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URI graduate and Navatek Senior Engineer Christopher O’Reilly ’11, M.S. ’13, of Portsmouth, and Lead Scientist Neal Fine work in the wind tunnel at Navatek’s Peace Dale, R.I. operation.
When Navatek, Ltd. chose Rhode Island for its first East Coast operation, proximity to URI was a major factor. Today our engineering grads make up half the staff, and many current students are interning with Navatek, a world leader in wind turbine technologies and the design of advanced ship hulls for the U.S. Navy. On November 4, Rhode Island voters will be asked to support Question 4, a $125 million higher education facilities bond referendum for a new engineering building and upgrades to outdated classrooms and labs—facilities to match the high caliber teaching, research, and innovation taking place at the URI College of Engineering. PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF QUESTION 4
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November 2014
Pr i m e Ti m e November 2014 1944 Warwick Ave. Warwick, RI 02889 401-732-3100 FAX 401-732-3110 Distribution Special Delivery PUBLISHERS Barry W. Fain, Richard G. Fleischer, John Howell MARKETING DIRECTOR Donna Zarrella donnaz@rhodybeat.com Editor/ Creative Director Linda Nadeau lindan@rhodybeat.com WRITERS Michael J. Cerio, Don Fowler, Daniel Kittredge, Elaine M. Decker, Joe Kernan, Jennifer Rodrigues Mike Fink, Meg Chevalier, Kerry Park, Kathy Tirrell,
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15 Operation Stand Down
Ines Heirsch – Volunteer of the Year
Giving Veterans a helping hand
Senior issues
Medicare Open Enrollment Event Schedule..............................8 Alzheimer’s Association..................19 RIHCA.........................................................20 Your Home..............................................21 Enjoying Retirement.........................21
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Korean War Vet Gil Botelho and his grandson David Zarrella, Senior Airman, RI Air National Guard – Page 12 (photo by John Copley)
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b y M ichael C erio
meals on wheels
Helping Seniors Remain Independent
looking for volunteers I remember them as if they were yesterday; the Sunday dinners when family would gather at my grandparent’s for macaroni and meatballs (it was always gravy; never sauce). As the years went on, we all did a little bit extra to help my grandmother cook as her health and ability to stand for long periods of time deteriorated. While it was difficult at times to see, the memories and kitchen lessons learned along the way have proved invaluable in shaping the person I am today. Sadly, before she passed, my grandmother was unable to do what she loved the most—cooking for all of us as a way to bring the family together. While she was able to still do some simple tasks around the house, I could see how much it pained her to lose such an important aspect of her life. But, fortunately, she had an incredible support network that made sure there was always food in the fridge and meals ready for her to eat.
I couldn’t help but think of these personal experiences when sitting down with Heather Amaral, the Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island, an organization that does an incredible job filling the void of providing meals to seniors who wish to remain independent in their own homes. Established in Rhode Island more than 45 years ago, Meals on Wheels is a home delivery program that provides a nutritious lunch time meal to homebound and disabled seniors each day. What began as ten volunteers serving 17 clients on a single route in Providence has grown to reach nearly 2,500 Rhode Island seniors annually—providing more than 333,000 meals in the past year alone. In 2013, Governor Lincoln Chaffee delivered the 17 millionth Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island meal. As impressive as their reach is, perhaps nothing illustrates the importance of Meals on Wheels more than the impact of their volunteers in helping to provide peace of mind for a senior, their family members, and their caregivers. “We depend heavily on volunteers to accomplish our work, but they are so much more than that,” says Amaral. “Volunteers offer much-needed social interaction, friendship, and even wellness checks—all of which can make a big difference in someone’s life.” Statistics show, including a report by Brown University health researcher Kali Thomas who has volunteered with Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island, that home delivery meal programs keep seniors out of long-term care facilities longer so they may remain in their homes with dignity and independence. It’s a fact that’s not lost on Amaral, who spent five years running Meals on Wheels in Nashville, Tennessee before relocating to Rhode Island. “Right now, Rhode Islanders aged 65 and older make up about 15 percent of the state’s population, but that percentage is only expected to grow,” she says. “This population needs reliable, cost-effective services that address their specific health and nutritional needs, which is where we come in.” Funded through a combination of Federal and State funds, foundation grant support and individual donations, Meals on Wheels has a nutritionist who works with a contracted caterer to develop its menu of meals. There are weekly options of baked fish with lemon sauce and roasted potatoes, chicken parmesan with whole wheat pasta, roast pork with gravy and mashed sweet potatoes, and many others. Cognizant of seniors’ different dietary needs, the organization also offers special options for those with diabetes and other restrictions. And, there’s always a dessert item. Once a day’s meals have been prepared and individually packaged, they’re delivered to drop-off sites throughout the state, including the Meals on Wheels home office on Bath Street in Providence. From there, scores of volunteer drivers (and some staff drivers) pick up the appropriate number of meals needed for their specific route and hit the road.
March for Meals
To raise awareness about senior hunger in the state through the March for Meals campaign, Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian delivered meals with Meals On Wheels to homebound seniors at Warwick Terrace this past March. Here he greets terrace resident Helen Ball. This was the mayor’s fourth year participating in the campaign, which features a number of city officials across the state delivering meals. Executive director of Meals on Wheels Rhode Island, Heather Amaral joined Avedisian on his visits. According to Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island, 36,390 seniors are struggling with hunger, but only 9,831 (27 percent) are able to receive help through the program due to low funding. (Photo by Heather Amaral)
| PrimeTime
November 2014
volunteering
“
We depend heavily on volunteers to accomplish our work, but they are so much more than that. Volunteers offer much-needed social interaction, friendship, and even wellness checks— all of which can make a big difference in someone’s life
Saint Elizabeth Community Where RI seniors come first
– Heather Amaral, Executive Director Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island
“The reason we focus on serving lunch is that it helps to fill the void in the day when a family member who otherwise helps with breakfast and dinner is at work,” explains Amaral. As for who is eligible, the program is open to anyone, as long as they’re over the age of 60. Meals on Wheels takes referrals for its services from a wide-range of sources, including family members, doctors, and discharge planners from rehab facilities. There are also folks who self-refer. All referrals are done over the phone and there are no income guidelines. Amaral also highlights that there’s no charge for the organization’s services. “We do ask for a suggested donation of $3 per meal for home delivery, but no one is ever denied a meal if they’re unable to donate,” she says. Meals on Wheels is currently looking for volunteers to assist with new delivery routes or serve as a back-up for when regular volunteers are unable to help. They are currently in need of volunteers in Burrillville, Cumberland, Glocester, Lincoln, Middletown, North Smithfield, Pawtucket, Tiverton, Warwick and Woonsocket. The average route takes between an hour and an hour-and-a-half to complete. Most volunteers commit to delivering one day a week, but the organization is happy to work around a volunteer’s availability. “We try to keep our volunteers on the same route each week, which leads to a certain level of comfort for both the volunteer and the senior,” says Amaral. “Our volunteers develop real relationships with the seniors, and often get to know their schedules, like what day the trash goes out so they can help—these little things go a long way.” For many of the seniors, their Meals on Wheels volunteer may be their only interaction for the day. While there’s a delicate balance between visiting with a senior who wants the company and staying on schedule with meal distribution, Amaral says that even a five minute visit—which may not seem like a lot—can be very meaningful in seeing how a person is doing. The organization even makes it a point to send out birthday cards with a senior’s meal on their special day. “I’ve had volunteers come back to say the person was in tears; it was the first card they’ve received in years,” she says. Throughout the year, approximately 1,000 volunteers give of their time and energy to help Meals on Wheels. And, most of the volunteers deliver meals using their own vehicles, supplying their own gasoline. “We never just send a new volunteer out to deliver meals; we pair them with existing volunteers to help show them the route and process,” says Amaral. “Another big takeaway of our volunteers is that they can recognize if something isn’t quite right. Maybe a person who is always well-kept doesn’t appear like themselves one day, or something seems wrong in the home—it allows us to step in and get them help.” Anyone interested becoming a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, or making a donation, may do so through their website: www.RImeals.org. Potential volunteers are also encouraged to call (401) 351-6700. Though some of Meals on Wheels’ clients have been on the program for years, others may only need the service for a short time while they recuperate. Regardless, what every client has in common is a desire to remain in their own home—which is exactly what meal delivery helps to provide. “More than anything, our programs directly impact the health and quality of life of seniors, and that’s critically important,” says Amaral. “I can’t tell you how many clients, their family members, and caretakers have told us that if it wasn’t for Meals on Wheels, the senior would have had to transition to a facility.”
Saint Elizabeth Home
Short-term rehab and long-term care East Greenwich: 471-6060
Saint Elizabeth Manor
Short-term rehab and long-term care Bristol: 253-2300
Saint Elizabeth Court Affordable assisted living Providence: 490-4646
Cornerstone Adult Services
Daily support for seniors Warwick, Bristol, Coventry, and Little Compton Memory Care Center Warwick: 739-2844
Saint Elizabeth Place
Affordable apartments for seniors and mobility impaired Providence: 273-1090
Saint Elizabeth Terrace
Affordable apartments for seniors Warwick: 739-7700 Saint Elizabeth Community offers a full spectrum of care and services for older adults in Rhode Island, ensuring they receive the right care in the right place at the right time. To learn how we can help you or someone you love, call us at 471-6060 or one of the numbers above.
www.stelizabethcommunity.org www.facebook.com/SaintElizabethCommunity A non-profit, nonsectarian 501(c)(3) charitable organization and CareLink partner.
November 2014
PrimeTime |
volunteering
b y kathy tirrell
TAPIN Touch A Person In Need
As soon as November rolls around many people start thinking about the upcoming holidays – making lists, particularly focusing on that very special holiday known as Thanksgiving. And while some are fortunate enough to be able to purchase all of the ingredients that make for a delicious dinner, many are not as fortunate and can truly benefit from the kindness and generosity of others, not only at holiday time but all year long. And that’s where TAPIN (a non-profit outreach organization located in Barrington) comes in handy, with its 125 generous volunteers providing services to residents of the East Bay (East Providence, Barrington, Warren and Bristol). The name stands for “touching a person in need” and that’s exactly what the organization strives to do. “We celebrated our 30th anniversary last fall,” said Liz Lanik, a grant writer and TAPIN volunteer for the past two and a half years. The original founders Janet Dreier, Pam Faulkner, Julie Hamblett, Sharon Stormer and Mudge Anderson opened their doors in 1983. The ladies first considered the idea for TAPIN when Pam, Janet and Mudge, members of a prayer group, felt a strong need to reach out and help others in the community. The town of Barrington donates the office and storage space. Food, children’s clothing, household items and small appliances such as TVs and vacuum cleaners are donated by members of the community throughout the year. Some people just enjoy sharing a little of what they have with others, some are in the process of moving and want to donate household items they can’t take with them. “We do get some curtains and tablecloths,” said Lynne Githens, a co-president of the agency for the past two years, on a recent tour of the TAPIN building. “Right now we seem to have a big supply of diapers. We do not take cribs because of the issue with drop sides.” A quick look around one of the rooms revealed some car seats, baby chairs, children’s toys and other items. Githens explained the process for procuring sheets, towels and similar items. “Clients have to request the items they need. Generally we try to keep folks at a four to six month limit. (for certain items) For example if they ask for towels at the beginning of October, we ask that they wait until February for the next batch.” Clients are allowed access to children’s clothing and certain other housewares every two weeks and a bag of basic food items every thirty days. “We rely heavily on food from the Rhode Island Food Bank,” said Githens. She said basic, good quality items such as cereal, peanut butter, tuna, canned vegetables and tomatoes are among the donated foods. When it comes to being qualified to receive these items, “being a resident of the East Bay is the only requirement,” said Githens. “They need to show a photo ID”. (And possibly proof of residence.)
| PrimeTime
The co-president said this year TAPIN volunteers will be filling Thanksgiving bags with cranberry sauce, canned vegetables, stuffing, rice or pasta, and dessert for 450 current, registered families. And what about the star of the show, the turkey itself? “We provide a $15 gift card to a grocery store, usually to Shaw’s,” Githens explained. On a recent Wednesday morning volunteers Betsy C. and Melanie Millspaugh were having a few laughs while donating their time stocking the food pantry with canned goods. “This is a very dedicated group of people,” Githens acknowledged. She said TAPIN has about 40 volunteer drivers (who transport clients to medical appointments), but they’re always looking for more drivers. A valid driver’s license and valid insurance are important requirements. Volunteers can give as much time as they are able to give; rides are to locations in the East Bay, no further than Providence. Currently needed for donations are small appliances, crock pots, sheets, towels, and blankets. Members of the community can also make a monetary donation by check, either mailing it in or appearing in person. TAPIN is fortunate to have a number of generous outside volunteers who donate their time on a regular basis by holding food drives, such as schools, churches and girl scout troops. Some teenage students have volunteered their time over the summer and are as welcome as older members of the community. “It’s nice to have new, fresh interest in TAPIN,” said Lanik. And if you are curious about TAPIN, “we’re always happy to have people come in and visit to see what we’re all about,” said Githens.
Volunteer Opportunities with TAPIN • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Greet and register clients Accept and sort donations Unload food deliveries and stock food pantry shelves Pick up donations and deliver to TAPIN Distribute food to TAPIN clients and their families Register clients in TAPIN database Schedule medical transporation for TAPIN clients Maintain database (ACCESS) and run reports Update TAPIN website Sponsor collections or food drives Organize a collection or drive at your school or church Get a business or community group involved in an organized effort Rally a sports team to donate Write thank-you notes or other correspondence from home
Volunteer once a week, once a month or for a special event. TAPIN will work with your schedule. TAPIN’s office hours are 9 a.m. to 12 noon, Monday through Friday. It’s located in the lower level of the Barrington Library building on 281 County Road. To drop off donations or get more information, please call the office at 247-1444. Their web site is tapinri.com. November 2014
Southern RHode Island
Volunteer Opportunities
Searching for a place where you’re needed? Southern Rhode Island Volunteers places volunteers with more than 100 nonprofit community partners. Call us at 401-552-7661 or email lptanner@southernrivol.org. www.southernrivol.org.
volunteering by Laura Bittinger, RN, SRES and Donna DeLauro, ABR, SRES m a t u re m a t t e r s , s e n i o r re a l e s t a t e s p e c i a l i s t s
Benefits of Volunteering
• The Charlestown Land Trust is looking for a party planner, help with membership, a financial assistant and an assistant for the Education Center front desk.
We’ve all benefitted from the kind words and deeds of others. We have our pride, and sometimes it’s difficult to accept help, but we know the value of receiving a helping hand when we need it. Did you know, though, when you allow someone to help, you are doing them a favor too? Studies have shown the “helpers” also receive benefits from their good deeds. Improved health and a feeling of well-being. Volunteering and assisting others gives the helper a good feeling inside and stimulates brain functioning. Volunteers often receive a “high” similar to those experienced by athletes or after eating a sweet treat...and it’s easier on your waistline! People with strong social connections may live longer, lead more satisfying lives, and report fewer feelings of loneliness and depression than those who live more solitary lives. Volunteering offers an opportunity to “step out of oneself ” and experience what other’s may deal with on a daily basis. It offers a perspective you might not otherwise have. Learn something new Volunteering will offer an opportunity to learn a new skill or enhance an old one. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and try something different. You are at a time in life where you can relax and enjoy new experiences without the daily pressures of home and family. Make a difference Be a ray of sunshine in someone’s life, while adding meaning to yours. Volunteering offers a way to share your talents with others, whether it be an organization or individual. Many opportunities exist within your local community to make a difference. Whether giver or receiver, volunteering offers a way for each person to have their quality of life improved and their days be brightened.
• Easter Seals is seeking a receptionist to answer phones on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Laura Bittinger and Donna DeLauro are senior real estates specialsts with Keller Williams Real Estate in Cranston, RI. www.maturemattersrealestate.com
• Beechwood, the North Kingstown Senior and Human Services Center, is seeking drivers for both FISH and Meals on Wheels. • The Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge in Charlestown is looking for volunteers to fill a variety of positions. They are needed to help with the Visitor Center’s environmental education programs for the general public, school groups, conservation groups and birding clubs, and to help maintain and monitor the refuge’s trail system. • The Kettle Pond Visitor’s Center needs volunteers to staff the reception desk on the weekends. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., or 1 to 4 p.m., volunteers will answer the phone, and greet and provide information to visitors. • SRIV is seeking someone with leadership skills and a willingness to help with fundraising outreach to serve on its board. The board has one evening meeting each month. SRIV also is looking for office volunteers to answer the phone, assist clients and do filing and other general office work at the Charlestown office. Hours needed are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. It also needs receptionists to answer phones and greet guests at its Wakefield office. Hours needed there are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. • The Charlestown Community Center needs kitchen aides, substitute drivers for Meals on Wheels, and back-up office help.
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www.crowsnestri.com November 2014
PrimeTime |
2014 Medicare Open Enrollment Event Schedule The Rhode Island Department of Human Services, Division of Elderly Affairs is joining its community partners to sponsor Medicare Open enrollment events across the state through December 7. Trained Senior Health Insurance Program staff and volunteers will be available at all open enrollment events to offer free, unbiased, confidential, and individual counseling to help beneficiaries identify their coverage options. Appointments are required. To schedule an open enrollment counseling session, call the local event site. For more information, call the Division of Elderly Affairs at 401-462-3000, or at www.dea.ri.gov. TTY users can call 401-462-0740. The schedule is also available by calling THE POINT, Rhode Island’s Aging and Disability Resource Center at 401-462-4444. Call to schedule an appointment. 2014 Medicare open enrollment events are scheduled as follows: Monday, November 3, 2014 Dr. Martin Luther King Center 20 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd., Newport 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 848-4828, X 118. Tuesday, November 4, 2014 Pilgrim Senior Center 27 Pilgrim Parkway, Warwick 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 468-4079. Tiverton Senior Center 207 Canonicus Road 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 625-6790. Wednesday, November 5, 2014 Bristol Senior Center 1020 Hope Street 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 253-8458. Edward King House 35 King Street, Newport 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 682-2100, X 1452, or 846-7426. Westbay Community Action Program 218 Buttonwoods Avenue, Warwick 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 732-4660, X 138. Wednesday, November 5, 2014 Woonsocket Senior Center 84 Social Street 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 766-3734. Thursday, November 6, 2014 The Center 25 St. Dominic Road, South Kingstown 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 789-0268. Little Compton Wellness Center 115 East Main Road 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 592-0400. Warren Senior Center 20 Libby Lane 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 247-1930. Woonsocket Senior Center 84 Social Street 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 766-373.. Friday, November 7, 2014 Barrington Senior Center 281 County Road 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Call 247-1926. Pilgrim Senior Center 27 Pilgrim Parkway, Warwick 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 468-4079. Monday, November 10, 2014 East Providence Senior Center 610 Waterman Avenue 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 435-7876.
| PrimeTime
Monday, November 10, 2014 Pilgrim Senior Center 27 Pilgrim Parkway, Warwick 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 468-4079. Salvatore Mancini Resource and Activities Center 2 Atlantic Boulevard, North Providence 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 231-0742. Wednesday, November 12, 2014 Edward King House 35 King Street, Newport 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 682-2100, X 1452, or 846-7426. Middletown Senior Center 650 Green End Avenue 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 849-8823. St. Martin DePorres Center 160 Cranston Street, Providence 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 274-6783. Westbay Community Action Program 218 Buttonwoods Avenue, Warwick 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 732-4660 Thursday, November 13, 2014 Jamestown Public Library 26 North Road 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 682-2100 Leon Mathieu Senior Center 420 Main Street, Pawtucket 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 728-7582. Thursday, November 13, 2014 North Kingstown Center 44 Beach Street 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 268-1590. Warren Senior 20 Libby Lane 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 247-1930. Friday, November 14, 2014 Barrington Senior Center 281 County Road 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Call 247-1926. Johnston Senior Center 1291 Hartford Avenue 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Call 944-3343. Pilgrim Senior Center 27 Pilgrim Parkway, Warwick 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 468-4079. Monday, November 17, 2014 East Providence Senior Center 610 Waterman Avenue 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 435-7876. Richmond Senior Center 1168 Main Street 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 539-6144.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014 Pilgrim Senior Center 27 Pilgrim Parkway, Warwick 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 468-4079. Portsmouth Senior Center 110 Bristol Ferry Road 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 683-4106. Progreso Latino 626 Broad Street, Central Falls 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 728-5920, X320. Wednesday, November 19, 2014 Bristol Senior Center 1020 Hope Street 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 253-8458. DaVinci Center 670 Charles Street, Providence 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 272-7474. Edward King House 35 King Street, Newport 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 682-2100, X 1452, or 846-7426.
Edward King House 35 King Street, Newport 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 682-2100, X 1452, or 846-7426. Westbay Community Action Program 218 Buttonwoods Avenue, Warwick 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 732-4660 Monday, December 1, 2014 East Providence Senior Center 610 Waterman Avenue 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 435-7876. Dr. Martin Luther King Center 20 Marcus Wheatland Blvd, Newport 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 846-4828 Tuesday, December 2, 2014 Pilgrim Senior Center 27 Pilgrim Parkway, Warwick 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 468-4079. Portsmouth Senior Center 110 Bristol Ferry Road 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 683-4106.
West Warwick Senior Center 145 Washington Street 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 822-4450.
Woonsocket Senior Center 84 Social Street 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 766-3734. . Wednesday, December 3, 2014 Bristol Senior Center 1020 Hope Street 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 253-8458.
Thursday, November 20, 2014 Park Holm Community Center 1 Eisenhower Road, Newport 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 846-3887.
Edward King House 35 King Street, Newport 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 682-2100, X 1452, or 846-7426.
Scituate Senior Center 1315 Chopmist Hill Road 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 647-2662.
Westbay Community Action Program 218 Buttonwoods Avenue, Warwick 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 732-4660, X 138.
Lincoln Senior Center 150 Jenckes Hill Road 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 944-3343.
Warren Senior Center 20 Libby Lane 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 247-1930. Friday, November 21, 2014 Barrington Senior Center 281 County Road 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Call 247-1926. Johnston Senior Center 1291 Hartford Avenue 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 944-3343. Pilgrim Senior Center 27 Pilgrim Parkway, Warwick 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 468-4079. Westerly Senior Center 39 State Street 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 596-2404. Monday, November 24, 2014 East Providence Senior Center 610 Waterman Avenue 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 435-7876. Tuesday, November 25, 2014 Leon Mathieu Senior Center 420 Main Street, Pawtucket 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 728-7582. Pilgrim Senior Center 27 Pilgrim Parkway, Warwick 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 468-4079. Wednesday, November 26, 2014 Bristol Senior Center 1020 Hope Street 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call 253-8458.
Thursday, December 4, 2014 Little Compton Wellness Center 115 East Main Road 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call 592-0400. Progreso Latino 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 626 Broad Street, Central Falls Call 728-5930, X 320. The Center 25 St. Dominic Road, South Kingstown 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Call 789-0268. Warren Senior Center 20 Libby Lane 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 247-1930. Friday, December 5, 2014 Barrington Senior Center 281 County Road 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Call 247-1926. Pilgrim Senior Center 27 Pilgrim Parkway, Warwick 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 468-4079. Saturday, December 6, 2014 United Way/2-1-1 of Rhode Island 50 Valley Street, Providence 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. No appointment necessary. First come, first served. Cranston Senior Services, 1070 Cranston Street is accepting appointments for Medicare health insurance and Part D plan counseling during open enrollment. Call 780-6000. Coventry residents can call the Coventry Senior Center at 822-9175.
November 2014
honoring veterans
b y joe kernan
Semper Paratus - Always Prepared
Remembering the Spars of World War II By JOE KERNAN About seven years ago, when PBS was about to air “The War”; a series about the Second World War, we sat down with some women who served in that war and listened to a typical grievance among female veterans of the war: “When Luisa White went to the Social Security office to sign up for benefits several years ago, she was more than a little annoyed at the woman who interviewed her. ‘When she got to the question about whether I was a veteran, she checked off “No” without waiting for me to answer,’ said Luisa, still a vibrant and lively woman who is used to sticking up for herself. ‘I said, “Wait a minute! I am a veteran!” She [the interviewer] was just like so many other people who think because I am a woman, I can’t be a veteran. Well, I enlisted, just like all the men did … I am a veteran.’” Since then, more and more Americans have become aware and developed some gratitude for the women who went to war. “‘In those days, your role was to stay home and cook and bake,’” said Marine veteran Martha Marshall in 2007. ‘That’s what women did. It was a different mindset then. Women didn’t do men’s work.’” “The idea was that we would free up a man to serve in combat,” said Rosetta Desrosiers of Warwick in an interview this week. Women in military service, and even in civilian jobs usually done by men, were considered an emergency measure and would go back to their place in the home after the war. On Sept. 12, Desrosiers and Cohen told some women currently serving in the Coast Guard what it was like to keep the gears of war running at home. The Coast Guard invited the veteran SPARs to speak with them and to receive special awards in gratitude for their service, a shadow box containing a flag and special medals from the Coast Guard. Now, women are beginning to get more credit for what they did during the war, especially since it took an act of Congress to allow them. A bill to establish the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) was introduced to Congress in May of 1940, to make available “to the national defense the knowledge, skill, and special training of the women of the nation.” The bill stalled in Congress and the bill didn’t pass until May of 1942, almost six months after Pearl Harbor. What the country ended up with was the WAACs, an auxiliary of women who were neither military nor civilian. Eventually, the WAACs reorganized and gained military status as the Women’s Army Corps. Desrosiers and Cohen enlisted in the SPARs in 1943, met during basic training and became best friends for life. In spite of the law, known as “Semper Paratus, Always Ready,” SPARs became the nickname for women who joined the Coast Guard. In all, 1,914 women were trained in numerous roles to augment activeduty personnel until they were all released from service after the war in June 1946. Desrosiers remembers basic training in Palm Beach, Fla. “Evelyn and I went to boot camp together,” said Desrosiers. “It was mostly how to march and do military drill.” They were also trained in the jobs they were going to do and other office skills were a large part of their duties. Still, they did manage to find some time to go to the beach but they were given a stern warning. “They told us that we would be disciplined if we got ourselves sunburned,” said Desrosiers. “I went to the beach on an overcast day but still managed to get myself burned to a crisp.” She said she never was disciplined for allowing herself to get burned. Perhaps they thought she had suffered enough, she guessed. Ironically, she was sent to Duluth by the Coast Guard, where “They were fond of saying, ‘Wait until it gets 40 below.’” SPARS – Page 20
November 2014
MEMORIES OF COAST GUARD DUTY: Rosetta Desrosiers (above) of Warwick was in Newport with Evelyn Cohen to talk about their experiences as SPARs in WWII and to get special awards recognizing their service. SPARS stands for “Semper Paratus - Always Prepared,” the motto of the women in the Coast Guard of that era. She can still get into her coat and cap from those days. (Photo by Joe Kernan)
Evelyn (Carlson) Cohen, left, and Rosetta (Furey) Desrosiers at the Coast Guard office in Chicago, 1944.
PrimeTime |
Janet’s Notebook
food
&
drink
b y janet tharpe
Sweet Potato Side Gets Dessert Makeover What happens when you take a sweet potato souflee and convert it into a luscious cheesecake? Sheer decadence, that’s what! The baked sweet potatoes keep this cheesecake nice and moist, and along with the marshmallow fluff swirled into the batter, lend flavor and sweetness. The gingersnap cookies and macadamia nuts kick up the crust. This creative confection is a perfect way to spice up the holiday desserts table, while still featuring familiar flavors. See step-by-step photos of Jessica Silva’s Sweet Potato Marshmallow Swirl Cheesecake recipe and thousands more recipes from other hometown Americans at: www.justapinch.com/marshmallowswirl You’ll also find a meal planner and coupons for the recipe ingredients. Enjoy and remember, use “just a pinch.”
10 | PrimeTime
November 2014
spotlight business on
Scandinavian Home Come see the renovations at this state-of-the art community
A joyful feeling fills the “Great Room” as a steady stream of residents file in and prepare for dinner in the newly-completed elegant dining room. The warm autumn sun filters in, illuminating the linen-covered tables, festive centerpieces and sparkling glasses that await each eager diner. The din of laughter and chatting friends fills the room as residents visit with one another and debate whether they will chose the delicious Veal Marsala Stew or Baked Ranch Chicken which are on today’s menu. While one might think this is a scene from a fancy restaurant, in truth, this is a daily occurrence in the assisted living community of the Scandinavian Home in Cranston. This newly renovated complex now boasts of this exquisitely appointed Great Room and dining room, as well as an entirely refurbished skilled nursing & rehabilitation center. Newly laid wood-look floors and freshly painted walls give the appearance more of a highly-rated hotel than a skilled nursing facility – but this was part of a purposeful effort to give the whole center an updated look, complete with repurposed rooms, activity areas and state-of-the art nursing stations. There is a lift in everyone’s faces here at the Scandinavian Home as it has been given a whole new polish and shine ~ in some areas, from studs to ceilings ~ everything has been given a second life. Aside from the upgraded look and feel of Scandinavian Home, some things have never changed here. Its mission remains the same: “to provide a continuum of excellent, compassionate and innovative care, to enable those we serve to attain their optimal functional ability and quality of life.” Most importantly, the residents at the Scandinavian Home are still lovingly attended to ~ from the engaged caregivers to the creative activities staff to the skilled therapists and nurses. This is a place where seniors can live with grace, dignity and compassion. The Scandinavian Home, which consists of a Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and Assisted Living Community, has been serving the community for over 80 years. With a capacity of seventy-four beds in their skilled nursing unit, and thirty-five spacious apartments in their assisted living center, this neighborly home has been accommodating seniors and rehabilitating patients for many decades. On October 25th, the volunteer Board of Directors and the devoted staff at Scandinavian Home hosted a special Dedication Ceremony to showcase all the changes and improvements that had been successfully completed after over a year of construction. Tours were given, refreshments were served, local dignitaries were in attendance and a ribbon cutting ceremony marked the official grand “reveal” of this welcoming center. If you or a loved one are looking for a place that you can call home when remaining in your own home is no longer possible, or if you are seeking a place to recuperate following an orthopedic event, surgery, stroke or heart episode, call Lori Levine at the Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center at 401-461-1433. For more information on the Assisted Living Community, call Tai Sodipo at 401-4611444. You can also visit them at www.scandinavianhome.com.
The sun casts a warm glow across the new dining room of the Scandinavian Assisted Living Community, seen here with its beautifully appointed tables and grand piano.
November 2014
Scandinavian Home, inc. skilled nursing & rehabilitation center 1811 Broad Street, Cranston, RI 02905
401-461-1433
assisted living community
50 Warwick Avenue, Cranston, RI 02905
401-461-1444
A Community Built with Care! www.ScandinavianHome.com
Non-Profit - Founded in 1930
Looking to promote your products or services to a growing group of Baby Boomers and senior citizens? Look no further...
t spotligh on business Call Donna to find out more
401-732-3100
PrimeTime | 11
Korean War Veterans Appreciation Day On Wednesday, September 24, the KWVA Chapter 3 gathered at North Central Airport in Smithfield. Bill Midon, private pilot/ aircraft owner, and son of KWV member Alexander Midon, along with some fellow pilots brought in 6 different types of aircraft for the day. Plane rides were made available to veterans and their families.
1940 Waco 2014 Cirrus SR-22
Embraer Phenom 100
Bill Midon with his parents Alex and Irene Midon
12 | PrimeTime
Dick St. Louis with the Robinson R44
November 2014
Frank Wunderler, Norm Paiva and Pete Robert KWVA Chapter 3 President 足Dick S. Louis addresses the group
Gil Botelho and his grandson David Zarrella, SrA-RIANG
Joe Perry
Pilots Cliff Allen and John Wood hoto by John Copley
November 2014
PrimeTime | 13
A Celebration of Age
senior Living P ri m e T i m e Maga z ine
expo
thank you to our sponsor
A “Celebration of Age” luncheon was held Friday, October 17 at The Salvatore Mancini Resource & Activity Center in North Providence. The luncheon honored members who have celebrated 90 or more birthdays. Senatorial Proclamations were presented by Senator Dominick Ruggerio. Pictured with Senator Ruggerio is Mary Gorman, 93, (left) and Evelyn Campbell, 95. (Photo by Janice Gorman)
elderly Housing
Must be 62 years of age or older. Rents are based on 30% of adjusted household income.
FEATURES NoT included in your rent: Electric Lights, Monthly Cable & Phone
14 | PrimeTime
See atofour Proudyou Sponsor the Spring Expo • April 22, 2015
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– Warwick Mall – P r i m e T i m e
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• ApArtments AvAilAble •
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• ApArtments AvAilAble • FEATURES InclUdEd in your rent: Heat, Hot Water, Appliances, Elevators, Emergency Pull Cords, Laundry Facilities, Parking, Intercom, 24-Hour Emergency Maintenance Service, Cable Ready Apartments, Community Room equipped with Computer, Out Door Patio and Furniture, Flower Gardens, On-Site Management
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HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES CORPORATION 861A Broad Street Providence, RI
401-941-2900 www.wdchoc.org
Cremation with Memorial Service $2,020 This service includes: Gathering and collation of vital statistic information, one person transfer to the funeral home, use of facilities for state mandated 24-hour waiting period, preparation of remains (not embalming), cremation container, transfer of remains to crematory, filing of death certificate with appropriate city or town, crematory fee and use of funeral home for memorial service with rental urn.
Route 44 • Greenville Common Greenville, RI (401) 949-0180 andersonwinfield.net
November 2014
b y jennifer rodrigues
H
honoring veterans
A forever bond
Blue Star Moms chapter provides support for service members’ families Mothers of those currently serving our country – Blue Star Mom’s The Blue Star Moms show support of military families through yellow ribbon and blue star campaigns for pre-, post- and current deployments, and assists with military events such as Operation Holiday Cheer, Operation Stand Down and Many other events. Fundraising efforts by the organization support military families who may be struggling financially. During monthly meetings, and in times of need in between, the Blue Star Moms provide support for mothers whose children are currently serving in any branch of the Armed Forces, from basic training to commanding roles. There are also mothers of those who have retired from duty, who share their experiences and guidance. “A lot of the things we do is mom-support,” said Rhonda Ziehl, current secretary of Rhode Island Blue Star Moms. While the group is designated for moms, dads, siblings or other immediate family, members can be associate members and are also supported by the nonprofit’s efforts. The Blue Star Mothers was organized in 1942, when 1,000 mothers responded to a coupon looking to organize military mothers appeared in the Flint News Advertiser. Congress chartered the organization in June 1960. The Blue Star Flag, officially known as the Service flag, is the official banner featured on pins, car stickers or in homes to indicate someone is the mother (or immediate family member) of an individual serving during periods of war or hostilities. World War I Army Captain Robert L. Queisser of the 5th Ohio Infantry designed and patented the flag. BLUE STAR – Page 20
honoring veterans
Operation Stand Down Rhode Island
Rosemarie Moretti, Betty Leach, Joan Fontaine and Rhoda Ziehl
someone raises their hand “ When to serve, the whole family serves.”
– Rhonda Ziehl, secretary, Rhode Island Blue Star Moms.
Staying or Selling … Home Services made Simple
A hand up, not a hand out
Operation Stand Down Rhode Island (OSDRI) is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and Rhode Island’s primary nonprofit resource for homeless and at-risk veterans. Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Johnston, OSDRI’s mission is to help homeless and at-risk veterans secure stable housing. With a motto of “A hand up, not a hand out,” OSD employs case managers to work one-on-one with veterans to develop treatment plans for physical and mental disabilities, and coordinate services from employment and training to health and wellness. Through Operation Stand Down, veterans can also access food and clothing assistance. OSD is known for its statewide properties, which provide transitional housing to homeless veterans. They run several housing units and have adapted to meet the demands of not only veterans, but their families. The services offered to these veterans are extensive. That work cannot be done, however, without the contribution of volunteers. Everything from cleaning and maintaining properties, clerical work in the office and legal counseling from attorneys willing to donate their time. Whatever your skill set or how much time you have to give, OSD encourages volunteers to reach out and give back to veterans. For more information on Operation Stand Down, visit osdri.org or call 383-4730. Donations can be dropped off at the OSD offices at 1010 Hartford Avenue in Johnston.
Fourth Annual Women Warriors 2014 Luncheon
Tuesday November 11, 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM Quidnessett Country Club 950 North Quidnessett Rd., North Kingstown, RI 02852 This Veterans Day pay tribute to the military members who defend our freedom by attending a living history luncheon to raise money to benefit Operation Stand Down Rhode Island’s Cpl. Holly Charette Home. The luncheon will feature three female warrior panelists. Tickets are $50.00 Per Person. For tickets and information contact Cassi Ducharme, 401-383-4730, cassiducharme@osdri.org November 2014
Are you trying to enjoy your golden years but home maintenance issues keep getting in the way? Call Senior Real Estate Solutions, your one-stop, free referral source for all your home maintenance and repair needs. Carpentry • Plumbing • Electrical • Air Conditioning Gutter Cleaning • Painting • Landscaping & Yard Work Windows • Carpet Cleaning • And so much more! Don’t miss our October Lunch and Learn: Preparing Your Home for Winter October 21st, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Please call 401.228.7800 to register.
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5 Exchange Street, Cranston, R.I. 401.228.7800
seniorrealestatesolutionsri.com PrimeTime | 15
THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT
lifestyles
by DON FOWLER
Home-style cookin’ sets Governor Francis Inn apart Joyce: What do you want for dinner? Don: I feel like a good home-cooked meal. Joyce: Good. So do I. Let’s go to Governor Francis. Governor Francis Inn is one of those restaurants that is always there when you need it. Got a cold or an upset stomach? Call for a quart of their chicken soup to go. Feel like a light, inexpensive lunch? Check out the sandwiches, burgers, shepherd’s pie, chicken pot pie, or one of many daily specials. Taking friends out to dinner, but can’t afford one of those fancy, overpriced downtown restaurants? The food and the presentation are just as good at the popular Warwick spot. Governor Francis serves “smaller appetites” items for seniors and children, but we prefer their larger portions. There’s nothing like a meatloaf sandwich for lunch the next day. Speaking of meatloaf, it is my favorite meal at Governor Francis. Priced at $7.99 for lunch and $9.99 for dinner, it comes with potato and vegetable. My dinner never varies. Meatloaf and mashed potato, covered with gravy, plus carrots and turnips, better than mom used to make. Joyce finds many of the Italian dinners better than those served at Italian restaurants, and always has extra to take home.
There is often a short wait for a table in one of the two dining rooms. We notice that many of the regulars (They’re not all senior citizens) like to eat at the bar. Tables start filling up as early as 5:00 p.m. Service is swift and friendly. Many of the waitpersons have been there for years and recognize their customers. As soon as you are seated, water and fresh Italian bread are brought to your table. Your meal includes soup or salad, and the soups are super. My problem is deciding which one to get. Corn chowder is my favorite. Occasionally they offer a lamb stew and a sausage concoction that are scrumptious. We are amazed at how many menu items you have to choose from, with a full page of specials for the day added to the mix. While an overabundance of menu items can spell disaster for some establishments, the chef at Governor Francis knows what he is doing. How many good restaurants offer smelts as an appetizer and liver, bacon and onions ($7.99) on the menu, along with fish and chips, (market priced) seven days a week. Governor Francis would have been proud of his namesake, which sits in the center of the neighborhood at 1251 Warwick Ave. in Warwick. They are open seven days a week from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays). Check their menu out on line at www.governorfrancisinn.com. For take-out, call 463-8227.
Performing Arts At RIC - A Bargain For Seniors Rhode Island College continues its Performing Arts Series this fall with a number of internationally acclaimed performers providing entertainment at bargain prices. The series kicked off in October. Tomas Kubinek, who has been named Certified Lunatic and Master of the Impossible, comes to Roberts hall on Wednesday, November 5 at 7:30 with his impossible-to-categorize show which encompasses comedy, clowning, mime, magic, acrobatics, music, and vaudeville. Those of us who remember and miss the grand old days of vaudeville will enjoy this comic genius. The internationally acclaimed Muir String Quartet returns to RIC on Monday, November 17 at 7:30 p.m. to perform a brand new clarinet quintet by composer/musician Chris Brubeck, son of the late great jazz musician, Dave Brubeck. The New England premiere fea-
tures special guest artist Alexander Fiterstein. The program also includes works by Hugo Wolf and Claude Debussy. A Seraphic Fire Christmas-Carols by Candlelight will close the fall series on Wednesday, December 3 at 7:30 p.m. in Roberts Hall. The two-time Grammy nominated ensemble of professional singers is regarded as one of the most important vocal ensembles in the U.S. today. The a cappella holiday concert will feature carols, chants, modern and Renaissance motets, as well as traditional Christmas pieces. For the past 10 years, Michael Ducharme has lined up some of the best artists from all over the world to perform at our state college. Admission has been held to $35, ONLY $30 FOR SENIORS, which is a true bargain for the quality of entertainment provided.
You can purchase tickets on line at www.ric.edu/pfa, or by phone at 456-8144.
A Seraphic Fire ChristmasCarols by Candlelight will perform December 3
Saint Elizabeth Community Where RI seniors come first www.stelizabethcommunity.org
16 | PrimeTime
November 2014
retirement sparks
senior
issues
b y elaine m . decker
Save the Penny
Toward the end of the year, a number of issues related to finance are on our radar. Open enrollment for Medicare, charitable contributions, year-end tax planning. I’m writing about something more existential, something that could affect every one of us. Specifically, there are proposals afoot to get rid of the penny. Speaking of a foot, the first thought that came to my mind when I heard this was: “Where would that leave penny loafers?” I suppose they’d have to become dime loafers; a nickel wouldn’t fit in the slot. Besides, at least one economist is advocating that the government also stop minting the nickel. “Why?” (You may be wondering.) Simple economics. A September issue of Time reported that the U.S. mint lost $55 million in 2013 making pennies. They cost 1.83 cents each and contain mostly zinc today, not copper. The nickel costs ten cents to produce, so it’s not a cost-effective substitute. That’s why some folks feel it makes sense to kill two coins at the same time. Speaking of twos, two days after I first looked into this, Canada discontinued its penny. The U.S. is watching what’s happening up north. Then we’ll probably ignore it. The plans to jettison the penny generally propose rounding sales up or down to the nearest nickel. People are calling it a ‘rounding tax,’ since so many prices end in 99 cents. If we also drop the nickel, we’ll need to round up or down to the nearest dime. If the potential financial costs to consumers aren’t enough disincentive for these proposals, here are some emotional ones to consider if we remove ‘penny’ from our collective conscience. Getting rid of the penny would be the death knell for the penny ante. Not to get too maudlin, but I still have the tin full of pennies that my late mother used when she played poker with her lady friends. The last member of her card group died two years ago at age 103. The title (and lyrics) of the Beatles’ song Penny Lane would have to be changed. Somehow Two-Bit Alley just doesn’t have the same ring to it. The expression: “I’m like a bad penny; I keep turning up” would lose its meaning. There would be no good pennies, and pennies in general would no longer keep turning up. I’m not sure how we’d replace this, but: “I’m like a discontinued penny; I keep rounding up” comes to mind. Then there’s the adage: “A penny saved is a penny earned.” Not true. A penny saved would be a penny wasted. You’d need to turn them in at a bank to get anything for them, and eventually even Uncle Sam wouldn’t want them. How about the question: “A penny for your thoughts?” Would that become “A silver dollar for your thoughts?” It’s bad enough the Tooth Fairy has suffered severe inflation, but the Thought Inquirer? I shudder to think about it. Continuing with thoughts and inflation, consider: “For what it’s worth, that’s my two cents.” Turns out your two cents has actually been worth four cents, but what would it be worth now? A quarter? Or would you be dropping a dime? Let’s not forget “penny-wise and pound-foolish.” Seems like a penny hasn’t been wise for quite some time now, so perhaps we could just go with “pound-wise and penny-foolish.” Of course, we’re not Brits, so I guess we’d have to say “dollarwise and penny-foolish.” How about your Penny Valentine? If you sent her roses on February 14, would she become your Dime A Dozen Valentine? Whatever you called her and whatever you sent her, what used to cost a pretty penny would now cost an arm and a leg. Most other ‘penny’ expressions have survived out of nostalgia, so we could keep them. Penny postcards are long gone; eventually, postcards in general will be, too. Do you know what a two-cents plain is (or was)? Think soda fountains and the depression. Penny stocks have always been a euphemism and the penny arcade morphed into the video arcade decades ago. One exception is Pennysaver newspa-
November 2014
pers; I’d like to see those be pro-active on this issue and become Save-the-Penny papers. My favorite of all these expressions is one that I hadn’t heard until I was getting fodder for this essay. “I felt like a penny waiting for change.” It means you felt helpless or worthless. If the penny and the nickel were taken out of circulation, this phrase would become: “I felt like a dime waiting for change.” I think we should keep “penny” for this one and make it more existential: “I felt like a penny waiting for Godot.” Or perhaps just: “I felt like a penny waiting.” And waiting. And waiting. And nobody came. It’s just too sad to contemplate. Tissue, anyone? Copyright 2014 Business Theatre Unlimited
Elaine M. Decker’s books—Retirement Sparks Again, Retirement Sparks and CANCER: A Coping Guide—are available at SPECTRUM-INDIA, on the East Side of Providence, on Amazon.com, including Kindle editions, and by special order through your local bookstore. One of her essays appears in the recently published anthology: 70 Things To Do When You Turn 70. Contact her at: emdecker@ix.netcom.com.
PrimeTime | 17
LIFESTYLES
wHAT DO YOU FINK? by MIKE FINK
in vino veritas in wine [there is the] truth
We’re looking for new members . . .
Korean War Veterans
Funeral Directors UrqUhart-MUrphy
Edward L. Murphy - Director 800 Greenwich Ave. Warwick 737-3510
Barrett & Cotter FUneral hoMe
Korean Service Veterans
Peter Barrett Cotter - Director 1328 Warwick Avenue Warwick 463-9000
Meetings held 2nd Wednesday of every Month
thoMas & Walter qUinn FUneral hoMe
Chepachet Senior Center, Rte. 44
Carpenter-Jenks FUneral hoMe & CreMatory
– No, that’s not Harvard’s motto on the banks of the Charles. More like the motto of the Sorbonne on the Seine. Here in Providence you can truly taste wines from wide and wonderful world at Bin 312 South Main where all our rivers flow along Canal Street. The logo is a RISD design, a bas-relief icon that looks vaguely like a glass or a fine bottle. The guests who come for the free tasting on Thursday evenings ask each other to figure out the graceful shape of that symbol. From out of the wee kitchen come appetizers that vary from season to season. Both November holidays, Veterans Day and Thanksgiving are excellent occasions to purchase a white, a red, or a rose from the tastes, or even the lovely labels that inspire faith. The monthly selections may be served at the window just inside the sidewalk tables and chairs, or at the elegant curved marble bar, or at the rear of this den of delights. This wine cellar that draws in quite a diverse crowd of students, alums of all the colleges and universities nearby or from afar, professionals from downtown, or just friendly regulars always cordially and generously greeted and welcomed with smiles and with helpful hints. This is not a mere commercial sales pitch, this happening. It has a poetic, an intellectual, and a purely sociable side. The wines (and beers) are chosen and presented according to an ever-changing plan of celebrating an event on the calendar, a discovery made during a voyage to seek the best vintages, intimately local or exotically foreign. They make superb gifts, and the idea of regular tastings has spread to other vintner boutiques in Rhode Island town and country. My own palate is a questionable source of wine-wisdom. My wife thinks I will drink anything! Not fair! Not true! I learned my lessons in behavior behind the glass along the Loire river valley in Tours, long, long ago. I have never abandoned my Touraine devotion to Sancerre, Muscadet, and Vouvray, wines not often available in our bars and cafes. I accept the very slightly sweet quality that suited my youthful celebration of my junior year abroad, the Sweet Briar program accredited by Yale. My hosts and hostesses there and then taught me to hold the glass by the stem, not the bowl, and always using the right hand. They cautioned me to set the glass down after a sip and then pick it up again. It was there that I celebrated a Thanksgiving with a pheasant instead of a turkey. I also toast our local vineyards, such as the Verde Vineyard in Johnston, and I have learned there how much effort and experience go into producing a proper bottle of white or red...or rose. Wine is about conversation, and is steeped not only in soil and sunlight, but also in soul and philosophy. Wine makes you think, and endeavor to articulate what you are thinking about, whom you are thinking of, and how to express what your taste buds may experience. Words and wines go together! I’m a little bit like a hummingbird. I show up and gladly sip the heavenly nectars of the gods and goddesses, but then I quietly slip out and take off. Once, a former RISD student named Pamela gave me a gift-wrapped bottle as a souvenir of that particular Thursday gathering. She said, “Your elective course on Victorian verse is the only class I clearly recall from my whole curriculum!” With every drop and clink I toasted that gesture and that charming compliment. Just so, I thank the proprietors of Bin 312 along with the various amiable persons who clink and salute one another and turn Thursdays into Thanksdays!
Stephen E. Carpenter - Director 659 East Greenwich Ave. West Warwick 826-1600
Michael, Patrick, Jerome Quinn Directors 2435 Warwick Ave. Warwick 738-1977
1210 Putnam Pike, Chepachet
Call Frank 231-3736 or Gil 831-3301 For More Information KWVA – Chapter 3
Appears in Tuesday Warwick Beacon, Thursday Cranston Herald and PrimeTime Magazine
Please contact your sales representative for advertising information
Tel. 732-3100 18 | PrimeTime
Fax 732-3110 November 2014
senior
b y C amilla F arrell de ve l o p m e n t d i re c to r , a l z h e i m er ’s association r i chapter
issues
Our Vision – A World Without Alzheimer’s Disease Walk to End Alzheimer’s on September 21 at Salve Regina University in Newport and September 28 at Slater Park in Pawtucket united the entire community – family, friends, co-workers, social and religious groups and more in a display of combined strength, and dedication to fight this devastating disease. It was a sea of colorful flowers with the backdrop of the Cliff Walk in Newport and Daggett Farm in Pawtucket, both unusually warm and sunny beautiful September days. Blue pinwheel flowers represented people with Alzheimer’s disease, yellow for caregivers, purple for those who lost someone to Alzheimer’s, orange for advocates. Terry Focht held the blue flower in Pawtucket, who was diagnosed in her early 50’s. She was a top tennis player in Rhode Island, winning many trophies right at Slater Park. Paul Blais, one of the top teams held the yellow flower in honor of his wife with the disease. Joan Kent, a volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Association held the purple flower – she lost both parents to Alzheimer’s and Jackie Waldon, Board President is
your taxes
a caregiver and advocate.They came to support the cause, but it was more than that, it was a feeling of friendship, of passion as Mike Montecalvo read the stories of the representatives during the Promise Garden ceremony in Pawtucket. Mike Montecalvo also knows first-hand the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s after losing his Mother to the disease. Mike Montecalvo’s daughters and his Dad produced a public service announcement telling their story of loss for an Alzheimer’s segment about the Walk. Alzheimer’s Association Executive Director, Donna McGowan said “she could only “imagine” that this many people would be gathered to walk for one purpose – to end Alzheimer’s disease.” Over 3000 people participated in Pawtucket and Newport to take part in the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s – we had more people than ever – a testament that this disease is not going away and that this fight is not over. We have a re-energized commitment to make Alzheimer’s a priority here for our 25,000 Rhode Islanders with Alzheimer’s disease and the 100,000 caregivers
who support them. We even signed up more than 500 advocates at the Walks to raise awareness to our politicians that funds are needed. We thank you for your 2014 Walk to End Alzheimer’s dedication and generosity. The Walk proceeds en- low until December 1, 2014. We thank hance care and support through services you. like our 24/7 Helpline, support groups, For more information about events, educational programs, Early Stage Social programs, and fundraising, go to alz. Engagement program for persons with org/ri or call 1-800-272-3900. Alzheimearly memory loss, and for research. Our er’s Association Rhode Island Chapter fundraising efforts must continue, more Address – 245 Waterman Street, Suite must be done to support our families 306, Providence, RI 02906 and the important research that is being done by our National office. If you would like to contribute to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, you can donate online or mail your donation to the address be-
professional perspective
b y meg chevalier
Is your health insurance coverage considered minimum essential coverage under ACA The Affordable Care Act (ACA) calls for individuals to have qualifying health insurance coverage for each month of the year, have an exemption, or make a shared responsibility payment when filing their federal income tax return next year. Qualifying health insurance coverage, called minimum essential coverage, includes coverage under various, but not all, types of health care coverage plans. The majority of coverage that people have today counts as minimum essential coverage. Examples of minimum essential coverage include: • Health insurance coverage provided by your employer, • Health insurance purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace in the area where you live, where you may qualify for financial assistance, • Coverage provided under a government-sponsored program for which you are eligible (including Medicare, Medicaid, and health care programs for veterans), • Health insurance purchased directly from an insurance company, and • Other health insurance coverage that is recognized by the Department of Health & Human Services as minimum essential coverage. Minimum essential coverage does not include coverage providing only limited benefits, such as: • Coverage consisting solely of excepted benefits, such as: o Stand-alone vision and dental insurance o Workers’ compensation o Accident or disability income insurance o Medicaid plans that provide limited coverage such as only family planning services or only treatment of emergency medical conditions. The open season for the Insurance Enrollment through the Health Insurance Marketplace is November 15th - February 15th. More information about the types of coverage that qualify and don’t qualify as minimum essential coverage can be found on the IRS.gov Individual Shared Responsibility page and answers to specific questions can be found on the IRS.gov question and answer page. For additional information about tax-related provisions of the health care law visit IRS.gov/aca. To find out more about the health care law visit HealthCare.gov November 2014
BANKRUPTCY $
950
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Atty. Fee
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Payment Plan Available
Attorney David B. Hathaway Former Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Trustee
Senior Discounts
401-738-3030
ribankruptcy.net PrimeTime | 19
b y kerry park
senior issues
RI Health Care Association Award Winners What do a professional seamstress, a chaplain, and a long-time director of nursing have in common? They were all recognized by the Rhode Island Health Care Association (“RIHCA”) with an award for their dedication to nursing home patients. RIHCA is the state’s largest professional affiliation of skilled nursing and rehabilitation providers. The association developed the RIHCA Awards to recognize caregivers and others who have made exemplary contributions to long term care. The 2014 RIHCA Awards were presented to 12 winners before a crowd of more than 300 attendees of the association’s Annual Trade Show and Awards Luncheon recently. “People who work in nursing facilities don’t often get the recognition they deserve. It truly takes a special person to manage the physical and emotional challenges that come with caring for the most vulnerable among our elderly. Those who do it with patience, kindness, and compassion inspire us with their dedication. The Ines Heirsch – Volunteer of the Year RIHCA Awards provide us Eastgate Nursing and Rehabilitation Center with an opportunity to recognize them for their devotion,” said Virginia Burke, RIHCA CEO/President. RIHCA recognizes volunteers and long term care advocates as well as caregivers in seven award categories. Ines Heirsch, for example, who attended medical school in Canada before migrating to the U.S., has worked as an ice skating coach, bridal shop owner, and professional seamstress. It is the promise that she made to her father upon his death, however, that defines her. Ines promised to help those who could not help themselves. She donates hundreds of hours to Eastgate Nursing and Rehabilitation in East Providence, organizing fundraisers, escorting patients to appointments - even planning a wedding for two residents in love. Ines not only organized the event, she made the dress, the veil and the cake, according to Eastgate’s Administrator, Donna Amaral. “Ines is one in a million. There are few times in life when we can acknowledge someone so selfless and humble who impacts others so greatly every single day. Ines is the definition of a volunteer who goes above and beyond, always,” she commented. Ines is in good company. Every RIHCA Award winner has their story – stories that have impacted the lives of thousands of residents in Rhode Island’s skilled nursing facilities in myriad ways. Once each year, their peers are provided the opportunity to shine the spotlight upon them, culminating at the awards luncheon which Burke describes as her favorite event of the year. The winners honored at the 2014 RIHCA Trade Show and Awards Luncheon are: • Volunteer of the Year: Ines Heirsch, Eastgate Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; • Distinguished Certified Nursing Assistants: Veronica Bueno of Elmwood Health Center, Keila Robinson O’Hagan of Trinity Health and Rehabilitation Center, and Raissa Kaba of Summit Commons; • Social Worker of the Year: Pamela Masciarotte of West View Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; • TRM Spirit Award: Brother Marcel Brisson of Trinity Health and Rehabilitation Center; • Administrator of the Year: Linda Wheeler-Omiunu of Trinity Health and Rehabilitation Center; • Long Term Care Nurse of the Year: Virginia Pelletier of Heritage Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; • Public Service Award: Representatives Charlene Lima and Patricia Serpa, and; • Long Term Care Nurse Managers of the Year: Maureen Hobin and Gloria Sayler of West Shore Health Center. Information about the RIHCA awards and this year’s winners can be found on Nursing Homes and Long Term Care in Rhode Island; Rhode Island Health Care Association (RIHCA). 20 | PrimeTime
Swimming Lesson: Rosetta (Furey) Desrosiers (second from left) was among other young women recruited in Chicago’s Own SPAR Drive, getting their first instructions on the art of diving and swimming. SPARS (from page 9) Most women joined out of a sense of duty and a desire to serve their country, but the idea of an adventure was also present in the women’s motives for joining. Many had never been away from home on their own and for them it was a chance to take a chance and have some excitement. “I wanted to do some traveling, to see some parts of the world,” said Desrosiers. “I was an only child and I liked the idea of having lots of friends. It was like having all the sisters you never had.” Desrosiers was working as a typist down in Davisville at the beginning of the war. She said she worked with twin brothers who enlisted in the Coast Guard. She liked the stories they told about rescues at sea and decided she wanted to belong to a service that saved lives as much as destroyed enemies. “As soon as I reached the required age, 20, I went up to Boston and enlisted,” she said. Desrosiers ended up on Lake Michigan, processing identification for people looking for passes to be on the lake. The Great Lakes handle a lot of BLUE STAR (from page 15) Mothers of active-duty military personnel are Blue Star Moms whether they register with an organization or not, but many may not know the organization exists or how to find them. Each Blue Star Mom has their own story, but each feels they have been able to receive a special kind of support from this organization. Joan Fontaine’s only child, her son, has served in the Army National Guard for seven years, recently returning home from serving in Afghanistan. Also a single mom, Fontaine said the group has provided her with a support system that was missing with her other friends. “This group has helped me,” said Fontaine, who formerly served as the group’s secretary. Both Betty Leach’s daughter and son are members of the U.S. Marine Corps. Her daughter has been serving for 12 years and is currently stationed
freight destined for the front and the government wanted to know who was out there. “I would interview the people, take their fingerprints and then laminate the IDs,” she said. “I never did interview any suspicious people.” Desrosiers said her experiences during the war were relatively tame and said she doesn’t remember any particular alerts or emergencies while she was there. “If something like that did occur, I guess we would have been very surprised,” she said. But the war did end and the women went back home, but they were never the same again. Desrosiers took advantage of the G.I. Bill after the war and enrolled in college at the University of Wisconsin. “I met a nice young man, I married him and I was pregnant by the next semester,” she said. “We lived in Au Claire for a while, but I got homesick for Rhode Island and we came back here.” Children and the joy and sorrow of ordinary life awaited. But there was a difference. All the women agree that their enlistment was probably the single most important thing they did in their life. “‘I really wasn’t exactly the same,’ said Marshall in 2007, who could have been speaking for them all. ‘I came home with the confidence that I could handle anything, that I could cope with anything that came to me.’” Even though she never did get her degree in journalism, Desrosiers went to work at the Outlet Store, then on to the Rhode Island School of Design, where she was an editorial assistant and wrote articles for the Alumni Bulletin and various other publications. She was no longer the shy young woman who joined the United States Coast Guard. She was wife, mother and writer who had been published in the Providence Journal and the Warwick Beacon.
in North Carolina, while her son has been serving for six and is currently stationed in Japan. She said it helps to have a group of mothers to turn to who understand the roller coaster of emotions being a military parent can bring. They take turns sharing in the happy moments of returning from deployment, and the tough times during one. “We go through ups and downs,” said Leach. Just having an active support system of women who understand what it means to have a child serving in any branch of the military at any level is meaningful. The women describe the organization as a family of kindred spirits. “It’s a bond that’s kind of hard to explain,” said Ziehl. “It’s a forever bond,” added Leach. The Rhode Island Blue Star Moms can be found on Facebook through their “Rhode Island Blue Star Moms” official page or by email at ribluestarmoms@ gmail.com. November 2014
your home
senior
issues
by BRUCE LANE president of senior real estate solutions
Preparing Your Home for Winter (Part II)
Unwanted Guests!
Last month, I wrote about preparing your home for winter. However, as soon as the column went to print, an incident occurred that made me realize I forgot to cover something extremely important. I’m talking about ridding your home of unwanted guests and no, I’m not talking about your mother-in-law visiting for the holidays. I mean the four-footed, squeaky type. Like most American males, I like to consider myself fearless – protector of the fort so to speak. My cover was blown though, when I found myself crouched on top of the bathtub at 2 a.m., when a brazen, little rodent had the nerve to be underfoot – literally – during a middle-of-the-night bathroom break. I was perched there in the dark when a light bulb went off: Fall is the time when pesky critters want to come in from the cold and I had failed to mention in it my ‘Preparing Yourself for Winter’ column last month. So consider this ‘Preparing Yourself for Winter, the Sequel’. For those of you that think mice are cute little creatures, i.e. Mickey Mouse, just remember, the average mouse can have up to five litters per year so if not taken care of, their family can outnumber your family pretty quickly. They get into your walls and chew on wires, wood and sheet rock and can cause extensive damage. They also carry diseases when crawling through your kitchen drawers and cupboards so even if you’re a nature lover, this is one time when you don’t want to bring nature inside. Thankfully, there are a number of things you can do to insure you don’t come face-to-face, or in my case foot-to-fur, with a four-footed freeloader. Most of these tips are good advice even without the threat of unwanted squatters taking up residence in your home.
The exterior of your home: - - - - - - -
Examine the exterior of your house to locate points of entry. A mirror will help you see gaps under the siding. Caulk any gaps that you find or seal them with copper mesh. Replace loose mortar and weather stripping around the basement foundation and windows. Install door sweeps on exterior doors, repair damaged screens and seal off windows and unused doors. Check to make sure your dryer vent seals completely. Don’t forget to take care of high points. Mice are bad enough but squirrels can do even more damage and they can easily get in through chimneys or soffit gaps. Make sure chimneys or dampers are sealed or screened and put spray foam in any openings near the roof. While you’re up there, clean your gutters of debris that could attract or make a nice home for pests.
The - - - - - -
interior of your home:
Check for openings around baseboards and inside cabinets and plug the holes. Store food (including pet food) in sealed containers. Get rid of your garbage regularly and don’t leave food, crumbs or dirty dishes out for pests to enjoy. Get rid of water sources like leaky or sweating pipes or clogged sinks. Securing your kitchen is important but what about your attic? Are those popcorn strings from last year’s Christmas tree hanging around? Get rid of them. Mousetraps are a good defense; cats are even better.
If all else fails, call a pest control company, preferably before the snow falls which makes it harder to do that exterior inspection. They know all the tricks to help make your home rodent-free which will help you keep your ‘manly man’ reputation intact. Because trust me, even the bravest of men will squeal when suddenly surprised by a furry intruder. At least that’s what I’m telling myself, but I’m not sure my wife is buying it.
senior issues b y L arry G rimaldi
c h i e f , p ro gr a m d e ve l o p m e n t r i de p a r t m e n t o f h u m a n s e r v i c e s , divis i o n o f e l d e r l y a f f a i r s
Keys To Enjoying
Retirement
Many seniors choose to work beyond the “traditional” retirement age of 65. The reasons for staying in the workforce can range from economic security to personal satisfaction. For those who choose retirement, the concept of not going to work every day can be challenging. After all, most of us have worked for 40 or 50 years. It probably will take some time to adjust physically and emotionally to a new lifestyle. So what are the keys to a successful retirement? It may not be as complicated as you might think. Internet sites are full of advice for seniors on retirement. The obvious answers include mapping out a financial plan, getting your legal house in order by completing your will and estate planning, keeping physically and mentally active, and volunteering. But the best suggestions might have been offered by Tom Sightings in a U.S. News and World Report blog published on September 30, 2014 titled, “5 Ways to Just Enjoy Retirement.” The subtitle, “Stop worrying about your retirement years and figure out how you are going to live them,” is just as intriguing. Sightings begins his tips by advising people to travel. He notes that in a 2013 Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies survey, 70 percent of retirees said that travel helped them enjoy life, improve their mood, and lower their stress level. While the ability to travel may be limited by a retiree’s income or health status, a weekend trip to the beach, or a trip to visit your grandchildren can be just as much fun. He also advises people to use their skills and remain productive in their later years. In addition to volunteering, you may want to start a parttime job, be a mentor, or serve on the board of directors for a school, church, or other organization. Sightings urges retirees to try something new. In addition to starting a new job or new career, you can learn how to paint, go back to school, or begin writing the family history. In fact, I know a recent retiree who put together a band and plays at local clubs and other community events. It’s also important to make new friends. You are used to having a circle of friends from your former workplace; maybe your spouse is still working; or maybe you have moved away from your previous home. Stay connected to your former friends. Go out for lunch or play golf, tennis, or other sport. Chances are that if you volunteer, travel, or get involved in new activities, you will make new friends. Don’t become isolated. Sighting’s last bit of advice seems so simple, that’s it’s obvious to forget. Sometimes it’s all right to do nothing and relax. Don’t overschedule yourself with meetings or other activities. What’s the point of retirement if you create another environment that can leave you tired or stressed? Take time just to enjoy nature and the world around you. For more tips on a happy retirement, go to www.transamericacenter.org. The Rhode Island Department of Human Services, Division of Elderly Affairs is responsible for the development and implementation of a comprehensive system of programs and services for Rhode Islanders ages 60 and older and for adults with disabilities. Questions for Rhode Island Senior Beat or requests for additional information can be mailed to: Larry Grimaldi, Rhode Island Department of Human Services, Division of Elderly Affairs, 74 West Road, Cranston, RI 02920, or by calling 401-462-0509. Questions can also be faxed to 401-4620503, or e-mailed to larry.grimaldi@dea.ri.gov.
Bruce Lane is the President of Senior Real Estate Solutions, a non-profit referral service for seniors looking for reliable home repair & maintenance services. If you have home maintenance questions, send them to Bruce@BruceLane.com or via the Senior Real Estate Solutions website at www.seniorrealestatesolutionsri.com
November 2014
PrimeTime | 21
News from St. Elizabeth Community
Matthew Trimble has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer of Saint Elizabeth Community. Trimble has been with Saint Elizabeth Home for the past 20 years and will now assume greater responsibility within Saint Elizabeth Community, the parent company. The Rhode Island Department of Health has approved Saint Elizabeth Home’s application to build four small resident directed homes, in East Greenwich on its current campus. St. Elizabeth is working with the Green House Project to build this unique model of care. www.thegreenhouseproject.org Saint Elizabeth Community is a not for profit provider of care and service to seniors. www.stelizabethcommunity.or
East Greenwich Senior Services
Holiday Meal Program for East Greenwich residents If you (and your spouse) are 55 or older or if you are younger than 55 and disabled and will be home alone for the holidays, Senior Services will provide prepared meals with all the trimmings. The Thanksgiving meal will be cooked and delivered on Wednesday, November 26th. The deadline to order a meal is Wednesday, November 12th. The December meal will be cooked and delivered on Monday, December 22nd. The deadline to order a meal is Wednesday, December 10th. If you would like to receive a meal, please call Carol at 886-8638.
Season 5 on
News from Weaver Library
Weaver Library, 41 Grove Avenue, East Providence will present “Know the 10 Warning Signs” presented by the Alzheimer’s Associaton on Monday, December 1 at 6:30pm. The program focuses on the early signs of memory loss and why it is so important to seek out a physician if you or a loved one is noticing symptoms and why early detection matters. This program is free and open to all. Call 434-2453.
Free Classes for Seniors
The Artists’ Exchange is offering the following classes to seniors free of charge. They are located at 50 Rolfe Square, Cranston. Call 401-490-9475 or visit www.artists-exchange.org. Tues: Clay Handbuilding 10:30-12 Thurs: Basic Theatre 10:30-12 Fri: Drawing & Sculpture 10:30-12:00 Drawing & Sculpture 12:30-2:00
News from Kingston Free Library
Ebola Virus and Infectious Diseases – It’s a disease you may have heard about in the news lately, but what do URI’s experts have to say about the Ebola outbreak? Jeff Bratberg, member of URI’s pharmacy faculty and a member of the Rhode Island Disaster Medical Assistance Team, will share information on and information on other infectious diseases. Free. Wednesday, November 5, 6:30 pm. Kingston Free Library, 2605 Kingstown Rd, Kingston, RI. 783-8254
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Period costume is optional but encouraged Featuring Laurie Brewer, RISD Costume & Textiles Curator and Patricia Perry, historical interpreter, Sneak Peek Productions Silent Auction and Raffle
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Tickets to the Dinner Party with VIP seating are limited & purchased in advance. *Screening is free and open to the public, but advance tickets are required. Doors open for the screening at 8 p.m. Sponsors of On-Stage Dinner Party and local broadcast of Masterpiece on Rhode Island PBS
Downton Abbey Season 5 on Masterpiece airs on Rhode Island PBS Fridays at 9 p.m. starting January 9, 2015
Rhode Island Hospital Pulmonary Research Program Conducting a Clinical Trial of an Investigational Drug for
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) Qualified participants will receive, at no cost: • Study medication • Study related assessments and tests • Consultation with an IPF physician If you have IPF and want to find out if you qualify, call:
401-444-2733
(Compensation for time and travel will be provided)
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November 2014
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November 2014