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• State of the Art Facility providing professional care with compassion and respect. • Located among woods and fields just outside of Cassopolis. • Outstanding therapy department provides physical, occupational, and speech services. • Generously staffed nursing department to meet your needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. “Caring For Our Community Since 1930” CASS COUNTY MEDICAL CARE FACILITY 23770 Hospital St. Cassopolis, MI 49031 269-445-3801

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• State of the Art Facility providing professional care with compassion and respect.

• Located among woods and fields just outside of Cassopolis.

• Outstanding therapy department provides physical, occupational, and speech services.

• Generously staffed nursing department to meet your needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

“Caring For Our Community Since 1930”CASS COUNTY MEDICAL CARE FACILITY

23770 Hospital St. Cassopolis, MI 49031269-445-3801

Page 2: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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14566 North Redbud Trail, Lot 90ABuchanan, MI 49107

269.695.3119riversideestates@comcast.netwww.riversideestatesmhc.com

Hours: Mon. & Wed.: 7 a.m.-3 p.m.Fri.: 8 a.m.-4 p.m

Only $676/MONTH for a 1,500 sq. ft.3 Bedroom 2 Bath Home

Retirement Lifestylein a quiet, country setting at an affordable price.

We value the concept that aging is not a decline, but a continuous stage of growth and development in a human life. We have made a commitment to create a culture that fosters warmth and growth for our residents and for our employees. Residents can enjoy deliciously prepared meals, beautiful

courtyards, activity center with a kitchenette, multiple common areas for visiting with family, wireless internet, digital satellite TV, in house laundry and housekeeping, and church services just to name a few.

Comfort& Care for seniors

West Woods of Niles is a family owned and operated long term

care community. Our home offers private rooms, courtyards, and

common areas for visiting family & friends. Please come see us. NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY.

1211 State Line Road Niles, MI 49120269.684.2810

WE BUY • SELL • TRADE

2516 Lincolnway West • Mishawaka, INOpen: Mon-Sat

Nunemaker’s Coin Shop

www.nunemakers.com

Cash in your Coins, Jewelry Gold & Silver

574-288-7464FreeIn-StoreAppraisals!

• Independent Apartments for Seniors• Comfortable living you can afford• Government (HUD)Rent Subsidized housing• Beautiful country setting near Berrien Springs, MI• Berrien Bus Service• Individual garden spots• Heat, Water & Trash Pickup included• Smoke-Free

269-471-1500

Timber Ridge Manor

American Legion Post 26104 N. 3rd St., Niles

269-357-1411BINGO- Monday’s at 6:30 pm (doors open at 5)Table/Chairs/Banquet Room Rental available to public

Find us on:

Enhancing the lives of veterans, military and their families and helping to shape a positive future!

Learn all the ways the American Legion can serve you.

BETTER, FASTER EMERGENCY CARECOMMUNITY EMERGENCY SERVICE, INC.Municipally Owned & Operated / Non Emergency & TransfersFully Licensed & Experienced ParamedicsMedicare & Medicaid Approved

Non-Emergencies & Transfers: 925-2141Administrative & Business Calls: 925-2143EMERGENCIES - DIAL 911

www.medic1ambulance.org

Page 3: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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What’s inside

4 6

8 14

More than just cards

New president at the COA

Volunteering after 50

Parents with Alzheimer’s

COA September events

Niles Senior Center weekly activities

Start stamp collecting

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More than just cards

By CRAIG HAUPERT • [email protected]

The eight people playing cards on a Tuesday morning in August at the Greater Niles Senior Center all had different reasons for being there.

Don Kirkendall said he enjoys the competition.“It’s a man thing,” said the 77-year-old Niles man.His wife, Betty, enjoys the company.“It’s fun to play and I love the people,” she said.Judy Goddard just likes getting away from the

house.“If we weren’t playing cards we would

be doing housework and we don’t like that,” said the 78-year-old Niles resident. “It is a great excuse to go out and do something.”

Whatever the reason, those attending the senior center’s weekly card games are having a good time.

According to the senior center’s website — nilesseniorcenter.org — card games like pinochle and euchre are offered at 2 p.m. Tuesdays and at 10 a.m. Thursdays at the center, 1109 Bell Rd., Niles.

That does not mean members stick to the schedule.

Barbara Gammill, who was playing euchre with Jacqueline Gibson, Goddard and Madalyn Crocker-Alford said she’s been playing cards there most Tuesday mornings for a dozen years.

She got involved with the senior center many years ago when she would drive her mother there.

“I love these goofy people,” she said, while looking at the three people at her table. “We have fun.”

At the table beside them, the Kirkendalls were playing bridge with Alice Kass and Judy Bauer.

At age 96, Kass said the weekly bridge games help keep her young.

“It keeps the mind sharp,” she said.Kass will be moving to Grand Rapids

next month to be closer to one of her daughters. She said she would miss playing cards at the senior center.

“They say they play bridge up there, but we will see how it goes,” she said.

While the bridge group is losing Kass, the euchre table recently acquired a new player in Jacqueline Gibson, who recently moved to Niles from Detroit.

She said finding a card game with friendly people has helped her feel right at home.

“It is a fun and friendly atmosphere and we care about each other,” Gibson said.

Goddard agreed.“We look out for each other,” Goddard said. “If

someone doesn’t show up we wonder where they are.”

Weekly games provide companionship, entertainment for Niles seniors

Page 4 Living 50 Plus • September 2014

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Get in on the fun

PREVIOUS PAGE: Top: Alice Kass, of Niles, enjoys one of her last games of bridge with the regulars at the Greater Niles Senior Center on a Tues-day morning in August. Kass will be moving to Grand Rapids this month. BOTTOM: Madalyn Crocker-Alford, left, Barbara Gammill, middle, Jacque-line Gibson, right, and Judy Goddard, off camera, play in a weekly euchre game on a Tuesday morning in August at the Greater Niles Senior Center. ABOVE: Barbara Gammill, of Niles, has been playing cards at the senior center for about a dozen years. LEFT: From left to right Don Kirkendall, Alice Kass, Betty Kirkendall and Judy Bauer play a hand of bridge.

Photos by CRAIG HAUPERT

Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m.

Niles Senior Center1234 Bell RoadNiles, Michigan

Page 6: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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By TED YOAKUM • [email protected]

When Tom Celie first began volunteering with the Cass County COA’s Meals On Wheels seven years ago, it was at the sugges-tion of one of his neighbors, who figured it would be a fruitful

way for him to spend some time after his retirement from Tyler Refrig-eration.

What keeps him going on that weekly route across the county has been the bonds he’s made with the people he serves.

“It’s a very rewarding experience,” Celie said. “You can see the direct impact on the people you’re helping. A lot of the people on my route can’t leave the house. Sometimes, I’m the only person they see that day.”

The Cassopolis man has taken this dedication to the next level, as the head of the organization’s board of directors.

In April, Celie was elected the president of the 13-member board, succeeding longtime leader Eleanore Flowers, who stepped down after nine years due to term limitations. As board president, Celie is respon-sible for presiding over their bimonthly meetings, where they decide on

the COA’s expenditures and other pivotal items.“There’s always a lot of discussion going on during the meetings,” Celie

said. “Everyone gets involved.”The retired business executive has been a part of the board for several

years, including two years as vice-president.While the prospects of replacing a longstanding member such as

Flowers were quite daunting, Celie said that task has been made quite easy due to the direction that the board and the staff have set the council down over the last several years.

“[Flowers] did a wonderful job, she really did,” he said. “She’ll certainly be missed. But I think we’ll do just fine.”

One of the things that the council is improving on is their lifelong learning program, with their new program director, Nicole Romo, cre-ating 14 new daylong courses this fall. These classes are aimed at the county’s population of baby boomers to help develop new skills and hobbies after retirement, such as in writing, art and computers, said COA Community Relations Director Patty Patano.

“Once you’re retired, you can really out your passion,” she said.The organization remains dedicated to the various activities and facili-

ties offered at its Cassopolis and Dowagiac locations, which continue to grow every year, Patano said.

“A lot of friendships have been made here,” she said. “This is a place where people can meet one another, and find new friends.”

Keeping the wheels spinnin’Longtime COA volunteer takes over as board president

Page 7: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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Get It All At Heritage Point’s September Events

Music, Waffles, Horses and more!

September 10th: Cowboys, Horses & Beans... 4:30-6:30pm – Experience Jean Wolff’s theraputic horses with a good old fashioned cowboy style dinner of pulled pork, beans & slaw.

September 12th: The Magic of Music... 2-4pm – Enjoy Elkhart’s own smooth vocalist Patty Bowers and jazz trumpeter, John Schultz, along with lemonade and cookies as you lounge in our beautiful courtyard.

September 19th: Here a waffle - there a waffle - everywhere a waffle-waffle... 2-4pm – Celebrate national waffle month with an afternoon of waffles, ice cream and yummy toppings.

Free And Open To The PublicEspecially for those caring for loved ones with dementia.

Come to Our Community – Meet New Friends – Take a TourSeating is limited & registration required: heritagepoint-bom@jeaseniorliving

or call 574-247-7400 weekdays between 9am-5pm1215 Trinity Place • Mishawaka, IN

574 247 7400 • www.jeaseniorliving.com

(Located just east of Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center between Holy Cross Parkway and Fir Road, immediately behind WSBT)

SUBMITTED

CASSOPOLIS — The Cass County COA will hold its annual fundraiser for Meals on Wheels on Saturday, Sept. 27 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Lowe Center in Cassopolis.

The evening, called “Harvest Gather-ing,” will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the signing of the law giving Federal recognition to the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi.

The evening will feature a display of Pokagon cultural items as well as a traditional Invo-cation and a pre-sentation by danc-ers and drummers. Centerpieces will be unique and present aspects of the Pokagon Band traditions.

“We wanted to take the opportunity to celebrate the wonderful contributions the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi make in our community. Members of the Band have been part of our dinner commit-tee and we have thoroughly enjoyed the friendships we have made,” stated Bob Cochrane, CEO of the Cass County COA.

“The evening, we believe, will give mem-bers of the community a chance to learn more about our neighboring Tribal Na-tion. In addition, we will be raising funds for Meals on Wheels one of our most im-portant programs for seniors in our coun-ty.”

Tickets and tables for the event are selling quickly, but there are still a few remaining tables. Tick-ets are $40 per person or tables of 8 at $320. The evening will also in-clude a delicious gour-met dinner, live music and a wonderful silent auction.

For those in-t e r e s t e d

in at-tending

the event, please con-tact Patty Pa-

tano, COA Commu- nity Develop-ment Team Leader at (269) 445-8110. She will email a sign-up form or credit card information can be taken over the phone.

The Cass County COA is a community organization offering programs and services for adults in all life stages.

COA, Pokagon Band host harvest gathering

MICHIANALifepeople • entertainment • shopping • dining • art

Quarterly lifestyle magazine serving Southwest Michigan and

Northern Indiana

Brought to you by leader publications, llC

Coming Soon...

www.MichianaLi fe .com

Page 8: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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RiveRidge ManoR269-684-1111 • 1333 Wells St. Niles

 Convenient Visiting Hours • Children & Pets Welcome

Serving the Niles Community with excellence for the past 60 years!

 

Riveridge Manor provides warm and personalized skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, wound care & memory care. Our facility is in a beautiful, wooded area surrounded by the sights & sounds of nature. Welcome

Home!

TOURS AVAILABLE

By AMBROSIA [email protected]

When you ask any volunteer what compels them to do-nate their time, most will give you a simple answer: It makes a difference.

For the last few years, dozens of Bu-chanan residents have taken time out of their busy schedules to give back to their community during a national day of ac-tion entitled “Make a Difference Day.”

Doris Higgins, a member of First Unit-ed Methodist Church, has contributed to the event since Buchanan implemented it in 2012.

“A group of people at First United Methodist Church has sponsored this volunteer day in conjunction with Make a Difference Day, with the help of the City of Buchanan and Buchanan Community Schools,” Higgins said.

Higgins said the majority of the volunteers who participate in this volunteer event are older adults looking to give back to their beloved hometown.

“I think definitely as you get older, where you are at in your life changes,” Higgins. “As your responsibilities at home lessen and children grow up, move out and all of that, there are new oppor-tunities to do things in the community and give back in a different kind of way.”

A former volunteer coordinator for Volunteer South-

west Michigan, Higgins said she has found that the majority of volunteers are parents with school-aged children.

“People are very involved in volunteering as their kids are grow-ing up, but as you get older, you have so much more flexibility and more choice. You can really follow your passion,” she said. “It keeps you young, and research shows it makes you live longer!”

Higgins, who recently turned 50, said she finds volunteering more enriching now than ever.

“How I view work and home and this com-munity is changing as I get older, and I’m look-ing for new opportunities. You can try new things. A lot of people over 50 have new jobs or are looking to find new interests, and vol-unteering is a great entrée into that,” she said. “Volunteering also helps offer that connection to people that we crave once the kids move out

or once we retire.”Organizers of Make a Difference Buchanan have not yet nailed

down all of the agencies they will be helping with their volunteer efforts this year.

“This year the projects include cleaning a part of the gym at Ottawa Elementary School. We’re looking at either a park project, or there’s a field in Buchanan that needs some heavy-duty work,” Higgins said.

Previous projects have included courtyard cleanups at Buchanan area schools, helping out on a local farm and other park cleanups.

Updates on this year’s Make a Difference Day event can be found on the group’s Facebook page, Make a Difference Buchanan.

after 50Volunteering

“It keeps you young, and research shows it makes you live longer!”

— Doris Higgins, First United Methodist Church

Page 9: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

Living 50 Plus • September 2014 Page 9

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RiveRidge ManoR269-684-1111 • 1333 Wells St. Niles

 Convenient Visiting Hours • Children & Pets Welcome

Serving the Niles Community with excellence for the past 60 years!

 

Riveridge Manor provides warm and personalized skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, wound care & memory care. Our facility is in a beautiful, wooded area surrounded by the sights & sounds of nature. Welcome

Home!

TOURS AVAILABLE

Why Our Pre-Funded Program Works So Well1. Your money is safe!2. We offer a price guarantee3. Our Program is not considered an asset for Medicaid4. Keeps your life insurance policy intact5. The Program is portable/transferable6. Payment options are available7. Our Program gives you what you want and eliminates emotional overspending

Always there for you.Serving families with dignity, respect & compassion

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The Timbers of Cass County55432 Colby St. • Dowagiac, MI Visit our website at www.atriumlivingcenters.com

To my dearest friends at the Timbers of Cass County: I will never be able to express my grati-tude enough to you when my mom was at her lowest, so I hope this tells you how I feel.

To just say “thank you” for all you have done for my mom and my family would not even come close to what I feel when I think of you guys/gals. From giving her a bath, combing her hair, clipping her nails, feeding her, and the countless other things that you have and/or continue to do to keep her comfortable, happy, clean, and dignified, I will forever be grateful. For over the last several months, you guys/gals have taken care of her and are kind and compassionate to her. I know that if I can’t make it in to see her, she will still get the best of care. Your patience and love to her and the rest of the residents are evident in everything you say and do. I have witnessed it all, and I am thankful. From the nurses to the kitchen personnel, to the staff who clean everything, the administrative, maintenance, and laundry workers, and the rest of the workers, I salute you all. You keep the Home a clean, safe, friendly, and healthy place to live, a true “home,” a place to call their own, a place to find refuge and friendship and warmth. I know your jobs aren’t easy, but you make it seem that way. Your sense of humor is tested daily. The ability to laugh at yourself and joke with others is one of the most endearing qualities. Without Timbers and all you guys/gals to take care of my mother, I truly believe that my mother would not have made it through this. I could go on and on, but this should give you an idea of how I feel. It’s all you and you’re all great, and you have one of the most important jobs in the world. You are all friends. This note is too short to express my true gratitude for you guys/gals for treating my mom like one of your own. Hugs to all of you.

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For the past few years, dozens of residents from the Buchanan area have taken time out of their busy schedules to help out various local entities in need of assistance as part of the national Make a Difference Day.

Submitted photos

Page 10: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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GRANNY NANNYHelping & Caring in Your Home

We understand the importance of remaining in your

Home...we offer trusted, quality help with that goal, at reasonable rates.

Licensed & BondedSenior Care Specialist

Meal preparationCompanionship

Medical remindersLaundry, etc.

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I am sure that all the signs were there, but when you are dealing with your own

parents, it is hard to admit that you are seeing them.

Such was the case with my father, who has officially been diagnosed with Al-zheimer’s disease.

If there is one lesson to learn from this experience that I would like to pass along, it is do not wait. Do not rationalize the warning signs and put off getting your parent the right treatment as quickly as possible.

You see, the trouble with waiting, is that you are going to lose precious time with your father or your mother that could have been saved.

The first and easiest sign to overlook is memory loss. How many times have you heard or said to yourself “it is only hold age?” Of course it is old age, but it is also a sign that should get you

thinking that perhaps some-thing is wrong.

Don’t panic. Just because a parent forgets to do some-thing does not mean they have Alzheimer’s.

What you need to be on the lookout for is when they begin to forget important dates or even the names of loved ones and longtime friends.

The biggest warning sign here should be when they begin to ask you the same thing over and over.

Another warning sign that I began to notice was his inability to complete simple tasks that he had done for

years.But the one that we all

noticed and got us thinking about getting him treatment was when he became con-fused about where he was and what he had done with things like his keys and his wallet.

It is tough admitting to yourself there is something wrong.

It is even tougher watching him go through this transfor-mation to the point where he begins to ask who you are.

My parents have been mar-ried for more than 70 years and lived in the same house, the only home they have ever

owned, for longer than I can remember.

It is not easy to start think-ing about moving them out of that home or having to break them apart in order to get them the treatment and care they deserve.

But you must make those tough choices because it truly is in their best interest. Get-ting everyone on the same page is key. You cannot have one sibling dragging their feet because internal strife only makes things worse.

In my case, I think we probably waited too long to begin the process, which has now left us scrambling to get a lot of things accomplished in a short matter of time.

On the other hand, it has given me and my broth-ers some insight as to what we need to start doing to prepare for the time when our children have to make similar decisions about

our care.I know I for one have

begun thinking about getting a living will done. I would have never thought about a will at this point in my life, but it is important to know who will be entrusted with your care and your posses-sions when and if it comes to that.

My parents have done a lot for me over the years and now it is time I repay them by trying to get them the care they need to live the rest of their lives as comfortably as possible.

I would encourage you to begin doing the same for your mother and father.

Scott Novak is the com-munity editor for the Edwardsburg Argus and the Cassopolis Vigilant. He can be reached at [email protected] or (269) 687-7702.

SCOTT NOVAKCommunity Editor

Parents with Alzheimer’s: What I’ve learned

Page 11: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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__Sept 4-6 Shop Hop To The Madison, Wisconsin Quilt Expo__Sept 6 Chicago Gangster Tour__Sept 10 One Day Mystery Tour ?__Sept 12 The Old Road Murder Mystery Train & Shopping in Tecumseh__Sept 15-20 Lakes, Mountains & Lucille Ball- Lake George, New York__Sept 22-25 The Beauty of Door County, Wisconsin__Sept 26 Boggstown & Shopping in Nashville__Sept. 28 The Game’s Afoot-Drury Lane__Sept 28-Oct 1 Fall Color Train, Agawa Canyon & Mackinac Island__Oct 6-7 2 Day Mystery Tour ??__Oct. 15-17 Riverboat Rendezvous-Louisville __Oct. 20-27 Pacific Northwest and California__Nov 5 Kitchenaid, Chocolate & Wine__Nov 17 Shop Till You Drop & Refuel at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse-Indy__Nov 29–Dec 1 Christmas at Opryland, The Rockettes & Grand Ole Opry__Dec 3-4 Red, White & Blue Musical Christmas__Dec 7 A Christmas Memory – Theatre At The Center__Dec 13 Redneck Christmas Carol – Cornwell’s Dinner Theater__ Apr 17-26, 2015 Hawaii by Land & Sea (reservation deadline Oct. 16th)

American Dream Tours901 Lincolnway E. • Plymouth, IN 46563 • (574) 936-5677

SEE AMERICA THEBEAUTIFUL WITH US!!

[email protected]

For more information, check off the trips you are interested in and return or call 574-936-5677

Name:Address:

our care.I know I for one have

begun thinking about getting a living will done. I would have never thought about a will at this point in my life, but it is important to know who will be entrusted with your care and your posses-sions when and if it comes to that.

My parents have done a lot for me over the years and now it is time I repay them by trying to get them the care they need to live the rest of their lives as comfortably as possible.

I would encourage you to begin doing the same for your mother and father.

Scott Novak is the com-munity editor for the Edwardsburg Argus and the Cassopolis Vigilant. He can be reached at [email protected] or (269) 687-7702.

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Drop it off,email it,call it in!

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Births • Birthdays • Anniversaries Engagements • Wedding Announcements

Marriage Records

For more information, contact

Ambrosia Neldon269.687.7713

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SUBMITTED

MISHAWAKA, Ind. — Established by the National Center for Assisted Living in 1995, National Assisted Living Week pro-vides a unique opportunity for health care centers to bring together residents, fami-lies, staff, volunteers and the surrounding community and provide exciting events.

The Center’s 2014 theme, The Magic of Music, showcases the integral role music plays in our lives every day.

To celebrate and honor National As-sisted Living Week, Heritage Point is in-viting the community to join in a musical celebration on Sept. 12, 2 p.m. to enjoy Elkhart’s own smooth vocalist Patty Bow-ers and jazz trumpeter, John Schultz. They will perform a musical tribute to the memorable music of the 1930s and 1940s as we sing along.

John Schultz, jazz trumpeter, has per-formed in the Michiana area for more than 60 years. For the past 15 years he has played with the Jazz Assemblage, per-forming at the Elkhart Jazz Festival and Rhapsody in Green. Patty Bowers, John’s daughter, joined the Jazz Assemblage six years ago as the vocal soloist. Patty brings singing experience from church choral music and barbershop chorus, as well as from the stages of Elkhart Civic Theater and South Bend Civic Theater.

Kim Allen, Administrator for Heritage Point Alzheimer’s Special Care Center stated, “All of us have the ability to touch someone’s life in one way or another. Mu-sic brings pleasure to all generations and

fills our hearts with love, comfort and joy. Whether through a special song, smile, or warm hug, music can bridge the gap of be-ing able to effectively communi-cate with o t h e r s .” Allen con-tinued, “I hope resi-dents of the entire Michiana community will con-sider joining us on the 12.”

Heritage Point Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, a unit of JEA Senior Living based in Vancouver, Washington, pro-vides residential and assisted living care for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia when their fami-lies or caregivers require a rest or must entrust their loved one to dementia care experts. Heritage Point is located at 1215 Trinity Place, Mishawaka. For more information about The Magic of Music event, email [email protected] or call 574 247 7400. For more information on National Assisted Living Week go to: www.NALW.ORG. For more information on Heritage Point Alzheimer’s Special Care Center or JEA Senior Living go to www.jeaseniorliving.com

Celebrate National Assisted Living Week

EVENT DETAILS:Location: Heritage Point Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, 1215 Trinity Place, Mishawaka.

Registration is required: heritagepoint-bom@jease-niorliving or call (574) 247-7400 weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

SUBMITTED

LANSING — AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax prepa-ration and assistance ser-vice, is seeking volunteer tax-preparers in 36 coun-ties across Michigan to help residents who are seeking assistance prepar-ing and filing their 2014 returns.

The time commitment is about 10 hours for training and several hours each week from Febr. 1 to April 15 doing counseling and tax return prepara-tion. The volunteer pre-pares tax forms, answers questions and explains the return to the taxpayer, who is responsible for its accuracy.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers receive

free tax training and are reimbursed on a limited basis for qualified pro-gram-related expenses. They help taxpayers at sites around the state, learning new skills while giving back to their com-munities.

“Last year, we assisted more than 70,000 people prepare and file their tax returns,” said Bob Crews, Tax Aide State Coordi-nator for Michigan. “We could not do it without

our more than 1,000 vol-unteers, who make an in-delible mark on the com-munities they help.

“The best part of our job is being able to help some-body who needs help, and the gratitude they show,” Crews said.

For more information, contact Crews at (734) 455-8381.

For additional informa-tion about AARP Founda-tion Tax-Aide, visit aarp.org/taxaide

AARP seeks volunteer tax preparers across Michigan

Page 12: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

Page 12 Living 50 Plus • September 2014

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COA September EventsSept. 5

Great Decisions9:30 to 11:45 a.m. — This self-led group will discuss a variety of topics on world affairs. The group is always looking for new mem-bers. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 8Hollywood Treasures1 to 3 p.m. — “The African Queen,” a time-less classic featuring Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn. Mark Love, the COA’s resident movie buff will introduce the roman-tic and harrowing trip in Africa. Free popcorn will be served. (Lowe Center)

Walk the Michigan Lighthouses A new and different class combining history and fitness. Students will learn the history of lighthouses on the Lower Peninsula and walk a scaled down distance to each one. The seven-week class is taught by Nicole Romo, a Lifelong Learning manager. Classes beg-ing Sept. 8. (Lowe Center)

Look Good...Feel Better5:30 p.m. — Lakeland HealthCare will offer a free two-hour class for women who are currently undergoing chemotherapy, at the Marie Yeager Cancer Center at the Health Park, 3900 Hollywood Road, St. Joseph.

Eating Right for the HeartLakeland Hospital, Niles, will host Eating Right for the Heart from 6 to 7 p.m. Sept. 8 at the Buchanan Area Health Resource Library. Learn how better food habits can reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke. A registered dietitian will provide tips on follow-ing the American Heart Association’s eating plan. Participants must register for this class at least 24 hours in advance. A minimum of six participants are required for class to be held. Contact (269) 566-2808 or (866) 260-7544.

Sept. 9Wood Carving 10110 to 11:30 a.m. — Master carvers from the Fruitbelt Wood Carvers will teach the basics of the craft. Necessary tools will be provided. Four-week class begins Sept. 9. (Lowe Center)

Parkinson’s Support Group1 to 3 p.m. — Attendees will learn how Tai Chi can benefit those dealing with the dis-ease from teacher Glenda Gibson.

Estate Planning Basics10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. — Attorney William Westerbeke will provide useful information to ensure financial planning is sufficient. (Front Street Crossing)

Sept. 10A Ride with Henry Ford1 to 2:30 p.m. — An instructor from the Gilm-ore Car Museum will share the fascinating history and life of Henry Ford. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 11Grief Support Group10 a.m. to 12 p.m. — Grief Support Group: The group developed for anyone dealing with grief and loss will discuss the many defini-tions of “loneliness.” (Lowe Center)

Sept. 12Annual Health Fair8 a.m. to 12 p.m. —A fair designed to benefit all by offering attendees information that can make visits to doctors and dentists more pro-ductive and specific. Advance reservation is required for blood tests, cholesterol, glucose and PSA testing. Brunch will also be served. (Lowe Center)

Postcard from the Edge of Time9:30 to 11:30 a.m. — Tom Jerdon, a longtime Cassopolis resident, will bring his vast col-lection of historical postcards from the downs and depots in the surrounding area. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 17Planting Bulbs1 to 2 p.m. — A master gardener from Michi-gan State University will provide a hands on demonstration on the correct way to plant bulbs. (Lowe Center)

Multiple Sclerosis Group1 to 3 p.m. — This session will feature a pharmacist who has an excellent knowledge of the wide variety of MS medications. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 18Scrapbook Class10 a.m. to 12 p.m. — Scrapbook Class: Stu-dents will learn to safely and creatively pre-serve photos and memories. $5 is required for materials. (Lowe Center)

Postcards from the Edge of Time1 to 3 p.m. —Tom Jerdon, a longtime Cassopolis resident, will bring his vast col-lection of historical postcards from the downs and depots in the surrounding area. (Front Street Crossing)

Sept. 19Great Decisions9:30 to 11:45 a.m. — This self-led group will discuss a variety of topics on world affairs. The group is always looking for new mem-bers. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 22Balance Challenge1 to 2:30 p.m. — A one-day program de-signed to help assess balance and offer tips for balance improvement. A home safety assessment will also be presented by a Borgess-Lee rehabilitation therapist. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 23Balance Challenge1 to 2:30 p.m. — A one-day program de-signed to help assess balance and offer tips for balance improvement. A home safety assessment will also be presented by a Borgess-Lee rehabilitation therapist. Front Street Crossing)

Sept. 24Fly Away Clutter10 a.m. to 12 p.m. —A class to help down-size belongings or free up space in life. Visitors will gain great tips on how to prepare a home for relocation. Rose Hathaway, an instructor from the Fly Away Center, will be available. (Lowe Center)

Sept. 24Glass on the GO!1 to 3 p.m. —An art class about glass-mak-ing. Students will learn the basics of kiln-fused glass. Advance registration is required. (Lowe Center)

About the COA

The Cass County COA is a community organization offering programs and services for adults in all life stages.

The Lowe Center is located at 60525 Decatur Road, in Cassopolis.

The Front Street Crossing location is lo-cated at 227 S. Front St., in Dowagiac.

Page 13: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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269-684-4500www.pawatingvillage.com

1 Fort St. • Niles, MI 49120

Peaceful Wooded CountrySwimming Pool

Central Air Garages & Carports

DishwashersFamily Owned & Operated

COA September EventsNiles Senior Center weekly activitiesMondays Tuesdays Wednesdays

Thursdays Fridays

9 a.m. — Chair exercise12:30 p.m. — Wii Bowling1:00 p.m. — Scrapbooking2:30 p.m. — Yoga

9 a.m. — Oil painting10 a.m. — Bridge1 p.m. — Euchre/Pinochle

9 a.m. — Chair exercise10 a.m. — Line dancing2 p.m. — Tai chi exercise

10 a.m. —Pastels10:30 a.m. — Drumming1 p.m. — Cash bingo

9 a.m. — Chair exercise10 a.m. — Volunteers10:30 a.m. — Zumba Gold12:15 p.m. — Hawaiian dancing2 p.m. — Tai chi exercise

Page 14: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

Page 14 Living 50 Plus • September 2014

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Dr. LoriAntique Appraiser

Start stamp collecting

The process of stamp col-lecting is nearly as old as the stamp itself. There have been documented cases of meetings of

stamp collectors taking place as early as 1841 and advertisements placed by like-minded individuals who enjoyed stamp collecting in the mid-1800s. The first govern-ment issued stamp was introduced in 1840 in Great Britain. Sir Row-land Hill, the post master general at the time, designed the first stamp and changed the way we collect those little pieces of valuable paper.

Today, the American Philatelic Society and other groups of stamp collectors promote stamp collecting and highlight the study of stamps.

Some of the most interesting stamp collectors that I have met are young people who have taken up the hobby with their parents or grandparents. Like coin collecting, stamp collecting is a great way to introduce children to the fun of collecting a piece of Americana.

Available at your local post of-fice, the publication USA Philatelic is a source for current stamp and stamp products available from the United States postal service. It is known as the official source magazine for stamp enthusiasts. The current issue of the magazine features new items for collectors such as newly issued stamps like those featuring Jimi Hendrix, gay rights activist Harvey Milk, and actor Charleston Heston, souvenir booklets of 20-stamps focusing on the J.K. Rowling’s character Harry Potter, stamped cards and enve-lopes picturing a folk art eagle and bank swallow bird, and thematic

stamps like those appropriate for wedding invitations, graduations, and holidays.

The magazine provides historical information about the history of stamp collecting by providing fast facts about some of the best known stamps like the misprinted in-verted jenny airplane stamp which was first printed on September 22, 1913 at Washington, DC and the last chance to buy the collectible Ronald Reagan Centennial stamp which was first issued on February 10, 2011 at Simi Valley, CA.

These special commemorative stamps introduced more collec-tors to the hobby. Today collec-tors gather stamps that relate to military history, sports heroes, special events, and the list goes on. The first commemorative stamp printed in America marked the 400th anniversary of Columbus discovering the New World. It was introduced in 1893, the same year as the World’s Columbian Exposi-tion also known as the Chicago’s World’s Fair.

Celebrity Ph.D. antiques ap-praiser, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Dis-covery channel. Bring an antique for a free appraisal by Dr. Lori in your area. Check out www.DrLoriV.com/Events or call (888) 431-1010.

Appraiser offers new hobby suggestion

Subscribeto your local paper and save 10% when you mention this ad! *New subscribers only

Call Leader Publications to get started today! 269.687.7710

Page 15: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

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Let Us Assist You in Making Those Important Healthcare Decisions

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This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Located within walking distance of shopping, banking and medical offices. Laundry in each building. Community Room available for residents to gather and

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800 E. Smith Street • Buchanan, MI 49107TDD: (800) 649-3777 • Fax: 269-695-1057

Connelly ChapelWagner Family

• Funerals • Cremations • • Gatherings •

202 North Broadway Street Cassopolis

269.445.2435 • wagnercares.comEugene F. Wagner: Owner/Manager

We’re your neighbors and your friends

For over one hundred years, you have turned to us for honest advice, sincere compassion, and caring support. You can count on

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Our communities are thoughtfully designed to cater to the unique needs and demands of today’s seniors.

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Cassopolis

STONE LAKE MANOR Senior Apartments. 2 months free on select units. Spacious, two bedroom located on beautiful Stone

Lake, Intercom entry building, elevator, emergency pull cords. Seniors 62 years or older or disabled of any age. Rent starts at $541.00 (based on income). Please

call Toni at 269-445-3333 or stop by today at 145 Stone Lake St. for more information. EHO.

TDD 1-800-649-3777 American Preferred 1-800-968-1792

Page 16: Living 50 Plus - September 2014

Page 16 Living 50 Plus • September 2014

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I LVERBROOK REHABILITATION & NURSING CARE CENTER

S

The Silverbook dif ference.If your loved ones needs cannot be met at home, Silverbrook

Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Center provides care that you can count on.

Silverbrook is a 100 bed Medicare/Medicaid Certified, Joint Comission Accredited facility where residents and their loved ones are

not only cared for, they are cared about.

• 24-Hour Nursing Care• IV Therapy• Short term rehabilitation• Long term care• Air-Conditioned Therapy Room• Therapy Offered 5 Days Per Week• Private Rooms• FREE TV with Cable Provided

• Central Air Throughout Facility• Speech Therapy• Hospice Care• Wound Care• Physical Therapy• Occupational Therapy• FREE Transportation to Appointments

Facility Features

Accepted Pay Sources: Medicare, Medicaid, Private Pay, Humana, Medicaid Pending & Out-Of-State Medicaid.

Not sure if you qualify? Give us a call.

911 S. 3rd Street • Niles269-684-4320

Let us help you see better:• Retinal Disorders & Treatments• Contact Lenses• Laser Vision Correction• Cataract and Advanced Lens Implants Including Toric for astigmatism• Treatment of Glaucoma & Laser Surgery• Diabetic Retinopathy• Cosmetic Reconstructive Surgery• Eye Muscle Imbalances

120 Longmeadow Village Dr., Niles • (269) 684-64002848 Niles Road, St. Joseph • (269) 428-3300

Clinical Research SiteFREE WiFi • 1-800-424-2393

www.greateyecare.com

Sarah M. Cho, ODResearch Director

From left to right: Duane A. Tolsma, O.D., John W. Marohn, O.D., Andrew M. Wang, M.D., Michael S. Seward, M.D., David L. Cooke, M.D., David N. Brown, M.D., Stanley W. Pletcher, M.D. and Ronald L. McKey, M.D.

Trust the care of your eyes to us

Contact us to schedule a convenient appointment