet the surgeon and have preparatory tests done. Once you and your doctor decide to proceed with surgery, you will have a comprehensive eye exam to see if any other existing conditions (such as glaucoma, diabetes, retinal detachment and AMD) could detract from your results. Your exam will also include a quick, painless ultrasound procedure to determine the prescription for the implant that will restore focusing ability in your eye.

Why Some People Hesitate “Some people think cataract surgery is unaffordable. They don’t realize it is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most insurances. Others think they are too old or poor vision is just part of aging. The truth is that vision loss from cataracts is usally reversible, and cataract removal is one of the safest outpatient operations— even for the very elderly,” says Rhode.

FREE Booklets

Call 414-321-7035 for free booklets on AMD, cataracts, diabetes or glaucoma.

See the best you can see, when you see the leaders in ophthalmology.

T

EYE CARE SPECIALISTS

Are you putting your vision at risk? Most people aren’t motivated to make an eye appointment unless they notice a problem—and often not even then. What they don’t realize is that many sight‐threatening conditions have no warning signs. But, if you know the risks, symptoms, tests and treatment options for common eye concerns, you’re more likely to take action. We can help. Call 414‐321‐7035 for detailed free booklets on cataracts, glaucoma, AMD, and diabetes. Then, consider: When was your last eye exam? If it was more than a year ago, call today to protect your vision for tomorrow.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

World-Class Care. Local Convenience. Glaucoma, Diabetes and Macular Degeneration (AMD) Care (with advanced medication injection and laser treatments) No‐Stitch, No‐Shot Ultrasonic Cataract Surgery (with standard, multi‐focal, toric & extended‐range implants) Corneal Transplants, Lid Repair and Retinal Cases Dry Eye, Floaters and Infections Treatment Comprehensive Eye Exams & In‐Office Diagnostic Laser Scans Eyelid Treatment (inflammation) & Surgery (drooping) Accept Medicare/Most Major Insurances

Trusted by more than 130,000 doctors & patients since 1985.

Mark Freedman, MD

Brett Rhode, MD

West Allis Allis West 10150 W. National Ave.

414-321-7520

Daniel Ferguson, MD

www.eyecarespecialists.net

Daniel Paskowitz, MD, PhD

Wauwatosa Wauwatosa 2323 N. Mayfair Rd.

414-258-4550

Michael Raciti, MD

Milwaukee Milwaukee 735 W. Wisconsin Ave.

414-298-0099

David Scheidt, OD


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 3

We need to safeguard the “Public” in public office Our representative democracy depends on voters developing discriminating judgments about policies and politicians. They can’t do that if vital information is withheld from them. For the last few years, I’ve been keeping a file of clippings about the erosion of transparency and candor in government. I’m sorry to report that it’s getting rather full. This is not a good thing. Public officials should feel strongly obliged to do their business in an open and upfront manner. When you hold public office, the presumption ought always to be in favor of the people’s right to know what’s going on. If you don’t want to be open to scrutiny, then the burden surely has to be on you to say specifically why that’s necessary. This doesn’t seem to be a commonly held view in Washington these days, though the precedent for non-disclosure is bipartisan. News conferences have been rare for Mr. Obama and Mr. Trump. During the George W. Bush administration the NSA was wiretapping Americans’ overseas communications based on legal justifications that were withheld from the public. Under the Obama administration, the Justice Department pushed to compromise a fundamental principle under FRAZIER continued from page 1

$1 trillion tax cut, primarily for the benefit of the wealthy, funded largely by a cut of $880 billion in Medicaid funding. This was an intentional strategy on the part of Ryan to make it easier to provide even larger tax cuts to businesses when Congress and the President moved on to tax reform. In an interview with Fox Business News on March 15, 2017 Ryan said “A trillion dollars…that’s 10 percentage points on rates for businesses. It takes the corporate rate from 35 to 20 [%]. That’s why doing this [health care] first makes tax reform that much easier to accomplish.” Providing large tax cuts to those who don’t need them at the expense of huge cuts in health care for the most vulnerable (elderly,

which federal agencies made public their rationale for how they interpreted and administered the law. The current administration has made policy-making more secretive than ever. President Trump refuses to release his tax returns, making it impossible for Americans to know whether his actions also happen to affect his financial bottom line. There have been constant attempts to draw a curtain over possible ties between Trump aides and Russia. The secretary of state talks about shifting policy toward North Korea — but gives no indication of what that policy is. The President has promised to rip up the Iran nuclear agreement, but has not done it and doesn’t tell us what his policy toward Iran is. Vice President Pence has said all options are on the table with regard to Syria and that its conduct “cannot be tolerated,” but the administration is mum on what that actually means

for strategy. Indeed, when asked his Syria intentions by reporters, President Trump responded, “I’m not going to tell you.” This attitude is especially worrisome when it comes to foreign policy — where robust public debate over policy serves our national interests. Yet Secretary of State Rex Tillerson traveled to Beijing, Seoul and Tokyo for key meetings without a press accompaniment, went for weeks without holding a press conference, and has yet to deliver a speech outlining U.S. policy in any detail. He says, “I’m not a big media press access person.” Yet, he is officially our face both at home and abroad on relations with allies and rivals, and we don’t actually know what policies he’s pursuing. There are legitimate secrets and reasons for non-disclosure, of course, and I’m confident that most Americans understand that they’re sometimes necessary. When public officials state occasionally that they cannot speak to a given question and lay out the reasons why, people tend to accept it. All too often, though, classification and obfuscation are used to avoid debate and scrutiny for political reasons — or to protect bureaucrats or public officials whose actions simply could not hold up

under the light of rigorous scrutiny. That’s why leaks, as much as presidents and cabinet members decry them, can be so important: that’s how we learned about the Watergate scandal; about the sale of weapons to Iran in Iran-Contra; about the torture we conducted at Abu Ghraib; about the NSA’s spying. And it’s why financial disclosure at every level, from the presidency to city hall, matters. For in the end, people need to know what policymakers are doing and why. And policy makers need to respect the interest and the intelligence of the voters, and heed their obligation to the voter for candor and disclosure. Our representative democracy depends on voters developing discriminating judgments about policies and politicians, and they can’t do it if vital information is withheld from them. In a democracy like ours, it’s the height of disrespect for public officials to keep their actions and thinking cloaked. There’s no reason for the public to brook such disrespect. We need to demand open communication, straight talk, and more complete disclosure of information. We need to expect that our public officials will do their business in public — and that if they can’t, they’ll explain clearly to us why not.

disabled, and children) is, I believe, cynical bordering on unconscionable. The second big change that I have observed over the last seven years may be a little less obvious, and that is the trend of politicians making decisions based on their personal opinions and beliefs which, often or not, are contradicted by facts. For example, at the state level, Governor Walker and politicians that wanted to give Medicaid long-term care money to private, for-profit insurance companies (in the 2015-17 state budget) kept insisting that Medicaid long-term care costs were out of control and would bankrupt the state Medicaid program. The facts from the Department of Health Services showed that increases in Medicaid

spending was due to acute and primary care spending, not long-term care spending. The belief persisted long after the facts were presented. At the federal level, you may recall that President Trump promised not only to repeal and replace Obamacare, but that the replacement would provide better health care, cover everyone, and cost less. But when Ryan’s replacement which was a lot worse, not better, was in trouble, Trump jumped in attempting, in my opinion, to show that he could “close the deal” completely ignoring his promise to make it better, and causing the most harm to the people he promised not to leave behind—the people who voted for him. Our President has elevated making decisions on opinions to an

art form. We must dilute the undue influence of money in politics starting with full and public disclosure of political contributions and spending— even the Citizens United decision didn’t prohibit that and if people’s intentions were good they would not feel it necessary to hide their “free speech.” I doubt that we can stop the fact that “money talks”but, by eventually overturning Citizens United, we can lower the volume back to talking instead of screaming. P.S. This article is my 100th consecutive monthly article written for 50 Plus News Magazine. With the continued indulgence of the publisher and the tolerance of the readers, I will begin the next 100 next month. Thank you for the privilege.

ON

CONGRESS

By Lee Hamilton


4 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

It Makes Me

EDITORIALS

Mother’s Day

People claim that it is impossible to be happy and sad at the same time. Possibly, it is only a mother who knows how to do this; happy that you are who you are, but still somewhat saddened by the knowledge that you some day will grow up, leave her and head off into unfamiliar territory. Your mother is the basic reason you are here today. You not only were conceived, but also then nurtured within her body until you were born. You should know the rest of the story. We’re told that luck always favors those who are prepared for it. This might be true in most cases, but in our nakedness and before-birth life within the womb, we were and possibly for years beyond then, were almost totally dependent on our mothers. Dad played a major part in our coming into being. But it was mom that brought you into the world. It was mother who nurtured you. It was mother who held

SENIOR ANSWER MAN DEAR SAM: As we age, we go through various times in our lives when things not only seem different, but also definitely are. Now I am referring to what has taken some old friends, seemingly by storm. One day, they act and react finely. The next time they’re seen, they don’t recall this or that and could even be wearing different color socks on their feet. We call what they are afflicted with as dementia. Can you give me a simple description of dementia and what we can and should do about it? Thanks for your input.

Sincerely, Gloria Adbellum

DEAR GLORIA: There are certain problems that self-help just cannot help. Surely, people getting dementia may not recognize it at its onset. But daily reading, writing, getting together with people (We call these social skills) can stall

great dreams for you and what you would accomplish in life. We hope you didn’t let her down. It was mother who taught us to think twice before doing something. It was mother who took care of us always when we were young and was especially concerned for us when we were ill. Whether it was a scratched knee or a bump on the head. Was mother who would do her utmost to make it right. Mom was the first person to find just the right clothes for you. After all, she wanted her gift of you to be properly dressed as you met the world. As we grew to adulthood, it was mother who told us that life was a give and take proposition. She taught us to do more than what might be expected of us and to find ways to never be lost in a crowd. Celebrate all mothers on Mother’s Day.

this impact on life. We know that dementia is a neurological problem. We also know it is influenced by the person’s personality. There are many forms of dementia and surveys indicate that over four million adults suffer some form of it today. The most prevalent in the United States now is Alzheimer’s disease. Happily, as we approach age 90, the majority of us are still dementia-free. Of course, you may briefly forget a name or a street, but “whatchamacallit” will come back. We recognize that watching a relative or close friend slip into dementia to any degree is tough, but there are medications and even accommodations that can slow, if not reverse the onset. Don’t feel overwhelmed. Do your best to be helpful and thank the Good Lord that you’re not the person so affected. Life is full of challenges. This is one that can require an entire family to work together not to solve, but to be sincerely helpful. Life goes on!

Senior Answer Man

CRABBY

It does irritate me when I read all the editorial opinion about the low wages and how if they are raised, the employers will go to robotic or at least more automatic equipment. How heartless they would be to do this. Certainly, every business is entitled to make a profit from its services or the product it manufactures and sells. However, $7.25 an hour is so low that people are better off on welfare if they qualify for it. I realize it would never

happen, but if the fast food giants go to robots versus people; it would be nice if we then quit patronizing them. Such never will happen. We know that many of the lowest paid people are not high school graduates. When you can, do help these people focus on their strengths so their possibly intellectual weaknesses will become less apparent. In the meantime, let’s rally for higher minimum wages. Could you ever live on $7.25 an hour in income?

Over the years, a number of world famous writers have turned their skills to stories about dogs: John Steinbeck, Rudyard Kipling, Jack London, James Thurber, and more recently, James Herriot. It was an English writer, Eric Knight, who wrote the most famous dog book of all time, Lassie Come Home. But as far as I’m concerned, the best and most prolific writer of dog novels and short stories of all time was Albert Payson Terhune. He lived in

New Jersey at the beginning of the last century, and was a dog breeder as well as a writer. Some of his best efforts were Lad a Dog, Lad of Sunnybank, Further Adventures of Lad, Bruce, Wolf, Treve and Gray Dawn. Concerning motion pictures, in addition to the Lassie epic and all its sequels, a recent film starring Richard Gere, Hachi, a Dog’s Tale, is a real winner.

Canines in books and film

Killing TIME WITH JIM McLOONE Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner claims he can help you cut through the bureaucratic red tape. Check out the size of his scissors at Hartland Village Hall May 21 at 7 p.m. The congressman regularly hosts town hall events throughout the district. The congressman has a history of keeping touch with his constituents. l l l l l Did she pass him up for Onassis as he had more bucks? Widowed, Jackie Kennedy supposedly had a sort of love life, at least through letters now valued at $125,000, with British diplomat David Ormsby Gore. l l l l l Good food is said to be much more than that. It must have been great to be banned via food trucks along Brady Street in Milwaukee. Once upon a time, great food was only supposedly found in famous restaurants or possibly in shacks situated along the water at seaside. I still recall in the early ‘50’s when you could only reach Destin, Florida, from the west via a rickety KILLING TIME continued on page 11

50PLUS

What’s New for Phase Two of Your Life

OWNERS

TOM & MAUREEN SLATTERY

PUBLISHER

MAUREEN SLATTERY

EDITOR

JIM McLOONE

WRITER/PROOFREADER JILL GILBERT

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR SARAN PIEHL ART DIRECTOR/ PRODUCTION MANAGER NICOLE HESSE

OFFICE OPERATIONS MANAGER PEGGY DUFFY

Plus Publications P.O. Box 230 Hartland, WI 53029

262-367-5303

www.50pluspubs.com Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

like us Facebook/50PlusNewsMagazine find us 50pluspubs.com follow us on Twitter @50PlusNewsMag


MAY 2017

Thinking of a move…Know thyself! When I think about subject matter for my next article I always try to convey what I am hearing from many of my clients. As you know by now, I specialize in helping you boomers and your parents transition from a long time home to a senior community, condo, or senior apartment complex. I often hear about the difficulties in deciding on a move to a new lifestyle. The toughest decision is where to move! There are so many options but finding the right home is the challenge. Let’s begin by getting to the core issues of moving away from your best friend…your home. It is important to establish your motivation for making such an important transition. I just left the home of a wonderful couple in their early 70’s. We discussed the process of a move, the value of their home and any possible improvements needed before putting their cape cod on the market. As we talked about their move it seemed that their reason for moving was not clear to them. Both told me how

MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

By Bruce Nemovitz much they loved their neighbors and the advantages of living in a neighborhood that they have enjoyed for many years. The main reason for the thought of moving was the maintenance of their home. Their biggest worry was grass cutting and snow removal. They were contemplating a move to a condominium. I suggested they consider hiring out the care of outside maintenance. If they would purchase a condominium, the fee for maintenance in most condo complexes would exceed the cost of hiring out for their lawn and snow maintenance. Their bedroom was on the main floor so steps were not an issue. In the end, they realized they

loved where they live and there was no reason to move! Getting to the “why” is always important. Yes, it may be time to move. Knowing the reasons why you are moving is critical to a successful move. If you are unsure about your reason for changing your address, you may find yourself making the wrong decision and then be faced with another move. When thinking of purchasing a condominium, know thyself. Are you a private person wanting to enjoy your gardening and having space from your neighbors? Do you do well with rules and regulations which are the cornerstone of condominium living. Condominium bylaws are a set of directives as to what you can or can’t do when living in a condominium complex. Examples of these rules; pet limitations, exterior maintenance, how many parking spaces, and other rules and regulations all must follow. This type of living works for so many folks after living in their longtime home. But for some others, this

• 50PLUS • 5

type of living is too invasive. That is why it is critical to understand who you are and what lifestyle you seek. Senior apartments work for many others. In an apartment or senior community, you have no maintenance worries. Parking is usually underground. In many communities there are activities and accommodations for transportation. There are several types of senior lifestyles to choose from. Some have continuum of care for later health challenges so that another move will never be needed. Others are for independent living only with no services which are typically over 55 communities. Some have independent and assisted living. Basically, these options would offer aging in place with no other move needed. Prices vary based on services provided. In summary, understanding the why will lead to the how and where. Take time to truly look deep inside and understand your reasons for a change in address. In some cases NEMOVITZ continued on page 13


6 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

Allied Senior Services Insurance & Investments LTD INC

Se n i o r s • Long Term Care Insurance •Health Insurance • Life Insurance • Annuities • Auto • Homeowners • Free Quotes • Immediate SR22 Filings

414-545-7878 We are not limited to representing one company, so we can give you unbiased advice.

7421 W. Becher St. West Allis, WI

Attention Wisconsin Seniors!! • Paying too much for your health insurance? • Disenrolled or receiving reduced health coverage by your insurance company or employer?

• Losing health care coverage? • Turning 65?

:H XQGHUVWDQG WKDW Ă€QGLQJ WKH EHVW DIIRUGDEOH +HDOWK RU /LIH LQVXUDQFH SURWHFWLRQ SODQ FDQ EH FRQIXVLQJ IUXVWUDWLQJ DQG H[SHQVLYH 7KDW¡V ZK\ ZH¡YH GRQH WKH ´KRPHZRUNÂľ IRU \RX

Midwest Senior Select, Inc.

&DOO WRGD\ IRU D )5(( TXRWH 12 &267 RU 2%/,*$7,21

262-241-3662

11518 N. Port Washington Rd. • Suite 4 Mequon • WI 53092

Representing Selected Major Insurance Companies For:

• Medicare Prescription Drug Plans • Medicare Supplements • Medicare Advantage • Dental Insurance • Long Term Care • Annuities • Final Expense Life Insurance • Under 65 Major Medical Plans Neither Midwest Select, Inc. or it’s agents are affiliated with Medicare, Social Security, or any government agency. This is 2011-3MWSS-NP an advertisement for insurance. An agent may contact you in an attempt to provide insurance.

Top prices paid for coins, gold, silver, and jewelry. Expert written appraisals for estate planning. Home visits available for large collections. Friendly, professional service for 30 years.

BUYING COIN COLLECTIONS

PARAGON NUMISMATICS 1425 W. Mequon Road Suite D CALL (262) 240-9975 Inside BMO Bank, Mequon M-F 9-5

Can I inherit my parent’s debt? Dear Savvy Senior,

What happens to a person’s debt after they die? My mother has taken on a lot of medical and credit card over the past few years and I’m worried that my brother and I will be responsible for it when she dies. What can you tell me?

Worried Daughter Â

Dear Worried,

In most cases when a person with debt dies, it’s their estate, not their kids, that is legally responsible. Here’s how it works.  When your mom dies, her estate – which consists of the stuff she owns while she’s alive (home, car, cash, etc.) – will be responsible for paying her debts. If she doesn’t have enough cash to pay her debts, you’ll have to sell her assets and pay off her creditors with the proceeds.  Whatever is left over is passed along to her heirs as dictated by the terms of her will, if she has one. If she doesn’t have a will, the intestacy laws of the state she resides in will determine how her estate will be distributed.  If, however, she dies broke, or there isn’t enough money left over to pay her “unsecured debtsâ€? – credit cards, medical bills, personal loans – then her estate is declared insolvent, and her creditors will have to eat the loss. â€œSecured debtsâ€? – loans attached to an asset such as a house or a car – are a different story. If she has a mortgage or car loan when she dies, those monthly payments will need to be made by her estate or heirs, or the lender can seize the property.  There are, however, a couple of exceptions that would make you legally responsible for her debt after she passes away. One is if you are a joint holder on a credit card account that she owes on. And the other is if you co-signed a loan with her.  NOTE TO SPOUSES: These same debt inheritance rules apply to surviving spouses too, unless you live in a community property state – Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington or Wisconsin. In these states, any debts that one spouse acquires after the start of a marriage belongs to the

SAVVY SENIOR

By Jim Miller other spouse, too. Therefore, spouses’ in community property states are usually responsible for their deceased spouses debts.Â

Protected Assets

If your mom has any IRAs, 401(k) s, brokerage accounts, life insurance policies or employer-based pension plans, these are assets that creditors usually cannot get access to. That’s because these accounts typically have designated beneficiaries, and the money goes directly to those people without passing through the estate.  Settling Her Estate You also need to be aware that if your mom dies with debt, and she has no assets, settling her estate should be fairly simple. Her executor will need to send out letters to her creditors explaining the situation, including a copy of her death certificate, and that will probably take care of it. But, you and your brother may still have to deal with aggressive debt collectors who try to guilt you into paying.  If your mom has some assets, but not enough to pay all her debts, her state’s probate court has a distinct list of what bills get priority. The details vary by state, but generally estate administrating fees, funeral expenses, taxes and last illness medical bills get paid first, followed by secured debts and lastly, credit card debts.  Need Help? If you have questions regarding your situation, you should consult with a consumer law attorney or probate attorney to get help. Or, if you just need a question or two answered, call your state’s legal hotline (see legalhotlines.org), which provides free phone advice.  Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of â€œThe Savvy Seniorâ€? book.


MAY 2017

Divorced couple hits the Social Security jackpot BY TOM MARGENAU

Today’s column illustrates yet another example of a situation I had never encountered in my 45-year career of working on Social Security issues. And this time it’s the story of two very different Social Security rules intersecting and leading to a bizarre circumstance that allows some lucky people to milk the Social Security system out of unintended benefits. : My ex-wife and I are both about to turn 66. We were married for about 35 years before getting divorced. Neither of us has remarried. We each have worked most of our lives and are due similar Social Security retirement benefits. We have remained friends and would like to maximize our benefits. I am planning to continue working indefinitely. Can my ex-wife “file and restrict” on my account even though I am not yet receiving benefits? : At first, I was going to simply respond, “Yes, she can,” and be done with my answer. But then I got to thinking through your situation and realized that you guys have hit the Social Security jackpot. Each of you will be able to claim spousal benefits off of the other’s record and save your own Social Security benefits until 70 and get the 32 percent bonus that comes from that delayed retirement maneuver. First, I will discuss the “file and restrict” rule. The law normally says that if you file for any kind of Social Security, you must take your own benefits first. Only after your own retirement is paid, can you look to a spouse’s record to see if you are due any additional benefits on his or her account. But if you wait until age 66 to claim benefits, you can ignore that law. You could file for dependent benefits on your spouse’s record and claim 50 percent of his or her full retirement age rate for the next four years and then, at age 70, switch to your own full benefit plus the 32 percent bonus that goes along with delaying your retirement benefits until 70. The only stipulation to employing the file and restrict tactic is that your spouse must be collecting Social Security before you can claim dependent

Q

A

benefits on his or her record. And this is where a second unrelated law comes into play in your case. The second rule is what is called the independently entitled divorced spouse law. As alluded to in the prior paragraph, a husband or wife can’t get any benefits off of his or her spouse’s record until that spouse is collecting benefits. But the law has always been different for divorced spouses. For example, a wife can get benefits on her ex-husband’s record even if he hasn’t filed for benefits himself yet. He must be old enough for Social Security (meaning he has to be over age 62), but again, he doesn’t have to be collecting benefits. Here is the reason that law was passed. The law assumes that a married dependent wife can rely on the husband’s income for support until he actually retires and files for Social Security himself. But the law can’t make that same assumption for a divorced wife. She is no longer “dependent” on her ex-husband’s income. She is “independent.” So the law allows an independently entitled divorced wife to get her husband’s Social Security even though he might not yet be getting benefits. (The same rules would apply to a divorced husband.) Now here is how these two laws come together to help you. The “restricted application rule” allows one of you to file for benefits as a spouse and save your own benefits until age 70. And again, normally the other spouse must apply for benefits first. But the independently entitled divorced spouse law says the first spouse does not have to be getting Social Security in order for the other spouse to file. That means you can both file for divorced spouse benefits on the other’s account and then you both can save your own retirement benefits until age 70. To further explain this, let’s use some actual numbers. You said you had similar retirement benefits. Let’s say your age 66 retirement rate is $2,200 and that your wife’s age 66 retirement rate is $2,500. Here is what you could do. At age 66, you could file for one half of your ex-wife’s benefit and get $1,250 per month. Also at age 66,

your ex-wife could file for one half of your age 66 benefit and get $1,100 per month. You each would continue to get those divorced spouse benefits until you each reach age 70. At that point, your divorced husband’s benefits would stop, but you would file for your own retirement benefits, with the 32 percent bonus, and receive $2,904 each month from then on. And when she is 70, your ex would stop getting divorced wife’s benefits and she would file for her retirement and start getting $3,300 monthly, again, with the 32 percent bonus. I hope you realize how bizarre it is that you are able to do this. A whole lot of stars had to line up just right. In addition to those two aforementioned laws being in place, you each had to be pushing 66 at the same time (and before the 2020 cutoff date), you each had to have not remarried, and you each had to have your own fairly sub-

• 50PLUS • 7

stantial retirement benefit rate. Just like anyone else employing the file and restrict strategy, you would have to compare the above option with your normal course of action -- which would be for each of you to simply file for your own full benefits at age 66. In other words, instead of getting just $1,250 per month between age 66 and 70, you could be getting your own $2,200 full retirement rate. So you would be giving up $950 per month for 48 months, or $45,600 in order to reap that 32 percent bonus at 70. And your ex could be getting $2,500 per month between 66 and 70 instead of the $1,100 divorced wife’s rate, meaning she is giving up $1,400 per month for 48 months or $67,200 to get the age 70 bonus. You need to run the numbers for yourselves, make some educated guesses about how long you think you will live, and then decide what to do.


8 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

May is Better Hearing Month So May is here. May is Better Hearing Month. May is also Skin Cancer Awareness month and Celiac Awareness Month among a host of other awareness’s. It is also International Mediterranean Diet Month. So slather on some sun screen and go grab a gyro, hold the pita… we’re going to talk about hearing. 36 million Americans have a hearing loss. Only 20% will seek treatment. That’s 28 million people ignoring their own wellbeing. These are the statistics. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to Alzheimer’s and depression. A hearing loss left untreated can permanently impact an individual’s ability to understand speech, even when they seek treatment later. It must be the cost right? Turns out this may not be the case. In countries where hearing devices are free, the adoption rate of treatment is still about 20%. However, unless you live in Scandinavia cost can still be a personal factor for you. Many Medicare supplement plans offer discounts and some policies will even cover a large percentage of the cost. With financing options you can obtain premium technology for under $100 a month. While not free, we can figure out a way to make cost less of a factor for you to get on the path towards better hearing. Perhaps then it’s the stigma. “Hearing aids are for old people.” I get it. I heard that from a 30 year old client not long ago. That young gal has a point; however nothing looks older… or weaker… than an untreated affliction. What looks older: a nearly invisible piece of plastic on your ear or consistently asking people to repeat themselves? Avoiding social gatherings because you can’t converse? Nodding along when it’s not appropriate to do so? Hearing devices do not make you look old. They tell the world that you are a proactive participant in your own wellbeing, assuming they even pay attention to that little piece of plastic on your ear in the first place. I bet you know someone who told you how little their hearing aids do for them. Let’s call him Ed. Ed will tell you it was a waste of money. That he hears better without them. Even if you and Ed are alike in every way, do you

HEARING MATTERS

By John Dykstra really know enough about Ed’s hearing to be able to project his experience on your own life? Does Ed wear them all day every day? (He probably should). Has Ed had the devices checked over and reprogrammed recently? (He definitely should). Did Ed ignore his impairment for so long that even with an ideal device his expectations should be severely tempered? (It’s possible). Did Ed opt for the most affordable solution even after an assessment indicated they would be too noisy in social places? (You know Ed better than I do). The truth is we all like to tell people when things go wrong. You will meet very few people who tell you how wonderful their hearing devices are, because those people never really think about them. Those people don’t “feel old” because they can’t hear and they don’t want to talk about how the things that are “for old people” work so well. What it all boils down to is a combination of all of the above factors. Hearing correction is complex. It is an augmentation of one of the two principal senses that your brain uses for safety. It requires adaptation. It requires a professional that understands all the factors to guide you though. When successful, it will keep you “younger” for longer. Beltone realizes that any of us can say these things, but how can you know? This is why we offer to you the ability to audition them. Take them home. Wear them. If you don’t want them, don’t buy them. We are not interested in creating anymore “Eds”. I would love to open a dialog from the readership to ask me some questions about hearing aids. If you would like to send me a question, please email it to johnw@beltonewi.com


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 9

What is hearing loss? Hearing loss is a common problem caused by noise, aging, disease, and heredity. Hearing is a complex sense involving both the ear’s ability to detect sounds and the brain’s ability to interpret those sounds, including the sounds of speech. Factors that determine how much hearing loss will negatively affect a person’s quality of life include • the degree of the hearing loss • the pattern of hearing loss across different frequencies (pitches) • whether one or both ears is affected • the areas of the auditory system that are not working normally— such as the middle ear, inner ear, neural pathways, or brain • the ability to recognize speech sounds • the history of exposures to loud noise and environmental or drug-related toxins that are harmful to hearing • age.

A Common Problem in Older Adults

Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults. Approximately 15 percent (37.5 million) of American adults ages 18 and older report some degree of hearing loss. Men are more likely to experience hearing loss than women. Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from using hearing aids, but only one in four U.S. adults ages 20 and over who could benefit from hearing aids has used them. People with hearing loss may find it hard to have a conversation with friends and family. They may also have trouble understanding a doctor’s advice, responding to warnings, and hearing doorbells and alarms Presbycusis commonly affects older adults, many of whom are likely to lose some hearing each year. Approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. Age-related hearing loss most often occurs in both ears, affecting them equally. Because the loss is gradual, if

you have age-related hearing loss you may not realize that you’ve lost some of your ability to hear.

Tinnitus: A Common Symptom

Tinnitus, also common in older people, is typically described as ringing in the ears, but it also can sound like roaring, clicking, hissing, or buzzing. It can come and go. It might be heard in one or both ears and it may be loud or soft. Tinnitus can accompany any type of hearing loss and can be a sign of other health problems as well. Tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease. It can accompany any type of hearing loss. It can be a side effect of medications. Something as simple as a piece of earwax blocking the ear canal can cause tinnitus, but it can also be the result of a number of health conditions. Roughly 10 percent of the U.S. adult population, or about 25 million Americans, has experienced tinnitus lasting at least five minutes in the past year. If you think you have tinnitus, see your primary care doctor. You may be referred to an otolaryngologist—a doctor who specializes in the medical and surgical care of ear, nose, and throat diseases—also commonly called an ear, nose, and throat doctor, or an ENT. The otolaryngologist will physically examine your head, neck, and ears and request a hearing test by an audiologist.

Hearing Loss Can Lead to Other Problems

Some people may not want to admit they have trouble hearing. Older people who can’t hear well may become depressed or may withdraw from others to avoid feeling frustrated or embarrassed about not understanding what is being said. Sometimes older people are mistakenly thought to be confused, unresponsive, or uncooperative just because they don’t hear well. Hearing problems that are ignored or untreated can get worse. If you have a hearing problem, you can get help. See your doctor. Hearing aids, special training, certain medicines, and surgery are some of the choices that can help people with hearing

YOUR HEARING HEALTHCARE CENTER. HEAR Wisconsin is focused on providing you the best hearing healthcare available. Our audiologists and technology counselors work closely with you to find the best solution for your hearing and communication needs. Since we’re a nonprofit, every purchase you make supports kids and families with hearing loss.

Schedule an appointment with our audiologists from the Medical College of Wisconsin today.

WWW.HEARWI.ORG INFO@HEARWI.ORG 414-604-2200


10 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

Hearing aids are important to overall health

A hearing aid is a small electronic visit your doctor. device that you wear in or behind your There are different kinds of hearear. It makes some sounds louder. A ing aids. They differ by size, their hearing aid can help people hear more placement on or inside the ear, and in both quiet and noisy situations. how much they amplify sound. The Hearing aids help people who hearing aid that will work best for you have hearing loss from damage to the depends on what kind of hearing loss small sensory cells in the inner ear. you have, and how severe it is. TheDOdamage YOU: can occur as a result of disease, aging, or injury fromconversations? noise or How do I get hearing aids? Have trouble understanding Wonder if you need hearing aids? Before getting a hearing aid, you certain medicines. Only about one out hearingwho aids? of Wear five people would benefit from should consider having a hearing Use a Personal Sound Amplifier? a hearing aid actually uses one. If you evaluation to determine the type and think a hearing could help you, amount of your hearing loss. The proYou’re not aloneaid – we do too! Join people of all ages who deal with hearing loss every day. Bring your friends, partners, and family to learn how to cope. We share experience, information, laughter, & MORE!

DO YOU:

•Have trouble understanding conversations? • Wonder if you need hearing aids?

Monthly gatherings – December • WearApril hearing aids? • Use a Personal Sound Amplifier? 3rd Monday: 6:30 pm -- 8:00pm HEAR Wisconsin, 10243 W National Ave, West Allis not alone - we do too! (Unless otherwiseYouʼre noted) Check us out at: Joinhttp://metromilwaukeehlaa.weebly.com/ people of all ages who deal with hearing loss every day. OR Bring your friends, partners, and family to learn how to cope. Call / Text 414-807-4373 more information We share for experience, information, laughter & MORE!

Monthly gatherings April-December • 3rd Monday: 6:30pm-8pm HEAR Wisconsin, 10243 W National Ave, West Allis (Unless otherwise noted) Check us out at: http://metromilwaukeehlaa.weebly.com/ OR Call/Text: 414-807-4373 for information

cess can begin with a medical and/or audiological examination. · Medical examination. The medical examination may be performed by any licensed physician including your family doctor or pediatrician, but preferably should be done by an ear, nose, and throat specialist (an otolaryngologist). An examination of your ear, nose, and throat and possibly other testing can be done to rule out any medical reason for your hearing loss, such as infection, injury or deformity, ear wax in the ear canal, and, in rare

cases, tumors. · Audiological examination. An audiological exam, or audiogram, involves a hearing evaluation by a hearing health professional that specializes in evaluation, non-medical treatment, and rehabilitation of hearing loss (an audiologist) to identify the type and amount of your hearing loss, to determine the need for medical/surgical treatment and/or referral to a licensed physician, and to provide rehabilitation of the hearing loss.

YOUR EXCLUSIVE INVITATION TO C E LE BR ATE BE T TER H EARING MONTH Participate in a 2-week trial† to explore revolutionary hearing technology.

  

Do you have difficulty hearing in loud situations? Do you find yourself turning up the TV or radio louder than before? Do you often ask others to repeat themselves?

IF SO, W E C A N HELP. PARTICIPANTS WILL RECEIVE 1. Free 75-minute hearing evaluation. 2. Free personalized audiogram review and one-on-one questions and answer session with a licensed Hearing Care Professional. 3. For those who qualify††: 2-week trial† of our new rechargeable Phonak Audio B-R Hearing Aids! 4. Auditory Simulation at no cost. Hear the difference this technology can make!

NOW CALL RVE SE E R TO S! YOUR

UNTIL MAY 31 ST, 2017 ONLY! ONLY 30 TEST UNITS AVAILABLE! Milwaukee – 2505 N Mayfair Rd, Ste 104 Oconomowoc – 888 Thackeray Trail, Ste 107 Waukesha – N4W22370 Bluemound Rd, Ste 202A West Bend – 1755 W Paradise Dr, Ste 103 Brookfield – 333 Bishops Way, Ste 125 Franklin – 8217 S 27th St

Offer available until 05/31/17. †Certain types of hearing loss may require a hearing aid model that is not appropriate for the Two Week Free Trial. Lyric excluded. Complimentary hearing screening and consultation required. Some restrictions apply. ††For offer terms and conditions, please call or visit connecthearing.com/invite. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Humana, United Healthcare, and other health plans. See center for details.

1.888.725.1511 connecthearing.com/Invite


MAY 2017

KILLING TIME continued from page 4

wooden bridge that we, as then military men, would journey to cross from Eglin AFB for such as a 75 cents seafood platter featuring grouper, shrimp and lobster tail. l l l l l Lifestyle changes that might help with curbing our having a sky full of carbon emissions include, if you can believe it, such as keeping your tires properly inflated, curbing aggressive driving, replace incandescent light bulbs with LEDs, eating those three meals each week that you otherwise will toss out after a few days in the refrigerator. l l l l l If Obamacare is so bad for us, why were about 65 to 70 percent of the people so roiled up when President Trump wanted to replace it? Could it be that the rank and file have no real idea what he would have replaced it with? Do you believe he really knew? l l l l l We have a grandson who works 12 hour shifts; three a week and then overtime. I guess time still really flies when a person is busy. Boredom or trivial conversation while performing monotonous tasks certainly does

make the day go by slower. l l l l l President Barack Obama said that we Americans could always decide to chase our dreams. He called it the beating heart of our American idea. How true that Americans are upset by some of the absurd political ideas floating around Washington, D.C.? The United States is a country of immigrants, or at least their children and/or grandchildren. How mean-spirited can our travel ban proposals be? There have to be many ways to make America great, not necessarily “again.” We judge some of today’s political witch-hunts as un-American. l l l l l When a person you meet smiles at you, don’t you forget any prejudices and return the smile with your own? No moment to be kind should ever be lost. l l l l l The good, bad, exciting, pleasant and, too often, non-interesting come to life on the television screen in your living room. Do you recall the good old days when people chatted, read books, challenged their minds with game boards, and probably popped popcorn over whatever was providing

heat and light from the fireplace? l l l l l If a person you knew and liked was feeling as we have said more than once, down in the dumps, you would not allow him/her to despair? So you should also take care to be certain your moods don’t make you angry, bored, questioning or anxious. At the very least, learn to enjoy yourself, appreciate what you have done and just let other people marvel at your accomplishments. l l l l l We believe that stupidity is a condition that is a requirement for many of the people seeking positions in Washington, D.C. No, I am not going to apply. l l l l l While we had become weary of the wintery weather, the fragrances of the blooming flowers seem to sing a song of springtime. The birth of these lovely May flowers tends to remind us of summers that are all ablaze. Only the naked sentinels (trees) are not fully clothed in leaves. It is a shame that better weather is not just across the bridge of life. l l l l l

• 50PLUS • 11

Roberto Clemente, who died in an airplane crash in 1973, was the first Hispanic baseball player to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. l l l l l Eating out has gotten to be a regular activity. We recently counted 22 restaurants in the smaller community of Hartland. l l l l l There’s a new business that claims to have wonderful results for people with breathing problems. It is called the Salt Room. While you spend 45 minutes sitting there breathing in a salt spray, salty margaritas or bloody Marys might help pass the time. l l l l l I’m not sure about this guy, who has reached 91 years. He says, “Life is short. Do the nicest things you can in the kindest way. Respect yourself when you arise and see your face in the bathroom mirror.” Who told me this? Clayton Chipman, Brookfield, a man who practices what he preaches. When he says, “Go the extra mile,” he means it even if he does it on a bicycle. l l l l l

Please stop in and try our “Demo” phones at these fine area Locations: BELTONE: ZOUNDS HEARING CENTER 821 Meadowbrook Rd, Waukesha 53188 15280 Bluemound Rd, Elm Grove 53122 3333 S. Sunnyslope Rd, New Berlin 53151 333 W. Brown Deer Rd, Bayside 53217 6805 S. Howell Ave, Oak Creek 53154 VMP-SENIOR CENTER 3180 N. 124th St, Wauwatosa 53222 th 3023 S. 84 St., Milwaukee 53227 AVADA HEAR WISCONSIN 1140 N. Main St, West Bend 53090 10243 W. National Ave., West Allis 53227 RM COMMUNICATION CONNECT HEARING PRODUCTS th 8217 S. 27 St., Franklin 53132 9401 W. Beloit Rd/Ste 202, Milwaukee 53227 333 Bishops Way, Brookfield 53005 WISCONSIN HEARING 1755 W. Paradise Dr/Ste 103, West Bend 53095 AID CENTERS: N4 W22370 Bluemound Rd/202A,Waukesha, 53186 9211 W. Capitol Dr, Milwaukee 53222 7820 S. Howell Ave., Oak Creek 53154 823 N. 2nd St., Milwaukee 53203 HOME HEARING AID SERVICES 101 W. Main St., Watertown 53094 Phone: 262-253-2151 TOBIN’S BECKER AUDIOLOGY 1260 Brown St., Oconomowoc 53066 20720 W. Watertown Rd/Ste 102, Waukesha 53186 AUDIOLOGY HEARING CLINIC OF MEQUON HART HEARING CARE CENTERS 11649 N. Port Washington Rd., Mequon 53092 15425 W. National Ave., New Berlin 53151 SONUS SAM’S CLUB 2255 S. 108th St., West Allis 53227 1540 S. 108th St., West Allis 53214 600 N. Springdale Rd., Waukesha 53186 AuD HEARING 8050 N. 125th St., Milwaukee 53224 875 E. Townline Rd., #101, Lake Geneva 53147 B.S. WISNIEWSKI 4847 W. Forest Home Ave., Greenfield 53219


12 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

Smell the roses, blow out the candle

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

BY CHUCK NORRIS

Treating the women you love with something special? How about the gift of a HEALTHIER & YOUNGER FUTURE MonaLisa Touch laser therapy is a simple procedure that takes less than 5 minutes. It restores gynecologic health by generating new collagen, elastin and vascularization in the vaginal tissue. Treatment is intended for vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, urinary stress incontinence, itching & burning, and lichen sclerosus.

Glenda Lee, MD, Barbara Lamping, MD, & Jason Foil, MD 8905 W. Lincoln Avenue, Suite 407 • (414) 545-8808

For more information on MonaLisa Laser please join us on May 18th • 6 pm Limited Space Reservations required Call (414) 545-8808

www.clinicofobgyn.com

WOULD YOU LIKE TO LAUGH WITH CONFIDENCE AGAIN?

HAVE YOU It LOST YOUR TEETH BUT IS possible. NOT YOUR APPETITE? You CAN eat what you love again.

Mention Ad for

$250 off exp. 5/31/17

Never worry about your loose dentures again. Never worry about your loose dentures again. Don’t let your poor fitting dentures decide what’s on the menu for you.

™ InPlace will keep your teeth secure and allow you InPlace™ will allow you to secure your teeth and say “goodbye” to regain your self-confidence. Visit our dental to adhesives forever. Visit our dental practice and discover how practice and discover how life-changing and affordable life-changing and affordable implant-retained overdentures can be. implant-retained overdentures can be.

414-982-3674

Call today for a consultation.

Call today for a consultation. 1469 S. 70th St., West Allis, WI (760) 942-3900 www.WisconsinSmiles.com (760) 942-3900

For information, a Free Consultation Today. For more please visitCall teethinplace.com InPlace Comprehensive Treatment Options exclusively feature the LOCATOR® Attachment

For more information, please visit teethinplace.com and other products from ZEST Anchors LLC. © 2013 InPlace is a trademark of ZEST Anchors LLC. ZEST and LOCATOR are registered trademarks of ZEST IP Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved. ®

InPlace Comprehensive Treatment Options exclusively feature the LOCATOR Attachment and other products from ZEST Anchors LLC.

© 2013 InPlace is a trademark of ZEST Anchors LLC. ZEST and LOCATOR are registered trademarks of ZEST IP Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved.

In a recent episode of the critically-acclaimed non-fiction TV series “Nightwatch,” a Tampa Fire Rescue paramedic, is dealing with a child in the midst of an escalating asthma attack. The rescuer clears a panicked family member for the ambulance and instructs the boy to breathe through his nose and “smell the roses,” then exhale through his mouth and “blow out the candle.” He repeats the instructions over again in a firm but soothing tone -- “Smell the roses, blow out the candle.” The boy begins to relax, his breathing begins to normalize; crisis averted. Since at least the Middle Ages, people have known that taking long, slow, deep breaths can have a calming effect and reduce stress. At the same time, they recognized that what we know as panic attacks can cause a person to take short, fast breaths, which further increase the severity of the attack. To date, there is a good deal of peer-reviewed research to confirm that the slow, deep, controlled breathing, such as done in yoga and meditation, can help alleviate anxiety and the onset of depression. I bring this up because of a story that appeared last week in the journal Science. It states that researchers have at last discovered the neural pathway in the brain that controls this emotion/ breathing connection. Until now, science had not been able to pinpoint the neural pathway that connects breathing to the emotional states of anxiety and calmness. It is believed this discovery will eventually lead to therapies to help people who have anxiety, stress and panic attacks. Researchers are already envisioning the development of medication to help lower activity in the pathway, thereby lowering feelings of panic and the rate of breath. In the meantime, we should feel some reassurance that we can affect positive changes in our emotional state and behavior the natural way, through controlled thoughtful breathing, without pharmaceuticals. It’s also important to point out that this approach may

not work for everyone. If someone suffers from panic disorders, it may be nearly impossible to control breathing. A pharmacological approach could be critical for preventing panic attacks triggered by hyperventilation. And when stress brings on anger, things like counting to 10 and taking a series of deep breaths may not seem to help; especially if you are one of those who get so mad and worked up you want to break something. Can acting on those impulses help relieve the stress and tension a person feels in those moments? Would a controlled environment to get the aggression out of your system do the trick? We may soon find an answer to this question in “anger rooms,” an enterprise where people can go to blow off steam, now sprouting up around the country. According to a recent CNN news report, for a fee (said to range from $20 to $90), outfitted in protective gear including shoe covers, goggles and a helmet, people can rampage all they want in a controlled environment, without consequence. Dr. Amit Sood, a medical professor at the Mayo Clinic, for one, is skeptical of how much help a 20-minute session thrashing a room can provide in reducing stress. There is no data. It may work for some and not others. He believes that alternatives to reducing stress and anger such as controlled deep breathing, lowering expectations and the mindful practice of keeping things in perspective, will prove to be more effective in the long run. And it turns out, there’s lots of research being conducted today that shows that, through learning certain skills, people can experience more positive emotions when faced with things such as severe stress or even a life-threatening condition; like learning to dance, for example. One recent study published this month in Frontiers in Aging, compared the neurological effects of learning to dance as a form of therapy compared with walking and other activities. They discovered that the demands placed on the mind and


MAY 2017

body from, in this instance learning intricate country-dance choreography, proved to be unusually potent at slowing some of the negative changes inside our brains thought to be inevitable with aging. Science has long known that processing speed, which is a measure of how rapidly our brains can absorb, assess and respond to new information, is particularly hard hit as we age. After six months, all of the control groups of participants continued to show at least some signs of this kind of “degeneration.” This was especially noticeable in the oldest volunteers and those who had been the most sedentary before joining the study. That is, except for one group. One group showed a measurable improvement in health -- the dancers. Researchers believe it’s likely that the cognitive demands of the dancing had a positive impact on brain

biochemistry. If nothing else, the data provides another rationale for getting up and moving as well as engaging in what researchers describe as “any activities involving moving and socializing.” In dealing with the stresses of today, with so much coming at us all of the time, it is definitely a period that calls for some response to bring on relief. In talking to the New York Times, Dr. Steven C. Hayes, a psychology professor at the University of Nevada in Reno had this prescription: “Use your anxiety to motivate you,” he said. “Think about what you value most and take action.” He believes that taking action can help to instill the sense that you have some control over your environment (what psychologists call perceived self-efficacy) and leave you feeling less stressed and, as a result, breathing easier.

NEMOVITZ continued from page 5

the challenge of moving from a long time home into a senior apartment or community. He has been listed in Milwaukee Magazine’s 5-Star Agents list for the last three years in a row. As such, he’s one of only a handful of Realtors who are continually included in the top 7% in client satisfaction in the Milwaukee Metro area. He’s rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau, and was a finalist for Concordia College’s Ethical Business Leadership Award. He works with his wife Jeanne at Realty Executives Integrity.

you may determine that home sweet home is the best place to live for some time. For others a move to a condominium or senior apartment may be the best choice. Follow your gut and as I said, know thyself. The best person to decide what is best for your current and future needs is… you! Bruce Nemovitz is a Senior Real Estate Specialist, as well as Certified Senior Advisor. Bruce has sold residential homes in the four county Milwaukee-Metro areas for 35 years. He has published a book called “Moving in the Right Direction”, A Senior’s Guide to Moving and Downsizing. Bruce has just written his second book for the children of seniors, “Guiding Our Parents in the Right Direction”, Practical Advice about Seniors Moving from the Home They Love. This book is now available at www. GuidingOurParents.com. Past articles about moving and downsizing and other important information can be found at www.BrucesTeam.com. Bruce received the 2010 “Realtor of the Year” from the 3,800 membership of the GMAR (Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtors). Bruce is a featured speaker at several senior communities in the Milwaukee-Metro area. His discussions center on

• 50PLUS • 13

Wellspring of Milwaukee specializes in:      

Short-Term Rehabilitation Respiratory Care Skilled Nursing Care Memory Care Wound Care Management Respite Care Wellspring of Milwaukee has opened a new post-acute brain injury unit named DaySpring.

Wellspring of Milwaukee excels in providing Respiratory Care Services to their residents that include Tracheostomy Management, Weaning and Support Services.

One of five state certified post-acute traumatic brain injury rehabilitation programs in Wisconsin

Talented staff that are specialists in brain injury rehabilitation.

Intensive therapy includes 4-5 hours of therapy daily.

Rehabilitation Team - NeuroPsychologist, Physiatrist, Psychiatrist, Nurse, Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, Speech-Language Pathologist and Recreation Therapist.

9350 W. Fond du Lac Avenue * Milwaukee, WI 53225 * Phone: 414-438-4360 Fax: 414-815-5283 * www.wellspringhealthcarecenter.com


14 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

ROHAN continued from page 1

and chartered Boy Scout Troop 333. She and her husband are both 2006 graduates of the National American Legion College and 2015

Graduates of the Wisconsin American Legion College - Basic Course. Both have gone on to serve as State and National American Legion College Facilitators.

We know caring for a loved one can take a toll on your family. Our mission is to provide quality, compassionate care, to let you get back to being a loving family member, instead of a primary caregiver. We provide as much or as little help as you desire. You select the hours. We keep you informed of your loved one’s condition, and if called for, adjust our services as needed.

“Family comes first. Integrity matters. Justice should prevail. Service not self. Honesty is a given. Humility is a gift.” - Denise Rohan

Denise was employed with the University of Wisconsin Madison as the Assistant Bursar of Student Loans until her retirement in 2012.

Personal Care and Assistance

Services OUR SERVICES: Homemaking Companionship Services

Contact us today for your elderly and special needs care Office 414-323-6416 Cell 414-534-8811 www.the-jackson-group.com

Title 19 & Pre-Arrangements

Simple Cremation $595.00 (Excluding Cremation Permit & Fee)

Traditional Funerals 1, 395.00 at your Church or Cemetery Chapel of your choice Call for more details

Celebrate Moments of Joy - EVERY DAY We are elevating the standard of memory care with innovative therapies, encouraging relationships, and exceptional attention to resident’s needs. • Dedicated Registered Nurse on staff • Medication management • Personalized management of behavioral expressions to include sundowning, wandering and anxiety • Compassionate team who are all trained in dementia care by our own - an exclusive, research-based program • Nutritious meals, snacks, housekeeping and laundry services • Tailored activities to enhance life and give daily moments of joy

414.453.1562

SERVING ALL OF WISCONSIN

HANGING BASKETS | POTTED PLANTS | ORNAMENTAL GRASS

PLANT SALE MAY 12-13th Friday, Noon-6pm | Saturday, 9am-Noon

Parking lot sale located at Manor Park 3023 South 84th Street, West Allis

WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!

Proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association & VMP Foundation

$ 414-405-2205 540 E Forest St • Oconomowoc WI 53066

azuramemory.com

She managed the University of Wisconsin Madison, University of Wisconsin Green Bay and University of Wisconsin Colleges 120 million dollar loan portfolio made up of approximately 200 different Federal, Institutional and State programs in compliance with all laws, regulations, and policy. She was responsible for the efficiency and design of the computerized student loan accounts receivable system. She is a graduate of the Mount Senario College (AA), and The Collegiate Management Institute. Denise currently serves as a volunteer in the 115th Fighter Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard Airman and Family Readiness Program. She has been married to her husband Mike for 40 years. They have a son, Nicholas, daughter-in-law Angie, grandchildren Sawyer and Isla. Mike is very active with the American Legion on both the State and National levels and is a Past Department Adjutant. Nick and Sawyer are members of Squadron 385, and Isla is a member of Unit 385.

5

4.5” BLOOMING PLANTS Non-Stop Begonia Osteospermum

$

10

1 QT. ORNAMENTAL GRASS Juncus Twister Juncus Blue Arrow

$

25

10” HANGING BASKETS Upright Geranium Little Petunia Torenia


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 15

Problem couple at church BY ANNIE LANE

service, angry over something. She sat

ship. If the couple are driven by ego

her what to do with her friends. She

I live in a small town and belong to a small church, which is struggling. I like our minister, but a lot of people do not and have left our church for other churches, including a megachurch in a nearby town. It is hard to compete with that! But several months ago, I found out that it is not just because of the minister. A couple in our church have been running people off. They are involved in everything and are rude to other people and downright mean to the minister. I started watching their behavior, and I am just amazed that people who act this way can call themselves Christians. Their behavior is getting worse as the months go by. We are going to be sharing a minister starting in July because we cannot afford to pay a full-time one any longer. He is already a minister at a church in a nearby town. I was hoping that would be an end to our problems, but now I am not so sure. A few weeks ago, the wife left in the middle of the

husband always runs the computer during worship and thinks no one else can do it right, but last Sunday, they were both gone and someone else did it just fine. She wrote a post on Facebook about how they attended the church where our future minister already preaches. “Awesome message! So refreshing,” were her comments. My greatest fear -- and I am not alone -- is that they are trying to get in good with the new minister before he even gets to our church. I am hoping that he is smart enough to see through these people. My question is: Should someone discuss these people with him, or should we just pray and hope for the best? -- Trying to Save Our Church Dear Trying: I’ll answer your question with another: What would Jesus do? By all indications, he would turn the other cheek and pray for this couple, showing them only mercy and kindness. Everyone is on a different path when it comes to faith and wor-

and God. It is not something you need to worry about and resolve. These types of things always have a way of working themselves out. If they are truly being fake and kissing up to the minister, he will probably see through that. Dear Annie: I agreed with your advice to “Always a Bridesmaid, Now a Bride,” whose sisters-in-law had all chosen her as a bridesmaid and who was deciding whether to use them as bridesmaids or to use four of her friends. You said the writer should do the former, but you did not tell

areas of the wedding -- serving punch, cutting cake, being greeters and so on. They could even help with the decorations and bouquets. -- Em Dear Em: Great idea, and help with preparation would no doubt be beneficial for brides and grooms on a budget. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com. To find out more about Annie Lane and read features by other Creators Syndicate columnists and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www. creators.com.

Dear Annie: My husband and in the car the rest of the service. Her and attention, that is between them should use them to help out in other

4 locations to serve you: Brookfield Hales Corners Menomonee Falls Thiensville

Fisher House Anniversary What a happy occasion! The Milwaukee area Fisher House will observe its one-year anniversary May 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Besides a tour of the home, which is a home away from home for needy veterans; cake and punch will be served.


16 • 50PLUS • MAY 2017 CW-Mukwanago-4.75x7.3.pdf

1

1/5/17

1:15 PM

Do You have Medicare and Medicaid? There is Medicare and prescription drug coverage just for you. Enroll at any time!

C

M

Y

CM

• $0 Premium • $0 Deductible • Coverage for all Medicare services

• Prescription drug coverage • Your personal care coordinator for support and guidance

MY

CY

Learn more at one of our upcoming events:

Readers in search of help with ants and sharks BY MARY HUNT

The best part of my job as your humble columnist is the mail I get from my loyal readers. I had to laugh today when the first two letters I pulled from my inbox requested help with ants and sharks. Dear Mary: Once again, this summer I am dealing with an invasion of ants in my kitchen. Please advise. Exterminators are terribly expensive. -- Lola Dear Lola: You’re not the only one! I’ve been hearing from so many readers who are anxious to know how to get rid of carpenter ants, sugar ants, fire ants, acrobat ants, big ants, tiny ants -- every kind of ant imaginable, even crazy ants! Fortunately, I have a solution for you that is inexpensive, natural and completely safe to use around kids and pets. It’s a very effective tactic I wrote about recently, and I am happy to share it again. Food-grade diatomaceous earth, or DE, will take care of this problem and continue to work as long as it stays dry. It is available in most garden centers and home improvement stores, and also online on Amazon. I just checked, and you can get a 10-pound bag on Amazon for $22 with Amazon Prime free shipping.

DE is an off-white, talc-like powder made of fossilized remains of marine phytoplankton. If you could take a look at it through a microscope you’d see that it resembles shards of glass. When sprinkled on bugs that have an exoskeleton (such as centipedes, bedbugs, ants, cockroaches, and fleas) or placed strategically so they crawl into it, the DE cuts into the exoskeleton, which causes them to dehydrate and die. The amazing thing about DE is it kills bugs but doesn’t hurt mammals. In fact, many people add DE to their daily diet to promote good health! Sprinkle the DE powder wherever you have seen ants crawling -- edges, corners, cracks, baseboards and floorboards. Pour a line of DE across doorway thresholds and on all windowsills. Sprinkle it in the cabinet under the sink, and behind drawers and baseboards. If the DE gets wet, clean it up and reapply. Caution: Only use food-grade diatomaceous earth that’s used for pest control, NOT the diatomaceous earth found in pool-supply stores. If it doesn’t say “food-grade” on the label, it has been chemically altered to be used in swimming pools. Non food-grade DE is ineffective against creepy-crawlies.

9 Oconomowoc Public Library, 200 W South St. 6 p.m. attachedMayad to be black and white 7 1/4 x 4 3/4, black and white. If you need to use artwork d man in the yellow shirt or his wife. CMY

K

Call us at 1-800-963-0035 (WI Relay 711)

or visit www.carewisc.org/event

Care Wisconsin Medicare Dual Advantage is an HMO SNP with a Medicare Advantage contract and a contract with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services for the Medicaid Program. Enrollment in Medicare Dual Advantage depends on contract renewal. This plan is available to anyone who has both Medical Assistance from the State and Medicare. A sales person will be present with information and applications.

New & Refurbished Equipment — 70% Below Retail Prices

Stay young. Stay active.

Stay Mobile! • Manual and Power Wheelchairs, Walkers, Canes and Crutches • Bath Benches, Raised Toilet Seats, Grab Bars, and Other Bath Equipment • Hospital Beds, Bariatric Equipment, and Much More... • Uninsured or Underinsured? We Can Help—Financing Options Available!

3720 N. 124th St., Unit F, Wauwatosa | Check out our clearance items today! Visit our website for the latest products and sale items: ifmobility.org or call 844.686.4666


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 17

Independent

RETIREMENT

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

2017


cce s

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

Inte r st

RETIREMENT

s to

Independent

ate

MAY 2017

Apa rtm ent Con dom Stud inium io One -Bed Two room Uni -Be Two droom ts -Bed Uni ts r Off- oom P lus Stre e Und t Park in ergr oun g On Bus d Park ing L Sha ine r ed Lau Lau nd ndr y Ho ry Fa ci l i t ok-U i es Priv p in ate Gar Private U Poo age nit l Exe rcis e Air Room Con Pets ditionin g Secu r ed Cab Entran le T ce V Clos e to Han Shopp in dica p Ac g Con ces s ven ible ient A

18 • 50PLUS •

BREEZEWOOD VILLAGE 450 Sunnyslope Dr., Hartland 3 262-367-2868 www.cardinalcapital.us BROOKFIELD HIGHLANDS 20825 George Hunt Circle, Waukesha 3 262-798-9898 HighlandsCommunities.com BURNHAM VILLAGE 5202 W. Burnham Street, West Milwaukee 262-240-9406 www.beckerpropertyservices.com

3

3 3 3

3

3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

3

3

3 3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Breezewood Village is located in a park-like setting with a meal site next door. Aim to create a community catered to the rights and comfort of those who call it home.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Spacious, remodeled one and two bedroom apartments, fireside community room, billiards room, fitness center, hair salon, social activities and more!

3 3

3 3

CAPRI SENIOR COMMUNITIES

20711 Watertown Rd., Suite A, Waukesha 262-798-1224 capricommunities.com

3

3 3 3 3 3

3 3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Tenants pay 30% of income for rent. Gas heat and hot water included. On-site management. Building also includes community room. Cable TV available, but not included. City setting. Quiet residential setting. Several communities in southeastern Wisconsin; responsive, professional management staff; organized social and recreational activities; scheduled transportation to shopping and community activities.

RESERVE NOW for SUMMER OCCUPANCY New Expansion Nears Completion

Premiere Independent & Assisted Living

Enjoy your own spacious private residence with its lifestyle, dining, transportation, personal and professional care options.

WimmerCommunities.com

Call Patti Today to Schedule a Tour

414-425-1148 11077 W. Forest Home Ave., Hales Corners


ate

cce s

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

Inte r st

RETIREMENT

• 50PLUS • 19

s to

Independent

Apa rtm ent Con dom Stud inium io One -Bed Two room Uni -Be Two droom ts -Bed Uni ts r Off- oom P lus Stre e Und t Park in ergr oun g On Bus d Park ing L Sha ine r ed Lau Lau nd ndr y Ho ry Fa ci l i t ok-U i es Priv p in ate Gar Private U Poo age nit l Exe rcis e Air Room Con Pets ditionin g Secu r ed Cab Entran le T ce V Clos e to Han Shopp in dica p Ac g Con ces s ven ible ient A

MAY 2017

CENTENNIAL SENIOR APARTMENTS 400 E. Centennial Dr., Oak Creek 414-762-7762 www.wimmercommunities.com

3

CLARE HEIGHTS SENIOR APARTMENTS 717 W. Holt Ave., Milwaukee 3 414-744-2510 clareheightsseniorapartments.com COTTONWOOD TRAILS APARTMENTS 4600 S. Nicholson Avenue, Cudahy 414-483-9969 Cottonwood@bearproperty.com

FORESTHILL HIGHLANDS

8930 West Highland Park Ave., Franklin 414-425-6611 HighlandsCommunities.com

3

3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

3

3 3

3 3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

3 3

3 3 3 3 3

3 3 3

Quiet residential. Heat included, generous closet space, hot water included, community room, balconies, patios, and fully equipped kitchens.

3 3 3

Cottonwood Trails is located in a quiet-residential community setting and also has a beauty shop, library, podiatrist, community room with social activities, elevator and massages are available.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Spacious one and two bedroom apartments and townhomes. No entrance or endowment fee. Fireside Community Room, Hair Salon, Library, Social Activities and more!

3 3 3

3 3 3 3 3

3 3 3

3 3 3

Residential area but close to shopping; Rent incl. underground parking & laundry, transportation shopping. Other amenities: salon, fitness room, chapel, store and on-site wellness clinic. Section 42 and market rate units available.

TWO BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITIES IN TWO IDEAL LOCATIONS!

Exceptional Senior Living for those 55 & better!

Comfortable Lifestyle 1 & 2 Bedroom Options!

Included In Rent:

• Weekly TransportationShopping • Underground Parking • No Cost Laundry Wonderful Amenities On-Site:

• Salon • Country Store • Fitness Room • Wellness Clinic • Craft Center • Entertainment • Socials • Smoke-free! • Pet Friendly • Chapel

Just One of Many Activities!

Wii Bowling Stay Active! 2016

Excellence in Affordable Housing Award

Income Limits May Apply


COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

FOREST RIDGE SENIOR COMMUNITY 11077 W. Forest Home Ave., Hales Corners 414-425-1148 www.wimmercommunities.com GONZAGA VILLAGE 1415 S. 92nd St., West Allis 262-240-9406 www.beckerpropertyservices.com GREENBROOK 4955 S. Greenbrook Terrace 414-282-5044 www.greenbrookterrace.com greenbrookterrace@yahoo.com HARWOOD PLACE 8220 Harwood Avenue, Wauwatosa 414-256-6814 www.harwoodplace.org

to In ters t

RETIREMENT

c e ss

Independent

3

3

3

3

HERITAGE LAKE

3 3

3

3

3 3

3

3

3 3

3 3

3 3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

THE REGENCY

HERITAGE LAKE

5020 South 55th Street • Greenfield • Call 414-282-0506 Beautiful serene country setting overlooking a private lake. Close to shopping, churches and medical facilities. Heated underground parking, blinds, and ceiling fan. Beautiful community room. • Heat & Water Included • Air Conditioned • Intercom Access • Appliances • Community Room with Kitchen • On Bus Line • Laundry on each Floor

ate

MAY 2017

Apa rtm ent Con dom Stud inium io One -Bed Two room Uni -Be Two droom ts -Bed Uni ts r Off- oom P l Stre us e Und t Park in ergr oun g On d Pa Bus Line rking Sha r ed Lau Lau nd ndr y Ho ry Fa c Priv ok-Up in ilities ate Priv ate Gar Uni Poo age t l Exe rcis e Air Room Con Pets ditionin g Secu r ed Cab Entran le T ce V Clos e to Han Shopp ing dica p A Con cces ven sibl ient e Ac

20 • 50PLUS •

2 Bedroom, 2 Bath 930 Sq. Ft. starting at $930/month

THE REGENCY

200 Southtowne Dr. • South Milwaukee • Call 414-764-5335 Quiet spacious apartments, elevator, underground parking, community room, library and exercise room. Friendly atmosphere. Larger units available. • Heat & Water Included • Air Conditioned • Fitness Center • Resident Library • Laundry on each Floor starting at • Quality Appliances • On Bus Line

2 Bedroom, 2 Bath 930 Sq. Ft. $930/month

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Quiet residential, park-like setting. Senior & assisted living, dining, in-house MD clinic, transportation to shopping & activities, bank, fitness center, chapel, bank. New construction September.

3 3

Tenants pay 30% of income for rent. Gas heat and hot water included. On-site management. Building also includes community room. Cable TV available, but not included. City setting.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Greenbrook is located in a park-like setting.Tenant’s rent is 30% of their income. We offer a community room, on site hair salon, garden plot and more... We are located in a park like setting but close to shopping.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Community features include restaurant-style dining, business center, chapel, gift shop, fitness room, on-site clinic and Supportive Service to keep residents in their apartment home longer.

3 3


COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

HERITAGE LAKE APARTMENTS

5020 South 55th Street, Greenfield 414-282-0506

3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3

3

3

Heritage Lake Apartments are located in a park-like setting. Hospitality Suite available. Small pets.

3 3 3

Quiet residential setting. Warm water pool, fitness center, theater, salon, walking area’s, fire ring, one homecooked meal daily, housekeeping twice monthly, underground parking, storage space, activities & outings.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

New one and two bedroom apartments. Kitchens w/granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and plank flooring. Fitness center, theater, social activities and more!

3 3

Spacious one and two bedroom apartments. No entrance or endowment fee. Fireside Community Room, Guest Suite, Hair Salon, Theater, Social Activities and more!

3 3 3 3 3

HERITAGE LAKE COUNTRY

2975 Village Square Dr., Hartland 262-367-2975 heritagesenior.com

3

3 3

3 3

3

3 3 3 3 3

HIGHLANDS AT RIVERWALK

10954 N. Cedarburg Rd., Mequon 262-243-8888 www.HighlandsCommunities.com

3

3 3 3 3 3

3 3

HIGHLANDS AT WILDWOOD LAKE

N77 W17700 Lake Park Dr., Menomonee Falls 262-251-9999

3

3 3 3 3 3

HighlandsCommunities.com

Burnham Village

Gonzaga Village Sunset Heights West Allis

Waukesha

Cifaldi Square

Oak West

Valentino Square

West Milwaukee Cudahy

ate

to In ters t

RETIREMENT

• 50PLUS • 21

c e ss

Independent

Apa rtm ent Con dom Stud inium io One -Bed Two room Uni -Be Two droom ts -Bed U room nits OffPlu Stre et P s Und a ergr rking oun On Bus d Park ing L Sha ine r ed Lau Lau nd ndr y Ho ry Fa c Priv ok-Up in ilities ate Priv ate Gar Uni Poo age t l Exe rcis e Air Room Con Pets ditionin g Secu r ed Cab Entran le T ce V Clos e to Han Shopp ing dica p A Con cces ven sibl ient e Ac

MAY 2017

West Allis

West Allis

3 3

3 3 3 3 3


COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

to In ters t

RETIREMENT

c e ss

Independent

JACKSON CROSSINGS

N168 W22026 Main St. Jackson 262-993-2838 jacksoncrossings.com

3

LUTHER MANOR 4545 N. 92nd Street, Wauwatosa 414-464-3880

3

PARKSIDE SENIOR VILLAGE

3 3 3

3 3

3 3 3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

3

325 Park Ave., Hartford 262-289-5915 parksideseniorvillage.com

3 3

PROHEALTH CARE REGENCY SENIOR COMMUNITY MUSKEGO

3 3

W181 S8540 Lodge Blvd, Muskego 262-679-0888 regencyseniorcommunities.com

3

3 3

3 3 3 3

3 3 3 3 3 3

3

3 3

3 3

3 3

Affordable Housing for 62+!

(Pay only 30% in gross income in rent)

ONE-BEDROOM APARTMENTS LOCATED IN Milwaukee • Wauwatosa • Butler • Racine

CALL TODAY

Reilly-Joseph Company for an application

414-271-4116

www.lowincomerentalsmilwaukee.com

1 Month

Overlooks Hasmer Lake. You can’t tell we’re on the corner of 2 highways!

Beauty salon/barber, crafts, billiards, woodworking, fitness & aquatic center, libraries, bank & ATM, on-site shopping, on-site pharmacy and clinic, including primary care physicians 5-days/week, plus 7 clinical specialties.

3 3 3

Quiet residential setting. Heat and water included, community room with activities, balconies & patios, and fully-equipped kitchens.

3 3 3

Park-like setting. 55-plus community on 32-acre natural wildlife paradise with private lake. On-site medical clinic, emergency pull cords, transportation, meals, activities. Minutes from restaurants, shops and conveniences.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Situated on a 23-acre conservancy, (park-like setting) offers a range of health and lifestyle activities. Nine different floor plans, scheduled transportation and an optional Dining Program make Regency a great place to live!

3 3 3

3 3

3

3 3 3 3

REGENCY BROOKFIELD, SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

777 N. Brookfield Road, Brookfield 262-780-0321 regencyseniorcommunities.com

ate

MAY 2017

Apa rtm ent Con dom Stud inium io One -Bed Two room Uni -Be Two droom ts -Bed Uni ts r Off- oom P lus Stre e Und t Park in ergr oun g On d Pa Bus Line rking Sha r ed Lau Lau nd ndr y Ho ry Fa c Priv ok-Up in ilities ate Gar Private U Poo age nit l Exe rcis e Air Room Con Pets ditionin g Secu r ed Cab Entran le T ce V Clos e to Han Shopp ing dica p A Con cces ven sibl ient e Ac

22 • 50PLUS •

• 1 Bedroom $600 • 2 Bedroom $690 • 24 hr. maintenance • same floor laundry • elevator • library

$99

• community room Security Deposit • game room and garden • professionally managed • sm. pets welcome

FREE For Independent Seniors 55 & Better

414.769.9240

3120 E. Norwich Avenue • St. Francis, WI 53235 • thompsonmeadows@aol.com


c e ss

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

ate

RETIREMENT

• 50PLUS • 23

to In ters t

Independent

Apa rtm ent Con dom Stud inium io One -Bed Two room Uni -Be Two droom ts -Bed U room nits OffPlu Stre et P s Und a ergr rking oun On Bus d Park ing L Sha ine r ed Lau Lau nd ndr y Ho ry Fa c Priv ok-Up in ilities ate Priv ate Gar Uni Poo age t l Exe rcis e Air Room Con Pets ditionin g Secu r ed Cab Entran le T ce V Clos e to Han Shopp ing dica p A Con cces ven sibl ient e Ac

MAY 2017

REGENCY SENIOR COMMUNITY NEW BERLIN

13750 National Ave., New Berlin 262-789-1699 regencyseniorcommunities.com

3

3 3

3 3

3

3 3 3 3

3 3 3

3 3 3 3

Several different locations in quiet, residential city settings. Affordable 1-BR for 62+. Rent based on 30% of gross income. Laundry & on-site management. Ask about immediate openings.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Quiet – residential area but close to shopping; rent includes underground parking & laundry, transportation to shopping. Other amenities: salon, fitness room, bank, chapel, store and on-site wellness clinic. Section 42, Section 8 and market rate units available.

3 3

On site chapel, beauty/ barbershop, bank, car wash, all appliances included, heated underground parking, building security.

REILLY JOSEPH COMPANY

Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Butler, Racine 414-271-4116

SILVERNAIL SENIOR APARTMENTS

2451 Silvernail Rd., Pewaukee 262-896-2100 www.wimmercommunitiies.com STEEPLE VIEW

12455 W. Janesville Rd., Muskego 414-525-5500 www.steepleview.org

3

3

3

3

3 3

3

3 3 3 3

3 3 3

3

3

3 3 3 3 3

SUNRISE SENIOR VILLAGE

2500 10th Ave., South Milwaukee 414-764-7997 sunrisevillageseniorapartments.com

3

3 3

3

3 3 3

Heat and water included, patios and balconies, elevator, lovely views, free parking, and community room with activities.

3 3

THE REGENCY

200 Southtowne Dr., South Milwaukee 414-764-5335 THREE PILLARS SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIESVILLAGE ON THE SQUARE

375 State Road 67, Dousman 262-965-7421 www.threepillars.org

3

3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3

3 3 3 3 3

3

3 3

3

3 3 3

3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

TUDOR OAKS SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

S77 W12929 McShane Dr., Muskego 414-529-0100 www.TudorOaks.net

3

3 3

3

3

3 3

3 3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

VILLAS AT THE STATION

8935 S. Wood Creek Dr. Oak Creek, WI 53154 414-788-0242

3

Park-like setting. Game room, pub, woodshops, sewing room, courtyard, chapel, theater, bus trips for shopping and entertainment, fitness classes and spiritual services.

3 3

3 3 3 3 3

The Regency is located in a park-like setting. Hospitality Suite available.

110 years of quality service on 60 acres of wooded property on the banks of the Bark River.

Quiet residential, park-like setting. Tudor Oaks encompasses all the avenues maturing adults travel; Independent living, supportive care, assisted living, memory care, 24-hour skilled nursing, short-term rehab and hospice all under one roof.

Cats allowed. Villas at the Station is located in a quiet-residential setting.


RETIREMENT

c e ss

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

to In ters t

Independent

ate

MAY 2017

Apa rtm ent Con dom Stud inium io One -Bed Two room Uni -Be Two droom ts -Bed U room nits OffPlu Stre et P s Und a ergr rking oun On Bus d Park ing L Sha ine r ed Lau Lau nd ndr y Ho ry Fa c Priv ok-Up in ilities ate Priv ate Gar Uni Poo age t l Exe rcis e Air Room Con Pets ditionin g Secu r ed Cab Entran le T ce V Clos e to Han Shopp ing dica p A Con cces ven sibl ient e Ac

24 • 50PLUS •

VMP HEALTHCARE & COMMUNITY LIVING

3023 S. 84th Street, Milwaukee 414-607-4100 www.vmpcares.com

3

3 3 3 3 3 3 3

3 3 3 3 3

VMP offers a TRUE and FULL continuum of care under one roof, from independent living to assisted living, to rehabilitation and long term skilled nursing.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Spacious one and two bedroom apartments and townhomes, no entrance or endowment fee. Fireside Community Room, Library, Hair Salon, Social Activities and more!

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Spacious one and two bedroom apartments and townhomes. Fireside Community Room, Walking Path, Library, Social Activities and more!

3 3

WILDWOOD HIGHLANDS

N78 W17445 Wildwood Dr., Menomonee Falls 262-251-9000 HighlandsCommunities.com

3

3 3 3 3 3

3 3 3

PARKWOOD HIGHLANDS

13800 Park Central Blvd., New Berlin 262-821-5106 HighlandsCommunities.com

3

3 3 3 3 3

3 3 3

Independent Living | Catered/Assisted Living Memory Care | Long-term Care Short-term Rehabilitation | Wellness Connection

Breezewood Village II Apartments Call to schedule a tour today!

Lifestyle. Value. Trust. Nestled in the Lake Country Area - Dousman 800.848.5306 | 262.965.2111 | www.threepillars.org

NOW RENTING IN HARTLAND The best affordable living for seniors 55 or better.

You’ll love our park like setting and smoke free facility! Heat and WiFi included! Conveniently located within short walking distance to Sendiks Shopping Center, Hartbrook Park, downtown Hartland & Ice Age Trails.

Call today to make Breezewood Village your home!

Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm Apartment are available to qualified seniors 55 and older and persons with disabilities

450 Sunnyslope Dr Hartland WI

262-367-2868

www.cardinalcapital.us

Professionally Managed by Cardinal Capital Management Inc


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 25

BROOKFIELD HIGHLANDS LLC FOREST RIDGE, A WIMMER SENIOR COMMUNITY

BREEZEWOOD VILLAGE

COTTONWOOD TRAILS

CLARE HEIGHTS

HARWOOD PLACE

HERITAGE LAKE

PARKSIDE VILLAGE


26 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

Independent

RETIREMENT

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

LUTHER MANOR

REGENCY SENIOR COMMUNITIES - MUSKEGO

JACKSON CROSSINGS

STEEPLE VIEW

REGENCY SENIOR COMMUNITIES - BROOKFIELD

SUNRISE VILLAGE APARTMENTS

REGENCY SENIOR COMMUNITIES - NEW BERLIN

THE CENTENNIAL


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 27

Independent

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

THE SILVERNAIL

THOMPSON MEADOWS

THE REGENCY

THREE PILLARS SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES - VILLAGE ON THE SQUARE

THE HIGHLANDS AT WILDWOOD LAKE

VMP MANOR PARK

TUDOR OAKS

VILLAS AT THE STATION


28 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

Independent

RETIREMENT

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

1 & 2 Bedroom Floor Plans — No Income Limits!

1st MONTH

FREE with $99 Security Deposit

Cottonwood Trails

Apartments

4600 S. Nicholson Ave., Cudahy

A Senior Complex

Income Eligible for Adults 55+ We Offer:

• Non-smoking • Heated underground parking • Elevator service • Laundry on each floor • Controlled entry access with private intercom • Community room/Social activities • 1 & 2 bedrooms w/heat & water

Call Andrea at 414-483-9969 to schedule a visit! cottonwood@bearproperty.com

Proudly Managed by Bear Property Management

262-697-9616

Rents start at $7 29

• Electric Included • Underground Parking • Secured Lobby • Laundry on Each Floor • Social Activities • Elevator • Community Room • On-Site Management • Beauty Salon

41 4 -7 8 8 - 0 2 4 2

8935 S. Wood Creek Drive, Oak Creek • 3blks. West of Howell Ave. off Puetz Road


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 29

ARE YOU?

• 62+ • Make less than $25,350 a year? • Enjoy Bingo, Movies, Parties? • Want to spend your day playing cards or going on day trips?

PLUS, ON SITE HAIR SALON & GARDEN PLOT FOR THE “GREEN THUMB” If these sound like things you enjoy then your new home is waiting...

Call today for more information: GREENBROOK APTS

414.282.5044

4955 S. Greenbrook Terrace Greenfield, WI 53220

Nothing Compares When You Want More

Visit our website for information on all of our programs and events—and call now to schedule your private tour.

More Life. More Style.

INDEPENDENT AND ASSISTED LIVING BROOKFIELD

MUSKEGO

NEW BERLIN

777 N. Brookfield Rd. 262-780-0321

W181 S8540 Lodge Blvd. 262-679-0888

13750 W. National Ave. 262-789-1699

RegencySeniorCommunities.com


30 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

Tudor Oaks Amazing

...An

Retirement Option!!!

Call for a tour!

414-529-0100

Come see for yourself!

Or take an online tour at

www.TudorOaks.net

Tudor Oaks Senior Living Community

S77 W12929 McShane Drive, Muskego, WI 53150

414-529-0100 www.TudorOaks.net

Tudor Oaks Senior Living Community is owned and operated by American Baptist Homes of the Midwest, a not-for-profit provider of senior housing and healthcare since 1930.

Do what you love – we’ll do the rest. Germantown Himmel Haus | (262) 345-1011 Grafton The Pinnacle | (262) 240-0872 Kenosha Palazzo del Maré | (262) 654-6080 Milwaukee The Chopin | (424) 281-2450 Port Washington Harbor Village | (262) 268-1800 Choosing a Capri Senior Community means a more active, amenity-rich lifestyle free from the chores and responsibilities of maintaining a home. You will have the freedom – and the time – to do what you love. Pursue your personal interests or join us for one of our

many social activities and outings all while benefiting from an array of services and amenities. From parties to seminars to themed dinners and religious services, we give you plenty of life enriching opportunities to learn, socialize, and have the time of your life.

To learn more, call or visit capricommunities.com.

Sturtevant Killarney Kourt | (262) 321-0802 Waukesha Summit Woods | (262) 521-1388 West Allis The Landmark | (414) 302-1700 Whitewater Mulberry Glen | (262) 473-4515


MAY 2017

The history of Memorial Day Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day because it was a time set aside to honor the nation’s Civil War dead by decorating their graves. It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, by proclamation of General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of former Civil War sailors and soldiers. On May 5, 1868, Logan declared in General Order No. 11 that: “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in

almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.” During the first celebration of Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, after which 5,000 participants helped to decorate the graves of more than 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried in the cemetery. This 1868 celebration was inspired by local observances of the day throughout America that had taken place in the three years since the end

of the Civil War. In 1966, the federal government, under the direction of President Lyndon Johnson, declared Waterloo, N.Y., the official birthplace of Memorial Day. They chose Waterloo—which had first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—because the town had made Memorial Day an annual, community-wide event during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags. By the late 1800s, many communities across the country had begun to celebrate Memorial Day and, after World War I, observances also began to honor those who had died in all of America’s wars. In 1971, Congress de-

clared Memorial Day a national holiday to be celebrated the last Monday in May. (Veterans Day, a day set aside to honor all veterans, living and dead, is celebrated each year on November 11.) Today, Memorial Day is celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery with a ceremony in which a small American flag is placed on each of the more than 260,000 graves. Also, it is customary for the president or vice-president to give a speech honoring the contributions for the dead and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. About 5,000 people attend the ceremony annually.

While the second annual Viper Ride for Visually impaired Patriots Experiencing the Road, Inc. will not be until August 20, plans are underway, volunteers are being lined up for the ride. The word Viper stands for visually impaired patriots experiencing the road. The mission Aug. 20 will be to engage with blind and visually impaired veterans to provide a day of motorcycling, socializing plus food and entertainment. Volunteers, both veterans and non-veterans assist in

the success of the day in various ways from parking to being a road director, to food service and cleanup with other necessities to be taken care of in between. Ground crew applications are available now at www.theviperride. org/apllication/groundcrew.pdf. The experienced pilots carry the blind or visually impaired “tail gunners” as the guest riders are referred to over a 100-mile trip through southeastern Wisconsin.

Persons wishing to join the fun as experienced two-up motorcycle drivers who might like to take part should go to www.theviperride.org/application/pilot.pdf Interested persons in taking part in the day as a driver or tail gunner should get additional information by writing The Viper Ride at 7243 Huckleberry Court, Greendale, WI 531292748.

The Viper ride

World War II Museum Have you ever heard of the World War II Museum in New Orleans, LA that honors all who served in the battlefields and on the home front during the warring years from 1941 into 1945? Nationally acclaimed historian Steven Ambrose first promoted this museum. The museum that stretches out over several city blocks in New Orleans, tells the complete story of the U.S. involvement in the wars that reclaimed Europe from the advancing German armies and, further, turned the war began in the Pacific Ocean by Japan into an allied victory. These great conflicts continue to this day to shape our world. Not to be forgotten at the museum are those who stayed at

• 50PLUS • 31

home, and endured rationing, prayed fervently, worked in many ways supporting the armed forces, cheered at the heroic stories before happily greeting the conquering returning troops. While these veterans and their families have been thanked many times for their service, the museum is rather special as Congress designated it in 2004 as the National World War II Museum. The extensive museum is undergoing - and more is planned enhancement of the exhibits that tell this story and do so while detailing events and activities from beginning of the war to its end plus, along the way, relating the story of democracy and how it has been spread since 1945. The expansion will more than quadru-

ple the exhibition space that tells who, when, and how our military personnel were very instrumental in winning this war on two fronts. The ambitious program to expand the museum and its extraordinary exhibits won’t come cheaply. The goal is $38 million. Most World War II veterans, still living, are ages 90 and above. About 15,000 of these veterans die each month so museum leaders want to complete the expansion as soon as possible. If you would like to make a monetary gift to the museum, you can do so by sending it to the National WWII Museum at 945 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70130.

Eulogy for a Veteran

Do not stand at my grave and weep. I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the Gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the mornings hush, I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight, I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there, I did not die.


32 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

Dog and animal rescue centers and how snowball found a home Have you heard about dog and animal rescue centers? They’ve been growing in number in recent years, not only here in Wisconsin, but all over the nation. Unlike Humane Society facilities, they are privately owned. They differ in procedure as well. A Humane Society centers’ purpose is to gather up and keep unwanted stray dogs, cats and other domestic animals, and to prevent these animals from running loose and bothering the general public. A dog and animal rescue facility’s design is to take in, care and rehabilitate these animals, and especially to find homes for them with caring, conscientious families. Most of the people involved in these dog and animal rescue places have some sort of a background with animals and providing for them. Many times the husband or the wife is or has been a veterinarian. Almost always, others in the family are included in the work, too; children, if they are old enough, and grandparents as well. I learned about these new dog and animal facilities from a neighbor down the street, Mrs. Janet Otten. She obtained their dog, Snowball, a Golden Retriever mix, from one such place a couple of years ago, and told me the story. Janet is a widow; her husband, Mark, died seven years ago from cancer. He was only 54. She has two children, Emily, 15, and William, 13. Today, Janet is a kindergarten teacher in the Elmbrook School System. Every day, when she comes home from work, she takes Snowball on a long walk around the neighborhood. I also have a dog, a collie named Amber, and we also take long walks. On occasion, the paths of our canine treks cross and we stop to chat for a moment or two. Snowball has taken a particular liking to me, and correspondingly, Amber is extremely fond of Janet. So our encounters always make for a brief but pleasant interlude. At one of those meetings, I asked Janet where she had purchased Snowball. Her reply somewhat surprised me, as she said it was from a dog rescue facility, and I had never heard of such places. Janet told me of the circumstances of their finding and then acquiring Snowball. “It was a couple of years ago,” she recalled. “The kids had been

SPORTS PLUS

By Jack Pearson given a classroom assignment, which consisted of them writing an essay. The subject was to be a letter to their parents convincing them to buy something for them. The item Emily and William had chosen that they wanted me to purchase for them was a dog. Their letter was really well done and got them high grades. But later, when they took it home and I read it, what could I do? So we set out to find exactly that, a dog. “The first place we checked were newspaper ads from area breeders. The kids wanted a Golden Retriever. When I saw the asking prices for them as well as for other breeds, a thousand to fifteen hundred for a pup, I soon realized I couldn’t afford it. So Emily said she’d check the Internet on her laptop computer. That’s where she found the listing for a dog rescue business called “Hoovers Hause All Dog Rescue.” “After we contacted them, I was quite surprised and very impressed. Unlike most places that sell dogs and other animals, even Humane Societies, Hoovers doesn’t sell to just anyone. Their purpose is not to merely sell dogs, but to find qualified and caring people for them who will give the dogs not only a home but love and companionship as well. We were asked to fill out a lengthy application, which asked for our background with dogs, our home life, where we lived, so many things. So we did, and were approved. They then sent us photos of about 20 dogs, asking us to pick out a half dozen or so that we’d be interested in. One of the dogs was a Golden Retriever, or at least a Golden Retriever mix. That’s the one the kids thought they’d want, and when we went there, and saw the dogs, it was Snowball and Snowball only. The kids loved her at once, and we knew she’d be perfect for

Janet Otten of Brookfield, with Snowball, getting ready for an afternoon walk. us. She’s been such a huge part of our lives ever since.” Coincidentally, in relation to Janet telling me about Hoover Hause, my wife recently received a magazine in the mail called “Real Simple.” (As you are probably aware, magazine publishers often send people a few free copies, in hopes that they’ll take out a subscription.) Real Simple is an excellent magazine, put out by Time Inc. One of the articles in the issue sent to us was a story about a couple who live in Maine, Danielle and Justin Blake, who operate a dog rescue center and who have devoted their lives to rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding homes for injured and rejected dogs and other animals. The husband, Justin, is a veterinarian, but it was his wife, Danielle, who started the dog rescue operation. It’s called Maine Coast Animal Rescue. Their three teenage children

assist them in their work. It isn’t just healthy young dogs that they seek homes for. Many are old and left for dead. The Blakes take these poor animals in, care for them and help them recover. As Justin noted in the article, “It might seem remarkable that abused or neglected animals can turn around and trust humans again. Dogs, for a reason that can only be described as divine, have the ability to forgive and let go of the past, and to live each day joyously. It’s something the rest of us can strive for.” If you can’t find Real Simple on the newsstand, you can get in touch with them on their website, realsimple.com/customer service, or call 800-881-1172. I noted above that I had never heard about dog rescue centers until talking to Janet Otten about Snowball. Then I also discovered that it was at a local dog rescue facility where my


MAY 2017

daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Eric Niemi, had bought their dog, Hazel. They purchased the dog for their daughters Elinor and Aanikka. Hazel is as happy and gentle as a dog could be. “We would never have bought her for the kids otherwise,” Eric said. “It’s truly unfortunate that so many people who are looking for a dog have that misconception. It makes it difficult for the dog care centers to find homes for them.” Incidentally, the dog care center where Jenny and Eric bought Hazel is The Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission, and their phone number is 414-649-8640. You think all of the above are the words of an avid dog lover, perhaps too prejudiced in their favor? You’re right. But they’re all absolutely true. You’ve heard the old maxim, “A dog is man’s best friend.” If that sounds a little chauvinistic, I’ll amend it to “A human’s best friend.” From the beginning of civilization, of all God’s creatures, it has always been the dog that has constantly been at our side to provide protection, companionship and enjoyment, and most of all, unquestioned devotion. Unlike most human-to-human relationships, a dog will love you no matter how old, how poor or how ugly you are. I guess I can verify that since I have those qualities and my dogs have always loved me. I can also attest to it in that ever

since early childhood, they have been an essential part of my life. During all of those decades, I’ve been blessed with the company of a total of 14 wonderful canines; five collies and nine of mixed breeding. Nearly all were with me from puppyhood until the end of their lives. The love I had for each of them was always returned tenfold or more. I’ve always had a belief or whatever you want to call it that dogs are special gifts from God, among the many He has bestowed on us. If that sounds too pious or preachy, there’s a reason for it. It is to emphasize the existence of those dog rescue centers and the wonderful work that they do. In those facilities and in others such as the Humane Society centers, there are hundreds and even thousands of dogs and other domestic animals, all behind bars in small cages, waiting so long and so patiently for someone to adopt them and give them a home. Think about that. In human jails, the inmates are imprisoned because they committed a crime or did something wrong and were sent there. The dogs and other animals in those cages did nothing to deserve their fate. There are many more dog rescue centers than the few I’ve listed. You can find all of them on the Internet. So if you don’t already have a dog in your family, I hope what I’ve writ-

• 50PLUS • 33

The writer of this story about dogs, with a couple of his own, Rusty and little Shasta. ten will get you to consider getting one, and especially from a dog rescue center. You’ll be ensuring the dog’s happiness and its very life. And in the

bargain, you’ll be assuring your own happiness as well.

My Friends Thrift Store.com

Yep, now you have a friend with a thrift store, such a good friend that you are going to get special discounts, and even Free stuff.

WE SELL:

Antiques, Collectibles, Furniture, Clothing, Purses, Housewares, Tools, Toys, Jewelry, and Electronics. So hurry in and see what treasures you may find! We accept donations also. We are not a non-profit though, and cannot give tax receipts

Aanikka and Elinor Niemi of West Allis, and squeezed in between them is their canine pal, Hazel.

5601 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 3 Cudahy, WI 53110 www.MyFriendsThriftStore.com Our hours: Wed.-Fri. 10am-7pm • Sat.-Sun. 10am-3pm Closed Mon. & Tues.


34 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

EVENTS

CALENDAR

County, presents this free session for caregivers. Beth Boeck from the Healing Space in Menomonee Falls Dickson Hollow Senior Living, will present Laughter Yoga, helping W156 N4881 Pilgrim Road, you to increase your energy and Menomonee Falls The Aging and Disability Resource overall well-being, while decreasing Center (ARDC) of Waukesha depression and stress. Pre-registraCounty, in partnership with the tion is highly encouraged as seating Caregiver Coalition of Waukesha may be limited. To register, please

May 2, 9:30 – 11:30 am Laughter Yoga

Dive into Line Dancing Have fun, socialize, energize. Enjoy the music & have a good time • Specializes for seniors • Special events • Specializing in group settings

ALLEN HORWATH

Line Dancing Instructor

Call 262-796-1148

milwaukeelinedancing.com

The Joy of Caregiving An uplifting series for family caregivers

The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Waukesha County, in partnership with Caregiver Coalition of Waukesha County, presents a FREE speakers’ series for caregivers. Sessions will be held at different locations throughout the county. Each session will take place from 9:30am-11:30am. Pre-registration is highly encouraged as seating may be limited.

Tuesday, May 2nd, 2017 at Dickson Hollow Senior Living, W156N4881 Pilgrim Road, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051

Beth Boeck from The Healing Space on Main in Menomonee Falls presents “Laughter Yoga”,

helping you to increase your energy and overall well-being, while decreasing depression and stress. This session intended for caregivers only

Tuesday, June 6th, 2017 at Elmbrook Church, 777 S. Barker Road, Brookfield, WI 53045

Dawn Koceja, Accessibility Coordinator from the Milwaukee Public Museum presents Creative

Engagement - Ways to stimulate conversatoins through creative activities. This session intended for caregivers and their care recipients

With advance notice, off-site respite care may also be available for your loved one. Please mention the need for respite care at the time of registration. Please register no later than one week prior to each event to reserve a seat. To register to attend and to request respite, please contact the ADRC 262-548-7848. The ADRC of Waukesha County extends its gratitude to our Caregiver Coalition community partners for helping to make this series possible!

contact the ADRC at 262-548-7848. May 18, 10 am – noon

May 3, 7 pm Vagabond Ski & Social Club

Health & Wellness Fair

Luther Manor’s Faith & Education Center, 4545 N. 92nd St., Wauwatosa Multiple vendors will be on hand to offer their tips, resources and services for health, wellness & abundant senior living. Tours of our apartments will be available. This event is free. Please use the North Entrance to the parking lot and follow it to the Faith & Education Center.

Knights of Columbus Hall, 1800 S. 92nd Street, West Allis This is an active social club for both singles and married couples. There will be a meeting and dance with great music by Andrea & The Mods. The meeting begins at 7:00 pm with dancing to follow at 8:00 pm. There is a $5 admission fee. For additional information about Vagabond Ski & Social Club go to www.vagabondskiclub.com. May 19, 8:30 am

May 13-27 Great Milwaukee Victory Garden BLITZ

Senior Breakfast Club

ProHealth Waukesha Memorial Hospital, 725 Grille’s south dining room, Waukesha Habitat for Humanity’s Milwaukee This is a free event, which provides headquarters, 3726 N. Booth St., socialization, education and fun to Milwaukee area residents 60 and older. At the For the past 8 years, Victory Garden meeting, ProHealth Care staff will Initiative has installed raised-bed discuss “Talking with Your Doctor,” gardens across Milwaukee. From providing tips on how to prepare for May 13-27, over 300 volunteers will a doctor’s visit, how to talk about join Victory Garden Initiative for your health care concerns and treatthe nation’s largest garden-build- ment options, and how to rememing event, the Great Milwaukee ber what was discussed during your Victory Garden BLITZ. Volunteers health care visit. Registration for the will build approximately 500 4 x Senior Breakfast Club is required. 8’ raised-bed gardens filled with To register, visit ProHealthCare. healthy, organic soil in front and org/Classes or call 262-928-2745. back yards all over the city. Volunteer registration is open to individ- May 24, 5 – 7:30 pm uals and groups by visiting www. Milwaukee Dancing Grannies victorygardeninitiative.org/blitz. Moose Lodge, 5476 South 13th Street, Milwaukee May 17, 6-7 pm Stay Active and Have Fun! Milwau10 Ways to Maximize kee Dancing Grannies entertain Garden Production enthusiastic crowds who come to St. Francis Public Library, 4230 S. see them perform their energetic Nicholson Ave., St. Francis dance/march routines at parades, Joey and Holly Baird of the Wiscon- Wisconsin State Fair and many July sin Vegetable Gardener will show 4th festivities. The group is seeking you 10 simple ways to maximize new members to join this group your growing space. These simple of grandmothers, who love music, steps will increase your plants per enjoy dancing, meeting new peoarea and your production no matter ple, staying fit, active, while having your garden size - even in contain- fun. If interested call 414 630-4493 ers and raised beds! For ages 16 & for additional information or visit over. Please register in advance for www.milwaukeedancinggrannies. this free program by calling 414- com. 481-7323.


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 35

www.MilwaukeeRecreation.net

Seniorfest 2017

Wed., June 14th • Doors open at 9AM Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago Street

Special thanks to our sponsors:

Milwaukee Recreation invites you to the 34th annual Seniorfest to enjoy a variety of activities that includes music, dancing, and bingo. Over 75 exhibitors, who serve older adults, will also be on hand to share resources and speak with you. Food and beverages will be available for sale as well. Tickets cost $4 in advance; $5 at the gate. Park for free at the Italian Community Center and enjoy the day!

Call (414) 647-6041 for details! SINCE 1911

Please like us on Facebook! fb.com/MilwaukeeRecreation

www.MilwaukeeRecreation.net


36 • 50PLUS •

MAY 2017

Interfaith now becomes ERAs

Interfaith Senior Programs has been a well-respected service agency in Waukesha County for the last thirty-six years. Our agency provides support to over 1,100 seniors and adults with disabilities each year, through an extensive network of volunteers. Interfaith also places more than 360 senior volunteers in schools and other organizations. Our agency has a long history that includes the 2007 merger of two important organizations, RSVP and Interfaith. Now, 10 years after the merger, we are excited to announce a new name. ERAs, is inclusive of the diverse and extensive network of volunteers, congregations, seniors, schools, businesses, and community groups that come together to support and engage Waukesha County’s seniors and adults with disabilities. Our partnerships with congregations remain central to the work of our Faith in Action program, providing a way that volunteers put their faith into action to help neighbors throughout the community. “We believe that each senior brings value during every era of their life. ERAs shines a light on these dif-

INTERFAITH SENIOR ISSUES

By Kathy Gale

ferent stages in each person’s journey. There may be some times that seniors need general support and other times, help with remaining engaged in a meaningful way as volunteers in the community, Carol Shillinglaw, ERAs Senior Network Board President, said. What has changed at ERAs Senior Network, and what has remained the same? What has changed? • We will be answering our phones with “ERAs Senior Network” • Our emails, website address will change in the next weeks.

What has remained the same? • Our mission - To support and Engage Waukesha County Seniors and Adults with Disabilities in Living Meaningful Lives. • Our dedicated, committed, compassionate volunteers!

• Most importantly – we will continue to serve those seniors who need our help and engage those who wish to provide meaningful volunteer service. Our phone number will continue to be 262-549-3348 for anyone who needs support. What’s new and exciting at ERAs Senior Network? We are excited to be leading an innovative, county-wide initiative called Find a Ride Network which facilitates increased access to healthcare services through a new communication and information system. Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow and ERAs Executive Director Kathy Gale are co-leading a Steering Committee to address the critical need of transportation for seniors. Caregiver Connection: As our senior population grows, their family caregivers need support, too. We’re leading an initiative with the Medical Col-

lege of Wisconsin’s Healthier Wisconsin Partnership Program, ProHealth Care, Froedtert and the Medical College, the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Waukesha County, Easterseals of Southeastern Wisconsin, Capri Senior Communities, GE Healthcare, and SortSol Group to better understand how to identify and assist family caregivers so that they can continue to live a balanced and healthy life while caring for their loved one. ERAs Senior Network is moving forward with a name and brand that reflects our commitment to serving Wisconsin’s second largest population of seniors. Come join us!


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 37

engaging generations. supporting seniors. Interfaith Senior Programs of Waukesha County will now be known as ERAs Senior Network as of May 1st 2017. At ERAs Senior Network we provide services and programs designed to help seniors and adults with disabilities thrive in every era of their life. We fully embrace seniors and adults with disabilities through collaborative partnerships, coordination of services, and intergenerational volunteer activities.

Engaging Generations though volunteerism

Support for Seniors and Adults with Disabilities

Education*

• Math or Reading Tutor • Pen Pal Program • Intergenerational Folk Art Fair

Community Volunteers* • Meal Delivery • Food Pantry • Receptionist • Data Entry

Supporting Seniors and Adults with Disabilities • Transporation • Grocery Shopping • Seasonal Yard Clean Up • Friendly Visiting • Minor Home Repairs

*recommended for volunteers aged 55 and older

ERAsWaukesha.org

Let Us Drive You

Our volunteers drive clients to doctors offices, grocery stores and food pantries.

Outdoor Help

Thank You to all who Helped with our new look Thank You to our Branding Team

KRISTIE MINNICKEL, Three Pillars Senior Living Communities & ERAs Senior Network Board of Directors

We provide lawn mowing, snow shoveling, and yard clean-up based on volunteer availability, or we can refer you to paid providers.

ALICE ZABIELSKI, Oak Hill Terrace and the Laureate Group

Minor Home Repairs

KATIE AUSTING, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP

MIKE and MARY RODE, The Write Source

Changing a light bulb, hanging a picture or assembling a small piece of furniture are a few things our volunteers can help with.

JOANIE KERWIN, Past Board President ERAs Senior Network

Supportive Services

HEATHER MANGOLD and the team at Mangold Creative

We match seniors with an ongoing friendlyvisitor or non-medical respite volunteer. We also offer help with forms, letters and bills.

GREATER MILWAUKEE FOUNDATION NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT FUND

210 NW Barstow Street, Suite 101 Waukesha, WI 53188 • 262-549-3348


MAY 2017

May Poem

MO

Me n VE ad tion IN for th SP a is EC IA L

38 • 50PLUS •

Condo Style Apartments BROOKFIELD • NEW BERLIN • MUSKEGO Private Entrance, Washer/Dryer in unit. 1 or 2 Baths, 1 or 2 Car Attached Garages. Most pets ok. Starting at

$995

Call 414-297-9880

The merriest month so far in 2017, May, is on with us. While it brings nice weather, is it really worth a fuss? We see flowers pushing their way through the ground. This annual action comes without so much as a sound. Next we see a neighboring farmer working his field. First he plows, then plants and waits for the yield. As a gamble this spring, he has seeded acres of hops. Will this bring the farmer wealth among his crops? As May arrives, many boys’ thoughts turn to love. It is very important to find that human turtle dove. As May continues, grass and weeds begin to grow. It becomes apparent there is a definite need to hoe. As May moves on, schools eye their spring close. For graduation pictures, the students are happy to pose. Soon it may be time for previously unheard of toil. Most graduates aren’t interested in tilling the soil. The real you emerges onto the scene of adult life. Can Junior now find an ambitious woman as a wife? As May disappears, the calendar turns to June. Next month certainly will continue the happy tune.


MAY 2017

• 50PLUS • 39

We Saw You At..... The Realtor’s Home & Garden Show This past presentation of the Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtors’ Home & Garden Show was its 93rd, making it the oldest show of its kind in the entire country. The show,

at State Fair Park’s Wisconsin Exposition Center, is for people who plan to remodel their homes, landscape their yards or wish to meet with area Realtors. It featured more than 350 exhibitor booths.

Jerry and Donna Remshede of Brookfield.

Patti Abhert and Terry Kittson of Brookfield.

BY MARGARET PEARSON

Randy and Karen Kropusek of Menomonee Falls and Deborah and Dennis Keffe of Greendale.

BUSINESS AND SERVICES DIRECTORY DJ’S Antiques

• Customized Tours • Escorted Senior Travel Club • River Cruises • Independent Travel • Travel Insurance

Sally’s Painting & Lawn Care

& Consignments

JODIE BAACKE, CTC

414.321.8605

Let us sell your vintage and antique items, coins and jewelry. We also provide estate sale & home clean out services. Stop in and find the treasure you are looking for!!! Mon.-Sat. 10am -5pm • Sun. 12:00 - 5pm

LAWN CARE: Mowing, trim & Raking

Present this coupon for 10% off your entire purchase.

(414) 690-2120

Interior Residential Quality painting & other small jobs

414-282-0447 4805 S 74th Street Greenfield

Jodie@ELJOTravel.com

www.ELJOTravel.com

Professional • Insured • References • 23+ Experience

WANTED

Don’s Services

Wanted to Buy

Find us online at:

Lawn Care, Weed Control & Fertilizing - Residential

50PlusPubs.com

Call for free estimates!

(414) 507-1058

Flo’s House Cleaning Honest Dependable Hardworking

24+ Years Experience Have Senior References Have car, will travel

(414) 546-2410

Anything old from attic to basement. Old advertising signs including automotive & gas station signs, clocks & thermometers. Old toys-tin & steel cars, trucks & trains. Old woodworking tools & Stanley Planes. Old crocks, coffee grinders & kitchen items. Cash paid please.

Call Frank 262-251-6545

LOCAL • HONEST • RELIABLE

www.twomenandatruckwaukesha.com Local & Long Distance • Packing Services Boxes & Packing Supplies • Business Moves CALL TODAY! 262-695-2700

Antiques & Collectibles

Matt “The Locksmith”

Play Bingo Every Day!

24Hr Emergency Service Matt Hanke - Sole Proprietor

414-333-8620 mattthelocksmith.com

WANTED ALL

BEER & SODA SIGNS TAP KNOBS The older the better HAMMS | PABST |MILLER Milw. Braves Older Sports Items

OLD / NEW or USED (414)305-5108

$

BUYING

$

from the 60’s, 70’s & 80’s

(920)303-1130 email: chiper@new.rr.com

Doors Open at 7:30 am & 4:30 pm Morning Sessions: 9:30 & 11:00 am Evening Sessions: 6:30 & 8:00 pm

Up to $2500 in prizes!!! 414-321-0220 4515 W. Forest Home Ave. Greenfield www.unitedseniorsofwisconsin.org

STEREO EQUIPMENT

$

United Seniors of Wisconsin

$


CapTel® 2400i

Can’t Hear on the Phone? The CapTel® Captioned Telephone allows people with hearing loss to listen to their caller and read everything the caller says. Like captions on TV— for your phone! Free with verified hearing loss, you get the phone plus installation, providing you with better phone conversations. Includes free captioning service with no monthly fees or contracts required.

Captioned Telephone www.CapTel.com 262-409-9370

Don’t miss another word!

Contact Your Local Outreach Representative

Tom Slattery 262-409-9370

Free phone with valid third-party certification or through other promotion is subject to change without notice. Terms and conditions may apply. CapTel Captioned Telephone is designed exclusively for individuals with hearing loss and is funded and regulated by the FCC.


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.