Senior Life - St. Joseph Edition - February 2023

bruary

02

February 2023

Twice a week, a group of seniors meets to continue a decades-long tradition: playing euchre at Zion Community Church, across the street from Howard Park.

The location for this gathering is relatively new. The senior center that had stood within Howard Park proper was torn down when improvements were made to the park in 2019. That senior center had been built with donated funds and was the gathering place for years, Donna Hamm said.

Howard Park was dedicat-

ed by the city of South Bend in August 1899. Over the years, improvements were made to the park, including a fountain donated by John M. Studebaker in 1906. An ice skating rink, warming house, concessions, restroom facilities and a service center were added in 1958, and that amenity is part of the recent redesign.

In 2018, the city began the project to redesign Howard Park. Instead of an ice rink, there is an ice trail, a pond, a community center building, up-to-date playground structure and a green space. There are still senior activities offered in the community center, but the euchre group

now has its own gathering place.

The new space with the church’s community rooms serves the small group well. The city pays $100 in rent to grant seniors the use of the rooms. There is also a group that meets to play mahjong and another that meets Monday mornings for exercise.

The number of seniors who come out to play euchre varies. There have been 47 players, but some days there are only five. A few of these players have been playing the game since 1956 and two of the usual players knew each other from the old senior center at Howard Park.

Smaller groups occupy one

of the smaller rooms, but there is room for many more tables or players in the spacious hall. Play can last for several hours. On occasion, the group meeting at Zion Community Church starts at noon and finishes at 4 p.m.

Euchre is a card game using the same cards as found in a pinochle deck. It is a partner game, in which partners strive to score 10 points. Those points are determined by who wins the hand. It is considered a game of strategy. It is a fast-paced game, said player Rose Trebor.

In addition to playing cards, there is also much conversation. There is a bond the euchre players have and that

is why this weekly activity is so meaningful.

Having a place to play the game is important for seniors, Hamm said. “You need some place to go to meet your friends and have something to do.”

The Howard Park seniors group can also take part in an exercise class from 11 a.m. to noon Monday, and mahjong from noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Euchre is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. All are invited.

Zion Community Church is located at 211 S. St. Peter St., South Bend. For more information, visit zionsb.org.

Key Positions

South Bend Council member enjoys interacting with residents

When Councilwoman Sheila Niezgodski answers calls from constituents in South Bend’s sixth district, the requests are seldom for big stuff. Instead, most of the calls concern alleyways, trash pickup, potholes and traffic concerns in their neighborhood.

She was elected to office in 2020. The sixth district is a mix of business and residences. It is also the neighborhood in which Niezgodski has made her home for 24 years. She is a lifelong resident of the city, except for few years in Michigan City and when she was deployed with the U.S. Army during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. She is the third generation of her family to serve in the military.

Since retiring from her role at her husband David’s family-

owned plumbing business, Niezgodski has transitioned into the political scene.

She serves as chair of the committee of the whole and vice president of the common council. She also chairs the public works and property vacation committee and personnel and finance committee.

Other duties include being the president of the solid waste board and vice president of the South Bend Plan Advisory Commission.

“Council members are a bridge for residents to help direct them to the right resources,” Niezgodski said, especially in helping them navigate the often complicated zoning or permitting process.

Niezgodski said she was approached by several people and asked to seek office. It was certainly not her life plan to move into local politics.

“It’s really about helping

people,” she said. “What can I do to make the quality of life better for residents?”

Time management is an essential skill for anyone who is considering a role on the city council, Niezgodski said. Demands for her time are numerous, between her obligations on the common council, her committee appointments and her interactions with the residents in her district.

Another skill needed is the ability to have a conversation and communicate to work through issues. “Not everyone will agree with you,” she said.

Niezgodski said if someone wants to put in the time to seek and hold office, these opportunities should be available to anyone who wants to serve in that capacity. Age does not matter, as long as the person is older than 18.

“Young people want to move the community forward,” she

Experience Life at St. Paul’s!

said. “Older people have the knowledge base of the best way to move forward.”

One of the challenges an elected official faces is public scrutiny. Niezgodski said it is important to always be aware someone is watching and evaluating the decisions being made.

District six is a workingclass neighborhood located on the southwest side of the city. Niezgodski sees improvements happening in her district and her neighborhood. She favors investment that touches all neighborhoods.

“That’s the key to improving the lives of everyone in the city,” she said.

Sugar maple tapping Feb. 18

Maple sugaring activities are scheduled to begin Saturday, Feb. 18, at Bendix Woods County Park in New Carlisle. Trees will be tapped for the upcoming sugaring season.

The public is invited to join park staff and volunteers to help drill holes in the trees and install the tubing system, which allows the trees’ sap to flow directly to the sugar house. Volunteers may also help clean sap storage tanks, split and stack firewood and clean the sugar house.

Tapping activities will begin at 10 a.m. at the Sauk Trail Shelter. The park will provide tapping bits, drills and other tools. Dress for the weather. The event is free, but advanced registration is required by calling (574) 654-3155.

The main entrance to Bendix Woods County Park is located on Timothy Road in New Carlisle, 8 miles west of the US 31 bypass from the SR 2 exit.

For more information, call (574) 654-3155.

St. Paul’s fits your needs for today and tomorrow.

Focus on the step in front of you – not the whole staircase

I would suggest you read “Reversing Diabetes” by Dr. Neal Barnard, who also wrote “The Cheese Trap,” and then talk to your doctor and ask why they didn’t tell you all this. There is a mountain of good information to be gained by deep diving into what causes this food-related disease and what you can do to take control.

going to eat for health.” At night ask yourself, “Did I eat for health today, and if I didn’t, what caused me to falter?” One day, after one day, after one step, after one step. To your health.

Air-Fryer

Portobello Burgers

Forksoverknives.com

I read on a lot of different subjects so it may be true to say I know a little about a lot, but I was floored to read the United States spends more money per capita on chronic lifestyle diseases than any other country in the world.

One of the biggest culprits is type 2 diabetes. According to the CDC, 37.3 million people in the U.S. have diabetes (11.3% of the population). With rare exceptions, this is a food-related disease caused by eating the Standard American Diet. Americans eat way too much fat, sugar and processed foods and this can result in diabetes.

If you have diabetes and you haven’t researched and know just about everything about diabetes,

For now, start writing down what you are eating each day and record the time you eat it. You may be eating better (or worse) than you thought. Are you seeing a lot of cheese, bread, meat, sugar and processed foods instead of whole foods? This may help you see what you are leaning on instead of a big salad, fruit, beans or any whole food. It is not about moderation of unhealthy food, but you already knew that.

You will find many groups and pages on different online platforms for support and meal suggestions, not anything you have to pay for, just a group of people who are trying their hardest to achieve better health. Search “plant based” on YouTube and you will have found your new best friend. You can’t hang at the Burger Barn and expect to find a lot of whole foods.

Wake up and say, “Today, I am

1/3 cup whole wheat panko bread crumbs

3 tablespoons nutritional yeast

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

1/3 cup non-dairy milk

4 portobello mushrooms, stems and gills removed Preheat air fryer to 390 degrees. In a shallow bowl stir together first five ingredients. Place non-dairy milk in a second shallow bowl.

Dip portobello mushrooms in plant milk and then panko mixture, lightly coating all sides. Place mushrooms gill-side down in a single layer in air fryer for 7 to 9 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and breading is crisp. 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@thepapers.com.

St. Patrick’s County Park to host night cross-country skiing

A night skiing event will be at St. Patrick’s County Park. Enjoy a leisurely ski under the full moon on luminaire-lit trails. At the Manion Cabin, warm up by the fire and enjoy a hot beverage and a homemade winter treat.

The program fee is $5 per per-

son. Bring skis or rent a pair for $10 per person. Rental includes skis, boots and poles.

Advance registration and payment are required; space is limited. Night skiing will be offered Friday, Feb. 10 (a sweetheart ski.)

For more information or to sign up, call (574) 654-3155 or visit sjcparks.org/592/StPatricks.

St. Patrick’s County Park is located at 50651 Laurel Road, north of Auten Road, South Bend.

History Museum presents talk on Civil War medicine

Archivist Travis Childs describes medical practices during the Civil War at The History Museum’s “Insights in History,” taking place at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1. Admission is $3. Reservations are required by Monday, Jan. 30.

“Insights in History” is sponsored by THK Law, LLP.

A tour of “Fighting Fear:

Give back to normal a shot!

Pandemics Past and Present” will be offered. The exhibit addresses the fears, prejudices and resilience of communities as they have faced mass illness.

The exhibit is supported by funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities and Indiana Humanities as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and is pre-

sented in partnership with The History Museum and Saint Mary’s College faculty and students.

“Insights in History” is a monthly series that features a lecture in conjunction with an exhibit at The History Museum. For information, call The History Museum at (574) 235-9664 or visit historymuseumsb.org.

Downsizing Made Easy

Cindy Streich enjoys volunteering her time

Helen Quick, Realtor®, SRES®, CSHP® Cell: 574-220-7450

If you look up the word volunteer in the dictionary, a photo of Cindy Streich would be included with the entry. This retired schoolteacher devotes time and energy to a number of beloved causes.

“I do as much as I can for people,” Streich said. “My mother taught me to put other people first.”

Streich has taken that lesson to heart. Her volunteerism ranges from helping the young to the elderly, from religious organizations to worthwhile causes in the non-religious and civil service sector. The list of causes she has supported and organizations she has served is lengthy.

She has rocked babies in St. Joseph Hospital’s maternity wing for 18 years. That was suspended when COVID happened, but Streich is anxious to return. She also assists senior citizens at Milton Adult Day Services, assisting clients with arts and crafts.

“The highlight of my life was when I served as a guardian for a Vietnam veteran on an honor flight to Washington, D.C.,” Streich said.

Streich, 70, is a native of South Bend and a graduate of IUSB. She never married and does not have any children. Her mother was also a teacher and as a youngster, Streich would often go to school with her. That led to a 37-year career with South Bend Schools.

“I knew I wanted to be a teacher,” she said.

community causes earned her the Age of Excellence Award from REAL Services and Golden Hoosier Award from the state of Indiana. Since retiring, Streich estimates she has amassed more than 20,000 volunteer hours.

learned how to properly care for Ella and has developed a close bond with the child. Every month she has a birthday party for Ella. The party totals 137 people.

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Though awards and recognition are not what Streich seeks by volunteering, in 2017 she was awarded the Indiana Retired Teachers Association Clock Award. In 2020, her devotion to

“I wish I had more hours to volunteer,” she said.

But one person near and dear to Streich’s heart is Ella Hunt. She saw a profile of the South Bend child, who was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type 1, a debilitating condition for which doctors had given her only months to live when she was a baby. Hunt beat that prognosis. Streich said she learned about Ella from a news story.

Since meeting her, Streich has

“I feel like I am part of the family,” she said. “I love her dearly.”

Streich is easy to find when she is out doing good. Her trademark is her purple hair.

She considers volunteering to be an extension of who she is as a person. Streich hopes others will take up the volunteering call.

“It’s not the quantity of volunteering you do that’s important,” she said. “Every hour you help anybody is beneficial. Just get out there and start helping someone out.”

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It’s time to repair your ailing air conditioning unit or your fridge is on the fritz and you need your manual to help rectify the problem. Do you know where it is?

Besides being a link to the world of information and research, the internet also allows you to check with the manufacturer’s website to seek out a manual for the proper model of your particular product.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2022

It was 50 years ago —

‘Dueling Banjos’ was a powerhouse instrumental duo

Eric Weissberg and Steve Mandell

In the early months of 1973, Top 10 recording artists included such hipsters as Carly Simon, Elton John, War, Steely Dan and Roberta Flack.

In their midst, though, appeared the unlikely duo of Eric Weissberg and Steve Mandell, a powerhouse instrumental duo behind the million-seller “Dueling Banjos,” which for four straight weeks locked in the No. 2 position on the Billboard singles chart.

Weissberg and Mandell supported themselves as session musicians, working with such leading lights as Bob Dylan, Judy Collins and John Denver — until a request arrived one day for the pair to record a track for the upcom-

ing Burt Reynolds movie “Deliverance,” a horrific tale of four Atlanta businessmen who canoe down an isolated Georgia river (that’s about to become dammed and made into a lake), with dangerous, churning rapids and mayhem and murder awaiting downstream.

Five minutes into the film, at a dilapidated backwoods gas station, we experience a spontaneous jam session between city slicker Drew (former stage actor Ronny Cox) and a provincial lad — apparently mute — named Lonnie (local high-schooler Billy Redden).

“Dueling Banjos” unfolds between the pair as a musical conversation. Lonnie, initially reticent, slowly picks up the tune, tosses in a bit of “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” then, much to Drew’s delight, shifts into high gear. The musical pace builds to a high-octane finish as a grinning local man dances an ad libbed jig.

Cox was a good guitarist but Redden couldn’t play a note. During the filming, Billy had to wear a customized shirt that allowed a local musician named Mike Addis to play the banjo while hiding his own arms in

Redden’s sleeves.

Weissberg and Mandell didn’t write “Dueling Banjos.” That honor went to ace instrumentalist Arthur Smith in 1954 when he composed “Feudin’ Banjos,” which he recorded later with fellow banjoist Don Reno. Smith’s original work — a forerunner of the rapid-fire rock ‘n’ roll instrumental — was appropriately named because the track seemed to be just that: an argument of sorts between two banjos. The 1973 hit single, though, featured not two banjos but a banjo and a guitar.

“Dueling Banjos” on Warner Records rose next to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and reached No. 5 on the country charts. Its placement in the latter might have been the impetus that helped Weissberg and Mandell garner a Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Performance the following year.

But not everybody appreciated the success of “Dueling Banjos.” Arthur Smith had not given permission for the usage of his creation nor did he receive the credit for writing the hit. Eric Weissberg was listed as the sole creator.

Brentwood at La Porte — keeping the dream alive

At Brentwood at LaPorte, we proudly offer independent and assisted living options, respite care and our signature, person-centered Generations Memory Care. We also provide the award-winning and industry-leading Vibrant Life and Elevate dining programs.

It is never too late to set new goals, envision new dreams or create new hobbies at Brentwood at LaPorte. We know you or someone you love may be asking, “What do I want my senior years to look like?” Our community takes pride in helping each resident navigate this question.

Here are a few ways we ensure our residents never stop dreaming big and enjoying their lives:

Livin’ The Dream

Our residents have the opportunity to participate in our “Livin’ the Dream” program, where they can realize a longtime dream. This can look like riding in a hot air balloon, driving an old sports car or even skydiving. The options abound, and we want our residents to live their best lives.

Vibrant Life

Our Vibrant Life program is thoughtfully designed to help each resident reach their goals and live wholesome, healthy lives. Our goal is to optimize health and well-being

by offering an array of optional activities for residents to participate in. From arts and crafts to local volunteering and exercise opportunities, Vibrant Life keeps residents active, engaged and as busy as they’d like.

Top-Of-The-Line Amenities

Lastly, our community offers premier amenities, providing space for residents to create healthy habits and enjoy

their hobbies from the comfort of their home. The community has space for residents to gather and form friendships, such as outdoor walking paths, lounges and a fireplace. Whether it’s fulfilling a lifelong dream or simply cultivating healthy daily habits, Brentwood at LaPorte would be glad to have you join our family. Call (219) 325-1599 today for a tour.

Smith filed a lawsuit, which was settled two years later in his favor when he received the abundant royalties that were due him. Just how abundant? The first thing Arthur purchased was a 42foot yacht.

Smith’s creation was parodied when comedian Martin Mull released his own instrumental argument called “Dueling Tubas.” The silly single sold enough copies to send it soaring to No. 92 on the Hot 100 chart.

Brentwood at LaPorte proudly offers the award-winning and industryleading Vibrant Life® and Elevate® dining programs. We offer independent and assisted living options, respite care, and our signature, person-centered Generations Memory Care. Bring your furry friend along to one of the few petfriendly senior communities in the area.

Forever Learning Institute to host trivia night Feb. 24

It might be cold outside but as the days inch longer, Michiana adult learners are getting ready to return to Forever Learning Institute for its famous trivia night fundraiser, as well as another 10-week semester of lifelong learning at its finest.

“Our annual trivia night has been very successful, and we are excited to continue this tradition,” said Eve Finnessy, Forever Learning Institute’s executive director.

“A trivia contest fits so well with our mission of lifelong learning, and we have several teams that return each year to vie for the top spot. It’s great competition and a lot of fun.”

The event is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 24, at Little

Flower Catholic Church, South Bend. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the contest begins at 6:30 p.m.

The Forever Learning Institute Inc., is a nonprofit organization. Its mission is to improve the quality and dignity of senior adult life through continuing intellectual challenge, spiritual reflection, and social interaction. Classes are available to all seniors 50 years of age and older regardless of race, color, religion, or ethnic origin.

Advanced registration for trivia night is required. Teams may register at foreverlearninginstitute.org. Registration is $100 a team, with a maximum of eight members per team.

Blue Collar Antiques —

The event will include 10 rounds of 10 general trivia questions. A cash bar will be made available for beer, wine and soft drink purchases. Teams may bring their own snacks. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams and several door prizes will be given away.

Forever Learning’s 10-week spring semester will begin Monday, March 6. Registration for all classes is available online beginning Monday, Feb. 13. Interested students should go to the Forever Learning Institute’s online catalog at fli.coursestorm.com. Students may also register for classes by mail, using the registration form online or in the course guide.

you throw it away, check to see if it’s valuable

they have gone up a lot in value. Now may be the time to sell.

sidered worthless are actually very valuable.

My company, Blue Collar Antiques, buys and sells a variety of antiques and collectibles. We also purchase entire estates.

Holiday decorations have been selling very well lately. Old Christmas decorations are very popular. Also, I am always looking for military items, old toys, advertising items, coins and jewelry. Check your attics and basements for anything weird or unusual. Old photographs and postcards have been selling very well for the last couple of months. Old comic books and baseball cards are still going strong. Over the past couple of years

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 almost 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 con-

I would recommend to anyone that before items are discarded or given away, please give me or someone with experience in antiques the opportunity 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 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.

Schemers and scammers always in season

A Social Security scam linked to tax time can reach you any time of year via email, telephone or the postal service.

The thieves offer refunds of Social Security taxes you’ve paid over the years, an attractive lure during the economic slough in which everyone has been wallowing.

This is not — repeat, not — even remotely connected to the Social Security Administration.

The schemers usually offer to file a refund claim with the Internal Revenue Service in return for a percentage of the refund and an up-front fee of $100 or so for doing the paperwork.

The only sure thing that will happen is you will lose whatever money you send to these crooks.

Before

Editor’s note: Send listings of events, for nonprofit organizations only, to Senior Life, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542, or email Editor Phoebe Muthart by Feb. 15 at pmuthart@the-papers.com. With the listing, include the contact person, area code and phone number.

RiverBend Cancer Services, 3516 E. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend, offers the following events this month: general cancer support group, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1; Beginning yarn work, 10 a.m. every Thursday; Debbie’s Wig Salon, 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2; Mindful Movement, 9:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 3, 10; liver cancer webinar, 1:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6; Gyna Girls, 4:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6; endometrial cancer webinar, 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7; Empowered Movement, 5:30 p.m. every Tuesday; DIY card-making, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8; cookie decorating, 2 p.m. Mon-

How much do you REALLY love your family?

According to a 2021 survey conducted by caring.com, only 33% of adults in the United States have estate planning documents such as a will or trust.

day, Feb. 13; bites and bits, noon, Tuesday, Feb. 14; Valentine’s luncheon, 12:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17; Kim’s Bra Boutique, 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22; game night, 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23; Book Club 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27; chair yoga, 10:30 and 11:45 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday; seated strength, 10 a.m. every Wednesday; and gentle yoga, 5:30 p.m. every Monday.

—o—

The Kroc Center’s Healthy Aging program begins Monday, March 6. The program includes fall prevention education, appropriate group workout sessions, gym orientations, fitness assessments, dietary education and small group personal training sessions.

The program is grant funded and completely free to participants. Participants do not need to be a member of the Kroc Center.

To register, visit mykroc.org or call (574) 233-9471.

Many respondents attributed their lack of estate planning to procrastination, but many others indicated a mistaken belief that estate planning is not necessary because they do not have many assets.

Why Should You Have An Estate Plan?

An estate plan can provide significant peace of mind by ensuring that your money and property are protected, and plans are in place for the day when you become ill or die, and your accounts and property pass down according to your wishes. Did you know the biggest fights in families aren’t about money, stocks or real estate? They are about the little things that hold memories. Your family can be torn apart over something as seemingly minor as “Who gets Grandma’s car or Grandpa’s tools!”

What Key Elements Of An Estate Plan Should You Consider?

• Do you have a last will and testament or a trust? If you do not have these important documents, state law will determine

who will inherit your property — and it may not occur in the way you would have chosen.

In addition, someone appointed by the court instead of a trusted person of your choosing will be in charge of caring for any children or pets and winding up your affairs. Spelling out your wishes in a will or trust will also prevent unnecessary confusion, anxiety and expense for your loved ones when you are gone.

• Are the proper powers of

attorney in place? A financial power of attorney designates an individual to make financial and property decisions (e.g., opening a bank account, signing a deed, getting your mail) should you become unable to handle your own affairs. An advance directive designates a person you trust to make medical decisions for you when you are otherwise unable to speak for yourself.

• Ensure that you have a living will, which memorializes your wishes concerning your end-of-life care, such as whether you want to receive life support if you are in a vegetative state or have a terminal condition.

• You should also have HIPAA authorizations in place with medical professionals to ensure that your loved ones can obtain needed information.

• Pass along your personal belongings according to your wishes with memorandums for distribution of personal property.

Learn more about the benefits and protections of an estate plan by attending our estate planning/Medicaid planning seminar at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, 902 E. University Drive, Granger, at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27. and Monday, March 6. Reservations required; seating is limited. Call (800) 303-7423 or visit riceandrice.com.

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Professional Services

Q. Is a Revocable Trust right for you?

A. You’ve probably seen the advertisements touting the creation of a revocable trust as a good way to avoid probate. And for some people it is. However, having a revocable trust as part of your estate plan may not be appropriate for everyone.

Probate is a court-supervised proceeding which transfers the ownership of your assets after death. With a revocable trust, after your death your trustee, with-

out court supervision, follows the instructions in your trust for how your assets should be handled. One of the reasons a trust can be a practical strategy is if you own out-of-state property. Adding the property to a trust allows you to avoid the second probate that’s ordinarily needed to transfer outof-state property.

Having a revocable trust as part of your estate plan may or may not be the best decision for you. Only your specific financial and family circumstances can determine the answer. Please contact TCU Trust Services to discuss your individual situation. We are here to help.

New program explores winter’s lively nature

“Overhead and Underfoot: Winter’s Secrets” is an exciting new learn-and-explore series offered by the St. Joseph County Parks.

From 8:30-10 a.m. the first Saturdays of February and March,

meet a naturalist at a county park for an indoor introduction to the surprising amount of migrating, courting and rebirth that occurs in the wild during cold, snowy months. Then head

out for a naturalist-led hike to look and listen for nature in action.

The Feb. 4 program will meet at St. Patrick’s County Park, 50651 Laurel Road, South Bend.

The March 4 program will take place at Bendix Woods County Park, 56960 Timothy Road, New Carlisle, where exploration will include late-winter migrating birds and maple-

sugaring activities. The program fee is $15 per person for the series. Advance registration and payment are required. For more information, call (574) 654-3155.

LPHS orchestra and wind ensembles to perform Feb. 11

The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra will present the second subscription concert of its 50th anniversary season at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, at the La Porte High School Performing Arts Center.

LCSO Music Director Dr. Carolyn Watson has invited the La Porte High School Orchestra, under the direction of Elizabeth

Cravens, and the LPHS wind ensemble, under the direction of Joseph Clark, to join the orchestra for the second half of the performance. In addition, LCSO’s concert master, Tamara Stojanovic, will serve as soloist for the evening.

The concert program will include Rossini’s “Overture to The

Barber of Seville,” first performed during the LCSO’s premiere season, and Nielsen’s “Seven Dances” from Aladdin.

LPHS Orchestra and wind ensemble joins the LCSO for the second half. The program consists of Berlioz’s “Hungarian March”; Ruo’s “Folk Songs for Orchestra” by Tamara Stojanovic, violin

soloist; and Sibelius’ “Finlandia,” first performed during the LCSO’s premiere season.

This will be the LCSO’s first performance on the stage of LPHS Performing Arts Center.

The concert’s sponsors are Timothy and Anne Walsh, American Licorice Company, and Unity Foundation of La Porte County.

There will also be an instrument petting zoo from 6-6:45 p.m. in the performance lobby, sponsored by Quinlan and Fabish.

Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 for seniors (60 and over); students with a valid ID are admitted free. Tickets are available at lcso. net or Roxy Music in La Porte. Call (219) 362-9020.

Sports Witkowski finds friendship in Michiana Senior Softball League

Mark Witkowski is very passionate about softball. He has been playing in softball leagues for nearly 50 years. He retired about six years ago, settling in South Bend with his wife Debbie.

“My wife Debbie and I didn’t have any children. We’re getting ready to celebrate our 45th anniversary this year. Debbie went to nearly every softball game for 40 years. She was a scorekeeper for the team when we were in North Carolina. She has been very supportive,” said Witkowski.

“I’m originally from Tennessee. I went to Notre Dame. I moved to Illinois and then to Florida.

“When I was 45, I got connected to this over 45 tournament in Florida. I realized I was pretty mediocre. There were guys knocking it out of the park, hitting the light posts at 350 feet. We moved to Huntington Beach and San Diego. I played six days a week in San Diego. The leagues were year-around out there and were very well organized.

“In San Diego, we had a tournament team and the guys named the team M.O.F.A.S.B’ers — Mark’s only friends are softballers. It was a pretty high-level team. We competed in the Bob Barlow Memorial Tournament with teams from all over Southern California. Nate Colbert, who used to play for the San Diego Padres and Gene Tenace who played for the Athletics, played on a team in one of the leagues. There were quite a few retired baseball players living in San Diego.

“We moved to North Carolina. I got involved in city league softball. I tried to build a softball complex in Greensboro, but it didn’t work out. We then moved to Iowa and I played in some leagues. I was transferred to Chicago and was back and forth to Moline. I got involved in a senior league again,” he said.

“After retiring and moving to South Bend, I found the Michiana Senior Softball League online and contacted them. I was surprised by how many people played and how the league was so well organized. There are around 140-150 players in the league. They’re all seniors. It’s pretty amazing. These guys are very dedicated to the league.

“The recent home run champion in the Michiana Senior Softball League was 72 years old. There are some really good players.

“Every place I’ve moved, I have met friends though playing softball. I’ve made many relationships all over the country that have lasted many years. The guys don’t take it too seriously. The guys are out there having fun and getting exercise. Guys still like to win, but it’s not quite as important as it was 30-40 years ago.

“This spring will be my fifth

season in the Michiana Senior Softball League. My first year in the league Kenny Bradford and I played outfield together. Kenny is now the commissioner of the junior division. Softball has given me a life full of great relationships.

“We want more guys to participate and give them an outlet that they’re maybe not even aware of,” said Witkowski.

The league’s founding was in April 1988, when Uniroyal retiree Dick Martens began looking around for people his age who would play softball with him.

The Michiana Senior Softball League has 12 teams playing Tuesday and Thursday evenings from May through August at the Byers Softball Complex on the southwest side of South Bend. The six junior division teams are for ages 52 and older, with senior teams generally for ages 62 and older. Fees are $60

per player. If a player participates in both leagues, the fee is $100. Starting times are 5 p.m. for senior games and 6:30 p.m. for the juniors.

New players at all skill levels are welcome. The league is flexible on age limits. The goal is to find a way so more people can play. Contact kenbradford@ comcast.net.

Spiritual journey has led Larry and Deb Dwyer to the Baha’i faith

Larry and Deborah Dwyer married in 1969 in the log chapel on the campus of the University of Notre Dame in a very traditional Catholic ceremony.

Both came from strong roots in Christian beliefs — he was a Catholic and Deborah was raised Methodist. Today, their spiritual journey has led them to the Baha’i faith.

According to Deborah, who was the first of the couple to move toward what she sees as enlightenment with the teachings of Baha’i, the basic tenet is there is one God and all the prophets from all religious sects come from God. One of her first exposures to the inclusivity that Baha’i offers was reading the teachings of Buddha. She became a Baha’i in 1971.

“As a Baha’i, we are not in control of other people,” Deborah said. “We are to have love and respect for all religions and all prophets of God.”

Larry was not so sure about this spirituality. He had been raised a devout Catholic all his life, attending parochial schools and attending the University of Notre Dame.

“I had never heard of it,”

Larry said. “I thought it was some kind of cult.”

The teachings encourage daily prayer, the reading of Scripture, and selfless acts of service to the community. It took time — three and a half years — before Larry was ready to embrace the teachings of Baha’i.

“There are hundreds of quotations from the Bible that relate to the Baha’i faith,” Larry explained. “It fills the promise in the New Testament of Christ’s return. When I read the Bible now, it’s on a whole new level.”

Once a skeptic, Larry explained Baha’i as “Catholic is the true religion of Jesus and Baha’i is the successor of that.”

Their faith calls upon its believers to not engage in violence and that the answer to conflict or social woes is through peace, fairness and understanding, Deborah explained. And there is no clergy.

“You deal with people with love, respect and understanding, regardless of what their lifestyle may be,” Larry added.

The Dwyers are active in the local Baha’i community. There are three components to the Baha’i meetings — spiritual, consultation and

fellowship. The South Bend community holds events for the community as part of their faith, such as Race Unity Day.

Service to the world is essential as a Baha’i, Deborah said.

“The focus is to be of service to the Baha’i faith and to the community,” she said, “to be of service to humanity.”

The Baha’i Center is open to everyone. So are the meetings on the Baha’i holy days, for study circles and for access to spiritual material encompassing many holy books.

In the scope of world religions, Baha’i is relatively new. The Baha’i Faith traces its origin to 1844.

The South Bend Baha’i Center is located at 1608 E. Mishawaka Ave., South Bend.

Cemetery consumer rights

The Cemetery Act regulates the platting and operation of all Indiana cemeteries, mausoleums or columbaria in the state. Exempt from regulation are a cemeteries owned by a church, religious organization or fraternal beneficiary society.

All Indiana cemeteries must maintain perpetual-care funds.

They must make certain there are initial and mandatory periodic deposits in the fund to assure the perpetual care of the cemetery property. The cemetery cannot touch perpetual care funds in any way once deposited. The funds are set aside in case the cemetery goes bankrupt and the county takes over its care.

All Indiana cemeteries must be platted, and such plats recorded,

before burial spaces can be sold. A sale of cemetery property to a consumer is the sale of a burial right only, meaning you don’t own the land where you will be buried or for which you hold the deed.

The sale or transfer of burial rights, or the right to succession in ownership on the death of a registered owner, are all subject to specific state requirements, most of which must include the consent of the cemetery.

An Indiana cemetery has the exclusive right to make and enforce its own rules and regulations concerning the use, care, control and management of the cemetery and all cemetery property. The cemetery may also control care of plants, shrubs and trees, and may regulate conduct within the cemetery and its property.

IIt’s easy! Simply find the groundhog on another page in this edition. Go online to www.SeniorLifeNewspapers. com and enter your information, the edition, date and page number you found it on. This will enter you for a chance to win a gift of $25.

A cemetery is solely responsible for the care and maintenance of cemetery property. It has the exclusive right to open and close a grave space, burial space, crypt or niche; set or install a marker, monument or any type of memorial; and install any kind of foundation or base for a marker as may be necessary.

Can you create your own cemetery? Yes; however, you are legally required to set aside at least 10 acres of land, deposit at least $100,000 into a perpetual care fund, and file it with the county.

If you have any questions, call St. Joseph Funeral Home and Cemetery at (574) 288-4685.

I Spy January winner is Mary Ehinger. The snowman was located on page 2 in Senior Elko, on page 12 in Senior St. Joseph, on page 6 in Senior Allen and on page 4 in Senior Northwest.

History Museum offers behind-the-scenes tour of Oliver Mansion

A specialty tour of the Oliver Mansion will take place at 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11. During these behind-the-scenes tours, conducted by Kristie Erickson, deputy executive director, visitors can learn about the project to upgrade the electricity in the 38-room Copshaholm.

Through visits to several of Copshaholm’s rooms and the mansion’s lower level, the electrical project will be chronicled, including how the museum updated wiring, receptacles and all other electrical components in the historic house.

The tour is limited and reservations are required. Tickets are $25/general and $20/ members and can be purchased online at historymuseumsb.org or by calling (574) 235-9664.

This program has been made possible through a Historic Preservation Education Grant from Indiana Landmarks, Indiana Humanities and National Endowment for the Humanities.

In 1897, J.D. and Anna Oliver and their four children moved into their new home at 808 W. Washington St., or Copshaholm as they would later name it. The historic house has 38 rooms, and all furnishings are original to the home. For information, call (574) 235-9664 or visit historymuseumsb.org.

Bend Symphony Orchestra welcomes Tango Caliente! Feb. 11

South

The South Bend Symphony Orchestra welcomes sizzling tango troupe Tango Caliente! Saturday, Feb. 11, at the Morris Performing Arts Center.

Join the South Bend Symphony Orchestra for a night of fiery tango classics with sizzling soprano Camille Zamora and dazzling bandoneón virtuoso Hector Del Curto. In addition, award-winning, internationallyacclaimed Argentinian dancers Eva Lucero and Patricio Touceda join in for an evening dedicated to the dance of romance.

The combination of fiery Tango classics, including “La Cumparsita,” “Oblivión,” “El Choclo,” “Por Una Cabeza” by composers such

as Ástor Piazzolla and Carlos Gardel, pairs the mesmerizing movements of dance with the power of the symphony. Prepare to fall in love with the seductive sound and artistry of dance at Tango Caliente!

Tango dance and music originated in Buenos Aires, Argentina, about 150 years ago and today is a global favorite of people of all ages. Its passionate, sensual nature and distinctive rhythm create this music by alternating long and short notes played on the bandoneón, a type of accordion.

Tickets can be purchased online at morriscenter.org or by calling (574) 235-9190. They

Strength training strengthens older bones

bone than was being lost.

can also be bought in person at the Morris, 211 N. Michigan St., South Bend, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday.

To view the 2023 season schedule, visit southbendsymphony. org.

Healthy seniors who can still exercise may also be able to lengthen the life of their bones with strengthening exercise, according to results of a six-month study conducted at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

The men and women aged 60 to 83 who participated in the resistance training showed signs of greater bone density in their hips as well as bone metabolism shifting toward generating more

Participants were divided into three groups, one that engaged in high-intensity resistance training, one that went through low-intensity training, and a control group that did not change lifestyle habits during the six-month study.

The high-intensity group showed the most significant bone-density gains. Leg presses, overhead presses and certain back exercises appeared to have the most impact on bone density.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

Shirt happens

Next month, Mary Ellen and I will take our first vacation out of the country since the start of COVID.

We’re very excited about this cruise.

I’m already shopping, hoping to update my wardrobe — a word I just realized I have never used for my clothing. Mary Ellen has a wardrobe; I have two drawers and a closet.

I had to buy a dress shirt for one of the special dinners

on the ship. I don’t like to wear a white shirt, preferring one with a bit of color, but Mary Ellen was adamant that I go traditional. I purchased an additional shirt for the more casual nights.

After a short stop at Kohl’s, I came home with the two shirts. I opened the package and tried the first one on. It fit perfectly. My wife was in the room watching me. She had a smirk on her face.

“You have a stain on your shirt already,” she said.

“That’s impossible. I just put it on,” I said.

“They must really know their customers at Kohl’s,” she said.

“What do you mean?” I asked her.

“They pre-stained it for

you,” she said to me.

Yes, right next to the third button were brown blotches, nothing I was familiar with, despite my extensive experience with the telltale signs left by every condiment I have ever slathered on a fast-food sandwich.

“I guess I can’t wear that to dinner,” I said, about to unpack my second option.

“Why not?” she asked. “It’s gonna look like that anyway, right after you finish your appetizer.”

I reached into the shopping bag and dug out the blue button down. I carefully removed all the pins from the folded shirt before I put it on. I thought it looked great and said to Mary Ellen, “As long as I’ve got it on, let’s go out for

a nice dinner.”

“You can’t wear that shirt, either,” said Mary Ellen.

“Why not?” I asked.

“It has a smudge under the second button,” she said.

Sure enough, once again I had purchased a brand new piece of apparel that had somehow anticipated its unavoidable destiny and went ahead and self-stained.

“Wait a second, Mary Ellen. I’ll wear a tie. That will cover it,” I said.

“Super idea. Too bad every tie in your closet has ketchup on it,” she said.

“Okay, I’ll button my sport coat. That will cover the mark on the tie,” I said.

Mary Ellen walked over to the closet and pulled out the one sport coat I still wear.

She looked at it carefully and shook her head.

“This is not going to work. It has mustard on the lapel. Do you own a raincoat?” she asked.

After we returned home from dinner, I washed both shirts and successfully removed the original soiled areas, but the shirts were destined on the trip to be become a kaleidoscope of tasty tidbits from our buffets.

Recently, we were going over final plans for the vacation. I asked Mary Ellen questions about the reputation of the cruise line we were using.

“Do you really think I will like the food, Mary Ellen?” I began.

“Oh, yes. For you, Dick, it will be spot on,” she said.

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M-P-H library offers programs for adults

Below is the Mishawaka-PennHarris Public Library February calendar of events for adults. All reservations for in-person or Zoom attendance may be secured at (574) 259-5277 or mphpl.org.

Community Events

“Chicory Cafe Book Club,” 1011 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4. MPHPL will be hosting a monthly book club at the Chicory Café, Mishawaka, at 114 W. First St. Adults are welcome to join the club and discuss the book of the month. The February book, “Portrait of a Thief” by Grace Li, can be picked up in advance at the front desk of the Mishawaka Library.

Bittersweet Branch Events

“Soup-er Bowl,” 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8. Participants will be able to sample a new soup recipe and prepare a take-andmake version to be used at a future date.

“Yak, Snack and Read Hybrid

Book Club,” 1-2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14. The February book, “A Train in Winter” by Caroline Moorehead, can be picked up in advance at the front desk.

“Customize It! Resin

Keychains,” 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 25.

“Make with Us: Recycled Card Crafts,” 10:30-11:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 27. Spend an hour in this engaging class creating crafts. Each participant will leave with a unique end product. Participants are encouraged to bring their own cards but some will also be provided.

Harris Branch Events

The Harris Branch will be undergoing construction this year. The first phase of renovations started last month. Currently, the Harris Branch is browse-andborrow only until further notice; no events are scheduled due to construction. Hours of operation

at the Harris Branch will remain the same. Additional updates will be provided online at mphpl.org.

Mishawaka Library Events

“Delectable Lit,” 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9. In this unique book and baking club, you get the chance to combine the two. February’s book, “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle,” by Barbara Kingsolver can be picked up a month in advance at the front desk.

“Cooking Classics: Homemade Fudge,” 4:30-5:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13.

“American Heritage Spotlight,” 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14. This month, speaker Greta Fisher will present “Stage Struck: A History of Mishawaka Theaters.” She is a local history author and county genealogist.

“Mug ‘n’ Muffin” monthly hybrid book club, 10:15-11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16. Enjoy coffee, conversation and muffins. This

month’s title is “My Brilliant Friend” by Elena Ferrante. Books can be picked up in advance at the front desk.

“National Library Lovers Night Out,” 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16. There will be crafts, cooking, games and book recommendations.

“Date Night with a Book: Black History Month,” 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, along with festive themed activities and light refreshments.

“Customize It: Resin Keychains,” 2-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25.

“The Scroll of Esther: The Heroine’s Firsthand Account and Its History,” 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28. Dan Ravitch, program and camp director of the Jewish Federation, will be discussing Purim.

Zoom Only Events

“Sips and Spines: True Crime,”

7-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. During the virtual meeting, participants share what they read as drink recipes related to that session’s theme are shared.

“Take a Trip to Dominican Republic on Zoom,” 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7.

“Virtual Craft Hour: Flower Painting with Cotton Swabs,” 10:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 17. Details on when and where to pick up program supplies will be sent via email to registrants.

“Indoor Seed Starting with Unity Gardens,” 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21. This virtual event will be hosted by Unity Gardens Director of Operations Mitch Yaciw.

“Snack Attack: Crackers,” 10:30-11:15 a.m. Friday, Feb. 24. Registration is required for all programs. The library is closed Monday, Feb. 20, for Presidents Day.

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Check your cruise requirements, then check again

Seasoned travelers are aware of the multi-leveled airline fees to take into account when making travel plans, but the fine print in cruise clauses can also be costly.

Stories abound of hefty cancellation fees, especially by first-timers who take the word of their travel agent or cruise customer service representative that there will be a full refund if the buyers have to cancel their voyage.

The fine print in many cases will clarify that there is a 75% cancellation fee so the refund is but 25% of the total cost.

As sailings are gaining in

popularity since the COVID-19 shutdown has passed, cruise lines have been raking in easy money from folks who don’t read their contracts carefully.

Wannabe cruisers also are making all kinds of mistakes, from not remembering to check their testing requirements to overlooking their passport expirations.

Representatives of the cruise lines may be able to assure people with health conditions or impairments that they can be accommodated comfortably aboard ship, but there’s no mention of the problems they might have boarding the airliner that will fly them to and from the vessel.

A major mistake many make

is ignoring international travel requirements. Entry requirements vary by country, and they’ve changed a lot since the pandemic, so passengers have to familiarize themselves with the entry requirements in the ports their ship will visit. Travel experts recommend you take your COVID-19 vaccine certificate with you. Don’t forget to get up to date

on the cruise line’s requirements. Even if you’ve sailed on its ships before, rules and regulations have changed.

If you have a voucher for future cruise credits, check the expiration date on the voucher. Most of these vouchers are valid for two years after the date they were issued.

What happens if you get sick on the voyage? While we refer

to “post-pandemic time,” the confining culture is still with us, so get sufficient travel insurance to cover you should you be quarantined in a foreign port for a couple of weeks before you get home.

After you’ve done all this, confirm and reconfirm your travel requirements before your cruise because requirements change.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2022

Dollar-cost averaging pays off

You’re probably tempted to opt out of those low-performing stocks whenever Wall Street slumps. You may even have given in and funneled your money into a morepromising portfolio. But if you didn’t and if you continued to make regular purchases — $100 a month or $500 a month or whatever — of shares of stock you’re probably sleeping better now. This process of investing the same amount in the market at regular intervals is

known as dollar-cost averaging. It and diversification are considered the two vital supports of a sturdy portfolio to survive the rises and falls, no matter how severe, of the stock prices.

By sticking to your plan of pouring a fixed amount of money in a regular basis, you won’t be traumatized by television’s talking heads reporting on market slumps and surges like it was the weather.

When the XYZ stock you began buying in the 1980s began climbing from the $1 purchase price to a high of

$3 you felt good. But when it slid to 30 cents a share as the market toppled, you most likely had a sinking feeling in your stomach. But look at what dollar cost averaging did for you.

At $1 a share, $100 bought you 100 shares. When it rose to $3, your regular $100 investment garnered about 33 shares. But when the price sank to 30 cents, your regular $100 input picked up more than 330 shares. And as the market struggled back up, so did the total value of your increased holdings.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

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Morningview Assisted Living Residences

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Spacious studio apartments at affordable rates. Services available based on your needs. Respite Care, Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapies, Medicaid Waiver accepted. Quality Care for Quality Life.

Sixties Flashback —

Monkee business held a two-year reign

In September 1965, both Variety and the Hollywood Reporter ran an attentiongrabbing advertisement:

“Madness! Auditions. Folk and Roll Musicians — Singers for acting roles in new TV series. Running parts for four insane boys, age 17 – 21.”

From the 437 hopeful applicants, coveted roles were assigned to Mike Nesmith, 22; Peter Tork, 23; Mickey Dolenz, 20; and Davy Jones, 19.

The Monkees were created to ride the slipstream of Beatlemania and were hired to mimic the Beatles’ zany antics in “A Hard Day’s Night,” their 1964 semi-documentary debut flick. “The Monkees”’ TV plotline involved a struggling rock quartet in search of their big break.

A well-received TV pilot was filmed in late 1965, and in early 1966 NBC-TV picked up “The Monkees” as a weekly prime time series. The four young men then embarked on a grueling schedule of improv classes, band rehearsals and filming. Early on, the Mon-

kee members were limited to vocal work, with only professional session musicians providing the instrumental music.

“The Monkees” half-hour show hit big when it debuted in September 1966. Tunesmiths Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart wrote the band’s first 45 (a No. 1 winner). “Last Train to Clarksville” featured a chord structure, jangly guitar lines and vocal harmonies lifted directly from the Beatles’ “Paperback Writer.”

The Boyce-Hart team would eventually create three more winning singles. Other professional songwriters (including Neil Diamond and Carole King) were rushed in to keep the hits flowing. The Monkees’ eponymous debut album also skyrocketed to the top of the Billboard charts.

The Pre-Fab Four (as sneering cynics often labeled them) were off and running. By that December, growing pressure led the Monkees to begin touring, with each member hurrying to master his instrument well enough to perform onstage. No problem, as it turned out, since, akin to the Beatles’ shows, much of the music played was lost to the eardrumpiercing screams that tsuna-

mied in nightly from the vast teenybopper audiences.

Making music was better than faking music, and the Monkee men worked hard to improve. In January 1967, a mere four months after “Clarksville” introduced them to the world, the Monkees held their first recording session as a fully functioning, self-contained band.

“The Monkees” TV show, though, was another issue entirely. By the end of the

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System - Holy Cross

17475 Dugdale Drive, South Bend, IN 46635

(574) 247-7500 • www.sjmed.com

second season, the quartet had tired of the filming grind and pronounced the thirdseason scripts monotonous and stale. When they suggested a format change to a one-hour variety show, their idea was quickly squelched and the series was axed, which undoubtedly crushed countless teenage hearts.

During their two-year reign, though, when the foursome often successfully challenged the almighty Beatles,

Southfield Village

the Monkees sold more than 75 million records around the world.

Had they been just a bubblegum fantasy quartet, one that was never quite real, undeserving of any real respect? Not to everybody.

Vanity Fair writer Mark Rozzo once opined, “They were a pop culture force. … They created joy and wonderment and introduced the whole realm of pop music to a huge audience of young people.”

6450 Miami Circle, South Bend, IN 46614 (574) 231-1000 • www.greencroft.org

Independent Living, Assisted Living, Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-OccupationalRespiratory-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Private/ Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Residential Apartments, Medicare and/or Medicaid

St. Paul’s

3602 S. Ironwood Dr., South Bend, IN 46614 (574) 284-9000 • www.sjmed.com/st-pauls

St. Paul’s, a Saint Joseph Health System Life Plan Community in South Bend, provides continuing care that is faith-based, hospitality-rich and wellness-focused. A variety of living options includes affordable Independent Living and Assisted Living apartments and secure Memory Care.

Tanglewood Trace Senior Living

530 Tanglewood Lane, Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 277-4310

HOLY CROSS

Offering Rehabilitation and Nursing Care services for seniors, Sanctuary at Holy Cross focuses on wellness for the body, mind and spirit. Our therapies include: aqua, speech, occupational, physical, and therapeutic recreation.

316 Woodies Lane, Bremen, IN 46506 (574) 546-3494 • SHCofBremen.com

www.tanglewoodtraceseniorliving.com

Offering Retirement Villas, Independent and Licensed Assisted Living, Therapy Services, Respite Care, Social and Recreational Activities, Pets Welcome, Transportation, Beauty Shop and Spa Services Available.

West Woods of Niles

1211 State Line Road, Niles, MI 49120 (269) 684-2810 • www.peplinskigroup.com

Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, 24-Hour Nursing Care, Outings, Social Activity, Short/Long Term Rehabilitation, Wi-Fi, Beauty Shop, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Medicare/Medicaid

Certified

Bremen

Travel Springfield, Ill. — Abraham Lincoln’s hometown

He may have been born in Kentucky and grew up in Indiana, but there’s no doubt Abe Lincoln is Springfield’s best-known resident and revered icon.

More than a million people come every year to soak up Lincoln’s history before he went to Washington in 1861 and events occurring during his presidency.

Everywhere people go in Springfield, Ill., they find the name of the 16th president of the United States. There are streets, hotels and apartment complexes named after him.

Downtown, one will find numerous Lincoln historic information panels, large replicas of Lincoln pennies on bicycle racks, murals on buildings featuring his face, and his image in bronze in parks. In addition, there’s the Lincoln Presidential Library and Abraham Lincoln Presidential

Museum.

When visiting the Illinois capital, stop first at the Visit Springfield office across the street from the Old State Capitol where Lincoln served in the state legislature. It’s a great place to start because it’s the building in which he and his partner had their law offices. One can see a replica of his office there.

The helpful people at the Visitor’s Center can direct you to the presidential museum, which should be your next stop.

Before tracing Lincoln from his rustic boyhood home to the presidency, take time to snap photos of yourself with the president and his family in front of the White House.

Then go into the two outstanding theaters utilizing amazing state-of-the-art technology featuring holographic techniques combined with ghostly images and live action. This might even turn out to be the highlight of your trip.

Witness the 1860 presidential election as if it were happening today, complete with TV coverage and campaign commercials

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Springfield,

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of the candidates. There’s a room full of editorial cartoons that were as crude and sometimes vicious as those seen during the 2020 election.

The view of Lincoln’s law office shows him concentrating in a law book, while two sons play baseball with a broom and wadded paper. Another room offers a peek into a cabinet meeting, complete with some of the members dozing while Lincoln attempts to make a point.

It covers just about every aspect of Lincoln’s time in Washington and ends at Ford’s Theater April 14, 1865, where he and his wife, Mary, were relaxing and celebrating the end of the Civil War before his assassination. His body was returned to Springfield by train along the same route he took to Washington four years earlier.

The train station where he departed for the nation’s capital is just a few blocks south. Before boarding the train, he’s quoted as saying, “I now leave, not knowing when or whether ever I may return, with a task before me greater than that which rested on Washington.”

A few more blocks south is the Lincoln Home National Historic Site featuring the only home he ever owned. The four-block area is

full of period homes. During summer months, reenactors add life to the neighborhood.

Lincoln’s tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery houses the body of the president, his wife and three of their four sons and a number of statues in various poses. Lincoln’s nose on a big bronze bust in front of the monument is shiny from rubbing by visitors from around the world.

Valentine’s Day —

Grandma and the 1910 postcards

I again journey back to the years of the 1910 decade and Grandma’s childhood in Argos and Bremen. Born in 1898, she was 10 or 11 years old when she began her collection of colorful postcards sent to her by her Zentz sisters.

Grandma ended up with an album full of more than 300 holiday, birthday and other events. The album and cards now owned by me are more than 110 years old.

One interesting postcard in the collection was from “Eva K. to Eva Z. Feb. 13, 1 p.m., 1911 IND.” Eva K. was in fact my grandma’s childhood friend who would many years later marry Grandma’s brother, Claude

Zentz.

Confused yet? Well my little not yet Grandma Zentz later became Mrs. Herb Lawson. As a young boy, I now had two Eva’s: Grandma Eva Lawson and Eva

Kelsey Zentz. Eva and Claude Zentz lived on Main Street in Argos and I recall them very well as Mom and Dad drove down to visit them and their sons quite often.

This old 1910 postcard album brings back many memories of the boys and girls who would later become my cherished great aunts and uncles; some whom I knew quite well and some who died before I knew them.

Happy Valentine’s Day to Argos, Bremen and all my readers. May God bless you all!

Any information welcome to: Dr. Greg Lawson, 1801 E. 3rd St., Mishawaka, IN 46544. Lawson is a long-time writer laureate of area history and human interest stories.

Texas Tenors, Purdue Glee Club to perform

Our team of caregivers works together to provide our patients and residents with the ability to reach their highest level of physical and social well-being in a home-like environment.

To learn more about our short-term rehabilitation and extended care services, or taking a tour, call us at (269) 684-2810.

1211 Stateline Rd, Niles, MI 49120

www.peplinskigroup.com/west-woods-of-niles

The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra will present The Texas Tenors and Purdue Varsity Glee Club in concert at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 22, at the Civic Auditorium.

The Glee Club will take the stage with the LCSO in the first half. The Texas Tenors will conclude the evening with the orchestra.

The Texas Tenors are currently touring the country after

Live

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appearing on “America’s Got Talent” and amassing more than half a million followers on social media and 20 million views on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.

With more than 1,400 performances to its credit with symphonies, performing arts centers, corporate events, outdoor festivals and a very successful PBS special, the Texas Tenors truly possess the rare

quality of mass appeal.

The Purdue Varsity Glee Club is returning to sing with the LCSO after their near sellout performance with the orchestra in April 2015. Under the direction of William Griffel, the Glee Club will sing several selections with and without the orchestra.

“We are hoping for a sellout concert,” said LCSO Executive Director Tim King.

Tickets will be available at lcso.net. Balcony seats will be sold individually instead of general admission. This will give single ticket purchasers the option of the best available seat in the balcony.

Currently, seven tables of 10 seats are available for $500 per table.

For table seats, contact the LCSO office at (219) 362-9020 or email executive@lcso.net. Limited table seating can be purchased by calling (219) 3629020. Balcony seating will only be sold online.

“I anticipate those tickets will go quickly. Music Director Dr. Carolyn Watson will be conducting both guest performers, along with the LCSO. This should be a fantastic finale to our 50th anniversary season,” said King.

Part of the Hamilton Grove Community in

New Carlisle, IN

here for the best of your life!