1. health and fitness

A publication of Philadelphia Corporation for Aging
2013
November 2014
Free
Patricia Woods Sellers: Street musician Home Energy
What to do in case
of a power outage
Inside
Veteran outreach:
Once homeless, now he
helps others .......................5
Utility assistance:
Programs available for lowincome households ...... 4
Photo by Paola Nogueras
By Linda L. Riley
“Music’s good for the soul,” says Patricia Woods Sellers, who has found a new outlet for her
talents at age 87.
By Constance Garcia-Barrio
Feature Topic:
Home Energy
Health Tips. . . . . . . . . . 2
Calendar . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
In Season . . . . . . . . . . 14
Don’s Column . . . . . . . 15
The Milestones
Crossword. . . . . . . . . . 15
Next Month:
Caregiving
Numbers can pin down age and weight,
but they can’t quantify spunk. At 87 years
and 95 pounds, Patricia Woods Sellers, of
Oreland, has begun a career as a street musician. “I’d seen guitarists and singers in Center
City, and I asked myself, ‘Why not me?’”
Her Saturday performances outside Kilian’s
Hardware Store, 8450 Germantown Ave. in
Chestnut Hill, have been decades in the making. “I started studying piano at age 7,” said
Sellers. Her parents got her a spinet at first,
but she wanted a baby grand. “The baby
grand’s longer strings mean a richer sound.”
After some wrangling, she and her parents
made a truce: If she did well, they would buy
a baby grand. They might have foreseen the
outcome, given her love of keyboards. “When
I was a little girl, my parents had friends who
owned a pump organ,” she said. “I would
play it when they were trying to visit. It drove
them crazy.”
Other members of the Sellers clan enjoyed
the baby grand that soon graced the family’s
Erdenheim home. “My father and his four sisters all sang and played the piano,” said Sellers, an only child. “On Sunday afternoons
they would get together and have a sing-sing.”
By her 20s, Sellers had married and begun
working at an engineering firm, Milton Roy,
which makes products to treat water. A drafting clerk, she took care of the blueprints. She
also played tricks on the engineers. “I might
tell one of them that the president of the company wanted to see him immediately, but it
wasn’t so,” she said. “We liked each other and
got along.”
She devoted herself solely to homemaking
after the birth of a son, Scott, in 1955 and
then her daughter, Nina, in 1965. Change
blindsided her when her marriage ended. “I
had to scramble, work, be mother and father
to my children,” she said. “It was a shock. My
faith in God pulled me through, and my
music. Some people turn to drugs, but
music’s good for the soul. Think about how
you feel after you sing a hymn in church,”
•
continued on page 14
Last February’s ice and snow storm resulted
in more than 700,000 of PECO’s 1.6 million
customers throughout the region losing
power, some for as long as a week. Losing
electrical power and heat in the home is an
inconvenience if it lasts for a few hours, but if
an outage lasts longer, especially during cold
weather, it can be dangerous. Temperatures
inside the house can drop quickly; darkness
can increase risks of falls; and within a few
hours, food can begin to spoil, even in the refrigerator.
As this winter approaches, it’s important to
plan ahead so you are ready if there is a power
outage. “Plan on where you would go if you
had to evacuate your house,” said Edward Vassallo, public information program manager
for Philadelphia’s Office of Emergency
Management (OEM). Ideally, that would be
a friend or relative’s home, although in some
•
continued on page 11
November 2014
Milestones 2
Health Tips
Clearing confusion on adult vaccination
Published by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging
Holly Lange, President and CEO
Editor: Linda L. Riley
215 765-9000, ext. 5080
Board Officers and Directors
Glenn D. Bryan, Chair
Arthur E. Helfand, D.P.M., Vice Chair
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Jack Dembow
Katherine E. Galluzzi, D.O., F.A.C.O.F.P.
Dick Goldberg
Frederick Lewis
Frances Miller
Victor M. Negron, Jr.
Satya B. Verma, O.D., F.A.A.O.
Lenore Wasserman Scola
Joe Watkins
John Whitman
Advertising:
Joan Zaremba, 215-765-9000, ext. 5051
Distribution & Subscriptions:
LaTasha Johnson,
215-765-9000, ext. 5050
Home delivery: $12/year
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Mail to: PCA Milestones Editor
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©2014 Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. All rights reserved.
By Norman Edelman, M.D.
Mention vaccinations and the first
thing that comes to mind are the vaccines recommended for young children.
But vaccinations are not just for kids. In
fact, the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) recommends certain
vaccinations for all adults; but significant numbers are not following this advice.
Aging has a detrimental impact on the
immune system, weakening our natural
armor and leaving us more prone to illness. It is always advisable for anyone 65
years and older to speak with a health
care provider about which vaccines are
appropriate for them. Those with certain
chronic conditions, including heart and
lung disease, may be at an increased risk
for serious illnesses that are potentially
preventable with vaccines, such as influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia,
diseases which affect the lungs.
Contracting influenza or pneumococcal pneumonia can have serious, even
deadly, consequences for all adults, but
particularly for those with asthma and
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD), and for those who smoke.
Combined, influenza and pneumonia, including pneumococcal pneumonia, were the ninth leading causes of
death in the United States in 2010, according to the CDC. It is also estimated
by the CDC that 900,000 Americans
contract pneumococcal pneumonia an-
nually, with as many as 400,000 hospitalizations.
What is often largely unknown about
pneumococcal pneumonia is that someone without symptoms can transmit this
bacterium, which can be spread by
coughing or sneezing. Common symptoms of pneumococcal pneumonia include fever, chills, productive (mucus)
cough that persists or gets worse, difficulty in breathing and chest pain.
Vaccination can help prevent influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia.
In addition to vaccination, maintaining
good hygiene, including regular hand
washing, is also important.
It’s important to ask your health care
provider to review your immunization
records. Patients often assume their
health care provider will remind them of
their vaccination needs, but that’s not always the case.
The key to staying current on essential
vaccinations is to report all vaccinations
to your primary care provider, and to ask
questions about which vaccinations you
might need. The CDC’s website,
www.cdc.gov, also provides helpful
guidance.
If you or someone you care about is
65 years or older, talking to your health
care provider about getting vaccinated is
an important step you can take.
Norman Edelman, M.D. is Senior Medical
Advisor of the American Lung Association.
It’s not just
Medicare.
It’s better care.
Health Partners Plans is hospital-owned. So unlike companies that
are just watching out for their bottom line, we’re watching out for
you. From our broad physician network to 24/7 member support,
when it comes to Medicare, we’re doing it right.
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Copays for primary care doctor visits*
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1-866-901-8000 (24/7)
TTY 1-877-454-8477
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Health Partners Plans is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Health Partners Medicare depends on
contract renewal. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. The benefit information provided is a brief summary,
not a complete description of benefits. For more information contact the plan. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network,
premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare
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H9207_HPM-419-13 Approved 09/2013
November 2014
Milestones 4
Home Energy
Help for low-income customers who struggle to cover cost of home heating
Ready or not, cold weather is on the way!
While forecasts indicate this winter will be
less severe than last year, the 2015 Farmers’
Almanac predicts our area will experience
colder and slightly wetter than normal
weather with above-normal snowfall.
The thought of colder temperatures –
and the accompanying rise in utility costs –
is troubling news to anyone who struggles
to make ends meet. But help is out there.
Anyone who receives SNAP (food stamps),
housing assistance, SSI or SSDI will probably qualify for utility assistance, as will lowincome seniors and many working families
living on minimum-wage.
“As we head into the cold weather season, we want to make people on low or
fixed incomes, who are struggling to pay
their bills, aware of the assistance programs
that are available to them,” said Barry O’Sullivan, director of corporate communications at Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW).
LIHEAP helps pay utility bills
One of the largest utility assistance programs is the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP
pays cash grants of $100 to $1,000 directly
to the utility customer’s account to help
low-income individuals and families heat
their homes. LIHEAP Crisis grants of $25 to
$500 are also available to households that
are in immediate danger of being without
heat, including those who have a disruption in utility service or have received a 10day shutoff notice. People may receive both
LIHEAP and Crisis once a year, if they are
eligible. The 2014-15 LIHEAP season opens
on Nov. 3. Since there is a fixed pool of
money, it is recommended that people
apply as soon as possible.
“LIHEAP helps thousands of low-income
customers to get over the hump of winter,
so they don’t have to choose between heating and medicine or other necessities,” said
O’Sullivan, who added that 80% of PGW
customers who received a LIHEAP grant last
year were able to remain current on their
bills until the next winter season.
Milestones file photo
By Alicia M. Colombo
Eligibility for assistance with utility bills is based on household income; find out quickly if
you qualify by going online to www.compass.state.pa.us.
Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income
and household size. The income limits for
this year’s program are 150% of the federal
poverty level (FPL), which is $17,505 for an
individual and $23,595 for two people.
(Add $6,090 for each additional household
member.) For information or to apply: call
the LIHEAP hotline: 215-560-1583, visit
www.compass.state.pa.us, or apply in person at 1348 W. Sedgley Ave. in Philadelphia
(at www.compass.state.pa.us, you can also
find out if you are eligible for other benefits).
Utility company assistance
People who receive a federal LIHEAP
grant may also receive assistance directly
from utility companies and other programs. So it’s best to apply for all programs
for which you are eligible.
PGW has a Customer Responsibility Program (CRP) that provides discounted natural gas bills to low-income customers.
Income eligibility for CRP is based on the
same federal poverty guidelines as LIHEAP.
“CRP addresses the needs of our low-income customer base, which includes many
older customers. It gives those people a
consistent, discounted bill each month,
plus a $5 per month co-pay towards any
pre-program debt,” said O’Sullivan. For customers who are facing a temporary hardship, such as a medical emergency or
unemployment, the Customer Assistance
Referral and Evaluation Program (CARES)
can help find assistance. PGW also makes
payment arrangements for customers who
have fallen behind on monthly gas bills. If
your account is in good standing, PGW can
divide your bills for the year into equal
monthly payments to make budgeting easier and heating costs more predictable.
“The one message we try to get across is
not to worry in silence. Call us. There are a
number of ways that we can work with you
and provide assistance, from federal programs to giving you more time to pay. We
take our social mission in Philadelphia very
seriously. We are aware that many customers have experienced tough economic
times in recent years and that some of our
customers are in crisis,” said O’Sullivan.
For information about PGW’s payment
assistance programs, call 215-235-1000
(1777 for CRP), weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5
p.m. or go to www.pgworks.com.
PECO offers discounted Customer Assistance Program (CAP) rates for low-income
residential electric customers. Seven discounted rates of up to 90% are available,
based on gross household income. Income
eligibility is the same as LIHEAP. PECO also
has a CARES program which provides referral and information to assist specialneeds, low-income customers who have a
temporary personal or financial hardship
that prevents the payment of the utility bill.
The Matching Energy Assistance Fund
(MEAF) provides low-income customers
with funds to pay their bill through customer donations, which are matched by
PECO. For customers with high usage, the
Low-Income Usage Reduction Program
(LIURP) offers services to help reduce the
amount of electricity used in the home.
This free program is available to all PECO
customers with income limits at 200% of
FPL, which is $21,780 for one person or
$29,424 for two people. (Add $7,632 for
each additional household member.)
For information about PECO’s payment
assistance programs or to discuss payment
arrangements and other options, call
1-800-774-7040 (675-0222 for LIURP) or
go to www.PECO.com/customerservice/
assistanceprograms.
Other assistance
The Energy Coordinating Agency
(ECA) helps renters and homeowners
conserve energy, which cuts down on
usage and lowers utility bills. ECA’s
services for low-income households include weatherization, community education, and repair or replacement of
heaters. Through the Weatherization
Assistance Program (WAP), ECA provides full energy conservation services
for heating, water heating and electricity that help users save more than 20%
on energy costs. (For tips on reducing
your home heating bills, see article on
page 6.) ECA operates 14 Neighborhood Energy Centers (NECs) throughout the city that serve as one-stop-shops
for energy programs to help low-income Philadelphians prevent a utility
emergency. To locate a NEC near you
•
continued on page 10
Milestones 5
November 2014
Housing help for low-income vets
By Marcia Z. Siegal
Photo by Paola Nogueras
Eligible low-income Philadelphia veterans who are homeless or at imminent risk
of homelessness can receive housing assistance and support services to attain financial stability through the Utility
Emergency Services Fund (UESF) Veterans
Housing Stabilization Program. Funded
by a grant by the U.S. Veterans Administration, the program is part of a federal
initiative to end veteran homelessness by
2015.
Once homeless himself, veteran Kermit Putnam now does outreach to help other vets.
Now in its second year, the UESF program can help veterans find suitable housing or avoid eviction; aid in landlord
negotiations; and provide immediate financial assistance for security deposits,
rent, utilities, moving expenses and emergency supplies. “Generally, we focus on
stabilizing housing first and then helping
clients acquire the financial resources and
skills to stay housed,” says Tina Floyd,
UESF director of operations and development.
UESF collaborates with organizations
throughout the community to offer a holistic approach to address issues that led
to the housing crisis. Veterans are helped
to increase their income through eligibility screening/enrollment for veterans’ and
mainstream benefits; job counseling and
training; education opportunities; and
one-on-one budget counseling and other
financial education measures. UESF also
collaborates with SeniorLAW Center to assist older veterans in its program with
legal matters. (See article on page 13.)
“We offer different levels of support,
depending on the situation,” Floyd says.
“With some individuals, it may just be a
matter of helping to pay a month or two
back rent to avoid eviction and working
with the client to develop a budget. Others come to us without proper documentation of veteran status or other
identification and need help getting their
documentation before we can even
begin.” Veterans with severe mental health
and/or substance abuse issues often require more intensive and longer term assistance, she says. For these individuals,
placement in housing attached to more
intensive supportive services often best
serves their needs.
To qualify for assistance, applicants
must have served actively in the U.S.
armed forces (it need not be in a war
zone); cannot have been dishonorably
discharged; and must be the head or cohead of their household. (Widows or widowers of veterans are not eligible.)
Household income must be at or below
50% of the annual Area Median Income:
currently $27,600 (one person); $31,550
(two people); $35,500 (three people);
and $39,400 (four people).
In the October 1, 2013 to September
30, 2014 period, the program served 179
veterans. “We expect to serve another 200
in the coming year,” Floyd says. The program typically assists veterans for up to
three months. Assistance may continue
for up to three additional months as necessary.
UESF is reaching out to find potential
participants by going where the veterans
are – to veterans’ centers and clubs, for instance, and by seeking out homeless veterans at places where homeless
individuals congregate or go for meals
and shelter, Floyd says.
Kermit Putnam leads the program’s
three-person street outreach team – all of
whom are veterans – on a determined
quest to identify those in need of help.
•
continued on page 6
November 2014
Milestones 6
Housing for veterans
Home Energy
• continued from page 4
Improvements to help you control costs
By Alicia M. Colombo
Many Philadelphia homes are older
and not energy efficient, which results in
high heating bills. Boilers or furnaces
installed years ago were not built to
be as efficient as they are today. “If your
furnace or boiler hasn’t been replaced
in the last 15 years, it’s probably
inefficient,”
said
Barry
O’Sullivan, director of corporate
communications at Philadelphia
Gas Works. “Old equipment combined with a home that’s not
sealed or weatherized property,
usually results in higher heating
bills.”
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, more than 40%
of an average home’s energy loss
is due to warm air leaking out.
“People often hesitate to look into
weatherizing their homes, because they
think it will be onerous or expensive,” said
O’Sullivan. But there are simple things you
can do to make a big difference.
Take control
Installing a programmable thermostat,
available for as little as $20 from a hardware
store, can reduce your heating bills by more
than 10%. No matter what type of thermostat you have, you can lower the temperature a few degrees when you’re not home or
are asleep.
Each additional degree on your thermostat consumes three to five percent more energy. When at home, set the temperature to
68°, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
If you’ll be out for more than a few hours,
turn it down to 58°.
You can also save energy by lowering the
temperature on your water heater. If you do
not have a dishwasher, 120° or “low” is recommended. Otherwise, set to 140°or “normal.” When running the dishwasher, use
the energy saver or low temperature setting,
if available.
Here are some more free or low-cost conservation tips:
• Keep the doors, air vents and radiators
closed in rooms that are not in use.
• Close the dampers on unused fireplaces.
• Open blinds and curtains on sunny
days, but close them at night to keep cold
air out.
• Warm air rises, so direct the vents’ airflow across the floor and reverse the direction of ceiling fans to draw warm air down
into your living space.
• Make sure that air vents aren’t
blocked. Rearrange furniture and
other items or shorten drapes, so
air can flow freely.
• Clean or
replace your
heating system’s air filter
each month
during winter.
• Use caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows.
• Add a layer of insulation to your hot
water heater and around ventilator ducts
and water pipes that pass through unheated areas of your home, like the basement.
• Use a window insulation kit to cover
windows with plastic shrink film.
Invest in efficiency
Installing exterior storm doors and heat
reflective window screens can help keep
heat from escaping. Having your furnace
cleaned and serviced by a professional can
extend its life and improve efficiency.
Any old appliances and heating equipment are likely zapping energy. It might be
time to consider purchasing new ones with
the ENERGY STAR label. This will allow you
to save money on future utility bills. Most
utility companies offer rebates, incentives
and/or discounts for purchasing energy efficient equipment, which can help defray
the cost. (For information about assistance
programs that help pay utility bills, see article on page 4.)
Contact Alicia Colombo at:
[email protected]
According to an annual report compiled
by the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Supportive Housing, which is based on a single-night count of sheltered and
unsheltered homeless individuals each
January, there were a total of 5,738 homeless individuals, including 357 veterans, in
the 2014 count.
Less than a year and a half ago, Putnam
was homeless himself. Putnam served in
the 1989 “Just Cause,” the U.S. campaign
in Panama to protect American interests
in the Canal Zone, which led to the overthrow of Panama’s drug-dealing dictator
Manuel Noriega. Putnam’s adjustment to
civilian life was a struggle, with periods of
homelessness and short-term jobs. He became homeless again in 2013 after losing
his job as a cook in a fast food restaurant.
“I would sit and ride the buses all
night because I couldn’t afford a place to
live,” he says. “Due to my military training, I knew how to be prepared. I would
stash changes of clothes in strategic
places throughout the city and use public
restrooms to stay clean.”
Though homeless, Putnam was then
seeking to better his situation – studying
human services at Orleans Technical Institute, a program of JEVS Human Services, with the help of student loans. He
came across a display about the UESF
veterans program at Suburban Station,
while en route to an internship. “I
thought ‘I’m a vet. What can they do for
me?’” he remembers.
As it turns out, they did a lot, he says.
“They provided me with training, transportation money, interview clothes and
supported me in an apartment.” He told
his case manager how personally connected he felt to the program’s mission.
“I’m a vet. I think like a vet. I know what
it is to be homeless. I could work in this
program,” he suggested. Soon after, UESF
hired him as a veteran-outreach worker.
Now, he says, “I’m on the street every day
and every night in search of vets. I share
my experiences. I tell them ‘the program
helped me and it can help you.’ I don’t
want to just take my blessings and run
with them. I want to give back.”
For information about the UESF Veterans Assistance Program: go to the
UESF Main Office at 1617 John F.
Kennedy Blvd. (Suburban Station Bldg.),
Suite 840 in Philadelphia; call the UESF
Vet Hotline at 215-814-6888; or visit
www.uesfacts.org. USEF also conducts
regular intake for the veterans program
during weekly meal times at Broad Street
Ministry, 315 South Broad St. For information about Veterans Administration
services to overcome or prevent homelessness: 877-4AID-VET (424-3838) 24/7
or www.va.gov/homeless.
Contact Marcia Z. Siegal at:
[email protected]
Free swim for vets & pets
The Philadelphia Pet Campus is offering veterans a once-monthly 30minute complimentary swim for, or
with, their pets, in the new indoor
recreational and rehabilitation pool at
7401 Holstein Ave. The pool is filled
with pet-friendly saline water; it is 14
feet by 32 feet, and the depth ranges
from 3’6” to 6’6.” For more information call (215)724-5550.
Tax freeze for seniors
The City of Philadelphia Revenue
Department will "freeze" Real Estate
Taxes for homeowners 65 years or
older; or 50 years old and the widow
or widower of someone who was 65
or older at the time of death. The
deadline to apply for the 2015 Senior
Citizen Real Estate Tax Freeze Program
is January 31, 2015.
Household income cannot exceed
$23,500 for a (single person); or
$31,500 for a married couple.
For details call: 215-686-6442 or
visit www.phila.gov/revenue and click
“senior citizen programs.”
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Ser ving Philadelphia, Montgomer y, Bucks, Chester, and Delaware Counties
Saturday
November 2014
Events that end with a $ require an
entrance fee or advance ticket purchase.
Events that are free may request a
donation or offer items for sale. Please
call the number listed for information
on pricing or other questions about an
event.
National Family Caregivers Month
Sunday
Daylight Saving Time
Ends (Fall Back)
Monday
2
Sustainable Chocolate Day.
Learn how to recycle Halloween candy
into fondue & more. Noon to 2. Academy
of Natural Sciences of Drexel Univ. 215299-1000. $
Why Does Jewish History Matter to
American History? Historians & professors discuss. 4 p.m. National Museum of
American Jewish History. 215-923-3811. $
9
Philadelphia Chamber Music
Society Concert. Tubist Carol
Jantsch & pianist Michael Djupstrom.
Works by Lebedev, Koetsier & Debussy.
3 p.m. Phila. Museum of Art. 215-5698080. $
Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show. Show & sale of
work by 195 U.S. artists. 10 a.m. to 5
p.m. Pa. Convention Center. 215-6847930. $
16
Alan Abel 85th Birthday
Concert. Works by Wright,
Becker, Hartenberger & Rissman.
Members of the Phila. Orchestra, Curtis
Institute of Music, Temple Univ. & NEXUS
Percussion Ensemble. 3 p.m. The Kimmel
Center. 215-569-8080. $
New York City Trip: "It's Only a Play"
on Broadway. Comedy starring Nathan
Lane & Matthew Broderick. 10 a.m. to 8
p.m. Presented by Klein JCC. Register:
215-698-7300, ext. 176. $
23
Author Event: Anne Lamott.
Discussion of “Small Victories:
Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace.”
2 p.m. Parkway Central Library. 215-6865322. $
30
Shakespeare Film Series:
“Macbeth.” Screening of 1979
film starring Ian McKellen,
based on classic play originally performed
in 1605. 11 a.m. Northeast Regional
Library. 215-685-0522.
Tuesday
3
Caregiver Support Group. Topic is
anger & guilt. 10:30 to noon. Mercy
LIFE - Gray's Ferry. 215-426-8610, ext. 1207.
Foot Care. Presentation by Podiatric Medical & Surgical Associates, PC: Foot & Ankle
Wellness Center. 10 a.m. Marconi Older Adult
Program. 215-717-1969.
Line Dancing. 12:45 to 2:30 p.m. & 2:30 to
3:30 p.m. (beginners). Center in the Park. 215848-7722, ext. 224. (Nov. 10, 17 & 24.) $
Election Day
Wednesday
4
Astronomy Class: Are We Alone
in the Universe? 1 p.m. Center in the Park.
215-848-7722, ext. 225. (Continues Nov. 6.)
$
Support Groups. Boomers R Heroes
(caregivers): 11:30 a.m. @ North City Congress, 215-978-1300, Nov. 18. The Next
Chapter (peer discussion): 1 p.m. @ Center
in the Park, register: 215-848-7722, Nov. 11 &
18.
11
10
Veterans Day
17
Alzheimer's Caregiver Support
Group. 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Sponsored by Alzheimer's Assn. of Del.
Valley. Center on the Hill. 215-247-8855.
Community Luncheon. Hot meal, blood
pressure screenings & games. Noon. Chestnut
Hill Center for Enrichment. 215-248-0180. $
French Language & Culture Class. 2:30
to 4 p.m. Center on the Hill. Register: 215247-8855. (Wednesdays to Dec. 16.) $
Thanksgiving Dinner. 2 p.m. North City
Congress. Register by Nov. 11: 215-978-1324.
Hypertension Presentation.
10:30 a.m. St. Anne's Senior Center.
215-426-9799.
Meet The Author: Maria Gilbert. Excerpts
from book “Roof Oasis,” signing & raffle. 10
a.m. Marconi Older Adult Program. 215-7171969.
Movie Matinee Monday. Attendees pick
film. Popcorn & beverages. 12:30 p.m. Peter
Bressi NE Senior Center. 215-831-2926. (Nov.
24.)
Breast Cancer Support Group.
1 to 2:30 p.m. Center in the Park.
Register: 215-848-7722, ext. 224.
Caregiving: Focus on Strength. The role
of caregiver creates emotional, physical, spiritual & financial challenges, but can also be a
powerful bonding opportunity. 10 a.m. Chestnut Hill Hospital. 215-247-8855.
Fruit & Vegetable of the Month: Sweet
Potato Ginger Soup. 10 a.m. Marconi Older
Adult Program. 215-717-1969. $
24
Blood Pressure Screening.
Sponsored by Jefferson Univ.
Hospital. 11 a.m. Marconi Older Adult
Program. 215-717-1969.
Distinguished American Institutions
Re-inventing Themselves: Newspapers.
Philadelphia Inquirer Editor William Marimow
discusses the future of the Inquirer & the
nation’s newspaper industry. 11 a.m. Parkway
Central Library, Room 108. 215-686-5331.
Capture Your Story. Outdoor
storytelling walk. 11 a.m. Cobbs Creek Environmental Education Center. Register: 866878-3595. $
Leaving The Emerald Isle. Struggles of
Irish immigrants in 19th century Phila. Reception & music. 6:30 p.m. Historical Society of
Pa. 215-732-6200, ext. 227. $
Maximize Your Memory. How the memory
works & why it fails us. 12:30 p.m. Center on
the Hill. 215-247-8855.
18
25
Thanksgiving Luncheon.
11 a.m. Center in the Park. 215-848-7722,
ext. 225. $
Thanksgiving Prayer Service & Meal.
10:30 a.m. St. Charles Senior Community
Center. 215-790-9530.
Movie Night for Adults: “Philomena.”
6:40 p.m. Chestnut Hill Hospital, Center
on the Hill. 215-247-8855 $
Caregiver Support Group. 10:30 a.m.
West Phila Senior Community Center. 215426-8610, ext. 1207.
Lecture: Social Concern in Jewish American
Art. Noon. Pa. Academy of the Fine Arts. 215972-7600.
Veterans Counseling Group. 10:30 a.m.
Haddington Multi-Services for Older Adults.
215-472-6600.
12
Art at Lunch: Philadelphia
Firsts. 19th century paintings of
city’s early accomplishments. Noon. Pa.
Academy of the Fine Arts. 215-972-7600.
Brain Health Workshop. 10 a.m. Center
in the Park. Register: 215-848-7722, ext. 224.
(Nov. 19.)
Veterans Service. 11 a.m. The Chapel of
Four Chaplains, The Navy Yard, Bldg. 649.
215-218-1943.
19
Blood Pressure Screening.
10 to 11:30 a.m. Center in the Park. 215-8487722, ext. 224
Irish American History & Immigrant
Experiences. 4:30 p.m. The Historical
Society of Pa. 215-732-6200, ext. 227.
Live Right Through Nutrition. Presentation by Stephanie Perez, ShopRite Dietician.
11 a.m. St. Anne's Senior Center. 215-4269799.
26
Enhance Fitness. Strengthen
muscles & enhance lifestyle through exercise.
10:30 a.m. Haddington Multi-Services for
Older Adults. 215-472-6600.
Thanksgiving Luncheon. 11 a.m. Phila.
Senior Center. 215-546-5879, ext. 209. $
Veterans Support Group. 1 to 2:30 p.m.
North City Congress. 215-978-1300.
Muslim Voices. Film screenings &
discussion with filmmakers. 2:30 p.m. NE
Regional Library. 215-685-0522.
Play: “Dead Right.” The Foster Family
proves that passion & politics don’t mix.
Guests are at each others' throats, bank
accounts & bedroom doors. 7 p.m. Presbyterian Church of Chestnut. 215-247-8855. $
Friday
Thursday
5
1
Send your calendar items to:
Attn: Calendar Editor
PCA Communications Dept.
642 North Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19130-3409
Phone: 215-765-9000, ext. 5081
Fax: 215-765-9066
E-mail: [email protected]
6
Art Workshop: Fall Still Life. 9:30 a.m.
Marconi Older Adult Program. 215-7171969. (Continues Nov. 13 & 20.) $
Caregiver Support Group. 10:30 a.m. NE
Regional Library. Register: 215-426-8610, ext.
1207.
Financial Empowerment Counseling.
Confidential appointments. 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Register: 215-978-1300. (Nov. 20.)
Memory Loss, Dementia & Alzheimer's Disease. 10 a.m. North City Congress. 215-978-1300.
13
Line Dancing. 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Haddington Multi-Services for Older
Adults. 215-472-6600. (Nov. 20 & 27.) $
Speaker Series: Chris Wheeler, Former
Phillies Broadcaster. Bring lunch; dessert &
coffee provided. 12:30 p.m. Chestnut Hill
Hospital. 215-247-8855.
Trip: Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City,
NJ. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Phila. Senior Center Main Branch. Register: 215-546-5879, ext.
209. $
20
Aging in Place: The Dream,
Reality & Possibilities. Forum for
legislators, policy makers & practitioners. 8 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m. Drexel Univ. Register: 610-7330955.
Brain Aging & Dementia. 12:30 p.m.
Chestnut Hill Hospital. 215-247-8855.
Healthy Habits Cooking Demo. 1:30 p.m.
Peter Bressi NE Senior Center. 215-831-2926.
Holiday Choir Concert. 10 a.m. Phila. Senior Center - Main Branch. 215-546-5879.
27
Thanksgiving
6ABC/Dunkin' Donuts Thanksgiving
Day Parade. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Benjamin
Franklin Parkway. (Also televised on Channel
6 in Phila. area.)
7
Challenge Your Brain Game Day. Center
in the Park. 10 a.m. Register: 215-848-7722,
ext. 224. (Nov. 14 & 21.)
Men’s Gathering. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Center in the Park. 215-848-7722, ext. 224.
(Continues Nov. 14 & 21.) $
14
Grown & Sexy Cabaret. Wear
your finest party attire. Attendees
receive gifts. No alcohol. 8:30 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m. St. Charles Senior Community
Center. 215-790-9530. $
Philadelphia Chamber Music Society
Concert. Works by Mozart, Bartok &
Mendelssohn. 8 p.m. Kimmel Center.
215-569-8080. $
Yoga Class. 11 a.m. Center in the Park.
215-848-7722, ext. 224. (Nov. 14 & 21.) $
21
Cookology Class. Certified
dietitian makes delicious, nutritious
treats. 10 a.m. Peter Bressi NE Senior Center.
215-831-2926.
Eastern State Penitentiary & Contemporary Corrections. Discussion of increase in
U.S. incarcerations since 1970 & negative,
disproportionate effect on people of color.
Noon. African American Museum in Phila.
215-574-0380.
28
Dinosaur Days. Holiday
weekend of family-friendly
activities about dinosaurs & the
closest living relatives, birds. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. (Through Nov. 30.) $
Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella.
Tony Award-winning Broadway musical of
contemporary take on classic tale. 2 & 8 p.m.
Academy of Music. 215-893-1999. (Through
Nov. 30 at various times.) $
8
William Glackens Exhibit
Opens. More than 90 works by
Phila. native & PAFA student illustrating a long career in French modernism &
progressive American painting. 10 a.m. to
6 p.m. The Barnes Foundation. 215-2787000. (Through Feb. 2, 2015.) $
Siege Weekend. Scripted battles re-enact
greatest bombardment of Revolutionary war.
Guided tours, living history activities, musket
drills & weapons demos. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fort Mifflin. 215-685-4167. (Nov. 9.) $
15
Electrical Spectacle: A Holiday
Light Show. Two alternating shows
of 50,000+ lights set to holiday music by
The Philly POPS. Every 30 minutes from 4:30
to 8 p.m. Franklin Square. 215-629-4026.
(Through Dec. 31.)
Resume and Job Coaching: How to get
a Government Job. 2 p.m. Free Library of
Phila., Lawncrest Branch. 215-685-0549.
22
Bob Dylan & His Band in
Concert. Dylan’s first Center City
theater appearance since 1963. 8 p.m.
Academy of Music. 215-893-1999. (Nov. 23.)
$
Artist & Curator Tour: “A Fine Arrangement” Exhibit. 2 p.m. Pa. Academy of the
Fine Arts. 215-972-7600.
29
Macy’s Christmas Light
Show. A Philadelphia holiday
tradition since 1956, featuring 100,000 LED
lights & sounds of the Wanamaker Organ.
10 a.m. to 8 p.m., every 2 hours. Macy’s
Center City. 215-241-9000. (Through Dec. 31,
except Christmas.)
Thanksgiving Volunteer Luncheon with
Lodge #2 Masons. Noon to 2 p.m. Sponsored by Cigna Health. Haddington MultiServices for Older Adults. 215-472-6600.
November 2014
Stay warm
• continued from page 4
or for more information about ECA’s
programs, call 215-988-0929 or go to
www.ecasaves.org.
Emergency help
After all other resources for assistance
have been exhausted, these additional
resources for emergency aid may be
available to low-income Philadelphia
seniors.
The Utility Emergency Services Fund
(UESF) provides privately funded grants
of $500 to $1,500 to people who have or
are in danger of a utility shutoff. PECO,
PGW and the Philadelphia Water Dept.
provide matching funds, with the goal of
reaching a zero balance. The income limit
for UESF is 175% of FPL, which is
$20,423 for one person or $27,528 for
two. (Add $7,105 for each additional
household member.) UESF funds are
provided only as a last resort, after
people have applied for LIHEAP or when
Milestones 10
the program is closed. UESF assistance
may be received only once every
two years. For information or to apply,
contact UESF at 215-972-5170 or
www.uesfacts.org.
Referral required
The Emergency Fund for Older Philadelphians helps low-income seniors, age 60plus, who are in crisis to meet basic needs.
To receive assistance, eligible seniors
must have exhausted all other resources,
and must be referred by recognized social
service agencies or the clergy.
Grants of up to $100 (paid directly to
the utility or other vendor) or 100 gallons
of heating oil may be received once per
year. While Emergency Fund aid is available for many reasons, including food and
medication, it is most often sought in winter for assistance with utility bills. The income limit is $1,702 a month for an
individual or $2,294 a month for a couple.
For more information, call the PCA
Helpline at 215-765-9040 or go to
www.pcaCares.org/efund.
November 2014
Milestones 11
Power outage
• continued from cover
cases, the city does provide emergency
shelters. During Superstorm Sandy, when
many areas experienced severe flooding,
three high schools were opened where
people – and their pets – could shelter.
“Whenever we open up shelters, pets
are welcome, so bring them along,” Vassallo said.
Planning ahead
Vassallo said media outlets are updated
frequently, so tuning in to TV or radio
news is helpful. He recommended signing
up for emergency alerts through www.readynotifypa.org. These can be sent to an
e-mail account or to your cell phone. If you
do not have either of these, you can call the
city’s information line at 3-1-1.
In a bad storm, it may not be safe or
even possible to travel. Know how you will
shelter in place if you need to. There are
some supplies you can have on hand, and
preparations you can make in advance.
Supplies and precautions
Have a list of emergency contacts, including family members within and outside the area, doctors, veterinarian, and
pharmacy.
Keep flashlights and fresh batteries in
easily accessed places on every floor of
your home. Make sure all residents
know where these are kept.
Cell phones and portable phones are
convenient, but in a power outage you
will lose phone service if your phone requires an electrical outlet to work or be
charged. It is a good idea to have a “land
line,” and a phone that does not rely on
electricity, which simply plugs into a
phone jack.
Have a three-day supply of bottled
water and non-perishable, easily prepared foods such as peanut butter and
jelly, crackers, nutrition bars, and dried
or canned fruit. Be sure you have a manual can opener. Check these periodically
to make sure they have not passed expiration dates. The beginning and end of
Daylight Savings Time can be a convenient
reminder to do this, when you set clocks
back or forward.
A battery-powered or windup radio
will enable you to listen to news reports.
A battery-powered clock or watch is also
helpful.
Use voltage surge suppressors/protectors
to plug in televisions, computers and microwave ovens. However, during a power
outage or storm, it is best to turn these off
and unplug them, as they may not protect
appliances from a powerful surge.
If you have a car, don’t let the gas tank
get below half full in winter. A full tank
will keep the fuel line from freezing,
and help make sure you can get where
you need to go.
When the power goes out
During a power outage, keep just one
or two lights on so you know when the
power comes back on; turn the rest off.
Turn off all appliances including furnace, water heater and water pump to
protect against damage from a power
surge.
Use perishable food from the refrigerator first. Open the refrigerator door as
little as possible, so food keeps as long
as possible. Move meats, cheese and
milk into the freezer compartment
which will stay cold longer. The more
full the freezer and refrigerator are, the
longer they will stay cold. A full freezer
can keep meat frozen for up to 48
hours. Fill bottles with water and put
them in the refrigerator and freezer to
take up more space.
To prevent your pipes from freezing,
if temperatures go below 55 degrees
Fahrenheit, open faucets so there is a
constant drip.
Personal warmth and safety
Choose a room with few windows and
doors, above street level if possible. Cover
windows at night to keep heat in, and uncover them during daylight to get the
warmth from the sun.
Wear layers of clothing and a hat to preserve your body heat. If you have sleeping
bags, use them.
Never use a gas stove or oven, propane
heater or propane grill for heating a
room.
The Philadelphia Fire Code permits the
use of portable kerosene heaters only in
one- and two-family dwellings. The code
does not permit the use of portable
propane heaters indoors. Choose space
heaters that turn off automatically if they
tip over.
Install smoke alarms near every sleeping area, and on every level of the home.
Test smoke alarms monthly.
Install and maintain carbon monoxide
alarms to avoid risk of carbon monoxide
poisoning. Have a first aid kit.
If you are using a kerosene heater, use
only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. When refueling, always turn off
the heater, let it cool down, use a fuel
gauge to prevent overfilling, and fill the
tank outdoors.
Store kerosene away from heat and
open flame in a cool area in a closed, approved container clearly marked with the
name of the fuel.
Keep a three foot clearance between
heating equipment and anything that can
burn.
Turn space heaters off every time you
leave the room and before going to bed.
Never use a space heater to dry clothing.
Never block an exit with a portable heater.
Children and pets should be supervised at
all times when space heaters are in use.
Planning for your pets
Make sure each pet has a license, ID tag
and current vaccinations. Have copies of
your animal's health records, registration,
proof of vaccination, pet license numbers
and microchip numbers.
Have on hand:
• A three-day supply of pet food and
water; bowls; and a manual can opener
• Collar,
leash,
muzzle
or
carriers/cages to transport pets safely
• Animal first aid kit, including flea
and tick treatment
• Contact information for your
veterinarian
• Any medication your pet takes, a
list of the medications, dosage and medical conditions
• Toys and treats
• Litter, litter box and scoop for cats
• Plastic bags, paper towels and
cleaning supplies
If you need to evacuate
Have a portable, waterproof kit containing:
• Medications and a list of them
• Names and numbers for doctors
and pharmacy
• Copies of important documents,
such as insurance cards, photo IDs, birth
certificates, deeds and proof of address
• Extra set of house and car keys
• Credit and ATM cards
• Cash in small bills
• Flashlight and fresh batteries
• Sturdy, comfortable shoes; and
lightweight rain gear
• Hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, feminine products
• Pet supplies (see above)
The information in this article was
obtained from PECO; the American Red
Cross; the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management; and Ready.gov.
Contact Linda L. Riley at:
[email protected]
Stay informed during a power outage
Philadelphia Office of Emergency
Management (OEM): The website,
www.phila.gov/ready, is updated 24/7
during an incident. OEM also posts
emergency information on TV Channel
64, the City’s Government Access television channel. OEM posts frequent updates on Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus,
LinkedIn, YouTube and Blogger.
City of Philadelphia information call
center: 3-1-1 – or, for those with Voice
over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and for
calls from outside of Philadelphia: 215686-8686. www.phila.gov/311.
PECO: 800-841-4141 to report power
outages or fallen power lines. More information, and updates on outages:
www.peco.com.
Red Cross: 1-866-GET-INFO is a central number where you can register, so
family from outside the area can get information about you. You can also register online at www.redcross.org.
November 2014
Milestones 12
Commentary
Embracing new Thanksgiving traditions
Photo by Ruth Rovner
I've always envied peoOur own sea change came in an unexple who had sweet and pected way.
rich memories of a famOur oldest daughter, then a sidelined
ily Thanksgiving. I had lawyer/full-time mother, had often menvery few.
tioned her former colleague in the gritty
My immigrant grand- world of the Brooklyn Public Defenders
parents didn't much care office. Dan O'Donnell was his name – a
about this strange Amer- good Irish guy with a great sense of
By Sally
ican holiday focused on humor. One year, Jill told us that Dan –
Friedman the bird they called and his good friend, John – would love to
"Toikey." And during the nacook our Thanksgivtional disruption of the
ing dinner.
World War II years, my late
Say what? We
father, a lawyer involved in
barely knew Dan and
some hushed civilian war efhad never met John.
fort, was absent so much of
But that year – no
the time that my mother, a
one is sure exactly
legendary cook, had taken to
what year it was –
preparing only the simplest
Dan and John came
meals, including on Thanksdown from New York
giving.
to prepare dinner for
It both saddened and emthe Friedman family
barrassed me that we had so
at daughter Jill's
little connection to those
home.
Norman Rockwellian families Dan O’Donnell (left) and John
And what a dinwhose holiday tables glistened Banta help make the Friedmans’
ner it was! A fresh,
with perfect china and whose Thanksgiving dinners special
not frozen turkey
plates were filled with foods
was a goldenwe never saw or tasted.
brown masterpiece, the chestnut stuffing
Then I got married. My husband and I a gourmet delight. And there was a defimoved into a little house with what the nite feeling that year that this was the bebuilder called a “breakfast nook,” a wan ginning of a very special connection.
substitute for a real dining room. Babies
The next Thanksgiving, Dan and John
came. Life was a blur of diapers, naps, for- were back – by now, they were also the
mula and exhaustion.
godparents to Jill's son and daughter. And
Two homes later, it finally happened: it was clear, if unspoken at the time, that
we had a wonderful dining room, three they were a couple. A gay couple.
kids, and a chance to experiment with a
Mind you, this was long before gay
family Thanksgiving dinner.
rights had mushroomed into a moveIt was rough sailing that first year, with ment. America had so much to learn back
an overcooked turkey and cranberry then.
sauce that I’d boiled into mush.
As our Thanksgivings tumbled into one
But our three daughters were delighted another, we began to see the love that
to be part of the American tapestry, and bound these two men, who had met in
so were we.
college and had never parted.
Fast forward to their marriages and their
Our grandchildren witnessed that love,
babies. In that era, we alternated hosting and accepted it as routine. Without
Thanksgiving, often with an army of high preaching or formal teaching, they came
chairs around a groaning table.
to know that people of the same sex can
But traditions have a way of initially love one another, and sometimes do.
tiptoeing in until suddenly, they
It's been at least twenty years now, and
are...traditions.
the ritual is established: two days before
Thanksgiving, Dan and John arrive at our
daughter and son-in-law's home, start
kitchen operations, start decorating the
table, and create Thanksgivings so memorable and beautiful that we all run out of
words of gratitude.
There have been milestones marked:
Dan O'Donnell is now a celebrated member of the New York Assembly who has
been a leading crusader for gay marriage
rights. John is director of special events for
the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.
Two years ago, we gathered in a magnificent Manhattan space for John and Dan's
wedding, performed by the retired Chief
Judge of the New York Court of Appeals
before several hundred guests, including
the governor, a U.S. senator and Dan's sister, Rosie O'Donnell, who had long since
come out herself and sat proudly with her
new wife. Nearly everyone cried at the
sheer joy and meaning of it all.
Later this month, on Thanksgiving
Day, we will sit down to a feast like no
other the rest of the year.
We will celebrate this iconic American
holiday as a family. And we will give
thanks for a changing world, and for
acceptance, enlightenment and the
great fortune that Dan O'Donnell and
John Banta are in our lives to stay.
Sally Friedman can be reached at
[email protected]
Solutions to the Milestones
Crossword puzzle
(see page 15)
Milestones 13
November 2014
Free help with legal and housing issues, benefits for low-income older vets
By Rita Charleston
He was a young man who loved his
country and volunteered for service in the
U.S. Army. He served at the Battle of the
Bulge, and years later, returning to
Philadelphia, Bob Murray (not his real
name) even managed to buy a home and
settle down into a comfortable living.
Until the unthinkable happened.
“He went from being a proud homeowner to facing homelessness to eventually
living in his car,” says Karen Buck, executive
director of SeniorLAW Center, a nonprofit
organization focusing solely on the civil
legal needs of older Pennsylvanians.
Helping veterans, like Murray, is the
focus of a new project that provides legal
services to qualified Philadelphia veterans
60 and older, and their families, who are
homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, Buck says.
“Thanks to a new grant from the Utility
Emergency Services Fund (USEF), under a
project titled “Protecting Older Veterans
Who Once Protected Us,” we are able to
offer free legal advice, information and direct representation to vulnerable veterans
and their families,” Buck says. According to
Buck, older veterans are often a forgotten
segment of the population. Many are living
on low, fixed incomes, and many are targets
of crime, elder abuse, and theft of the very
benefits they receive for serving their country. Older veterans who are victims of crime
may face multiple additional obstacles,
such as injuries, physical and mental health
challenges, problems with mobility, dependence on caregivers, and more.
“Many of them decide to suffer in silence,” Buck says. ”So one of the major
challenges we face is not only getting the
word out that we are here for them, but
also helping them overcome their reluctance to take advantage of our services. I
think many of them have a long history of
independence and strength, so much so
that they may feel some shame in coming to us and asking for help. But that’s
exactly why we are here.”
There are approximately 70,000 veterans currently living in Philadelphia, and
more than 50% of them are seniors, Buck
says. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates
that approximately 10% of Philadelphia’s
older veterans live at or below the poverty
level, and 5% are disabled.
“We are particularly proud of this program, especially since 2014 was officially
declared The Year of the Veteran in
Philadelphia,” Buck says. “The project’s
goal is to offer a wide range of focused,
collaborative services and resources, addressing their continuum of needs, including safety, health, shelter and
economic security.”
Philadelphia veterans 60 and older can
seek legal advice in the areas of housing,
landlord/tenant disputes, family law, government benefits, consumer issues, and
other non-criminal legal issues from
SeniorLAW Center.
“Our staff of 15 attorneys, along with
more than 100 volunteers, are here to help.
There is no charge for our services or the
holistic approach we offer with various
partners,” says Buck, who came from private practice to the SeniorLAW Center 17
years ago.
“To be able to change lives by addressing the most basic of human needs, help
to change the system, and serve the older
veterans who deserve our utmost attention and respect has been one of the
many things that has made me proud and
changed my life for the better,” Buck says.
If you think you qualify, or know someone who qualifies for these services,
call SeniorLAW Center at 215-988-1244.
For assistance with legal issues, call the intake line at 215-988-1242 (1-877-727-7529
outside Philadelphia) Mon. to Thurs.,
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Rita Charleston has been a freelance writer
for 30 years.
November 2014
Milestones 14
In Season
Tasty Butternut Squash and Apples
This recipe uses a slow cooker, or
Crockpot, to make eight filling and delicious helpings. It freezes
well, so you will want
to have some freezer
bags or containers on
hand unless you are
cooking for a crowd.
Ingredients
4 lb. butternut squash
5 tart apples (Macintosh,
Winesap or Granny Smith work
well)
1 cup raisins
1
⁄3 cup butter, melted
½ cup brown sugar
3 tbsp. flour
½ tsp. salt
½ tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
¼ tsp. nutmeg
1
⁄8 tsp. cardamom
Directions
Wash the butternut squash and pierce
it with a knife in six places. Place
on a microwave-safe dish or
plate, and microwave it on high
for five minutes. Wait until it is
cool enough to handle. Cut in
half and use a spoon to scoop
out the seeds. Peel the skin off
and cut squash into slices, ½-inch
thick. Peel and core the apples and cut
them into ½-inch thick slices.
Mix together in a bowl the melted
butter, sugar, flour, salt and spices.
Place half the squash in the bottom of
the Crockpot; then half of the apple slices;
and half of the spice mixture, followed by
squash, apples and the rest of the spices.
Cover the Crockpot and cook on low
for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3½
hours. Newer Crockpots may require less
cooking time.
Sprinkle raisins on each serving.
Street musician
• continued from cover
said Sellers, who attended St. Thomas’
Church in Whitemarsh for many years.
As a single mother, Sellers worked at a
clothing store, Nana, as well as at the Depot
restaurant and a veterinarian’s office; but
playing the piano at the Philadelphia
Cricket Club became her mainstay. “I
started working there in 1982,” she said. “I
enjoyed playing at birthday parties where
people were turning 100. I liked seeing the
guest of honor still smiling and perking
along.”
The axe fell in 2011. “I lost my job at the
Philadelphia Cricket Club when new management let go of many long-time employees,” she said. She had both liked and
depended on that job. In time, she had to
sell her beloved piano. “You can’t live on
Social Security,” she said.
Sellers told Russ Goudy Jr. of Kilian’s
Hardware that she could play her keyboard
outside the store if she had electricity. He
OK’d her plan. Still, challenges remain. “If
it rains, I can’t play,” Sellers said, “and
sometimes it’s really hot.”
The ballads and classics of her curbside
concerts embroider the hum of traffic, and
being a street musician brings unique rewards. Sellers, who grew up with dachshunds, likes meeting the dogs and different
people. “One day a young fellow who
looked a little disheveled leaned against a
light pole and listened to me play for some
time,” she said. “Finally, he approached me
and said, ‘I was really down today. You
lifted me up.’”
Three months into her performances,
Sellers said she hopes to land more Chestnut Hill gigs. Given her philosophy, one
can’t doubt that she will: “The secret to living well is never give up.”
Sellers plays from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturdays outside Kilian’s, weather permitting.
Constance Garcia-Barrios is a freelance
writer.
Milestones 15
November 2014
The Milestones Crossword
Don’s Column
41 Like: suffix
42 Beetle
43 One-seat carriage
ACROSS
45 Most like a fox
1 Early bird's reward 46 A Fleming
5 Washington, D.C., 47 Lodging place
Basin
49 Laughton role
10 Kind of beer
52 Louvre's ___ Lisa
14 Mine, in Amiens
53 Like some tea
15 Trap
57 Hie
16 ___ Bator
58 Gounod opera
17 Pleat
59 Botanist Asa
18 ___ of God: Amanda 60 Help a felon
Plummer role
61 "...lovely as ___": Kilmer
19 Confirmation, e.g. 62 Juno
20 Digits
63 Turns right
21 Mythical birds
64 Music signs
22 Provide with talent 65 Look after
DOWN
23 Wed
1 Blow gently
25 Jackie's second
2 Melville work
26 Foams
3 Part
29 Arrange in an
4 A ___ Dream: Shakespeare
orderly way
5 Prerevolutionary Russian
34 Armor headpiece
6 Metal bar
35 Charge
7 Part of Ponchielli's
36 Increase
La Gioconda: with The
37 Aquatic mammal
8 War god
38 Consumed
9 Defense Secretary Aspin
39 Turkish city
10 Jack London book
40 Whiz
Keeping up in an ever-changing world On time
Strolling back from
lunch, we saw reporters rushing out of
the Bulletin Building –
headed to Dallas and
Washington
and
By Don
Boston and Cape Cod.
Harrison
The President, they
told us, had been shot.
The President? The young, brilliant, eloquent President? Surely, he’d recover.
By the time we were back in the newsroom, we learned that he had not.
Daily newspapers used to print several
editions a day, and our next was less than
two hours away. There was a lot to do on
that November day in 1963, and not much
time.
Each of us on the city desk was given
specific pages to go over, line by line,
searching for references to the Kennedys –
to be updated or eliminated. Then, off to
the (pre-computer-era) composing room,
where the paper was put together, to help
oversee the replacing of pages.
Linotypists and proofreaders were turning out new copy, and directed by editors,
makeup men were lifting pages for the
stereotypers and pressmen to substitute.
The next Bulletin was almost totally different…
And so was the world.
Women’s work
For most of my female classmates, career
choices were still pretty limited – work in
an office, go into nursing or teach.
In many cases, it didn’t much matter. For
some, a job was just something you did
until you married and had kids. That was
my mother’s world (if a woman “had to”
work, my mother believed, it was because
her husband was not “a good provider”).
But things were changing, especially as
the World War II labor shortage was expanding the job market, and many women
were beginning to demand equality.
Prejudice and harassment are still a
workplace problem, but women in the
workplace are no longer docile, and more
and more, we learn of “the first woman”
this or “the first woman” that.
Actually, the gender gap in the workplace has been harmful to us all, not just
to women. Over the years, if everyone had
been participating in the economy – not
just half of us – how many advances, discoveries and achievements might we all
have benefited from?
Election Day
We’re patronized. We’re condescended
to. We’re stereotyped as cute or as tragic or
as irrelevant.
The powers-that-be won’t be responsive
to our needs unless we’re essential to theirs
– that’s how this system is supposed to
work. And why it’s important that we vote.
11
12
13
22
24
25
26
27
28
30
31
32
33
38
39
41
42
44
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
58
Strong-smelling
___ the Censor
Was aware
Period
___-do-well
Ripen
Markets
Dress size: var.
Excessive
Caddoan Indian
Furious
Areas
William ___ Gladstone
Viper
All, in Ulm
Charged particle
Ranks
Exclamation of triumph
Beginning
Boast
Service station job
Words of understanding
Spouse
Algonquian Indian
Merit
Pair
Distant
Solution
The solution for the
crossword puzzle can
be found on page 12.
Milestones Editor Emeritus Don Harrison
served as deputy editor of the Daily News
opinion pages and as assistant managing editor
and city editor of the Philadelphia Bulletin
Creators News Services, Charles Preston
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