Vol. 15 No. 2 • May 2011 www.tclifelong.org A circle is a group of people in which everyone has a front seat. SENIOR FOCUS Margaret Solomon Shalaby Sustained by Family and World Travels By Katrina Schickel 1900. “My grandfather lived in a “We were a close com- Imagine for a moment. The year mud hut in a village in Syria. He munity. Most of the people is 1953. You are a young, single fe- came to this country in 1900 and here at Myers Heights were male traveling to Syria via cargo subsequently to Lansing to work my relatives. I had three boat….from Myers Heights in for the International Salt Co. He aunts and uncles and two Lansing, New York. This is a story never wanted to go back to Syria sets of grandparents that all of a young woman whose curiosity, because he loved his life here in lived here on this little hard work and love of family took Lansing.” street, although at that time her to countries that spanned the The International Salt Company there wasn’t a street – there globe, where she learned about her hired many people from that part of was grass between the own heritage as well as that of her the world and ultimately built houses. I recall there was a husband. She experienced life in homes for them at Myers Heights. wonderful Hungarian fami- cultures far different from her own. Margaret still lives in the house ly on the corner and they Margaret Solomon Shalaby is where she grew up. This is a beau- had a big metal vat where indeed, a woman of substance. She tiful home with many windows and they would cook donuts exudes a warmth and directness light that fills the space. Pictures outside for everyone. It was Margaret Solomon Shalaby that beckons you to take a seat, lis- of family and artifacts from her a great place to grow up. If tenSenior and be both inspired and trans- travels lineCircle the walls and surfaces. you didn’t like what you were hav- Syria and she vowed that one day ported. Perhaps the magnificent view of ing for dinner that night, you could she would go to Syria to see for Her story begins with family. recalls her excur- just go next door and see if you herself. Family is at the root of her curiosi- sions around the world. I loved would fare any better!” The dreams of this young girl ty and it is also what sustains her hearing her tell me about what life Margaret remembers hearing were nurtured by her family and by throughout her travels. Margaret’s was like when she was growing up stories from her grandfather about her education which provided her grandfather came to this country in in this unique location. the villages and the countryside in continued on page 10

to thank United Way of Tompkins for their second terms: Nancy County and many friends who do- Leeming, Thomas Rohrer, Dan Thanks to RSVP Volunteers nate to Lifelong in support of this Sisler, and Phil Winn. Nominated Lifelong’s Tax Counseling for about these tax preparers is that program. We’d also like to thank to their first term are Joy Blumkin, the Elderly Program completed its they do it all as volunteers through our partners: Challenge Industries, Carol Eichler, Mary Ann Erickson 33rd season this April, preparing the Retired and Senior Volunteer Lansing Community Library, and and Amy Rebera. over 600 tax returns for local fami- Program (RSVP). Ulysses Philomathic Library. For lies in less than three months. IRS- Lifelong and RSVP would like more information about this pro- certified tax preparers study cur- to thank the many generous volun- gram or to volunteer, call RSVP at Did You Know That rent tax law, prepare simple tax re- teers who scheduled appointments, 273-1511. turns for free, e-file for faster re- coordinated tax sites, and prepared Lifelong Travels? funds, and work with clients to an- taxes this year: Travel with friends while travel- swer questions as they go. They Bob Anderson, Sarla Aneja, Lifelong’s 59th ing all over! Lifelong is planning a even make house calls to assist Sandy Baxter, Dorothy Buerk, Alta variety of intriguing trips for the homebound individuals with their Bullivant, Suzanne Bury, Joyce Annual Meeting on 2011 calendar. taxes. But what’s most amazing Cox, Tanya Garger, Pris Glenn, th Take in a performance of Car- Jane Hammond, Ron Havard, Jane May 19 men at the Glimmerglass Opera, an American Ballet Theatre perform- Senior Circle Senior Lifelong, Enhancing the Second Half Second the Enhancing Lifelong, CHANGE SERVICEREQUESTED CHANGE Jones, Carl Judd, Anne Kellerman, th 119 W. Court St. • Ithaca, N.Y.Ithaca, W.• 119 14850 St. Court Lifelong will hold its 59 An- Ian Langsner, Bruce Layton, ance of Swan Lake at the Metro- nual Meeting on Thursday, May politan Opera House in Lincoln Howard London, Judith Meade, 19, 2011, at Noon at the Ramada Center, New York City or the Run- Barbara Melvin, Paul O’dell, Anna Inn. Please make your reservation ning to Places Theater Company’s Raphaelidis, John Rawlins, Nancy by calling Lifelong at 273-1511 no performance of Spring Showcase Richards, Joseph Rosenblum, later than May 12 for $15 per per- at our own and Carmela Savarese, Lynda Skibit- son in advance or $18 at the door. much more. sky, Carol Uber, Ann Van de Mark, This year’s keynote speaker will To find a full listing of trips and Jack Van Derzee, Janet Volpicelli, be Scott Callan from the History updated travel calendar check us Lyle Wadell, Jean Walters, Virginia Center, who will speak on “The out online at www.tclifelong.org or stop in at Lifelong, 119 W. Court Waters and Jane Zimmer. Life and Letters of Private John St. Ithaca, NY. As a result of this service, Tidd: the Civil War through a Local clients experience less stress about Soldier’s Eyes” taxes and are more confident that At the meeting we will be INSIDE THIS ISSUE their taxes are filed correctly. Many thanking Sarla Aneja and Cathe clients avoid the cost of a paid tax Gordon, who have both served on • Caregivers’ Corner preparer, which can range from the board for the past six years. • Special Senior Services $50 to $500 per year. As of March Sarla has served as Treasurer and • SAGE Caregiving

Ithaca, NY 14850Ithaca, 31, the tax program helped bring a Permit No. 375 No. Permit

Organization Cathe has served as Secretary. Non-Profit • Radio Show Ends PAID net $256,000 in federal refunds to The Nominating Committee Tompkins County. will nominate four board members • Senior Bowling League Lifelong and RSVP would like to continue to serve on the board • Spring Walks page 2 Senior Circle • May 2011

Cornell Cooperative Extension with ries, diverse experiences, and Free Help Available to Local Forest Owners cooperation from NYS DEC’s Divi- wealth of knowledge have made sion of Land and Forest. our culture, economy, and local objectives and find the assistance For more information about the character what they are today. The needed, the NY Master Forest program’s benefits and opportuni- theme also highlights the many Owner Program was established in ties, contact Gary Goff, Cornell Co- ways technology is helping older 1991. Since then, over 400 volun- operative Extension, 104 Fernow Americans live longer, healthier teers have been trained through Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853-3001, call and more engaged lives. Cornell Cooperative Extension. him at 607-255-2824,or e-mail him In fact, older Americans are more These volunteers have collectively at [email protected]. visited over 1,200 forest owners active in community life than ever If you have forest want to sched- throughout the state. Currently, before, thanks in part to advances in ule a visit by a Master Forest Own- there are over 200 active volunteers health care, education, technology, er Program volunteer, call Cornell across the state ready to provide en- and financial stability over the last Cooperative Extension of Tomp- couragement and information to several decades that have greatly kins County at 607-272-2292. their forest owning neighbors. increased their vitality and standard Call Cornell Cooperative Exten- of living. Older adults are out and sion of Tompkins County at 272- May Is 2011 Older about giving back and making a dif- 2292 to ask about the Master Forest ference in their community. Owner Program. You may arrange Americans Month: Our seniors are mentoring the Woodlands are a valuable re- to have a free, no-obligation visit to leaders of tomorrow, taking to heart source in New York State. Over 13 your woodlot from a volunteer to Older Americans Connecting the need for intergenerational learn- million acres of woodland in NY discuss your management concerns. ing to guide and inspire young State are privately owned by fami- the Community minds. They offer a take on times The MFO volunteer will not give Every May since 1963, people in lies. Individuals 55 years old and you advice or a solution. The MFO gone by not discussed in any histo- towns and cities across the country older own 66% of NYS woodlands volunteer will ask you questions, ry class—a unique perspective that have come together to celebrate the of 10 acres or more. Are you one of walk your woodland with you, and sheds new light on contemporary enormous contributions of older those people who own forest land? offer you resources that can help issues. At this point in your life, are you you to plan and make important de- Americans—borne of wisdom, ex- Older Americans step up to help wondering what to do with your cisions. perience, and the will to realize one another as well. Across the woodlands? Do you have a hard The MFO volunteer is not a pro- their dreams and speak their minds. country, seniors connect with other time keeping up with your wood- fessional forester, but has experi- Older Americans Month is our seniors by delivering meals, help- land management because of health ence with his or her own woodlands chance to show our appreciation ing with home repair, assisting with concerns? Are you thinking about complemented by a 4-day training and support our seniors as they con- shopping, and offering companion- selling land in order to pay property provided by Cornell Cooperative tinue to enrich and strengthen our ship, counseling, and care. Their ef- or school tax? Does your estate plan Extension and on-going educational communities. forts remind us that when older include what you want to do with programs. The theme of Older Americans adults are active and engaged in your woodlands? The NY Master Forest Own- Month for 2011 is Older Ameri- their communities, everyone bene- The NY Master Forest Owner er/COVERTS Program is spon- cans: Connecting the Community. fits. volunteer program provides free, sored by: New York Forest Owner It pays homage to the many ways in Help us celebrate Older Ameri- on-site visits to private forest own- Association, Robert H. Wentorf which older adults bring inspiration cans Month! Join your neighbors ers. In an effort to help forest own- Foundation, Inc., USDA Renew- and continuity to the fabric of our not only to recognize what older ers develop their forest ownership able Resources Extension Act, and communities. Their shared histo- citizens bring to our communities, but also to help them continue play- ing a vital role in weaving a unique and lasting community fabric. Special Senior Services Contact the Tompkins County Office for the Aging (274-5482 or Information and Referral www.tompkins-co.org/cofa) to find The Office for the Aging provides information and Need a Break? out about volunteer opportunities referral services for individuals and agencies con- Project CARE Might Help! with programs that provide services for seniors to improve health litera- cerning an array of issues affecting seniors. If you The Office for the Aging’s Project CARE program is cy, increase access to quality health have questions, our staff is ready, willing and able to designed to provide caregivers with a much-needed services, deliver food and nutrition serve your needs. Please call the Tompkins County break. Project CARE matches seniors and their care- services, provide financial and Office for the Aging at 274-5482, or visit us on the givers with volunteers who provide friendly visiting, housing counseling, sponsor social web at www.tompkins-co.org/cofa respite, or might even be able to assist with some and civic activities, and more. We light housekeeping, yard work or errands. If you or think you will discover that when Help With Yard Work someone you know would benefit from some help you help seniors thrive in your The Office for the Aging maintains a listing of peo- with the difficult work of caregiving, please contact ple who are willing to do yard work for seniors on ei- Trina Schickel at the Office for the Aging, 274-5491. community, you gain far more than ther a paid or volunteer basis. If you are in need of Additionally, if you are interested in volunteering, you give. some help with your yard work, please give us a call please call the Office for the Aging, 274-5491, for at 274-5482. more information about Project CARE. The Senior Circle is partially funded by the Longview’s Adult Day Program Options for In-Home Help Tompkins County Longview’s Adult Day Program has become the The Registry is a free service that links individuals in Office for the Aging. home away from home for many Tompkins County need of in-home help with independent job seekers. seniors, offering companionship, recreation, safety If you or your loved one are in need of an experienced and security. The daily fee of $38 includes personal housekeeper, personal aide, certified nurse’s aide, Senior Circle is published four times a supervision, recreational programs, morning and af- LPN or RN, the Registry can provide you with refer- year by Lifelong, 119 W. Court St., Itha- ternoon snacks as well as a hot, nutritious lunch. rals. The Registry prescreens and checks reference ca, NY 14850, and contains information Limited scholarships are available for those who can- for all caregivers. You interview and negotiate the on activities and services which add to not afford the full program fees. Longview’s Adult specific terms of employment with the caregiver. For the quality of life for older adults and as- Day Program is open from 9am to 3pm on Tuesdays, more information, please contact the Registry Coor- sist them to maintain an independent Wednesdays and Thursdays. For more information dinator, Cheryl Baker, at the Finger Lakes Independ- lifestyle. call (607) 375-6320. ence Center, 272-2433. The SENIOR CIRCLE is designed by Tompkins County Office for the Aging • 607-274-5482 Gary Marsden Printing and Graphic Arts 320 N. Tioga St., Ithaca, NY 14850 • www.tompkins-co.org/cofa/ 607-273-7082 Senior Circle • May 2011 page 3

a trained certified Ombudsman, Like most people, you probably to get tested. Today there are drugs SAGE: Services and please contact Marilyn R. Chase at have heard a lot about HIV and that can help your body keep the the Tompkins County Office for AIDS. You may have thought that HIV in check and fight against Advocacy for Gay, the Aging, 274-5488. these diseases weren’t your prob- AIDS. lem and that only younger people * * * Lesbian, Bisexual & have to worry about them. But any- What Are the Symptoms of HIV, AIDS, and one at any age can get HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS? Transgender Elders HIV (short for human immunod- Many people have no symptoms Older People eficiency virus) is a virus that dam- when they first become infected SAGE is proud to announce the National Institute on Aging ages the immune system – the sys- with HIV. It can take as little as few launch of a new caregiving portal Grace was dating again. tem your body uses to fight off dis- weeks for minor, flu-like symptoms on the National Resource Center on George, a close family friend she eases. HIV infection leads to a to show up, or more than 10 years LGBT Aging website. had known for a long time, was much more serious disease called for more serious symptoms to Caregiving is an issue that af- starting to stay overnight more and AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency appear. Signs of HIV include head- fects all of us – most of us will be more often. Because she was past syndrome). ache, cough, diarrhea, swollen caregivers or need care at some childbearing age, Grace didn’t When the HIV infection gets in glands, lack of energy, loss of ap- point in our lives. Providing care think about using condoms. And be- your body, your immune system petite, weight loss, fevers and for a loved one can be difficult un- cause she had known George for so can be made weaker. This puts you sweats, repeated yeast infections, der any circumstances, but LGBT long, she didn’t think to ask him in danger of getting other life- skin rashes, pelvic and abdominal caregivers, in particular, face sever- about his sexual history. So, Grace threatening diseases, infections, and cramps, sores in the mouth or on al unique challenges. was shocked when she tested posi- cancers. When that happens, you certain parts of the body, or short- The Resource Center’s caregiv- tive for HIV. have AIDS. AIDS is the last stage term memory loss. ing section is designed to address * * * of HIV infection. If you think you You can now also test your may have HIV, it is very important these challenges. Please visit What Is HIV? What Is AIDS? continued on next page www.lgbtagingcenter.org to check out new caregiving articles, presen- Caregivers’ tations and other resources, includ- Corner ing: Recognizing Financial • Informative Articles on a num- ber of LGBT caregiving issues, from the legal documents LGBT caregivers need, to finding Exploitation LGBT-friendly home care work- David Stoyell ers Any of the following changes—at • The person is becoming in- payment. Clarify whether other • Videos that vividly illustrate the home, in the person’s demeanor, in creasingly isolated and overly people who live in the household issues unique to LGBT caregiv- their financial transactions, and in dependent on a single relative, contribute to household expenses. ing their caregivers, can be signs of fi- friend or professional caregiver Address any emergency situa- • Publications for LGBT older nancial exploitation and should be • A caregiver who speaks for the tions without delay (e.g., to avoid adults and service providers, treated seriously: person in a silencing way eviction or disconnection of basic such as financial planning kits, • The person seems nervous utilities for non-payment) or find At home tips for working with transgen- around, or afraid of, a particu- an agency or person who can help. • Collection notices for unpaid der clients and the latest re- lar relative, friend or caregiver If you suspect criminal activity, bills search on LGBT aging issues • Someone inexplicably gains alert local law enforcement. Take • Lack of food in the home • Links to local resources in com- control over the person’s fi- definitive steps to prevent subse- • Evidence of physical neglect munities across the country, nances quent financial exploitation. from caregiving and health care • Missing valuables Here are some of the reasons that * * * locators, to LGBT community • No bank statements Workshops for a victim of financial exploitation centers Family Caregivers Changes in a person’s demeanor may not ask for help: • Training and continuing educa- • New worry about their fi- at Cooperative Extension • Denial- unable to acknowl- tion resources for aging services nances, especially missing 615 Willow Avenue, Ithaca: edge it is occurring and providers and LGBT organ- funds (Register for either or both of the • Loyalty- feel they are treated izations to help insure that insti- • Inability to remember making following free workshops for fami- well in other ways tutions serving older adults are certain financial transactions ly caregivers by calling the Office • Self-blame- abuse erodes a welcoming to LGBT elders. • Implausible explanations about for the Aging, 274-5482.) person’s self-esteem what they are doing with their • Shame- that a trusted relative Caregiving from a Distance money or caregiver is abusing them Tuesday, May 10 The Tompkins • Fears they will be institutional- • Dependency- needing their Noon-1:30 PM ized unless money is given to a help for basic care Jessica Gosa, MSW, the Senior County Ombudsman particular person • Fear of Retaliation- fear that Services Coordinator at Family • Afraid to answer questions in no one will protect them from and Children’s Service, will ad- Program the presence of another worse forms of mistreatment if dress concerns of those who live a The Tompkins County Long Questionable Transactions they complain short distance or many miles Term Care Ombudsman Program is • More frequent ATM transac- • Inability- may not be able to away from a family member with looking for people interested in im- tions detect or report exploitation long term care needs: assessment proving the lives of Nursing Home • Large withdrawals from bank due to physical or mental inca- of needs, communications issues, Residents. account pacity coordinating care and other issues Ombudsmen advocate for resi- • Signatures on withdrawal of concern to those in attendance. dents. They can help with issues forms that are suspicious What should you do if you sus- like these: Legal and Financial Issues • Amounts and signatures that pect abuse? • Residents’ care and rights for Caregivers seem to be written with differ- Get information to clarify the • Personal concerns Wednesday, June 15 ent pens events and circumstances that • Financial concerns Noon-1:30 PM • New bank loans or debts prompted the suspicions. Review • Food service Joy Blumkin, a local elderlaw • Administrative policies Suspicious Relationships with existing documents and collect attorney, will address common • Medical services Caregivers missing information, especially in concerns of the elderly and their • Resident/Staff misunderstandings • New friends or relatives who the areas of housing expenses, family caregivers such as planning • Suspected neglect, mistreatment are suddenly spending a lot of food purchase and preparation, for the expense of long term care or abuse time with the person and ap- management of financial assets, and planning for incapacity (ad- • Other community resources pear too interested in their fi- wages and other compensation vance directives, guardianships, If you are interested in becoming nances paid to caregivers and method of trusts). page 4 Senior Circle • May 2011 HIV ing HIV more often than ever be- from page 3 fore in older people and because improved treatments are helping Let’s Do Lunch in Trumansburg blood at home. The “Home Access people to live longer with the dis- Express HIV-1 Test System” is ease. made by the Home Access Health But there may even be many Corporation. You can buy it at the more cases than we know about. drug store. It is the only HIV home test system approved by the Food Why? One reason may be that doc- and Drug Administration (FDA) tors do not always test older people and legally sold in the United for HIV/AIDS and so may miss States. Other HIV home test sys- some cases during routine check- tems and kits you might see on the ups. Another may be that older peo- Internet or in magazines or newspa- ple often mistake signs of pers have not been approved by the HIV/AIDS for the aches and pains FDA and may not always give cor- of normal aging, so they are less rect results. likely than younger people to get * * * tested for the disease. Also, they How Do People Get and AIDS? may be ashamed of afraid of being Anyone, at any age, can get HIV tested. People age 50 and older and AIDS. HIV usually comes may have the virus for years before from having unprotected sex or being tested. By the time they are sharing needles with an infected diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, the person, or through contact with virus may be in the late stages. cated on Seneca Road East in Tru- mansburg. Come in to experience HIV-infected person, or through The number of HIV/AIDS cases nutritious food and great company contact with HIV-infected blood. among older people is growing in a community setting. Interested No matter your age, you may be at every year because: in getting involved? Call (607) risk if: • Older Americans know less about 387-3015 with any questions or to • You are sexually active and do HIV/AIDS than younger people reserve your seat. More informa- not use a latex or polyurethane do. They do not always know condom. You can get HIV/AIDS tion is also available at how it spreads or the importance www.foodnet.org. We hope to see from having sex with someone of using condoms, not sharing who has HIV. you there! needles, getting tested for HIV, The Trumansburg Senior Nu- The virus passes from the infect- and talking about it with their ed person to his or her partner in trition Program is sponsored by doctor. the Tompkins and Seneca County blood, semen, and vaginal fluid. • Healthcare workers and educators During sex, HIV can get into your Offices for the Aging and Foodnet often do not talk with middle- Meals on Wheels. The first Thurs- body through any opening, such as aged and older people about a tear or cut in the lining of the You’re invited! Join us for a day of each month is birthday day HIV/AIDS prevention. vagina, vulva, penis, rectum, or meal at the Senior Nutrition Pro- and features the latest news from • Older people are less likely than mouth. Latex condoms can help gram in Trumansburg. Lunch is the world of food presented by younger people are to talk about prevent an infected person from served at noon, Monday through Jeannie Freese Popwitch from their sex lives or drug use with transferring the HIV virus to you. Friday at First Baptist Church lo- Cornell Cooperative Extension. their doctors. (Natural condoms do not protect against HIV/AIDS as well as the la- • Doctors may not ask older pa- tex and polyurethane types do.) tients about their sex lives or drug You do not know your partner’s use or talk to them about risky be- drug and sexual history. What you haviors. don’t know can hurt you. Even * * * though it may be hard to do, it’s Treatment and Prevention very important to ask your partner There is no cure for HIV/AIDS. about his or her sexual history and But if you become infected, there drug use. Here are some questions are drugs that help keep the HIV to ask: Has your partner been test- virus in check and slow the spread ed for HIV/AIDS? Has he or she of HIV in the body. Doctors are had a number of different sex part- now using a combination of drugs ners? Has your partner ever had called HAART (highly active anti- unprotected sex with someone who retroviral therapy) to treat has shared needles? Has he or she HIV/AIDS. Although it is not a injected drugs or shared needles cure, HAART is greatly reducing with someone else? Drug users are the number of deaths from AIDS in not the only people who might this country. share needles. For example, people Remember, there are things you with diabetes who inject insulin or can do to keep from getting try at any time. cure. There are no forms to sign draw blood to test glucose levels HIV/AIDS. Practice the steps be- Locally, you can call the South- and usually no documentation is re- might share needles. low to lower your risk: ern Tier AIDS Program at 272-4098 quired. Social Security will process You have had a blood transfusion or • If you are having sex, make sure for more information. your application and contact you if operation in a developing country your partner has been tested and any further information is needed. at any time. is free of HIV. Use male or fe- Social Security How can I get an estimate for my You had a blood transfusion in the male condoms (latex or retirement benefit? United States between 1978 and polyurethane) during sexual in- Information on The online Retirement Estimator 1985. tercourse. uses your Social Security earnings * * * • Do not share needles or any other record to estimate your future ben- Is HIV/AIDS Different in Older Retirement equipment used to inject drugs. efits. People? • Get tested if you or your partner What’s the easiest way to apply for To use the Retirement Estimator, A growing number of older peo- had a blood transfusion between retirement benefits? go to www.socialsecurity.gov ple now have HIV/AIDS. Almost 1978 and 1985. You can apply for retirement /estimator. one-fourth of all people with • Get tested if you or your partner benefits using the online Retirement There you can enter certain HIV/AIDS in this country are age identifying information about 50 and older. has had an operation or blood Application at www.socialsecurity This is because doctors are find- transfusion in a developing coun- .gov/retire. It’s fast, easy and se- continued on page 5 Senior Circle • May 2011 page 5 SOCIAL SECURITY carpets that complement and tie to- May to early June (around Memori- landscape by adding beauty or be- from page 4 gether the property. Lawns are vital al Day). Avoid the temptation to ap- ing edible. Lawn diseases are pri- yourself. for retaining soil in areas with foot ply fertilizer in early spring or late marily caused by fungi. The few As long as the personal informa- traffic and reducing erosion on fall. Your grass may green up soon- fungi that are potentially harmful tion you provide matches Social slopes. Their shallow root systems er in the spring but this practice usually can co-exist with grass Security’s records, you can use the make them ideal over septic system will not encourage the dense root without damaging it as long as the Retirement Estimator to enter other drain fields. Healthy lawns are safe system needed to prepare the turf grass is not stressed by improper information, such as your expected and comfortable places on which to for harsh summer conditions. And lawn maintenance or environmen- retirement age and estimated future play and relax outdoors. It is no speaking of timing, the best time to tal conditions. wages. This information will be wonder so much time and energy is seed a lawn is late summer to early Following the steps above will combined with the information that spent maintaining them. fall. Cool temperatures prompt root help keep your lawn dense and Social Security has on record about You can have a beautiful lawn growth, the foundation of a healthy healthy, able to fend off much of your past earnings to provide a while still being kind to the envi- lawn. If you need to seed a lawn in the damage caused by pests. If you quick and reliable online benefit es- ronment by following Integrated the spring, follow the steps in the still have problems, choose the timate. Pest Management (IPM). This fan- Home Lawn Bulletin (IB185), least toxic option that is likely to be A Spanish-language Retirement cy term is an organized way of available through Cornell Coopera- effective. Then use only as direct- Estimator is also available at growing healthy plants and using tive Extension. ed, taking precautions to protect www.segurosocial.gov/calculador. the least toxic techniques to man- Good fertilization practices that your family and the environment. age pests. Although it requires a bit promote healthy grass help protect Note that if you decide to apply more patience, over the long run it against pests. Healthy grass can pesticides, Tompkins County laws Book Nook has proven to be effective and ben- better ward off pests of all kinds. require that neighbors be notified. eficial to humans and the planet. The second step for pest control is Contact the county Department of The Tiger’s Wife The key to IPM is creating a early detection. If there is a prob- Health for details on the Neighbor healthy lawn because it will have a lem, correctly identify the pest and Notification Law. by Tea Obreht far better chance of fending off the extent of its damage before de- Adapted from Smart Steps for pests. When fertilizers and pesti- Natalia Ste- ciding if treatment is necessary. Clean Water, which has more de- cides are deemed beneficial, use With insects this is important be- tailed information on lawn care and fanovi is a the smallest amount needed and ap- young doctor cause healthy lawns can take a cer- other ways to protect the environ- ply at the appropriate time. Take tain amount of insect pressure with- ment. Available at doing good-will care to keep chemicals away from medical mis- out suffering any damage and many www.cayugalake.org. For more environmentally sensitive areas insects found in lawns are not even lawn care tips also visit sions in an un- such as near water bodies and harmful. Some weeds attract bene- http://www.dec.ny.gov/public/4429 named Eastern drinking water wells, where the soil ficial insects and some enhance a 0.html. European coun- is sandy, or if the soil layer above try when she gets word from home bedrock or groundwater is thin. If that her beloved grandfather, also a applied incorrectly, lawn fertilizers doctor, has died. Searching for an- and pesticides may find their way swers about his death, Natalia is al- underground as invisible, dissolved so plagued by distant memories of compounds. Carried by groundwa- the time she spent with her grandfa- ter as it moves below the land’s sur- ther, and the lush, dreamlike folk face, pollution can spread and con- tales he told her during her child- taminate drinking water. hood, especially when they visited If you use a lawn care service, the zoo to see the tigers. choose one that follows IPM and The ensuing tale of a tiger who es- customizes care to your lawn’s capes the zoo after the Germans needs. Many companies use a “one bomb it and a deaf-mute woman size fits all” standard mix of fertil- who eventually is known as the izers and pesticides, which may not tiger’s wife lends to the novel’s be the right amount for your lawn. magical beauty. In order to appreciate the steps of Obreht is the youngest of the IPM, it helps to understand basic New Yorker’s 20-Under-40 writers, information about fertilizers and and earned her MFA in creative pest control. writing from in Most lawn fertilizers contain 2009. three nutrients – nitrogen, phospho- With comparisons to Tolstoy, rus and potassium (N-P-K). Each Kipling, and Gabriel Garcia Mar- bag of fertilizer lists the percent- quez, and praise from authors T.C. age, by weight, of N-P-K such as Boyle and Ann Patchett, Obreht is 21-3-20. Although these nutrients definitely a writer to watch over the are needed to have a dense, healthy coming years. lawn, some homeowners apply too A novel of imagination, folk- much fertilizer. To find out the lore, realism, and fantasy, the praise is well-deserved for this beautiful amount of fertilizer that could ben- debut. efit your lawn, have the soil tested — Sarah Glogowski for nutrients every three years. Soil Adult Services Librarian test results indicate the amount of Tompkins County fertilizer to apply over the course of Public Library one year. Applying extra nutrients wastes your money and can harm, rather than help, your lawn. Too Green Tidbit: Grow much fertilizer can also harm our water. If plants can’t use all the nu- a Lush, Green Lawn trients that are applied those nutri- By Sharon Anderson, Environment ents may run off or seep into Program, Cornell Cooperative groundwater. Extension of Tompkins County The best time to apply fertilizer Lawns are prominent features of is early September (around Labor most home landscapes, providing Day). The amount recommended both environmental and aesthetic by a soil test can also be divided in benefits. They are attractive green half for an early application mid- page 6 Senior Circle • May 2011

Service of Tompkins County. Fred size of the radio crew and included or those who do not switch by the Lifelong Radio Show conducted interviews with many both senior and staff co-hosts. deadline will receive their benefit members of the staff of the County Some will fondly remember the payments via the Direct Express Goes Off the Air Office for the Aging promoting voices of Daisy Sweet and John Debit MasterCard, so they will not their programs and services as Reynolds on the show before their experience any interruption in pay- After 59 Years well. Other interviews address deaths. More recently, Chuck ment. If you are already receiving other programs serving the com- Brodhead, Joe Cassaniti, Greta benefit payments electronically, by Bill Hawley munity such as Cayuga Medical Colavito and Bill Paleen have been you do not need to take action. th On Saturday, April 9 , the final Center, Family and Children’s senior co-hosts along with Fred You will continue to receive your weekly Lifelong radio show on Services, and IPEI (Ithaca Public Antil. In addition to our own Life- payment as usual on the payment WHCU, News Talk, 870am aired Education Initiative), and commu- long staff (Jillian Pendleton, Lillian day. Having federal benefits paid The longest continuously running nity leaders such as Ithaca’s May- Hartman, Diane Dawson, Marie electronically by direct deposit into show on the station has come to an or, and the presidents of Cornell, Hall), who have worked on the end. One thing that remains con- show, we are grateful to Josh Mar- the bank or credit union account of , and TC3. stant in life is change and the radio tin at the Cayuga Radio Group for your choice or into a Direct Ex- In addition to planning and station could no longer provide us his help in producing the show. press card account is safer, faster recording interviews for the week- with a 15 minute weekly time slot. Lifelong will still have an on-air and more reliable than receiving ly program, Fred has been one of For the past decade, Fred Antil presence on WHCU but in a differ- paper benefit checks. In 2010, has been the moving force behind the show’s senior co-hosts and has ent format. The Tompkins Trust more that 540,000 Treasury-issued the weekly Lifelong radio show, written scripts for the Lifelong por- Company will continue to sponsor checks were reported lost or stolen, formerly known as Senior Time. tion of each week’s program. us so that Lifelong will be able to and had to be reissued. The show has aired on WHCU for Writing the script, timing it for air 15 “one minute spots” per week With direct deposit, the Treas- the past 59 years and even though recording, editing and recording on WHCU. ury Department sends an electronic other volunteers and staff of Life- the show has been a labor of love These will be dispersed message to your bank or credit long have worked on the show, I for Fred. That volunteer labor has through out the week and will fea- union account on your usual pay- think all would agree that Fred An- supported practically every pro- ture two or three announcements or ment day with the exact amount of til has been the mainstay behind gram and service for seniors over topics each week. We are grateful your benefit payment from Social this outreach effort in recent mem- the past decade. Thanks Fred! to Rudy Paolangeli for volunteer- Security, VA or other federal ory. For the past few years, the ing to help us produce these new agency. You do not have to worry Of course, the show has pro- and the spots promoting the programs and about your money being stolen out moted the programs and services of Tompkins Trust Company have services of Lifelong. Keep your of your mailbox and there is no Lifelong, which all serve to en- sponsored the show and given gen- ears out for ways to “Enhance the need to make a trip to cash or de- hance the lives of senior citizens in erously so that the show could Second Half.” posit a check. Plus, it is better for the environment and saves taxpay- our community. But Fred has also continue to air and get the word er dollars. New York will save facilitated and conducted hundreds out regarding particular issues and about $6.6 million annually if all of interviews over the years pro- Federal Benefit topics concerning older adults. New York check recipients convert moting other programs and servic- During those years, the show has Payments Are to electronic payments. es for seniors as well. featured a monthly interview with Look for media messages about These have included interviews either a representative from Cayu- Going All-Electronic the Go Direct campaign, visit your regarding Advance Care Planning, ga Medical Center speaking about local bank or credit union for assis- Alzheimer’s Association, a health issues facing seniors or (Source: U.S. Department of tance to sign up for direct deposit Beechtree Care Center, Cayuga someone from the Tompkins Trust the Treasury, Financial or the Direct Express Debit Mas- Addiction and Recovery Services Company addressing financial top- Management Service) terCard, or visit the GoDirect web- (CARS), Cayuga Ridge Nursing ics of interest. The U.S. Department of the site at www.GoDirect.org. and Rehabilitation Center, Food- Of course, there have been Treasury now requires all federal net, Funeral Consumers Alliance of some other folks involved with the benefit and nontax payments to be the Finger Lakes, Gadabout, Hos- show as well. Fred joined Rose paid electronically. People apply- Law Day 2011 picare and Palliative Care Services, Sanford as the co-host of the show ing for Social Security, Veterans Ithaca College Gerontology Insti- when the late Joe Leeming retired benefits or other federal benefits on On May 1, 2011, the United or after May 1, 2011, will receive tute, Kendal at Ithaca, Longview, from many years as the show’s co- States celebrates Law Day. In their payments electronically start- McGraw House, Powerful Tools host. When Rose felt it was time to 1958 President Dwight D. Eisen- ing with their first payment. Peo- for Caregivers and Visiting Nurse pass the mantle, we increased the hower established the first Law ple currently receiving federal ben- Day as “a day of national dedica- efit checks will need to switch to tion to the principles of govern- an electronic payment option by ment under law.” Every president March 1, 2013. since has taken the occasion of Those who do not choose an Law Day as an annual opportunity electronic payment option at the to proclaim our nation’s ongoing time they apply for federal benefits continued on page 7 Senior Circle • May 2011 page 7

LAW DAY 2011 financially eligible seniors for indi- October 15 through December 7, log, page 26, or view the catalog on from page 6 vidual consultations or simple doc- 2011. This is the time when you the Lifelong web-site, ument drafting, again focusing on will want to review your overall http://www.tclifelong.org. No pre- commitment to the democratic rule health care and advanced care direc- health insurance needs, the medica- registration is required, but we of law. tives. NLS staff will conduct tions you are taking, etc., to see if would be happy to know in advance In celebration of Law Day 2011, screening and intake interviews for you want to make changes to any of if you plan to attend. Tompkins/Tioga Neighborhood Le- low-income seniors to determine the health insurance plans you cur- gal Services (the Ithaca office of their eligibility for pro bono servic- rently have. During this time you Legal Assistance of Western New es and to prepare brief case sum- can disenroll in current plans and ®) Seniors Can Turn to York, Inc. and the Tompkins maries. Each eligible client will enroll in different plans, or if you County Bar Association will present then be notified to make an appoint- are satisfied with your coverages INHS Mini-Repair a Law Day seminar and panel dis- ment with her/his pro bono attorney and costs, you do not have to make cussion for seniors from 10:00AM when an appropriate match can be changes. Program for Small to Noon on Wednesday May 4, arranged. Interested clients are in- Trained Medicare counselors at 2011 at the Lifelong Activities vited to call Neighborhood Legal Lifelong will offer open enrollment House Repairs Room, at 119 West Court Street, Services at (607) 273-3667 to be clinics in the fall and those dates by Paul Mazzarella Ithaca. Local attorneys will speak screened. will be announced in future issues “My main message is to tell sen- on various topics, focusing on of the Senior Circle. iors in the City of Ithaca, ‘Don’t health care and end of life issues, Also, Diane Dawson, Retirement wait to call INHS. If you have including will drafting, powers of Services/HIICAP Coordinator at Earlier Dates for something in your home that needs attorney, health care proxies, living Lifelong, will offer a free fixing, call us. It’s OK to call any- wills, and the like. There will be “Medicare Basics” presentation on Medicare Open time and don’t put it off. The more time for questions and answers after Tuesday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to time you give us (before something the presentations. Enrollment in 2011 noon at Lifelong, 119 West Court In concert with the group presen- becomes an emergency), the more by Diane Dawson Street. This session will be tailored tation, the Neighborhood Legal time we have to respond.’ ” Beginning in 2011, the Medicare to Baby Boomers who are or will be Services office is coordinating an These words of advice were spo- Open Enrollment (also called Annu- new to Medicare and for those who Elder Law Clinic that will match ken by John Balliett, Ithaca Neigh- al Election Period) will begin and would like a refresher. Please visit pro bono (volunteer) attorneys with end earlier in the fall. The dates are the spring Lifelong Learning cata- continued on page 8 page 8 Senior Circle • May 2011 INHS MINI-REPAIR To request repair assistance call ect brochures, “Could I have dia- volunteers at Lifelong on April 12. from page 7 INHS at 277-4500. betes and not know it?,” and labeled The event was one to remember borhood Housing Services’ new Mi- them for distribution by Foodnet to with ice cream, cookies, and door ni-Repair Specialist. He continues, 500 households and by Lifelong to prizes donated by local businesses. “Our mission is to keep our seniors Leadership Tompkins about 1,200 Community Senior Senior volunteers from several not- Group members. Announcements safe, secure and confident living in- for-profits enjoyed meeting each Urges Diabetes also were made on Lifelong radio dependently in their own homes for other and members of the RSVP on WHCU 870AM. Brochures are as long as possible. We want them Advisory Council. RSVP promotes Awareness available at the County Office for to be worry free.” by Diane Dawson and supports volunteerism in the the Aging and at Lifelong. INHS’ Mini-Repair Program Did you know that Medicare will second half of life. It’s a national Special thanks to Leadership provides low-cost, high quality and pay for diabetic screenings? Many program sponsored locally by Life- Tompkins Committee members: people have diabetes and do not long, with recognition events during timely repairs to seniors of moder- Loren Gardner, Steven Headrick, know it until they have complica- National Volunteer Week as well as ate income who are homeowners in Kellie Hulbert, Roberta Norman, tions. Be proactive! Don’t let this in the fall. the City of Ithaca. The labor is pro- Betsy Shrier, and Sue Ellen Stuart happen to you! Talk to your doctor Senior volunteers have a lot to vided at no charge. Some common for their work on this project to today about getting a free screening celebrate. Volunteering is good for repairs include installing grab bars raise our awareness about diabetes for diabetes! If you have questions, adults’ physical, emotional and so- and handrails, caulking windows, and pre-diabetes screening avail- please call Lifelong at 273-1511 or cial health. It’s an excellent way to installing weather-stripping, fixing able to all seniors! faucets, unclogging drains, adjust- the Office for the Aging at 274- stay connected to your community ing door latches and replacing hard- 5482. and see your efforts make a differ- to-reach light bulbs. For larger re- Leadership Tompkins Commu- RSVP Celebrates ence in the lives of others. The im- pairs, John is knowledgeable about nity Action Project this year was to pact of many volunteers adds up – other housing programs that may be expand awareness about diabetes National Volunteer from January to December 2010, able to help. and pre-diabetes screening that is 436 RSVP volunteers served over now covered once a year by John offers 30 years experience 67,000 hours at not-for-profits in Medicare, if you have a family his- Week at Lifelong as a handyman doing household re- Tompkins County. Their services tory or are at risk for diabetes, and Each year across America, vol- pairs as well as experience working were valued at over $1.9 million, twice a year if you have been diag- unteers of all ages are recognized with seniors through his tenure on according to Independent Sector es- nosed with pre-diabetes. for their service during National the Beechtree Care Center (former- timates. If you would like to join The committee ordered special Volunteer Week. RSVP celebrated ly Reconstruction Home) Family RSVP in making our community a Medicare Diabetes Screening Proj- this year with an ice cream party for Council. better place, please call 273-1511. Don’t Be a Target of Health Care Fraud From the New York State Office for the Aging to help us prevent health care fraud: Protect: Treat your Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security numbers like a credit card number. Never give these numbers out to strangers or to people who call you on the phone. Remember, Medicare does not call or visit to sell you anything. Don’t carry your Medicare or Medicaid card unless you need it. Only take it to doctor appointments, visits to your hospital or clinic, or trips to the pharmacy. Record doctor visits, tests and procedures in your personal health care journal or calendar. Save Medicare Summary No- tices (MSN) and Part D Explanation of Benefits (EOB) in a file. Shred the documents when they are no longer useful. Detect: Always review your Medicare Summary Notice and Part D Expla- nation of Benefits for mistakes. continued on next page

Please take a moment and check your address label and let us know if it’s incorrect in any way.

Write us at Lifelong, attn.: Sue Capista, 119 W Court St, Itha- ca, NY 14850 or email us at [email protected]. Thank You! Senior Circle • May 2011 page 9

HEALTH CARE FRAUD the Southside Community Center We will walk along Cascadilla walks, please contact Lifelong at on June 18th. 273-1511 or email Jillian Pendleton from page 8 Creek thru the Fall Creek area to Our Annual Picnic will be a reach the Ithaca Falls. There will be at [email protected]. Access to your current Medicare dish-to-pass affair, held at the Titus no fee for this walk. Come and breakout of that winter account is available 24 hours a day Towers Pavilion (rain or shine) on To sign up for either of these hibernation with fresh air and great at http://www.MyMedicare.gov July 21, 2011, between 11 a.m. and walks or to be notified of future company. Hope to see you there!!! Compare your MSN and EOB to 2 p.m. your personal health care journal and prescription drug receipts to make sure they are correct. What’s Changed Senior Bowling League Look for three things on your billing statement: Charges for With Our Taxes? something you didn’t get; billing for Some things you just can’t the same thing twice; and services avoid, like death and taxes. Neither that were not ordered by your doc- subjects are things we like to think tor. about, but we must. Report: On Wednesday, May 18 at 10 If you suspect errors, fraud or a.m. Tom Vanderzee, CPA, and abuse, report it immediately! If you Brad Carruth, Lifelong Board have questions about your MSN or Member and retired Trust Officer EOB, call your health care provider from Cornell University, will dis- or your insurance plan first. If you cuss the constantly changing land- are not comfortable calling your scape of tax codes and estate plan- provider or plan, or you are not sat- ning. This is a free presentation of- isfied with the response you get, fered at Lifelong. call the New York State SMP Our local, state and federal gov- Medicare Fraud Hotline at 1-877- ernments have an array of taxes on 678-4697. our income, real estate, capital Janet Volpicelli at the Bowl-O-Drome in Ithaca. SMP = Senior Medicare Patrol, gains, and estates to one degree or Are you looking for a fun way alley any Thursday next fall to see funded in part by the U.S. Adminis- another. Many recent changes in to get some exercise and meet if you like it, or contact Secretary tration on Aging (AoA) the tax codes, some substantial and good people? The Senior Bowling Linda Howser 539-3175 to join. League and Women’s Bowling The Bowl-O-Drome also hosts others very subtle, require a new re- League meet weekly from Labor a Women’s League that meets view so individuals and families Day through mid-April. This Wednesday mornings. This is a Summer Fun with can determine if changes are re- might be just the kind of fun sanctioned league with 11 mem- quired in their planning to protect, you’ve been waiting for. bers going to state tournament this the Northside/ preserve, and distribute assets now Bowlers in the senior league year. The USBC supplies prizes and in the future. A good overview, Southside Program must be age 50+. The oldest mem- like patches to track bowling ac- many timely examples of frequent bers are in their 90’s; some Once again we will have our complishments. At the end of the tax dilemmas and ample time for bowlers have been on the league season bowlers celebrate with a summer movie series on Thursdays for over 20 years! Beginners questions will be part of the discus- luncheon where they are awarded from June 9 through August 11 at through experts are welcome, with sion. cash prizes. 2:30 p.m. We have chosen quite a current averages ranging from the Like the Senior League, diverse mix for your viewing pleas- 90’s to 200’s. To even out the ure. Walk with Lifelong! playing field, the league bowls bowlers range in scores from the New this summer is our garden- Come walk with us! with a 200 handicap. You should 70’s to the 200’s. Aside from ing program called Victory Gardens Lifelong’s Walk Program will be consult your doctor before begin- friendly competition, the in a Box. Pull out your gloves for returning on Wednesday, May 4th ning any exercise routine, but 2 or Women’s League offers a chance our first meeting in April 21, 2011, to socialize and have relationships with a walk to the History Center in 3 players have had hip replace- to get the garden started. Come out with other women. The Women’s Tompkins for a guided archive tour ments and are still able to bowl. and see how much you can grow in League is at capacity but could of the Civil War exhibit. The group The lightest balls are 8 lbs and the a small container. We will start heaviest are around 16 lbs. use substitutes to bowl a free st will meet at Lifelong in the lounge April 21 and continue throughout The Senior League gives game when a regular player is out. at 12:30pm. There will be a suggest the summer. awards each week for good bowl- Contact Elline Weiner at 275- donation to the History Center of Come to the June 7th Gathering ing based on your average. At the 7420 to join, or stop by on a $1.00 for this walk. The second at noon to find out the history be- end of the year, bowlers and teams Wednesday morning next fall. hind Juneteenth. Then help us cele- walk of the season will be on Fri- win prize money at a dish-to-pass. th Senior Bowling League brate one of the oldest African day, May 20 , again meeting at Most bowlers aren’t interested in • Meets: Thursdays 12:10-3 p.m. American celebrations to be held at 12:30pm in the lounge at Lifelong. winning money; they come to en- at the Ithaca Bowl-O-Drome joy companionship with people • Cost: $8/week for members, their own age, exercise, and to free for subs (2010-11 season) have a good time. If you bowl • Teams: 4 people, any mix of well you’re recognized, but if not men and women it’s not a big deal. Teams in this • Eligibility: Age 50+ league do a lot of laughing! It’s a • USBC Sanctioned: No non-sanctioned league, which • Contact: Linda Howser, means there’s no $20 fee to the 539-3175 United States Bowling Congress (USBC). Women’s Bowling League New bowlers are welcome to • Meets: Wednesdays 9:15 a.m. - join the substitute list where they noon at the Ithaca Bowl-O- will be called if needed to fill in Drome for a regular player. Subs don’t • Cost: $9/week for members, have to pay to bowl. Regular spots free for subs (2010-11 season) occasionally open, and there is • Teams: 3 women, currently room for expansion. 4 people can ranging from 30’s to 90’s in age join together and form a new • USBC Sanctioned: Yes team. Balls and shoes can be bor- • Contact: Elline Weiner, rowed from the lanes. Come to the 275-7420 page 10 Senior Circle • May 2011 SENIOR FOCUS husband had one child, a son, Riad, continued from page 1 of whom Margaret is justifiably with the means to travel. After proud. Her son travels for business graduating from Ludlowville High to different parts of the world and when he was young he often ac- School, Margaret attended Alfred companied his mother on her many Ag and Tech School for Secretarial trips. Margaret has traveled (multi- Sciences. She spent the next nine- ple times in some cases) to Syria, teen years working for the Interna- Egypt, Turkey, Tangiers, Columbia, tional Salt Company, Cornell Uni- France, Italy, Caracas, Portugal, versity, GLF (which later became Greece, Lebanon, Spain, Brazil, Pe- Agway) and the Savings Bank. She ru, Argentina, Haiti, Bermuda, Nas- even opened her own business on sau, Puerto Rico, Jerusalem, Trans Buffalo St. in Ithaca, called Help Jordan and Canada. Ltd. which provided temporary, Margaret has a broad world view skilled clerical workers to local after having traveled as much as she businesses. Hard work and industry has. However, home will always be are values that were an underpin- Myers Heights. This is where her ning of Margaret’s adventures. family is. This is where her strong Mary Ryan In 1953 she ventured forth from memories of love and support re- another highly successful collection volunteer to assist with more of Myers Heights to Syria (the first side. day on Saturday, April 9. Diane these events in the future! American, single girl to go to the Dawson, HIICAP Coordinator at From 9 to 10:30 a.m. 47 house- village of her grandfather) where she stayed for 6 months, visiting her Lifelong Supports Lifelong and a member of the holds were served and over 61 relatives and becoming familiar Coalition, coordinated the first pounds of medications, including with life in that part of the world. Safe Medication satellite location at Juniper Manor I On the boat over, she met her future in Trumansburg. Mary Ryan, pic- husband who was an engineer on Disposal tured above, volunteered at the Handicraft the boat. He was from Cairo, Egypt by Diane Dawson event and is also a Lifelong RSVP and eventually she traveled there to The Tompkins County Coalition volunteer at the Gemm Shop in Tru- Gift Shop live for a time. Margaret and her for Safe Medication Disposal held mansburg. Mary was the first to Open Monday through Friday 11a.m. – 3 p.m.

Handcrafted gifts made by local seniors at unbeatable prices! The Handicraft Gift Shop is located in Lifelong 119 West Court Street Ithaca, New York. Senior Circle • May 2011 page 11 many controlled substances, were support for local Meals On Wheels 2011 Wheel-a-thon and Tail- collected to prevent accidental FOODNET: Mayors programs like Foodnet. gating Party on Saturday, June 11 overdose and keep medications out After taking part, Mayor of Tru- located at Cass Park Rink in Itha- of compost and our ground water. For Meals Day mansburg, Marty Petrovic ex- ca. At 5:30pm meet the Bluestock- ings Roller Girls then at 7pm watch This collection became part of the On March 23rd, participants of plained “…we believe in the Meals on Wheels programs and wanted to the Ithaca SufferJets Roller Derby 823 pounds collected for the day Foodnet Meals on Wheels had the pleasure of meeting various public help.” Other local leaders who de- team play the Blitzburgh Bombers. from Trumansburg, Newfield, and rd Visit www.foodnet.org to see pho- officials for Mayors For Meals Day. livered meals on March 23 , 2011 at TCAT. tos of roller derby volunteers in ac- This annual event invites mayors include: tion at Foodnet Meals on Wheels. Special thanks to Sue Roenke, and other community leaders to de- Mayor of Trumansburg, You can even watch a short movie Manager of Juniper I, Trumans- liver meals with their local Meals Marty Petrovic to see how roller derby is played! burg Police Officer, Andy Jacob- On Wheels program to seniors in Town Supervisor of Caroline, Don Barber Foodnet Picnic at Stewart Park at sen, and volunteers Linda Kessler, their community. th Tompkins County Administrator, noon on Friday, June 24 . Food- Amy and Brandon Green of the Mayors For Meals Day is a part net participants from all of Tomp- of the national campaign called Joe Mareane Ambulance Squad, and Shane Police Chief of Ithaca, kins County will gather together for March For Meals, created by the a lovely day in the park. Family, Wilkins, New Visions student at Meals On Wheels Association of Edward Vallely More exciting events to come! friends, caregivers and volunteers Cayuga Medical Center, for mak- America. The goal of the campaign are all invited. Call (607) 266-9553 ing this event possible! is to increase awareness and show * * * to sign up.

ICSICS Ithaca Cremation Service $895 the low cost alternative

607-274-7544

Ithaca, NY 14850 Page 12 Senior Circle • April 2011