February 7, 2019
February
Page 7
4730 Squaw Prairie Rd., Belvidere
815-544-9495 www.hw-belvidere-slf.com
An Affordable Assisted Lifestyle Community for the Older Adult
Managed by Gardant Management Solutions
BOONE COUNTY ST
Belvidere,
SENIOR LIVING
IL
REET PUB
A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS
111 BUCHANAN ST. | BELVIDERE, IL 61008 815-547-1012
How Chocolate Became Tied To Valentine’s Day
SUNDAY-TUESDAY | 11 AM-2 AM WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY | 7 AM-2 AM FRIDAY-SATURDAY | 6 AM-2 AM
Heart-shaped boxes filled with decadent treats are coveted gifts on Valentine’s Day. Chocolate lovers typically have a favorite type of chocolate, whether it’s creamy filled truffles or chocolate pieces with fruit or nut fillings. The tradition of gifting chocolate is anything but new. Chocolate & other sweet treats have been offered for centuries as prized gifts. Even ancient Aztecs & Mayans celebrated chocolate & saw it as a hot commodity. Drinks made of cacao beans would be given as presents to people of high status. Chocolate also would be offered to the gods as a token of appreciation. Cacao beans were even used as a form of currency at one point. During the 17th century, chocolate consumption grew considerably across Europe. Chocolate houses cropped up in London, & the French elite often indulged in chocolate. Chocolate’s popularity continued to grow, but the dessert was not linked to Valentine’s Day until nearly 200 years later. In the mid-1800s, an enterprising individual named Richard Cadbury was looking for a way to make chocolate even more popular than it already was. He sought out a method to make drinking chocolate more palatable & created “eating chocolates.” These chocolates were packaged in decorative boxes. Eventually, Cadbury saw the benefit of putting images of cupids & roses on the boxes. Cadbury even designed chocolate boxes in the shape of hearts that could be saved as mementos. These chocolates soon became intertwined with Valentine’s Day celebrations. On the other side of the Atlantic, Milton Hershey dabbled in commercializing chocolate as well. Hershey began as a caramel maker, but experimented with covering the caramels in chocolate in 1894. Hershey would go on to develop one of the most successful brands of chocolate in the U.S., which included the famous Hershey bar. In 1907, Hershey launched production of tear-drop shaped “kisses.” (The chocolates were given their unusual name because of the “smooching” noise made by the chocolate when being manufactured.) The kisses became wildly popular & made for affordable chocolate gifts on Valentine’s Day.
Don’t Think About The End At The End. TWO GROUND FOR PRE-NEED BURIAL SPACES JUST
495
$ $
Highland Garden Of Memories
Many other chocolate manufacturers soon began packaging their chocolates in special boxes for Valentine’s Day. Russell Stover & Whitmans are two such manufacturers who have long specialized in heart-shaped boxes or other decorative Valentine’s gifts.
9800 Route 76 • Belvidere • 815-544-2750
Traditionally, men have gifted women with boxes of chocolate for Valentine’s Day. However, that role is reversed in other areas of the world. For example, in Japan, women give gifts - namely chocolates to the men in their lives to express love, courtesy or social obligation. This tradition first began in 1936 when confectioner Morozoff Ltd. ran the first ever Valentine’s Day ad in Japan through a local English newspaper. By the 1950s, other Japanese confectioners were following suit.
Complete Service Of Cars & Light Trucks
Chocolate has long been tied to Valentine’s Day gifting. Whether one believes that chocolate symbolizes heightened status, acts as an aphrodisiac or is just a special treat, chocolates will likely always be associated with the day of love.
We Carry
See Our “Pros” For
• Brakes & Suspension • Wheel Alignment • Shocks & Struts • Air Conditioning
• New Tires • Roadside Tire Service • Small Engine Sales & Service
R. J. Daniels Fuel & Tire 815-544-2118
8094 Fairgrounds Rd., Belvidere, IL Open Daily 7-5; Sat. 7-Noon
Happy Valentine’s Day! FEBRUARY 14TH
Specializing In Short & Long Term Care Quality Healthcare Provided By A Professional Staff In addition to the highest quality care, we also strive to maintain the highest quality of life.
MapleCrest
4452 Squaw Prairie Road, Belvidere, IL 61008 tel: 815.547.6377 • fax: 815.547.3857 www.maplecrestcare.com
For A Private Tour Call Our Admissions Department Today
Rehabilitation Services Our rehab services extend far beyond the physical - it is about serving every aspect of an individual with care, kindness and respect. Our goal is to provide the necessary approach to facilitate a complete return to health and successful return to home.
Serving Boone County Over 40 Years!
Nor thwoods
2250 Pearl Street, Belvidere, IL 61008 tel: 815.544.0358 • fax: 815.544.5006 www.northwoodscare.com
Page 8
February 7, 2019
DISPILL Medication Packaging System
BOONE COUNTY
SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS
Great Gadgets For Travel Enthusiasts Travel enthusiasts know that venturing off to parts unknown can be unpredictable. As a result, travelers can never be too prepared. Some gadgets can help the world’s wanderers overcome unforeseen obstacles while overseas, while others can simply add to the enjoyment of visiting a faraway land for the first time. • Translation device: A translation device can help travelers overcome the language barrier when visiting a locale where their native tongue is not spoken. Some devices, such as the iLi Instant Offline Translation Device, can translate words without being connected to the internet, which is ideal for those traveling to remote parts of the world with unreliable or no internet access. Before choosing a device for a particular trip, make sure it’s capable of translating words into the primary language spoken in the country you’ll be visiting. • Safety device: The world is a wonderful place to explore, but travelers must keep safety in mind at all times. A wearable safety device that’s not bulky won’t make it uncomfortable to travel, but it can make travelers feel more secure. The Silent Beacon Wearable Safety Device can dial 911 in an emergency, indicating users’ GPS location to emergency personnel, & alert loved ones who users load into the device before their trips. The device even allows travelers who feel threatened to call for help without letting anyone around them know. • Portable smartphone charger: Travel photos can help travelers cherish their adventures for years to come. Of course, it’s hard to take photos with a smartphone if phones are not fully charged. The Omnicharge Omni 20 comes in various models & can charge any device, including smartphones. If the Omni 20 bust some travelers’ budgets, there are other portable chargers designed specifically for smartphones. Users need only make sure the device they purchase is compatible with their specific phones. • Portable coffee brewer: A portable coffee brewer is perfect for travelers who like to sleep outside during their travels. Just because you go to sleep under the stars does not mean you can’t begin your day enjoying a hot cup of coffee as you soak up some morning sun. For those whose travels will take them up a mountain or through hilly terrain, be sure to purchase a portable brewer that’s lightweight & compact. The right gadgets can make any trip more memorable & provide a taste of home away from home.
How To Sanitize A Mobile Phone The most germ-addled item in your home may not be the toilet or the kitchen sponge. Mobile phones pick up bacteria wherever they go. In addition, users touch their phones an average of 47 times a day according to the national average determined by a Deloitte research survey, introducing new contaminants to the device each time they do so. Researchers at the University of Arizona found that cell phones carry 10 times more bacteria than many toilet seats, & there may be as many as 17,000 bacterial gene copies on the average high-schooler’s phone. While cell phone safety often focuses on protecting data, smartphone users also should consider keeping their phones clean to remove the potentially harmful microbes that accumulate on phones every day. Avoid excess moisture when cleaning cell phones, advises the home & lifestyle experts at The Spruce as moisture can damage internal components. Most cell phone screens have an oleophobic coating that repels oils from hands & fingers. Harsh cleansers or abrasive materials on the glass can prematurely remove this coating and/or scratch the surface. While you clean at your own risk, many tech experts suggest a spray mixture of distilled water & isopropyl alcohol applied to a microfiber cloth to remove surface contaminants. Don’t directly wet the phone. There also are prepackaged cleansers sold for electronics usage. Invest in an antimicrobial cover to provide an added layer of protection for the phone. Other ways to keep a phone clean are to wash your hands before use & to try to keep the phone away from areas that may be vulnerable to germs, such as bathrooms.
The Hidden Boost That Buying Local Provides Though consumers no doubt understand how buying from local merchants can benefit those merchants, few may grasp just how beneficial buying local can be to their entire communities. In 2012, Civic Economics, an economic analysis & strategic planning firm, analyzed data from 15 independent retailers & seven independent restaurants, all located in Salt Lake City, comparing those businesses’ local economic impact with four national retailer chains & three national restaurant chains. The study found that the local retailers returned 52% of their revenue to the local economy, a figure that dwarfed the revenue returned by the national chains, which returned just 14% of revenue to the local economy. Restaurants provided an even bigger boost to local economies, returning 79% of their revenue compared to just 30% for the national chain restaurants. The reasons for these disparities include local businesses spending more on local labor & relying more heavily on local service providers. So while buying local may be more convenient & eco-friendly, it also can greatly benefit local economies.
The care patients have come to choose and trust. Two, convenient Boone County locations Belvidere Physical Therapy 1686 Henry Luckow Lane 815-547-4777 Orthopedic and Sports
Poplar Grove Physical Therapy 13524 Julie Drive 815-765-1155
Therapy Institute
Orthopedic • Sports • Industrial Rehabilitation Complimentary injury screens I ostipt.com
We Offer A Worry-Free SelfMedication System To Prevent Your Loved One From Missing Medications Or Taking Too Much. Filled Directly By Our Pharmacist, So There Are No Mistakes. Your Co-Pay Is The Same Anywhere You Go. So Why Not Support Your Local Pharmacy?
• Competitive Pricing • Personalized Patient • We Accept All Major Insurance Consultations • Durable Medical Equipment & Medicaid/Medicare • Diabetic Shoes • User Friendly Packaging HOME HEALTH CARE DEPT. Support Stockings Braces/Splints Lift Chairs Bath Benches Wheelchairs Walkers Crutches & Canes Commodes Hospital Beds
WH O NEEDS A DRI V E-TH RU WH EN WE
DELIVER! Delivery Available 6 Days A Week Monday - Saturday
O’Brien’s Pharmacy 216 S. State St., Belvidere • 815-544-3433 Pharmacy Hours: Monday-Friday 9 am - 7 pm; Saturday 9 am - 4 pm; Sunday 9 am - 1 pm
Belvidere Family
YMCA
• For Youth Development • For Healthy Living • For Social Responsibility
815-547-5307
• Programs Recommended By Arthritis Foundation • Silver Sneakers & Enhance Fitness • Gymnasium & Fitness Center With Trained Staff • Fitness Classes Free With Membership • 85 Degree Swimming Pool • Adult Lap & Open Times Throughout The Day • Discounted And Subsidized Memberships
220 West Locust, Belvidere, IL 61008 www.belviderefamilyymca.org
Be Comfortable In Your Home!
• 24/7 Emergency Service • Service & Installation Of All Makes & Models • Free Estimates On New Equipment Installations • Clean & Check Specials • Air Duct Cleaning • Financing Available • Utility Rebates • Seasonal Specials • 10% SENIOR DISCOUNT
Serving Boone, Winnebago & Surrounding Counties
815-298-8020 www.allenheatcool.com
Veterans Assistance Commission Of Boone County The Veterans’ Assistance Commission provides needed services exclusively to Boone County Honorably Discharged Military Veterans & their families. We work with local Veterans’ Service Organizations as well as local, state & federal agencies, to ensure your rights. Services include: Interim and/or emergency veterans’ (financial) assistance, emotional support services, administrative case work, transition center services & VA medical-related transportation services.
Please Call For An Appt. 815-544-6464 130 S. State St., Suite 212, Belvidere www.VACBC.org Email: VACBoone@VACBC.org
Page 9
February 7, 2019
BOONE COUNTY
SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS
Heart-Healthy Lifestyles Begin In The Kitchen Weight-loss initiatives & dieting often go hand-in-hand, but healthy diets can do more than help women shed pounds. Heart disease is the primary killer of females, but embracing heart-healthy diets can help women reduce their risk of develop cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Assoc. reports that heart disease causes one in three female deaths each year in the U.S. The AHA also notes that 90% of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease. Heart valve problems, congestive heart failure, abnormal rhythm of the heart, & plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries can contribute to heart disease. Fortunately, healthy choices, including the right diet, can help reduce women’s risk for heart disease risk. Here are a few easy ways to modify eating habits to be more heart-healthy. 119 S. State St. 815-544-3141 • Avoid consuming too many calories. The Mayo Clinic says to control portion sizes so that you are not Belvidere’s Only Complete Florist overloading on extra calories. Eat larger portions of nutrient-rich foods & go sparingly on high-calorie, highSeasonal Giftware, Purses sodium and/or refined foods. Being overweight can contribute to heart problems. & Scarves, Greeting • Increase produce consumption. A variety of low-calorie fruits & vegetables can provide ample nutrition & Cards, Truffles & More! plenty of healthy antioxidants. Choose a variety of fruits & vegetables so that you get as many vitamins & minerals as possible. Make fruits & vegetables your largest portions when eating. Family Owned & Operated • Reduce sodium intake. Harvard Health points out that too much sodium consumption can increase blood Same Day pressure & cause the body to hold onto fluid. Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke & other Delivery Available Monday-Saturday! cardiovascular problems. www.barrsflowers.com • Add more whole grains to your diet. Dietary fiber from whole grains may improve blood cholesterol levels, Proud member of the thereby lowering your risk for heart disease. Dietary fiber also can lower risk of stroke, obesity, & type 2 diabetes. teleflora network • Choose healthy fats. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon, olive oil & flax seed reduce a person’s risk of developing arrhythmia & atherosclerosis. The American Heart Assoc. recommends eating fatty fish at least twice a week as a way to boost omega-3 fatty acid levels. • Burials • Load up on berries. When choosing fruits, go heavy on berries. Health magazine reports that according to a 2013 study, women ages of 25-42 who ate more than three servings of blueberries & strawberries a week had a • Cremation Columbarium 32% lower risk of heart attack. The study attributed the benefit to compounds known as anthocyanins & • Pre-Burial Arrangements • Monument Markers & Memorials flavonoids,which are antioxidants, that may decrease blood pressure & dilate blood vessels. • Indulge in smart ways. When eating sweets, choose dark chocolate. It contains flavonoids called polyphenols, which may help lower blood pressure & reduce clotting & inflammation. Select varieties with 60-70% cocoa. Cemetery Lots $850-$900 Columbarium Double Niche $2500 In addition to a cardiac-friendly diet, women concerned about heart health should aim for at least 150 minutes of Grave Openings $950 (Includes Engraving) (Weekends Slightly More) moderate physical activity each week. Also, pay attention to food labels to make smarter choices. 1701 5th Avenue, Belvidere, IL 61008
Barr’s Flowers
©
Expertise & Experience
BC A
elvidere Frank Lloyd Wright Pettit Chapel emetery 1121 N. Main, Belvidere 815-547-7642 ssociation Medicare & Most Insurance ACCEPTED
THE RIGHT CARE, RIGHT AT H ME • • • •
SLEEP THERAPY HOME OXYGEN MOBILITY POWER CHAIRS
• • • •
SCOOTERS RAMPS STAIR LIFTS BATH SAFETY
Locally Owned & Operated Since 1988 5027 Harrison Ave. Rockford, IL
2020 Sutler Ave. Beloit, WI
815-965-9454 608-313-0800 M-F 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM • integratedhc.com
Great Reasons To Visit Your Local Library Many people have a wonderful resource at their disposal just minutes from their homes. This resource can transport them to distant lands & serve as a great place to meet new friends. So what is this magical place? Our local library - Ida Public Library, 320 N. State St., Belvidere. Libraries offer more than books, making them an invaluable resource for the community. The following are just a handful of the great reasons to visit the library. • Reading may help improve long-term mental health. A 2001 study from researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that patients with Alzheimer’s disease were less active in early & middle adulthood in regard to intellectual, passive & physical activities than people who did not have AD. Young adults & middle-aged men & women who visit their local libraries & check out a book might decrease their risk for cognitive decline later in life. • Reading can improve your vocabulary. Reading for pleasure as a child has long been linked to helping young people age 16 & under develop strong reading & math skills. But a recent study that examined how the vocabularies of more than 9,400 people developed between ages 16-42 found that vocabulary continued to improve long after teenage years. By continuing to read books, adults can further develop their vocabularies. • Libraries provide lots of free entertainment. Libraries are home to newspapers, magazines, CDs, & DVDs for entertainment. Better yet, such entertainment is free to card holders. Ida Public Library “Blind Date With A Book” offered now through February 16th - Are you brave enough to bring a book home without knowing what it is? In honor of Valentine’s Day, the library will be gathering some of the best books & wrapping them up. Don’t worry, they will give you a little hint about what is on the inside! There will be books available throughout the whole library. Turn in reaction cards for a chance to win a small drawing.
Her first car. Their college savings fund. Your retirement. Life moves fast.
We’ll be there every step of the way. Member FDIC
1-855-696-4352 | midlandsb.com
Page 10
February 7, 2019
BOONE COUNTY
SENIOR LIVING
WHAT’S YOUR NEXT STEP?
When When your your housing housing needs needs change, change, let let me me help help you you through through the the process. process. Over Over 32 31 years years experience. experience.
A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS
Jane Eurek 815-988-7596
Food For Veterans Provided By Local Community
Managing Broker, SRES janeeurek@dickersonnieman.com
®
Article Contributed By: Elizabeth Rose Carville, Boone County Veterans Assistance Commission
As the colder months approach, many seniors may dread the added cost of turning up the heat as part of their cold weather budget expenses. However, seniors in the area can offset their budgets by taking advantage of the Senior Grocery Markets every 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month, 8:30-11:00 AM. Located at the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s Northwest Center, 765 Research Pkwy., Rockford. They provide a variety of nutritious food to include fresh produce & assorted meats. Even though the market is located in Rockford, this free market is available to all seniors in the Winnebago & surrounding counties. Local seniors 60 years & older are eligible for this benefit. When you arrive at the market, you will need provide an ID (examples are your driver license, mail, etc.). Don’t forget to bring your own shopping bags. Seniors can pick out the foods they want, which not only helps with eliminating food waste, but is an important factor for many seniors that may have diet restrictions. One of the frequent question’s seniors ask is if a senior may have someone shop for them as a proxy. The answer to this question is yes. During your 1st trip to the Senior Grocery Market you & your proxy need to come together & fill out the proxy paperwork. Your designated person must have a valid ID as well. Despite the historic lows this winter, it felt a little bit warmer in the hearts & homes of many senior veterans across Boone County. This past holiday season, the Veterans Assistance Commission of Boone County was able to work with a local company, majority of which were seniors, by presenting them with a food basket. Each basket was filled with a turkey, potatoes, stuffing, cake & many other traditional holiday food items. For the past several years this company has made the lives of these special seniors feel unforgotten by honoring their military service to our country. This unique population of Senior Veterans served our country during war time & peace time in all branches of the military serving as far back as WWII & the Korean War. Both Veterans & volunteers look forward to this annual event. Although it may seem like a small way to say, “thank you for your service” in the form of food; it is a gift that words cannot express. The sense of thankfulness by the recipients of these food baskets is incredible. The day is full of hugs, tears & genuine heartfelt gratitude. Each basket is hand delivered to each Veterans’ home by volunteers making the delivery even more special to each person. Food donations do not stop at baskets for Christmas. The Belvidere Police Department annually provides for citizens of Boone County. Due to their efforts & community gifts, the Veterans Assistance Commission of Boone County is able to provide for Boone County Veterans by providing ongoing canned goods far beyond the holidays. Senior Veterans are able to come by & pick up items at no cost until every item has been taken. For many seniors, food can be one less expense to worry about, giving them more time to focus on family, health & happiness.
This Month’s Healthy Recipe QUICK LASAGNA Nutrition Facts Recipe Provided By The U of I Extension Office
Ingredients 2 cups low-fat ricotta cheese 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese 2 T. dried parsley 1 t. minced garlic
4 cups spaghetti sauce 3/4 lb. lasagna noodles, uncooked 4 oz. part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. 2 In medium bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, parsley & garlic. 3. Pour 1 cup of spaghetti sauce in bottom of pan. Arrange 1/3 of the noodles in pan so that they touch but do not overlap. 4. Spread 1/2 of the cheese mixture over the noodles. Top with 1/2 of the mozzarella cheese. 5. Top with 1 cup of spaghetti sauce, 1/3 of noodles, the remainder of cheese mixture & the rest of the mozzarella. 6. Add another cup of spaghetti sauce, another layer of noodles & the remainder of the spaghetti sauce. 7. Top with parmesan cheese. Bake covered tightly with aluminum foil, for one hour.
Servings Per Recipe: 12 Servings Amount Per Serving: Calories 250 Total Fat 8g Sodium 240mg Carbohydrates 31g Dietary Fiber 3g Protein 16g
1253 1253 Logan Logan Ave., Ave., Belvidere Belvidere dickersonnieman.com dickersonnieman.com
Free Consultation • Wills • Trusts • Probate • Powers of Attorney • Nursing Home Planning • Real Estate
John H. Maville Attorney At Law 815-544-3165 www.mavillelaw.com Suite 307, 600 S. State, Belvidere 1444 N. State St. Belvidere, IL 815-323-1840 Your Trusted Family Jeweler Since 1921
Offers The Following In-Store Services: • Free Jewelry Cleaning & Diamond Inspection • Expert Jewelry Repair • Watch Battery Installation • Jewelry Appraisals • Lifetime Trade-Up on Your Diamond Jewelry • Buying Gold, Silver & Pre-Owned Jewelry
www.lueckejewelers.com
Chicago Flower Show Bus Trip
Power Recliner And Lift Chairs By
On these cold winter days, just thinking about Spring helps us move beyond the weather. One of the best ways to motivate is to plan for something special. The Keen Age Center is planning a trip to the Annual Flower Show in Chicago at Navy Pier on Friday, March 22nd. The cost for the trip (which includes the ticket to the flower show & bus ride) is set at $50 round trip. Lunch is on your own. Food & drink service is available in the event room as well as at the many restaurants on Navy Pier. If you are interested, please sign up as soon as possible with the Receptionist at the Keen Age Center, 2141 Henry Luckow Lane, Belvidere or call 815-544-9893.
We Also Carry Lift Chairs By Ultra Comfort & Best Craft
Indoor Walking Club Belvidere Park District offers an Indoor Walking Club. Walking is beneficial for maintaining a good heart & is fun as well. Bring a friend & walk at your own pace. Come on over to the Rivers Edge Recreation Center gymnasium at 1151 W. Locust, Belvidere and walk your way to good health. It is free to walk at the rec center and open Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM.
FURNITURE
315 S. State St. • Belvidere • 815-547-6672 HOURS: Mon. & Fri. 9-7; Tues.-Thurs. 9-5; Sat. 9-4; Closed Sun.
Our Family Is Here For Yours.
Our mission is to celebrate one’s life and help families navigate the journey of loss with a sense of hope. One of the most painful events we experience in life is the loss of a loved one. We believe that finding an appropriate and meaningful way to celebrate your loved one’s life while giving thanks to God for their life is the necessary foundation to healing. - Stephen Anderson
218 W. Hurlbut Ave. Belvidere 815-544-2616 www.AndersonFCS.com
Whether you call it a funeral service, memorial service, or commemoration service. Whether you choose burial or cremation, whether your budget is large or small. Whether you invite friends and community, or journey simply with your closest family members. We will help you design a unique and special ceremony.