Senior Life - St. Joseph Edition - July 2025 by The Papers Inc.

Living Life After 50

July 2025

ExtensionHomemakers seek to benefit others

By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer

Betty Carpenter has been with LaPorte County Extension Homemakers for 45 years, as was her mother before her. The organization, first formed in 1913 through Purdue University, focuses on “everything that makes a house a home,” she said.

“It began with rural women getting together at Purdue University, needing something to help them not just with friendship, but with information,” Carpenter explained. “That involves cooking, cleaning, budgeting, teaching ... and relationships. People need relationships. It was established for rural women to get together to have that.”

Extension Homemakers now operates nationwide. A county’s Extension Homemakers club will be organized into smaller specialty clubs that meet monthly to share knowledge and work on volunteer or handicraft projects, with all members getting together for quarterly countywide meetings. District meetings take place annually in cities around Indiana, where members can exhibit the projects they’ve been working on all year.

In LaPorte County, Extension Homemakers is made up of East Galena, F.A.C.S.Y. Folks, Homespun Harmony, Kitchen Kin, Merry Moderns,

Rolling Stones and Steady Stitchers. There are about 80 members throughout LaPorte County.

One of Extension Homemakers’ challenges is figuring out how to meet the needs of younger people in today’s world. Carpenter pointed out that with inflation and other economic factors, skills like food preservation and mending are experiencing a spike in interest.

“If you need somebody to show you how to do something, you can go to YouTube, but we can come to your house and show you,” she said.

Home economics isn’t all Extension Homemakers stay up to date on. Three times per year, members get together for educational retreats on a variety of topics.

In May, they watched Kallie Bontrager of the DNR demonstrate dogs that are trained to sniff out invasive species, like the spotted lantern fly.

The next educational retreat will be on updates to Alzheimer’s disease research and is scheduled for Sept. 25 at the LaPorte County Purdue Extension Office, 2857 IN-2, LaPorte. There is room in Extension Homemakers for many kinds of specialty interests, Carpenter said.

She is part of the specialty sewing club Steady Stitchers, which makes and donates

NEW OFFICERS The LaPorte County Extension Homemakers Association recently elected officers for the 2025-2026 program year. The new officers were installed by

district representative at the quarterly meeting June 9, at the Purdue Extension Office, LaPorte. Those elected are: president, Betty Carpenter; vice president, Della Wittgren, secretary, Karen Schultz; treasurer, Bonnie Stoner; publicity, Della Wittgren and Kathy Ulman; membership, Jackie Carpenter and Sue Howell; and at-large members, Rita Flores and Sherry Reihle.

Pictured in front row from left are Stoner, Betty Carpenter, Wittgren, and Schultz. In back row are Howell, Ulman, Jackie Carpenter, Blough, Reihle, and Flores. Photo provided by LaPorte County Extension Homemakers Association.

HANDMADE — LaPorte County Extension Homemakers held its annual cultural arts contest May 21. Winners were Jackie Carpenter of Kitchen Kin, for her flannel quilt and Joan Kelsey of East Galena for her round starburst place mat. Carpenter and Kelsey would also go on to represent LaPorte County at the Annual Home and Family Arts Conference June 2-3. Carpenter and Sharon Russ of the Cultural Arts Committee, left, are pictured with the winning quilt. Photo provided by LaPorte County Purdue Extension.

THANK YOU During last year’s International Extension Homemakers Association Week, members of LaPorte County Extension Homemakers made 80 thank you bags for local Meals on Wheels drivers. Volunteerism is a large part of their work. Photo provided by Betty Carpenter.

Michelle Blough,

McAfee appreciates role in South Bend community

By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer

Mary McAfee was once torn between teaching or a career in civil service and one event made it clear what she needed to choose. McAfee took a team of youth to Louisiana following Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

“I think that was the turning point for me. It was a very humbling experience for me,”

McAfee said. “They had this telephone pole where they had marked where the water levels were at. It’s a wonder anything survived the storm. The folks were glad to see us. They appreciated our help. I think my foundational skills have been built around serving others.”

At the time, McAfee was in Benton Harbor, Michigan and helping area youth get their GED. She drove 15 teenagers in a van from Michigan to Louisiana as part of a youth program through the city.

The event helped her dedicate her career to helping communities and eventually became an employee for the City of South Bend in 2014.

She is the Director of Engagement and Economic Development for the Department of Community Investment.

“Serving the people. That seriously is it. Putting in the effort to treat people kind. It makes a difference to treat people well,” McAfee said.

McAfee was born in Missouri but her family moved to Michigan for better economic opportunity. She earned a social work degree from Siena Heights University and a political leadership certification from Michigan State University.

In South Bend, McAfee is a member of the Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, the South Bend Rotary, South Bend NAACP, League of Women Voters and National Coalition of 100 Black Women.

Prior to South Bend, McAfee was in Niles, Michigan and was the first black woman to be elected to the Niles School Board of Education. She has also started two nonprofit organizations for at-risk youth.

She leads a team who aim to facilitate community partnerships as part of her role in South Bend.

“With our program we have boots on the ground. We do canvassing,” McAfee said.

McAfee views a lot of the work that the city does as going unnoticed. She says one example is mayor James Mueller, who will fill potholes with the street department. She feels the programs the city offers sometimes do not get the attention from residents that they should.

“South Bend is a really beautiful city. There is always a group or an organization that is welcoming. There is always something to do. Our city government runs well. The programs we provide, they are huge. We have this program and oftentimes people say they didn’t know we do this,” McAfee said.

For McAfee, having a passion for people is her best advice for those thinking about working in government.

“I would say you have to have a heart to serve people,” McAfee said. “Don’t look at people based on race, creed or color. Look at the person. Listen to the person to get a better understanding of the people so you can better respond to them. Consider that this person, you may be the only kind person they see all day. Just be kind to folks.”

Extension Homemakers

Continued from page 1 hundreds of items each year.

to the Extension.

Last year, the club made 26 lap robes for local veterans and 350 eyeglass cases for LaPorte City Lions Club to send to Mexico, just to name a few.

Volunteerism is a large part of the group’s efforts. During Indiana Extension Homemakers Association Week in October, members are in a flurry of activity. Last year, they donated 80 thank you bags to local Meals on Wheels drivers and menstrual hygiene products to area

middle and high schools. Steady Stitchers met in their studio at 1640 First St., LaPorte to make hats, scarves and gloves for those in need before truly cold weather kicked in.

Each year, Extension Homemakers sets up a booth at the LaPorte County Fair, featuring a silent auction and a table with handmade and vintage items for sale. The proceeds from the fair booth go to the three $500 scholarships the organization offers to any student with a connection

Sept. 19-20, members of Kitchen Kin will be running a free, no-questions-asked clothing giveaway at the LaPorte County Fairgrounds, 2581 W. SR 2, LaPorte.

Extension Homemakers is always open to new members.

“We’re encouraging anybody to come in for anything. Maybe they have a skill they’d like to come and teach us,” said Carpenter.

Part of what Carpenter enjoys so much about member-

ship is laid out in the Extension Homemakers Club Creed; “’The joy of living and helping others, we endeavor to pass on to others that which has benefited us.’ ... Blessedly, I believe I see it being done in my family,” she said.

To learn more about LaPorte County Extension Homemakers, call (219) 324-9407; or visit extension.purdue.edu/county/ laporte/extension-homemakers-laporte-county.html or LaPorte County IN Extension Homemakers on Facebook.

CIVIL SERVANT — Mary McAfee has worked for the city of South Bend for 11 years. Photo provided by Mary McAfee.

70s Flashback — ‘Mork and Mindy’ spun off ‘Happy

By RANDAL C. HILL

In the late 1970s, TV’s “Happy Days” shone a spotlight on the fictional middle-class Cunningham family. The show was a ratings smash, and the writers loved the high-paying work it brought.

But things changed one day with an unexpected visit from Garry Marshall, the show’s creator. Marshall strolled into the writers’ office and proclaimed how Scotty, his 8-year-old son, had suggested the possibility of having a spaceman visiting the Cunninghams.

Garry then smiled, departed the room and left behind stunned silence.

Writer and story editor Brian Levant recalled, “We looked at each other like, ‘That’s the most horrible idea I’ve ever heard’.”

But the boss obviously wanted a script that would please young Scotty, and the boss is always the boss. Right?

A story concept was quickly created for inclusion in a forthcoming “Happy Days” episode. That broadcast, which involved a dream sequence involving Ritchie Cunningham (Ron Howard), featured an appearance by Mork, a goofy

Team exercise boosts health

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Recent studies have revealed that team sports provide the best mental health benefits from exercise.

There are many such opportunities for seniors that cover an array of physically demanding levels.

Teams gather for slow-pitch softball, bowling, curling, cycling, golf, swimming, walking, horseshoes, bocce, walking, pickle ball, soccer, skiing, and hiking, to name a few.

In between competitions, you can do squats and leg lifts to help maintain your strength, balance and flexibility so you can be ready to head out and have fun.

Make sure you wear sturdy footwear and clothing that fit properly. And always check with your family doctor to make sure you’re fit to participate in the activity of your choice.

alien from the planet Ork who wanted to whisk Ritchie back to his home planet for study. Several actors — including Dom DeLuise— were offered the Mork role, but nobody showed interest.

What to do?

Ronny Hamlin, Marshall’s older sister and an associate producer on “Happy Days,” had recently seen an unknown stand-up comedian named Robin Williams present a “spaceman” bit as part of a manic stand-up routine at a local comedy club.

Hamlin felt that Robin would be perfect as mega-weirdo Mork, and Williams was consequently summoned to the writers’ office.

Brian Levant recalled the meeting as “the most amazing run-through in the world,” with Williams reminding writers of the Marx Brothers, Charlie Chaplain and the

Three Stooges rolled into one screwball. “The guy was on fire,” Levant claimed later.

When Williams made his appearance in a “Happy Days” episode during the program’s fifth season, viewers embraced his ditzy alien character, and it was quickly determined that he deserved his own TV show. The result was “Mork and Mindy.” Williams was brought together with ex-model newcomer Pam Dawber to play Mindy, Mork’s friend and eventual love interest.

During the show’s threeyear run, an ongoing myth had Robin Williams ad-libbing all his lines on “Mork and Mindy.” The reality? During rehearsals, he could be a whirlwind of brilliant improvisation. But when the cameras rolled, Williams always stuck to the script.

At the end of each show,

Mork reported to Orson, his Orkan superior, to explain what he had learned on Earth that week. Here is where the writers could really offer silliness for the viewers. Consider, for example, this conversation:

Mork tells Orson about the punishment of being sent to a prison on Earth: “This is a place where they give you

food, they give you clothes, and they give you housing,”

Mork explains. Orson declares, “This doesn’t sound like punishment. What do they do for pleasure?” “People smoke cigarettes,” explains Mork. “They make you sick, they make you smell bad, and they make you cough.”

“Mork and Mindy” deserves a special place in TV history!

INDEPENDENT LIVING

MEMORY CARE

MORK AND MINDY

Lisa Simic considers hospice work ‘an honor’

By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer

“I never thought I would be in hospice today,” said Lisa Simic, RN, “It’s been eyeopening and I just think it’s an honor to be able to help a family and a patient in the last days of their life.”

Simic is from a rural area of Starke County and a graduate of North Judson High School. As a high school student, she participated in a vocational

program and became a certified nursing assistant before going on to study nursing at Purdue University Northwest. She graduated in 1995 and was a nurse for 30 years before making the switch to hospice liaison for Dunes Hospice in February.

As a hospice liaison, Simic spends most of her day on the go. Educating healthcare providers at hospitals, doctors offices and long-term care facilities about hospice is an

CORPORATE OFFICE

important part of her job. One of the subjects she covers is “The Myths of Hospice.”

“Some people think when you choose hospice it’s like you’re giving up, and that’s not really the case. When people choose hospice, they do have a long-term illness with a diagnosis of six or less months to live, but in getting on hospice early it can really improve the quality of life that’s given to the patient and the family. So many people wait until the last few days when they could have so much extra care,” Simic said.

When someone is referred to Dunes Hospice, she meets with the families, oversees admissions and admits the patient to care. The process includes ordering equipment and medications for home use, “getting them settled in and everything that they need,” she explained.

In 1983, when Simic was 13, her grandfather passed his final days at home and she spent a lot of time with him. 1983 was also the year Medicare approved hospice as a benefit, but it was not yet mainstream.

“We all know it’s different when it’s our own loved one, and hospice was not even mentioned to me or my family at the time,” Simic recalled. “We

didn’t have a social worker, we didn’t have anyone to talk to. ... Watching him suffer and be in pain was traumatic.”

Conversations about what patients want out of their hospice care can be difficult to have, especially if they don’t have an advance directive. Nowadays, hospice care providers are able to offer patients and families far more education, resources and knowledge to help support them.

“It’s huge to people who don’t know what can be done for them,” Simic added.

People tend to have similar reactions when Simic tells them what she does.

“They say, ‘oh, that must be a hard job.’ And I say, ‘yes, at times it is, but it can be gratifying as well,’” Simic said. She and her colleagues sometimes receive mail from families expressing gratitude. Simic recalled that she’s stopped at stores and another shopper in line has offered to pay for her after seeing her work badge. Some of them have had family members in hospice and wanted to show their appreciation to her.

“It really makes it worthwhile, knowing at the end of someone’s journey, we’ve made a difference,” Simic said.

becoming a hospice liaison in February. Part of her job is providing education on hospice to health providers and admitting patients. She considers it an honor to help patients and their families.

In her free time, Simic loves flower gardening. She makes her own goat’s milk soap and occasionally sells at farmer’s markets, but prefers giving it to family and friends. She and her husband, Curt, enjoy spending time at their cottage on Lake Bruce, between Winamac and Rochester. They have four kids and five grandkids.

A gift of age

By JIM CARPENTER Guest Writer

but while the body may function less, the brain still actively may seek.

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I suppose I have my share of troubles. Getting old kind of guarantees that. There are times I find, just staying home, might be the best option that I’ve got. But whether it is real, or my brain is somehow faking it, I am finding peace in staying home. Even to the point of liking it. Truth be told, influence is given. I cannot drive, my eyes are weak,

I feel my years of psychological leaning, coupled with a philosophical bent, have somehow conspired to provide me, with a worthwhile poetic intent. Not for thee but for me.

(Gosh! What a fun thing to say.)

Both a purpose and a challenge, that I might play with every day. I only ask that you forgive my ramble. It seems to be the thing I do. While I write primarily for myself, I am most happy to share it with you.

Photo provided by Lisa Simic.

During the first half of the 1970s, the Bee Gees (“Brothers Gibb”) were floundering.

vising “D-D-Drive talkin’,”…

no good”

Mardin loved the idea of creating a dance single that featured some of the Gibbs’ lyrics unfolding with the stutter gimmick. But he did want a title change from “Drive Talkin’” to “Jive Talkin’.”

A Boomer Blast To The Past By

RANDAL C. HILL

“We didn’t know where we were going,” admitted leader Barry. “We ended up doing dreary ballads. That was totally wrong, but we seemed to be stuck in that mode.”

What was needed was a new outlook. The singers’ friend Eric Clapton urged the brothers to move from Los Angeles to Miami, where exotic music and a thriving club scene offered a profound change of pace. After the lads relocated, Atlantic Records’ producer Arif Mardin scheduled them to record at Miami’s Criteria Studios.

On their daily drive from Miami Beach to the downtown studio, the brothers crossed the 4.4-mile-long Julia Tuttle Causeway. As they rolled over the road seams, the tires of the Gibbs’ car throbbed with a steady “chunka chunka” rhythm.

One day, Barry’s wife, Linda, remarked, “Hey, listen to that noise … it’s our ‘drive talkin’.” Barry chuckled and began impro-

Maurice Gibb later recalled, “Arif went, ‘Do you know what jive talking means?’ And we said, ‘Well, yeah, it’s, you know, you’re dancing.’ And he says, ‘No, it’s a black expression for (deceitful talk).”

Some music critics had often dismissed the group as merely a vacuous pop-music machine, even though the trio’s recordings had always featured an element of soul, especially in the way the brothers bounced their highpitched voices off each other when they recorded.

In creating “Jive Talkin’,” the Gibbs discarded the delicate singer/songwriter language of their catalog and replaced it with the kind of hip lingo heard in numerous soul hits of the day. In this case, we hear about a man grown tired of his girlfriend’s deceptive ways:

“J-J-Jive talkin’, you’re telling me lies

“Jive talkin’, you wear a disguise

“Jive talkin’, so misunderstood

“Jive talkin’, you’re really

Fueled by a heavily muffled “thump” common in later disco hits, “Jive Talkin’” offered a stomping dance beat layered with a scratchy rhythm guitar, catchy keyboard stabs and an irresistible synthesizer bassline. The result was a crossbreeding of pop-music hooks and hip soul.

To introduce radio programmers to the “new” Bee Gees, Atlantic Records’ staff mailed the “45” in a plain white sleeve with no explanatory information, as they didn’t want people to dredge up preconceptions about the trio’s prior works.

Released on Atlantic’s RSO label, the tune caught fire and shot to the peak of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, where it reigned for two weeks.

The success of the single allowed the lads to get a jump on the emerging genre of disco music, a captivating sound exploding from urban black and gay dance clubs and into the mainstream.

“Jive Talkin’” has a place in recording history as the only million-selling disc to be inspired by a drive across a long Florida bridge

Annual quilt show begins Aug. 14

The River Bend Quilt Guild will be hosting the 21st annual Quilt Show at the downtown Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library over a three-day period starting Thursday, Aug. 14.

The public is invited to attend free of charge during the following hours: from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Dozens of River Bend Quilt Guild members will display their quilted works of art. Anyone who stops by the library during the quilt show can cast a voting ballot for their favorite quilts. After the votes are tallied, the River Bend Quilt Guild will announce the top three winning quilts in two categories on its Facebook page.

Are you the primary caregiver for a loved one? Noticing changes or concerned about leaving them alone? It may be time to consider assisted living. Moving to assisted living often improves health – better meals, restful sleep, and support from caring staff. Call today to learn about our assisted living apartments.

A BREAK FROM BALLADS The creation of “Jive Talkin” was a break for The BeeGees from their ballads they knew was wrong for them. The song took them into the crossbreeding of pop-music hooks and hip soul. Photo from Ultimate Classic Rock..

Senior softball league adjusts to venue changes

Text and Photos

By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer

An area softball league had to call an audible in 2025 when its normal location was under construction. The program consists of two different leagues, one for those 62 and older and one 52 and over. Games had been played at the Byers Softball Complex on the southwest side of South Bend, but construction meant the league had to find a new home for the season.

Adam Kroemer is the commissioner for the junior league for ages 52 and over.

“This is my seventh year, I knew we weren’t going to be using the complex. We were going to be using Memorial and Potawatomi,” Kroemer said. “But Memorial had IUSB and had Adams so we couldn’t start til the end of May.”

The Potawatomi park proved to be a challenge due to construction as well.

“Nobody could park within four blocks at Potawatomi,” Kroemer said.

Boland Park was another diamond the league tried, but the size of the park made it difficult on outfielders.

“Boland is a 300 feet field. That’s a bit of stretch for the seniors, especially the outfielders to cover,” Kroemer said.

Kroemer learned that Walker Park was available and switched games to there and called the field “about perfect.”

The junior league plays on Tuesdays with two teams having a double-header

against each other at both the Memorial and Walker sites. One team has a bye as four of the five teams play two games each week. The senior league has the same setup but plays on Thursdays. Kroemer said 130 players are participating, with many in the senior league playing in both leagues.

Play normally begins in early May, but the later start was needed due to Memorial Park being busy until the end of the school year. As a result, the league had to find a way to squeeze more games in to reach the 20 regular season game number.

“We are just starting a little later but we’re not taking off the Fourth of July week this year,” Kroemer said. “Regular season ends in August and I’m sure our double-elimination tournament will roll into September.”

Kroemer says home runs are common at Memorial Park but less common at Walker.

“Memorial is so shallow you can hit six home runs there.

Last Tuesday at Walker, there were two hit to the fence but nothing over,” Kroemer said.

The league attracts players from outside of South Bend and originally started in Mishawaka over 25 years ago.

The Byers Softball Complex is improving its press box, concessions and restroom facilities. All four main softball fields are being rebuilt and a new plaza gateway and splashpad are also being constructed.

Kroemer says the league should be playing back at Byers in 2026.

CSO to present free concert July 20

The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra will perform its annual free outdoor summer concert, conducted by Music Director Dr. Carolyn Watson, at 7 p.m. Sunday, July 20, in Friendship Botanic Gardens Celebration Pavilion.

No tickets are required for this event; it is free and open to the public. Gates open at 6 p.m., with free parking in the main parking lot off US Highway 12 and the event parking lot off Marquette Trail. Visit Friendship Botanic Gardens map for details and directions.

The program includes a variety of works both classical and pops, with music by Men-

delssohn, Dvorák, Rossini, Scott Joplin, and more. Dr. Watson will give a preview of the LCSO’s upcoming 20252026 concert season with a piece from America’s Jazz Age that will be played at the Feburary 2026 concert, as well as music by contemporary composer, Kevin Day, whose piece “Upwelling” for solo saxophone and orchestra will be given its world premiere by the LCSO this November.

The concert will also feature performances by the 2024 Hoosier Star Youth Winner and Adult Winner, Sophia Grubbs and Alyssa Atkinson,

who will sing their winning songs. The concert will run approximately one hour and 15 minutes with no intermission.

Audience members are encouraged to bring their own chairs, picnic blankets, food and beverage to the event. The Gardens will have some chairs available at no cost. Restrooms will be available near the Celebration Pavilion.

Call the LCSO office with questions at (219) 362-9020.

Contributing sponsors are NIPSCO and Purdue University Northwest.

Create a free will

As summer ushers in a time of renewal and fresh beginnings, it’s natural to reflect on the aspects of life that matter most — loved ones, values and the legacy you wish to build.

In this spirit of renewal, people are encouraged to consider the peace of mind that comes with having your affairs in order. Creating a will is a vital step in ensuring that your wishes are honored and that your loved ones are cared for according to your intentions.

To assist in this important task, FreeWill, a free and user-friendly online tool, guides you through creating a will in about 20 minutes. This resource simplifies estate planning, allowing you to protect your loved ones and define your legacy with ease.

Visit freewill.com/will/basics/ personal/get-started to create a free will.

RUN FOR A RUN — Mike Szymczak gets home for a run in a junior league game at Walker Field Tuesday, June 10.

THROW TO FIRST — Matt Creviston makes the throw for an out in a junior league game Tuesday, June 10.

I am feeling a little bit flush

My wife has a huge walk-in closet off her bathroom. She has a shower, spa/bath, and several drawers and shelves for her toiletries and makeup. At least that is what she tells me. I’m not allowed in there, so I have no way of confirming this. We do not share a bathroom. Let’s put it this way: We have been happily married 43 years, and then there was the year we shared a bathroom.

NUTSHELL

By DICK WOLFSIE

The other day, I stood on the commode in my john to extract a nail from the wall. I fell, broke the toilet seat, and chipped the bowl when my hammer hit it. That meant I had to use Mary Ellen’s lavatory temporarily until I replaced the broken fixture.

Because she doesn’t trust me in her powder room, she accompanied me whenever I entered her restroom. This got very creepy as you can imagine. Author’s note: I am quickly

running out of euphemisms for bathroom.

I had never shopped for a toilet before, so I wasn’t exactly sure how to begin. As you know, it is often tough finding help in these huge hardware stores. Spending more than 30 minutes walking up and down the aisle, I had already invested more time in the search than I had in picking out our new washer and dryer, or my wife’s engagement ring, or my wife for that matter (love at first sight).

One confusing thing was the toilets were way up high on the shelves. When’s the last time you looked up at a toilet? Don’t answer that. I did run into a few employees. They had some interesting responses to my plea for assistance.

“I don’t know anything about plumbing. I’m in power tools.”

“I’m sorry. I only work in aisle 23.”

“I’m sorry. I know nothing. I am 23.”

“I’m sorry, I can’t walk over there with you. I’m 93.”

“Oh, so you are looking for a toilet? Way in the back. Careful, there’s no lock on the door.”

The products had some intriguing sales pitches. One of the toilets had a sign that said:

Q. What’s up for Senior Talk Michiana in July?

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 also share this with your friends, allowing us to reach a larger percentage of the 260,000 seniors in Michiana and provide them with information about available services, organizations, and events.

July’s guests include Jenny Weldy from Berkshire Hathaway, who will discuss tips for seniors looking to “downsize,” and Becky Hostetler joins us to talk about the 4H Elkhart County Fair and, in particular, Senior Citizens Day on Tuesday, July 22nd

Tom Rose

Author & Speaker Balloon in a Box

Coping with Grief Grief Group Facilitator

“Will flush a dozen golf balls.”

“That’s a stupid thing to promote,” I said. “Who would flush golf balls down the toilet?”

“You did last summer when you shot 34 over par?”

The sales guy asked me if I wanted a round or an oblong seat. I looked for a mirror to catch a peek over my shoulder

to see what would fit best, but this will also be the guest bathroom, and our friends come in all shapes and sizes.

Some of the toilets were labeled “smart,” with prices in the thousands. They have several buttons and a remote control, but what they remotely control is still a mystery.

I don’t want a smart toilet. I don’t want one that answers the phone, or is connected to Bluetooth, or gives me a weather report. I don’t want my bottom warmed or scented. I simply want my toilet to sit there.

And I promise to do the same.

Summer tan can be destructive

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Summertime: While the living might be easy, it can be hard on your skin.

Stretching out beside the pool, heading to the beach, donning shorts and tank tops, and cavorting with the kids out in the park all damage your skin and increase your chances of getting skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in this country.

More than 3 million people — young and old — are treated every year for two types of skin cancer, basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, which are rarely life-threatening.

Melanoma, a more serious form of skin cancer, is diagnosed in more than 100,000 people a year.

Overexposure to the sun at any time of year wrinkles your skin and makes it less elastic. What a lot of people are unaware of is that the sun’s ultra violet rays still are damaging on cloudy days.

The best way to protect your skin and prevent cancer is to limit your time in the sun. When outdoors, head for shady spots out of direct sunlight. Look for those same spots on cloudy, overcast days.

Use sunscreen. A neighbor long ago learned that her dermatologist dabbed on sunscreen every morning to protect her skin from sun damage. The higher the SPF number on the label, the better.

Wear sunglasses, the kind that wrap around the side of your head, to protect your eyes from sun damage.

While skimpy clothing may appear attractive and comfortable, they expose your skin to sunlight, so wear long sleeves and slacks, and a hat or cap with a brim.

You might notice that folks in some countries carry an umbrella to shield them from the sun. It’s called a parasol, which can be translated literally in some tongues as “for the sun.”

Sunbathing is out, even under tanning beds in salons because they damage the skin with ultra violet rays the same way the sun does.

Contrary to how we view a buff and bronze body, there’s no such thing as a healthy suntan.

If you spot a strange freckle or spot appearing anywhere on your skin, visit your family doctor immediately.

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.

Rose and Rose Associates

Senior Talk Michiana

574-596-6256

www.thomaslrose.com www.cookingtogether.com roseandrose@comcast.net

Hospice Care

Q. What are the benefits of using Hospice Care?

A. Hospice care is a compassionate service designed to support individuals with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families, during the final stages of life. Rather than focusing on curing an illness, hospice prioritizes comfort, dignity, and quality of life. There are several meaningful benefits to choosing hospice care when a cure is no longer possible.

One of the most significant benefits is personalized comfort care. Hospice teams, which include doctors, nurses, aides, social workers, and chaplains, create a tailored plan that addresses pain management, emotional well-being, and spiritual support. This approach ensures that the patient is as comfortable and supported as possible throughout the journey.

Emotional and spiritual support is another core element. Hospice provides counseling services for both patients and their families, helping them navigate the emotional weight of terminal illness. Grief support is often extended even after a loved one passes, giving families time to heal with guidance.

Additionally, hospice care allows patients to remain in familiar surroundings, whether

Tim Bradley, MA, BSN,

that’s their home, an assisted living facility, or a hospice center. Being in a peaceful, known environment can bring a sense of control, comfort, and closure.

For families, hospice offers respite and relief. The hospice team handles medical needs, medications, and caregiving tasks, reducing stress and preventing caregiver burnout. This allows family members to focus more on meaningful time and less on logistics.

Finally, hospice emphasizes dignity and choice. Patients are empowered to make decisions about their care, honoring their values and wishes in the final stages of life. Hospice care is not about giving up it’s about choosing quality, connection, and comfort. It can be one of the most compassionate choices made during life’s most vulnerable moments.

Tom Rose

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.

—o—

On Thursday, July 31, a night orienteering program will be held at St. Patrick’s County Park from 8:30-10:30 p.m. Come get your glow on. Wear neon clothes and search for glowing markers around the park using maps and lan-

terns to guide your way. See the park in a whole new light as you search the trails of the park after hours.

St. Patrick’s County Park is located at 50651 Laurel Road, South Bend. For more information, call (574) 277-4828.

—o—

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

Apartment Living

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. —o—

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.

Senior services at risk

By KARLA (KJ) MAPES President/CEO REAL Services

Services for our seniors are at risk. We urge all those who serve older adults to contact their federal elected officials about how important these programs are in our community and the damage that will be done if programs, like APS, caregiver support, SHIP and LTC Ombudsman, are allowed to be zeroed out of the federal budget.

Proposed Federal Budget Puts Older Americans at Risk

REAL Services is deeply concerned about recent reports from Washington indicating that the Trump Administration’s proposed FY2026 federal budget would break apart and defund key services funded through the Older Americans Act, programs thousands of older adults in northern Indiana depend on every day. Under this plan, essential

services like Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, in-home help, transportation, and protections against elder abuse could be moved into separate agencies or eliminated entirely.

Fragmenting and defunding these services not only undermines their effectiveness, it directly threatens the well-being of our most vulnerable residents. Seniors could lose access to the very support systems that help them stay safe, nourished, and independent at home.

REAL Services, as the Area Agency on Aging and Community Action Agency for our region, is urging Congress to reject these harmful changes and fully fund the Older Americans Act under a unified structure that prioritizes aging with dignity.

Take Action

Here’s how you can help:

1. Contact members of Congress. Tell them you oppose the breakup and defunding of OAA programs. Ask them to protect services providing meals, home

care, caregiver respite, and elder safety.

Call (202) 224-3121 to reach your senators and representatives. Or use this sample email and send to your member, usaging.org/advocacyalerts.

2. Share Your Story

Have you or a loved one been impacted by senior services? Your voice is powerful. Send your story to news@realservices.org and we’ll make sure lawmakers hear what’s at stake.

3. Spread the word

Tag your representatives and REAL Services at @REALServices and use hashtags like #SaveSeniorServices or #OlderAmericansAct #realAdvocacy.

Our older neighbors and family deserve better.

Let’s make sure they have the support they need to age well — at home, in our communities, and with dignity.

Stand with REAL Services. Stand with older adults. #REALAdvocacy or #AgeWithDignity.

Civilians & Soldiers in History Day with train excursions

By LORETTA KOSLOSKE Ridership Specialist Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum

The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum, located in North Judson, will run diesel train excursions for our annual Civilians & Soldiers in History Day on Friday evening, July 18, and all day Saturday, July 19. Passengers have their choice of riding in open-air sightseeing cars, a vintage coach or first class in a former Monon business car while rolling down the tracks through the Northwest Indiana countryside. Train excursions are roundtrip from the depot and travel about 5 miles to the Kankakee River at English Lake, before

returning to North Judson. The total length of each trip is approximately 45 minutes. Ticket prices begin at $14. Purchasing tickets at hoosiervalley.org is recommended, as seating is limited. Numerous displays from various eras of U.S. History will be on the museum grounds, where admission is always free. Military and civilian reenactors will explain displays, answer questions and participate in scheduled demonstrations. In addition, HVRM has a restored WWII Pullman Troop Car. Stroll around the grounds to see one of the largest museum collections of working railroad signals and all types of rolling stock, engines and memorabilia of a bygone era.

Regular Saturday train excursions continue through September, including Ice Cream Trains. The fall brings Pumpkin Trains and Santa Trains run in late November and December. Times and prices for special events vary from regular train excursions. Seating is limited and it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance before excursions sell out.

HVRM is an all-volunteer, not for profit organization dedicated to the preservation and education of railroading history. Special group events (including school groups) can be arranged by contacting the depot.

Visit the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum website at hoosiervalley.org for a complete schedule of events. Order tickets at hoosiervalley.org or call the depot at (574) 896-3950 on Saturdays.

‘Cars in Popular Music’ exhibit now open

Driving means something different to everyone — from personal freedom to the thrill of the open road – and music has always been along for the ride. Cars are singular pieces of refuge where we can be ourselves and blast the radio or pound the steering wheel with the windows rolled down. A song can keep you company when you’re alone or bring a group of friends together. It should come as no surprise that recorded music and the

automobile grew popular around the same time. As wax cylinders evolved into acetate and later vinyl records, radio, eight-tracks, cassette tapes, CDs, and streaming, the technology to deliver in-car audio became increasingly refined. But how you listen, from a tinny-mono speaker to the very best stereo system, is not as important as how the music makes you feel. The automobile is a central part of a collective American identity and how we

live, work, and play. Its impact on popular music is undeniably broad and deep.

“Tune In: Cars in Popular Music” pairs famous songs from pop culture with the cars mentioned or highlighted within those songs. These cars bring classic cruisin’ songs to life, from turnof-the-century ditties to 1960s hot rod rock songs and beyond. But the fun doesn’t stop there; visitors can download a special summer playlist, highlighting

‘Salute to Freedom’ concert with the South Bend Symphony July 4

The South Bend Symphony Orchestra celebrates the country’s independence with the Shein Trust Community Series “Salute to Freedom” concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 4, at the Morris Performing Arts Center.

Under the baton of Music Director Alastair Willis, the orchestra will once again captivate audiences with patriotic tunes and tributes to the armed forces, featuring popular songs such as “American Salute,” “God Bless America,” “1812 Overture,” and “An American Celebration,” with former Notre Dame women’s basketball coach, Muffet McGraw, as guest narrator. Guest soloist Jennie Sophia helps bring some of these special songs to life.

Thanks to the generous support of Shein Trust, this family-friendly concert is free.

“There’s nothing quite like coming together as a community to celebrate Independence Day through music,” said Willis. “The ‘Salute to Freedom’ concert is one of our most joyful and unifying traditions. This yearly concert is full of powerful patriotic works and beloved American classics. We hope to see you there.”

Following the performance, enjoy a fireworks show provided by the city of South Bend while exiting the Morris.

In addition, this concert is made possible by partnerships with South Bend Venue Parks and Arts, as well as the Morris Performing Arts Center. Fire-

works display is made possible by the city of South Bend. Discounts, priority seating, and other exclusive benefits are available to season subscribers.

Subscribe at southbendsymphony.org or by phone at (574) 232-6343.

Free Tickets Available • Online, southbendsymphony.org.

• Call Morris Performing Arts Center Box Office at (574)

235-9190, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday.

• In-person: visit the Morris Box Office, 211 N. Michigan St., South Bend, during the times listed above or two hours before any performance or stop by the symphony office, 127 N. Michigan St., South Bend, between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Friday.

songs that feature cars in their lyrics.

To listen, visit open. spotify.com/playlist/1vKlfgHf34YlJ7EPwS8YE1?si=jX86ys1fS7-Oj31hZPRDKw&nd=1&dlsi=78115844fcfd4deb.

Come learn more about what inspired these classic jams and see some iconic American automobiles in this very special exhibition.

The exhibition is open through Sept. 21.

The Studebaker National Museum is located at 201 Chapin St., just west of downtown South Bend. Admission is $11 for adults, $9.50 for seniors over 60, and $7 for youth ages 6-18. For more information, call (574) 235-9714 or toll free at (888) 391-5600 or visit studebakermuseum.org.

For an additional cost, visitors can tour The History Museum, which adjoins the Studebaker National Museum.

Walls

Ceilings Window And Door Trim

Ceilings

Stairways

Window And Door Trim

Woodwork Staining

Stairways

Woodwork Staining

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

Drywall Repair

References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075

Great Service – Reasonable Rates

References Available Upon Request.

574-304-5075

STEAMING AHEAD The Bock Lumber No. 1 Steam Engine is shown departing the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum Depot with passengers. Photo provided by the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum.

Independence | Dignity | Strength

1151 S. Michigan St, South Bend IN 46601 | (574) 233-8205

Independence | Dignity | Strength

realservices.org Real Services, Inc. info@ info@realservices.org

1151 S. Michigan St, South Bend IN 46601 | (574) 233-8205

realservices.org Real Services, Inc. info@ info@realservices.org

Health Education Classes

MOB | Mondays: Aug 4- Sept 29

10 AM - 11:30 AM | Kosciusko Cty Sr Services (800 N. Park Ave. Warsaw,IN)

MOB | Mondays: Aug 4- Sept 29

10 AM - 11:30 AM | Kosciusko Cty Sr Services (800 N. Park Ave. Warsaw,IN)

Join Us for REAL Talk: Chronic Condition Self-Management! Free presentations and community connections. Topics target those 60 and older, but everyone is welcome to attend.

1 PM - 3:00 PM | Bell Memorial Library (101 W. Main St., Mentone, IN 46539)

Join Us for REAL Talk: Chronic Condition Self-Management!

Free presentations and community connections. Topics target those 60 and older, but everyone is welcome to attend.

July 8 | 11 AM | Portage Commons (574) 284 - 7189

July 17 | 11 AM | OWLS | (574) 336-2652

July 25 | 11:30 AM | 1 ROOF (Lunch) (574) 284-7189

July 29 | 11:30 AM | Salvation Army of Elkhart (Lunch) | (574) 284-7184

Reserve your spot by visiting realservices.org/get-involved/real-talk/

Dog

Bourbon Chicken

Mashed Sweet Potato Cauliflower

Dinner Roll/ Marg. Cinnamon Applesauce

Bourbon Chicken Mashed Sweet Potato Cauliflower Dinner Roll/ Marg. Cinnamon Applesauce

Maple Pork Chops

Sweet Potatoes Green Beans

Dinner Roll/Marg. Fruit Cup

Polish Sausage w/bun

Mashed Potatoes

Polish Sausage w/bun Mashed Potatoes Sauerkraut Applesauce

Sauerkraut Applesauce

Vegetable Soup

Tuna Salad Slider

Tuna Salad Slider Spiced Peaches Cottage Cheese

Spiced Peaches Cottage Cheese

PATH I Mondays: June 23-July 28

1 PM - 3:00 PM | Bell Memorial Library (101 W. Main St., Mentone, IN 46539)

1 PM - 3:30PM | Portage Commons

PATH I Mondays: June 23-July 28

1 PM - 3:30PM | Portage Commons

SAIL I Tuess & Thurs: Starts Aug 5th 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM | Portage Commons

Pre-Registration Required, Call (574) 284 - 7189

How I Stay Strong #REALStrong

Learn more by visiting realservices.org/services/a2aa/vaccines/

Address: 133 N William St. South Bend, IN 46601 Phone: (574) 284-7159

Business Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday | 10 AM - 3 PM

Address: 133 N William St. South Bend, IN 46601 Phone: (574) 284-7159

Business Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday | 10 AM - 3 PM

Come join us at the Portage Commons

Senior Enrichment Center- a warm, welcoming space where seniors can relax, connect, and thrive!

Come join us at the Portage Commons Senior Enrichment Center- a warm, welcoming space where seniors can relax, connect, and thrive!

Social Activities & Games

Arts & Crafts

Friendly Faces & Good Company

Special Events & Guest Speakers

Health & Fitness Programs

Visit Facebook for Events and Classes: https://www.facebook.com/PortageCommons

Turkey Tetrazzini Green Beans Garlic Bread Fig Newton

Chicken Salad Sliders

Roasted Penne Pasta

Salad Kale Salad Angel Food Cake

Breaded Chicken Scalloped Potatoes

Stewed Tom. & Zucch. Wheat Bread/Marg. Oreo Cookie

Breaded Chicken Scalloped Potatoes Stewed Tom. & Zucch. Wheat Bread/Marg. Oreo Cookie

Philly Cheesesteak on Bun, Garlic Mashers Creamed Corn Mandarin Oranges

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

Sweet & Sour Meatballs Rice Pilaf

Rice Pilaf Asian Vegetable Blend Wheat Bread/Marg. Pineapple Cup

Asian Vegetable Blend Wheat Bread/Marg. Pineapple Cup

Meatloaf Baby Bakers Seasoned Green Beans Peach Cup Dinner Roll/Marg.

Meatloaf Baby Bakers Seasoned Green Beans Peach Cup

Dinner Roll/Marg.

Lasagna Bake w/Sausage Italian Green Beans

Lasagna Bake w/Sausage

Italian Green Beans

Warm Spiced Apples Garlic Bread

Turkey Sausage Patty Scrambled Eggs English Muffin O’Brien Potatoes Banana & Yogurt

Turkey Sausage Patty Scrambled Eggs

English Muffin

O’Brien Potatoes

Banana & Yogurt

BBQ Riblet on Bun Red

Baked Potato

Chz & Taco meat

Broccoli,

Broccoli, Breadstick Tropical Fruit Cup

BBQ Riblet on Bun Red Skin Potatoes Spinach Fresh Orange

Skin Potatoes Spinach Fresh Orange

Chicken Penne Pasta w/ Spinach Broccoli Ciabatta Roll/marg. Pear Cup

Chicken Baked Beans

Chicken Penne Pasta w/ Spinach Broccoli Ciabatta Roll/marg. Pear Cup

BBQ Chicken Baked Beans Corn, Wheat Bread/Marg. Pudding Cup

Corn, Wheat Bread/Marg. Pudding Cup

Chef Salad w/Turk.Ham

Chef Salad w/Turk.Ham Cheese, Boiled Egg, Tom. w/Ranch Pickled Beets & Club Crackers Jello Menus

Cheese, Boiled Egg, Tom. w/Ranch Pickled Beets & Club Crackers Jello

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.

To make a reservation, please call the meal site director at your preferred location listed below. We look forward to serving you.

Country Fried Steak Garlic Mashed Pot. Cali. Blend Veg. Bread/Marg. Pudding Cup

Potato Crusted Fish Mashed Potatoes Brussels Sprouts Bread/Marg. Mandarin Orange

Potato Crusted Fish Mashed Potatoes

Brussels Sprouts Bread/Marg. Mandarin Orange

Meal Site Locations (Saint Joseph County & Laporte County) realservices.org/meals-and-nutrition/

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.

Mishawaka

100 Center High Rise Apartments

100 N. Center St. | (574) 259-1611

Mishawaka

South Bend Sanctuary Trinity Tower

Meal Site Locations (Saint Joseph County & Laporte County)

316 Dr. MLK.

South Bend

100 Center High Rise Apartments

Battell Center

Sanctuary Trinity Tower

1ROOF Southeast Neighborhood Center 405 E. Dubail Ave. | (574) 381-8981

100 N. Center St. | (574) 259-1611

904 N. Main St. | (574) 256-2325

316 Dr. MLK. Jr. Blvd. N. | (574) 234-7278

Battell Center

Osceola | New Location

904 N. Main St. | (574) 256-2325

48362 Beech Rd.| (574) 674-6503

Osceola | New Location

Fairington Apartments 1220 E. Fairington Circle | (574) 291-5597

Laporte

Cambridge Square Aptartments 1111 Longwood Drive, La Porte (Bld: B)

Walkerton American Legion Hall

Karl King Riverbend Tower 515 E. Monroe St. | (574) 232-4934

48362 Beech Rd.| (574) 674-6503

302 Kentucky St. | (574) 334-1047

Walkerton American Legion Hall

302 Kentucky St. | (574) 334-1047

Charles Black Center

Washington | (574) 229-5911 Heritage Place at LaSalle Square 3224 Ardmore Trail | (574) 286-0916

3419 W. Washington | (574) 229-5911

Heritage Place at LaSalle Square

3224 Ardmore Trail | (574) 286-0916

Michigan City

Simeon Square Apartments 1207 S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City

Smrt Community Center 301 Grant Ave., Michigan City

Hot

on Bun Potato Salad, Succotash Pineapple Cup

Sloppy Joe on Bun Macaroni & Cheese Mixed Vegetables Applesauce

Cabbage Roll Casserole Mashed Potatoes, Peas Bread/Marg. Spiced Peaches Happy 4th of July!

Stuffed Baked Potato w/ Chz & Taco meat

Breadstick Tropical Fruit Cup

Hot Dog on Bun Potato Salad, Succotash Pineapple Cup

Sloppy Joe on Bun Macaroni & Cheese Applesauce

Cabbage Roll Casserole Mashed Potatoes, Peas Bread/Marg. Spiced Peaches Happy 4th of July!

Philly Cheesesteak on Bun, Garlic Mashers Creamed Corn Mandarin Oranges

Stuffed

Schedule

Free Resources for Caregivers

MON-FRI: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM EST

1-888-303-0180

ST. JOSEPH & ELKHART COUNTY LAPORTE, MARSHALL & KOSCIUSKO

1-574-232-4121

Ask questions, get resources & schedule family consultations

Allows caregivers to discuss frustration, ask questions & create a care plan. CAREGIVER

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.

Kathy Thies is a dedicated VBS teacher

By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer

Vacation Bible School has been a fixture of Kathy Thies’ church life for many years.

Thies grew up in central Indiana, near Marion, with a “very religious” family, she said. As a young adult, she taught VBS during her summer breaks from Ball State University.

After graduating with a teaching degree in 1969, she taught first through third grades in Elkhart and continued to help out with VBS at her local church.

She and her husband, Bob, have been married 38 years. The two moved to South Bend in 1988, which is when she joined Grace United Methodist’s congregation.

Now at 77, Thies is just as invovled as ever and enjoys working with the children.

“For me, it was easy to work with kids. Some people are afraid to work with a group of kids, they don’t know what

they’re doing or they don’t think they know what they’re doing. But for me, that’s what I did,” she said. “There’s an emphasis on Bible stories, but it’s still teaching kids. ... Then there’s sharing God’s word and helping them learn.”

A variety of kids attend VBS. Some have been many times, while others have never been to church before.

Thies recalled one student attended VBS with her two years in a row until he aged out, only to come back and act as Thies’ helper.

“Things like that are encouraging, to see the benefit of what you do,” she said.

Like teaching elementary school, VBS involves “being onstage all the time,” Thies said.

She mentioned her teaching methods have changed over the decades, in order to keep up with what kids are responding to.

“Now you have to compete with the media world,” she explained. “The songs now are

lively and have motion, that kind of thing. Instead of having a group of kids that you work with all the time, you have stations.”

Art or science activities and videos acting out Bible stories have also been added over time.

Some of the most popular stories with kids are Jonah and the whale, the shepherd and the lost sheep, and the good Samaritan, she noted.

Each year, VBS teachers stick to a theme. This year, Grace United Methodist’s theme is “Compassion Camp.”

“I’m flexible, I can do whatever the curriculum is. As a teacher, I can draw on my knowledge and experience and do some little activities that fit,” she said. In order to teach a lesson about inclusion, for example, Thies has called up all the students wearing tennis shoes and asked her class if it would be fair to leave out everybody else just because of what they were wearing. As kids get older, more in-depth conversations about how Bible lessons apply to their lives can be had.

Above all, she concluded, “we try to emphasize that God loves everybody. As Christians, if we believe in God, then we also are supposed love everybody. We talk about, ‘do you have situations at school where somebody’s sitting by themselves, and how can you help? What

By DAWN SELKE Chief Experience Officer Paradigm Health

Paradigm Health is redefining hospice and palliative care across Indiana with a mission rooted in “Hoosiers caring for Hoosiers.” Now serving residents of Kosciusko and St. Joseph counties, Paradigm brings comfort-focused care to individuals and families right where they are — at home or in senior living communities. With local offices in South Bend, Paradigm offers personalized hospice services that emphasize quality of life, dignity, and emotional and spiritual well-being. Their interdisciplinary care team includes nurses, social workers, chaplains, and

can you do to show God’s love to them?’”

Thies is also a member of her church’s monthly women’s group, which fundraises for 25

different organizations, including Luvability Ministries and Hello Gorgeous. She volunteers her time in the administration office and sings in the choir.

therapists who tailor support to each patient’s unique needs. Paradigm also leads the way in community-based palliative care, helping individuals manage serious illness alongside curative

treatments. Their approach reduces stress, controls symptoms, and ensures seamless coordination with a patient’s existing doctors. They were the first in the nation to receive ACHC accreditation for this model of care.

Serving Kosciusko and St. Joseph counties from Mishawaka, Paradigm is known for quick response times, 24/7 support, and a compassionate team which walks with families every step of the way. Services include grief support, veteran-specific care, and even music therapy to enhance comfort and joy.

Whether you or a loved one is facing a chronic illness or nearing life’s final chapter, Paradigm Health provides expert care with a personal, local touch.

Contact Paradigm Health in South Bend at (574) 332-8320 or to learn more visit myparadigmhealth.com.

VBS VOLUNTEER — Kathy Thies is pictured at her church, Grace United Methodist in South Bend. Thies is a former teacher and has applied her love of working with children to Vacation Bible School for decades. Photo provided by Kathy Thies.

PERSONAL TOUCH — Whether you or a loved one is facing a chronic illness or nearing life’s final chapter, Paradigm Health provides expert care with a personal, local touch. Photo provided by Paradigm Health.

Planning for Medicaid coverage

That number is increasing as we live longer and longer. So, we need to plan for how those nursing home expenses will be paid. With a ratio of one out of three people spending an average stay of over two-and-a-half years in a nursing home, when should you start planning?

Since none of us know when our health might take a turn for the worse, it’s important to start planning now. Here are

several ways to plan now that can help to save you and your family tens of thousands of dollars when the time comes that nursing home care is needed. Power of Attorney — you should have a comprehensive Durable Power of Attorney in place that will continue to be effective even if you become incapacitated. This is a time that you will need it most and it must include the specific authority for self-dealing and making gifts for Medicaid planning purposes so that self-dealing and gifting can

By CLIFFORD J. RICE Elder Law Attorney Granger

Is that all there is?

be done according to state law. Self-dealing language is required under Indiana law in order for the person acting as power of attorney to transfer assets out of the name of the person in the nursing home into the name of the spouse, or others. You can give the power to your spouse (if competent) or to one or more of your children to act as your “agent” (on your behalf) with the POA.

year period requirement.

Legal Consultation — it is best for you to sit down with an experienced elder law attorney and look at all your options when you or your spouse are facing possible nursing home care due to a health issue such as stroke, early dementia or the beginning of Alzheimer’s. Because we are an elder law firm, we can help to save you or your life savings from nursing home spend-down.

Free Elder Law Workshop

Coping with Grief

By TOM ROSE

Somewhere along your journey, you will begin to embrace the change after the loss of a loved one or a sudden change in your life. It starts with that feeling in your gut; as singer Peggy Lee put it, “Is That All There Is?” There has to be more to life. The gut feeling that you have more to do with your life and much more to offer is there within you, waiting patiently to be acknowledged. It may have been there for years but you have ignored it. Then you have that moment when your mind realizes what your gut has been trying to tell you. This is your epiphany, so to speak.

The legend goes that Sir Issac Newton was sitting beneath

the tree when an apple fell and struck him on the head, sparking the a-ha moment and discovery of gravity. That was the moment of his epiphany; he realized what the gut had been telling him. Newton took his moment and shared it with the world. My epiphany came four months after the loss of my wife when I realized I had to embrace the change in my life and move forward.

Once you realize what the gut tells you, it is time for your heart and soul to take over and find your new self. The time has come to reinvent yourself or refurbish/ remodel yourself. It is time to move forward with your new life. To some, it may be a new career, going back to school; others, simply writing down their thoughts or renewing their faith, offering their time and treasure to a worthy cause. It may be as simple as expanding your horizons with new hobbies and interests. If you were never a reader, start

reading, join a book club or go to the theater and concerts. These things will change and enhance your life, introducing you to new experiences and friends. Writing the book “Balloon in a Box, Coping with Grief” opened up a whole new life for me. I became an author and a speaker, leading to hosting the podcast “Senior Talk Michiana.”

Change can be complicated. While it is essential to move forward, it can be uncomfortable, especially if it feels out of control. To move forward and embrace change, we must first take control. Finding yourself and that there is more to life is a three-step process. First is that gut feeling, and then your mind understands that feeling. Then, you must open your heart and soul and allow God to lead you on your new life journey. Making the changes won’t be easy, but it will be well worth it. Listen to your soul; listen to him. He will lead the way.

Gifting Program — there are Medicaid planning techniques that require you to transfer assets into a trust or outright to children. Under the current rules, any such transfers or gifts made within five years of the date that you apply for Medicaid can cause a period of ineligibility or a socalled “penalty period.” You can protect your transferred assets by making the transfers sooner than later to help meet the five-

Want to learn more? Join us for one of our free Elder Law Dinner Workshops: 6 p.m. Monday, July 14; or 6 p.m. Monday, July 21, at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 902 E. University Drive, Granger Reservations required; seating is limited. Call (800) 303-7423 or visit riceandrice. com.

Submit your continuing disability review report online

By MONA HARTER District Manager, South Bend Social Security Office

Do you receive Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income? If so, you should know that we are required by law to review your case to verify that you still have a disabling condition that prevents you from doing substantial work. We call this process a Continuing Disability Review.

We will send you a notice telling you when it is time to review your medical condition and keep you informed about your benefit status. How often we review your

medical condition depends on whether your condition is likely to improve.

We’ll normally review your case:

• Within six to 18 months after our decision on your disability application if your medical condition is expected to improve.

• Every three years if medical improvement is possible.

• Every seven years if medical improvement is not expected.

If you get disability benefits you can complete and submit the Medical Continuing Disability Review Report (SSA-454) online. The online option is avail-

YOU HURTING

able to adults who receive SSDI, SSI, or both, and do not have a representative payee. To complete the form online, sign in to your personal my Social Security account and select “Complete Your Continuing Disability

Review.” If you do not have an account, visit ssa.gov/ myaccount to get started. If you do not have a personal my Social Security account, you can fill out and print the SSA-454 at ssa.gov/ forms/ssa-454-bk.pdf. You can mail or make an appointment to take your completed form to your local Social Security office.

Please share this information with your friends and loved ones who receive SSDI benefits or SSIs.

The Studebaker National Museum is presenting the fourth installment of its popular “South Bend Then and Now” exhibition series, which pairs historic photos of locations in and around South Bend with present-day photography taken from the same vantage point. This series has been incredibly popular over the years and this fourth installment will not disappoint. The exhibition is open until Aug. 3.

The period images date from the 1920s-1970s and are sourced from the Studebaker National Museum Archives’ vast image collection. The Studebaker Corporation is well represented in the exhibit, as are other long-time local institutions, like South Bend Bait Company, Kreamo Bread and The South Bend Tribune. The Studebaker National Museum is located at 201 Chapin St., just west of downtown South Bend.

It is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $11 for adults, $9.50 for seniors over 60, and $7 for youth ages 6-18.

For more information, call the museum at (574) 235-9714 or toll free at (888) 391-5600 or visit studebakermuseum. org.

For an additional cost, visitors can tour The History Museum, which adjoins the Studebaker National Museum.

July Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library programs for adults

Below is the MPHPL July 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.

Bittersweet Branch Events

“Poetry and Bookmarks,” 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 8. Express your creativity by creating poetry and sewing a bookmark. Participants will find poetry in recycled print and use a sewing machine to make a corner bookmark. No previous experience needed. Registration required.

“Jazz Assemblage,” 5-6 p.m. Thursday, July 17. Enjoy an hour-long performance by the

Jazz Assemblage in the relaxing Bittersweet Courtyard; note: if inclement weather occurs, the event will be moved indoors.

Harris Branch Events

“Wonderful Wall Decor: Macramé Hangings,” 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 15. Create unique and rustic wall decor with macramé cord. Registration is required.

Mishawaka Library Events

“Saturday Morning Book Club,” 10:15-11:15 a.m. Saturday, July 12. Discuss this month’s book selection, “The Namesake” by Jhumpa Lahiri. Books can be picked up in advance at the front desk of the Mishawaka library. Registra-

tion is required.

“Edible Excursions: Brazil,” 4:30-5:30 p.m. Monday, July 28. Enjoy an evening of exploration and eating. Participants will virtually visit Brazil and then make a popular Brazilian snack. Registration is required; limited to MPHPL cardholders.

Virtual Events

“Virtual Food Tasting: Fruity Snacks,” 6-6:45 p.m. Wednesday, July 16. Celebrate summer by enjoying various fruity snacks. Participants will receive an assortment of snacks to try while taking a virtual tour of popular summer vacation locations. Registration required. Details on when and where to pick up program sup-

plies will be sent via email to registrants. Limit one kit per household.

In The Community Events “Morning at the Museum,” 11-11:45 a.m. Friday, July 25. Learn about Mishawaka history while taking a group tour of the Mishawaka Historical Museum. This event features a story time for children and a scavenger hunt. Registration is required.

Summer Reading Challenge

The MPHPL Summer Reading Challenge continues through Monday, Aug. 4. The MPHPL Summer Reading Challenge has been a staple of the library for decades. Over 1,900 participants completed

last year’s challenge. Challenge cards can be picked up at any MPHPL location or downloaded online at mphpl.org/reading-challenge. Complete the five squares marked with a beach ball and show your card at a service desk for a small prize. All participants who complete the challenge and submit their cards will earn a free book from a pre-selected list. All ages can take part. Adult participants must have a library card.

MPHPL will host a summer reading wrap-up party from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Bittersweet Branch on the last day of the challenge, Monday, Aug. 4. All are welcome.

Assisted Living, nursing And rehAbiLitAtion guide

Aperion Care - Arbors Michigan City

1101 E. Coolspring Avenue, Michigan City, IN 46360 (219) 874-5211 • www.aperioncare.com

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

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.

Holy Cross Village at Notre Dame

54515 933 N., P.O. Box 706, Notre Dame, IN 46556 (574) 287-1838 • www.holycrossvillage.com

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

Hubbard Hill Retirement Community

28070 CR 24 ., Elkhart, IN 46517 (574) 295-6260 • www.hubbardhill.org

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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

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ALZHEIMERS/MEMORY CARE

SIGNATURE HealthCARE OF BREMEN

316 Woodies Lane

Bremen, IN 46506

(574) 546-3494

SHCofBremen.com

liaison2.bremen@signaturehealthcarellc.com

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.

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.

2406 Mishawaka Ave., South Bend, IN 46615 (574) 383-5595

Willow Creek Office Center 3179 Willow Creek Road, Portage, IN 46368 Starting at $895 each. Free Hearing

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!

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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 (less than 10% of all hospices in the United States are 5 stars). 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.

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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.

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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!

PAIN RELIEF

REDOXGold

Ernie Chupp 26659 CR 54 Nappanee, IN 46550 (574) 773-9404

realredoxresults.com (password: redox)

In Pain? Experience immediate, targeted relief and recovery. Relieves ailments like joint discomfort, kidney problems, depression, migraines, fatigue, cholesterol, allergies, auto-immune and more.

Years of model aviation to explore at Muncie museum

Model aviation enthusiasts know about the National Model Aviation Museum in Muncie, but it’s not necessary to be a model airplane buff to enjoy a self-guided tour through the history of this popular hobby.

GREAT ESCAPES

Text and Photos

By ROD KING

Grandchildren will particularly enjoy this museum. It’s chock full of models of all shapes, sizes, colors and configurations. Some are propelled by rubber bands and miniature engines. Some are controlled by wires and others by remote control.

There are some neat displays of equipment and hardware on loan to the museum by NASA and were used in the space program, a drone collection and one room is a hands-on gallery with computer-operated flight simulators and games. Youngsters are encouraged to make and fly paper airplanes and to make a paper cone fly in a vertical wind tunnel.

AEROMODELING HISTORY The museum is separated into four major areas starting with more than 200 years of aeromodeling history, tracing the important role models played in the development of manned flight.

The museum is separated into four major areas, starting with more than 200 years of aeromodeling history, tracing the important role models played in the development of manned flight.

Next is the free flight section, which is the oldest form of the hobby featuring rubber band powered models and hand-launched gliders.

A large section focuses on planes controlled by persons manipulating them by wires, making them do loops and

dives while flying in a circle. The last section is for models controlled by radio frequencies.

Nestled in the middle of everything, take a step back in time by entering a circa-1950s hobby shop full of boxed stick and paper models, a mannequin sales clerk and an antique cash register.

The Academy of Model Aeronautics History was founded in 1936 and the National Model Aviation Museum was established in 1978 in Virginia, near Washington, D.C. It was relocated to Muncie in 1993. Model plane enthusiasts from across the country flock there in July and August for the annual national competition, which includes combat flying, pitting two participants attempting to cut a streamer from their opponent’s plane; landing planes on a mock aircraft car-

rier; skill flying and more.

The 1,000-acre site has eight fly sites specifically designed for a variety of competitions. They also have facilities for creative flying, racing featuring permanent pylons, speed and aeromodeling

To take in some fancy fly-

ing, be sure to get to the museum Aug. 9-16 for the World Championships of control-line models.

To get to the National Model Aviation Museum, drive south on I-69 to exit 234 and follow S.R. 32 into Muncie.

When you reach US 35, turn south and follow it to Memorial Drive. Then turn left and travel a short distance to the museum on the right side of the road.

Hours through August are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Admission for adults is $8, $4 for youths, and kids under 6 are free. Call (800) 435-9262 for more information or visit modelaircraft.org.

1950S MODEL SHOP Nestled in the middle of the museum is a circa 1950s hobby shop full of boxed stick and paper models.

FRIENDLY SHOP KEEPER — A mannequin shop owner waits to serve youngsters eager to get started making a model airplane.

Good times roll at Stan’s Idle Hour in Florida

By FYLLIS HOCKMAN Mature Life Features

Rarely is the word funky used to describe an entire town. Welcome to Goodland, Fla. — all six blocks of it.

Founded in the 1800s, this tiny town sits just outside an almost-as-tiny harbor. Scattered throughout are large and colorful dolphin, swordfish and flamingo mailboxes entertain en route. But what really catches your eyes are some roadside toilets sprouting bountiful bouquets of flowers.

I stopped to ask directions and I prefaced my inquiry with a friendly, “Do you live here?”

I was a little surprised at the reply. “No, no one lives here; it’s not big enough.”

On the other hand, Stan’s Idle Hour Sea Food Restaurant’s occupancy could populate a small metropolis.

This is not your average town.

Funk reaches its peak on Sundays at Stan’s somewhat ramshackle eating center — as it has since 1969. Crowds? No. Throngs and mobs? Okay.

The sheer number of endlessly undulating bodies overflowing the huge area in front of the bandstand far exceeds the town’s population. People of all ages, sizes and shapes gather — the eclectic nature of the hordes attested to by the tattooed notso-tough guy sporting a ponytail who sidles up to the bar and orders a glass of rose wine.

Which prompted me to ask the guy sitting next to me at the bar, “What brings you here?” I was skeptical of his initial reply: “It’s a great place to relax on a Sunday,” Then he added, “It appeals to bikers, bums and billionaires.”

The juxtaposition of cars, golf carts and motorcycles crammed outside supported that.

As the afternoon progressed from 1 p.m. to 3, some of the endlessly undulating bodies coalesced into line-dancing aficionados. And then all hell broke loose.

The swinging and swaying crowd depicted the strange movements made by trash-scavenging buzzards as they hover over road kill before landing to devour it. This was hallowed tribute to Stan’s signature Buzzard Lope dance. The lyrics instruct participants to “Flap your wings up and down, take steps around and round.”

The decibel level of the music matches the enthusiasm it engenders. It’s an experience.

A sign above the stage proclaims: “Sunday is FUNday at Stan’s. No one can have more fun in life than we can. If they don’t like it, tell them to go next door. They’re closed.”

We tried to take a break from the mayhem. But Little’s, the bar down the road a piece, had its own eccentricities. Its menu presentation required a large chalkboard to be balanced on the chairs in back of our bar stools so we had to turn around to check out its offerings. A low-key — very low-key when compared with its neighbor’s entertainment combo — folk duo crooned soothing ballads.

Away from Stan’s, Goodland

remains one of the last vestiges of the real Florida, where residents — all 300 plus — cling stubbornly to the past. Many people visit because of what they don’t find there — glitzy theme parks, beaches covered by blankets, and natural beauty uprooted and paved over.

The tiny fishing village sits atop 40 acres of Calusa Indian mounds comprised of shells, fish bones, pottery shards and other discards.

Stan’s is one reason that, while Goodland is a small town, it has a reputation as a village that knows how to throw a party. Throughout the year, the community hosts a variety of events, fishing tournaments and festivals that celebrate its history, local culture, and love for all things seafood.

And throughout the week, Stan’s showcases different bands nightly. But if Sunday is the apex of the week’s entertainment, the annual Mullet Festival in January is the highlight of the year’s festivities. More people, if that’s even possible, louder music, a variety of vendors, and a whole lot of fresh-caught fish.

Over which, of course, the Buzzard Lope Queen reigns. If you want to relax, stop by Little’s. But if you want to experience the essence of Goodland at its most extemporaneous, try to wedge yourself into the Stan’s experience.

Always ask for the senior discount

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Folks in their golden years not only have the time to travel but they also can take advantage of a range of discounts that begin as early as a person’s 50th birthday and proliferate after they turn 65. All they have to do is ask for the senior discount when they book an airline or train trip, cruise, hotel or motel reservation, rent a car, and stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner

along the way.

Various resorts, entertainment complexes, casinos and government-owned parks also have lower prices available for seniors.

An AARP membership card has many of these discounts attached to it along with discounts from several chains for auto maintenance and repair, haircuts, groceries, movies and other products and services.

Just ask.

Travel By Bridget, LLC

The Springs and Manatees of Florida February 22nd --- 28th

from Lover’s Leap, Exploration of Rock City and Paddle Boat River Lunch Cruise with surprises

9 meals: 3 each of breakfast, lunch and dinner $869 pp/dbl occ.

Trains of Colorado August 22nd --- 30th

This trip includes round trip transportation to the airport, flights, hotels and all listed activities.

Accommodations of two nights at Cliff House, Pikes Peak, two nights at the Historic Strater Hotel in Durango, two nights at Wine Country Inn, one night at The Embassy Suites and one night at the Fairfield Inn and Suites.

Enjoy Florida with a trip including accommodations at New Drury Inn in Chattanooga and Holiday Inn Express in Florida along with attractions of Ellie Schiller Wildlife State Park, walking the boardwalk, Underwater Viewing Area to see Manatees and other sea/wildlife, Boat Tour to see Manatees (option to swim with them), Airboat Ride, Tarpon Springs, Sponge Boat Experience and Greek Fishing Village, Weechi Wachi Springs and The Mermaid Show. Includes Free Time at Crystal River (opportunity to kayak).

13 meals: 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 5 dinners, including waterfront dining experiences $1,599 pp/dbl occ.

Natural Beauty of Chattanooga May 12th ---- 15th

This exciting trip includes three overnights at New Drury Inn, Tour of Ruby Falls, Incline Railway at Lookout Mountain, View 7 states

Attractions include Railroads of Georgetown Loop, Durango and Silverton, Cumbres and Toltec and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Also, Mesa Verde National Park tour, Colorado National Monument tour with dinner, Garden of the Gods Park tour, Million Dollar Highway tour and Bard D Ranch dinner show. The tour will be hosted by Mark Warther. 16 meals: 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 6 dinners with attractions $4,499 pp/dbl occ.

WELCOME TO GOODLAND Roadside toilet flowers are one of the many unique sights one finds in Goodland, Fla. Photo attributed to Dreamstime.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE TOWN A flamingo mailbox at Goodland, Fla. Photo by Victor Block, Mature Life Features.

Swiss sun parlor has Latin lilt

By BEVERLY RAHN Mature Life Features

While the scenery at Locarno, in the Swiss “sun parlor,” the country’s southernmost canton of Ticino, may not overwhelm you with dramatic alpine vistas as some more-rugged sections of the country do, it carries a lingering charm.

Life in this polenta-pastaand-palm-tree finger of land poking into northern Italy offers a more-leisurely Latin lifestyle.

Conversation is punctuated with gestures not seen in the more sedate sections of Switzerland. Grappa, a potent Italian liquor, is the traditional after-dinner Ticino tipple.

Not only do Italian, French and Swiss cultures mingle here, it’s also the geographical point at which the great plate of the African continent shoulders its way into the European continent, rumpling the landscape into what we call the Alps.

We rolled into this vista of valleys, vineyards and villas, following a couple of days in the magnificent Hotel Dolder Grand in Zurich. A leisurely day-long boat-and-train trip carried us almost the entire width of this nation.

ity of central

the wine cellar of this historic hostelry, where the fragile treaties designed to keep a lasting peace in Europe following World War I were drafted.

Then we boarded a bus to neighboring Ascona, a lakeside town that peers up at the border village of Brissago, renowned for its hand-rolled cigars.

border, embraces its namesake lake. Along its shores are a chocolate museum, curiously the only one in this country.

This resort city is within a couple of hours by auto, bus or train from Milan, Genoa, Geneva, Lucerne and Lausanne.

Menus in many Ticino restaurants are fixed and feature the freshest mixture available of hearty peasant cuisines.

Crossroad Tours Crossroad Tour

A short walk from the Locarno train terminal is the Grand Hotel Locarno overlooking the crisp, cool waters of Lago Maggiore. We took the time to sip a satisfying local merlot in

It’s only a one-hour drive from Locarno to Lugano, Ticino’s largest city, but we took a bit longer by stopping for lunch in the canton’s capital, Bellinzona. Three medieval castles here still guard the Magadino Plain, historically a major entrance to Europe’s heartland.

Lugano, the third major Swiss financial center after Zurich and Geneva because of its perch on Italy’s northern

Diamond To

September 21-27, 2025 - Beautiful Vermont

October 11-19, 2025 - Amelia Island, St. Augustine, Jacksonville, FL

Polenta, mentioned earlier, is a regional favorite. This traditional Italian corn-meal dish is served in endless ways: as a side dish like rice or potatoes, sliced cold and re-fried with an entree, or as a dessert swimming in syrups and sauces. Its distinct smoky flavor results from slow stirring as it simmers over an open fire.

November 3-7, 2025 - Nashville Show Trip

December 7-12, 2025 - Charleston, South Carolina

April 11-19,2026 - San Antonio, TX

Crossroad Tours oad Tour

May 17-23, 2026 - Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard

October 1-12, 2026

Crossroad Tours ros d T rs

Hoover Dam

D

Family Fun T ours

September 21-27, 2025

July 12, 2025 - Air Zoo

October 11-19, 2025

July 19, 2025 - Peru Circus

August 16, 2025 - Chicago Air Show

Augustine, Jacksonville,

August 23, 2025 - Toledo Zoo

August 16, 2025 - Chicago Air Show

September 27, 2025 - Brookfield Zoo

August 23, 2025 - Toledo Zoo

November 3-7, 2025December 7-12, 2025

Crossroad Tours Crossroad Tour

September 22-23, 2025 - Antiques and Explore Elizabeth, IL

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

Travel can be bad for your health

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

- Beautiful Vermont - Amelia Island, St.

Getting the shots required by the countries you plan to visit is not enough to keep you healthy on your travels.

Nashville Show Trip

- Charleston, South Carolina

September 27, 2025 - Brookfield Zoo

April 11-19,2026

September 27, 2025 - Brookfield Zoo

October 23-25, 2025 - The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum

May 17-23, 2026

October 23-25, 2025The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum

October 1-12, 2026

Hoover Dam

Family Fun Tours Diamond Tours

September 21-27, 2025 - Beautiful Vermont

October 11-19, 2025 - Amelia Island, St. Augustine, Jacksonville, FL

November 3-7, 2025 - Nashville Show Trip

October 11-19, 2025 - Amelia Island, St. Augustine, Jacksonville, FL

December 7-12, 2025 - Charleston, South Carolina

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

April 11-19,2026 - San Antonio, TX

- San Antonio, TX

Nor do you get enough exercise by manhandling your luggage through airports and into overhead bins and signing up for every group tour on your itinerary.

- Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard - Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and

Before leaving home, rehearse a 15-minute travel workout that includes squats, abdominal crunches and stretching all parts of your body.

Pack a swimsuit and use it wherever there’s water — pool, lake or ocean – included on the stops while you’re away.

October 1-12, 2026Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and Hoover Dam

May 17-23, 2026 - Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard

October 1-12, 2026 - Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and Hoover Dam

And make sure your shoes are comfortable not only so you can see the sights without getting footsore but to make it easier to hike around the airport between flights.

Taking a few exercise tools, such as a stretch bands and hand strengtheners, also helps maintain your health and strength on the trip.

ASCONA BELLTOWER Ascona is one of the comfortable communities alongside Lago Maggiore that straddles the Swiss -Italian border. Photo by Cecil Scaglione, Mature Life Features.

LUCERNE LEISURELY FERRY Lake Lucerne captures the seren-

Switzerland. Photo by Cecil Scaglione, Mature Life Features.