TENDING THE GARDEN Eileen Whitlock tends to the planters for Growing Together in Unity Gardens. The self-funded Master Gardener project is one of several community and educational initiatives that gives back to the community.
GROWING TOGETHER From left, volunteers with the Master Gardeners’ Growing Together team Shari Herman, Eileen Whitlock, Patty Fowler and Vicky Rydzynski show the produce they’ve grown at the Unity Gardens in South Bend. Photos by Maksym Hart.
PRUNING Master Gardener Vicky Rydzynski prunes the strawberry crop at Growing Together in Unity Gardens. In the roughly seven years since the program started, the Master Gardeners have donated two tons of produce to St. Margaret’s House.
Despite dental background, Art Museum President knows the drill
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
Nanci Yokom’s path to the presidency of the South Bend Museum of Art’s Board of Directors is anything but conventional.
A longtime dental hygienist and educator, Yokom has spent her career refining skills she now uses to help guide one of the region’s leading cultural institutions.
“I always say my only artistic ability is I can draw a central incisor to scale,” she joked. “But I’ve always supported the museum and its mission, and that’s what brought me here.”
Yokom holds a degree in dental hygiene from Marquette University and both a bachelor’s in secondary biology education and an MBA from Indiana University South Bend.
Her professional life began
in clinical dental hygiene and later shifted to education, where she taught for three decades at IUSB, eventually becoming director of dental education programs.
She also spent five years with the American Dental Association in Chicago managing national dental education policy before returning to South Bend.
Now retired from dentistry, Yokom devotes 15 to 20 hours each week to the museum.
Founded in 1947, the South Bend Museum of Art is located at 120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd., South Bend. The museum exhibits historical and contemporary works throughout its five galleries and provides art education.
It has been certified by the American Federation of Museums since 1987.
Yokom’s duties as board president include fundraising, strategic planning, supporting education and exhibit initiatives and orienting new board members.
Fundraising, she said, is one of the most critical components of the job. “We are essentially self-supporting,” she explained. “We’re constantly seeking new ways to bring in funds, whether through new events, smaller receptions, or partnerships with local supporters.”
education helps her work as board president for
local artists and providing
Recent events include the annual Garden Walk and the upcoming Elevate Dinner, which will honor long-time board member Kyle Everett.
Her background in education has proved invaluable, especially when working with the museum’s robust education department.
“I understand what our education team is doing and how they’re doing it,” she said. “They’ve reorganized and standardized the curriculum, and I can support that with insight and suggestions.”
Yokom sees the museum as not only a cultural cornerstone but also an engine of economic and social growth.
“We touch the community in so many ways, through classes, exhibits, and partnerships,” she said. “And we’re especially committed to supporting local and Midwest artists. That sets us apart.”
The museum recently expanded its offerings to include printmaking classes, made possible by the ingenuity of staff who refurbished vintage equipment.
“That area has taken off,” Yokom noted. “It’s just one example of how our programs are growing and evolving.”
Her advice for professionals, especially those over
50, who want to contribute to nonprofits is simple: get involved.
“Every organization needs help. Start by attending programs, get to know the people, join a committee,” she said. “If it touches your heart, there’s a place for you.”
As her term winds down next June, Yokom has no plans to slow down.
“I’m retired, but I’m not done. I’ll stay active in the community and with the museum,” she said. “Helping your community enriches your life. You meet people, try new things, and really get to know the place you live.”
For someone who once taught students to draw molars, Nancy Yokom is proving her leadership at the South Bend Museum of Art is anything but toothless.
Save money in the kitchen
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
Make use of that overripe fruit by freezing it in small bundles or on a baking sheet and, when solid, storing it in freezer bags.
Then use it to make smoothies or flavor for other drinks.
To deflate those puffy red eyes, place a cooled used tea bag over each eye.
While most of us know you can make a salad by simply adding oil and vinegar, you can make more flavorful dressings just as easily.
For balsamic vinaigrette, combine a pinch of salt and pepper with two teaspoons of Dijon mustard, and one minced clove of garlic with 1/3 a cup of balsamic vinegar, then whisk this mixture slowly into a half cup of olive oil. Mature
PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD Though her background is not in art, Nanci Yokom’s background in
the South Bend Museum of Art and its mission: highlighting
art education. Photo provided by South Bend Museum of Art, Vala Marketing.
MEDICARE ADVANTAGE
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Passion for the environment draws Brian Will back to Indiana
By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer
Brian Will grew up in Indiana and is thrilled to be back and using his gifts to assist in protecting the state’s environment. Will returned to Saint Joseph County in 2022 and is the president of the local chapter for the Citizens’ Climate Lobby.
“I decided that Indiana needed help dealing with climate change and the environment,”
Will said.
Will was working in human resources in Ohio up until his passion for nature made him reconsider his plans in 2020.
He watched news coverage of the wildfires in Australia and that made him want to rethink his career.
“I had always been a nature person. When I saw the video of animals suffering in the wildfires in Australia, I was devastated. That was really what pushed me,” Will said. “I
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was making good money and had a great career but I can’t continue to work full-time and see what is happening to the planet and do nothing.So I retired and I took a part-time job at Ohio State University’s medical center doing customer service training for medical staff. Decided to volunteer as much as I could on wildlife activities to help the planet.”
Two years later Will was back in the South Bend area. He bought a home in Granger and used its property for native plants.
He began going to the Citizens’ Climate Lobby and quickly became president of the South Bend-Elkhart chapter.
“I know what my skills are,” Will said. “I’m good at organizing things. I’m a good writer. I am willing to speak publicly even though I am a strong introvert. I really thought I needed to go out and use my gifts for this calling to protect the environment.”
Will grew up in New Carlisle and learned his love for nature through taking trips with his grandmother to places in Michigan such as Torch Lake.
“My grandmother, avid gardener, loved birds and nature,” Will said. “Talked to me a lot about taking care of the environment. Went to Torch Lake in Michigan. Spent hours looking at the rocks. She would take pictures of the birds and the flowers. On a personal level she got me engaged in nature.”
Finding his voice for activism, Will says Pope Francis played a key role.
THE DOCTOR IS IN — Brian Will tabling on behalf of Citizens’ Climate Lobby at the Michiana VegFest in April. Photo provided by Brian Will.
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“He was really the first pope to speak out when it comes to what he called ‘our common home’ and what he calls creation care.God gave us this planet to take care of. To be good stewards of. He taught that his entire papacy,” Will said.
Since taking over the Citi-
zens’ Climate Lobby chapter, Will has seen the meetings go from four people to 20-25 people. His group runs a table at area events to build public awareness to issues and lobby state lawmakers. The group has lobbied for an electric vehicle battery plant in
New Carlisle.
“We’ve had success with engaging people’s hearts and minds in a common residence here. People are getting involved. Every meeting we are doing things. Writing letters to editor and Showing up for litter pick-up events.”
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EDITORIAL DEADLINES
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CLIMATE ADVOCATE — Brian Will speaking in Plymouth at a rally in February outside Rep. Rudy Yakym’s office urging him to vote to protect the climate provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, such as the energy and electric vehicle tax credits. Photo provided by Rudy Yakym.
Memory Care
Master gardeners grow knowledge, food and community
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
In gardens across St. Joseph County, a dedicated group of volunteers is digging in to improve their communities and themselves.
They are the Purdue Extension Master Gardeners, part of a program that combines horticultural education, handson service and a passion for growing.
The Master Gardener program, run locally through Purdue Extension in St. Joseph County, is open to anyone willing to complete training and volunteer hours.
Although many volunteers are retirees, the only real requirement is a love of plants and a desire to help others grow.
“Once the certification process is complete, Master Gardeners commit to at least 12 hours of service to the community each year,” Patty Fowler, one of the volunteers. “But most of us far exceed that.”
That commitment translates into hundreds of volunteer hours devoted to community beautification, teaching others how to garden and growing fresh produce for local organizations. So far this year alone, more than 2,000 Master Gardeners across Indiana con-
tributed over 71,179 volunteer hours, a value of roughly $2.1 million.
Locally, projects include maintaining Kate’s Garden in Mishawaka and working with the Potawatomi Zoo and St. Margaret’s House.
But one of the standout efforts is the Growing Together Garden at Unity Gardens in South Bend, where Master Gardeners maintain roughly 400 square feet of vegetables and fruit.
“This is our seventh year here,” said Fowler. “It’s all a volunteer effort, and we’ve probably harvested close to two tons of produce so far. All of it goes to St. Margaret’s House.”
The Growing Together team — including Eileen Whitlock, Shari Herman, Vicky Rydzynski and others — spends about four hours each week during the growing season weeding, planting and harvesting.
Their work doesn’t stop there; they also build raised beds, rotate crops to prevent pests, and educate each other along the way.
“It fits all the things the Council on Aging says are important: physical activity, learning, social interaction,” Herman said. “And it’s fun.”
The program itself is a mix of rigorous training and community service.
New Master Gardeners complete at least 40 hours of instruction, covering everything from soil science and pest management to landscape design.
After passing an exam, they volunteer a minimum of 40 hours within two years. To stay active, members complete 12 volunteer hours and six hours of continuing education annually.
For many, the friendships are just as meaningful as the gardening.
“I’ve made a lot of really good friends,” Fowler said. “It’s not just about growing things, it’s about growing relationships.”
“The Master Gardener program is really a fertilizer of life,” said Herman.
Master Gardeners also lend their expertise at public events, such as Purdue’s Growing Together Summit, and help with youth gardening programs at local schools and daycares.
Some even teach workshops on rain barrels and container gardening.
For those interested, a new training course begins Thursday, Aug. 21, at the North Liberty Library, covering St. Joseph, Marshall and LaPorte counties. The cost is around $200.
“It’s a wonderful way to keep learning, meet people and give back,” Evers said. “Master Gardeners are truly helping others grow in every sense.”
For more information, call the Purdue Extension office at (574) 235-9605 or visit hort. purdue.edu/mg.
United Way’s Day of Caring returns Sept. 25
United Way of St. Joseph County has announced the return of Day of Caring Thursday, Sept. 25, a community-wide day of volunteering bringing together individuals, businesses and nonprofits to get good work done together.
From landscaping and refreshing community spaces to organizing donations and packing meals, volunteers will spend the day rolling up their sleeves at nonprofit sites across the county.
Projects will vary in type, size and time commitment, making it easy for anyone to get involved, whether you are coming solo or with a team.
“Day of Caring is all about people helping people,” said Mark Herriman, president
and CEO of United Way of St. Joseph County.
“You don’t need special skills or a lot of time. You just need a willingness to show up and make a difference. It’s one of our favorite days of the year.”
How To Get Involved
Whether you’re an individual looking to lend a hand, a workplace hoping to volunteer as a group, or a nonprofit in need of some extra support, Day of Caring has a place for you.
There are three main ways to participate:
• Sign up to volunteer, either on your own or with a team.
• Host a project site if your organization has a task that needs extra hands.
• Support the event through
sponsorship, helping provide supplies, shirts and other essentials.
To learn more or sign up, contact Courtney Kubly at ckubly@ uwsjc.org.
Why It Matters
Day of Caring is more than a service event. It is a chance to connect with the people and places that make a community strong. It is also a great way for businesses to build team spirit, nonprofits to get some much-needed help, and neighbors to spend a few hours doing something meaningful together.
UWSJC mobilizes the caring power of the community to reduce poverty and create lasting change in St. Joseph County. Visit uwsjc.org for more information.
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Learn more at Greencroft
Bob Gorny overcomes health scare to play softball
By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer
Bob Gorny enjoys playing in a senior softball league and it was here where he learned something was wrong. In a game last May in South Bend he felt his body was struggling.
“Just love playing the game, and actually it’s playing this that helped me to find out that I had a heart issue,” Gorny said. “It was my breathing that kind of gave it away. So then I went to the doctor, had it checked out, and then ended up having open heart surgery and then had carotid surgery this year.”
Gorny had his heart surgery at the Saint Joseph Health System and was back playing softball three months later. In 2025, on the verge of his 70th birthday, Gorny is working to stay active after the surgery.
“I just have been trying to get back into shape from it,” Gorny said. “Just more aware of the running and trying to get back into condition, which you never get back to what you were before the surgery. That’s what the doctors in the rehab said. That there will be a new you and they’re right.”
Gorny has been playing in the senior softball league for
17 years when it began in Mishawaka. Today, you can catch Gorny in the parks with his team in South Bend. The friendships from the league is something he credits for keeping him healthy.
“It’s like all of us guys will say out here, stay moving. That’s what we all like,” Gorny said. “Plus, for this league, the skill levels as you get older they drop off a little bit more but it is the camaraderie of hanging out with all these guys. I’ve met probably 300 new friends by playing in this league the last 17 years. Something that you probably wouldn’t do if you’re just sitting at home.”
Gorny says the teammates keep tabs on one another and make sure everyone is doing well. His situation is not the only one where a player in the league discovered a health problem before it became lethal.
“There’s been a number of people in these leagues that have found out they’ve had heart issues because of having problems breathing,” Gorny said.
Gorny is retired after working years as a manager at a grocery store. He and his wife try to stay healthy by talking walks. Gorny has the goal of reaching 10,000 steps a day.
His favorite place to walk is Indiana Dunes National Park.
“Just daily movement. A lot of people when they get older they become sedimentary and that’s just not a good thing,” Gorny said.
Gorny is typically covering ground in the outfield when
he plays. He says prefers fielding over batting. His younger brother, Frank, also plays in the league.
For now, he is thankful to be back playing and not in a hospital.
“We come out here and usually after the games as we
Professional Forum
Q. What’s up for Senior Talk Michiana in August?
A. As we mentioned last month, Senior Talk Michiana is now designated as a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, allowing us to apply for grants and solicit tax-deductible donations. Please consider contributing and sharing this with your friends, enabling us to reach a larger percentage of the 260,000 seniors in Michiana and provide them with information about available services, organizations, and events.
August’s guests include Dr. Thomas Sweeney from Caring Cove Hospice, who joins us to discuss medication safety in the summer and managing chronic conditions in the hot weather, and a panel discussion on senior SCAMS
Tom Rose
Author & Speaker
Balloon in a Box
Coping with Grief Grief Group Facilitator
Sponsored by Aging Connections of Michiana, Senior Life Newspapers, and Goshen Home Medical, Senior Talk Michiana is specifically tailored for seniors, offering valuable information on services and organizations in Michiana. Listeners can access the podcast through free subscriptions available on Spotify and www.seniortalkmichiana.org. Episodes are also available at www.thomaslrose.com/senior-talk.
The Healing Power of Paws: Why our therapy dog makes a difference
at Comfort 1 Hospice
A. At Comfort 1 Hospice, we believe in caring for the whole person body, mind, and spirit. That’s why we’re proud to offer the unique comfort of a certified therapy dog as part of our hospice care services. While many hospice providers focus solely on clinical care, we go a step further by recognizing the emotional and psychological needs of our patients and families. Our therapy dog is a gentle, loving companion who brings calm, joy, and a sense of peace during life’s most difficult moments.
Therapy dogs are specially trained to provide emotional support through quiet companionship and unconditional love. Studies show that simply petting a dog can lower stress, reduce anxiety, and even ease pain. For many of our patients, visits from our therapy dog bring smiles, spark memories, and create meaningful moments that words alone cannot achieve. Family members also benefit from feeling supported and uplifted by the comforting presence of a furry friend.
always have both teams will get together after the game, say a prayer just for giving thanks that we were able to come out. Play ball, nobody got hurt, and just the fellowship and camaraderie. And that’s what makes it fun with a lot of the guys, too.”
Tim Bradley, MA, BSN, RN Executive Director-Comfort1 Hospice
What sets Comfort 1 Hospice apart is our commitment to personal, compassionate care that goes beyond the expected. Our therapy dog symbolizes our philosophy: to treat every patient like family, with dignity, respect, and a deep understanding of what truly brings comfort.
Whether it’s sitting at the bedside, resting a gentle head on a patient’s lap, or bringing joy to a child or grandchild during a visit, our therapy dog provides a sense of peace that medication cannot deliver. It’s these small, heartfelt touches that make a big difference and that’s the Comfort 1 Hospice difference. In every paw print left behind, there’s a memory made, a heart touched, and a life honored. We’re more than a hospice provider, we’re a source of comfort, connection, and care.
Servicing St. Joseph|Elkhart|Marshall|Starke|La Porte Counties (P) 574.387.4117| (F) 833.334.0327
STRONG HEART — Bob Gorny moves from first to second in a senior league game at Memorial Park in South Bend Tuesday, July 8. Gorny is back on the field after having open heart surgery in 2024. Photo by Nathan Pace.
Tom Rose
August MPHPL programs for adults
Below is the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library’s August calendar of events for adults. Registration can be secured at (574) 259-5277.
Check mphpl.org for the most up-to-date information regarding events or to register.
Everyone is welcome to attend the MPHPL Summer Reading Challenge conclusion celebration. Enjoy outdoor games and win prizes while snacking on free popcorn and Kona Ice. Kevin Wilson from Abracadabra Magic will entertain the crowd with a special walk-around magic show. Turn in your summer reading challenge completed card and re-
ceive a new free book. There are over 120 books to choose from. Visit mphpl.org/reading-challenge for all the details.
Bingo is from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20. Join MPHPL for an hour of bingo and beverages. Winners will receive small prizes and raffle tickets for a chance to win a door prize. Registration is required.
Shirley Heinze Land Trust partners to host ‘Nature in the Arts’
Shirley Heinze Land Trust invites the public to participate in art activities and guided hikes at a free, all-ages event through the Nature in the Arts program, which encourages community members to connect with art and nature. The event, “Printmaking and Plein Air,” will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at Lydick Bog Nature Preserve, 25898 US 20, South Bend.
Attendees will learn why Lydick Bog is important, as well as the varieties of plant, amphibian and reptile species that can be found at this unique location.
South Bend Museum of Art will help attendees make a multimedia print inspired by the surrounding nature. Northern Indiana Pastel Society will demonstrate how the outdoor
landscape can spark creativity through an introductory plein air painting workshop.
“Nature in the Arts is a truly special program that allows people to connect with nature in ways that they otherwise may not have thought to,” Kris Krouse, executive director of Shirley Heinze Land Trust, said. “Every year, we look forward to the opportunity to share education about the nature around us, particularly the preserves we protect and to strengthen our partnerships with local organizations through these activities.”
Guests are invited to take guided walks through Lydick Bog, led by Shirley Heinze Land Trust staff and volunteers, and to enjoy live music from local artist, Christopher Lods and friends. Food and beverages will
Aug. 2
be available for purchase from the A Bite With Mee food truck and Cloud Walking Coffee.
Parking, accessible outdoor restrooms and water will be available. For more information, contact Deputy Director Bridget Harrison at (219) 242-8558 or email bharrison@heinzetrust. org.
Nature in the Arts is a series of events combining the outdoors with hands-on experience for all ages at Shirley Heinze Land Trust nature preserves across northwestern Indiana. Nature in the Arts activities are made possible in part by South Shore Arts, Indiana Arts Commission, a state agency, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.
Visit heinzetrust.org/naturein-the-arts to learn more.
House equity offers financial options
By CECIL SCAGLIONE
Mature Life Features
More than 70% of most retirees’ wealth is comprised of the equity in their home.
Among the questions so many seniors in this position face is whether to sell the house and move to smaller digs or a senior community, borrow money against that equity, or seek a reverse mortgage.
Selling is a no-turning-back
solution. An equity loan has to be structured so it can be repaid without difficulty — you may have to borrow enough to be able to repay it with some of the money you borrowed.
A reverse mortgage offers options but requires careful scrutiny.
First of all, you can live in the house and don’t have to repay the mortgage until it’s
sold. You do have to pay all taxes and insurance and maintain it properly until that happens. You can take the money in a lump sum, monthly income or as a line of credit.
While a reverse mortgage offers tantalizing financial freedoms, an attorney advised a long time ago: If you don’t need the money, don’t even think about a reverse mortgage.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
Harris Branch Events “Hidden Protein,” 10:3011:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 14. Learn ways to incorporate more protein into your everyday diet by incorporating cottage cheese. Registration is required; limited to MPHPL cardholders.
Mishawaka Library Events Saturday Morning Book Club, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 2. Discuss “North and South” by Elizabeth Gaskell. Books can be picked up in advance at the front desk of the Mishawaka library. Registration is required.
“American Heritage Spotlight,” 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12. Brent Holaway, the director of the National New York Central Railroad Museum, along with Steve Dinehart, the museum’s model train curator, and Dave Overton, a former curator, will give a general overview of the
New York Central Railroad in the region, with a specific focus on Elkhart and its surrounding areas.
“Alcohol Ink Art Series,” 10:30 a.m. to noon Friday, Aug. 22, 29 and Sept. 5. During this threeweek series, you’ll learn basic and advanced techniques using alcohol ink markers. Each week, participants will walk away with a completed design. Registration is required. Register once for all three sessions.
“Edible Excursions: The Mediterranean,” 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28. Enjoy an evening of exploring the Mediterranean and eating. Participants will virtually visit lands surrounding the Mediterranean Sea and then make a popular Mediterranean snack. Registration is required; limited to MPHPL cardholders.
18th Annual
HEIRLOOM TOMATO FESTIVAL
PIERCETON, IN
August 23, 2025 • 10am - 4pm Brower Park & Old Train Depot - Downtown St. Rd. 13
9am 5K RUN/WALK Registration 8am-8:40am day of race or pre-registration online
SPEAKERS TENT:
10:30am-11am - Dave Shenefied - “Clover Blossom Honey” 12-12:30pm - Maia Ross - “What’s up with the Rise of Sourdough” 1:30-2:30pm - Karen Welsh - “Make and Take Botanical Prints”
LIVE MUSIC IN BROWER PARK 10am-12:30pm - Cumberland Gap 12:45pm-1:45pm - Josh Elam 2pm-4pm - Mike & Katie
HISTORIC WALKING TOUR 11am - With Historian Joan Hostetler
ACTIVITIES TAKING PLACE ALL DAY
CONTESTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Big Bad and The Ugly - Bring in your tomato worm Largest Tomato - Bring in your heaviest tomato Scavenger Hunt - Prize of $250.00
206 S. Main St. Milford, Indiana 46542
The winner of the I Spy Contest for July is Richard Klaiber from Chesterton. The ‘Patriotic Cupcake’ was located on page 8 in Senior Life Allen; page 12 in Senior Life Northwest; page 12 in Senior Life Elko and page 8 in Senior Life St. Joseph.
1pm - Tomato Baking Contest - Contest food items will be sold immediately after judging 2:30pm - Cherry Tomato Spitting
Check us out on Facebook
www.pierceton.chamber.com under forms Call 574-797-3033 • Email: visitpierceton@yahoo.com
UPDATES & HAPPENINGS IN THE AREA
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 15th of every month at pmuthart@the-papers.com. With the listing, include the contact person, area code and phone number.
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Knute Rockne Kiwanis Club is sponsoring a “Give Back Day” Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Barnaby’s, 713 E. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend. Customers who purchase meals or gift cards at this Give Back Day and mention they are supporting Knute Rockne Kiwanis will qualify for a give back credit to the club. The
proceeds will benefit Riley Children’s Hospital. For more information, contact Tish McBride, president, at (574) 277-5140.
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Take a leisurely hike on the trails of St. Patrick’s County Park to collect items from nature to create a unique “Nature Collage” sun catcher piece of art Wednesday, Aug. 6. Children or grandchildren will receive a list of items to find along the trails. They will then be given materials and instructions to make their very own hanging sculpture for home. The cost is $5 per child and is intended for ages 6-12. Registration and payment are required by Aug. 1. St. Patrick’s County Park is
located at 50651 Laurel Road, South Bend. For more information, call (574) 654-3155 or visit sjcparks.org.
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The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra 20th Annual Hoosier Star vocal competition is Sept. 13, at the LaPorte Civic Auditorium. It will feature the adult winners from the nine prior Hoosier Star competitions who will compete for the prestigious title “Hoosier Star of Stars” as well as a cash prize. The finalists will sing their winning songs, accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Music Director Dr. Carolyn Watson.
The finalists are: Alyssa Atkinson, South Bend (2024 winner); Kelly Staton, Griffith (2023); Julia Thorn, Crown Point (2022); Jarynn Sampson, South Bend (2021); Alyse Flores, LaPorte (2020); Joe Stewart, Michigan City (2019); Mike Green, LaPorte (2018); Julia Campoli-Biek, South Bend (2017); and James Neary, LaPorte (2016).
The event also serves as a fundraiser for the LCSO; last year’s event raised nearly $50,000 for the symphony’s mission. There will be no auditions for Hoosier Star this year. Interested parties are encouraged to check the LCSO website in January 2026 for
information about Hoosier Star 2026 auditions, which will take place in March 2026.
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RiverBend Cancer Services, 3516 E. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend, offers the following events each month: 10 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, seated strength; 1 p.m. Mondays, a craft; 5:30 p.m. Mondays, gentle yoga; 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, chair yoga; 1 p.m. Tuesdays, Melt; 10 a.m. Wednesdays, Support Squad and Knitting Krew; 2 p.m. Wednesdays, dominoes; 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Support Group; 3 p.m. Thursdays, Zumba. Visit riverbendcancerservices.org or call (574) 287-4197.
Don’t lose the help you count on
By KARLA (KJ) MAPES President/CEO REAL Services
At REAL Services, we work every day with older adults who are doing their best to live independently, stay healthy and stretch their budgets. That’s not always easy, especially with rising costs and fixed incomes. Programs, like LIHEAP (energy assistance), SNAP, Medicaid, and Community Action services give people the support they
need to stay stable and independent.
Here is what each do:
• LIHEAP helps cover heating and cooling costs during extreme weather.
• SNAP helps you buy the groceries you need without cutting corners on your health.
• Medicaid helps cover health expenses, like prescriptions and in-home care.
• Community Action offers budgeting classes, financial literacy workshops, and one-on-one
support to help you set goals, manage bills and build longterm financial stability.
These programs aren’t handouts; they’re tools that help people solve problems, stay independent and live with dignity.
But now, these programs are at risk of being cut or eliminated. That includes the Community Services Block Grant, which helps fund these vital services and others that support and helps people improve their quality of life.
We Need Your Voice
Between now and Aug. 20, call or email your members of Congress, especially Congressman Rudy Yakym, and tell them these programs matter. Let them know that cutting these services would hurt real people, who are working hard to stay on their feet.
Tell them: These programs help people stay healthy, stable and independent. They don’t create dependence; they create opportunity. Support H.R. 3131, the bipartisan re-authorization
led by Rep. GT Thompson, and the proposed $780 million in FY2026 CSBG appropriations. REAL Services is here to help if you have questions or need assistance making your voice heard. Contact:
• St. Joseph County, (574) 233-8205.
• Kosciusko County, (574) 269-1173.
• Elkhart County, (574) 3224185. For all locations, email info@ realservices.org.
Apartment Living
Alice never gave up on Marlon Brando
The year was 1971. The setting was 12900 Mulholland Drive in Beverly Hills. Inside the spacious abode lived actor Marlon Brando and his secretary/assistant Alice Marchak.
By RANDAL C. HILL
At the time, Brando was deep in debt, overweight, addicted to Valium, looking at his third divorce, and determined never to act again. No matter. Nobody in Tinseltown was looking to hire him anyway. At one time the well-respected darling of stage and screen, Brando had earned an Oscar for his performance in 1954’s “On the Waterfront.” But the Omaha-born actor hadn’t been in a hit movie since the late 50s, and over the years he had become anathema to Hollywood’s moguls because of his tyrannical and
unreliable behavior.
In 1969, crime writer Mario Puzo had published the best-selling Mafia-themed book “The Godfather.” Now, two years later, Paramount Pictures announced its production as a feature film.
Puzo told Paramount that he had only Marlon Brando in mind as Vito Corleone, the bigger-than-life don of a powerful Mafia clan. Paramount’s honchos harrumphed that there was no way they would consider using the washed-up pariah, leaning instead toward either Ernest Borgnine or Charles Bronson.
Puzo penned a note to the iconic actor, which read, “Dear Mr. Brando. I wrote a book called “The Godfather,” which has had some success, and I think you’re the only actor who can play the Godfather with that quiet force and irony the part requires.”
When the note arrived, Marchak put it on Marlon’s bedside table without comment. Brando soon phoned Puzo to thank him but expressed no
interest in the role.
Marchak knew it would be a struggle to get Brando back in the game — or if anybody would even want him if he did. She subscribed to the Hollywood Reporter to track potential roles for her boss. Rather than express gratitude, though, the touchy thespian flew into a rage and roared, “This is my house, and I will not have anyone bringing movie magazines into it!”
Marchak drew a deep breath and persevered in silence.
Puzo mailed Brando a copy of “The Godfather,” hoping to convince Brando to take the role. The response: “I’m not a Mafia godfather. I’m not going to glorify the Mafia.” But when Marchak read the book, she later recalled, “I just knew this was for Marlon.”
Marchak’s breakthrough arrived when she told Brando that Paramount was now considering Laurence Olivier to portray Vito. Brando’s reaction was immediate: “He can’t play a Mafia don!” Suddenly, for whatever reason, Brando found
inspiration in the burly Corleone character.
Brando darkened his blonde locks with shoe polish, added a mustache with the same polish, and stuffed tissues in his cheeks before assuming a speaking voice of mumbled gravel.
When Coppola insisted that Brando deserved the film’s
plum role, Paramount folks reluctantly signed Brando for a relatively low salary.
“The Godfather” became one of the biggest movie hits ever, and Marlon Brando won his second Best Actor Academy Award (which, always the maverick, he refused).
Congratulations to Alice Marchak!
Broc. Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole Buttered Carrots Wheat Bread/Marg. Tropical Fruit Cup
Hot Dog on Bun Potato Salad Succotash Pineapple Cup
Turkey Tetrazzini Green Beans Garlic Bread Fig Newton
Chicken Salad Sliders
Roasted Penne Pasta
Salad Kale Salad Angel Food Cake
Hamburger on Bun Baked Beans
Roasted Summer Squash Jello
Sloppy Joe on Bun Macaroni & Cheese Mixed Vegetables Applesauce
Breaded Chicken
Scalloped Potatoes
Stewed Tom & Zucch. Wheat Bread/Marg. Oreo Cookie
Sweet & Sour Meatballs Rice Pilaf Asian Vegetable Blend Wheat Bread/Marg. Pineapple Cup
Fire Braised Chix Breast Garlic Mashers
Maple Roasted Beets
Wheat Bread/Marg. Brownie
Green Pepper Burger Casserole Mashed Potatoes Peas
Wheat Bread/Marg. Spiced Peaches
Philly Cheesesteak on Bun
Garlic Mashers Creamed Corn Mandarin Oranges
Chicken Penne Pasta w/ Spinach, Broccoli Ciabatta Roll/marg. Pear Cup
We welcome Seniors to join our program and access daily nutritional meals while increasing your socialization. Meals are prepared fresh daily in our Kitchen. Lunch site locations are open Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Country Fried Steak Garlic Mashed Pot. Cali. Blend Veg. Wheat Bread/Marg. Pudding Cup
realservices.org/meals-and-nutrition/
To make a reservation, please call the meal site director at your preferred location listed below. We look forward to serving you.
Meal Site Locations (Saint Joseph County & Laporte County)
Mishawaka
100 Center High Rise Apartments
100 N. Center St. | (574) 259-1611
Battell Center
904 N. Main St. | (574) 256-2325
Osceola | New Location
48362 Beech Rd.| (574) 674-6503
Walkerton American Legion Hall
302 Kentucky St. | (574) 334-1047
South Bend
Sanctuary Trinity Tower
316 Dr. MLK. Jr. Blvd. N. | (574) 234-7278
Fairington Apartments 1220 E. Fairington Circle | (574) 291-5597
Karl King Riverbend Tower 515 E. Monroe St. | (574) 232-4934
Charles Black Center
3419 W. Washington | (574) 229-5911
Heritage Place at LaSalle Square
3224 Ardmore Trail | (574) 286-0916
1ROOF Southeast Neighborhood Center 405 E. Dubail Ave. | (574) 381-8981
Laporte
Cambridge Square Aptartments 1111 Longwood Drive, La Porte (Bld: B)
Michigan City
Simeon Square Apartments 1207 S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City
Smrt Community Center 301 Grant Ave., Michigan City
AN EARLY PHOTO Shown is Marlon Brando, Jules Dassin and Alice Marchak at the Acropolis. Photo from Instagram.
The Stitsworths feed the hungry in body, spirit
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
Kathy and Larry Stitsworth never expected to become part of Christian Center Church’s food pantry.
But over the past two years, the couple has become just that: packing boxes, picking up donations, and serving neighbors in need with a generosity shaped by their own experiences of hardship, faith, and healing.
Their journey to service began years ago, when their daughter, Christina, volunteered Kathy Stitsworth for pantry duty.
“She said, ‘I just signed you up for the food pantry,’” Kathy Stitsworth recalled. “And I went, ‘Really?’ She said, ‘Yeah. I signed my name right under yours.’”
The act wasn’t out of the blue. Kathy Stitsworth had volunteered at food pantries before, and Christina Stitsworth knew it was something her mother loved.
Larry Stitsworth soon joined, taking on pickup duty for the pantry’s weekly donations.
Today, the two work with Christina every Sunday after church to distribute groceries to individuals and families, many of whom call them “Mama” and “Grandpa.” The food boxes are filled with dry goods and frozen meals.
But their compassion runs far deeper than food.
“We were homeless back in ’97,” Kathy Stitsworth said.
A devastating heart attack left Larry Stitsworth unable to work. With seven children and no income, the Stitsworths moved from place to place, sometimes living in houses without electricity.
At one point, they only had three cans of SpaghettiOs to feed their grandchildren.
“I handed them to my grandson and said, ‘One for you, one for your brother, and make sure your mom eats.’”
Moments later, the phone rang. A friend offered to buy them groceries. “God was so good,” Kathy Stitsworth said. “He took care of us.”
Those miracles continued. Neighbors dropped off food unprompted. A woman even delivered a trash bag full of meat after feeling prompted by God to clean out her freezer.
“We had no electricity,” Kathy Stitsworth said, “but Larry said, ‘Wrap it in towels. It’ll keep.’ And it did.”
That history fuels their passion today. The Stitsworths and Christina don’t stop at Sunday food boxes, they also feed South Bend’s homeless directly.
Once a week, they prepare meals and distribute them on the street — hot dogs, burgers, pulled pork, chips and drinks.
One night, they served 17 people after Christina Stitsworth cooked spaghetti for a man she met at a stoplight.
Local regulations briefly
threatened their street ministry as volunteers were warned they could face fines for feeding people without a permit. But one official offered a solution: wear church T-shirts.
“Once you have those on, the police can’t stop you,” Kathy Stitsworth explained.
Their work is personal. “When you’ve been in that shape, your heart goes out to them,” said Larry Stitsworth, now 81. “We know what it’s like.”
Volunteering has deepened their marriage and faith. “God brought us through everything,” Kathy Stitsworth said. “And we’re not a storehouse, we’re a distribution center. He works through us to help others.”
The couple encourages other seniors to get involved. “It’s not hard work. Maybe an hour on Sundays and Thursdays,” Larry Stitsworth said. “You form relationships with people you’d never talk to otherwise.”
Kathy Stitsworth agreed.
SERVING UP FAITH AND LOVE Larry and Kathy Stitsworth are volunteers at the food pantry in Christian Center Church, 530 E. Ireland Road, South Bend. Their service stems from lived experiences, faith and a desire to help the members of their community in need.
by Maksym Hart.
“You can’t sit around doing nothing,” she said. “You start fading away when you do that.”
At Christian Center Church, the Stitsworths have found more than service, they’ve
found purpose.
And for every meal they serve, they offer something more: hope rooted in faith and compassion grounded in experience.
We are dating ourselves
Mary Ellen and I were relaxing on our backyard deck one evening. After swatting a few mosquitoes, I said, “you know, sweetheart, we should look into screening the porch.”
By DICK WOLFSIE
“Yes, Dick, you’ve been saying that every year for the past five
A few minutes later, I mentioned how quickly the summer passes once the July 4th week-
“I know, you say that every
I also remarked that the neighbors don’t grill out as often as we do. Apparently, I had made this observation before. Several times.
Suddenly, I felt this great pressure. After 45 years, I didn’t have a single new thought to offer. I take great pride in my creativity, but clearly, I was no longer snappy with the repartee. Several moments of uneasy silence followed.
Mary Ellen finally spoke.
“When it gets this hot, I think about cutting my hair shorter.”
“Where have I heard that before?” I asked.
“Like every time we sit outside.”
At that moment, we both realized we needed a way to jazz up our conversations. Mary Ellen had an idea: “I read this article in the doctor’s office…”
I’ve seen some of those covers of Cosmopolitan, and I was just praying that was where she saw it. Phooey, it was from Good Housekeeping. Mary Ellen said the writer recommended that long-time married couples should pretend they are going out on a first date. That would make for an exciting and potentially
romantic evening.
It was an old idea, but I agreed it was worth a try. So, on Friday night I asked Mary Ellen out on a date. She was annoyed because I waited until the last minute, assuming she didn’t already have Saturday night plans. To be really suave, I went outside the house Saturday night and rang the doorbell, like it was a real date. I thought that would make a big impression on her, but she’s no dummy and realized I had simply forgotten my keys.
We drove off in the car. “What shall we talk about tonight, Dick?”
“If this were a first date, we’d probably chat about movies we have seen.”
“Okay, great idea. I just saw the new ‘Mission: Impossible’ movie.”
“I saw that, too.”
“I know, Dick, we saw it together. We were sitting right next to each other in the theater.”
“Gone to any good restaurants lately, Mary Ellen?”
“No, my husband likes to go to the same places all the time.”
“Mary Ellen, you are not supposed to have a husband. This is a first date. What kind of a jerk do you think I am, going out with a married woman? Let’s try travel. Have you ever been to Iceland?”
“We went last year. How could you forget?”
“I didn’t forget. I’m making conversation. That was the whole point of this.”
“Well, it’s getting too weird for me. I feel like I’m dating a man who’s lost his memory.”
We tried everything that people would chat about when getting to know each other: music, religion and politics. Honestly, we didn’t hit it off, but there must have been something brewing on some level because despite a dismal first date, we both ended up back at my place.
Photo
NUTSHELL
Forever Learning Institute’s fall classes begin soon
By GEORGE AZAR Executive Director Forever Learning Institute
Lifelong learning is alive and well at the Forever Learning Institute of South Bend. We are proud to announce our largest academic semester ever, offering more than 130 different courses for this fall.
Forever Learning offers short, 10-week courses for people age 50-plus, taught by an all-volunteer teacher force. There’s no homework, or grades or prior knowledge needed; just a passion to learn and grow.
Fall registration begins at 9 a.m. Monday, Aug. 18. Students can register online, by mail, or in person at the Forever Learning office. Classes begin Monday, Sept. 8. Most classes are $55 each, but scholarships are available; there are several free class offerings.
To celebrate the start of the semester, FLI will host a festive back-to-school picnic from noon to 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22. Guests can enjoy hot dogs, sides, refreshments from Kona Ice, games, raffles and the vibrant Caribbean steel drum music of Bob Pellegrino. It promises to be a joyful way to kick off the semester.
In addition, FLI offers a budding travel program, and invites the public to a special field trip at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26. Participants will journey through South Bend’s rich and complex history
Memories of reality
By JIM CARPENTER Guest Writer
I chanced upon an old, old memory.
And gave it some research in my mind.
It was a bit of a surprise to me.
It seems it had aged like fine wine.
Not all memories are still “sippable”
After the passage of so many years.
And of course, it’s hard to get over, events that might have ended in tears.
But I guess this memory stood the test.
I brushed it off so it would shine.
And added it to the others.
From those days of roses and wine.
Events are real in the present.
I suppose memories are real forever.
But one is in touch and one is in thought.
We must have one to have the other.
I think at the least I feel content.
With the very real touches I’ve had.
When my season is over and I move on, I don’t think it should be sad.
with visits to The History Museum and the Civil Rights Heritage Center, with lunch provided.
When asked why he takes classes, student, James Kane, said, “The people that I meet become friends, and then you become family, and then we all learn together. Forever’s classes prepare me to re-gift that grace to others.”
Whether you’re retired or looking for something for mom or dad, you can find more information at foreverlearninginstitute. org, or by calling (574) 282-1901.
CLASSES BEGIN Fall registration for Forever Leaning Institute classes begins at 9 a.m. Monday, Aug. 18. From left are Leighton Schmitt, board president; Toni Dunlap-Manthey, office administrator; and George Azar, executive director. Not pictured: Richard Sunshine, tech support. Photo provided by Forever Learning Institute.
Lakeside Community
Join Us for REAL Talk Unstoppable Adults: Aging in Place
Free presentations and community connections. Topics target those 60 and older, but everyone is welcome to attend.
Aug 13 | 11 AM | Portage Commons (574) 284 - 7189
Aug 21 | 11 AM | OWLS (574) 336-2652
Aug 22 | 11:30 AM | 1 ROOF(Lunch) (574) 284-7189
Aug 26 | 11:30 AM | Salvation Army of Elkhart (Lunch) (574) 284-7184
Reserve your spot by visiting realservices.org/get-involved/real-talk/
Independence | Dignity | Strength
1151 S. Michigan St, South Bend IN 46601 | (574) 233-8205
realservices.org Real Services, Inc. info@ info@realservices.org
Health Education Classes
Bingocize | Fridays: Aug 1-Oct 3
10 AM - 11 AM | Portage Commons
MOB | Mondays: Aug 4- Sept 29
10 AM - 11:30 AM | Kosciusko Cty Sr Services (800 N. Park Ave. Warsaw,IN)
PATH I Tuesdays: Aug 19-Sept 23
10 AM PM - 12:30PM | Portage Commons
SAIL I Tues & Thurs: Starts Aug 5
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM | Portage Commons
WISE I Wednesdays: Sept 17-Oct 22
10:45 AM - 12:15 PM (CT) | Michigan City Senior Center
Pre-Registration Required, Call (574) 284 - 7189
How I Stay Strong #REALStrong
Better Age Initiative
REAL Services, your trusted Area Agency on Aging, is partnering with BetterAge to bring you a new way to take charge of your life—on your own terms.
Take a 7–10-minute assessment
Receive Your Personal Health and Well-Being Report. Get a customized Action Plan with guidance and resources you can use immediately.
Explore steps for growth and improvement
Your participation benefits both you and the broader community—locally and nationally.
Upcoming Events
Mocktails & Mingling
An evening of Mocktails & Mingling, trivia, dinner, an ice cream sundae bar, and music!
60 + | $6
Under 60 | $20
Sept 10 | Kosciusko County
Sept 17 | LaPorte County
Sept 24 | Marshall County
Oct 1 | Elkhart County
Oct 8 | St Joe County
Ticket Registration COMING SOON
Protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community—stay up to date on vaccinations to prevent serious illness, reduce costly health impacts, and safeguard the future.
Learn more by visiting realservices.org/services/a2aa/vaccines/
portagecommons@realservices.org
Meeting New Friends, Trying New Things
realservices.org/portage-commons/ Portage Commons
August
10:00 AM | Crosswords and Conversations 11:30 AM | Chair Yoga 1:00PM | Community Health Worker 2:30 PM | Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL) 10:00 AM
Social Security and scam awareness
By MONA HARTER District Manager, South Bend Social Security Office
Social Security imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email, or call, do not respond.
We will never:
• Text or email images of an employee’s official government identification.
• Suspend your Social Security number.
Threaten you with arrest or other legal action unless you
immediately pay a fine or fee.
• Require payment by retail gift card, wire transfer, internet currency, or cash by mail.
Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment.
Mail or email “official” letters or reports containing your personal information.
We only send text messages in limited situations, including:
• When you have subscribed to receive updates and notifications by text.
• As part of our enhanced security when accessing your personal my Social Security account.
If you owe money to us, we will
Shortage of medical staff
By CECIL SCAGLIONE
Mature Life Features
The aging population not only is creating more demand for medical services, it’s also accelerating the shortage of doctors and nurses as they approach retirement age.
As the 65-and-over population grows by almost 50% over the next decade, almost the same percentage of doctors will join that phalanx during the same period.
We expect to be almost 140,000 physicians short of what we need by 2033, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges, reports Bottom Line.
To protect yourself, you can look for a younger doctor to care for you should your current physician retire. You also can seek a primary care physician affiliated with a group practice so there will be a medical doctor there to serve you should your current doctor leave.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
mail you a letter with payment options and appeal rights. Social Security employees do contact the public by telephone for business purposes. Ordinarily, the agency calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit, are already receiving payments and require an update to their record or have requested a phone call from the agency.
If there is a problem with a person’s Social Security number or record, Social Security will typically mail a letter.
We encourage you to report suspected Social Security imposter scams — and other Social Security fraud — to the OIG’s website at oig.ssa.gov/report. You can find more information about scams at ssa.gov/scam. Please share this information with your friends, family, and colleagues to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter scams.
SOCIAL SECURITY SCAM AWARENESS Social Security advises if you receive a suspicious letter, text, email or call, do not respond. To learn more about scams visit ssa.gov/scam.
South Shore Line fare increase took
The South Shore Line would like to remind the public of the previously approved fare increase that will go into effect July 1.
The fare adjustment, approved by the NICTD Board of Trustees May 28, is part of a long-term strategy to ensure continued investment in infrastructure, customer experience, and operational reliability across the South Shore Line system.
“The increase, the first in over seven years, reflects the growing costs of maintaining and improving commuter rail service while continuing to provide safe, efficient, and convenient transportation for our passengers,” said Michael Noland, South Shore Line president.
As part of the July 1, fare increase, the South Shore Line has also enhanced discounts on multi-ride tickets, raising 10-ride ticket discounts from 5% to 10%, and 25-ride ticket discounts from 10% to 20%.
These adjustments are designed to better serve riders whose commuting habits
have shifted, especially those now traveling to Chicago fewer days per week.
“We hope these increased savings offer added value to our frequent travelers,” said Noland.
Another option for riders who use the service more frequently is the monthly ticket, which provides a 33% savings based upon a 21-day work month. The monthly ticket is best for those who ride 18 days or more within a single month.
It also reminds riders that many employers participate in Section 132 (f) transit benefit programs, which allow employees to pay for transit using pre-tax dollars.
Riders who use this benefit can save up to an additional 40% on their commuting costs. Through Transit Benefit programs, passengers have commuting funds deducted pre-tax from paychecks. The South Shore Line accepts Transit Benefit cards at ticket vending machines and on the South Shore Line mobile app.
The South Shore Line also wants to note that the
previous offering of buy one, get one for monthly tickets is discontinued as part of this fare increase.
Passengers are encouraged to view the updated fare chart available on the South Shore Line website, mysouthshoreline.com/tickets/tickets-fares.
NICTD remains committed to transparency and open communication with its riders. Public input was solicited prior to the board’s approval, and the final fare structure reflects the feedback received from communities across northern Indiana and the greater Chicago area.
The South Shore Line thanks its riders for their continued support and looks forward to serving the region with reliable and modern commuter rail service for years to come.
The South Shore Line is a commuter rail line operated by the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District between Millennium Station in downtown Chicago and South Bend International Airport.
Notre Dame’s Shakespeare Festival announced
The Notre Dame Shakespeare Festival is returning as organizers commemorate 25 years of serving Michiana with world-class productions of Shakespeare’s most wellknown works.
In August, the NDSF Professional Company stages Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, King Lear Thursday, Aug. 21, to Sunday, Aug. 31, and previews Tuesday, Aug. 19, and Wednesday, Aug. 20, directed by Pirronne Yousefzadeh.
“Since the founding of the Festival in 2000, the vision of our founder, Paul Rathburn, has remained constant: Bring
the nation’s best artists and designers to the University of Notre Dame in order to produce world-class productions of Shakespeare’s works for the benefit of our students and wider community,” says Scott Jackson, Mary Irene Ryan Family executive artistic director of Shakespeare at Notre Dame.
She continued, “We are honored to carry this legacy forward for the next 25 years!”
King Lear
Shakespeare’s King Lear is one of the playwright’s most famous creations: a tale of loss, memory, insanity and
the importance of love.
As an aging king seeks to divide his kingdom amongst his three daughters, the forces of jealousy, blindness and madness threaten his reign — and the future of not just his country but his family.
King Lear is brought to life by the Notre Dame Shakespeare Festival’s Professional Company.
The show is directed of Pirronne Yousefzadeh, a director, writer and educator whose work has been produced by the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Playmakers Repertory Company, the Kennedy Center and many others.
It will be performed at Patricia George Decio Theatre, DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, Notre Dame. Admission costs $10-75 and can be purchased at shakespeare.nd.edu.
Opening night’s admission is $75 and includes food, drink and a ticket to the opening night performance of King Lear.
Celebrate the opening night of King Lear and 25 years of the Notre Dame Shakespeare festival by raising a glass with cast and crew, donors, and stalwart audience members from seasons past and present.
Immediately following all Friday night performances, there is a free actor Q and A. Other Events
•There are free pre-show seminars at 6:45 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, and Thursday, Aug. 28, Regis Philbin Theater, DeBartolo Performing Arts Center.
•On 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug.30, there is a free gallery stroll with Peter Holland.
•For more information, contact Shakespeare at Notre Dame at (574) 631-3777 or shakes@nd.edu, or follow the company on Facebook, Threads and Instagram for ticketing and parking info.
Assisted Living, nursing And rehAbiLitAtion guide
Aperion Care - Arbors Michigan City
Short Term Rehab, Long Term Care, On-Site Therapy 7 Days A Week, Orthopedic Rehab, Post-Stroke Rehab, Nurse Practitioner Oversight, Wound Care, Respiratory Care, IV Therapy, Cardiac Rehab, Newly Remodeled Communities, Memory Care
Brickyard Fountainview Health Center 1101 E. Coolspring Avenue, Michigan City, IN 46360 (219) 874-5211 • www.aperioncare.com
609 W. Tanglewood Lane, Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 277-2500 • brickyardhc.com
Rehabilitation, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapy. Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Long-Term, Respite Care, Pet Visitation Allowed. Non-Smoking Facility. Chronic Heart Failure & Wound Care Programs Offered. Medicare And/Or Medicaid Accepted.
Dujarie House, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Respite Care, Rehabilitation Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Residential Apartments
Rehabilitation, Healthcare, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Maintenance Free Homes, Licensed, Locally Owned, Non-Profit, Faith Based, Physical, Occupational, Speech Therapies, Memory Care Support Group, Pet Friendly, There’s No Place Like Hubbard Hill
Majestic Care of South Bend
52654 N. Ironwood Road, South Bend, IN 46635 (574) 277-8710 • www.Majesticcare.com
Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational- Respiratory-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Medicare and/or Medicaid
Morning View Assisted Living
475 North Niles Avenue, South Bend, IN 46617 (574) 246-4123 • www.morningview-alf.com
Primrose Retirement Community of Mishawaka 820 Fulmer Road, Mishawaka, IN 46544 (574) 259-3211 • primroseretirement.com
Our spacious independent and assisted living apartments offer something to retire to not just something to retire from. Residents at Primrose enjoy a healthy and active living environment.
Riveridge Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center
1333 Wells Street, Niles, MI 49120 (269) 684-1111 • www.riveridgerehab.com
Riveridge Rehab in Niles, Michigan, offers newly renovated rehab units with 4 private suites. Additionally, we have a locked memory care unit with multi-sensory room.
Our Gated Community is a smaller, dedicated unit for comfort and safety for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Residents. We offer Enhanced Quality of Life Programming which includes cognitive strengths, life skills, daily movement, power of music, artistic expression, creativity and socialization. Signature HealthCARE of Bremen
Compassionate and trained caregivers on staff 24-hours per day. Accepting Medicaid waiver. Secure units. Assistance with activities of daily living. Daily life enrichment activities. Nutritional and dietary support. Tanglewood Trace Senior Living
530 Tanglewood Lane, Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 277-4310
www.tanglewoodtraceseniorliving.com
Offering Retirement Villas, Independent and Licensed Assisted Living, Therapy Services, Respite Care, Social and Recreational Activities, Pets Welcome, Transportation, Beauty Shop and Spa Services Available.
The Waters of Wakarusa-Assisted Living Facility
303 N. Washington Street, Wakarusa IN 46573 (574) 862-1918
admissions@watersofwakarusaALF.com
Independent/Assisted Living. Private studio/1bed/2bed apartments. Home-like family-oriented environment. Family-style dining. Daily activities. Transportation available. 24-hour care-givers. Pet friendly. Out-patient therapy available. Come for tour today.
Contact Marla Schroeder For More Details! 574-350-4488 1-866-580-1138 Ext. 2319 mschroeder@the-papers.com
HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY
AGING & HEALTH RESOURCES
REAL SERVICES, INC. 1151 South Michigan Street
Phone (574) 233-8205
www.realservices.org
Provides services to empower our community to live with independence, dignity, and strength. Call us to learn more.
See Our Ad In This Issue
AGING & WELLNESS RESOURCES
AGING CONNECTIONS
Serving Northern IN & Southwest MI
A free online directory for aging & wellness resources. Our members offer a wide variety of services and information for your specific needs. www.agingconnections.org
Hover over Chapters on the navigation bar, then select your area and click directory. Aging Connections is a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
ALZHEIMERS/MEMORY CARE
NORTH WOODS VILLAGE
AT EDISON LAKES
1409 E. Day Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 247-1866
www.northwoodsmemorycare.com
See Our Ad In This Issue
ALZHEIMERS/MEMORY CARE
SIGNATURE HealthCARE OF BREMEN
316 Woodies Lane Bremen, IN 46506 (574) 546-3494
SHCofBremen.com
liaison2.bremen@signaturehealthcarellc.com
Our Gated Community is a smaller, dedicated unit for comfort and safety for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Residents. We offer Enhanced Quality of Life Programming which includes cognitive strengths, life skills, daily movement, power of music, artistic expression, creativity and socialization.
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
HAMILTON GROVE
31869 Chicago Trail New Carlisle, IN 46552 (574) 654-2200
Greencroft.org/HamiltonGrove
SOUTHFIELD VILLAGE
6450 Miami Circle
South Bend, IN 46614 (574) 231-1000
Greencroft.org/SouthfieldVillage
Hamilton Grove and Southfield Village provide a full continuum of care-assisted living, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
DAY CENTER
SAINT JOSEPH PACE
250 East Day Rd. Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 247-8700
saintjosephPACE@trinity-health.org
Helping seniors live safely at home. PACE’s main objective is to keep seniors out of nursing homes.
FOOT CARE
FOOT SOLUTIONS
323 Florence Ave., Granger, IN 46530 (574) 272-3668
granger@footsolutions.com
Better Health Through Your Feet! Solutions for Plantar Facitis Morton’s Neuroma, bunions, morton’s neuroma, sore knees, sore ankles and more. Call for your FREE foot analysis.
HEALTHCARE
HealthLinc
Multiple locations throughout Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Starke and St. Joe Counties (888) 580-1060
healthlincchc.org
Providing quality medical, dental, optical, behavioral health, pharmacy, podiatry, chiropractic and much more.
www.abc-michiana.com
COMFORT KEEPERS
6910 N. Main St., Ste. 3, Unit 47 Granger, IN 46530 (574) 277-4121, (574) 327-6123
www.southbendin.comfortkeepers.com
Providing Compassionate Senior Home Care & Home Assistance In Northern Indiana Region. Includes personal care, respite care, transitioning home care and more. Indiana Medicaid, VA Provider, long term insurance and private pay.
HOME INSTEAD
3025 Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 256-1479
www.homeinstead.com/343
From companionship to transportation to loving care, to us it’s personal.
HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY
HOME CARE SERVICES
VILLAGE CAREGIVING
2515 N. Bendix Dr., Ste. 201 South Bend, IN 46628 (574) 931-0712
villagecaregiving.com
Nations Largest Privately Owned And Operated Home Care Agency. VA Provider. We Accept A Variety Of Payment Options. Call Today!
VISITING ANGELS OF MICHIANA 3840 Edison Lakes Parkway Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 323-6756
jfinnessy@visitingangels.com
Nonmedical services include: Customized Memory Care Program, Housekeeping, Transportation, Bathing, Dressing, Transferring, Companionship, Meals, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care. We are a VA Provider.“We’re Here for You — Always!”
HOME HEALTHCARE AGENCY
NORACARE
1251 N. Eddy Street, Suite 200 South Bend, IN 46617 (574) 222-5992
info@noracare.us
www.noracare.us
Access experienced health professionals to support your home healthcare needs at affordable rates. We accept long-term care insurance.
HOSPICE CARE
CARING COVE HOSPICE
3120 N. Home St. Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 855-3017
www.caringcovehospice.com/
We’re here to help by providing personalized exceptional hospice care. Serving St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall and Laporte counties.
Comfort 1 Hospice
118 W. Edison Rd., Suite 200
Mishawaka, IN 46545
(574) 387-4117
www.Comfort1Hospice.com
Our homegrown team of local health care providers offer comfort and compassion to those with life-limiting illnesses in our community. We Can Help!
See Our Ad In This Issue
HOSPICE CARE
DUNES HOSPICE
(888) 602-9004
4711 Evans Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383 1417 N. Michigan Street Plymouth, IN 46563
duneshospicellc.com
A 5 Star hospice. Dunes Hospice has the highest visit frequencies in the area for nurses, CNAs, Social Workers, and Spiritual Counselors. We serve with dignity, honor, and above all, compassion.
HEART TO HEART HOSPICE
620 Edison Rd., Suite 122 Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 855-4475
hearttohearthospice.com
Compassionate care from our heart to yours. Volunteers needed. CHAP Accredited
PARADIGM HEALTH
3625 Park Place West, Suite 200 Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 332-8320
MyParadigmHealth.com
Honoring life’s journey with expert hospice and pallative care services. Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our patients and their families. Exceptional end-of-life care is provided by our valued and empowered team. Hoosiers Caring for Hoosiers.
See Our Ad In This Issue
IN-HOME CARE
SENIOR HELPERS
230 W. Catalpa, Ste. B Mishawaka, IN 46544 (574) 968-1068
https://www.seniorhelpers.com/in/southbend/ South Bend’s Premier Service Provider of Personalized In-Home Senior Care. Our mission is to provide reliable senior care throughout our community. We will visit you or your loved one where you ARE. Call TODAY for more information.
THE VILLAGE AT ARBORWOOD
820 Cleveland Rd. East Granger, IN 46530 (574) 247-4680
www.villageatarborwood.com A Lifestyle You Deserve, An Apartment You Can Afford.
See Our Ad In This Issue
MEDICAL CLINIC
NORTHSHORE HEALTH CENTERS
Locations in Portage, Lake Station, Chesteron, Merrillville, Hammond, LaPorte & DeMotte
By appt. or walk-ins welcome. (219) 763-8112 or (888) 459-2349
www.northshorehealth.org
Affordable medical and urgent care regardless of ability to pay. Medicare, Medicaid, commercial insurance accepted. Discounted self-pay option.
MEMORY CARE
CHAPTERS LIVING OF SOUTH BEND 955 N. Hickory Road South Bend, IN 46615 (574) 314-5369
chapterssouthbend.com
Memory Care Community where your loved ones can live. Not just exist! Start your next chapter. Call Today!
NON-MEDICAL HOME CARE
LIFTING HEARTS HOME CARE
Fort Wayne, IN 46819 (260) 705-4115
www.liftinghearts.live
Our mission is simple: to provide compassionate, personalized care that enables seniors and individuals to live independently at home. Through a patient-centered approach and tailored services, we ensure the unique needs of each client are met with dignity and respect.
‘At Seventeen’ resuscitated Ian’s career
Janis Ian
At 74, Janis Ian has built a career on just two hit songs whose inspirations had come about under the most ordinary of circumstances.
A Boomer Blast To The Past
By RANDAL C. HILL
Born Janis Eddy Fink in New Jersey, Ian mastered the acoustic guitar as a young girl and began pursuing dreams of becoming a folk singer. At age 12, she composed her first tune, the haunting “Hair of
Be prepared before the next power outage. Blast to the Past!
Spun Gold.”
A short time later, while riding her middle-school bus, Ian noticed a young interracial couple. The result of that observation led to the creation of her debut recording of the controversial “Society’s Child (Baby I’ve Been Thinking).”
The 1960s was bringing numerous changes to American society, and Ian’s 1967 tune about an interracial teen romance caused an upheaval in certain circles. She received hate mail and death threats, as did some disc jockeys who dared to spin her hit Verve Records disc on their turntables.
Ian’s heady days of success proved short-lived, though.
The next several years saw
her battling depression, substance abuse, and a manager who ran off with all her earnings. But along the way she continued to release quality works of brutal honesty, soldiering on before appreciative but dwindling concert audiences. Discouraged at times, she briefly contemplated becoming a veterinarian.
By the mid-1970s, Ian was living with her mother and writing a song a day, all to no avail. It was then that another ordinary-seeming moment changed her life.
“One day, I was sitting at the dining table, reading the New York Times magazine,” Ian recalled later. “There was an article about a woman who had thought her life would
JANIS IAN
change and be perfect when she had her debutante ball. The first line was ‘I learned the truth at 18.’ ”
There it was — the idea for her next composition, and one that would resuscitate her faltering career.
During high school, she may have been the hip artist heard on Top 40 radio, but as a student she never experienced a homecoming or a prom or
of youth
“Were spent on one more beautiful
“At 17 I learned the truth
“It was long and far away
“The world was younger than today
“When dreams were all they gave for free
“To ugly duckling girls like me.”
In time, her Columbia Records single became a mil
“We want to purchase your collections” . . .
Centuries transform French hill towns
By FYLLIS HOCKMAN Mature Life Features
On our first morning, we left to explore Pernes-les-Fontaines, a 10-minute walk from our cozy 100-year-old two-story farmhouse we would call home for two weeks.
There is a supermarket near Pernes but it was so much more French to stop at the butcher, baker, cheese shop, and produce store to purchase provisions as we traversed streets spanning several centuries in an afternoon’s outing.
Our first hill town, one of more than a dozen within an hour’s drive of Pernes, was Gordes, touted to be one of the 100 Most Beautiful Villages in France. Its stone buildings enveloped by stone walls dating back to the 11th century overlook vast vineyards.
From Gordes, it’s an easy drive to Roussillion, a town shrouded in a combination
of red, maroon, orange, terra cotta and yellow reflected from nearby ochre cliffs.
The next town, Menerbes, is another of the 100 Most Beautiful Villages in France and home town of Peter Mayle, Legion d’Honneur recipient and author of the renowned My Year in Provence. It’s quieter and more subdued than Gordes.
When visiting these small towns, park in the lots outside of town. Don’t even think about driving in these towns with streets narrow enough to touch the walls with your outstretched arms.
Whatever the village, it’s always a good idea to stroll off the main square to see where the people really live.
We found ourselves navigating 13th-century corridors with the sounds of everyday life emanating from apartment windows. There was a lot more life in this ghost town — it
was Sunday and everything was closed — than we thought.
The next day, when visiting a favorite restaurant, our waiter smilingly led us to “your usual table.” Voila, we belonged. Avignon was a different experience. A big walled city from the 14th century, the operative word there is big. Massive medieval monuments dominate the square —
churches, palaces, municipal buildings, and amphitheaters.
We took special note of the Palais de la Pape, which was the center of the papacy in the early 14th century before it returned permanently back to Rome.
As my husband’s eyes were beginning to glaze over at the thought of another hill town, we mixed up our days with a
local hike, visit to a museum, farmer’s market, and festival of bulls in St. Remy. When planning our next day’s adventures, we picked up a baguette and cheese from the market to accompany another glass of wine before dining al fresco at our arbor-covered, garden-enclosed picnic table
Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
PERNES Pernes-les-Fontaines streets span several centuries. Victor Block Photo, Mature Life Features.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Walls
Walls
Ceilings
Ceilings
Walls
Window And Door Trim
Window And Door Trim
Ceilings
Stairways
Stairways
Window And Door Trim
Woodwork Staining
Stairways
Woodwork Staining
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Small Patch Repair
Woodwork Staining
Small Patch Repair
Drywall Repair
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Drywall Repair
Small Patch Repair
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
Drywall Repair
References Available Upon Request.
References Available Upon Request.
574-304-5075
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
574-304-5075
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
GORDES Gordes is one of the 100 Most Beautiful Villages in France. Victor Block Photo, Mature Life Features.
Highway’s history links Ford with Ike
By TOM MORROW Mature Life Features
While history books dedicate much of the credit for our nation’s interstate highway system to Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was our nation’s president from 1953 to 1961, much of the responsibility for it has to be attributed to automotive pioneer Henry Ford.
Before the emergence of the Ford’s Model T, most Americans had never been more than 50 miles from home. While this horseless carriage was affordable for the average working family, there were a limited number of roadways on which to travel in the early 1900s.
The few roads that existed in the Southwestern and Western states were nothing more than a two-track mud or dusty pathway cut through the landscape connecting one village or town with another.
The first major highway in the U.S. was built in 1920 by the Old Trails Road Association, a private organization that built a Missouri roadway connecting St. Louis and Kansas City. The association’s president was Jackson County
Judge Harry S. Truman of Independence, Mo.
In 1926, the association determined roads be split into several numbered highways throughout the nation. The portion of the Old Trails Road from Chicago to Los Angeles would later become the iconic US Route 66.
The Lincoln Highway became the first coast-tocoast roadway running from New York’s Times Square to Los Angeles. The Old Trails Association proposed automobile manufacturers donate 1% of their annual revenue to building the various national roads. All the major company heads complied except one — Henry Ford.
He declared highways were the responsibility of the national government, not private enterprise. Ol’ Henry was a known miser. He “made” money, he didn’t spend much of it.
In 1919, the U.S. Army mounted a car-and-truck convoy headed by Lt. Col. Dwight D. Eisenhower to travel the length of the new Lincoln Highway to determine viability of the road.
Eisenhower reported that
the Lincoln Highway through Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana was in “fairly good shape” and much of it paved, but the roadway west from Illinois was mostly a dirt trail. The road became nearly impassable during bad weather, especially rain, leaving much of it little more than a deep-rutted roadway.
These findings encouraged
Congress to pass the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1921 that increased matching state funds.
Until roads were built in the various western states, the old Oregon Trail crossed what is now the states of Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho and Oregon.
After the Army convoy excursion, young Ike vowed
to do everything he could to improve the nation’s roadways. Years later, as President Eisenhower, he oversaw the creation of our modern interstate highway system, fashioning after the German autobahn he saw at the end of World War II.
Germany’s autobahn was started in the mid-1920s but construction did not make progress beyond the planning stage due to the Great Depression. Its first section was completed between Cologne and Bonn and officially dedicated Aug. 6, 1932, by Konrad Adenauer, Lord Mayor of Cologne and future Chancellor of West Germany.
The Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate & Defense Highways, using the German scheme as a network of controlled-access highways, connects most principal cities across the nation.
The Eisenhower administration began construction 1956 and was proclaimed completed in 1992. The cost was approximately $114 billion (more than $520 billion today).
The Interstate system uses a numbering scheme in which primary Interstates are assigned one- or two-digit numbers and shorter routes are assigned three-digit numbers where the last two digits match the parent route.
Much of the Lincoln Highway still exists as US 30, which parallels I-80 connecting Lincoln Park in San Francisco with Times Square in New York City.
One-quarter of all miles driven in the U.S. use the Interstate network of 48,440 miles. Because of its heavy use, especially by truck traffic, the system is constantly under restorative construction.
Thanks to Ike, our lives have been greatly changed because of the Interstate. It was good for travelers and bad for the dozens of small towns and cities which were by-passed. And thanks to Henry Ford, who made the automobiles that forced the government to build our highways.
Mature Life Features Copyight 2025
BURMA SHAVE The history of America’s interstate highway system began with Dwight Eisenhower, Henry Ford and the Lincoln Highway — much of which still exists today. Photo by Tom Morrow, Mature Life Features.
Scam a day keeps crooks in play
By CECIL SCAGLIONE
Mature Life Features
Consumer fraud experts estimate fraudulent telemarketers steal as much as $40 billion a year. More than half of that money is stolen from retirees living on limited income and finite savings. The 70-79 years of age group is the hardest hit senior phalanx, with an average loss of more than $49,000 each. Furthermore, not all scams, cons and frauds are reported to law enforcement because the victims are ashamed of making mistakes or are unaware
they’ve been bilked. That means many billions more are lost to con artists in “pigeon drops,” home-repair schemes, bank-examiner scams and the like.
Almost half of the some 65,000 cases reported each year by the elderly are perpetrated by family members or fiduciaries who take advantage of their position in charge of the elderly’s finances.
The other half is stolen by strangers who drum up scams, cons and frauds designed to convince their targets to hand over their money willingly and without worry.
Time beats jet lag
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
Travel a few hours into the future — or the past depending on the time at your destination — to avoid jet lag.
It’s what happens when you’ve landed at your destination but your body is out of sync with local time.
It can cause irritability, decreased concentration, dizziness, headaches, muscle soreness, and such gastrointestinal problems as constipation or diarrhea.
Symptoms can be aggravated by stress, lack of sleep, dry air, dehydration and a bumpy airplane ride.
The severity of symptoms is related to the number of time zones crossed during a flight. For every one-hour time zone change you undergo, it generally takes at least half a day to adjust, consensus says.
While there’s no single, proven method for preventing or curing jet lag, medical experts offer suggestions that could help: First off, set you wrist watch and body clock to the time at your destination when you arrive at the
airport to board your flight.
If you’re a napper, the transition can be much easier. Sleeping on the airplane, even if its noon when you land, shouldn’t ruin your trip. If it’s going to be 9 p.m. when you land, stay awake on the airplane.
Rest up before your trip. Be prepared for canceled, delayed and overcrowded flights. It may be better for your well-being to stay in a nearby hotel overnight if the airline scuttles your reserved flight and re-books you on a later one.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, but avoid alcohol and caffeine. They can increase the amount of time it takes your body to adjust to the new time zone and may prevent you from sleeping once you reach your destination.
Avoid taking sleeping pills during the flight. They can cause sleepiness long after your intended sleep time and can worsen the sleepiness associated with jet lag.
If you take medications, check with your doctor to see what effect jet lag may have and if there is something you can take to counteract it.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
As the nation’s senior population increases, so does the pool of available victims.
Telephones are the most common and most successful scam tool in operation today. Wireless technology allows scammers to call victims, without fear of detection, from anywhere in the world. The lottery or sweepstakes scam, countless “phishing” scams and various credit card ploys lead the way.
First of all, know that it is illegal to require prize winners to pay up front to receive their winnings.
But more importantly, never give such personal information as your Social Security number, credit-card account numbers, or banking information to anyone who has called you. Just hang up.
Never contract with or allow unsolicited door-to-door sales or repair people inside your home
without independent verification of who they are and who they work for. Check references or ask neighbors who they use for a service.
Shred all personal and financial information — any piece of paper that has your name, address and/or any financial account information.
Always be wary of any one who says you must decide now, or they’ll send a courier to pick up your check right now, or they need you to wire money.
Check on your senior neighbors, particularly those living alone, to keep them informed about scams and learn if they have any information to help you.
Call the police if you suspect you are being scammed. And make a police report if you have been conned, no matter how embarrassed you may feel.
The Attorney General’s Office
has some suggestions on how to protect yourself.
Any one of these warning signs should make you think twice before you provide personal information or send money:
• Unsolicited mail, e-mail or telephone calls.
• A promise that you will receive a large sum of money.
• Any effort to obtain personal financial information.
• You have to pay money first before you get money.
• You are told to wire money instead of using the U.S. Mail.
Whether it’s mail fraud or telephone fraud, chances are it will begin with an unsolicited contact from somebody you’ve never heard of.
There is never a good reason to give any caller your bank account, credit card, PIN or Social Security number.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
DRINKING FOUNTAIN The state-of-the-art Pathology Laboratory had electric lights, hot and cold running water and a library of 500 volumes. The building cost $15,000 and was built in 1896 without receiving any money from the Indiana State Legislature.
TEACHING AMHPITHEATER The steeply-banked teaching amphitheater in the Pathology Building is where medical students and physicians learned about mental and nervous system disorders, witnessed autopsies and viewed behavior of patients from Central State Hospital for the Insane.
IMHM explored study, treatment of mental illness
In order to fully experience the growth of modern medicine The Victorian-style structure is the oldest free-standing pa-
Crossroad Tours Crossroad Tours
laboratory to support study and 100-seat amphitheater. It hosted medical students and physicians over the decades for lectures on mental and nervous disorders. Visitors can experience what it was like to be a medical student a century ago and observe cadavers that were presented as part of autopsy instruction.
laboratory for pathologists. They worked in one or two profession urged men-
Diamond To
September 21-27, 2025 - Beautiful Vermont
October 11-19, 2025 - Amelia Island, St. Augustine, Jacksonville, FL
Until the construction of this facility, there was no dedicated
November 3-7, 2025 - Nashville Show Trip
December 7-12, 2025
April 11-19,2026
May 17-23, 2026
Crossroad Tours oad
Crossroad Tours ros rs
October 1-12, 2026
Hoover Dam
D
Family Fun T ours
September 21-27, 2025
July 12, 2025 - Air Zoo
August 16, 2025 - Chicago Air Show
August 23, 2025 - Toledo Zoo
October 11-19, 2025
July 19, 2025 - Peru Circus
Crossroad Tours Crossroad Tour
September 27, 2025 - Wrigley Field
August 16, 2025 - Chicago Air Show
September 27, 2025 - Brookfield Zoo
August 23, 2025 - Toledo Zoo
September 27, 2025 - Brookfield Zoo
October 23-25, 2025The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum
Augustine, Jacksonville, November 3-7, 2025December 7-12, 2025
Family Fun Tours
October 23-25, 2025 - The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum
July 12, 2025 - Air Zoo
July 19, 2025 - Peru Circus
August 16, 2025 - Chicago Air Show
August 23, 2025 - Toledo Zoo
September 27, 2025 - Brookfield Zoo
October 23-25, 2025 - The Ark
Encounter & Creation Museum
September 27, 2025 - Brookfield Zoo
April 11-19,2026
October 23-25, 2025 - The Ark
May 17-23, 2026
Encounter & Creation Museum
Diamond Tours
October 1-12, 2026
Hoover Dam
September 21-27, 2025 - Beautiful Vermont
September 21-27, 2025 - Beautiful Vermont
October 11-19, 2025 - Amelia Island, St. Augustine, Jacksonville, FL
November 3-7, 2025 - Nashville Show Trip
December 7-12, 2025 - Charleston, South Carolina
October 11-19, 2025 - Amelia Island, St. Augustine, Jacksonville, FL
November 3-7, 2025 - Nashville Show Trip
April 11-19, 2026 - San Antonio, TX
May 17-23, 2026 - Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard
December 7-12, 2025 - Charleston, South Carolina
June 8-13, 2026 - Lancaster Show Trip
April 11-19,2026 - San Antonio, TX
July 23-29, 2026 - New York
August 31-September 4, 2026 - Mackinac Island
May 17-23, 2026 - Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard
- Beautiful Vermont
- Amelia Island, St.
Nashville Show Trip
a building specifically for laboratory sciences and medical education. The original four-room, one-story plan grew into the structure that was finally built for a cost of $15,000. It included electric lighting, telephone, hot and cold running water and a library with more than 500 volumes. Amazingly, he was able to get it built without receiving any state money. He used money from the 1895/96 operating and maintenance funds.
- Charleston, South Carolina
- San Antonio, TX
- Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard - Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and
Despite the fact that it was hailed as the best state-of-theart laboratory in the country, getting maintenance funds from the Indiana Legislature was a continuing battle.
September 12-19, 2026 - Montreal, Quebec City, Canada Capital
October 1-12, 2026 - Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and Hoover Dam
October 1-12, 2026 - Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and Hoover Dam
In the autopsy room, visitors learn that the legislature passed a law that all wards of the state were to be autopsied, mainly for teaching purposes. Autopsies were done then much as they are today. Recording of the procedure was done through a listening tube in a room upstairs. Blood and body fluids drained directly into a sewer and into the White River. Autopsies for the purpose of research were discontinued in 1947.
Probably the busiest room in the building was the clinical chemical lab. When a patient was admitted to the hospital,
Continued on page 23
GREAT ESCAPES
Text and Photos By ROD KING
IMHM explored
Continued from page 22
this is where all samples were examined. The room includes a mechanical centrifuge, which had to be hand cranked. An electrically-operated version was added in 1931.
Visitors who step back in time at the Indiana Medical History Museum, located at 3270 Kirkbride Way, tour in comfort because air conditioning was added in 1989. The laboratories closed in 1969 and Central State Hospital closed in 1994.
For more information, visit imhm.org. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and $5 for youths under 18. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
CLINICAL CHEMICAL LAB
Busiest of the four labs in the building was the Clinical Chemical Laboratory, where blood samples from newly-admitted patients were examined and analyzed. The room contains a handcranked centrifuge.
PATHOLOGY LABORATORY
structure. The completed structure is this Victorian-style
Register of Historic Places.
AUTOPSY TABLE — Autopsies were done at the turn of the century much as they are today. Recording of the procedure was done through a listening tube in a room upstairs. In order to get patient’s families to allow an autopsy, Central State Hospital offered free funerals. Blood and body fluids drained directly into a sewer and into the White River.
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Ask questions, get resources & schedule family consultations
Assist in finding a location, determine what date and times work best for groups, help see benefits of attending a support group. Weekly programs are open to individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
Assist in finding a location, determine what date and times work best for groups, help see benefits of attending a support group.
Allows caregivers to discuss frustration, ask questions & create a care plan.
