December Newsletter

Time to Say Goodbye

Everything must come to an end. Ending for me on December 31 is my two-year term as president of AARP Chapter 5239. I’ll continue on the Chapter Board, of course, for the next two years.
Effective January 1, 2012, “Smilin’” Dick Bradie will move up from being current Vice President to take over as Chapter President. Dick and Kathleen will bring their well-known boundless energy and dedication to our Chapter for the next two years. The Bradies will lead us to even higher achievements in the coming months than our Chapter has logged in the past. We’re in for some exciting and challenging times!
My two years in office have been exceptionally rewarding, both to me personally and to our Chapter and members. We’ve repeatedly posted record-breaking numbers in dollar contributions to charity groups, as well as in volunteer Chapter member-participation in the long list of charities and “public good” organizations that we support. We all have made a significant difference in our area during the past twenty-four months.
My sincerest thanks go to the officers and Board Directors who have served this time with me…to each of the Chapter Committee heads and members who gave so much of their time and talent to serve others less fortunate…and to each of our Chapter’s 400-some members who do all the grunt work in our day-to-day operations and in special events.
THANK YOU, one and all! I hope I’ll be able to personally thank each one of you at our Annual Christmas Party on Monday, December 19, at the LOW Community Center.
Let me leave you with this parting thought:-
There are two main reasons why it’s so hard to solve a Redneck murder:
First, the DNA all matches.
Second, there are no dental records.
Dick Martin, President

AARP Holiday Luncheon
by Carolyn Wray, Publicity

Members and friends are invited to join us for our annual AARP Annual Christmas Luncheon at 11:30 AM on December 19 in the Community Center. The event is our annual potluck luncheon with members bringing main dishes, a vegetable dish, or dessert, to serve approximately eight people. Food should be delivered no later than 11:15 AM so everything can be in place when we will start the luncheon. The tables will be set up ahead of time. The eating utensils and napkins will be furnished by AARP.
The event is open to members and their friends. If you have never been to the Christmas luncheon, please come and meet a lot of friendly folks. You are welcome to become a member of the AARP group. Jonathan Morey has been invited to entertain us with Christmas songs.
The new slate of officers for AARP Chapter 5239 for 2012, recommended by the Board of Directors and approved at the November 21 AARP meeting, will be installed: President Dick Bradie, Vice President Tony Aris, Secretary Joan Albertella, Treasurer Joe McEuen, Director Dwight Mottet, Director Dick Durphy, Directors Lucille Churchill, Roxanne Kessler, and Bob Johnson.

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS
(Sagittarius and Capricorn)
Otis D. Adgerson, Dick Berra, Betty Collins, Donna Crawley, Nola Davidson,
Ray Dickinson, Jim Dionne, Marion Doherty, Judy Fahy, Nancy Grogan, Robert Haring, Jackie Hill, Ruth Hood, Marion Jacobeen, Joan King, David Kovarik, Hank Lewis, Lee Mintz, Judy Minzes, Jenny Nguyen, Pat Phillipo, James Protiva, Florence Ramey, Ed Rowan, Gail Sauro, Sue Schafer, Kathleen Stephens, Joseph Wascalus, Erlinda Wight, Elaine Witcher, and Boyce Wray

SUNSHINE REPORT
by Carolyn Durphy
Sympathy cards were sent to
Brian & Laurel Wares on the passing of Brian’s’ mother.
Get-well cards were sent to Jan Moore and Patti Batten.
If you know of a member who needs cheering up, contact Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306.

NEW MEMBERS
Welcome new member Marilyne Anderson.

NOTES, BITS AND PIECES
Woods Care
by Jeanette Embrey
Thank you to all of the AARP members who have volunteered to be drivers in the past and to those who have just recently volunteered to help. We have enough drivers at the moment. But, we will send out a call when more drivers and handy men are needed. Again, thank you to all who have volunteered to help our neighbors when they are in need.

Final BBQ Report
by Dwight Mottet, Chief Chicken in Charge
The final numbers for our very successful 2011 Chicken BBQ Dinner on Election Day are now available. We had a total income of $ 6,149.00, minus total expenses of $3,371.93, leaving a net revenue $2777.07. Our members sold 654 tickets, and 670 BBQ chicken dinners were served. A total of 114 members volunteered.
I wish to express my sincere gratitude to all of you whose talents, dedication, humor and professional demeanor made this Election Day's event the best of the past eleven years I have been privileged to be your project chairman.

Donations Made to Charity by AARP 5239 in 2011
A total of $7,380.73 has been donated to charity this year. Recipients include: LOW Lions Wilderness Food Pantry, Fire and Rescue, Orange County Nutrition Center, TRIAD/Project Lifesaver, Orange County Free Clinic,
Lake Youth Foundation, Culpeper Safe House, Orange County Animal Shelter & Humane Society Orange County Sheriff’s Office/Citizens Police Academy, 4H Camp, and the AARP Foundation.

Resisting Aggression Through Defense (RAD)
by Dick Bradie, TRIAD
Imagine being out in a mall, shopping center, or just walking somewhere. What would you do if someone came up behind you and grabbed you for nefarious reasons? The RAD program (a series of eight 1.75-hour sessions will be held on Thursday evenings in the Teen Room at the LOW Community Center ) is designed for Vintage Virginians, male and female, to feel empowered and comfortable when moving around in an external environment. All situations are different and each one demands its own response. Learn how to cope in those situations and achieve a feeling of empowerment. Couples and singles are welcome.
If we continue to supply personnel for this program, then the excellent instruct-tor (ask anyone who has participated in the program of its benefits) will continue to come to LOW. This keeps us off the roads at night. The next series of classes starts on January 19, 2012, and goes for seven additional Thursdays. Please call Dick/Kathleen Bradie at 308-5507 to get more info about this valuable and possible life saving program.

Handling Your Medications
by Sandy Frame, Medical News
Traveling with medications? If you travel by car with medications, keep them in the passenger compartment, not in the trunk. And if you fly, take them in your carry-on bag. For optimal quality and effectiveness, most medications should be kept between 68 and 77 degrees, says the U.S. Pharmacopeia. A wider temperature range (59 to 86 degrees) is generally okay too, but avoid excessive heat. Pay particular attention if drug labels warn about proper storage temperature (some drugs, such as some insulins, require refrigeration.) If you order medications by mail, ask for overnight shipping; drugs that are particularly heat-sensitive are often sent in special packaging that keeps them cool.
At the January meeting I will have a handout with information about the proper disposal of no-longer-needed medications for those of you who cannot get to an unused drug recovery site.
This article on medications is reprinted from “Wellness Made Easy” found in the University of California Berkeley Wellness Letter, Volume 28, Issue 3, December 2011.

New Year for Political Leaders
by Pat Berry, Legislative News
Political activity at both the state and local levels is noticeably quiet after a noisy election period. In Richmond, members are currently getting drafts of all proposed legislation ready for submission to Legislative Services by the end of December for the 2012 session of the Virginia General Assembly which convenes on January 11. Because this is an even numbered year, members will be meeting in Richmond for 60 days. In odd numbered years, their session is scheduled for 30 days. That must have been one of the decisions made during the formation of the original Commonwealth.
As for political activity in Orange County, the Board of Supervisors is also getting ready for the New Year. Business will begin again in January when the Board reconvenes to elect its Chairman and Vice-Chairman. Just a peek at the new budget for the coming session shows a balanced budget with no tax increase. Business on the agenda includes funding for Phase 1 of the purchase of voting machines, funding for vehicle replacement for the sheriff’s department, and an increase of $200,425 for the school system in addition to a contingency reserve to restore 10 instructional assistants to the budget.

Highlights of the December Meeting
by Pam Nalls, Secretary
-Please join us for the Mon/Dec 19, AARP Holiday Luncheon at the Community Center at 11:30 AM. Please bring food items to the CC by 11:15.A.M.
- Dick Bradie advised the next TRIAD/Resisting Aggression Defense class will begin JAN 19, 2012. Also, the Visitors Center in Orange needs more volunteers. Info: Bradies at 308-5507
- Patti Batten provided the Silent Auction results and also announced that Mary Hudak will be replacing her as the new Silent Auction Chair. Thank you Patti for the wonderful job you have done for the Silent Auction and good luck in your future endeavors.
-Sunshine Chair Carolyn Durphy, advised that Jan Moore was home from the hospital.
-Refreshment Chair Alice Ggras, announced that more refreshments were needed for the Jan 2012 meeting.
-Paul Tobin conducted the 50/50 drawing; Bruce Boyd was the winner of $54.50.

November Newsletter

November Opens Annual Holiday Time

AARP Chapter 5239 is entering the traditional year-end holiday time, considered by many as the most joyous, loving, and endearing time of each year.
We start with November 8 Election Day, which also features our Chapter’s Chicken Dinner Fundraiser. This is our main such event of the year and provides the bulk of funds for our charitable donations. It also gives more than 125 of our members a chance to donate their time and work in a satisfying communal volunteer effort. Then, following our November 21 monthly meeting, we have the November 24 Thanksgiving National Holiday. Public polls and surveys always name Thanksgiving as the most popular and beloved holiday on the American calendar. It is a time for families and friends to gather together, to reflect upon all the good things and blessings each of us have in our lives.
And December brings us to the Christmas and Hanukkah Holiday period that closes out the year. We’ll celebrate this season of good will at the Chapter’s Annual Christmas Luncheon on Monday, December 19, which takes the place of our monthly meeting. We’ll be holding this “potluck” get-together at the LOW Community Center instead of the Clubhouse. Feel free to invite your friends and neighbors to the luncheon, even if they aren’t AARP members.
Finally, a man is in the Recovery Room after surgery when the nurse comes up and asks him how he’s feeling. “Well, I’m okay,” he replies, “but I didn’t like the four-letter words the doctor used in surgery.”
“What did he say?”
“Oops!”

by Dick Martin, President

Medicaid Fraud, Elder Abuse
by Carolyn Wray, Publicity

Randy Davis who serves as Community Outreach Coordinator for Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, will be the speaker at the next AARP Chapter 5239 meeting on Monday, November 21, at the LOW Clubhouse. His topic will be Medicaid fraud control and how to recognize and report elder abuse and neglect.
Randy Davis is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University. He worked for local radio and television stations for 28 years before becoming a Virginia State employee. He has been with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office since June of 1999 and has served in the Communica-tions Section for Attorneys General Mark Earley, Randolph Beales, and Jerry Kilgore. He was the Attorney General’s Director of TRIAD Partnerships and Director of Programs from 2003 to 2009. In the fall of 2009 he transferred to the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, where he serves today as Community Outreach Coordinator for Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli. Mr. Davis and his wife Jane, live in Henrico County.
The meeting will begin at 9:30 AM with sweets and coffee, followed by the program at 10 AM. Everyone is invited to come.

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS
(Scorpio and Sagittarius)
Charlotte Banas, Ellie Baughman, Dante Binotto, Dick Bradie, Laurel Buongiovanni, Marilyn Buttimer,
Joe Davidson, Carol Dionne, Daniel Ferguson, William Grogan, Mary Hudak, Don Larsen, Jan Lemieux, Helen Markart, Richard Martin, Mary Nolan, Joe Sauro, Ken Tilliman, Ann Walker, Laurie Wares, Carla Wascalus, Karen Woods,

SUNSHINE REPORT
by Carolyn Durphy
Sympathy cards were sent to Carol and Ray Greeney on the passing of Carol’s mother, Virginia Bayer. Another card was sent to Frank & Marian Jacobeen on the passing of Frank’s sister.
If you know of a member who needs cheering up, contact Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306.

NEW MEMBERS
Welcome new or rejoined members Ronald and Jean Ann Daniels, Alan and Alice Clune, Stanley Lasover, Alex and Madeline Salustri, Mary Lou Roth, and Mary Hannon

NOTES, BITS AND PIECES
Nominating Committee
by Pierre Payette (Chair), Carolyn Durphy, and Pam Nalls
The chapter nominating committee is forwarding the following list of nominees for chapter officers for 2012. Nominees will be voted on at the November chapter meeting. Nominees will also be accepted
from the floor. New officers will be installed at the December meeting.
President - Dick Bradie
Vice President - Tony Aris
Secretary - Joan Albertella
Treasurer - Joe McEuen
Directors: Lucille Churchill (incumbent), Bob Johnson (incumbent), Roxanne Kessler (incumbent), Dick Durphy and Dwight Mottet
In addition, the nominating committee is also seeking volunteers for the following chairs: Silent Auction, and Scrapbook committees. If anyone is interested in running for office, or volunteering as a
chairperson, please contact Pierre Payette at 972-0519, Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306, or Pam Nalls at 972-5253.
Remember, an organization such as our AARP Chapter cannot continue to function unless it has members willing to step up and be leaders. We need your support and commitment.

Election Day Barbeque Nears
by Dwight Mottet, Chair, Chicken BBQ
There are only a very few days remaining to sell your tickets for AARP’s annual Election Day barbeque on November 8, which supports our local charities and community service projects. The BBQ will be served from 11 AM to 6 PM in the lower level of the Clubhouse. Dinners are also available as carry-out meals.
It takes more than 120 hardworking AARP members to make this project successful. Add your name to the sign-up lists on the table at the November meeting. Return money for ticket sales to Jim Moore at 972-9355, Bill Lanier at 972-3219, or Carla Wascalus at 972- 3436.

Woods Cares Urgently Needs Volunteer Drivers
Woods Cares is desperately in need of drivers to meet the needs of people who request AARP’s assistance in getting to doctor appointments, the grocery store, dialysis, physical therapy, etc. This is a service that we have offered to area residents for years. Without any public transportation in LOW, those who cannot drive need our assistance.
We are now down to about 6-10 drivers. If we have a sufficient number of drivers, the time commitment of any one driver will be minimal. Volunteers should contact Jeanette Embery at 972-0726 or Marion Jacobeen at 972-4085 to sign up.

Silent Auction
by Patti Batten, Chair
November will be the last Silent Auction, unless someone else comes forward to be the chairperson. We are planning to have a lot of holiday items that will make very nice “gifts” for the season. This will be your last chance to pass on some of those “Goodies” that you have been planning to do something with. Bring them to my home or call me at 972-1370, and I will arrange to have someone pick them up. You may also bring them to the meeting.
I thank the following committee members for all of their work, and being so dependable: Karen Kovarik, Jean Molinari, Margaret Thode, Ruth Wallace, Diane Weller, and Sharon Webb. Also, the Chruchills’ and Alice Grgas have been helping out, even though they had their own committee work, and John Trach, Joe McEuen, David Kovarik, and Otis for all of the help getting the “stuff” out of and into my van, and setting up the tables, etc.
Thank you ALL for your support, your donations, and buying. The money we received ($1,100 for 2011) will be a big help in giving more to our charities.
The money we received for October was $110.

Vetetrans Driving Course
by Bob Sherba
AARP has set November as a special month to have extra AARP Safe Driving Courses where Veterans and their spouses will not be charged any fee to attend. Non- veterans can attend for the normal fee of $12 for AARP Members and $14 for nonmembers. The two day course will be offered in Lake of the Woods on November 14 and 16 from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Community Center. Attendees over 50 are eligible for a discount for three years on their car insurance. Some companies will also allow younger drivers to get a discount. Advance registration is required. Call Bob Sherba at 972-0783 or Vic Larson 972-1928 to register. Preference will be given to Veterans.

Four Simple Steps to Better Balance
by Sandy Frame, Medical News
We all need to have good balance. Keeping good balance is harder than we may realize. Older people often have poor balance due to loss of muscle strength and joint flexibility, as well as reduced vision and reaction time. Also, the risk of inner ear dysfunction, which can throw you off balance, increases with age. Lack of exercise, alcohol, obesity, neuropathy (nerve damage) in the lower legs and feet, certain drugs or medical conditions, even wearing the wrong eye glasses, can interfere with balance at any age.
Here are some balance exercises you can do at home that need no special training or equipment. Stand near something you can grab for support if needed, or better yet, do them with a partner.
· Test your balance by seeing how long you can stand on one foot with your eyes closed. Most people over 40 can’t go past 15 seconds. Even if you can, try to improve your time.
· Without holding onto anything, rise up on your toes 10 times. Repeat with eyes shut.
· Stand on one leg, bending the other knee slightly, for 10 to 15 seconds; switch legs; repeat 10 times. Then do again with your eyes closed.
· Practice walking a straight line, placing the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the other foot.
Excerpts from the “Balance Matters” article found in the Univ. of Cal., Berkeley Wellness Letter, Vol.28, Issue 2, November 2011

Tax Assessment
by Pat Berry, Legislative News
I hope you were sitting down when you opened your reassessment notice. Otherwise you might have hurt yourself when you fell on the floor. Even if you were expecting the worst, the final numbers were probably a surprise. The letter from the county has lots of information, but there are still obvious questions. For example:
· How can a property be assessed for more or less than its purchase price?
Real estate may be assessed for more or less than the purchase price because the assessment reflects “fair market value” and property values have been severely depressed over the past few years.
· Is there a law that prevents assessment from changing more than a certain amount?
The constitution of Virginia requires real estate assessments to represent fair market value. There is no provision to limit the amount of change from one reassessment cycle to the next.
· Will my taxes go up or down after this reassessment?
Real estate property taxes are determined by applying the tax rate against each $100 of assessed property value. To know if taxes will go up or down, both the assessed property value and the tax rate must be known. The Reassessment Office determines the real estate value which goes into effect January 1, 2012. Real estate taxes are not determined until the Board of Supervisors sets the annual tax rate. By law, the variance from the previous year’s taxes can only be a few percentage points different.
For more information, go to http://orangecountyva.gov and click where it says “more information about reassessment.”

Highlights of the October Meeting
by Pam Nalls, Secretary
-Mark December 19, 2011, on your calendars for the AARP annual Christmas luncheon. Alice Grgas will have sign-up sheets at the NOV meeting.
-Dwight Mottet gave an Election Day/NOV 8th BBQ Chicken fundraiser status report. To date, 340 tickets have been purchased. The goal is to sell 800 tickets so your support is needed. Proceeds from this event go to local charities and AARP’s goal is to raise $2,500 for this most worthy cause.
-Please contact Pierre Payette or Dick Bradie if interested in serving as either Chairperson for the Silent Auction Committee or as Scrapbook Editor.
- Patti Batten announced that the Silent Auction took in approximately $111 at the Oct. meeting.
-Paul Tobin conducted the 50/50 drawing; Mary Lou Roth was the winner of $52.50.
-The next meeting will be MON, November 21, 2011, Clubhouse, 9:30AM.

October Newsletter

Food Drive is Huge Success

AARP Chapter 5239’s September 24th Food Drive produced 1,395 pounds of food supplies for Wilder-ness Food Pantry, along with $680 in cash and checks. The 1,395 pounds of food is double the amount collected in last year’s food drive and well above this year’s goal of 1,000 pounds. Cash donations were about equal to last year’s total.
Our sincerest THANKS go out to all Chapter members and others who donated food and money to our food drive. And also THANK YOU to the member volunteers who gave their time and effort to help collect the donations and then store them at the Food Pantry. This includes Drive Co-Chairs Kathi Martin and Pat Berry, Pam Nalls, Judy and Jerry Schrage, Katherine Causby, Ruth Pavlik, and Alan Berry.
Full details on this eminently successful Food Drive are reported elsewhere in this issue.
Let me give two personal observations. First, one woman called nearing our closing time to say she was stuck in long lines at Bloom but to please wait until she could get back. We did—and she donated 10 bags jam-packed with food for the Food Pantry!
Second, a young woman with three small kids came with one bag of food. She told us, “I’m sorry I can only give you one bag. I know how important this Food Drive is. My husband lost his job some months ago, and we lived on supplies from the Food Pantry and the LOW Church.
“He’s managed to get another job now, so that takes our family off the Pantry list, but there are many other families like us who still must rely on food donations. We wish we could do more to help.”
Like the “Widow’s Mite”, even one bag can make a big difference.
Dick Martin, President
AARP Members Seek
by Carolyn Wray, Publicity, AARP Chapter 5239
The October 17 AARP, Chapter 5239 meeting at the LOW Clubhouse will feature LOW resident Marty Caldwell speaking on genealogy research. Her interest in this subject began in high school when she started working on her own genealogy. She has been gathering information along the way, and since she bought the computer program in 1999, has been at it full time. She travels a lot to do her research. This will be a “how to” presentation with a lot of hints on where to find the items you will need. It will also touch on the latest in DNA testing for genealogy purposes. This should be a most interesting program for all of us. The meeting will begin at 9:30 AM with sweets and coffee followed by the program at 10 AM.

OCTOBER BIRTHDAY'S (Libra and Scorpio)
Charlotte Baker, Boyd Bowers, Joyce Bowers, Janet Buccola, Judy Carter, Tina Critzer, Irene Daehnke, Sherman Embrey, James Fargo, Richard Fisher, Bobbie Gordon, Chris Grimley, Lee Anne Hamilton, Grace McEuen, Nell Meador, Agatha Mucciacciaro, Eleonore Palowitch, Thomas Plummer, Bobbie Prees, Ruth Price, James Taylor, Brian Wares, Jane Wilde, and Marti Williams

SUNSHINE REPORT
by Carolyn Durphy
A Thinking-of-you card was sent to June Romedy.
Get well cards were sent to Ruth Hood, Nancy Miller, and Bonnie Rowan.
If you know of a member who needs cheering up, contact Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306.

NOTES, BITS AND PIECES
New Members
Welcome new or rejoined members Tom and Betty Collins, John and Jean Stutz, and Boggs and Susan Wright.

Nominating Committee

The chapter nominating committee is still seeking potential candidates to run for chapter office. Candidates are needed for vice president, secretary, treasurer, and one director. If you are interested, or know of someone who is interested in running, please contact Pierre Payette at 972-0519, Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306, or Pam Nalls at 972-5253. Remember, an organization, such as our AARP Chapter, cannot continue to function unless it has members willing to step up and be leaders. We need your support and commitment.

Election Day Barbeque Nears
by Dwight Mottet, Chair, Chicken BBQ
There are only a very few days remaining to purchase your ticket for AARP’s annual Election Day barbeque on November 8, which supports Chapter 5239’s various local charities and community service projects. The BBQ will be served from 11 AM to 6 PM in the lower level of the Clubhouse. Dinners are also available as carry-out meals. In addition to raising funds, the Election Day barbeque provides an added incentive for folks to get out and vote.
Again this year, the ticket price will be $9/meal, which includes the usual 1/2 chicken enrobed in “secret sauce,” coleslaw, baked beans, and a homemade brownie. Lemonade and water will be available for diners in the lower level Clubhouse. It takes more than 120 hardworking AARP members to make this project successful. Add your name to the sign-up lists on the table at the October meeting. Return money for ticket sales to Jim Moore at 972-9355, Bill Lanier at 972-3219, or Carla Wascalus at 972- 3436.

YOU DID IT!
by Kathi Martin and Pat Berry
On September 24, our annual Food Collection to benefit the Wilderness Food Pantry was held, and we are so pleased to announce that AARP was able to donate 1395 pounds of canned goods and $680 in checks and cash to the pantry, thanks to the generosity of our Chapter and the LOW Community. Yup, we said 1395 pounds of canned goods!!! And $680 in checks and cash!!!
This was all extremely timely, since the area Food Banks, from which Wilderness Pantry purchases a lot of government issue, are EMPTY because they were furnishing disaster relief for Hurricane Irene (this was a "trickle-down" thing, with all Food Banks re-stocking other Food Banks, etc.). So Wilderness shelves were empty, and we're helping to fill them back up.
Our heartfelt thanks go to Volunteers Pam Nalls, Katherine Causby, Judy and Jerry Schrage, Ruth Pavlik, Alan Berry and Dick Martin.

Woods Cares Urgently Needs Volunteer Drivers
Woods Cares is desperately in need of drivers to meet the needs of people who request AARP’s assistance in getting to doctor appointments, the grocery store, dialysis, physical therapy, etc. This is a service that we have offered to area residents for years. Without any public transportation in LOW, those who cannot drive need our assistance.
We are now down to about 6-10 drivers. If we have a sufficient number of drivers, the time commitment of any one driver will be minimal. Volunteers should contact Jeanette Embery at 972-0726 or Marion Jacobeen at 972-4085 to sign up.

Silent Auction
by Patti Batten
Doing your fall cleaning provides a good opportunity to get rid of those items that you are not using by donating them to our Silent Auction. Please make sure that the items are clean, and have no tears or chips.
Maybe you now have more Holiday decorations than you need such as: tablecloths, napkins, lights, novelties, plates, etc. These items sell very well,
You may bring your items to the meeting or call Patti at 972- 1370 to have your items picked up.
Thank you for your generous donations. At the September meeting we made $ 110, thanks to some after-meeting sales.

How Old Are You, Really?
by Sandy Frame, Medical News
How old are you, really? If you could calculate your “biological” age or “real age” (as opposed to the one on your driver’s license), would you be better or worse off? Some popular books and websites now promise that you can calculate your “real age” by filling in a questionnaire. After answering questions about chronic conditions, your sex life, marital status, social life, anxiety level, whether you have smoked, your blood pressure, family history and eating and exercise habits – then presto!!! You learn, perhaps, that while your birth date puts you at 65 your real age is 58. You feel great—unless the age goes in the other direction—then not so great. There is no evidence-based way to measure biological age except possibly by some genetic materials that are solely used as research tools.
Often these proponents try to sell you something like dietary supplements, or give your information to marketers who will call you to personally sell you products. Who needs that? None of this will make you younger, but it is harmless in comparison to anti-aging clinics that want to dose you with hormones or otherwise lead you to the “fountain of youth.”
Any claim that biological age can be either measured or modified is entertainment, not science. So test your biological age if you wish. Then do what you are probably doing now. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight and do whatever you can to keep your mind sharp. And don’t smoke. Smoking is guaranteed to age you beyond your years.
Excerpts from the article, “Speaking of Wellness” by John Swartzberg, M.D., found in The University of California, Berkeley Wellness Letter, Volume 27, Issue 12, September 2011.

Tax Assessment
by Pat Berry, Legislative News
Did you see the county assessor walking around your property last summer? Did he knock and ask about your home or a neighboring property? This was taking place because the Code of Virginia § 58.1-3252 requires there shall be a general reassessment of real estate every four years. Now that the data has been collected you can expect to receive your reassessment notice sometime this fall complete with the new rate (if any) that will become effective on the first of January, 2012.
And the State of Virginia, County of Orange, is making it easier for you to find answers to questions you might have about the reassessment. Each locality follows slightly different procedures for determining real estate assessments, reviewing appeals, and determining eligibility for tax relief, so go directly to www.orangecountyva.gov for information specific to Orange County. Read the paragraph titled “Reassessment Reminder” and click on the link provided for further information.
This is a great site. There is also a news release about the new Walmart site at the intersection of Somerset Ridge and Route 3. Yes, Virginia, Walmart is finally coming to Orange County.

TRIAD Notes by Dick Bradie
Two events conducted by AARP volunteers a few years ago are coming back in the spring:
-CarFit—designed to fit the Senior to the car and the car to the Senior. This was a successful event about 4-5 years ago and educated our folks on what gadgets do what in the new and old vehicles, and suggested ways to stay safer while driving. Twenty to thirty volunteers will be required to take a day of training and a day of event activities. The training and activity are both planned for LOW. Volunteers will be solicited from AARP and TRIAD. This program is sponsored by AARP and Aging Together.
- Free VIN Etching on all the windows of a vehicle—a deterrent to car thieves. This will be a joint operation with TRIAD, AARP, OC Sheriff's Department and the State Police.
- Also, watch for news of an upcoming shredder event.

Highlights of the September Meeting
by Pam Nalls, Secretary
-Bill & Rosemary Walker (founders of our AARP Chapter in May 1998) were honored for their dedicated service over the years. Addition-ally, Woods Cares Co-Chair, Janet Terry, was thanked for her many contributions. The Walkers will be leaving LOW and Janet is stepping down due to poor health.
-Election Day Chicken BBQ tickets have been mailed to all members. Proceeds from this event go to local charities. Members are urged to sell or purchase their tickets. Your help is needed to reach our goal of $2,500 for our local charities.
- Alice Grgas announced that volunteers are needed to provide refreshments for the November meeting. Sign-up sheets are available on the refreshment table at the monthly meetings.
- Patti Batten announced that the Silent Auction took in $62. Patti also advised that the Silent Auction Committee is looking for a new Chair person. If interested, please contact members of the Silent Auction Committee.
-Paul Tobin conducted the 50/50 drawing; Joan Albertella was the winner.
-The next meeting will be MON, October 17, 2011.

September Newsletter

It’s Time to Say, “Goodbye”
Nothing is forever. Bill and Rosemary Walker will be moving from the Lake on September 22 and leaving Chapter 5239. The Walkers were the founders of our AARP Chapter back in May 1998, along with 40 others from LOW who were Charter Members.
(Other founding members still active in the Chapter include Harvey and Nancy Miler, Jack and Marion Dougherty, Bette Blood, Dick Roso, and Harriet Brennan.)
Today, our Chapter is 400 members strong and one of the leading Chapters in Virginia. We all say an enthusiastic “Thank You!” to Bill and Rosemary for their many years of devoted service to AARP activities in Lake of the Woods and surrounding area.
“We love you, Bill and Rosemary…and God go with you both in your new life.”
September also means the special Food Collection Drive by AARP Chapter 5239 for our local Wilderness Food Pantry. Our Collection day is Saturday, September 24, with AARP volunteers and a truck in the parking area across from the Main Entrance Gate. Drop off your food donations there from 9 AM to 1 PM.
Needed food items include canned tuna, canned meats, rice and pasta, peanut butter, crackers, hot and cold cereal, chunky soups, and canned fruits and vegetables. We collect-ed some 700 pounds last year and aim this time for more than 1,000 pounds.
Donations by check should be made pay-able to Wilderness Food Pantry. AARP members donated $700. in the 2010 drive.
Finally, a man walking on the beach finds an old lamp. He rubs some sand off it—and out comes a genie. The genie says, “I will grant you three wishes, but your ex-wife will get double.”
The man agrees, and asks for a huge expensive mansion. The genie grants it, and the ex-wife gets two mansions. The man then asks for a million dollars in cash. Granted—and the ex-wife gets two million dollars. Then the man says to the genie, “Now scare me half to death.”
Dick Martin, President
‘Golden Age of Radio’ Is Topic for AARP by Carolyn Wray
The next AARP, Chapter 5239 meeting will feature Bill Kovarik, currently Professor of Media Studies at Radford University. He will speak about the ‘Golden Age of Radio.’ We did not have TV, the internet, or any other social networks to get current news back in the 30s and 40s. We only had radio, and we depended on that to stay informed. The grim news from Europe was a factor in World War I and II. Many of us can remem-ber both wars.
Radio required imagination, and people who grew up with it understood that. Bill’s topics will include FDR’s Fireside Chats, Edward R. Murrow from London, Mae West in the Garden of Eden, and other great moments.
Bill has taught journalism and media history since 1985 at Virginia Tech, the University of Maryland, and Radford University. He has also worked for the Baltimore Sun, Charleston (SC) News and Courier, and the Associated Press.
This should be a most interesting pro-gram for all of us. The meeting will begin at 9:30 AM with sweets and coffee followed by the program at 10 AM. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy another excellent program.

September BIRTHDAYS
(Virgo and Libra)
Tina Aris, Nancy Arnold, John Barnes,
Ellen Bearden, Ken Bentz, Gerda Binotto,
Charles Brewer, Stephen Capps, Gil Churchill, Jean Cooke, Bea Cornell, Susan Costanzo, Barbara Davidson, Ruth Downs, Carolyn Durphy, Nick Duy, Ralph Gardner, Carolyn Gerndt, Wilda Getman, Ruby Horvath, John Hughes, Barbara Lacks, Kathleen Martin,
Mary E. Merrell, William Nowers, Alan Patnode, Irene Payette, Joy Poole, Jerry Schrage, Elaine Shirkey, Marcia Shorten, Robert Silliman, Carolyn Spero, Joan Staab, Art Sunkel, Dee Tilliman, Doris Velona, Rosemary Walker, George Webb, and Ann Wood

Thanks to all our members who contributed school supplies for our Locust Grove Schools. There has been a delay in getting the supplies to the school because of the earthquake damage, but whenever they get there, they will be appreciated.
SUNSHINE REPORT
by Carolyn Durphy
A sympathy card was sent to Lee Anne & Tom Hamilton on the loss of Lee Anne’s mother.
Get well cards were sent to Jane Tobin and Betty Scheuermann.
If you know of a member who needs cheering up, contact Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306.
NOTES, BITS AND PIECES

Nominating Committee
The chapter nominating committee is still seeking potential candidates to run for chapter office. Candidates are needed for vice president, secretary, treasurer, and one director. If you are interested, or know of someone who is interested in running, please contact Pierre Payette at 972-0519, Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306, or Pam Nalls at 972-5253. Remember, an organization, such as our AARP Chapter, cannot continue to function unless it has members willing to step up and be leaders. We need your support and commitment.

Election Day Barbeque Planning
by Dwight Mottet, Chair, Chicken BBQ
The November 8 Election Day barbeque is AARP’s annual fundraiser, which supports Chapter 5239’s various local charities and community service projects.
The BBQ will be served from 11 AM to 6 PM in the lower level of the Clubhouse. Dinners are also available as carry-out meals. In addition to raising funds, the Election Day barbeque provides an added incentive for folks to get out and vote.
Again this year, the ticket price will be $9/meal, which includes the usual 1/2 chicken enrobed in “secret sauce,” coleslaw, baked beans, and a homemade brownie. Lemonade and water will be available for diners in the lower level Clubhouse.
We need more than 120 hardworking AARP members to make this project successful. The sign-up lists for volunteers will be available at the meeting. We expect the 700 tickets to sell out.
AARP members will soon have tickets to sell. Return the ticket proceeds to Jim Moore at 972-9355, Bill Lanier at 972-3219, or Carla Wascalus at 972-3436. You may also return the money at the September meeting.

AARP Community Food Drive
by Pat Berry, Co-chair
If you attended the August 15 meeting, you probably left carrying empty brown paper bags with writing on the side. AARP Chapter 5239 is again partnering with local Ruritan clubs to sponsor a community food drive on Saturday, September 24, in support of the Wilderness Food Pantry.
Chapter members will be collecting contributions across from Security at the front entrance between 9 AM and 1 PM. Just look for the smiling faces and the truck filled with food. If you haven’t been shopping and didn’t get an official AARP brown bag, never fear. Donations by check are welcome. Please make checks payable to “Low Lions/Lioness Wilderness Food Pantry.” They will be collected and taken to a Lions representative. You may also bring food to the meeting on September 19. Questions? Call either Kathi Martin at 972-5242 or Pat Berry at 972-3763.

“Screen Wrangler” Still Needed
George Webb, the Chapter’s Movie Screen Custo-dian, had an accident that broke his kneecap. This has forced George to give up bringing the screen to our monthly meetings for the foreseeable future.
So we need a replacement. What’s involved is simple enough: You store the screen in its box in your garage or some other handy place; the Program Committee will alert you to bring the screen to the meeting when it’s needed. And you take it back home after the meeting for storage.
If you can help out your fellow Chapter members by doing this, please call Dick Martin at 972-5242 or email him at Doodoo1066@Verizon.net to volunteer. We will appreciate your help.

Silent Auction
by Patti Batten
We still need your donations of new or slightly used item for our Silent auction for September, October, and November. While doing your fall cleaning, look for items that you are not using to donate to our auction. Please make sure that the items are clean, with no tears or chips.
It is also time to look at your holiday decorations: maybe you now have more than you need. Tablecloths, napkins, lights, novelties, plates, etc., sell very well.
You may bring your items to the meeting or call Patti at 972-1370 to have your items picked up. Thank you for your generous donations.
We made $116 at our August meeting.

Senior Driver Safety Course Offered
by Bob Sherba, LOW Lions Club
The LOW Lions are again sponsoring AARP’s Driver Safety Program on September 29-30. This course for older drivers discusses rules of the road and handling emergency situations and provides a number of tips on how to survive in the difficult driving environment of today.
The two-day course will be held in the Community Center Teen Room from 9 AM to 1 PM each day. The cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Checks should be made payable to “AARP.” Persons completing the course are eligible for a discount on their auto liability insurance, which is good for three years. Therefore, the course should be retaken at the end of that time in order for the discount to continue. For reservations, call Vic at 972-1928 or Bob at 972-0783.


Medical News
by Sandy Frame
We are getting to the end of summer, but there may still be hot days ahead. If you exercise or work in hot weather, beware of signs of heat-related illness, such as headache, dizziness, rapid pulse, nausea and confusion. The number of heat-related, exertional injuries treated in emergency rooms more than doubled in the last decade, according to a recent study in the American journal of Preventive Medicine. Men are more than twice as likely as women to be affected. Rates for older groups have been rising with yard work, exercise and golf the riskiest activities. Best advice: Don’t overdo it, drink plenty of water, take breaks to rest in the shade, and schedule activities during cooler times of the day if possible.
Source: University of California, Berkeley: Wellness letter. Volume 27. Issue 11. August 2011

Highlights of the August Meeting
by Pam Nalls
Dick Bradie, TRIAD, advised that the next Citizens Police Academy starts SEP 20. Contact the Sheriff’s Office if interested at (540) 672-1200.
Kathi Martin updated the membership on this year’s Food Drive for the Wilderness Food Pantry. The event will be held on SAT/SEP 24; participants can also bring donations to the SEP 19 AARP meeting. Check Perspectives and Lake Currents for more details.
Chicken BBQ Committee Chair, Dwight Mottet. reported that this year’s plans for the TUES/NOV 8 Chicken Dinner were well under way. Ticket prices will remain at $9. Each Chapter member will receive four tickets which they are urged to make every effort to sell. Proceeds from this annual event benefits local charities.
Woods Cares Co-Chair, Marion Jacobeen, advises volunteers are needed. Please contact Marion or Jeanette Embrey if you can help.
The Silent Auction results were announced by Patti Batten. The Auction took in $116 during the AUG meeting and $112 at the JUL meeting.
Dick Martin conducted the 50/50 drawing and Dick Durphy was winner.
Congratulations to the seven AARP Chapter 5239 members who were presented with awards at the Annual Membership Meeting: Jim Buongiovanni, Carolyn and Dick Durphy, Ruth Hood, Frank Jacobeen, Margaret Thode and John Trach. See Lake Currents, September 9 issue.

August Newsletter

If you have not received any e-mails in the last week from “aarp5239@gmail.com” sent a note with your name to aarp5239@gmail.com, We are creating an email list just for our chapter. In the future if you change your email, send changes to aarp5239@gmail.com

Will Social Security/ Medicare Benefits be Cut?

If the current threats by Congress to cut Social Security and Medicare in order to trim the Federal deficit make your blood boil, then you can take action to make your voice heard through National AARP.
AARP has prepared petitions to our Virginia Federal representatives—Senators Mark Warner and Jim Webb, and Congressman Eric Cantor—that says in part: “As one of your constituents and as a member of AARP, I urge you to oppose legislation that makes harmful cuts to Social Security and Medicare benefits as a means of trimming the Federal deficit.
“There are many forms of ineffective government spending that can be cut, from tax loopholes to pork-barrel spending, but Social Security and Medicare are not among them.”
Barry Rand, AARP Chief Executive Officer, says, “This is undoubtedly one of the most important issues ever addressed by AARP. Return your petitions to AARP, and we will deliver them at the best opportunity.”
You can obtain the petitions by calling National AARP at 1-888-OUR-AARP. You then just sign them and return them to AARP.
In another option, you can call Congress directly to voice your opinion. You can call Congress directly toll-free at 1-888-722-8514. AARP says, “Make your voice heard. Let’s stop Congress from making harmful cuts to Social Security and Medicare as part of a deal to pay the nation’s bills. Call Congress today…”
Finally, an elderly man is stopped by Police at 1 AM and is asked where he’s going at this time of night. The man says, “I’m going to a lecture about alcohol abuse and the effects it has on the human body.”
The officer asks, “Really? Who is giving that lecture at this time of night?” The man replies, “That would be my wife.”

Dick Martin, President

Orange County Tourism is Topic

by Carolyn Wray, Publicity

Leigh Mawyer, Orange County Services Coordinator, will be the speaker at the next AARP, Chapter 5239 meeting, which will take place on Monday, August 15, at the LOW Clubhouse. Leigh has worked in event planning and coordination for the past 10 years and as the Tourism Services Coordinator at the Orange County Visitors Bureau for over a year. She will bring you up-to-date on tourism in Orange County. If you would like to be a volunteer at the Visitors Bureau, she will let you know how to sign up.
The meeting will begin at 9:30 AM with sweets and coffee followed by the program at10 AM. Everyone is invited to come to another very interesting and informative program.

AUGUST BIRTHDAYS
(Leo and Virgo)
Marie Barrett, Pat Berry, Al Bisset, Anne Boyd, Helen Brewer, Gerlinde Carmona, Kasee Charest, Philip DeSimone, Larry Ervin, Coralaine Ferguson, Lee Frame, Mary Hadley, Carroll Hamilton, Lynn Hein, Betty Hughes, Robert Johnson, Martha Keys, Gloria Kidwell, Connie LeMay, Ruth Lenwell, Virginia Lynch, Marilyn McKay, Vera Moody, Gerald Mueller, Margaret Ostlund, Joan Parnell, Larry Petersen, Mike Pulice, John Rueckert, Ralph Scheuermann, Darlene Seyler, James Shorten, Emily Slunt, Charles Taylor, Harold Thompson, Patricia Watterworth, and Beverly Zabka

SUNSHINE REPORT
by Carolyn Durphy
Get well cards were sent to Doris Velona, Marion Jacobeen, and June Romedy.
Thinking-of-you cards were sent to Delma & Ed Roessler.
If you know of a member who needs cheering up, contact Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306.

New ‘Screen Wrangler” Needed
George Webb, the Chapter’s Meeting Movie Screen Custodian, had an accident that broke his kneecap. This has forced George to give up bringing the screen to our monthly meetings for the foreseeable future. So we need a replacement.
What’s involved is simple enough: You store the screen in its box in your garage or some other handy place; the Program Committee will alert you to bring the screen to the meeting when it’s needed. And you take it back home after the meeting for storage.
If you can help out your fellow Chapter members by doing this, please call Dick Martin at 972-5242 or email him at Doodoo1066@Verizon.net to volunteer. We will appreciate your help.

Nominating Committee
by Pierre Payette, Director
The chapter nominating committee is seeking potential candidates to run for chapter office. Candidates are needed for Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Directors. If you are interested, or know of someone who is interested in running, please contact Pierre Payette at 972-9519, or 540-226-2871, or Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306, or Pam Nalls at 972-5253.

Donate School Supplies for Needy Kids
by Ruth Hood, Coordinator, School Supplies
Orange County schools will be opening September 6, so what could be a more perfect time to donate school supplies so all of our local students have everything they need to further their education? This is the time to shop—the stores are having “Back to School” sales right now, and many things are available at reduced prices. Guidance Counselors distribute donated items using the free-and-reduced lunch list to identify appropriate students.
Supplies needed in multiples across all grade levels 1 through 6 include: black “marble” notebooks (stitched); large glue sticks; 3x5 cards; colored pencils; handheld pencil sharpeners; yellow highlighters; solid color pocket folders with fasteners; 1” and 2” three-ring binders; packages of loose-leaf paper (wide ruled, three-hole punched); and hand sanitizer. The supply lists for OC Schools are available at http://www.ocss-va.org/, click on supply lists on right.
Supplies can be brought to the August 15 meeting and will be distributed to OC schools. If you need more information, contact Ruth Hood at 972-3249 or email rhhood@verizon.net.

NOTES, BITS AND PIECES
New Members
Welcome to new members: Barbara Davidson, Martha Keys, Tina Critzer, Betty Soedler, and Helen Jo Cates.

Silent Auction
by Patti Batten
The silent auction netted $112 last month for our charities.
We still need new or gently used items to sell. You may call me at 972-1370 if you need items picked up, or you can bring them to the meeting. The ENTIRE committee will meet at my house for pricing on Wednes-day, August 10, at 10 AM.
My special thanks to the following for their outstanding work on this committee: Jean Molanari, Sharon Webb, Margaret Thode, Karen Kovarik, Ruth Wallace, and Diane Weller. They are there early and arrange the items on the tables, etc., and to the gentlemen who set up the tables and take the items to and from my van. You all are very special, and much appreciated.
For those of you, for whatever reason, cannot come to the meetings, you miss out on a great opportunity to enjoy our great programs, the FUN SILENT AUCTION, and the opportunity to greet old friends and make new ones. Also, you missed my appeal for a NEW CHAIRPERSON, to take over the Auction. Roxanne Kessler and I have done this, in one form or another, for at least 7 years. I love this committee, but I must take the next year off.

The Refreshment committee needs bakers for the next several months. See Alice Grgas at the refreshment table to sign up. Thanks for all your past delicious goodies.

New Yorkers Club activities
9/11 T-shirts are on sale to benefit Sheltering Arms. In honor of the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attack, “In Remembrance” T-shirts are on sale for $15 each by the New York Picnic Committee. Contact John at 972-4883 or at JoJanT@verizon.net
Tickets for the September 10 NY Club Picnic can be obtained from the following: John at 972-4883, John at 972-6216, Tony at 972-2016, and Dick at 308-5507. The $15 ticket includes the meal, souvenir booklet, and all supplies. Proceeds will be donated to Sheltering Arms.

Medical News
by Sandy Frame
10 Ways to Boost Your Fruit and Vegetable Intake: With the abundance of summer fruits and vegetables available, now might be a good time to take advantage of the bounty.
Fruit:
1. Blend frozen berries and make your own sorbet. Frozen fruit is always available.
2. Add chopped apple or grapes to salads, or orange
slices to spinach salad. You get your vegetable and your fruit at the same time.
3. Mix peaches, blueberries, or apricots with hot cereal in the morning instead of buying the pre-sweetened varieties.
4. Add raisins or currants to rice dishes, couscous, or stir fries. Cranberries in couscous taste good too.
5. Freeze melon balls or grapes for a healthy snack
instead of potato chips.
Vegetables:
1. Add vegetables when making eggs. Great in omelets.
2. Chop up greens like kale and Swiss chard and add to pasta sauce or meatloaf.
3. Use Bibb lettuce as the “bread” for sandwiches to make a wrap. It’s also a great way to cut calories.
4. Hungry while making dinner? Munch on raw vegetables such as sugar snap peas, green beans or raw broccoli. Much better than crackers or other junk food.
5. Blend vegetable like spinach into smoothies. If you have enough fruit in there, you won’t notice the added green.
From suggestions by Lynn Goldstein, RD found in Food and Fitness Advisor reprinted in Women’s Health Reporter, Volume 12, Number 7, July 2001. eHHH

AARP DRIVE TO END HUNGER
by Kathi Martin and Pat Berry
On Saturday, September 24, LOW AARP, in conjunction with the Federation of Virginia Food Banks, Ruritan, and other organi-zations will hold a food collection, which will benefit the Wilderness Food Pantry.
Last year, LOW AARP donated over 700 pounds of food, and over $700 to the Food Pantry, and this year we have set a goal of 1000 pounds of food.
The need is great; there are more than 100 families using the Pantry, which means about 300 individuals. With summer con-struction jobs and other summer employ-ment winding down in the fall, more people will be needing assistance.
At the August and September meetings, we will be handing out specially marked grocery bags; we hope our members will take two bags each, and fill them up with canned goods and boxed grocery items.
Items needed include peanut butter, jelly, “helpers” and other meal makers, canned vegetables, soups (chicken noodle is a favorite), canned meats (such as tuna, Spam and hash), cereals, and sides (such as boxed potato and pasta dishes).
AARP members wishing to donate money should make checks out to Wilderness Food Pantry, but please turn them in to our committee, so they can be counted and donated all at once.
The actual collection will be at the Club-house lower level parking lot September 24, between the hours of 9 AM and 1 PM. VOLUNTEERS are needed at this location; we’ll work in 2 shifts – 9 -11 AM and 11 AM-1 PM. Volunteers may be needed for other jobs; we’ll let you know! If you have questions, or want to volunteer, please call Kathi (5242) or Pat (3763)


Highlights of the July Meeting by Pam Nalls
· Roberta “Bobbie” Prees will again be leading the AARP team for the July 23 Cardboard Boat Race. This event benefits the Lake Youth Foundation.
· Dick Bradie,TRIAD, advised that the next Neighborhood Watch meeting is scheduled for August 29.
· Kathi Martin spoke regarding this year’s Food Drive for the Wilderness Food Pantry. The event will be held on Saturday, September 24, and participants can also bring donations to the September AARP meeting. Check Perspectives and Lake Currents for more details.
· Ruth Hood is again coordinating the August School Kids Supplies drive. Check Perspectives for more details.
· Alice Grgas announced that volunteers are needed to provide refreshments for the September to November meetings. Sign-up sheets are available on the refreshment table at the monthly meetings.
· The Silent Auction results were announced by Patti Batten. Patti also advised that the Silent Auction Committee is looking for a new Chair person. If interested, please contact members of the Silent Auction Committee.
· Paul Tobin conducted the 50/50 drawing: Dave Kovarik was the winner of $53.50.

July Newsletter

New Chapter Email

If you have not sent a note with your name to aarp5239@gmail.com, please do so. We are creating an email list just for our chapter. In the future if you change your email, send changes to aarp5239@gmail.com.


Let the Good Times Roll!

What a great get-together and fun time was had at the Chapter’s Annual June Picnic on the 20th. Because of the rain, the event was moved from the Sweetbriar Pavilion to the LOW Community Center…and despite the rain, a record crowd of members showed up to mix-and-mingle and share fellowship time and great food with each other.
Our thanks once again go to Gil and Lucy Churchill, our outstanding Refreshment Chairs…to the hamburger and hot dog chefs who braved the mist and rain to provide the mouth-watering hot meats…to Joe McEuen for smoothly handling the last-minute table-and-chair setup change from outside to inside…and to the many, many volunteer-helpers and dish-sharers for putting on such a relaxed, enjoyable, and tasty Chapter picnic. Great work, all, and well done!
Looking to upcoming events, the AARP Board Meeting will be held Monday, July 11, starting at 10 AM at the Wilderness Library. Chapter Officers and Directors and Committee Heads are encouraged to attend these Board Meetings. The meetings are also open for any members who may want to bring problems or service opportunities to the attention of the Board for possible action.
Then plan to come to Sailboat Beach by the Clubhouse on Saturday, July 23, to watch Bobbie Prees once again represent AARP Chapter 5239 in the Lake Youth Foundation’s annual Cardboard Boat Regatta. The fun starts at 11:30 AM. Bobbie won First Place for us last year in our race category, so she’s the early odds-on favorite to win again this year. Let’s all plan to show up to cheer Bobbie on to another watery victory.
Finally, our neighbor is a pretty blonde who can be quite dense about things. She complained the other day that her internet provider had rejected her password, even though she had followed the rules. What password did you use? we asked.
“MickeyMinniePlutoHueyLouieDeweyDonald GoofyRichmond.”
Why did you submit such a long, long password?
“They said it had to be eight characters long and include at least one capital.”
Dick Martin, President

McKees Discuss Conservation Program
by Carolyn Wray
The next meeting of AARP Chapter 5239 will take place on Monday, July 18, at the LOW Clubhouse. The meeting will begin at 9:30 AM with sweets and coffee followed by the program at 10 AM. The speakers will be Lynn and Dave McKee, volunteers at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), a 3,200-acre facility located in Front Royal, Virginia.
They will be presenting an overview of the Institute, which supports the Smithsonian’s effort to conserve species and train future generations of conservationists. Staff at this location facilitate and promote research programs at Front Royal, at the National Zoo in Washington, DC, and at field-research and training sites around the world.
The SCBI houses about thirty endangered species of animals, and Lynn and Dave will be discussing the breeding programs and survival plans for Black Footed Ferrets, Clouded Leopards, Red-Crowned and White-Naped Cranes, Scimitar Horned Oryx, Przewalski’s Horses, and Cheetahs.
This should be a most interesting program and everyone is invited to come.

July Birthdays (Cancer and Leo)
Karen Anderson, Tony Aris, Bernie Arnold, Julia Barnes, Joann Batten, Bonnie Boelke, Richard Costanzo, Sue Dickinson, Barbara Drumheller, Gayle Fargo, Sandra Frame, Gene Jacobs, Janet Jacobs, Bob Jenks, Rima Laviano, Jim Lemieux, Sandi McNeilly, Ursula Medwid, Bernie Palowitch, Ruth Pavlik, Delma Roessler, Patrick Rowland, Doris Schluter, Margaret Thode, Sharon Webb, Diane Weller, and Verna Wescott

SUNSHINE REPORT
by Carolyn Durphy
Sympathy cards were sent to twins Sandy McNeilly & Sharon Webb on the loss of their mother.
Get well cards were sent to Virginia Bayer, Joe Noland, and Joyce Richter.
If you know of a member who needs cheering up, contact Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306.

A good time was had by all…
by Bob Johnson, Volunteer Coordinator, Day of Service
Wednesday May 18 and Thursday, May 19, 2011, were our “Volunteer Service Days.” First, thanks to all of you who volunteered and accomplished a huge service to our community. My count shows 70 people contributed 292 hours of service. This is slightly ahead of last year and well over our goal of 10% of the members and almost as many hours as last year.
I am including the contact information for the organizations. These organizations need help all year long—not just the two days we work as teams. If you are interested, call them directly and arrange a time to volunteer. Some of the reports I’ve received:
TRIAD: Dick and Kathleen Bradie (aceboggs@ comcast.net). Seven volunteers were able to complete all of the admin work (yellow dots), and a good time was had by all!
Dogwood Village/Orange County Nursing Home. (Patti Talley, Director, ptalley@dogwoodvillageocva. org). Barbara Ehlan, Skip and Joy Poole, Peggy Grella, and Joyce Breeden assisted residents in planting geraniums on the facility’s patio and terrace.
Orange County Animal Shelter (Betty Hughes hughesbj@comcast.net). Seven people (Ann Walker, Chris Grimley, Peggy Cooke, Bobbie Prees, John and Betty Hughes created 900 mailings for fundraising. This is the second year a vital task was completed. A “job well done.”
Wilderness Food Pantry (Betty Beck bbmarlpat@ aol.com).
Orange County Historical Society Paul Carter (pjlitterbox@peoplepc.com )
Sheltering Arms: Marian and Frank Jacobeen (jacobeen@juno.com). Eleven volunteers accomplished quite a bit: boarded up a broken window in the men's bedroom, organized the cabinet in the upper hall by contents, and reorganized and purged the freezers. Three of the men did outside work—grass cutting, trimming bushes and other needed work. It was a good day’s work! Frank Jacobeen shared that he still has carpenter work to do.
Wilderness Battlefield Shelter. Bob Johnson (bjohn913@comcast.net) The National Park Service spent quite a few dollars to paint the original Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) building (ca. 1930) and replace the roof. John Trach, Dorse Counts, Wade Aylor, Aggie Mucciacciano, and I cut weeds and raked leaves to make it safer (from brush fires) and more beautiful (can an old brown building be beautiful?).
Services to Abused Families (SAFE). Karen Brown (kbrown.safe@gmail.com) Pam Nalls, Dorse Counts, and Bob Johnson removed and painted 26 kitchen cabinet doors and drawers, installed new hardware, and reinstalled the fronts.
Photography: Thanks to Dick Durphy and Ralph Scheuermann for picking up and delivering lunches, and for taking pictures of the teams.
Lunches: Bonnie Boelke took charge of the lunch project. Bobby Prees, Vi Liberti, and Jane Tobin were done by 8:30—well before the deadline. As a consumer of one of the lunches, I can attest they were delicious, nutritious, and very welcome in the field.
Another note about the AARP picnic on June 20. We had hamburgers, hot dogs, and buns left over. Kathleen Bradie asked me if I could take them to the Germanna Heights Apartments (I help with a Sunday service there). Darlene Sayler added her pot of wonderful home-made beans. Due to your generosity, they had a wonderful cookout. Those who missed our picnic missed the best hamburgers made fresh by Lucy Churchill and her team of burger busters.
I’ve tried to get all volunteers and contacts names as best I can, but this task is like herding cats—you all are so busy and so talented, it is hard to get all the facts straight. If I’ve made a mistake or omission, please forgive me. Until next year.

NOTES, BITS AND PIECES
New Members
We welcome Florence Ramey and Lee Mintz who joined as new members in June.

Silent Auction
by Patti Batten
The Silent Auction Committee has benefited from two recent “LIVING ESTATE SALES.” We will meet shortly after July 4 to price and prepare for the July Silent Auction.
The tables are set up at 9:30 AM to give you time to select the items before the meeting starts. If you have any new or gently used, clean items you want to donate, you may bring them to the meeting or call Patti at 972-1370, Jean at 972-8310, Margaret at 972-5540, Diane at 972-2078 or Karen at 972-7866 for pick up

The Refreshment committee needs bakers for the next several months. See Alice Grgas at the refreshment table to sign up. Thanks for all your past delicious goodies.

New Yorkers Club activities
9/11 T-shirts are on sale to benefit Sheltering Arms. In honor of the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attack, “In Remembrance” T-shirts are on sale for $15 each by the New York Picnic Committee. Contact John at 972-4883 or at JoJanT@verizon.net
Tickets for the September 10 NY Club Picnic can be obtained from the following: John at 972-4883, John at 972-6216, Tony at 972-2016, and Dick at 308-5507. The $15 ticket includes the meal, souvenir booklet, and all supplies. Proceeds will be donated to Sheltering Arms.

Medical News
by Sandy Frame
Are you always tired? Not getting enough quality sleep can be one of the reasons. For most people seven or eight hours is ideal. If you have trouble getting enough sleep, these are some of the suggestions from Focus on Healthy Aging.
· Set a designated sleep and wake time and stick to that schedule every day of the week.
· Avoid stimulants such as caffeine especially after dinner.

· Create a quiet, peaceful sleep environ-ment. Do not watch television in the bedroom.
· Get regular exercise during the day (at least 30 minutes most days) but not heavy in the evening. You can find exercises to do in a chair if you are limited in mobility.
· If you take medication that makes you drowsy, take it in the evening if you can.
· Do not use alcohol as sleep medication.
From “Focus on Aging,” Women’s Health Reporter, Volume12, #6, June 2011.

Legislative News
by Pat Berry
Last month I wrote that the State of Virginia was preparing to launch an online registry for Advance Directives. Well, I guess you all know that the legislative process is slow and deliberative. I asked for status and found that the regs are waiting for approval from the Governor’s office. Once that is done they will need to be approved by the Registrar and be placed into a public comment period. That period is 30 days in duration. Can we all say maybe September?
Meanwhile, I’d like to mention a database sponsored by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) that allows consumers for the first time to view safety complaints that other people have filed against specific products. After major recalls of children’s products and toys in 2007, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 granted the CPSC authority to make the information it collects available to the public. The result was the creation of an online resource of comments from real people, not just company public relations departments. For example, if you type in "refrigerator," you will get a list of formal recalls and also specific complaints that previous buyers have filed concerning the appliances. To review a product, go to www.SaferProducts.gov. Consumers who visit the database can also file safety com-plaints of their own against a wide range of products. To register a complaint, you must provide your name, the name of the manu-facturer and model number, as well as other key information. Become an active partner in consumer affairs by sharing your comments with this national audience.

June Newsletter

Picnic…Honors…Swimsuit Time

The relaxed, easy-going “Sweet Summer” is at long-last about to be with us. This means it’s time for enjoying the daily warmth and “slow-down” attitude of our daily grind.
Our Chapter’s Annual Picnic is scheduled for Monday, June 20, in the Lion George Lewis Pavilion at Sweetbriar Park. The Chapter will again provide the hamburgers and hot dogs, and lemon-ade. Members will provide the side-dishes, salads, and desserts to be shared by all. Food lines will open at 11:30 AM, so please arrange to have your foods at the Pavilion some time before then for setting out on the buffet tables.
June is also the time for submitting our nominations of Chapter members and groups to LOWA for their annual Honor Awards, “designed to recognize individuals and groups for volunteer contributions to the welfare of Lake of the Woods residents.” We did an informa-tional emailing on the Honor Awards recently to members.
Nominations close Thursday, June 30, and awards are presented at the annual LOWA meeting on Labor Day weekend. Nomination forms (fully filled out with reasons why the nominee should be honored) are available at the Holcomb Building or online at www.lowa.org . Or you can email your nominations to me Doodoo1066@Verizon.net to coordinate through the Chapter Nominations Committee, and we’ll handle submitting everything to LOWA for their consideration.
And June means “Swimsuit Time” at our pools and lakes. And that brings an unhappy “oh-oh” from many of us when we first put on our swim suits. If re-adjusting your eating habits is in order to better fit a swimsuit, log on to www.mypyramid.gov and then click on “MyPyramid Plan.” Fill in the requested details to find the best amount of each food group you should eat daily to be slim, trim, and svelte.
Finally, a guy was sitting at the Fareways Snack Bar, looking sad as he sipped his coffee. A friend saw him and asked, “What’s wrong? Why are you looking so gloomy today?”
“My wife and I got into a fight and she said she wouldn’t talk to me for a month.”
“What’s wrong with that?” the friend asked.
“The month is up tonight!”
Dick Martin, President

AARP Annual June Picnic
by Carolyn Wray, Publicity, AARP Chapter 5239
AARP Chapter 5239 will hold its annual picnic on Monday, June 20, rain or shine at the Lion George Lewis Pavilion in Sweetbriar Park. This popular event will start at 11:30 AM. Hamburgers, hot dogs, beverages, paper goods, and utensils will be provided by the AARP Club. Members are requested to bring their favorite potluck dishes, casseroles, salads, or desserts to share with everyone.
This is a very special social event for all to meet and greet old friends and meet new ones. It is fun to share stories and new jokes and good food. Please come and bring a friend.

JUNE BIRTHDAY--(Gemini and Cancer)
Sal Buccola, Connie Buttimer, Ida Cangelos, Philip Carmona, Lucy Churchill, Robert Cooke, Marva Culp, Ralph Daehnke, Richard Durphy, Nell Grimley, Marian Hamilton, Joanne Hewitson, Sibyle Jenks, Roxanne Kessler, Chuck King, Rina Lacey, William Mason, Nancy Miller, Jan Moore, Eugene Ostlund, June Pataky, Craig Rains, June Romedy, Bonnie Rowan, Judy Schrage, Sheila Souther, Donna Stanford, Marilyn Gramm Sunkel, Ginny Thoms, John Trach, Sandy Wemmerus, and Carolyn Wray

NEW MEMBERS
We welcome Martha Foote, Jane Wilde, Jim and Jan Lemieux, and Joe Wright who joined as new members in May.

SUNSHINE REPORT
A sympathy card was sent to Dick Berra on the loss of his wife Helen.
Get well cards were sent to Kathleen Brady and Kathleen Martin.
If you know of a member who needs cheering up, contact Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306.

AARP Day of Service
by Bob Johnson, Volunteer Coordinator
Wednesday and Thursday, May 18-19, were our Volunteer Service days. First, thanks to all of you who volunteered and accom-plished a huge service to our community.
While the final report and pictures are not tallied yet, I’m sure we met our goal of 10% participation by our members. Many were off to graduations of children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren, which proved family comes first.
Just a reminder to leaders of the projects—please send me a report of your accomplish-ments and even your challenges for next year’s planning. Photographers—send me the pictures or give them to me on a CD.
From what I know already, we served TRIAD, the SAFE house in Culpeper, and the Wilderness Battlefield by doing tasks they either could not do or did not have the time or resources to do. Bonnie Boelke stepped up to the challenge to do lunches and had wonderful assistance from others. Speaking for myself, the lunches were absolutely the right thing at the right time!
I’ll get a report and some pictures out later, but until then, THANKS to all!

NOTES, BITS AND PIECES
Silent Auction by Patti Batten
Thanks to Ruth Wallace, Diane Weller & Jean Molinari for doing the Silent Auction for the month of May. I understand they made over $100.
We will not have a silent auction in June, due to the picnic. You may bring your new or gently used items for the July silent auction to the picnic, or call Patti at 972-1370 to have them picked up.

Email Guru Sought
Wanted – Email savvy member who would be willing to keep chapter email list up to date and to periodically send out notices of interest to members. AARP Chapter 5239 uses emails to alert members to upcoming events and happenings.
Joe Diamondstein, who has served our chapter as newsletter editor and as email contact for many years, has decided to step down. Out thanks to Joe for his dedication to keeping our chapter well informed.

What is Woods Cares?
by Janet Terry and Jeanette Embrey,
Co-Chairs of AARP's Woods Cares
Woods Cares is a group of AARP volunteers helping individuals within or near Lake of the Woods who are shut-ins, caregivers of shut-ins, or those in need for Some other reason. We have been serving our community members for the past 10 years. There are approximately 45 AARP members who have volunteered their time and/or talents. These individuals are all over the age of 50. Most of them are 60-, 70-, and 80-year-olds, who continue to be of service to their neighbors.
Services provided in the past have consisted of transporting people to doctor's appointments, dialysis or cancer treatments, the grocery store, or beauty appointments, and picking up prescriptions, or running other errands. Other helpful tasks have included simple plumbing repairs, small appliance repairs, raking leaves, and transporting trash to the compactor. We have also visited with shut-ins to give their caregivers a break. This list represents a sample of what you may need us to do for you. Remember, this is a free service.
If you would like to be a volunteer or know of someone who has need of our services, please contact one of our committee persons, and they will endeavor to find a person to help. Right now we are in urgent need of additional volunteers to drive several persons to dialysis weekly. With enough volunteers, each person would only need to drive once a month or less. For information and/or to volunteer, please call: Gail at 972-7436; Pat at 972-9223, Marion at 972-4085; Jeanette at 972-0726; or Janet at 972-1957.
Any help you can offer will be greatly appreciated. Our AARP motto is, "The Power to Make it Better."

LEGISLATIVE REPORT
by Pat Berry
With all the other headlines shrieking at us about the world situation, it’s likely that you missed the passage of the Patient Self-Determination Act of 1990. With that piece of legislation, Congress affirmed the right of every citizen to document his or her future healthcare wishes in writing with an “advance directive.” And now the Virginia Department of Health is preparing on online registry for advance directives that will offer secure storage of documents that protect your legal rights and ensure your medical wishes are honored if you are unable to manage your own care.
Such a registry would verify the type of care you want extended during an incapacitating condition, identify the person/people who can make decisions for you, communicate your wishes to those involved in your care and provide documentation for these personal health care decisions.

MORE ON THE SHINGLES VACCINE
by Sandie Frame
Sally Lyddane wrote to tell me that Medicare Part D coverage does pay a portion of the cost of the Zostavax. You have to have the prescription written by your M.D., as for any other drug, then send it in to your Part D provider. They send the vaccine to your physician, in your name, and then you get it from your physician.
I am not sure whether Part B will pay any part of the fee for the administration of the vaccine. Sally’s Part D provider had a co-pay of $40. Another source is the Health Depart-ment. Previously they were giving it free; however, this time they will be charging $200 for the vaccine. You can check to see if there will be any change in that policy. Their number is 672-1291.
Dick Brady found out that if you are being cared for under the VA umbrella you can get the vaccine from them. Walgreen’s has an ad on their window that they now provide the vaccine and will accept Medicare Part D. You can check with them to see what steps you have to take before receiving the vaccine through them. If anyone else knows of other sources, please let me know and we can let others know at the next meeting.

It’s Getting Closer
by Dick Bradie, New York Picnic Committee
What’s getting closer, you may ask? The New York Picnic, of course. Because of the 10-year Anniversary of the 911 tragedy, and since all Americans have been touched by the events of that dark day in 2001, we are inviting everyone to the NY Picnic. Ticket sales will commence soon (contacts for purchase of tickets will be announced in an upcoming Lake Currents) and will continue until we have reached the maximum for the Sweetbriar Park Pavilion. Remember the date—September 10, 2011, starting at Noon. Our caterer, Elmwood at Sparks, will be supplying the meal. The $15 ticket price includes the meal, a souvenir journal, and all supplies and decorations. The meal will be two salads, two entrées, breads with spread, and dessert. Coffee will be supplied; you are encouraged to bring any other drinks you would like to have.
Any profits realized will be donated to Sheltering Arms in Orange

Highlights of the May Meeting by Pam Nalls
- Roberta “Bobbie” Prees will again be leading the AARP team for the July Cardboard Boat Race, which benefits the Lake Youth Foundation. Volunteers are needed for construction. Please contact Bobbie at 972-4225.
-Dwight Mottet, Chair of the Chicken BBQ Committee, announced that Tom Hamilton will again serve as Co-Chair for the annual November Election Day BBQ. Dwight noted that this function requires approximately 120 member volunteers and has previously raised around $2,500 for charity. So, get ready to lend a hand for this important charity event.
-The Silent Auction took in $147.
-Paul Tobin conducted the 50/50 drawing; John Trach was the winner of $53.50.
-June 20 is the annual AARP picnic to be held at Sweetbriar Pavilion and commencing at 11:30AM.

May Newsletter

May Means Another Busy AARP Month

The beautiful, wqrm month of May will hold at least two important events for me:
First, I will miss the AARP monthly meeting on Monday, May 16. My wife, Kathi, is due for a knee replacement operation that day, so I’ll be at her side in Mary Washington Hospital instead of meeting and greeting you-all as usual at the LOW Clubhouse.
Award-winning Chapter Vice President Dick Bradie will again run the meeting in my place. As you heard at the April meeting where Dick served in my Shore-vacationing place, Dick and Kathleen Bradie received “Volunteers of the Year Awards” from Virginia AARP. Board Member Pierre Payette made the presentation. Congratula-tions, Dick and Kathleen! You both certainly deserve the recognition for all the time and effort you give in helping others.
And second, we have our Chapter’s Annual Day of Service on Thursday, May 19. This year’s volunteer effort is again in the very capable hands of Bob Johnson, who has been working hard to make our 2011 effort “bigger and better than ever.”
If you haven‘t volunteered yet to help our Chapter assist local and area charity groups for a few hours on May 19, please give Bob a call at 972-4358 or email bjohn913@ Comcast.net to have your name added to the lists. It will only take a few hours of your time…and you will be repaid with a feeling of deep satisfaction for helping others who are less fortunate.
Finally, Roxanne Kessler will replace the to-be-hospitalized Kathi Martin in leading the May 24-26 Chapter bus tour up to Amish-land in Pennsylvania. The last time our group did this trip, they spotted a hand-painted sign on the back of one of those Amish horse-drawn carriages. The sign read: “Energy efficient vehicle—Runs on oats and grass. Caution: Do not step in exhaust.
Dick Martin, President

Freedom Honor Team to Perform at May Meeting
Carolyn Wray, Publicity
The Enduring Freedom Honor Team from Faith Baptist School in Fredericksburg will be performing at our May l6 meeting. The select 12-member high school ensemble, clad in vintage WWII uniforms, together with Greg Reed, Music Director (who plays trumpet and six other instruments) will entertain us with an eclectic repertoire consisting of patriotic, classical and current melodies. The band’s instruments consist of clarinets, trumpets, drums, flute, tuba, saxophone, trombone, and euphonium. The group has played at the Pentagon, the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD, McGuire Hospital in Richmond, and Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, DC.
Mr. Reed has a BA and MA in music education from Spring Arbor University and George Mason University respectively. He draws his musicians from Faith Baptist School’s concert band which has won five first-place awards and three seconds in national competitions over the past eight years.
The meeting will start at 9:30 AM with sweets and coffee followed by the program at 10 AM. This will be a very special program with a talented group of students from Faith Baptist School.

MAY BIRTHDAYS
(Taurus and Gemini)
Patricia Batten, Pat Bisset, James Buongiovanni, Diana Calegari, Evadine Cooper, Joe Diamonstein, Larry Eiben, John Gamble, Alice Grgas, Gloria Hutt, Ramona Lamon, Arthur Lieb, Rani Manhard, Harvey Miller, Linda Ogletree, Zoila Ortega, Pierre Payette, Val Protiva, Edwin Roessler, Barbara Rueckert, Kathy Saladino, Doris Scoon, Michele Smith, Robert Spencer, Lillian Thompson, Lucille Tompkins , and Susan Wright.

SUNSHINE REPORT
by Carolyn Durphy
Get well cards were sent to Carolyn Lewis, Boyd Bowers and Vi Liberti.
If you know of a member who needs cheering up, contact Carolyn Durphy at 972-3306.

NOTES, BITS AND PIECES

Silent Auction
by Patti Batten
We need new or gently used items that are clean with no stains or tears. Some suggestions: Kitchen items, small hand tools for garden and household use, dishes, pottery, framed pictures, just to name a few. If you need the items picked up, you may call Jean at 972-7866, Ruth at 540-423-7274, Diane at 972-2078, Margaret at 972-5540, Karen at 972-7866, or Sharon at 972-1666, or you can bring them to the meeting.
The March meeting earned $109 toward our Charity donations.
Refreshment committee needs bakers for the May and July meetings. Since June is our annual picnic there will be no sign-up sheet available then. Thanks for all your past delicious goodies. See Lucy Churchill at the May meeting.

Help for Alzheimer Caregivers
If your family has a member in stages of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, Aging Together, serving the Orange County area, has an eight-week in-home training program that supports caregiving families.
Called “Connections,” the goal of the free program is to improve the quality of life for persons with Alzheimer’s and family care-givers. “Connections” teaches caregivers ways to get their family member involved in interesting activities in the home, lessens stress for the caregiver, and increases social opportunities for the person receiving care. Info: Aging Together at 825-3100.

Buy a 9/11 T-shirt
9/11 T-shirts are on sale to benefit Sheltering Arms. In honor of the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attack, “In Remembrance” T-shirts are on sale for $15 each by the New York Picnic Committee. Contact John at 972-4883 or at JoJanT@ verizon.net

Medical News
by Sandie Frame
The same virus that causes chicken pox stays in your body and can surface in later years as shingles. There is now a vaccine that may stop shingles from occurring. ZOSTAVAX is recommended for anyone over 60 who ever had chickenpox. While it does protect most people, it does not protect everyone from getting Shingles. There is a theory that it does make the shingles less severe and less painful. This vaccine is a one-time injection. You should not get this vaccine if you are allergic to gelatin, neomycin, have a compromised immune system or take high doses of steroids. Your doctor should be informed of all medications you are taking as other medications or conditions may prevent you from receiving the vaccine. Your doctor is the best person to advise if this vaccine is right for you. Possible side effects include: redness, warmth or bruising at the injection site, itching, a mild rash, or headache. Since this vaccine contains a weakened chickenpox virus, you should stay away from newborns, pregnant women who have not had chickenpox or those with compromised immune systems until the vaccine has taken effect. Now for the bad part: This vaccine is costly, over $200, and is not covered by Medicare at this time. If you have secondary insurance provider, check with them to see if they might cover it. For further information see web sites on shingles vaccine or Zostavax and the 2011 Medicare manual.

Legislative News
Various pieces of new federal legislation address both personal health care and related financial issues. One of interest to members of Chapter 5239 is a provision under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act which will protect you against the denial of health insurance coverage. The Government Accounting Office reports that coverage may be denied due to billing errors, eligibility issues, or even a determination that a charge is not appropriate. In the case of a billing error, often the denial is issued because of duplicate claims or missing information. For example, in 2007 Maryland reported that 32 percent of denials occurred due to duplicate claim submissions.

There are several actions you can take to dispute a denial. First: you can file an appeal with your insurer. Second: if the appeal is denied, you can request that it be reviewed by the Virginia Bureau of Insurance (within 30 days after your initial appeal to the insurer is exhausted) acting as an external party. And finally, you can file a complaint with the Commonwealth of Virginia through the Bureau of Insurance. For information go to www.scc.virginia.gov and select the tab for “Insurance”.

If you need help in dealing with your private insurer, contact the nonprofit Patient Advocate Foundation (www.patientadvocate.org). The lesson for the day is that if you are denied coverage, don’t give up. File an appeal.
Attribution: Washington Post, March 24, “The Color of Money,” Michelle Singletary

Highlights of April Meeting
by Pam Nalls, Secretary
Dick & Kathleen Bradie have been awarded the AARP National Chapter Community Service Award for 2011. Pierre Payette presented the Bradies with an AARP certificate and pin in recognition of their exemplary volunteer work in our community.
Bob Johnson gave an update on the AARP’s Day of Service scheduled for 18/19 May. Sign-up sheets are available at the monthly meetings and more volunteers are needed.
Patti Batten provided the Silent Auction results and estimated that the intake from this month’s auction would be close to $100.
Paul Tobin conducted the 50/50 drawing; the winner of $56 was Boyd Bowers.
Also, Joe Wascalus had the winning ticket for a gift certificate from LOW Hair Studio.
You won’t want to miss the next meeting on Monday, May16, 2011, when our program will feature The Enduring Freedom Band.