January 2021 Senior Spectrum by Senior Spectrum Newspapers

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Nevada Governor Sisolak Updates COVID-19 Vaccine Roll Out Moving Seniors to an Earlier Schedule

Connie McMullen

January 2021 Unidentified interpreter, Nevada Governor Sisolak, and Immunization Program Manager Shannon Bennett at press conference.

Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak says the State COVID-19 Playbook has been revised to the latest CDC recommendations moving seniors 75 and older into Tier Two concurrent with frontline workers in receiving the COVID vaccine. Seniors 75 plus and those with underlying health conditions will begin receiving the vaccine in late January. Seniors in nursing homes were among the first to receive the vaccine along with health care workers in the Tier One roll out in December that is reported to have gone smoothly. Additionally, the Governor said seniors in assisted living facilities were moved to Tier One following those in nursing and skilled nursing homes, as they fall in the vulnerable population category. “More vaccines are being developed right now,” he said, “to meet the demand of these critical services.” Governor Sisolak says the COVID-19 team is meeting regularly to revise the state roll out plan. Shannon Bennett, Immunization Program Manager in the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health said more than 20,000 of Pfizer vaccine and 5,000 of Moderna have been administered in Nevada as of December 29th. The second dose has been ordered for those already vaccinated. “We remain in close contact with counties statewide,” she said. “The Playbook continues to be fluid.” She said data is driving the Playbook revisions. As more vaccines are coming to the state, populations are being moved up in the four Tier program. Most recently, “Supported Living Arrangements and Intensive Supportive Living Arrangements have been added to Tier One,” providing the vaccine to vulnerable residents. Nevada’s rollout order has additionally updated Tier Three to include people age 64 to 74 years of age to be vaccinated along with essential workers. “The Playbook is a guide to be adjusted as vaccines are rolled out across the state. In the meantime, we are going to be flexible,” Sisolak said. While we are working as fast as we can, Nevadans should still take the proper procautions to minimize risk. “We must double down to remain safe. This is the way we come back.” (COVID page 9)

THIS ISSUE Page 3 - COVID Playbook Page 6 - New Fernley Senior Center Grand Opening Page 10 - Series: Challenges of Living with Parkinson’s

Page 5 - US Senator Catherine Cortez-Masto Page 7 - New Year: Making New Years Resolutions and Changing Behaviors Center for Healthy Aging

Page 20 - Nevada Health

Page 13 - City of Reno

Link Open Enrollment

Senior Programs in 2021

Page 21 - We All Need HELP

Page 14 - Calendar

Sometimes. Just Reach Out

Page 24 - This ‘n That

Page 22 - Motion is Lotion

Page 26 - Biggest Little City

Page 23 - Gardening

Page 28 - Tinseltown

Every ISSUE Page 4 - Sparks City Councilman, Khristopher Dahir

Page 29 - Resources Page 31 - Crossword Page 32- Simply Smart Travel

Senior Spectrum Newspaper P.O. Box 7124 • Reno, NV 89510 775/348-0717 email: SeniorSpectrumNV@aol.com Web: SeniorSpectrumNewspaper.com Family Publishers Connie McMullen • Chase McMullen Editorial not necessarily the opinion of SSN www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Opinion

It Could Snow Tonight featuring George Dahir Kristopher Dahir Sparks City Council

Kristopher Dahir

truly hope you had a very special time over Christmas and New Years. During the holidays, it is very normal for each of us to take the time to remember our loved ones who have passed away. My father, George Dahir (Dare), graduated to see his maker in 2019. This will be my second Christmas without being able to see him or talk to him. One of the ways that I am blessed is that my father was a singer and song writer. When I miss

him, I get to listen to his songs and fill my heart with the love that he continually showed me and the world around him. Please let me share with you this Christmas memory of my father. I remember when he finished this song and sang it to us on Christmas Eve. It was written and recorded over 30 years ago.

George Dahir

If you had the chance to know my father, he was 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;4 and always gave the greatest hugs that reminded you that you were safe. He would never end a call without me knowing that he loved me and that he was proud of me. When it came to Christmas, these feelings and expressions were on overload. He loved celebrating family and the hope and love that was created when we were together. This song is a true expression of what flows through my mind and heart when I think of my father. Here is a glimpse of the lyrics and if you want to listen to the song and feel that warm embrace you can follow this link and enjoy.

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January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Feeling kind of melancholy You know its that time of year again When we think of all the ones we love so much The kids are so excited Wish this feeling never (Snow Tonight on page 6)

Me, dad, and George (brother).

Planning for a Healthy 2021 By U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto

Catherine Cortez Masto

very New Year, I like to reflect on the past twelve months and make at least one resolution related to my health. Whether I set an intention to stay active, eat nutritious meals, or spend time with family and friends, January is a great time to plan for a productive year ahead. This year, I hope you’ll join me in making sure your year starts off on the right foot.

First, I want to encourage Nevada’s seniors to schedule your recommended doctor appointments to ensure you’re up to date on preventive screenings and health services. Annual wellness visits are also great opportunities to sit down with doctors and develop plans to improve or better manage your health in the year ahead. Many health care providers are offering virtual visits for seniors concerned about the risks of in-person visits during the coronavirus pandemic. I also want to urge seniors to use this time to catch up on

receiving your suggested immunizations. This year it is more important than ever to get a flu shot as soon as possible. Seniors can also prepare for the year by starting or updating your personal health records, reviewing your health care benefits, plan discounts, and checking the lists of prescription drugs covered by your insurance. If you are enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid, your coverage for 2021 should begin on January 1st. While it’s critical to prioritize our physical health, it’s equally important to nurture our personal ambitions, desires, and mental health. I recommend taking time this month to set a goal or learn something new. Studies show that learning new things provides greater memory gains and more cognitive benefits than engaging in familiar activities, even if those include games and puzzles. Need some ideas for new activities? You might be interested in signing up online to help transcribe historic documents for the Smithsonian or contributing to research by identifying endangered animals, classifying galaxy systems, or transcribing Shakespearean manuscripts at zooniverse.org. Later in January, the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum is hosting a virtual lecture that explores the science of winter in the Sierra Nevada. For more details, you can visit their website at www. nvdm.org/events/. While the coronavirus pandemic has made in-person volunteering more difficult, there are still many opportunities to give back to underserved communities across Nevada while trying something new as well. Seniors interested in volunteering virtually can go to www.nevadavolunteers.org/virtual/ to learn more about ways to get involved from the safety of your home. For example, the Nevada chapter of Best Buddies has instituted a virtual volunteer program where you can mentor a Nevadan with an intellectual or developmental disability. Many other organizations are sponsoring virtual 5ks to raise money for important causes. All you have to do is lace up your best running shoes and participate on your own time. And more ideas and resources are online through Nevada 211, a program of the Nevada Department of Health and Human services that helps connect Nevadans with services. The coronavirus has shined a spotlight on the importance of taking care of our health, and I’m encouraging seniors to start off 2021 by preparing and planning for a healthy, engaged year. Health care is my number one priority, and I’ll continue doing everything in my power to ensure Nevadans have the tools they need to thrive. www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Fernley Community Foundation Celebrates New Senior Center Opening

he Fernley Community Foundation (FCF) commemorated progress of a $8.6 million project on December 16, which includes the Fernley Community Campus project. The City of Fernley and Lyon County have partnered with various stakeholders to bring the project forward. A $3 million grant from the William N. Pennington Foundation was awarded to the construction of a new senior center, located at 105 Lois Lane in Fernley. All services for the new 18,000 sq. ft. building were officially moved to the new site November 2, from the former location on Newlands Drive. The center will be able to seat 230 in the dining area.

New senior center in Fernley, located at 105 Lois Lane, will seat 230 people in the dining area.

“Our Foundation is dedicated to capturing the positivity of our community,” said FCF Chair Cody Wagner. “We would like to ensure the Pennington Foundation, Lyon County and the City of Fernley receive the credit and appreciation they deserve for building an incredible community-oriented facility for all residents of Fernley to enjoy.” The FCF also recognized a $100,000 grant from the Polaris Foundation for development of the Fernley Community Campus. The Polaris Foundation grant will be used to build the Polaris Plaza located directly to the east of the historic Fernley Depot on Main Street. In recognizing the Polaris donation, Wagner said, “We are honored to have Polaris’ dedication to this project and to our city as a whole. They have been champions for Fernley from the start, beginning their commitment with asking what they could do to be a great community partner. This grant demonstrates their devotion to supporting Fernley and helping to build community.” Fernley and FCF are collaborating on future proposals at the Fernley Community Campus. Plans include a community gymnasium, convention center, large outdoor events space and a new home for the Boys & Girls Club of The Truckee Meadows.

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Snow Tonight / from page 4

had to end It reminds of a place I know When I was younger And we would decorate the tree we could smell the evergreen And only dad could reach the top with the star And oh the presents what a sight, we would recount them every night As we held one special wish within our heart That It could snow tonight and the world turn to white We could fill our hearts with kindness And let the love go out amongst us Share the Christmas cheer Full of peace and good will It’s the season made for miracles and I know that in my heart it could snow https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seHTgsYT4nI (my son is working on a better url to send people to) When I listen to this song, it reminds me that the greatest miracles happens when love is shared. This means to me that though the Christmas season has many special moments, the true message of this song is something that will and can last all year long. The only requirement is a decision to love those who surround each day. I truly hope the year 2021 is filled with health, wholeness, and miracles.

“Adding Life to Years” Dr. Larry Weiss Center for Healthy Aging

The New Year: Making New Year’s Resolutions and Changing Behavior

ow! What a year 2020 has been with COVID, the horrible weather, the hatred and decisiveness throughout our country, and the major electronic hacking into the U.S. Larry Weiss government systems. A year that necessitates change in 2021. So now that we have a new year it is time to make some New Year’s resolutions. Unfortunately, New Year's resolutions are notoriously hard to keep, especially when they're aimed at health behaviors such as losing weight, eating better, and exercising more. In fact, no matter when we decide to change a behavior or how strongly we're motivated, adopting a new, healthy habit, or breaking an old, bad one, can be terribly difficult. However, research has suggested that any effort you make is worthwhile. If you set your changes but encounter setbacks, it is still worth trying. Just making a New Year's resolution, for example, may boost your chances of eventual success. Each new year offers enticing opportunities to reflect on where we are currently and where we’d like to go.

Unfortunately, people have a hard time accepting the need to change and find it even harder to actually make meaningful life changes. There is a fear of the unknown and the uncertainty that comes with it. It takes strength and courage to do anything different or unfamiliar. When we are thinking about changing our own behavior around health, we know that exercising, eating a nutritious diet, keeping the body mass index in the normal range, getting enough sleep (at least seven hours a night), no smoking, being aware of the drugs we take, having social relations, and limiting alcohol to one drink a day creates a healthy life. What we do for ourselves in changing our behavior in these areas is often more important than what medicine can do for us. Making the behavior changes and adopting a healthier lifestyle can affect not only our risk for disease and the way we feel today but also our health and ability to function independently in later life, as well as increase our life expectancy. (Life to Years on page 8)

At 78, Maria made a life-changing decision: She became part of a movement. Introducing The HELLO Project. An act of compassion for our community’s elders. Maria’s like a lot of others in our community. She’s a force of nature, someone who has the ability to enhance her own life as well as others, a trans-formative skill that starts with a simple “hello”. Chances are, you possess this power as well. Simply click a link, make a call or join our virtual gathering every Tuesday & Thursday at noon. It’s a commitment-free act of kindness for yourself and others that will keep you informed, help you find answers, and engage in a community of encouragement. Have you got some “Hello” in you? Please visit Podcasts & Blogs on our website for additional information.

hellostartsnow.org ©️2020 The HELLO Project

www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Life to Years / from page 7

Research has shown that those who are overweight, physically inactive, smoke, drink alcohol excessively, have high stress and are socially isolated, have diabetes and high blood pressure are more likely to develop even more chronic disabilities that put them is nursing homes and shorten their lives. All of these conditions can, of course, be modified with lifestyle changes. Even after an illness such as a stroke, healthy behaviors and lifestyle can make a difference in reducing our risk of dying. So how do we make behavior changes that impact our healthy

lives? Unfortunately, too often we're motivated by negatives such as guilt, fear, or regret, like fearing disability or death. Experts agree that long-lasting change is most likely when it's self-motivated and rooted in positive thinking. To start with, goals are easier to achieve if they're specific. For example, state that our goal is to walk each day for 30 minutes, rather than just to get more exercise. In addition, we should also limit the number of goals we are trying to achieve otherwise, we may be overzealous and lose our attention and willpower. We need to have detailed practical ways of achieving those goals. For example, if you are trying to get more exercise, have a plan for what exercise, when, where and how much. The process of making significant changes in any area of life unfolds over time and involves progressing through a series of five stages based on research: The first stage is that we are not yet ready or not thinking about change. This stage, people do not intend to take action in the foreseeable future. We are generally unaware of or minimize the extent to which the behavior is problematic. We see no reason to consider changing or making improvements. If we are making or have already made specific New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resolutions, we have progressed past this stage. The second stage is contemplation in which people think about the possibility of making changes and begin to change. We are more aware of the pros of changing, but are also acutely aware of the cons. We have an awareness of an issue that requires change or improvement, but we are either not yet ready to do anything about it or are uncertain what to do about it. As a result, it may take longer than we want. The third is the stage in which people understand that behavioral change is necessary and are ready to take action. We develop a plan of action to make the changes and take the initial steps toward making improvements in our behavior. The fourth is the stage in which we make concerted changes and improvements in our behavior. We modify our existing behaviors by acquiring new, healthier behaviors. Action is observable and can include reducing or discontinuing the use of alcohol, beginning to eat healthier, and/or exercising regularly. The fifth stage is maintenance. This is where we have made specific, overt modifications in our lifestyles and are working to sustain those healthy changes. We did it! We commit to continuing and building on the behavior changes we have chosen. Getting to this stage is adding life to years.

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Lawrence J. Weiss, Ph.D. is CEO of the Center for Healthy Aging. Dr. Weiss welcomes your comments on this column. Write to him at Larryjweiss@gmail.com or Center for Healthy Aging, 11 Fillmore Way, Reno, NV 89519. January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

COVID / from page 3

Prior to the announcement, seniors 75 and older were included in Tier Three of the Playbook, and people 64 to 74 were included in Tier Four. Those in Tier Four are not expected to receive the vaccine until late spring or summer. Confusion on which tier the 75-and-older population fell into has led to an uptick in calls and emails to the Health District, which takes away from primary duties. There have been reports of people showing up to the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center unannounced to receive the vaccine who had to be turned away. “We appreciate people being eager and excited to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible,” said Kevin Dick, District Health Officer for Washoe County. “New information is flowing into us by the hour and we’re working long hours and weekends to be able to distribute it to more than 470,000 people in Washoe County. We ask the general public for patience at this time as we work with local, state and federal partners on this enormous logistical challenge ahead of us.” The Health District has a list of Frequently Asked Questions on its website. Other common questions that are coming into the call center and email inboxes are as follows. How will I be notified when it’s my time to be vaccinated? We’re working with Tier-1 employers to vaccinate their employees who fall into the Tier-1 category. A large portion of Tier 2 will be essential workers, and priority list of those essential workers will be developed by the State of Nevada with guidance from the federal government. Employers will be tasked with notifying employees of how to sign up for the vaccine and when it will occur. For the remainder in Tier 2, the Regional Information Center will make that updated information publicly accessible when it’s finalized and work with community partners to share the news with as many people as possible in Washoe County. The notification process for individuals that are 75 and older has not yet been finalized. Pharmacies are expected to provide vaccinations for some of the Tier 2 workers and individuals age 75 and older. Can I signup to receive an alert when I can get a vaccine? The Regional Information Center will distribute public information when certain population groups are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We ask that you be patient during this process and check for updates on our website, www.COVID19Washoe.com and with local news outlets. How will you verify that people getting the vaccine are eligible? The COVID-19 vaccine site has Nevada National Guard members at the entrance to check for personal identification and verify employment. People who are not eligible for the vaccine will be turned away. Sisolak says the Playbook will be updated in mid-January reflecting when State Legislators will be vaccinated with the start of the legislative session.

www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

The Challenges of Living with Parkinson’s Disease in Northern Nevada Anne M. Pott Introduction by Diane Ross

community-wide to lead to an enhanced quality of life.

ast spring, Anne contacted The Continuum and asked if she could intern as a graduate student in gerontology and utilize her bachelor's in social work. At the same time, I had begun to explore our local resources and programs for people with Parkinson's Disease (PD), their families, and care partners. We Diane Ross decided that local and national research would be a great way to see what was available and what was needed to provide a more comprehensive approach to managing this very complicated disease. It has been an intense six months of fascinating fact-finding. We will present a fourpart series on the nature of PD, evidence-based interventions, resources, and what is still lacking in Northern Nevada to enhance this diverse population's quality of life. And we will share some stories of how our people with PD manage their symptoms. We also hope to collectively share this information

It may be surprising to learn that approximately one million people live with Parkinson’s Disease in America, according to a recent report from the American Parkinson’s Disease Association. Globally, Parkinson’s Disease affects over ten million people. It ranks as the second most common neurological disorder, and like Alzheimer’s Disease, it is without a cure.

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January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Parkinson’s Disease is a movement disorder that progressively disrupts numerous non-motor and motor functions throughout one’s body. People often recognize the classic Parkinson’s symptoms of tremor, difficulty walking, rigidity, and general slowness. However, early non-motor symptoms such as changes in speech, sleep, anxiety levels, constipation, and a loss of smell may seem like a normal part of aging. Although Parkinson’s Disease manifests differently in each person, its effect on the brain is the same, a degeneration of dopamine neurotransmitters in the substantia nigra. The

Parkinson’s Disease / from page 10

progressive loss of dopamine increasingly impairs the body’s ability to regulate attention, memory, motivation, reward, and movement. While the cause is unknown, scientists have identified several risk factors related to age, gender, history of traumatic brain injury, heroin use, and exposure to environmental toxins. A specialized interdisciplinary team can develop a holistic and personalized approach to living with Parkinson’s Disease. Movement disorder specialists (neurologists with specific training in motor and nonmotor symptoms), physical, occupational, speech & language therapists, mental health providers, and dieticians are vital members. After assessing one’s strengths, struggles, and goals, the interdisciplinary team, along with the person with Parkinson’s Disease and their care partners, develop a treatment plan that typically includes a strict medication regimen, ongoing therapies, and, when appropriate, surgical interventions. Another valuable component to a healthy treatment plan involves frequent participation in group exercises such as boxing, dance, and yoga classes that target Parkinson’s Disease’s unique symptoms. Challenges Parkinson’s is a formidable neurodegenerative disease that weakens one’s quality of life, overall cognitive and functional health, and longevity. So much of the struggle of living with

Parkinson’s Disease cannot be alleviated. However, according to the Parkinson Foundation, early, continual, and specialized interventions offer better disease management. Access to Specialists in Northern Nevada People with Parkinson’s Disease need to see specialists who understand their condition, treat it effectively, and know what to expect over time. However, a nationwide shortage of movement disorder specialists severely limits access to quality care long-distance and long-distance travel may be required. Most Parkinson’s Disease specialists’ practice at one of a handful of movement disorder clinics affiliated with major teaching universities. Limited transportation options and flaring Parkinson’s Disease symptoms can make travel impossible. Northern Nevadans with Parkinson’s Disease report having waited years for a local movement disorder specialist (MDS). In the meantime, they experience the burden of traveling across the Sierra Nevada mountains to the University of California, Davis (3 hrs.), the University of California, San Francisco (4 hrs.), or south through the desert to the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Las Vegas (7 hrs.) Health Outcomes Parkinson’s Disease is multifaceted and unique in its symptoms, comorbidities, complications, and social implications. The goal of complex pharmaceutical, rehabilitation, and (Parkinson’s Disease on page 12)

www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Parkinson’s Disease / from page 11 surgical treatment regimens is to help manage Parkinson’s Disease’s progressive symptoms. Without such interventions, weak concentration, dementia, psychosis, depression, anxiety, apathy, slowed movements, unsteady balance, poor coordination, trouble speaking, difficulty writing, and pain may dramatically increase. A recent line of research discovered more than 40 percent of people with Parkinson’s Disease do not see a neurologist, which correlates directly with a higher risk for hip fractures (14%), skilled nursing home placements (21%), and mortality (22%). Financial Burden The complex, chronic, and degenerative nature of Parkinson’s Disease and its exponential growth generate significant expenses that are increasingly difficult for individuals, families, providers, states, and federal agencies to bear. According to 2019 data from the Alliance for Aging Research, Parkinson’s Disease annual cost in the US is a staggering $51.9 billion, with the federal government shouldering over $25 million. Since the average age of a person diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease is 70 years old, it is not surprising that 90 percent of the population are Medicare beneficiaries. The direct annual medical costs of $25.4 billion stem from the approximately 1.26 million physician office visits, 31,000 emergency room visits, and 1.9 million hospitalization inpatient days of Medicare beneficiaries with Parkinson’s Disease. Mantri et al. (2019)

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January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

ranked the state of Nevada at 28 in the number of Medicare beneficiaries with Parkinson’s Disease, number one in Medicare spending, and 12th in out-of-pocket expenses. Hope The neurodegenerative nature of Parkinson’s Disease cannot bury hope. While there is no cure yet, innovations from major research foundations help guide new and promising therapeutic interventions. National Parkinson’s Disease organizations provide many educational and social activities, virtually with little or no fees. On a local level, two major medical centers in Northern Nevada report that they are actively pursuing a movement disorder specialist. A UNR researcher diligently seeks to advance the scientific community’s understanding of Parkinson’s Disease. The Continuum seeks help to identify existing gaps and strategize potential solutions to the challenges encountered by people living with Parkinson’s Disease in Northern Nevada. To learn more, please feel free to contact Diane Ross at 775-8294700 or dianeross@continuumreno.com .

Reno Senior Programs in the New Year By Paco Lachoy Reno Senior Advisory Committee

t is the start of a new year as many City of Reno seniors have been isolating, wearing masks and keeping themselves healthy, for almost a year now. A COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be available to seniors later this year, with elderly Nevadans age 75+ in the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tier 2 priority group after Tier 1 Paco Lachoy Critical Infrastructure Workforce, such as first responders and health care providers. There is a light at the end of the nearly year-long tunnel; the pandemic could be getting under control. But we ALL must still do our part. For the latest COVID-19 information in our area, visit covid19washoe.com. Mask On Move On is a regional program to promote safe practices during the pandemic. The program promotes wearing a mask across generations to protect seniors, parents and family members. Masks are a proven way to help slow the spread of the virus. Information on Mask On Move On can be found at MaskonMoveon.com. The City of Reno Parks and Rec Department is open and

operating its facilities at Evelyn Mount and Neil Road Community Centers. Various programs are offered daily, with masks, social distancing and constant sanitation practices required at both facilities. Most programs offered by Parks and Rec are multi generational, but check with the website reno.gov/parksandrec for more details. The website offers a list of programs available at either Evelyn Mount or Neil Road. All programs are subject to health and safety mandates by the State during the pandemic. Check with the individual facility if you have questions. Evelyn Mount is (775) 334-2262 or Neil Road (775) 689-8484. If you are looking for a safe activity to do at home, Parks and Rec is offering Recreation-in-a-box. The take home kit offers activities to complete. It is free, but must be ordered in advance. The Recreation-in-a-box kits are available through June 2021. Those interested must reserve in advance, as only 200 are available each month. You can reserve one by calling either Evelyn Mount or Neil Road Community Centers. The end of January and early February has usually seen (Senior Programs on page 20)

Calendar for January Jan. 4 - Dog Obedience, 8-5 p.m., Sparks Recreation Gym, 98 Richards Way, Sparks. Jan. 4 - Chair Yoga, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 11, 26. Jan. 4 - Beanbag Baseball, 12-2 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 11, 26. Jan. 4 – Total Joint Replacement Class – virtual only, 2-4 p.m., surgery buddy recommended, call (775) 982-7787, or email Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 4 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 11, 26. Jan. 4 - Pickleball, Session I: 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 11, 26. Jan. 4 – Men’s Prostate Cancer Support Group – virtual only, 6-7 p.m., video enabled, call (775) 982-7787, or email Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 4 - Badminton/Table Tennis: 6-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 11, 26. Jan. 5 - Sit and Get Fit, 9-10 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 12, 19, 27. Jan. 5 - Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 12, 19, 27. Jan. 5 -Shuffleboard, 10-12 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 12, 19, 27. Jan. 5 – Heartfulness Meditation, learn how to meditate, virtual only, 11-11:30 a.m. To join please click: https:// bit.ly/2XqneUN or by calling 775-325-5409 and when prompted, type in the conference ID: 531 903 850# Also Jan. 13, 20, 27. Jan. 5 - Bunco, 12-2 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 12, 19, 27. 14 |

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Jan. 5 – Huddle of Hope – virtual, 11:30-11:45 a.m., recurring event, open prayer in Evangelical Christian tradition, non-denominational. To join, click: https://bit. ly/2U3Qm2g. If you do not have a computer, join us by calling 775-325-5409 and when prompted, type in the conference ID: 257 787 299# Jan. 5 - Pickleball, Session 1: 12-2 p.m., Session 2: 2-4 p.m., Session 3: 6-8 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 12, 19, 27. Jan. 5 – It Starts with Hello – virtual gathering series, every Tuesday and Thursday, 12-12:45 p.m., by Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96269295417. By phone (669) 900-6833. Meeting ID: 962 6929 5417. Renown Health’s Sterling Silver Club, renown.org/SterlingSilver. Jan. 5 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 12, 19, 27. Jan. 6 - Pickleball, Session 1: 9-11 a.m., Session 2: 11-1 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 13, 20, 28. Jan. 6 – Cancer Caregiver Support Group – virtual only, 10-11:30 a.m. Contact Renown to RSVP at 775-982-RSVP (7787), or Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 6 – Heartfulness Meditation, learn how to meditate, virtual only, 10:30-11 a.m. To join please click: https:// bit.ly/2XqneUN or by calling 775-325-5409 and when prompted, type in the conference ID: 531 903 850# Jan. 6 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 13, 20, 28. Jan. 6 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 13, 20, 28. Jan. 6 - Badminton/Table Tennis, 6-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 13, 20, 28. Jan. 7 – Community Health Fair, Northern Nevada Medical Center, 7-10 a.m., 2375 E. Prater Way, Sparks, 10% discount on all health fair tests, https://www.nnmc. com/events-and-programs/event-calendar/community-health-fair. Also March 4, 2021.

Jan. 7 - Sit and Get Fit, 9-10 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 14, 21, 29.

Jan. 11 - Beanbag Baseball, 12-2 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 26.

Jan. 7 - Chair Yoga, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 14, 21, 29.

Jan. 11 – Cancer Support Workshop 1: Mind-Body Techniques to Lessen Side Effects of Radiation – virtual, 1:30-2:30 p.m., Zoom by calling Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net.

Jan. 7 - Zumba, 11-12 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 14, 21, 29. Jan. 7 – Cancer Support Group – virtual only, 11:30-1 p.m., free, group for patients facing cancer. Call 775-982RSVP (7787) or email at Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 7 – It Starts with Hello – virtual gathering series, every Tuesday and Thursday, 12-12:45 p.m., by Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96269295417 By phone 669-900-6833. Meeting ID: 962 6929 5417. Renown Health’s Sterling Silver Club. Sign up to be a member at renown.org/SterlingSilver. Jan. 7 - Restorative Yoga, 12:15-1:30 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 14, 21, 29. Jan. 7 - Pickleball: Session 1: 12-2 p.m.; Session 2: 2-4 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 14, 21, 29. Jan. 7 - Hatha Yoga, 5-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 14, 21, 29. Jan. 7 - Badminton/Table Tennis, 6:15-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 14, 21, 29. Jan. 8 - Virtual Fitness Group (Weekly Event), 8-9 a.m., https://renown.zoom.us/j/93596363065, or call 669-9006833, meeting ID: 935 9636 3065. Jan. 8 - Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 15, 23, 30.

Jan. 11 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 26. Jan. 11 - Cancer Support Virtual Workshop 4: Caregiver Workshop, 3-4 p.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 11 - Pickleball, Session I: 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 26. Jan. 11 - Badminton/Table Tennis: 6-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 26. Jan. 12 - Sit and Get Fit, 9-10 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 19, 27. Jan. 12 - Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 19, 27. Jan. 12 -Shuffleboard, 10-12 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 19, 27. Jan. 12 - Mindfulness Meditation Virtual Guided Meditations, 11-11:30 a.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 12 - Huddle of Hope Virtual Gathering, 11:30-11:45 a.m., Https://bit.ly/2U3Qm2g, ID: 257 787 299#, 775-982RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org.

Jan. 8 - Pickleball, Session 1: 11:30-1-30 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 15, 23, 30.

Jan. 12 - Breast Cancer Newly Diagnosed Orientation Virtual Class, 11-12 p.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org.

Jan. 8 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 15, 23, 30.

Jan. 12 - Bunco, 12-2 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 19, 27.

Jan. 8 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 15, 23, 30.

Jan. 12 - It Starts with Hello – virtual gathering series, every Tuesday and Thursday, 12-12:45 p.m., by Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96269295417 By phone at 669-9006833. Meeting ID: 962 6929 5417 Renown Health’s Sterling Silver Club. Learn more at renown.org/SterlingSilver. (Calendar page 16)

Jan. 11 - Chair Yoga, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 26.

www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Calendar / from page 15

Jan. 12 - Pickleball, Session 1: 12-2 p.m., Session 2: 2-4p.m., Session 3: 6-8 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 19, 27. Jan. 12 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 19, 27. Jan. 13 - Cancer Caregiver Virtual Support Group, 10-11:30 a.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@ renown.org. Jan. 13 - Heartfulness Meditation Virtual, 10:30-11 a.m., https://bit.ly/2XqneUN, ID: 531 903 850#, 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org.

Jan. 14 - Hatha Yoga, 5-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 21, 29. Jan. 14 - Badminton/Table Tennis, 6:15-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 21, 29. Jan. 15 - Virtual Fitness Group (Weekly Event), 8-9 a.m., https://renown.zoom.us/j/93596363065, or call 669-9006833, meeting ID: 935 9636 3065. Jan. 15 - Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 23, 30. Jan. 15 - Pickleball, Session 1: 11:30-1-30 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 23, 30.

Jan. 13 - Pickleball, Session 1: 9-11 a.m., Session 2: 11-1 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 20, 28.

Jan. 15 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 23, 30.

Jan. 13 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 20, 28.

Jan. 15 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 23, 30.

Jan. 13 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 20, 28.

Jan. 18 - Cancer Support Virtual Workshop, 1:30-2:30 p.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org.

Jan. 13 - Badminton/Table Tennis, 6-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 20, 28.

Jan. 18 - Total Joint Replacement Virtual Class, 2-4 p.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org.

Jan. 14 - Sit and Get Fit, 9-10 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 21, 29.

Jan. 19 - Sit and Get Fit, 9-10 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 27.

Jan. 14 - Chair Yoga, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 21, 29.

Jan. 19 - Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 27.

Jan. 14 - Zumba, 11-12 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 21, 29.

Jan. 19 -Shuffleboard, 10-12 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 27.

Jan. 13 - Cancer Virtual Support Group, 11:30-1 p.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org.

Jan. 19 - Mindfulness Meditation Virtual, 11-11:30 a.m., https://bit.ly/2XqneUN, ID: 531 903 850#, 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org.

Jan. 14 - It Starts with Hello – virtual gathering series, every Tuesday and Thursday, 12-12:45 p.m., by Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96269295417 By phone at 669-9006833 Meeting ID: 962 6929 5417 Part of Renown Health’s Sterling Silver Club, sign up at renown.org/SterlingSilver. Jan. 14 - Restorative Yoga,12:15-1:30 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 21, 29. Jan. 14 - Pickleball: Session 1: 12-2 p.m.; Session 2: 2-4 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 21, 29. 16

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Jan. 19 - Huddle of Hope Virtual Gathering, 11:30-11:45 a.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 19 - Bingo, 12-2 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 27. Jan. 19 - Shuffleboard, 10-12 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 27. Jan. 19 - Bunco, 12-2 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 27.

Calendar / from page 16

Jan. 19 - It Starts with Hello – virtual gathering series, every Tuesday and Thursday, 12-12:45 p.m., by Zoom at https://zoom. us/j/96269295417 By phone at 669-900-6833 Meeting ID: 962 6929 5417 Part of Renown Health’s Sterling Silver Club, sign up at renown.org/SterlingSilver. Jan. 19 – Cancer Support Workshop 3: Thrivorship – After Cancer Care – virtual only, 3-4 p.m. To receive the Zoom link contact Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att. net, 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 19 - Pickleball, Session 1: 12-2 p.m., Session 2: 2-4 p.m., Session 3: 6-8 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 27. Jan. 19 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 27. Jan. 20 - Pickleball, Session 1: 9-11 a.m., Session 2: 11-1 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 28. Jan. 20 – Cancer Caregiver Workshop – virtual only, 10-11:30 a.m. Video enable attendance, to receive a Zoom link connect to Renie Anders @ renieanderson@att.net. 775- 982-7787 or email Renown-RSVP@renown.org.

Jan. 21 - Chair Yoga, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29. Jan. 21 - Zumba, 11-12 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29. Jan. 21 - Cancer Virtual Support Group, 11:30-1 p.m, 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 21 - It Starts with Hello – virtual gathering series, every Tuesday and Thursday, 12-12:45 p.m., by Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96269295417 By phone at 669-9006833 Meeting ID: 962 6929 5417 Part of Renown Health’s Sterling Silver Club, sign up at renown.org/SterlingSilver. Jan. 21 - Restorative Yoga,12:15-1:30 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29. Jan. 21 - Pickleball: Session 1: 12-2 p.m.; Session 2: 2-4 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29. Jan. 21 - Hatha Yoga, 5-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29. Jan. 21 - Badminton/Table Tennis, 6:15-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29. Jan. 22 - Virtual Fitness Group (Weekly), 8-9 a.m., 775982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 22 - Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29.

Jan. 20 - Heartfulness Meditation Virtual Class, 10:30-11 a.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org.

Jan. 22 - Pickleball, Session 1: 11:30-1-30 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29.

Jan. 20 - Mantras and Meditation Virtual Class, 11:1511:45 a.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@ renown.org.

Jan. 22 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29.

Jan. 20 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 28. Jan. 20 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 28. Jan. 20 - Badminton/Table Tennis, 6-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 28. Jan. 21 - Sit and Get Fit, 9-10 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29.

Jan. 22- Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Also Jan. 29. Jan. 24 - Cancer Support Workshop 2: Mind-Body Techniques to Lessen Side Effects of Radiation Therapy – virtual only, 1:30-2:30 p.m., video enable attendance is available, or by Zoom by calling Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net. Jan. 25 - Chair Yoga, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. (Calendar page 18) www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Calendar / from page 17

Jan. 25 - Mindfulness Meditation Virtual Guided Meditations, 11-11:30 a.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 25 - Beanbag Baseball, 12-2 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 25 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 25 - Pickleball, Session 2: 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 25 - Badminton/Table Tennis: 6-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 26 - Sit and Get Fit, 9-10 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 26 - Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 26 -Shuffleboard, 10-12 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 26 - Huddle of Hope Virtual Gathering, 11:30-11:45 a.m., Https://bit.ly/2U3Qm2g, ID: 257 787 299#, 775-982RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 26 - It Starts with Hello – virtual gathering series, 12-12:45 p.m., by Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96269295417 By phone at 669-900-6833 Meeting ID: 962 6929 5417 This event is a part of Renown Health’s Sterling Silver Club. Learn more at renown.org/SterlingSilver. Jan. 26 - Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance Virtual Program, 12-1 p.m., Sanford Center Wellness programs, 775-235-8862. Jan. 26 - Bunco, 12-2 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 26 - Pickleball, Session 1: 12-2 p.m., Session 2: 2-4 p.m., Session 3: 6-8 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 26 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 26 - Weight Loss Surgery Virtual Education Seminar, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Dawn Remme, RN, Renown Regional Medical Center, 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@ renown.org Jan. 27 – Cancer Caregiver Support Workshop, 10-11:30 a.m., 775-982-7787 or email Renown-RSVP@renown.org. 18

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Jan. 27 - Heartfulness Meditation Virtual, 10:30-11 a.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 27 - Pickleball, Session 1: 9-11 a.m., Session 2: 11-1 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 27 - Cancer Support Virtual Group: Caregiver Workshop, 11:30-1 p.m., 775-982-RSVP (7787), Renown-RSVP@renown.org. Jan. 27 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 27 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 27- Badminton/Table Tennis, 6-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 28 - It Starts with Hello – virtual gathering series, 12-12:45 p.m., by Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96269295417 By phone at 669-900-6833 Meeting ID: 962 6929 5417 This event is a part of Renown Health’s Sterling Silver Club. Learn more at renown.org/SterlingSilver. Jan. 28 - Sit and Get Fit, 9-10 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 28 - Chair Yoga, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 28 - Zumba, 11-12 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 28 - Restorative Yoga, 12:15-1:30 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 28 - Pickleball: Session 1: 12-2 p.m.; Session 2: 2-4 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 28- Hatha Yoga, 5-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 28 - Badminton/Table Tennis, 6:15-9 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 29 - Tai Chi, 10-11 a.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 29 - Pickleball, Session 1: 11:30-1-30 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 29 - Gentle Yoga, 2-3 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center. Jan. 29 - Karate, 4-6 p.m., Neil Road Rec. Center.

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Jan. 5 – Historic Reno Preservation Society presents Alice Ramsey’s Journey, by Debbie Hinman, Digital Library, 5:30-6:30 p.m. All virtual events are shared on Facebook, and are archived on the Library website and YouTube. Jan. 8 – First Chapter Friday, Digital Library, 12-12:30 p.m., first chapter Friday archive. Jan. 14 – Crafternoon: Birdseed Ornaments, 4-5 p.m., all virtual events are shared on Facebook, and archived on the Library website and YouTube. Jan. 15 – First Chapter Friday, Digital Library, 1212:30 p.m., first chapter Friday archive. Jan. 21 - High Noon with Neal Cobb: Pony Express in Nevada, 12-1 p.m. All virtual events are shared on Facebook, and are archived on the Library website and YouTube. Jan. 21 - Washoe County Library Virtual Book Discussion, 2-3:30 p.m., South Valleys Library. Jan. 22 – First Chapter Friday, Digital Library, 1212:30 p.m., first chapter Friday archive. Jan. 28 – Crafternoon: Rainbow Paper Spinner, 4-5 p.m., all virtual events are shared on Facebook, and archived on the Library website and YouTube.

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Jan. 29 – First Chapter Friday, Digital Library, 1212:30 p.m., first chapter Friday archive. Feb. 2 – Historic Reno Preservation Society presents Geoff Schumacher discusses Fact, Fiction and Howard Hughes, Digital Library, 5:30-6:30 p.m. All virtual events are shared on Facebook, and are archived on the Library website and YouTube.

www.MountainLakesEstates.net www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Retirement Com

Nevada Health Link Remains Open through January 15, 2021 to Purchase 2021 Coverage While most of the country prepares to conclude their open enrollment periods this week on Dec. 15, Nevadans have additional days to enroll in health insurance coverage for 2021. Now through Jan. 15, 2021, Nevada Health Link, the online health insurance marketplace operated by the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange (Exchange), remains open and available for Nevadans to purchase comprehensive, Affordable Care Act (ACA) compliant health plans for 2021. As a State Based Exchange (SBE), Nevada Health Link makes its own decisions and is autonomous from the federal marketplace – HealthCare.gov – therefore allowing for an extended Open Enrollment Period (OEP), which is one of the many advantages to operating as a SBE. As of Dec. 13, 71,539 Nevadans have enrolled in a health insurance plan for 2021. With more than 30 days remaining in Open Enrollment for 2021 coverage, that number is obviously expected to trend upward with a typical surge in enrollment closer to the deadline. Nevada Health Link is the only place consumers can qualify for subsidies to help offset the costs of monthly premiums, and four out of five Nevadans who purchase a plan on Nevada Health Link qualify for financial assistance (tax credits). All plans offered through the Exchange cover the ten essential health benefits including pre-existing conditions and all COVID-19-related diagnosis and treatment. Consumers should know they must enroll in a plan by Dec. 31, 2020 to have health coverage effective on Jan. 1, 2021. Anyone who enrolls between Jan. 1 and Jan. 15 will have coverage effective on Feb. 1, 2021. “There are many consumers across the country scrambling to enroll in health insurance before their states’ marketplaces close their open enrollment periods on Dec. 15,” said Heather Korbulic, executive director, Silver State

Health Insurance Exchange. “But Nevadans are in luck, because there is another month left before our Open Enrollment Period ends on January 15. And with the busy holiday season upon us, consumers still have plenty of time to explore, compare and purchase their health insurance plans. If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that health is the new wealth. There is no greater gift than the peace of mind that comes with knowing you and your family are covered with a comprehensive plan that will allow you to access a better quality of care, while protecting you from financial ruin, should you experience a medical event. Health insurance is the ultimate holiday gift.” Exchange plans are ideal for those who don’t qualify for Medicare or Medicaid but still need financial assistance; those who don’t have employee-sponsored health insurance, including independent contractors and gig workers; and anyone seeking comprehensive, quality and affordable plans. This year, Nevada Health Link has 50 qualified health plans to offer – nearly double the numbers of plans offered last year – from five carriers, including Health Plan of Nevada (HPN), SilverSummit (Ambetter), Anthem HMO Co, Friday Health Plans and SelectHealth. Nevada Health Link also offers 27 dental plans from six dental carriers and has recently partnered with VSP to offer vision plans. Visit NevadaHealthLink.com or call 1-800-547-2927 to learn more. The call center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Senior Programs / from page 13

cilities fees, programs and activities. The scholarship program expanded this past year with each scholarship recipient also receiving a Health and Wellness pass. The Health and Wellness pass offers a wide variety of activities, fitness and open or lap swimming to scholarship holders. To apply for a scholarship, applications are available at the Evelyn Mount or Neil Road registration desk or online at: reno.gov/parksandrec. Look under scholarships and fees. You can also reach out to Norah, who processes the scholarship application, by calling (775) 334-2260. Parks and Rec offers virtual recreation programs on their City of Reno web pages (reno.gov/parksandrec) along with 88 parks throughout the city for those who would like to hike or walk or do paddle sports outdoors.

seniors gather for the Reno Tahoe Winter Senior Games. As with the 2020 Summer Games, the Winter Games will not be held this year because of the pandemic. Reno Parks and Rec is planning to bring the games back as soon as it is safe for seniors. Parks and Rec is working on hosting a series of tournaments, once things are safe to do so in pickelball, beanbag baseball, shuffleboard and some card games. The city must submit its COVID-19 plan for any tournament to state authorities for approval. City staff asks that the community be patient. With the start of the new year, it is time for residents of the City of Reno to apply or reapply for scholarships available to use in Parks and Rec. The scholarship program offers up to $500 a year to low income residents for use of recreational fa-

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

We all need help sometimes.

For some, the hardest part is reaching out to ask.

t The HELLO Project, our goal is to connect seniors in our community and help to bring them out of isolation and loneliness. We celebrate the strength, ingenuity and problem-solving skills seniors have developed over a lifetime. And while there’s a lot that we can do to help ourselves, sometimes we need the help of others. As the COVID-19 pandemic in our community stretches on into a full year, many of us find ourselves with more stress, more worries, more loneliness and more pain.

program, visit www.talkspace.com/reno.

Maybe you or someone you know feels overwhelmed. Or perhaps you are noticing that you don’t bounce back from a bad day like you used to do. Have you noticed depression is affecting your physical health or quality of life? The good news is that extra funding from the federal government means extra mental health resources are readily available in our community. Let us introduce you…

Remember, one of the best ways to care for your mental health is to stay connected to others. We invite you to join us on It Starts with Hello, our virtual gathering every Tuesday and Thursday at noon. Meet new friends and help us build community so that we all have the relationships we need to thrive. Please visit www.hellostartsnow.org for more information.

1. The Nevada Resilience Project supports families and individuals experiencing struggles and challenges due to COVID-19. Resilience Ambassadors provide education, information, counseling and resource navigation while promoting healthy coping, empowerment and resilience.

Access to TalkSpace is provided by the City of Reno and is funded with CARES Act dollars that were part of the federal stimulus package. 3. Importantly, if you or someone you know needs immediate help, please contact Crisis Support Services of Nevada. Call 1 (800) 273-8255 or text CARE to 839863.

As we kick off a new year, let’s all resolve to take care of our mental health and ask for help if we need it. We’re in this together, resources are available, and everyone needs a little help sometimes.

It’s normal to experience difficulty adapting to the new challenges of the pandemic, to feel isolated or anxious, or to worry about meeting basics needs like having enough food or access to healthcare. In this challenging time, you are not alone. Resilience Ambassadors can provide support and connection over the phone, through text and video chat. To connect with an Ambassador, email dpbhnrp@health.nv.gov. The Nevada Resilience Project is provided by the State of Nevada in cooperation with Washoe County and funded through a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA). 2. The City of Reno has made it possible for City residents age 13+ to receive private mental health support from TalkSpace at no charge. City residents will be able to send unlimited text, voice and video messages – any time, anywhere. Therapists will engage daily, five days per week. Monthly video appointments and self-help exercises are also available. TalkSpace is a digital space for private and convenient mental health support. It is an online therapy service that connects users to a dedicated, licensed, therapist in their state of residence via private messaging or live video. The service is secure and private and follows all federal HIPAA rules. To access the www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Motion is Lotion: Seniors Start Moving, to Keep Moving

By Connie McMullen

t a recent physical therapy session, my therapist commented, “Motion is Lotion!” Giving the statement some thought, I said “your right”.

The one thing that being home and isolating during the COVID-19 virus has taught us is a lot of a good thing can be harmful. While some rest and relaxation is healthy, too much inactivity is dangerous to healthy living. Studies have shown that inactivity like sitting for long periods is not productive for the body. So even while we are home waiting out the corona virus, home fitness and technology can assist us to achieve fitness goals if we took the initiative to move. Browsing through the Internet I stumbled upon some virtual classes that I thought I would try out. While I often hear complaints that so many things are virtual today keeping us from getting outside, enjoying our family and friends, and lifting our spirits spending time with nature, a good workout can happen in the living room and can be just as engaging. Make Use of Senior Center Facilities/or the IPad In pre 2020 times, we could visit the local senior or community center to participate in a regular exercise class. Today it is not so easy, or is it? The calendar section of this paper has many listings of classes that enable people to get moving, with some restrictions because of the COVID virus. But even if you did not want to visit a class, you could participate on Zoom, or engage in a pre-recorded class at no charge. While the City of Reno Park and Recreation department offers many classes that in today’s times are wonderful, we have to make note of the Carson City Senior Center website that has a good listing of virtual activities that range from travel to far away destinations, to virtual tours of Buckingham Palace, a trip to the Great Wall of China, zoo’s and space exploration, the list is extensive. But for the purpose of physical movement the site Go4Life - provided by the National Institute on Aging is a real treasure to add to the library. Go4Life streams on YouTube and can easily be viewed on the computer. The class is designed for adults who have not been athletes but need to get started at a slow or low impact pace. The instructor is very supportive and understands how to get our bodies moving. Go4Life requires some props: a chair, gallon containers for weights, a mat, and dumbbells. Dress comfortably! If you get tired put the session on pause. The session is a 15-minute simple workout for older adults over 50. It is free and all movements can be modified to fit your individual pace. If Go4Life does not interest you, to the left of the page are more workout routines. Another workout listed is Fitness Blender Total Body Workout,

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

also streaming on YouTube. This session is a 30-minute low impact total body workout performed in a chair. It can be found at FitnessBlender.com. Again, this routine is designed for people who have spent a lot of time being sedentary. Movements are full body stretches using more than one muscle group. Virtual sessions like these, found at Carsoncityseniorcenter. org/virtual-activities, are great because you can do them in the privacy of your home, without a class that can be necessary for motivation. Both are engaging and fun. With older adults now composing a significant portion of the population, senior centers have innovative programs and new opportunities that target this active age group. You’ll often find health and group fitness classes, including yoga, low impact aerobics, Zumba, and Tai Chi. Along with an increase in activity, in normal times seniors benefit from the social interaction—another critical factor in overall health—found at senior centers. Visit the Renown Sterling Silver Club for other activities (renown.org/SterlingSilver). Renown provides a series of virtual sessions that help one to meditate, pray, relax to connect to ones inner self, walk and visit support groups that help cope with stressful situations. Because of the COVID virus, more people today are learning to use computers and other devices to make life work for them, even though life has changed so dramatically. The National Council On Aging found that when compared with their peers, “senior center participants have higher levels of health, social interaction, and life satisfaction.” They reduce their risks for chronic diseases and enjoy measurable increases in well-being. Staying in motion, even leisurely motion, is the magic potion. It’s essential for keeping the vital processes going that govern physical, emotional, and cognitive health so important for optimal senior care. So what are you waiting for? If isolating at home is getting frustrating, turn on your computer or iPad and engage for fun. You may find yourself in better health and physically fit.

Gardening Products: Reduce Strain, Pain,

& Overcome Barriers from Physical Impairments

by Kimberly Blaker ith Spring just around the corner, gardening offers many excellent mental and physical health benefits. It's a healthy form of exercise because you're moving around. At the same time, it boosts your emotional health by spending time outdoors while tending to your plants' needs as they grow. Unfortunately, as you age, or if you have any physical impairments or conditions, all the bending, extending, kneeling, lifting, and other gardening aspects can become painful or difficult. If you find gardening is taking a toll on your body, there are many handy products out there. Particular gardening gadgets and equipment can reduce strain and support you through various challenges to make the experience possible and enjoyable!

Arthritis Arthritic hands can make it difficult to grip and maneuver traditional gardening tools that put your hands and wrists in uncomfortable positions. But there are a few great alternative tools. In particular, is the Radius Garden 5 piece tool set or the Bear Paws Cultivator Claw, explicitly made

to be lighter weight with a more ergonomic design.

Bad knees and backs When your knees or back are prone to pain, the constant bending and kneeling required for gardening may seem impossible to keep up with. Still, there are ways to reduce discomfort or eliminate the need to kneel and bend as often, if at all.

If you struggle to put pressure on your knees for extended periods, many products can reduce the stress of kneeling on the hard ground. You might want to try the Abcosport deep-seat garden kneeler. It can be used as a garden seat or kneeling pad.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also the AMES Buddly Lawn and Garden Cart, which doubles as an easy-to-pull wagon and a sturdy seat from which to garden.

A bad back makes it hard to bend over to pull weeds to keep them from taking over your garden. With Grampaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Weeder, a stand-up weed puller means you can remove these invasive plants from the root without ever having to bend down. Limited reach Do you struggle with limited reach because of mobility issues or wheelchair use? If so, there are tools to make it easier to tend to your plants from farther away. With the Ymachray Long Handled Planter, you can easily plant your bulbs and seedlings in the ground without having to kneel down and reach into the garden.

(Gardening page 25)

www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

This ‘n That By Anne Vargas annevargas.3@gmail.com

Anne Vargas

It’s January, or it will be the time you read this. However I am writing it on December 21, gazing at our tree which is lavishly decorated just like in “the old days”. It isn’t just the tree; a real spirit of Christmas exists all around the house. The Santa collection is displayed on the mantle and our beautiful Nativities are in the places of honor. The dining room is festively elegant, ready for dinner parties we won’t be having. There are pots of Poinsettia everywhere and sleighbells are hanging next to the wreath on the porch. The house is fully adorned and it’s perfect.

his wasn’t my idea; left to me the house would probably be fairly glum, matching the mood of the nation. But my wonderful spouse loves everything about Christmas rituals, finding real joy in the trimming and the decorating and insisted we maintain traditions even if no one would be able to see them. It made him happy so Mrs. Grinch kept her mouth shut and grudgingly went along with it, keeping her mumbled mutterings about all the work to herself. What a gift the result is…as the song says, we really did “need a little Christmas”, especially this year, and how forlorn we would have felt if we hadn’t done this. Maybe no one else is here but we are! We sent photos to the family but I am actually toying with the idea of just leaving everything up until they can come see it in person…(or for next Christmas, whichever comes first.) Or maybe the idea of putting it all way is overwhelming! I’ll let you know in February, or Easter. Meanwhile I continue to work on “Tales of a Timid Traveler”, my book for our grandchildren about our adventures during the 24 years we spent as guest passengers on cruise ships. Some of the chapters will continue to appear in Senior Spectrum.

Continued Tales of a Timid Traveler Be careful what you ask for...

There isn’t a single adventuresome cell in my body; risk-taking of any kind has always been a totally alien concept. My childhood was spent reading books instead of climbing trees or

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

doing anything that seemed even remotely perilous. The most dangerous thing I did was to ride a merry-go-round. Once. I am full of admiration for my friends (and my children, although I do wonder whether they were all somehow switched in the hospital and really belong to someone else) who hike and climb mountains and race and ski and probably swim with sharks but I’m quite content to hear about it as a non-participant. However, I don’t readily admit the degree of my timidity, especially when meeting people for the first time. We were on our first cruise with Regent, in the western Caribbean where we met a delightful, older-than-I-am couple who enthusiastically told us they were going to go on a Canopy Zipline tour through the jungle and urged us to join them. The tour description read, in part, as follows: “...an exciting adventure that takes you deep into the jungle then up and away to a steep mountainside location. you will be strapped into a seat attached to cables that will carry you across the jungle below....the zip line system is composed of 14 platforms and 13 separate ziplines up to several thousand feet in length. ...you will hear and see the jungle wildlife below along the route as you pass overhead...” I don’t think so! I was saved from having to make excuses for not joining them because the tour was already full so I assured them it would have been wonderful I was so disappointed and sorry to miss the chance because I had always wanted to do that. (Why in the world did I say that???) I admit to being just a bit envious of their spirit of adventure; how is it that I am so totally devoid of any? But all was well. I didn’t have to go and I didn’t have to admit that I didn’t even want to. Until the phone rang and word came from our new friends of a cancellation on the tour; we could go after all. Now what? A sleepless night as I envisioned everything that would go wrong the next day. There would be all manner of creatures lurking below me as I clung to the sure-to-be-broken apparatus I would be strapped into. What would our children say when they heard I’d been plunged into a sea of crocodiles in the middle of the jungle? (Traveler on page 25)

Gardening / from page 23

“Watering with a heavy hose or watering can can throw off your balance and be difficult to lift.” Balance and strength problems

Gardening involves a lot of moving around, standing up, squatting, pulling plants out of the ground, and carting around heavy plant debris, soil, and all manner of tools. But suppose you struggle with balance problems or limited strength. Gardening can put you in a dangerous position, increasing your risk of falling or sustaining an injury.

So cart tools around safely with a rolling mobile tool storage system like the Vertex Super-Duty Yard & Garden Cart. This will reduce heavy lifting and carrying gardening tools around. Watering with a hose or heavy watering can can throw off your balance and be difficult to lift. To avoid this, install a drip system like the Raindrip Automatic Watering Kit. It automatically delivers an efficient amount of water to your hanging plants and containers. Thinning skin Plants can be particularly rough on thinning skin, especially when dealing with rose thorns or spiky weeds, which can quickly tear your skin up. This can make gardening painful and even lead to infections. When you have

more delicate skin, you want to make sure it's protected. Think about investing in thorn proof rose pruning gloves that extend farther up your arms to protect yourself as you reach into thick growth.

Need for sun protection

Traveler / from page 24 Or could I actually manage to muster up some courage and do this, emerging from the experience a newly adventuresome person glowing with pleasure and pride and proudly ready to take on the world in new ways? Maybe I would then do all sorts of things I’d never done before; those things other people do. I’ll never know. The next morning the seas were stormy, the weather was bad, and the ship couldn’t dock. If the ship couldn’t dock the tours had to be cancelled. If the tours were cancelled, I couldn’t go on the Canopy Zipline tour through the jungle, something I had always wanted to do. What a disappointment.

To the timid soul, nothing is possible. John Bach

Traditional gardening takes place outdoors since plants need sunlight to grow. So it's vital to keep your skin protected from too much sun exposure, which can lead to sunburn and increased skin cancer risk. A Lenikis sun hat with a wide-brim and neck cover keeps you protected from UV rays.

You might also consider an indoor gardening system, like the Smart Garden hydroponics growing system, if you need to stay entirely out of the sun.

www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

BIGGEST Little City by Zach Spencer

Q & A with Harry Spencer IV

ello again readers this is the fourth interview with my dad, Harry.

Z. I guess today we are going to talk about Reno’s Golden Era, the decade of the ‘60s?

Harry Spencer

H. Yes, that was the time when the majority of big events occurred in the Biggest Little City.

Z. What do you consider to be your biggest publicity accomplishment? H. Well, actually it occurred a little before 1960 and I don’t think I ever topped it. Z. It was? H. One day Mapes called and said he would like me to accompany him on a trip to L.A. When we boarded the plane he told me that the booker of entertainment had an interesting act that he wanted us to see. Upon arriving in L.A. we went to a small house in Watts and met Paul Anderson, the 1956 heavyweight lifting champion. He and his manager took us to the backyard where Paul did a number of lifts using a pair of railroad car wheels. As a result Mapes booked him for two weeks. When we got back to Reno we brainstormed about what Paul could do during the show. I knew that a bag of 1,000 silver dollars weighed 60lbs, so I suggested to Mapes that we conPictured is the cover of 1960 official Olympic Winter Games program, the 124 page struct a bar with two plastic boxes at each end containing publication sold for the princely sum of one dollar. silver dollars in the maximum weight that Paul could lift. the most popular TV show and as Sullivan had been a sports We could then challenge anyone who could repeat the feat, reporter prior to TV we might possibly get Paul on the show. could carry off the money. We had comic Dave Barry keep the show moving and it played to large crowds. Z. How did that turn out? Z. You mean people came to see a guy sweat and lift weights? H. Actually I was hoping to get a trip to NY, but our booker happened to be in the meeting and said he had a friend who H. We did a lot of publicity for Paul and I was happy when his worked on the Sullivan show and that he would be seeing him two weeks were up. That didn’t last long. the next day in NY. Z. Why not? Z. What happened then? H. Mapes figured because business had been so good he H. To our surprise the booker called back and said that rather would book Paul for two more weeks. He asked me how we could promote the extension. I said I knew that Ed Sullivan had than us coming to NY, they were sending a crew to Reno to do

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Biggest / from page 26

Z. How would you make that happen?

a live remote.

H. Fortunately, the owner of the local bus company was at the club at that time and he volunteered to drive me out to the air field in one of his buses.

Z. Any problems with that? H. When I mentioned to Mapes that because of the time difference we would have to fill the SkyRoom at 5 p.m.

Z. What happened then?

Z. Did you manage that?

H. When we arrived at the airport there was a bus idling outside and a lone figure sitting on a bench.

H. I suggested to Mapes that he comped dinner and show to the first 150 Prospectors and their wives. He could break even by charging for the drinks. Z. Did the show go on? H. A solid 4 minutes. Z. Wow! I know Sullivan had millions of viewers, so I guess that was the greatest publicity Reno ever got. H. Yes, it was almost eclipsed by the next big event. The 1960 Winter Olympic Games at Squaw Valley. Because our manager, Walter Ramage, through his Bay Area connections, was able to secure the rights for the International Olympic Press Club to be housed at the Mapes.

Z. Who was he? H. The lone FBI guy in Reno at the time. He had been assigned to pick up the Russians and deliver them to Squaw. I told him that we had to register them at the Press Club first and that our bus would then take them to Squaw. He seemed overjoyed as he drove away in his bus. Z. What did you do with the Russians? H. Because I had the power of the pen I managed to go through all the vodka at the Airport bar, loaded them up and took them to the SkyRoom for the photo. Z. How did that turn out?

Z. How many Press attended?

H. It ended up by us receiving frantic calls from Squaw wondering who had hijacked the Russians.

H. I know we registered over 600.

(To be continued)

Z. Any prominent names? H. Walter Cronkite, the dean of Sportswriters Red Smith of NY, Dave Condon of Chicago and Jim Murray of L.A. Also the International Press. Z. Where was the IOPC located? H. On the top floor of the Mapes, in the southwest corner in a space called the Indian room which had been the original home of the Prospectors. Z. What was the room setup? H. We had a number of couches, a bank of typewriters, closed circuit TV connected to Squaw Valley, numerous telephones, runners to Western Union and an open bar. Z. What hours was the room open? H. 24, on several mornings I would find many of the Press asleep on the couches. Z. Any memorable occasions that occurred at the club? H. One in particular that happened one night around 11 p.m. when the Prince of Sweden arrived with his entourage and the UPI stringer was also there. A few minutes later I got a call from our manager at the Airport informing me that the Russian Press Corps was about to land. The UPI guy said it would be great to get a picture of the Prince and the Russians together, sort of an â&#x20AC;&#x153;East meets Westâ&#x20AC;? photo which he could get on the international wire.

www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Tinseltown Talks: By Nick Thomas

Actors who took a final bow in 2020

s 2020 winds down its grim medical, social and political march across the country, Hollywood also experienced its annual share of heartbreak with the passing of three movie legends: Kirk Douglas and Olivia de Havilland - both born in 1916 - and the universally loved Sean Connery who died at age 90. Other actors lost from the world of classic film and television include Wilford Brimley, Robert Conrad, Rhonda Fleming, Max von Sydow, Sue Lyon, Orson Bean, Diana Rigg, Barbara Windsor, John Saxon and many more. A few, such as Stuart Whitman, Carl Reiner, Baby Peggy and Brian Dennehy, I had the opportunity to interview over the years and others listed below held special personal memories. Anthony James

I knew he preferred to be called Anthony, so I avoided saying “Hi Tony” when we talked in 2014. After all, Anthony James was one of the scariest Hollywood bad guys recognized for portraying assorted psychopathic killers Anthony James and other disturbed characters throughout the 70s and 80s. I wasn’t planning to make him angry. His big break came six years after arriving in Hollywood playing the sleazy diner counterman, Ralph Henshaw, in 1968s “In the Heat of the Night.” Thereafter, the lanky, swarthy South Carolina-native was immediately

typecast as a villain. “I have to remind people that I did play love scenes, it’s just that they were at knifepoint!” Anthony told me. While his on-screen characters could be the epitome of pure evil as in the two Clint Eastwood westerns “High Plains Drifter” (1973) and “Unforgiven” (1992), off-screen he was a gentle soft-spoken soul who retired from acting after “Unforgiven” to concentrate on painting and poetry at his home just outside of Boston. “I never considered myself a celebrity, just a sometime recognizable face,” he explained. After our interview was published, Anthony sent a copy of his 2014 book “Language of the Heart,” a collection of his abstract paintings and poems, with the inscription: “To create a work of art is to wrestle with the angel of death. You can never win, but how beautifully can you love.”

Shirley Knight

Shirley Knight Throughout her long career, Shirley Knight worked in film and television alongside many Hollywood legends, including Claude Rains, George C. Scott and Richard Burton.

“I was fortunate to work with these wonderful actors who taught me a great deal,” she told me in 2018. “Richard Burton became one of my dearest friends. During time off, he would teach me how to read Shakespeare. I mean, how lucky for a young actress to learn Shakespeare from Burton!” (Tinseltown Talks page 30)

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Above: Kirk Douglas, Olivia de Havilland, and Sean Connery.

- Direct # 702-868-5179

www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Tinseltown / from page 28

During our interview, Shirley mentioned that her daughter - an actress, too, and college teacher - had created a commercial throat lozenge called Fontus (see www.FontusSciences.com). While designed for actors and singers who often strain their voices, she indicated teachers could benefit from the soothing apple-flavored all-natural product. I purchased some and have been using them ever since in my daily teaching job. Thanks Shirley! Marge Champion As a long-time fan of the famed 50s dance duo Gower and Marge Champion, I was delighted to meet Marge when she visited our university campus in 2010. Through a fellowship, she presented a series of fascinating lectures about her life and career which began when a Disney talent scout picked her to audition as the model for the Snow White character in the studio’s 1937 animated movie. After marrying Gower Champion in 1947, their reputation as a dance team soon spread. Marge Champion

“We were getting fabulous reviews,” she recalled. “Gower brought the conceptions to the team and was able to tell a story through the dance routines. I think I brought an ability to connect with an audience.” At the end of our interview, I pulled out a copy of my “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” soundtrack LP which she graciously agreed to pose with for a photo. Shortly after the interview was published, Marge left a delightful message of thanks on my answering machine - which I still treasure.

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Richard Herd

At my invitation, Richard Herd visited our campus to talk with our theater students in 2017. I met him at the airport and we talked continuously during the 20-minute drive to the hotel - he was a great conversationalist. We kept in regular contact after his visit, and I will miss his phone calls every couple of months discussing his newest projects.

Mostly a prolific supporting actor in films and television since the 1970s, Richard was very proud of his other artistic achievements that included dabbling in painting, poetry, singing, and sculpting. But fans will always remember him as the matter-offact Mr. Wilhelm on “Seinfeld.” ″(The show) was one of the best jobs I ever had,” he told me. “It got me a tremendous amount of recognition and still does because it plays all the time. There were no ‘stars’ on that show; they were all genuinely nice people to work with.” During his 2-day trip to our campus, we stopped at my office for a break on one occasion and he commented on some colorful photographs on my wall - photos I had taken of crystals of chemical compounds under a microscope. I was flattered that an artist would praise them. So during our drive back to the airport next day, I presented him with one of the framed photos. Several weeks later, a print of his patriotic “Live Free or Die” abstract depiction of the American flag arrived in my mailbox. I look at it every day and salute not only Richard and other beloved entertainers who passed away in 2020, but all who have struggled with the loss of loved ones in this most challenging of years.

www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Simply Smart Travel

By Jeff and Virginia Orenstein

The Outer Banks, North Carolina Beaches, Horses and History Note: This trip, our first during the current Covid 19 pandemic environment, was in our own automobile and strictly observed recommended anti-virus safeguards, including wearing masks outside of the car as we traveled, packing our own food and driving straight through. Once there, we continued to follow or exceed all health guidelines and had a gorgeous vacation rental that normally can sleep ten all to ourselves. Before traveling to the Outer Banks or elsewhere, we recommend calling ahead to any business you plan to visit to confirm that they are open and ready to welcome guests. The area is currently under some Covid 19 restrictions for visitors and residents alike. For the latest information, check out https://www.visitnc.com/advisory/ snRb/coronavirus-travel-advisory

nown to locals as OBX, North Carolina’s Outer Banks are barrier islands separating the Atlantic from the mainland. Known for their natural beauty and beach life, they are a magnet for fisherman and tourists and are among the first places visited by European explorers in the 16th century. The islands today feature more than 100 miles of

SOLUTION FROM PAGE 31

The beautifully restored Whalehead Club is now a history museum that offers many insights into life in the Outer Banks a century ago and how the islands attracted rich fisherman alike. Credit: Jeff Orenstein, Simply Smart Travel

clean and accessible beaches, rugged sand dunes, local shopping (with few national chains), the fascinating omnipresence of history and lots of water-oriented enjoyment. Wildlife abounds in the area and is protected in several preserves. The north island is also home to the magnificent herd of wild Spanish Mustangs that have roamed the area since the time of the original explorers who brought them from Spain. The Outer Banks are actually two main islands and several smaller islands. The northern island includes the towns of Corolla, Duck, Kitty Hawk and Nags Head. The southern island, known as Hatteras Island, includes the towns of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco and Hatteras Village. Both islands as well as many of the smaller islands such as Roanoke Island feature large beach homes and condominiums for rental, hotels, Bed and Breakfasts, restaurants, shopping, recreation and abundant wildlife. The rich history of the region is also noted with pageants, historical structures, that are lovingly maintained, and museums. Before you visit in person, visit the above web sites first and then those below: • https://www.outerbanks.org/

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

•

https://www.outerbanks.com/

•

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outer_Banks

Travel / from page 32 •

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crystal_Coast

•

https://www.visitnc.com/outer-banks-currituck

• https://paramountdestinations.com/blog/romanticthings-to-do-on-the-outer-banks/ Getting There: The Outer Banks can be reached by highway, air, boat or train. • By car, there are two bridges onto these barrier islands. One, at Manteo, N.C., is on U.S. 64, 139 miles east of I-95. The other is at Point Harbor, N.C., on highway 158, 66 miles southeast of Norfolk, VA. • By air, Norfolk International (ORF) is 82 miles north of the islands. • By train, the nearest Amtrak station is at Newport News and is 86 road miles from Point Harbor.

The magnificent herd of wild Spanish Mustangs that roam the protected area of the north island of the Outer Banks are a major tourist attraction. Credit: Jeff Orenstein, Simply Smart Travel

• Explore the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. (Smart Travel page 34)

• The closest major cruise port is Norfolk, 67 miles distant. American Cruise Lines has small ships that visit Outer Banks ports. Must Sees For a Short Trip: • Wright Brothers National Memorial. • The Whalehead Club Museum and grounds in historic Corolla. •

Catching a sunset from the dunes or on the beach.

• Visiting Duck and Corrolla, N.C. or other small towns for pictuesque shops and buildings. • Visiting a lighthouse in Corolla, N.C., Bodei Island or elsewhere. • Visiting a pier or taking a walk beside the surf on the Atlantic beach. • Exploring downtown Manteo and the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site on Roanoke Island. If You Have Several Days, , Some of Your Best Options Are: • Take a day trip by car to Norfolk, Hampton Roads and Virginia Beach •

Take a wild horse tour from Corolla.

•

Visit both the north and south islands.

The Currituck lighthouse at Corolla is one of several vintage lighthouses on the islands that are available for touring. Credit: Jeff Orenstein, Simply Smart Travel www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // January 2021

Smart Travel / from page 33

The Wright Brothers National Memorial near Kitty Hawk has beautiful statuary depicting the first flight and an informative museum detailing the life and times of the famous brothers. Credit: Jeff Orenstein, Simply Smart Travel

Ginny Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tips For Dressing The Simply Smart Travel Way For The Outer Banks: Bring clothes to enjoy long walks and the beaches. The area is quite casual and focus on life around the sea so neat casual dress is accepted almost everywhere. Be sure to dress for the seasons. Over 50 Advantage: The combination of beach and sea and bountiful amenities like restaurants and shopping are madeto-order for retirees and seniors desiring a laid-back getaway.

Here are some of the gorgeous Wild Spanish Mustangs that have inhabited the Outer Banks since colonial times. Credit: Jeff Orenstein, Simply Smart Travel

Mobility Level: Low. The islands are flat, although there are stairs to most beaches across the dunes and at the Wright Memorial. When To Go: Year round. Summers are most crowded but the fall season (especially before Thanksgiving) is a great time to go since most places are still open, the weather remains temperate and the crowds are light. Where To Stay: Rent an vacation home with a view or stay at an upscale hotel like the Sanderling Resort. Jeffrey Orenstein, Ph.D. and Virginia Orenstein are husband and wife travel writers from Sarasota, Florida. Reach them at jorenstein@ SimplySmartTravel.com.

January 2021 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com