r
Capsules: Kaiser Health News
Nevada Prepares For 'Biggest Open-Enrollment Season We've Ever Seen' By Phil Galewitz and Jay Hancock KHN Staff Writers At the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange in Carson City, workers have been counting down the days until Oct. 1 on an office corkboard, the deadline for opening the online marketplaces that are a linchpin of the federal health law known as Obamacare. "We certainly will need every one of the days that we have left," said Jon Hager, executive director of the Nevada exchange. "But I am confident we will be ready to go." Nevada is one of 15 states racing to launch their own marketplaces where consumers can compare plans’ prices and benefits, and find out if they are eligible for a federal subsidy or Medicaid. The other states are relying on the federal government. Those marketplaces, also called exchanges, are key to expanding insurance coverage to an estimated 25 million Americans over the next decade. 'The next days are the sprint to the biggest openenrollment season we’ve ever seen in this country," said Ceci Connolly, managing director of PricewaterhouseCoopers' Health Research Institute. "We know that this will be a real crunch period." Opening the marketplaces on time represents the Obama administra-
tion’s biggest opportunity to fulfill the law’s promise to extend coverage to uninsured Americans, including those who have been denied coverage in the past because of health conditions. Since the Supreme Court upheld the law last June, though, officials have had to overcome many hurdles, from states’ reluctance to participate, to critics’ predictions of unaffordable coverage, to unexpectedly tight money. A quirk in the law gave generous funding for consumer outreach in states with their own marketplaces, but little for states with a federal exchange. That could be a problem since polls show that most Americans know little about how the law affects them. There are also technical challenges: Obamacare supporters like to compare shopping on the exchanges to buying an airplane ticket on Travelocity or Expedia, but building the back-end system is far more complicated, requiring computers at state and federal agencies to be able to talk to one another in real time to verify an individual’s income and citizenship status, and determine eligibility for federal subsidies or Medicaid, the state-federal insurance program for the poor. That (Health Care page 4)
July 2013 This Issue
page 3 - Open Enrollment Season
page 4 - Medicare Urges Seniors to Join the Fight Against Fraud page 5 - Opinion: U.S. Sen. Reid: Honoring Janice’s Legacy page 16 - $2.3 Million to Expand Health Care Access page 20 - Washoe County Visiting Nurse Program to Close page 20 - Welfare and Supportive Services Relocates Offices page 22 - Change in RTC Transit Fares in July page 22 - Nevada Backlog in Vets Disability Claims Reduced
Every Issue
page 18 - Calendar page 23 - Eclectic Observer
page 24 - Biggest Little City page 26 - this ‘n that page 27 - Crossword page 29 - Community Resources page 31 - Eydie Scher - Excerpts page 32 - Seniors 4 Travel
Health
page 10 - Dr. Marion: Caregiving page 11 - CMS: Inpatient or Outpatient? It Makes a Difference
page 12 - Men and Healthy Aging Dr. Lawrence J. Weiss, Ph.D. Center for Healthy Aging page 16 - Ophthalmology: Dr. Michael Fischer, M.D.
Financial
page 7 - Fair Not Always Equal - Bradley B. Anderson Anderson, Dorn, Rader
Senior Spectrum Newspaper P.O. Box 7124 • Reno, NV 89510 (775) 348-0717 e-mai l : S eni orspectrumnv@aol . com S eni orspectrumnewspaper. com Publishers: Chris & Connie McMullen
Senior Spectrum is a monthly publication dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain. Publication of advertising contained does not constitute endorsement. Signed columns are the opinion of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publishers. Copyrighted publication. All rights reserved.
July • 2013 • 3
Medicare urges seniors to join the fight against fraud New health care summaries help seniors identify improper payments
In mailboxes across the country, people with Medicare will soon see a redesigned Medicare Summary Notice, a statement of their claims for services and benefits that will help them better spot potential fraud, waste and abuse. Since the federal government has identified fraud as a top priority, the number of suspect providers and suppliers thrown out of the Medicare program has more than doubled in 35 states. “The new Medicare Summary Notice gives seniors and people with disabilities accurate information on the services they receive in a simpler, clearer way,” said
4 • 2013 • July
CMS Administrator Marilyn Tavenner. “It’s an important tool for staying informed on benefits, and for spotting potential Medicare fraud by making the claims history easier to review.” Beneficiaries in Nevada will begin receiving the new Medicare Summary Notice this month. The redesigned notice will make it easier for people with Medicare to understand their benefits, file an appeal if a claim is denied, and spot claims for services they never received. CMS will send the notices to Medicare beneficiaries on a quarterly basis. “A beneficiary’s best defense against fraud is to
check their CMS has revoked 14,663 Medicare providers and suppliers’ ability Summary to bill in the Medicare program Notices for since March 2011. These accuracy and to providers were removed from diligently prothe program because they had tect their health felony convictions, were not information for privacy,” said operational at the address CMS Peter Budetti, had on file, or were not in comCMS deputy pliance with CMS rules. administrator for program partners in the fight against integrity. “Most Medicare fraud. In April of this year, providers are honest and CMS announced a proposed work hard to provide servicrule that would increase es to beneficiaries. rewards — up to $9.9 million Unfortunately, there are – paid to Medicare beneficisome people trying to exploit aries and others whose tips the Medicare system.” about suspected fraud lead to Medicare beneficiaries the successful recovery of and caregivers are critical funds.
Opinion
U.S. Senator Harry Reid
Honor ing Janice’s L e gac y
Janice Ayers wore many hats, including USC Alumnus, Carson City Sen. Harry Reid Supervisor, Director of numerous nonprofits, and so many more. Her work in fighting for Nevada’s senior community will be evident for years to come. Janice passed away last month after a battle with cancer; I was so sad to hear of her passing. She was such an inspiration to us all. She told it like she saw it, she respected others, and was deserving of respect. She questioned wrong, and pushed what she thought
was right. Janice was no stranger to putting up a fight. She has been fighting for others for what seems to be her whole life -- at least as long as I have known this wonderful woman. I recall her being known as “the backbone and driving force behind efforts to improve the lives of Nevada’s senior citizens,” in a Reno GazetteJournal article a few years back. This is certainly the truth as she has worked to improve the lives of those in their golden years for decades. Janice was an advocate and a champion for seniors and all needy citizens in the State of Nevada. Her exemplary work, providing
RSVP programs of assistance in rural Nevada for more than 35 years, has made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of individuals, and continues to do so today. She was one of the founders, as well as, the first president, of the Nevada Senior Corps Association -- one of her many efforts to benefit seniors in Nevada. In 2008 I was delighted to award Janice with a commendation certificate for her outstanding 30 years of service to Nevada seniors, and in 2010 she received the prestigious ‘Living the legacy’ award from the Sanford Center for Aging – University of Nevada Reno. The award has only been
presented 5 times in the 17 years of its existence. In 2011 she received a proclamation from the 76th Session of the Nevada State Legislature for her many years of service to the seniors of Nevada to improve their quality of life. She will be missed by so many and through keeping her in our hearts and promoting her visions, her legacy will continue. Janice Ayres raised one son. She is survived by a grandson, his wife, two grandson’s and a neice. Write to Sen. Harry Reid at the Bruce R. Thompson Federal Bldg., 400 S. Virginia Street, Suite 902, Reno, NV 89501.
July • 2013 • 5
Health Care / page 3
system also needs to connect with the computers run by insurance companies. The biggest questions, though, revolve around who will show up and whether they will be able to afford coverage that takes effect Jan. 1 -- especially the young and healthy, who will need to buy insurance in significant numbers to balance the costs of insuring the sick, who can no longer be turned away. The law requires most Americans to carry insur-
ance in 2014, but some fear that the first-year penalties of $95, or 1 percent of income, won't be a strong enough inducement. If mostly older, sicker people show up, insurers will pass on their health care costs in higher premiums that will make coverage for all individuals less affordable over time. Political Backdrop All of these challenges are occurring in a politically charged environment in
which both parties are already spinning developments to buttress their positions on the law. While the law's effectiveness won't truly be known for several years, underwhelming enrollment and high premiums could turn public opinion against Democrats before next year's elections. When government auditors released a report last week, for instance, saying the Obama administration faced challenges to open the feder-
ally run exchanges in time, Republicans pounced. President Barack Obama insists the exchanges will open on time and coverage will be affordable, although he acknowledges there will be bumps along the way, as there would be for any new program. The administration also relaunched healthcare.gov, the web portal for the federally run exchanges, and opened a 24-hour-a-day call center to help consumers prepare for open enrollment by calling a toll-free number at 1-800-318-2596. Short on money and worried about starting outreach during the summer vacation period, the administration won't launch its major public campaign until at least midSeptember. Several states running their own exchanges have recently begun airing television commercials about the new options that will be available Oct. 1, for coverage that begins in January. Open enrollment runs through March. Nevada's To Do List Nevada's Hager said the state will not start its publicity push until Oct. 7 so the exchange has time to work out any problems before too many consumers rush in. In the next three months, it must certify health plans, test computer systems and begin an outreach effort that will include television and radio ads and knocking on doors. The exchange, which will use Nevadahealthlink.com in its marketing, hopes to enroll 118,000 people in first year, Hager said.
6 • 2013 • July
Fair Does Not Always Mean Equal
Brought to you by Bradley B. Anderson Anderson, Dorn, & Rader, Ltd.
“It’s not fair!” Parents hear this protest all the time, and it often comes from children who confuse being treated fairly with being treated equally. One of the challenges of parenting is figuring out how to be fair to your children when, often, that doesn’t mean treating them exactly the same. Here’s an example: Andy is ten-years-old and Emma is sixteen. Emma has her driver’s license and a part-time job. If you wanted to treat the two equally, you could insist that Emma ride the bus home from school, eat dinner with the family every night, and be in bed by 9 p.m. just like her brother. This arrangement would be equal, but it would hardly be fair to
The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys www.probatebusters.com • blog.wealth-counselors.com
Emma. She’s older, she has more responsibilities, and she’s ready for more privileges. The fair vs. equal dilemma doesn’t end when your children leave the nest. In fact, it often extends into your estate plan. It’s easy to feel that you must divide your assets equally among your children. In reality, though, this isn’t always the best plan for your family. The real question is how to accommodate your children’s unique needs so that your estate plan strikes a fair balance. Imagine you have three children, Tom, Adam, and Amy. Each of your children has a thriving career. Tom is an IT specialist, Amy is a doctor, and Adam has helped you build the family business into the success it is today. In fact, your
family business is so successful that it makes up much of your net worth. This leads to a dilemma: how do you divide your estate? It makes sense to leave your family business to Adam. He has a passion for it, and he’s poured his life into it for years. The problem is, doing so would mean that Adam would inherit most of your estate – a result that is neither fair nor equal. Another option would be to leave each of your children an equal interest in your business. However, this solution would likely be neither fair nor practical. Tom and Amy have their own careers, with little interest in the day-to-day running of the family business. Entangling them in its operations would not only be (Estate Plan page 8)
July • 2013 • 7
Estate Plan / page 7
a cause of pressure for them, it might turn into a source of conflict, ultimately harming your children and the business. The solution might be to leave the business to Adam, and buy a life insurance policy on yourself to benefit Tom and Amy. The life insurance policy would increase your net worth in an amount sufficient to fund Tom’s and Amy’s inheritances and ensure your children are treated fairly, meeting their individual needs. This is only one of a range of possible solutions. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you sort through all your estate planning options and settle on the plan that best meets your family’s needs so you’ll never again have to hear, “It’s
not fair!” The Law Firm of Anderson, Dorn & Rader, Ltd. is devoted exclusively to estate planning. We are members of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys and offer guidance and advice to our clients in every area of estate planning. We offer comprehensive and personalized estate planning consultations. For more information or to attend an upcoming seminar, please contact us at (775) 823-9455 or visit us online at www.wealth-counselors.com. This article is written by the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys. The articles are intended as an overview of basic estate planning topics and issues, and not legal advice.
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8 • 2013 • July
July • 2013 • 9
Ask Dr. Marion
Dr. Marion Somers. Ph.D.
Remotivation Therapy
My 78-year-old father has been in a rut for years. He doesn’t have any serious health problems, but he just seems upset about getting old. What can I do to help him? Keith, 49, in Alabama.
I often use remotivation therapy when Dr. Marion Somers an elderly person seems to have lost his zest for life. This can be caused by depression brought on by illness or like your father, just by enduring the aging process. Life is certainly not like it used to be for him. I try to make my clients focus on all that they have, who they used to be, and all that they accomplished in life. I try to bring my client’s former self
to the forefront so he can draw on some former strengths and move forward. If someone was a seamstress, I might bring in sewing shears and a wooden darning sock so she can feel comfortable again. If she loved to cook a specific dish, we’ll cook it together. I always like to bake cookies in the oven. The smells often bring back great memories. Remotivation therapy is all about bringing a significant positive part of the past to the present. Positive events that are ingrained in a person’s long-term memory
can cause a “glow” effect if brought to the here and now. It’s also helpful to consider your dad’s reality from his point of view. Sitting down and discussing past times can trigger positive memories that might put him in a better frame of mind. This approach causes most of my clients to become more content, engaged, and motivated to make the best of things moving forward. If you help your father reach a happier place, he will increase his overall quality of life, and you’ll gain great satisfaction knowing you were a
part of his transformation. Dr. Marion (Marion Somers, Ph.D.) is the author of "Elder Care Made Easier" and has over 40 years of experience as a geriatric care manager, caregiver, speaker, and expert in all things elder care. She offers practical tools, solutions, and advice to help caregivers everywhere through her book, website, iPhone apps (Elder 411/911), cross-country speaking tours, and more. Visit www.DrMarion.com for more information.
Visit our website for a variety of gifts & memorials to honor your loved ones.
775.323.7189 www.waltonsfuneralhomes.com/sympathy_store 10 • 2013 • July
Inpatient or Outpatient? It Makes a Difference with Medicare David Sayen, Regional Administrator, Medicare Region 9
When you go to a hospital, does it make any difference if you’re considDavid Sayen ered an “inpatient” or an “outpatient”? Yes, it does. Your hospital status (whether the hospital classifies you as an inpatient or outpatient) affects how much you pay for hospital services like Xrays, drugs, and lab tests. It also may affect whether Medicare will cover care you get in a skilled nursing facility. You’re an inpatient starting the day you’re formally admitted to the hospital with a doctor’s order. The day before you’re discharged is your last inpatient day. You’re an outpatient if you’re getting emergency department services, observation services, outpatient surgery, lab tests, or X-rays, and the doctor hasn’t written an order to admit you to the hospital as an inpatient. In these cases, you’re an outpatient even if you spend the night at the hospital. (Observation services are tests and other outpatient services that help the doctor decide if you need to be admitted as an inpatient or can be discharged. Observation services may be given in the emergency department or another area of the hospital.) If you’re in the hospital more than a few hours, always ask your doctor or the hospital staff if you’re an inpatient or an outpatient.
What do you pay as an inpatient? Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient services including semi-private room, nursing care, drugs, and meals. Generally, you pay a one-time deductible for all hospital services for the first 60 days you’re in the hospital. The Part A deductible this year is $1,184. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers most doctor services when you’re an inpatient. You pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount for doctor services after paying the Part B deductible ($147 in 2013). What do you pay as an outpatient? Part B also covers outpatient hospital services. Generally, this means you pay a copayment for each individual outpatient service. The amount may vary by service. The copayment for a single outpatient hospital service can’t be more than the inpatient hospital deductible. However, your total copayment for all outpatient services may be more than the inpatient hospital deductible. Part B covers most of your doctor services when you’re a hospital outpatient. You pay 20 percent of the Medicareapproved amount after you pay the Part B deductible. Generally, the prescription and over-the-counter drugs you get in an outpatient setting (like an emergency department), sometimes called “self-administered (Medicare page 14)
July • 2013 • 11
Adding Life to Years
Men and Healthy Aging Dr. Larry Weiss Center for Healthy Aging
Building on my May Senior Spectrum article, Unleash the Power of Age, I want to focus on “men’s” healthy aging. Most of what you read about, and hear and see in the media is about women. I think it is time to focus on men. Men have fears about aging which are different than women. Men fear impotence, weakness and loss of function, retirement and irrelevance, losing the ability to drive/independence, and loss of one’s mind. Fear and anxiety can be fought with knowledge, planning, and better health habits. Men need to pay more Larry Weiss
12 • 2013 • July
attention to their health. In fact, compared to women, men are more likely to smoke and drink more, make unhealthy or risky choices, and to not have regular checkups, medical care and treatment. Let me give you a simple personal example of how men behave. Several years ago I was skiing and accidentally hit a tree trying to avoid another skier. They sled me off the hill and to urgent care. After 4 ½ hours (that is another story) they wanted to take X-rays but my insurance did not cover it at that facility. So instead of going to another facility for the X-rays, I went home thinking I
had a bad sprain in my leg – I’d just ice it, kept it up, and take care of it. It took me two weeks to get into the orthopedic doc to find out I had fractured my tibia. Not an uncommon story for men, and I am a man! Addressing healthy or preventive measures is very difficult for men, but it is never too late and it is not rocket science. Two simple actions you can take to be healthy as you age are to eat healthy and be active. If you have a healthy diet and have regular exercise, you can lower your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and your weight. When you eat healthy and have regular physi-
cal activity you will lower your risk of serious health illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease. Do you know what it takes to stay healthy? Let me share with you 10 questions on men’s health: (Healthy Men. December 2012. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Rockville, MD.) 1. At what age should you begin having your cholesterol checked regularly? 2. How often should you have your blood pressure checked? 3. At what age should you start being screened for colorectal cancer? (Men’s Health page 13)
Years to Life / page 12
4. If you have high blood pressure or cholesterol, what other disease should you be screened for? 5. The most important things you can do to stay healthy are? 6. Signs of depression include? 7. Body mass index, which is a measure of body fat based on height and weight, is used to screen for which condition? 8. If you are a man between the ages of 65 and 75 and have ever smoked more than 100 cigarettes, which condition should you be screened for? 9. Which vaccine should you have after turning 65? 10. How many minutes of moderate physical activity—at a minimum—should you aim for most days of the week? For detailed answers go to http://healthfinder.gov/ but here are the quick answers: (1) 35; (2) Every 2 yrs.; (3) 50; (4) Diabetes; (5) Exercise, eat a healthy diet, drink alcohol only in moderation, and stay at a healthy weight, avoid tobacco, get recommended screening tests and take preventive medi-
looking for a
cines if you need them; (6) Feeling "down," sad, or hopeless for 2 weeks and having little interest in or taking no pleasure from doing things you normally like to do; (7) Obesity; (8) Abdominal aortic aneurysm; (9) Pneumonia; (10) 30. Hopefully you take action to change your lifestyle after realizing that there are simple steps to take charge of your health. It is never too late. In addition to knowing what to do to create health and to have a plan of attack, we all need to talk about it. Talk to your family members to find out which diseases run in your family and share this information with your doctor. Start by making small changes every day. Small changes can add up to big results, like lowering your risk of diabetes or heart disease. Some small changes that you make in your diet is to order green salad instead of fries, drink water instead of soda, and do not use table salt or just limit the amount of salt. With respect to exercise, start walking with a friend, play and be active in something you like to
big
do such as a sport. The key is to be active and have fun. In addition to a healthy diet, play and activity, we need to have the proper medical screenings that check for diseases early, when the diseases may be easier to treat. For example, as was presented in the quiz above, men need to have their blood pressure and cholesterol checked. If you are over 50, you need to test for colorectal cancer and for prostate cancer. If you have smoked, you need to talk to your doctor about an abdominal aortic aneurysm exam. In addition, if you are feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed for more than two weeks, have your doctor screen for depression…it is treatable. Drink in moderation and quit smoking, it is a killer.
night out?
Men, acknowledge you are aging, accept and embrace your age, and know that you can take small steps that really empower you and “add life to years”. 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 larry@addinglifetoyears.com or c/o Center for Healthy Aging, 11 Fillmore Way, Reno, NV 89519.
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Medicare / page 11
drugs,” aren’t covered by Part B. For safety reasons, many hospitals don’t allow patients to bring drugs from home. If you have Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D), these drugs may be covered under certain circumstances. You likely will need to pay out-of-pocket for these drugs and submit a claim to your drug plan for a refund. Call your plan for more information. Also, keep in mind that
14 • 2013 • July
Medicare will only cover care you get in a skilled nursing facility if you’ve been a hospital inpatient for at least 3 days in a row (counting the day you were admitted as an inpatient but not counting the day you were discharged). If you weren’t an inpatient for 3 days but you still need care after your discharge, ask if you can get home health care or if other programs like Medicaid or veterans benefits will cover skilled nursing
for you. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), costs and coverage may be different. Check with your plan. For more detailed information on how Medicare covers inpatient and outpatient hospital services, read Medicare’s brochure, “Are You a Hospital Inpatient or Outpatient?” You can find it online at www.medicare.gov/pubs/pdf /11435.pdf.
David Sayen is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Territories. You can always get answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1800-633-4227).
Early Detection Saves Lives Detect your risk of heart disease and stroke by scheduling a $99 comprehensive vascular screening. Call 982-8100 for an appointment or visit renown.org/screenings.
July • 2013 • 15
Ophthalmology
Eyelid Lift May Lead to Dry Eye Michael J. Fischer, M.D. Eye Physician & Surgeon
While an eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) is a plastic surMichael Fischer gery procedure well known for its ability to rejuvenate the upper face by reducing sagging eyebrows, it may also lead to a lesser-known complication. According to an examination of the medical records of nearly 900 eyelid-lift patients over a ten-year period, more than one-quarter of the patients reported dry eye symptoms. Although this isn’t a complication that should alarm plastic surgery patients (dry eye is very manageable with eye drops or ointments), patients should be made aware of this possible side effect, which is
more common among those having both their upper and lower lids done. Pre-surgery tear analysis can help identify those who might have the most trouble with dry eye. It should be noted women going through menopause or starting birth control pills, and people who have had difficulty with contact lenses in the past, are most at risk for post-surgical dry eye. If you would like further information on today’s topic or an appointment, please call my office at (775)8822988. We are conveniently located at 3839 N. Carson Street. Hours are 8-5 p.m., Monday through Friday by appointment. M/C, Visa, and Medicare Assignment are accepted.
$2.3 Million To Expand Health Access Washington, D.C.- Nevada Senator Harry Reid has announced a $2.3 million grant for Health Access Washoe County to increase health care for underserved Nevadans. The grant, from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is part of the Health Center Cluster-Service Area Competition. “I am pleased that Health Access Washoe County will 16 • 2013 • July
have new resources to expand services for Northern Nevadans seeking high quality health care,” said Reid. “This will help ensure that Nevadans access affordable care, regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic status.” The funding will provide federal financial assistance to support comprehensive primary care for an underserved area or population.
July • 2013 • 17
Calendar July 7 - Carson City Symphony, Movies & More, Artown Concert, Sunday, 5 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church. Features organ soloist Michael Langham, bassoon soloist Eric Fassbender and soloist Jakki Ford. $10, or online at CCSymphony.com. July 8 - 12 - iCan Bike Camp to Reno! Program teaches children,
teens and adults with disabilities to ride two-wheeled bikes. Over 5 days, in 75 minute sessions each day, riders are physically assisted and encouraged by two volunteers as they progress from adapted bikes to a standard bike. Visit: www.dsnnn. org/Pages/iCanBikeCamp.aspx. July 10 - Lazy 5 Concerts, Lazy
5 Regional Park, 7100 Pyramid Highway in Spanish Springs, daily Admission $3.00, and free for those under 3 or over 61, 10-5 p.m., open weekends. Call (775) 823-6500 for more information. Line-up: July 10: Classic Rock with Paisley Braincells; July 17: Western Ragtime by CW & Mr. Spoons; July 24: Blues and R&B with Guitar Woody & The Boilers; July 31: Bluegrass, Folk, & Cowboy & Mountain Girls; August 7: Alternative Country by The Refiners, August 14: Americana, Blues & Boogie, Colin Ross Band. July 11 - Open House and Art Sale, 4:30-7 p.m. In honor of Artown, American Lung Association, featuring artist Annie Hall and Guitarist Pat Ragains. For more information call (775) 829-5864. July 12 - Art Afternoon:
Cami Thompson - Jazz & Beyond, Aug 2
Workshop & Social for Seniors, Nevada Museum of Art, 1-3 p.m., docent-guided tour and studio art class. Refreshments, $7/$6 museum members. July 13 - University of Nevada School of Medicine, free Student Outreach Clinic, general clinic, 8-3 p.m., Reno campus north of Mackay Stadium. July 16 - 21 - American Century Celebrity Golf Championship, 80 sports and entertainment celebrities including Michael Phelps, and Charles Barkley, Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, 7 a.m., Tues.-Thu., player list and information at www.TahoeCelebrityGolf.com. July 20 - FORAGE: A Multi-stop Art/Bike Tour of Reno, Saturday, 4:30–10 p.m., multi-stop interactive bike tour of Reno hot spots hosted with the Holland Project and the Reno Bike Project. FREE. July 20 - Dave Koz, John Ascuaga’s Nugget, world renown saxophonist. Tickets start at $69 and can be purchased online at JANugget.com or at the box office at John Ascuaga’s Nugget. July 20 - Caregiver Workshop, Caring for the Caregiver, 9-11 a.m., Tamarack Junction, contact (702) 938-3237.
18 • 2013 • July
July 21 - Sunday Music Brunch with No Comprende, Nevada
Museum of Art, 11–1 p.m., a la carte menu from $3. Presented in partnership with KUNR Radio. July 24 - Ageless Repertory, the Trip to Bountiful by Horton Foote Tuesday, July 23 and Friday July 26 at 1 p.m., also Thursday, July 25 at 7 p.m. July 25 - Health Education Workshop: Are You Wearing Someone Else’s Shoes? Orthopedic surgeon Rowlin L. Lichter, M.D., 1 p.m., Neil Rd. Recreation Center, call (775) 689-8484. July 25 - Renowned Latin percussionist Pete Escovedo, 7:30-
9:30 p.m., Bartley Ranch alongside his Emmy-nominated daughter Sheila E., Latin rhythms under the stars, $25$35, Hawkins Amphitheater.
Thompson. Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 at the door. Tickets for Jazz & Beyond concerts are available online at JazzCarsonCity.com, Play Your Own Music and the Purple Avocado. Over 50 bands. For details and a schedule of events, see JazzCarsonCity.com or call Mile High Jazz Band at (775) 883-4154.
5:30-8 p.m. Tickets: Society members $45; $50 non-members; $60 night of the party,
mayabroretumsociety@gmail. com, (775) 785-4153, or www.mayabroeretumsociety.org.
August - 3 - Hot August Nights, MontBleu Casino Resort & Spa, South Lake Tahoe. August 6 - 11 - Hot August Nights, kick off in South Tahoe , Friday, Aug. 2 and Saturday, Aug. 3; then take over Reno/Sparks Tuesday, Aug. 6 thru Sunday, Aug. 11. Visit www.hotaugustnights.net for the schedule of events. August 17 - May Arboretum Society Fundraiser, May Arboretum Endowment Fund. Party in the Garden, music: CeCe Gable. Food: Hi Point Cafe & Franz's Backstube, beer & wine Silver Peak and Whispering Vines,
July 26 - The Architecture of William L. Pereira, Friday, 6–8 p.m., Nevada Museum of Art. Live music by The World’s Most Dangerous PARTY Band. Cash bar. July 31 - Famed guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Shuggie Otis closes 18th annual Artown Festival, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m., admission free, Wingfield Park, call for information at (775) 3221538. August 2 - 18 - Jazz & Beyond, "Garden Party at the Mansion," ticketed event, Governor's Mansion, 5:30 p.m. Admission features music by vocalist Cami
July • 2013 • 19
Washoe County’s Visiting Nurse Program to Close Washoe County Senior Services Visiting Nurse Program is being closed due to state and federal budget cuts. Notices have been sent to all clients and their pharmacists, physicians, case managers and home health agencies. Washoe County Senior Services staff have plans in place to contact every homebound or high risk client in person by June 30 to explain the cutbacks and assist them with options. A department case manager will stay in touch after the program’s closing because some clients will need long-term Medicaid services. Should they decline assistance, they will be referred to Elder
20 • 2013 • July
Protective Services. “This is a critical program, and it needs to be restored,” said Director of Senior Services Grady Tarbutton. Tarbutton added longterm care averages over $80,000 per year, per person in Nevada, but the Visiting Nurse Program costs are half of that at approximately $40,000 per year. Senior Services is seeking partnerships and other grant funds to find a way to continue the program. There are 9 clients that will need long-term care (Medicaid) services without visiting nurse assistance.
Welfare and Supportive Services Relocates to New Offices The Division of Welfare and Supportive Services will open two new centrally located offices to better meet the needs of Washoe County residents. There will be no interruption of public assistance services as a result of the move on Monday, July 1. Both office locations have the capability to provide full service for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP formerly known as Food Stamps), and Medicaid. Case managers at either site are able to work on existing and new client cases. The new offices will provide a better-quality experi-
ence for our clients. In addition, the new locations are on major bus routes making them much easier to access by public transportation. Clients and applicants are encouraged to choose the office which is most convenient for them. The new Reno District Office is located behind the Reno Town Mall on S. Virginia. The address is: 4095 S. Virginia St Reno, Nevada, 89502. The new Sparks District Office is located in the Greenbrae Center, in the space previously occupied by the Sparks Justice Court. The address is: 630 Greenbrae Drive Sparks, Nevada, 89431.
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A Change in RTC Transit Fares in July The Regional Transportation Commission, Board of Commissioners have approved new transit fares for transit services
effective July 1st. The RTC has reduced the fare for prepaid bus passes by about 7 percent. Many people rely on transit and use it every day. Buying bus passes is the most economical way for transit riders to save money and take advantage of discounts by purchasing a multi-ride pass versus a single-ride fare. Other new fares that go into effect on July 1st
include a reduced price for the paratransit RTC ACCESS on RTC RIDE 10-Ride Pass from $5 to $4. RTC SIERRA SPIRIT will have a regular fare of 25cents and a reduced fare of 10-cents for seniors (born before January 1, 1950), youth 6-18 years of age and disabled riders. Reduced fares require ID when boarding. New fare pricing for RTC INTERCITY, the commuter bus service between Reno/Sparks and Carson City, will begin August 11, 2013. For example, the new single-ride fare will increase from $4 to $5. Information for other RTC INTERCITY fare adjustments is available
at rtcwashoe.com. Bus passes can be purchased online at rtcwashoe.com, Pass Vending Machines located at RTC transit centers located in downtown Reno and Victorian Square or at various pass outlet retailers throughout the community. Passes can also be purchased by mail. For complete details about RTC transit fares, eligibility for reduced fares, selection of pre-purchased bus passes and pass outlet locations visit www.rtcwashoe.com or call RTC Passenger Services at 348-RIDE.
Nevada Backlog in Veterans Disability Claims Reduced
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A backlog in Nevada’s claims for veterans disability benefits in the Department of Veterans Affairs has been reduced following a two-year initiative. Nevada Senator Harry Reid said 785 veterans under the Reno RO’s jurisdiction were provided decisions on their claims. As of June, 49 of the two-year-old claims remain pending. The VA has completed a record-breaking 1 million claims per year the last three fiscal years. But too many veterans have had to wait too long to get the benefits they’ve earned and deserve. “That being said, there is still more work to do. I remain committed to ensuring the VA is properly funded.”
ECLECTIC OBSERVER by Janet Ross
The dog days of summer can be the perfect time to immerse oneself in an absorbing book. Many of my favorite authors are from the United Kingdom, primarily England and Scotland, though I won’t deny any from Wales or Northern Ireland. Fans of BBC’s Downton Abbey should love the latest book from Fay Weldon. Weldon was the writer for the first episode of the Up Stairs-Down Stairs television series, and Britain’s classconscious society is reflected in Habits of the House, the tale of a titled family with a townhouse on London’s Belgrave Square. The time is 1899, there’s financial ruin
on the way and an American heiress may be the answer to this weighty problem. Not that things are any more comfortable in the servants’ quarters; dissension and worry rein there as well. This book is intended as the first in a trilogy; it’s a fast, entertaining read. (Weldon’s primary focus for her novels in past years has been contemporary feminist fiction, often qualifying as wicked satire.) Standing in Another Man’s Grave by prolific Scots crime writer, Ian Ranking, brings back a favorite character of 25-years standing, Detective Inspector Rebus. Retired from the police force in Edinburgh, Rebus returns
as a civilian to a cold case unit. His prickly character continues to rankle those in authority, but his results are impressive. If you’ve never read Rankin and aren’t familiar with Rebus, do try an early book from the series. (Warning - Rankin is habit forming and Rebus is one of those characters you want to be around forever.) Barry Maitland has a series of Kathy and Brock mysteries. His intrepid detectives are Brits based in London. Chalon Heads revolves around the kidnaping of the wife of a wealthy philatelist, thus the reference to Chalon Heads (Queen Victoria on early stamps). This is an enjoyable and informative read, especially for those curious about the world of stamp collecting. Capital by John
Lanchester, is set in today’s London and involves the wealthy residents of Pepys Road, who find threatening messages upsetting their normal routines. The financial crisis of 2008 and investment bankers play a prominent role in this convoluted, compelling story. Kate Atkinson is one of my favorite authors. She, too, has a series with continuing characters, but her latest book Life After Life is a fascinating departure from past novels. Urusula Todd is born in 1910 and dies ... and survives. The mesmerizing tale follows Urusula’s life as it might have, or might not have been. (Atkinson’s series begins with Case Histories and features a cast of unusual characters living unusual lives. The series also became (Eclectic page 28)
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BIGGEST
More Reno Air Races
little City by Harry Spencer
Last month we mentioned the harrowing trip to Sacramento with Bill Stead at the controls of the airplane. The next time I saw Stead he appeared in my office and seemed to be agitated because he could only muster up seven planes to compete in the proposed Air Races. He mentioned that it would be good if we could get some sort of a flying exhibition team to show up. I asked him what teams were performing at that time and he said the Air National Guard’s team was probably the best. When I inquired who would be in charge of such a group, he said that we would probably have to get some person in Washington D.C. I noted that Nevada’s Senator
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Howard Cannon had been a client of mine in 1958 and that he was up for re-election in ‘64. I also remembered that Cannon was an active Air Corps Reservist who used to fly up from Las Vegas to do his Reno TV commercials when he ran the first time. I told Stead I would give him a call and see if he could do us a favor by getting the demo team to appear at the races. Stead’s mood improved immediately when I placed the call to the Senator. Reaching Cannon and apprising him of the situation, he said he would see would he could do and would return my call. Less than two hours later I received a call back from the Senator, and he said he had managed to get a commitment for the team to appear at the
—Part Two
Air Races. When I called Stead to inform him that we had secured a demo team, he was ecstatic. He also informed me that when he had talked to Roy Powers at Harold’s Club, Powers said he had managed to convince the Smith family ownership to sponsor a transcontinental race from Florida to Reno to further publicize the upcoming Reno event. Several days later I got a call from Stead. He said that he had finagled an appearance by several hot air balloonists to flesh out what he thought would be a full program. This may very well have been the seed that has blossomed into the Great Reno Balloon Race that we now enjoy annually. My next mission was to secure rooms at the Mapes Hotel for the demo team. To my surprise when they showed up at the hotel several days prior to the races, they were led by one Ed Mack Miller. Miller had been my contemporary when I was editor of the Nevada Register which was printed in Denver which was Ed’s bailiwick. The way we used to produce the Register was to accumulate the news stories and photos along with the front page layout and then mail it to Denver on Monday of each week. The Register press used to grind out some 30 newspapers at their huge Denver facility and then add a national-
international section to all of the publications. Fortunately Miller was in charge of the Nevada edition so we used to communicate on a regular basis. Adding to my surprise at Miller’s appearance was learning that he was in charge of the demo team and acted as their announcer and alternate pilot if one of the regular team was incapacitated. I said that I didn’t realize that he had a moonlight aviation career. He replied that his real moonlight job was to train pilots for United Airlines at the Denver airport. The only other sponsor for the initial Air Races in addition to the Mapes and Harold’s Club was the Sparks Nugget. When race day rolled around I was surprised to see that several of the competing pilots, including Stead, had been hydroplane drivers in the races that Mapes had staged in Lake Tahoe and at Pyramid Lake. Winner of the first Reno Air Races was a pilot named Mira Slovak who had escaped from behind the Iron Curtain. The initial Air Races created a tremendous amount of publicity for The Biggest Little City, with much of the national attention being driven by Harold’s transcontinental race which was handled by Roy Powers. The task of generating local and regional publicity fell to me, and we collected reams of newspaper clippings about the event. The continuation and expansion of the Reno Air Races would probably never have been possible without the relocation to the Stead Air Base since the original site was a dusty small airstrip on the Pyramid Highway.
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this ‘n that
by Anne Vargas annevargas3@gmail.com
My calendar is full but I’m not lunching with the ladies or dancing ‘til Anne Vargas dawn. My datebook is packed with engagements with all the new men in my life, most of whom have M.D. after their name. I’m still not sure how it happened but I woke up one day and discovered I was old. Maybe the number of candles on the birthday cake should have been a clue, or the offers of assistance in public
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Busy, busy … places, (“would you care for some help carrying that quart of milk?”) or the escalating use of the word ma’am but I didn’t feel old. And I rather liked having someone help me get the luggage into the overhead compartment on the plane. My wonderful magic mirror (“mirror, mirror on the wall…”) always assured me my hair was really a stunning silver instead of grey, thoughtfully directed my eyesight so that no wrinkles were ever visible and allowed me to see myself as I felt myself to be, youthful and energetic,
ready to climb a mountain—if I were so inclined.
I wasn’t inclined to do that (ever) so I didn’t climb any mountains but I did climb some stone steps while we were in Europe recently. It seemed entirely pleasant at the time, wandering around the palace grounds in Monaco, wondering whether any royalty might pop out to say hello, but the next morning there was intense pain in my knee. My “good” knee,
not the one already filled with metal. I quickly realized that any further walking was out of the question so I just spent the next few weeks luxuriating in shipboard life, lounging around and eating sumptuous food. Frequently. When I got home my magic mirror was no longer magic. And it certainly wasn’t friendly. Instead of the reflection of youthful, energetic “me”, I saw a distressingly chubby (this ‘n that page 30)
Answers page 28
July • 2013 • 27
Eclectic / page 23
a television movie.) A husband and wife team write under the name of Nicci French and their latest book, Tuesday’s Gone, is a heart-pounding thriller set in London. Their protagonists, a female psychiatric therapist and male detective inspector, make this murder mystery set in London a fascinating read. John LeCarre has long been the ultimate espionage novelist. Though many of his early novels were set during the Cold War, LeCarre has kept up with the changing political scene without missing a step. A Delicate Truth deals with state sanctioned duplicity, demonizing both the Brits and their “cousins,” our CIA. Full of shady events, including a botched rendition on Gibraltar, Le Carre’s characters are equally shady. This is a thought-provoking book from a master of the genre. Crossword p.27
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I’ve not listed any nonfiction by Brits, but they’re many of my favorites as well, especially those intrepid travel writers like Eric Newby, Jonathan Raban and Tahir Shah who wander the globe to escape the confines of their island home. And, then there are the humorists ... Guy Browning has a delightful collection of essays in Never Hit a Jellyfish with a Spade - How to Survive Life’s Smaller Challenges. One of my favorite quotes: “Socks lead lives strangely similar to our own. They know they should be in pairs but they can’t help detaching themselves.” And, finally, “Retirement is like being given all your spare time in one big chunk.” All the books mentioned, with the exception of Browning’s, are available from Washoe County Library.
RESOURCES NEVADA INFORMATION .........................211 AARP INFO. CENTER .........................328-2506 ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION 1301 Cordone Ave, Suite 180, Reno-786-8061 CARE CHEST 7910 N. Virginia Street, Reno..............829-2273 COMMUNITY EDUCATION SILVER COLLEGE, 5270 Neil Rd., Reno……829-9010 COMMUNITY SERVICES AGENCY 1090 East 8th, Reno .................................786-6023 ELDER PROTECTIVE SERVICES ADSD.….........................................................688-2964 FOOD BANK (TRUCK).......................331-3663 FOSTER GRANDPARENT.................358-2768 HAWC CLINIC, 1055 S. Wells, Reno.................................................................329-6300 MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, UNR, Sanford Center for Aging......................784-1612 NEVADA STATE WELFARE...........684-7200 CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING 999 Pyramid Way, Sparks......................353-3599 RTC ACCESS TRANSPORTATION Information..................................................348-0477 RENOWN MED. LOW INCOME CLINIC 21 Locust, Reno..........................................982-5270 RSVP, Reno...................................................784-1807 RSVP, Rural Counties Carson City...................................................687-4680 SANFORD CENTER FOR AGING, UNR.................................................................784-4774 SENIOR COMPANION.......................358-2322 SENIOR Community Services Employment, AARP, 1135 Terminal Way, Reno......323-2243 Job Connect, Reno....................................284-9600 Sparks..............................................................284-9520 SENIOR LAW PROJECT.....................328-2592 SENIOR OUTREACH SERVICES...784-7506 SENIOR SAMPLER (Assistance League) 1701 Vassar St., Reno...............................324-2003 SHIP (STATE HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY PROGRAM)...........800-307-4444 SOCIAL SECURITY 1170 Harvard Way, Reno..............888-808-5481 VETERAN’S ADMINISTRATION Medical Center, 1000 Locust Street, Reno ............................................................................328-1293 VETERAN’S BENEFITS 5460 Corporate Drive, Reno.......688-1653, X1 (Source: Washoe County Senior Services)
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this ‘n that / page 26
woman all bent over because her knee hurt. She had a face full of wrinkles resembling crevices and badly needed to have her grey hair cut. The next day I met the first of the new men in my life, followed without delay
30 • 2013 • July
by all the others. Apparently my little stroll up those steps resulted in a torn meniscus in my knee which resulted in a blood clot in my leg which resulted in a hematoma in my foot which subsequently turned black, adding further anguish in the vanity department. The clot pre-
cludes the necessary knee surgery, necessitated the postponement of previously scheduled foot surgery and disallows use of the medication that eased the arthritis that I hadn’t even admitted having. (I’m old enough for bunions and arthritis?) How can this be? This can’t be me! I’m supposed to be out climbing mountains--if I were so inclined. Instead I am working my way through endless appointments, having my blood levels checked relentlessly, testing my mental agility by attempting to remember when to take which pill, and wondering
where I went. A friend provided a needed laugh: “When I was a child and I wanted to be older, this expletive is not what I expected”. I do realize that my issues are vastly insignificant compared to others. I also realize it’s a case of mind over matter and that I need to get a grip and maintain a sense of humor. So I concentrate on my new daily mantras: “this too, shall pass” along with “Do not regret growing older. It’s a privilege denied to many”.
Eydie’s Excerpts by Eydie Scher This story will be in 2 parts. The first will be about our personal experience on our recent trip to the Canadian Rockies, Banff, and Lake Louise. The second will be mostly about the history of the incredible hotel we stayed at and help you experience interesting information about our good neighbor to the North. It’s fascinating. Stop! Don’t exit the elevator at any of the other 8 floors. It must be the 7th. Just wait until I reveal the intricacies of the 7th floor. I’ll keep you in suspense just a bit and get back on the elevator a little later. The journey begins. The clock screams 4 a.m. Eyes reveal total darkness. Luggage is packed and exits to the car. Dogs are placed outside with quizzical looks. A lone coyote flashes in the headlights and disappears. Once in a while, another vehicle flirts with ours. Where is everyone going at this hour? Airport lights and travelers scurrying for flights surround us. If you have not been to the Reno/Tahoe airport lately, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Everyone is screened in the same area and there is no pat down. Restaurants crop up and look inviting even at this hour. This is my kind of flight. It’s only an hour or less to SFO. Next stop will be Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Windshield wipers get a workout during the entire drive. Dreary cold cools my enthusiasm. Banff and Lake Louise are located within the Banff National Park. No, they won’t accept David’s lifetime park card from the States. Fifty-dollars for seniors to stay within the park surprises us but
The 7th Floor
hey, we’re here. Welcome to Canada! Another error bypasses Banff. A U-turn proves fortuitous. The family of Elks interrupts us. Wow, what a shot. This one is looking directly at me. Got it! Am I positive it’s an elk and not a moose? What’s it look like to you? My watch suggests I move it forward one hour in keeping with local time. A rental car is procured and we are off. Naturally, there is construction everywhere just like here. The map confuses us and a turn around is necessary. The signs finally include Banff but the distance is in kilometers. Our heads convert to approximate miles. Even in this weather, the snow capped Canadian Rockies smile on us. The jagged peaks are far higher than anything we’ve encountered before. Banff proves charming and beautiful as we stroll in the now light rain beneath the eyes of the Rockies. With all the quaint shops and restaurants, we meander to the mall and grab a bite at a food court. Another 45-minutes takes us to Lake Louise. The road twirls around and is heading one-way, up. Breathtaking awe smacks us hard as we glimpse the hotel we are staying at, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. A castle is the only word to compare it to. The lobby reeks of old style elegance. Amid the gorgeous decorations and people is a dog. I assume he is a guide dog but the staff says this is a pet friendly hotel. Gee, could we have bought our dogs? Dogs are everywhere on the paths surrounding the Lake. It makes us miss ours. Now, we return to the elevator. Since we are new members of the Fairmont’s President’s Club, we are among the privileged to be staying on the 7th
or Gold Floor. Gold wallpaper lines the hallway. Our corner room has the view to die for. Both windows display the lake in its finest attire. Just down the hall is the prestigious lounge. Servers are at our beck and call. Wines sit
waiting to be poured. Canopies with shrimp, salads, fruits and chocolates entice us to a light dinner. Chilled bottled water and drinks are there for the taking. In the morning, full breakfast awaits. Not a (7th floor page 34)
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Seniors4Travel Robert Boyd & Carolyn Prusa
Ukiah, California
W
hat city is home to the nation’s first organic winery, first carbon-neutral winery in the vicinity of the greenest wine region in the country, and is centrally located to over 30 tasting rooms? Feel like guessing? The answer might surprise you. It did us. With a population of only about 16,000, Ukiah, California, has a lot to offer – including fine wine. The community is surrounded by more than 20 organic wineries and acres of biodynamic vineyards. As we mentioned last
month, we’re planning our summer road trip; destination: Ukiah in Mendocino County. Here are some of the wineries we plan to visit. Parducci Wine Cellars: Country’s First Carbon Neutral Winery 501 Parducci Rd Ukiah, CA 95482 (707) 463-5357 Established in 1932, Parducci Wine Cellars is the oldest winery in Mendocino County, the first carbon neutral winery in the U.S. and a certified organic wine producer. Parducci recycles 100 percent of its waste water via an onsite wetland, utilizes 100 percent
renewable green power, and uses earth-friendly packaging. The winery was awarded California's highest environmental award, the Governor's Environmental and Economic Leadership Award in 2007 and again in 2009. Tasting room hours: 10–5 p.m. Cost: $5
tradition and a love of wine, Brigitte Seebass emigrated from Germany to California in the 1960s. In the late 1980s, she and her family established Seebass Vineyards. They welcome you to come explore the area, and taste their wines at the vineyard. info@seebassvineyards.com
Frey Vineyards Ltd. 14000 Tomki Rd Redwood Valley, CA 95470 Founded in 1980, Frey Vineyards is nestled on the slopes of the Redwood Valley American Viticultural Area at the headwaters of the Russian River. The winery produces Mendocino County organic wine with no sulfites added, and it is the first maker of certified Biodynamic® Wines in the U.S. The Frey Organic Wine Tasting Bar is at the Solar Living Center/Real Goods, in Hopland (13mi. from Ukiah). Open 11-5 p.m. (707) 744-1026. To visit call ahead for an appointment: (800) 760-3739
Chiarito Vineyard 2651 Mill Creek Rd. Ukiah, CA 95482 (707) 462-7146 Chiarito Vineyard subscribes to sustainable farming techniques and minimalist winemaking to create limited production wines from the best and most interesting Southern Italian varietals. Chiarito is the first official U.S. producer of the old world varietal known as Negroamaro, widely grown in the southern Italian region of Puglia. Winery visits are by appointment only.
Rivino Winery 4101 Cox-Schrader Rd. Ukiah, CA 95482 (707) 293-4262 Located along the Russian River, Rivino is a boutique family winery handcrafting all of its wines from select grapes grown on the family’s Schrader Ranch Vineyard. Tasting room open daily, 10–5 p.m. Live music on Fridays till 7 pm.
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Seebass Vineyards & Family Wines 3300 Old River Rd Ukiah, CA 95482 (707) 467-9463 With a long family farming
Nelson Family Vineyards 550 Nelson Ranch Rd. Ukiah, California 95482 (707) 462-3755 The Nelson Family's tasting room is located between Hopland and Ukiah, open daily from 10-5 p.m. Enoteca Wine Bar 106 W Church St. Ukiah, CA 95482 (707) 972-5541 The Enoteca Wine Bar features wines from small local boutique wineries in the Ukiah area that pair well with any of the charcuterie offerings on their menu, which include Northern California cheeses and local Olio de Mendo olive oil. Wine is offered by the glass, flight, bottle on and off sale. Hours: Mon - Sat., 1-9 p.m.
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Excerpts / page 31
single item is an extra charge. The 7th floor lounge is a meeting place for visitors from around the world such as Asia, Germany, the Netherlands, Israel, Canada, of course, and Australia. A large group of 40 Aussies’ stay on the 7th floor. David even meets someone from the Bronx! Room amenities, including slippers to take home, abound. David asked if he could steal a pair. The answer is NO. Guests are encouraged to take
34 • 2013 • July
them but not the robes. Wi-Fi is normally $15 per day. You guessed it. On the 7th floor, it’s free. My Ipad works! I retrieve birthday emails and dispense photos home. A 4½ mile hike around most of the Lake is the only one we do although there are many available. The highest teahouse in the country tempts us but hikers coming down tell us there’s snow up there and we need real hiking boots. At Lake level, the weather is perfect,
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
just cool enough for a sweatshirt and sunny enough to observe the mirror effect of the Blue/turquoise Lake. My birthday dawns bright and sunny. It will be perfect for our All Terrain Vehicle outing that our kids present us with. The ATV excursion takes place in Golden, Canada, an hour’s drive from our hotel. We get a short lesson in maneuvering the ATV. David drives the first hour and a half through the gorgeous scenery. My ride is downhill to the starting point. I’m trying to get the hang of it but the ATV jerks back and forth. David hangs on for dear life. The 2 hour ride back to Calgary and the airport is fine. The first airplane trip of the day is boarded. Why are we heading north to Edmonton when we need to go south to San Francisco. A prop plane does the job along with the friendliest flight attendant we’ve ever met. The 3 hour flight from Edmonton releases us at SFO. Our 3rd flight of the long day and three hours later, we board for home. Dusk creeps over the horizon. It’s nice to be home. More to come…… Comments always appreciated: eydies@aol.com