With wondrous scenery featuring majestic snow-capped peaks and soaring glaciers combined with the safety and luxury of a modern state-of-the-art ship, an Alaska cruise is a vacation that older adults can enjoy in total comfort.

You unpack and pack only once, sleep in the same bed for several nights, dine in the same restaurants all week enjoying superb food while getting to know the ship’s crew and

making new friends. Cruising to Alaska is surprisingly affordable, and many vacation packages include a comfortable cabin with private bathroom, three multicourse meals, unlimited snacks and room service, Broadway-style shows and other lively entertainment and activities.

For the more adventurous set, there are fully escorted tours to view the humpback whales or to explore the small Gold Rush towns or even go hiking, salmon fishing, white water rafting or sea kayaking. Do it all or do nothing at all. Travel alone, with a spouse, or with friends. The choices are yours.

There are options available for a variety of budgets, with activities catered to all levels of physical fitness.

Cruising Alaska: Tips for Visiting This Top Vacation DestinationEdited from various sources*

Continued on pg. 2

Continued on pg. 8 See Networking, pg. 3

Inspiring LivingINSIDE

Book Clubs’ Picks ...................3 Read with us in January

Health & Wellness ..................4Don’t forget to s-t-r-e-t-c-h!

Living ......................................6Get out those game boards

Travel ......................................9Phillies spring training Highlights

Crossword ..............................9Test your vocabulary

Local Entertainment .............10Shows & exhibits around town

Performing at Shannondell ..12David Kim, Nitzan Haroz and more!

A Publication of Shannondell at Valley Forge www.shannondell.com

Marty isn’t alone in his endeavors. Senior adults are flocking to the theater – only, these days, they’re entering through the stage door with scripts running through their heads and make-up bags in hand.

Robb Hutter, theater director at Shannondell, has not only witnessed this trend, but he’s also been a catalyst for the growth of senior theater. “I remember seeing this intergenerational dance company in the 80s and being so blown away by the performance,” says Robb. “The impact lasted for years and led me to approach my first senior community

Media titan Barry Diller (responsible for the creation of Fox Broadcasting Company and USA Broadcasting) recently launched Proust, a nostalgic social

Shannondell Residents Enjoy A New Stage

Sharing, Your Way: Social Networking For Seniors

At first glance, you might think that it’s easy to upstage Marty. You’d be wrong – particularly if he’s in costume and reciting lines while moving to his marks on stage, all while surrounded by fellow Shannondell residents who are doing the same.

OpENiNg March 2 The Pirates of Penzance

See page 11 for details

about starting a theater program,” he adds.

“While it’s true that older generations bring a certain resistance to exiting their comfort zone, when they break through and become more self-expressive on stage, they get so excited. As a director, you see the endorphins kick in … you see how that makes these seniors adults feel more alive,” Robb notes.

And that’s a good thing, according to experts. Statistics show that

networking website designed specifically for seniors.

Proust.com was inspired by the 19th-century writer Marcel Proust, author of Remembrance of Things Past and the icebreaker parlor-style game (“Proust Questionnaire”) that became synonymous with his name in the 1890s.

Today, more than 100 years later, every living generation is online,

your guide to

Winter 2012

Pres

orte

d St

anda

rdU.

S. P

osta

ge P

aid

Mai

led

From

Zip

Cod

e 30

655

Perm

it No

. 15

1000

0 Sh

anno

ndel

l Driv

e A

udub

on, P

A 1

9403

32

Inspiring Living Winter 2012 www.shannondell.com

seniors who participate in theater lead healthier lives. Experts say acting offers cognitive, emotional and physiological benefits due to both the intellectual and social stimulation. A Center for Aging, Health and Humanities study at George Washington University showed seniors involved in the arts experience fewer falls, doctor visits, have fewer pills to take, and are in better health than those who don’t participate in the arts.

Bonnie Vorenberg, an expert in gerontology and theater in Oregon, adds, “There is also the benefit of ‘perspective.’ Many seniors have some kind of health condition that requires medications or doctor visits. Being in a show forces them to look beyond their own problems. Suddenly, learning lines becomes more important – and a more frequent focus of the conversation – than arthritis complaints.”

Marty is living proof that it works. “All I can tell you is that I feel great! When I moved to Shannondell, I immediately joined the King of Prussia Players (one of the resident community theater groups) and the Shannondell Actors’ Studio,” says

A New Stage continued from page 1

Marty. “We have a blast. I’ve been cast in Mack & Mabel, A Funny Thing Happened On The Way to The Forum, Guys & Dolls and Oliver. And I’m not just wallpaper. I’m singing and dancing stage front. In Guys & Dolls, which we recently wrapped, I was in the number where the guys are throwing craps and singing ‘Luck Be A Lady’.”

Fellow Shannondell resident Nancy Foster concurs with Marty, “I had never acted in my life before moving to Shannondell, and now, I’m doing improvisation, learning acting techniques, and auditioning

for productions in The Shannondell Performing Arts Theater. It’s a lot of fun. More importantly, I think theater helps me maintain a sense of humor, which has a positive effect on my attitude.”

When asked if his actors are an inspiration to others, Robb replies, “I recently took my Shannondell actors to another community to perform for their residents. I normally draw a dozen residents to my classes at this particular community. The week after the Shannondell performance, I had almost 40 show up for

About The Actors’ Studio at Shannondell

… seniors involved in the arts experience fewer falls, doctor visits, have fewer pills to take, and are in better health than those who don’t participate in the arts.

““

Directed by Robb Hutter, noted actor, director and senior theater specialist, The Actors’ Studio at Shannondell provides an inviting classroom environment for residents to learn and practice acting techniques including improvisation, substitution and method acting, among others. The group consistently numbers around twenty members and performs several times throughout the year at the 500-seat, state-of-the-art Shannondell Performing Arts Theater. Says Robb, “To play to this house is no small feat. It’s like a Broadway theater.”

Shannondell residents in Robb Hutter’s Actors’ Studio

Resident Nancy Foster improvises

theater class!”Robb adds, “My Shannondell

actors have a blast together. They love the ability to express anger or passion that, offstage, they simply aren’t comfortable showing in public. And the camaraderie is addictive. Shannondell residents are always telling me that our theater class is the one thing they look forward to most, every week. Performing becomes secondary.”

One of the most anticipated performances in the Shannondell Performing Arts Theater every season is the WSDL Good Times Radio Revue, an ongoing production of the Actors’ Studio, directed by Robb.

“It’s a fun show for the actors and the audience. Both get to relive the golden age of radio with comedic sketches, hit songs and vintage commercials from shows like George and Gracie, Baby Snooks, Father Knows Best, The Bickersons

and The Inner Sanctum,” says Robb. If reliving the past while forging

a new path sounds like a paradox to you, at least one thing’s clear – where Robb and his Shannondell actors are leading their peers – to an entirely new stage of life. The result: adults in their 70s, 80s and 90s who are enjoying a resurgence of energy, confidence and thrills.

Says Nancy, “Kevin Bacon once said, ‘A good director creates an environment which gives the actor the encouragement to fly.’ And today, at Shannondell, I’m flying.”

from grandson to grandmother. Proust.com aims to be the private place for families to capture life stories, thoughts, aspirations, and to spark meaningful conversations.

Fast Company, a publication that has become a barometer for success stories in the digital world, predicts that Proust will likely resonate well with seniors.

Proust founder Tom Cortese explains, “Proust divides your life story into a series of chapters – a digital autobiography called “Storybook View” that can be purchased by its users as an e-book or physical copy. The chapters can also be viewed on a map by location or on a timeline by milestones (first job, college graduation, etc.), offering a clever visual mechanism for telling one’s life story. Proust will inevitably have a social graph unlike any other social network – likely an older demographic, of course, but one with an incredibly intimate social fabric that taps into the irresistible feelings of nostalgia. Consider it the ‘Benjamin Button’ of social networks.”

The idea for the website came to Cortese after his grandmother passed away. “I had just lost [her] – we watched her battle dementia, and it was just this process of seeing memories go by the wayside,” he recalls on FastCompany.com. “There were so many stories I wish I knew about her life. What was it like growing up in Italy? What was it like going to an American school in the Bronx? When did you learn to drive? All these interesting tidbits that I wished I asked her [when she was alive]. What we set out to do was come up with a way to actually help you tell your story,” Coretese says.

Unlike Facebook or Twitter (two of the most popular social networking sites), Proust is designed to help its users craft and share their memories privately by prompting them to ask and answer questions such as “What is your most memorable birthday? When was your first kiss?” Proust assumes that seniors are the experts of their own lives, and therefore the most likely to have the answers – and memories.

Social Networking continued from page 1

Shannondell Book Club Reads

January not only turns the page on a new year, but also

exciting new books that the very active Shannondell Book Clubs are reading and discussing. They encourage you to read along.

The Book Discussion Group begins Caleb’s Crossing by Geraldine Brooks. Set on Martha’s Vineyard in the late 17th century, Brooks’ novel is an American story of native and immigrant cultures meeting in the colonial era. When a Puritan farmer’s daughter encounters a wild young Native American on an outer island, her father ends up adopting the boy. He tutors the young man, who eventually crosses over to Anglo-American culture, hence the title. An engrossing read, Caleb’s Crossing will pull you into the voice of its time.

In January, The Non-Fiction Book Club turns the page on Rock the Casbah: Rage and Rebellion Across the Islamic World by Robin Wright. The title might sound familiar if you were a fan of The Clash, a 1980s English punk band. We’re guessing not. Regardless, The Clash’s understanding that culture and politics are inextricably intertwined is precisely Robin Wright’s point. By focusing her book on Islamic youth culture as an instrument of change, Robin paints a picture that’s both surprising and anticipated, and therein lies the story.

Health & Wellness

Jane Fonda popularized the aerobic workout in the 1980s, and

at 74, the fitness queen still keeps in shape by making regular exercise a part of her daily routine. But you don’t have to be a leotard-clad movie star to get all the benefits of motion in your golden years.

Traditional workouts aren’t the only route to health! These days, Baby Boomers and their parents’ generation keep busy with everything from walking, swimming and yoga to ballroom dancing, Zumba, belly dancing (!), Tai Chi, chair exercises and more.

According to a study from the University of Michigan

Health System, elderly people with untreated visual disorders are significantly more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. The study used Medicare data, and shows that those with poor vision who visited an ophthalmologist at least once for an examination were 64% less likely to develop dementia.

The study, which appeared in the American Journal of Epidemiology, may draw a new picture of poor vision as a predictor of dementia rather than as a symptom after the diagnosis.

Proper vision is a requirement for many of the activities that have been found to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. These include reading, playing board games, other

While we may enjoy all of the seasons in eastern

Pennsylvania, wintertime does have its downfalls – including icy conditions that make driving and walking, in particular, treacherous.

Kerry Larkin, RN with the Regional Trauma Center at Paoli Hospital, states, “Between December, 2010 and March, 2011, twenty percent of hospital admissions resulting from a fall were related to snow and ice, and more than one-half of these falls involved persons older than 55.” To keep you and your family safer this winter, Paoli’s Trauma Center offers these 3 tips when walking outside among the elements:

Blood thinners: Individuals on anticoagulants or blood thinners should take extra precautions. Call your health care provider as soon as possible if you have a bad fall or a hard bump, especially if you hit your head.

Inspiring Living Winter 2012 www.shannondell.com

54

Untreated Poor Vision Linked to Dementia

3 Winter Walking TipsCourtesy of Main Line Health System

Keep Moving, But Don’t Forget To S-t-r-e-t-c-h!

Shannondell personal trainers inspire residents

Enjoying the indoor pool at Shannondell.

But with all this healthy movement, there’s one exercise practice that seems to take a back seat.

“Stretching takes additional time as part of a workout,” says Shannondell exercise physiologist, Michelle Swartwood. “Particularly if it’s done correctly. And, for many people, they forgo the practice of stretching due to time constraints and/or because they consider it boring. They just don’t see the benefits and that’s unfortunate.”

Stretching is one of the most important exercises you can engage in at any age. Stretching not only isolates muscle groups, but can also be done sitting or standing and leads to better posture and overall improved flexibility.

And increasing flexibility is something that virtually everybody, particularly those in their seventies and eighties, needs to work on according to physical therapists and fitness experts.

Michelle adds, “At Shannondell, we offer so many classes that include stretching because so many of our residents now recognize the everyday benefits from becoming more flexible. From classes like Yoga and Tai Chi to Stretch & Balance and Stretch & Strength, we make sure that we take time, particularly at the end of the class, to really stretch out while the muscles are warm. Stretching at the end of a workout can mean the difference between being sore, or not, regardless of age.”

“The benefits of stretching are so apparent when you see residents who, after learning to stretch

Transition risks: Use special care when entering/exiting buildings or vehicles. Use handrails or the vehicle for support as you transition from one position to the next.

And, whenever possible, avoid north-facing building entrances. Unless properly cleared, these areas tend to remain icy.

Shoes: Appropriate footwear in inclement weather is a must. Rubber and neoprene composite boots and shoes will provide more traction than leather or plastic. If you must “dress up,” consider carrying your dress shoes rather than wearing them out.

Be safe in the New Year and throughout the year – watch your step, and if you do experience a fall, regardless of how you feel at the time, consider contacting your health care provider.

properly, are all of a sudden sitting up and walking straighter. They notice the difference too,” Michelle is quick to point out. “We’ll have people at the end of a class say, ‘I feel taller’ or ‘Wow, my arms or legs don’t ache as much.’ Since this generation didn’t grow up working out, for the most part, they never learned to stretch properly. Once they learn, they get it.”

So, the next time you’re blocking out time for strength training, walking, biking, swimming or other active workouts, be sure to save some time at the end to s-t-r-e-t-c-h. Your body will thank you with flexibility that, likely, you haven’t enjoyed in years.

mentally stimulating activities, social networking, as well as physical activity such as walking and routine exercising. A visual disorder may interfere with normal mobility, and may also hinder a person’s ability to participate in such activities.

Vision problems and blindness are among the top 10 disabilities among adults, and can increase the risk of other health conditions and even premature death.

“While heart disease and cancer death rates are continuing to decline, mortality rates for Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise,” says Rogers. “If we can delay the onset of dementia, we can save individuals and their families from the stress, cost and burden that are associated with Alzheimer’s.”Source: University of Michigan. Funding for the study was provided by the National Institute on Aging.

Part of Main Line Health, the Main Line Health Center at Shannondell offers residents and their families peace of mind knowing their current and future well-being is in the absolute best hands, including those of Medical Director David Galinsky MD.

76

Inspiring Living Winter 2012 www.shannondell.com

Living

Try your hand

no personal connection. Laughter has its own benefit, but games can also help improve memory, dexterity, reduce stress and remove a sense of isolation.

Playing certain games – especially video games such as Wii – can help improve older adults’ split-second decision making, hand-eye coordination, and, in some cases, auditory perception, says Ezriel Kornel, MD, of Brain and Spine Surgeons of New York. “It’s actually a very complex set of tasks that your brain is going through.”

Kornel adds, “It’s not enough, though, to just pick up a game and play it for a few minutes. You have to actually improve at it -- and to improve you have to be learning.” He goes on, “Anytime the brain is in learning mode, there are new synapses forming between the

“Gaming” may have a new meaning in the digital world, but for most older adults, it still means good old-fashioned fun with board games, cards, dice and dominoes – and a great way to exercise the brain!

Games and activities can bring people together in groups and enhance a sense of belonging and participation. Adds Robin Siegler, Director of Activities at Shannondell, “Our ‘gaming’ groups at Shannondell – including Bridge, Poker, Rummikub, Dominoes, Scrabble, Mahjong, Chess and Pinochle – are a very social bunch. They laugh and have a good time with each other. You can’t walk by the card or clubrooms when the groups are in session without poking your head in the door to see what all the commotion is about. Just don’t linger or you’ll end up at a table.”

Old-fashioned gaming can also yield health benefits.

When people share laughter through games together it can help to bond people that otherwise feel

popular games at Shannondell

With more than 50 groups, clubs and classes at Shannondell, there’s usually a game going on somewhere. And if not, all you have to do is gather a few neighbors together. Of course, a little wine and cheese never hurts! Here’s just a sampling:

MahjongParty BridgePinochleDuplicate BridgeHand and Foot Card GameMexican Train DominoesChessScrabbleRummikubPokerCanastaCribbageWii BowlingWii Tennis

N o matter how many New Years you’ve rung in, it’s never too late to resolve to

live healthier. Here, from the American Geriatrics

Society Foundation for Health in Aging, are five of their top ten healthy New Year’s resolutions for older adults, gathered from leading experts:

Eat your veggies, fruits, whole grains, fish, low-fat dairy, and healthy fats. Five servings of fruits and vegetables are recommended daily - but less than a third of older adults do this.

Take a multivitamin-mineral. Check, first, with your doctor, then check labels and choose one that includes 100% of the “Daily Value” for most vitamins and minerals.

See your doctor or healthcare provider regularly. This means at least once a year, unless he or she says you should come in more often.

Move. Exercise is safe and healthy for most older adults – even those with illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis can benefit from a regular plan. So, see your doctor and get moving.

Did you know that your home is affected by the seasons, too?

The air temperature, humidity levels, dust accumulation rate, and the presence of mold and bacteria inside your house or apartment can vary at different times of the year. Below are a few quick tips for keeping your home healthy during the winter months:

Listen to your “home” body. If your house feels drafty or develops unusual smells, do some

Winter Tips for A Healthy Home

Bright Reminder

investigating. You may need to make adjustments to your thermostat, purchase a humidifier, check for concentrated areas of moisture or replace old windows or doors.

Give your furnace a checkup. Service your furnace and replace filters annually to heat your home safely and efficiently – while reducing dust, allergens and bacteria in the air. Additionally, air ducts should be professionally cleaned every 5-7 years.

Pay more attention to surfaces. Because we tend to spend more time indoors during the winter, germs can build up on commonly-used hard surfaces such as door and faucet handles, keyboards and remotes. Clean weekly with a household cleanser.

Take a sip. Dehydration – one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization among people over the age of 65 – is aggravated by heaters and dry air during the winter. Drink 6-8 cups of liquid per day and see your doc if you develop symptoms of dehydration.

Turn on the lights. Keeping a few extra lamps on during the winter – especially on the season’s high number of dreary days – can improve your mood. Changing to fluorescent full-spectrum bulbs that mimic natural light can also help, and they last 10 times longer.

New 2012 energy standards for light bulbs take affect this year! Replace old bulbs with energy-saving incandescent bulbs, which use 25% less energy than traditional bulbs. To save even more, choose CFL or LED bulbs to use up to 75% less energy! To find out more, visit www.energysavers.gov

Continued on pg. 12

Toast New Year’s Day with a smaller glass. Drinking a “moderate” amount of alcohol may lower your risks of heart disease and some other illnesses. However, since alcohol can interact with certain drugs, ask your healthcare provider whether even this much is safe for you.

To these, Shannondell residents would add: take up a new activity or hobby, read a book once a month (or more frequently), volunteer your time for a worthy cause, go green(er), or grab a friend once a week and go out to dinner, a movie or a play. And, oh yeah, revisit all those resolutions you made last year. Now, what were they?

Bridge at Shannondell: a favorite activity of residents

New Year’s Resolutions? Live Healthier!Edited from HealthinAging.org

A lively Mahjong game at Shannondell

ACROSS1- Iron hook with a handle5- Low plant with many branches9- Residence14- Up to it15- Projecting columns at end of wall16- Fasten, at sea17- Gradual18- Attack a fly19- Winged20- Excessively sensitive23- Spool24- Golf position25- Lao-___28- Books of maps31- Madrid Mrs.34- More robust36- Jamaican popular music37- Large jug or pitcher38- Reticent42- Principal43- Copycat44- Small branch45- Foul46- Misgovern49- Become firm50- Dispenser candy

51- Sisters53- Fate60- Gnu cousin61- American space agency62- Winglike parts63- Related to the kidneys64- Camaro model65- Sets of equipment66- “The ____ has landed.”67- Small horse68- 3:00

DOWN1- Deep wound2- With skill3- Failure4- Not as many5- Hunting dog6- Ill7- Ollie’s partner8- Panama and bowler9- Barbed-wire barricade10- Contradict11- Norwegian king12- Go out with13- Storm center21- Give guns again22- Pertaining to the small intestine

25- Pollex26- Capital city of Yemen27- Spanish hero29- Grant portrayer30- Travel on snow31- Moves through water32- Theatrical entertainment33- Give it ___!35- Great length of time37- Greek vowel39- Corn40- FedEx rival41- Sports area46- Interfere47- Complete agreement48- Insanity50- Pertaining to punishment52- Post53- Entreaty54- Tolled55- Cut56- Edible corm57- Hip bones58- Cereal grain59- Resting place60- Before

Answers on back cover

98

Inspiring Living Winter 2012 www.shannondell.com

Travel

Alaska continued from page 1

And with summer just a few short months away, now’s the time to lock-in a deal for your 2012 Alaska cruise – with convenient air travel originating at Philadelphia International Airport.

We’ve made the process easier for you by providing helpful tips below – as well as a list of the most popular cruises for seniors – so you can get booking and get cruising!

Q What am i looking for?

A Do you want to delve into an enrichment program? Are you looking forward to some spa relaxation? Onboard activities such as casino, shows, or sports? Land activities such as walking tours or fishing trips? Spectacular dining? Search for a cruise company that will suit your tastes.

Q How do i maximize my budget?

A Seek out the best deal for your airfare and cruise costs, but pay attention to the fine print, too. “All-inclusive” includes a lot, but usually not everything. Reduce your onboard costs. In order to avoid laundry charges, pack plenty of clothes. Bring your own camera and film or memory cards. Do your homework on the ports of call and book independent tours yourself if it will save you money on additional land excursions.

Q What if i have special accessibility requirements or dietary concerns?

A Before you book, contact the cruise line to make sure it offers any special services you require – such as a cabin accessible by wheelchair. Also find out exactly which activities you will be able to participate in. Many cruise lines now offer healthy dining options, but if you are on a special diet, notify the cruise line. Most ships have doctors on board, but if you are on a medication, bring an ample supply of it – enough not only to last for the entire voyage, but for a week more, in case of travel delays.

Senior-Recommended Cruise Lines:

Crystal Cruises (Luxury)800-337-9568Crystalcruise.comBest enrichment program. Take various lessons ranging from Berlitz language to Yamaha keyboard, often at no extra charge.

Royal Caribbean International(Moderate)866-562-7625RoyalCaribbean.comBest ships for active seniors (tied with Princess). You can enjoy entertainment in the five-story theater, practice your swing in a

golf simulator (or your putts on the miniature golf course), or even participate in some of the senior-focused fitness programs (like “walk a mile at your own pace”).

Disney Cruise Line(Moderate)800-951-3532Disneycruise.disney.go.comBest line for three-generational reunions at sea. There are adults-only areas, including an evening entertainment district with clubs and an adults-only restaurant for parents and grandparents.

Silversea Cruises(Luxury)877-276-6816Silversea.comBest ultra-deluxe small-ship cruise line for seniors. These all-suite ships offer an excellent enrichment program featuring distinguished lecturers, who may be university professors, ambassadors, journalists or chefs from the regions visited.

INNERSEA DISCOVERIES(Luxury)888-862-8881Innerseadiscoveries.comBest cruise line for soft-adventure itineraries. This line offers close-up opportunities for responsible exploration and enjoyment of scenery and wildlife in unspoiled coastal areas of the globe. You can even request to be awakened for wildlife sightings or other special nighttime occurrences, such as the aurora borealis, or northern lights.

* Edited from SmarterTravel.com and AlaskaCruiseExperts.com

Can it be? Where’s the calendar? Quick, what’s the temperature in Clearwater? Brrrr. Well, we do have a few more weeks before the Phillies kick off Spring Training with their college opener against FSU on February 29, followed by three games with the Yankees.

So, what does the coming season hold for our Phillies? As of the date this article is being written, we’d say it comes down to how team management approaches the following four questions before the first pitch is thrown. Will they acquire left-handed bullpen help? Will they fix the hole at third base (sorry Placido)? Will they get a

The hustle and bustle of the holidays was evident at Shannondell as residents enjoyed festive outings in December with friends and neighbors.

The festivities kicked off with a short excursion to see Peter Nero and The Philly Pops perform The Holiday Pops at the Kimmel Center. Starring Ashley Brown (who played the original role of Mary Poppins on Broadway), this Holiday spectacular featured The Philadelphia Boys Choir appearing with the Pops Festival Chorus and the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas Gospel Choir.

Remaining in the holiday spirit was easy for residents as they, next, enjoyed a relaxing day on their own at Longwood Gardens. Over 1,000 acres beckoned exploration, including the Holiday Fountain Show, Christmas Railway and Gingerbread Gardens. And, to top it off, the weather was perfect.

Concluding the December day-trips was another favorite holiday outing – The Christmas Show Winter Wonderland at the American Music Theater in Lancaster. And, the title certainly didn’t disappoint as the talented cast belted out, “Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow” – which it did (at least on stage)! At the end of the show, Mary, a Shannondell resident sums it up for all, “Now, I’m in the holiday mood.”

Warm Up Tophillies Spring Training

Day-tripping: Shannondell festive outings

much-needed right-handed bat off the Bench? And finally, will they let J-Roll walk (The answer, to many sports writers’ chagrin, no)?

Regardless of the moves they make before Spring Training starts, one thing’s for sure – there’ll be plenty of Phillies fans heading south to Bright House Field in March. Here, then, are our picks for home games: Yankees (March 3, 5), Braves (March 15), Yankees (March 23) and Red Sox (March 26). For more information, including ticket, discounts, and travel packages, visit – philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com

Memphis In association with The Shubert OrganizationJanuary 17 - 22Academy of Music

1950s Memphis, Tennessee bursts off the stage with explosive dancing and irresistible songs. Called “The very essence of what a Broadway musical should be” and winner of four 2010 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Memphis features a Tony-winning original score with music by Bon Jovi (1980s Rock band) founding member David Bryan.

Tickets: visit www.kimmelcenter.org or call 215.731.3333

Around Town

EntertainmentUpcoming at the Shannondell performing Arts Theater

1110

Inspiring Living Winter 2012 www.shannondell.com

Just when we think we can’t take any more cold gray days of winter, the Philadelphia International Flower Show opens its doors and allows us to experience a colorful dose of spring. This year’s show – Hawaii: Islands of Aloha – is certainly no exception. Guests will experience the unique culture of each of the six Big Islands through flowers, plants, stories, entertainment and art. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a traditional Hawaiian luau, featuring hula dancing, music and chants and visit a Hawaiian Village and Marketplace. Don’t miss free lectures and demonstrations on horticultural topics held in rooms near the exhibition hall.

FLOWER SHOW RETURNS iN MARCH Your Guide to Inspiring Living is a publication of Shannondell at Valley Forge, a continuing

care retirement community. Nestled in the countryside of Audubon, PA, Shannondell is just

down the road from Valley Forge National Park, King of Prussia Mall and a short drive from

both the Main Line and Philadelphia.

www.shannondell.com

Call 800.669.2318 or write us at: Shannondell / 10000 Shannondell Dr. / Audubon, PA 19403

February 6 Singin’ Bohemians Cabaret Troupe

This group of talented high school-age singers and dancers from MacGuffin Theater & Film Company also includes choreography by Liz Fredette and is directed by John Rea.

January 9 Annual Concertmaster Appearance!David Kim (violin) & Jeffrey Uhlig (piano)

The Concertmaster of the Philadelphia Orchestra joins us for one of the most anticipated concerts of the year at Shannondell.

February 21 Mardi Gras Concert featuring Ed Wise & His New Orleans Jazz Band

April 16 The Wind Symphony of New JerseyBig Band & The Sounds of Jazz

March 30 Nitzan Haroz (Principal Trombonist with the Philadelphia Orchestra) Classical Brass

Tickets to these and other performances in the Shannondell Performing Arts Theater for non-residents of Shannondell are available, but limited. To inquire about a particular show, please call 610.728.5211.

© 2012 Shannondell, Inc.

Thank you for your story on online ancestry (Trace Your Family Tree Online, Fall 2011). I just started working on my father’s family tree and need to access some military records in the 1800s. Any suggestions?

Molly C., Wayne, PA

Editors: Molly, we’re glad that you found the story helpful. There are several places to turn. We’d suggest starting with the following two as a first stage: National Park Service (http://www.itd.nps.gov/cwss/), and National Archives (pre-1917, you’ll need to order online; see the link mid-page – www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records)

When we received your Fall issue, we were about to head to Charleston to go see our grandkids, so your article was timely. Now that we’ve returned, we’d add another restaurant to your recommendations – Magnolias. The Pimiento Cheese could be a meal in and of itself!

Bill Z. , Valley Forge, PA

Editors: Thanks Bill. The Southerners on our staff would add another favorite at Magnolias in Charleston – the fried Chicken Livers with country ham, with sweet tea, of course. Just don’t plan to have your annual physical the week after.

Thanks for solving the mystery (A Horse By Any Other Name). Since you’re not located in “horse country,” my wife and I always wondered why the horse weather vane is part of Shannnondell’s logo. We plan to come to one of your Lunch & Learns after the holidays.

Guy & Anne M. , New Hope, PA

Editors: With a packed field for all of our neighboring horse shows at the The Shannondell Farm, we enjoy spending Sunday afternoons watching these beautiful animals and riders move in sync. If you’d prefer to combine your visit with a horse show, we’d be glad to host you for Sunday brunch.

Should a particular article within Your Guide to Inspiring Living move you to take pen or laptop in hand, drop us a line at info@shannondell.com using “Editors” in the subject. You may also write us at the address below. Thanks!

pennsylvania Ballet pushing Boundaries February 9 – 12Merriam Theater

Explore the physical and emotional frontiers of classical ballet with three contemporary works: Artifact Suite (Forsythe with music by Bach & Crossman-Hecht), Keep (Neenan with music by Borodin & Rimsky-Korsakov) and 11:11 (Neenan with music by Wainwright).

Tickets: Visit www.paballet.org

The philadelphia Orchestra 155th Academy of Music ConcertJanuary 28, 8:30 p.m.

Music Director Designate Yannick Nézet-Séguin will make his Academy of Music debut conducting The Philadelphia Orchestra, with special guests multiple Grammy Award-winners singer/pianist Diana Krall and cellist Yo-Yo Ma.

Tickets: Visit www.philorch.org or call 215.893.1999.

philadelphia Museum of ArtVan gogh Up CloseFebruary 1 – May 6

Focusing on the tumultuous years just before Vincent van Gogh

took his own life, this much anticipated exhibition features some 40 masterpieces borrowed from collections

around the world. These still lifes and landscapes have been called

the most original works of his career.

For tickets: www.philamuseum.org or call 215.235.7469

The MousetrapBy Agatha Christie January 17 – March 4Walnut Street Theater

Agatha Christie, the mistress of mystery, brings you her most popular creation, The Mousetrap. When a group of strangers are trapped at a manor house during a snowstorm, they soon discover one of them is a murderer! You would think audiences would know whodunnit by now, but after more than half a century, they are still guessing!

Tickets: visit www.walnutstreettheatre.org or call 215.574.3550.

March 2 – 10 The Pirates of PenzanceThe King of Prussia Players

Heralded as the most beloved, amusing and lyrically lovely of the Gilbert & Sullivan operas, The Pirates of Penzance arrives on the Shannondell stage with great anticipation.

2012 philadelphia international Flower Show Hawaii: Islands of AlohaMarch 4 – 11

Pennsylvania Convention CenterFor ticket information, visit www.theflowershow.com

Letters To The Editors

neurons. So you’re creating thousands of connections that can then be applied to other tasks as well.”

So, grab some friends and roll the dice and shuffle the deck, because these games will help to keep your brain firing on all cylinders:

u Brain Games and Mind GamesExample: CraniumExercises the mind and sharpens awareness skills

u Memory GamesExample: Matching Pairs, SolitaireHelps to maintain cognitive functioning

u Word GamesExample: Scrabble, BalderdashExercises the mind and maintains/increases vocabulary

u Tile, Dice, and Card GamesExample: Dominoes, Mahjong, Bridge Even those with arthritis can manage dice.

u Senior Trivia GamesExample: Trivial PursuitDifferent versions allow groups to cover many subjects.

u PuzzlesExample: Crosswords, Sudoku, Word FindsChallenges focus, dexterity and cognition

Inspiring Tom

Inspiring Helen

Following his lead

Moving to a new beat

Living to Inspire SM

10000 Shannondell Dr, Audubon, PA 19403

Call 800.669.2318 to request your Free issue of Talk About Inspiring Stories including interviews with Shannondell residents. Or, visit www.shannondell.com/inspiring

© 2011 Shannondell, Inc.

Call Free issue of

Yours FREE!

A s a teenager, Helen loved to Jitterbug. But, work and family left little time for Benny Goodman. That is, until she met a regular “Fred Astaire” at a dance several years ago. When Helen’s dance partner moved to Shannondell, she, naturally, followed his lead. Today, Helen’s become a regular not only on the dance fl oor, but also in the popular Zumba classes. In fact, the Latin beat moved Helen to try other exercise classes. Something she never felt comfortable doing before. Now, Helen is taking the lead. Her girls’ nightly outings have garnered a name – The Brighton Girls. Memoirs to, surely, follow.

Answers from page 9

Try Your Hand continued from page 7

12

Inspiring Living Winter 2012 www.shannondell.com

Puzzle provided by BestCrosswords.com. Used with permission.

Enjoying Chess on the patio at Shannondell