Senior Life - Elko County Edition - March 2024

Wakarusa Baseball/Softball League —

Summer program a labor of love for Lengacher family

By KEITH KNEPP Editor

Nearly 50 years ago, a young Wakarusa couple saw a need in their beloved community. Jack and Nadine Lengacher were the parents of five children, including four boys, and were looking for activities to keep them busy during the summer months. While there was a semblance of a baseball program for kids in the town, it wasn’t exactly reliable nor necessarily beneficial to the Lengacher children and their schoolmates.

“There really weren’t a lot of activities to do here,” said Nadine. “We started talking about it and said, ‘we should just start a league.’”

The first year of the program was 1977 and included 110 kids. Games were played on a single diamond.

“We had zero money, but decided we weren’t going to charge because we wanted everyone to be able to play,” she said. “After that first year, it kept growing and growing. We’ve had over 500 kids for at least the last 20 years, and we

still do it without charging any fees.”

The program now offers both baseball and softball, as well as a co-ed peewee division for the youngest participants. Kids come from all over the area, including Nappanee, Goshen, Bremen, South Bend, Elkhart and other surrounding communities.

“There are a lot of kids who can’t necessarily afford to play unless its free,” added Jack.

“We’ve always said, we don’t care who the person is, Continued on page 2

action is taking place at the ballpark in Wakarusa. Kids from kindergarten through eighth grade play in four different leagues on four diamonds. Photo provided by Wakarusa Baseball/Softball League.

Voss celebrates 23 years at Warsaw Public Library

By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer

“Feb. 5 marked my 23rd anniversary working at the Warsaw Public Library,” stated Laurie Voss, South Whitley. “My coworkers are like family to me. Since I’ve worked at the library so long, I’ve been able to see our young patrons grow up and now they are bringing in their own children.”

Voss is the circulation supervisor, but she didn’t start her career in a library. “I was working in a factory in North Manchester when I took an aptitude test online. It showed that I should work in a library. I spotted a full-time position that was available at Warsaw Library.”

Voss was very confident when she went in for her interview. “My husband asked me if I got the job when I came home. Although they didn’t hire me on the spot, I told him I’d be hearing from them. They called me the next day.”

A typical day for Voss begins with a burst of creativity. “Right now, I’m working on a project to help people find obituaries. My vision is for them to simply log on to

our website, type in the name, and pull up the obituary.”

When she is not thinking of new areas to enhance the library, she checks up on her staff members. “I like to see what’s going on. “The people I work with are not only coworkers but friends. I enjoy interacting with them.”

One of the most exciting things for Voss is seeing the love of the library pass from generation to generation. “I’ll see the grown children who came to our program for years. Now they bring their children, who also enjoy the programs and learning that takes place at the library. The love of the library lives on.”

Voss is no stranger to The Papers, Inc., the publishing company of Senior Life. “I wrote a column for ‘the Paper’ about Silver Lake for years. I love to write. I’ve also written a book called ‘The Silver Lake Experience.’ It traces the history from the early 1800s to 2000.” The book is available on Amazon. She has also written two family history books. One of them is titled “You Say Your Name is Jayne?” “I was one of 10 kids. My maiden name was Jayne. People never believed that was our

last name. As a matter of fact, teachers and principals would ask what our last name actually was, ” Voss chuckled.

Research is a favorite activity for Voss. “Silver Lake has a cemetery with tombstones dating back to 1845. I used to have my own cemetery research website. But now I simply upload the information to ‘Find a Grave.’”

She and her husband, Rick, are ghost hunters in their spare time. “Each year we travel to Gettysburg to investigate any supernatural activity. We are seldom disappointed. There’s a lot of activity going on for those who look.”

With a laugh, Voss remarked that there’s really no truth to the stereotype that shows the librarian with thick glasses holed up in a lone corner with a good book. “Our workers are a very diverse group of people. To work at the library, a person has to love people and be outgoing enough to communicate well.”

A goal of Voss’s is to write a children’s book. “I still enjoy reading books for young people.”

Summer program

Continued from page 1

we don’t care what your last name is, we’re all equal here,” said Nadine. “We’re selective of our coaches to make sure they understand the purpose of the program. To us, its our ministry here. We provide a positive, encouraging environment. When we see the excitement of the kids at the ballpark, we know this is why we’re doing this.”

The town of Wakarusa has been very supportive of the program throughout the years. There is a waiting list of sponsors for the teams. The Olive Township trustee and the town itself both financially support the program to help it make ends meet.

“People just want to be involved,” said Nadine. “It’s like a family reunion every night at the ballpark. You connect with old friends, but you meet a lot of new ones. People who have been around the program know what we expect of the people who come down there. This program is for the kids, 100%. If you can’t keep it that way, then you probably want to do something else, and that’s fine.”

“Every kid gets to play,” said Jack. “You don’t just come up and sit on the bench all night.”

The Lengachers said they once had a blind child who played for a few years. His father would assist him in the field to know where the ball was and what he should do.

“We don’t care how many home

runs you hit or if you strike out every game, we don’t care,” said Nadine. “We always tell the coaches to make sure that every child on that team gets to start a game during the season.”

Even as the program prepares to enter its 48th season, the Lengachers can be found sitting in their comfortable lawn chairs next to the concession stand. Their children and grandchildren have stepped in to take care of much of the program’s organization and activity, but Jack and Nadine remain an integral part of the league.

At the end of the season, the program holds its one and only annual fundraiser, “America at the Ballpark,” which this year will be on Friday, June 21. The year-end celebration includes the league championship games, raffles, food and fireworks.

The community is invited to come to the ballpark most weeknights beginning May 13.

The park now includes four diamonds that were constructed in 1997. The fields sit on land owned by the town of Wakarusa, which leases it to the Lengachers for $1 per year. Much of the construction of the diamonds was provided, either with donations or labor.

“People have been so supportive throughout the years,” said Nadine. “They know the purpose of the program and they just want to be a part of it.”

“God makes a plan, you just have to follow it,” concluded Jack.

PART OF THE FAMILY — Laurie Voss, the circulation supervisor at Warsaw Public Library, has been part of the library family for 23 years. She loves seeing the patrons she’s watched grow up at the library now bringing in their own kids. Voss is also a prolific writer who loves to do research. Photo provided by Laurie Voss.

The Lincoln Highway — 1919 military convoy along the Lincoln Highway

BY JEFF BLAIR President Indiana Lincoln Highway Association

Editor’s note: This is part three of a column written by Jeff Blair, president of the Indiana Lincoln Highway Association. Part two can be found in last month’s edition of Senior Life.

In 1919, shortly after the armistice ending WWI, the US Army determined to take the first ever military vehicle convoy, including a 7-ton tank aboard a flatbed truck, across the entire United States. The goal of the mission was to determine the readiness of America should we need to deploy vehicles from one coast to the other if some enemy were to invade our country. Also, to see the condition of roads in general for any sort of travel, potentially advance recruitment and to determine the readiness of the equipment for our road conditions. They decided to primarily

Money isn’t everything

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

The good life has been defined as “having health, a financial safety net and the time to do what is important,” according to results of a study conducted by the MetLife Mature Market Institute.

Interviews with 1,000 people between the ages of 45 and 74 revealed that, while having enough money to be comfortable — a different standard for everyone — remains important, it’s not the only focus for many.

Living the ‘good life’ for middle-aged and older Americans, the study reports, is equated with having a sense of purpose about their lives. Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

follow the well known Lincoln Highway. One of the leaders on the convoy was a young lieutenant colonel named Dwight David Eisenhower — later to become the 34th President of the United States.

The caravan left Washington D.C. and traveled northwest from the city into Pennsylvania to join the 6-year- old Lincoln Highway … the very first US transcontinental rock highway. They traveled 3,250 miles over the next 62 days to reach Oakland and then took a ferry to end in San Francisco. They transported 81 pieces of equipment, including 34 cargo vehicles, four light delivery trucks, two machine shops, a blacksmith truck, four kitchen trailers, two water tanks, eight touring cars, five side car motorcycles, four solo motorcycles, five ambulances, a medical unit,

a gasoline tank vehicle and more.

Additionally, 281 observers, officers and enlisted men started the journey, but 21 were injured in route and did not complete the trip. Roads were a mess, particularly west of Illinois (only 1/3 of the way), with potholes, mostly unpaved, mud, sand, dust and really tough driving conditions. They incurred 230 road accidents and nine of the transported vehicles were retired along the way.

They were forced to repair dozens of wooden bridges along the way including 14 in Wyoming alone. They averaged 5.65 mph for the trip and spent on average 10.2 hours each day traveling.

In Goshen the Lincoln Highway crossed the Elkhart River on Pike Street at that time. Unfortunately the old Pike

Street bridge could not handle the heavy trucks and tank, so a detour took them north a couple blocks then west along River Road to cross the River on the 1890s Indiana Avenue Bridge next to the Chase Bag Factory (now the old Bag Factory) to rejoin the Lincoln Highway. That 1890s bridge has been called the Fort Wayne Bridge as well and still stands proudly where it always has!

In Churubusco they stopped for a couple of hours for refreshments.

The results of this rugged journey included:

• Government support and emphasis to continue expanding the “Good Roads Movement” for construction and paving more highways;

• Recruitment was sparse but, of course, the war had just recently ended so an appetite

for enlistment was not high;

• The convoy passed through 350 communities along the route and over 3 million people witnessed the caravan adding to the excitement of traveling the Lincoln Highway and supporting our military; and

• Many decisions about truck and motorcycle design were made to insure US Army equipment could handle any terrain.

There are many, many stories about great events and wonderful venues along the Lincoln Highway, both here in Indiana and across the United States. At our national conference in Elkhart June 24-28, we will have a documentary related to this journey and a presentation from a man who recently took this same route on an e-bike. It could be fun! Look us up at visitelkhartcounty.org.

Nursing homes are expensive, and without careful planning an extended stay can easily bankrupt all but the most affluent families. Considering that the median cost of a nursing home in the U.S. is $9,872 a month, with costs over $100,000 per year, you’re looking at a bill of $200,000 to $1 million dollars for your family member with Alzheimer’s disease, whose nursing home stay is typically two to 10 years or more.

What most people don’t

realize is that, as a general rule, the government will only pay the nursing home bill if a single person has spent down to $2,000. Medicare will only cover you for a maximum of 100 days, if they cover you at all. Social Security won’t pay all these bills, either. Only Medicaid will cover you — if you qualify!

My book, “How To Protect Your Family’s Assets From Devastating Nursing Home Costs,” explains in English

By CLIFFORD J. RICE Elder Law Attorney Granger

what the rules are and how you can qualify for Medicaid coverage yet still protect your home and life savings. Receive your free copy when you do planning with Rice & Rice during the month of March or April.

Once you have been ap-

proved for Medicaid, virtually all of your medical bills will be paid by the program. In most states, Medicaid will cover:

• Ambulatory services to individuals entitled to institutional care;

• Home health services to individuals entitled to nursing facility services;

• Prescribed drug coverage. In some cases, Medicaid will even cover the cost of care while you can remain living in your own home.

There are unique opportunities for married couples when it comes to protecting assets from nursing home spend-downs. If advance planning is done with an experienced attorney in the field of Medicaid law, the assets of the first spouse to die can be placed in a special type of trust, sometimes referred to as a “Safe Harbor Trust.”

Assets passing to provide for the care of the surviving spouse in this way can be fully protected from nursing home spend-downs. They are avail-

able for care and needs during the lifetime of the surviving spouse, and they may also be better protected from death taxes and probate fees when they pass to the children at the time the surviving spouse passes away.

At Rice & Rice Attorneys, we count almost 25 separate Medicaid planning techniques that can be used to save money from the nursing home for married couples, and almost as many such valuable techniques for single persons.

Legal help is available at Rice & Rice Attorneys, 1237 East University Drive, Granger. Call (800) 303-7423 to schedule an appointment for a free consultation, or to attend one of our estate planning/Medicaid planning seminars at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Granger, 6 p.m. Monday, March 4, or 6 p.m. Monday, March 25.

Reservations are required and seating is limited. Call now or visit our website at riceandrice.com.

Character helps get you out of debt

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Power corrupts, a wise man once said.

So does credit, as millions of people have learned while they climb and claw their way out of the economic hole they’ve dug for themselves.

Blame is plastered on anything that doesn’t move. The banks made short-sighted loans. The government didn’t clamp down on those insidious bankers.

likely you’re going to do anything about getting out of that debt. No stimulus package of any size is going to succeed. It takes character as well as cash to become and remain debt-free, or at least in a position to manage all your debt.

First of all, you can collect all your outstanding accounts, from credit card companies to phone firms. If you’re facing the possibility of missing any payments, contact the company concerned immediately.

service, to work this out.

If you’re sagging under the weight of credit card debt, you might consider a personal loan, which will allow you to spread out (and lower) the payments as well as lower the interest rate.

But act quickly. Ignoring the problem only makes it bigger.

STAFF

Mortgage lenders made no-downpayment loans sound so enticing.

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Credit card companies made it too easy to buy everything without money.

Few folks assume any responsibility for their debt. They were confused or cajoled or both by slick talking suits.

So let’s be clear on one thing: if you’re in debt and don’t think you did it yourself, it’s highly un-

While creditors don’t look forward to lowering payments or dropping interest rates, you can discuss both to establish a plan that will enable you to eradicate the debt. See if you can eliminate late fees and try to lower the interest rate. Credit card companies have been known to renegotiate the terms and amount of a debt to cut their losses.

You may need professional help, such as a debt-consolidation

If you’re already late with payments and can see no way to catch up, discuss a debt settlement with the company. Try to work out some deal that will allow you to clear this hurdle without adding to your problem. Beware of debt settlement ads, because many of these firms charge up-front fees and offer no assurance that you’ll be better off when they’re through with you.

So, unless you win a lottery, cash alone won’t solve your debt problem. It takes some resolve on your part to rebuild and maintain your credit. Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

Miller finds passion, purpose

By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer

Susi Miller has been a volunteer extraordinaire for as long as she can remember, donating her time to different nonprofits such as Make-A-Wish and Council of Aging. Now, she uses her talent to help enrich the lives of the clients of The Window, Inc., 223 S. Main. St., Goshen.

“I walked into The Window to volunteer, or maybe get on the board. As I was walking out, I walked past a friend that was volunteering here. He asked if I knew anything about development,” Miller explained, “and I was so excited, I love development. That would be a dream job. So I met Ed Swartley, the executive director, and I started the next day.”

Miller has been a staple of The Window Inc. for over two years now. She has a marketing degree that helps in her success on the job, but what really sets her apart is her heart and passion for people.

“I have always loved helping people, and I love being able to do that every day here,” Miller explained. “Every day I come in, I have a chance to help somebody.”

No two days look the same

for Miller, but that’s one of her aspects of her job. On Mondays and Fridays, she’s in her office, catching up on emails, helping sort donations and genuinely being a light in so many clients’ lives. Tuesday through Thursday, she is zooming across the town, securing sponsorships for upcoming events and fundraisers, picking up food drive donations and other community outreach duties.

“I have always been a helpful person. I have always taken care of people,” Miller said. “When I was working on my marketing degree, at the beginning, I wasn’t looking at nonprofit work, but I kept ending up at nonprofits. Because, even after all the college debt and making ends meet, money has never been important to me.”

During 2023, The Window Inc. fed 41,300 people with The Pantry; served 16,429 lunches through Katie’s Kitchen; delivered 16,996 meals through Meals On Wheels; and clothed 3,997 people through The Clothing Closet. In addition to those four programs, The Window Inc. also offered showers, a post office and senior commodity boxes. Altogether, in 2023, through all the services The Window Inc. offers, 90,000 community

work

members were served.

Volunteers are vital to the success and service The Window Inc. provides. To register as a volunteer, visit thewindowofgoshen.com/volunteering or call (574) 533-9680 ext. 203.

“The best thing a volunteer can do is just look at a client, smile, ask how they are doing and really mean it,” Miller mentioned, “and the best thing a client can do is ask for the

help they need.”

The Window Inc. is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday.

Katie’s Kitchen is open from 9-10 a.m. Monday through Friday for doughnuts and coffee and reopens 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for lunch from service. Meals served through Katie’s Kitchen are free but donations are always welcomed.

The Food Pantry is open 1-3:30 p.m. Mondays and Fridays; 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays; 9-10:30 a.m. and 3-5 p.m. Thursdays. Guests are allowed to visit once a month.

The Clothing Closet is open 9 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and 9 a.m. to noon, 4-5:30 p.m. Thursdays.

For more information about The Window Inc. visit thewindowofgoshen.com.

FOOD PANTRY — Susi Miller organizes some items that were donated to The Window Inc.’s food pantry. The Food Pantry is open 1-3:30 p.m. Mondays and Fridays; 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays; 9-10:30 a.m. and 3-5 p.m. Thursdays. Guests are allowed to visit once a month. Photo by Marissa Sweatland.

How to spot a scam

By MONA HARTER District Manager, South Bend Social Security Office

Now is the perfect time to protect yourself from scams that can damage your finances and reputation. We can work together to keep your personal information safe!

Stay informed of the latest scam trends

Fraudsters continue to change their tactics. Make sure you understand the latest scam trends at ssa.gov/scam. Stay informed by:

• Following reliable news sources.

• Subscribing to scam alert newsletters.

• Staying connected with your local law enforcement agencies.

The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to

identify and avoid scams. Think carefully before sharing personal information

Phishing is one of the main ways that scammers attempt to trick people into providing personal information. Pay close attention to emails or messages asking for your username, password, or other personal information.

Scammers pretend to be from familiar organizations to gain your trust. Stay alert when receiving calls that you did not request claiming to be from banks, government agencies, or other well-known companies.

When in doubt, contact the organization directly through official channels to verify that the request is real before sharing any personal information or making payment.

Use strong passwords

Create strong, unique passwords like a phrase with upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Don’t use passwords that are easy to guess like birthdays or names.

Consider using a password manager to generate unique passwords and securely store them for each of your online accounts.

Be savvy with QR codes

QR codes are increasing in popularity. They’re in restaurants, on parking meters, in emails, and on social media.

Scammers have noticed! They are physically placing fake QR codes on top of official ones or creating fake QR codes on social media advertisements to get access to your personal information.

Never scan random QR codes. If the QR code looks odd or altered, do not scan it.

Protect your social media profiles

Take a moment to review the privacy settings on your social media platforms and limit the amount of personal information you share publicly.

watch?v=cyaUWTFLw3c to learn how to identify the red flags. Please share this infor-

mation with those who may need it — and post it on social media.

Pickpockets feast on travelers

If you make less than $1,9 0 month (single) and are on Medicare, then you might qualify for assistance with prescription drugs and expenses for your medical care.

If you make less than $1,9 0 per month (single) and are on Medicare, then you might qualify for assistance with prescription drugs and expenses for your medical care.

If you make less than $2,268 per month (single) or $3,080 per month (married) and are on Medicare, then you might qualify for assistance with prescription drugs and expenses for your medical care.

Fraudsters may use your social media posts to personalize scams or get access to your accounts without your permission. Regularly check your friends list and remove any unfamiliar or suspicious accounts.

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

as pickpockets mingle freely amidst the 6 million pilgrims that visit each year.

Extra help to pay for your prescription drug plan.

Extra help to pay for your prescription drug plan.

Extra help to pay for your prescription drug plan.

This month, let’s make protecting ourselves against scams a top priority. We can significantly reduce the risk of being scammed by staying informed, being alert and careful, and safeguarding our accounts.

We invite you to watch our video at youtube.com/

Traveling with or moving in and out of a crowd may make you feel safe, but packs of people also hide the cunning who can make off with your wallet or purse.

Oddly enough, Vatican City is reportedly a most dangerous place for visitors

In any crowd, women should carry their purse in front of them and men keep their wallet in a side or front trouser pocket.

Medicare Saving Program to help pay for your Part A and B deductibles and co-pays.

Medicare Saving Program to help pay for your Part A and B deductibles and co-pays.

Medicare Saving Program to help pay for your Part A and B deductibles and co-pays.

For help call

For help call

For help call

Council on Aging of Elkhart County, Inc. (574) 295-1820

on Aging of Elkhart

Inc. (574) 295-1820

Inc. (574) 295-1820

Being aware of your surroundings is step number one to protect yourself from these vultures. Don’t look lost or bewildered and don’t stop passersby to ask for directions. Step into a building — a store, restaurant or museum — and ask a staff member for the information you seek.

Stay on the edges of the crowd as you tour the Prado or leave the Louvre. Thieves are more likely to work the muddled middle of the mob.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

SPOTTING A SCAM Protect yourself from scams by working with Social Security to keep your personal information safe.

“Burst Into Song!” with Classic Arts Programs

On Saturday, March 16 at 7:00 p.m., Classic Arts Programs presents “Celebrate & Sing: Burst Into Song!” This performance will be held at the Winona Heritage Room, 901 Park Ave., Winona Lake.

Ensembles joining the Community and Youth Chorales of Classic Arts Programs include the Bremen Children’s Choir and Grace College Lancer Chorus.

Songs of poetic reflection, blessing, and joy have been programmed, with all musical selections hand-picked by the choral members of each featured ensemble. Highlighted favorites include “Dirait-On” from Les Chansons des Roses by Morten Lauridsen, Peter Lutkin’s “The Lord Bless You and Keep You”, along with several classics from the American Musical Theater repertoire.

Tickets are available for purchase at classicartsprograms.com/tickets. Prices range from $15 for adults to $12 for seniors, students, and active military, with children 5 and under free. All proceeds benefit Classic Arts Programs’ mission to enhance cultural and spiritual life in the Warsaw area through their sponsorship of youth and adult vocal ensembles.

Local chambers

hosting banquets

North Webster-Tippecanoe Township and Syracuse-Wawasee chamber of commerce’s will be hosting their annual banquets in March.

“Community is Everything” is the theme for NWTTC’s banquet on Monday, March 11, in the Culver Wellness Center at the North Webster Community Center. The event will begin at 5 p.m. with a cash bar, registration and silent auction, followed by dinner that has been themed “A Taste Of Webster.”

The annual meeting will begin at 7 p.m. with the 2023 awards and recognition. Reservations from chamber members are due by Monday, March 1, by contacting the chamber and paying online at northwebster.com or contacting Susan Stump at (574) 612-0128.

Kip Tom, owner of Tom Farm and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture and chief of the U.S. Mission to the UN Agencies in Rome, will be the guest speaker at the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber banquet on Thursday, March 21.

The banquet will be held at the Oakwood Event Center, 849 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse.

The cocktail hour will begin at 5 p.m. with a cash bar, followed by dinner at 6 p.m. Chamber awards and recognition will take place following Tom’s presentation.

Deadline for reservations is March 14, by reserving a seat or table by visiting swchamber. com

COMMUNITY CHORALE The Community Chorale joined by the Grace College Lancer Chorus shown in this photo from the Christmas program in 2021. The Lancer Chorus will join us again for the

Burst Into Song spring concert. Youth Chorale from Warsaw and the Children’s Choir from Bremen will also perform. Photo provided.

Sports

By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer

It can be challenging enough to open one fitness gym but Kelly Britton is now a second time business owner in the fitness industry. Britton is still adding to her track record of making fitness improvements for people in the Warsaw area.

“The biggest success story would be is that I’ve opened two businesses that have allowed a lot people I would not have met to come together and bring encouragement to each other,” Britton said. “There are stories I’ll never know that I know occurred because this person met this person and they talked and that person helped them. I provided places to help people get encouraged.”

Britton grew up in Warsaw and has been a fitness leader in the community since moving back to town in 2006.

“Had another business in downtown Warsaw, it was Giverny Fitness Studio. We had that open for 14 years. It was a great business and we had it probably geared a little bit more towards women’s fitness and women’s exercise classes,” Britton said.

Eventually, Britton and her business partner, Heather

Marshall, realized they needed to go to a different location. A building became available at 3298 US-30 just east of Warsaw. The decision was made to move equipment out of Giverny into the new location.

“People started working out over here a little bit and I was holding some classes here. Then we got some boxing classes in here,” Britton said. “We just started seeing the place get busier, busier and busier so we had to make a decision.

Body Shop Fitness opened late last year and as the building continues to grow. The business is in process of adding a sauna.

“We just decided lets make it nice and make it a real business,” Britton said. “Moved all the equipment in April without the intent to do this at all. It kind of started a life of its own.” Britton is married to her husband Orsa Britton who works at Zimmer Biomet. They have three kids who have all gone through Warsaw schools.

Britton earned a Master’s in occupational therapy at Indiana University and has been putting her education to work ever since.

“I started taking group exercises myself and I knew I could do that with my background,”

READY TO TRAIN Warsaw native Kelly Britton in her new fitness studio that officially opened in December. Photo by Nathan Pace.

to help them do things safely.”

It has not always been a smooth operation in the fitness industry for Britton as she and other gyms had big changes to deal with in 2020.

“COVID was tough. We made it through that with a lot of online things. It did make you see

after COVID how much people need people,” Britton said.

Britton does have advice for those seeking to improve their health regardless of age.

“Get over all the self doubt talk,” Britton said. “Don’t listen to the negative things you would say to yourself.”

Professional Forum Interested Businesses Call Victoria Biddle 1-866-580-1138, Ext. 2319 A Monthly Question And Answer Advertorial Column

Q. What are important goals for an estate plan?

and financial decisions in the event of incapacity. These goals provide a strong foundation for your estate plan to withstand life’s events. Contact me for more information about estate planning.

DISCLOSURE:

elder

personal property must be sold to cover those expenses which takes time and adds difficulty.

Planning for end-of-life expenses means making sure your personal representative, executor, or Trustee have clear instructions and access to available funds at death. Otherwise, illiquid assets such as real estate and

Elder

Britton said. “When I moved back to Warsaw in 2006 I brought a lot of the things I had learned and done here to the local YMCA. Decided to expand into my own business. I just loved helping people. That’s just my passion is to help people that may not know what to do

Tony Award-Winning The 25th

Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee opens at the Bristol Opera House

Elkhart Civic Theatre will present The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, music by William Finn and book by Rachel Sheinkin, Friday, March 1 and Saturday, March 2 at the Bristol Opera House, 210 E. Vistula St.

The musical is directed by Kristen Kinder, assisted by Amie Lambdin-Ganger with vocal direction by Brian Scully and choreography by Jackiejo Brewers.

Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee follows an eclectic group of six mid-pubescents as they vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime.

While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially madeup) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing, poutinducing, life un-affirming bell that signals a spelling mistake. Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion! At least the losers get a juice box. The cast includes Sami Lesniak as Rona Lisa Perretti; Erin Joines as Logainne SchwatzandGrubenierre; Cristian Marquez as Chip Tolentino; Matthew Manley as Leaf Coneybear; Sean Leyes as William Barfée; Myah Englebrecht as Marcy Park; Leah Alburtus as Olive Ostrovsky;

der as Mitch Mahoney; and Patrick Farran as Douglas Panch. Tickets are on sale now at elkhartcivictheatre.org/bee or by calling (574) 848-4116 between 1-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Tickets are also available to purchase in person from the Box Office, beginning one hour to each performance. Inperson sales are not available at any other time.

Important estate planning documents everyone should have in place

By RYAN HAHN Trust Administrator Wealth Management Center

What are some important estate planning documents that everyone should have in place?

A last will and testament Representative or executor to handle your affairs upon death and outlines who you wish to inherit your assets upon death.

A trust document allows for the management and allocation of assets upon incapacitation or death. A trust document also enables individuals to appoint someone with the authority to make financial decisions for the assets the trust owns if they become incapacitated. It’s important for everyone who has assets or property they wish to protect upon disability or after death, as it ensures those assets are distributed in accordance with one’s wishes. When prepared correctly, a trust document can also help avoid probate.

A durable power of attorney is an important legal document that allows you to appoint someone with the authority to make financial and property decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated or unable to do so yourself. This document

can prevent the need for court intervention to appoint a conservator or guardian to make financial decisions.

A health care directive is a document that allows you to specify your wishes concerning medical care in the event of an emergency or if you become unable to communicate those wishes. A health care directive can help protect your loved ones from having to make difficult decisions during difficult times.

By providing detailed instructions regarding your desired course of action for various medical scenarios, you can ensure that any decisions made regarding your care will reflect your preferences.

Disclosure

This information is not designed, meant, nor does it constitute the rendering of legal or tax advice. You should consult with your attorney and/or tax advisor before implementing any strategy discussed here. Trust services provided by MEMBERS Trust Company are not federally insured, are not obligations of or guaranteed by the credit union or any affiliated entity, involve investment risks, including the possible loss of principle. MEMBERS Trust Company is a federal thrift regulated by the Office of the Comptroller or the Currency.

Jess Alexan-

SPELLING BEE Cast of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, pictured in the front row from left are Leah Albertus, Sami Lesniak, Erin Joines, and in the back row are Jess Alexander, Myah Englebrecht, Cristian Marquez, Sean Leyes, Matthew Manley and Patrick Farran. Tickets are on sale now.

Photo provided by Dave Dufour.

Faith

Swanson helps church members minister to others

By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer

“Our church’s mission statement is: Growing deeper in relationship with Christ and sharing the hope of the Gospel,” stated Bonnie Swanson. “We have about 1,600 people. Having such a large church, our mission is often a challenge. We started out as a seeker’s church, drawing unchurched people into our fellowship. As these people grow, it’s important that they begin to learn discipleship themselves. My job is to help that happen.” Swanson is the executive pastor of ministry at Warsaw Community Church.

“I grew up in the church. I gave my heart to Jesus Christ at a backyard Bible club when I was in elementary school. I remember praying to Jesus in the hallway of our neighbor’s basement. That was the first step in my walk with the Lord. I began to see that faith is an important part of my life.”

Swanson went to Ball State University and majored in social work. “I was part of Campus Crusade for Christ there. I rededicated my life at that time. Then my faith became more relational. Still, I had no idea the Lord would call me into vocational ministry.”

After she was married and had children, she got her counseling degree from Grace College. Her call to ministry was a series of open doors.

“I began as a counselor at

WCC 22 years ago,” she said. “I moved up to director of women’s ministries, then director of adult ministries. Now I am executive pastor of ministry.”

A typical day for Swanson begins with many meetings. “I meet with staff. I have individual meetings with our ministry teams. I also help to develop leadership skills within my team. My goal is to unify our team. We work together to give our large church a small church relational connection.”

In order to help the church grow spiritually, Swanson needs to be growing herself. “I love being stretched, sometimes taken out of my comfort zone. I also enjoy being a part of the curriculum team that helps develop Sunday sermon themes and discussion guides.”

One of the ways WCC achieves small church relationships is through their growth groups. “These are small groups composed of 10 to 12 people. Each Sunday these groups get together to discuss and analyze the pastor’s sermon.”

Her life’s verse is Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, so they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

“I seek to be salt and light in the world, so that people may be drawn to Christ through me,” Swanson said.

She and her husband, Scott, have three grown boys and two grandchildren: Wayne, 3 and Elle, 1.

“I love being a grandma. It’s

so much more relaxing than it was being a parent. I now get a second chance to do things better than when I was a mom.”

It’s important to Swanson to leave a legacy for her sons, their spouses and her grandchildren. “I want my family to know that we have a whole life ahead of us. I want them to live it to the fullest but consider how they live. I don’t want them to look back with regret, thinking about how they could have done things differently.”

Her advice to fellow Christians: “Stay faithful. God will go before you. He’s prepared you for ministry. He’ll open the doors.”

MAKING DISCIPLES — Bonnie Swanson, the executive pastor of ministry at Warsaw Community Church, helps members of the congregation reach out to others in order to make disciples of Jesus Christ. She firmly believes that everyone has a purpose and ministry in the church and is excited to help members find their God-given calling. Photo provided by Bonnie Swanson.

Legal answers available online

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

While there are still folks who do not have a computer in their household, everyone has access to a computer, either through their grandchildren,

friends or a local library or community center.

That being said, there’s an array of sources for help if you have a legal questions or problems.

Keep in mind, however, that information gathered this way should not be taken as gospel, but only as preliminary research and a guide to get you to ask the right questions when you finally get yourself an attorney. And beware of the online sites that urge you to hire one of their lawyers.

Nolo, a major publisher of law books, offers through their website answers to questions on a wide range of topics, from consumer protection to criminal

law to civil suits and Social Security to elder law and estate planning. As you become more comfortable searching the Web, you’ll probably find other sites on your own that offer legal aid.

If you have a question about or quarrel with a local, state or federal government agency, you can usually get to the source of your quandary by typing the locale and name of the agency into your search engine.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

Seniors’ activities a lot of talk

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Conversation tops the list of the favorite activities of their senior clients, according to a survey of more than 5,000 professional caregivers by Home Instead Senior Care.

More than three-quarters (76%) of professional caregivers reported that seniors enjoy this activity most.

While watching television was a close second with 71%, it seems that sharing memories, talking about current events and history, and discussions of family are more enjoyable to seniors than are reading, crossword puzzles, church functions or bingo.

Dining/Leisure/Entertainment

Quick and easy sheet

From

Seriously, can it get any easier than putting dinner on a sheet pan and waiting 40 minutes for it to cook? I love, love, love roasted vegetables, so this is my kind of meal.

Keeping in mind that a weekly goal is to have 200 different healthy foods for a variety of phytonutrients, this is a terrific way of consuming a nutrient dense meal. The variations are endless so let’s get going.

Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper and basically, you can add any vegetable to the pan. It’s a good plan to cut the vegetables into approximately the same size so they cook evenly. If you have larger pieces, put them on the outside edges of the pan rather than in the middle. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Tips & Options:

Toss vegetables in a bowl with a little olive oil, dressing or marinade.

It’s optional to cover the vegetables with foil for at least the first half of the cooking time. They tend to steam more than broil, but it keeps them from charring.

May be served alone, or over quinoa or farro.

Dress with a herby-yogurt before serving.

Add canned chick peas to any vegetable combination for extra fiber and protein.

50 years ago Blast To The Past —

You can make it ultra-simple with just:

• Zucchini.

• Potatoes.

• Whole garlic.

Or, seasonal winter vegetables of:

• Brussel sprouts.

• Butternut squash.

• Cauliflower.

• Carrots.

• Broccoli.

Root vegetables are grown underground. They include potatoes, carrots, onions, sweet potatoes, turnips, beets, garlic, radishes and fennel. I could see using hearty and healthy root vegetables on a sheet pan drizzled with balsamic for a complete dinner.

In the sheet pan meal I made last week I used cauliflower, red onion, mushrooms, zucchini, poblano peppers, red potatoes and acorn squash. The squash was cooked upside down to keep it moist. Vegeta-

ble seasoning was added before roasting. You can shop for ingredients, or, as I did — look in the refrigerator and when you see lots of vegetables, say — time for a sheet pan dinner!

To your health.

Cat Wilson lives in South Bend and transitioned from a vegetarian diet to eating a plant-based diet over two years ago. She may be contacted at cwilson@the-papers. com.

‘Sunshine on My Shoulders’

John Denver

“Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy.

“Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry.

“Sunshine on the water looks so lovely.

“Sunshine almost always makes me high.”

A Boomer Blast To The Past

By RANDAL C. HILL

“I had written the song in a fit of melancholy one dismal latewinter/early-spring day in Minnesota — the kind of day that makes every Minnesotan think about going down to Mexico,” John Denver recalled. “The snow was melting, and it was too cold to go outside and have fun. I was

ready for spring. You want to get outdoors again, and you’re waiting for the sun to shine, and you remember how sometimes just the sun itself can make you feel good.”

To Denver, his visualization of a perfect day, one warm and satisfying and wonderful, brought him feelings of contentment — pure joy, actually — that he wanted to share with the world.

The message of his gentle acoustic-guitar tune focused on the virtues of the love of nature and the love of life itself.

Denver had struggled for years before finding international success. His first three RCA Records albums— “Rhymes and Reasons,” “Take Me to Tomorrow” and “Whose Garden Was This?” — had failed to catch fire. Then came “Poems, Prayers and Promises.” Folk-music lovers became fans, cash registers “kachinged” and he rode a rocket to

stardom. As time went by in the early 1970s, he found celebrity with an ever-growing audience who appreciated his heartwarming tunes that often dealt with finding pleasure in the simplest things.

The original 1971 version of “Sunshine on My Shoulders” was a long album track — it ran over five minutes — on “Poems, Prayers and Promises.” Denver’s ever-growing fan base had focused on the LP’s breakout hit single of “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and seemingly paid little attention to what would become John’s first Number One single two years later.

In late 1973, he and RCA Records decided that “Sunshine on My Shoulders” from his first hit album could make a great 45 if redone right. With RCA’s approval, John shaved off two minutes of running time on his re-recording, and added strings

and woodwinds made it more “commercial.”

The changes made paid off, as that release became the first of four Number One John Denver singles released during the 1970s.

The song received a boost when it was used in a 1973 made-for-TV movie called “Sunshine.” John explained, “It was the true story of Lyn Helton, a courageous lady who chose to live her short life to the fullest even though she knew she would die

of a rare bone cancer in a matter of months. It seems that in the last year of her life, she found some happiness in my music. I was most honored to have my song used as part of that television show.”

“If I had a day that I could give you “I’d give to you a day just like today

“If I had a song that I could sing you “I’d sing a song to make you feel this way.”

QUICK AND EASY Oven Roasted Potatoes, Green Bean, Bell Pepper and Sausage, seasoned with spring onion and pieces of chili on a baking sheet - one pan favorite meal. Photo from Shutterstock.

JOHN DENVER

Along with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, REAL Services recognizes March as National Nutrition Month®. This year's campaign is Beyond the Table, which encourages all of us to think more broadly about nutrition, and how what we consume impacts our daily lives. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics provides the following tips on eating healthy not only this month, but all year long.

1. Eat Breakfast

Start your day with a healthy breakfast that includes lean protein, whole grain, fruits, and vegetables.

2. Make Half Your Plate Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and veggies add color, flavor, and texture plus vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber to your plate.

3. Watch Your Portion Sizes

Use half your plate for fruits and vegetables and the other half for grains and lean protein foods.

4. Get to Know Food Labels

Reading the Nutrition Facts panel can help you choose foods and drinks to meet your nutrient needs.

5. Drink More Water

Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water, especially if you are active,an older adult, or live or work in hot conditions.

6. Follow Food Safety Guidelines

Reduce your chances of getting sick with proper food safety. This includes: regular hand washing, separating raw foods from ready-to-eat foods, cooking foods to the appropriate internal temperature, and refrigerating food promptly.

7. Slow Down at Mealtime

Instead of eating on the run, try sitting down and focusing on the food you're about to eat.

8. Supplement with Caution

If you're considering a vitamin, mineral, or herbal supplement, consult a RDN or your healthcare provider to discuss your options.

REAL Services is proud to help older adults with their nutritional needs. Our Senior Nutrition Program invites you to come to the table. This provides an opportunity for community members ages 60 and over to gather for a meal, an activity, and connection.

In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General referred to loneliness and social isolation a public health crisis, with older adults being at the greatest risk. Making time to share a meal can help with these growing problems. Studies show that people who regularly dine with others report eating healthier and having an overall higher quality of life than those who dine alone. Reduced hunger is more common as we age, as a result, seniors often skip meals or eat less balanced and nutritious meals. This makes eating with others even more important.

Our Senior Nutrition Programs offers nutritious meals Monday - Fridays from 10:00 am- 1:30 pm at various locations. Lunch is served at 11:30 am. Please call us one business day prior to reserve your meal. This program is donation-based, and your donation directly impacts the amount of people we can feed. For more information and an updated listing of our Nutrition Site locations, visit www.realservices.org/services/meals-andnutrition.

REAL Services also offers Meals on Wheels. Meals on Wheels delivers nutritionally balanced meals to homebound persons or those who are unable to prepare meals for themselves. Individuals may receive one or two meals per day Monday through Friday. Meals are delivered by a friendly volunteer during lunchtime.

We can accommodate various dietary needs such as diabetic, lactose-free, no salt added, puree, low fat, low cholesterol, mechanical soft, vegetarian, and renal. Meals are prepared at our commercial kitchen in South Bend. We deliver to Elkhart and St. Joseph counties. To learn more, call (574) 256-1649 or email mow@realservices.org.

We encourage you to take charge of your health and join us in celebrating National Nutrition Month® with us. We will have fun activities centered around nutrition at our Nutrition Sites and will provide additional resources throughout the month.

To learn more about National Nutrition Month® and the Beyond the Table campaign, visit The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at www.eatright.org.

For more information about REAL Services' nutrition programs and other services we provide that may be helpful to you, call our Aging and Disability Resource Center at (574) 233-8205.

Nutrition tips are provided by The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

We are here to help. Call (574) 233-8205 with questions or for referral needs of services available in our communities.

There is an on-going need for REAL volunteers Would you like to give an hour of your time for your neighbors in need?

Join us today! Call: (574) 284-7138

E-mail: volunteer@realservices.org

REAL

March is National Nutrition Month®!

What is REAL Talk?

What is REAL Talk?

INDEPENDENCE | DIGNITY | STRENGTH

REAL Talk is an opportunity for community members to gather to listen to a presentation, have a snack, and make new friends. We offer a wide range of topics such as health, finances, energy saving tips, caregiving, and more.

INDEPENDENCE | DIGNITY | STRENGTH

Join us for REAL Talk!

Join us for REAL Talk!

In March, we are partnering with St. Joseph Health System to learn about various health topics such as lung and respiratory care and diabetes prevention.

What is REAL Talk?

What is REAL Talk?

What is REAL Talk?

What

is REAL Talk?

REAL Talk is an opportunity for community members to gather to listen to a presentation, have a snack, and make new friends. We offer a wide range of topics such as health, finances, energy saving tips, caregiving, and more.

In March, we are partnering with St. Joseph Health System to learn about various health topics such as lung and respiratory care and diabetes prevention.

REAL Talk is an opportunity for community members to gather to listen to a presentation, have a snack, and make new friends. We offer a wide range of topics such as health, finances, energy saving tips, caregiving, and more.

REAL Talk is an opportunity for community members to gather to listen to a presentation, have a snack, and make new friends. We offer a wide range of topics such as health, finances, energy saving tips, caregiving, and more.

REAL Talk is an opportunity for community members to gather to listen to a presentation, have a snack, and make new friends. We offer a wide range of topics such as health, finances, energy saving tips, caregiving, and more.

April will be here before you know it! We will be discussing diabetic foot care, what you need to know about vaping, and energizing the brain through expressive arts.

April will be here before you know it! We will be discussing diabetic foot care, what you need to know about vaping, and energizing the brain through expressive arts.

Who can attend?

In March, we are partnering with St. Joseph Health System to learn about various health topics such as lung and respiratory care and diabetes prevention.

Who can attend?

In March, we are partnering with St. Joseph Health System to learn about various health topics such as lung and respiratory care and diabetes prevention.

REAL Talk is an opportunity for community members to gather to listen to a presentation, have a snack, and make new friends. We offer a wide range of topics such as health, finances, energy saving tips, caregiving, and more.

REAL Talk is open to the public. However, all sessions are geared toward those ages 60 and older.

In March, we are partnering with St. Joseph Health System to learn about various health topics such as lung and respiratory care and diabetes prevention.

REAL Talk is open to the public. However, all sessions are geared toward those ages 60 and older.

April will be here before you know it! We will be discussing diabetic foot care, what you need to know about vaping, and energizing the brain through expressive arts.

How can I sign up?

April will be here before you know it! We will be discussing diabetic foot care, what you need to know about vaping, and energizing the brain through expressive arts.

April will be here before you know it! We will be discussing diabetic foot care, what you need to know about vaping, and energizing the brain through expressive arts.

To sign up and learn more, visit www.realservices.org/get-involved/real-talk/or call any of the numbers listed below.

How can I sign up?

In March, we are partnering with St. Joseph Health System to learn about various health topics such as lung and respiratory care and diabetes prevention.

To sign up and learn more, visit www.realservices.org/get-involved/real-talk/or call any of the numbers listed below.

Who can attend?

Who can attend?

Who can attend?

1Roof Southeast Neighborhood Center

The Salvation Army Kroc Center

REAL Talk is open to the public. However, all sessions are geared toward those ages 60 and older.

405 E. Dubail Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

How can I sign up?

How can I sign up?

How can I sign up?

900 W. Western Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

REAL Talk is open to the public. However, all sessions are geared toward those ages 60 and older.

REAL Talk is open to the public. However, all sessions are geared toward those ages 60 and older.

1Roof Southeast Neighborhood Center 405 E. Dubail Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

Elkhart County Public Library 300 S 2nd St. Elkhart, IN 46516

April will be here before you know it! We will be discussing diabetic foot care, what you need to know about vaping, and energizing the brain through expressive arts.

Fourth Friday of every month

The Salvation Army Kroc Center 900 W. Western Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

OWLS Active Aging Center 2715 E Jackson Blvd. Elkhart, IN 46516

Second Thursday of every month

Elkhart County 300 Elkhart,

Last Tuesday Visit www.myepl.org

Fourth Friday of every month

To sign up and learn more, visit www.realservices.org/get-involved/real-talk/or call any of the numbers listed below.

Call (574) 393-8809 to register

Who can attend?

Elkhart County

Second Thursday of every month Call (574) 233-9471 to register or visit www.realservices.org

To sign up and learn more, visit www.realservices.org/get-involved/real-talk/or call any of the numbers listed below.

To sign up and learn more, visit www.realservices.org/get-involved/real-talk/or call any of the numbers listed below.

Call (574) 393-8809 to register

Last Tuesday of every other month. Visit www.myepl.org to register

Call (574) 233-9471 to register or visit www.realservices.org

Third Thursday of every month. Call (574) 336-2652 to register

1Roof Southeast Neighborhood Center 405 E. Dubail Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

1Roof Southeast Neighborhood Center 405 E. Dubail Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

1Roof Southeast Neighborhood Center 405 E. Dubail Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

Bristol: United Methodist Church 2021

Division St. Loretta, (574) 848 -7182

Elkhart: Funtimers, St. Paul ’s United Methodist Church, 405 W. Beardsley

Fourth Friday of every month

Fourth Friday of every month

Fourth Friday of every month

Call (574) 393-8809 to register

Call (574) 393-8809 to register

Call (574) 393-8809 to register

Mary (574) 320 -5863

How can I sign up?

Riverside Terrace, 181 N Elkhart Ave, Delbert (574) 320 -5995

Stratford Commons, 2601 Oakland Ave.

Connie (574) 320 -5996

Goshen: Greencroft, 1801 Greencroft Blvd, Tonda 574) 971 -6016

The Salvation Army Kroc Center 900 W. Western Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

Maple Leaf Commons 2926 Elkhart Rd., Goshen, (574) 238 -8760

The Salvation Army Kroc Center 900 W. Western Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

The Salvation Army Kroc Center 900 W. Western Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

Kosciusko County

Second Thursday of every month

Second Thursday of every month

Elkhart County Public Library 300 S 2nd St. Elkhart, IN 46516

Elkhart County Public Library 300 S 2nd St. Elkhart, IN 46516

Elkhart County Public Library 300 S 2nd St. Elkhart, IN 46516

Syracuse: Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N Long Dr, Carolyn (574) 457-2631

REAL Talk is open to the public. However, all sessions are geared toward those ages 60 and older.

Last Tuesday of every other month.

OWLS Active Aging Center 2715 E Jackson Blvd. Elkhart, IN 46516

OWLS Active Aging Center 2715 E Jackson Blvd. Elkhart, IN 46516

Bourbon: Senior Center on North Harris, Jan (574) 342 -7031

OWLS Active Aging Center 2715 E Jackson Blvd. Elkhart, IN 46516

Bremen: Oakhaven Apartments

Second Thursday of every month Call (574) 233-9471 to register or visit www.realservices.org

Mentone: Community Room, 201 Main St, Linda (574) 353 -7555

Call (574) 233-9471 to register or visit www.realservices.org

Call (574) 233-9471 to register or visit www.realservices.org

North Webster: Community Center 301 N Main Suite D, Merita (574) 834 -1193

Pierceton: 205 N First St, Tammy Jefferson (574) 526 -1060

Silver Lake: Lions’ Building, SR 14E Jenny Hoagland (260) 450 -2416

1Roof Southeast Neighborhood Center 405 E. Dubail Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

Fourth Friday of every month Call (574) 393-8809 to register

Last Tuesday of every other month. Visit www.myepl.org to register

www.myepl.org to register

Warsaw: Retired Tigers , 320 W Main St, Cathy (574) 267 -0037

Last Tuesday of every other month. Visit www.myepl.org to register

Warsaw SAC, 800 N Park Ave, Nancy Zinz (574) 267 -0026

Marshall County

To sign up and learn more, visit www.realservices.org/get-involved/real-talk/or call any of the numbers listed below.

Argos: B & R Community Bldg 152 S Michigan St

Becky (574) 892-9669

The Salvation Army Kroc Center 900 W. Western Ave. South Bend, IN 46601

Second Thursday of every month Call (574) 233-9471 to register or visit www.realservices.org

Third Thursday of every month.

500 S Montgomery St

Call (574) 336-2652 to register

Third Thursday of every month. Call (574) 336-2652 to register

Third Thursday of every month. Call (574) 336-2652 to register

Gary (574) 993-2944

Plymouth: Garden Court West

400 W. Washington St

Linda (574) 935-0047

Elkhart County Public Library

300 S 2nd St. Elkhart, IN 46516

Last Tuesday of every other month. Visit www.myepl.org to register

‘She’s a real doozie!’ a popular phrase

By TOM MORROW Mature Life Features

There were a number of automobiles that made a substantial impact upon the American public during the 20th century.

While some were short-lived, most auto lovers and collectors of today know well these attempts at automotive legend. For the most part there were two outstanding goals: power and luxury.

One of the earliest American racing and luxury automobiles was produced by the Duesenberg Motor Co. The firm was founded in 1913 by brothers August and Frederick Duesenberg in St. Paul, MN, where they began building engines and racing cars.

The brothers moved their operations to Elizabeth, NJ, to manufacture truck engines during World War I. After the war, they moved the company to Indianapolis, home of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and established the Duesenberg Automobile & Motor Company.

Duesenberg cars were considered some of the best built and fastest of that era. They won the Indianapolis 500 in 1922, 1924, 1925, and 1927.

Although the Duesenberg brothers were world class, selftaught engineers, they weren’t good businessmen. They were unable to sell all the units of their first passenger car, the “Model A.” It was an extremely advanced and expensive automobile selling at $6,500, which is well over $100,000 in today’s dollars. It offered features such as an overhead camshaft, four-valve cylinder heads, and the first four-wheel hydraulic brakes on a passenger car. Among the celebrities who purchased this model were Hollywood movie stars Tom Mix and Rudolph Valentino.

Model A Duesenberg dealership deliveries did not start

until December 1921. Sales lagged and the goal of handbuilding 100 cars each month proved impossible. The company struggled to turn out one per day. In 1922, no more than 150 cars were manufactured and, over a period of six years, only 650 Model A units were built and sold. But each of the handmade cars were classic — a few still exist in museums or with private collectors.

In 1925, after the company was taken over by luxury car builder and businessman Errett Lobban Cord, the new combined company was renamed Duesenberg, Inc.

By the time the Great Depression hit in October 1929, the company had built about 200 cars. An additional 100 orders were filled in 1930.

Two of the newer Model J series reached the whopping price of $25,000, at a time when the average corporate executive earned less than $5,000 a year. A series of minor modifications were carried out, but most of the Model J design remained the same until Cord closed the factory in 1937.

Unlike most other American manufacturers, Duesenberg did not switch to a fully synchronized gearbox in the mid-1930s, which made the Model J difficult to drive and outdated.

Still, the Model J quickly became one of the most popular luxury cars, as well as a status symbol, in the U.S. and Europe. The very rich and famous drove the Model J, including mobster Al Capone, Hollywood notables Greta Garbo, Howard Hughes, Mae West, Marion Davies, Tyrone Power, Clark Gable and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, as well as newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst, and members of European royalty such as Britain’s Duke of Windsor, Prince Nicholas of Romania, Queen Maria of Yugoslavia, and Kings Victor Emmanuel III of Italy and

Alfonso XIII of Spain.

By 1929, many New Yorkers rich with stock market money could afford the Model J but, as the Depression deepened, it was the wealthy stars of Hollywood that kept the car’s label alive through much of the 1930s. The car was so imposing and widely respected that many actors, such as James Cagney, posed next to it to promote their careers.

The market for expensive cars was severely hampered by the Great Depression, forcing Duesenberg manufacturing to close down by 1937.

But, as the saying goes, while they were with us, “Those automobiles were Real Doozies!”

While Duesenberg ceased official production in 1937 after Cord’s financial empire collapsed, the last two true Duesenbergs made were assembled from leftover parts between 1938 and 1940.

Duesenbergs became far less popular during World War II, by the end of which a few Model Js were advertised for a mere $300 to $400, with some ultimately selling as low as $100.

Business rebounded in the 1950s, when classic and vintage cars became popular among collectors. Several Model Js were advertised in the New York Times in the fall of 1950 at prices as low as $500. By 1959 a decent example could be bought for about $4,000 and a few could reach a selling price of $10,000.

By 1969, the remaining Model Js were selling between $15,000 and $50,000. In April 1974, the first Duesenberg to break six figures was selling for $205,000. The first to sell for more than $1 million was in 1985.

Today, an authentic Model J will sell for anywhere from mid-six figures to well into seven figures. Since the turn of the 21st century, a least one

1923 MODEL A DUSENBERG

sold for $10 million. A few reproduction models were produced between 1978 and 2000 by the Elite Heritage Motors of Elroy, WI. The five body designs of the original

Model J were offered, each copied from an original. These replicas sold for up to $225,000, but a ‘Real Doozie’ hasn’t been made since 1940.

Newlyweds of all ages should talk money

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Getting married is more than linking up with a soulmate.

You’re also taking on a business partner.

Older folks, especially those who have been through at least one previous marriage, should be well aware of that.

Besides sharing bed and breakfast, you have to participate with your partner in grocery shopping, Christmas shopping, birthday and anniversary shopping, mortgage payments, car payments, credit card payments and tax payments. Not to mention portfolio management and estate planning and other mundane money matters.

The financial stress this causes is one of the leading causes of divorce.

There are a few things seniors mulling matrimony might consider before waltzing down the aisle or rushing off to Las Vegas to pick up a marriage license.

For one thing, credit has become a bit harder to get because of regulatory revisions regarding everything from condominiums to credit cards.

It means newlyweds-to-be should begin planning their fiscal future at the same time they begin planning their honeymoon.

Discussing finances will give you a good handle on just how long that honeymoon will last.

Your spending habits, for example, as well as those of your spouse-to-be will have an immense impact on how you get along under the same roof. So will both of your bill-paying records.

So lay all your credit cards on the table.

Exchange statements, as well as bank and credit union statements, for the past several months and credit reports so you both know where each other stands in the credit world.

You’re going to have to decide whether or not you want to open joint accounts and whether or not to maintain separate credit cards. Learning about your spouse’s bankruptcy after you’re married isn’t going to make life any easier.

It’s also the time to discuss how and what bills will be paid and who will pay them, including how existing debts will be paid.

A good sign of how money matters will go after the wedding is how much you decide to spend on the wedding. Is it more than you can afford? The same with the honeymoon trip.

If you can’t come to comfortable agreements on any of these matters, maybe you should stay single.

Coping

Editor’s note: Tom Rose is the author of “Balloon in a Box, Coping with Grief.” The book is available on Amazon, Fables Books, Goshen, or at thomaslrose.com. He is available for speaking engagements and as a grief group facilitator. He would love to hear your comments or questions, by phone: (574) 5966256, or email: roseandrose@ comcast.net.

Many people share a loving bond with their pets, family and friends. So when their lovable pet dies, they feel grief as they would for any of their loved ones. The loss can trigger all sorts of pain and emotions.

At many of my speaking appearances, I have met people who are grieving the loss of a pet. They tell me that often their friends (probably not pet owners) do not understand their grief over the loss of a ‘pet’ with comments like, “It was just a dog” or “It was only a cat, “ making them feel guilty about grieving for their animal friend.

If you are grieving over losing a lovable pet, please do not feel guilty or ashamed. Your pet may have given you more love than your friends and family. It is probably best not to argue with friend and family whether your grief is appropriate they may not understand. The best support for your grief may come from outside your friends and family, from others who have lost pets. They understand your grief and may be able to suggest ways of helping you along your journey of grief.

Just like with the human experience of grief, the grief over the loss of a pet is an individual experience. We all respond differently to grief from the loss of a loved one. Your level of grief may depend on your age, the pet’s age or the cause of death. If by accident or natural death, it may be difficult to handle, but having to make the decision to “put an animal down” or if you were unable to afford treatment to extend their lives may create a feeling of guilt. You must

By TOM ROSE Guest Writer

rid yourself of the guilt by knowing you made the right decisions.

As with human loss, grief is an individual experience, but all who take this journey need three things: they need to find the words, share the words and know the words have been heard.

• Be patient — Grief will proceed at its own pace, and you can not rush it. Don’t become frustrated with your “healing.” Take all the time

Low-carb diet vs. low-calorie diet

By JAMES GAFFNEY Mature Life Features

Here’s another reason to cut back on bread, crackers and pasta and not obsess so much on the calories in that yummy osso buco you ate for dinner.

It turns out that a lowcarbohydrate diet does much more to burn up excess liver fat than its low-calorie counterparts, according to researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

People on low-carbohydrate diets are more dependent on the oxidation of fat in their liver for energy than those on a low-calorie diet, researchers said.

The findings could have implications for treating obesity and related diseases such as diabetes, insulin resistance, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Instead of looking at drugs to combat obesity and the diseases that stem from it, maybe optimizing diet can not only manage and treat these diseases but also prevent them.

Although the study was not designed to determine which diet was more effective for losing weight, the average weight loss for the low-calorie dieters was about five pounds after two weeks, while the low-carbohydrate dieters lost an average 9 1/2 pounds.

Glucose, a form of sugar, and fat are both sources of energy that are metabolized in the liver and used as energy in the body. Glucose can be formed from lactate, amino acids or glycerol.

Researchers found that participants on a low-carbo-

hydrate diet produced more glucose from lactate or amino acids than those on a lowcalorie diet.

The different diets produced other differences in glucose metabolism. For example, people on a low-calorie diet got about 40% of their glucose from glycogen, which comes from ingested carbohydrates and is stored in the liver until the body needs it.

The low-carbohydrate dieters, however, got only 20% of their glucose from glycogen. Instead of dipping into their reserve of glycogen, these subjects burned liver fat for energy.

The findings are significant because the accumulation of excess fat in the liver — primarily a form of fat called triglycerides — can result in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD. The condition is the most common form of liver disease in Western countries, and its incidence is growing. NAFLD may affect as many as one-third of U.S. adults.

The disease is associated with metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, diabetes and obesity, and it can lead to liver inflammation, cirrhosis and liver cancer.

you need. Do not let anyone rush you.

• Feelings — Allow yourself to feel all of the emotions. The pain of your grief will not go away any faster if you ignore it. Bottling up your feelings can only make things worse, and do not be ashamed of these feelings.

• Fill the void — Caring for your pet has occupied your time. So you may want to volunteer at an animal shelter or rescue group to fill that void. You may even get another pet when the time feels right.

Do our pets go to heaven? It’s a question most of us have pondered, especially after losing a beloved pet companion. The Bible actually has a lot to say on this topic for those of us who hope to spend eternity with our

animal family members. “For what happens to the children of man and what happens to the beasts is the same; as one dies, so dies the other. They all have the same breath, and man has no advantage over the beasts, for all is vanity. All go to one place. All are from the dust, and to dust, all return. — Ecclesiastes 3:18–21

“The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust shall be the serpent’s meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the Lord”. — Isaiah 65:25

Knowing that God is Love, and that the bond between us and our pets is love. God would want this love to be forever in heaven so we will see them all again.

Stephen King’s surprise gift

It was the early 1970s, and times were tough for Stephen and Tabitha King. They had married young soon after graduating from the University of Maine and produced two children in as many years. Stephen taught English at a private high school near Bangor, and Tabitha worked second shift at a Dunkin’ Donuts shop downtown.

By RANDAL C. HILL

Stephen had always wanted to be a writer, and Tabitha had set up a makeshift desk in the laundry room of their rented doublewide trailer they called home outside of town. To supplement his teacher’s pay, King wrote short stories for men’s magazines. Occasionally a small check would appear in their mailbox, and the Kings were once more saved from a possible trip to the welfare office.

Stephen came up with a book idea about a girl named Carrie White, a lonely social outcast being raised by an unbalanced religious fanatic mother. King based his character on a pair of ostracized girls that he remembered from his own school days.

In his tale, Carrie White

is afraid she’s bleeding to death when she experiences her first period while showering after gym class, and her unsympathetic classmates cruelly tease and taunt her. But Carrie eventually discovers that she can use telekinesis (the supposed ability to move objects just by thinking about them) to enact revenge on those who have made her school life a living hell.

Three pages into “Carrie,” though, King decided his idea simply wasn’t working out. He wadded up what he had typed and tossed the singlespaced sheets into his wastebasket. The next day, while cleaning Stephen’s writing area, Tabitha found and read the discarded balls of paper. When Stephen came home from school, Tabitha said, “You’ve got something here.”

With his wife’s encouragement and guidance, Stephen spent the next nine months bringing “Carrie” to fruition. After 30 publishers rejected his creation, Doubleday Publishing Company finally offered a $2,500 advance for the hardcover release of Stephen’s book. It wasn’t enough to let him quit teaching, but it was the most money he had ever earned from a single writing project. The Kings moved into a cramped and rundown Bangor apartment.

“Carrie” sold just 13,000 copies, not enough to let Stephen write full time. But

a Sunday phone call changed everything when King learned that Signet Books wanted to buy the paperback rights to “Carrie” for a mindblowing $400,000, of which, due to various publishing contracts he had signed, Stephen would receive half that amount. Still, it was like winning the literary lottery.

The phone had rung on Mother’s Day afternoon of 1974. Tabitha had taken both children to their grandmother’s house and was on her way home. Stephen decided to surprise his wife with a gift — something unusual, extravagant and expensive! He walked to downtown Bangor, where the only place open was a hometown drug store. When Tabitha returned home, Stephen couldn’t wait to show her his unwrapped gift.

It became the first hair dryer that Tabitha had ever owned.

Heartburn medications can lead to broken bones

By JAMES GAFFNEY Mature Life Features

Older folks bedevilled by heartburn may have to forego their favorite antacids to spare their bones.

Even short-term use of popular acid-reducing heartburn drugs may raise the risk of hip fractures, according to a Kaiser Permanente study.

Increased risks of bone breaks appeared two years after patients started taking such medications as Prevacid, Zantac and Tagamet. Some popular brands of these drugs include Nerium, Prilosec, Protonix and Aciphex.

The increased risk with short-term use of such acidsuppressing drugs suggests it may be associated with increased risk of hip fractures.

People at risk of osteoporosis should talk to their doctor about other treatment options.

Data analyzed on nearly 40,000 patients taking acidreducing drugs compared with more than 130,000 patients not taking the drugs revealed

that people aged 50 to 59 who had been on acid-reducing medication for more than two years had the biggest increase in fracture risk.

A Canadian study revealed that long-term use of acidreducing medications quadrupled the risk of hip fractures.

Some investigators have speculated that the association between these drugs and osteoporosis may result from poor absorption of calcium through the stomach.

Since certain forms of calcium do not dissolve easily in the stomach, and since acidic conditions can enhance the dissolution of calcium, it has been suggested that the reduction in stomach acid caused by these drugs may result in poor calcium absorption. Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

STEPHEN KING CIRCA 1993

A kernel of truth: A movie tradition

Mary Ellen and I went out to see a movie last week with our friends, Bob and Cathy.

“Are you going to get popcorn again, Mary Ellen?”

“I have to.

NUTSHELL

By DICK WOLFSIE

It’s been a movie tradition for me since high school.”

“So was necking in the balcony, but you cut that out completely after we got married.”

Once we reach the theater, the tension rises.

”Dick, I’ll find seats for the four of us. You wait in line for the popcorn.”

“Why do I have to wait in line? I don’t even like popcorn. And when I come into the movie theater, you’ll forget to look around for me. Then I walk aimlessly up and down the aisles while people stare at me. Everyone assumes I’m all alone and have no one to sit with. Or I’ll wave my cell phone flashlight to get your attention and all three of you slump down in your seats while you laugh hysterically.

At the Tom Cruise movie, I never found where you guys were sitting, but I did get my 10,000 steps in searching for you.”

Of course, I do wait in line and buy the popcorn as directed. It drives me crazy that you pay about six bucks for a bucket of air. What a rip off. And I don’t let my wife forget it…

“Did you know, Mary Ellen, that when I was a kid, popcorn in the theater was only a quarter?”

“Yes, and here’s another update: the actors in films are talking now.”

And then there’s eating the popcorn. Mary Ellen takes one piece from the top of the box with two fingers, then bites off half at a time. Yes, two bites per kernel. She claims that this helps her rhythm and draws her into the movie.

Out of the corner of my eye, I watch my wife’s arm go down to the box, up to her mouth. Up and down. Up and down. Up and down. For two hours. AHHHHHH!

She pretty much follows a similar routine at home. After we have searched for a good flick or series on Netflix, Mary Ellen is at the stove to make popcorn the old-fashioned way — just oil and popcorn in

a pot. Which she meticulously jiggles at the right speed so every kernel is popped. The movie starts and the routine begins. One piece at a time, every 10 seconds for the entire show. About 500 times. If she preferred M&Ms, she’d weigh 400 pounds.

Here’s the right way to eat popcorn in a movie: Dig way

down into the container, which spews the popcorn all over the person in the seat next to you. Take an entire handful, shake the kernels up in your fist like a pair of dice and throw several into your mouth at one time. Then while still chewing, reload and prepare to fire again. This is how Orville Redenbacher wanted you to do it.

You could look it up. Heaven knows why there aren’t instructions on the popcorn box.

The next day her fitness trainer, Justin, asked her if she had been doing her upper body exercises.

“Yes, I did them for three hours last night,” she said. “When we went to see ‘Oppenheimer’ at the movies.”

Money managers need managing

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Money mavins at all levels have had their credibility tested during the deep-dive roller coaster ride through the economy over the past several months.

It gives added credence to a long held view that economists were created to make weather forecasters look good.

Financial advisors are just as prone to honest errors and omissions, as well as crookedness and chicanery (remember Bernie Madoff), as the rest of the population.

A major question many folks have been asking themselves is whether or not their portfolio performance has been harmed by fraudulent fiscal managers.

It’s never too late to walk

away from such a situation and there are some simple steps you can take to take you in the proper direction.

Whether or not you have such concerns, you should be calling your financial advisor during the current recessive/ depressed/inflationary economy to review your situation and strategy.

If you haven’t already, call right now.

Question any and all oddities and anomalies and anything else you don’t understand on your most-recent statement. In most cases, if your advisor is honest and forthright, there will be valid explanations.

Also ask for a meeting. If you get the feeling you’re being avoided or shunted aside, or if your concerns aren’t resolved during a meeting, ask to meet

with the advisor’s supervisor.

If you’re still concerned about or convinced that there’s some conniving going on, you should file a written complaint to the state securities regulator, which can be found online at www.nasaa.org, the North American Security Administrators Association website.

If the individual is part of a large firm, send a written complaint to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The SEC lists important questions consumers must ask about their investments at sec. gov/investor/pubs/askquestions.htm. These questions can help clients clarify investment products recommended by their advisor as well as help identify whether or not the advisor is acting prudently.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

Look after your eyes with diet and exercise

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

It’s a no-brainer to be told you have to take care of your eyes.

They enable you to drive, pick out the right fruit in the supermarket, play silly games with your grandkids, soak in the grandeur of the sites when you travel, and watch your favorite movies made from the favorite books you read.

But you’ll probably be taken aback when you’re told your eyes don’t see.

They do the looking so your brain sees.

Your brain directs everything in your body. It tells you when to lift your little finger when drinking tea and when to duck when someone throws a roundhouse punch at you. It also translates the images registered on your retina as you go about

your daily living.

Since your eyes are vital tools for you to be able to function and flourish, you have to take good care of them.

Your eyes can help you take care of them by helping you pick out your food. What you eat, it turns out, can affect your eyes. Researchers have found that what is known as the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes eating fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and nuts, can lower the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of irreversible loss of vision and blindness after age 50.

These experts also recommend lowering your sugar intake, which increases the risk of glaucoma and cataracts as well as macular degeneration.

A healthy body will help sustain healthy vision so an

exercise regimen — just 20 to 30 minutes a day — will help pump healthy oxygen through all the cells that make up every part of your body, including your eyes. There are eye exercises you can do to keep both the muscles and lenses flexible as they react to light and shadow. You can do these anywhere, anytime.

A simple one is to stretch your eyes to one side and then the other as you try to see your ears, then look up and try to see your forehead and look down and try to see you chin.

You can check with your eye doctor for more help.

Which brings us to the newest and latest technological tools —

mobile phones and computers and high-definition television sets, among others. Take a break from staring into these tools. When you’re sitting at your computer, get up every 20 minutes or so and look out the window. It stretches your eyes while you stretch your legs.

Don’t let diarrhea ruin your trip

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

With all the different locations and exotic foods at their disposal, travelers can pick up a bout of diarrhea. Fortunately, most people experience a mild form and respond well to regular fluid intake and anti-diarrhea medication, say experts.

Those with underlying diseases, and the very young or elderly, are at greater risk and may require antibiotics or other medications.

Up to 60% of travelers to developing countries will come down with diarrhea, making it the number one travel ailment. Despite common knowledge that travelers’ diarrhea is acquired from food and water, many people do not pay atten-

tion to what they eat and drink. Preventing travelers’ diarrhea begins with common-sense measures to avoid exposure.

The most important component is rehydration, putting liquid back into your body.

High-risk patients or those with concerns about becoming ill and obtaining medical service and products while abroad should make and take a first aid kit.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

DNR has solar eclipse glasses, T-shirts available for purchase

It’s time to prepare for the April 8 solar eclipse, during which the moon will completely cover the sun over a significant portion of Indiana, causing darkness at mid-afternoon.

Because viewing the sun at any phase of the eclipse without proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage or even blindness, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources is providing the opportunity to buy eclipse glasses.

The glasses, branded with the state’s eclipse logo and purchased from a vendor on the American Astronomical Society’s approved list (eclipse.aas. org/eye-safety/viewers-filters), have 2-millimeter scratchresistant polymer lenses that filter 100% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays

and have been independently tested to be safe for watching all phases of the eclipse.

Four-packs can be bought at ShopINStateParks.com for $10 each, plus shipping and handling. You can also buy four-packs for $10 each at any Indiana State Park inn gift shop or property office or individual pairs for $3 each. A list of properties is at on.IN.gov/ stateparks.

Commemorative eclipse logo T-shirts are also available online. The short-sleeve version costs $24.95, and the longsleeve shirt costs $32.95, plus tax. Park offices and inn gift shops are also starting to stock eclipse shirts; call ahead for shirt and size availability.

Learn more about the eclipse at on.IN.gov/eclipse.

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David Broerman —

Changing the art scene in northern Indiana

By MARY HURSH Guest Writer

David Broerman, a teacher and “en plein air” artist, does not have an actual studio in his house in Fort Wayne nor in his home on Papakeechie Lake. “The outdoors is my studio!” he said.

“En plein air” or plein air, is the French 19th century style of painting outdoor, emphasizing tonal qualities of the seasons, color, loose brushwork and soft forms.

In our area, Broerman enjoys painting all around the lakes but especially near Griffith’s Wawasee Marina, Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, Runaway Bay, Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area and Between-theLakes. “I like painting pictures of historical structures as well. I also do commissioned paintings.”

Broerman is the founder and president of the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association, a 501(c)3 charitable nonprofit. This summer, he is organizing

events for artists at Pokagon, Eagle Marsh, Auburn and Fort Wayne.

He and fellow plein air artist David Seward are scheduled to lead the three-day ChautauquaWawasee Plein Air Painting Landscape Workshop centered at the Oakwood Resort May 29-31.

Broerman has been teaching science in southeast Fort Wayne for the past 30 years. Since 2012, he has been a general science teacher at Paul Harding Middle School. “I teach how science works, the scientific method, physics and motion.”

Over the past four years, Broerman and his students and trail club have been transforming 20 acres of Harding’s property into a prairie habitat by clearing trees to make trails and a nature preserve. “I sold a few of my paintings to buy 125 tons of gravel for the trails. We use these areas as an outdoor classroom for science lessons and as a site for landscape painting after school.”

Broerman won a Lilly Endowment grant in 2011, enabling him to tour battlefields of the Civil War and create a painting at each of his 15 stops. He also took oil and watercolor classes from Fort Wayne artist Gwen Gutwein who introduced him to plein air workshops in the city He won a second Lilly grant in 2019 to travel to Germany to learn about his ancestors as well as take lessons in landscape painting from Mary Ann Davis, an Indiana plein air artist and graphic designer. “This was the game changing time for my art as it enabled me to bring more color to my landscapes.

In 2018, Broerman won a $2,000 grant from the Indiana Arts Commission allowing him to travel, paint, and take lessons across Indiana to develop his plein air skills. From grant funds, he purchased materials to hold three, eight-week, one-day plein air sessions for students in an after-school club at Paul Harding Middle School.

WORKSHOP HOST

Dave Broerman enjoys painting many scenes around Lake Wawasee during the seasons. He will lead a three-day Chautauqua-Wawasee plein air painting landscape workshop at Oakwood May 29-31. Photo provided by Dave Broerman. He keeps his fellow artists up to date with a newsletter he sends out for the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association. “I have a portable lightweight

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Ambassador Kip Tom visits Wawasee High School

Ambassador Kip Tom and Kassi Rowland presented “Food Security Is National Security” to 150 FFA Members, Student Council, Advanced Placement and Family and Consumer Science students to kick off National FFA Week.

Ambassador Tom spoke at his alma mater, Wawasee High School, to educate, challenge, and inspire students to stretch themselves to do more for humanity and serve our world on Friday, Feb. 16.

While serving as US Ambassador, Tom saw firsthand how much of the world is vastly different than the United States. Many people in developing nations live on less than $2, eating around 400 calories per day. They often have little or no access to health care, electricity and basic education or schooling. When in such poverty, terror groups rise up into power, threatening peace in the world and to our homeland, the United States.

Furthermore, the BRICS nations, which include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, are working to combine powers to become the new world leaders. Foundations to a strong nation include diplomacy, strong economy, good

information, strong military and food and energy security. While the United States has remained strong in these areas for well over a century, the complexities and challenges

within our food system such as declining infrastructure, shortage of farm labor, and our dependence on foreign products must be solved to remain a strong nation.

Valadimir Lenin once said, “Every society is just three meals away from chaos.” As a nation, we rose up as an economic power because of the ability to provide food for our

people we must remain diligent in advocating for agriculture, providing affordable food for our people, and protecting our food systems, because food security is national security.

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2400 W. College Avenue, Goshen, IN 46526 (574) 533-0351

www.MajesticCare.com/Location/Goshen

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

900

Riverside Village

The

1400 W. Franklin, Elkhart, IN 46516 (574) 522-2020 • www.ASCSeniorcare.com/rsv

Rehabilitation Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing or Intermediate Care, Therapies: SpeechOccupational-Respiratory-Physical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Medicare and/or Medicaid

1640

Beautiful

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. Previously Miller’s Senior Living

1332

Pharmacy On Premises, Medicare and/or Medicaid

Waterford Crossing (Assisted Living)

1212 Waterford Circle, Goshen, IN 46526 (574) 537-0300 • www.waterfordcrossingsl.com

Licensed Assisted Living, Alzheimer’s Unit, Memory Support Unit On Campus, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Daily Activities

Woodland Manor

343 S. Nappanee Street, Elkhart, IN 46514 (574) 295-0096 • www.woodlandmanornursingandrehab.com

Rehabilitation Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing or Intermediate Care, Therapies: SpeechOccupational-Respiratory-Physical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Medicare and/or Medicaid

NATIONAL FFA WEEK Kip Tom and Kassi Rowland gave a presentation to 150 Wawasee students on Friday, Feb. 16 to kick off National FFA Week. Pictured from left are Emma Jackson, Jazlyn

Weimer, Emerson Krull, Coltin Bucher, Tom, Lucas Wilkinson, Libby Haab, Josie Melton, and Rowland. Photo by Breanna Bartman.

Travel

Roman Festival brightens Umbrian hillside

By BEVERLY RAHN SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Why not drop around on Sunday, Riccardo suggested, “We’ll have a few artichokes.”

The retired Alitalia pilot and his wife, Mariolina, were our landlords when we arrived in this medieval central Italy castle town. They were friends when we left.

This fortress overlooks Lake Trasemino, the peninsula’s fourth largest lake, to the north; the manicured Tuscan countryside to the west, and the rolling Umbrian hills to the south and east.

They opted out of big city living in Rome several years ago and occupied our spacious apartment while they built a picture book home in a hillclinging olive grove just below

Greencroft Community Center Tours

Upcoming Tours

Mar. 1 – Putnam Co. Spelling Bee, Elkhart Civic Theatre

Apr. 24 – Mid-America Windmill Museum, Kendallville, IN

May 8 – Holland Tulip Festival, Holland, MI

May 24 – Michigan City Outlet Mall, Michigan City, IN

June 1 – Hello Dolly, Round Barn Theatre, Nappanee, IN

June 19 - Cook’s Bison Ranch, Wolcottville, IN

For full information on any of these tours, or to make a reservation, please call 574-537-4090

the town’s centuries-old walls.

“I bought this apartment because when I look out that (living room) window, that’s Umbria,” he said.

The Umbria you see is the reddish-yellow brick-and-rock front of the Church of St. Michael the Archangel, leaning on a restaurant by an archway that frames the main piazza with its 500-year-old fountain and bars, hair salons, tourist office, sta-

tionery and gift shops, grocery stores, butcher shop, and small groups of standing and sitting locals solving the various problems of the day.

As every hiker knows, you walk a hill at your own pace. That’s why no one hurries. Everything here is uphill. It was about a 25-minute trek to Riccardo’s.

We knew we were in for something special as we approached the lane sloping into their farmyard. It was like breaking into an opera.

About three dozen people wearing the full array of bright yellows, reds, greens — pick a color — were milling about chittering, chattering, and chanting in that Italian singsong from which arias emerged. The accompaniment was provided by Riccardo’s tractor as it hauled

dead olive branches to a pile resembling a titanic tumbleweed.

We became a member of the cast immediately because everyone was hauled in to contribute.

“You don’t work, you don’t eat,” was Mariolina’s mandate.

Our immediate chore was to gather mint leaves off the plant stems and chop the stocks off the artichokes — shopping cartsized mounds of them. Then the mint leaves were minced with garlic and olive oil. The artichoke stocks were boiled with lemons and the heads are given a good slam on the ground to soften them so the centers could be opened up and crammed with the mint leaf/garlic oil mixture.

Through all this, you had to balance wine — almost everybody brings their own to determine whose is best for bragging rights — with oil-drenched

bread, cheese, fresh fava beans, and more wine before the fire is ready.

The giant pile of shrubbery is burned and the ashes raked into a flat lava-like bed of coals.

Then you have to tuck your artichoke into the coals to cook. Mariolina’s rule reigned: you only get to eat the one you cooked.

Again, the operatic metaphor arose as each person displayed a distinctive dance pirouetting around the blistering mound. It takes about 45 minutes for the artichokes to cook in this manner, which gave everyone time to sample more wine with the sausages and pork barbecued on a fire fed with larger chunks of trimmed olive wood.

Then flowed the desserts, all of them homemade.

On our earlier visit, we made it a point to get to the nearby cities and towns that dot our imaginations and the Italian landscape — Assisi, Siena, Orvieto, Cortona, Spello, Perugia, all within an hour’s drive of here — and Rome, Florence and Pisa, each a couple of hours away.

JUNE

1820

Blvd. Goshen, IN 46526

www.greencroft.org

JULY

This time, we still got to some new nearby towns — Montepulciano, Torgiano and Narni to cite a few.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

ANSWERS:

SAN MICHEL CHURCH — San Michel Church and Panicale’s piazza viewed from Riccardo’s apartment. Photo by Cecil Scaglione.

UMBRIAN COUNTRYSIDE Hilltop castle town of Panicale overlooks Umbrian countryside. Photo by Cecil Scaglione.

Purdue Varsity Glee Club tickets now available

Chautauqua-Wawasee is bringing the Purdue Varsity Glee Club back to Syracuse on March 1 for its only performance in northeastern Indiana during the first half of 2024.

The 90-minute performance will begin at 7:30 p.m. and held in the Wawasee High School auditorium.

An event for the entire family, this dynamic musical troupe employs a versatile repertoire including gospel, vocal jazz, swing, contemporary hits, romantic ballads, classical choral selections, barbershop, folk melodies, patriotic standards, familiar opera choruses, country and novelty tunes, and utilizes small groups and outstanding soloists to further enhance each show.

Oakwood Resort is offering a ticketholder discount for din-

ing at the Pier & Back Porch Restaurant on the day of the event. Tickets for the performance must be shown.

Before the concert on the night of March 1, a 15% discount will be extended to event ticketholders at the Pier and Back Porch restaurant in the Oakwood Inn. The 15% discount will not be valid on any purchases of alcoholic beverages, only applicable on regularly priced menu items. Digital copies of tickets will be accepted when shown to your server.

Tickets are $22 for general admission, $30 for VIP (rows 1-4) at facebook.com/ChautauquaWawasee or chautauquaWawasee.org. For student group tickets or general tickets persons may call (574) 377-7543. Tickets will also be available at the door.

TICKETS AVAILABLE

Tickets are now available for the Purdue Varsity Glee Club returning to Syracuse on March 1 for its only performance in northeastern Indiana during the first half of 2024. The 90-minute performance will begin at 7:30 p.m. and held in the Wawasee High School auditorium.

Tickets are $22 for general admission, $30 for VIP (rows 1-4) at facebook.com/ ChautauquaWawasee or chautauquaWawasee.org. For student group tickets or general tickets persons may call (574) 377-7543. Tickets will also be available at the door.

which ranges from 17 to 18 inches, is also a comfort consideration. Wide-bodied aircraft that are squeezing in more rows of seats are most likely to have the narrowest economy class seating.

While window seats offer a bit more privacy than an aisle seat and more comfort than a middle seat, it may not have a window at all because not all seating rows line up with the aircraft’s windows.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

AWARD WINNERS — The Wakarusa Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards dinner Monday, Feb. 12, at Nelson’s Banquet Hall in Wakarusa. This year’s award winners pictured from left were Anni Boocher, Educator of the Year; Krista Burden, Aria Skaggs, Troy Schwartz and Tif Schwarts, representing Larimer Furniture, Business of the Year; and Billie and Andy Roeder, Citizens of the Year.

More than 225 guests enjoyed a meal, awards presentations, a 50/50 drawing and trivia. This long-standing tradition of celebrating chamber members is always a highly anticipated and fun-filled event. Photo provided by the Wakarusa Chamber of Commerce.

Reserved spring turkey hunt applications now open

Hunters can now apply for spring turkey reserved hunts by visiting on.IN.gov/reservedhunt.

The online method is the only way to apply for the hunts listed below. No late entries will be accepted. Applicants must possess a hunting license that is valid for the hunt for which they are applying. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, March 17.

Hunters will be selected through a random computerized drawing. An email will be sent to all applicants when draws have been completed. Applicants

will be able to view draw results online within two weeks after the application period closes March 17.

Spring turkey hunts on Fish & Wildlife areas:

• Atterbury FWA

• Aukiki Wetland Conservation Area

• Crosley FWA

• Deer Creek FWA

• Fairbanks Landing FWA

• Goose Pond FWA

• Glendale FWA

• Hillenbrand FWA

• Hovey Lake FWA

• J.E. Roush Lake FWA

• Jasper-Pulaski FWA

• Kingsbury FWA

• LaSalle FWA

• Pigeon River FWA

• Sugar Ridge FWA

• Tri-County FWA

• Willow Slough FWA

• Winamac FWA

Spring turkey hunts on National Wildlife Refuges:

• Big Oaks NWR

• Muscatatuck NWR

• Muscatatuck NWR: Youth Turkey

Spring turkey hunts on State Parks and Lakes:

• Mississinewa Lake

• Salamonie Lake

Spring turkey hunts on Indiana Private Land Access sites in the following counties:

• LaPorte

• Starke

• Steuben

Note only one application per hunt is allowed. No changes can be made once an application is submitted.

The application process is now consolidated into the online services website along with licenses, CheckIN Game, and HIP registration. An online account is not required to apply, but a

Customer ID number is needed.

In the online system, hunts without a registration fee will follow the same process as those with a fee. Applicants must add a hunt to their cart and place an order to submit their application.

If the transaction total is $0, the applicant will not be asked to enter credit card information.

To view draw results, applicants can log into their online services account or click “View hunt draw results” at on.IN. gov/reservedhunt, which also includes more detailed information.

Jeff ‘JJ’ Shaw, Attorney at Law