Skip to main content

Senior Life - Allen County - April 2026

Page 1


COMMON COLORS Yellow and oranges are common colors, among others, for elaborately-decorated Ukrainian Easter eggs.

League of Women Voters president passionate about public service

Betsy Kachmar has always been driven to make a difference.

A native of West Lafayette, Kachmar earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from Purdue University. Because she became interested in systemic change, she switched her focus to public policy and went on to earn a master’s degree in public administration.

Her interest in public service began in high school, inspired by her government teacher, former state Sen. Mike Gery.

“I think he certainly set a good example for students,” Kachmar said. “He brought real-world experience about what was going on in the General Assembly and what it was like to be a public servant.”

Kachmar and her husband

moved to Fort Wayne in 2004.

After retiring from Citilink, where she served as assistant general manager, she quickly discovered retirement wasn’t for her.

“Being retired is exhausting,” she said. “There are a lot of things I care about.”

Among those are improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists through the Active Transportation Coalition and advocating for the return of passenger rail service through the Northeast Indiana Passenger Rail Association. But the role that keeps her busiest is serving as president of the League of Women Voters of Fort Wayne.

With Indiana’s primary election approaching, the organization is focused on voter registration efforts. The deadline to register is April 6, with early voting beginning April 7.

Kieran O’Dowd, president of the Northeast Indiana National Organization for Women, and Betsy Kachmar, president of the League of Women Voters of Fort Wayne, attend a performance of “The Taming of the Shrew” at Purdue University Fort Wayne. Photo pro-

by Betsy Kachmar.

“The primary election is important because it will decide who will be on the ballot in November,” Kachmar said.

A significant change this year is the implementation of vote centers in Allen County.

Registered voters will be able to cast their ballots at any of

the county’s 53 locations on Election Day.

“I think this will benefit seniors,” Kachmar said. “They will be able to vote with family or friends. It has a community feel.”

The League regularly hosts events and provides resources to educate voters about candidates and key issues. Kachmar recently attended a naturalization ceremony at Fort Wayne’s federal courthouse, where she helped register new citizens and share voting information.

Last year, the organization was also able to register eligible voters in area high schools.

“We registered over 300 new voters,” Kachmar said. “I feel like we made a difference there.”

For those looking to get more involved, Kachmar offers simple advice: make a plan.

“Create a voting plan,” she said. “It helps you focus on your responsibility and make sure you get it done. The League of Women Voters of Fort Wayne has resources to help.”

The League of Women Voters was founded in 1920 following the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. The organization is nonpartisan and does not support or oppose political parties or candidates. Its mission is to encourage informed and active participation in government through education and advocacy.

Voters can learn more about candidates and issues at VOTE411.org and confirm or update their registration at Indianavoters.com.

vided

Easter tradition lives on through Ukrainian egg art

A childhood glimpse of brightly- decorated Ukrainian Easter eggs sparked a lifelong interest for Carol Ann Eckrich.

She was about 8 years old when she first saw photographs of the intricate designs in a magazine.

“They absolutely intrigued me,” she said. “I had no idea of the process to make them, but I knew someday I would learn to do it.”

Years later, while working at Purdue University, Eckrich fulfilled that goal. Since then, she has shared the traditional craft with hundreds of students, both young and old. Her daughter, Karen Glotzbach, learned the technique from her mother and

now also teaches workshops.

The eggs, known as pysanky (pronounced peason-key), are created using a wax-resist dyeing process that dates to about 2,000 BCE. Early Christians later incorporated religious symbols into the designs.

Eckrich said she first learned about pysanky during a chance conversation at Purdue, when she discovered a Russian professor offering a workshop. She took the day off to attend.

Although she does not have Ukrainian heritage, Eckrich said she was immediately drawn to the craft.

“I got hooked,” she said. “I loved the technique. I bought the supplies and just went to town.”

Pysanky are made by applying beeswax to a raw egg

with a tool called a kitska. The wax resists dye, preserving the original color in the covered areas.

The egg is then dipped into a series of dyes, typically starting with yellow and progressing through orange, red and darker shades, often ending in black. Wax is applied between each step to protect selected areas.

Once the process is complete, the wax is removed by gently heating the egg and wiping it away.

“One of the hardest things is you have to start with the end in mind,” Glotzbach said. “If you make a mistake, you just have to live with it. Once the wax is down, you can’t get it off. The dye won’t stick.”

Eckrich noted that imperfections are common and sometimes intentional.

“There’s even the thought that an intentional mistake might be put in, that it shouldn’t be perfect because life isn’t perfect,” she said.

Traditionally, pysanky were created by peasant women whose designs reflected hopes for prosperity and well-being. Symbols carry specific meanings: triangles represent the Trinity, crosses signify Christ, nets symbolize fishermen and trees represent long life and health. Color choices can also reflect regional traditions.

“Everything was done very prayerfully, with intention,” Eckrich said.

Glotzbach prefers freestyle designs, while Eckrich often creates intricate geometric patterns using design books she has collected. Her work is occasionally displayed but

not sold.

Workshops typically last two to three hours, allowing participants to complete one decorated egg and receive supplies to continue the craft at home. The hobby is relatively inexpensive to start, with basic materials costing about $20.

“The hope is that they just come to an appreciation of the process,” Eckrich said.

This year, Eckrich led a workshop for the parks department in late March. Additional sessions are occasionally offered through St. John the Baptist Parish and other groups.

Eckrich said she is pleased to see the tradition continue through her daughter.

“I think it’s really cool that itW’s going into the second generation,” she said.

Senior Citizens Expo set for May 7 in Bluffton

The Wells County Council on Aging will host its annual Senior Citizens Expo from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, May 7, at the Wells County 4-H Community Building.

The event is free and open to the public.

More than 70 vendors will be onsite, including representatives from home health

care, assisted living, elder law, financial services, travel, home improvement and health agencies.

University Dermatology Center will offer free skin cancer screenings throughout the day.

Attendees may register for prizes at the Council on Aging booth.

Free meals will be provided during the event. Breakfast will be served from 9 to 10 a.m. by Christian Care Retirement Community, lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. by Ossian Health Communities, and an afternoon snack from 1-2 p.m. by Markle Health and Rehab. Kroger, through Peyton’s

Northern, will provide a nonperishable food giveaway beginning at 1:30 p.m. while supplies last. Presentations will be held in the dining area. From 10-11 a.m., John Petro will speak on emergency and disaster preparedness. From 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., Michael Huffman will present on el-

der law and estate planning. Wells County residents may call Wells on Wheels at (260) 824-4969 to schedule free transportation to and from the expo. More information is available at CouncilOnAgingInc. com, on Facebook at Wells County Council on Aging, or by calling (260) 824-1070.

F e e l f r e e t o

At Golden Years, you’ll find a place that feels like home where caring support and meaningful connections make each day brighter With help for meals, housekeeping, and daily routines, you’ll have more time to do what you love and enjoy the moments that matter most Call today to learn more about our assisted living apartments

No waitlist , immediate one and two bedroom apartment openings !

( 260) 749- 6725

8300 Maysvi l l e Road For t Wayne, I N 4681 5

Learn more at GoldenYearsHome

Beekeepers offer hands-on training for beginners

Text and Photos

Beekeeping isn’t an especially expensive hobby, but getting started - and doing it successfully - often requires guidance.

The Northeastern Indiana Beekeepers Association, formed in the 1970s, offers that support through classes, monthly meetings and a mentoring program. It also hosts an annual bee school designed to give beginners the tools they need to start.

About half of the participants at the most recent one-day bee school March 21 were from Allen County. Others traveled from nearby counties, with some coming from as far away as Indianapolis.

The cost to get started is relatively modest. Bee school participants pay $175, which includes training and materials to build a hive box. A package of bees and a queen typically costs an additional $150 to $200, and

safety equipment brings total startup costs to about $500.

Each new beekeeper is paired with a mentor.

“Getting a mentor is the best thing you can do, and the bee club itself is very helpful,” said Chris LaSalle, the association’s president.

People are drawn to beekeeping for different reasons. Some want to improve pollination in their gardens, others are motivated by environmental concerns, and a few turn the hobby into a commercial venture.

Duane Rekeweg, a former club president, began beekeeping in 1981 when he purchased hives from his grandfather.

“It was more of a hobby for him. He was a farmer, and everybody had bees then,” Rekeweg said.

The operation has since grown into a business run by his son, Tony, producing about 60,000 pounds of honey each year.

LaSalle, a hand surgeon, has kept bees for 15 years. His interest began when his father struggled with the practice.

“So I thought I’d try it out and see if I could do better,” he said. “I’ve been doing it ever since.”

His apiary now includes about 20 hives spread across his home, relatives’ properties and rural land he owns.

Beekeeping requires time and effort, and some beginners become discouraged and quit, LaSalle said.

CORPORATE OFFICE

“You have to do more than put bees in a box and turn a crank and everybody gets honey,” he said. “It’s like gardening; you don’t just throw seeds on the ground and expect great tomato plants.”

The Papers Incorporated, 206 S. Main St., P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542, 574-658-4111 STAFF

Ron Baumgartner, Publisher rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

Annette Weaver, Business Manager aweaver@the-papers.com

Kristin DeVittorio, Director Of Marketing kdevittorio@the-papers.com

Deb Patterson, Editor-In-Chief dpatterson@the-papers.com

Phoebe Muthart, Editor pmuthart@the-papers.com

Account Executive Kim Lamley slallen@the-papers.com • 260-760-7022

Jerry Long, Circulation Manager jlong@the-papers.com

Elkhart/Kosciusko Edition

Joseph Edition

EDITORIAL DEADLINES

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Mailed subscriptions are available, prepaid with order at $42 for one year; and $71 for two years. (Select one edition.) Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt. To order a subscription, call 574-658-4111.

ADVERTISING

For advertising deadlines call your sales representative. The existence of advertising in Senior Life is not meant as an endorsement of any product, services or individuals by anyone except the advertisers. Signed letters or columns are the opinion of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publishers. To advertise contact Kim Lamley at 260-760-7022 or slallen@the-papers.com.

PRODUCTION

Senior Life is

or

The workload varies by season. Spring tasks include checking for pests, ensuring the queen is laying eggs, monitoring brood health and preparing hives for warmer weather. Honey harvesting is labor-intensive, which is why LaSalle limits it to once a year.

Honeybees typically travel about two miles in all directions to gather nectar, which they convert into honey inside the hive. The plants they visit influence the flavor.

“Our honey here is as good as anywhere else,” LaSalle said. Even so-called clover honey may not come exclusively from clover, depending on what is in bloom.

One of the simplest ways to support honeybees and other pollinators is to avoid overly-manicured lawns, LaSalle said.

“That’s nothing but a green desert,” he said. “Weeds in yards; that’s what bees are feeding on.” Membership in the association costs $20 per family annually.

For more information or to find local honey producers, visit neinbeekeepers.com or call President Chris LaSalle at (260) 615-3647 or email clasalle@orthone.com.

Cherry Blossom Festival May 17 at Purdue Fort Wayne

The Japanese American Association of Indiana will host it annual Cherry Blossom Festival Sunday, May 17, at Purdue University Fort Wayne, 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne.

The 19th annual event will take place from noon to 6 p.m. in and around the Walb Student Union, with free admission and parking.

Organizers said board and committee members have established timelines, assigned volunteers and launched sponsorship outreach for the festival, which celebrates Japanese culture.

The event features a mix of traditional and contemporary

stage performances, cultural demonstrations, children’s crafts and games, and a Japanese marketplace with food and merchandise vendors. Popular contests - including anime drawing, haiku and cosplaywill also return.

Stage performances and demonstration lineups are still being finalized, and many returning vendors have already been contacted for participation, organizers said.

The festival has drawn more than 11,000 attendees in each of the past two years.

New this year, upper-level sponsors will have opportunities to engage directly with

festival goers through recruitment or targeted marketing efforts, particularly aimed at young adults.

The Japanese American Association of Indiana, a nonprofit organization, relies heavily on volunteers to plan and execute its events. Those interested in helping with festival planning can contact the organization online, while event-day volunteer recruitment will begin in April.

Additional details about stage programming and contest rules, entry information and prizes will be announced at a later date.

Visit cherryblossomfw.com for more updated information.

LOTS OF HONEY Duane Rekeweg’s honey is distributed to about 40 stores.
A BEEKEEPER Duane Rekeweg, a former president of the Northeastern Indiana Beekeepers Association, started beekeeping in 1981.

Bingocize brings fun, fitness together for active aging

Looking to get fit? Try bingo. Yes, bingo.

At the Turnstone Center for Children and Adults with Disabilities in Fort Wayne, a program called Bingocize is helping older adults stay active by combining a familiar game with exercise, education and social engagement.

Designed specifically for seniors, Bingocize blends bingo with fall prevention training, nutrition education and rangeof-motion exercises. The goal is to support the mind, body and spirit in a way that feels approachable and enjoyable.

“It makes exercise less intimidating,” said Lauren Peterson, coordinator of active aging programs. “People are more willing to participate when it feels like a game.”

Bingocize is part of a broader menu of active aging offerings at Turnstone, a nonprofit that provides programs for people of all abilities. Many classes are

Alzheimer’s workshop

An Alzheimer’s and dementia workshop will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, April 27, at Stillwater Grief Center, 5910 Homestead Road, Fort Wayne.

Attendees will learn about topics such as:

• The latest advances in Alzheimer’s treatments.

• Available care and support services in the local community.

• Have the option to participate in the dementia experience simulation.

• Learn how to navigate finding the care and support resources you need.

Registration is encouraged. RSVP and to find out more, visit shorturl.at/boUks or call (260) 435-3222.

designed to be accessible, including workouts that can be done entirely from a chair.

Beyond physical fitness, Turnstone emphasizes cognitive and social wellness. Participants can take part in activities, such as card games, gardening classes, financial education sessions and book swaps.

A centerpiece of the facility is the Plassman Fieldhouse, a 125,000-square-foot space that opened in 2015. The fieldhouse includes an exercise and aquatics center designed for universal accessibility, with equipment suited for a wide range of users.

Features include strength training machines, boxing equipment, treadmills, ellipticals - both standard and recumbentand a six-lane, 230-meter indoor track. The track accommodates wheelchairs, adaptive bicycles and tricycles, and does not designate fast or slow lanes.

“It’s for everyone to use,” said Sarah Menke, marketing and communications specialist. “People come at their own time. It’s not normally packed.”

The facility also includes a basketball court that hosts wheelchair basketball games. Turnstone has earned national recognition for its role in promoting and hosting Paralympic sports.

Specialized programs are also available, including boxing classes for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The classes focus not only on strength and flexibility but also on coordination and memory through patterned movements.

Since 2016, Turnstone has offered adult day services, providing care and enrichment activities for individuals with memory challenges while offering respite

When

for caregivers.

Membership to the fitness and aquatics facilities is available for $40 per month, with some programs covered by insurance. Additional fees may apply for specialized classes.

Turnstone was founded in 1943 by volunteers as the Allen County Society for Crippled Children. The organization expanded its services over time to include adults and was renamed in 1989.

The name “Turnstone” is inspired by the ruddy turnstone bird, known for moving heavy stones in search of food - sometimes working together when the task is too large for one bird alone.

For many participants, that spirit of community is what keeps them coming back - whether for bingo, exercise or both.

keeping up gets hard ... You don’t have to do it alone

There comes a time when the home you love starts to feel like a lot to manage.

Maybe it’s the scrubbing, the bending, the reaching…

Maybe it’s the energy it takes just to keep up.

But here’s the truth —

You are not meant to carry it all by yourself.

At Sabrina’s Cleaning Services, I believe your home should still feel like peace… not pressure.

One of my recent clients shared:

“Sabrina did a deep clean for us today. She is amazing! She cleaned everything I asked for and more. My house looks wonderful and smells amazing. She was a joy to have in our home. We look forward to working with her again.”

That’s what I strive for every single time —

Not just a clean home, but a feeling of relief when you walk through the door.

I understand that inviting someone into your home is personal.

That’s why I take pride in building trust, listening closely, and treating your home with the same care I would my own.

Whether you need a little help or a full deep clean, I’m here to make life easier — one visit at a time.

You’ve taken care of your home for years. Let me take care of you now. Call or text for a free quote.

Serving Noble, DeKalb, Allen, Whitley, Huntington, Steuben, LaGrange & Elkhart Counties

Everything You Need in One Place! Noble County • May 7, 2026 9am-1pm • Community Learning center Dekalb County • August 12, 2026 9am-1pm • Kruse Plaza Steuben County • September 8, 2026 9am-1pm • Steuben County YMCA Lagrange County • October 6, 2026

Health Care & Health Insurance

Assisted & Independent Living

Legal Planning

Home Improvement Services

And Much More! FREE HEALTH SERVICES

Michiana Event Center EXPLORE 40+ VENDOR BOOTHS Get connected with local experts and resources:

Sabrina Link, Owner Sabrina’s Cleaning Services
PLAYING DEFENSE — Tom Hunter, right, a member of the Turnstone Flyers, plays defense against Caleb VanderWeide, of the Mary Bed Pacers, during the Summit City Shootout. Photo provided by Turnstone.

Blast to the Past -

‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ was a monumental production

Queen

Opera: A dramatic work set to music for singers and instrumentalists.

Bohemian: An artist or musician from about a century ago who defied convention and standards.

Rhapsody: A classical music piece with distinct sections played as one movement.

“I always wanted to do something operatic,” Queen’s charismatic leader Freddie Mercury once said. “I don’t really know anything about opera myself. Just certain pieces. I wanted to create what I thought Queen could do.” The result became the quartet’s signature song:

Mercury’s now-classic offering is a six-minute suite consisting of several sections - an introduction, a ballad segment, an operatic passage, a hard rock part, and a reflective coda - and all structured like Led Zeppelin’s

dynamic “Stairway to Heaven.”

While “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a monumental production, many Queen fans ended up scratching their collective heads when it came to trying to interpret Freddie’s mystifying lyrics:

”Mama, just killed a man.

”Put a gun against his head.

“Pulled my trigger, now he’s dead.

“Mama, life had just begun.

“But now I’ve gone and thrown it all away.”

Was he confessing to an actual homicide? When quizzed about the “Rhapsody” lyrics, Mercury declared, “It’s one of those songs which has such a fantasy feel about it. I think people should just listen to it, think about it and then make up their own minds as to what it says to them.”

Mercury - born Farrokh Bulsara in Zanzibar (now part of Tanzania) in 1946 - had just broken up with his long-time love, Mary Austin, after revealing to her that he had fallen in love with a man.

It seems that, in the words of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” the Queen leader is literally addressing his mother.” She embraced Zoroastrianism, which is intolerant of homosexuality, and her son’s

Q. Can I buy coverage to help with the out-of-pocket on my Medicare

A. Since 2025 and the implementation of parts of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), Medicare Advantage plan carriers have made adjustments to offset additional costs that the IRA imposed. One of those adjustments includes a high out-of-pocket (OOP) maximum.

Many Medicare Beneficiaries are willing to take on a high OOP to take advantage of other “perks” a Medicare Advantage plan includes. But the exposure is real and why we often recommend looking into a Hospital Indemnity or other supplemental plan to help curb the large OOP we

lyrics laid bare the angst he is suffering as he comes out as gay. He’s “killing” the straight Freddie he has always shown the world.

The quartet’s record label bigwigs balked at the song’s length - just under six minutes - and worried that Top 40 radio would shun the single due to its unorthodox running time. (“Hey Jude” was a minute-and-a-half longer.)

Queen’s drummer, Roger Taylor, recalled, “They said it was too long and wouldn’t work. We thought, ‘Well, we could cut it, but it wouldn’t make any sense … You would miss all the different moods of the song.’ So, we said no, it’ll either fly or it won’t.’”

The tune’s length never proved to be a problem. Once “Bohemian Rhapsody” - gleaned from the Queen album “A Night at the Opera” - hit the English airwaves, the record-buying fans made the single a Number One winner there for nine weeks.

In America, the 45 on Elektra Records became the group’s first entry into Billboard’s Hot 100 listing, climbing to the Number Nine spot in 1976 and reaching Number Two on the 1992 chart after it was featured in

the teen-oriented film “Wayne’s World.”

Trivia note: On “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Mercury played the same recording-studio grand piano as did Paul McCartney on “Hey Jude.”

Bibliography Book: Cresswell, Toby. “1001 Songs: The Great Songs of All Time.” (Pp. 208-209) New York: Thunder’s Mouth Press, 2006.

Internet: Bohemian Rhapsody, Queen. The first Mercury quote is from here. (No author or date listed) en.wikipedia.org. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen. (No author or date listed) songfacts.com. The second Mercury quote is from here. Horton, Matthew. “Queen: 20 Things You Probably Never Knew About ‘Bohemian Rhapsody.’” June 24, 2015. nme.com. The Roger Taylor quote is from here.

are seeing in plans today. These types of plans are designed to put money in your pocket in the event of an exposure. Money that can help pay hospital copays and other larger expenses on a Medicare Advantage plan. Not sure if you have the coverage you need or have questions? Give us a call at (260) 484-7010 to inquire about an indemnity plan that may lower your exposure.

Senior Relocation

Several years ago, some friends whom had Moving can be a stressful experience for a wide range of people, not just seniors. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating for work, or handling life changes such as divorce or inheritance, the process can feel overwhelming. A few years ago, I spoke with friends who had recently moved from their family home to a retirement community. They shared how the coordination, delays, and stress made the experience challenging. This inspired me to expand our services beyond seniors to help anyone facing a move.

With a background in real estate, auctions, and appraisals, I recognized how our comprehensive services could ease the burden. Today, my team offers professional moving, real estate brokerage, antique and home appraisals,

auctioneering, floor planning, climate-controlled storage, and both online and onsite auctions. We also provide complete property clean-up, selling items, and removing non-salable belongings. Our goal is to make every move seamless, stress-free, and efficient.

We serve clients across surrounding counties and beyond, ensuring everyone has access to reliable, compassionate support during their transition. Contact us today for a free consultation and experience a smoother move. Call (260) 441-8636. We’re here to help.

Tim McCulloch, Owner

Michelle Walters Executive Vice President
Scheerer McCulloch: Your trusted partner in auction, real estate and moving: Introducing Relocation Services
Tim McCulloch, Owner
FORMAL PHOTOSHOOT First formal photoshoot, March 1973, photo by Douglas Puddifoot from queeniofficial.om
A Boomer Blast To The Past
By RANDAL C. HILL

DEMENTIA RESOURCES

DEMENTIA RESOURCES

DEMENTIA RESOURCES

DEMENTIA RESOURCES

Q. I think my spouse has dementia. What resources are available to support me as a caregiver?

Q. I think my spouse has dementia. What resources are available to support me as a caregiver?

Q. I think my spouse has dementia. What resources are available to support me as a caregiver?

Q. I think my spouse has dementia. What resources are available to support me as a caregiver?

A . You are not alone. More than seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, including over 120,000 Hoosiers.

A . You are not alone. More than seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, including over 120,000 Hoosiers.

A . You are not alone. More than seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, including over 120,000 Hoosiers.

A . You are not alone. More than seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, including over 120,000 Hoosiers.

Over the past several years, AIHS has expanded its services to address the rising need for dementia specific support. Wherever you are in your dementia journey, AIHS is here to support you.

Over the past several years, AIHS has expanded its services to address the rising need for dementia specific support. Wherever you are in your dementia journey, AIHS is here to support you.

Over the past several years, AIHS has expanded its services to address the rising need for dementia specific support. Wherever you are in your dementia journey, AIHS is here to support you.

Over the past several years, AIHS has expanded its services to address the rising need for dementia specific support. Wherever you are in your dementia journey, AIHS is here to support you.

Commitment to Customer Care

Why R&L Automotive’s estimates come in lower

R&L Automotive consistently delivers lower, more accurate repair estimates because our service advi sors do something most shops simply don’t: they price‑shop across multiple trusted vendors for every job. This en sures our customers get the best possi ble pricing without sacrificing quality, reliability, or warranty coverage. What sets us apart

No hidden markups, no inflated estimates.

• Time invested where it matters

Our Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) program is a free clinic that can provide dementia diagnosis, ongoing clinical and social support, care navigation, education and more to support eligible individuals living alone with dementia or with a caregiver.

Our Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) program is a free clinic that can provide dementia diagnosis, ongoing clinical and social support, care navigation, education and more to support eligible individuals living alone with dementia or with a caregiver.

Our Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) program is a free clinic that can provide dementia diagnosis, ongoing clinical and social support, care navigation, education and more to support eligible individuals living alone with dementia or with a caregiver.

Our Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) program is a free clinic that can provide dementia diagnosis, ongoing clinical and social support, care navigation, education and more to support eligible individuals living alone with dementia or with a caregiver.

The AIHS Family Caregiver Center offers biweekly support groups led by Aging Brain Care-Certified staff, covering various topics related to the caregiving journey.

The AIHS Family Caregiver Center offers biweekly support groups led by Aging Brain Care-Certified staff, covering various topics related to the caregiving journey. patients.

• Customer‑first loyalty — Our loyalty is with the customer, not the vendor. We work for you, not for sup plier kickbacks or convenience.

The AIHS Family Caregiver Center offers biweekly support groups led by Aging Brain Care-Certified staff, covering various topics related to the caregiving journey.

The AIHS Family Caregiver Center offers biweekly support groups led by Aging Brain Care-Certified staff, covering various topics related to the caregiving journey.

Elder Law

Q. How long does Medicare really pay for a nursing home?

A. Original Medicare will cover a shortterm stay in a skilled nursing facility under specific conditions. Medicare Part A covered a limited stay after a qualifying hospital stay of at least three days. This coverage includes room and board at the skilled nursing facility as well as physical therapy, occupational therapy, medications, and other necessary treatments. Original Medicare will cover the full cost from days 1-20. Medicare will require a daily copayment from days 21-100. This copay is $217 per day. Medicare coverage stops after 100 days.

It should be noted that the Medicare coverage only lasts so long the patient needs skilled medical services. The patient’s physician will determine if skilled nursing care is necessary to maintain or improve their condition or to prevent or delay the condition from getting worse. It is possible that the coverage will not last 100 days if it is not medically necessary. It should also be noted that Medicare Advantage plans will sometimes waive the threeday hospital stay requirement. However, some

If you’re interested in learning more about the latest advances in Alzheimer’s treatments, available care and support services in the community and would like to participate in a dementia simulation, join us for a dementia workshop on Monday, April 27th. RSVP is required for this free event. Visit https://shorturl.at/ boUks to reserve your spot.

If you’re interested in learning more about the latest advances in Alzheimer’s treatments, available care and support services in the community and would like to participate in a dementia simulation, join us for a dementia workshop on Monday, April 27th. RSVP is required for this free event. Visit https://shorturl.at/ boUks to reserve your spot.

If you’re interested in learning more about the latest advances in Alzheimer’s treatments, available care and support services in the community and would like to participate in a dementia simulation, join us for a dementia workshop on Monday, April 27th. RSVP is required for this free event. Visit https://shorturl.at/ boUks to reserve your spot.

If you’re interested in learning more about the latest advances in Alzheimer’s treatments, available care and support services in the community and would like to participate in a dementia simulation, join us for a dementia workshop on Monday, April 27th. RSVP is required for this free event. Visit https://shorturl.at/ boUks to reserve your spot.

• Quality without compromise — We only source parts from reputable vendors that meet or exceed OEM standards.

• Transparent savings — When we find a better price, you benefit direct

— Our advisors take the extra time to compare options so you don’t have to.

The bottom line

R&L Automotive puts customers ahead of vendors. That’s why our estimates are often lower — and why our customers stay with us.

W. Jefferson

plans do charge copays during the first 20 days, and not all skilled nursing facilities may accept your plan.

Once Medicare days have ended the patient will need to determine if it is suitable for them to return home. If they are unable to return home, then they will need to determine a different pay source for their stay at the skilled nursing facility. An elder law attorney can help determine how best to cover these expenses through Medicaid, Veterans benefits or private pay.

Q. What is the likelihood I will get a response if placing an ad in Senior Life?

A. If your product or service is geared to adults over the age of 50, Senior Life is the newspaper for you! According to CVC, our readers average 45 years of age and older and frequently purchase products or services from the ads they see in Senior Life (74.8%). Call or send me an email today to discuss adding Senior Life into your marketing strategy.

Todd Hunnicutt Dementia Outreach Specialist
RUSS YOUNG

Editor’s note: Send listings of events, for nonprofit organizations only, to Senior Life, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542, or email Editor Phoebe Muthart by the 20th of every month at pmuthart@the-papers.com. With the listing, include the contact person, area code and phone number.

—o—

Appleseed Quilters Guild - April monthly meeting will be from 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, at the Mizpah Shrine Center, 1015 Memorial Way, Fort Wayne. The meeting will feature speaker, Robert Lovell, a local modern quilter. Free and open to the public. For more information, visit appleseedquiltersguild.com.

—o—

Settlers Inc. will host a program on popular “Victorian Collectibles from Far Away Cultures” from 9-11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 9, at 1424 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. Cost is $20 and includes a Japanese paper flower craft. Reservations are due by Wednesday, April 2. Call (260) 432-7314 to make a reservation.

—o—

Holiday Showcase Exhibit: Fern’s Fairylight Express until April 12. All aboard the Bo-

tanical Conservatory’s journey of discovery, imagination and botanical wonder. This winter, step into a one-of-a-kind exhibit where the magic of trains transports you to a whimsical world as part of an enchanting story by local Author/ Illustrator Talitha Shipman. Read along and join your new favorite characters, Fern, Bug and Sprout on an unforgettable adventure through Fairy Glen. Experience the magical transformation of the Fairylight Express as you work together to get it back on track. The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is located at 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne.

—o—

Ben High: Gathered After the Fall during public hours until April 12 at Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne. Benjamin High, a multidisciplinary artist working in both gallery and stage, draws on a diverse range of experiences to shape his creative process. Raised in Fort Wayne, he graduated from South Side High School before attending Wabash College, where he studied art and education and graduated in 2024. His work as a scenic artist and designer

centers on creating works and spaces which invite imagination and connection, extending beyond simple functionality. Across mediums, his practice reflects a commitment to art’s ability to transform environments and deepen human experience, combining technical skills with a drive to engage audiences in new and meaningful ways.

—o—

United Women in Faith is having their Annual Rummage Sale at St. Joe United Methodist Church, 6004 Reed Road, Fort Wayne. The sale will be held from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 17, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 18. Saturday is $3 Bag Sale Day. All profits from the sale go to missions, both local and international.

—o—

Taylor Chapel Spring Craft Bazaar will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18, at Taylor Chapel Ministries, 10145 Maysville Road, Fort Wayne. There will be 50+ local vendors, a bake sale, raffle, lunch, free face painting and free admission. All proceeds go to support Women’s Missions. For more information, email

taylorchapelwomen@gmail. com.

—o—

Tri-Lakes Lions Fish & Tenderloin Fry will be held from 4-7 p.m. (or sold out) Saturday, April 25, at Tri-Lakes Lions Hall, 2935 E. Colony Ave., Columbia City. Drive-thru only. Meat or meal is $15 and a quart of potato salad is $7.

—o—

Appleseed Quilters Guild - May monthly meeting will be from 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, at the Mizpah Shrine Center, 1015 Memorial Way, Fort Wayne. Paula Shultz, A Primitive Past, will present a trunk show and pop-up shop on wool rug hooking and over-dyed wool. Free and open to the public. For more information, visit appleseedquiltersguild.com.

—o—

The New Haven United Women in Faith will be holding its annual Spring Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, through 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, May 7, with a $2 bag sale all day Thursday. The New Haven United Methodist Church is located at 630 Lincoln Highway East, New Haven. All proceeds raised will be used to fund the mission work of the United

Blue River Apartments

Blue River Apartments

Women in Faith, both globally and locally.

—o—

The United Women in Faith Spring Market will be held indoors from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, May 16, at Fellowship Hall at Churubusco United Methodist Church, 750 N. Main St., Churubusco. There will be local vendors along with a bake sale, bargains, crafts, treasures. Lunch available. Proceeds will go towards support of mission projects, local and global. To rent a space is $25. Call (260) 693-3104 or visit the church’s website at churubuscoumc.org.

—o—

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation adds a new show to its lineup at the Foellinger Theatre. Honeywell Arts & Entertainment presents David Lee Roth on Thursday, June 11. Tickets went on sale Friday, Jan. 9, and are available online at ticketmaster.com or in person at the Parks and Recreation Department, 705 E. State Blvd., Fort Wayne.

—o—

Woodlands Senior Activity Center

For more information, call (260) 248-8944 or visit whitleycountycouncilonaging.org. The Continued on page 10

Summit City Vintage offers timeless treasures

Vintage clothing may not appeal to everyone, and for many, it isn’t seen as particularly important. But for me, it’s always been about intention and identity. As a teenager, I was drawn to developing a personal style - one that felt purposeful and rooted in utility.

Clothing with a story has always been my passion. Much of my time is spent tracking down pieces that excite me - items that might not seem significant

to others but hold history and character.

Finding these pieces isn’t always easy. I often source through antique dealers, estate liquidators and word of mouth. Some of my more unconventional methods include permission-based searches of abandoned properties, where homes have been left untouched for decades. In those spaces, I’ve discovered incredible garments still hanging, preserved in time for more than half a century.

I’m especially drawn to local high school and college apparel - sweatshirts, T-shirts, jackets and senior corduroys. Wearing

something from a school that no longer exists, from a time when community pride was at its peak, creates a deeply immersive experience.

Work wear is another area that consistently captures my interest. Denim jackets and garments originally made for labor carry a level of authenticity that simply can’t be replicated today. Military pieces are equally compelling, especially those with unique, personalized details. I’ve come across garments marked with someone’s hometown, a loved one’s name or other meaningful additions. Those touches bring a sense of

Paws For Laughs comedy night to benefit homeless pets

Get ready to laugh for a good cause.

Nationally-touring comedian Clay Foley is coming to Whitley County Saturday, April 11, to the Carver Center in Columbia City. A first-ever night of comedy benefits the shelter pets of the nonprofit Humane Society of Whitley County.

Foley is a former cruelty investigator, animal rescuer and transporter. Foley’s latest project, Comedy to the Rescue, is the culmination of his years working in animal welfare and stand-up comedy.

The tour spans the country raising money for all sizes and types of animal charities. There will be an opening act comedian performing before Foley comes on stage.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased:

• At the shelter: 951 Line St., Columbia City.

• On the website: hswc.org.

• On Facebook: Whitley County.

Humane Society Animal Shelter. Snacks, drinks and giving menu will be available for purchase.

Doors for the Saturday, April 11 event open at 6:30 p.m. with the show at 7 p.m.

Fort Wayne Flax and Fleecers Guild hosts monthly meetings

The Fort Wayne Flax and Fleecers Guild invites the public to attend its monthly meetings focused on hand spinning and fiber arts.

The guild meets from 6:30-9 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month, at the Salomon Farm Park Wolf Family Learning Center. Meetings are free and open to the public.

The Tuesday, April 14 meeting will feature a virtual fiber tour of Ireland presented by

May 2

Tickets are on sale for Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control’s annual “Barks and Mews” Gala, themed “A Night in Paws Vegas.”

The event raises money for the shelter’s Angel Fund, which provides lifesaving surgeries and medical treatments for animals in its care. Less than 1% of medical care funding comes from tax dollars. The remainder is provided through grants and donations.

The gala will be held Saturday, May 2, at Classic Café, Catering and Event Center, 4832 Hillegas Road.

Tickets are $85 and include dinner, drinks, raffles, casino games for entertainment, a silent auction and more. Space is limited. Tickets may be purchased at fwacc.org.

Sponsorships and raffle donation opportunities are available. For more information, contact Sophia Myers at sophia.myers@cityoffortwayne. org or (260) 427-5548.

life and individuality that feels effortless and genuine.

I appreciate all types of clothing - from band T-shirts to nostalgic graphics like Peanuts characters - but what draws me in most is timeless style. These are pieces that deserve to be preserved. If you have vintage garments and would like to pass them along to someone who truly values them, I’d love to hear from you. Call (260) 909-2865 or visit the store at 110 W. Columbia St., Suite 101, Fort Wayne.

VINTAGE CLOTHING — Summit City Vintage in Fort Wayne sells a variety of vintage clothing such as this piece of clothing. Photo provided by Summit City Vintage.

Gail New.

The Tuesday, May 12 meeting will focus on how fiber preparation techniques - including the use of a flicker, carder, drum carder and combs - influence spinning.

Annual guild membership is available for $20.

For more information, email fwflaxandfleecersguild@gmail. com or the guild’s Facebook page at facebook.com/flaxandfleecers.

Senior Citizens Expo

Senior Citizens Expo

Senior Citizens Expo

Thursday, May 7, 2025

Workwear • Denim Farm Clothing • Old Local School Apparel (Sweatshirts, Senior Cords, Etc.)

Military

Concert Shirts • 30’s-70’s In Any Condition

More information about the gala and other ways to support the shelter is available at fwacc.org under the “Get Involved” tab.

9 am – 2 pm

Thursday, May 7, 2025

9 am – 2 pm

Thursday, May 7, 2025

Wells County 4-H Community Building 1240 4-H Road, Bluffton, IN

9 am – 2 pm

Wells County 4-H Community Building 1240 4-H Road, Bluffton, IN

• OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Wells County 4-H Community Building 1240 4-H Road, Bluffton, IN

• OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

• OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

• 71 vendors, FREE parking-admission-food!

• 71 vendors, FREE parking-admission-food

• 71 vendors, FREE parking-admission-food!

• Breakfast – served 9 am – 10 am

• Breakfast – served 9 am – 10 am

• Breakfast – served 9 am – 10 am

Provided Christian Care Retirement Community

Provided Christian Care Retirement Community

Provided Christian Care Retirement Community

• Lunch – served 11:30 am – 12:30 pm

• Lunch – served 11:30 am – 12:30 pm

• Lunch – served 11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Provided by Ossian Health Communities

Provided by Ossian Health Communities

Provided by Ossian Health Communities

• Afternoon snack – served 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

• Afternoon snack – served 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

• Afternoon snack – served 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Provided by Markle Health and Rehab

Provided by Markle Health and Rehab

Provided by Markle Health and Rehab

• The Wells County Emergency Management and Attorneys from Dale, Huffman & Babcock Lawyers presentations in dining area 10-11 am and 12:30-1:30 pm

• The Wells County Emergency Management and Attorneys from Dale, Huffman & Babcock Lawyers presentations in dining area 10-11 am and 12:30-1:30 pm

• University Dermatology – Free Skin cancer screening all day

• The Wells County Emergency Management and Attorneys from Dale, Huffman & Babcock Lawyers presentations in dining area 10-11 am and 12:30-1:30 pm

• University Dermatology – Free Skin cancer screening all day

• Non-perishable food giveaway by Peyton’s Northern Distribution / Kroger –1:30 – 2:00 pm – must be present to receive

• Non-perishable food giveaway by Peyton’s Northern Distribution / Kroger –1:30 – 2:00 pm – must be present to receive

• Wells County residents – Call Wells on Wheels (WOW) at 824-4969 to schedule FREE transportation for the Expo

• University Dermatology – Free Skin cancer screening all day

• Non-perishable food giveaway by Peyton’s Northern Distribution / Kroger –1:30 – 2:00 pm – must be present to receive

• Wells County residents – Call Wells on Wheels (WOW) at 824-4969 to schedule FREE transportation for the Expo

Club Apparel (Car, Motorcyle, Etc.)

And Much More!

• Wells County residents – Call Wells on Wheels (WOW) at 824-4969 to schedule FREE transportation for the Expo

Serving others creates meaningful retirement

While “riding off into the sunset” is often used to describe retirement, Dave and Sandy Knepple had other plans.

“We were both retired and looking for something meaningful to do,” Dave Knepple said.

Dave, 81, a retired teacher, and his wife, Sandy, 82, a retired teacher and pastor, attend Faith United Methodist Church in Fort Wayne. In 2023, they started the Food for the Soul Pantry.

“Faith didn’t have a food pantry,” he said. “The Farm Wagon from Community Harvest Food Bank came once a week and distributed mostly produce to whoever came, and it took a hiatus during cold weather.”

Today, the pantry serves more than 1,800 families each year who are most in need.

“The 46803 and 46806 areas near the church are probably among the poorest in Indiana,” Knepple said.

According to UnitedStatesZipCodes.org, the Fort Wayne ZIP codes with the highest poverty rates are 46802, 46803, 46816 and 46806. The Indiana ZIP code with the highest poverty rate is 47876, which includes St. Mary-of-theWoods. The ZIP code with the lowest poverty rate is 46171 in Reelsville. Both communities are located near Terre Haute. Poverty rate estimates come

from American Community Survey data compiled by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The Knepples believe food ministry is their calling, but the work is not without challenges.

“The main thing that we need is an elevator,” Sandy Knepple said. “We have to carry everything up the stairs.”

Each week, the couple and other retirees transport food to the pantry, carry it inside, sort it, assist families and often carry food out to seniors or people with disabilities.

Last fall, a grant allowed them to purchase 3,000 cans of vegetables - roughly 3,000 pounds - which had to be loaded onto a truck, unloaded and carried into the building.

“Our daughter helped,” Sandy added with a laugh.

The Knepples said they will continue to run the pantry as long as they are able, but physical demands are not the only obstacle.

Government funding for food pantries has declined.

“Over the last couple of years, the government has cut back on the amount of meat available,” Dave Knepple said.

“Sandy and other shoppers look for sales and drive all over town to get good prices, like buy-one, get-one-free chicken drumsticks.”

Meat is not the only expense.

The church receives food through The Emergency Food

Assistance Program, which provides food to states at reduced cost. The food is then distributed to food banks, including Community Harvest Food Bank, which supplies local pantries.

“We get four different TEFAP food products every other week for free,” Dave said. “But other things people need are not supplied by the government.”

Additional food is purchased

from Community Harvest for about 16 cents per pound.

Meat, cereal, toilet paper and laundry detergent are also purchased, making donations essential.

The Knepples previously operated a food pantry for 15 years at another church before relocating to Faith. They encourage other retirees to stay active and involved.

“The meaningful part of what

UPDATES & HAPPENINGS IN THE AREA

Continued from page 8

center is located at 710 Opportunity Drive, Columbia City.

Pixie bingo, 9 a.m. on the first, third and fifth Wednesdays of each month.

Line dancing, 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Euchre, 9-11 a.m. Tuesday and Friday.

Bible study with Cheryl, 9 a.m. Tuesday.

Alzheimer/Dementia by Aging & In Home Services, 10 a.m on the first Thursday of each month.

Chair exercises, 10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Drumming for Joy with Lindsay, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Wednesday.

Blood pressure check, 10:45 a.m. the second Wednesday. Health class with Darcy

Hoopingarner, 11 a.m. on the first Monday.

Birthday lunch/entertainment, second Thursday of each month. Lunch is at 11:30 a.m. and entertainment is at 12:15 p.m.

Rotary, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Tenderloin lunch, 11:30 a.m. the third Monday of each month. Entertainment is at 12:15 p.m.

Dominoes, noon Tuesday.

Rural Respite with Aging and In Home Services, noon to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Miller’s craft/games, 12:15 p.m. the last Wednesday of each month.

Afternoon euchre, 12:30 p.m. Thursday.

Hand and foot card game, 12:30 p.m. Wednesday.

we do is valuable to both of us,” Dave said.

Faith United Methodist Church offers a weekly Food for the Soul Pantry, Food for the Soul Dinner and an outdoor community cupboard. All are free and open to the public. To learn more, donate or volunteer, visit wearefaithumc. com or call (260) 744-4238. The church is located at 207 E. Dewald St., Fort Wayne.

Bible study with Bob, 12:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Euchre tournament, 12:30 p.m. on the third Thursday. Painting with Evie, 12:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month.

Mah Jongg, 1 p.m. every other Monday.

The League, 1:30 p.m. every third Tuesday.

Cash Bingo, 5 p.m. Thursday starting mid-January.

Grieving with Kim, 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday.

—o—

McMillen Park Community Center

For information, visit fortwayneparks.org or call (260) 427-6000. The center is located at 3901 Abbott St., Fort Wayne. Pickleball, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Open gym, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Adult open gym, 6-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Adult yoga, 6-7 p.m. Tuesday and noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday. Volleyball, 6-8 p.m. Monday. Badminton, 6-8 p.m. Tuesday.

CardioFit, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday and Thursday.

Essential steps, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Monday and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday.

Yoga for seniors, noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday. Yoga for adults, 6-7 p.m. Tuesday.

Men’s basketball league, 6-9 p.m. Thursday.

A MEANINGFUL RETIREMENT Sandy and Dave Knepple volunteer 40 hours a week to their church’s food pantry. The couple attend Faith United Methodist Church in Fort Wayne. Photo by Ngozi Rogers.

70s Flashback -

‘Sorry,

Richard Hornberger, writing under the nom de plume

Richard,’ the novel flopped, but TV show soared

Richard Hooker, entertained visions of success as a writer when he penned his novel “M*A*S*H” (Military Army Surgical Hospital), a reflection on his days with the 8055th M*A*S*H unit in Korea. For several frustrating years, he submitted his brainchild to various book publishers, but no one expressed interest.

He took on a writing partner who helped him polish the manuscript. Eventually, William Morrow and Company published “M*A*S*H.” The book bombed, but it was embraced by movie producer Ingo Preminger - Otto’s brother - who bought the movie

rights and commissioned Ring Lardner Jr., to come up with a screenplay. The film, which starred Eliot Gould and Donald Sutherland, became box-office gold.

Hollywood power people felt many more dollars could be squeezed out of the “M*A*S*H” story by offering it as a low-budget television show. After all, start-up costs would be minimal, as the sets and props from the film were still in place nearby in a future state park.

Producer Gene Reynolds asked writing pal Larry Gelbart to give him a script, which took Gelbart a mere two days to whip up a workable outline for the show. Given the green light, Gelbart threw himself into painstaking research, toiling with photocopies of early 1950s issues of Time magazine, as well as keeping a master list of Korean names, a map of Korea and an Army handbook on his cluttered desk.

Most TV scenes were shot

at the 20th Century Fox studio in Los Angeles, where the “M*A*S*H” compound measured a mere 45 by 90 feet and consisted primarily of a Korean landscape backdrop behind a rubber floor.

“M*A*S*H” premiered on CBSTV in September 1972. Ratings were low at first, and reviews ran the gamut from so-so to scathing. But, in a rare moment of insight in a ratings-obsessed business, CBS believed the program could, if given time, build a decent-sized audience. The series was allowed to struggle through its first season. The gamble paid off when season two ratings skyrocketed and made “M*A*S*H” a mustwatch winner.

Everybody involved seemed happy. Everybody, that is, except for Richard Hooker. As an ultraconservative military veteran, he detested the way television star Alan Alda voiced subtle but frequent anti-war statements during his moments on the small screen.

The series ended on Feb. 28, 1983, after 11 seasons and 251 episodes. The final show (2 ½ hours long) was watched by an estimated 125 million viewers -back then, more than half the population of America.

“M*A*S*H” mixed sarcastic humor with the grimness of war. How did Alda and the others in the show approach such a combination?

Alda said, “I think a lot of what attracted people to the whole series was that, even though it was mainly a comedy, we never tried to forget that real people had lived and suffered through stories like the ones we were telling. We wanted to honor that as much as we could.”

And the show did indeed do that.

Continued on page 15

Adams Heritage

12011 Whittern Road, Monroeville, IN 46773 (260) 623-6440 • www.adamsheritage.org

Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Physical, Respiratory, Outpatient Therapy, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care. Medicare and/or Medicaid.

Adams Woodcrest

1300 Mercer Avenue, Decatur, IN 46733 (260) 724-3311 • www.adamswoodcrest.org

Assisted Living, Rehabilitation Unit, Memory Care Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Physical, Respiratory, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid.

Golden Years Homestead

3136 Goeglein Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815 (260) 749-9655 • Greencroft.org/GoldenYears

Comprehensive care with assisted living, rehabilitation, skilled nursing, memory care, respite care, and on-site/outpatient therapy; Medicare/ Medicaid accepted.

Grand Marquis

Life

300 East Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46802 (260) 422-5511 • jmull@tgmsi.com

Assisted Living; 50+ Community; Pets Allowed; Medicaid Waiver; Private Rooms; Weekly Events; RCAP Program; Conveniently Located; 24/7 Nursing Staff; On-site Therapy; Downtown Lifestyle; Concierge Service; Smoking Area; Restaurant Style Dining

Care Center of Fort Wayne

1649 Spy Run Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN 46805 (260) 422-8520 • www.lcca.com

Rehabilitation Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled-Licensed Nursing Or Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Wound Care, Outpatient Therapy, Medical Transportation, Medicare/Medicaid, Pet Visitation Allowed

Orchard Pointe Health Campus

702 Sawyer Rd., Kendallville, IN 46755 (260) 347-3333 • www.orchardpointehc.com

Offering Memory Care, Assisted & Independent Living Apartments and Skilled Services. We’ll meet you with the appropriate level of care wherever you are — whether you’re fully independent or looking for additional assistance.

Call us.

The Cedars

14409 Sunrise Court, Leo, IN 46765 (260) 627-2191 • www.thecedarsrc.com

Assisted Living, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing Or Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-RespiratoryPhysical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid

6701 S. Anthony Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46816 (260) 447-1591 • www.ABetterWayofLiving.org

Rehab Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Respiratory, Physical, Outpatient Therapy, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare/Medicaid, 3 Years Deficiency Free Surveys The Village at Anthony Boulevard

Assisted Living, Rehab Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Respiratory, Physical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid, Outpatient Therapy

9802 Coldwater Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46825 (260) 469-0600 • www.ABetterWayofLiving.org Rehab Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Respiratory, Physical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/ Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid, Outpatient Therapy The Village at Kendallville 351 North Allen Chapel Road, Kendallville, IN 46755-0429 (260) 347-2256 • www.ABetterWayofLiving.org

ORIGINAL AUTHOR Richard Hooker and his novel “M*A*S*H”. Photo from Facebook.

Volunteer Expo to celebrate Volunteer Month

The Volunteer Center will host its annual “Get Connected Volunteer Expo” from 3-6 p.m. Thursday, April 23, at Glenbrook Square Mall, 4201 Coldwater Road, Fort Wayne, in the lower level near the food court.

The expo offers an opportunity for current volunteers and those interested in getting involved to connect with nonprofit and civic organizations serving the Fort Wayne community. Attendees can meet with representatives from local agencies, learn about their missions and explore volunteer opportunities in one location. About 50 organizations are expected to participate.

Visitors are encouraged

to register upon arrival for a chance to win gift cards from local restaurants, with drawings held every half hour. A bingo-style scavenger hunt will also be available to encourage attendees to visit participating booths.

“Volunteering is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen our community,”

Executive Director Ani Etter said. “The Volunteer Expo helps people discover where their time, talents and passions can make the greatest impact while connecting them with organizations doing incredible work right here in our community. There is a volunteer opportunity out there for you.”

The Volunteer Center is a

nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting volunteers with local agencies in need of support. Its signature programs, including Coats for

Kids, VITA Tax Assistance and the I CAN Service Team, help address critical needs facing low- to moderate-income households and vulner-

able populations throughout the community.

For more information visit volunteerfortwayne.org or call (260) 424-3505.

History Center to host lecture on Robison Park April 12

The History Center will present the next installment of its 2025-2026 George R. Mather Sunday Lecture Series Sunday, April 12.

The program, titled “Robison Park: Fort Wayne’s Pleasure Resort,” will be presented by Randolph Harter.

During the lecture, attendees will learn about the once-pop-

ular Robison Park, which operated north of Fort Wayne along the St. Joseph River from July 1896 through the 1919 season. The presentation will explore the park’s history and feature dozens of images gathered from public and private collections, many of which have never been published.

The April lecture will be held

on the second Sunday of the month rather than the first.

The program begins at 2 p.m. at the History Center, 302 E. Berry St., Fort Wayne. Admission is free and open to the public.

The George R. Mather Lecture Series is supported by the Floyd and Betty Lou Lancia Family Foundation.

HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY

ADAMS WOODCREST

1300 Mercer Avenue

Decatur, IN 46733

Phone: (260) 724-3311

www.adamswoodcrest.org

Independent Living, Cottages, Villas, Apartments, Residential & Assisted Living, Short Term Rehab (PT, OT, ST), Healthcare & Dementia Care, Skilled & Intermediate, Long Term Nursing Care, Life Enrichment Activities, Fitness Center Membership

THE CEDARS

14409 Sunrise Court Leo, IN 46765

Phone: (260) 627-2191

www.thecedarsrc.com

Complete Retirement Amenities: Skilled & Intermediate Long Term Nursing Care, Assisted & Residential Apartments, Total Rehab Unit, Villa Of The Cedars With Condominium Homes - “Come To The Country”

ASSISTED, INDEPENDENT LIVING & NURSING CARE

LIFE CARE CENTER OF FORT WAYNE

1649 Spy Run Avenue

Fort Wayne, IN 46805

Phone: (260) 422-8520

www.lifecarecenteroffortwaynein.com

Newly remodeled facility, top-of-the-line service for rehab patients. Rapid rehab program, separate wing with 30 rehab suites — private single bed for short-term patients. Medicare, Medicaid & insurances accepted.

3RIVERS HEARING

7230 Engle Road, Suite 211 Fort Wayne, IN 46804

Phone: (260) 257-7691

3rivershearing@gmail.com

www.3rivershearing.com

Family Owned & Operated Hearing Clinic. Free Comprehensive Hearing Test. Multiple Manufacturers. Supplemental Insurance Accepted. Office & Mobile Appointments.

CARTER HEARING CLINICS

1335 Getz Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 NORTHEAST: 3136 Goeglein Rd., Suite A

Phone: (260) 436-6400 or (877) 436-6401

www.carterhearingclinics.com

• Creating A Higher Standard of Care

• Board certified audiologists by the American Board of Audiology serving Fort Wayne since 1967.

• Offices located in Fort Wayne, Auburn and Angola. PROVIDING

• Hearing Evaluations, Hearing Aids, Assistive Listening Devices and Auditory Training

• FREE TRIAL HEARING AID PROGRAM

INTEGRITY HOME CARE, LLC

Fort Wayne, IN Phone: (260) 452-9691

ajones@integrityhhc.com

“Stay Home With Integrity.” Providing assistance to those in need in the comfort of their own home.

BRIGHTSTAR 333 E. Washington Blvd.

Fort Wayne, IN 46802

Phone: (260) 918-0933

www.brightstarcare.com/fort-wayne

Enthusiastic, kind personal level client care connection, 24/7 support enables clients to check on loved ones. Rigorous caregiver screen/background check ensures optimal security & family peace of mind.

HOMEFRONT HOME HEALTH

6821 Lima Road

Fort Wayne, IN 46818

Phone: (260) 363-0461

www.HomefrontHomeHealth.com

Homefront empowers independent living with compassionate in-home non-medical and medical skilled healthcare, personalized attendant, companion, nursing, and other support services.

Grief center to offer dance workshop, Mother’s Day program

Several programs are scheduled in April at the Peggy F. Murphy Community Grief Center. All programs require RSVP.

Embodied Dance Movement

The center is offering a quarterly program for adults who have experienced a death-related loss. The session

will be led by Julia Hyndman of Tulip Tree Healing Arts Collective and is free of charge. Embodied Dance Movement focuses on connecting with the body and expressing movement in response to music.

The facilitator provides cues, practices and tools to guide participants with curiosity, helping release tension and

foster a sense of peace and joy. Participants may take part seated or standing.

The program is scheduled from 6-7 p.m. Thursday, April 30. Registration is required by April 24.

Memories Of Mom

The grief center also will host its first half-day event for adults to honor mothers and

mother figures who have died.

“Memories of Mom” will include a variety of therapeutic experiences, along with a light lunch, to help participants cope with grief surrounding Mother’s Day.

The event is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 2. Registration is required by April 24. To register,

Sleuthing to solve sleeping problems

Most sleep problems are treatable, but some sleuthing might be necessary to find their source. Sleep isn’t a luxury. Restful sleep is just as

important to health as adequate nutrition and exercise. Sleep is necessary to think clearly.

Studies have shown that being well rested improves the body’s response to infection. Evidence suggests that brains are hard at work during sleep, possibly forming the pathways necessary for learning, making new memories and insights and coming up with creative solutions to problems.

Inadequate sleep is linked to depression and irritability

as well as diabetes, weight problems and cravings for high-calorie, high-carbohydrate foods.

Advising a physician about both insomnia and depression symptoms is important before determining a treatment plan.

visit https://linktr.ee/pfmgriefcenter. For assistance, email GriefCenter@stillwater-hospice.org or call (260) 435-3261. The center is located at 5920 Homestead Road, Fort Wayne.

themunicipal.com glo-mag.com

lakelifemagazine.com

homelivingplacesandspaces.com

seniorlifenewspapers.com

HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY

HOME PET CARE

HUMANE FORT WAYNE IN-HOME SERVICES

901 Leesburg Road Fort Wayne, IN 46808

Phone: (260) 744-0454

www.humanefw.org/get-help/pet-promises/ This FREE program helps seniors care for their pets. Services include grooming, walking, waste clean-up, wellness checks, transportation and more.

HOSPICE

STILLWATER HOSPICE

5910 Homestead Road Fort Wayne, IN 46804 (260) 435-3222 stillwater-hospice.org

Helping families face serious illness and loss with comfort, compassion and guidance through hospice, palliative and adult grief support.

Happy Easter!

ABSOLUTE ANGELS IN-HOME CARE PO Box 214 Leo, IN 46765

Phone: (260) 715-7777

www.AbsoluteAngels.org

Don@AbsoluteAngels.org

Absolute Angels delivers compassionate, reliable care — bringing peace of mind, dignity and heartfelt support to families when it matters most.

3182 Mallard Cove Lane Fort Wayne, IN 46804

Phone: (260) 484-5858

MollyTritch@comfortkeepers.com

Comfort Keepers provides award winning in-home care for seniors and other adults in need of assistance with daily activities.

MAJESTIC CARE OF JEFFERSON POINTE

5700 Wilkie Drive

Fort Wayne, IN 46804

Phone: (260) 432-7556

www.majesticcare.com/location/Jefferson-Pointe

Short-term Rehab, Outpatient Therapy, Long-term Care, Memory Care, In-House Dialysis, Mild Behaviors Unit. Medicaid Accepted. Where Compassion Meets Excellence.

AT HOME HEALERS HOMECARE LLC

7230 Engle Road, Suite 205, Fort Wayne, IN 46804

Phone: (260) 702-0897

care@athomehealershc.com

www.athomehealershc.com

Personalized centered care: post surgery, Alzheimers & Dementia specialized support, Veteran & personal assistance (bathing, dressing, grooming), light housekeeping, daily/weekly meal prep, appointment transportation. No minimum hourly contract, 24/HR care, two nurse owned & operated, FREE in-home assessment!

Mature Life Features Copyright 2026

A visit to Mar-a-Lago

I visited President Trump at Mar-a-Lago - sort of.

I could have been driving along any street in the United States. The sun was shining, traffic was light and there was no indication that I was passing through anything other than an ordinary neighborhood.

Suddenly everything changed. Police cars were everywhere: Slowly patrolling the streets, parked along sidewalks, driving into, and out of, a gated community. Police officers crowded the pavement and spilled out into the narrow road I was following.

Welcome to Mar-a-Lago, a lavish estate with a storied history known today primarily as the home of Donald J. Trump.

That ornate estate was built (1924-1927) for businesswoman and society figure Marjorie Merriweather Post. Nestled on a barrier island in Palm Beach, Fla., it was acquired in 1985 by then-real estate investor Donald Trump, who used it as his residence.

Ten years later, he converted it into the Mar-a-Lago Club, an exclusive members-only institution with guest rooms, a spa and other hotel-style amenities. When they are there, members of Trump’s family stay in private quarters in a closed-off area of the grounds.

During his first presidency, Trump visited Mar-a-Lago frequently and held meetings there with international leaders like Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe and Chinese president Xi Jinping.

Memories in Motion

July 15-16 Celebrate America Proud To Be An American ... 2 Shows and Other Attractions

August 24-27 ............................NY’s Fabulous Finger Lakes

September 2 ...................... “Ring of Fire”, Beef and Boards

Feb. 5, 2022

September 15-18 ............................... Niagara Falls, Canada

October 29-30 .......... Halloween FaBOOlous Mystery Trip

The name Mar-a-Lago means “sea to lake” in Spanish. The estate extends from one side of Palm Beach Island to the other, touching both the Atlantic Ocean and Lake Worth Lagoon. The property is said to span 126 rooms and extend over an acre and a half.

Post, who died in 1973, willed the estate to the United States government to serve as a Winter White House for presidents and visiting foreign dignitaries. The property was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1980 because it exemplified “the baronial way of life of the wealthy who built mansions in Florida during the Florida land boom of the 1920s.”

Feb. 19-26, 2022…Manatees, Mermaids & Marine Life Crystal River Plantation, Nature Coast of Florida May 18, 2022 ”Cruising Through the Decades”

Nov. 16-20 ........................................... Christmas in Branson 2027

March 1-7, 2027 .................... The “Big Easy”, New Orleans

March 23-25, 2027 ....................................... Come Sail Away

I asked several residents of the area what it’s like to live near such a legendary property which is visited by heads of state, leading political figures and other known dignitaries. The response of most of them was surprising: a big yawn.

May 23 – 27, 2022…………..Wisconsin’s Door County Including Visit to Historic Lambeau Field

April 21-29, 2027 Virginia International Tatoo and The Outer Banks

June 27-30, 2022………..Mississippi Riverboat Cruise

July 29 – August 10, 2022 Nova Scotia, Canada

Sept. 13-16, 2022………………

June 21-24, 2027 .................... Mississippi Riverboat Cruise Steve and Sheila Magsamen, Tour Managers Decatur & Fort Wayne Departures 260-432-8488 www.memoriesinmotion.net

“We don’t usually know who’s there,” one young man told me. “All it means for locals is traffic jams,” a 60-something woman explained.

“I voted for Trump but if I’d known how much his being president would mess up traffic here, I would have voted differently,” admitted a well-dressed gentleman.

Where Compassion Meets Excellence

Compassion Meets Excellence are proud to provide compassionate care.

For visitors to the Palm Beach area, Mar-a-Lago offers an intriguing diversion from the sun, sand and surf attractions for which the destination is best known. Worth Avenue, a shopper’s dream, is lined by upscale boutiques, designer stores and art galleries.

Where Compassion Meets Excellence

We are proud to provide compassionate care.

Where Compassion Meets Excellence

Waterfront settings offer a choice of inviting stretches of

sand fronting deep blue water. Golfers have a choice of over 100 courses, including six at the PGA National Resort.

History buffs and culture lovers will appreciate Palm Beach’s legacy of luxury and splendor. Must-see spots include the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, the historic  Breakers Palm Beach hotel and the Society of the Four Arts, which encompasses an art gallery, concert hall and gardens.

Mar-a-Lago adds a unique touch which combines historical tidbits, opulent architecture and a lovely semi-tropical setting.

In addition, if you’re lucky - or unlucky, depending upon your politics - an opportunity to

see a motorcade leave or arrive which includes a car transporting the president of the United States.

S & S TRAVEL

BRANSON: Rick McEwen’s Tribute to Kenny Rogers, Shepherd of the Hills Drama w/Cowboy Dinner/Show, Dogwood Canyon Wildlife Tour, Clay Cooper, Duttons, Doug Gabriel, Lamberts

Where Compassion Meets Excellence

We are proud to provide compassionate care.

• Rehab to Home

We are proud to provide compassionate care.

We are proud to provide compassionate care.

• Rehab to Home

• Outpatient Therapy (coming soon)

• Rehab to Home

• Rehab to Home

• Memory Care

• VA Contracted

• VA Contracted

• VA Contracted

• VA Contracted

• Je erson Point Lymphedema Certified

LOUIS

HEARTLAND:

• Outpatient Therapy (coming soon)

• Outpatient Therapy (coming soon)

• Outpatient Therapy (coming soon)

• Memory Care

• Memory Care

• In-House Dialysis

• Memory Care

• In-House Dialysis

• In-House Dialysis

• In-House Dialysis

• Accept Medicare & Medicaid Pending

• Accept Medicare & Medicaid Pending

• Accept Medicare & Medicaid Pending

• Accept Medicare & Medicaid Pending

• Je erson Point Lymphedema Certified

• Je erson Point Lymphedema Certified

• Je erson Point Lymphedema Certified

• Mild Behavior

• Mild Behavior

• Mild Behavior

• Long-Term Care

• Mild Behavior

• Mild Behavior

• Long-Term Care

• Long-Term Care

• Long-Term Care

• New Haven Wound Specialist

• New Haven Wound Specialist

• Long-Term Care

• New Haven Wound Specialist

• New Haven Wound Specialist

• New Haven Wound Specialist

Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!

JULY 13-15: OHIO HAILS

Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!

Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!

Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!

Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!

Majestic Care of Je erson Pointe

Majestic Care of Je erson Pointe

5700 Wilkie Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46804

5700 Wilkie Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46804

Phone: 260.432.7556

Phone: 260.432.7556

erson Pointe

Majestic Care of Je erson Pointe 5700 Wilkie Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46804

Majestic Care of Je erson Pointe 5700 Wilkie Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46804

Phone: 260.432.7556

Marketing.Je erson @MajesticCare.com

Wayne, IN 46804

Marketing.Je erson @MajesticCare.com

Phone: 260.432.7556

Marketing.Je erson @MajesticCare.com

MajesticCare.com

Marketing.Je erson @MajesticCare.com

Majestic Care of New Haven 1201 Daly Dr, New Haven, IN 46774 Phone: 260.749.0413

Majestic Care of New Haven 1201 Daly Dr, New Haven, IN 46774 Phone: 260.749.0413

MajesticCare.com

MajesticCare.com

MajesticCare.com

AMERICA’S 250th: Pres. McKinley Museum, Warther Ivory Ship Carvings, Three America Themed Shows

Marketing.NewHaven @MajesticCare.com

Majestic Care of New Haven 1201 Daly Dr, New Haven, IN 46774 Phone: 260.749.0413 Marketing.NewHaven @MajesticCare.com

Majestic Care of New Haven 1201 Daly Dr, New Haven, IN 46774 Phone: 260.749.0413

Majestic Care of New Haven 1201 Daly Dr, New Haven, IN 46774 Phone: 260.749.0413

Marketing.NewHaven @MajesticCare.com

Marketing.NewHaven @MajesticCare.com

Marketing.NewHaven @MajesticCare.com

JULY 22-23: THE GREAT GATSBY, Broadway Show Grand Rapids, MI: Kellogg Manor House w/Lunch, Gilmore Car Museum.

FROM THE WATER Mar-a-Lago waterfront setting with a guard tower. Photo by Victor Block.
GATE SECURITY Police at entrance gate into Mar-a-Lago. Photo from Wanghanan, Dreamstime.com
ELEGANT PORCH Porch in Mar-a-Lago. Photo by Colin Farmer, Dreamstime.com.

Paradigm Health will host its second annual National Health Care Decisions Day event from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 16, at Pine Valley Country Club,10900 Pine Mills Road, Fort Wayne, with a focused message for the local health care community: take care of your own planning.

Observed each April, National Health Care Decisions Day raises awareness about the importance of advance care planning. While health care professionals routinely guide patients and families through decisions about power of attorney, living wills and code status, many have not completed their own documents.

“We advocate for patients and families every day,” said Christy Naylor, vice president of business development at Paradigm

Health. “We encourage others to plan ahead and make their wishes known. But as health care professionals, we often put our own planning on the back burner. Our goal is to make this simple. We are bringing all of the important forms together in one place, with free notary services, so health care professionals can walk in and leave knowing their own wishes are documented.”

The open-house style event will provide printed Indiana health care representative and power of attorney forms, information on living wills and the Five Wishes document, and education on code status and POST forms.

Attendees will also have access to resources related to guardianship, trusts and estate

planning, as well as funeral pre-planning information and free onsite notary services.

In addition, a professional workshop will focus on how clinicians can confidently lead conversations with families about advance directives and end-of-life decisions.

According to national data, fewer than half of American adults have completed an advance directive. Events like this aim to reduce confusion, prevent family conflict and ensure individual wishes are honored.

There is no cost to attend; light refreshments will be provided. Health care professionals and community members are welcome.

RSVP by Saturday, April 11 by calling Paradigm Health at (260) 247-6500.

My textual abnormalities

Because I am so forgetful, when I think of something I need to remember and I’m in the car, the first thing I do is send myself a text. I hit the appropriate button on my steering wheel, hear a little chirp and say, “Send a text to Dick.”

Bluetooth: “What do you want to say to Dick?”

Me: “Mail car insurance. Put out garbage.”

Now, I do this several times a day, and it’s pretty effective. As soon as I get home, I check my messages, and there are all the things I would probably forget to do if I hadn’t sent myself a note. I considered this method quite foolproof, but only a fool like me could mess it up.

We have a member of our church whose name is also Dick. I did not have him in my address book until recently. I added

his name because I am part of a volunteer group that picks him up at his home on Sunday mornings. He decided at his age to stop driving.

Have you already figured out what happened? Most of the messages I intended to send to myself were going to Dick Guernsey. (He told me to use his real name because he wanted to see it in print.)

I began to realize there was a problem when I saw Dick at church and he asked why I thought he should pay my HOA fee this month. I thought this was a very odd thing to ask, so I confided in a fellow Unitarian, who told me, “Sometimes people your age, Dick, get a little confused. It’s normal.”

The next day, I got this text message.

Guernsey: “Dick, it’s Dick Guernsey. Why do you want me to call your son?”

Me: “I don’t want you to call my son. I’m not sure what you are talking about.”

Guernsey: “Also, you texted me to buy a jar of artichokes and a pint of milk. I hate artichokes and I’m lactose intolerant. And

Continued from page 11

Bibliography

Books - Javna, John. “MAS*H.”

In Uncle John’s Bathroom Reader, 70-71. New York: St. Martin’s Press, 1988. Kalter, Suzy. The Complete Book of “MASH.”* New York: Harry N. Abrams Inc., 1985. Internet - “MASH (Movie); MASH (TV Show).” Wikipedia. No author or publication date listed. Reinstein, Mara. “Alan Alda on 50 Years of MASH: ‘We Never Realized How Successful the Show Was.’” Parade, Sept. 2, 2022. This image features Hiester Richard Hornberger Jr. (1924–1997), an American surgeon who wrote under the pseudonym Richard Hooker.

“Comfort Keepers was an invaluable asset in my toolbox regarding my mother’s home healthcare requirements. I was able to go to work and concentrate on other aspects of my mother’s healthcare needs. It gave me a “peace of mind” feeling on a daily basis knowing that their qualified staff would handle things at mom’s house and keep me updated. Comfort Keepers is a local outstanding healthcare organization; I would recommend them for any in-home healthcare needs” Robert G.R. Son of client, Fort Wayne

why are you asking me to buy this stuff for you? You know I don’t drive.”

It still didn’t dawn on me what I had accidentally done. The next day, Dick called me on his cellphone.

“Dick Wolfsie, this is Dick Guernsey. I’m starting to worry about you. I just got a text from you that says, ‘Don’t forget to call my brother in New York.’ I don’t know your brother in New York. The text also says to make an appointment for an oil change. I don’t have a car. That’s why you pick me up twice a month.”

The next day, I got another text from Guernsey asking why I thought he needed to have his gutters cleaned.

“I don’t have to clean gutters,” he texted. “In fact, I don’t have to do anything at this place except go down for dinner.”

I finally figured out what was happening. I changed my name in my address book to Bubba. Now I say, “Send a text to Bubba.”

If your name is Bubba, there is no chance we can ever be friends.

NUTSHELL

A senior’s guide to sleeping well

The idea that you need less sleep as you get older is a myth; however, the way you sleep does change. In your senior years, you’re likely to wake up earlier and feel sleepy long before your usual bedtime. You’ll experience fewer hours of deep sleep, and you may get up more often during the night.

Many adults adapt easily to this natural transition, but others need more help. About 40% of the elderly report having at least one symptom of insomnia at least a few nights each week, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Figure out what’s keeping you up at night. Learn more about common sleep issues that affect seniors, along with suggestions for overcom-

ing them. Strategies For Age-Related Sleep Issues

1. Manage chronic conditions. Conditions such as arthritis can interfere with your sleep, and lack of sleep can aggravate your symptoms. Break the cycle by following your doctor’s recommendations consistently.

2. Treat apnea. If you snore loudly, you may have sleep apnea, a temporary cessation in breathing. Age and obesity increase your risk, but there are effective treatments, including continuous positive airway pressure devices that help keep your respiratory tract open.

3. Monitor movement disorders. Many seniors also develop restless leg syndrome and other movement disorders. Home remedies like stretching

IIt’s easy! Simply find the ‘Easter basket’ on another page in this edition. Go online to www.SeniorLifeNewspapers.com and enter your information, the edition, date and page number you found it on. This will enter you for a chance to win a gift of $25. (Online Entries Only) Entries Must Be In By Monday, April 13, 2026. Brought To You By

and massage may relieve minor symptoms, and doctors may prescribe medication for more serious cases.

4. Exercise regularly. Working out will help relieve insomnia and many other effects of aging. Find a variety of safe activities you enjoy or take group classes designed for seniors.

5. Stay engaged. Mutually supportive relationships and enriching hobbies will also help to keep you fit. Volunteer in your community and spend time with family and friends.

6. Talk with your doctor. Let your doctor know about any concerns you have. Keep a journal so you can share relevant information about your sleep habits.

Strategies For General Sleep Issues

1. Darken your bedroom.

Shutting out bright lights helps your brain to become drowsy. Turn off the TV at least one hour before bed and use night lights if you get up to use the bathroom.

2. Block out noise. As you age, you may become more sensitive to noise, as well as light. Use a fan or white noise machine to mask car stereos and garbage trucks.

3. Try naps. Changing hormone levels reduce the time that seniors spend in the most restful stages of deep sleep. You may be able to compensate by going to bed earlier or taking daytime naps. Remember that brief naps early in the day are less likely to interfere with your overnight slumber.

4. Eat light. Losing excess weight and eating a diet rich in whole foods will enhance

your sleep and overall fitness. Enjoy a small bedtime snack if it helps you sleep but avoid anything spicy or high in fat.

5. Limit alcohol. Substances like alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine disrupt sleep, and aging bodies are more sensitive to the effects. If you want a nightcap, drink plain water or herbal tea.

6. Rest and relax. Brooding about insomnia can make you too anxious to sleep. If you’re tossing and turning, try meditating or slowly counting down from 100.

Simple lifestyle changes are usually all you need to stay well rested at any age. If you still have trouble sleeping or feel tired during the day on a regular basis, ask your doctor about what treatments are appropriate for you.

Community invited to Ribbon Walk May 2

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana will host its annual Ribbon Walk Saturday, May 2, inviting the community to support individuals and families affected by cancer.

The family-friendly fundraising event encourages participants to form teams and raise money in honor or memory of loved ones impacted by cancer. Proceeds help ensure local families receive support services during what is often an unexpected, life-altering diagnosis.

Last year, Cancer Services assisted more than 5,000 families across northeast Indiana. Organizers have set a goal of raising $120,000 through this year’s walk.

Ribbon Walk also serves as a celebration of community support, featuring food, entertainment, remembrance activities and a one-mile walk along the path at Brotherhood Mutual. The event will take place from 9-11 a.m. at 6316 Mutual Drive, with the walk beginning after a

brief program at 9:30 a.m.

Participants who raise $35 or more by April 27 will receive a commemorative T-shirt.

Registration is available online at give.cancer-services.org/ribbonwalk2026, by calling (260) 484-9560 or in person at the Cancer Services office.

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana provides resources, information and compassionate assistance to individuals living with cancer in 11 counties throughout the region.

The old man waits

Of necessity, he arrives quite early. He is accustomed to the waiting time. In another world this would be annoying.

But the old man really doesn’t mind. He sits at the stop with a few others like him.

Waiting for the transport van to arrive, To take them to the Veterans Administration clinic.

That in theory, helps keep them alive. The drive is slow and takes a while,

But again, the old man

doesn’t mind.

He has lots in common with other old vets.

They talk to pass the time.

He was a prisoner in a very big war,

A long, long time ago.

He’s finally started to talk about it.

Better to heal late than not at all.

They finally arrive for one more wait.

All are friends for this short time.

Telling of family and “soft” war stories.

The old man smiles - he doesn’t mind.

(Time will tell but I do like this. My dad would take the VA van to the Fort Wayne VA for treatment. I imagine this poem would have been accurate. Dad’s been gone awhile).

Name in Hearing

206 S. Main St. Milford, Indiana 46542

The winner of the I Spy Contest for March is Sandra Murphy from Portage. The ‘Clock’ was located on page 13 in Senior Life Allen; page 5 in Senior Life Northwest; page 16 in Senior Life Elko and page 17 in Senior Life St. Joseph.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Senior Life - Allen County - April 2026 by The Papers Inc. - Issuu