Senior Life - NorthWest Edition - January 2024 by The Papers Inc.

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Living Life After 50

Protect Your Estate From Probate/Nursing Home Costs

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Northwest editioN reachiNg seNiors iN illiaNa: cook, lake & Porter couNties

January 2024

Vol. 27, No. 10

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Silver Sneakers — Text and Photos by STEVE EUVINO Feature Writer It’s no secret. At an age when seniors need their balance the most, they may be losing some of their natural stability for everyday events. That’s where programs such as Silver Sneakers Stability can help. Valparaiso Family YMCA is a licensed Silver Sneakers provider and offers several Sneakers programs, including Silver Sneakers Stability. Designed for fall prevention, the program can help participants become stronger and improve their balance while increasing reaction time. Class member Bob O’Brien of Valparaiso praised the staff, noting how “the pain in my arm has gone down significantly. Just in general, my pain level overall has dropped from a 5 to a 2.” Alyse Kominakis, wellness director at the Valpo Y, said Silver Sneakers maintains guidelines on people’s blood pressure and mobility. Stability, Kominakis said, “focuses on strengthening ankles, knees and hips, and working on balance … so important as we age.” According to staff at Mayo Clinic, balance exercises are especially important for older adults to prevent falls and help them maintain their independence. “It’s a good idea to include balance training along with physical activity and strength training in your regular activity,” according to a Mayo staff report. While nearly any activity involving feet and movement can help with balance, Mayo staff continues, “specific exercises designed to improve your balance are helpful in your daily routine and can help improve your stability.” Valparaiso resident Carol Mill-

er said the class has helped with her balance and stability. “It helps when I stretch. I can relax my neck and back,” she said. “I feel more energized after I come to this class.” The local class meets Tuesday and Thursday mornings for 45 minutes. Rachel Smith, a personal trainer at the Valpo Y is the instructor. As Smith explained, her class focuses on static, dynamic and sensory balance, and moving body parts, including eyes. “Stability is super important,” Smith said. “As people age, they start to lose some of that stability. A couple of people in physical therapy said our class has helped them the most.” Kominakis noted some class members are coming off strokes, when falls can become more commonplace. With music in the background, classes begin with a slow and steady march. Participants can use a chair for balance and as part of the exercise. Simple movements use the arms, legs and hips, as the class develops with different progressions. These progressions, which Smith alternates, help with stability. “As they age, seniors tend to fear falling more,” Smith said. “Others in the class want to go hiking or walking on different terrains.” “I like the instructor. She knows her stuff,” class member Karen Mumaw of Valparaiso said. “Plus, this class helps prevent falls and helps with stability.” Wilma Ault of Valparaiso added through the class, “I’m able to catch myself if I fall.” Silver Sneakers classes are open to the public and free with a YMCA membership. For more details, call (219) 462-4185.

Keeping good balance in seniors’ lives ARMS IN MOTION — Judy Lute of Valparaiso stretches her arms during a Silver Sneakers Stability class at the Valparaiso Family YMCA. The class is designed to help seniors maintain their stability and prevent falls.

LEADING HER CLASS — Personal trainer Rachel Smith leads the Silver Sneakers Stability class at the Valparaiso Family YMCA. The class is designed to develop stability and held prevent falls.

BEND THAT KNEE — Mark Nowak of Kouts does a high-knee bend during a Silver Sneakers Stability class at the Valparaiso Family YMCA. The class challenges seniors to use various body parts to develop strength and stability.

�� Happy New Year From Us To You! �� Porter County Office:

Lake County Office:

506 Evans Avenue County 1st Office: Lake Plum County Office: 409 Porter E. Lincolnway, Floor Creek Center Valparaiso, Indiana222 46383 57 Franklin Street, Suite 203 409 E. Lincolnway, 1st Floor Plum Creek Center Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 Indianapolis Blvd., Suite 207 Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 222 Indianapolis Blvd., Suite 207 Phone: (219) 548-0980Phone: (219) 548-0980 Schererville, Indiana 46375 Schererville, Indiana 46375 , LLC Phone: (219) 548-0980 Fax: (219) 548-0993 Fax: (219) Phone/Fax: 227-4884 Fax: (219)548-0993 548-0993 Phone/Fax: (219)(219) 227-4884 *Certified as an Elder Law Attorney the National Elder Law Foundation *Certified as an Elder Lawby Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation

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Key Positions

Frigo-Svetanoff enjoys giving back to community By CARRIE STEINWEG Feature Writer Nancy Frigo-Svetanoff is in her second year as president of the Lowell Chamber of Commerce, but she’s spent many years supporting and giving back to her community. Prior to becoming the chamber’s president, she spent several years serving on the chamber board. She took on the new position with hopes of helping to grow the chamber and do positive things for the Town of Lowell. She first got involved with the chamber back in the 1990s when she was new to the real estate business and was encouraged by some of the businesswomen in town to get involved. “Now I’m working to get more of the younger business owners involved,” said FrigoSvetanoff. The chamber’s membership currently stands at 89 members, and Frigo-Sventanoff said she’s working to help increase the membership. “Lowell encompasses about one-third of Lake County. We have a lot of room to grow,” she said. Frigo-Sventanoff has been in real estate for the past 30 years and is currently a commercial broker at Coldwell Banker Realty, as well as a builder and developer. She also serves on the board of the Home Builders Association of Northwest Indiana. One of the big projects she’s currently working on is renovating the historic 1920s building that houses the chamber offices, and expanding it to include a community center for office space and hosting events, meetings and seminars. The landmark was originally the first town hall, police station and fire station. “We’re bringing the old

world look back it to, but modernized,” she said. “So that is one of the tasks in front of me. We’re working to raise funds for the project.” Part of the fundraising includes a dinner in February that will have a roaring 20s theme. The town’s big Winterfest in December was a successful event organized by the Lowell Chamber of Commerce, and Frigo-Sventanoff was proud to be part of making it happen. “It was quite an event and really turned out to be a huge event for our town with a lighted parade. A lot of people come and it’s been growing and growing,” she said. Frigo-Sventanoff also has found a way to bring something positive to Lowell that came out of the tragedy of losing her son, Dean, at age 17 in a car accident. Through

the 33 RDP Dean A Frigo Foundation she has awarded scholarships to students in the Lowell schools for the past 17 years. “It helps the students in Lowell and I hope to keep it going into the future,” she said. She has an adult daughter and three grandsons with whom she loves to spend time. She’s also a newlywed, having married last March, and is enjoying that phase of life. She also gained a stepson and stepdaughter. She is also a big music lover. “I’m really excited for the opportunity to be president of the chamber. I had mentors who helped me out when I was younger and I hope to pay it forward — in the business world and my personal life,” she said. “Life is short. You’ve got to enjoy it, but help people out. That’s what it’s all about.”

COMMUNITY LEADER — Nancy Frigo-Svetanoff is serving in her second year as president of the Lowell Chamber of Commerce. Photo provided.

S.O.S. - Speaking of Seniors —

Client complained to congressman about lengthy Medicare problem Editor’s note: Woodrow Wilcox is the senior medical bill case worker at Senior Care Insurance Services in Merrillville. He helps clients of that firm to fight mistakes and fraud in Medicare medical billing. Also, Wilcox wrote the book “SOLVING MEDICARE PROBLEM$,” which is available through book stores and online. On Nov. 29, 2023, I helped a client with a medical bill problem that was caused by Medicare. After I helped, the client complained to his member of Congress. With some editing to protect the client’s privacy, here is his note to the congressman. “I switched from an em-

ployer’s health insurance plan to Medicare and a Medicare supplement plan effective Oct. 1, 2022. But Medicare failed to update my file in a timely manner. The administrator at the insurance agency that I use helped me learn what was wrong and helped me make phone calls and write letters to correct the problem. In the spring of 2023, we had a phone discussion with several Medicare representatives at both regular Medicare call centers and with the Coordination of Benefits office. We were told that the problem would be corrected by March 4, 2023. So, we

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asked the University of Chicago to refile the claims after that date. They did and the claims were still denied because the problem was not corrected by March 4. According to the Medicare representative (who will remain unnamed) who works at a Medicare call center in Texas, my file was not updated and corrected until Sept. 21, 2023. So, I started on Medicare Part B and a Medicare supplement plan on Oct. 1, 2022, but my Medicare record was not updated until Sept. 21, 2023. That is unprofessional conduct on the part of Medicare, its systems, its managers and its employees. This kind of behavior by Medicare hurts senior citizens financially and emotionally. Will you do anything to stop it? You should work with Woodrow

By WOODROW WILCOX Senior Problem Resolution Officer Senior Care Insurance Services Wilcox to get more information on the many problems with Medicare that hurt seniors. Let me know why I had to endure such bad service by Medicare.”

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curb appeal. If you are looking for your forever home, look no further. At Ingram Manor, you’ll enjoy quality-crafted homes that are priced to fit within the scope of your budget and are easy to maintain. We invite you to come out and tour our available homes and experience the charm of Ingram Manor for yourself. This is the ideal combination of open spaces, convenient living and a connected location. Ingram Manor, Portage’s bestmanufactured home community, is conveniently located just 15 minutes from the beach on Lake Michigan and 40 Continued on page 5

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Spotlight

Argenta volunteers to help food insecure families By CARRIE STEINWEG Feature Writer “Combating hunger in children is a passion of mine,” said Ruth Argenta of Crown Point. She spent her career as a dietitian, educating patients on how food affects their health and helping them to eat better. She continues to educate and help kids get enough to eat as a volunteer with the Buddy Bag program through Community Help Network in Crown Point. Argenta got involved with the organization about 2 1/2 years ago after a neighbor introduced her to the organization while selling raffle tickets for a fundraiser for the Community Help Network. “There are several projects that are managed out of Community Help Network,” Argenta explained. “The Buddy Bags project involves packing backpacks to go home with food insecure children to have at home on the weekends. We are currently serving almost 800 students in south Lake County.” Each week about 25 volunteers, including Argenta, come in to help pack up the bags that include nine nonperishable items, such as cereal, canned pasta, tuna and assorted snacks. Volunteers form an assembly line for packing and then separate donations into large

totes that are then taken to area schools. The bags go home with kids on Fridays to ensure that they have food to eat over the weekend. “It helps with the family budget to be stretched by incorporating these food items into what they’re eating,” Argenta said. “This is only part of what they do at Community Help Network,” said Argenta, adding the nonprofit organization also runs a household pantry of cleaning items, paper goods and other items that cannot be purchased with food stamps, serving about 110 families in the region. Argenta said she got involved with that during the summer months before the Buddy Bag program began for the school year. The group also serves a luncheon twice a month called Ladle of Love where a free meal is provided. Argenta said her background has been beneficial in helping to manage the ordering process, a venture on which they began partnering with the Northeast Indiana Food Bank. Argenta maintains an inventory and works with the food bank on supply. “It started in August as a trial and has performed beautifully,” she said. After earning her degree from Purdue University, Argenta interned at Ingall’s Hospital and spent a few

years working bedside before getting into management, where she remained for most of her career. She worked for 23 years at Methodist Hospital and then started working for Morrison Health Care on different accounts, her last being with Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago. “I just always thought that food was interesting and when studying food I learned what an impact it has on everyone,” she said. “If we can teach people how to eat better, we can prevent some of these chronic illnesses.” Argenta enjoys her small flower garden and loves to reed. She’s a mother of two adult sons and has several siblings in the area. She returned to northwest Indiana in 2021 after living in Chicago. “Chicago was wonderful to experience when I lived there, but this is home,” she said.

RUTH ARGENTA

Pickpockets feast on travelers By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features 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, as pick-

pockets mingle freely with the 6 million pilgrims that visit each year. In any crowd, women should carry their purse in front of them and men keep their wallet in a side or front trouser pocket. 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 2023

Dissing the discount while dining Where should we eat? That’s the question American families debate every weekend. Do you feel like Chinese? How IN A long will NUTSHELL the wait be? By DICK And, can WOLFSIE Uncle Bob fit into a booth? This week, I didn’t care about any of this. I just wanted to go someplace where we could use one of those restaurant coupons we get in the mail—or in zoo books, entertainment books or phone books. Not because I am cheap. Okay, that’s part of it, but mainly because for the first time I wanted to feel like I actually saved money using one of these offers. Most of the coupons just sit in the kitchen drawer. I either forget them when we leave, or they’re for a restaurant 15 miles from the house and it hardly seems worth the effort for a free Bloomin’ Onion. Typically, coupons give you several options, requiring some crafty figuring in order to know how to most effi-

ciently use them, which is why we brought along our son who has a year of college calculus under his belt. “It looks to me,” began my wife, eyeing at the coupons, “that we can get a free tavern burger as long as someone else also orders a burger.” “Great,” I said. “Brett and I will each have a burger.” “Hold it, Dad. I don’t want a burger. I eat them every day at school. I thought you didn’t want me to eat so much red meat?” “Look, we just have to work together as a family. Okay, Mary Ellen, how about this? If one of us gets an Asian salad, the other gets a free salad, as long the second salad is the same or a lesser value. Which salad do you want?” “I don’t like the salads here. I want the fish dinner.” “You can’t have a fish dinner. There’s no coupon for a fish dinner.” “Why are we eating out if we can’t get something we like?” “Because once, just once, I want to show these restaurants that I am not a fool. They are not going to snare me into their trap. We will save money. I don’t care if we hate every morsel.” “Hey, Dad, if mom gets the $14.95 fish dinner, this coupon

says we get one to die for brownie. Let’s do that.” “No, that’s exactly what they want us to do. That won’t save us a penny, because we never order dessert.” “Okay, Dad. Here’s a coupon for a fried shrimp appetizer. But you have to order the John Wayne sirloin for $19.95.” “Hey, that’s a great idea. Whattya think, Mary Ellen?” I sensed growing dissension around the table.

“Here, Dick. This part of the coupon says we can get $10 off the check if we spend at least $50. Then we can order what we want. And what a concept — you know, enjoying what you eat.” “No, that would make the final bill $40, and I want to keep dinner under 30.” “Why?” “I have no idea. It’s just a goal I set for myself, okay?” Twenty minutes later, the

waitress finally dared approach. “We’ll have two spinach salads, of which one is free. And a black and blue burger for my son, who was a consultant on this project.” “You know, Dick,” said Mary Ellen. “I changed my mind. I think I’ll have the ribs.” The bill was $42. I didn’t speak to Mary Ellen the rest of the evening. But I can’t blame the expensive dinner on her. The coupons had all expired.

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Rice and Rice —

Have you made your will? Then your children will end up in probate!

By CLIFFORD J. RICE Elder Law Attorney Valparaiso It’s a whole new year! Like many Americans you may have made some New Year’s resolutions. Perhaps a resolution you should include, if you haven’t already done so, is to get your

personal affairs in order. According to the American Bar Association, 60% of all Americans have done no end-of-life planning whatsoever, not even a will. You could do a will, but most wills end up in probate. Do you really want your children to end up in probate court when you pass away? If you’re like most Americans nowadays, you may be considering a living trust rather than simply creating a will. The assets that are in the living trust at the time you pass away can totally avoid probate. There are a number of other documents that would also be present in a good estate plan, including: • Living will to make sure you’re not forever hooked up to machines if there’s no hope for recovery. • HIPAA waiver so it’s not a felony for the doctors to communicate with your spouse or your adult children in the event that you become disabled. • Advance directive so the doctors and family will know what persons you want to be in charge to make long-term

medical decisions in the event you become unable to make your own medical decisions. • In-home health care Instructions. Nursing homes cost an average of $7,500 a month in Indiana. If you have a good living trust that contains inhome healthcare instructions, there’s a good chance it can keep you or your spouse out of a nursing home, saving most of that $7,500 each month, meanwhile maintaining your

own privacy and dignity and allowing you to remain in your own home. We can include a funeral planning declaration, personal effects distribution memorandums and build in remarriage protection so that if your surviving spouse gets remarried after you die, they don’t lose half of everything you own to a new spouse. Because we are an elder law firm, we can even help save

you or your life savings from nursing home spend-down. Want to learn more? Come to Kelsey’s Steakhouse, 2300 Morthland Drive, Valparaiso, at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3; or Pesto’s, 3123 Calumet Avenue, Valparaiso, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 10. Reservations required, seating is limited!Reservations are required, seating is limited. Call now: (800) 303-7423, or visit our website at riceandrice. com.

Make Ingram Continued from page 2

miles from beautiful downtown Chicago. If you love staying active and enjoying the outdoors in a quaint town, look no further. Our clubhouse has a stateof-the-art gym, as well as a beautiful entertainment area just perfect for an afternoon book club or craft gathering. In addition, there are many upbeat activities in the nearby city. Portage is one of the safest towns in Indiana and offers wonderful hiking trails, state

parks, lake life, golfin, and more. We know that any home is only as good as the neighborhood it’s in. That’s why we strive to build a beautiful community of long-term resi-

dents. At Ingram Manor, pride of ownership and stellar curb appeal are evident at every turn. Ingram Manor is located at 3801 County Line Road, Portage. For further information, call (219) 942-6993.

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6 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ January 2024

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Finance

A scam a day is usual By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features With the help of technology, scammers are tricking Americans out of more money than ever before. Consumer losses to fraud hit $8.8 billion last year — a 30% increase from 2021, according to

the Federal Trade Commission. The biggest losses were to investment scams, including cryptocurrency schemes, which totaled more than $3.8 billion. Young adults aged 20-29 lost money more often than older adults aged 70-79, but older adults who did lose money, lost more. Retirees have assets like

savings, pensions, life insurance policies and property that scammers target. Crooks can now reach their targets by social media and text, as well as phone and email, but many of their tactics and strategies are familiar. Many introduce themselves with a sense of urgency, explains

the AARP Fraud Watch Network. It could be fear, panic, or just plain excitement — you just won a million dollars from Publishers Clearing House! Now your defenses are down. The most vulnerable individuals are seniors, people with disabilities, and folks with debt. If you receive a call or text

Save your place in line with mobile check-in express By DANIEL SUMMER Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Our Mobile Check-In Express feature makes it easier to check in if you must visit a Social Security office. To use Mobile Check-In Express, scan the QR code located at your local Social Security office. This will allow you to check

in for: • Scheduled and non-scheduled appointments. • Services — including requesting a replacement Social Security card, a benefit verification letter, proof of income, and more. For Mobile Check-In Express to work, you must be at the Social Security office and have location services on. You should also make sure you’re using the latest ver-

sion of your internet browser. The service is most compatible with Safari, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox. You’ll also want to: • Ensure you are in the office when your ticket number is called. • Enable your mobile notifications. This will: Allow you to receive your electronic ticket — so you know your

place in line. Alert you when we’re ready to help you. Provide you with your interview location information. Invite you to participate in our feedback survey. We encourage you to use Mobile Check-In Express for all office visits. Please share this information with those who may need it.

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urging you to buy something or asking you for emergency money or to pay for something, just hang up. If you’re concerned, call the official business number of the business or government department purporting to have called. Schemers will imitate someone in authority, such as a tax or debt collector, or a relative or loved one seeking immediate financial assistance for bail, legal help, a hospital bill, or to get home from some faraway place. Romance scams are among the cruelest because they often target lonely and isolated individuals, and they can last for years as the thieves tuck their claws deeper and deeper into the unwitting victim. A common red flag is the mention of gift cards. Just don’t use them. No legitimate company or individual is going to ask you to buy large quantities of gift cards and then read them the numbers off the cards. Then there are the investment scams — enticing get-rich-quick schemes that lure targets via social media accounts or online ads. When you’re using Facebook or scrolling Google results, be aware of quiz scams that appear innocuous and ask about topics you might be interested in, such as your car or favorite TV show. They may also ask you to take a personality test. Scammers can then use the information you share to respond to security questions from your accounts or hack your social media to send malware links to your contacts. When buying or selling products on Instagram or Facebook Marketplace, keep in mind that not every interested buyer has the best intentions. To avoid being scammed when selling online, check buyers’ profiles, don’t share codes sent to your phone or email, and don’t accept online payments from unknown persons. Also, when buying something online, research the seller. Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

January 2024 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ 7

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High flyers pay high flying fares By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features Covering the airline industry as a business writer for a daily newspaper and then working for an airline company before opening my own company taught me one thing: Flying is not and never has been considered fun by the airline folk. All you are is an empty seat if you aren’t in their airplane. Flying is not their full-time job. Getting you to fill one of their seats — marketing — is their full-time job. Pricing is their major tool. They’ve gone all out to make it as attractive as possible. This is nothing new. A seat is a commodity and prices rise and fall with demand. Demand tightens up as boarding time approaches. A seat selling for $300 when booked on the internet book a couple of weeks ahead of time can be bumped up to $600 or $700 at boarding time after having dropped to $89 just 24 hours before the plane’s scheduled departure. Decades ago, a writer for a major national magazine spoke to every passenger aboard a household name airline and discovered there were more than 100 different fares paid by his fellow flyers. Today’s airlines boast about being more than economical than ever. That’s because they can advertise an attractive fare that fills the seat but doesn’t include all the ancillary fees – service charges, luggage charges, carry-on charges, seatselection charges and on-andon charges. Self-described “discount” airlines proclaim dirt cheap fares to deliver you to faraway places. Your dreamscape crumbles to reality when you learn how much it costs to take a bag with you. The charge you see is usually what your seat costs when you sit in it without anything with you — no bags, no pets, no food and in a seat they give you, not one you picked. A British website that listed several examples of fares and final price differences showed a flight advertising a fare of slightly more than $20 was loaded with hidden costs of just over $160. An airline may offer a cheap fare but, to get it, you have to join their travelers club, which has an annual fee and probably an up-front enrollment charge. There’s an item called carrier-interface fee. This reportedly covers all the technology and interface connection used to book your flight online. You can avoid this by buying your ticket at the airport, they report. Have we mentioned the hidden airport fee? And taxes and security charges? Don’t think working with airline personnel will save you money because there’ll be an agent fee slipped into the total. Airline marketers sales-talk their way through complaints by proclaiming the flying public

likes to see those lower fares. And that competitive juices force airlines to keep their fares low. But they say noth-

ing about keeping their fees low, such as escalating charges for seat selection and carry-on luggage and on and on. Those

fees skyrocket if you book an overseas trip. Be aware that the final cost of a flight offered by the

Blue Collar Antiques can help find hidden valuables in your home By MATT DANBURY Blue Collar Antiques My company, Blue Collar Antiques, buys and sells a variety of antiques and collectibles. We also purchase entire estates. This time of year, vintage Christmas item are selling very well. Check your decorations for old ornaments, lights and especially aluminum Christmas trees. A rare aluminum tree sold a few weeks ago for over 17,000 dollars. This year the old blow molds seem to be

popular. Check your attics and basements for anything weird or unusual. Comic books and sports cards are selling very well right now. I am always looking for military items, old toys, advertising items, coins and jewelry. I have always enjoyed antiques and have a deep appreciation for history. I go to several auctions each week which helps me stay current with what people are buying and how much items are selling for. I also subscribe to many research sites. I am

able to find the market value for almost any item you may have. I have been in business for over 15 years. I believe in treating people fairly. Because of this, a big part of my business comes from referrals or repeat clients. Often when people call me to look at their collections or estates, they are pleasantly surprised to learn that items they considered worthless are actually very valuable. I would recommend to anyone that before items are discarded or

given away, please give me the opportunity or someone with experience in antiques to take a look at it for valuation. Since I have been in business for so long, I have established many contacts in the industry. Even if you have something that I do not buy, many times I can at least give you a value for it, put you in contact with someone who would buy it or tell you the best way to go about selling it. You can contact me at (219) 794-6500. Ask For Matt Danbury.

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Sports

Purdue Northwest’s intramural program expands beyond ‘regular’ sports By STEVE EUVINO Feature Writer When most people think of intramural sports at schools, they generally envision basketball, volleyball and table tennis. How about ghost hunting, baking, fishing and Twinkie eating? Those are just some of the not-so-typical intramural sports offered at Purdue University Northwest’s Hammond and Westville campuses. The man in charge of all this is Matt Dudzik, assistant athletic director for facilities and recreational sports. Dudzik has been at PNW for 21 years, starting as a student majoring in hotel and restaurant management. While doing a practicum in hospitality, he began working at the university fitness center. That experience led to a job and an associate’s degree in fitness. Combined, the two campuses offer about 40 different intramural activities, with about 20-25 offered each school year, drawing 1,250-1,400 students annually. While there’s nothing expressly written, Dudzik cites two goals of intramurals — to meet other students to socialize outside class and relieve stress.

“People are studying and working,” Dudzik said, “and this is a good way to beat the stress.” That’s where nontraditional activities come into play. While basketball and volleyball remain popular, Dudzik likes to toss in something different, like UNO, trivia and gardening. “Some of the ideas, I come up with,” Dudzik, a Munster resident, said. “Others, the students suggest. We like to keep it fun and exciting.” Dudzik added that PNW’s intramurals are unique among college campuses nationally. Sometimes events take time to draw participants. One example is combat archery, a dodge-ball-like game using safe bows and arrows. Another example is ghost hunting, done on campus. That program has grown so popular that it spawned a campus organization, the Paranormal Club. With help from the Northwest Indiana Paranormal group, PNW students were divided into teams and assigned to different buildings around campus for an hour and a half of ghostly research. They then return to report on their findings. “They were surprised at how

active the ghosts were,” Dudzik said, noting that ghost hunters are capped at 90 participants. Most of intramurals take place on the Hammond campus, with some, including volleyball and table tennis, in Westville. PNW has been offering intramurals since 1952, started by Bob Hayes, who also began university athletics. The program has grown from two activities when Dudzik began to more than 40 today. Recent additions include sand volleyball, played outdoors in the snow. Another unique class is baking, which is done off-campus. Students receive assignments, which are later judged. Another class is fishing, which draws 15-20 student casting their lines at shoreline sites. Intramurals are open to all PNW students, faculty and staff. Bowling, Dudzik said, draws multiple teams of university staff. Other nontraditional intramurals include laser tag, e-sports, lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee and a strong man/ woman contest. An event involving food is the annual Hostess Twinkie contest in the fall and Hostess Cupcake competition in

FISHING FOR PLAYERS — Matt Dudzik, assistant athletic director for facilities and recreational sports at Purdue University Northwest, holds a fishing pole in his office at the Hammond campus. Fishing is among the nontraditional intramural activities Dudzik coordinates at PNW’s Hammond and Westville campuses. Photo by Steve Euvino. the spring. This past Twinkie contest witnessed a new record, with 29 sponge cakes devoured in three minutes. The most recent Cupcake champion downed 17.

“We did this at a time when the Hostess discount stores were in trouble, so this was our way of helping,” Dudzik explained. “This was another of those unique things we do.”

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January 2024 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ 9

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Lynn Allegret

Retired Senior Life Sales Representative Lynn Allegret, 74, Syracuse, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, at Ascension Borgess in Kalamazoo, Mich. Lynn was born on July 12, 1949, to Charles and Doris Hackley. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, honesty and a vibrant spirit that will be cherished by all who knew her. On Sept. 25, 1993, Lynn married James W. Allegret. The pair had been high school sweethearts but re-connected 22 years later, sharing 30 years together before her passing. Jim, as most know him, survives at home. Lynn dedicated her life to helping others through her various roles in the Syracuse community. For 20 years, she worked as a dental hygienist. Her gentle touch and warm demeanor brought comfort to those under her care. Following her tenure as a dental hygienist, Lynn took on the responsibility of running the BMV in Syracuse until its closure. Lynn’s

dedication to community encountered. Even in chalcontinued as she joined lenging times, Lynn’s The Papers Inc., optimistic spirit where she was a prevailed, inspiring sales representahope in those around tive for Senior her. She had an Life for more uncanny ability than 25 years. to lift spirits with She loved her pojust a kind word or sition there and gesture. built many lastLynn was ing relationships known for being with her customers trustworthy, kindand coworkers. hearted, jovial, loyal, Beyond her profeshonest and straightforsional pursuits, ward. She never LYNN ALLEGRET Lynn had a deep hesitated to tell it love for gardenlike it is, yet she did ing and flowers. She spent countso with grace and consideration. less hours tending to her garden, Her genuine nature made her a creating an oasis of beauty that confidante and a source of wisdom never failed to impress visitors. for many. No one knew this better Her green thumb was admired by than her beloved grandchildren all who saw her flourishing blooms. with whom she shared a special But perhaps what defined bond; she was ever-present in their Lynn most was her ever-present lives and rarely missed a school smile. Her infectious joy brightprogram or sporting event. ened the lives of everyone she Lynn is

Trivia night in Valparaiso The Knights of Columbus Council 12149 out of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, 356 W. 700N, Valparaiso, is planning a fun-filled trivia night. The event will take place at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. The cost is $15 per person. The Knights encourage teams of eight, covering all ages. There will be 10 categories with 10 questions in each. Bring your own food and

snacks to be shared with your table. You can also BYOB. Water and soft drinks will be sold that night. There will be 50/50 raffle tickets and mulligans sold. The winning table will win a prize. For reservations or further information, call Bill Parnell at (219) 962-8828. Walk-ins will be welcomed. They accept cash, checks, credit and debit cards.

survived by her husband, James Allegret; children, Erin (Amondo) Hopkins and James A. Allegret; grandchildren, Jordan Hopkins, Olivia Hopkins, Skylar Hopkins, James H. Allegret, Otto Allegret and Wesley Allegret. In addition, she is survived by a nephew, James (Becky) Lash; and three greatnephews. She is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Denise Lash; and nephew, David Lash. Titus Funeral Home, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, is entrusted with the care of Lynn and the family. Visitation was held from 3-7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18, at the funeral home. A life celebration funeral took place the following day beginning at 11 a.m. Visitors gathered for one hour prior at the funeral home. Memorial gifts in honor of Lynn may be given to New Hope Pet Rescue and Syracuse-Wawasee Garden Club.

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the household. There are devices available to dole out the proper medication at the proper time. When seniors leave the house, they can use cellphones, wristwatches and global position systems to help monitors keep track of their moves. Medical alert bracelets help seniors get help when they fall, sensors can be installed to automatically turn off stoves, and devices can be installed to prevent the bathtub from overflowing.

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10 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ January 2024

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PERCUSSION

Dining/Leisure/Entertainment

Elvis tribute artist Ensemble spectacular coming to Gary

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If you are experiencing the winter doldrums, the cure for you is just around the corner. The Elvis Tribute Spectacular Birthday Tour will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, at the Hard Rock Casino, 5400 W. 29th Ave., Gary. The audience will hear the music of Elvis Presley performed live and in concert by the best Elvis tribute artists performing today. The concert goes era by era, beginning with the early rock-a-billy years, then the military years, then the movie years, then the 1968 comeback special in black leather. The show closes with the Las Vegas and concert years. Featured are artists Shawn Klush, Cody Ray Slaughter and Ryan Pelton. Special guests include the Blackwood Quartet, The Nashville Dream, all backed by The Fabulous Ambassador Band. Klush, dubbed “The Closest Thing to the King in Concert,” performed on the David Letterman Show, and won BBC TV’s “World’s Greatest Elvis” award. He’s been named Elvis Presley Enterprises’ first ever Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist. Klush also portrayed Presley in the HBO series, “Vinyl,” produced by Martin Scorcese and Mick Jagger.

CLOSEST THING — Shawn Klush has been called “The Closest Thing to the King in Concert.” He will be appearing live in Gary as part of the Elvis Tribute Spectacular Birthday Tour at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, at the Hard Rock Casino. Photo provided by Shawn Klush. To learn more about Klush, whose photo is included with this article and bears a striking resemblance to Presley, visit shawnklush.com. Slaughter, referred to as the new “Prince of Rock ‘N Roll,” was named the “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist” in 2011. As America’s young and sexy heartthrob, he exudes the Elvis charisma in black leather. Ryan Pelton, “back by popular

NWI Airport Express —

Michelle Searer providing professional transportation throughout the region NWI AIRPORT EXPRESS NWI Airport Express LLC is a private car for hire service based in northwest Indiana. As a local, family-owned business, areas of service include northwest Indiana, southwest Michigan and the Chicagoland area, providing service for all Chicago, South Bend and Indianapolis airports, with a proven reputation of providing reliable, affordable, quality service, staffed with experienced, professionally licensed and friendly drivers 24/7/365. Founder and principal Michelle M. Searer is a former corporate marketing, nonprofit and higher education executive who started NWI Airport Express to help fill the void for affordable transportation options in the region. In 2019, when Coach USA discontinued the service, there was a need for a mid-level-priced airport transportation service. Recognizing that need and the

fact that most do not need a limo or want to pay top dollar for airport transportation, NWI Airport Express was born. A lifetime resident of northwest Indiana, originally from Valparaiso, Searer has been very involved in the community throughout northwest Indiana and the Chicago area, having previously served in executive roles with area universities and nonprofit organizations. Searer has held a chauffeur license or “license for hire” for more than 20 years and has experience driving sports team shuttles when she served as a university coach. With a great appreciation for high-quality service, Searer has created a sustainable network of professional drivers to provide top-notch service. From corporate executives, business and family travelers and the occasional celebrity client, NWI Airport Express provides outstanding service at an affordable price.

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The winner of the I Spy Contest for December is Penny Eldridge of Garrett. The gift was located on page 9 in Senior Life Allen; page 16 in Senior Life Northwest; page 20 in Senior Life Elko and page 21 in Senior Life St. Joseph.

demand,” played the lead role in the Hollywood film, “The Identical,” alongside Ray Liotta, Ashley Judd and Seth Green. Pelton continues to entertain audiences all over the world, from casinos, theaters, festivals and sports arenas. For tickets, go to etaspectacular.com or ticketmaster.com. For more information about the Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular, visit etaspectacular.com.

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MOVING ALONG — Local entrepreneur Michelle M. Searer has shifted gears from executive to transportation provider throughout northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland area. Photo provided by NWI Airport Express. Expanded services also include wine tours, concerts, weddings, night or day out on the town, medical appointments, sporting events and bachelor and bachelorette parties. If you are planning an upcoming trip or have a special event for which you need transportation, check out NWI Airport Express. Call or text (219) 232-9000, or email nwiairportexpress@gmail. com for further information.

January 2024 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ 11

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Got leftover cooked chicken or turkey? Cook up a pot of soup! This low-sodium soup recipe is a healthier twist on a classic creamy turkey and wild rice soup that hails from Minnesota. Serve with a crisp romaine salad and whole-grain bread. 4 servings; Active 35 min.; Total Time 35 min. INGREDIENTS: 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 2 cups sliced mushrooms, (about 4 ounces) 3/4 cup chopped celery 3/4 cup chopped carrots 1/4 cup chopped shallots 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth 1 cup quick-cooking or instant wild rice, (see Ingredient Note) 3 cups shredded cooked chicken, or turkey (12 ounces; see Tip) 1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley DIRECTIONS: Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add mushrooms, celery, carrots and shallots; cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add flour, salt and pepper; cook, stirring, for 2 minutes more. to a maid 44. Desert mirage 46. L. Carroll’s and J. Heller’s characters 48. Chose between

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12 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ January 2024

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Faith

Bonacci-Klaeser educating public on local food inequity By STEVE EUVINO Feature Writer As a member of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Student Center in Valparaiso, Ruth BonacciKlaeser shares two passions. One, as a former special education teacher, she wants people with disabilities to connect with mainstream society. “How can we get people on the outside — who may be lonely — feel like they’re on the inside?” she said. The other is to raise awareness among the general public about food inequity in Porter County. After spending 30 years in the classroom, the Chesterton woman had some time to do some thinking and some traveling, including to the Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany. She was also particularly touched by a documentary she saw on food inequity in Lake County. Although she broke her leg in January, she now considers that a blessing, as healing provided her an opportunity to “readjust and observe people.” Bonacci-Klaeser had time to focus on people with disabilities and local food shortages. As a former teacher in Indiana and Illinois, she recalled how school meals made a difference in her students’ performance. “People, with their busy schedules, may ask, what can I do?” she said. “I want to make it so it’s possible to do things. At St. Teresa, we have high school and university students and adults willing to do something.” St. Teresa is adjacent to Valparaiso University, which her two daughters attended. That’s how Bonacci-Klaeser got involved at what is called “St. T’s.” A substitute faith formation teacher, she is a lector and assists with the church’s soup kitchen. She is also involved

with Bible study, the women’s group “Kingdom Builders” and “Mission and Vision,” a gathering of St. T’s members and staff to dream and brainstorm. The Rev. Jacob McDaniel, chaplain at St. T’s, describes Bonacci-Klaeser as a “vision caster.” He noted, “She continues to provide valuable advice, guidance and insight to how be a better leader in our community.” “I love the students at St. T’s. I love their reverence,” BonacciKlaeser said. “They’re on fire. It’s so wonderful to see so many young people at daily Mass. We have adoration together. They are the future of our Church and, as a community, our role is to support them.” She also likes Kingdom Builders, in which woman from all backgrounds gather. “It’s about building relationships with God and the people we deal with,” the retired teacher said. As to living her faith, Bonacci-Klaeser today wears a cross she hesitated wearing while teaching in public schools. “I put the cross on every day and think about what it means,” she said. “What will people see in me?” Whether it’s regularly attending Mass or volunteering at the Advent dinner for VU students, this grandmother of eight wants “people to feel welcome and I want to bring them closer to God.” When it comes to Scripture, Bonacci-Klaeser cites Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the thoughts I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace, not of evil, to give you an expected end.” As she explained, “I find that in my darkest moments, this quote is something to remember. God has been there with me in my darkest moments, even if I didn’t know it. That’s what I try to encourage.”

MISSIONARY DISCIPLE — Ruth Bonacci-Klaeser is involved in several ministries at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Student Center in Valparaiso. She is currently pursuing a ministry of educating the general public about food inequity in Porter County. Photo by Steve Euvino.

The difference between grief and loneliness Editor’s note: Tom Rose is the author of “Balloon in a Box, Coping with Grief.” The book is available on By TOM ROSE Amazon or Guest Writer 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) 596-6256, or email: roseandrose@comcast. net. Most of us understand loneliness but might not understand

United Way’s ‘Level Up’ receives major boost from donors The United Way Northwest Indiana recently announced donors generously gave more than $42,000, beginning on Giving Tuesday, Nov. 28, to support its powerful and rapidly growing Level Up program. “Our supporters’ generosity on Giving Tuesday truly exemplifies the spirit of our community, and we’re beyond grateful for the amazing outpouring of support for our Level Up pro-

gram,” said Adam O’Doherty, president and CEO of United Way Northwest Indiana. “These funds will go directly towards initiatives that uplift our communities and create sustainable change.” The Level Up program helps qualified participants achieve financial stability by guiding them to multiple resources to find better jobs and opportunities. By the end of 2025, Level

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Up graduates are expected to contribute an additional $20 million to the northwest Indiana economy. On Giving Tuesday, UWNWI held several fundraising initiatives to raise funds for the Level Up program. It’s inaugural “Text To Give” event raised $1,730, while contributions during a special event for donors and supporters raised $25,550. A very generous $15,000 matching grant from an anonymous donor pushed the totals to $42,280. The $500 given to shoppers provided immediate relief to several families and aligned with the UWNWI’s commitment to supporting and uplifting local communities, O’Doherty said. For more information, contact Michael Gonzalez at (219) 6170796, or at mikeg@steelshoresmedia.com.

grief. Loneliness is undoubtedly a big part of grief and can be complicated. Most people define loneliness as being alone, which means “without other people,” which I find in relationship to grief is not an accurate definition of “lonely.” Loneliness is subjective; it can differ from person to person, like kids who feel misunderstood, an elderly person who may be living in a nursing home, or a person working in an environment where you “don’t fit in socially.” Even though they are not “without other people,” they feel lonely. These people experience loneliness because these relationships don’t meet their personal needs. In the case of an individual grieving over the loss of a loved one, say a spouse, they may have a lot of loving family and great friends, but they long for someone they don’t have — an intimate partner. When you’re grieving, it seems that loneliness is unsolvable. It is unsolvable; the loneliness, the emptiness, what you want is your loved one, a likeness that no one else could ever fill. I am sure that loneliness after the death of a loved one leaves you at a significant disadvantage in solving the problem because the person and feeling you desire is gone. You can’t bring them back or recreate them. I am sure, as they say, “pieces of you became them, and pieces of them became you.” When they died, they took pieces of your shared life with them, and now you struggle to live a life with those pieces missing. So now you think, “I’m alone, on my own, so I have to be very careful living my life without those pieces,” so you may start to guard against the influences of others by pushing them away. And as a result, it increases your feel-

ings of loneliness. I recently received a phone call from a woman who had attended one of my speaking appearances and read my book. She explained that she had lost her husband five years ago and that she was now involved with a gentleman in a “friend” relationship, but that it was beginning to become a “serious” relationship. She said she was torn between giving her heart to him when so much of it still belonged to her husband. I suggested that she tell her friend that she wanted to give him her heart but that a big piece of it was missing. If he understood and accepted that then moving on with the relationship would be more manageable. I received a call later, and she told me she had done as I suggested and that the gentleman said that he understood and would accept whatever of her heart she could give him. They are moving on and letting the relationship continue to grow. Loneliness caused by grief cannot be solved totally. You will never fill the void left by losing your loved one. You can’t replace those missing pieces. As I say in my book, “Balloon in a Box,” you must find other ways to move forward with your life, bringing your loved one with you. How do you do this? At some point in your journey of grief, you must try. It is important to open yourself up to the love of people in your life, holding on to your loved one while accepting the love and support of others and making new friends in the process. My experience has been that it is not easy, but in time, you will begin to fill the hole left by your loved one, but never entirely. “God uses all things for the good of those who love him, even our loneliness.”- unknown.

January 2024 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ 13

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50 Years Ago, Blast To The Past —

‘You’re Sixteen’ ended up on a best-selling soundtrack Ringo Starr Since you are reading this in a senior publication, there’s a good chance you not only remember Ringo Starr’s “You’re Sixteen” from 50 years ago, but the original 1960 version by Johnny Burnette, as well. Burnette was born in 1935 and lived with his parents and brother Dorsey in a Memphis housing project that included equally poor neighbors Vernon, Gladys and Elvis Presley. After school days ended, music lovers Johnny, Dorsey and a mutual friend formed the hard-driving Johnny Burnette Trio. They toured constantly

and recorded some high-octane 45s that went nowhere. Rockabilly collectors now lust after those obscure plastic discs. Later, Johnny and Dorsey moved to Los Angeles to become songwriters for Ricky Nelson (“Believe What You Say,” “It’s Late”). As a solo artist, Johnny signed with Los Angeles’ Liberty Records and proceeded to cut some minor hit singles. Burnette’s only Top Ten career tune was the bouncy, violin-saturated “You’re Sixteen,” which ended up on the best-selling soundtrack of George Lucas’s 1973 nostalgia movie “American Graffiti.” In

1964, Johnny died in a California boating accident. The Oldest Beatle Ringo, the oldest Beatle, was born Richard Starkey in 1940 in the Dingle, Liverpool’s most depressed inner-city district. Housing there usually meant cramped quarters, poor ventilation and a rear door that opened onto an outhouse. Young Starkey was often in and out of hospitals with various illnesses. At age 13, he began a two-year stay in a sanitarium after he contracted tuberculosis. As with many other long-term patients, he was encouraged to join the institution’s musical group (He

Konopasek still cares for kids By WOODROW WILCOX Guest Writer James Konopasek was an elected member of the School Board in Griffith. He’s not now. But he still cares for kids in that school system and all schools in Indiana. He is semiretired but works part time as a driving instructor. Almost every day, he meets and listens to young people who are learning to drive. He hears them talking about their concerns. This motivated him to do some research that opened his eyes to a problem with Indiana’s education system. “Indiana is forgetting about students who probably won’t go to college,” Konopasek stated. “Many Indiana schools offer lots of resources for students who want to go to college. But youngsters who don’t plan or want to attend college should learn to do something to make money to support their future

NEW BOARD MEMBER — The Lake County Public Library recently welcomed a new board member, Sean Conley. A resident of Highland, Conley is the executive vice president at Lake Mortgage in Merrillivlle. He has served on the board of the Highland Redevelopment Commission since 2019 and is a volunteer for North Township. LCPL is excited to have Conley on the board and is eager to work with him for years to come. Photo provided by the library.

families. Indiana should offer more for these youngsters. I suggest that one of the options should be skilled trades.” The last time he checked, Konopasek learned that there is a big difference in high school graduation rates among three communities along West Ridge Road in Lake County: Griffith, Highland and Munster. “Munster and Highland had graduation rates in the 90s percentage range. Griffith had a high school graduation rate in the low seventies percentage” Konopasek explained. “By not balancing our school budgets to help all students instead of just the college bound ones, we are dooming the other students to jobs that pay in the minimum wage ranges. They won’t be able to support families and have a decent life without a financial miracle. I don’t like hurting young people like that.” Konopasek graduated from Griffith High School in 1970. He earned degrees to become a secondary and college science instructor. But, also, as the economy changed, so did some of his jobs. He was a chemist in Texas oil fields and did other jobs, too. “High school counselors need to help open the youngsters’ minds to learning skills that they can use to make a good living and to be flexible to change when the economy changes. If you don’t teach that, then when someone loses a job and is not flexible to take another one, the youngster will be tempted to make a living with illegal drugs or other criminal activity. To prevent that, Indiana’s budgeting and policies for education must change,” Konopasek concluded.

Can’t Find A Copy Every Month? Get It At www.seniorlifenewspapers.com

JAMES KONOPASEK

RINGO STARR was often heard beating upon the cabinets next to his bed with a mallet that he fashioned from a cotton bobbin). “I was in the hospital band,” he has explained. “That’s where I really started playing. I never wanted anything else from then on.” At 15, barely literate and uninterested in school, he took menial Liverpool jobs until he found employment as a rock ‘n’ roll drummer and soon became well-known as a member of Rory Storm and the Hurricanes, one of the premier rock groups in the city. As he wore two rings on each hand, he adopted the stage name Rings (later Ringo) Starr. In 1962, he was hired by the Beatles to replace their dour original drummer Pete Best, who hadn’t meshed well with fun-loving John,

Paul and George. Ringo’s version of “You’re Sixteen” featured a “chugging” lope and a lot of help from his friends (get it?) on his millionselling Apple Records single. Among the many musicians who offered background support that day in the recording studio were — no surprise here — John Lennon, George Harrison and Paul McCartney. During the bridge of Ringo’s “You’re Sixteen,” Paul McCartney made a sound like a kazoo with his mouth, although his quirky contribution was credited as a “vocal sax solo” on Starr’s “Ringo” album. Go figure. Sometimes thought of as the neglected Beatle who dwelt in the Lennon-McCartneyHarrison shadow, Sir Richard Starkey is said to have a net worth of $350 million today.

14 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ January 2024

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Health & Fitness

Make 2024 an epic year for your health

BIG CHECKS — Community Cancer Research Foundation’s Cancer Resource Centre received $16,000 in donations from Laini Fluellen Charities, Inc. On hand for the check presentation at CRC in Munster are, from left, CRC then-Manager of Outreach Anthony Andello; Laini Fluellen Charities board member Louie Gonzalez and chairwoman Diane Artis; Marie Macke, executive director of Oncology Services for Community Healthcare System and administrator of Community Cancer Research Foundation; and Jennifer Sarkey, director of Cancer Care Services for Community Healthcare System. Photo provided by Community Health Care System.

Laini Fluellen Charities donates to Cancer Resource Centre Community Cancer Research Foundation’s Cancer Resource Centre received $16,000 in donations in 2023 from Laini Fluellen Charities, Inc., whose goal is to improve health outcomes for women at high risk for and diagnosed with breast cancer, especially triple-negative breast cancer. Laini Fluellen Charities was founded in 2009 and named in honor of Laini Fluellen, who died at age 38 from triplenegative breast cancer. Since its inception, the northwest Indiana/Chicago-area organization has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for breast cancer education, research, training, screenings and innovative treatments. “Laini Fluellen Charities and the Community Cancer Research Foundation rally behind the same cause — raising awareness and support in an ongoing battle against triple-negative and other forms of breast cancer,” said Marie Macke, executive director of oncology services for Community Healthcare System and administrator of Community Cancer Research Foundation. “We are extremely grateful for their generosity, partnership and alliance in funding research, developing treatments

and supporting resources for those in need.” This year’s donations included $10,000 in the form of 200 $50 holiday food certificates for the CRC to distribute to cancer patients and their families. The CRC received a second donation of $6,000 following Laini Fluellen’s 12th annual “A Pink Tie Affair” gala, a fundraiser that honors leaders who support the organization’s mission. Among this year’s honorees was Macke, who received the first Tranece Artis Trailblazer Award. Artis, who died last year, was the organization’s executive director and Laini Fluellen’s aunt and best friend. “It was an incredible honor to be named the first recipient of this award,” Macke said. “I am grateful to Tranece, along with her amazing family, in setting up this foundation. Many patients have benefited from their generosity and education.” Jennifer Sarkey, director of Cancer Care Services for Community Healthcare System, praised the hard work, dedication and life-saving mission of Laini Fluellen Charities and its board members. “The generous donations made by Laini Fluellen Charities will help those who turn to the Cancer Resource Centre

during an unsettling time in their lives,” Sarkey said. “The CRC’s purpose is to support, nurture, educate and help local cancer patients achieve the best possible health outcome. Donations like these send a reassuring message: ‘You are not alone.’ ” For more information on Community Cancer Research Foundation and the CRC, visit myccrf.com/about-us. For more information on Laini Fluellen Charities, visit lfcharities.org.

From My Table To Yours By Cat Wilson Are you getting through the holidays by saying to yourself that “on Jan. 2 I’m going to start taking control of my health and get back on track with what I’m eating?” Good, glad to hear it; we all need to take control after the holidays. Let’s not get crazy and think you can do it all on day one because as we know New Year resolutions tend to go by the wayside in February and that is not what we want. When I say “‘look for small sustainable changes” you must understand that it does not mean french fries, cokes and hot fudge sundaes are okay for now as long as you give up cake. Whether you are 45 or 85 right now, eating healthfully will make a positive change to your body. Even if you feel well,

Hazardous home sweet home By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features The majority of injuries — slips, falls, burns, poisoning, bruises and cuts — to people older than 75 occur at home because that’s where they spend most of their time. Home accident prevention requires changes in both behavior and the environment, reports the Center for the Advancement of Health. Among its recommendations is that households draw up an

escape plan in the event their home catches fire. While more than 95 percent of respondents to a survey said they had smoke alarms, less than 20 percent said they check the alarms every three months to make sure they work. Other simple steps to take toward improving safety at home is to install grab bars in bathrooms and hand rails along any stairs around the house. And don’t leave shoes and clothing lying around to trip over. Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

it doesn’t mean things are going well inside. A cheeseburger and tater tots can make you feel good, but you know darn well they aren’t the healthiest choices you can make and in order to be healthy, you need the healthy choices 95% of the time. Ultra-processed food are 50% of dietary intake in the U.S. which means 50% of food intake is junk. Let’s start right there — get rid of the ultra-processed foods. No drive-through meals or lunch meat for starters. If you make chicken, use a moist cooking method instead of frying or broiling. Sauté it in water or broth or bake it. Don’t gasp when I say reduce meat intake to one meal a day. It’s bad on the arteries, it’s inflammatory, and it’s not raised as it once was, but the majority comes from concentrated animal feeding operations. Reducing or eliminating meat should be replaced with whole-foods, not junk foods. Plan it out: eating well takes planning. Stock up on items that you can use in multiple ways. Look to fill your meals with • Greens. • Beans. • Fruit. • Vegetables. • Whole grains. Your taste buds change when you continue to eat healthfully, seriously, they do. You will crave the fresh tastes and it will be fun to concoct meals. If it’s a whole food, eat it. A goal would be to eat 200 different foods a week. That sounds difficult but think about a salad or home-made vegetable soup; I throw everything into those. Make your plan to get rid of animal foods, eggs and dairy in 2024 and replace them with nutritious foods that reduce the cycle of symptoms, doctors, pills so you can enjoy the years ahead. 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.

January 2024 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ 15

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One more win for the Gipper By TOM MORROW Mature Life Features In a way I’m here because of President Ronald Reagan. Let me explain. Growing up in Seymour, Iowa, famous people were only known to us as images appearing in magazines, newspapers, film and, eventually, television. So, every time the late President Reagan popped up in a movie or occasionally on television, our mother would make some sort of comment about knowing the movie star

when he was a sports announcer at WHO radio in Des Moines, Iowa’s capital. He was known to his radio listeners as “Dutch” Reagan, Mom would say in a matteroff-fact way. My sister and I would roll our eyes with a wink and a nod. Mom saw our disbelieving smirks but was not deterred. When I got a little older, I asked Mom how she knew “The Gipper,” which was a moniker Reagan picked up from his movie role in “The Knute Rockne Story,” where he portrayed football star

George Gipp. Mom said she knew him in the mid-30s during the Great Depression. “I was slinging hash at a coffee shop across the street from the radio station. Dutch came in every morning for breakfast,” she explained. “I usually took his order.” When there was a slow time, Reagan would talk to Mom about what her aspirations were. At that time, she was in her mid-20s and was saving to go to cosmetology school. But with money being so tight, she had almost given up. As her story went, Dutch would

keep encouraging her to follow through with that dream. She did, and after graduation, she was hired by a small beauty shop in Seymour. Had she not followed Reagan’s advice and not taken that job in Seymour, she would never have met my father. Now leap ahead to 1974. California Gov. Reagan was making a political speech in Phoenix where I was a newspaper editor. As luck would have it, his wife came and sat down beside me. With tonguecheek, I passed my business card to Nancy Reagan and

asked her if Dutch would remember Mom? “Oh yes,” she assured. “He never forgets people he meets.” Two weeks later I got a letter from the California Governor’s office. “I remember your mother very well,” he wrote. “Tell her I’m going back to Des Moines this weekend to celebrate WHO’s 50th anniversary. Give her my best regards.” When I showed Mom the letter, her only remark was: “… told you so.” Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

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‘70s Flashback —

‘Love Story’ ruined Erich Segal “Be careful what you wish for, lest it come true.” — Aesop’s Fables In 1958, Erich Segal graduated from Harvard University as both the class poet and a Latin salutatorian. He earned a doctorate in comparative literature from Harvard and began lecturing at Yale as a classics professor. He wrote scholarly works on Plato and Plautus, and lecture halls were always packed for his talks. One of his students, future Doonesbury creator Garry Trudeau, once pronounced Segal’s presentations “electrifying.” But Erich also nurtured an obvious desire to be considered a hip guy as well as an erudite scholar. Through some contacts on Broadway, he became a co-writer of the animated Beatles feature “Yellow Submarine.” (And what could be hipper than being involved

with the Fab Four?) Thus, Segal was able to enjoy being both a respected university professor and a pop-culture icon. “Sometimes I amaze even myself,” he boasted to film critic Roger Ebert. “I blow the minds of these freshmen who come to take a Greek tragedy class, and the professor is the same guy who wrote “Yellow Submarine”! Segal then turned to writing screenplays on the side and came up with “Love Story,” which was released as a best-selling 131-page novella on Valentine’s Day 1970 before it became a box-office smash film at Christmastime. The primary “Love Story” characters— two star-crossed lovers — were wealthy prelaw Harvard student Oliver (Ryan O’Neal) and Jenny (Ali McGraw), a baker’s daughter who studies music at Radcliffe and calls herself “a social

zero.” Eventually they fall in love and marry, only to have Jenny fall ill with leukemia. There’s a key line in the story that is now iconic in our culture: “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.” Ali McGraw later admitted she didn’t know what that line meant at the time but now has her own definition: “Saying sorry isn’t what it’s about. It’s about really feeling badly for the hurt … and then absolutely trying never to do it again.” For a while, Erich Segal was riding high. “I lucked out, that’s what happened,” he explained to Ebert. “My book came out just as the world was turning from cynicism to romance.” But Segal eventually acknowledged his incredible, head-spinning success unleashed “egotism bordering on megalomania,” and for that he would pay a hefty price. Also,

ERICH SEGAL despite the overwhelming popularity of Segal’s creation, critics often dismissed “Love Story” as a sentimental tearjerker —shallow, melodramatic and ultimately disposable. He later claimed the book — a phenomenon among the hoi polloi— “totally ruined me.” In 1972, he was denied tenure at Yale, meaning he would not be guaranteed a full-time professorship until retirement. Segal was

devastated at the rejection, although Yale never cited his mainstream popularity as the reason they denied him becoming a permanent campus fixture. Perhaps Garry Trudeau explained it best: “You can’t dress up in tight leather pants to chat with starlets on ‘Johnny Carson’ Friday night and expect to be taken seriously in a classroom Monday morning.”

Road to retirement can be rocky By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features Some people plan their retirement, some retire in stages, while others just quit work and hope. Whether you fit any of these categories or a special one of your own, there are a few things you should think about if you already haven’t. You should know the dates and deadlines for optional and required minimum retirement-plan withdrawals to avoid unnecessary additional taxes. The applicable age for when you must begin taking RMDs from traditional and Roth 401(k) accounts or traditional

IRAs has changed so you should talk this over with your tax advisor. You may be subject to additional taxes if RMD deadlines are missed. Don’t have a tax consultant? Get one. If you haven’t retired yet, familiarize yourself with how Social Security income rises or falls depending on the age at which you decide to begin receiving benefits. And get to know Medicare’s various programs and deadlines. There is a simple exercise you can do to determine how much you need to save before leaving the work force. Add up your monthly expenses and multiply that by 12 to get your annual total. Then multiply

that by 25 to get the sum you’ll need for a financially comfortable retirement. Retirement regulations, rules and deadlines that affect your income after you quit working begin to apply at age 50. At this stage, you can play catch up with some individual and employer-sponsored retirement plans. It’s also a good time to start working with a financial advisor to go over your needs, goals and tax ramifications. At 59, withdrawals from your individual retirement account or employer-sponsored retirement plan are no longer subject to 10% early withdrawal tax, though you still may owe regular income tax

on the distributions. Age 62 is the minimum age at which you can choose to begin receiving Social Security retirement benefits. But for each year you postpone taking this benefit up till age 70, your monthly check will be larger. If you retire at 62, you might need to buy a private health insurance policy to tide you over until you’re eligible for Medicare at age 65. Medicare covers much of the cost of physician and hospital care and other health services but it comes in categories A, B, C and D. The rules for signing up and receiving benefits through each one can be complex. The Medicare.gov site offers basic information about

the program. Your retirement age for full Social Security benefits depends on the year you were born. If you were born between 1943 and 1954, your full retirement age is 66. If you were born between 1955 and 1959, your full retirement age is 66 plus two months for each year after 1954. If you were born in 1960 or later, your retirement age is 67. If you wait until you’re 70 before claiming Social Security benefits, you’ll get the biggest possible monthly check, which could be almost 80% more than if you began collecting your benefits at age 62. Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

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18 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ January 2024

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Travel

Crawfordsville Rotary Jail never had an escape Crawfordsville has a rotary jail. No, it’s not a place for delinquent Rotary Club members. It actually housed GREAT prisoners ESCAPES from 1882 to 1973 and Text and Photos By ROD KING has the distinction of never allowing an escape. It’s unique to say the least. It was the first of only 18 constructed by Haugh Ketchum Company of Indianapolis and is the only one still operable. The jail, which was basically a kit, was hauled in and assembled on site. It is a two-story, 32-ton steel structure built within the Montgomery County Sheriff’s office with eight pie-shaped cells on each level around a single shaft that can be turned by a hand crank. When turning, the cells rotate to a single opening where a prisoner can enter or leave.

Prisoners were marched right through the main house where the sheriff and his family lived and into the rotating jail. The sheriff’s wife was in charge of providing meals for the prisoners. Most of the prisoners were there for being drunk and disorderly; the average stay was generally just a day or two. The longest was a year. With the county hurting for funds in the early 1800s, it was determined that this particular design could not only hold prisoners securely, but save money. The savings came from only having to employ one jailer to watch the entire cell block. In the early 1930s, investigators for the Indiana State Board of Charities noted the natural light and ventilation were poor and the cells were unsanitary. In addition, the jail had a habit of trapping prisoner’s limbs when turning, causing numerous broken arms because the jailer operating the crank could not see all the cells. Some modifications were made to satisfy the changing codes over the next few decades. The structure was finally

MEAL TIME — The sheriff’s wife not only fed her family, but the prisoners as well. She’s shown here sliding food into the cell block.

ROTARY JAIL — Prisoners were brought into the rotary jail through the main entrance to the Montgomery County Sherriff’s Office and home. The jail, which was basically a kit that was assembled on site, required only one officer to supervise the cell block and therefore saved the county money. condemned and ordered closed in 1967, with final closure happening in 1973. The rotary jail served Montgomery County for 91 years. The jail and sheriff’s office/ living quarters were converted into a museum in 1975 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places the same year. Two executions were carried out behind the jail in 1885 and 1886, respectively. Both men were convicted of murder and were hanged. For information about hours of operation and admission fees, check out the website at rotaryjailmuseum.org or call (765) 362-5222. U.S. 231 runs right into Crawfordsville and turns into Washington Street. The destination, the Rotary Jail Museum, is located on the west side of the street at 125 N. Washington St.

OPENED IN 1882 — Haugh Ketchum Company of Indianapolis began construction of the rotary jail in the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office in 1881, and it was open for business the following year. It was closed in 1973, converted to a museum in 1975, and placed on the National Register of Historic Places at the same time.

Memory Care

DOUBLE DECKER — The 32-ton, steel rotary jail has eight, pieshaped cells on two levels. An officer could turn the cell block to the single door opening to bring in or remove a prisoner. No one ever escaped in its 91 years of operation.

January 2024 ■ SENIOR LIFE ■ 19

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The Lincoln Highway —

Historic road runs across northern Indiana By JEFF BLAIR President Indiana Lincoln Highway Association In northern Indiana we have a lot of roads named Lincolnway or Lincoln Way. Ever wonder why? Basically, it dates back to the early 20th century when the first “coast-to-coast rock highway” was named — The Lincoln Highway. This highway actually had its foundation 20+ years earlier, arising from bicycle clubs around the country demanding better roads. Hoosier Carl Fisher was the idea man who got the concept growing. He brought a dozen of his fellow auto industrialists to Indianapolis in 1912, and together they determined to raise a million dollars and pave a highway from Times Square in New York City all the way to

Lincoln Park in San Francisco. Thus was formed an organization called the Lincoln Highway Association. The first LHA President was Packard Motor Company President Henry Joy, and Carl Fisher served as vice president. They named the highway the Lincoln Highway in honor of our 16th President and set about to actually name the route, since this was 10-15 years before the federal government’s involvement in road improvement and numbering routes. On Halloween in 1913, the great Lincoln Highway was formally dedicated by parades, bonfires, fireworks and huge celebrations in virtually every town the route passed through. If you know your geography or want to follow along on a U.S. map, allow me to outline that original route for you.

HISTORIC ROUTE — The Lincoln Highway that traverses northern Indiana can trace its roots back to 1912, when the original Lincoln Highway Association was founded. Photo provided by the Indiana Lincoln Highway Foundation. Starting in Times Square in New York City, a driver was ferried across the Hudson River to New Jersey, then headed southwest a little to Trenton, New Jersey, and across Pennsylvania through Pittsburgh, across the panhandle of West Virginia into Ohio near Canton and across the northern part of the state, entering Indiana east of New Haven. From New Haven the Lincoln Highway route followed old, established indigenous Potawatomi and Miami Indian trails from Fort Wayne to South Bend, and the old Sauk Trail southwest to Valparaiso and on into Illinois. It crossed through northern Illinois south of Chicago and on to Ames, Iowa, and Omaha, Nebraska, as it continued west on into Wyoming. Then across the Rockies to Salt Lake City, Utah, on into Nevada, west to Reno, then across the Sierra Nevada range to Sacramento, Calif., and ultimately San Francisco. Over 3,200 miles, through parts of 13 states and over 700 towns. Only about 15% of the route was then paved! Over the next 15 years, as roads began to get paved and automobile travel became more and more prevalent everywhere, it is easy to point to the foresight of the leadership at the Lincoln Highway Association and the impact they have had on travel, tourism, the auto and RV industries and much more. Other named routes like the Dixie Highway, the Yellowstone Trail, the National Road, the Jefferson Highway and more sprang up and ultimately led the federal government to get involved in paving and numbering our highways. Yet many of our towns still have the Lincolnway designation here in Indiana. In the next installment of this series, hear more about the Lincoln Highway through Indiana and some of the interesting vistas and venues that one can see along the route. Plus, learn about the second alignment of the route in Indiana!