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Living Life After 50
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Vol. 40, No. 4
September 2026
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St. JoSeph edition Reaching South Bend and SuRRounding countieS
ON PARADE — Members of Michiana Mustangs and their families participated in the Mishawaka Memorial Day Parade earlier this year. Photo provided by Michiana Mustangs.
WELL MAINTAINED — Brad Milliken tends to his 1965 Mustang. While Milliken is a proud Mustang owner, ownership is not required to be a part of the club. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.
Automotive enthusiasm abounds in
Michiana Mustangs By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer The Michiana Mustangs club motto is, “Ownership is not required, but enthusiasm is.” That’s according to President Scott Lickteig, who joined the group four years ago after decades of deep, abiding passion for the iconic car. Michiana Mustangs brings together Ford Mustang enthusiasts from northern Indiana and southern Michigan. Each month, members meet up in Granger to talk shop, discuss Mustang-related news and enjoy each other’s company.
“If you’ve got a Mustang and you’ve got a problem with it, there’s probably somebody in the club that can help you with it - if you’re doing a restoration, or if you want to do some sort of modification. If the club doesn’t know the answer, they’ll send you to somebody who does,” Lickteig said. “There’s a constant exchange of information that I think makes owning the car even that much more rich.” Outside regular meetings, Michiana Mustangs participates in a variety of parades, cruise-ins and other community events, such as the regular
Cars and Coffee events at the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend. The club holds its own all-Mustang car show every summer. Michiana Mustangs also takes field trips to gearhead-centered destinations, such as the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, Mich. The variety of cars is “mind boggling,” Lickteig said. “We try to find activities that keep us engaged and having fun,” he went on. Beyond their automotive passion, members say their fondness for one another is Continued on page 3
TEAMWORK — Rhonda Belcher, left, and President Scott Lickteig help set up a tent in preparation for Michiana Mustangs’ annual car show, held this year Aug. 8 at Das Dutchman Essenhaus in Middlebury. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.
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2 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
Key Positions
From ‘bird nerd’ to interpretive naturalist By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer “Our job is to take what’s true about the natural history and ecology of where we live and bring it to life for members of the public,” said Jan McGowan, interpretive naturalist for St. Joseph County Parks. McGowan grew up in the suburbs of Chicago and earned her first degree in comparative world literature. “When I was looking at colleges, environmental science and those kinds of jobs ... I never heard about them and I don’t think they were stressed as much as they are now,” she said. While her degree wasn’t nature-related, she said, her education gave her the communication skills she would later need when working for St. Joseph County Parks. “I’d always been a bird nerd since I was a little child,” she said. “That was my gateway into meeting people here, when I moved here to South Bend, in the environmental community and seeing opportunities to learn about nature, about the ecosystems here.” She began working for St. Joseph County Parks in the early 2000s.
“(My education) has been learning on the job, but that’s what this job entails anyway. ... No matte≈interdisciplinary thesis titled “Folktales Take Flight.” “I used Indigenous observations about birds as a platform to talk about the amazing biology of birds,” she said. Making connections between subjects is one of the core aspects of her work as she shares knowledge with park visitors. “The foundation is a knowledge base but the skill is communication. ... I like to describe it as making a lot of ‘aha’ moments,” she said. St. Joseph County Parks often does this through its many programs throughout the year. Preparing for an event involves research and writing out the program, as well as incorporating activities or props that will help the information stick. McGowan and her fellow interpretive naturalists focus on weaving in “more senses,” she explained. Sight, sound and touch feature in many programs. “It’s finding different activities that will make those connections happen, not just listening to the sound of my voice,” she said. During the program she
OUT IN NATURE — Interpretive Naturalist Jan McGowan, left, leads a hiking group through St. Patrick’s County Park in South Bend. Also pictured are Joan Storey and Marcia Haslett. Photo by Lilli Dwyer. led on the day of her interview, for example, she guided visitors on a hike through St. Patrick’s County Park. While presenting her information about the changing of seasons observed in the park’s natural spaces, participants could see, hear, touch and smell
nature for themselves as they learned. Above all, McGowan loves the sense of “wonder and joy” she is able to instill in the people who participate in park programs. “The most rewarding thing is something like I did today,
where I’m taking out a group of people - it doesn’t have to be adults. When you take them out to learn and see, and they can ask questions, they see the wonder and they make the connections, that’s just always really rewarding,” she said.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 3
Fixated on handyman during my wait My doctor’s office isn’t very modern. I don’t mean the scientific knowledge or the high-tech diagnostic tools in IN A his office. NUTSHELL I’m talking By DICK about the WOLFSIE magazines in the waiting room. Recently, I got the chance to read the last print edition of Newsweek from 2012. Last year, I also breezed through Life magazine right before my EKG. One piece of reading material that caught my attention was “Family Handyman.” Here were the cover stories: • “Measure once, panic twice.” • “My drill keeps screwing around.” • “I built a gate and, yes, I nailed it.” • “Why my door and I are both off our hinges.” The lead story was “Five Great Sawhorse Designs.” I couldn’t wait to read it because, off the top of my head, I could think of only four, none of which they
mentioned in the article. Also on the cover was “How to Make a Screw Organizer From a Leftover Piece of PVC Pipe.” I didn’t want to read too much exciting stuff like this since it can temporarily raise your blood pressure before they slap the cuff on you. I turned to a feature story about what to do if your Gorilla Glue gets hard in the tube and another on how to dig post holes in sandy soil. I read both carefully. After 46 years, Mary Ellen and I are always looking for something new to talk about. This is my favorite: There was a three-page spread on “How to Cure a Sick Ceiling Fan.” “What would the fan be complaining of? Periodic dizziness? One piece was called “Best Advice for DIYers.” I thought it was about how to successfully drink beer and drill at the same time. Then I learned that a DIYer is a do-it-yourselfer. Another entry was titled “How to Make a Hidden Cutting Board.” I can never find ours when we need it, so I decided to skip that kitchen improvement project. “Maintaining Your Chimney” begins with a list of
what you’ll need to do the job - items found around most houses. You need brushable crown sealer, chimney water repellent and a stainless-steel chimney cap. I had all of that in the garage except for the brushable crown sealer, the chimney water repellent and a stainless-steel chimney cap. Another article started:
“Trying to run fish tape through an insulated stud bay can be a nightmare.” You have to have a pretty dull imagination if this is what you have bad dreams about. The regular monthly column was “How to Make Your Own Tools,” a great way to save money. The author showed how to take a long, flexible piece of tubing
Michiana Mustangs Continued from page 1
what keeps them coming back. “The car is what brings us together, but the camaraderie is what really binds us together,” Lickteig explained. A love of Mustangs can even span generations. One younger member, 27-yearold Tyler Smith, is part of Michiana Mustangs along with his step-father, Rob Hayward. “It was something we really bonded over. He was the reason I got (a Mustang),” Smith said. Art Campbell, who has been part of the club for 27
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years, said he enjoys both “the cars and the people.” “We’ve been through everything together,” he said. Indeed, the people of Michiana Mustangs have seen a lot over time - the club boasts two members who have reached the age of 100. “Almost everyone who owns (a Mustang) really cherishes and loves them. It’s easy to get caught up in the fun and mystique of the car. ... There’s a great history to these vehicles,” Lickteig said. Michiana Mustangs’ next car show will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at The OWLS Club, 2715 Jackson Blvd., Elkhart. Anyone is welcome
and attach a flashlight at the end for working in dark, hard-to-reach places, as in a do-it-yourself plumbing project. It was really a clever gadget, but I tore the page out and threw it away. My next colonoscopy is coming up later in 2026, and with all the cost cutting in medicine, the fewer doctors who know about this, the better.
to participate, regardless of Mustang ownership. “We don’t care what you drive - car, truck, we don’t care. It’s really turned out to be a lot of fun,” Lickteig said. Michiana Mustangs meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Restaurant, 12479 Adams Road, Granger. Yearly membership dues are $25 for Mustang Club of America members and $30 for MCA non-members. Membership also includes a monthly newsletter. For more information on the club, visit michianamustangs. com or find Michiana Mustangs on Facebook.
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4 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
Spotlight
Brezinski still taking up the brush By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
couldn’t do anything artistic, and I’m able to teach them? That’s the ultimate satisfaction.” Brezinksi teaches painting classes at Howard Park Event Center in South Bend and has previously taught at the Forever Learning Institute and the Century Center. While she has always been a lover of art, she never imagined she would branch out
After 40 years of painting experience, Cheryl Brezinski occasionally still has trouble calling herself an artist. “I have an easier time calling myself a teacher,” she said. “For me, that’s where it’s at. To have somebody who maybe, all their life, thought they couldn’t draw and
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so far from her high school classes. After growing up in the South Bend area, Brezinski went to cosmetology school, but an accident prevented her from being able to stand up for long periods, so it was no longer a viable career for her. While her kids were growing up, Brezinksi and her best friend, the late Kathy Walters, would take classes together to get out of the house in the evenings. They started learning to paint at the now-closed Carriage Crafts on South Michigan Street. Brezinski was particularly taken with the folk art style they were learning. ”It’s an original American style, a lot of it is based on European styles. ... All kinds of art became folk art,” she explained. “It could be handmade tools, things to decorate your home with, furniture. And it was uneducated art. No, per say, color theory or technique.” Brezinski did not consider herself to be well educated in art when she started, but that quickly changed. “I used to say I could draw anything, but give me a paint
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www.seniorlifenewspapers.com Senior Life newspapers are monthly publications dedicated to inform, serve and entertain the adults over 50 in Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan. Each of the four editions focus on local news, features, photos and profiles for each area. Senior Life is privately owned and published by The Papers Incorporated. CORPORATE OFFICE The Papers Incorporated, 206 S. Main St., P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 STAFF Ron Baumgartner, Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .rbaumgartner@the-papers.com Annette Weaver, Business Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . aweaver@the-papers.com Kristin DeVittorio, Director Of Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . kdevittorio@the-papers.com Deb Patterson, Editor-In-Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . dpatterson@the-papers.com Phoebe Muthart, Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pmuthart@the-papers.com Publication Manager/Account Executive Marla Schroeder . . . . . . . . . . . mschroeder@the-papers.com • 574-350-4488 Jerry Long, Circulation Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jlong@the-papers.com EDITORIAL DEADLINES Elkhart/Kosciusko Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15th Month Prior St. Joseph Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15th Month Prior Allen Edition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20th Month Prior Northwest Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20th Month Prior SUBSCRIPTIONS Mailed subscriptions are available, prepaid with order at $42 for one year; and $71 for two years. (Select one edition.) Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt. To order a subscription, call 574-658-4111. ADVERTISING For advertising deadlines call your sales representative. The existence of advertising in Senior Life is not meant as an endorsement of any product, services or individuals by anyone except the advertisers. Signed letters or columns are the opinion of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publishers. To advertise contact Marla Schroeder at 574-350-4488 or mschroeder@the-papers.com. PRODUCTION Senior Life is digitally composed on Macintosh Computers using Digital Technology’s Newspaper Publishing Suite software and Photoshop software. Submit ads as .tif, .eps or .pdf files. ASCII (generic text) may be submitted via email or on CD/DVD. Check our website at www.the-papers.com for guidelines on preparing ads electronically. Graphics for ads can be emailed as PDF files to adcomp@the-papers.com. If you have any questions, give us a call and we’ll walk you through it. REPRINT RIGHTS Reprinting in part or whole of any article in Senior Life is not allowed without express written permission from Senior Life.
WATERCOLORS — This painting will serve one of the assignments in Brezinski’s fall watercolor painting class. Photo provided by Cheryl Brezinski.
AN EARLY WORK — Artist Cheryl Brezinski is pictured with one of her early folk art creations.With years of painting experience, she teaches her skills to others through community classes. Photo provided by Cheryl Brezinski. brush and I’ll ruin it. So, I was thrilled to be able to learn, and it was the start of where I am now,” she said. Not long after, Carriage Crafts offered her a job teaching folk art, using the same techniques she’d learned there. “I’ve got some of those old pieces still and they’re always going to be my favorites, partially because of Kathy and partially because of what they meant to me,” Brezinski said. “... They meant I finally knew how to use a paintbrush, to be able to do more than just sketch and draw. It became how I was social with people because of classes and meeting different people.” Brezinksi also sells her work at craft shows, another way to meet people. She sees a variety of students in her
classes, but all of them share a basic interest in art, she said. At first, Brezinski was nervous to teach. “It was a learning curve, telling people what to do,” she remarked. Now, she feels confident in her ability to teach and help people discover their artistic potential, starting with the very basics and building their ability through projects over time. As time went on, she herself branched out from acrylics to watercolors and teaches that method to her students as well. Brezinski is in “a different world” now than she was 40 years ago. “I’m at peace, I’m never bored or at a lack of what to do,” she said. To see upcoming class offerings, visit sbvpa.org.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 5
Candidates propose data center moratorium By JOE THOMAS, AMY DRAKE AND JAMIE O’BRIEN Guest Writers One of the biggest issues facing St. Joseph County is the growth of data centers. Two projects are already underway in the county - an Amazon campus in New Carlisle and a Microsoft campus in Granger. A third data center was proposed but was rejected by the St. Joseph County Council in a 7-2 vote last December after residents voiced strong opposition. Since then, many residents have expressed concerns about additional data center development. Some have said the county should wait to see
JAMIE O’ BRIEN
AMY DRAKE
JOE THOMAS
the impact of the two projects currently under construction before approving more. For that reason, we are proposing a moratorium on new data center projects. If elected
to the St. Joseph County Council this fall, we plan to pursue a temporary pause on additional developments. We believe many residents are concerned about the pace
of data center growth and would welcome the opportunity to evaluate the effects of the first two projects before moving forward with others. We believe this is a reason-
able approach as the county considers a relatively new industry with questions surrounding electricity demand, water use, environmental impacts and privacy concerns. St. Joseph County already has two major data center projects underway, making it a leader in Indiana. We believe it’s prudent to pause additional development until the community has a better understanding of their longterm impacts. The three of us are candidates on the Tuesday, Nov. 3 ballot: Joe Thomas, District A (West Side/New Carlisle); Amy Drake, District B (Clay Township); and Jamie O’Brien, District C (Granger).
Plan a celebration party, not a funeral By DAVID KEENAN Owner Affordable Hearing Store Caring Celebrations I’ve attended many funerals over the years. I’ve often wondered whether there might be a better way to honor the people we love. Traditional funerals can be meaningful, but when I imagine friends and family gathering in my honor, I would much rather be there
to enjoy their company. Why wait until someone is gone to tell stories, share memories and explain how much that person has meant to us? Perhaps it’s time to consider another tradition: celebrating people while they are still with us. When I mention this idea to friends, many say they would prefer a joyful gathering to a funeral. Yet when I ask whether they would
organize such an event for a parent, sibling, aunt or uncle, the response is often the same: “I wouldn’t know where to start.” Our family faced that question when we suggested a large celebration for my mother-in-law’s 80th birthday. She resisted at first, saying none of her friends were doing anything like it. Fortunately, we went ahead. She was delighted to see
cousins, friends and loved ones who traveled from near and far to spend time with her. That experience taught us something important. A gathering is not only about the guest of honor. It is also about the relationships built over a lifetime - the friendships, family bonds, shared experiences, laughter and support that have enriched all of us. Instead of sending expensive flowers after a favorite
SPOTLIGHT
aunt has died, why not bring her flowers today? Tell her what she means to you. Gather the family. Share the stories while everyone can still laugh about them together. We should begin talking about new ways to celebrate one another and say goodbye with love. Perhaps the best tribute we can give someone is not a beautiful funeral, but a beautiful day together while they are still here to enjoy it.
ON
Michele’s Little Hearts Theatre celebrates its 60th anniversary
DANIELLE WILBORN, Outreach & Engagement Ernestine M. Raclin School of the Arts
In 2026, Michele’s Little Hearts Theatre celebrates its 60th anniversary by returning to the story that started it all Winnie-The-Pooh. Sixty years later, Pooh and his friends are welcoming a new generation to the Hundred Acre Wood. Over the decades, the program has become a
cherished regional tradition. At its peak, nearly 10,000 children attended in a season, many experiencing live theatre for the first time. Today, we regularly hear from parents and grandparents who remember attending as schoolchildren and have returned as chaperones with children or grandchildren of their own. This fall is the perfect time to share that tradition. Bring
your grandchildren to IU South Bend and experience ‘WinnieThe-Pooh’ together during this milestone season. We’ll have free activities and a chance for the kids to meet the characters and get their autographs. The public performances will be 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, October 3, in the Campus Auditorium in Northside Hall on the campus of IU South Bend. And if Michele’s Little Hearts
Theatre is already part of your family story, we want to hear from you. Did you attend as a child? Act in a production? Build a set, volunteer, or bring your own students? Email your memories and photos to sbarts@iu.edu. As we celebrate 60 years, we’ll be sharing memories and giving shoutouts to the generations THEATRE PRODUCTION — who made this tradition Scene from the first children’s theatre production ‘Winnie-The-Pooh’ at possible. Advertorial IU South Bend 1966.
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6 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
County Council
Hearing Healthcare
Q. What do you do on the St. Joseph County Council?
Q. Can you hear better in noise? A. Yes. Really!
A.
I am in my first term as Clay Township’s County Councilwoman. Our terms are four years. I was elected in 2022, and I’m up for re-election November 3. The Council consists of nine members, and each of us represents a different area of the county. We work to represent our particular geographical areas, as well as the county as a whole. The council is the fiscal arm of the county. The bulk of our annual budget is spent on public safety (74 percent); followed by general government (18 percent); health and welfare (5 percent); and public works (3 percent).
Amy Drake
St. Joseph County Councilwoman (Clay Township) We also pass local laws. Since I’ve been on the council, my biggest accomplishment has been passing a 55 and older tax cut that has been incredibly popular. It limits the amount of property taxes on your home to no more than a two percent increase from the year prior. The state made this tax cut temporary, but I’m working to make it permanent.
Nearly everyone who has hearing aids voices the same concern: “I still don’t hear well in noise.” Well folks, hang on to your hat, because this breakthrough is amazing! This is the second generation of noise reducing hearing aids and they’re finally delivering what they promised. On August 11th, in the middle of that terrific storm, with no power and working by flashlight, our Unitron rep fit me with a new pair of hearing aids and demonstrated how amazingly well they reduce noise. I could hear well and understand in a very noisy environment. Building on what their sister company, Phonak, began with Ultra Sphere, these new Unitron S-RX make the whole
Contact info: Email Amy Drake at electamydrake@protonmail.com Web Site: voteamydrake.com Facebook: Vote Amy Drake: St. Joseph County Council
David Keenan process automatic, and does a better job of separating speech and noise. That same morning, I received a call from my Signia rep, (formerly Siemens) who offered us early access to their yet unnamed noise reducing product to be released this month. To be among the first to test drive these amazing new hearing aids, call the Affordable Hearing Store at 574-387-4215. The price? About half of what others charge.
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Q. What’s coming in September? A. Senior Talk “on the road” at
Q. What should you expect from your next County Auditor? A.
You should expect your County Auditor to be prepared on day one, understand the complexities of government finances, and never lose sight of who they serve. As the current Chief Deputy Auditor for St. Joseph County, I understand the complexities of our property tax system and the importance of being accessible to help taxpayers navigate it. I have identified ways to make these processes easier, and I am eager to get started. Especially for our seniors, that means providing guidance as property tax
Abby Doyle
for St. Joseph County Auditor laws change and increasing outreach so senior homeowners understand the deductions and credits available to them. I’m running for County Auditor because I genuinely love this work, and my passion for our community far outweighs my discomfort with politics. Vote Abby Doyle for County Auditor: Accounting Toward the Future.
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Goshen’s First Friday games night. If you missed it, it is still available online at www.seniortalkmichiana.org. Join us September 4th and October 2nd at the Silver Circle senior tents at Goshen First Friday. We are also hosting a Senior Technology Fair September 12th at Doc’s Pavilion in Wakarusa. Drop in and have all of your tech questions answered by experts. September episodes will feature State Representative Joanna King discussing “Indiana and Seniors”. If you have specific questions, please email seniortalkmichiana@gmail.com. We will also be sharing information on the ACOM Active Aging & Wellness Resource Fair scheduled for September 10th at the Four Winds Event Center.
Tom Rose Podcast Host
Senior Talk Michiana is a non-profit 501(c) (3), sponsored by Greencroft Communities, Everence Financial, Senior Life Newspapers, Aging Connections of Michiana, The Owls Club, and the Wakarusa Chamber of Commerce. Listeners can easily access the podcast through free subscriptions on platforms such as Spotify, Facebook, and www. seniortalkmichiana.org. We would also love to have your feedback, so please get in touch with us at seniortalkmichiana@ gmail.com.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 7
Senior Relocation
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senior centers as places for “other people” — someone older, less active, or in need of help. But today’s senior centers are often much more than that. A senior center can be a place to meet people, take a class, exercise, share a meal, learn about services, volunteer, or simply get out of the house for a while. You do not have to attend every day or join every
activity. You can start small. Stop in for one event, one lunch, or one program that sounds interesting. The real value is connection. Staying socially connected is good for your health, your mood, and your sense of purpose. A senior center is not about giving up independence. For many people, it is one more way to keep it.
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Distribution locations are chosen with the 50+ aged person in mind and include grocery stores, libraries, senior centers, restaurants, senior communities, doctor offices and many more frequented by seniors. There are four distinct issues of Senior Life Newspaper including: • Allen — Allen, Adams, DeKalb, Huntington, Noble, Wells and Whitley counties • Elko — Elkhart, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble and Wabash counties. • Northwest — Lake, Porter counties in
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IN and Cook county in IL • St. Joseph — LaPorte, Marshall and St. Joseph counties in IN and Berrien and Cass counties in MI Call today for more information on how we can help your business reach the Senior Life loyal audience.
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8 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
Dining/Leisure/Entertainment
Train excursions for all ages & all seasons By LORETTA KOSLOSKE Ridership Specialist Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum Experience the sights and sounds of a bygone era while visiting the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum, located in North Judson. Regular train excursions run every Saturday, May – September, and for special holiday events. Passengers have a choice of riding in openair sightseeing cars or vintage coaches while rolling down the tracks through the Northwest Indiana countryside. Train excursions are round-trip from the depot and travel about five miles to the Kankakee River at English Lake, before returning to North Judson. The total length of each trip is approximately 45 minutes. The Hoosier Valley Railroad
Museum has an exciting schedule of special events planned for the remainder of 2026. Ice Cream Trains combine two old-fashioned favorites – homemade ice cream and trains. Autumn brings Pumpkin Trains, stopping at a pumpkin patch, while Santa Trains run in late November & December. Times and prices may vary for different events, so be sure to check the website at hoosiervalley.org. Remember that seating is limited, and it is recommended to purchase tickets, in advance, before excursions sell out. Before or after a train excursion, be sure to visit the museum and grounds where admission is always free. The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum has one of the largest museum collections of working railroad signals and a restored
RIDE the RAILS I N
N O R T H
J U D S O N ,
I N D I A N A
TAKE A RELAXING COUNTRYSIDE EXCURSION!
TAKE A TRIP TO YESTERYEAR — Th Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum, located in North Judson, offe regular train excurions every Saturday May through September. Shown is one of the trains going over the Kankakee River. Photo provided by Hoosier Valley Railroad. WWII Pullman Troop Car. Stroll around the grounds to see all types of rolling stock, engines, and railroading memorabilia. HVRM is an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization
dedicated to the preservation and education of railroading history. Special group events (including school groups) can be arranged by contacting the depot. Visit the Hoosier Valley
Railroad Museum website (hoosiervalley.org) for a complete schedule of events. Order tickets at hoosiervalley.org or call the depot (574) 896-3950 on Saturdays or days when train excursions are scheduled.
Bingo beats Alzheimer’s on Sept. 20 Seniors Helping Seniors will host a “Bingo Beats Alzheimer’s” fundraiser benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Colupa’s Pub, 12634 SR 23, Granger. The event will feature music
bingo, raffle baskets, a 50/50 raffle and other activities. A $5 pizza and beverage special will be available, and 30% of other food and beverage sales will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association. Raffle prizes will include
artwork, a romantic date night package, a Notre Damethemed basket and other items. Proceeds will support the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and the Alzheimer’s Association’s efforts to fight the disease.
IUSB celebrates 60 years of Children’s Theatre with return of Winnie-the-Pooh
GREAT FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE SCHEDULES:
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574-896-3950 OPEN SATURDAYS ONLY 9 AM - 4 PM CDT
I It’s easy! Simply find the “Fall Acorns” on another page in this edition. Go online to www.SeniorLifeNewspapers.com and enter your information, the edition, date and page number you found it on. Thiss will enter you for a chance to win a gift of $25.
(Online Entries Only) Entries Must Be In By Monday, September 14, 2026. Brought To You By
206 S. Main St. Milford, Indiana 46542
The winner of the I Spy Contest for August is Steven MacDougall from Fort Wayne. The ‘School Backpack’ was located on page 1 in Senior Life Allen; page 12 in Senior Life Northwest; page 5 in Senior Life Elko and page 9 in Senior Life St. Joseph.
This fall, Michele’s Little Hearts Theatre returns to the Hundred Acre Wood to celebrate its 60th anniversary with the same story that launched the university’s children’s theatre program in 1966. Many former audience members now return as parents, teachers, volunteers and grandparents, accompanying a new generation of children on the same field trip they once experienced themselves. Michele’s Little Hearts Theatre is one of Indiana University South Bend’s longest-running community engagement initiatives, introducing generations of children from Northern Indiana and South-
west Michigan to the magic of live theatre. The 2025 production of Charlotte’s Web welcomed 5,600 audience members from 62 schools, representing 25 school districts across nine counties in Indiana and Michigan. More than 40% of attendees traveled from outside St. Joseph County, Indiana, underscoring the program’s role as a regional educational and cultural resource. Community contributions helped provide admission and transportation assistance for 14 Elkhart County schools to attend regardless of financial circumstances. Beyond serving young audiences, Michele’s Little Hearts
Theatre provides hands-on learning opportunities for IU South Bend theatre students in all aspects of theatre production, while admission revenue supports theatre student scholarships. Performances of Winniethe-Pooh will be presented Sept. 30-Oct. 9, in the Campus Auditorium of Northside Hall at Indiana University South Bend. Weekday performances are reserved for public, private and homeschool groups. Public performances will be at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, and will provide families with the opportunity to share this milestone celebration, with activities following each performance.
MPHPL announces adult September programs The Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library has announced its September programs for adults. Registration is available by calling (574) 259-5277 or visiting mphpl.org. Check the library website for the most upto-date event information. The Saturday Morning Book Club will meet from 10:1511:15 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 5. Participants will discuss “The Circus in Winter” by Cathy Day. Copies of the book are available in advance on a firstcome, first-served basis at the library. Registration required. The American Heritage Spotlight program will be from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept.
8. Michael Brown, executive director of the Indiana Jewish Historical Society, will present “How Did Zayde Get to Shelbyville?” The program will explore how and when Jewish populations moved into smalltown Indiana during the early 1900s. September is also Library Card Sign-Up Month. The annual observance encourages residents to discover the many resources available with a free library card. At the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library, a library card provides access to books, movies, music, eBooks, eAudiobooks, digital
newspapers and magazines, streaming services, online learning resources and Discovery Passes to select local attractions. Cardholders can also participate in hundreds of free programs and events offered throughout the year for children, teens and adults. MPHPL offers several free library card options, including a digital library card that can be applied for online and used immediately. For more information about library card options or to apply online, visit mphpl.org/card-info. Information about library programs, services and locations is also available online.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 9
UPDATES & HAPPENINGS IN THE AREA Editor’s note: Send listings of events, for nonprofit organizations only, to Senior Life, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542, or email Editor Phoebe Muthart by the 15th of every month at pmuthart@the-papers.com. With the listing, include the contact person, area code and phone number. —o— The South Bend Area Genealogical Society is hosting Tina Beaird, owner of Tamarack Genealogy, Monday, Aug. 31, at Saint Michael & All Angels Church, 53720 N. Ironwood Drive, South Bend. Coffee and Conversation will be held from 6:30-7 p.m. and the program will be form 7-8 p.m. Join in as Beaird will discuss research at the courthouse. Learn what you can find at the courthouse and research methods and tips.
St. Joseph County Parks will offer the fall 2026 Indiana Master Naturalist Program beginning Sept. 3 and continuing through Nov. 5. The 10-session program covers Indiana’s natural resources, including botany, zoology, geology, soils, water and natural resources. Sessions will be held at various locations throughout St. Joseph County on selected Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. Participants must attend at least 80% of the sessions and complete one hour of volunteer service for each hour of coursework to receive certification. The program is open to those age 18 and older. Tuition is $175 and is due by Sept. 1. To register, call (574) 277-4828. —o— Reservations are now open for 2026 fall group hayrides at Bendix Woods County Park.
Groups can enjoy two-hour tractor-drawn hayrides Wednesday through Sunday, Sept. 18 through Oct. 31, with time slots at 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Private hayrides are $140 for up to 80 people and include a campfire. Picnic shelters and buildings are not included but may be rented, when available, for an additional fee. Reservations are confirmed when payment is received. To reserve a hayride or for more information, call (574) 654-3155 or visit sjcparks.org. —o— The South Bend Symphony Orchestra will open its 2026-27 season with “Strauss + Elgar” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at the Morris Performing Arts Center. Led by Music Director Alastair Willis, the concert will feature South Bend Symphony
Principal Horn Kurt Civilette as soloist. Civilette said Strauss wrote the horn concerto when he was just 18 and that its fanfares, fast passages and lyrical melodies demonstrate the composer’s talent for writing for the horn. Tickets are available online at southbendsymphony.org, by calling the Morris Performing Arts Center Box Office at (574) 235-9190, or in person at the Morris Box Office, 211 N. Michigan St., South Bend. For more information and the complete 2026-27 season schedule, visit southbendsymphony.org. —o— The South Bend Area Genealogical Society will host Janice Sellers for a presentation on finding religious records on Monday, Sept. 28, at Saint Michael & All Angels Church, 53720 N. Ironwood Drive, South Bend. The
program, “Get Me to the Church on Time: Finding Religious Records,” will focus on techniques for locating religious records for genealogical research. Coffee and conversation will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by the program from 7 to 8 p.m. —o— RiverBend Cancer Services, 3516 E. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend, offers the following events each month: 10 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, seated strength; 1 p.m. Mondays, a craft; 5:30 p.m. Mondays, gentle yoga; 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, chair yoga; 10 a.m. Wednesdays, Knitting Krew; 2 p.m. Wednesdays, dominoes; 5:30 p.m. third Wednesday, Support Group; 3 p.m. Thursdays, Zumba. Visit riverbendcancerservices.org or call (574) 287-4197.
Who will know your story? By KARLA (KJ) MAPES CEO REAL Services September brings Grandparents Day, and it has me thinking about the stories we inherit, the stories we discover and, eventually, the stories we choose to pass along. I only had one grandparent growing up. He came to live with us a week before I started kindergarten and stayed with us for 10 years until he died at home. Some of my strongest memories of him involve baseball. My love of the game came from him and my dad, and it has stayed with me. To this day, baseball can take me back to those years in an instant. Now I have grandsons of my own, and I find myself telling them stories about those days. Stories about baseball. Stories about my dad and grandfather. Stories about growing up and the people and experiences that shaped me. I was adopted, so my family story has always had a little
more nuance than most and, as I’ve gotten older, even a few surprises. Maybe that’s one reason I’ve come to understand that knowing where we come from isn’t only about biology. It’s also about who raised us, the traditions we carry forward, the stories we remember and the pieces people leave with us. We don’t get to choose every part of the story we inherit. But we do get to decide which stories we pass along. That’s worth thinking about this Grandparents Day, whether you’re a grandparent or not. Every one of us has stories that will disappear if we don’t tell them. Often, they aren’t the big stories. Who taught you to drive? What did Saturday mornings look like when you were a child? What was your first job? What did your family eat on holidays? Who made you laugh? What song takes you immediately back to another time? What happened the day you met the person you would spend your life with?
These details may seem ordinary because we lived them. To the generations that follow us, they’re anything but ordinary. They help explain who we are and, sometimes, who they are. Preserving those stories doesn’t require writing a memoir. Label the people in old photographs. Write down a favorite family recipe and where it came from. Record a conversation on your phone. Tell the children and grandchildren in your life a story they haven’t heard before. And perhaps most importantly, ask someone you love a question you’ve never thought to ask. Someday, my grandsons may tell stories about people they never had the chance to know. Perhaps they’ll love baseball. Perhaps they won’t. But I hope they’ll know why I do. I hope they’ll know something about the grandfather who lived with me, the dad who nurtured that love and the experiences that made me who I am. Our stories don’t have to be remarkable to be worth telling. They just have to be told.
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10 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
Faith
Warfield finds reward at Hope Ministries By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer Michael Warfield began volunteering his services at Hope Ministries, South Bend, because, “God had called me to give back to others,” he said. Warfield retired from the aerospace industry four years ago and has been volunteering at Hope Ministries for the past two years, after a period of inactivity in his faith. “I was a churchgoers for a long time, and then I was walking away from what I believed. God got a hold of me, he got my attention and brought me back,” he said. “So, I was starting to attend Bible study, church ... and then starting to volunteer at Hope.” Warfield mainly helps out in Hope Ministries’ soup kitchen, which is open for lunch and dinner. He also assists with turning over apartments for the transitional housing program and does some construction and painting on renovation projects. Warfield assists with serving and cleanup during the lunch shift. Transitional housing residents are served first, and then the kitchen opens up to
the community. “What I appreciate about Hope is the ability to interact with the people you’re helping directly - face to face, every day. You get to know them individually, a little bit about their past and their life. For me, the joy is to be able to serve and directly interface with individuals.” Along with getting to know the people he serves, he enjoys the company of his fellow volunteers and uniting with them in a common purpose. “The volunteers are always just looking to help, looking to provide for others, serve others. That attitude is positive, constructive, contagious. It’s nice to be around that type of environment,” he explained. Warfield finds his volunteering experience to be a deeply rewarding one. During his time at Hope Ministries, he has noticed many workers he interacts with are former residents who wanted to come back and make an impact on others. “This ministry is changing lives and you see that in how these individuals are progressing from where they were to where they are today, and moving forward. You see a change in their perspective on life,” he said. “If you were just check-
ing the box in the program, you would just move on, go somewhere else. But they find they want to come back. Either they’ve enjoyed the program so much they wanted to come back, or I find they just want to help others as they’ve been helped.” Warfield said people interested in volunteering should not be afraid to “get out of your comfort zone,” something he himself did when he first began to serve at Hope. “(Jesus Christ) taught us to love others. One way to demonstrate that love is to put the needs of others ahead of ourselves. That’s what, to me, Hope has given me: the ability to serve others and their basic needs, and just be there for others,” he said. Warfield added there is a “fine line” between gratitude for what one has and feeling superior. “There’s no difference between me and these individuals in God’s eyes,” he said. “Just because they have challenges, economically, that are tougher, that still doesn’t affect their relationship with God. We’re all equal.” To learn more about Hope Ministries, visit hopesb.org.
HAPPY TO HELP — Hope Ministries volunteer Michael Warfield is pictured helping out in the soup kitchen. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.
Show your children and grandchildren just how much you love them At Rice & Rice Attorneys, we have been doing estate planning for 54 years. As a result of these many years of experience, we have learned how to protect the families of our clients in a number of unique ways. Do you have a child in an
unhappy marriage? There is a Protective Trust that can help make sure the monies left to your child will stay with your child and not be taken by the daughter-in-law or son-in-law. If you would like to set some money aside for your grandchildren’s future, we can set
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placing them into a Medicaid Trust. If you know someone who has a farm and would like to keep it in the family, there are a number of Farm Trusts that will accomplish that. You can make gifts to young children or grandchildren using a Minor’s Trust, or care for your pets using a Pet Trust. Do you have a child who is just not able to hang onto money? We can protect that child by using a spendthrift trust. If you have a disabled child who is receiving Medicaid or SSDI benefits, a Special Needs Trust will provide for that child, while ensuring the child will not lose government benefits. This is sophisticated planning, so you will want to talk to someone who has the experience to meet your needs and the needs of your loved ones. Legal help is available at Rice & Rice Attorneys, 1237 E. University Drive, Granger. Call (800) 303-7423 to sched-
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 11
70s Flashback -
Were you in the mood for a ring? Every decade has its fads - intense and often silly crazes that set popular culture ablaze, only to quickly flame out By RANDAL and disapC. HILL pear overnight. The 1950s saw the coming and going of 3-D movies, Davy Crockett caps and Hula Hoops. Miniskirts, lava lamps and tie-dyed clothing helped define the next decade. The 1970s brought us Pet Rocks, water beds and mood rings. Ah, yes. Mood rings. How cool were those! Pieces of jewelry that claimed to change color to reflect a wearer’s emotional state. If you were happy, your band turned blue. Brown meant that you were a grouch. Black? You lived under a cloud of gloom. (Cheer up, please!) The fact that mood rings responded to body temperature rather than emotions didn’t seem to concern anyone. What do you remember about these once-hot hoops? They hit their popularity peak in the summer and fall of 1975, and, in addition to the rings themselves, additional mood-revealing items offered included mood nail polish, mood shoes, and mood underwear. (One assumes that the last-mentioned involved the smallest audience.) While the rage was fresh and exciting during the middle of
Active Aging and Wellness Resource Fair set for Sept. 10 By MALANA MAHER President and Founder Aging Connections of Michiana Aging Connections of Michiana will host its fourth annual Active Aging and Wellness Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10, at the second-floor Ribbon Town Conference and Event Center at Four Winds Hotel, South Bend. The event will begin with opening ceremonies featuring the Miller’s Vets Color Guard and the national anthem performed by Jennifer Kedik. Featured entertainment will include The Hillsiders, an acoustic band based in the Michiana area. The retired band members perform rock ‘n’ roll, bluegrass, country, gospel, patriotic and children’s songs, as well as original music. Janet Gunn, a South Bend native, also will perform. Gunn began singing at age 5 and has performed at venues across the country. She was named Michiana’s Rising Star in 2014 and an AARP Superstar in 2015 after winning the orgaContinued on page 13
the decade, the technology itself was old hat. Inside the “quartz stones” was heat-sensitive liquid crystal, chemically synthesized from grease extracted from sheep’s wool. Sheep’s wool had also been utilized in an earlier craze: 3-D glasses. Okay, so what was unique about these baubles? One answer is that they were associated with the psycho-spiritual gibberish of the time. For this, we can praise or blame (depending on your point of view) a business-driven Wall Street dropout named Joshua Reynolds. During a search to overcome debilitating anxieties, Reynolds had discovered biofeedback - a modulating of one’s brain-wave emissions. This led him to establish Q-Tran (“Tran” for tranquility), a meditation center in the Big Apple. Here stressed-out patrons were promised relief if they
THE MOOD RING — An original mood ring was introduced as the Mood Stone in 1975. Photo from Wikipedia. were hooked up to a complicated biofeedback machine. But a pair of problems clouded the picture: the machine was jaw-droppingly expensive, and it broke down with seeming regularity. Reynolds countered both issues with a simple solution: create a “portable feedback aid” in the form of a band that featured about a dime’s worth of
liquid crystal. He hired a press agent, convinced the cosmetic company Faberge to back him, and soon found himself rocketing to pop-culture popularity. For a while, mood rings reigned as the ultimate “in” item. On the first day they went on sale at Manhattan’s posh Bonwit Teller department store, 1,000 rings were snapped up at $45 each (around $275 in today’s money). By the end of the year, 15 million had been sold. The knickknacks ranged from $5 knockoffs to 14-karat-gold specialties with a $250 price tag. Superstar celebrities (Paul Newman, Barbra Streisand, Muhammad Ali) vouched for them. Ali even wrote a poem about his. Eventually, mood rings ended up on the slag heap of discarded fads once deemed essential to coolness. Today they are only
remembered with a smile, and possibly - or probably - a bit of embarrassment. Bibliography Book: Stern, Jane and Michael. “The Encyclopedia of Bad Taste.” (p. 218) New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 1990. Internet: “How Mood Rings Work.” (No author or date listed) bestmoodrings.com. Jacobs, Matt. “The History of the Mystery of the Mood Ring.” May 20, 2021. blinkee.com. Mood Rings. (No author or date listed) en.wikipedia.org. “Mood Rings: From ‘70s Fad and ‘90s Nostalgia to LCDs and NFTS.” (No author listed) Jan. 5, 2024. ripleys.com. Wakeman, Gregory. “How Mood Rings Became a 1970s Sensation.” April 23, 2025. history.com.
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12 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
Blast to the Past!
‘Disco Duck’ was a DJ’s parody lollipop (150 pounds), and the Rick Dees and world’s largest T-shirt (9 feet by His Cast of Idiots 14 feet). At one time, silly novelty songs were commonplace on the radio. The 1950s brought us “The Purple People Eater” (Sheb WoolA Boomer Blast ey) and “The To The Past Chipmunk By RANDAL Song” (the C. HILL Chipmunks). The next decade offered “Alley Oop” (the Hollywood Argyles) and “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh” (Alan Sherman). But when shots unexpectedly rang out in Dallas on a bright, sunny Friday in November 1963, nothing on the radio seemed funny anymore. Flash forward to the fall of 1976. Rick Dees (born Rigdon Osmond Dees III in 1950) was a fun-loving Memphis radio disc jockey who had earned a reputation for creating preposterous promotions such as the world’s largest fruitcake (3,000 pounds), the world’s largest jelly doughnut (300 pounds), the world’s largest
In the mid-1970s, disco reigned as a dominant musical force, and disco’s what DJ Dees hyped as a part-time hustle at a local club, where he spun records and cracked jokes. Sensing that the time was right for a disco parody, and recalling a 1966 dance hit called “The Duck” by singer Jackie Lee, Dees came up with “Disco Duck” after hearing a fellow named Ken Pruitt making silly duck noises at a gym where the two worked out. See if you can spot the error in Dees’s lyrics. “Went to a party the other night “All the ladies were treatin’ me right “Movin’ my feet to the disco beat “How in the world could I keep my seat? “All of a sudden I began to change “I was on the dance floor actin’ strange “Flappin’ my arms, I began to cluck “Look at me, I’m the disco duck” Rick found a minor-league Memphis recording home - Freetone Records - for “Disco Duck.”
Before long, Dees’s yuk-producing novelty began earning radio airplay throughout the South and eventually appearing poised to go nationwide. As a result, Freetone, for $3,500, leased the recording master to the powerful RSO label, an outfit that was keeping the charts afire with one peppy Bee Gees hit after another. RSO mogul Al Coury admitted later, “I didn’t even want to hear it.” He didn’t mind doing a bit of research, though. “I don’t generally use my kids as a barometer, but I’ve got to admit they made me think about the universal appeal this thing might have.” There’s little doubt that everyone involved (including Dees) watched in slack-jawed astonishment as the wacky item rocketed to the peak of the Billboard charts and eventually sold a reported 6 million copies. RSO rushed out an LP called “The Original Disco Duck,” which struggled to No. 157 on the album sales lists. The next single pulled from that record was “Dis-Gorilla,” a romp describing the joys of a disco-dancing gorilla. But it never hit, and follow-up 45s tanked. Apparently, the record-buying public had had enough such foolishness. Did you spot the lyrical faux
‘DISCO DUCK’ CREATOR — Rick Dees, a radio disc jockey, created Disco Duck after recalling a 1966 dance hit “The Duck” by Jackie Lee. Photo from the Los Angeles Times Photographic Collection at the UCLA Library and Wikapedia. pas? Ducks don’t cluck. They quack. Chickens cluck. But then, how hip would something called “Disco Chicken” have sounded? Bibliography Books: Bronson, Fred. “The Billboard Book of Number One Hits (Third Edition).” (p. 445) New York: Billboard Publications, Inc., 1992. Shannon, Bob and John Javna. “Behind the Hits: Inside Stories of Classic Pop and Rock and Roll.” (p. 65) New York: Warner Books, Inc. 1986. The Al Coury quote is
from here. Internet: Breihan, Tom. “Rick Dees and His Cast of Idiots – ‘Disco Duck (Part 1).” Sept. 17, 2019. stereogum.com. Rick Dees, Disco Duck. (No author or date listed) en.wikipedia.org. “’Disco Duck’ By Rick Dees and His Cast of Idiots.” (No author or date listed) songfacts.com. Lindain, Liz. “Beloved ‘70s Singer with Classic No. 1 Hit Song, Turns 76.” March 14, 2026. parade.com.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 13
REAL Services hosts Diamond Gala, 30th Age of Excellence Awards Text and photos By PHOEBE MUTHART Editor Community members from across northern Indiana gathered Thursday, Aug. 6, at the Gillespie Conference Center in South Bend for REAL Services’ Diamond Gala and the 30th annual Age of Excellence Awards. The evening featured a cocktail reception, dinner, keynote speaker Chris Singleton, presentation of the Age of Excellence Awards and a fundraiser supporting the organization’s mission. REAL Services, founded in 1966 following the closure of the Studebaker plant in South Bend, has spent 60 years serving older adults, caregivers, families and individuals in need throughout northern Indiana. What began as a senior dining program has grown into an organization focused on providing services that promote dignity, independence and compassion. The Age of Excellence Awards were established in 1996 to recognize individuals and organizations making a difference in their communities. This year’s event marked the first time the awards were combined with the organization’s anniversary celebration
Active Aging Continued from page 11
nization’s national competition. She performed at a 2019 presidential campaign rally for former South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg and uses her musical talent to uplift and inspire others. Come for the resources, stay for the entertainment. New this year, the Indiana Immunization Coalition will offer vaccinations to those who qualify. The organization works to reduce the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases through immunization, education, advocacy and partnerships. Walk-ins will be accepted, but preregistration is highly recommended to help determine staffing needs and the amount of vaccine required. To preregister, visit the VaxCare registration website and use enrollment code IN65942. Select South Bend-9/10. Aging Connections also will host a veterans raffle fundraiser benefiting the Robert L. Miller Sr. Veterans Center, a building on the Center for Homeless campus. It houses 24 homeless male veterans. Each attendee will receive one free raffle ticket, with additional tickets available for purchase. Exhibitors will display raffle items at their tables and provide boxes for ticket entries. At 2:30 p.m., exhibitors will draw winning tickets and contact the winners. Founded in 2020, Aging Connections is a nonprofit grassroots cooperative of individuals and organizations working together to promote education, business, community relationships and services for the aging population. The organization serves northern Indiana and southwestern Michigan.
and held as an evening gala. “In the past, it has been the Age of Excellence Awards. This year, because of the 60th anniversary, we combined them,” said REAL Services President and CEO KJ Mapes. “It’s our first time having it in the evening, so that’s really cool and exciting.” Mapes said honoring the organization’s history while recognizing community leaders made the celebration especially meaningful. “It’s really special that we’re combining the 60th anniversary of REAL Services with the 30th anniversary of the Age of Excellence because it’s people in the community that have made our organization so strong,” she said. Finding the right keynote speaker helped connect both themes. “When I met Chris and heard his story, I was like, ‘There’s my answer,’” Mapes said. Singleton, a former South Bend Cubs player in the Chicago Cubs organization, returned to the city where he once lived at St. Paul’s Retirement Community. His mother, Sharonda Coleman-Singleton, was one of nine people killed during the 2015 shooting at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C. Since then, he has become a nationally known speaker promoting forgiveness, unity and hope. “When I heard about what the event was, and who would be here, there was no doubt,” Singleton said. “Coming back to South Bend and getting to make an impact on those who make an impact in this community is a blessing for me.” WNDU 16 News Now anchor Tricia Sloma served as master of ceremonies. She said she hoped attendees left inspired to support older adults and underserved residents. This year’s award recipients were Wanda P. Dudley, Change Agent of the Year; Carl Hetler, Sargent Shriver Champion of the Year; Milton Adult Day Services and Center for Hospice
OPENING REMARKS — Karla (KJ) Mapes, REAL Services President and CEO opened the event held in South Bend. Care, Becky Zaseck Professional of the Year; Spike Abernethy and Pete Mullen, Les Fox Hoosier Lifetime Achievement Award; and the Rev. Dean R. Heisley, who was honored posthumously as Volunteer of the Year. His son accepted the award on his behalf. Following the awards, radio personality Mark McGill led the Fund the Need campaign, raising support for programs that help older adults and families throughout the region. Mapes said community support remains essential as nonprofit organizations face increasing financial challenges. “It does a lot for us as an organization to say there’s 280 people in this room who think we’re important and that our mission still matters,” she said. “Our organization started because people cared about their neighbors who needed help. They wanted to walk alongside them with compassion and dignity. That has never changed.” For more information about REAL Services, visit realservices.org.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD — Pete Mullen was presented with the Les Fox Hoosier Lifetime Achievement Award. He is pictured with KJ Mapes, right, president and CEO of REAL Services.
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14 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
A commitment to our county By JOE THOMAS Candidate for St Joseph County Councilman District A I am running for St. Joseph County Council because I believe our community deserves thoughtful, responsible representation. As a husband and father of four, I understand the importance of building a safe, strong and financially responsible community for the next generation. My wife and I raised our four children in St. Joseph County. This community has been our home. I care deeply about its future. That is why I have worked to represent the people of my district with every vote I cast. I believe a county council
member’s first responsibility is to listen to residents and make decisions based on what is best for the community. An example of that commitment was my opposition to the proposed data center in New Carlisle. I carefully considered the potential impact on our community, listened to local residents and ultimately voted no. I will continue to make public safety a priority. Our law enforcement officers, first responders and emergency services need the support and resources necessary to protect our communities. We also need to make wise investments that improve our roads and public services while being good stewards of taxpayer
dollars. Financial responsibility must remain at the center of county government. Families have to live within their means, and county government should do the same. We
should carefully consider every expense, prioritize essential services and protect taxpayers from unnecessary spending. I am proud to call St. Joseph County home. If elected, I
will continue to listen to our residents, support public safety, work for better roads and make responsible financial decisions for the future of our county.
South Bend Symphony hosting tribute to American music Oct. 10 The South Bend Symphony Orchestra will present “American Crossroads: The Sound of America” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Morris Performing Arts Center. Guest conductor Naima Burrs will lead the Indiana Trust Pops Series concert, which continues the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The program explores the sounds, stories and spirit of the nation through music that has defined generations. Audiences will travel from Aaron Copland’s sweeping “Appalachian Spring” to beloved favorites inspired by the iconic Route 66. The concert will highlight the landscapes, communities and traditions that make America unique. The South Bend Symphony Orchestra recognizes Indiana Trust Wealth Management for its sponsorship of the Pops Series. Tickets are available online at southbendsymphony.org or through the Morris Performing Arts Center Box Office at (574) 235-9190. The box office is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays and from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays. Tickets also may be purchased in person at the Morris Box Office, 211 N. Michigan St.,
South Bend, during those hours or two hours before any performance. Burrs is a violinist and conductor from Richmond, Va. She serves as director of orchestral activities at Virginia State University and conducts the University of Richmond Symphony Orchestra. She also is the youth concert conductor for the National Philharmonic, leading educational performances at the Music Center at Strathmore. Burrs has appeared as a guest conductor with the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, Richmond Symphony Orchestra, National Philharmonic and Richmond Ballet. She was among 36 conductors selected for the final round of the 2025 Antal Dorati International Conducting Competition in Budapest. The South Bend Symphony Orchestra produces more than 20 main stage programs each year and nearly 70 smaller ensemble concerts, serving more than 30,000 attendees annually. The organization is the region’s only professional orchestra and works to support the arts community in South Bend and the broader Michiana region. For more information and the 2026-27 season schedule, visit southbendsymphony.org.
ALL IN THE FAMILY — The Thomas family in the front row are Cindy Thomas, left, and Joe Thomas Sr. In the back row from left are Luke Thomas, Morgan Thomas, Joe Thomas Jr., Renee Thomas and Hannah Thomas. Photo provided by Joe Thomas Sr.
Study: Indiana caregivers are overworked, underpaid By TERRI DEE Public News Service AARP data show more than 1 million Hoosiers have roles as family caregivers. The unpaid workers contribute about 860 million hours of work each year and are increasingly filling the roles of medical professionals. If the workers were paid around $19 an hour, their labor would be valued at more than $16.1 billion. Nationally, the amount is more than $1 trillion. Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO of AARP, called family caregivers the “backbone of the nation’s long-term care system.” “That is equal to nearly 24 million full-time workers, or
roughly 17% of the entire U.S. full-time workforce,” Minter-Jordan reported. “Caregivers are stretching their finances, sacrificing their own well-being, and too often they are doing it alone.” AARP pointed out the labor of unpaid family caregivers provides a significant public benefit by providing savings for taxpayers. In a virtual news conference last week, Minter-Jordan stressed federal, state, and local officials need to provide more services to help family caregivers. She noted the report lays out steps lawmakers need to take to support caregivers. “We are advocating for bold solutions, including a national
paid family and medical leave policy, greater respite services and resources, such as those now offered in several states, and state and federal legislation that can bring overdue financial relief,” Minter-Jordan outlined. AARP highlighted resources family caregivers in Indiana are able to access. The Family and Social Services Agency connects residents with local health care and community resources to help with aging residents, including food assistance, job training, mental health resources, public health insurance plans and more. INConnect Alliance offers support for caregivers of patients 55 and older and individuals with disabilities.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 15
You Asked, Eye Doctors Answer: Common eye health questions explained StatePoint - If you’ve ever turned to the internet with a question about your eyes whether it’s dryness, blurry vision or an unexpected eye twitch, you’re not alone. Eye doctors hear these same questions from patients every day. To help separate fact from fiction, VSP network doctors Bradley Grant, O.D., of VisionPoint Eye Center in Illinois, and Sonia Chung, O.D., M.Ed. medical director of TSA at Visionworks in Arizona, answer the top questions being asked online and in the exam room. Why are my eyes always dry? Grant: Dry eye is one of the most common and chronic eye conditions we see in patients and occurs when your eyes don’t produce sufficient tears or there is a deficiency in the quality of your tears. The tears you produce when you blink are important because they help keep your eyes hydrated and clear of irritants and provide a clear optical surface for stable vision. Since dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, such as excessive screen time, contact lens us or exposure to smoke and allergens, it’s important to see your eye doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Why do my eyes look red and bloodshot? Chung: Red or bloodshot eyes
are often a symptom of an underlying cause, such as allergies, tiredness, dry eyes, contact lens irritation, exposure to smoke or other irritants or infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye). Some of the simplest ways to get relief include trying preservative-free artificial tears you can purchase over the counter, applying a cold compress to your eyes, avoiding environmental irritants and washing your hands before touching your eyes. Your local eye doctor is a great resource to recommend reputable eye drops and help determine what’s causing redness if it doesn’t improve or keeps coming back. Why does my eye twitch randomly? Grant: Eye twitching, clinically known as eyelid myokymia, happens when the lower eyelid begins to involuntarily spasm. Minor eye twitching often resolves as quickly as it starts. Fatigue, stress, eye strain and caffeine or alcohol consumption are the most common causes. Simple lifestyle changes often help stop twitching. I recommend getting at least eight hours of sleep, increasing hydration while decreasing caffeine and alcohol intake and minimizing stressors. If eye twitching is due to eye strain or vision-related stress, you may need corrective lenses or an updated prescription. Why is my vision cloudy or blurry?
OPPORTUNITY — Annual eye exams are a great opportunity to ask questions and talk with your eye doctor if something is bothering you. Photo provided by Azman Jaka. Chung: Cloudy or blurry vision can happen for a few common reasons, including dry eyes, eye strain or prescription changes. It can also be related to conditions like cataracts, which cloud the eye’s lens. This is something patients ask about frequently, and at Visionworks, it’s often a reminder that eye changes shouldn’t be ignored, even when they seem minor. Sometimes, blurry vision can be a sign of broader health issues, like diabetes. That’s why it’s important to mention any changes in visual clarity during your exam. Your eye doctor can help uncover
September Tuesday 1
Marinated Chicken Diced Sweet Potatoes Tuesday Broccoli Dinner Roll/Marg. Tuesday 1 Pineapple MarinatedCup Chicken
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Spaghetti/Meat Sauce Italian Vegetables Texas Toast Spaghetti/Meat Sauce Tropical Fruit Cup Spaghetti/Meat Sauce Italian Vegetables
Italian Vegetables Texas Toast Texas Toast Tropical Fruit Cup Tropical Fruit Cup
Chicken Pot Pie Over Biscuit Corn Chicken PotPie Pie Chicken Pot Over Biscuit Brownie Over Biscuit
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StroganoffMushroom w/Pasta Hamburger Hamburger Mushroom California Vegetables Stroganoff w/Pasta Stroganoff w/Pasta California Vegetables Dinner Roll/Marg. California Vegetables Dinner Roll/Marg. Shortbread Cookie Dinner Roll/Marg. Shortbread ShortbreadCookie Cookie
Marinated Chicken Broccoli DicedDinner SweetRoll/Marg. Potatoes Hamburger on Bun Broccoli Pineapple Cup Dinner Roll/Marg. Red Skin Potatoes Pineapple Cup Stewed Tomatoes
Jello w/Fruit
Hamburger on Bun Red Skinon Potatoes Hamburger Bun Tomatoes RedStewed Skin Potatoes Jello w/Fruit Stewed Tomatoes Maple Mustard Pork
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Stuffed Pepper Soup Dinner Roll/Marg. Chicken Un-kabob Cauliflower Peaches w/ Pepper, Onion, Tomato Dinner Roll/Marg. Peaches Rice
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catch subtle changes, and get a clearer picture of your overall well-being. To schedule your annual eye exam, find a Visionworks location near you at locations.visionworks.com, or locate additional VSP network doctors in your area at vsp.com/eye-doctor. When it comes to your eyes, what you see isn’t always the whole story. Annual eye exams provide an opportunity to ask common eye health questions and get personalized answers from an optometrist you trust in the context of your overall health.
Menus Subject to Change | All Meals Served with Milk
Monday September
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what’s behind it and guide you on next steps. Do I really need to see my eye doctor if my vision is clear and I don’t wear glasses? Grant: A comprehensive eye exam plays an important role in preventive care. During an eye exam, your optometrist can detect signs of more than 270 health conditions, many of which don’t show early warning signs and can impact overall wellness, not just vision. That’s why it’s truly nice to see you every year an annual eye exam gives us the chance to answer your questions,
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Friday
Suggested Donation: $4.50
Suggested Donation: $4.50
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Thank you!Thank you!
We St. realservices.org/meals-and-nutrition/ We welcome welcome Seniors Seniors to to join join our our program program and and access access daily daily nutritional nutritional meals meals while while increasing increasing your your socialization. socialization. St. Joseph Joseph & & LaPorte LaPorte County County realservices.org/meals-and-nutrition/ We welcome Seniors to daily join our program access nutritional meals while increasing your socialization. St. Joseph & LaPorte County realservices.org/meals-and-nutrition/ Meals are fresh in Kitchen. Lunch site locations are Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. Meals are prepared prepared fresh daily in our our Kitchen.and Lunch site daily locations are open open Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. -- 1:30 1:30 p.m. p.m. Meals are fresh daily ourmeal Kitchen. Lunch site locations arelocation open Monday through 10:00to a.m. - 1:30you. p.m. To make a prepared reservation, please callinthe site director at your preferred listed below. We Friday, look forward serving To make a reservation, please call the meal site director at your preferred location listed below. We look forward to serving you.
Mishawaka Mishawaka Mishawaka 100 Center High High Rise Rise Apartments Apartments 100 Center 100 N. Center 100 CenterHigh St. | Rise (574)Apartments 259-1611 100 N. Center St. | (574) 100 N. Center St. | (574)259-1611 259-1611
South Bend South Bend South Bend Sanctuary Trinity Tower Tower Sanctuary Trinity 316Sanctuary Dr. MLK. Jr.Trinity Blvd. N.Tower | (574) 234-7278 316316 Dr. MLK. Jr. Blvd. N. | (574) 234-7278 Dr. MLK. Jr. Blvd. N. | (574) 234-7278
1ROOF Southeast Neighborhood Center 1ROOF Southeast Neighborhood Center Center 1ROOF Southeast Neighborhood 405 Ave. || (574) 405 E. E. Dubail Dubail Ave. (574) 381-8981 381-8981
904 N. N. Main MainSt. St.| |(574) (574)256-2325 256-2325 904 Osceola
1220 E. Fairington Circle | (574) 291-5597 1220 E. Fairington Circle | (574) 291-5597 Karl King Riverbend Tower
Laporte Cambridge Square Apartments Laporte Laporte 1111 Longwood Drive,Square La Porte (Bld: B) | (219)-380-1885 Cambridge Apartments
Battell Center 904 N. Center Main St. | (574) 256-2325 Battell Battell Center
Shepherd’s Heart Fellowship Osceola Osceola 58362 BeechHeart Rd.| (574) 674-6503 Shepherd’s Fellowship
Shepherd’s Heart Fellowship 58362 Beech Beech Rd.|(574) (574)674-6503 674-6503 Walkerton 58362 Rd.| American Legion Hall Walkerton 302 Legion Dr. | (574) 334-1047 Walkerton
American Legion Hall American Legion Hall 334-1047 302 Legion Dr. | (574)
302 Legion Dr. | (574) 334-1047
Fairington Apartments 1220 E. Fairington Circle | (574) 291-5597 Fairington Apartments Fairington Apartments 515Karl E. Monroe St. | (574) 232-4934 King Riverbend Tower
Karl King Riverbend Tower
515 E. Monroe St. | (574) 232-4934
515 E. Monroe | (574) 232-4934 Charles Black St. Center 3419 W. Washington | (574) 229-5911 Charles Black Center Charles Black Center
3419 W. Washington | Square (574) 229-5911 Heritage Place at LaSalle 3419 W. Washington (574) 229-5911 3224 Ardmore Trail | |(574) 286-0916 Heritage Place at LaSalle Square 3224 Ardmore Trail | (574) 286-0916 Heritage Place at LaSalle Square
3224 Ardmore Trail | (574) 286-0916
405 E. Dubail Ave. | (574) 381-8981
Portage Commons Senior Enrichment Center Portage Commons Senior Enrichment Center Center 133 N. William St.Commons | (574) 884-7182 Portage Senior Enrichment
133 N. William St. | (574) 133 N. William St.884-7182 | (574) 884-7182
Cambridge Square Apartments
1111 Longwood Drive, La Porte (Bld: B) | (219)-380-1885
1111 Longwood Michigan City Drive, La Porte (Bld: B) | (219)-380-1885 SimeonMichigan Square Apartments City 1207 S. Simeon Woodland Ave., Michigan City | (219)-380-1439 Michigan City Square Apartments
Simeon Square Apartments 1207 S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City | (219)-380-1439 Smrt Community Center 1207Grant S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City | (219)-380-1439 301 Ave., Michigan City | (219)-207-1720 Smrt Community Center
301 Grant Center Ave., Michigan City | (219)-207-1720 Smrt Community 301 Grant Ave., Michigan City | (219)-207-1720
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16 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
Building capacity. Creating possibility. 1151 S. Michigan St, South Bend IN 46601 | (574)233-8205 info@ realservices.org
realservices.org
Real Services, Inc.
More Than a Meal
A meal. A friendly face. A moment of connection. A home-delivered meal provides good nutrition, but for many older adults, it offers something just as important: a connection to another person. REAL Services volunteers deliver meals to older adults who may have difficulty leaving home. Along with a nutritious meal, they bring a friendly face, a few minutes of conversation and the reassurance that someone is checking in. For some individuals, the volunteer who arrives at the door may be one of the few people they see that day. That is what makes this opportunity about much more than delivering a meal. Volunteering is also a meaningful way to stay active, meet people and make a direct difference in your community. Whether you have a little time to give or are looking for a regular way to serve, your time can help an older neighbor stay connected and independent at home. Could you give something REAL? Volunteer to deliver meals and see how much can happen in just a few minutes at someone's front door. Businesses, churches and organizations can help, too. Through our Adopt-a-Route program, groups can share responsibility for a Meals on Wheels route and make service part of their regular routine.
Community & Conversations Come Hungry. Leave Connected.
Join Us for REAL Talk Free presentations and community connections. Topics target those 60 and older, but everyone is welcome to attend.
Stay on Your Feet: Falls Prevention Made Simple Sep. 09 | 11:30 AM | Portage Commons (574) 284-7189 Sep. 17 | 11:00 AM | OWLS (574) 336-2652 Sep. 25 | 11:30 AM | 1ROOF (Lunch) (574) 284-7189 Sep. 22 | 11:30 AM | Salvation Army (574) 284-7189 Reserve your spot by visiting realservices.org/get-involved/real-talk/
As we ease into fall, let’s make the most of the longer days. It’s the perfect time to join us for Community & Conversations at Portage Commons Senior Enrichment Center 133 N. William St. Stop by Thursday, September 10 from 4:00–6:30 PM for a free meal and easy conversation in a welcoming setting. No speeches, no formal program, just good food, friendly faces, and the simple joy of community. Come for the meal, stay for the conversation, and celebrate the fresh start that spring brings.
Free and open to all. Donations accepted.
Interested in volunteering? Call REAL Services at 574-233-8205 and ask about Meals on Wheels volunteer opportunities in St. Joseph or Elkhart County.
When You Have Questions We have Answers.
Maybe you’re wondering what services are available for yourself, a parent, a spouse or someone you care about. You may need help at home, transportation, meals, caregiver support or simply guidance about where to begin. You don’t need to know which program to ask for before you call. The REAL Services Aging & Disability Resource Center can help you understand your options, connect you with available resources and identify services that may fit your needs. Sometimes, one conversation is all it takes to find the right next step. Have questions? Start with REAL Services.
Call 574-233-8205 to talk with someone who can help.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 17
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18 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
7 tips on how to stop constant worrying about problems in your life Editor’s Note: Stan Popovich is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear” which covers 200 plus techniques that can drastically improve your mental health By STAN POPOVICH Guest Columnist Do you find yourself worrying about everything that is going on around you? It can be very tiring and depressing to constantly worry about your family, your job, your health, and everything else that is happening. Having things out of your control
is very scary. As a result, here are seven tips on how to overcome the cycle of worry and fear in your life. 1. Focus on the facts of your situation; not your thoughts: When people are stressed out, they rely on their fearful and depressing thoughts. Your fearful thoughts are exaggerated and are not based on reality. When you are anxious, focus on the facts of your current situation and not on what you think. 2. You can’t predict the future: Remember that no one can predict the future
STAN POPOVICH with one hundred percent certainty. Even if the thing that you are afraid of does happen,
Oaklawn offers stress-management group for older adults Oaklawn is offering a 12-week group for older adults focused on managing stress and improving communication. The Managing Stress with Older Adults group meets Thursdays from 10-11:30 a.m. at Oaklawn’s South Bend campus, 415 E. Madison St. Participants will learn strategies to manage stress related to health complications, lifestyle
changes, anxiety, depression and grief. Topics include goal-setting, identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, managing anxiety, effective communication, Medicare and other resources, and lifeskills. The group incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and the DARE method. Participants also will
check in weekly on their levels of depression and anxiety. New clients must complete an intake assessment at an Oaklawn Open Access clinic and request a referral to the Older Adults Group. Current clients can ask their provider for a referral. For more information, call (574) 533-1234 or visit oaklawn. org/access.
there are circumstances and factors that you can’t predict which can be used to your advantage. For example, you miss the deadline for a project you have been working on. Everything you feared is coming true. Suddenly, your boss tells you that the deadline is extended and that he forgot to tell you the day before. This unknown factor changes everything. 3. Take a break: Take a deep breath and try to find something to do to get your mind off of your anxieties and stresses. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper, watch TV, play on the computer, or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. This will distract you from your current worries. 4. Take it one day at a time: Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or month, focus on today. Each day can provide us with different opportunities to learn new things and that includes
learning how to deal with your problems. 5. Learn how to manage your thoughts: Challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make you fearful, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. 6. Things change over time: Regardless of your circumstances, your current situation will not stay the same. Everything changes over time. Knowing that your situation will improve will help give you the confidence that things will get better. 7. Get some help: Sometimes, it helps to be able to talk to someone about your stressful situations. Talking to a trusted friend, counselor, or clergyman can give you additional advice and insights on how to deal with the fear of the unknown. Remember that there is nothing wrong in asking for assistance. For more information,visit managingfear.com.
September 2026
Activity Center for Older Adults
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
9 a.m. Watercolor Paint
10 a.m. Exercise
9 a.m. Watercolor Paint
10 a.m. Exercise
12:15 p.m. Pinocle
10:45 CELEBRATE
10 a.m. Crafts: Tie-Dye
10:30 a.m. Wii Bowling
1 p.m. Mahjong
GRANDPARENTS
1 p.m. Bunco/LRC/Bridge
& Lunch
12:30 & 6 p.m. Euchre
3 p.m. LRC
8
9
9 a.m. Watercolor Paint
13
10
11
10 a.m. Exercise
9 a.m. Watercolor Paint
12:15 p.m. Pinocle
10:45 Dunes BINGO
1 p.m. Bunco/LRC/Bridge
CLOSED
1 p.m. Mahjong
12:30 & 6 p.m. Euchre
3 p.m. LRC
10 a.m. Exercise
9 a.m. Watercolor Paint
10 a.m. Exercise 12:30 & 6 p.m. Euchre
14
15
16
10:30 Dominoes
12:15 p.m. Pinocle
12:15 p.m. Pinocle
1 p.m. Mahjong
20
21
17 11 a.m. Brain Fitness 3 p.m. LRC
22
23
9 a.m. Watercolor Paint
10 a.m. Exercise
10:30 Dominoes
12:15 p.m. Pinocle
12:30 & 6 p.m. Euchre
12:15 p.m. Pinocle
1 p.m. Mahjong
29
30
9 a.m. Watercolor Paint
10 a.m. Exercise
10:30 Dominoes
12:15 p.m. Pinocle
12:30 & 6 p.m. Euchre
12:15 p.m. Pinocle
1 p.m. Mahjong
1 p.m. Mahjong
ACOA Group Schedules
Tuesday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Bunco/LRC - Thurs
Wednesday 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Thursday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-11 a.m.
Dominoes - Mon Euchre - Wed
25
26
10 a.m. Exercise
Noon Elephant BINGO 3 p.m. LRC
10 a.m. Exercise
Bridge - Thurs
24 9 a.m. Watercolor Paint 1 p.m. Bunco/LRC/Bridge
1 p.m. Mahjong
ACOA HOURS
19
10 a.m. Exercise
1 p.m. Bunco/LRC/Bridge
10 a.m. Exercise
Monday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
18
9 a.m. Watercolor Paint
1 p.m. Mahjong
28
12
10 a.m. Exercise
LABOR DAY
Happy Grandparents Day!
27
901 Lincolnway, La Porte IN 46350 phone: 219-326-5354 email: seniorcenter@cityoflaportein.gov
Excerise - Mon Wed Fri Mahjong - Mon Tues Pinochle - Mon Tues Wii Bowling- 1st Fri 9 a.m. Coffee Hour Daily
THANK YOU ACOA SPONSORS: Anonymous Donor The Pierzakowski Family in honor of Grandma Devoted Health Plans Oak Wood Manor Senior Living Cutler Funeral Homes Seniors Helping Seniors, Northwest Indiana
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 19
Sports
Jen Stone finds her tribe through running By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer Once Jen Stone gave birth to her third child, she knew she would need a support system to get active again as a busy mom. She found a group of moms in her town of Granger who ran together in the mornings to get her started. “One of the best things is to find your people. Find your tribe,” Stone said. “After my third child, I met up with a group of women that ran early in the morning. At first, it was a half marathon and then it was a full marathon. I love running with people. It’s basically therapy.” Stone, 56, has lived in the South Bend area since the fifth grade. Originally from Massachusetts, she is happy to call Granger home. “I loved Granger because it’s a smaller community. I love South Bend because it’s a small-town feel in a big city. It’s very affordable, raising our kids here after we got married,” Stone said. “Good food, good people.” She loves taking part in the Sunburst races where she was third in her age group this year. She helped with social media for the event and recruited a corporate team to run in it from Niles, Michigan. “I would always come home for
the Sunburst,” Stone said. She has competed in marathons in Ohio, Michigan, Chicago and Southern Illinois. Stone has traded the marathons to more manageable 10Ks and 5Ks in the past decade. She completed a 5K with her daughter, Annie, this year. Stone graduated from South Bend Riley where she ran cross-country and track. She is thankful she found a love for running on her own as oppose to being pushed into it. “My dad, Tom, he was the one who would inspire me to run when I was little. Instead of running becoming something I had to do, it became something I wanted to do,” Stone said. Stone says she is always on the move. This includes strength training exercises like CrossFit. “The older I get, the more I am into strength training. That’s probably the biggest thing I’ve changed in the last five years,” Stone said. “I think I’m more stiff and sore when I’m not moving. Keep moving and you won’t get hurt. Every so often, I will get a knee injury. Been very lucky to be injury free in my later years.” Her son, Bryce, is training for a marathon later this year. She says thankful for the support of her husband, Tim, at races, too. As for places to run, Stone
SUNNY SPRINT — Jen Stone smiles for the camera while running in the Sunburst race earlier this year in South Bend. Photo provided by Jen Stone. says there are a few good options to choose from locally. “Love to run at Notre Dame, I never get tired of that campus,” Stone said. “I love downtown South Bend too.”
For those thinking about running, Stone encourages everyone to just get started.
“It’s never too late, just get out there and start walking before you run,” Stone said.
Shirley Heinze Land Trust receives $5,000 grant Shirley Heinze Land Trust ty partnerships. implement sustainable practices. has received a $5,000 NIPSCO “Programs like this showcase Founded in 1981, Shirley Environmental Action Grant from the tremendous potential of collab- Heinze Land Trust has permaNiSource to support its Milkweed oration to address environmental nently protected more than 4,000 Gardens Micro-Farm Partnership challenges at the local level,” said acres across Lake, Porter, LaPorte, in South Bend. Rick Calinski, NIPSCO’s director St. Joseph, Marshall and Starke The grant will help establish of public affairs and economic decounties. Many of its nature preactive food production on a vacant velopment. “We believe that strong serves are open to the public. downtown lot, expanding local partnerships are essential to To learn more, visit heinzetrust. food access, promoting urban advancing conservation, and we’re org. ng Accepti agricultural conservation and id proud to support Shirley Heinze Milkweed Gardens Inc. is a Medica supporting community-based Waivers Land Trust’s efforts to connect urnonprofit organization focused agriculture. ban agriculture with sustainable on restoring underused spaces “We’re incredibly grateful to land stewardship.” through community-centered land NiSource for supporting our partThe Milkweed Gardens Mistewardship, native plantings, polCALL TODAY! nership with Milkweed Gardens, cro-Farm Partnership is scheduled linator gardens and shared green Inc., and helping us expand urban to launch in 2027. The project 2024 County Road 24 spaces that benefit both people agricultural conservation efforts,” Elkhart, IN 46517 aims to strengthen community and the environment. said Kris Krouse, executive direcTo learn more, visit herstoricdeengagement while providing opsliving.com/elkhart-place tor of Shirley Heinze Land Trust. velopment.com/milkweed-gardens. urban farmers with resources to “Our work with Oases Botanical Gardens in Gary showed us the As an independent senior positive impact these projects can living community, The have, and we’re excited to be workVillage at Arborwood ing with similar opportunities in the South Bend community.” provides you with the Rachel Mospan, co-founder comforts and luxuries of of Milkweed Gardens Inc., said home without the work or the partnership will allow the worry! nonprofit to continue providing environmental, agricultural and At The Village at educational programming in Arborwood you will find downtown South Bend. the lifestyle you deserve “Shirley Heinze Land Trust Granger and Mishawaka’s Premie and an apartment you We Make It All About You! has been instrumental in sharing Independent Senior Living can afford. Customize your living optionsPremie expertise and guidance, and we Granger and Mishawaka’s Community We Make It All About You! to meet your unique needs. are excited for the environmental, Independent Senior Living Customize your living options • Spacious One and Two Stop in today to see agricultural and educational proCome visit us Community to meet your unique needs. what you’re missing. Bedroom Apartments gramming we can continue to offer today... and Stop in today to see in our downtown spaces for years • Social Activities and see all that we to come,” Mospan said. what you’re missing. Wellness Programs NIPSCO’s Environmental Achave to offer! • A la Carte Services 820 E. Cleveland Rd., Granger, IN tion Grant program has supported (574)-247-4680 • TRS 711 • www.villageatarborwood.com 820 E. 194 projects throughout northern 820 E. Cleveland Rd., Granger, IN Cleveland Rd., Granger, IN 46530 Indiana, encouraging environmen(574)-247-4680 • TRS 711 • 574-247-4680 www.villageatarborwood.com TRS711 www.villageatarborwood.com tal stewardship through communi-
ASSISTED LIVING CARE ON ONE FLOOR
574-295-9058
The Village aT arborwood The Village aT arborwood
SB-286430-1
SB-286430-1
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
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20 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
Assisted Living, nursing And rehAbiLitAtion guide Aperion Care - Arbors Michigan City
1101 E. Coolspring Avenue, Michigan City, IN 46360 (219) 874-5211 • www.aperioncare.com
Short Term Rehab, Long Term Care, On-Site Therapy 7 Days A Week, Orthopedic Rehab, Post-Stroke Rehab, Nurse Practitioner Oversight, Wound Care, Respiratory Care, IV Therapy, Cardiac Rehab, Newly Remodeled Communities, Memory Care
Autumn Trace
2560 West Lake Avenue, Plymouth, IN 46563 (574) 540-2089 kris.henry@autumntracecommunities.com
Elevated Senior Living: a place for enriched, carefree golden years. tailored living spaces for independent and assisted living options with respite stays available.
Brickyard Fountainview Health Center
609 W. Tanglewood Lane, Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 277-2500 • brickyardhc.com
Rehabilitation, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapy. Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Long-Term, Respite Care, Pet Visitation Allowed. Non-Smoking Facility. Chronic Heart Failure & Wound Care Programs Offered. Medicare And/Or Medicaid Accepted.
Hamilton Grove
31869 Chicago Trail, New Carlisle, IN 46552 (574) 654-2200 • Greencroft.org/HamiltonGrove Comprehensive Care With Assisted Living, Rehabilitation, Skilled Nursing, Respite Care, And On-Site/Outpatient Therapy; Medicare/Medicaid accepted.
Holy Cross Village at Notre Dame
54515 933 N., P.O. Box 706, Notre Dame, IN 46556 (574) 287-1838 • www.holycrossvillage.com Dujarie House, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Respite Care, Rehabilitation Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Residential Apartments
Hubbard Hill Retirement Community
28070 CR 24 ., Elkhart, IN 46517 (574) 295-6260 • www.hubbardhill.org
Majestic Care of South Bend
52654 N. Ironwood Road, South Bend, IN 46635 (574) 277-8710 • www.Majesticcare.com Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational- Respiratory-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Medicare and/or Medicaid
Morning View Assisted Living 475 North Niles Avenue, South Bend, IN 46617 (574) 246-4123 • www.morningview-alf.com Compassionate and trained caregivers on staff 24-hours per day. Accepting Medicaid waiver. Secure units. Assistance with activities of daily living. Daily life enrichment activities. Nutritional and dietary support.
Primrose Retirement Community of Mishawaka 820 Fulmer Road, Mishawaka, IN 46544 (574) 259-3211 • primroseretirement.com Our spacious independent and assisted living apartments offer something to retire to not just something to retire from. Residents at Primrose enjoy a healthy and active living environment.
Signature HealthCARE of Bremen
316 Woodies Lane, Bremen, IN 46506 (574) 546-3494 • SHCofBremen.com liaison2.bremen@signaturehealthcarellc.com
Our Gated Community is a smaller, dedicated unit for comfort and safety for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Residents. We offer Enhanced Quality of Life Programming which includes cognitive strengths, life skills, daily movement, power of music, artistic expression, creativity and socialization.
Southfield Village 6450 Miami Circle, South Bend, IN 46614 (574) 231-1000 • Greencroft.org/SouthfieldVillage
Comprehensive Care With Assisted Living, Rehabilitation, Skilled Nursing, Respite Care, And On-Site/Outpatient Therapy; Medicare/Medicaid accepted.
Tanglewood Trace Senior Living
Rehabilitation, Healthcare, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Maintenance Free Homes, Licensed, Locally Owned, Non-Profit, Faith Based, Physical, Occupational, Speech Therapies, Memory Care Support Group, Pet Friendly, There’s No Place Like Hubbard Hill
530 Tanglewood Lane, Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 277-4310 www.tanglewoodtraceseniorliving.com Offering Retirement Villas, Independent and Licensed Assisted Living, Therapy Services, Respite Care, Social and Recreational Activities, Pets Welcome, Transportation, Beauty Shop and Spa Services Available.
Reaches YOUR Target Market Adults Living Life After 50 www.seniorlifenewspapers.com Contact Marla Schroeder For More Details! 574-350-4488 • 1-866-580-1138 Ext. 2319 mschroeder@the-papers.com
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 21
Studebaker Museum showcases northern Indiana’s early auto industry Before Detroit earned the nickname “Motor City,” northern Indiana was already helping shape the future of the automobile. The Studebaker National Museum’s newest special exhibition, “Motor City, Indiana,” is now open and runs through Jan. 31, 2027. The exhibit explores the entrepreneurs, inventors, workers and manufacturers who helped transform the St. Joseph River Valley into one of America’s earliest automotive centers. The exhibition features rare automobiles, historic artifacts and photographs highlighting the rise of automobile manufacturing in South Bend, Mishawaka and Elkhart. Visitors can learn how the region’s carriage-building expertise, skilled workforce, railroad connections and entrepreneurial spirit allowed dozens of early automobile companies to thrive. Among the featured vehicles are a 1907 Tincher, 1909 Sterling, 1911 Pratt-Elkhart, 1911 Amplex, 1920 Studebaker Light Six and 1928 Elcar. The exhibit showcases innovations in engines,
braking systems, transmissions and other technologies that helped shape the modern automobile. The exhibition also examines the people behind the industry, highlighting the contributions of immigrant workers who fueled the region’s industrial growth while building neighborhoods, churches, schools and businesses that continue to influence northern Indiana. “The story of Indiana’s automotive heritage is about far more than one company,” said Kyle Sater, curator of the Studebaker National Museum. “While Studebaker remains the state’s best-known automotive manufacturer, dozens of innovative companies called northern Indiana home.” The exhibit concludes by exploring how industry consolidation and the Great Depression led to the decline of many of the region’s early automobile manufacturers. “Motor City, Indiana” is part of the Museum Campus’ America250 celebration and is included with regular museum admission. The Studebaker National Museum, 201 Chapin St., South Bend, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday
NEW EXHIBIT — The Studebaker National Museum’s newest special exhibition, Motor City, Indiana, is now open and runs through Jan. 31, 2027. The exhibit features this 1907 Tincher Model H, highlighting one of northern Indiana’s early automobile manufacturers. Photo provided by the museum. through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $13 for adults, $11 for seniors 60 and older and $9 for youth ages 6-17.
Campus admission, which also includes The History Museum, is $20 for adults, $17 for seniors and $14 for youth.
For more information, visit the Studebaker National Museum’s website, studebakermuseum.org, or call (574) 235-9714.
HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY FOR LISTING CALL MARLA AT 1-866-580-1138 EXT. 2319
AGING & WELLNESS RESOURCES
AGING CONNECTIONS Serving Northern IN & Southwest MI www.agingconnections.org
Trusted Resource Directory: Visit our searchable website to find vetted professionals providing services in your area for aging resources, education, and information. For more details, check our Community Calendar for events and FREE educational meetings. Aging Connections is a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
ALZHEIMERS/DEMENTIA SERVICES
ALZHEIMER’S & DEMENTIA SERVICES OF NORTHERN INDIANA, INC. (ALZNI) 111 Sunnybrook Ct. South Bend, IN 46637 (574) 232-4121 https://alzni.org/
Providing specialized education, support, and resources for caregivers and those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias including screenings, support groups and programming.
HOME CARE SERVICES
HOME INSTEAD 3025 Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 256-1479 www.homeinstead.com/343
Care they deserve in the home they love.
See Our Ad In This Issue
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HOME CARE SERVICES
REAL SERVICES, INC. 1151 South Michigan Street South Bend, IN 46601 Phone (574) 233-8205 www.realservices.org
Helping seniors and caregivers access meals, transportation, in-home and aging-in-place services, senior programs, healthy aging, guardianship and other aging services.
See Our Ad In This Issue
COMFORT KEEPERS 6910 N. Main St., Ste. 3, Unit 47 Granger, IN 46530 (574) 277-4121, (574) 327-6123 www.southbendin.comfortkeepers.com
Providing Compassionate Senior Home Care & Home Assistance In Northern Indiana Region. Includes personal care, respite care, transitioning home care and more. Indiana Medicaid, VA Provider, long term insurance and private pay.
SENIORS HELPING SENIORS Serving St. Joseph, Elkhart and LaGrange counties (574) 385-3900 info@shsnorthernin.com We provide in-home care services that brighten the lives of seniors. Our mature caregivers, many are seniors themselves, make life easier through compassionate, caring support. VA Provider, Long-Term Care Insurance and Private Pay.
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22 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY ALZHEIMERS/MEMORY CARE
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY
DAY CENTER
Commons at Juday Creek
BELLA LARGO SENIOR LIVING 1800 West Hi-Point Drive LaPorte, IN 46350 (219) 878-1141 www.laporteassistedliving.com
*NEW* High-Tech Upscale Affordable One Story Assisted Living and Memory Care Community. OPENING IN FEBRUARY! Locally Owned, Licensed Resort-Style Safe Haven. Offering Farm-to-Fork Dining, Enclosed Courtyard, Nature Trails, Spa Center and Outpatient Rehab with a Seasoned Team and Memory Care Experts. Conveniently located!
COMMONS AT JUDAY CREEK 17441 SR 23 South Bend, IN 46635 (574) 273-2233 opsliving.com/juday-creek
Juday Creek delivers boutique senior living with intimate, personalized care, warm hospitality, and thoughtfully curated experiences designed for comfort, connection, and elevated everyday living.
SAINT JOSEPH PACE 250 East Day Rd. Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 247-8700 saintjosephPACE@trinity-health.org Helping seniors live safely at home. PACE’s main objective is to keep seniors out of nursing homes.
FOOT CARE Elkhart Place
ELKHART PLACE 2024 CR 24 Elkhart, IN 46517 (574) 295-9058 opsliving.com/elkhart-place
NORTH WOODS VILLAGE AT EDISON LAKES 1409 E. Day Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 247-1866 www.northwoodsmemorycare.com
Elkhart Place offers compassionate assisted living with personalized support, vibrant daily engagement, and Medicaid Waiver acceptance, ensuring seniors receive dignified, affordable, relationship centered care.
Memory Care isn’t what we do, it’s ALL we do!
Grand Emerald Place
SIGNATURE HealthCARE OF BREMEN 316 Woodies Lane, Bremen, IN 46506 (574) 546-3494 SHCofBremen.com liaison2.bremen@signaturehealthcarellc.com
Our Gated Community is a smaller, dedicated unit for comfort and safety for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Residents. We offer Enhanced Quality of Life Programming which includes cognitive strengths, life skills, daily movement, power of music, artistic expression, creativity and socialization.
GRAND EMERALD PLACE 4010 S. Ironwood Dr. South Bend, IN 46614 (574) 291-2222 opsliving.com/grand-emerald-place
Grand Emerald Place provides supportive assisted living with enriching programs, dedicated caregivers, and Medicaid Waiver acceptance, creating a welcoming community focused on safety, dignity, and belonging.
CONTINUING CARE COMMUNITY
VIVA SENIOR LIVING AT SOUTH BEND 955 N. Hickory Road Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 314-5369 www.vivaseniorliving.com/southbend
A Distinctive Approach to senior living, with personalized care and services Tailored to each resident. Offering Age-In-Place from assisted living to Memory and Respite Care in a secured, safe community requiring individual access codes for guest entry. We honor long-term insurance and veteran discounts.
THE ORCHARDS OF NILES 1333 Wells Street, Niles, MI 49120 (269) 684-1111 theorchardsmi.com/niles
Licensed Skilled Nursing, Rehabilitation and Memory Care. Services include physical, respiratory and speech therapy, along with Specialized Care in post-surgery, in-patient hospice and behavioral health solutions. Cardiac, diabetic and wound care provided. Memory Care-Trained staff help residents lead a life with purpose — in a safe, secure community. Most Insurance Accepted!
FOOT SOLUTIONS 323 Florence Avenue Granger, IN 46530 (574) 272-3668 granger@footsolutions.com
Better Health Through Your Feet! Solutions for Plantar Facitis Morton’s Neuroma, bunions, morton’s neuroma, sore knees, sore ankles and more. Call for your FREE foot analysis.
HEALTHCARE
HealthLinc Multiple locations throughout Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Starke and St. Joe Counties (888) 580-1060 healthlincchc.org
Providing quality medical, dental, optical, behavioral health, pharmacy, podiatry, chiropractic and much more.
HOME CARE SERVICES
ALWAYS BEST CARE - MICHIANA Serving the Michiana Area (574) 232-8487 www.abc-michiana.com
Leaders in Non-Medical Home Care. VA Provider. Indiana Medicaid Waiver Provider. Michigan Medicaid Provider. Private Pay. Long-term Care Insurance. Veterans Care Bridge.
See Our Ad In This Issue
FOR LISTING CALL MARLA AT 1-866-580-1138 EXT. 2319
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 23
HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY HOME CARE SERVICES
VERACITY SYSTEMS DBA HOOSIER CARE GIVERS 401 E. Colfax Ave. #350 South Bend, IN 46617 (317) 699-7075 info@veracitysystems.org
Family Caregivers Make $19-$21/hr. Compassionate, Attendant, Caregivers, Companionship. Private Paid, Affordable, Medicaid Certified, United Healthcare, Humana, Anthem Homecare Insured.
VILLAGE CAREGIVING 2515 N. Bendix Dr., Ste. 201 South Bend, IN 46628 (574) 931-0712 villagecaregiving.com
Nations Largest Privately Owned And Operated Home Care Agency. VA Provider. We Accept A Variety Of Payment Options. Call Today!
HOSPICE CARE
CARING COVE HOSPICE 3120 N. Home St. Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 855-3017 www.caringcovehospice.com/
We’re here to help by providing personalized exceptional hospice care. Serving St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall and Laporte counties.
DUNES HOSPICE (888) 602-9004 4711 Evans Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383 1417 N. Michigan Street Plymouth, IN 46563 duneshospicellc.com
A 5 Star hospice. Dunes Hospice has the highest visit frequencies in the area for nurses, CNAs, Social Workers, and Spiritual Counselors. We serve with dignity, honor, and above all, compassion.
INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING
AUTUMN TRACE 2560 West Lake Ave. Plymouth, IN 46563 (574) 540-2089 kris.henry@autumntracecommunities.com Elevated Senior Living: a place for enriched, carefree golden years. discover a vibrant community where every aspect of senior life is thoughtfully addressed, promoting independence, wellness, and joy.
THE VILLAGE AT ARBORWOOD 820 Cleveland Rd. East Granger, IN 46530 (574) 247-4680 www.villageatarborwood.com A Lifestyle You Deserve, An Apartment You Can Afford.
See Our Ad In This Issue
MEDICAL CLINIC
VISITING ANGELS OF MICHIANA 3840 Edison Lakes Parkway Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 323-6756 jfinnessy@visitingangels.com
Nonmedical services include: Customized Memory Care Program, Housekeeping, Transportation, Bathing, Dressing, Transferring, Companionship, Meals, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care. We are a VA Provider.“We’re Here for You — Always!”
HEART TO HEART HOSPICE 620 Edison Rd., Suite 122 Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 855-4475 hearttohearthospice.com
Compassionate care from our heart to yours. Volunteers needed. CHAP Accredited
NORTHSHORE HEALTH CENTERS Locations in Portage, Lake Station, Chesteron, Merrillville, Hammond, LaPorte & DeMotte By appt. or walk-ins welcome. (219) 763-8112 or (888) 459-2349 www.northshorehealth.org Affordable medical and urgent care regardless of ability to pay. Medicare, Medicaid, commercial insurance accepted. Discounted self-pay option.
HOME HEALTHCARE AGENCY
NORACARE 1251 N. Eddy Street, Suite 200 South Bend, IN 46617 (574) 222-5992 info@noracare.us www.noracare.us
Access experienced health professionals to support your home healthcare needs at affordable rates. We accept long-term care insurance.
PARADIGM HEALTH 3625 Park Place West, Suite 200 Mishawaka, IN 46545 (574) 332-8320 MyParadigmHealth.com
Honoring life’s journey with expert hospice and pallative care services. Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our patients and their families. Exceptional end-of-life care is provided by our valued and empowered team. Hoosiers Caring for Hoosiers.
FOR LISTING CALL MARLA AT 1-866-580-1138 EXT. 2319
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24 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
4 daily brain health habits for better cognition Feature Impact - Your brain works hard for you, so it’s only fair to return the favor by practicing simple everyday habits to keep this important organ strong and thriving. Start by tweaking your daily routine to focus on these four habits. Prioritize Sleep Getting quality sleep is vital for proper brain function. If you find you’ve slipped into the habit of staying up later than you should or notice your sleep being disrupted during the night, those are signs to revisit your sleep hygiene practices. Start by establishing a regular bedtime and wake-up time that will give you the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep. Turn your bedroom into a comfortable refuge from the world: keep it cool and dark, and set up fans or noise machines if you need them to quiet your mind. Avoid consuming caffeine or alcohol too close to bedtime and try switching to a book instead of a screen when it’s time to wind down. Eat Smart Just like the rest of the body, the brain is nourished by food. Some of its favorite foods are options rich in healthy fats such as fish, avocado, olive oil and nuts, as well as vegetables like leafy greens, which offer carotenoids, and fruits such as grapes, which deliver antioxidants and other polyphenols.
Combine several of these powerful brain-boosting foods at once with this California Grape and Sardine Avocado Toast recipe. The fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and the avocado offers a boost of healthy unsaturated fat, while the grapes add protective dietary flavonols, which may help promote anti-inflammatory and beneficial antioxidant activity. A study published in the scientific journal “Neurology” found a higher intake of certain flavonols, including three naturally found in grapes, is associated with a 48% decreased risk of developing Alzheimer dementia. Get Moving Adding even more proof that what’s good for your body is good for your mind, getting regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for your brain. Motivate yourself by choosing a form of movement you genuinely enjoy, whether it’s a daily walk on a nearby nature trail, a dance class, a bike ride or a heart-pumping workout video. Challenge Your Mind Don’t forget to give your brain its own workout, too. Doing something mentally stimulating every day is a great way to keep yourself sharp, and there are plenty of ideas to choose from. Try learning a new language, picking up a musical instrument, playing a mentally engaging card or board game, doing a puzzle, reading a book or immersing
yourself in a creative writing or art project. The options are nearly endless, and if you want to make your brain extra happy, you can snack on handfuls of grapes as you enjoy your hobby. Learn more about the connection between grapes and brain health and discover more recipes by visiting GrapesFromCalifornia.com. California Grape and Sardine Avocado Toast Prep time: 10 minutes Servings: 4 1 large firm, ripe avocado, halved and pitted 4 small slices rustic whole grain bread (1/2-inch thick), toasted or grilled
1 individual container sardines in olive oil or water, drained 1/2 cup quartered red and black Grapes from California Aleppo pepper flakes fresh cilantro, snipped 1 lemon half salt (optional) With a spoon, scoop avocado out of skin and use fork to coarsely mash. Spread onto bread slices and top with whole or torn sardines. Sprinkle grapes over sardines. Top with a generous sprinkle of Aleppo pepper, cilantro, squeeze of fresh lemon and salt, if desired. Nutritional information per serving: 290 calories; 11 g protein; 29 g carbohydrates; 16 g
FLAVONOL BENEFITS—The intake of certain kinds of flavonols is associated with a decreased risk of Alzheimer dementia. Photo provided by California Table Grape Commission. fat (50% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 20 mg cholesterol; 210 mg sodium; 6 g fiber.
Lubeznik Center to host free First Friday program The Lubeznik Center for the Arts will host its free First Friday program from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4. Special guest Joe Rauen, an artist and musician, will demonstrate playable musical instruments made from household and everyday items. After graduating from Berklee College of Music, Rauen set out to combine his love of music and visual
art into a single practice. He began experimenting with making musical instruments from everyday objects, including shovels, suitcases, plumbing, sports equipment, old toys and hardware store items. Rauen’s eclectic performances earned him a yearlong residency at the Ace Hotel Chicago. His music has been featured on WGN Morning News, covered by the Chicago Tribune and heard on NPR.
Rauen is a two-time grant recipient from the Indiana Arts Commission. He currently studies South Indian classical music with Saraswathi Ranganathan and performs throughout the Midwest. The event will include light hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and a musical performance. Admission is free. The center is located at 101 W. Second St., No. 100, Michigan City.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 25
Finance
5 Social Security resources that can protect elders from scams By DANIEL SUMMER, MA Public Affairs Specialist Social Security Administration World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was celebrated June 15. On this day, communities, seniors, caregivers, governments, organizations and the private sector united to prevent the mistreatment of and violence against older people. Social Security scams are widespread across the United States. Scammers use sophisticated tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. They target everyone - especially the elderly - and their tactics continue to evolve. Here are five easy-to-use resources to prevent Social
Security fraud: 1. Create your personal my Social Security account at ssa. gov/myaccount to stay one step ahead of scammers. 2. Read our blog post to learn how to guard your Social Security card – and protect your personal information at ssa. gov/blog/en/posts/2025-06-05. html. 3. Check out our Protect Yourself from Scams page to learn how we fight scammers at ssa.gov/scam. 4. Read our Scam Alert fact sheet to learn what tactics scammers use and how to protect yourself at ssa.gov/fraud/ assets/materials/EN-05-10597. pdf. 5. Learn about other types
of fraud on our Office of the Inspector General’s Scam Awareness page at oig.ssa.gov/ scam-awareness/scam-alert. You’ll also see how to report these scams to our OIG and other government agencies. Share this information with your friends and family to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter scams.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SCAMMERS — The Social Security Administration has five easy-to-use resources to prevent Social Security fraud. Find out more at ssa.gov. Photo provided by the Social Security Administration.
William Redman announces candidacy for St. Joseph County Commissioner By WILLIAM REDMAN Candidate for St. Joseph County Commissioner, District 1 For nearly eight years, it has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as your sheriff. Together, we have worked to make St. Joseph County safer by reducing crime, strengthening community partnerships, increasing transparency, and ensuring our deputies and correctional officers have the training, equipment, and support they need to serve our community. None of these accomplishments would have been possible without your trust and support. I am deeply grateful that you elected me to serve as your sheriff and then entrusted me with a second term. While Indiana’s term limits prevent me from seeking reelection as sheriff, they do not end my commitment to serving our community. I am proud to announce my candidacy for St. Joseph County Commissioner, District 1. As your commissioner, I will bring the same common-sense leadership, transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility that have guided me as sheriff. I will work to improve county services,
strengthen our infrastructure, encourage responsible growth, and protect taxpayers, while
ensuring county government remains accessible and responsive to the people it serves.
St. Joseph County has tremendous opportunities ahead, but we need leaders who will put people first, listen to residents, and make decisions based on what is best for our community. I would be honored to
earn your vote and continue serving the citizens of St. Joseph County. Together, we can build on our progress and move our county forward. Thank you for your friendship, your trust, and your continued support. Full Color Circulars/Inserts Newsletters Postcards Booklets/ Catalogs Full Color Brochures
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26 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
‘Wheels of Time’ brings Studebaker story to life through immersive journey The Studebaker National Museum is offering a new immersive experience that brings more than a century of American history to life. Called “Wheels of Time,” the 75-minute program combines theatrical storytelling, live performances and the museum’s collection to tell the story of the Studebaker company through the people who shaped its legacy. Costumed interpreters portray historical figures, including J.M. Studebaker, who helped transform the family’s blacksmith shop into one of America’s leading vehicle manufacturers; designer Bob Bourke, known for his postwar Studebaker automobiles; and executive assistant Martha Fleener, who witnessed the company’s final years. As guests move through the museum, they will hear stories of innovation, craftsman-
ship and perseverance while viewing historic vehicles and artifacts. The program is designed for history enthusiasts, automobile fans, families, tour groups, clubs, corporate outings and lifelong learners. Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance. The cost is $40 per person, $20 for children 12 and younger, and $15 for museum members. Admission to the Studebaker National Museum is included with the experience. The museum is located at 201 Chapin St., South Bend. Regular museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For tour schedules, tickets and more information, visit the museum’s website at studebakermuseum.org or call (574) 235-9714.
WHEELS OF TIME — Actor Todd Sheneman portrays J.M. Studebaker during “Wheels of Time,” a new immersive experience at the Studebaker National Museum that brings more than a century of American history to life. Photo provided by the Studebaker National Museum.
The spiked watermelon debacle By JIM CARPENTER Guest Writer
Parking was bad, we had to hike, and carried that melon along. With visions of eating that boozy fruit. While listening to rock and roll songs. Approaching the gate we were chagrined. That melon was not allowed in! So again it was I hiked quite far. And returned that watermelon to the car. Looking back I have to smile. As I recall that long ago time The juice was awful but it was drank. And we considered it mighty fine.
An outdoor rock concert in Indy. Seemed ideal for us college chums. We packed supplies and away we went. Not knowing the challenge to come. For this event we went all out. And took a watermelon that was spiked. I had embalmed it with a fifth of booze. What could possibly not go right?
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 27
Aging On Your Terms -
Staying healthy and independent By DR. HEIDI SCHWARZWALD (NAPSI) - Healthy aging isn’t just about luck and genetics; it’s about empowering yourself to live your best life as you get older. By focusing on healthy habits, strong support networks and proactive care, you can significantly improve your quality of life, allowing you to age on your own terms. As a physician, I often hear questions from older adults about maintaining their health and independence. While individual needs and preferences vary, I typically suggest focusing on three key pillars: preventing falls, managing prescription medications and developing a personal health management plan. There are simple actions you can take as early as today to stay healthy on your terms. Preventing Falls To Stay Steady And Independent Aging brings changes to muscle strength, bone density, balance and reaction time. If not addressed proactively, these shifts can make older adults more susceptible to falls. Falls are the primary cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults, yet many are preventable. Simple preventative measures can significantly reduce your risk of falling and help you maintain your independence - here are a few focus areas to consider: • Home Safety: Modify your living environment by eliminating tripping hazards, enhancing lighting and installing grab bars in bathrooms. • Physical Activity: Incorporate balance and strength-training exercises, such as tai chi, yoga or walking, to improve stability and coordination. • Vision and Footwear: Ensure regular eye examinations and wear supportive, non-slip footwear to prevent stumbles. • Medication Review: Consult with a health care provider to identify any medications that may induce dizziness or drowsiness, thereby increasing the risk of falls. Managing Medications With Clarity And Confidence Many older adults take more prescription medications as they age, which can be challenging to manage. The Journal of the American Medical Association reported that more than four out of 10 adults aged 65 or older take five or more medications, often prescribed by multiple health care providers. Effective medication management goes beyond simply filling and taking prescriptions. It’s crucial to know when and how to take them, as well as understanding why
you need them. That’s the focus of the comprehensive medication review Signify Health clinicians complete with health plan members during an In-Home Health Evaluation. There are also steps that you can take to stay on track and be prepared: • Know Your Medications: Understand why you take each medication, what it does and any potential side effects to monitor. Maintain an up-to-date list of all your medications, including doses and reasons for taking them. This list should include over-thecounter drugs, supplements and herbal remedies, and is something that you should share with your primary care provider. • Use and Store Them Correctly: Understand how and when to take your medications and what to do if a dose is missed. Be sure to store them properly to maintain their effectiveness. A personal health management plan -developed with your PCP - is important for healthy aging. A tailored plan provides structure, especially for managing chronic conditions and shifts your care from reactive to proactive, significantly improving your quality of life by addressing key areas of physical, mental and emotional well-being. A healthy aging plan depends on the individual but there are universal components that I recommend for older adults: • Regular Check-ups with your primary care provider: Foster a trusting relationship with your PCP and prioritize routine physicals and screenings for early detection of potential health concerns. • Know Your Numbers: Regularly monitor and track
key health metrics, like blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol levels. • Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, engage in consistent physical activity and ensure adequate sleep. • Mental and Emotional Health: Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. This includes annual cognitive tests; seeking support for stress, anxiety or depression; and participating in activities that promote mental stimulation and social connection. How Signify Health Can Support Healthy Aging Signify Health can be part of your healthy aging support system starting with an In-Home Health Evaluation. These evaluations are a cornerstone of proactive health care, designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your health status. Through IHEs, our experienced clinicians can help identify potential health risks early, facilitate the development of personal health management plans, and help connect you with the appropriate resources and support to help you optimize your health as you age. Many Medicare Advantage plans offer In-Home Health Evaluations at no cost to members and it’s easy to see if this is an option for you. To check your eligibility and schedule an IHE, visit HelloSignify.com or call ((855) 984-5121. By focusing on these key areas -preventing falls, managing your medications and developing a personal health management plan - you can empower yourself and your loved ones to take the necessary steps toward healthy aging.
STAY HEALTHY — There are several steps you can take to stay healthy as you get older. Photo from NAPSI.
HEALTHY HABITS — Maintain a balanced diet, engage in consistent physical activity and ensure adequate sleep. Photo from NAPSI.
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You’re invited to join Aging Connections for our complimentary health and wellness workshops! We’re here to support older adults and their caregivers in living life to the fullest. Come and discover how our resources can enhance your well-being!
Sept. 10th 10 am-3 pm
Topic: 4th Annual St. Joseph Co. Aging Resource Fair Location: Four Winds Event Center, 3000 Prairie Avenue, South Bend, IN 46614
Sept. 15th 3:30-4:30 pm
Speaker: Leanne Hankins - Broker Cressy & Everett Real Estate
Topic: Downsizing Made Easy! Location: SJPL Downtown Location, Community Learning Center-Beutter Kernan Hall, 304 S. Main St., South Bend, IN 46601
Sept. 17th
Sept. 24th
Speaker: Andrew Fitzenrider
Speaker: Beth Reid, Gentiva Hospice
Topic: Relay Indiana Hearing Loss Assistive Technology
Topic: Helpful Hospice Overview
Location: LaPorte Main Library, 904 Indiana Ave., Laporte, IN 46350 MN-Meeting Room B
Location: Marshall County Community Resource Center, (1st floor conference room), 510 W. Adams Street, Plymouth, IN
LaPorte County
3-4:30 pm CST
3-4:30 pm
www.agingconnections.org
Sept. 22nd 3:30-4:30 pm
Speaker: Kerry Ann Sandsmark CSA, CDP, Certified Senior Advisor® Topic: Simple approaches to make caregiving more manageable Location: SJPL Downtown Location, Community Learning Center-Beutter Kernan Hall, 304 S. Main St., South Bend, IN 46601
Berrien/ Cass County
Sept. 24th 3:30-4:45 pm
Speaker: Judy Riboni, ALNI and Milton Village Topic: Community Resources for Caregivers Location: PurposeCare 423 Sycamore St., Suite 104, Niles, MI
Aging Connections is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization
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28 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
Hints to help you take control of your well-being By HEIDI SCHWARZWALD, MD, MPH (NAPSI) - Many older adults find health care hard to access and difficult to understand. In fact, a Harris Poll survey on older Americans’ experiences with the health care system found that 56% of respondents find it difficult and stressful to navigate. The good news is you don’t have to be among them. It’s natural for health needs to change as you age, especially if you are managing complex chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and cognitive health. Nearly 93% of older adults have at least one chronic condition and almost 80% have two or more, which can be difficult to manage. According to the survey, almost 52% of Medicare beneficiaries see more than three different physicians a year, and half of them recognize the need for help coordinating care with multiple physicians. What Is Needed The good news is that managing your health care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are a few steps you can take to simplify your health care journey and to have more control of your well-being. For example, I often recommend a few tips to the older adults I see as a physician and Signify Health’s chief medical officer: • Establish a Trusted Primary Care Provider Relationship: This isn’t just about having a doctor when
you’re sick; it’s about building a trusted relationship with a provider you can openly talk with about physical and mental health concerns or changes. Seeing a primary care provider on a regular basis, even if you feel well, can make identifying and managing new or existing conditions easier. To make the most of your appointments and to help ensure you leave with an understanding of your key actions, try using these three questions with your PCP: 1. What is my main problem? 2. What do I need to do? 3. Why is it important for me to do this? These questions from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement can be a helpful starting point for a conversation about your medical history, lifestyle and individual needs as well as next steps. Having a good relationship with your PCP is invaluable for your care - they can help coordinate your care, refer you to specialists when necessary, and provide preventative guidance. • Know Your Numbers: Many chronic conditions don’t show symptoms right away, so if you wait until something feels wrong, it might already be serious. Routine testing can help catch issues early and make a big difference in how well you can manage them. One of the best ways to take control of your health is to “know your numbers.” That means staying up to date with screenings for blood pressure,
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MAKE IT EASY ON YOURSELF — Health care can be confusing, especially for older adults managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease - but you can make it easier on yourself. Photo by NAPSI. blood sugar, cholesterol and cognitive health. • Develop a Personal Health Management Plan: Every older adult should have a clear health management plan. Not just “see the doctor once a year,” but a real plan developed with your PCP - that includes medication schedules, nutrition, diet and exercise goals and what to do if symptoms change. Having that roadmap enables a more proactive care approach and gives you and your family a clear path to follow. Where To Get Help Signify Health can help make these steps easier through In-Home Health Evaluations. IHEs are available to eligible health plan members at no additional cost to them. Experienced Signify Health clinicians - nurse practitioners, physicians and physician assistants - can visit you, in your home, at a time that is convenient for you. These visits start with a simple conversation about your health. You can be screened for chronic diseases, learn important information about managing your health and discuss health concerns you may have. After the visit, the clinician will share information with you and your PCP (along with your health plan), empowering you
to make more informed health decisions. Additional resources and support may also be provided if needed to help you on your health journey. What You Can Do Taking control of your health
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the attention he deserves. The best part: these treats keep well in the freezer, meaning you can make a bigger batch to stay stocked up on your furry friends’ new favorite treat. Find more ways to take care of your pets at Culinary.net or eLivingtoday.com. Peanut Butter Banana Paw-sicles 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons organic peanut butter (no salt added, no xylitol) 1 medium ripe banana In a blender, blend Greek yogurt, peanut butter and banana until smooth. Place silicone molds on baking tray to prevent spills. Fill molds with blended mixture and freeze for 3 hours, or until firm. Store in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bags. Berry Good Dog Bones 10 fresh strawberries 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons raw honey Remove stems from strawberries and slice them in half. In a blender, blend strawberries, Greek yogurt and honey until smooth. Place silicone molds on baking tray to prevent spills. Fill molds with blended mixture and freeze for 3 hours, or until firm. Store in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bags.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 29
Travel
How to get more out of your travel budget Feature Impact - Every great help make stays more attainable, vacation starts long before you the credit card also includes an pack a suitcase: from choosing annual Category 1-4 Free Night where to go to mapping out the Award after each cardmember perfect itinerary. anniversary with the opporA recent survey conducted tunity to earn a second after online by Talker Research on spending $15,000 in a calendar behalf of World of Hyatt found year. Complimentary Discoverist that 70% of U.S. respondents status adds even more value ages 18-65 feel pressure to make with perks like room upgrades every vacation feel “worth the and 2 p.m. late checkout (as money.” For many, travel rewards available), helping make every have become part of making that stay even more enjoyable. Find Your Next Escape happen, with 74% saying using Put your rewards to work at travel rewards makes travel unforgettable destinations, such spending feel more worthwhile. as: That sentiment is even stron• Get away this fall. ger among younger travelers, Experience fall at Hyatt including 84% of Gen Z and 77% Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf of millennials. Resort, Spa and Marina, where It’s no surprise travelers are scenic waterfront trails, champiputting more thought into the REWARDS AND ACCOMMODATIONS — Find a credit card that not only helps cover accommodaonship golf and seasonal outdoor tions but also offers rewards and points. Photo provided by World of Hyatt. planning process. Nearly 4 in adventures offer a relaxing 10 respondents said they spend bucket-list vacation or a weekchange of pace. three or more hours researchend escape, thoughtful planning • Celebrate the season in the ing and choosing a destination, and making everyday spending city. showing that getting the most work harder can help unlock Plan a festive Chicago out of a travel budget has your next getaway. getaway at Chicago Athletic become just as important as Learn more about maximizing Association with easy access to choosing the destination itself. your travel rewards at chase. Millennium Park’s ice-skating Make Everyday rink, the Christkindlmarket, hol- com/gethyattcard. Spending More Content courtesy of Chase and iday lights and the city’s vibrant Rewarding World of Hyatt. dining scene. One of the easiest ways to Credit cards are issued by • Spend the new year at the stretch your travel budget is to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. choose a credit card that rewards beach. Member FDIC. Escape to Wild Dunes Resort, the purchases you’re already Talker Research surveyed where oceanfront accommodamaking. More than half of trav2,000 U.S. adults aged 18-65 tions, sandy beaches, championelers (53%) who travel at least who travel at least once per year ship golf and resort amenities once a year and use credit cards create the perfect coastal Caroli- and use credit cards. The survey said they’d travel more often if was commissioned by Hyatt and na getaway. accommodations were partially administered online by Talker Start Planning Your GETTING AWAY — Planning your next getaway around a specifcovered by rewards or points, Research between June 29 Next Adventure ic time or season can make the trip more meaningful and memorable. while 36% said they’d take trips and July 6. Whether you’re planning a Photo provided by World of Hyatt. they otherwise wouldn’t. With the World of Hyatt Credit Card from Chase, cardmembers earn two Bonus Points per $1 spent on dining, local transit and airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, plus one Bonus Point per $1 on all other purchases. When it’s time to travel, cardmembers earn up to 9X total points on qualifying purchases at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts (four Bonus Points per $1 spent with the card and up to five Base Points per eligible $1 spent as a World of Hyatt member). By turning everyday spending into travel rewards, the credit card can help bring those getaways within reach. For those looking to earn toward future vacations faster, November 30 - December 5, 2026 - Pigeon Forge & now through Aug. 20, new World of Hyatt Credit Card cardSmoky Mountains members can earn up to 75,000 March 7-13, 2027 - Savannah, Jekyll Island, Beauford, Bonus Points - enough to redeem for up to five free nights at CatSouth Carolina egory 1-5 Hyatt hotels or resorts when redemption levels are at or April 19-24, 2027 - Lancaster show trip & Dutch country below 15,000 points per night. September 12, 2026 - Brookfield Zoo May 15-23, 2027 - Sanantio, TX • 45,000 Bonus Points after spending $5,000 on purchases November 21, 2026 - Frankenmuth, MI June 5-13, 2027 - New Hampshire, White Mountains in the first three months from account opening. 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30 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
Travel
Blue Ridge Mountains: Moonshine capital of the world By FYLLIS HOCKMAN Guest Writer The Blue Ridge Mountains, and the infamous parkway that runs through them, are famous for many things: scenic drives, nature tours, hiking trails, fall foliage, farmers markets, historical sites and so much more. And yet none of that covers the most interesting attribute of this Roanoke region in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, the city known as the gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its Franklin County neighbor. It’s the “Moonshine Capital of the World.” Before, during and after Prohibition, bootlegging reigned supreme. And it’s no slouch in today’s world either. First, a little background. During the late 1800s, distilleries in the area were abundant. The mountain geography provided secluded protection for hidden stills. Corn was plentiful and easily turned into whiskey - and making moonshine was
profitable. And then Prohibition hit! Consensus thinking at the time was that it would inhibit drinking and the making of it. But, of course, that was nonsense. Binge drinking probably got its start during Prohibition. The demand for illegal alcohol skyrocketed - and the Franklin County bootleggers were more than happy to oblige, developing sophisticated transportation routes to move liquor up and down the East Coast. It famously claimed to produce more illicit liquor than anywhere else in the U.S. during Prohibition, entitling the area to the moniker “Moonshine Capital of the World,” a label it remains proud of to this day. My recent visit to the area reinforced that impression. After all, there’s a museum devoted to the very idea - albeit with a slightly different orientation. The Moonshine Explosion Museum is devoted to just that - a June 11, 1930, literal explosion of two overheating Model T Fords that drove into
a garage for repair. Why did they explode? Trunks full of illegal liquor also overheated. Charred remains of the cars are still ensconced in the basement of the original building, which was built in 1912, but they weren’t discovered until 2017 during basement renovations although the story proliferated well before and after. But despite the museum’s singular name, it also paints a much more complete picture of the still-celebrated history of moonshine, which kept many an Appalachian family able to survive. The museum highlights the connection between “white lightning” (AKA firewater, hooch) and the community, fostering a sense of resilience and ingenuity - and, oh yes, a massive evasion of the law. Franklin County became known for its high-quality moonshine and the persistence of its moonshiners in resisting authorities. And apparently, ramifications of that questionable ability exist today. Because many moonshiners modified cars to outrun law enforcement, the culture influenced early stockcar racing, and that tradition helped contribute to the origins of NASCAR. Not entirely sure how I feel about that particular legacy. ... But back to bootlegging - and the notorious Great Moonshine Conspiracy Trial of 1935, the second-longest trial in Virginia history. It involved a high-profile legal case involving 23 defendants accused of multiple large-scale moonshine operations. Many were convicted, but the illegal operations continued to thrive. A visit to Twin Creeks Distillery underscores the appeal of the original moonshine. For starters, Twin Creeks owner and master distiller Chris Prillman is the grandson of Peg Hatcher, one of the kingpins convicted in the Great Moonshine Conspiracy of 1935. That’s quite a family legacy! As much as it sounds like an oxymoron, they serve legal moonshine - slightly less high-octane than the mountain
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GETTING A TASTE — Fyllis imbibing moonshine at Twin Creeks Distillery. Photo by Victor Block.
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THE STORY — Shown is the story of the 1935 Great Conspiracy Trial. Photo by Fyllis Hockman. variety and government-regulated. It’s the only establishment in the area to do so. And Prillman continues to pay tribute to his grandfather by crafting spirits just as he did. So when I say master distiller, I mean Prillman is still making his “bathtub gin” - the colloquial term for stills that are large enough to be utilitarian and small enough to easily hide - at home. Whether he’s still using a bathtub, I don’t know. Back at the distillery, I sampled - OK, guzzled - a coffee moonshine made by a local coffee shop owner who still refuses to divulge his recipe that far and away surpasses any espresso martini I’ve ever had. Flights of “cocktails” adorn the menu. Apparently, fancy cocktails were the norm during Prohibition, as bartenders had to get creative in order to mask the taste of poor-quality liquor. Of course, Franklin County probably didn’t have any poor-quality hooch. ... More family legacy is carried on by Twin Creeks’ manager, Kathy, whose father owns three of the original moonshine cars that led to NASCAR, with enhanced power and extra-large trunks designed to transport the profitable product. According to Steven Ray Tickle, another proud moonshining legacy and star of
the surprisingly popular TV show “Moonshiners,” “People mistakenly think moonshiners just want to break the law, but that’s not true. They just want to carry on a tradition that’s part of the American heritage. They helped found and fund the Declaration of Independence. ...If you really love your country, you’re gonna have to love moonshine.” So if you’re thinking that pretty much brings the story of moonshine to the current day, keep reading. On yet another modern-day front, Franklin County’s moonshine era may seem like a relic of Prohibition, but the legal arguments surrounding home distilling are still alive. More than a century after moonshiners in Virginia’s Blue Ridge battled federal liquor laws, the question of who can legally make whiskey - and under what authority the government can stop them - remains unsettled. In an unexpected twist, a debate that once played out on the ridges and hollows of Virginia’s moonshine country - very much still “The Moonshine Capital of the World” may soon be argued before the U.S. Supreme Court. I’ll drink to that! For more information, visit Visit Roanoke, the Moonshine Explosion Museum and Twin Creeks Distillery.
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HOW IT WAS DONE — Shown is a moonshine still. Photo by Cateyeperspective with Dreamstime.com
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph ■ 31
Travel
Escape The Everyday Routine -
Summer travel experiences worth logging off for (Feature Impact) Between busy schedules, daily responsibilities and the seemingly nonstop pace of everyday life, taking time to disconnect can feel impossible. This summer, make an effort to step away from daily distractions and reconnect with yourself, your passions and the moments that matter most. Whether it’s a solo seaside escape, a culinary adventure with friends or a memory-making family vacation, World of Hyatt’s Global Summer Offers give members access to exclusive savings of up to 25% on stays at participating hotels and resorts across the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, Latin America, Europe and Africa, making it easy to plan a perfect getaway to escape the everyday this summer. From paddleboarding in the Bahamas to wandering through Panama’s historic streets, these curated destination recommendations offer inspiration for every kind of traveler. Sun-Soaked Seaside Escapes Some summer vacations are about trading packed schedules for ocean breezes and sun-soaked days by the water. For a chic coastal escape, The Georgian, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, brings timeless glamour to the shores of Santa Monica. Just steps from the ocean, this iconic art deco hotel serves as the perfect seaside retreat for biking along the boardwalk, relaxing on the beach and exploring Santa Monica’s vibrant dining scene. Every detail of a stay at Dreams Puerto Morelos Resort & Spa is crafted to inspire relaxation, connection and discovery. The all-inclusive resort offers a vibrant escape where contemporary comfort meets
timeless Caribbean charm in a tropical haven designed for couples and families alike. Memory-Making Family Adventures Families looking to make the most of summer together can head to Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, where every day brings a new adventure. From splashing through the resort’s waterpark and visiting the on-site wildlife sanctuary to enjoying family-friendly dining across more than 45 restaurants and lounges, there’s something for guests of all ages to enjoy together. Along the shores of Kanapali Beach in Maui, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa provides the perfect setting for families to create lasting memories together. Families can fill their days with everything from culinary experiences to sunrise yoga, snorkeling and wildlife tours. Younger guests can even channel their inner sea creature during the resort’s popular mermaid classes. Flavor-Filled Getaways Combining contemporary luxury with Moroccan charm, Park Hyatt Marrakech is an authentic gateway to the destination’s rich culinary heritage. Guests can immerse themselves in local culinary traditions through hands-on experiences, from mastering classic dishes alongside the hotel’s chefs to exploring a Berber village market and sharing a home-cooked lunch with a local family. Travelers looking to immerse themselves in Panama’s vibrant culture and food scene can enjoy a stay at Hyatt Regency Panama City. Whether exploring the colorful streets of Casco Viejo or savoring authentic cuisine at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Rulfo, guests can experience the fla-
SEASIDE ESCAPES — Plan a summer vacation with ocean breezes and sun-soaked days by the water. Photo provided by World of Hyatt. vors and energy that define the destination. Immersive Cultural Discovery Just steps from Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, Hyatt Place Tallinn places guests in the heart of the city’s rich heritage and within easy reach of landmarks such as Toompea Castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, as well as cobbled medieval streets, world-class museums, independent galleries and vibrant cafes that bring centuries of history to life. Steeped in history and tucked in the heart of Westminster, Great Scotland Yard Hotel, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, blends modern luxury with its storied past. Once home to Scottish royalty and later the headquarters of London’s Metropolitan Police, the hotel’s legacy of sophistication and intrigue inspires every detail and standout experience, including its hidden speakeasy-style bar, where inventive
CULTURAL DISCOVERY — Plan a summer vacation that includes cultural discovery steeped in history. Photo provided by World of Hyatt. cocktails are inspired by the building’s colorful history and Michelin-starred dining. Set along Savannah’s vibrant riverfront, Thompson Savannah offers a stylish gateway to one of the South’s most charming and culturally rich destinations. Travelers can explore centuries-old architecture in the city’s beautifully preserved
Burglary effects linger By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features More than a million homes are burglarized each year, which means couple of households are broken into and ransacked every minute. More than half of these burglaries occur during the day. Few last longer than 10 minutes. In two-thirds of these incidents, the thief knows and is known by the occupants of the residence. In many cases they are a relative. A lot of the times, the thieves were part of a home remodeling crew or had been called to repair an appliance. Statistics reveal that a burglarized home is likely to be broken into again within six months. Anyone who’s been the victim of a burglary knows the result
is more than just the loss of personal possessions. There’s the residual feeling of exposure and vulnerability - that someone could violate your private space. And the fear that you could have been home when it happened. If you return from a shopping trip or a several-week vacation and see you’re dwelling has been broken into, don’t go inside. The perpetrators might still be inside, so call the police and wait until they come and secure your residence. After you’ve entered, take inventory. Walk through every room and write down what’s missing - computer, jewelry, television set, silverware, fur coats, anything and everything that’s not there. Give that list to the police. If you discover something else missing later, give that update to them. There is little likelihood your
stuff will ever be retrieved but a copy of that list can be used to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance. Make sure no credit cards are missing and you might consider changing bank account numbers if you can’t account for all your checkbooks.
inkfreenews.com thepapersonline.com themailjournal.com shoppingguidenews.com autorv.com themunicipal.com lakelifemagazine.com homelivingplacesandspaces.com seniorlifenewspapers.com
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32 ■ SENIOR LIFE — St. Joseph Edition ■ September 2026
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